EastWest Rural Bank Supports National Children's Month Celebration in Tacloban City

EastWest Rural Bank Supports National Children's Month Celebration in Tacloban City

Monday, January 13, 2025

In honor of National Children’s Month, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) joined hands with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Learners’ Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) for a meaningful and impactful celebration hosted by Region VIII. The well-attended event took place on November 25, 2024, at the People’s Center in Tacloban City, leaving a lasting impression on participants and stakeholders alike.

With over 400 attendees, including students, teachers, DepEd representatives, and local officials coming from different regions, the event highlighted the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for Filipino children by engaging, empowering, and equipping the youth with the tools they need to thrive in school.

"At EastWest Rural Bank, we are dedicated to empowering communities and creating opportunities that transform lives," said Sheila Marasigan-Bajado, President.

EastWest Rural Bank demonstrated its focus on uplifting communities through education and support. The bank’s team actively engaged with participants throughout the entire event, providing over 100 educational kits to selected students and distributing giveaways, such as fans, mini notebooks, and ball pens to attendees. These contributions reflect EWRB’s ongoing efforts to promote learning and community involvement. EWRB also took the opportunity to showcase its Komo mobile app, which offers user-friendly and secure banking features tailored to modern lifestyles.

Asec Dexter A. Galban of DepEd praised the solid support of partners like EastWest Rural Bank in his keynote address, emphasizing the impact of collaborations in creating opportunities for Filipino learners. "Collaborations like these with EastWest Rural Bank are vital in creating opportunities that inspire and empower our Filipino learners," Galban pointed out.

DepEd Region VIII Director Evelyn R. Fetalvero also acknowledged EWRB during her opening remarks, expressing gratitude for the bank's consistent participation in educational initiatives. "We deeply appreciate EastWest Rural Bank’s support for our educational initiatives and support to the welfare of our youth," said Fetalvero.

The event concluded with a pledge of commitment and unity dance, symbolizing the collective effort to ensure a brighter future for Filipino children.

In celebration of EastWest Bank’s 30th Anniversary, this initiative reflects EWRB’s ongoing dedication to corporate social responsibility, championing education, and uplifting the communities it serves, exemplifying the bank’s promise of going “Further for You.”

For more information about EastWest Rural Bank’s initiatives and services, please visit www.eastwestruralbank.com.ph.

Read More

Get More for Less with Pertua SF-10 and SKY-100: Affordable Fully Synthetic Oils with 2x the Mileage

Get More for Less with Pertua SF-10 and SKY-100: Affordable Fully Synthetic Oils with 2x the Mileage

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Looking for high-quality engine oil without breaking the bank? Pertua, a trusted name in innovative lubrication, introduces SF-10 for gasoline engines and SKY-100 for diesel engines — two of the most affordable fully synthetic engine oils available in the Philippines. What’s more, these oils offer 2x more mileage than other fully synthetic oils, ensuring excellent value and performance.

Enduring Power, Protection, and Savings

● SF-10 is formulated to provide exceptional lubrication for gasoline engines, keeping cars, SUVs, MPVs and Crossovers running smoothly under various conditions.

● SKY-100 is a fully synthetic diesel engine oil suitable for a wide range of diesel-powered vehicles such as SUVs, MPVs, and Light Trucks.

Powered by DuraSyn Technology

Both oils are powered by Pertua’s proprietary DuraSyn Technology, which minimizes engine friction, reduces operating temperatures, and extends oil drain intervals. With these products, drivers can expect prolonged engine life, fewer oil changes, and fuel savings.

Exceptional Value in the Market

Pertua SF-10 and SKY-100 are among the most cost-effective options for fully synthetic oils, delivering 2x the mileage of competing products. Whether you're an everyday driver or a performance enthusiast, Pertua provides an excellent balance of protection and value for your money.

Make the Switch Today

Why settle for less? Upgrade to Pertua’s SF-10 and SKY-100 and experience enhanced performance and savings.

SA PERTUA, MAY ILALAKAS PA!

For more information, visit pertua.com.

Read More

More rewards, unli fun for customers in Mindanao from PLDT Home

More rewards, unli fun for customers in Mindanao from PLDT Home

Loyal PLDT customers have one more reason to celebrate this Christmas as PLDT Home Rewards rolls out its partnership with the Romgarjal Group, the company behind Glorious Fantasyland - the largest theme park in Mindanao, Dakak Resort and Properties, Villa Angelina, and many more.

Located in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, this iconic destination offers thrilling rides, magical attractions, and unforgettable entertainment for all ages, especially this holiday season.

Under this partnership, PLDT Home Rewards members can enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on entrance fees and other exciting offers when they visit Glorious Fantasyland, a five-hectare theme park established in 2009 by the owners of the world-famous Dakak Beach Resort, along with other rewarding discounts in restaurants, accommodation, experiences, food and beverage, and even car rental services.

The park features more than 30 rides, live entertainment, cultural parades, and unique attractions like a 5D cinema and Lakbay Pilipinas, a train ride showcasing replicas of Philippine landmarks.

This collaboration between PLDT Home and Romgarjal Group is part of Visitamos Rizal, a unified initiative positioning Dapitan City as Mindanao's premier destination for family-friendly fun and adventure, steeped in history and cultural significance.

“At PLDT Home, we are committed to creating meaningful experiences for our customers through delightful rewards and perks. This partnership also supports our commitment to promoting local tourist destinations to both Filipinos and international visitors, contributing to livelihood generation and boosting the local economy during the holiday season,” said John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of Sales and Development at PLDT.

PLDT Home Rewards makes every connection more rewarding by giving loyal customers exclusive perks and benefits. With every payment, customers earn crystals that can be redeemed for exciting rewards such as bill rebates, vouchers, and lifestyle deals. It’s PLDT Home’s way of thanking loyal customers for choosing the country’s fastest and most reliable internet connection. For more information, visit https://pldthome.com/loyalty-and-rewards.

Not a PLDT Home Rewards member yet? Activate your membership for free via https://rewards.pldthome.com/login and take advantage of this and other amazing perks. For more details, visit pldthome.com or follow PLDT Home on Facebook.

Read More

New Year, New Bod: Here are 5 tips on achieving your fitness journey this 2025 with Century Tuna

New Year, New Bod: Here are 5 tips on achieving your fitness journey this 2025 with Century Tuna

The New Year is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and recharge your health goals. As the ultimate partner for a healthy lifestyle, Century Tuna is here to help you jumpstart your 2025 fitness journey with simple yet effective tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your progress, Century Tuna has your back every step of the way.

Here are five practical fitness tips from Mauro Lumba, the Century Tuna Superbod 2014 champion and personal fitness coach to Century Tuna brand ambassadors Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez, to guide you to the best you:

1. Start Small, Stay Consistent

Big goals are achieved through small, consistent steps. Begin with manageable changes, like adding a 15-minute walk to your daily routine or swapping unhealthy snacks for nourishing options like Century Tuna Flakes in Oil. These small efforts compound into significant results over time.

2. Plan Balanced, Nutritious Meals

Your fitness goals are fueled by what’s on your plate. Incorporate protein-rich foods like Century Tuna into your meals to support muscle recovery and boost energy. With a variety of flavors, including Herbs and Paella, Century Tuna makes eating healthy both easy and delicious.

3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health and fitness. Carry a water bottle wherever you go and stay hydrated to maintain energy levels, aid digestion, and improve your workout performance.

4. Move More, Every Day

You don’t need a gym to stay active. Find an activity you love—dancing, biking, or yoga—and make it part of your routine. Take inspiration from Century Tuna ambassadors Richard Gomez and Aga Muhlach, who began their fitness journeys 10 months ago and have been consistently incorporating exercise into their busy lifestyles ever since.

5. Keep Your Goals Realistic and Track Progress

Set realistic goals and celebrate your milestones along the way. Progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Keep a journal or use a fitness app to track your achievements and keep yourself motivated.

#TheBestYouStartsNow, and the New Year is the best time to take that first step on your #JourneytoSuperbod. With Century Tuna by your side, becoming the best you has never been more attainable.

For more information, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or follow Century Tuna on Facebook at   @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

Read More

Prothin champions active play with public school outreach

Prothin champions active play with public school outreach

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

This local brand visited Panuca Elementary School in Nasugbu, Batangas to support young learners and athletes.

Filipino fitness supplements brand Prothin has been promoting fitness education and active play as key to achieving better overall health among children through outreach programs at public elementary schools across the country. This is part of the brand’s advocacy to support young learners and athletes.

Its latest stop was Panuca Elementary School in Nasugbu, Batangas, where the brand created a day of active play through fun games and activities including an entertaining dance off with Prothin’s mascot. The program was designed to encourage positive association with physical activities and best engage the young students.

By incorporating fun and interactive activities, Prothin aims to instill the value of fitness early in the children’s lives. The brand further supported students by distributing learning supplies, hygiene kits, and personal items like slippers and umbrellas.

“Experts have said that active play helps develop movement skills like agility and balance while giving children the confidence to be active in different environments. Encouraging physical fitness among students can also benefit their academic performance, as it can help improve cognitive functions,” shares Prothin Philippines CEO Marvin Vinluan. “Inspiring kids to play and get involved in physical activities is aligned with our values as a fitness-focused brand that has been promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among Filipinos.”

The local brand’s outreach programs are also meant to showcase and stand behind young athletes. At Panuca Elementary School, Prothin met and cheered on grade school athletes who have been training in their respective sports—badminton, javelin, track and field, basketball, sepak takraw, and volleyball.

In the past years, the same team has visited other public schools, underscoring their long-time commitment to supporting young learners and athletes, including Brgy. Hondagua Elementary School in Lopez, Quezon in 2017, followed by an outreach program at Coto High School in Masinloc, Zambales in 2018. In 2019, they also extended their efforts to San Jose Elementary School in Baler, Aurora.

“We believe that nurturing potential should start at an early age, especially for young ones who have big dreams but might not always get the support they need. This outreach is our way of encouraging them and affirming their potential,” says Vinluan. “We are happy to be a small but meaningful part of their journey.”

Prothin is a Filipino fitness supplements brand that offers quality and affordable nutritional products. Learn more about Prothin at prothinphillipines.com, at prothinphilippines on Facebook and @prothinph on Instagram.

Read More

How to keep it fit and festive this holiday season with Century Tuna

How to keep it fit and festive this holiday season with Century Tuna

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

The holidays are not just a time of gift-giving but also a time for festive feasts with family and friends. It’s a time where everyone gets the chance to prepare their special recipes and devour their favorite dishes in one sitting.

Century Tuna, with its extensive flavor offerings, makes it easy to incorporate into various holiday recipes, ensuring your Noche Buena and Media Noche celebrations have delicious, satisfying meals that everyone will love. Packed with Omega 3 DHA that’s good for the heart and mind, Century Tuna is also low in cholesterol and has no preservatives added, ensuring that you can prioritize your health and fitness even during the holiday season.

If you’re looking into creating some light snacks or appetizers for the holidays, Century Tuna ambassador Richard Gomez has the perfect tuna sandwich recipe. Using Century Tuna with Calamansi, he prepares the tuna with mayonnaise, yogurt, white onions, and a squeeze of lemon. Add parmesan for that cheesy flavor and celery for the extra crunch and you get a refreshing sandwich to pair with your classic holiday dishes.

For pesto lovers, you can never go wrong with Century Tuna Flakes in Oil. Simply whip up your favorite pesto sauce and combine it with the tuna and you have an easy pesto recipe that never compromises in taste. You can season to your heart’s desire and even add extra creaminess with parmesan cheese to transform the dish.

Instead of the usual pork giniling, you can also spice up your classic lumpiang shanghai recipe with Century Tuna Hot and Spicy. Mix in familiar ingredients like chopped carrots with sliced mushrooms and a cheese of choice and you have yourself a special holiday lumpia recipe that can be the star of your holiday feast. If you want more spice, you can even chop up some siling labuyo to add to your recipe for that extra kick that all Filipinos love.

Are you up to serving your family and guests some umami flavor? Why not try cooking seafood paella with Century Tuna? Century Tuna Chunks Spanish Style is the perfect ingredient to add depth and flavor to your meal as it blends perfectly with the flavor profiles of mixed veggies, seafood, and chorizo. Just garnish with toppings of your choice and you can have a healthy and hearty meal for family and friends.

If you want a break from festive dishes and keep it simple but healthy, you can always opt for Century Tuna ambassador Aga Muhlach’s favorite way of getting his protein fix. Simply add Century Tuna Chunks in Vegetable Oil to warm brown rice. You won’t need any extra fanfare, it’s a healthy palate cleanser that can help you reset and stay energized for any holiday activity.

This holiday season, Century Tuna is the perfect partner to elevate your Noche Buena and Media Noche with family and friends. Offering a variety of versatile, nutritious meal options, it allows you to enjoy festive celebrations without compromising your fitness goals.

May it be with Goma’s refreshing tuna sandwich recipe or Aga’s simple but healthy meal, with Century Tuna, you can start your #JourneytoSuperbod any time of the year. Even during the holiday season with elaborate feasts served for celebrations, there’s no best time to start your fitness journey, but now.

For more information and recipes, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or visit Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

Read More

HONOR Opens New Experience Store in Fishermall Malabon, Announces Holideals

HONOR Opens New Experience Store in Fishermall Malabon, Announces Holideals

Monday, December 16, 2024

Get up to Php 15,000 worth of Freebies when you buy an HONOR smartphone this December!

Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just opened its newest store in Fishermall Malabon. After the back-to-back launches of HONOR X7c and HONOR Magic V3 in November, HONOR Philippines just dropped its exciting deals for the entire month of December. You can get up to Php 15,000 worth of exclusive freebies for every purchase of HONOR smartphone until December 31, 2024!

"This is really the season of giving. That’s why we, at HONOR, try our best to give back to our loyal HONOR fans. Get more than what you paid for this December! For every purchase of an HONOR Smartphone, you can get a freebie," shared Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

If you are eyeing HONOR’s flagship smartphones HONOR Magic V3 and HONOR Magic 6 Pro, you will get FREE JBL Soundgear Frames with Camping Light and HONOR Gift Earbuds II with Camping light respectively.

The hot-selling HONOR X8b, HONOR 200 Series, and HONOR X9b will also give you FREE Camping Light for every purchase. On top of these exciting freebies, HONOR 200 will also get a price slash of Php 2,000 and will be priced at Php 22,999 during HONOR Holi-deals 2024!

What are you waiting for? Drop by any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or shop online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONOR_ShopeeHoliDeals), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONOR_LazadaHoliDeals) or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONOR_TikTokHoliDeals).

For more updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook , Instagram  and TikTok.

Read More

MONA releases debut EP Love, MONA: a modern take on love letters

MONA releases debut EP Love, MONA: a modern take on love letters

Filipino recording star MONA has officially released her highly anticipated debut EP, Love, MONA.

Available now via Sony Music Entertainment, the 5-track release serves as a collection of love letters in the form of songs. Inspired by the tradition of exchanging handwritten letters in the ‘90s, MONA channels this intimate and personal expression of emotion into her distinct brand of storytelling.

“I was born in the ’90s and I experienced those handwritten letters, and I kind of miss it,” shares Mona Gonzales, the artist behind the moniker MONA. “Now, people rarely do that as we live in a digital world and everything is online.”

At its core, Love, MONA tackles love in varied forms, be it platonic, romantic, or self-love. It also doubles as a coming-of-age record, reminding listeners and fans of love’s transformative power, and how it shapes our identities and influences the stories we tell.

“I want the listeners to listen to each song from the album and find the ones that resonate with them,” MONA explains. “Each song represents a different emotional experience—whether it’s the excitement of new love, nostalgia, curiosity, caution, or the challenges of understanding oneself and others. I hope to take listeners on a journey through heartfelt moments, vulnerability, and self-discovery, all wrapped in catchy melodies and relatable lyrics.”

Musically, Love, MONA showcases the artist’s versatility, positioning her as a chameleonic figure capable of seamlessly navigating multiple genres and influences.

“Tayo Na Ba,” showcases MONA’s playful and dynamic vocal delivery, blending retro-futuristic production with early 2000s R&B, all while maintaining a distinctly modern OPM (Original Pilipino Music) sensibility.

“Lapit Sa Akin” and “Boy From The ’90s,” both produced by Peter Lamiel, reveal MONA’s impressive range. The former recalls the sounds of Japanese pop legend Utada Hikaru and early Robyn, while Lapit Sa Akin draws inspiration from a colorful era, offering infectious melodies paired with a summery, feel-good chorus.

One of the album’s standout moments, “Luntiang Mundo,” takes a reflective look at embracing our unique life journeys and finding joy in the simplest moments. The track revisits MONA’s guitar-driven pop sound but adds a dreamy, eclectic flair, thanks to production by South Korean producer J2. The result is a smooth, sensual vibe with a nostalgic touch.

Meanwhile, “Sandstorm,” a city-pop-inflected track produced by Jaxzmusic, blends groovy beats, funky instrumentation, and smooth rhythms, exuding confidence and a fresh, magnetic energy.

With Love, MONA now available, MONA looks ahead to her musical future with an eagerness to continue exploring new genres and styles. “I don’t know what the future holds for me, especially in this industry,” she reflects. “But I just do the things that I love most and enjoy it. My goal for now is to be recognized as a singer and songwriter. I’ll make myself ready for whatever this path may bring.”

As a debut album, Love, MONA marks an exciting new chapter for the rising P-Pop star, whose unique voice and genre-blending sound have already begun to carve out a place in the music scene. With her dedication to creating music that speaks to the heart, MONA is undoubtedly one to watch in the years to come.

MONA’s new album, ‘Love, MONA’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Read More

Jolianne makes fun of her single status on the incredibly witty new track “Plain Girl”

Jolianne makes fun of her single status on the incredibly witty new track “Plain Girl”

Cebuana singer-songwriter Jolianne drops her new single, “Plain Girl,” a playful yet honest anthem that depicts the complexities of being a single young woman in a world full of love stories.

Released via Careless Music and Sony Music Entertainment, the track blends jazz-infused pop with a subtle touch of Disney-like whimsy, making it impossible to ignore.

With “Plain Girl,” Jolianne pokes fun of her own relationship status, waltzing into a narrative that speaks to the tiresome feeling of being lonely, inadequate, and overlooked. But instead of wallowing in self-pity or self-deprecation, the rising pop artist delivers a confessional with inescapable wit and lighthearted charm.

Jolianne explains, “I didn’t want it to come across as overly self-deprecating. Instead, I wanted it to sound like I was poking fun at my situation. This is why I paired the lyrics with dreamlike melodies and production.”

The song strikes a perfect balance between vulnerability and humor, with the soothing melodies contrasting sharply against the candid lyrics. Throughout the track, Jolianne’s natural charisma, paired with her impressive songwriting chops, shines in the dreamy lilt of lush instrumentation. She delivers a refreshing take on the “no-boyfriend-since-birth” (NBSB) narrative essentially like no other.

“Plain Girl” is filled with memorable lines that explore the frustrations and missed connection of navigating single life. One of the standout lyrics, “I want to be someone’s second to none, but it’s more likely I turn to a nun,” encapsulates the song’s raw honesty, a sentiment Jolianne feels deeply. “I think this line captures the balance best,” she shares. “It’s honest and a little bit cheeky, but that’s exactly how I feel.”

“Plain Girl” is produced by Jonah Bru and RJ Pineda, with vocal arrangement by Jolianne. According to the talented recording star, she wanted to embrace a whimsical and playful direction for the song, while highlighting her core strengths as a songwriter. The result is a lighthearted take on female solitude, but without being overly dramatic.

“Plain Girl” is the second single from Jolianne’s highly anticipated debut EP, set for release early next year. The upcoming EP will explore themes of yearning, love, and heartbreak, with the same mix of emotional candor and charismatic wit that makes “Plain Girl” so captivating.Jolianne’s “Plain Girl” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Careless Music and Sony. Music Entertainment. Watch the live performance video at her official YouTube channel.

Read More

Alex Bruce and Zae celebrates women in hip-hop on joint track “A to Z (Drop It)”

Alex Bruce and Zae celebrates women in hip-hop on joint track “A to Z (Drop It)”

Two of Filipino hip-hop’s promising stars, Alex Bruce and Zae, turn up the heat with the release of their collaborative single “A to Z (Drop It)”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The fun, upbeat track marks a pivotal moment for both artists as they navigate a new chapter in their career, with Bruce preparing to turn 18 soon and Zae dropping her second track as an artist under AWAL. Together, they deliver another catchy R&B/hip-hop jam that embodies confidence, self-expression and femininity.

More than just a banger, the track is a declaration of empowerment. Featuring bold, sassy, and unapologetic vibes, “A to Z (Drop It)” is about “embracing who you are and owning your space,” shares Alex Bruce.

The collaboration exudes a natural chemistry between Bruce and Zae, two artists who hit it off instantly despite the material being their first joint. The song showcases the best of both worlds, blending their strengths and perspectives in one compelling package.

“Working with Zae brought a fire that matched mine, and together we created something that’s pure sassy, classy, nasty vibes,” says Alex Bruce. “This is us stepping up our game.”

Championing women in hip-hop

The song is a testament to the power of female solidarity in a genre often dominated by men. In the music video, the presence of strong women in Pinoy hip-hop is emphasized, including a special appearance by one of the heavy-hitting rookies in the game: Illest Morena. Inspired by the iconic dance movie, Step Up (2010), the music video revolves around the concept that women should be celebrated, and not pitted against each other.

“We’re not just here for the spotlight; we’re here to uplift each other and make sure our voices are heard,” shares Bruce. “In a space where women are often overlooked, we’re showing that we’ve got each other’s backs. Together, we rise and create a powerful statement of unity and respect.”

The music video was helmed by Louie Ong, a two-time MYX Music Award nominee. He brought the concept to life with dynamic cinematography and high-energy visuals, further enhancing its message.

The track also represents a breakthrough for both acts as they continue to challenge expectations and barriers in the Pinoy hip-hop scene. For Alex and Zae, this release is a declaration of their rightful place in a culture that is often slow to recognize women as key players.

“Women are often told to fit into certain expectations, especially in hip-hop,” says Zae. “With this song, we wanted to show that we’re more than just our image.”

“A to Z (Drop It)” is produced by Markbeats, a prominent urban producer who played a significant role in shaping the track’s overall sound and arrangement.

“He has always been a solid collaborator,” reveals Bruce. “He brought the energy we needed. His production really amplified the potential of the song and turn it into an anthem that hits hard.”Alex Bruce and Zae’s “A to Z (Drop It)” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the music video to be released at 7:00 pm on her official YouTube channel.

Read More