Stay connected with PLDT Home Always On

Stay connected with PLDT Home Always On

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Today, a few seconds of WiFi downtime feels like forever. When the internet connection drops mid-rant or mid-episode or the screen freezes during an important meeting, it’s more than a tech issue -- it’s a disruption to your life.

Always On: A Smart Hybrid Modem to always keep you connected

When there’s unexpected downtime, PLDT Home’s Always On comes in as a groundbreaking solution. It’s a first-of-its-kind hybrid modem that combines fiber and LTE, with a built-in automatic switchover system.

Here’s how it works: if the fiber connection goes down, the modem switches to unlimited LTE – no manual setup, no phone tethering, and no annoying prompts. And once the fiber is restored, it seamlessly switches back, without the hassle of manually reconnecting your devices. It works as a backup connection but smarter, automatic, and always ready.

Even better, if your connection has been running on its backup LTE for 30 minutes straight, Always On automatically creates a fault ticket for you so you don’t need to call or wait in the queue at the customer service channels. PLDT resolves the connectivity issue while you carry on with your digital activities at home.

Powered by WiFi 6 technology, the PLDT Home Always On modem delivers high-speed internet (up to 1 Gbps, depending on your plan) across multiple devices, ensuring everyone in the family can stay connected. Whether you're working, streaming, or attending class online, you can count on a fast, stable connection that can keep up with your lifestyle.

Internet outage? You can still be online.

PLDT Home Always On can’t prevent outages – but it can help you get through them. When fiber is down, it automatically switches to backup LTE so you can stay connected and keep doing what you need to, while PLDT works on restoring your main fiber service. Fiber interruptions often happen for reasons beyond anyone’s control. Here are a few real-world examples and why having Always On makes a big difference.

The weather isn’t always fiber-friendly

According to PAGASA, the Philippines faces around 20 tropical cyclones a year. Strong winds, falling trees, and flooded lines regularly knock out fiber infrastructure. Undersea cable cuts are inevitable during these times. These major cable troubles take time to repair but with PLDT Home Always On, you still have internet access while waiting.

Cable theft is a real problem

Metro Manila accounts for over 60% of nationwide cable thefts in a year, according to a telco report. Stolen cables disrupt entire neighborhoods, bringing businesses, school, and remote work to a standstill. With Always On, you can stay online while fiber lines are being replaced.

Small creatures, big trouble

Sometimes, it’s not the weather or a thief – it’s a rodent or other tiny troublemaker lurking in the neighborhood. Have you heard of the local squirrels? They exist in villages and even in cities where they have been known to chew through fiber cables and cause outages that take time to detect and repair. LTE backup ensures your internet stays live in the meantime.

Roadworks can cut you off

Road constructions, drilling, and digging – especially in urban areas – can accidentally damage underground fiber cables. Often unintentional, these cuts can trigger sudden outages and take time to locate and fix. Always On gives you a connection while the repairs are underway.

The bottom line? PLDT Home Always On works more than an internet backup – it’s a smart, seamless solution for a world that can’t afford to pause. When the unexpected fiber outages happen, it’s good to know that your internet is always one step ahead.

Learn about PLDT Home’s Always On here.

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7-Eleven Launches a Bold and Sweet Take on Slurpee® with Slurpee® Donuts

7-Eleven Launches a Bold and Sweet Take on Slurpee® with Slurpee® Donuts

Wednesday, July 09, 2025

Every kapitbahay’s favorite brainfreeze® is now a dessert thanks to a daring new team up with Mister Donut!

When it comes to innovative snack ideas, leave it to 7-Eleven to make bold moves that are sure to surprise everyone. In its newest collaboration with Mister Donut, the convenience store giant is transforming the classic Slurpee into a delectable dessert with the exciting launch of Slurpee® Donuts.

Slurpee® has been a go-to favorite at 7-Eleven for years, beloved for its icy, refreshing goodness and variety of flavors. Now, that same iconic experience is reimagined into a soft, delicious donut perfect for grab-and-go snacking, and can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere.

Slurpee® Donuts come in two delicious flavors, offering something for every sweet tooth. If one is looking for an easy midday pick-me-up, they can choose the Cotton Candy flavor, a ring donut with cotton candy filling, blue sanding, and white chocolate streaks. This variant is reminiscent of the tasty, melt-in-your-mouth cotton candy treat everybody loved eating as a kid.

There’s also the Iskrambol flavor that offers a nostalgic experience in every bite, inspired by the famous Filipino street treat, ice scramble. This ring donut is filled with an iskrambol-flavored surprise, topped with pink vanilla glaze, mini marshmallows, and a sprinkle of powdered milk.

This first-of-its-kind fusion between Slurpee® and Mister Donut is now available for a limited time in 7-Eleven stores nationwide. Slurpee Donuts start at just ₱55 each and are best enjoyed with a refreshing Slurpee drink. Be sure to try one while supplies last.

In true Slurpee® fashion, 7-Eleven is also preparing to unveil a new Slurpee® flavor very soon—another bold surprise that customers can look forward to at their paboritong kapitbahay.

Like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

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Back-to-School Without the Burnout: Smarter Money Moves Start with Maya

Back-to-School Without the Burnout: Smarter Money Moves Start with Maya

Tuesday, July 08, 2025

Every parent knows the drill: a new school year means a fresh wave of expenses—uniforms, tuition, supplies, baon, gadgets. And somehow, you’re expected to cover all of it without blowing the monthly budget.

This year, take the pressure off. Maya, the #1 Digital Bank app in the Philippines, is helping parents power through back-to-school season with smart, stress-free money moves that protect your wallet and your peace of mind.

Stretch your budget and win big when you shop for school

School expenses can stack up fast, but with Maya Easy Credit, you get instant access to up to P30,000 in revolving credit, right inside your Maya app. Whether it’s for baon, uniforms, or last-minute school supplies, you’ve got extra budget ready when you need it.

And here’s the best part: your back-to-school spending can earn you big rewards. Every time you use Maya, you get a chance to win cash prizes. Get 5 raffle entries for every P500 spent via QR with Maya Easy Credit, and 1 raffle entry for every P250 spent using your Maya Wallet. Weekly winners can take home up to P15,000, while two lucky users will score P100,000 each month. The more you spend, the more chances you have to win, just by taking care of school essentials.

Approval for Maya Easy Credit is subject to credit evaluation. Users must be 21 to 65 years old to apply.

Savings that actually grow while you focus on the day-to-day

Maya Savings lets you earn up to 15% interest per annum, paid out daily, just by simply using Maya for all your transactions. No lock-in, no complex paperwork, just real growth from your real spending.

You can even set up Personal Goals and allocate funds for upcoming tuition fees, field trips, or allowance. Each goal earns 4% per annum, so your money keeps working while you get everything else done.

Base interest starts at 3.5% per annum. 15% interest per annum applies to your first P100,000 deposit balance.

Already spending for school essentials? Make every peso count.

Whether you're picking up notebooks, new kicks, or stocking up on baon essentials, Maya makes sure your everyday spending works harder for your family. Use the Maya Black Credit Card to rack up Maya Miles (soon convertible to airline miles—hello, future family trips!) or go with the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card and get up to 5% cashback on must-haves supplies like groceries.

It’s not about spending more. It’s about being rewarded for what you’re already doing, and making your budget stretch even further.

Less Mental Load, More Control

With Maya, you manage it all from one app: savings, payments, credit, banking. Pay bills, transfer money, and track spending in real-time without bouncing between platforms.

Simplifying your financial life means more time and energy for the things that matter. With Maya, you’re not just keeping up—you’re getting ahead. Start the school year strong. Save, spend, and stay in control with Maya. Download the app and explore tools designed to work around your real-life budget.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to learn more. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

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Kryz Uy Enjoys A New Way of Cooling Thanks to AI WindFree™

Kryz Uy Enjoys A New Way of Cooling Thanks to AI WindFree™

Discover all the reasons why Kryz Uy keeps her home cool and comfortable all day with Samsung AI Windfree™

In the Philippines, where temperatures swing between hot and oppressively humid, Samsung’s AI WindFree™ air conditioners rise as the top choice to stay cool and comfortable. Even style icon Kryz Uy found herself loving the way Samsung’s innovative cooling system lets her kick back and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere it provides in her home, and more.

With discerning tastes, Kryzzie doesn’t just settle for any air conditioning system. Yet, the one brand that’s making “all the difference” in the busy lifestyle of the influencer, sartorialist, “Woman of the House” is Samsung's AI WindFree™. In a social media post she published recently, Kryzzie is seen enjoying its seamless integration into her lifestyle — giving ease not just by way of lowering temperatures and energy consumption.

AI WindFree™ for Smarter, Efficient Cooling

Staying cool and comfortable at home should be the least of anyone’s worries. But with typical air conditioners usually comes the endless fiddling with remotes and electricity bills that sap monthly earnings. With Samsung AI WindFree™, however, those problems fly out of the window with technology that enables smarter and more efficient cooling.

AI adaptive cooling system makes your air conditioner work smart. Powered by AI, the WindFree™ actively optimizes cooling levels based on the general room temperature. That means if a room is already cool enough, it will cut back on needless energy use. With this feature,

Stable cooling with Digital Inverter Boost technology couples with AI technology to bring uninterrupted comfort to homes. By stabilizing energy use, it helps prevent sudden spikes in consumption that can sneakily hike up those electricity bills. These combined technologies have been found to reduce energy usage by up to 73%, so you can worry less about monthly electricity bills.

Switching to WindFree™ mode cuts down energy use up to 77% while cooling homes. It does this primarily by using a gentle breeze that keeps temperatures down without using too much power.

SmartThings That Keeps Up With Your Needs

AI WindFree™ taking most of the job off your hands doesn’t mean that you have no control whatsoever. In fact, with the SmartThings app integration, you have total control over fine-tuning nice-to-have settings for the WindFree™.

With just a tap on your mobile phone or tablet, you can activate Energy Saving Mode to cut energy use down further to 20%. Users can set wind strength and direction, temperature, and modes, allowing full customization of the cooling system to one’s liking.

Additionally, auto features enable optimizations that match your lifestyle. Arrive at a home that’s already cool with automations like Welcome Cooling and Motion Detection. With both, the WindFree™ starts up when your phone connects to the WiFi network and when it detects movement in a room, respectively. But, most importantly for home optimizers, you can also program an on and off schedule for AI WindFree™, ensuring that you never leave it on for too long to save energy.

With these ease-of-life functionalities packed in the Samsung AI WindFree™, there’s no arguing why it’s become Kryzzie’s top choice for keeping her home cool and comfortable. From intelligent optimizations guided by AI to nuanced controls on the SmartThings app, it is built to keep up with anything. And, in a way of putting it: if it can keep up with Kryzzie’s lifestyle, it can keep up with yours.

For worry-free comfortable cooling like no other all year round, enhance your home with your own AI WindFree™ air conditioner. Save up to Php 32,747 when you purchase a Samsung AI Windfree™ air conditioner at samsung.com, and get freebies worth up to Php 16,990 until September 30, 2025.

Learn more about Samsung’s AI-powered innovations by visiting news.samsung.com/ph/.

*DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-229588 Series of 2025.

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How Not to Fall Victim to Credit Card Debt: 7 Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

How Not to Fall Victim to Credit Card Debt: 7 Lessons I Learned the Hard Way

Let me start by saying this: credit cards aren’t evil. They’re actually powerful financial tools if you know how to use them wisely. But like many people, I learned that lesson a little too late. At one point when I was still working in the corporate, my entire paycheck only went to credit card payments.

If you’ve ever felt that stomach-drop moment seeing your credit card bill, I get it. And I want to share a few personal tips born out of experience on how you can avoid falling into the same trap I did.

1. Don’t Treat Your Credit Limit as Free Money

This one’s huge. When I first got my card, I saw the limit as my new spending allowance. Suddenly, buying gadgets, meals out, or last-minute trips felt easy and fun until the bill came.

The rule I follow now: If I can’t afford it in cash today, I don’t charge it on credit unless it’s truly an emergency or a well-planned purchase I can pay off in full by the due date.

2. Always Pay More Than the Minimum (Ideally, Pay in Full)

Credit cards make minimum payments sound like a favor. “Only ₱500 due this month!” they say. But what they don’t tell you upfront is that if you only pay the minimum, you’re feeding a growing monster called compound interest.

I used to just pay the minimum thinking I was doing fine. Big mistake. It took me years to pay off something I could have cleared in months.

My practice now: I pay the full balance each month whenever possible. If I can't, I pay as much as I can and always more than the minimum.

3. Track Every Swipe

One of the sneakiest things about credit cards is how painless it feels to spend. No cash leaves your wallet. No real-time “ouch” moment.

I started tracking every transaction (I do it old school using my reliable journal) and it changed everything. Suddenly, I was face-to-face with my habits. That daily food app deliveries? It went as high as ₱12,000 a month. Impulse Shopee buys? Don’t even get me started.

Advice: Treat your credit card like a debit card. Know your balance. Check it weekly. Keep your spending intentional.

4. Set a Personal Limit 

My bank annually increases my credit limit without asking. I should’ve been thrilled. Instead, I felt tempted. I told myself I had “room” to buy bigger things, which of course I didn’t need.

So I set my own limit. That way, I could spend within my means and protect my credit score too.

5. Avoid Using Credit for Emotional Spending

This one’s more personal. I’ve had times when I was stressed, lonely, or just plain bored, and I turned to shopping to feel better. The problem? That rush of dopamine from a new purchase fades fast but the debt sticks around.

Now, when I feel the urge to “treat myself” during emotional lows, I pause. I go for a walk. I journal. I sleep on the purchase. More often than not, I realize I don’t really need it.

6. Have a Plan for Emergencies

Not having an emergency fund is what drove me into credit card debt in the first place. One unexpected repair and my finances spiraled.

Now, I try to keep even a small buffer of savings just enough to cushion unexpected expenses without relying on my credit card.

7. Use Credit for Rewards—Not Reliance

Once I got out of debt, I started using my credit card again but this time strategically. I use it for planned expenses (like groceries and bills) and pay it off immediately. The perks like cashback and points are just bonuses, not excuses to overspend.

Credit card debt can feel overwhelming and shameful but it doesn’t have to define your financial story. If you’re currently in debt, know that you’re not alone and that it is possible to climb out.

If you’re just getting started with credit, build good habits early. Don’t let the banks’ marketing blur the line between convenience and control.

Take it from someone who’s been burned: a credit card is just a tool. And when used with intention, it can help you and not hurt you.

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Smart launches revamped Online Store, rolls out Postpaid Plan 799

Smart launches revamped Online Store, rolls out Postpaid Plan 799

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is making it simpler and faster for more Filipinos to elevate their digital lifestyle with the launch of its revamped Smart Online Store (https://store.smart.com.ph/), a portal where new and existing customers can conveniently explore and securely avail of the latest prepaid and postpaid offers with just a few taps on their smartphone or computer.

As a special introductory offer, the revamped Smart Online Store is the launch platform for Smart Postpaid Plan 799, a SIM-Only Plan that comes with 15 GB open-access data for all sites and apps, 100 GB of 5G data for six months for use in Smart 5G-covered areas, Unlimited Calls and Texts with Landline Calls, and a complimentary Netflix Mobile subscription.

As an added perk for subscribers who will subscribe to the new Smart Postpaid Plan 799, applications made through the Smart Online Store will receive 50% more open access data (7.5 GB) for the first six months.

Easily sign up for a Smart Postpaid Plan 799

New and existing subscribers can conveniently sign up for Smart Postpaid Plan 799 by simply going to https://store.smart.com.ph/, selecting “SIM-Only Plans,” and then choosing “Plan 799.”

Customers must then fill out the required personal information to complete their online application.

Initially available only on the Smart Online Store, Smart Postpaid Plan 799 will also be offered to all Smart Stores nationwide soon.

Value-packed offers at your fingertips

Aside from enabling subscribers to avail of Smart Postpaid Plan 799 with just a few clicks, the Smart Online Store also allows customers to bundle a device with their SIM-Only Plan.

Moreover, Smart Online Store’s intuitively designed portal makes it so much easier for customers to discover other value-packed products and services that suit their lifestyle – from data, call, and text offers, SIMs and eSIMs, to the latest smartphones.

The portal also allows users to reload for credits, avail of limited promos, purchase phones bundled with Smart and TNT SIM cards, buy devices under Smart Bro 5G promos, and order Smart and TNT SIM packages.

Lastly, customers can enjoy a wide range of payment options with priority handling for select credit cards.

The revamped Smart Online Store is just one of the many ways that make Smart simply reliable for Filipino mobile users looking to level up their digital lifestyle and enjoy the many benefits of technology.

Visit the Smart Online Store and sign up for a Smart Postpaid Plan 799 now at https://store.smart.com.ph/.

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WATCH: Gerard Butler Has a Movie for Every Mood and Genre

WATCH: Gerard Butler Has a Movie for Every Mood and Genre

Monday, July 07, 2025

Why settle for one genre when a Gerard Butler movie marathon gives you every emotion in the book?

Few actors command the screen quite like Gerard Butler. With his rugged charm and powerful performances, Butler has effortlessly slipped into roles that range from action hero to heart-wrenching romantic lead. Whatever mood you're in or genre you love, there's a Gerard Butler movie to match it.

Here are just a handful of his films that showcase Butler's incredible versatility.

Kandahar - Spy Thriller

What would you do if you were stranded in the most dangerous terrain in the world with your life on the line? That’s the dilemma CIA operative Tom Harris (Butler) faces in Kandahar. Set in Afghanistan, this spy thriller plunges viewers into a relentless game of cat-and-mouse.

After a covert mission is exposed, Harris must race against time to escape enemy territory, all while navigating deadly ambushes and betrayals. The stakes are personal and high, with Butler delivering an intense and gritty performance that keeps you white-knuckled from start to finish.

Nim's Island - Family Adventure

Butler takes up dual roles in Nim's Island. He’s both Jack Rusoe, a dedicated marine biologist raising his fearless daughter Nim (played by Abigail Breslin) on a secluded island, and Alex Rover, an adventurer from Nim's beloved book series written by a neurotic agoraphobe (Jodie Foster). The story follows young Nim as she fights to protect her island home from unwelcome visitors, drawing strength from her father, the unexpected arrival of Alex Rover, and her own bold spirit.

Greenland - Disaster Thriller

The end of the world isn’t coming quietly in Greenland; it’s crashing down with a vengeance. Imagine trying to protect your family as apocalyptic chaos tears through cities and people scramble for survival. Butler plays John Garrity, an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances as a comet hurtles toward Earth.

What sets Greenland apart from other disaster thrillers is its human focus. It’s less about explosions (though there are plenty) and more about the raw emotional struggle to save loved ones in a world falling apart. The quiet moments of panic and hope make this film a gut-punching ride, and Butler’s portrayal of a desperate but resilient father is unforgettable.

P.S. I Love You - Romantic Drama

When love endures even after goodbye, you get the deeply emotional P.S. I Love You. Butler stars as Gerry, a husband whose love transcends his passing. Through a series of letters, he helps his grieving wife, Holly (played by Hilary Swank), find her way back to life and rediscover joy. This romantic drama is rich in emotional nuance, gently exploring themes of grief, healing, and second chances. Butler’s portrayal of Gerry is endearing, making every flashback and posthumous letter hit harder.

Plane - High-Stakes Action Survival

If you’re craving raw, no-holds-barred action, Plane is your ticket to adrenaline-fueled entertainment. Butler stars as Brodie Torrance, a commercial airline pilot who finds himself thrust into a nightmare after an emergency landing leaves his passengers stranded in hostile territory. Rather than retreating to safety, Brodie steps into the role of unlikely hero, leading a thrilling fight against mercenaries to protect his people.

Kickstart your Gerard Butler movie marathon today on Lionsgate Play!

About Lionsgate Play

Lionsgate Play, a premium streaming service from Lionsgate India and Starz, offers bespoke quality content to its users. It boasts premium and curated content including Premieres, billion-dollar Franchise Movies and binge-worthy Box Sets. Lionsgate Play is accessible to consumers in the Philippines via the app. For a monthly subscription cost of PHP 79, the titles can be streamed with a PLDT Home account.

A curated selection of Lionsgate Play titles is also available on Cignal Super, the Philippines' first and only streaming aggregator. As a special launch offer, new users can enjoy Premium+ for just ₱399/month and Premium for only ₱249/month, extended until June 30, 2025.

For more information about Lionsgate Play Philippines, visit lionsgateplay.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.

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AXEAN Festival announces first wave of 2025 lineup

AXEAN Festival announces first wave of 2025 lineup

DJ Love, One Click Straight, Shye, DOOR PLANT, and more are set to perform at this year’s edition of Southeast Asia’s first intra-regional showcase festival

AXEAN Festival, Southeast Asia’s leading music and creative industry platform, has announced the first wave of its 2025 lineup.

Filipino artists such as Budots pioneer DJ Love and alt-rock outfit One Click Straight lead the first wave of acts performing at the international music festival which is set to take place at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, from September 13 to 14, 2025.

This year’s edition promises a dynamic and eclectic roster of artists, reflecting an impressive array of genres, cultures, and music styles from across the region.

The first round of confirmed artists also includes Bali-based alternative rock band Jangar, psychedelic rock trio Kelompok Penerbang Roket, indie rock quartet Ministry Of, six-piece band L’alphalpha, and rising producer and singer-songwriter XANDEGA from Indonesia, alongside rising dark pop artist Su San from Malaysia; indie pop/rock singer-songwriter Shye and prolific electronic musician and producer Fauxe from Singapore; and experimental rave n’ roll act S.O.L.E. and four-piece alt rock band DOOR PLANT from Thailand.

“These are the Southeast Asian artists we think are ready to break out regionally and internationally,” says David Siow, co-founder of AXEAN Festival. “Many of these artists have a strong local following, and we’re here to connect the dots globally.”

AXEAN Festival co-founder Piyapong Muenprasertdee reveals that this year’s iteration will introduce Club SEA Showcase, a special stage that shines a light on AXEAN electronic and club music: genres born here that are ripe for export and slowly finding resonance across the world. “This year, we’d like to introduce artists who blend local sounds and cultural textures with electronic forms, which is a genre that’s gaining serious traction internationally. We see this not just as a trend but as a powerful vehicle to showcase our regional identity in new and compelling ways, alongside the diverse spectrum of local music we continue to champion.”

Curated with local, regional, and international audiences in mind, AXEAN Festival’s artist selection process places strong emphasis on professionalism, live performance impact, and artistic vision.

Piyapong explains, “Export-ready is a core principle in how we curate artists for AXEAN. But that doesn’t mean simply choosing artists who are already popular abroad or those who sing in flawless English. It’s about selecting artists who are professionally prepared to navigate today’s global music industry—artistically, logistically, and mentally. I believe genres are never a barrier if you can find the right market, the right niche, the right community that truly connects with your sound. Ultimately, what determines international success is how you work, how you connect, and how you continue to grow creatively.”

In line with its artist-first philosophy, AXEAN Festival 2025 will feature its signature Music Conference and Songwriting Camp, both designed to create meaningful opportunities for cross-border dialogue, collaboration, and industry partnership. The conference includes curated panel discussions, business matchmaking, and structured networking between regional and international delegates. The four-day songwriting camp, hosted in the lead-up to the main festival, invites selected artists and producers to co-create in a collaborative, cross-cultural environment.

Presented in partnership with Jimbaran Hub, this year’s festival is set to offer a vibrant, inclusive, and future-facing platform for Southeast Asia’s music and creative ecosystems.

Tunecore, one of the world’s digital music aggregators, also supports AXEAN Festival as a stage sponsor. “Our 5-year journey with AXEAN, including 3 years as stage sponsors, stems from a shared commitment: empowering Southeast Asian artists to reach global audiences,” Head of Tunecore Southeast Asia (SEA) Cyrus Chen shares. “AXEAN’s ‘export-ready’ curation philosophy mirrors TuneCore’s mission—providing the tools and platforms for artists to thrive beyond borders. This festival doesn’t just showcase talent; it builds careers, and that’s why we’re all in.”

Early bird tickets are now available via www.loket.com/o/axeanfestival. The full lineup and conference details will be announced soon.

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The Grand Atrium: A storied gem inside the historic PNB Financial Center

The Grand Atrium: A storied gem inside the historic PNB Financial Center

Tucked within the dignified walls of the PNB Financial Center is one of Metro Manila’s best-kept secrets, a venue where history, elegance, and scale converge in seamless harmony. Formerly known as The Banking Hall, The Grand Atrium stands as a masterpiece of architectural grace and function, an expansive event space that redefines what it means to host with distinction.

Located along Diosdado Macapagal Avenue in Pasay, just mere minutes from the World Trade Center and the vibrant Bay Area entertainment district, The Grand Atrium is perfectly positioned as a prime address for prestigious events. It’s a space that speaks volumes, literally: with the capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 guests, its soaring ceilings, heritage columns, and timeless finishes create an environment where every gathering is elevated into a memorable experience.

“The Grand Atrium is more than just a venue. It’s a destination. Its scale, design, and location create an atmosphere that inspires and impresses,” said Joselito R. Consunji, Chief Operating Officer of PNB Holdings Corporation (PHC).

Once the epicenter of Philippine National Bank’s executive banking operations, the hall’s rich history lends every event an added layer of significance. Today, this storied space has been thoughtfully transformed to meet the demands of the modern host, offering cutting-edge lighting, flexible staging, and modular seating arrangements while retaining the dignified ambiance of its past.

“We’ve carefully restored and enhanced this space to preserve its heritage while making it fully adaptable for today’s event needs. It’s a space that can transform to suit any vision, from the grandest celebrations to the most focused corporate gatherings,” said Consunji.

Over the years, The Grand Atrium has quietly played host to corporate galas, high-profile launches, awards ceremonies, and cultural showcases. Its blend of classic character and contemporary capability makes it uniquely suited for events that require both scale and soul. Whether you are planning an elegant banquet, a strategic corporate assembly, or a bespoke celebration, The Grand Atrium provides a canvas unlike any other.

The Grand Atrium also reflects the broader vision of PHC to reimagine and elevate the use of legacy spaces. Guided by a commitment to preserving heritage while enabling premium experiences, the company continues to invest in transforming key properties into lifestyle-driven destinations. The Grand Atrium stands as a flagship example of this vision, offering the public a venue that is both meaningful and meticulously designed for excellence.

Inquiries for bookings are now open. To book The Grand Atrium for your next exceptional event, or to schedule a private tour, please contact the PNB Financial Center’s leasing team or visit www.pnbholdings.com.ph to learn more.

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Tips to safely customize your ride’s look to make it more ‘you’

Tips to safely customize your ride’s look to make it more ‘you’

Personalizing your motorcycle’s look is one of the most exciting parts of being a rider. Whether you’re adding a personal touch or just making your ride look cooler, visual customization lets you stand out on the road. When doing this however, it’s also important that you don’t compromise safety or the longevity of your vehicle. Here’s how you can do all of that, Tropang MAALAM style!

Before we continue, please know that this article will focus on minor aesthetic modifications only. If you're planning to customize your bike’s parts for performance, it's best to get in touch with your after-sales agent. With that out of the way, below are a few tips to consider if you’re thinking about customizing your bike’s look!

Check your motorcycle’s condition

Before jumping into visual customization, make sure your motorcycle is in optimal condition. Have your brakes, tires, chain, and fluids checked by a qualified mechanic. A well-maintained ride is the best canvas for any personalization project.

Choose stickers and decals wisely

Adding decals is one of the easiest ways to personalize your motorcycle’s look. Opt for high-quality, weatherproof vinyl stickers that won’t peel off in rain or direct sun. Avoid placing stickers over lights, reflectors, or vents, as this could reduce visibility or airflow.

Tip: Avoid cheap decals that may melt or damage your paintwork under heat. Test a small patch first if unsure.

Use heat-resistant and motorcycle-specific paint

A fresh coat of paint can dramatically change your bike’s look, but use products specifically designed for motorcycles. These are more resistant to UV rays, gasoline spills, and heat from the engine. For DIY projects, stick to non-structural parts like fairings or fuel tanks. Leave engine or frame painting to professionals to avoid safety issues.

Match your riding gear to your bike smartly

You can express your style through your gear, too, but don’t compromise on protection. Choose helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots that meet safety standards. Also, many gear brands offer custom colors or graphic designs without sacrificing safety ratings, while reflective patches and bright colors also boost visibility, especially at night or during rain.

You can customize your helmet with approved vinyl wraps or decals but avoid placing anything over ventilation or safety stickers.

Use crash guards and frame sliders that look good and protect well

Crash guards don’t have to look bulky. There are sleek, powder-coated options that blend well with a customized aesthetic. Just ensure they’re from reputable brands and properly installed to protect key parts like your engine, tank, or fairings in case of a fall.

Know what’s legal and what’s not

Lastly, always check with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before major modifications. Some visual changes, like drastic body kit alterations or flashing lights, can result in fines or registration problems. When in doubt, stick to enhancements that don’t change the structural integrity or key safety features of your motorcycle.

Customizing your motorcycle and gear visually should reflect your personality, but never at the cost of safety, function, or the law. By choosing the right materials, balancing form with function, and being practical with your aesthetic modifications, you can ride in style without putting yourself or others at risk.

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.

One of the most recent initiatives of MDPPA is the Tropang MAALAM (Tropang Modelo, Alerto, Aktibo, Ligtas, Aalalay, at Matalino) campaign, which aims to promote rider safety through education, awareness, and training.

To learn more about the various advocacies of MDPPA, visit https://mdppa.site/.

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