VOLTME Expands Presence: Opens Kiosk at SM City North Edsa Annex

While most businesses are closing down in the Philippines, VOLTME is still growing and making their presence felt in some of the biggest malls in the country. As one of the leading charging solutions brand in the country, they have set up shop in SM North Edsa - Annex's 5th Level facing with other electronic brands that the mall carries. They are at the middle part of the floor, with a kiosk showcasing some of the power banks, useful cables, and other accessories.

They've been very well received especially for customers who have  needs for not just city usage, but travel, trying to look for something compact, light, but still powerful. I personally am using a VOLTME Powelink Yoyo that can be long at times, but easily retracts so you can keep it handy in bags when I'm out for coverages and events. 

They also have showcased several products like the 65W REVO EVO Wall Charger which you can fit on walls, utilize it's different ports especially when you've got lots of phones and gadgets to use at one time. For those who want something small factor, the 20000mAh Hypercore Power Bank can be your best bud when you don't like running out of juice for home and office work, and still comes with dual ports as well. The VITO EZ Travel AC Desktop Power Strip on the other hand makes it easy for you to manage cables, use for your bigger items like laptops and desktops, but still have space for your other devices because it also has other ports available. Good thing is that they come with warranty so if ever you have issues with the device, you can go back to the store and get help. They are available on Shopee and Lazada, which will have special sales coming since it is the 12.12 season! 

Congratulations to the men and women of VOLTME who promised they'll be continuing their growth in other parts of the Philippines very soon!

10 Reasons Why You Should Watch THUNDERBOLTS

I've asked myself a couple of times, I didn't get to answer why. One, I wasn't quite familiar with the superhero group even if I was a big fan of films from the outfit. But when I heard that THUNDERBOLTS was in SM Cinemas this month, I saw Filipinos lined up like clockwork. This is a film by Marvel Studios, spread by Disney in theaters, and I got more than what I bargained for. 

1. Thunderbolts had really good actors. Even though I didn't know most of them, one thing they didn't lack is the ability to convey emotion, Florence Pugh, Lewis Pullman, Geraldine Viswanathan, David Harbor, Wyatt Russel and Sebastian Stan all made it easy to digest because characters were believable, funny at times, and easy to relate to. It's like you know them even though you really don't know them.

2. Florence Pugh as Black Widow is different, but I like her take despite of us being a more Scarlett Johansson fan. While new, she took this on like a pro so you'll see her as a bored working assassin from Russia. Trained and gifted as a kid, she becomes her own persona. She doesn't become a hero overnight and this is her movie (even though they're a group).

3. Bucky is back, Sebastian Stan gains a suit and played politics as a day job. By no means that would hamper him from becoming the Winter Soldier that he is. He is still explosive as ever. That iconic arm of him gets clowned by fellow heroes, and this isn't an exception. You'll be reassured though that he's got it all together. He's more matured, and I love it.

4. Lewis Pullman plays Bob. Just Bob. You need to see how he changes. He's extra. But he's just Bob.

5. Director Jake Schreier had a brilliant vision. Executed it well, and doesn't need a forensic scientist that these things are connected. There will be various times you'll see Easter eggs in the middle and end credits scene like what normal Marvel movies do.

6. David Harbor is an absolutely adorable human being. His character might be funny most of the time, but that's where he's going to just chuck you with his ability to pull heartstrings. Then attempt to make you cry, he's going to do a remarkable job in doing it.

7. Wyatt Russel's version of the US Agent is a tiring and frustrating one. He reminds me of a Taco. Watch out for his story. 

8.   Hannah John Kamen as Ghost wasn't given much of an interesting scene although this counts as her origin of some sort. Maybe she'll be in future MCU scenes where we'll get to see even more of her abilities. Maybe she was too hard to edit in. 

9. It ain't a filler, I think it's a necessary prelude to something big. 

10.  It was able to pull its own weight. It might have mentioned bigger ones but it's a story worthy to be known now. Definitely deserves to be seen in SM Cinemas, because it feels different. It wouldn't really make justice if it's just seen in a computer/phone screen if you want to stream.

NASHIE BOY BONUS

 

It's also a great movie to watch with friends who equally love the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I met Nash Aguas, his wife Mika Dela Cruz, Nashies Admin Philip, my neighbor Rai and actor Andre Garcia (whom I also haven't seen in a while). Man, I couldn't hug them but I miss them a lot. Nash is different, but still the same humble guy I've met back in the day. So proud of him and his achievements. It was also my first time to see Mika in person, super cute couple. Ugh, this moment made the movie even more special!

CATHY DOLL Holds #WhatADollDay at SM North EDSA

The gorgeous people from CATHY DOLL Philippines made the SM Beauty space even prettier with a #WhatADollDay event. This was done for folks who love the brand and onlookers that would want to get first dibs of their newest CC Cream line and new products together with influencers Toni, Echo, Cha and Dior... and a surprise guest they revealed later on, the Asoka Challenge Queen herself Lenie Aycardo.

This is the first time I was covering a Cathy Doll event, and I used to see them in different BL series that I watch especially those from Thailand. They're extremely popular, and with good reason, because their products really do work. It also doesn't cost much which makes it possible for them to be used for a greater demographic. It was so nice to see the brand also puts importance in being inclusive hence their endorsers. No matter what orientation, shape or form you are, Cathy Doll products are made especially for you.

 Now for those of you who missed it, don't fret because I've got it on video! Check this out!

 

Jericho, Dior, Toni and Cha, the faces of Cathy Doll in the Philippines

Supportive fiance Hajie Alejandro, Lenie Aycardo and Cathy Doll executives

Jericho and Dior took time to introduce the Cathy Doll CC Lip Serum and Cathy Doll Get Set Go Browcara. They have these in different shades and scents, and can be used if you are either fair or brown skinned. I'd be surprised how confident Jericho was during the talk and how he showed it doesn't make you less of a man if you are using cosmetics these days, as they say, it's already 2024! Dior on the other hand taught how to apply the browcara, as some of you may know, it'll make your brow appear more pronounced but not leech like. It looked good on them and it was applied in a few minutes. Men need perfect brows too.

Toni and Cha on the other hand put importance on the base foundations, powders and concealers. Aside from skin prep, you need to have the right shade for those dark spots. Being fair or morena, Cathy Doll has several products for you like the Cathy Doll Vitamin C Ampoule Powder Pact Press Powder, Cathy Doll Vitamin C Ampoule Concealer and the Cathy Doll ACNE CC Speed Oil Control Powder in Translucent form. You can use these products to make sure your makeup not only stays, but won't crack on you in the long run. It also covers imperfections on the skin, without it feeling heavy at all.

Lenie Aycardo talked in front to tell how she was able to use Cathy Doll products even for the Asoka Challenge which she was famous for. She's a long time user and was surprised with the new ones that they launched on this day because they previous ones were already apt for the different looks she made on the video. She also shares that it doesn't need to be expensive in order to get quality make up, Cathy Doll has different ones for different skin tones and if she could do it, so can you!

Right now, I'm slowly checking what products I could use for my daily regimen since I need to take care of my lips specifically. These new lip serums and tints would be quite handy to carry around especially for events that I cover and go to. 

Congratulations to Cathy Doll Philippines, SM Beauty and their team for making sure that women, men and everything between would have options. This launch just solidifies that!

4th IMPACT Welcomes Fresh Start: Releases New Album

 

When I heard Mylene, Almira, Irene and Celina was out to release an album, my 4th IMPACT fan heart was so happy! After their successful stint in X FACTOR UK Season 12 which catapulted them to worldwide fame, they're still looking for that spark to start off their own, original music, and a journey made of the same dreams they started with years back. Th launch happened at SM North Edsa Skydome in Quezon City, The Philippines.

The album only has 5 songs, but well worth every minute it plays when you stream online or spin on CD where available. Singles include "Distorted", "All at Once", "Round and Round", "February", and "Hate That Girl".

In 2023, announcement of their departure from their previous management shocked a few, but instead of drowning in the past, the girls went down hard as independent artists and did all the legwork needed to make this happen. They spent time working with the best of the best in the industry, same people who made music for Jennifer Lopez, and popular KPOP artists. 

Although there were a lot of sad anecdotes and realizations mentioned in the press conference (where they all kept it real), they had each other, their Mom and Dad to make sure they wouldn't give up the dream to represent the country in the international music scene - and still get to where they want to be. Since the debut single has been released in the US last year, they want to test the waters with these songs and see what resonates more with their audience. This also personifies their deep perseverance, something they're mighty proud came naturally as sisters. Even their management of tasks felt like everyone was volunteering and fit their skills like a glove.

Here's our video coverage of the press conference this evening

They rightfully dedicated this new album to the DREAMERS (their fan group) as they made them realize how they made 4th IMPACT inspired all these years (instead of them being the inspiration). Their faith in the 4 ladies made them hold on to that dream no matter what hardships they encounter.

I liked that in the end, Irene told the press how they knew that this isn't a continuation of what they've been doing in the past, but a true start because as far as artists are concerned, they definitely deserve to have that opportunity. They're hard working, still think about folks, and each other. They've been in so many roads, taken lots of detours, but is still hungry to be where they deserve to be. 

Up there, with the stars!

Predator League 2024 PH Qualifiers and Asia Pacific Regional Finals Announced

Looks like it's going to be a tough competition for Filipino E-Sport athletes as the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Philippine Qualifiers start this month. These are for the exciting RIOT titles particularly games DOTA 2 and Valorant which is still adored in the Manila and elsewhere in the world. This is part Predator's efforts to discover more talent and help existing gamers have an avenue to showcase their skills versus the best of the best for these games in the Asia Pacific region. 

Yes, this is a good stepping stone for budding E-Gamers to gain experience in the industry as slots will be given to winners of the Philippine Qualifiers then join the regional finals. 

Ms. Sue Ong Lim the GM of Acer Philippines says "I'd like to welcome everyone and our valued partners. Predator has been steadfast in championing eSports in the region. In the next few weeks, we will have a few teams announced as finalists, and we will have the winner soon."

Paulo Sy of TNC says "Asia Pacific Predator League is being hosted by Predator in the region where gamers get to showcase their talent against the best in the region. The country finals will happen at the SM North Edsa Annex Atrium and we have 4 teams Neon, Made in Philippines for DOTA2 and  for Valorant we have Naos eSports, Oasis, Zol and Valhalla. During the event the ambassadors and endorsers of Predator will be there to see you. The finals will happen at the Mall of Asia Arena where the Philippine representative will battle it out with other reps from other countries in the region. The finals will be on January 10-14, plus an on ground event and lives stream for those watching at home. It will be 16 teams all in all, separated into 4 groups, then the winners via round robin will battle it out in the championship. The winner will get 65000 USD and special awards will be up for grabs. There will be other events during those dates, and we can't wait to see them early next year!"

PESO Executive Director Marlon Marcelo says "We want to elevate eSports and we have teams doing that now in different events. Happy to say we have won several tournaments, we have been very busy fielding athletes for different games. There is an opportunity to join and compete in the international competitions for 2024. We are doing that in the national level too through Palarong Pambansa. We will do good in DOTA2 and Valorant, which is why we also support the Predator League because they consistently help us, give opportunity for amateurs and professionals to win in a higher competition. The ecosystem in the country is being supported by them, and MOA Arena will be a great venue next year to witness that. We are the number 1 eSports county, see you soon!"

For those who want to start their gaming journey, Predator has the new Helios line which you can check at their experience stores so you can try it out before getting one. The biggest fans of these games are in the Philippines, and the community surely will show up on the day. Be there and Stand Proud!

WARNER BROTHERS: 100 Years Of Celebrating Every Story at SM Malls #WB100

Had so much fun over at Warner Brothers' 100th Year Celebration at the SM North Edsa's THE BLOCK Atrium yesterday. Throngs of DC, Potterheads, every WB cartoon fan from all over Metro Manila converged at this place in what seem to be a piece of WB heaven!

It's a set, complete with the iconic WB water tower at the center with installations of different costumes from Superman, Batman, Wonderwoman, Harry Potter on the left, whilst on the right side there's Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Marvin the Martian and a souvenir area you can purchase shirts from the WB world, we were all like a kid in a candy store. Kids also dressed up as their favorite superheroes whilst the parents pretended they were there to take care of the kids but ended up buying even more than them LOL!

Warner Brothers also held raffle draws of WB merch, for the lucky mall goers and VIP's, they did it several times to the delight of the winners (including me but unfortunately I was in a bathroom break). SM Executives were also there to join the public in celebrating this momentous occasion!

Here's what happened on video that afternoon!

 

Here's a little tour around the display area, it's really a good place to take tons of photos so if you are in the area, please indulge with your favorite WB characters and make your own story! There's also a limited edition Looney Tunes x DC designed merch, make sure you take advantage of that!

This will be in THE BLOCK Atrium up until June 4, but don't fret if you're a little far from the area, it will be toured in different malls til the last quarter. Go to SM Fairview from July 10 to 22, SM Novaliches on July 16 to 31, SM San Lazaro June 19 to 30, SM BF on June 13 to 20, SM Sucat on June 23 to July 2, SM Bicutan from July 7 to 16, SM East Ortigas on July 28 to August 13, SM San Mateo from August 4 to 20, SM Marikina on August 18 to September 3, SM Taytay on August 25 to September 10 and SM Masinag on September 8 to 24.

Come join thousands of fans across the country who would want to make their own stories, celebrate 100 years of Warner Brothers history on these locations, see you all there!

PROMATE at the Villman Gadget Sale 2019

This morning was good as I got to visit the Villman Gadget Sale at SM North Edsa Annex's 4th Floor. The events center was filled to the brim of brands that Villman handles so it was a lot of laptops, routers, mobile phones and just about everything you could imagine especially the accessories.

PROMATE has got this promo where you can roll the dice and win even more prizes after you purchase 300 pesos worth of items in their kiosk

I love the headphones, good for music junkies

For those upgrading their TV's, an essential thing is this HDMI cable so you can watch HD videos for hours

They also have tons of powerbanks in different capacities, try to find the one with cables on it because it is very convenient. I prefer the lightest one though because I already have cables of my own.

Other brands like Linksys were also present so make sure you get the deals right here at SM North Edsa

They will only be here for 3 days so if I were you, I'd drop by and see what I could get for less the price. I'm also a little bias with PROMATE because their previous ones still work for me. :)

It lasts. You should know.

St Peter Life Plan Perks at Breakout Philippines

What does your life plan give you today? Couldn't answer much right? I know.

I asked that specific question because most often that not, your life plan provider doesn't give you anything side from just getting your money that's accorded in your plan. St. Peter Life Plan has been in the industry for years. True enough, they have retained the number one spot in the pre-need death care industry and has been able to provide more affordable packages in traditional memorial life plans. Now that's all good, but what is this thing they call Death Care Week?

It's their way of giving back to the community, one that they started 11 years ago. Back then even talking about death was a taboo, it made people uncomfortable, but you know how convenient it would be to have one so as not to disturb your own family when you leave this world. They held a lot of events, helped tons of people get to and from cemeteries during Halloween, All Saints Day and All Souls Day. This year seems a lot special because aside from their usual community projects, they have also added perks to all St. Peter Life Plan holders together with Breakout Philippines. Have you 

heard of them?

Look at me so happy to solve this room! LOL!

Breakout Philippines has been providing group and family entertainment for a couple of years now. They have themed mystery rooms in different malls, buildings, with the goal of solving it and I've done it quite a number of times. This time however, the partnership they have with Breakout Philippines means all Employees, Sales Agents, Plan Holders with PHIC (plan holders identification cards) or signed St. Peter Life Plan Contracts will get Php 100 OFF their rates on these specific rooms. For SM North Edsa's Boogetman and Sleep No More, Greenbelt 5's Corpse Bride, Katipunan's Clownhouse and Paragon Plaza's Hide and Seek. We actually tried the one in SM North Edsa a few days ago and by golly, it was so much fun I wanted to try the other rooms too. 

Make sure you look for an additional clue, it's the St. Peter Pink Casket!

The Boogeyman had a difficulty of 4/5 because you literally don't have things to actually start with, you just have to find clues and know how to open the cases. It's really fun to do with a group of 5 or more. The best thing that happened that afternoon is of course, we got out of The Boogeyman room in record time. I think we clocked in at around 38 minutes for a 45 minute limited time room. Now is your chance to do it, so go to these branches to get those perks people! 

For more details about Death Care Week, please take a look at my article here. Thanks St. Peter for letting us experience this Breakout Philippines Boogeyman room!

/* First two photos in this article are from Ed Uy. Thanks!

Fun Time and Gifts at Tickles SM North EDSA

I think I haven't been to TICKLES for ages, so when the opportunity to visit one a few days ago arrived, I grabbed it like there was no tomorrow. I think it stemmed from me not going there because I hoard things and I was cutting down on stuff trying to be minimal-istic but really, the things here are so cute you won't be doing that once you step into the ring. TICKLES is circus themed, and this branch is but a welcome addition to the busy SM North EDSA's Ground Floor because it's a little too formal there with the clothes shops, restaurants and even jewelry stores. This would be the perfect place to find lovely gifts for all ages.The price ain't that bad at all too.

The lovely key chains didn't escape my eyes, I wanted the cute plush ones for my own bags LOL

Utility cans, sports themed picture frames, clocks, nautical wall decos, owl and rubber ducky.

 

I bought about 3 of these pens, you can manually use it to fan yourself if it's too hot outside, which is like everyday in Manila.

Sticky notes that look like hamburger buns, white rye bread and several pens looked so good I could eat it!

They also have several phone and tablet holders that can be flexed and fit any size of phone.

If you're planning to have a pageant at home or out in your schools or offices, you need not make one because they've got it all ready made.

Kids would surely have fun with these pencils that''s got their own individual erasers. You can buy one and give away for schools eh?

They also have candies, which looked funny as they're in capsules.

Sleepy head? Keep it fashionable with these funny eye shades if you're going to sleep.

Hungry? Well there's really funny statement pillows you can buy that look like your favorite snacks.

No Girlfriend or Boyfriend? Don't worry, they've got these pillows you can hug 24/7 if you're sad being single.

Pillows like pills, hotdogs, Yakult Bottle, Tabasco, or lifesavers are all here.

If you want to prank people, they've got retractable knives, broken phone glasses, trick lunch bags all for sale.

If you want to perform in front of the crowd with your own favorite magic trick, they've got several kits to jumpstart your career. You can be the next David Copperfield!

If you can't stay away from your cute puppies, take these pillows to sleep because you'll love these PUGtato chips!

I think these were coin banks too, but of course you can carry them around like a key chain.

If you're fond of going out to music festivals or night parties, these glow sticks would be fun. It's going to make your party more festive!

Coin purse? They've got it in different colors. Really cheap too!

Tons of plushies again, clown fish, dragons, oh they've got it!

Pet mugs? Tons of dog breeds immortalized on ceramic mugs looked really cute! I guess they won't run out of it!

If you're fond of that scene in the Korean Drama shown on iFlix, well they've got the octopus plushie too!

If you always feel like some friend or family has put something on your head, take it literally with these cute poo head gear which I wore inside the store. Nothing more strange than that!

My favorite find in TICKLES are these COW Plushies, they're hypoallergenic and available in different sizes. I couldn't decide what to get so I got them both! OH SO CUTE!

Here's a video of our short visit! It was awesome!

If you want to check out TICKLES at SM North EDSA, just visit the main mall's Ground Floor and it's just right in front of Jollibee, you can't miss it!

I'll be back there very soon as I've got tons of people to give gifts to!