It can feel so daunting to be an adult. While you're out of uni and finally got work, the next step is how to earn and save. This is where most people feel lost and clueless because investing takes a lot of learning.
The folks at Metrobank though is taking the guesswork out by making it easier for you, and more accessible. To do it securely, they now have UITF or Unit Investment Trust Fund available online. This means you get to do all the transactions through your own personal computers or smartphone. They made it all simple to apply for one and give you the information you need to make decisions where you want to invest your hard earned money.
Through their funds, you get your money to be managed by Metrobank's very own fund managers who use their experience and expertise to strategically grow it and monitor on a full time basis. The platform also is available 24/7 and can be accessed online. This is also done secure as they utilize world class security standards, and all it takes is 10,000 pesos as your minimum amount. You can choose among 25 UITF products, choose to be aggressive or not, all in Metrobank UITF platform. You may visit their official website via metrobank.com.ph/investments/uitf and their main site onlinebanking.metrobank.com.ph if you want to do it now!
Christmas is just around the corner and folks are busy checking their lists, doing it twice or thrice as they prepare for the most important occasion of the year, the birth of our savior Jesus Christ.Noche Buena or Media Noche, we try to make it special and it won't be festive if there's one thing you love especially on desserts, that's MR. HAT GULAMAN!
Available in different colors, the thing sets quickly after a boil and serving it with cream or sugar and mixing it with your favorite fruits would be an easy prep. Others even use it to firm up their already lovely food like leche flan, crema de fruta, or different panacotta, which always is a hit. If you love pudding, salads, it's very flexible and those potlucks shouldn't be so hard to do because of how quick you can prepare for it.
If you've got an idea, just do it with MR. HAT GULAMAN as it is available in leading groceries and supermarkets, it's even affordable, and always good! Go discover your inner chef today!
Isha Ponti is taking her music to new heights by releasing a Christmas single called "Kung Wala Ka Sa Pasko".
At the launch, they had PPOP girl group DIV9 and Andrea Gutierrez perform as part of their efforts to promote their upcoming concert "The Next Ones" on December 13th at the Music Museum, produced by Ponti Entertainment Productions. They will be with Aquila Packing, Nathan Randal, Maurice, PPOP group by Azter, Graciel Hizon, Raymond Gorospe, The Boxers, Roshe Performing Group and the iconic Rey Valera.
Isha is a very talented songwriter, and this song she just released is a bit of an emotional plea because the one she loves was not there during a special occasion such as Christmas. Done all in Filipino, she hopes it reaches those who feel a little lonely during this season. The lyrics give off a bit of a woman wanting to be with her loved one. She says "When we were trying to make a song, this was done on the spot and took us only 40 minutes just last November. I love Sarah Geronimo since I was a kid. If ever I'd get to do acting work, I would definitely grab the opportunity. I haven't made a song for Ate Andrea, or a PPOP group so I'd like to do that. I also want to compose a song for Sarah Geronimo and Arthur Nery. I've been writing songs since I was 7, but had problems with a recording company. It was a surprise for my Dad but it just continued. He was the one who encouraged me to write. I heard of contests for songwriting, but never had the opportunity to do so. Now I have 24 songs written but had about 19 recorded. I haven't released it yet but we'll see. I haven't done collabs yet but I'd like to do that soon."
Andrea loves the music of Lani Misalucha and want the concert to be a bit more modern plus a few classic songs in the mix. She says "Isha and I met in a competition called Asia's Best where she was Season 1 champ and I got Season 3. We already had the final rehearsal and we got good feedback even if we have different genres. I will be singing a lot of songs including 3 for the holidays. This includes an original song, which I'm excited to do on that night."
Isha and Andrea were commended by the Director Calvin Niera and said they actually over delivered. They didn't box the repertoire and expect something off their comfort zones because they have other songs to perform in the show. This is something that they are working on til things happen on the 13th. It's also going to talk about their personal journey, their feelings, just said through songs. It's fun and dance will also be a huge part of it towards the end.
Obviously they are excited, and if you want to watch something fun before the holidays, get tickets via TicketWorld now! Here's lots of luck for you two and the other performers, cheers!
It's
August but Metrobank is about to change the holiday schedules as they
start the season with planning early with products fit for the Filipino
resolution makers, and not have it too late.
Folks should not start change after new year revelries, the time to
start doing it is right now!
Last year, they initiated GIFT. Mr. Digs
Dimagiba the Digital Marketing Lead for Metrobank talked lengthily about it and said "Goals, Invest,
Follow a Budget Plan and Take Advantage of Deals (aka GIFT) was done last year.
This year, we need to plan ahead. We need to spend with purpose, and
August as Financial Resolutions Month and it needs to be done a bit
early because those who start late usually don't get to achieve their
goals. We want more people to accomplish their goals, and stop making it
in January just like any successful business. It's going to be clearer,
have gift guides, plan before your bonus comes into play in your
financial journey. The #EarlyGIFT challenge means you need to know your
realistic goal in 12 months, take time to write it down, make it public
and tag your friends, before the holiday rush begins. You may refer to
earlygift.ph, and don't be afraid to have big goals. We'll help you make
your plans become a reality."
Ms. Peaches Cuenco the Head of Consumer Lending Group for Metrobank says
"Look at where are right now. Home ownership is a priority for every
family, there are 2/5 folks who don't own their homes. The younger
Filipinos increased ownership for car and homes, there is an increase
YOY. It's an opportunity for Metrobank to make that a reality. Our best
offer ever is the Car and Home Loans now have a 3 year fixed term,
waived fees (10K), and these include insurance from AXA. Convenience that is FREE. If you
are interested, you can apply online on our website or physically go to a
branch near you. We can be your financial partner all the way!"
Now is the time to be financially ready. And what better way to start
that but by singing Christmas Songs with the one and only Jose Mari Chan!
@kumagcow JOSE MARI CHAN Starts Singing CHRISTMAS SONGS IN AUGUST, just like your plans to save! Do it early with METROBANK #TikTokTainmentPH #TikToktainment #tiktokshowbizreporter #JoseMariChan ♬ original sound - John Bueno
Metrobank wants you to know that YOU CAN do your yearly plans early instead of just doing it in January and feeling like a failure because it's too late. You've got funds available even before the holidays, and being adept to changes before it happens can spell success. They've got the best offers in loans when you want a new home or transportation. Go get it and make that year a successful one today!
Looks like the holidays have been very apt for the folks from DigiP1us and their social arm Bing0P1us Foundation because they've been a very giving mood through their "Sagot ng Bing0 ang Regalo Mo Program" which is part of their community efforts aimed to help those who need it most in 24 cities just last year.
Their executives and employees (mostly volunteers) made sure wishes from 45 folks were screened meticulously, as part of their Make A Wish program and their holiday activities nationwide. This was supported by their Executive Director Anglea Camins-Wieneke who puts this as one that could spark hope, love, that could impact the lives of those who are in the community.
To solidify the campaign, they also created a series called ChristPlus Stories, mostly about love and sacrifice that were shown on their social channels. The heartwarming videos elicited really good feedback from netizens, and those who were able to learn a thing or two about relationships, and kindness. Make sure you visit their pages for more of it today!
The premise of meeting primetime King and Queen Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera and talented PPOP group ALAMAT was certainly something I'd wish for during Christmas. A few nights ago, DITO Telecommunity celebrated with with media, guests and DITO subscribers and closed the year with the country's Fastest Mobile Network Award. It's something they've been steadfastly working on in improving business growth and consumer experience in the last few years. The event was witnessed by DITO executives Atty. Adel Tamano their current Chief Revenue Officer for Enterprise, Evelyn Jimenez the Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business and their stakeholders.
Ms. Evelyn Jimenez pronounced how DITO is still putting up infrastructure as we speak. Their dream is to get those far flung and underserved communities connected to the network so they too could benefit from the internet and fulfill their dreams too. They have received the Philippines Fastest Mobile Network Award (all in all 14 categories) from Opensignal beating their rivals in the country. Their 5G connection is on a different level, having over 287.2 Mbps which nearly doubles their closest competition. This is a milestone for DITO, something that they've don in the last half of 2023 and first half of 2024, but they're not stopping there.
Discovering Talent
Filipino work and craftsmanship is world class. DITO recently launched Galing DITO, to showcase those who excel in their craft (I remember Herminio Tan, a great sculptor from Antipolo which they did a few months ago), also this time, PPOP phenoms ALAMAT. We talked to the boys and saw how it has made their lives easy, they were happy to share their experience with it and the various shows they got mounted with the bullish telecom company. They are also doing a concert today called RAGASA at the New Frontier Theater in Araneta City. You should definitely watch this before the show!
Primetime King and Queen for DITO
Powerful couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera Dantes also obliged us with an interview. They were so happy to have been able to accomplish so much with DITO, and how they have been able to grow with it. Dingdong told us how they started and sees how huge the DITO Telecommunity is now, and was excited to tell us about what they do at home while they enjoy time with kids, or plainly working.
Marian was giddy, telling us how the need of being online 24/7 was answered by DITO. Whenever Dingdong is out for work, or if she's busy with a shoot, they do not fail to get in touch with each other because DITO is seamless and proved time and time again, to be fast whether for work or play. They call each other even at home when they're in different parts of the house. They also enjoy internet time with the kids because they only let them use it when both of them are present. I was so impressed how they managed to still have time for the cute and talented kids no matter how busy they are.
It just tells so much about how a company that believes in the Filipino talent, their artistry and supports them in their endeavors. Their endorsers believe in them, and this is why they've grown exponentially over the years since they started. They're not stopping there, because from what I've heard, both ALAMAT, Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera Dantes will be doing several shows and appearances to make sure their message comes across all demographics. They are still putting up infrastructure, but from what is seen so far with regards to their network performance, they're certainly with the right people.
We hope you get to enjoy these exclusive interviews with them like I did. Thank you to DITO Telecommunity for letting us experience interviewing ALAMAT and the King and Queen of Primetime.
OPPO won't be just sitting around this 12.12 because they're bringing out their best phones in the BIGGEST year end sale which they dub as "MALIGAYANG PASKOPPO". This means, you'll get a chance to get the biggest deals from their physical stores and various online platforms which they are present in.
Aside from the deals, they will have freebies on TikTok, Lazada, Shoppe this December, plus vouchers of various amounts on different handsets (with minimum spends) so you can still take out a few hundred bucks especially if you go above Php 24,999. If you're watching their livestreams, they will also have store vouchers and TikTok shop vouchers you can use, plus vouchers to use on your next OPPO purchase in Lazada and Shopee. Shopee also has a Php 4000 voucher for those who go through SPayLater, on several of their SKU's, plus LazPayLater deals which you can get at 0% interest, so there's no better time to get your dream phone but on the 12th!
OPPO will also do an OPPO Find N3 Flip Hunt Challenge on their pages, plus issue freebies on select devices, so make sure you ask before finalizing that deal!
Make sure you follow their social channels for the best deals as they will announce them there too.
One of the most good looking guys on the internet Nico Bolzico aka the "The Bullied Husband" of Solenn Heussaff just released his own book called "Bullied Husbands Club - The Manual" in popular online shopping platform Lazada.
His humor is different. Either with culture or upbringing, one could tell how it would always be fun in the Bolzico household as he narrates small anecdotes in this printed work. Marrying one of the most beautiful women in show business must have come with a lot of things, and one of them is dealing with an equally crazy life with a "Wifezilla". Nico's book details a few procedures how to deal with the everyday battles. One must not forget where one stands in the relationship, that men are only slaves and don't have anything to say other than YES on a normal day (I kid). He also goes the mile and gives good advice on small things so you don't have to suffer the consequences.
Nico's celebrity friends, Lazada executives put their stamp on the book.
Congratulations Nico!
I read it in a span of 2 days, and I thought I wouldn't get his humor, but I did. Got my copy signed in a Lazada event a few weeks ago. I must say, the fine man is quite nice to talk to.
To tell you honestly, I liked every bit of it. It's sort of a preparation if you're in the process of getting married. It's not all clownery, because at the heart of these conversations in his head is his way of telling you how it is done, how one should respect women in general. It's not just giving her what she wants, but thinking about what she needs and her freedom. Being married doesn't mean you would need to just stay at home and take care of kids (and dogs), women in this era can do so many things and being a husband means you need to support her among other things. You'll learn that and more in Nico's book. Although delivered humorously, it makes a lot of sense.
This is also very affordable and perfect to have as a Christmas gift for men, if you haven't had the chance to get your spouse, boyfriend or male friend a gift... go to LAZADA today and take that leap to understand why the Argentinian man survived the Filipina wife. You can get the book HERE. Thanks to Lazada for having us!
I've been in this side of the South a couple of times, but wasn't able to see the actual Aguinaldo Shrine in all its glory. Yes, I've been in Kawit, Cavite last week. Honestly, it was so much fun to have been able to veer away from Metro Manila, and see the actual thing we read in history books. For those who don't know, Kawit, Cavite is home to Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the new Republic under the Malolos Congress. To say the least, this part of the world is quite historic. His involvement in the Spanish and American War was quite huge, and has won several times, recorded over years.
Today, the municipality is led by Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo. He is the great grand son of the former President. His namesake was certainly a thing that could pressure him, he was quite aware of it. Though with what leadership and service he provides his people, his personality is quite different. He was so humble and very shy with interviews. What's quite unquestionable is how he's loved by Kawiteños, I've seen their faces light up when talking about him and how they are all eager to share personal stories, experiences on how they were helped by him in one way or another, in their most trying times.
Since it's also Christmas, they hold events at the Aguinaldo Freedom Park where the bronze statue of the former President is located. It's on horseback, and quite massive to be seen by all. This lies in front of the famous Aguinaldo Shrine, where the country's first flag was raised. It was astounding to see the balcony or window immortalized in books and legal tender. While admiring that, we were toured inside the home, the original structure, same wood over a hundred years could tell tons of stories.
The Kawit LGU has made this place light up in recent years. If you saw what I saw during the evening event, more than the lights they installed and fireworks, I was super surprised at the mere number of people who flocked the park. That place is huge, but Moms, friends, their whole families were in tow... with pure smiles on their faces. It was infectious, they fancied light installations set at different colors and speed. They also had lots of light tunnels where the kids run around and took lots of selfies. Various forms of Santa Claus, Butterflies, things that both the LGU and the Mayor wanted so people could celebrate in this place for FREE during the yuletide season. Same reason why even the nearby towns go to the Aguinaldo Freedom Park as well. Just take a look at the actual Aguinaldo Shrine at night, as they also lit up the place with a 3D projector. They were also mighty proud about their churches, I was honestly envious seeing all that!
Here's our interview with the Kawit, Cavite LGU. Meet Mayor Angelo Aguinaldo's Mother Konsehala Armie Aguinaldo, Konsehal Alvin Bunag, Municipal Administrator Engr. Rey Santos, and Kawit PIO Lead Mathew Juganas.
The Aguinaldo Freedom Park and Aguinaldo Shrine just looks so different at night!
They even have the finger heart, symbolizing their triple A goal of #AlagangAngeloAguinaldo, where one exudes Puso (heart) and Malasakit (concern for others).
Well loved Diocesan Shrine of St. Mary Magdalene, concert during the Kawit Christmas lighting ceremony with Kapuso Singer Nef Medina, various artists and Konsehala Armie Aguinaldo.
The very shy Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo, obliged us with an interview. He was very proud of his hometown, and wanted to make known how much of a destination this would be during the Christmas season.
I've seen the reason why they love the Mayor, he goes over and beyond what's expected of him. He knows his mandate, and makes sure every sense of the word "service" gets to the people of Kawit, Cavite. It's no surprise why "sana all" comments abound his FB page, because a LOT of people should be inspired by his story. I would have never thought about visiting Kawit in the past, but THIS has indeed change my mind. It's not just history, but its people that make this place GREAT!
If you want to see the display, it turns ON at around 6PM. They are extending hours til 12AM since it is already December. Thank you for the opportunity to see your beautiful place, and experience how kind people are in Kawit, Cavite. For your convenience, I have embedded a map so you can go there during holidays. Please enjoy!
This Christmas is going to be a little different at Novotel Manila Araneta City as they start festivities and make this "The Merriest Celebration For All". At the lobby of the hotel, they set up one of the nicest trees last week and invited the media and special guests to sing Christmas carols and tell us what they have been doing in the past few years especially during the pandemic.
Hotel GM Maria Manlulu Garcia says "We at Novotel Manila Araneta City are truly excited to have you and your loved ones. This is the opportune time to be together and make lasting memories especially with family and friends. We will make sure Novotel throws the Merriest Celebration for All and become your home away from home."
At Food Exchange Manila, they will be having several specials including Holiday Sunday Brunch, Christmas Eve Dinner, Noche Buena, Christmas Day Brunch and Dinner, a New Years Eve Dinner Buffet and New Year's Day Brunch and Dinner Buffet. At the Monet Grand Ballroom, both Christmas Eve and the New Year's Eve Dinner Countdown (Glitz and Glamour theme) will have live entertainment, something the whole family would enjoy!
The 6th Manila will also offer the Merriest Party package to bring a less fuzz and more enjoyment for your celebrations on these dates. Their crowd favorite Indulge Gelato will also be dishing out new holiday creations like the Zuppa Inglese, Blue Snow and Torrone. For the Italian flair, they've got home made Panettone in Dark Chocolate Raisin and Ube varieties that you can take home, and enjoy with a cup of coffee at home. Don't forget the Macarons, and Bacarons, it'll be a lovely way to end your holiday runs. They do that quite excellently. Novotel Manila Araneta City also offers holiday hampers via Take Me Out by Novotel so you don't have to worry about gifting family or friends as the selections are a sight to behold.
Staying at Novotel Manila Araneta City also have special rates, even better if you are AccorPlus members. Give them a ring or email if you want to be part of that too. If you have kids in tow, they have holiday activities for them while you enjoy the gym or InBalance Spa for a little pampering.
During the event, they had the executive from J. Amado Araneta Foundation Inc. go in front to talk about their organization. He was also presented with a donation, from all the employees of Novotel Manila Araneta City. He says "More than the monetary value that they shared, it's the gesture and sacrifice they gave for giving their own vacation and leave credits for the benefit of the communities, programs we supervise." which was very touching to do. They also talked about the hardships they went through during the pandemic where the hotel and tourism industry was not spared. Their employees made sacrifices during those times to keep the business running, til they opened regular operations again. It was certainly inspiring to see that it was appreciated much to this day.
For folks that want to celebrate the holidays the Merriest Way for All, get in touch with Novotel Manila Araneta City through their social channels, their official website novotelmanilaaranetacity.com or call + 632 8 990 7888 to book a spot. They have the Merriest Celebration for All, and they do it while seriously inspiring us with these deeds.
Christmas at Sofitel Manila certainly is an event to experience. With their upcoming Art De Noel 2023, the management, staff and guests of the hotel will be able to help once again the Virlanie Foundation. The organization helps disadvantaged children and families in the Philippines for years now and Sofitel Manila has been a constant partner in making sure their mission stays accomplished every year. The decor in the hotel has changed quite a lot over the years, and this year, they've got a few trains on display right at the entrance and floating right beside the huge Christmas Tree displayed at the center of Spiral, one of the world's best buffet.
This year, they want to also put importance on reuniting families. Aside from that, they're yearly New Year celebrations will be held at the Sofitel Grand Ballroom and Harbor Garden Tent, with an event called SHINDIG, showcasing dance across eras, with some of the brightest stars of the 80's, 90's, 2000's and the present. Let's just say it involves Juan Miguel Salvador (who played the 80's hits so good that evening!), DJ Tom Taus, Joshua Zamora and Jon Supan, The InnerVoices, and your boy Darren Espanto headlining the show. Tickets will be available starting November 30 so if you've got plans to celebrate New Year's eve without the fuzz, this might be your best bet. They also have an early bird rate, so go call +632-85735557 for it.
Here's a glimpse of what will happen at Sofitel Manila, I'm telling you, it's super fun! I had the urge of dancing even with strangers during the launch a few days ago.
As you can see, Sofitel Manila's SPIRAL, LE BAR and Cocos will also be serving food during these dates. Reserve a table through their website, social channels or their number posted above. Take a bite of the Holiday Logs, Cheese, Foie Gras, seafood, pasta on the cheese wheel, and tons of desserts. They will also have a fireworks display, Art de Noel Light Show, good rates for stay, the Sofitel Bears (to help Virlanie Foundation too!), live music entertainment while you dine the best food at SPIRAL.
We got to experience part of that last week, and I'm sure the actual dates will be even bigger. You definitely shouldn't miss this, only at Sofitel Manila!
It's almost Christmas and yes, even Shakey's has something up their sleeves. Take a look at Shakey's Christmas Collection, a well curated holiday spread that you can only get from the one who serves fun, and also pizza.
First off is the Frosty Peppermint Milkshake. It's a sweet and minty beverage you would love to have with the pizzas you doused with hot sauce. They also have the Truffle Chicken Holiday Pasta, highly addictive, a mix of white sauce, chicken breast fillet and truffle oil (which you can get solo or to share), either way it's good! For your pizza, take a look at Merry Pepperoni Holiday Pizza. It's got pepperoni slices, cheddar, mozzarella, feta and parmesan cheese. They also drizzled honey and sprinkled it with fresh chopped basil, how can you not love that!
For dessert, they also offer Santa's Strawberry Cheesecake Pizza. This one has cheesecake spread, lines of strawberry syrup and luscious cherry in the center.
Thing is, this will only be available for a limited time. Best for holiday celebrations at home, the office or just about anywhere you can carry it. Have it for dine-in, take-out or delivery, make these part of your festivities this 2023. Only at Shakey's!
It's already 11.11 season and yes, that means a lot of brands are dishing out the best deals they can give Filipinos during this time of the year. So I did the best thing and compiled a few of them here, in hopes of getting you a bit of an advantage when you're buying stuff for your brother, boyfriend, husband or loved one. Think of this as an early holiday gift where you get to save by buying early, sounds good no?!
Spectacles from EO aka Executive Optical
They offer various services in their branches, but is now available online via Shopee. On 11.11 Shopee Mega Pamasko Sale, they'll be offering branded frames, contact lenses, solutions, at a fraction of the orignal cost. From glasses to anti rad, they've got you covered. I heard they'll do 90 percent off on some of it, imagine those Php 1,599 frames will become Php 159, crazy right?
That cat really exudes sport and having one of these would surely be a good deal when they take out a couple thousand pesos off the orignal price. They use dryCELL cloth tech so it wouldn't be too hot when you workout, and you won't perspire as much.
If you want a 43 inch screen for your room or karaoke session, get the Smart TV from Coocaa for around Php 9,399, pretty cheap but lasts, heck I've had other brands that I got from here and it lasted years.
They're getting you 35 percent off the actual price of this handset, if you're looking for a phone with a good camera and a little muscle for gaming, get it here!
If you're into gaming, POCO has mean smartphones that can do the job. What's even better is that they're doing over 44 percent discount on their handsets, pretty cool to have that for those who prefer this brand on the holidays. Get the POCO M5s, POCO X5 5G or POCO X5 Pro 5G. If you prefer the flagship ones get the POCO F5 or the POCO F5 Pro. It's got big storage, more than enough hardware to run those graphics you love on moba games.
The folks from HONOR seriously wants you to get you VALUE for MONEY which means they're going to do price drops and FREE JBL Speakers just on this date. Watch out for the promo on their channels and the Shopee account. They are not JOKING.
You can get the HONOR phones/tablets or books here
Since it's 11.11, I'm sure you've got lots of things on your cart that you once wished you could get, this will surely be the best time to get it. Make sure you check the price before and after that date just to make sure, I've seen really good stuff in the app. Go check them out today!
