GCash Announces 10 New Groundbreaking Tech for the App

Had a lot of fun over at the GCash #GCashFutureCast event at Whitespace in Makati. GCash CEO Martha Sazon says "I'm excited to see you all live and seeing you all feels very special. Are you excited? We'll be telling you a few groundbreaking things, to where we are bringing Fintech for all Filipinos. Financial inclusion is a right, we empowered you all in your everyday purchases, to adapt to a new behavior, so thank you for your trust. We are a companion to 70 percent Filipinos, merchants, OFW's, and has become part of your digital lifestyle. This is part of our customers needs. We are now a consumer app bringing innovation for good, helping Filipinos giving access to those who needed it most. We are the first and only duacorn in the country, and one of the few profitable fintechs in the world, especially Asia. I don't wanna brag, we are 6x more than the next finance app. Our journey is far from over, we want to win every Filipino whenever and wherever they are, to make everyday lives better. To be future-ready so you get finance for all!"

Chief Tech Officer Pebbles Sy says "We believe financial inclusion addresses barriers, and we put customers in the forefront. We want you to be safer and MORE secure. Beyond enabling you with GSave, we brought G Crypto, do GScore, serve Filipinos here and around the world. We also have G Overseas, and two things, security is out priority. Despite our measures, 1 in 2 Million users are being affected, so we stepped up our efforts with GCash Doublesafe. Only you can access your GCash account when it's shared, this is another layer of security when you manage the account. 

Michelle Fernandez who heads Digital Experience says "We spent a lot of time thinking of what you need, we think about what you use everyday. Most often than not, it's sending money. Previously it would take a transaction 11 steps, now you can skip saving those screenshots in your app. We're introducing GChat, so you can message anyone inside the app. All those receipts will be generated in the chat with you, you don't have to have phone storage to save you, all the right messages to the right people. Online receipts are available, you can even chat with merchants, this is where we will send messages and communication, simple and made just for you. This will revolutionize the way you manage your wealth."

Darwin Sy Su the head of Wealth  Management says "According the BSP, there are only 1% of the population that are part of the stock market. Problems lie in the fact that there are tons of paperwork, tons of steps, and need to open a bank account. You need multiple platforms, no one stop shop, you can't do it on break, while at work or on your phone... Plus it's very intimidating, seen as a thing for rich people. In the past, you need 25K to own one, but now it's easy and accessible with the new GSTOCKS PH. We made stock trading easy. It's now digital, seamless, no paperwork and easy. The screens on trading are easy to understand, easy to transfer money from your account to your wallet. Information about your investment and is powered by AB Capital. Now anyone can invest in over 280 companies listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange. You don't need a bank account, just top up for FREE, then WITHDRAW FREE in three steps. Buying stocks is also easy by tapping on the stock, indicate the number of stocks you want to buy or sell then place the order. We will be there with you every step of the way, we will have education about it on board if you are just beginning. This is an exciting era of trading through GStocks PH. Now you can do right investments, to help you achieve financial freedom."

Winsley Bangit Head of New Businesses say "During the pandemic, online shopping was an all time high for it's flexibility and convenience. Every budol sparks joy, but we do know there are dangers and risks in these transactions. Insurance has always been expensive, too complex and difficult to sign up, but now you can worry no more with GInsure powered by CHUBB. 60 days, 20K coverage, 34 pesos monthly. If sellers don't respond within 2 days and don't give a refund, this can protect you in your online deals. Everytime you make a transaction, just tick a box on insurance when you use the app. You can also track your claim upon approval of your documents, which usually takes 3 days. It's guaranteed to protect you minus the risk."

Mark Nunez of Crypto Partnerships tells us "PH is paving the way for web3 globally, 11 Million owns crypto and NFT's, we are 7th in the world. It can bridge generations by owning art. Now we have GCrypto. We are also giving you first dibs on Reen Barrera's NFT's."

Vincent Tio adds "It's complicated to understand Crypto, GCrypto makes it easy."

Kevin Yu the Product Head for GLoan says "A lot of you have been doing the same thing everyday. The world is increasingly connected and we are first in gaming, TV Content and 4th in data usage. GCash is making it more accessible through "BORROW LOAD". You now don't need to go to the store, now you can access it on the app, with 99 peso promos coming soon. You can subscribe and pay for it in 14 days, so you can get access if budget is tight."

"GGives on the other hand is a product where you can upgrade your life, with the power of zero. Zero credit cards, downpayment, additional documents, interest, you can live comfortably with a budget of 125K, up to 24 months installment if you purchase it with GGives."

Fe Olivia Mir of their Growth Marketing says "People have been on a revenge travel. There are transaction fees you tend to forget about and it could be costly. This time, we are introducing GCash Global Pay. You can pay with the GCash App with Alipay+ so you can pay without service fees in confirmed countries, and will expand soon! Another one is the GCash Card, you can use this with low service fees, access funds in a swipe, especially now with our new GCash Visa Card. With it, you can travel cashless when available. GCash will be there with you!"

GCash Overseas on the other hand is their remittance service. With over 36 Billion dollars sent to the PH, which is 4th highest in the world. Now with it, you can download the app with an app, it is easier and less expensive, free for GCash to GCash transactions. You can also pay for billers, you can also buy load on the GCash Overseas app and reguster using your international sim. This has been available in several countries since last month.

These are 10 groundbreaking developments in the Gcash app. If you are interested in availing their services, go download the Gcash app today!

Congratulations on these new milestones!

Must Watch at Summer MMFF: Here Comes The Groom

With the summer heat coming in, it's about time that the Sunmer Metro Manila Film Festival start. It will be held on April 8-18, and one of the entries from Quantum Films, CineKo and Brightlight Productions called "HERE COMES THE GROOM" is offering an all star cast plus full blown comedy for this MMFF season.

If you remember Angelica Panganiban, John Lapus, Tuesday Vargas, Jaime Fabregas' previous hit film called "Here Comes the Bride!", this is officially the sequel for it. This stars Enchong Dee, Keempee De Leon, Maris Racal, Gladys Reyes, Awra Briguela, Eugene Domingo, Miles Ocampo, Tony Labrusca, Nico Antonio, Iyah Mina, Fino Herrera, Kim Atienza, plus the special participation of RPDR Philippines Xilhouette and Kaladkaren.

They promise an even funnier one with "Here Comes the Groom" as the sequel has a totally different story line. From a whole family going to a wedding, they suddenly experience a phenomenon during the eclipse which made them swap bodies and personalities with gay pageant regulars, and that's where the fun and crazy antics start. If you're asking if they would be able to go back to normal, that's what the movie will answer if you watch it. "Here Comes the Groom" is written and directed by Chris Martinez and again is the official entry of these three production companies to the Summer Metro Manila Film Festival. 

I watched it this evening, and I can confirm, it's one crazy fun film that would be fit for friends who have humor,  timing and knack for good slapstick and situational comedy.

GERALD ANDERSON and KYLIE PADILLA for UNRAVEL

Mavx Productions has a gem in their hands as the Gerald Anderson and Kylie Padilla film called UNRAVEL is quite an interesting piece. This is their entry to the Summer Metro Manila Film Festival wherein they chose mental health as a topic which is pretty much a timely thing to discuss. 

It definitely is something new too because they also put in VAD (or Voluntary Assisted D3@th) which is legal in some countries, but really not allowed by law in others. It also is emotionally daunting to be in their position with the complexities of their personalities, their family situations and love. It didn't help that they had to qualify patients that would go through VAD because at the end of the day, they were dealing with lives of people.

Kylie plays the role of Lucy who has been suffering from clinical depression then decides to fly to  another country where it is permitted in the hopes of doing VAD. Gerald Anderson on the other hand plays Noah who in all circumstances would want to keep her alive. 

Kylie says "I had a great time, in the beginning it was surreal. I put my trust in Mavx Productions and Direk. I was really afraid about the material because it was dark, I had anxiety attacks after reading the material, but I hope people who go through this see hope, to hopefully save more people. I was a fan of kimerald, I just had to concentrate on work in doing this film."

Gerald adds "She is a good representative for her home network and working with her was a breeze. As an actor, I haven't experienced doing this kind of material, I feel people should always be nice, we all have our journeys because Noah and Lucy had their own battles. Kylie was very professional, it made us shoot easily because she was a cowboy."

This is the first time that the Summer MMFF is happening and their entry  is also part of their celebration of Star Magic's 30th Anniversary. They have filmed this piece in Switzerland. It is certainly quite breathtaking to see. It's a perfect backdrop to any film, even if the topic of d3@th was a tad depressing, you can't help but marvel at how gorgeous the place is. Is it good to watch? Definitely. You'll learn something, you don't know who's suffering.

If you need mental help, Hopeline is available at 09175584673. Give them a call if you feel the need to.

Robinsons Appliances Hold Last Leg of RACE TO A MINUTE in Galleria South!

Spent my whole afternoon and evening traveling to San Pedro, Laguna a few days ago for the last leg of Robinsons Appliances Race to a Minute 2023. It's where they pick lucky shoppers from Robinsons Appliances and let them go through a short distanced course with 6 different activities in order to win prizes from Robinsons Appliances. They're doing this to say THANK YOU to all their customers who have patronized Robinsons Appliances all this year, and they gave up to Php 220,000 worth of prizes to lucky shoppers. 

The event was hosted by Turs Daza and Elisse Joson. They have already done those in Valencia in Bukidnon, Robinsons Galleria Cebu, Robinsons Tugegarao so it was time to do it with GMA participants this time in the City of San Pedro. Each station in the event was quite difficult and had to be solved with physical strength, wit, and smarts. Their sponsors and appliance brands chipped in on each exercise, it was quite tiring to run around the mall while we chase the contestants to document it, here's how it went!

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Here's the announcement of winners!

In the end, it was the Yellow team that won this last leg, and according to their conversations during the event (the executives and production), they plan to do another one by next year. So see, it's really worth it to shop at Robinsons Appliances. Make sure you follow their social channels especially their Facebook Page because they announce it and other promos there. 

Congratulations to the winners and of course to Robinsons Appliances! Can't wait to join the festivities soon and be part of this event, because from where I see it, it's worth it!

Wolvit Releases 2 New Digi ads on Hair Loss

Truth be told, I think I'm suffering from hair loss too. It's a really stressful condition to be in especially if you just want to look good up there, and see yourself being the handsome self you were when you were young.

Aside from aging, it could be caused by one or many issues. Recently, Wolvit (a biotin supplement brand) released 2 digital ads about it showcasing different guys, different circumstances where they encounter the instances where people notice that they're losing hair. The ones in the ads feel they suddenly get shocked, then lose confidence, because their usual crowning glory or perfect hair, seem not to be as good anymore.

The first is entitled "Night Out", a little iffy if you're a foodie, but you'll definitely relate if it is happening to you. The second one is called "Hinala", for women who suddenly find themselves suspecting husbands of an affair, but didn't see it was their own hair falling on the pillows and clothes. That what you may be experiencing, was just Biotin deficiency. Wolvit takes care of that.

If you want to know more about it, you can purchase them in Mercury Drug stores and Watsons, go check it out as it's accessible. I might do that myself.

#TEAMLOVE with BANINAY BAUTISTA and BONT BRYAN

People have definitely fascinated with the lives of Baninay Bautista and Bont Bryan Oropel on YouTube. With almost 4 Million subscribers on the platform, they've continued to delight the public and their subscribers especially those invested about their relationship. They're going to take it up a notch this year as they start a full on YouTube reality series called "TEAM LOVE: THE REALITY" premiering this April 1st on their respective YouTube channels.

As you may know, theirs ain't a perfect relationship. They've been on an off in different times, and you'll see this raw on the show. They will include several important people from their families, and also several celebrity friends (which they will divulge later). This event was attended by over 100 YouTubers, influencers, friends and family (and media people). 

We watched the first episode, and surely, it was so surprising that they didn't leave out the stressful fights and personal moments which might be very interesting for some.

We got to interview them before the screening and here's what transpired on video:

 

 

This will be 6 episodes that will be released in the consecutive Sundays after April 1st, so make sure you subscribe to their channels and see what's happening with TEAM LOVE in front and behind the scenes.

Celebrate SAMGYUPSALAMAT All This March!

Looks like you're gonna be off saying SAMGYUPSALAMAT a little longer as the restaurant known for offering premium unlimited K-BBQ is celebrating Sangyeopsal Day on March 3 (same as in Korea) and extending festivities til the end of the month. This means, there's going to be more time to enjoy Korean food, banchan (side dishes) and meat for only Php 333 (a special rate they did on March 3, 13 and 23) on March 30. Patrons who avail of this promo and decide to participate with the Samgyupsalamat Hallyu Challenge can win a trip to Jeju Island, any KPOP or KDrama fan would relly love that!

After weathering the pandemic, SAMGYUPSALAMAT has continued to grow with the help of their loyal customers in over 70 branches across the country. This is why they are doing this huge "THANK YOU" on these dates. If you want to know more about their recent promos or offers, just search for SAMGYUPSALAMAT on social channels, there's certainly more to come!

Asterra Set to Build More Homes in the PH

Millenials preferrecd home of choice has been condominium units. It's something that has been seen as less hassle to maintain, especially if you're always out of town or the country and worry about security. It makes total sense especially for young able bodies folks to see the world of course, and good thing there are affordable ones in different cities, even if they are property investments.

It can also be passed on to next of kin or family quite easy than to think more of land and paperwork that comes with it. A Vista Land project called Asterra has been increasing in demand for those thinking about their future, OFW's and the young working class need something that would get themselves additional income by renting it out, or having arrangements in the property. Needless to say, they're amping up the tempo in building even more projects set in over 20 cities/municipalities elsewhere in the Philippines.

Asterra homes are modern, suburban, very habitable and perfect for starting a family, or become an investment. As Ms. Armela Ruiz, the Asterra Division Head for South Luzon says "We're going to have Asterra in premier locations in different regions of the country. We've worked hard to make them the condo of their dreams and facilities that have sense like basketball courts, multipurpose halls, and can be used by family or unit owners if there's an occasion. These are well designed, mid rise structures that are only 4-7 floors and have access to shops, churches, transportation as it is well planned. All of these have been arranged with ample security, so people who live in it have less to worry about when they leave their homes.  

There are also plans to have house and lot developments so make sure you stay tuned to Asterra's social channels (by searching AsterraOfficial) or their website asterra.com.ph for more details. Announcements of locations will be rolled out soon and can be seen in the same means, go live in an Asterra today!

NADINE, BEA + More at the OPPO Inspriation Ahead Event

Super happy to see OPPO getting a little closer to lifestyle events as they held an "Inspiration Ahead" forum with speakers like stylists Pam Quinones and Daryl Chang, concert photographer to the stars Magic Liwanag, and Fashion and Style blogger David Guison. It was nice to see them share their expertise in their respective fields, but in a nutshell, it takes guts to be fashionable, it's okay to experiment, make amends with style mishaps in the past (and to just go ahead and try it). 

 

 

Leanne and Naara also provided needed entertainment in the middle of festivities, music from them was really super nice, a lot of people danced during their set. I'm a fan of their music now :)

Magic says "My inspiration starts the moment I wake up, shooting different people, I learned that it depends on how you feel. Experience for me is champ! As a photographer, I'm glad my wife isn't a content creator, I get to rest, capture moments, even if it's not Hollywood or international artists, I get to share my story. OPPO really helped me become pro active, because of its functionalities, from Reno to Find, you get excited to take photos and remain inspired anywhere."

David Guison says "I don't really think bout it so much nowadays, just dark, minimalist, things that you don't tend to see much, that's what I document. Knowing what you like is your style. It's nice to see people that hype you up, it helps because you get to say hi and show your personality. "

During the evening, they had Bea Alonzo on stage and talk about her own passions. She also shared her ways on finding inspiration on everything she does. She was extremely happy to see her fans on the grounds since late lunch time. That's dedication right there!

 

Then to make the evening even better, I was able to take a few minutes to talk to President NADINE LUSTRE who has been in the headlines these past few weeks. But of course, we didn't talk about THAT. I had to ask how she's been, and how she feels being trusted by OPPO all these years. It's been a while since I've sat down with her, so here, enjoy!

I think this was my favorite shot that evening :)

Nadine also has stressed how she loves her RENO line of phones which she's endorsing with OPPO, and for the tons of new phones that they have come out with in recent months. These men and women do inspire a lot of people, and sharing those experiences probably would make all of us see our efforts, that it's okay to take time. Thank you for having me at the OPPO Inspiration Festival! :) 

Oh by the way, more events like these and offers are being announced through the their channels so go give them a follow! Recently they priced the OPPO A96 at Php 14,999, plus some news about their folding phone would be a nice thing to get acquainted with, go see it there!

Hannah Precillas Takes on Sharon Cuneta's "Sa Aking Daigdig"

Hannah Precillas has been doing a lot these days.Aside from being in All Out Sundays as a part of Queendom, she's also a go to person for a lot of GMA's homegrown and international shows for their official soundtracks. Not surprised because she's been doing the country proud all these years after her stint at D' Academy Asia in Indonesia and the throng of events she's been in. 

She had a single in the past that did pull a lot of heartstrings, and this time, she's happy to have been able to do her own rendition of Megastar Sharon Cuneta's "Sa Aking Daigdig" (In my world) which was done back in the 80's. Much to her worry, it was going to be hard since it is a classic OPM song from one of the greats in the music industry, plus it was going to be difficult to follow a pretty successful song back in the days. 

Hannah had to refuse listening to the Sharon Cuneta version so it wouldn't have any effect to what she plans to do with her version. She admits only listening to it once before she recorded it and veer away so she could do a different take on this single.

Here's our interview with her this afternoon, please enjoy!

 

There are currently no plans to release other original music in the near future but as Hannah says, she's ready for whatever surprise GMA Music has up their sleeves and she's raring to do it. She also had difficulties making original songs because she tends to do lengthy stories about it instead. She also told us that it's difficult for her to write them because in a sense, she doesn't have that proper ending yet to her story.

She is currently in a relationship and is very happy. If you want to hear her version, the single is already out on digital platforms so make sure you stream them, download and take that Hannah Precillas experience even further. Again, this is under GMA Music. Thank you for the opportunity to talk to you again Hannah!

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CEDRIC ESCOBAR Releases Debut Single "Di Na Ba" Under Polyeast Records

It must have been fate, least to say when Cedric Escobar was asked to perform as front act to the Introvoys' tour in the US. They were initially confused when he wasn't allowed to be "front act" and instead, asked to perform in the mid to test if he could sustain the energy of the crowd Introvoys were playing at a few years back. It was then when drummer, actor Paco Arespacochaga knew he had a gem in his hand, so he's mentoring him, his career together with record label Polyeast Records until today... as he releases his debut single called "Di Na Ba" announced in a press conference held at 12Monkeys in Estancia Pasig City. This is co-presented by B2B music distribution, tech and marketing corp FUGA. He has already performed in US tours of KZ, Jaya, JK and other Filipino artists and is excited for his first work being released locally.

Cedric says "I've been lucky to have been able to have Filipino fans because they really do support Filo artists like me. This has certainly been a dream, like a part of my vision board. I'm going to give it my 100 percent, really thankful for the opportunity!'

"He treats me as one of his sons and I do look up to Kuya Paco. Right now I am working on a lot of music, to hopefully release more this 2023."

Paco says "He really didn't want this song but when I invited him on stage, and at the end of the performance, everyone clapped. It's hard to mentor someone, but after that, it was just trust between us. I felt back then, he did do a lot of front acts already, so I didn't allow him to be front act, I put him in the middle of the set. It was to see the momentum of the crowd was going to be sustained and we did a lot of 90's songs. We did covers and he respects how the song was supposed to be sung, it didn't have vocal acrobatics. This is a two year journey, and I'm glad to see him here."

His single "Di Na Ba" can now be downloaded or streamed in all digital platforms, you can also check his performance video on Polyeast Records YT channel today. You can also follow Cedric Escobar's social channels to get to know him even more. 

This was already launched through Polyeast's The LiVeRARY which was streamed on YouTube during the height of the pandemic where they let artists showcase their music on stream.