As she continues to chart her own path, multihyphenate star Liza Soberano has made another big move in pursuing her true passions. A decision that is bold but nonetheless made by herself, for herself. Liza joins the no. 1 Digital Banking app, Maya.

After shooting to fame as one of the generation's brightest stars, Liza recently decided to take control of her career and take on new challenges - such as shooting her first Hollywood film alongside young Hollywood stars Kathryn Newton and Cole Sprouse. The same bold mindset led to her new role as Brand Ambassador and Chief Advocacy Officer at Maya.

As Brand Ambassador, Liza co-created Maya's new marketing campaign, breaking the mold of traditional celebrity endorsements and changing the game for marketing financial services.

As Chief Advocacy Officer, Liza will champion shared advocacies for financial inclusion with Maya and lead key initiatives. This starts with joint initiatives for Save The Children, the world's leading independent organization for children, which Liza has been the ambassador of since 2021. At the same time, she will help drive the advocacy agenda within Maya from their product roadmap to company culture.

With Maya, Liza finds herself in charge of an imaginative and meaningful partnership that ultimately drives financial empowerment, especially with the youth. Liza's collaboration with Maya also opens a new door for her as she finally gets the chance to be on the other end of the lights and cameras, co-creating the brand's latest campaign.

"The past year has given me an opportunity to reflect on what I want for my life and my career. And when it comes to brands, I've decided to be more intentional about my partnerships. I want to work with brands that resonate with me personally, with products I actually use, and with companies I believe in,” Liza shares.

“I'm excited for everyone to level up their banking experience with me through Maya because I love using their app. On top of that, working with Maya truly feels like a level up for me - it's a joy to collaborate with them creatively, and I'm excited for the professional challenge of becoming their Chief Advocacy Officer," she adds.

“There's no greater partner for Maya than Liza,” says Maya Chief Marketing Officer Pepe Torres. He continues, "Liza resonates with Maya's values of defiance and optimism. She has defied conventions for Filipino actresses and taken her career into a bold new direction, reshaping what it means to be successful for this generation. And she lives with optimism, knowing she can use her personal platform to advocate for meaningful change. We are thrilled to embark on this meaningful collaboration and journey of empowering Filipinos to do banking their way alongside Liza, who is as much a game-changer as Maya."

Positioned as everything and a bank, Maya is the no. 1 digital banking app that brings Filipinos bolder ways to master their money. Among the many superior innovations of Maya is its best-in-class consumer savings account that offers easy account opening with just one valid ID, a high-interest rate with daily payout, and customizable personal goals. As an added boost, Maya customers can save with up to 10% daily interest rate per annum, starting March 7, 2023.*

Maya is the first finance app to offer customers their own @username, making sending money as easy as tagging friends in TikTok or Instagram. Customers also love its sleek black Maya card, accepted by over 80 million merchants worldwide.

These innovations have made Maya the no. 1 digital banking app and the highest-rated finance app on the App Store and Google Play, beating leading e-wallet and bank brands. Maya is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), and deposits are insured up to P500,000 per depositor by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporate (PDIC).

Watch Liza's first short film collab with Maya, and tell us what you think! Like Liza, master your money in exciting new ways and embrace your #MyMoneyMyBankMyWay era! Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mayaiseverything/, Twitter: @mayaofficialph, and Instagram: mayaiseverything.

About Maya

Maya is the no. 1 digital banking app and all-in-one money platform in the Philippines with the most comprehensive payments ecosystem. It leads millions of Filipinos — consumers, businesses, communities, and government agencies alike — into a digital economy that’s more inclusive, transparent, and empowering. Maya is powered by the country’s only end-to-end digital payments company, Maya Philippines, and Maya Bank for digital banking services. Visit maya.ph and mayabank.ph for more information.

DITO Telecommunity, the country’s youngest telco player, is providing greater entertainment options by partnering with Prime Video, leveling up the digital lifestyles of its more than 13 million subscribers.

Prime Video is a video-on-demand streaming platform that is now available in the Philippines. It is undoubtedly gaining popularity among Filipinos, with countless award-winning movies and TV shows available in its streaming library.

If you enjoy staying home and indulging in home entertainment like binge-watching movies and TV shows, this promo is for you! DITO is bringing adventure, fantasy, action, drama, romance, and comedy right into your hands, as DITOzens can enjoy a bonus 30-day subscription to Prime Video Mobile Edition.

Here are five exciting things you can expect from DITO and Prime Video:

Amazon Originals. Get access to critically acclaimed and award-winning TV shows and movies. Prime Video is not only a video streaming service that distributes licensed TV shows and movies, but it also produces original content. Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power are just some of the TV shows you can enjoy from its wide list of Amazon Originals.

Support local content. Aside from English blockbuster movies and TV shows, Prime Video also streams locally produced content like Drag Den with Manila Luzon, Big Night, How to love Mr. Heartless, and Whether the Weather Is Fine. You can anticipate the first-ever local Amazon Original, Comedy Island: Philippines, premiering in 240 countries this 2023. Thus, it is the perfect time to try out and discover new Filipino series and movies to add to your favorites, as DITO's Prime Video Mobile Subscription promo runs until May 24, 2023.

Bonus 30-day subscription. When you purchase any of the DITO Level-Up Packs -- Plan 99, Plan 199, Plan 299, Plan 499, or Plan 999 -- you will receive a link to the bonus subscription voucher for Prime Video. Once the voucher is activated, you can now access more than 26,300 movies and more than 2,700 TV shows that you can binge-watch wherever and whenever you want -- all of these are free for a month!

Content for all ages. With the wide array of TV shows and movies available on Prime Video, you are sure to find the perfect lineup for your binge-watching or movie-night sessions. As a matter of fact, Prime Video has one of the largest streaming libraries. So whenever you are in the mood for some drama, comedy, or any other genre you can think of, you will find something from Prime Video's massive list of options. There is also a lot of content available for children, including Hotel Transylvania, The Boss Baby, Cinderella, and many more.

TODO Na DITO streaming experience. As the only telco provider that offers Auto Pay and Advance Pay, DITO ensures that Level-Up plan subscribers have hassle-free and seamless streaming experiences without worrying about topping up and expiring data promos. You can pay for your promo in advance using Advance Pay or if you prefer to have your promo auto-renewed with unused data and calls carried over to the following month, you can avail of Auto Pay. With these offers, you can enjoy your favorite Prime Video shows and movies without interruption.

DITO is proudly connecting different Filipino communities by continuously providing entertainment opportunities. With the partnership between DITO and Prime Video, millions of Filipinos can access excellent streaming content through unmatched value-for-money services.

Subscribe to any of DITO's Level-Up Packs and download the Prime Video Mobile app to start streaming your favorite movies and TV shows! To learn more about DITO Level-Up Plans, visit https://dito.ph/level-up-promos.

More amazing treats and surprises when you shop at SM Store via Home Credit!

Shopping has always been a fulfilling activity for Filipinos. It’s one way for them to bond with their families and loved ones and share precious moments together.

Last holiday season, the lifestyle partner of every Filipino Home Credit teamed up with the country’s largest retailer SM Store to make the shopping experience of Filipinos more rewarding with the Holiday Shopping cRAIZE!

The raffle promo, which ran for three months from October 14, 2022 to January 15, 2023, allowed SM Store shoppers who paid via Home Credit to be automatically qualified for the holiday raffle. And last February 23, the grand winner of the Holiday Shopping cRAIZE was announced!

Among all the eligible participants, Jane Rosete, a BPO employee from Paranaque City, received the key to her brand new Toyota Raize. Rosete shopped at SM Store during the holidays and applied for Basket Financing, Home Credit’s bundle financing product, which made her qualified for the raffle promo.

“I’ve been a Home Credit user for quite some time now, and it has become my go-to partner when I purchase big-ticket items that are usually out of pocket. With my third installment plan with Home Credit, I never expected to win the raffle and have my own brand new car. I am thankful to Home Credit and SM Store for this opportunity, I wish them more power! I hope that more Filipinos will have a meaningful shopping experience at SM Store with Home Credit,” shared Rosete.

The awarding program was attended by Home Credit and SM Store executives who turned over the brand new Toyota Raize to Rosete. Social media influencers Baninay Bautista (@baninaybautista) and Bont Bryan Oropel (@bontbryan) were also there to witness the awarding and congratulate the lucky winner of the raffle promo.

“As the lifestyle partner of every Filipino, we at Home Credit want to be with our customers in the most special moments of their lives. One of our goals is to broaden our reach and serve more Filipinos across the country. Our partnership with SM Store is a testament to our strong commitment in providing Filipinos with a more meaningful shopping experience by making their purchases more affordable and accessible through Home Credit,” said Richard Sarinas, Home Credit’s partner marketing leader.

Don’t miss out on updates from Home Credit by visiting its official website www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow them on their Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to catch the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Four new models have been announced to round out Sony’s highly anticipated lineup, with new features including XR Clear Image and Acoustic Center Sync, for a fully immersive at-home theatre experience

Sony Electronics Inc. announced its 2023 BRAVIA XR™ TV Lineup, with Cognitive Processor XR™, for the ultimate home entertainment experience. There are four new models in the BRAVIA XR line: X95L Mini LED, X90L Full Array LED, and A80L OLED. All models have the updated Cognitive Processor XR and are equipped with features that provide an immersive experience for watching movies, streaming apps, gaming, and more.

Key BRAVIA XR lineup features

For an incredibly lifelike experience, the Cognitive Processor XR replicates content the way people see and hear. It enables better backlight control for increased local dimming zones, increased brightness, and declared blooming. Plus, its 2023 iteration enters a new chapter in its development with advanced XR Clear Image, found in select models, that further reduces noise and blur in motion, creating scenes that burst with life.

All models also offer Acoustic Center Sync. When paired with Sony Home Audio products, such as the HT-A9 Home Theatre System or the HT-A7000, HT-A5000, and HT-A3000 soundbars, viewers can expect a truly exceptional at-home movie viewing experience. This is because the Acoustic Center Sync synchronizes the TV’s audio system with select Sony soundbars and AV receivers to reinforce the center speaker channel for clearer, fuller dialogue and more immersive sound. Sony’s soundbars offer 360 Spatial Sound Mapping so it also generates phantom speakers and sound field optimization.

Other new audio features include the Acoustic Multi-Audio+TM, found in the X95L model, which uses frame tweeters to elevate the sound to match the image on screen. Meanwhile, the A80L models feature Acoustic Surface Audio+TM with actuators that vibrate to produce sound from the entire screen, perfectly matching what’s playing on screen.

For gamers, the 2023 BRAVIA XR lineup is also perfect in taking their PlayStation® 5 gaming to the next level. Exclusive features such as the Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode generate optimized picture quality while gaming and streaming. There is also an easy-to-use and quick-access Game Menu for tailoring game settings like turning on or off VRR or Motion Blur Reduction and increasing the brightness in dark areas to easily spot objects and opponents with the Black Equalizer.

Whether gaming or simply watching, the new models’ XR Backlight Master Drive uses a Sony-developed local dimming algorithm to control thousands of tiny, ultra-dense Mini LEDs with absolute precision and independence, delivering extraordinary brightness, impressive dynamic range, deep blacks, and beautifully natural colors.

Additionally, Sony is keeping its commitment to decreasing plastic usage through its Road to Zero initiative. To reduce environmental impact, Sony is working on multiple aspects of the product life cycle, such as reduction of virgin plastic use, improvement of transportation efficiency, and reviewing energy consumption during use. At present, Sony is reducing overall plastic usage by approximately 60% and is cutting emissions by approximately 15% by using smaller and lighter packaging during transportation. The new Eco Dashboard included on all 2023 models also makes it easier for users to customize energy-saving preferences and settings.

“We are excited to bring a new lineup that continues to bring Sony's best spatial entertainment and gaming experiences with picture and sound,” said Wada Hideyuki, Marketing Director, Sony Philippines. “Sony is proud to offer a full suite of home entertainment options for all of our consumers.”

Other BRAVIA XR lineup features

Purchasing the 2023 BRAVIA XR TVs, even non-BRAVIA XR ones, also comes complete with the BRAVIA CORE app. It is a pre-loaded movie service that comes with up to 10 movie credits to watch the latest releases and popular classics and additional movies with up to 12 months of unlimited streaming.

With BRAVIA XR technology, Pure Stream™, and IMAX® Enhanced, content is delivered with stunning visuals and expressive sound quality. Featuring BRAVIA CORE Calibrated Mode, movies will automatically adjust to the optimal picture settings including IMAX® Enhanced mode to create a truly exceptional at-home movie viewing experience. Over time, the app experience will be enriched with new features.

For anime enthusiasts, there is also a Crunchyroll® remote button that gives BRAVIA users one-touch access to one of the world's largest anime libraries, a collection of more than 18,000 hours of anime, comprising more than 44,000 episodes and feature films, translated in multiple languages. Simulcasting is also accessible, so Japanese titles can be watched from abroad following the broadcast in Japan.

To further enhance the new models’ capabilities, consumers can also purchase the BRAVIA CAM, which detects the viewer’s position to optimize the picture and sound according to room environment and viewing distance.

Consumers can also enjoy 700,000+ movies and TV episodes, plus live TV, all in one place thanks to Google TV. Searching is easy - just ask Google. Try saying, “Hey Google, find action movies” to search across apps.

New Sony TV Models and Key Features

The BRAVIA XR X95L 4K HDR Mini LED Google TV is available in 85” class. Apart from the above features, you also get the advantage in high-performance gaming with HDMI 2.1 features 4K/120, Variable Refresh Rate, and Auto Low Latency Mode. Not to mention it has X-Anti Reflection & X-Wide angle, which minimizes reflection for a distraction-free viewing experience and provides vivid real-world colors from any angle while retaining brightness.

The BRAVIA XR X90L 4K HDR Full Array LED Google TV shares the same features as the X95L and is also available in 75” class, 65” class and 55” class.

Finally, the BRAVIA XR A80L 4K HDR OLED Google TV can be purchased in 77” class, 65” class, and 55” class. XR OLED Contrast Pro and XR Triluminos Pro technologies allow the consumer to feel the beauty of OLED with brightness approximately 110% compared to the previous year's model - the A80K, with immersive depth and realism, pure black, detailed shadows, and billions of accurate colors.

Pricing and Availability

The new BRAVIA XR TV lineup and retail pricing will be available soon in the Philippines. For more information on new Sony television models, please watch Sony's BRAVIA XR announcement video here or visit the BRAVIA XR website at https://www.sony-asia.com/electronics/bravia-xr-tv

For more information on all Sony televisions, please visit https://www.sony-asia.com/bravia/gallery.

Video Link HERE

Beijing, CHINA, March 8th, 2023 – In conjunction with International Women’s Day, Xiaomi International launches its Women in Tech video story portraying the lives of three key female figures in Xiaomi with hopes to further inspire, innovate and connect individuals around the world, and to celebrate contributive talents who have helped build and shape the industry. The video story imparts a key message for all those aspiring individuals in the field of technology, “to find your passion and to go for it, to have faith in yourself, and to continue striving in becoming the best version of you.”

Pioneering Vision

Diverse role models provide empowerment in the field of science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and technology. Xiaomi's aim to remove glass ceilings in the field of Technology is described by Yi Yan, General Manager of Shanghai Regional Headquarters as “to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technologies. This mission drives us to work together towards creating a better world.” This inclusivity mindset promotes diversity in tech. Furthermore, this ethos is instilled in Xiaomi’s leadership style as Yi Yan reflects that Xiaomi’s flat organizational structure provides more opportunities for females to maximize their strengths through collaboration with their peers.

When asked what creates a conducive environment for females in tech, Yi Yan recounts how it is important to “offer a supportive environment for all career stages”, expressing that this is key to igniting creativity, hence spurring opportunities for professional growth. She also believes that a collaborative spirit and camaraderie are part and parcel of Xiaomi’s management style, noting that “this creates a mutually beneficial learning environment.”

Relentless Creativity

Beyond its shared vision, Xiaomi is also notable for being committed to building a progressive, dynamic, and nurturing environment for all. Chen Lu, Senior Director of Ecosystem, alludes that this culture that Xiaomi has built is a result of the diverse talent pool in the organization. “Xiaomi attracts top talents in the industry, so there is always Embargo Lifts at 9 AM, GMT 8+, March 8th,2023 diverse thinking around me. This allows me to look at problems from different perspectives. For example, Xiaomi engineers will analyze problems from angles that I have not considered before”. As a tech packaging designer, Chen Lu describes how being able to collaborate with such a varied pool of people in tech is where she can draw new inspiration from, stating this as “an advantage of thought diversity”.

Another progressive thought that Xiaomi exudes is breaking barriers for what defines creativity in tech. Chen Lu’s packaging design process has first-hand experience in this, stating “before joining Xiaomi, I had limited ideas about creativity. I thought creativity was only about creating new visual experiences. At Xiaomi, I learned that creativity is also about solving practical problems, designing new experiences for users, and using design solutions to improve their daily life.”

Being a Catalyst for Success

Abi Go, Spokesperson and keynote speaker for Xiaomi International believes that there is a growing need for an inclusive and transformative mindset in technology, stating that perseverance and passion are admirable characteristics for women in the field of technology. Abi narrates that “growing up, I encountered a culture that viewed women as not tech-savvy, but in reality, many women are tech-minded and passionate about technology and gadgets. The world is full of talented women in tech”.

As an industry leader, Xiaomi provides a nurturing platform for many young talents, and being holistic and inclusive in the way it operates is central to its success. This means having strong empathy and understanding the viewpoint of others. Abi describes this concept as key, particularly in the product development phase where “we are constantly communicating, debating, discussing, and standing from our user's perspectives, such as giving feedback on how we can co-develop the product better. On the marketing front, we’d take tech jargon and translate them into easy-to-understand language for our users.”

Listerine celebrates National Oral Health Month by advocating the importance of oral care and hygiene. Listerine brings this to life by educating families of kids with cleft palate, and also its Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health employees on the transformative impact of good oral health in one’s life by bringing awareness to the growing issue of mouth aging. It continues its mission to provide free comprehensive post-surgery cleft care for children who have undergone corrective surgeries, and educate families on the importance of good oral hygiene.

A Meaningful Collaboration with Operation Smile, Listerine, and Watsons

Cleft lip and palate are one of the more common disorders seen in the Philippines. In fact, in 1 out of 1,000 Filipino live births, a cleft lip or palate patient is born. From these cases, about 90% of them suffer from tooth decay since their oral cavities are exposed. If left untreated, it may lead to a larger than average number of cavities, have missing, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental treatments.

“In the Philippines, there is an estimated backlog of 200,000 untreated children with cleft lip and palate and many live in unreachable provinces that's why we urge the public to refer any patient to Operation Smile Philippines because I believe that each of us can make a difference in our lives by helping to change a life of a child, one smile at a time,” says Operation Smile executive director, Emiliano Romano.

This year, Operation Smile together with Listerine, and Watsons join forces to support these kids to help them regain their confidence and smile again by launching the #SmileTogether project. The project aims to raise awareness for comprehensive cleft care, nutrition, and oral hygiene in the City of Manila.

“This Oral Health Month, Listerine, who has been a long-time partner of Operation Smile, and with the help of Watsons continues to support kids with cleft lips and palettes by providing free access to comprehensive cleft care to less fortunate children. As a mouthwash brand, Listerine advocates proper oral hygiene, especially for kids with cleft, so we can protect them from oral health problems as early as possible,” says senior brand manager for Listerine® Philippines, Miguel Gamboa.

Moreover, Listerine has once again collaborated with one of the top drugstores in the country, Watsons, to help in promoting #SmileTogether through merchandising initiatives in-store. “As part of our mission to Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great, we continue to team up with Operation Smile Philippines to bring perfect smiles to children afflicted with cleft lip and palate through the Watsons Give-a-Smile program. We are proud to have Listerine as a loyal partner since 2013 in transforming the lives of these children,” shared by public relations and sustainability director of Watsons Philippines, Viki Encarnacion.

Systemic and Mouth Aging at the 19th National Dental Health Month Celebration

Listerine also launched its mouth aging lecture during the 19th National Dental Health Month in collaboration with the Philippine Dental Association, in order to bring more awareness to thousands of dentists online about the latest in oral hygiene studies. This was where the ‘Dr. Ricardo Y. Ladrido Memorial Lecture’ was presented with speakers Dr. Stephen B. Almonte, MScD Periodontology who talked about mouth aging, and Dr. Eva Irene Y. Maglonzo, MD, FPAFP, MHPEd, FPCGM who spoke about ‘The Aging Process and Wellness’; bringing forth our advocacy on oral health and how we can advance this through proper education on mouth aging.

Listerine would like to break the cycle of mouthwash apathy by showcasing what healthy mouths can do even at an older age. Listerine also brings to life its advocacy on fighting mouth aging through educational materials that were distributed to Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health Philippines employees this oral health month.

For more information about #SmileTogether campaign, you may visit https://linktr.ee/OpSmilePhil. To know more about Listerine® visit www.listerine.com.ph and follow Listerine on their Facebook @ListerinePhilippines.

 

In light of the recently implemented Republic Act 11934 or SIM Registration Act (SRA), DITO Telecommunity encourages its subscribers to register their DITO SIM cards in three easy steps and enjoy bonus 2GB all-access data!

DITO subscribers wouldn’t have to worry because it’s fast and easy to register SIM cards DITO! For new subscribers, just click on the SMS link received upon SIM card insertion while for existing subscribers, log in to the DITO APP and click on the “Register your SIM DITO” banner/button. Then, follow these simple steps:

Step 1- Subscribers will be required to provide the following personal information: Full Name, Date of Birth, Sex, Present/Official Address and Government-issued ID.

Step 2- Attach a valid government-issued ID.

Step 3- Lastly, take a photo of yourself with the ID.

For DITOzens who are still minors, SIM cards should be registered under the parent/legal guardian’s name along with the following: any government-issued ID of the parent or guardian and consent of the minor’s parent or guardian to register the SIM card. No worries because multiple SIM cards can be registered under one name.

On the other hand, businesses that will register a SIM card are required to submit additional requirements such as their Securities and Exchange Commission Certificate of Registration, Board Resolution designating the authorized representative and other juridical entities, and Special Power of Attorney. Meanwhile, for tourist or foreign nationals who will use a DITO SIM card, they must submit a passport, proof of address in the Philippines, and a return ticket to own country showing date/time of departure from the Philippines.

SIM card registration is free of charge and upon successful completion, DITO subscribers will receive their bonus 2GB all-access data which they can TODO enjoy either for browsing, streaming or even gaming!

“Following the implementing rules and regulations of SRA, we made sure that at DITO, registering SIM cards is fast, easy and also rewarding for our existing and potential subscribers to highly encourage them to register their SIM cards as soon as possible and avoid deactivation. Providing fast and easy ways to register is our way of supporting the government with the SRA initiative and it’s also our way of promoting a safe, convenient, and enhanced digital SIM registration process for all Filipinos nationwide,” said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Telecommunity Chief Commercial Officer.

To date, there are already 2,695,986 DITO subscribers who registered their SIM cards.

Aside from the bonus data, DITO is also giving away 100 smartphones per week until March 17 to reward successful SIM registrants.

Interested customers can also start their DITO journey with DITO SIM Starter Packs for only Php 39 packed with up to 22GB all-access data and free prime video subscription upon purchase of any Level Up packs. Upon SIM card registration, they are also eligible to enjoy the bonus 2GB all-access data to officially kick start that leveled up digital lifestyle DITO!

Buy DITO SIM Starter Packs available at DITO Experience Stores and partner stores: https://bit.ly/DITOstores, Shopee: https://bit.ly/SPshopee, and Lazada: https://bit.ly/SPlazada

For more details about DITO and its value-for-money products, visit: https://dito.ph/

Need to know more about SRA? Visit, http://DITO.ph/sim-registration

To download the DITOApp, click: https://bit.ly/getDITOApp

A NEW KOREAN THRILLER FROM FAMED CREATOR KIM SUNOK – STREAMING MARCH 11 ON DISNEY+

When Hong Taera’s lost memories begin to return, the illusion of her perfect life will shatter, leaving her with a singular focus - revenge

Philippines, 28 February 2023 – On March 11, step back into the mind of famed Korean creator Kim Sunok, when Pandora: Beneath the Paradise arrives on Disney+.

Living a seemingly perfect life, Hong Taera is the envy of many. Married to a successful developer and with a loving daughter by her side, everything is going perfectly for her – she just wishes she could remember how she got there. Incapable of remembering her past, Taera’s curse becomes a nightmare when her lost memories begin to emerge and she realizes she is nothing more than a puppet in an elaborate game. Driven to take back control, protect her family, and get revenge on those who did this, Taera will cast aside her elegant evening dress and fragrant flowers for a blood-stained leather jacket and a 28-caliber revolver in Pandora: Beneath the Paradise.

Starring E Jiah (The Penthouse: War in Life, My Mister) as Hong Taera, a woman whose perfect life is shattered when memories from her past resurface; Lee Sangyun (One the Woman, VIP) as Pyo Jaehyun, Taera’s husband and the chairman of Hatch; Jang Heejin (Flower of Evil, The Red Sleeve) as Ko Haesoo, the YBC’s top anchor; Park Kiwoong (Secretly Greatly, Bridal Mask) as Jang Dojin, the second son of the Kumjo group; and Bong Taegyu (The Penthouse: War in Life, Return) as Koo Sungchan, the director of Hatch’s research center; Pandora: Beneath the Paradise is created by Kim Sunok, the mastermind behind the hit series The Penthouse: War in Life and Return, and is directed by Choi Younghoon (One the Woman, Good Casting).

Produced by CJ ENM’s production powerhouse Studio Dragon, Pandora: Beneath the Paradise starts streaming from March 11, on Disney+ with new episodes released every Saturday and Sunday.

This March, we celebrate International Women’s Day by honoring the wonderful and strong women across the world. There’s nothing they can’t do with their inner strength, intellect, talent, and heart—the world will not work without them.

In these eight must-binge Disney+ shows, brave and fierce female icons take center stage and lead the way this month:

For passionate go-getters
We are all dreamers at heart—what better way to ignite our passion than watching icons take the stage?

Idina Menzel: Which Way To The Stage?

The legendary Broadway star Idina Menzel has become an undeniable Disney icon, starring in Enchanted and Disenchanted, and famously voicing Elsa in the Frozen series. On Which Way to the Stage?, we get to see Menzel go on a national tour and achieve her lifelong dream, headlining a concert in New York City’s iconic Madison Square Garden.

BLACKPINK: THE MOVIE

Global sensation BLACKPINK is hands-down one of the biggest girl groups in the world, with chart-topping hits like “Kill This Love,” “How You Like That,” “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du,” and “Whistle.” BLACKPINK: The Movie celebrates the group’s fifth year together and features exclusive interviews with the extremely talented Jisoo, Jenny, Lisa, and Rosé, along with performances from their highly successful world tours.

Olivia Rodrigo: driving home 2 u

Filipino-American actress, singer, and songwriter Olivia Rodrigo is one of the brightest young stars in music today, with her debut album “Sour” topping global music charts and earning prestigious Grammy nominations. In driving home 2 u, get an in-depth look at the making of her album, along with special performances of her top hits like “drivers license,” “good 4 u,” and “traitor.”

For headstrong heroines
Heroines are strong and fearless, taking on all challenges and overcoming obstacles along the way. Be inspired by these women on Disney+ and witness their awesome feats of strength and bravery!

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

Get ready for a super-powered legal comedy featuring lawyer Jennifer Walters (Tatiana Maslany), aka She-Hulk, as she tackles legal troubles of the superhero kind. Apart from handling superhero legal matters like a boss, she also has to masterfully deal with her new powers and balance her life as a lawyer and superhero on the rise.

WandaVision

From one super-powered series to another, catch Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) in WandaVision where she musters the emotional strength to deal with loss and motherhood while overcoming the threats that look to shatter reality as we know it.

Brave

Brave follows the tale of Merida, a princess who wants to defy royal norms, leading to a quest to save her family and kingdom from war. Brave is an inspiring tale of heroism that young girls will surely love.

For fearless leaders
Throughout history, women have been successful trailblazers and trendsetters, empowering fellow women around the world to take charge. Be inspired to lead like them by watching these amazing women do their thing while breaking norms on Disney+!

Cruella

In Cruella, we see the titular character, played by Emma Stone, as a young fashion designer looking to make her mark in the industry. With her daring and elaborate designs and a daring group of thieves by her side, little will stand in the way of her success.

Expedition Amelia

Amelia Earhart, the first female pilot to fly over the Atlantic Ocean solo, is a role model for women worldwide. Expedition Amelia, produced by National Geographic, looks to solve the mystery of her fateful final journey and find the much-sought answers to one of history’s biggest mysteries.

Boston Strangler (17 Mar)

This upcoming true crime film is based on the true story of a killer who went on a rampage during the 1960s. It stars Keira Knightley as reporter Loretta McLaughlin, the intrepid journalist who broke the story at the time. She challenges the norms and takes risks to let her voice be heard, and uncover the corruption within the case.

Watch all these amazing movies and shows featuring powerful and inspiring women only on Disney+.

For more information, visit www.DisneyPlus.com.
For more information, visit www.DisneyPlus.com.

Premieres March 17, 2023, Exclusively on Disney+

Trailer Link HERE

“Boston Strangler” from 20th Century Studios and writer/director Matt Ruskin premieres March 17, 2023, exclusively on Disney+. The trailer and stills for the true-crime thriller about the trailblazing reporters who broke the story of the notorious Boston Strangler murders of the 1960s are available now.

“Boston Strangler” stars two-time Oscar® nominee Keira Knightley (“The Imitation Game,” “Pride & Prejudice”), Emmy® nominee Carrie Coon (“Fargo,” “The Gilded Age”), Alessandro Nivola (“Amsterdam”), David Dastmalchian (“Dune”), Morgan Spector (“Homeland”), Bill Camp (“Joker”), and Academy Award® winner Chris Cooper (“Adaptation”). Written and directed by Matt Ruskin (“Crown Heights”), the film is produced by Ridley Scott (“The Martian”), Kevin J. Walsh (“House of Gucci”), Michael Pruss (“American Woman”), Josey McNamara (“Promising Young Woman”), and Tom Ackerley (“I, Tonya”), with Michael Fottrell (“The Fate of the Furious”) and Sam Roston serving as executive producers. Sam Roston is overseeing for Scott Free and Bronte Payne for LuckyChap.

The film follows Loretta McLaughlin (Keira Knightley), a reporter for the Record-American newspaper, who becomes the first journalist to connect the Boston Strangler murders. As the mysterious killer claims more and more victims, Loretta attempts to continue her investigation alongside colleague and confidante Jean Cole (Carrie Coon), yet the duo finds themselves stymied by the rampant sexism of the era. Nevertheless, McLaughlin and Cole bravely pursue the story at great personal risk, putting their own lives on the line in their quest to uncover the truth.

Enjoy a happier and fuller life with Pacific Cross’ Blue Royale Medical Insurance Plan

When illness strikes, you undoubtedly want to look for the best ways to secure yourself and your loved ones' health. The rising costs of hospitalization and medical treatment are one of the pressures you have to deal with in today’s times.

Pacific Cross can help you, including your loved ones, financially prepare for life’s uncertainties with the Blue Royale Medical Insurance Plan. Blue Royale offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of medical insurance benefits available in the Philippines. It has coverage for individuals and families, infants to seniors, can cover up to USD2M, provides an option to reimburse or no-cash-outlay, has maternity benefits, and many more.

The World Health Organization (WHO) noted that in the Philippines, deaths related to Non-communicable Diseases are attributed to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) with 33%. In fact, according to the Department of Health (DOH), CVDs are the number one cause of death, with an estimated 50,000 dying every year in the Philippines.

As February is the Philippine Heart Month, DOH advised that in order to lower your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, Filipinos should maintain a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, controlling blood pressure, and getting enough sleep.

Beside these practical steps in changing a healthier lifestyle, getting a medical insurance plan will benefit you and your loved ones in the long-run too. Pacific Cross recognizes that it is important to make the most out of life’s precious moments. As a testament to its commitment, Pacific Cross understands that you want to keep those who matter most to you safe and would do anything to keep them secured.

Express your love and care towards your family and loved ones by giving them the gift of peace of mind. A Pacific Cross Medical Plan is more than just a policy. It’s a trusted ally during difficult times, one that could save your life. Get a Blue Royale Medical Plan today! Call 8899-8001 local 7202 or visit https://bit.ly/PacificCrossIsHereForYou. Pacific Cross is #HereForYou.

Manila, Philippines, February 16, 2023 - Xiaomi released the brand-new Redmi Smart Band 2 this week. Achieving fitness in a BIG way, the brand-new smart band aims to keep users motivated and encouraged to stay fit and healthy.

BIG Display, BIG Fun

Featuring the 1.47” vibrant TFT display, it offers a 10.5% larger viewing area, making it easier to read the information displayed on the screen. Whether you are checking your heart rate on the run or messages on the way to work, you can have everything under your view with the flick of your wrist.

It also features more than 100+ band faces to match your mood and outfit of the day. Whether it’s a sports session or a romantic dinner, you have a range of stylish, cool and sleek band faces to choose from.

Fitness in a BIG way

Weighing at only 14.9 grams, it features an ultra-slim body at only 9.99mm, making it not just look good, but it feels good to wear on the wrist. Installed with over 30 fitness modes, such as outdoor running, yoga, and hiking, it can help you achieve your fitness goals easily. Exercise duration, calories burned and heart rate are clearly visible at a glance.

Fancy a swimming session? Fret not, Redmi Smart Band 2 features the 5ATM water resistance rating down to 50 meters, which means you do not need to take off your smart band in any wet environment. Its built-in high-precision PPG sensor is enabled to track your heart rate 24 hours a day. It even sends an alert when it detects an abnormal heart rate so that you can always stay on top of your health conditions.

For health-conscious users, Redmi Smart Band 2 features the blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) level, which will show you the amount of oxygen in the blood. Not to forget it monitors your extended sleep quality as well as naps, and it provides detailed reports on your sleep patterns to help you understand your sleeping patterns and how to improve your sleep quality.

For the convenience of our users, it is equipped with magnetic charging technology with 14 days of extra-long battery life on typical use. For heavy users, it can last more than 6 days.

Pricing and Availability

Redmi Smart Band 2 retails at only Php 1,499 and is available for purchase at Shopee and Lazada as well as Xiaomi Authorized stores, Xiaomi Official Store on Shopee and Lazada, and participating dealers across the country.

Unlock the Secret to Win with POCO X5 Pro 5G, or enjoy the right balance of everything you need with mid-range POCO X5 5G

POCO, a popular technology brand among the young generation of tech enthusiasts, introduces two new smartphones for entertainment-loving Gen-Z users looking for a new and different phone. Celebrating five years of the POCO, the POCO X5 Pro 5G and POCO X5 5G are important milestone devices for the brand and come packed with new and exciting functions that will delight the world's techies. The POCO X5 Pro 5G's stand-out features include upgraded camera functions, faster processing speeds, and an incredible display. Meanwhile, the POCO X5 5G is an incredibly well-rounded smartphone with a superb screen, strong performance, and a long-lasting battery, which sets a new benchmark for mid-range phones.

One after the other, POCO X-series models have won over young technology fans with incredible mobile experiences. Learning deeply about our fans' preferences for each product, POCO's X5 series for 2023 is designed and engineered to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of young content consumers and content creators.

"Designed for content creators to take things to the next level, we believe the POCO X5 Pro 5G is nothing short of the best smartphone in the $300 segment," said Angus Ng, Head of Product Marketing at POCO Global. "With a superb screen and performance, the POCO X5 5G also delivers amazing value and the best possible user experience for a smartphone under $200."

POCO X5 Pro 5G: a winning combination of superb visuals and advanced camera capabilities

In a first for POCO X series smartphones, POCO X5 Pro 5G features an astonishing 6.67" Flow AMOLED screen. This flexible display technology makes the POCO X5 Pro 5G lighter, and at 7.9mm thin [1], it is the slimmest X series device ever, all the more comfortable to hold when gaming or creating content. Whether making videos, watching movies, scrolling through social media, or gaming, the flagship-level 120Hz refresh rate delivers bright, vibrant, ultra-smooth images. Photos and videos come to life with 100% DCI-P3 and 10-bit color depth, and Dolby Vision makes the viewing experience even better.

Imagined to go with you anywhere, the POCO X5 Pro 5G has 1920Hz PWM dimming to protect eyesight when reading and creating in low light if inspiration strikes late at night. Powerful and responsive POCO X5 Pro 5G's Snapdragon® 778G 5G chipset with advanced TSMC 6nm has an AnTuTu score of 545,093 [2], which is even higher than the newly released MediaTek Dimensity 1080. The Snapdragon® 778G 5G chipset offers a perfect balance of power efficiency and high performance, allowing the camera processing system even faster than the previous model. All POCO X5 Pro 5G speeds are updated to improve camera performance: for setup (41%), photography (69%), and night mode (38%) . Meanwhile, the image signal processor (ISP) achieves two gigapixels per second, and the chipset makes your camera even smarter with AI performance of up to 12 TOPS.

A flagship-level 108MP sensor unlocks professional-level photography, delivering ultra-high-resolution imagery and capturing minute detail and color, even in dark areas. POCO X5 Pro 5G also supports 4K video shooting and includes various modes that make vlog creation more accessible, splendid and easier to catch every winning moment.

POCO X5 Pro 5G supports more than 5.5 hours of 4K shooting with its 5000mAh battery, an undeniable plus for video creators who are always on the go. Now they can keep streaming or shooting all day and never worry about losing power. And with 67W turbo charging, a simple coffee break is all you need to quickly boost the battery level up to 30% charge in just 7 minutes.

POCO X5 5G: just the right mix of a fantastic experience

Resetting ideas about mid-range smartphones, POCO X5 5G has everything Gen Z users need to power through a day of work, study, or entertainment. Even if you're taking hundreds of photos, gaming for hours, or watching high-resolution videos, it will keep you covered through the day and night. Super light with a slim 6.67-inch AMOLED DotDisplay, and weighing only 189g, POCO X5 5G always feels comfortable. Gaming fans will appreciate the 120Hz refresh rate and 4,500,000:1 contrast ratio that guarantees a smooth, life-like gaming experience, and DCI-P3 wide color gamut brings images to life for a visual feast.

POCO 5X 5G is equipped with a Snapdragon® 695 chipset that delivers a smooth user experience. It packs a high level of speed and efficiency and excellent download speeds. The devices offer just the right RAM and ROM combination to keep content smooth and enjoyable, with RAM optional up to 8GB and ROM up to 256GB, respectively. As multitasking users switch from one app to another, Dynamic RAM Expansion Technology 3.0 supports more apps running in the background.

Whether switching from work tasks to gaming or watching movies to scrolling on TikTok, POCO X5 5G's long-lasting 5000mAh battery has you covered. Users can say goodbye to battery anxiety thanks to the fast-charging technology; if you are watching shows on YouTube videos, the X5 5G battery can power for a whopping 21 hours. POCO's 33W fast charger can bring an empty battery back to 100% charge in about 68 minutes, just enough for you to take a break and grab a meal before resuming your game or catching up with the latest online videos. With a fully charged battery, you can enjoy scrolling and interact on social media for 12 hours.

Product Availability

POCO X5 Pro 5G will come in three colors: Black, Blue, and Yellow. It will also be available in two variants: 6GB+128GB and 8GB+256GB.

● 6GB+128GB: Recommended retail price at PHP16,999 via official e-commerce channels.

● 8GB+256GB: Recommended retail price at PHP18,999 via official e-commerce channels.

POCO X5 Pro 5G will be available for purchase at an early bird price of PHP15,659 and PHP17,659, respectively from February 7 via leading e-commerce platforms. *

● POCO X5 5G will come in three colors: Green, Blue, and Black. It will also be available in two variants: 6GB+128GB and 8GB+256GB.

● 6GB+128GB: Recommended retail price at PHP14,999 via official e-commerce channels.

● 8GB+256GB: Recommended retail price at PHP15,999 via official e-commerce channels.

POCO X5 5G will be available for purchase at an early bird price of PHP12,499 and PHP13,499, respectively from February 7 via leading e-commerce platforms. *

The POCO X5 5G will be exclusively available via its official Shopee store and the POCO X5 5G will be exclusively available via its official Lazada store

For more information and exclusive updates, please visit and follow POCO’s Facebook page. To join the livestream, please register through POCO’s Facebook event page.

Holidays are over and the time to burn those holiday gains is now. This might be a good start to burn those calories, not all of course, this way, you can start the year right by keeping track of the calorie intake of your body. 

I count this calculator online, it's www.calculator.me. I came across this when I was looking at loan, mortgage, auto, and credit cards calculator. They actually have a lot on the site. You guys should check it out. 

They also have a Calorie Deficit Calculator (Weight Loss Goal Calculator: Calorie Deficit to Lose Weight Calculator) which to my surprise has some really nice info and is such a breeze to use. We know how hard it can be to count calories every day, but this one that I found is easy to use. You just have to enter your basic info, current weight, body fat & activity along with your weight goal and it will calculate it for you.

Now I know what you're thinking, It's a lot of work! I mean just think about what you will be gaining by losing weight. You gain more life. The more that you are fit, and healthy and lose those extra pounds, you'd be able to do more and live life to the fullest.

Another cool thing here is when you input your weight goal and the duration, may it be days, weeks, months, or years, it will calculate the daily calories required to meet the designed goal. Like this one below. Now, note that this is not the result of the ones inputted above.

Having a guide or a goal on the number of calories you will need definitely gives you a guide on how you should be behaving or consume nourishment. Of course, you have to also consult with your dietician and eat when you're hungry. I'm not saying that you should be sticking to this strictly but this is just an easy guide for those who would like to take this calorie-counting journey on their own.

At the bottom, you also get an insight and a summary of the results.

I suggest you guys give the Weightloss Calculator a try.  Keep your New Year’s fitness momentum strong and of course, make sure you have the proper nutrition & exercise. 

Spacious and lavish gardens with beautifully landscaped walkways surround Portofino’s luxury homes with grace and charm.

Convenience is a real estate trend that never goes out of style. It has increasingly become a critical decision factor among affluent homebuyers.

For many people, a perfect location means being close to infrastructure that can provide quick access to metropolitan areas. Meanwhile, regarding property investment, factors such as location, local neighborhood, transportation network, environmental quality, and potential for future development often determine one’s value.

Providing the perfect blend of Italian lifestyle and urban excitement in a prestigious location is Portofino, Brittany Corporation’s 300-hectare exclusive development set in the heart of what is dubbed as the New Alabang.

Portofino allows residents to enjoy modern comforts without sacrificing the opportunities of city life. Conveniently located just minutes from the Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCX), Portofino provides a luxury living experience and convenient access to some of the most exciting destinations in the South of Manila.

Living in Portofino will unlock many lifestyle opportunities for work-life balance with countless benefits.

Positioned in the prestigious residential area of Vista Alabang, Portofino homes enjoy privacy and fill the eyes with wonder with their meticulous architecture and design.

Craftsmanship and Elegance at Exceptional Value

Elegance and sophistication embrace you as you enter Portofino. With its meticulous architectural detail, bespoke homes of inspired designs, enduring beauty, value, and custom-tailored experiences, Brittany elevates one’s home into a work of art.

Inspired by a coastal town in the heart of the Italian Riviera, characterized by a tranquil crescent harbor with a hill of olive groves and small vineyards in its background, Portofino is a beautiful development that is rimmed by luxury houses and spacious lots clustered around an exclusive community with a distinct old-world charm that meets modern amenities.

At the heart of these classic Italian-inspired homes are distinctive courtyards complemented by Italian architectural details such as elaborate windows and doorways, cupolas, gabled roofs, and pocket gardens. Spacious and lavish gardens with beautifully landscaped walkways surround Portofino’s luxury homes with grace and charm.

Beautiful lush landscapes combined with architecture, fountains, and sculptures transform Portofino’s open spaces into something magical with their color, life, and whimsy.

Lush Greenery and Italian Touches at its Finest

With a compelling combination of lush plants and trees, Italian design, and beautiful landscapes, Portofino offers a luxurious breathing space right in the center of Vista Alabang. It also features luxuriant courtyards—beautiful gardens that contrast elegantly with verdant greenery and create a glamorous yet intimate vibe.

At the helm of Portofino’s exclusive community are the abundance of green, open spaces and modern amenities that provide sustainable and elegant touches for residents to enjoy.

In addition to beautiful living spaces, Portofino enjoys the abundance of green, open spaces and a unique mixture of indoor-outdoor features and amenities.

Proximity to the Best Lifestyle Center in the South

Portofino has become a picture of a thriving community with sophisticated Italian-inspired residences in proximity to Evia Lifestyle Center that offers the ultimate shopping and lifestyle experience with expertly curated retail and dining options.

It is also just a few minutes from concept coffee shops such as The Crossing Cafe, which offers a relaxed atmosphere with good food and great coffee, and Joe Drive, the drive-thru version of the country’s first letter-writing cafe, Dear Joe.

Portofino is situated within a live-work-play environment with high accessibility and lush open spaces fittingly interwoven within a safe and secure neighborhood. Its strategic location gives the residents the utmost exclusivity and privacy while still allowing them to enjoy access to all modern conveniences.

It elevates one’s lifestyle in a modern, urban area and creates communities with Brittany’s distinct stamp, style, and character that many have come to know and aspire for.

Beautiful lush landscapes combined with architecture, fountains, and sculptures transform Portofino’s open spaces into something magical with their color, life, and whimsy.

Positive Impact on Property Value

Further advantages that make Portofino stand out are how accessible and convenient it is for private and public transportation, as it is located near the MCX Exit as well as premium shopping and leisure hubs.

With this strategic location, everything is within arm’s reach, custom-made for individuals and families who aim to thrive in a setting that is sustainable and conducive to work productivity.

Beyond elevated lifestyle, Portofino’s improved connectivity and access to key infrastructure projects and lifestyle establishments help boost its property value, making it an attractive investment option for investors wanting to benefit from real estate properties.

Brittany is the premium standard in luxury residential development that offers a beautiful and sophisticated collection of homes, condominiums, and lot-only properties in the country’s finest locations.

As the luxury residential arm of the country’s largest homebuilder, Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc., Brittany creates masterpieces that provide unprecedented space, comfort, absolute attention to detail, and exclusive finishes that are perfect for those with a devotion to perfection and a taste for artful living.

In Brittany, expect nothing less than sophistication, quality, and elegance in the best lifestyle locations: Portofino in Alabang, La Posada in Sucat, Georgia Club, and Promenade in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Crosswinds in Tagaytay.

For more information on Brittany Corporation’s collection of luxury properties, visit www.brittany.com.ph. You may also follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.