SOCIAL MEDIA

First-Time Driver in the Philippines? Here’s Your Complete Car Buying and Loan Guide

Wednesday, August 27


Buying your very first car is one of life’s big milestones. For many Filipinos, it’s not just about convenience—it’s about freedom, independence, and the thrill of finally getting behind the wheel. But before you cruise down EDSA or plan your first road trip to Tagaytay, there are a few important steps every newbie driver needs to know. Thankfully, PSBank makes the whole journey—from learning to drive, to choosing your first car, to managing payments—simple and stress-free.

Step 1: Getting Your First License

Every journey starts with the basics: the LTO Theoretical Driving Course. This 15-hour seminar covers everything from traffic rules to road safety and is available online or in accredited driving schools. Once you pass the exam, you can apply for a student permit.

From there, practice makes perfect as you prepare for the written and practical exams for your non-professional driver’s license. Pro tip: take online reviewers to boost your confidence, and don’t forget your medical exam before your student permit expires. For official details, always check the LTO website.

Step 2: Choosing the Right First Car

Buying your first car is both exciting and overwhelming. Instead of focusing only on the “porma factor,” think about what fits your daily lifestyle:

  • Hatchback or Sedan – Best for city driving, fuel efficiency, and easy parking.
  • MPV or Crossover – Ideal if you often travel with family or need extra cargo space.
  • SUV – Perfect for road trips outside Metro Manila or routes with rough terrain.

Not sure what fits your budget? PSBank’s Loan Calculator helps you estimate your downpayment and monthly amortization so you can make smart choices. Even better, you can apply for a PSBank Auto Loan online and get approved in as fast as 24 hours.

For those on a budget, PSBank also offers pre-owned cars for sale online or at their Pre-Owned Auto Mart in Taguig—open Monday to Saturday.

Step 3: Learning Car Care 101

Owning a car is more than just driving—it’s about responsibility and safety. New car owners should:
  • Understand dashboard lights and features like hazard signals and defoggers.
  • Keep the car insured to protect against accidents.
  • Perform regular checks (tire pressure, battery, oil levels).
  • Drive smart—obey traffic rules, avoid distractions, and always keep a safe distance.

Step 4: Driving Safely on the Road

Being a first-time driver in the Philippines can feel intimidating, especially with the traffic chaos in Metro Manila. But staying safe comes down to a few simple rules:
  • Buckle up, always.
  • Keep your eyes on the road and hands off your phone.
  • Follow speed limits and traffic signs.
  • Plan routes ahead using apps like Waze or Google Maps.
  • Stay calm and patient—even during rush hour.

And for hassle-free road trips, load up your AutoSweep and EasyTrip RFIDs, which you can conveniently reload via PSBank Mobile.

PSBank: Your Maaasahan Partner

Buying your first car is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With PSBank Auto Loan, flexible terms, and digital convenience, first-time car buyers can focus more on the joy of driving and less on the stress of paperwork.

Managing payments is also stress-free with PSBank Mobile and PSBank Online, or even through 7-Eleven and partner outlets. For added convenience, you can set up Automatic Debit Arrangement (ADA), so your amortizations are paid on time.

Plus, with PSBank’s Prime Rebate, you earn rebates whenever you make advance or excess payments—helping you pay off your loan faster.

If you’re ready to start your car ownership journey, apply through the PSBank Online Loan Application or visit your nearest PSBank branch today.
Read More

HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra and Pura 80 Pro Redefine Mobile Photography in the Philippines

Tuesday, August 26


HUAWEI once again raises the bar for smartphone design and mobile imaging with the arrival of its latest flagship devices—the HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra and HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro. Combining visionary camera technology with sleek, fashion-forward design, these two models let users capture life in its truest detail while making a bold style statement.

Now available nationwide, the Pura 80 Ultra retails at PHP 89,999, while the Pura 80 Pro comes in at PHP 59,999.

Master Every Detail: The Power of the Pura 80 Pro

Built for precision, the HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro is equipped with an Ultra Lighting Macro Telephoto Camera that offers up to 5cm Super Close Focus, allowing you to frame the smallest details with sharpness and color accuracy. Its large F2.1 aperture ensures stunning shots even in low light—whether at concerts, lantern festivals, or neon-lit city streets.

The Pro variant also comes with a 1-inch Ultra Lighting Camera paired with an Ultra Chroma Camera, making it a true performer for vibrant night photography and expressive street shots.

Bring the World Closer with the Pura 80 Ultra

The Pura 80 Ultra pushes mobile photography into new territory with the industry’s first Switchable Dual Telephoto Camera, seamlessly moving between 3.7x mid-telephoto and 9.4x ultra-telephoto zoom. From capturing your favorite artist at a concert to zooming in on faraway skylines, it delivers breathtaking clarity without losing detail.

Its 1-inch Ultra Lighting HDR Camera captures dramatic light and shadow with a 16EV dynamic range, while the AI Cinematic Engine transforms casual video into cinematic masterpieces. Whether shooting sunsets or nightscapes, the Pura 80 Ultra ensures every frame feels immersive and true to life.

Style Meets Durability

True to the Pura legacy, both models combine elegance and resilience:

Pura 80 Ultra: Features a “golden glaze” finish in Prestige Gold or Golden Black.

Pura 80 Pro: Comes in Glazed Red, Glazed White, or Glazed Black, offering understated sophistication.

Both devices are protected with 2nd Gen Kunlun Glass (Crystal Armor for the Ultra), plus IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance, ensuring durability even during life’s unexpected mishaps.

Beyond the Camera: Smarter Everyday Performance

The new Pura 80 Series isn’t just about photography. It comes with:

  • HUAWEI X-True Display™ for ultra-bright, lifelike visuals even under sunlight.
  • Dual Large Amplitude Speakers for immersive sound.
  • EMUI 15 with AI-powered features, such as AI Remove for photo editing, AI Messaging for privacy, and Real-Time Translation for global communication.
  • 5170mAh battery with 100W SuperCharge and 80W Wireless SuperCharge, keeping you powered all day.

Pricing, Availability, and Exclusive Freebies

HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra – PHP 89,999
HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro – PHP 59,999

Available via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, HUAWEI Online Store, and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.

Both models include 1-Year 1-Time Accidental Damage Protection, 1-Year Battery Renewal Service, and free door-to-door repair services under HUAWEI Care+.

Exclusive launch freebies until Sept 30, 2025:

Pura 80 Ultra: HUAWEI FreeClip, PHP 8,000 trade-in tokens, Care+ worth PHP 7,199, and a HUAWEI Watch GT 5.

Pura 80 Pro: PHP 5,000 trade-in tokens, Care+ worth PHP 5,999, and a HUAWEI Watch GT 5.
Read More

Ebe Dancel Marks 25 Years in Music with Monumental Orchestra Concert at New Frontier Theater

 

Prepare for a night of nostalgia and new memories as Ebe Dancel returns to the concert stage with The Manila String Machine for a grand repeat concert celebrating his 25th anniversary in music. Happening on November 15, 2025, at the New Frontier Theater, this highly anticipated event promises to be a night where timeless OPM classics and fresh compositions shine in full orchestral glory.

A Repeat by Popular Demand

Following the success of his first sold-out show, “Ebe Dancel with The Manila String Machine: The Repeat Concert” brings back the magic of orchestral storytelling with even greater grandeur. This time, Ebe will be joined by a 20-piece orchestra led by Chino David, with the entire show directed by renowned concert director Paolo Valenciano.

The concert celebrates not only Ebe’s 25-year journey but also his ability to connect with audiences across generations. As the former frontman and principal songwriter of Sugarfree and now a beloved solo artist, Ebe continues to deliver songs that resonate deeply with Filipino hearts.

A Love Affair with Orchestras

Ebe describes the concert as a full-circle moment. “I’ve had a long love affair with orchestras, dating back to my days with Sugarfree. As a solo performer, I did a show with The Manila String Machine exactly two weeks before our government announced the lockdown due to Covid. To be back onstage with them now, with fans in front of me, feels like a full circle moment.”

Setlist: Old Favorites Meet New Stories

Fans can look forward to a setlist that blends the best of both worlds—beloved Sugarfree hits and new Ebe originals, all reimagined with sweeping orchestral arrangements.

“I thought of my audience mainly when I chose songs from the Sugarfree catalog,” Ebe shares. “But I also want them to experience the new songs with an orchestra.”

A Concert Built on Trust and Collaboration

Ebe also emphasized his trust in longtime collaborators, making it clear why he tapped Paolo Valenciano and Chino David for this milestone event. “For me to work on something this big, I need to be able to fully trust the guys running the show. Hence Paolo Valenciano, and as musical director, Chino David.”

Ticket Details


Tickets for Ebe Dancel with The Manila String Machine: The Repeat Concert will be available starting August 30, 2025, at 12 PM via Ticketnet Online and all authorized Ticketnet outlets nationwide.

Ebe Dancel’s Enduring Legacy

From his early days as the voice behind Sugarfree to his acclaimed solo career, Ebe Dancel remains one of OPM’s most enduring and influential artists. Known for his sincerity, emotional depth, and artistry, his songs have become the soundtrack of many Filipino lives whether through heartbreak, hope, or celebration.

This repeat concert is not just a performance, it’s a celebration of 25 years of music that continues to inspire generations of listeners.
Read More

PUMA H-Street Lands in the Philippines with Exclusive Drop at atmos and Commonwealth


Sneakerheads, get ready to sprint into style! PUMA is bringing back one of its most iconic silhouettes—the PUMA H-Street—with an exclusive launch in the Philippines. The much-anticipated drop hits atmos stores starting August 25, before rolling out to Commonwealth, PUMA Stores nationwide, and PUMA.com on September 1, 2025.

From Track to Street: A Legacy Reborn

First introduced in 2003, the H-Street takes inspiration from the PUMA Harambee spike, a nod to the Swahili word for “pull together.” This 2025 reissue revives the low-profile sneaker’s race-ready shape, track-inspired outsole tread, and bold PUMA branding with a modern lifestyle twist.

Fans can expect a lightweight upper, nostalgic T-shaped toebox, and striking metallic accents across its first three OG colorways: Black, Fizzy Green, and Frosted Ivory.

“The running-inspired roots of the PUMA H-Street feel perfectly in sync with today’s style landscape,” said Christina Mirabelli, PUMA Director of Sportstyle Marketing. “It’s another icon from our archive that showcases PUMA’s rich heritage, evolved for 2025 with a fresh lifestyle perspective.”

Spotlight on Jamaica: A Tribute Collection

Following the OG release, PUMA will also roll out the H-Street Jamaica Pack in September, honoring the Caribbean nation’s legendary track and field legacy. With bold colorways inspired by Jamaica, this special-edition sneaker further cements the H-Street’s crossover from performance to lifestyle wear.

A Global Launch with Star Power

The H-Street already made waves at its global launch in Seoul last May, attended by fashion-forward Filipino couple David Guison and Angelique Manto, alongside Thai actor Win Metawin and BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ, who is also a PUMA ambassador.


In the Philippines, excitement grew when actress-singer Ashtine Olviga shared her streetwear look featuring the H-Street in Fizzy Green/PUMA Silver on Instagram. The hype continued with the exclusive launch event at atmos, where Vince Maristela, Caitlyn Seve, and Sofia Jahrling showcased their own takes on the sneaker’s versatile style.

Drop Details You Need to Know

August 25, 2025 – Exclusive release at atmos stores (₱5,500), including limited colorways Blue/PUMA Silver and Red/PUMA Silver.

September 1, 2025 – Available at Commonwealth, PUMA Stores nationwide, and PUMA.com.

Jamaica Pack – Launches exclusively at Commonwealth stores.

With its heritage design and streetwear-ready vibe, the PUMA H-Street is set to be one of the year’s must-have sneakers.

Stay in the loop by following @pumaph on Instagram for updates on this drop and future releases.
Read More

Capture Life’s Stories: HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2025 Opens for Filipino Creators


If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your everyday snapshots into globally recognized art, now’s your chance. HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2025 is officially open for submissions until September 15, 2025, giving Filipino mobile photographers and hobbyists the opportunity to showcase their creativity on an international stage.

A Global Celebration of Mobile Photography

The XMAGE Awards is HUAWEI’s annual global photography competition that celebrates storytelling through images. Open exclusively to HUAWEI smartphone users, participants can submit entries across eight categories: So Far So Close, Faces, Colour & Shade, Good Night, A Heartwarming World, Experimental Lab, Storyboard, and Action.

Three winners will be crowned Grand Prize champions, each taking home USD 10,000, while 97 other photographers will be awarded USD 1,500 each. An esteemed panel of nine international judges—including Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Liu Heung Shing and Paris Photo Director Florence Bourgeois—will evaluate the works.

Winning entries will be curated into XMAGE 100, a showcase of the year’s most outstanding mobile photography, to be featured in international exhibitions, content campaigns, and future HUAWEI events.

Filipino Talent Shines on the World Stage


The Philippines has consistently made waves in past XMAGE competitions. In 2024, Filipino account manager Justin Mendoza became one of three Grand Winners for his striking photo “Pick a Beak”, taken on a HUAWEI P30 Pro. Meanwhile, multimedia coordinator Ferdinand Bendana won the Best of Mate Series Award for “Eagle’s Eye”, shot on a HUAWEI Mate 50 Pro.

These achievements highlight how Filipino photographers continue to inspire the world with their talent and vision.

Elevate Your Craft with the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series

To help creators capture breathtaking visuals, HUAWEI recently launched the Pura 80 Ultra and Pura 80 Pro. Both feature the Ultra Lighting Main Camera for vivid clarity in any setting.

HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra: Equipped with a 1-Inch Ultra Lighting HDR Camera, it delivers lifelike colors and cinematic HDR video for glowing sunsets and vibrant cityscapes.

HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro: Comes with an Ultra Lighting Macro Telephoto Camera, perfect for capturing fine textures and details—even in low light.

With XMAGE Ultra Chroma technology, both devices bring color to life like never before, making professional-quality photography accessible to everyone.

How to Join XMAGE Awards 2025

Participants can submit up to 30 entries (photos or videos), all shot on a HUAWEI smartphone. Photo submissions must be in JPG, JPEG, or PNG (under 30 MB), while videos should be MP4 (under 400 MB) with original EXIF data intact.

Entries can be submitted via the XMAGE Awards website, HUAWEI Community, or the My HUAWEI app using a HUAWEI ID. Creators are also encouraged to share their work on Instagram using #HUAWEIXMAGE and tagging @huaweixmageawards.

For more details, visit HUAWEI’s official website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Read More

AXEAN Festival 2025 Final Lineup: Southeast Asia’s Biggest Music Showcase Heads to Bali

Monday, August 25


Music lovers, mark your calendars! 🎶 The AXEAN Festival 2025 has officially revealed its final lineup, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest music events in Asia this year. Happening on September 13–14, 2025, at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, the festival will feature 43 music acts across three stages, bringing together some of the most exciting talents from Southeast Asia and beyond.

Spotlight on Indonesian Talent

This year’s lineup shines a well-deserved spotlight on homegrown Indonesian acts, both established and rising. Fans can look forward to:

AVHATH – heavy-hitting metal/hardcore quintet
Banda Neira – beloved folk duo making a comeback
Gozal – rising indie favorite
Grizzly Cluive – alternative rock with a punch
Morbid Monke – genre-bending band full of surprises
Sandstorm of Youth – indie rock energy at its best
sourmilk – melancholic indie vibes
Xandega – multi-talented musician crossing genres
Dongker x Jason Ranti – a special collab between punk and poetic songwriting

Diverse Asian Lineup

AXEAN Festival isn’t just about Indonesia—it’s about giving Asia’s independent artists a global stage. Joining the roster are:

Alextbh (Malaysia) – trailblazing R&B artist
BIGPOM (Laos) – dynamic Laotian sound
LEMONY (Thailand) – indie rock fresh from Bangkok
Cvptain Morgans (Thailand) – rocking with island vibes
Kiwako Ashimine (Japan) – soulful singer-songwriter
Mettya Bizin (めっちゃ美人) (Japan) – J-indie standout
Milkiwav (Vietnam) – dreamy indie/dream pop project
Nghịch (Vietnam) – indie act with edge
Weejah (Philippines) – genre-fluid band representing Pinoy creativity 🇵🇭

The Role of TuneCore in Shaping the Lineup

One of the festival’s key highlights this year is the involvement of TuneCore, which spearheaded a four-month selection process spanning five Southeast Asian countries.

According to Cyrus Chen, Head of TuneCore Southeast Asia, the journey started with over 600 entries via open submissions. Winners from local showcases advanced to country finals, and eventually, six standout artists earned a spot on the AXEAN stage.

Cyrus shared, “We found remarkable hidden gems across diverse and often genre-blending styles. What was particularly striking was how many of these artists hadn’t formally released music yet.”

Beyond curating talent, TuneCore emphasizes artist growth—offering live performance opportunities, workshops, and industry connections that help independent musicians break through.

The Orchard Joins the Movement

Adding to the momentum, The Orchard, a global music distribution powerhouse, has partnered with AXEAN Festival to sponsor a stage. With operations in 49 cities worldwide, The Orchard’s mission is to expand Southeast Asian artists’ reach beyond their home markets.

As Prahlad Prabhas, The Orchard’s Senior Director for Southeast Asia, puts it, “It’s more than just about the music—it’s about celebrating the creativity and energy of this region and sharing it with the world.”

Festival Tickets Now Available

Don’t miss the chance to witness Southeast Asia’s music evolution live on stage.

Tickets are available here:


Why Filipinos Should Be Excited

With Pinoy band Weejah representing the Philippines, this festival is a proud moment for OPM fans. If you’re looking for a reason to book a Bali trip in September, AXEAN Festival offers the perfect mix of travel and music—two things we Filipinos absolutely love.

Rally your barkada, grab your passports, and make AXEAN your next concert getaway.
Read More

Liam Neeson’s Retribution Puts Viewers on a High-Speed Ride of Suspense

 

Liam Neeson is back in the driver’s seat—literally—in Retribution, a gripping action-thriller now streaming on Lionsgate Play. Known for his intense roles in Taken and Non-Stop, Neeson once again proves why audiences can’t get enough of his edge-of-your-seat performances. But this time, the battlefield isn’t an airport or a foreign city—it’s the inside of a moving car.

A Car Ride That Turns into a Death Trap

The story follows Matt Turner, a Berlin-based investment banker, played by Neeson. What starts as a routine school run with his children quickly spirals into a nightmare when he receives a chilling phone call: there’s a pressure-sensitive bomb under his seat.

If anyone gets out of the car, it explodes. With time running out, Matt must keep his kids calm, dodge police suspicion, and uncover the mysterious caller’s motive before the deadly trap claims them all.

The Director’s Unique Approach

Retribution is helmed by Nimród Antal, the filmmaker behind Predators and Vacancy. While it’s the third remake of the 2015 Spanish film El Desconocido, Antal explained in an interview with Forbes that he deliberately avoided watching the earlier versions. “To this day, I have not seen the Spanish or the German remake… I just wanted to keep it fresh and authentic. It wasn’t out of arrogance—it was simply to avoid being influenced.”

This decision pays off, creating a claustrophobic yet fresh take on the story, where most of the tension unfolds inside the confines of a single car.

More Than Explosions: A Story About Family

What makes Retribution stand out is not just the heart-stopping action but also its emotional core. Alongside Neeson, actors Noma Dumezweni, Lilly Aspell, and Jack Champion bring depth and vulnerability to the story, making it not just a survival thriller but also a tale about trust, family, and sacrifice.

If you’re craving a white-knuckle thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end, Retribution is a must-watch. With its high-stakes premise, relentless pacing, and powerful performances, it’s a ride that proves Liam Neeson still knows how to deliver blockbuster-level suspense.

Catch Retribution now on Lionsgate Play and see if you could survive the drive.
Read More

A Filipino Foodie’s Guide: Must-Try Restaurants at Greenhills Mall


When you think of Greenhills, the first things that usually come to mind are bargain shopping, gadgets, and fashion finds. But for foodies, this San Juan landmark is also a treasure trove of dining gems—especially for those craving authentic Filipino flavors.

This Buwan ng Wika, what better way to celebrate our culture than through food that reminds us of home? Whether you’re a balikbayan missing traditional dishes or a family looking for your next weekend food trip, Greenhills Mall is serving up local cuisine with a mix of heritage, creativity, and comfort.

Here are five Filipino restaurants at GH Mall that deserve a spot on your foodie bucket list:

1. Tsokolateria Artisanal Café and Pamana


A collaboration between Tsokolateria and Pamana, this cozy spot blends heirloom family recipes with chocolate-inspired dishes. It’s a unique homage to our country’s cacao heritage and a must-visit for anyone who loves tsokolate in all forms.

What to Try:

Tsokolate Ah (₱180/Single; ₱320/Double) – frothy and nostalgic
Tsokolate Eh (₱180/Single; ₱340/Double) – rich and indulgent
Tablea Pancake Souffle (₱280) – fluffy, sweet, and unforgettable

2. Locavore


If you want to see how Filipino food is evolving, Locavore is your go-to. Known for reimagining classics with local ingredients, their menu is bold, modern, and always Instagram-worthy.

What to Try:

Sizzling Sinigang (₱730) – beef short ribs with sour-savory gravy on a hot plate
Fried Oyster Sisig (₱495) – a seafood twist on a pulutan favorite
Lechon Oyster Sisig (₱570) – for the adventurous foodie

3. Manam Comfort Filipino


A crowd favorite, Manam is famous for serving Filipino classics side-by-side with creative twists. It’s perfect for groups with varied tastes—lolos and lolas get their traditional flavors, while millennials and Gen Zs can try something new.

What to Try:

House Crispy Sisig (₱215) – arguably one of the best in Manila
Sinigang na Beef Short Ribs & Watermelon (₱315) – a sweet-sour surprise
Crispy Pancit Palabok (₱265) – crunchy, saucy, and addictive

4. Romeo’s


Romeo’s brings lutong-bahay warmth to the mall dining scene. With its Kapampangan roots, the restaurant serves comforting dishes that feel like home-cooked meals straight from your lola’s kitchen.

What to Try:

Kalderetang Kambing (₱650) – rich, bold, and a bit adventurous
Special Pinakbet (₱350) – a vegetable lover’s delight
Inihaw na Liempo (₱350) – smoky, savory, and satisfying

5. Kapistahan


As its name suggests, Kapistahan feels like a fiesta every day. With its vibrant setting and generous servings, it’s a favorite for family gatherings and welcoming balikbayans.

What to Try:

Crispy Pata (₱1,050) – golden, crispy perfection
Kare-Kareng Baka (₱770) – rich peanut sauce paired with bagoong

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Food Trip

The next time you’re in Greenhills, don’t just shop—make it a culinary adventure. These restaurants not only serve delicious food but also tell the story of who we are as Filipinos: warm, creative, and deeply rooted in tradition.

My tip: Visit with family or balikbayan friends for the ultimate Filipino dining experience—you’ll leave with both full stomachs and full hearts.
Read More

Crisis PR 101: What To Post On Social Media When Your Brand Is Under Fire



Mistakes happen even to the best brands. Maybe a post didn’t land the way you hoped, an order got delayed, or a customer felt let down. Word travels fast in the Philippine online space – and your response can either spark a PR disaster or build stronger trust.

Handled with honesty and strategy, a slip-up isn’t the end of your reputation but the start of a better one. Here’s how you can own the narrative through crisis PR.

Step 1: Respond Quickly And Thoughtfully

Silence often fuels speculation. Filipinos value sincerity and responsiveness, so make sure to show that you care when something goes wrong. The way to go isn’t a rushed defensive statement but a well-crafted message that is:

  • Prompt: Posted within hours, not days.
  • Accurate: Avoids vague or misleading explanations.
  • Empathetic: Focused on the people affected, not just your brand’s inconvenience.

This strategic acknowledgement post is the blanket that can mitigate or even put out the fire. It buys you time to investigate with your PR team and correct your mistake.

Step 2: Choose the Right Platforms

Not all channels are created equal. With your PR partner, gauge where to post first to reach concerned audiences best. The usual optimal choices are:

  • Social media sites: Ideal for speed and reaching your community directly.
  • Website press statement: For more serious issues that require broader public dissemination.
  • Direct customer outreach: Email or SMS for those directly impacted.

Pro tip: In crisis PR, timing and placement matter just as much as the words themselves.

Step 3: Own the Mistake

Filipino audiences appreciate brands that are humble and accountable. Avoid corporate jargon like “unforeseen circumstances” if you can explain plainly. Acknowledge what happened, apologize sincerely, and state how you’ll make it right.

Here’s an example format for a social media post:

1. Start with an acknowledgement of the matter: “We made a mistake.”
2. Provide a succinct explanation: Briefly state what went wrong.
3. State your course of action: What you’re doing to fix it.
4. Give reassurance: How you’ll prevent it from happening again.


Step 4: Highlight the Resolution

Once the problem is resolved, don’t just leave them hanging. Let people know by sharing the “we’ve fixed it” update on your socials. More than informing everyone that the matter has been settled, this shifts the narrative from the mistake to your responsiveness and care.

You can take it further by turning it into a trust-building post: highlight what you learned, show the changes you’ve implemented, and thank your customers for their patience and feedback.

Step 5: Leverage Good PR for Damage Control

Crises are one of the primary reasons why partnering with a PR agency in the Philippines is crucial for brands. When you have a PR team proficient in digital and traditional media, they will:

  • Ensure consistent messaging across platforms (so you don’t say one thing on Facebook and another on TV).
  • Brief journalists accurately to prevent misquotes or misinterpretations.
  • Help manage the comments section strategically—engaging without inflaming.
  • Recommend crisis management strategies, such as when to “go quiet” versus when to keep the conversation going.

They also know how to pivot the story by using follow-up content (e.g. posting behind-the-scenes improvements or community initiatives) to reinforce your credibility.

Mistakes Are Opportunities

Handled with empathy, speed, and transparency, even the toughest situations can be opportunities for stronger customer loyalty. With the right PR partner, crisis communication stops being mere damage control and becomes a powerful tool for building reputation.

When the heat is on, don’t go at it alone. Partner with a PR agency that can help you turn setbacks into your proof of credibility!
Read More

LUMOS FLOAT Review: The 360° Home Cinema Projector That Lets You Binge-Watch on your Ceiling


There’s something magical about ending the day curled up in bed with your favorite K-drama, a rom-com, or a suspense series. But let’s be real—watching on a small phone screen can feel… well, bitin. That’s exactly why I was so excited to try the LUMOS FLOAT, the first 360° rotatable projector in the Philippines that lets you stream shows straight on your wall or even your ceiling. Yes, ceiling binge-watching is now a thing, and I am here for it!

First Impressions


The LUMOS FLOAT arrived in sleek packaging that instantly gave off a premium feel. Mine came in Pink (also available in Gold and Silver), and it looked like a stylish gadget rather than bulky tech equipment. At only 750g, it’s surprisingly lightweight and compact—making it easy to carry from the living room to the bedroom.


Unboxing was a breeze, and I was instantly intrigued by the SkyTrack hook system. It’s a simple yet genius addition that lets you hang the projector above your bed or on the wall without drilling holes. Perfect for condo living or if you’re renting and don’t want to mess with permanent fixtures.

Features & Benefits

Here’s what makes the LUMOS FLOAT stand out:

360° Rotatable Projection – Easily switch from wall to ceiling projection without moving the unit. Lazy weekend mornings just got better.


Crystal Clear Visuals – With 1080p supported resolution (native 720p) and 3,000 lumens brightness, colors look vivid and images are sharp—even in a dimly lit room.

Massive Screen Size – Turn your wall into a 150-inch cinema. Even at just 1.5 meters away, you can get a 50-inch screen.


Built-in Netflix, YouTube, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth – No need for extra devices; just plug, play, and chill.

Wireless Casting – Mirror your phone screen to watch TikToks, scroll Instagram, or even play games on a giant display.

Dual Speaker System – Delivers surprisingly rich sound without needing external speakers.

Easy Setup – The automatic keystone correction ensures a perfect rectangle projection every time.

My Experience & Thoughts


The first night I tried the LUMOS FLOAT, I watched a K-drama episode projected on my bedroom ceiling. Lying flat in bed while my favorite scenes unfolded above me was honestly a game-changer. The picture was crisp, the colors were vibrant, and the sound filled the room nicely.


I also tried using it in the living room for a mini movie night with hubby. We didn’t even need a big space—just a white wall, the lights off, and some chips on standby. The only thing I’d note is that while it performs well in dim rooms, it also works on daylight but can wash out the image a bit (which is common for most projectors).

So if you want to use it day time, it's best with blackout curtains. At night is for the ultimate viewing experience.

Value for Money

The LUMOS FLOAT comes in two versions:

Regular – ₱4,999
Smart (with built-in apps) – ₱7,999

Compared to similar projectors that range from ₱15,000 to ₱20,000, this is a steal especially with all the premium features packed in. Plus, it comes with a 1-year local warranty for peace of mind.

You can buy it directly from the official LUMOS Philippines website at https://www.lumosprojector.ph/float

If you’ve been dreaming of a home cinema experience without the bulky setup, the LUMOS FLOAT is worth every peso. It’s perfect for condo dwellers, small apartments, or anyone who wants to upgrade their binge-watching game.

Whether you’re watching movies with the family, streaming YouTube while cooking, or enjoying a solo K-drama marathon in bed—it delivers big-screen magic in a small, stylish package.

My verdict: Highly recommended for Filipinos who love movies, series, and the occasional TikTok scroll on the big screen.

Read More
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)
...