Giving Learners with Special Education Needs Early Access to an Active Lifestyle

Giving Learners with Special Education Needs Early Access to an Active Lifestyle

Monday, February 17, 2025

Many brands aim to shape the lives of children for the better, and MILO® is proud to be among those making a real difference. Together with the Department of Education (DepEd), the brand recently launched MILO® Active Pilipinas, a nationwide program that aims to energize and inspire Filipino families to lead an active lifestyle–including learners with special education needs (LSENs).

It is common knowledge that LSENs struggle with an active lifestyle, mainly due to cognitive challenges, physical limitations, and sensory activities, but this doesn’t mean that it can’t be done. MILO® believes that with the right support and access to safe facilities, differently abled kids can still reap the many benefits of physical activity.

To rally the nation and get more kids into sports, MILO® engaged key sports stakeholders during the launch of their Active Pilipinas campaign at Mandaue City Central School to give LSENs the chance to play 10 different sports – from team sports like basketball, football, and volleyball to individual sports like table tennis. With careful assistance by coaches present during the event, and cheers from other kids, the learners were treated to an afternoon of enjoyment and safe play.

“The MILO Active Pilipinas event was a great initiative to encourage children to stay active. I noticed how motivated [the kids] were to exercise even after the event. I hope there will be more sessions like this throughout the school year to reinforce the habit of an active lifestyle,” shared the school principal, Louwella Guerrero, after hearing the parents’ feedback on the event.

Under MILO® Active Pilipinas campaign is a wide variety of on-ground and online sports programs, such as the National MILO® Marathon, MILO® Sports Clinics, and MILO® Barangay Liga, which encourage learners to participate in sports and enhance their physical literacy. Many of these programs are strongly supported by DepEd, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), and local government units.

“Beyond our sports programs, we also aim to further widen accessibility in sports by including opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. MILO® firmly believes that no one should be left behind due to physical limitations. We also recognize the importance of reaching out to indigenous people groups and marginalized communities to provide opportunities for them to engage in sports,” said Veronica Cruz, Senior Vice President of Beverages & Confectionery, Nestlé Philippines.

After celebrating the MILO® 60th anniversary in 2024, the goal of nurturing generations of Filipinos through sports and building champions today for tomorrow continues for many more decades.

Stay tuned for more updates on the MILO Active Pilipinas campaign on the official MILO Facebook page or the official MILO website.

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Skip the scams, not the sparks: Rakuten Viber launches Viber Dating in the Philippines First

Skip the scams, not the sparks: Rakuten Viber launches Viber Dating in the Philippines First

New Viber feature debuts globally with a safe dating experience for real people to make real connections

Sure, there are plenty of fish in the sea, but finding The One can be a long and winding journey. In today's online dating world, it’s a minefield of scams and catfishing. What’s more, most dating apps keep you stuck in a loop of swipes that rarely go anywhere, because they make money as long as you use them — ouch!

It’s time to ditch this fishy business with Rakuten Viber. The super app trusted for fostering meaningful connections on a secure platform now offers Viber Dating, a new in-app feature that helps Filipinos meet real people and make real connections. Starting Valentine’s Day, Viber Dating is officially available in the Philippines, making Viber the first-ever communications app to offer an innovative and moderated dating solution. This gives Filipinos a safe and secure way to find their match or simply meet new friends, and then continue to build lasting relationships in the same app.

When it comes to online dating, many people are concerned about engaging in bots and fake profiles, or falling for scams — and rightfully so. In a survey by Pew Research Center, only 48% of U.S. adults say that online dating is a very or somewhat safe way to meet people. In fact, 52% of those who have used dating sites and apps say they have come across someone they think was trying to scam them. The same is true for many Filipinos, as a 2024 report by global information solutions provider TransUnion has revealed that the digital fraud rate in Filipino dating platforms and other online communities is at 18%, which is much higher than the global average of 11.5%.

With Viber Dating, users can finally feel confident when looking for connections online, as protecting their users’ privacy has always been an essential and paramount part of Rakuten Viber’s mission from the start. This strict commitment is extended to Viber Dating by following stringent measures:

● Profile verification: Only verified Viber users can create profiles. Every Viber Dating user is real and registered with their mobile number.

● Hidden phone numbers: Your phone number remains completely hidden, ensuring that no personal contact information is ever shared during your dating experience unless you choose to share it.

● Moderation techniques include machine and human moderators, for a positive experience for all.

● Separate chats: Your dating profile is separate from your main Viber account, keeping your dating activity private from your primary connections.

As a trusted name in communication for over a decade, Viber has been facilitating secure and safe communication for new couples for years, especially during the second stage of dating—after they’ve met and moved away from using dating apps. Viber now fixes the first stage of dating too: enabling people to find meaningful connections. Unlike other dating apps, when you meet someone special through Viber Dating, you can smoothly transition to Viber’s main app, where you can keep the conversation going and continue building your connection in a secure and private space. Here, all private 1:1 chats and calls as well as private group calls are end-to-end encrypted by default, and messages are never stored in Viber’s servers once delivered.

Viber also understands that you may want to keep your dating life private. That’s why your dating profile will be strictly separate from your primary Viber account, and will only be visible to other Viber Dating users. Your main Viber connections will never know or be notified when you are signing up to and using the dating feature nor see your dating-related conversations and activities. Viber Dating is accessible in a separate tab from your Chats.

David Tse, Senior Director at Rakuten Viber APAC, shares that Viber Dating was developed after a series of focus groups with Viber users revealed that people want genuine connections with real people and high-quality matches, but were very concerned about keeping their identities private and under their control until they feel comfortable enough to reveal it. “Viber’s mission as a super app is to create safe and trusted connections, and this extends to the dating world, providing users with much-needed peace of mind,” says Tse. “Given these measures, we hope we can further protect our users from fake profiles and love scams.”

As a very first step, simply create a profile with your dating preferences — it’s totally free. You are encouraged to add photos and share a quick bio about yourself, including your hobbies and interests. After creating your profile, Viber shows you potential matches based on your preferences, and you can swipe left or right if you are interested or not. If both of you are interested in each other, you will be matched, and this unlocks the opportunity to chat only within the Viber Dating platform—again, separate from your regular private and group chats. To enhance the dating experience, premium features like Who Liked Me are already available in the Philippines. These features will roll out globally and be joined by more in the coming months.

“Viber has been built to create meaningful and secure connections for our users, and we’re excited to now extend this commitment to the world of dating. For many, online fraud has taken the joy out of meeting new people, while the frustration of being stuck with expensive apps that leave them feeling trapped and single continues to grow. As a super app, we are here to break this cycle and bring back the excitement of real connections with real people,” emphasizes Tse.

Finding genuine connections online doesn’t have to be a tale of endless trial and error. Date with confidence and peace of mind. Date Safer with Viber Dating on Rakuten Viber!

Sign up for Viber Dating now for free. Viber Dating will be introduced in other countries soon.

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IDC 2024 Report: realme holds the second-largest market share in the Philippines

IDC 2024 Report: realme holds the second-largest market share in the Philippines

realme maintains a strong presence as the Top 2 smartphone brand in the Philippines

The Philippine smartphone industry remains a rapidly evolving landscape, driven by shifting consumer preferences that significantly shape market trends. Amidst the highly competitive industry, realme remains a dominant force in the Philippine market, securing the second-largest share in 2024.

According to the recent 2024 Philippine Smartphone Market report from the International Data Corporation (IDC), realme held a substantial 13.3% market share. A key factor in this success was the strong performance of the top-rated realme C Series, which stood out for its superior design, performance, and experience. Moreover, the realme Note Series played a vital part by offering Filipinos a reliable, feature-rich device at an accessible price point.

Since 2021, realme has consistently been reported by IDC as one of the top two smartphone brands in the Philippines by market share. This notable achievement underscores realme’s solid foothold, reflecting its continued growth, consumer appeal, and competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.

“We are truly thankful for the unwavering support of our fans and community, which has been instrumental in achieving this milestone. Here at realme, we stay committed to unveiling smartphones that integrate superior quality and the latest advancements in technology,” shares Jane Yan, VP for Marketing of realme Philippines.

To stay updated on the latest news and announcements from realme Philippines, visit the official Facebook page and website.

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A Master Carver’s Legacy: Willy Layug’s Mission to Bring Filipino Artistry to the World

A Master Carver’s Legacy: Willy Layug’s Mission to Bring Filipino Artistry to the World

In a small workshop in Betis, Pampanga, the rhythmic sound of chisels meeting wood fills the air, accompanied by the faint scent of varnish and sawdust. This is the world of Willy Layug, a master sculptor whose works adorn churches and cathedrals across the world. Revered for his ability to breathe life into his religious sculptures, Layug’s name has become synonymous with Filipino craftsmanship at its finest. But for the man himself, his legacy extends far beyond the intricate details of his works. It is the people he inspires—the next generation of Filipino artists—that matter most.

A Gift for the Divine

Layug’s journey began in his hometown, a place long known for its heritage of woodcarving. As a young boy, he was drawn to the artistry that transformed simple wood into sacred images of saints and religious icons. His devotion to his craft led him to study at the feet of master artists abroad, learning techniques that would later shape his signature style: a seamless blend of traditional Filipino motifs and European influences.

“Every piece I create is an offering,” Layug says. “But beyond that, it’s also a story, a connection to our culture and faith.” This dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from both religious institutions and cultural bodies.

Expanding Horizons: Sharing Filipino Craftsmanship Globally

Over the years, Layug’s works have found their way to international markets, gracing churches and collectors’ galleries around the world. The demand for his intricate and soulful carvings has brought Filipino artistry to a global audience. This expansion, however, would not have been possible without the help of a trusted logistics service provider. FedEx has helped streamline the process of exporting his delicate creations, ensuring that each piece arrives safely at its destination in mint condition.

“When you’re working with something as fragile as a sculpture, you need to trust that it will be handled with care,” Layug explains. “The FedEx team understands the value of these pieces, not just in monetary terms but in cultural and spiritual significance.”

From careful packaging to managing customs requirements, FedEx has made it possible for Layug to focus on his art without having to worry about the complexities of international shipping. This collaboration has been instrumental in elevating Filipino craftsmanship onto the global stage.

Nurturing Confidence and Creativity

While his masterpieces are awe-inspiring, Layug’s greatest pride lies in the impact he’s had on others. Over the years, he has taken countless young artists under his wing, not only to teach them sculpting techniques he has learned from others as well as those he has developed over the years, but also to instill in them the belief that their art matters.

“I always tell them, ‘Don’t just carve wood. Find your own voice, your own style and create art,’” he shares. “Art is personal. It’s not just about perfecting techniques but about expressing yourself in a way that’s true to who you are.”

This philosophy has resonated deeply with his apprentices. Many have gone on to establish their own careers, carrying forward the traditions of Filipino sculpting while adding their own modern interpretations.

Training the Next Generation

Layug has also formalized his commitment to passing on his craft. Through workshops and mentorship programs, he provides young artists with access to resources and opportunities that were once out of reach for him.

“It’s not just about teaching them to carve wood,” he explains. “It’s about inspiring them to dream, to believe that they have something valuable to offer the world.”

He is particularly passionate about preserving the cultural identity of Filipino art in a rapidly modernizing world. Layug encourages his students to draw inspiration from their heritage, weaving Filipino traditions into their works while embracing their unique artistic perspectives.

A Legacy Beyond the Workshop

For Layug, the true measure of success is not in awards or monetary rewards but in the lives he’s touched. “If I can help one artist believe in his or herself, if I can train someone who will keep our traditions alive, then I’ve done my part,” he says with a humble smile.

As the sun sets over Betis, the glow of Layug’s workshop remains, a beacon of inspiration for all who step foot into this sanctuary. His hands may craft exquisite sculptures, but it is his heart that shapes a brighter future for Filipino art—one artist, one dream, and one masterpiece at a time.

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On its 30th year, Ballet Manila continues to inspire generations and surpass expectations

On its 30th year, Ballet Manila continues to inspire generations and surpass expectations

Against all odds and surpassing every expectation, Ballet Manila triumphantly celebrates its 30th anniversary – a testament to its resilience, unwavering passion and boundless creativity. From its humble beginnings beset by skepticism and naysayers, Ballet Manila has risen to become a symbol of artistic excellence, and a beacon of hope that has inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams with passion and hard work.

Three decades of dedication and passion for excellence

Reflecting on the journey, Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila's CEO and artistic director, shares that Ballet Manila has built a legacy that speaks for itself and at its core are values instilled by its first artistic director, Eric V. Cruz, and her co-artistic director of many years, the late Osias Barroso Jr.

“Taking company class every day and jumping until the end of class is a must-do for everyone in the company. The rule really was no class, no rehearsal. No rehearsal, no performance. All part of the discipline needed to stay in top form to be able to dance well,” recounts Lisa. She emphasized daily class, discipline, and prioritizing dancers' welfare have been a cornerstone of the company's success.

These values have helped Ballet Manila achieve numerous milestones over the past three decades. She fondly highlights classical ballets like “Swan Lake” and La Bayadere” with an exceptionally strong female corps de ballet as well as “Reconfigured” and “Bloom” that showcased the prowess of their male ensemble. Their specialized performances, such as "Circus De Ballet" and "Ballet and Ballads," have captivated mass audiences, while the Lisa Macuja Swan Song series celebrated a ballerina's illustrious career with live orchestral accompaniment.

A particularly proud moment for the company was the international premiere of "Ibong Adarna" at the Karmiel Festival in Israel in 2014, marking the first Filipino full-length ballet to achieve such a feat.

These highly acclaimed shows prove that Ballet Manila’s dancers are a product of the company’s commitment to excellence and artistry.

Many of its alumni have gone on to achieve great success in their careers. Christine Rocas, for instance, retired after being a principal dancer with the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago, Illinois for over 15 seasons. Katherine Barkman is currently a soloist with the San Francisco Ballet, and Chris Mohnani, now Managing Director of the Samsung Performing Arts Center, was a principal dancer of Nashville Ballet and former artistic director of Dance Theater of Tennessee. Jeffrey and Pamela Espejo both serve as faculty at Steps and Academy One, while Elline Damian, Aileen Gallinera, and Eduardo Espejo were principal dancers with Ballet David Campos in Barcelona, Spain. Ea Torrado has established herself as the artistic director of her dance company, Daloy.

Lisa also highlights the thriving current crop of teachers and dancers at Ballet Manila and the Lisa Macuja School of Ballet, including Romeo and Sofia Peralta, Eileen Lopez, and Gerardo Francisco Jr. Among all, Lisa considers the late Osias Barroso Jr., co-artistic director of Ballet Manila before his passing, her best and most successful student: “He has taught so many dancers and has basically changed the landscape of male ballet dancers in the Philippines,” she says.

While its dancers remain to be the backbone of Ballet Manila, Lisa also acknowledges the pivotal role of technology in keeping the dance company on top of the game. Lisa shares, “I think we would not have survived the pandemic if we didn't have the technology to connect with other dancers and teachers through online learning.” It has also helped in recalling choreography and re-staging ballets through filming and recording rehearsals and performances. However, she also emphasized the importance of face-to-face instruction, adding, “I still believe that face to face instruction and meeting inside the sacred walls of the studio is still the most effective way of learning as a dance student and teaching as a dance instructor.”

Dancing into the future

As Ballet Manila celebrates is 30th year, Lisa has so many reasons to be excited about. As a mentor, performer, and artistic director, she hopes to continue finding joy in her work. And it’s all set to happen with the many plans and projects already in the pipeline.

Currently, she’s hard at work for “PEARLS,” a new choreography for the Pearl Gala to celebrate the company’s 30th anniversary. Aside from this, she is also eager for her Princess Trilogy by adding a fourth Princess Ballet. She also envisions extending their Filipino series, which includes "Ibong Adarna" and "Florante at Laura," to incorporate other literary works studied in high school and college.

She also hopes to follow up her "La Traviata" with another ballet based on an opera emphasizing that the possibilities for new creations are endless. Excitement is also building for their upcoming international and local tours in 2025, which will see Ballet Manila blockbuster ballets "Ibong Adarna" and "Cinderella" brought to various locations here and abroad.

The best is yet to come!

Ballet Manila remains dedicated to its mission of "bringing ballet to the people and people to the ballet." Lisa's strategy is simple yet powerful: "To keep on dancing, one high-quality performance at a time. Every time I talk to my dancers during our Green Room before the performance begins, I always tell them to dance so well that the audience will want to come back again and again. That’s the way to keep on bringing ballet to the people and more people to the ballet. One great performance at a time that people will not want to miss!"

With this rousing outlook, Ballet Manila is heading into a bright future, driven by a strong foundation and continuous innovation. With a school regularly training and feeding the company with professional dancers, a strong social media presence, local and international tours, and support from its patron Fred J. Elizalde, Ballet Manila is well-positioned for continued success.

As Ballet Manila celebrates this monumental milestone, the company reaffirms its dedication to excellence, creativity, and bringing the beauty of ballet to the hearts of all. The journey may have begun 30 years ago, but the story of Ballet Manila is far from over. As Lisa passionately declares, "The best is always yet to come!"

For more information about Ballet Manila and its upcoming performances,  visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.

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Malbon Golf Signs Rising Star Bianca Pagdanganan, Championing Style and Performance on the Course

Malbon Golf Signs Rising Star Bianca Pagdanganan, Championing Style and Performance on the Course

Saturday, February 15, 2025

Malbon Golf continues to redefine golf fashion, blending style and performance on and off the course. Today, the brand is thrilled to announce the signing of Bianca Pagdanganan, a rising star who embodies Malbon’s vision of self-expression and confidence through fashion. Bianca has been a longtime admirer of Malbon, drawn to its ability to push the boundaries of golf apparel. “Aside from being stylish, Malbon takes golf apparel to a new level, giving players a way to express themselves through what they wear,” she shared.

Known for her relaxed and comfortable on-course style, Bianca believes that feeling good in what you wear can positively impact performance. “Looking good and wearing nice clothes boosts my confidence, and I hope that translates into my game,” she added. Off the course, Bianca embraces a more polished and stylish approach, taking any opportunity to dress up while still prioritizing comfort.

“We are thrilled to have Bianca join team Malbon. Watching such talent come onto the world stage directly from the Philippines is such a thrill for me as a Filipina. Especially as a female it feels very powerful and we look forward to supporting her and watching the greatness she has in store, said co-founder Erica Malbon.

With a shared passion for innovation and individuality, this partnerships continues Malbon’s mission to modernize golf style while staying true to the essence of the game.”

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Tricycle driver from Nueva Ecija wins condo in Globe’s G Raffle Rush

Tricycle driver from Nueva Ecija wins condo in Globe’s G Raffle Rush

Resty Trinidad, a tricycle driver from Nueva Ecija, was the lucky winner of a brand new condominium unit via Globe’s G Raffle Rush.

In the agricultural town of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija, a humble tricycle driver recently received the most unexpected and life-changing surprise in his life.

After more than two decades of loyalty to Globe, 47-year-old Resty Trinidad is now the owner of a brand new condominium unit at the Avida Astrea in Fairview, Quezon City after winning the grand prize in G Raffle Rush last September 2024. The Avida Land giveaway was a highlight of Globe’s annual G Day festivities last year.

Living with his parents and extended family, Resty works tirelessly as a tricycle driver while running a side e-loading business to make ends meet. Little did he know that his 20 years as a Globe subscriber would one day lead him to his new home, offering his family the security and comfort they have always dreamed of.

“Hindi ko akalain na mangyayari ito sa akin,” Resty said, expressing his gratitude to Globe for his prize. “Isang malaking tulong po ito para sa pamilya ko, at nagpapasalamat ako sa Globe sa pagbibigay ng ganitong pagkakataon. Patuloy po akong magsisilbing loyal na customer ng Globe.”

“Resty’s story is an inspiration to all of us. His win highlights the true value of Globe Rewards, which is about empowering our customers to unlock everyday wins and create meaningful experiences. We’re proud to be part of his journey and we are excited to bring this same experience to more customers as they move forward with Globe,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.

Last September 2024, G Raffle Rush allowed Globe customers to redeem raffle entries with their Rewards points. Each point provided five entries, offering customers more chances to take home incredible prizes.

Aside from the Avida condo unit, G Raffle Rush prizes included a luxury vacation package for four in Palawan, a brand-new BYD Dolphin Electric Vehicle, two Gogoro Jego smart scooters, Php120,000 worth of SM shopping spree vouchers powered by Share Treats, Samsung S24+ smartphones, HUAWEI Pura 70 Pro smartphones, and 5x Php100,000 GCash, among many others.

Through the All-New Rewards program, Globe helps make the wishes of its customers come true. Join the All-New Rewards program to discover new surprises and enjoy the rewards of being a loyal Globe customer.

Watch out for another round of G Raffle Rush on February 24, with all-expense paid trips, GCash, and shopping vouchers up for grabs so you can maximize your Globe Rewards Points before they expire on March 31.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

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Acai Always Introduces World Renown Acai Bowl and Acai Soft Serve to the Philippines, Elevating Healthy Indulgence

Acai Always Introduces World Renown Acai Bowl and Acai Soft Serve to the Philippines, Elevating Healthy Indulgence

The wait is over. Acai Always, the brainchild of Manila-based chef consultant Justin David and Guam-born entrepreneur Errol “Dynamix” Alegre, Jr., has officially arrived in the Philippines. Now open at SM Megamall Fashion Hall, Level 2, the brand is making history as the country’s first to bring Acai Sorbet Bowls and Soft Serve, offering a delicious, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional frozen desserts.

“It’s finally here in Manila! The acai craze we’ve been enjoying in Guam—something people have only seen on social media—is now something they can experience firsthand,” says Alegre, Founder and CEO of Acai Always. “We are beyond excited to share this with everyone.”

More than just a trend, Acai Always is redefining indulgence by bringing the power of açaí (ah-sigh-EE) to the Philippines. This antioxidant-rich superfood is at the heart of our dairy-free, nutrient-packed offerings, carefully crafted to deliver both flavor and nourishment. We prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients, working closely with local farmers whenever possible while maintaining our signature standard of excellence. Acai Always is making premium, health-conscious treats more accessible than ever—because eating well should never be a compromise.

“I’ve long been obsessed with finding ways to make micronutrient intake easier, more convenient, and enjoyable for people—without compromising on quality,” says David, Co-founder and COO, a Le Cordon Bleu Sydney-trained chef with decades of culinary innovation under his belt. “With Acai Always, we’re proving that healthy choices can be both exciting and indulgent.”

With its first store now open, Acai Always is already gearing up for expansion, with more branches set to launch across Metro Manila in the coming months. As it introduces a new way to enjoy healthy indulgence, the brand is poised to become a go-to destination for those looking for a refreshing, guilt-free treat.

Visit Acai Always

📍 SM Megamall Fashion Hall, Level 2

📅 Now Open

About Acai Always

Founded in 2024 by Errol “Dynamix” Alegre Jr. and Justin David, Acai Always was born from a passion for introducing the incredible acai berry to the Philippines and redefining the local dessert experience. As the first in the country to offer Acai Sorbet Bowls and Soft Serve, the brand brings a globally loved superfood closer to home, catering to the growing demand for healthier, delicious treats. Proudly homegrown, Acai Always prioritizes high-quality ingredients and continuously seeks opportunities to support local farmers whenever possible, ensuring every bowl and soft serve meets its signature standard of taste and nutrition.

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Red Hot Deals and a Chance to win a Suzuki S-Presso GL AGS Await at SM City Masinag’s 3-Day Sale!

Red Hot Deals and a Chance to win a Suzuki S-Presso GL AGS Await at SM City Masinag’s 3-Day Sale!

Are you ready for the hottest shopping event of the season?

It's not summer yet but SM City Masinag is turning up the heat with its much-anticipated 3-Day Sale happening this February 14-16, 2025! Get ready to shop ‘til you drop as you enjoy massive discounts of up to 50% off on your favorite brands across fashion, beauty, home essentials, gadgets, and more.

Unmissable Shopping Deals and Discounts

From the latest fashion trends to must-have tech gadgets, the Red Hot Deals at SM City Masinag promise unbeatable savings. Score amazing price cuts on top brands, and take advantage of exclusive bundles and special offers that will make your shopping experience even more rewarding.

Bigger Savings, More Rewards

SM Advantage Cardholders and SM Prestige members can also enjoy extra perks and discounts during the sale at SM Department Store, Surplus Shop, Miniso, Adidas, ACE Hardware, Watsons, and Pet Express.

• SM Prestige cardholders get an extra 10% off on all purchases on February 14th.

• SM Prestige and SM Advantage cardholders can also enjoy an extra 10% discount on February 15 and 16.

• Shop a minimum P3,000 single-receipt purchase and qualify for the What’s in the Bag game! Choose a mystery bag and get a chance to win up to P10,000 worth of shopping money to spend on your favorite SM Store items.

Flash Sales & Exclusive Promos

Be on the lookout for buy-one-get-one promos at Watsons, Surplus Shop and Ace Hardware. 

Whether you’re shopping for your fashion fix, home essentials, or self-care products, you’ll find deals that are too good to pass up.

Check out my Red Hot Finds HERE. 

Win Big with Every Purchase!

Want to take home more than just your shopping haul? Every minimum single-receipt purchase gives you a chance to win a Suzuki in the 3-Day Sale raffle draw! Every P1,000 purchase earns you an e-raffle entry. You'll get double entries on February 15 and 16. 

Mark Your Calendars & Shop Smart!

Don’t miss out on the ultimate shopping extravaganza at SM City Masinag’s 3-Day Sale! Gather your shopping list, bring your family and friends, and take advantage of the best deals of the season.

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Basic maneuvers to master for safer rides

Basic maneuvers to master for safer rides

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Motorcycle riding is more than just an adrenaline rush; it’s about skill, precision, and most importantly, safety. Every rider knows that the key to staying safe lies in mastering essential maneuvers - and it doesn’t have to be complicated!

Here’s a quick and easy way to remember these lifesaving techniques: Every maneuver boils down to three simple steps. Practice these, and you’ll feel more confident every time you hit the road.

Emergency braking: every second counts

Stopping safely in a pinch is a critical skill. Whether you’re riding a motorcycle with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) or Non-ABS, the key is to apply the right technique for the situation.

If your bike is equipped with ABS, you don’t need to worry about wheel lock-up, even if you brake hard. ABS will automatically adjust braking force to prevent the wheels from locking, giving you better control in emergency situations. You can apply the brakes firmly and quickly without fear of losing grip.

For bikes without ABS, you need to be more cautious. To prevent your wheels from locking up during an emergency stop, apply the brakes smoothly and progressively. If you apply the brakes too hard too quickly, the wheels may lock, causing you to lose control.

No matter the system, here’s the three-step process for emergency braking:

• Both brakes together: Apply the front and rear brakes at the same time, with firm but steady pressure.

• Stay upright: Keep the handlebars straight to avoid skidding.

• Ease off gradually: Release the brakes smoothly as you come to a stop to maintain control.

Remember: Practicing emergency stops in a safe area is the best way to prepare for the unexpected!

Turn safely to dodge hazards like a pro

Need to avoid that sudden pothole or stray dog? Turning safely is your go-to move.

• Eyes on the path: Look at your escape route, not the hazard.

• Push to steer: Turn the handlebar on the side you want to go (counter-steering in action!).

• Straighten out: After turning and avoiding the obstruction safely, return to your original position smoothly.

Pro tip: Avoid braking while turning — it’s all about smooth, controlled movements.

Turn the corner with confidence

Every rider dreams of nailing that perfect curve. Here’s how you do it:

• Slow down first: Use both brakes smoothly to reduce speed before entering the turn.

• Look and lean: Look through the turn and let your body naturally lean with the bike.

• Throttle out: As you exit the corner, gently roll on the throttle to regain stability.

Master these steps, and you’ll own every twist and turn.

Slow speed is key for precision maneuvers

Navigating tight spots or heavy traffic? Slow-speed control is your secret weapon:

• Clutch and brake: Feather the clutch and rear brake to control speed.

• Eyes up: Look ahead, not down, to keep your balance.

• Smooth turns: Use gentle handlebar inputs to stay steady in tight spots.

Practice U-turns or figure of eights to sharpen your slow-speed skills!

Master the highs and lows of slopes (Uphill & Downhill Roads)

Slopes can be tricky, but not with this simple strategy:

• Brake hold: On uphill stops, hold the rear brake to avoid rolling back. For downhill, focus on both brake.

• Clutch and throttle sync: As you move again, smoothly release the brake while applying throttle.

• Steady release: Ease out the clutch gradually to get moving without jerks or stalls.

Slopes don’t have to be stressful when you’ve got these steps down!

Lane positioning: be seen and stay safe

Good lane positioning is your ticket to visibility and safety:

• Pick your spot: Ride in the left or right tire track of the lane to stay visible.

• Adapt as needed: Shift positions to avoid blind spots or road hazards.

• Mind the gap: Keep a safe distance from vehicles ahead and behind.

Positioning yourself wisely helps you avoid surprises and gives you room to react.

Practice, gear up, and ride smart

The secret to mastering these maneuvers is simple: practice, practice, practice! Find a safe area, like an empty parking lot, to refine your skills until they feel like second nature. Don’t forget your safety gear—helmets, gloves, and jackets are your best defense on the road.

Practice these maneuvers and remember their key steps—that way, you’ll make safer, smoother riding part of your routine.

About MDPPA

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) is the country’s most relevant association proactive to the needs of stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. MDPPA members include leading motorcycle manufacturers: Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and TVS. Among the many goals of MDPPA is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders.

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