2024v25n9 - WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Mobility

Hyundai Custin 1.5L T-GDI Premium

Isuzu mu-X 3.0L 4x4 LS-E AT

New Toyota Corolla Cross

Isuzu Supports 2024 Philippine Rallycross Series

Gogoro Pulse

Ride Above The Rest With The New Yamaha Sniper155 and Sniper155R

Yamaha Fastest Unlocks Filipino Speed

FEU Alabang Highlights

Sustainable Mobility With GET

Mitsubishi Motors PH Records Highest Sales In 2023

Gaming

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

FBM E-Motion Online Gaming Platform

Cyber Security

ESET All-in-One Protection

Apps

Parlon: A Truly Filipino App that Revolutionizes Wellness and Self-Care

Viber introduces AI Chat Summary

Fintech

How Can MSMEs Better Manage Their Payroll Systems?

Maya Easy Credit Telco

Affordable High-Speed 5G Mobile Data Bridging the Digital Divide

Wellness

MindNation: Leading the Future of Mental Health in the Philippines

Optimal Liver Health

Music Corner

Chasing Notes To Catch A Star

Honda Philippines Reduces Carbon Footprint With Solar Power Project

Carsome PH And Seaoil Partner For A “Wheely” Good Deal

Global Team Toyota From Asia All Set For Paris 2024

PH Digital Banks Post Rapid Growth

Words by Gabriel Pe

RETAINING ZEN IN A NEW WORK ORDER

The COVID-19 Pandemic changed the way we work. Remote work became a norm with the onslaught of the pandemic. Now, the remote work setup is here to stay, with millions of office workers favoring the setup.

This shift to new types of work setups presents new challenges both for companies adopting and workers who adopted. For companies, the transition to the new normal is accompanied by logistical issues. Maintaining cybersecurity for crucial data means providing employees with vetted and secured devices to prevent any leaks. Other companies have faced “quiet quitting” or the phenomenon where employees lose productivity by doing only the bare minimum.

For employees, working from home or remotely comes with its own set of unique challenges. First is the technological challenge of having the appropriate devices. Many did not have a device suitable for remote work and their internet connection could not keep up with the fast-paced demands of the

modern workforce. Communication also presented difficulties as there is a massive difference between personal face-to-face communication and online messages. There could be more misunderstandings when working remotely versus onsite.

A new issue plaguing remote workers is the loss of balance, particularly the loss of work-life balance.

Maintaining your Zen in an everchanging workspace

With the continued adoption of remote working options, remote workers are struggling to find a balance between work mode and home mode. One of the primary reasons for the loss of balance is the unclear boundary between working and rest, which could mean longer or shorter periods devoted to work, or vice-versa. There’s also a sense of loneliness and isolation because of a lack of physical contact and a monotonous routine.

Here are some ways to regain or maintain one’s Zen in the new normal:

STICK TO A STRICT SCHEDULE

Sticking to a strict schedule helps in maintaining the balance between work and leisure. This allows you to set a boundary not only for others but also for yourself. Adhering to a strict schedule also helps in building a daily routine. It helps keep your mind set on which tasks to do or when to cut off thinking about work.

Setting a schedule also helps in maintaining a boundary between you and others. Don’t be afraid to remind people of your work hours and tasks, and avoid “Work From Home Guilt.”

This phenomenon makes you feel guilty (hence the name) for not working enough, or you feel like you’re not as productive as those working onsite. Reminding yourself of your tasks and what you’ve accomplished is a start in overcoming the guilt. It’s a tough road mentally, but once you get used to the routine it becomes a bit easier.

Of course, scheduling also helps in doing household chores. Providing a strict schedule for chores also helps in maintaining your household. Laundry may pile up or dishwashing

is pushed back later, but setting a specific time devoted to household chores can actually break the monotony of your work day.

Finally, don’t forget to also add a strict schedule for cooking and eating. Working remotely offers the unique boon (or bane) of having homecooked meals. This means you have the opportunity to make your food, avoiding the additional costs of eating out. While you can still order out, what’s important is that you remember to eat. Often, we’re so invested in our work that we forget to eat.

FOLLOW YOUR WORK ROUTINE

To completely separate work time from leisure time, one of the most effective solutions is to treat working (albeit at home) as a regular work day. This means trying to replicate your daily work routine (minus the commute) during your work hours.

Dressing up in regular work clothes also help keep you in the right mindset, and help you get on track as fast as possible. The same goes for relaxation mode, getting out of work clothes and into comfortable pajamas

“Finally, the most important way to regain your Zen is to step back and take a deep breath. If everything feels overwhelming or you feel that you’re not being productive, take a step back and breathe.”

can stimulate the brain to cut off work thoughts and shift into rest mode.

TRY TO WORK IN A DESIGNATED AREA AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE

Finally, working in a specific designated area of your home will help prevent work-from-home relaxation. Working from home offers a lot of possible distractions as compared to working onsite. Finding your working niche at home can limit the unnecessary distractions affecting your productivity.

Finding a specific working spot also tunes your mind. It sets a mental boundary where the area is for only for work and the rest of the house is for other things. Setting spaces apart helps set a routine faster and regain a sense of control of both work and life matters.

If you can do it, also try working outside your home from time to time. One of the biggest drawbacks of working at home is the monotony. Unlike working onsite, being stuck at home means you’re stuck looking at the same sights day by day. This can lead to feeling isolated and lonely, which adds unnecessary stress. Changing your pace every so often helps in bringing back some uniqueness in a routine. A good way to do this is by setting faceto-face meetings, giving you the perfect excuse to work outside yet remain productive.

Finally, the most important way to regain your Zen is to step back and take a deep breath. If everything feels overwhelming or you feel that you’re not being productive, take a step back and breathe. If that’s not enough, a quick vacation could be a good way to get back to the right mindset.

Words by Gabriel Pe

A JOURNEY DOWN MEMORY RAILS

RAILS

The LRT-1 has long been a bastion of mass transport in the north of the metro. Opened to the public in 1984, it’s the country’s first light rail train system, serving Filipino commuters for four decades now. It is expected to serve more when its south-bound extension is completed later this year.

With its long years of service, the LRT-1 has seen history being made. It has seen 8 presidential terms, ferried people to two people power revolutions, and was targeted in a terror attack at the in the Rizal Day Bombings of 2000. And, just as storied as the tracks, LRT-1 also stands on storied grounds.

Bringing these stories and history to commuters and history enthusiasts alike is the raison d’etre behind the LRT-1 Heritage Transit Tour, a joint project between Light Rail Manila Corporation and the cultural group Renacimiento Manila.

GADGETS Magazine was fortunate to join one of the Heritage Transit Tours. Like all tourgoers, we each received a Beep card with an unlimited ride credit for one day, which can be used to visit other stops of the LRT-1 tracks.

A GLIMPSE OF THE TOUR

The transit tour takes you through four LRT stations. It starts at Central Terminal Station, the central point of the whole line (at least prior to the line extensions). Here, we learned about the land where Central Terminal stands, and its role in the 1762 British occupation of Manila.

From Central Terminal, the tour proceeded to Vito Cruz Station, Manila’s southernmost station. Here, we were greeted with the façade of De La Salle University and heard the gruesome history of the Japanese Occupation. From Vito Cruz Station, we were treated to a brief tour of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and learned about a World War II battle that was fought around its historic baseball field. After this was a bit of history about the trains plying the LRT-1 tracks.

After the journey south, the tour turned northward to Carriedo Station, the final station located on the once glamorous Rizal Avenue or Avenida, once a prime commercial hub. Carriedo Station is also the gateway towards the Santa Cruz district and the historic Sta. Cruz Church, and a stone’s throw away from the once posh Escolta Street, which housed the country’s first skyscrapers.

Finally, the tour proceeded a few stations southward, and ended at United Nations Avenue. Before saying our goodbyes, we learned more about the design of the LRT1 stations, and why certain stations are the way they are.

WHY THESE STATIONS

When the tour was finally over, we couldn’t help but wonder why these four stations were chosen from among all the LRT-1 stations.

The unique historical stories of each of the four stations made them ideal tour destinations.

Central Terminal was chosen because it is an ideal meetup point and, at the same time, a great location to explain some history about nearby areas like Intramuros, and the former El Pueblo Chino del Parian or the old Chinatown.

Traversing the tracks from Central towards Vito Cruz gives you a glimpse of old suburban Manila, once the edge of the city where the rich built their mansions.

Carriedo is a contrast to Vito Cruz. From the serenity of the old suburbs, you head north toward downtown Manila and its vibrant commercial history.

The final stop, United Nations Station, is in close proximity to the parks and museums. From here, tourgoers can spend the rest of the day at the nearby National Museum of Natural History.

HOW THE TOUR CAME TO BE

Diego Torres, president and co-founder of Renacimiento Manila, shared how the tour was conceptualized and came into being.

“Mass transit is one of Renacimiento Manila’s advocacies in terms of promoting Manila as far back when we started in the 2020s. In 2021 we had the mass transit tour, and then we had a thought, what if we also incorporate other mass transit systems within Manila? Then out of the blue, Light Rail Manila approached us so it was eventually a meeting of the minds. They were interested in creating and curating a tour for the LRT, which uses the LRT and explores the areas around the stations,” he explained.

“We were trying to develop other areas as well, but in the beginning when we were crafting the design, we said, let’s focus first on the areas that have some highlights of the city as well,” Torres explained.

According to Torres, the LRMC was very supportive along the way when they crafted the plan. He also revealed that it was the LRMC who provided the necessary logistics to carry out the tour.

According to Torres, they are working on a proposal to include more stops for the tour, to include new attractions that more people will find appealing.

ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED

THE ASUS ZENBOOK S 13 OLED (UX5304MA) refresh model is a sleek and powerful laptop that blends advanced technology with a beautiful design, perfect for professionals and students. Featuring the new Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU and Intel AI Boost NPU, users can enjoy top-notch performance and efficiency. Plus, ASUS makes AIcomputing more accessible with its dedicated Microsoft Copilot key, simplifying navigation and boosting productivity.

Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 155U processor, the Zenbook S 13 OLED boasts exceptional performance, ensuring seamless multitasking and smooth operation for even the most demanding tasks. The stunning 13.3-inch 3K OLED display with a 16:10 aspect ratio delivers vibrant colors and crisp details, enhancing the viewing experience for work or entertainment.

Equipped with LPDDR5X 16GB RAM and a 1TB M.2 NVMe™ PCIe® 4.0 SSD, this powerhouse laptop offers lightning-fast responsiveness and ample storage space for all your files and applications. Plus, with the intuitive Microsoft Copilot key, users can streamline their workflow and

achieve greater efficiency in their tasks. Intel Graphics and Intel AI Boost NPU further enhance AI app performance and efficiency, making multitasking effortless.

Embracing sustainability, ASUS continues its commitment to environmental responsibility by incorporating eco-friendly materials into the construction of the Zenbook S 13 OLED.

It includes a pre-installed Windows 11 Home and Office Home & Student 2021 lifetime license, offering users the latest software for enhanced productivity. Additionally, it comes with the ASUS 4A Quality and Service Warranty, ensuring the laptop’s safety and longevity.

Laptop

DJI Avata 2

DESIGNED FOR CONTENT creators and production professionals, the DJI Avata 2 is set to provide an adrenalinepumping immersive FPV drone experience with even more improved imaging, safety, and battery life.

The DJI Avata 2 delivers a thrilling, intuitive, and exhilarating flight experience. Equipped with the new DJI Goggles 3 and DJI RC Motion 3, users can feel every twist and turn with real-time precision. The DJI Goggles 3 features micro-OLED highdefinition displays and ultra-low-latency transmission, enhancing safety and immersion by allowing pilots to observe their surroundings without removing the goggles.

The new drone features include the Easy ACRO mode, which empowers even novice pilots to easily perform spectacular aerial maneuvers. This mode allows users to soar, dive, and roll through the skies, capturing stunning FPV footage that was once only possible for experienced pilots.

With a 1/1.3-inch image sensor and 4K/60fps HDR video capabilities, the DJI Avata 2 captures every frame with brilliant clarity and vibrant colors, offering 155-degree ultra-wide FOV. The drone’s RockSteady and HorizonSteady stabilization technologies ensure smooth footage, even in the most dynamic conditions, allowing creators to focus on their flights without worrying about video stability.

The DJI Avata 2 is designed with safety and durability in mind, featuring an updated integrated propeller guard, advanced positioning with new sensors, and an automatic Return to Home function. These features make it safer and easier for pilots to navigate tight spaces and handle unexpected situations.

With Turtle Mode enabled, It can automatically flip itself back into takeoff position when upside down, so it can quickly get airborne again.

The DJI Avata 2 enhances user experience with significantly improved battery life and fast-charging capabilities,

allowing pilots to stay airborne longer and capture more footage on a single charge. It boasts a maximum flight time of 23 minutes and supports PD fast charging, which can recharge the battery up to 80% in just 18 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime during shooting sessions.

The new DJI Avata 2 Two-Way Charging Hub features a power accumulation function, allowing the transfer of remaining power from multiple batteries to the one with the highest charge level, giving users an “extra battery” in critical moments.

Additionally, the Avata 2 features advanced Wi-Fi connectivity for quick and seamless media transfer from the drone to your mobile device, enabling instant sharing and livestreaming of high-quality aerial footage. This connectivity, combined with the DJI Fly App, also facilitates intuitive device management and easier access to the drone’s extensive features, enhancing its utility for content creators on the go.

DJI continues to push the boundaries of innovation, offering top-of-the-line equipment at consumer-friendly prices, thus empowering content creators to capture extraordinary footage in ways that were previously unimaginable.

Epson SureColor T-Series

THE EPSON SURECOLOR

T-SERIES large-format technical printers adds new models to the lineup — the SC-T7730DL, SC-T7730DM, SC-T5730D, SC-T5730DM, SCT3730D, SC-T3730DE, and SCT3730E. Developed with precision and efficiency in mind, the new models comprise added and improved features to produce accurate prints securely and efficiently, to serve evolving corporate and government needs.

The next generation of SureColor T-Series printers boasts a remarkable print speed of 23 seconds – the fastest speed in its class – to help businesses achieve greater productivity rates with every print.

Businesses can also be assured of outstanding print quality as all models are equipped with Epson’s latest 2.64-inch PrecisionCore printhead, which provides outstanding image quality down to the finest details, through accurate plotting with high-precision line detail and minimum line widths as thin as 0.018mm.

To reduce downtime from media changes, the new models all have a dual-roll function with autoswitching and a take-up reel for continuous high-volume printing. They also support poster board media and cut-sheet printing to facilitate optimized media handling.

Large Format Technical Printer

These low-maintenance functions help improve workflow efficiency.

The SC-T5730DM and SCT7730DM also come with a multifunction capability for users to copy, enlarge, or digitize large documents of widths up to 36 inches, while also granting users the convenience to print and scan concurrently, and these 2 models boast the fastest scan speed in the SureColor T-series printers, at 4.5ips in color, and 10ips in mono. Scanning by software is now supported with Epson Scan 2 and Document Capture Pro

workflow solutions for enhanced quality, convenience, and security.

The new SureColor T-series printers utilize Epson’s UltraChrome XD3 6-Color pigment ink set, which allows for vibrant colors and crisp lines on virtually any paper type, coupled with water, smudge, and fade resistant qualities. The inclusion of red ink also allows users to print rich and vivid images with high color saturation, making it the ideal solution for Point-Of-Purchase (POP) signs, top-of-the-line professional posters, blueprints, and more.

The updated line of SureColor T-series printers sports a sleek flattop design with a small footprint to support a variety of modular workplace arrangements. Flexible placement of the printers is also possible due to its Wi-Fi printing capability, with Wi-Fi direct allowing for up to eight devices to connect to the printers without a router. Users can also print directly from USB memory devices or mobile applications, such as the Epson Smart Panel, using a mobile device.

nubia Neo 2 5G

Smartphone

PHP9,999

POWERED BY THE Unisoc T820 processor with an advanced 6nm EUV process, the nubia Neo 2 5G delivers high-quality phone performance without consuming too much power. It boasts a 5G lightning-fast speed performance that supports fast downloads, uploads, and response times, smoother multiplayer gaming experiences, and lower latency to provide the ultimate gaming experience, free of lags or buffers. It also offers 5G dual-card intelligent switching, which allows gamers to switch to their

secondary card if their primary card is experiencing low signals, giving them uninterrupted playtime. Doing multiple tasks simultaneously is made easier with the nubia Neo 2 5G’s UFS

3.1 flash storage with fast data transfer and 20(8+12)GB Dynamic RAM, which supports memory fusion technology for effortless multitasking.

Additionally, the smartphone was designed with a 6.72-inch FHD+ display for gamers to enjoy their games’ stunning

visuals. The nubia Neo 2 5G’s screen has a clear-cut quality with a 2400x1800 resolution, allowing gamers to enjoy and fully immerse in their games’ vibrant scenes. The device also has a 120Hz refresh rate for better and seamless viewing and scrolling.

The nubia Neo 2 5G delivers great gaming experiences for gamers and reassures them that they can enjoy unlimited play without worrying about draining the smartphone’s power.

The nubia Neo 2 5G is equipped with a 6000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging and intelligent-power-saving technology for all-day unlimited, thrilling gaming. Alongside this, nubia designed the phone’s refresh rate to be adaptive to help the phone intelligently switch refresh rates to reduce power consumption. The nubia Neo 2 5G also has a multi-layer heat dissipation system to protect key components, such as the battery and motherboard, from overheating.

The highlight of the smartphone is its upgraded gaming shoulder triggers. This feature gives users the ultimate power over their games, giving them more freedom and control when navigating and playing. It also supports in-game custom mapping, allowing users to customize their shoulder buttons based on personal preferences. Empowered by this highlight feature, gamers will easily end all battles with victory.

The nubia Neo 2 5G boasts the Game Space 2.0, an assistance tool with a professional gaming layout, featuring powerful game optimization functions. It includes Game Performance Enhancement, a feature that adjusts the device’s CPU and GPU resources, helping the device to manage its power and battery usage and ensure continuous optimal game performances. Users can also enhance the audio of their game with four sound effects. Gamers will surely be engrossed in their games with this feature, especially as the smartphone is built with powerful Dual

Stereo Speakers with DTS:X Ultra that deliver impressive sound quality. The nubia Neo 2 5G also features a Plugin Library that simplifies game operations while enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Bypass Charging is another feature of the nubia Neo 2 5G that supports the device in providing uninterrupted game time. To use this feature, the user must connect their charging cable to their device. Once activated, the Bypass Charging will keep the phone powered up without charging the battery. This system allows the gamer to keep playing and the phone working while reducing heat generation.

As a gaming device, the nubia Neo 2 5G sports a stylish and minimalistic design and carries a metal texture with a three-dimensional effect, reminiscent of the design DNA of its predecessor, the Bionic Mecha. But what makes the nubia Neo 2 5G even more stylish is its all-new ‘Hero Eye’ texture with realistic 3D effects, a look that matches the style and personality of a gamer. Corresponding to the phone design are the new super wallpapers. The nubia Neo 2 5G has more than ten new super wallpapers to give users several options to personalize their smartphones based on their tastes. The nubia Neo 2 5G comes in three fabulous colorways: Storm Gray, Sunfire Yellow, and Frost Silver.

Filipino gamers can now purchase the nubia Neo 2 5G at local ZTE Device Philippines stores.

Huawei Band 9

THE NEW HUAWEI BAND 9 emerges as a game-changer, redefining what users can expect from wearable technology.

Crafted for comfort and a seamless experience, the device showcases a refined aesthetic through its sleek, slim profile. This design is further enhanced by an upgraded strap material, meticulously selected for its lightweight properties and soft touch.

The attention to detail extends to the Band 9’s display a stunning 1.47-inch AMOLED screen that captivates the eye. Boasting an ultra-narrow bezel, it achieves a minimalistic elegance while maximizing the viewing area. Additionally, the inclusion of an auto-adjustable watch face brightness sensor guarantees optimal visibility under any lighting conditions.

The innovation of the HUAWEI Band 9 is not limited to its physical design. It introduces groundbreaking health features, such as HUAWEI TruSleep 4.0 technology. By encompassing sleep breathing awareness and prioritizing comfort in its design, the Band 9 ensures that users can achieve a deeper, more restorative sleep.

The integration of the enhanced HUAWEI TruSeen™ 5.5 technology in the Band 9 marks the evolution of its sensor technology from a single-channel module to a more sophisticated three-channel module.

This advancement boosts the device’s ability to collect data, like heart rate and blood oxygen levels, more accurately.

Adding a new dimension to its health monitoring capabilities, the Band 9 features pulse wave arrhythmia analysis. This cutting-edge function expands the device’s utility beyond simple health tracking, offering a tool that analyzes heartbeat irregularities.

The selection of five vibrant colors — Starry Black, White, Lemon Yellow, Charm Pink, and Blue — serves as a palette for personal expression, allowing users to choose a hue that best matches their individuality and preference. This choice is further enhanced by the Huawei Band 9’s ability to support different preset watch faces, with over 10,000 options to choose from.

Beyond its customizable hardware, the Band 9’s practicality is underscored by its exceptional battery life. Engineered to last up to 14 days on a single charge, the device ensures that users remain connected and health-focused without

the frequent need for recharging. This longevity is complemented by fast charging capabilities.

Users can make the most of the Band 9’s TruSport™ feature to optimize their workouts and daily activities or routines based on their personalized health goals.

For example, those with sedentary lifestyles can benefit from movement reminders, nudging them to take regular breaks for stretching or short walks.

On the other hand, people who live life more actively can greatly benefit from the advanced fitness tracking capabilities, including activities like running, cycling, swimming, and skipping rope, complemented by a 9-axis high-precision sensor for accurately tracking swimming strokes, laps, and distance. This means that active users can tailor and record their workouts more effectively, ensuring they are exercising at the right intensity to meet their fitness goals without overexertion.

Networking Solutions

Mercusys

TO MAKE EVERYDAY life more convenient and accessible to most, Mercusys introduces a range of innovative networking solutions designed with the average Filipino user in mind.

From high-speed routers that cater to the demands of online gaming and streaming to portable devices known as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, or simply MiFi, Mercusys ensures that every Filipino can find a product that suits their personal and financial preferences.

MR60X

AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Router

PHP1,690

Upgrade your home network with the MR60X router, featuring cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6 technology for faster, more reliable connections. This device enhances your digital experience by supporting more devices simultaneously, extending your Wi-Fi range, and providing fast data transmission throughout your home.

It comes with 4 high-gain antennas and Beamforming technology for strong, stable Wi-Fi in every corner, eliminating dead zones. The MR60X also includes Gigabit ports for high-speed wired connections, perfect for online gaming and HD streaming at home. Smart Connect technology ensures optimal network performance by selecting the best band for each device, making the MR60X a smart addition to any future-proof home network.

MR80X

AX3000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router

PHP2,790

The MR80X, leveraging Wi-Fi 6 technology, offers speeds up to 3Gbps, catering to the heavy internet demands of modern households for a seamless digital experience. It features MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies for efficient handling of multiple devices, reducing congestion and improving throughput. With 4 high-gain antennas and Beamforming technology, it ensures extensive and stable Wi-Fi coverage. Additionally, Gigabit wired connections enable maximum internet speed utilization, ideal for high-demand online activities like streaming HD video, downloading large files, and competitive gaming.

Halo H30G

AC1300 Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi System

PHP1,990

The Halo H30G system delivers fast, stable connections for up to 100 devices with speeds up to 1.3Gbps, ensuring compatibility with major ISPs and modems. Featuring advanced Mesh Technology, it creates a unified network that optimizes signal strength for uninterrupted, fast connections ideal for video calls and streaming. It covers up to 260sqm, eliminating Wi-Fi dead zones, and includes 2× Gigabit ports per unit for high-speed wired connections, catering to all your internet needs efficiently.

Halo H80X

AX3000 Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

PHP6,990

Offering dual-band Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to an impressive 3000Mbps, the Halo H80X mesh system makes sure your online activities are faster and more reliable than ever before. With 2402Mbps available on the 5GHz band and 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, every stream, download, video call, and gaming experience is handled with ease, providing a seamless digital experience across all your devices.

It can also create a single unified network across your home, thanks to its seamless roaming capability. Designed to cover an area of up to 650sqm, the Halo H80X eliminates Wi-Fi dead zones, providing blanket coverage that reaches every corner of your home.

MR30G

AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router PHP1,299

The compact MR30G router offers AC1200 Gigabit Wi-Fi, perfect for both home and office use, providing speeds up to 1.2Gbps. It’s ideal for a smooth, lag-free entertainment experience, supporting seamless streaming and downloads. Equipped with 4 high-gain antennas and Beamforming technology, it delivers wide, reliable coverage, ensuring strong Wi-Fi signals everywhere. The MR30G also features full Gigabit ports, enabling fast data transfer and optimal performance for all devices.

MB110-4G

300Mbps Wireless N 4G LTE Router

PHP2,490

Looking for a powerhouse LTE router that’s also budget-friendly? Offering Wi-Fi speeds of up to 300 Mbps, this product allows you to efficiently share your network and connect up to 32 devices, making it ideal for your home or office. Advanced LTE antennas ensure efficient and stable connections for every device. The Power Amplifier and Low Noise Amplifier boost sending and receiving capabilities, creating a wide-coverage Wi-Fi network for your home. With a built-in WAN/LAN port, the MB110-4G can also function as a router, compatible with cable, fiber, and DSL modems.

MiFi - MT110

4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi

PHP1,740

The MiFi MT110 offers a perfect blend of portability and performance, ideal for both students and professionals. This compact device can connect up to 10 devices and enables fast Wi-Fi speeds up to 150Mbps for efficient network sharing, ensuring smooth video calls, streaming, and downloads. It supports the latest 4G LTE networks for global compatibility and features a 2200mAh battery that lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge, minimizing interruptions from recharging.

realme 12 5G

smartphones, the realme 12 5G offers a competitive camera, a sleek design, and enhance user experience, putting it on par with more expensive competitors.

Just like its predecessors, the realme 12 5G has the mainstay features of a Trendy Watch Design but the highlight is the two new stunning colors: Twilight Purple

Mode to take beautiful, high-resolution photos in any setting. To make photos and videos more irresistible, it has camera features exclusive to its series: the Cinematic Bokeh Algorithm that intelligently adjusts blur and lighting, and the built-in Master Portrait Filters.

Additionally, the 6.7” 120Hz Sunlight Display provides a high refresh rate, an FHD+ Resolution, and a 91.4% Screento-Body display ratio. Toggling the “Extra Brightness” in the display settings activates Sunlight Mode, allowing the device to reach up to 950 Nits of brightness perfect for outdoor use.

Sensor Zoom and Cinematic 3x Portrait

Poised to make waves as the fastestselling device in the series, the realme 12 5G is available in a single 8GB+256GB storage variant.

REVIEWED BY MARIBELLE ALBA

JBL SENSESOUNDGEAR

Instead of the usual in-ear or over-ear designs, JBL describes the Soundgear Sense as true wireless open-ear headphones. Although reminiscent of the bulky headsets with ear hooks that were popular in the early days of wireless audio, it earned a 2023 Red Dot Design Award for its use of air conduction technology to deliver sound without blocking the ears. How does it perform in real life?

DESIGN

For those of us who remember, the Soundgear Sense earpieces have a retro feel which, with their ear hooks and bulkier dimensions, resemble the Bluetooth earphones of the early to mid-2000s. Despite the dimensions of the oval plastic body, they are surprisingly lightweight at 13.1g each, making them easy to wear for extended use. The ear hooks are adjustable to fit various head shapes and sizes, ensuring a secure fit. A detachable neckband provides additional security and stability. This focus on comfort is evident in the way the Soundgear Sense feels during use.

Still, the bulkier dimensions and open-ear format might not appeal to everyone. I personally have mixed feelings about the Soundgear Sense: While I appreciate its lightweight and comfortable feel, I wish it were more discreetly-sized and less conspicuous, especially when in public places and social situations.

HARDWARE

The Soundgear Sense leverages air conduction technology to deliver sound without blocking your ears. Its 16.2mm

dynamic speakers ensure good sound quality with a balanced profile. Bass is present but doesn’t overpower the mids and highs, resulting in a clear and enjoyable listening experience. While the openear design might not deliver the noisecanceling immersion of some closedback headphones, it excels in clarity and allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.

Four built-in microphones deliver excellent voice quality, and the open-ear design provides a more natural-sounding experience during calls.

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, it has multipoint connectivity and can be paired with two devices simultaneously. In my case, I paired the Soundgear Sense to both my phone and my laptop, and I was able to use it to attend Zoom meetings on my laptop and then listen to music and take calls on my phone seamlessly without the inconvenience of having to connect/ disconnect either device.

The Soundgear Sense features intuitive touch controls on the earbud housings. These controls allow you to play/pause music, skip tracks, adjust volume, answer/reject calls, and activate your voice assistant. The controls are responsive and can be customized through the JBL Headphones app to match your preferences. For example, you can assign a specific function, like activating ambient mode to a single-tap or double-tap gesture.

Each earbud offers a respectable battery life of 6 hours on a single charge. The included charging case provides an additional 18 hours, bringing the total playtime to 24 hours. While not the longest battery life on the market, it’s sufficient for extended listening sessions between charges. The included Type-C USB cable allows a quick charge of 15 minutes to deliver an additional 4 hours of playback, and a full charge takes only 2 hours.

USER EXPERIENCE

Surprisingly, the Soundgear Sense shines in terms of comfort and fit. The lightweight design and adjustable ear hooks ensure a secure fit, while the openear design allows for passive ventilation, which eases ear fatigue during extended use. In fact, I often actually forgot they were sitting on my ears and would only be reminded after some hours when the pressure of the ear hooks started to feel uncomfortable. Compared to other in-ear headphones, I tended to wear the Soundgear Sense longer.

The open-ear design is a double-edged sword. While it allows for complete

situational awareness, it also means sound leakage. This can be an issue if you’re listening to music in quiet environments or want complete noise isolation.

Additionally, outside noise can interfere with your listening experience at times. For instance, traffic noise on a busy street or loud conversations in a crowded cafe can disrupt your audio. In general, I liked using the Soundgear Sense while working and during commutes as they allowed me to enjoy my playlist while staying aware of what was going on around me. For spending alone time in cafes, though, I prefer the JBL Live Free noise-canceling in-ear buds.

Adding to the ease of use and functionality of JBL audio devices is its

JBL Headphones app, which is userfriendly and convenient. The app allows me to customize the touch controls, adjust EQ settings, check battery life, and even “find my earbuds” — all from my phone.

The JBL Soundgear Sense is listed at PHP9,499, falling within the mid-range price bracket for wireless headphones. Considering the unique open-ear design,

good sound quality, and comfortable fit, they offer a compelling value proposition for users who prioritize situational awareness during activities for a safe and comfortable listening experience.

SPECIFICATIONS

Earphones: Driver size 15.2mm dynamic driver | Impedance 32ohm |

Sensitivity 112dB SPL@1kHz | Maximum SPL 90dB

Microphone sensitivity: -38 dBV/ Pa@1 kHz

Bluetooth: Version 5.3 | Profile HFP 1.8, A2DP 1.4, AVRCP 1.6.2

Bluetooth transmitter: Frequency range 2.4 GHz - 2.4835 GHz | Power <10 dBm

Weight: Earbuds 12.85g per pc, 25.7g combined | Charging case

68.1g | Neckband 5.3 g

Batteries: Lithium-ion | Earbud 70mAh | Charging case 600mAh

Charging time: 2hrs from empty

Playtime: Music with BT on up to 6hrs | Talk time up to 3.5hrs

Power supply: 5V 1A

WHAT'S HOT

 Lightweight, comfortable

 Good sound quality

 JBL Headphones app

 Larger than in-ear buds

Not very stylish

Rather pricey

WHAT'S NOT BOTTOMLINE

The JBL Soundgear Sense offers a solid option for those seeking a comfortable and secure pair of open-ear headphones, delivering good sound quality with a balanced profile.

REVIEWED AND PHOTOS BY CHRIS NOEL HIDALGO

VIVO Y100

After a string of premium launches in the vivo V30 and V30 Pro a few weeks ago, vivo has finally launched its upper entry-level offering: the vivo Y100. How does it fare as the brand’s newest affordable device? Find out below.

DESIGN

The vivo Y100 is available in Crystal Black and Breeze Green colorways, of which we were able to review the latter. The light green of the back panel features dynamic feather-like visual texturing which dances with the light. The matte-finish of the Fluorite AG back glass ensures a scratchand smudge-free, but slightly slippery, handling experience. Meanwhile, the camera island is colored in glossy—not feathered—emerald green and features three stacked camera lenses and an LED flash module. The lenses protrude out as to be the first point of contact with the

surface when laying the phone screenside up. Thankfully, the vivo Y100 comes with a free clear case out of the box which provides protection to the great-looking back panel and camera modules, as well as adds much needed gripiness.

Up front is the huge 6.67-inch AMOLED Display with a punch hole camera along the top side and the in-display fingerprint scanner along the bottom. It also comes with a free pre-installed protective film as defense against nicks and scratches. The vivo Y100’s right edge houses the power button and volume rockers; the top has a microphone pinhole and one of the grille-less speakers; the left is bare; and the

bottom has the SIM-microSD card combo tray, another microphone pinhole, a USB Type-C slot, and the other stereo speaker, this time with a grille.

Physically, the vivo Y100 comes in either a 163.17 × 75.81 × 7.79 mm form factor for the Crystal Black version, and slightly thicker 163.17 × 75.81 × 7.95 mm for the Breeze Green color. The green one is also slightly heavier at 196g versus 186g for the black palette.

It’s an overall solid design. However, like my gripe with other entry-level phones, the camera island design could have been made more aesthetically pleasing.

HARDWARE

Running the vivo Y100 is a 6-nanometer octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 processor clocked at a maximum 2.8GHz on the four faster A73 cores and up to 1.9GHz on the four A53 cores. It’s quite decent—not the most powerful chipset out there, but it should handle light gaming and day-to-day use just fine. It is paired with an Adreno 610 GPU, 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of microSD expandable storage.

Display-wise, the vivo Y100 features a 6.67-inch, 2400 x 1080 FHD+ AMOLED

Display with a punch hole “Dotch” cutout for the selfie shooter, pixel density of around 395ppi, a high 120Hz refresh rate, and local peak brightness of up to 1200 nits.

For the cameras, the vivo Y100 has a 50MP main shooter supported by a 2MP bokeh camera, a flicker sensor, an LED flash node, and electronic image stabilization available via the in-app camera settings. Up front, it has an 8MP selfie camera. Videos max out at 1080p 30fps for both front and rear lenses, with a higher frame capture rate of 60fps available at the back but only at 720p.

The vivo Y100 is powered by a 5000mAh battery chargeable with the 80W vivo FastCharge power brick and Type-C Cable. vivo touts it can charge up to 80% in just 30 minutes.

What stands out with the vivo Y100’s hardware are the dual stereo speakers, which not even some higher spec’d phones have. Combined with the huge screen, it should make the vivo Y100 a great device for content consumption.

USER EXPERIENCE

The vivo Y100 encapsulates all you could want in an entry-level phone: decent performance, large and expandable storage, large screen, loud speakers, and fast charging.

For the benchmarks, the vivo Y100 scored the following: 654 on the 3D Mark Wild Life test; 7,671 on the PCMark Work 3.0 Benchmark; 473 on the Geekbench 6 CPU Single-Core test; 1,508 on the Geekbench 6 CPU Multi-Core test; and 380 on the Geekbench 6 GPU OpenCL test. For storage, it scored 390.13 MB/s on sequential writes and 378.27 MB/s on sequential reads using the Cross Platform Disk Test. It’s certainly not the fastest phone out there, but it should get the job done.

And get the job done it did. It is decently responsive, being able to switch between apps fluidly, thanks in part to the 120Hz display refresh rate. Lighter games such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Pokemon

Unite, and Asphalt 9: Legends were all easy tasks even on the highest settings. With Call of Duty Mobile and Grand Theft Auto San Andreas: The Definite Edition, settings had to be dialed back to at most medium for the experience to be as smooth as needed for the fast and dynamic onscreen action. Meanwhile, NBA 2K Mobile was just barely playable on the lowest possible graphics settings.

For the cameras, the vivo Y100’s shooters perform decently under good lighting. Meanwhile, shots in darker or mixed-

lighting scenarios were not as good, but still usable for casual social media posting. Selfies also turned out quite decent.

In terms of battery life, the vivo Y100 lasted a lengthy 16 hours and 13 minutes on the PCMark Work 3.0 Benchmark with audio at full and brightness at 50%. Charging took around an hour to go from completely dead to 100% using the bundled 80W vivo Fast Charger.

Where the vivo Y100 shines is as a content consumption device. Watching videos on the big 120Hz screen coupled with the dual stereo speakers is great, especially since it gets decently loud without garbling the audio.

VALUE

The vivo Y100 is priced at PHP12,499 for the 128GB variant, and at PHP13,999 for the 256GB option. It’s facing stiff competition in this segment, but it makes a case for itself thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate and dual stereo speakers which is quite unique at this price point. If you’re someone who wants to have a portable binge watching device that can chug along acceptably for day-to-day use, then definitely consider the vivo Y100.

Test it out by visiting your nearest vivo concept store or kiosk, and order it on the official vivo website, and Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok pages. Additionally, keep watch on these links for upcoming sales as you may get the chance to snag the vivo Y100 for even less than the sticker price!

SPECIFICATIONS

Display: 6.67-inch, 2400 x 1080

FHD+ AMOLED Dotch Display with 120Hz refresh rate

Processor: Snapdragon 685

OS: Funtouch OS 14 (Android 14)

RAM: 8GB

Storage: 128/256GB microSD expandable

Camera: 50MP f/1.8 (main rear); 2MP f/2.4 (depth rear); 8MP f/2.0 (front)

Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, OTG, USB 2.0 Type-C, dual nano-SIM

Battery: 5000mAh, vivo 80W Fast

Charge with Super Charge Pump

Others: In-display Fingerprint Scanner, Dual Stereo Speakers, IP54 dust and water resistance

Dimensions: 163.17 × 75.81 × 7.79

mm (Crystal Black); 163.17 × 75.81 × 7.95 mm (Breeze Green)

Weight: 186g (Crystal Black); 196g (Breeze Green)

Colors: Crystal Black, Breeze Green

WHAT'S HOT

 Dual stereo speakers

 Fast charging in around an hour

 No 5G

No headphone jack

WHAT'S NOT BOTTOMLINE

The dual stereo speakers make the vivo Y100 stand out against its competition.

REVIEWED BY ALYSSA JOJI SILVA

ASUS ZENBOOK DUO UX8406

Exploring the new ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 was mind-blowing. Its variety of versatile modes not only enhances productivity at work and school but also fuels creativity, making it a valuable tool for unlocking one’s full potential.

DUAL-SCREEN LAPTOP

DESIGN

Let’s start with the aesthetics of the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406. Featuring a stylish matte texture, this laptop stays sleek and scratch-free. But if you have sweaty palms or oily hands, I suggest wiping them off before holding the laptop, as the texture is prone to showing handprints. The test unit’s Ink Grey color, combined with its texture, gives the laptop a minimalist but elegant appearance. At the front lid, ASUS maintains its signature logo for its Zenbook series, which is the linear design of the letter “A.” At the back panel is a built-in kickstand with a rubber foot that provides stability when using the laptop. There are also two audio speakers on each side, as well as three air vents for cooling pads to breathe.

Looking at the entire laptop, I noticed how small and portable it is. The ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 measures just 14.6mm thick and weighs 1.35kg. Despite having dual screens, the laptop is easy to slip into backpacks, although it’s still quite heavy to carry around by hand for extended periods.

Its dual screen is the show-stopper of the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406. At first, I was puzzled about where the second screen was, but after staring at its image on my other screen for a while, I finally figured it out. Carefully removing the keyboard, and voila! To my astonishment, the second screen appeared. You get the option to use the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 as a desktop (because of its kickstand) or tablet, or you can place the keyboard back and use it as a traditional laptop.

The keyboard uses pogo pins, which are located at the bottom back, and both the keyboard and the second screen are magnetically designed to attach and align seamlessly. It is also rechargeable with its own USB Type-C slot located on the left side. Next to it are the Bluetooth button and the charging light indicator. About the screens, both are 14 inches wide, and the front camera plus the facial sensor is

at the top center of the main screen. The mic is situated on both sides of the camera and facial sensor.

Aside from the detachable keyboard, the laptop itself has buttons, ports, and indicators. The power button of the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 is placed at the

center top of the second screen, along with the charging and power light indicators. Venturing through the left side is where the USB Type-A and C are located. On the right side is the HDMI port and the earphone jack. Both sides of the laptop have vents that can assist with the airflow of both screens.

HARDWARE

The ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 is a small laptop with internal Intel EVO components that work well for daily tasks and other multimedia projects. Among these components is the Intel Core 7 155H processor. With a single-core score in Geekbench 6 of 2353 and a multi-core score of 11891, it can handle some multitasking activities, moderate workloads, and gaming. Plus, it features Intel Arc graphics; though this GPU is relatively new and may not match the performance of Nvidia and AMD, it still impresses me with its smooth rendering for design work and multimedia tasks. Light gaming is also possible at low graphics settings. However, it’s prone to overheating issues during intense gaming sessions, leading to visual glitches and gameplay lag. Plus, it tends to heat up noticeably, which means that the battery might not hold up as well under intense laptop use.

The battery of ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 has a 75WHrs battery life that can last for around 8 to 12 hours when using only a single screen with moderate brightness settings. I mainly use it for web browsing and watching Netflix shows. When it comes to multimedia editing, I’ve used Adobe Premiere Pro, and so far, it doesn’t drain much of its battery life — considering that the videos that I edit are only for reels. However, when I used both of its screens for watching entertainment and editing, the longevity of its battery life may be cut short since it also heats up during prolonged use.

In connection with its battery, the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 has a 65W AC adapter that efficiently charges the device fast enough to continue throughout the day. Plus, its adapter’s flexibility extends to other power sources because of its USB Type-C cord, making it compatible with charging my mobile phone, the laptop’s Bluetooth keyboard, and its included stylus pen.

USER EXPERIENCE

When I look at the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 as a whole, it feels like my work

gets easier because of its two screens. The versatility of this laptop allows you to seamlessly multitask, whether you’re editing a reel on one screen while following a storyboard on the other, or you can draft some emails on one screen while keeping track of your calendar on the second. This innovative design truly enhances productivity and streamlines workflow. This is great for those who always have tons of tabs open and need to see them all on one screen.

The laptop has five different versatile modes to accommodate your tasks or work style. The first mode allows you to detach the keyboard and connect via Bluetooth, transforming it into a dualscreen setup with the Bluetooth keyboard. But taking the keyboard off from the second screen won’t automatically connect to the laptop because it has a second mode for it. But to connect the keyboard, simply switch on the button located on its left side and press the Bluetooth button on

the keyboard for long enough for it to be discoverable by the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406.

Once connected, typing on the lap, though, might not be the easiest with the Bluetooth keyboard. However, the convenience of typing in various positions based on your comfort is a significant advantage. Also, using the keyboard for typing is a breeze; the buttons are easy to press, and it hardly makes a noise, and the battery can last a whole day. But just a heads up: the USB Type-C slot on the keyboard is only for charging it and not for plugging in any USB Type-C memory cards.

The second mode is all about using the virtual keyboard on the second screen, turning it into a duo-screen setup with a virtual keyboard. But I have to admit, I’m usually confused about how to get that virtual keyboard going. Luckily, I managed to figure it out by reading the instructions

online. It turns out that you can activate the virtual keyboard and its other perks with gestures using your fingerprints since both screens of the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 have touchscreen displays. Tap with six fingers to activate the keyboard and slide down with the virtual keyboard for other easy-access tools to appear on the second screen.

For those who like to keep organized checklists, the laptop offers a handwriting pad above its virtual keyboard, which is perfect for writing down tasks or getting creative with drawings. Plus, you’ve got other easy-access tools such as quick keys, a control panel, and a number pad. Personally, I find this mode handy if I ever forget to bring or attach the Bluetooth keyboard. It’s like having a backup plan right at my fingertips.

Aside from using the easy-access tools, there’s the in-app ScreenXpert, a standout feature app that truly elevates the user experience. Using this app, you have access to a range of functionalities designed to fully optimize your work performance while efficiently preserving battery power, such as adjusting the brightness control of each screen, locking the screen rotation, activating the virtual keyboard, checking the battery life of the Bluetooth keyboard, toggling switches of the microphone and second screen, different displays for sharing mode, easyaccess tools, and lastly the settings.

The third mode is the sharing mode, which you can find on the ScreenXpert app. This lets you lay the laptop flat at a 180-degree angle depending on the different displays on its app. To simply present reports to small groups of clients or school groups. However, take note that the laptop can’t be flipped to a 360-degree angle. Moving on to the fourth mode, it returns to its traditional laptop setup, where you reattach the keyboard for use with the 14-inch screen display.

Lastly, the fifth mode is the desktop setup. To unlock this mode, remember the first mode we talked about? Well, just flip the laptop into the portrait position, and like a smartphone, everything adjusts seamlessly to fit the new orientation. As a writer, this one’s my top pick because I can seamlessly research and write at the same

time, thanks to its Bluetooth keyboard functionality. Plus, flipping open the stand on the back of the second screen gives it a complete desktop experience.

When it comes to the duo screens, I noticed one minor inconvenience: fingerprints. Since the laptop’s duo display is a touchscreen, both screens inevitably attract smudges over time. While it’s a small inconvenience, it’s worth keeping in mind for those who prefer a pristine screen. In terms of entertainment, the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 delivers an immersive experience. Watching movies or series feels like a luxury, with the display quality rivaling that of 4K resolution. I recently binged on parts 1 and 2 of the Rebel Moon movie, and let me tell you, it was a cinematic delight on this device. However, while the speakers pack a decent punch in terms of volume, the sound that the speakers make at a maximum volume is rough.

VALUE

Positioned as a versatile powerhouse with high-end features suitable for various work styles, the ASUS Zenbook DUO UX8406 is priced at PHP129,995. This includes the added perk of an ASUS stylus pen that promises both performance and convenience.

WHAT'S HOT

 Duo display screens

OLED display screens

Detachable and Bluetooth keyboard

WHAT'S NOT

 Overheats in intense gameplay sessions

 Fingerprint smudges are noticeable on the Duo screen

 The sound generates rough noise on a maximum volume

SPECIFICATIONS

OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro

Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor 155H 1.4 GHz (24MB Cache, up to 4.8 GHz, 16 cores, 22 Threads); Intel AI Boost NPU

Graphics: Intel Arc Graphics

Display: 14.0-inch, 3K (2880 x 1800) OLED 16:10 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 400nits, 500nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1, 1.07 billion colors, PANTONE Validated, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, Touch screen, (Screen-to-body ratio)91%, With stylus support

Memory: 32GB LPDDR5X on board

Storage: 1TB

Dimensions: 31.35 x 21.79 x 1.46 ~ 1.99cm

Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2x Thunderbolt 4 supports display / power delivery, 1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS, 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack Keyboard: Soft Keyboard, 1.4mm

Key-travel, Precision touchpad

Camera: FHD camera with IR function

Audio: Smart Amp Technology, Builtin speaker, Built-in array microphone, Harman/Kardon (Premium) with Cortana support

Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E(802.11ax) (Dual band) 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Card

Battery: 75WHrs, 4S1P, 4-cell Li-ion

Power Supply: TYPE-C, 65W AC

Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W, Input: 100-240V AC 50/60GHz

universal

Weight: 1.65kg

Security: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, IR webcam with Windows

Hello support

Color: Inkwell Gray

BOTTOMLINE

Every versatile mode is a game-changer for creativity and productivity.

PE

SAMSUNG GALAXY FIT3

There’s something about smart bands that resonate with me. Beyond being a fitness tracker, its small form factor makes it a joy to wear for everyday use. There’s also the connectivity between your phone and the band to allow you to monitor your notifications and messages. But what really gets me is the number of health monitors fitted on such a small device. Samsung has done that and more in their latest smart band, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3.

DESIGN

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has a pretty straightforward design. The main unit has a 1.6-inch display, which is covered by a 2.5D glass design (slightly curved). The body is aluminum, making it lighter than most similar devices. The dimensions are 42.9 x 28.8 x 9.9mm, weighing around 18.5g (just the device) to 36.8g (with straps).

The 1.6-inch display is AMOLED with a 256 x 402 resolution. There’s no brightness indicated on the spec sheet, but during testing, the display was visible even under direct sunlight. The bigger display was a joy to use, especially when reading messages. There are big bezels around the display, but it’s surprisingly hard to spot immediately, thanks to the 2.5D glass design of the display.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3’s display is a touch screen. Navigation was fairly easy and returning to the watch face was no problem with the home button on the side. If you’re a lefty who wears their watch on their right hand, Samsung has got your back. You can set the device display to cater to right-hand wear with the home button still pointing outward.

Underneath the main device, you’ll find the main bulk of sensors and the strap release button. Samsung is selling different color variants of straps, but no metallic strap or any other strap variation is available.

The whole device is also waterproof, with an IP rating of IP68 and an ATM rating of 5 ATM. This means water exercises are no problem with the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3.

I would say the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is alright in the looks department. The main unit is only available in the color grey. Our unit came with a silver strap, which surprisingly was easy to fit into whatever outfit I needed to wear.

HARDWARE

Samsung has updated the Galaxy Fit3 with some neat new features that are otherwise found in much more expensive devices.

Starting with the sensor, the Galaxy Fit3 is equipped with an Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Optical Heart Rate Sensor, and Light Sensor. I would have hoped for an ECG with it, but I guess Samsung has reserved that for the more premium Galaxy Watch line.

What it does have, which most budget bands do not, is the fall sensor. The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has a fall detection feature that can call and send a location to your emergency contact. The device will also display your registered medical information for first responders — pretty handy for users of all ages.

Regarding connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 only connects via Bluetooth 5.3. There are no GPS, WiFi, or NFC capabilities. Despite the lack of built-in GPS, it can use your phone’s GPS to track your daily runs/jogs.

As for the battery, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has a 208mAh battery. Samsung has rated the battery to last 13 days, depending on your use case. In testing, I found that with the Always-on-Display turned on and around 80 % brightness, the watch lasted around a week. If you do run out of juice it’s fairly quick to charge, going from 0-65% in just 30 minutes and fully charged in around an hour. For those looking to get a Galaxy Fit3, just make sure you have a type-C charger with you as the propriety magnetic charger is only available as Type-C instead of regular USB-A.

USER EXPERIENCE

When I first saw the Samsung Galaxy Fit3, I was a bit skeptical. I was particularly concerned with the display. Before receiving our demo unit, I thought the display was too big for a smart band and would be too heavy or oversized so that wrist movement would be impaired. Fortunately, when I was offered to review the Galaxy Fit3, all my skepticism was quashed. The display is actually a good size. It’s not too big that it impaired

wrist movement, nor was it heavy. The rectangular shape was actually great for reading notifications and short messages. You didn’t have to scroll as much nor fiddle around just to get to the reply options.

Setting up the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 was easy, even if you don’t have a Samsung smartphone. Simply get the Galaxy Wear App and Samsung Health App, and you’re good to go. The device pairs via Bluetooth and utilizes Samsung Health to fully display the details of your activities on your phone.

One of the highlights of the Samsung Health App is sleep tracking. When you track your sleep with the Galaxy Fit3, the app provides insights on improving your sleep. But what I think sets it apart is how they do it. After completing a week’s sleep, the Samsung Health App assigns you a sleep animal that tells you about your sleep routine. I think it’s a cute way to be motivated to track your sleep schedule as you try to collect the animals.

The Galaxy Fit3 has over 101 recognized workouts. You can immediately access workouts when you double-tap the home

button. The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 also has an automatic workout detection, meaning the watch recognizes when you start working out and immediately starts its tracking.

As for customizability, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is powered by Samsung’s own UI. While it doesn’t have WearOS’ versatility, Samsung still made an effort to make the device as customizable as possible. You can choose from over 100 watch faces and even create your own with your pictures. The tiles can be removed or replaced by tiles you’d usually use. Finally, you can customize the quick panel to easily access your most used features or apps.

VALUE

Coming in at just PHP3,490, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 offers a lot for its value. The larger display has been a favorite upgrade for me. While it does not have the bells and whistles of more expensive smartwatches, it does more than the average smart bands. Plus, fall detection and emergency calls are by themselves huge lifesavers and, I think, necessary features for the future.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is available on Samsung’s website as well as Samsung official stores and retailers.

SPECIFICATIONS

Display: 1.6 AMOLED (256 x 402)

Display

OS: FreeRTOS

Sensors: Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Optical Heart Rate

Sensor, Light Sensor

Connection: Bluetooth 5.3, Magnetic charger

Protection: IP68, ATM 5

Battery: 208 mAh

Dimensions: 42.9 x 28.8 x 9.9 mm

Weight: 36.8g

 Large 1.6-inch display

 Emergency Fall detect and SOS

 Price

 No GPS, NFC

Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is a great budget Smart Watch that’s made for those who do not need all the fancy stuff.

TEST DRIVE

REVIEWED BY GABRIEL PE

HYUNDAI CUSTIN

1.5L T-GDI PREMIUM

Over the last couple of years, there has been a shift in the cars most Filipinos want. There was a brief period when the kings of the road were MPVs and even a few minivans and vans. It was an era when Filipinos were looking for a car that would ferry the whole family. In recent years, the trend has shifted towards the sporty SUV and crossovers. The Hyundai Custin, launched late last year, is a bastion of the minivan, offering a people carrier with luxury features typically reserved for more premium vans.

DESIGN

In the looks department, the Hyundai Custin carries with it Hyundai’s design language of sensuous sportiness. The front has the same sporty look you’d find in other Hyundai cars like the Creta and Tucson. Its grille is really the identifying mark; one look and you can immediately see the similarities between the Custin and its brothers.

Going around the vehicle, you’ll see more hints of the sporty element. The sides have some creases and lines, though they are not that pronounced. What I think is the most eye-catching around the sides are the 18inch alloy wheels.

Then, finally, at the back is the massive rear light. To be honest, I think the rear lights on the Custin are among the best looking — the

way it subtly wraps around the back is just gorgeous to look at at night and wouldn’t look out of place on an SUV or a sports sedan.

As for the sensuous part, one look at the interior, and you’ll find your answer.

The interior of the Hyundai Custin feels premium and luxurious. The seats are white leather, matching the lighter tone of the interior.

From the driver’s seat, you’ll be greeted with a massive windshield and a 10.4-inch infotainment display. The Custin has a great driving view, thanks to the low dashboard and massive windshield. The dashboard has some light wood elements that blend well with the overall color of the interior. The whole cabin feels brighter because of the lighter color choice and, of course, the sunroof.

At the back, you have two captain chairs for the second row. These fully recline along with the ottoman, letting you fully enjoy the massive panoramic sunroof. Additionally, the seats are ventilated.

There are a lot more toys at the rear. There are pull-down tables with cup holders. There are a couple of USB ports for charging, a wireless charger pad, some more bottle holders, and a window shade. If you ask me, the second row is definitely the best seat in the house.

Finally, the third row is a three-seater bench that can be fully folded down (60-40 split) for more cargo space. They have their own air vent and controls. There are no charging ports at the rear, but there is storage space for your bottles or bags.

EQUIPMENT

In terms of driving performance, the Hyundai Custin is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged gasoline engine. It’s capable of 167hp and 253Nm of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The driver enjoys most of the driving toys the car has to offer. The instrument panel is an all-digital affair. The large infotainment display is angled slightly towards the driver and features both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay — although wired, not wireless. There’s a PA system within the infotainment system, but unfortunately, I wasn’t able to test it.

Gear switches are now buttons instead of the traditional shifter. Alongside this, you will find the electronic hand brake and the auto-hold buttons.

Speaking of driver-centric controls, there’s also driver control for the power doors found with the sunroof controls. The door control actually adds to the VIP feel of the car; you don’t need to lift a finger to open the door. Nice!

The Custin has the complete suite of Hyundai’s SmartSense. This includes forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, lane follow assist, blind spot collision avoidance assist, and rear crosstraffic collision avoidance assist. There’s also a 360-degree camera, radar cruise control, and many more.

USER EXPERIENCE

If there’s a phrase to summarize the Hyundai Custin, it’s VIP Treatment. From the moment you open the door until you reach your destination, luxury envelopes you within the Hyundai Custin.

The powered doors are a welcome treat to passengers entering the vehicle, and of course, the reclining seats are a bonus. What definitely wowed me was the consideration for safety. While most vehicles allow doors to open when you’re in neutral, the Custin does not. Doors open only when you’re in Park mode, which honestly impressed me. The safe exit assist also prevents you from going out if the car sees coming traffic.

Driving is smooth, especially along the highway, and NVH is kept at a minimum. Running through the Skyway, the car effortlessly glides when it hits its stride. The 8-speed automatic transmission does its job here pretty well. But returning to the underbelly of EDSA and Manila traffic, you’ll notice the car’s reliance on its turbocharger. The engine is not as perky as others, but you’ll definitely feel it. That said, this does offer a relaxing ride for the passengers.

Another note on the handling: while it is decent and performs great for a minivan. You’ll have to get used to the big turning radius. I’ve driven comparably-sized MPVs and SUVs, and the Custin’s turning radius is a bit wider. This is a consideration in case maneuvering space is tight.

The engine is also not the most fuelefficient. During my time with the Custin, I managed to log 6.7km/L for mostly city driving and achieved 8km/L on the Skyway.

One thing I also found that needs some getting used to is the powered doors. The Hyundai Custin automatically opens the doors with just a pull on the handle. Unfortunately, most of my passengers tried to close the door the traditional way, which sometimes confused the car. A passenger who wanted to close the door but was holding the handle resulted in the door reopening.

If there is anything that I would change with the vehicle, these are the physical buttons for climate control, as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

VALUE

Coming in at PHP2,080,000, the Hyundai Custin 1.5L T-GDI Premium offers great value for money. For those looking for a loaded minivan with all the bells and whistles without breaking the bank, the Custin is the perfect car for you. There’s also the base 1.5L T-GDI GLS variant for PHP1,770,000, which does tone down the premium features like the lack of sunroof and the powered seats, but retains most of the safety features found in the premium variant.

TEST DRIVE

REVIEWED BY MARIBELLE ALBA

ISUZU MU-X 3.0L 4X4 LS-E AT

The popularity of the Isuzu mu-X is no secret. It’s a familiar sight, conquering both cityscapes and rugged terrain, revered for its unwavering reliability and off-road prowess. The 2024 update brings exciting changes, and we delve into the experience of the enhanced mu-X 3.0L 4x4 LS-E AT, a variant that blends luxury with capability.

DESIGN EQUIPMENT

The current iteration of the mu-X LS-E retains the imposing stance that defines its off-road heritage. A bold magnetite and black chrome grille dominates the front, flanked by sharp Bi-LED headlamps with daytime running lights. The rear is distinguished by signature winglet combination LED tail lamps, while 20inch alloy wheels enhance its sporty and muscular demeanor.

Stepping inside the mu-X LS-E is like entering a refined haven. The spacious cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for all three rows, ensuring a comfortable journey for even the tallest passengers. Plush leather upholstery elevates the experience, providing a luxurious feel throughout the cabin.

With the third row folded down, cargo space is impressive, making it ideal for families who need to pack luggage for road trips or haul gear for outdoor adventures.

Perhaps the most noteworthy hardware upgrades to the mu-X 3.0L variants are the 360 Around View Monitor (AVM) and Digital Video Recorder (DVR). With the AVM, strategically-placed cameras around the vehicle project a bird’s-eye view into the infotainment screen, eliminating blind spots.

The built-in DVR is a first-in-class feature that’s integrated with the existing camera system to record footage from both front and rear cameras, thus eliminating the need for aftermarket dashcams. It’s like having a 24/7 in-car CCTV, which can be incredibly beneficial in many ways. For example, in case of an accident, the DVR provides video evidence to support your claim. It can also capture scenic drives and document interesting events during your travels, recording many hours of footage in its large-capacity storage.

As the only 4x4 offering in the lineup, the mu-X 3.0L 4x4 LS-E AT is equipped with a Terrain Command drive select system that lets you choose between different driving modes — 2H (two-wheel drive high) for city driving, 4H (four-wheel drive high) for improved traction on loose surfaces, and 4L (four-wheel drive low) with locking rear differential for off-road terrain. Adding an extra layer of control in 4WD, a Rough Terrain mode switch adjusts the traction control system for better grip and stability on uneven surfaces.

Safety remains a top priority. In addition to a comprehensive suite of active safety features, the mu-X also features Isuzu’s Advance Driver Assist System (ADAS) as well underbody protection.

USER EXPERIENCE

The beating heart of the mu-X 3.0L variants is the proven 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine. While it does deliver a maximum output of 190PS @ 3,600rpm, the true magic lies in its 450Nm of torque, delivering serious pulling power from a low 1,800rpm. Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift, this large SUV shines on the expressway performance-wise, effortlessly overtaking slower vehicles. While not as nimble or agile as smaller cars, it doesn’t feel out of place in the crowded metro either, a dominant force when jockeying for road space against large cargo trucks.

The suspension system does a good job of absorbing minor bumps and dips on smooth roads, but you do feel the ruggedness of the vehicle frame on uneven terrain.

From the 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, you get a commanding view of the road. The 4.2-inch electroluminescent instrument cluster is clear and informative, and the steering wheel controls are wellplaced and easy to reach. The infotainment system features a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Complementing this is an 8-speaker audio system for an immersive and enjoyable listening experience.

Techies with the latest gadgets will appreciate the wireless charger as well as a 12V accessory socket, USB port, and even a 220V outlet. Of course, it has smart keyless entry, push-button start, and even remote start so you can start the engine (and aircon) remotely so the mu-X is cool when you get in.

VALUE

Priced at PHP2,580,000, the mu-X 3.0 4x4 LS-E AT sits at a premium compared its siblings as it offers a unique blend of luxury, capability, and safety features. The powerful 3.0L engine and Terrain Command system make it a true all-terrain companion, ready to conquer any Philippine road. Outright off-road prowess added to a luxurious driving experience and advanced safety features make this large SUV a compelling value proposition.

he new Corolla Cross all-HEV lineup expands Toyota Motor Philippines’ range of affordable and reliable electrified vehicles, signifying its strong commitment to making the electrified lifestyle a mainstream choice for Filipinos.

Three variants are offered: the entry level G HEV, the mid-range V HEV, and the topof-the-line GRS-HEV.

NEW TOYOTA COROLLA CROSS

2024 MODEL NOW COMES IN AN ALL-HEV LINEUP

Electrifying Style & Function

The V HEV and G HEV variants of the new Corolla Cross now sport a meshlike grille with hexagonal outlines, while the GR-S HEV variant retains the stylish front façade of the previous Corolla Cross GR-S HEV.

For the headlamps, the V HEV and GR-S HEV variants now have LED lamps with automatic high beam (AHB) and sequential turn signal, while the G HEV variant has upgraded from halogen lamps to LED lamps.

Along with the GR-S HEV variant, the V HEV variant now also has a power back door with kick sensor. The top-ofthe-line GR-S HEV variant comes with a panoramic view monitor camera and a panoramic moonroof for that added premium feel.

On the inside, all variants now have LED interior lamps and a leather steering wheel. The foot brake has also now been replaced with an electronic parking brake (EPB).

The new Corolla Cross is also packed with convenience features, such as a 12.3-inch fully digital multiinformation display (MID) for the GR-S HEV. The V HEV, meanwhile, has a 7-inch thin-film-transistor (TFT) MID, while the G HEV has a 4.2-inch TFT MID.

All three variants have a 10-inch display audio with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charger for convenient smartphone charging on the go.

Power & Safety In One Package

The GR-S and V variants are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. All variants have active safety features such as Emergency Brake Signal (EBS), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

The new Corolla Cross is powered by a hybrid 4-cylinder, in-line, 16-valve DOHC, chain drive with VVT-i engine with CVT transmission. This hybrid engine combines the power of a conventional engine with the fuel efficiency of an electric motor for an eco-friendlier drive, giving customers the power to start their journey toward a carbon-neutral future.

With its stunning exterior, rich convenience features, and excellent fuel efficiency, the new Corolla Cross provides an attractive package for individuals looking to power their everyday drives with style.

For more information on Toyota products, services, events and more, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on X, and join and the Toyota PH community on Viber.

GOGORO PULSE

HYPER ELECTRIC SCOOTER

PROMISES UNPARALLELED RIDING EXPERIENCE

ogoro Pulse, branded as the world’s first Hyper Electric Scooter, promises to redefine the landscape of urban transport with its cutting-edge features and unparalleled performance. It stands out as the pinnacle of innovation in Gogoro’s electric Smartscooter lineup, boasting remarkable advancements that position it as one of the most advanced electric vehicles globally.

Engineered with precision and designed for excellence, the Gogoro Pulse is set to become the highest performing vehicle in its category.

Key features of Gogoro Pulse include:

H1 Hyperdrive Engine: Setting a new standard in electric vehicle propulsion, this revolutionary motor features a Launch Control mode that allows riders to harness its full potential. With a remarkable 8.0kW output, it propels the Smartscooter from 0 to 50kph in a mere 3.05 seconds, with capabilities extending to speeds well over 100kph. Equipped with a dual cooling system, this engine ensures optimal performance with every ride, delivering an unparalleled experience of power and efficiency.

AeroForce Design Concept: Signaling the future of electric mobility, the design ethos of the Gogoro Pulse blends minimalist style with functionality, evoking the image of a blade slicing through air. At its core, the AeroForce

Design directs air to cool the engine and minimize drag and turbulence. The result is an Ultra Aero-Efficient body design that not only enhances engine performance but also promises a smoother and more efficient ride for Gogoro Pulse riders.

Panoramic 10.25 Inch HD Touch

Display: The Gogoro-developed Smart Cockpit with iQ TouchHD is the first two-wheel vehicle in the world to be powered by Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon QWM2290 digital chassis. This expansive waterproof touch display transforms the riding experience by offering an array of features. From detailed ride information to customizable rider modes, precise turn-byturn navigation, and a selection of

captivating personalized themes, it ensures that every aspect of your journey is enriched. Immerse yourself in unrivaled clarity and intuitive control, elevating each ride into an unforgettable adventure.

Active Matrix Light: With an expansive 80-degree angle and an impressive 14,700Cd (candle power), the Active Matrix Light sets a new benchmark for enhanced visibility on the road. Equipped with cornering assistance illumination and a high-speed mode that adjusts to riding speeds, it provides unmatched illumination in various riding conditions. Utilizing this advanced lighting system, riders can navigate with confidence, ensuring safety and clarity throughout their journey.

HyperCore Chip: Experience exceptional computing speed with the HyperCore Chip, enhancing the efficiency and functionality of the IQ Touch, HD display, Matrix Headlight, and overall vehicle performance. This cutting-edge technology ensures lightning-fast responsiveness, delivering precision and reliability with every interaction.

Scooter Key in Apple Wallet & Apple Find My Integration

Pulse also includes Gogoro’s scooter key in the Apple Wallet app and Apple Find My feature integration. With the scooter key in the Apple Wallet app, Pulse can seamlessly and securely lock, unlock and start with a simple tap of an iPhone device or Apple Watch device. With Apple Find My feature integration, Pulse riders can locate their Smartscooter via the Apple Find My app.

Availability

Available in striking White, Silver, and Grey color options, the Gogoro Pulse Ultra variant will be available in

the Philippines on a reservation basis only. Prices start at PHP450,000, with financing plans to be introduced soon.

The Gogoro Network

Gogoro Smartscooters are powered by groundbreaking battery swapping technology that allows users to swap depleted batteries for fresher ones in a matter of seconds through the Gogoro Network.

Since Gogoro’s launch in December 2023, it has set up seven GoStations around Metro Manila. GoStations can be found at The Globe Tower in BGC, Taguig, Puregold Parañaque, Puregold Makati, Phoenix Gas Station Shaw, U.P. Town Center Quezon City, White Plains, Quezon City, and Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig. New stations are expected to open along C5, EDSA, Makati, and Alabang, with many more coming soon.

Gogoro offers a choice between two energy plans: Plan 799 for up to 420kms and Plan 999 for up to 700kms per month.

Experience Gogoro Smartscooters and battery swapping by taking a test ride at the Gogoro Experience Center in Greenbelt 4, Makati City. Book a test ride and dive deep into Gogoro Smartscooter features, and feel the thrill of riding the world’s most advanced electric two-wheel vehicles.

To learn more, visit the Gogoro Experience Center or check out https:// www.gogoro.com/ph/

ISUZU SUPPORTS 2024 PHILIPPINE RALLYCROSS SERIES

In a move that underscores its commitment to the motorsport community in the Philippines, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) announced the renewal of its partnership with the 2024 Philippine Rallycross Series. This partnership, which began in 2021, has been a pivotal part of IPC’s engagement with motorsports, particularly rallycross, where the Isuzu D-MAX has showcased its superior power and performance.

The performance of the D-MAX on the rallycross track is phenomenal. Its unrivaled power, precision control, and superior suspension allow for an exhilarating driving experience that truly stands out.

The Philippine Rallycross Series, sanctioned by the Automobile Association of the Philippines, Inc. (AAP), provides a platform for rallycross drivers and enthusiasts to showcase their skills and test their vehicles’ performance on challenging dirt tracks. IPC’s renewed partnership for the series is a testament to its dedication to the spirit and growth of motorsports in the Philippines.

Driving Forward with Passion and Performance

Reflecting on the partnership, Robert Carlos, assistant division head for sales at IPC, remarked, “Our renewed partnership with the Philippine Rallycross Series is a testament to Isuzu’s belief in the power and passion of Philippine motorsport. Showcasing our champion Isuzu D-MAX, which has triumphed in its category for two years running, we celebrate the relentless spirit of those who dare to push the limits.”

The Champion’s Choice: Isuzu D-MAX

At the heart of IPC’s participation is the Isuzu D-MAX, renowned for its robust performance in rallycross. Powered by the formidable 4JJ3 Blue Power Diesel Engine, the D-MAX boasts 190PS of maximum power and 450Nm of torque, paired with a suspension system engineered to conquer the rigors of rallycross tracks. This exceptional blend of power and resilience makes the D-MAX the vehicle of choice for IPC and rallycross champions alike.

Champion rally driver Louie Camacho, who will be behind the wheel of the D-MAX, expressed his admiration for the vehicle: “The performance of the D-MAX on the rallycross track is phenomenal. Its unrivaled power, precision control, and superior suspension allow for an exhilarating driving experience that truly stands out.”

RIDE ABOVE THE REST WITH THE NEW YAMAHA SNIPER155 AND SNIPER155R

amaha continue to develop it’s top Underbone motorcycle which has ruled its category for years. The Yamaha Sniper has been the epitome of excellence and has created champion riders and given customers the pure feeling of Yamaha signature speed. That newest edition of the Yamaha Sniper and 155R is a testament to the consistency of the brand.

The Yamaha Sniper155 and keeps its liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, 155cc single cylinder engine that has always delivered a smooth and responsive performance. It has upgraded to a sportier and masculine design, updated its color & graphics

combination while having the same modern technologies of the previous model, the new Sniper155 R version is now equipped with ABS for better stopping control.

The standard edition retains key features of having a lightweight frame for agility, Inverted LCD Panel, Assist & Slipper Clutch, and VVA. And for the Sniper155R, it keeps its exclusive features of Smart Key System and 2 pot brake caliper.

The Sniper155 has an SRP of PHP 125,900 and is available in Race Blu, a color projecting strong relation with the R series giving racy, sporty, and fast image. Also, in Cyan which

emphasizes a futuristic and energetic ambiance while keeping an aggressive impression. The Sniper155R has an SRP of PHP 145,900 and comes in Black, a color that emphasizes its masculine style.

Available now in all Yamaha Rev Zones, 3S Shops nationwide, and the Yamaha flagship shop YZONE.

YAMAHA FASTFEST UNLOCKS FILIPINO SPEED

Yamaha Motor Philippines just made the summer even hotter with the FastFest at SM by the Bay in the weekend of May 4 and 5. The event celebrates the brand’s signature speed that is exclusively experienced with their machines.

Leading its lineup of motorcycles is the new Yamaha Sniper155 and Sniper155R. The Sniper155R has retained most of its advanced features including its liquid-cooled, fuelinjected, 155cc single cylinder engine

but has a sportier and masculine design, updated color & graphics combination. The new Sniper155R is now equipped with ABS.

Making an appearance for the event are the riders of the Yamaha Philippines Racing Team who are on a current winning streak in the Asia Road Racing Championship and dominating the podium in the recent MotoIR Championship. McKinley Kyle Paz, April King Mascardo, and Gian Carlo Mauricio have had their careers

shaped by the legacy of the Yamaha Sniper which has propelled them into champions. They spoke fondly about their history with the machine and shared their excitement with the newest edition.

As a surprise treat for all in attendance, Yamaha debuted the original soundtrack of Yamaha Racing Philippines named ‘Creating Champions’ by music artist and newest Yamaha Brand Ambassador, Nik Makino.

A special test ride was held at Block 16 open parking which had 11 turns and a straight measuring 111 Meters long. The track which was 431 Meters long ensured participants a safe experience with maximum acceleration.

For those who believed they have what it takes to go full throttle like a professional rider, they tested their skills at the Moto Trainer – The official MotoGP Simulator. And those who wanted a souvenir of cornering like a pro, took photos at the Lean Angle Experience where Yamaha Motorcycles were inclined to mimic racetrack cornering.

Yamaha also held a speed contest with the Dyno Shootout. It measured who had the fastest Yamaha Sniper and Mio Aerox based on top horsepower and torque. The motorcycles are strapped to treadmill like machine and riders rev it to the max. The winners didn’t

just get bragging rights and received an all-expense paid trip to witness the MotoGP Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia on September 27-29.

Yamaha continues to push the limits of their machines to deliver the best possible motorcycle. Whether it’s for riding above the rest everyday or creating champions on the racetrack Yamaha will, without question, unlock your speed.

FEU ALABANG HIGHLIGHTS SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY WITH GET

ar Eastern University (FEU) Alabang is proud of its collaboration with Global Electric Transport (GET), introducing sustainable mobility solutions for its student community. Through this partnership, FEU Alabang facilitates easier access to quality education while championing environmentally conscious transportation options.

FEU Alabang is now included in the expanded Filinvest South route serviced by COMET electric minibuses. COMET stands for Community Optimized Managed Electric Transport, which is a zero-emission, fast-charging electric minibus that can seat up to 30 passengers. Equipped with a wheelchair ramp, the vehicle is also accessible for people with disabilities.

A flagship offering from GET, the COMET Bus represents a significant step toward sustainable transportation and aligns with FEU Alabang’s commitment to fostering a greener campus environment.

“The partnership with GET underscores our dedication to providing accessible and eco-friendly transportation options for our students,” said Engr. Remelita Avenido, executive director at FEU Alabang. “By integrating sustainable mobility solutions into our campus infrastructure, we are not only enhancing the commuting experience but also contributing to broader environmental and social goals.”

FEU Alabang and GET will also provide a charging station tailored for COMET Buses servicing the Filinvest area, benefiting both the university’s students and the rest of commuters located in the area. This enhances the efficiency and convenience of charging for COMET Buses, thereby ensuring reliable transportation for students commuting to and from the campus.

To further enhance the commuter experience, the COMET bus operates from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. There is also an FEU Alabang Express Service, which shuttles passengers to and from FEU Alabang with shorter stops during specific peak hours of the day from Monday to Saturday. Passengers can access the service through the Get-Pass application, which offers a cashless payment system. Charging stations will soon be available at the campus bus stop, ensuring that students can easily access transportation services

without worrying about the battery levels of their devices.

This initiative is in line with Far Eastern University’s commitment to supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG4: Quality Education and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By prioritizing sustainable transportation solutions, FEU Alabang is actively contributing to the creation of more inclusive and environmentally conscious urban spaces.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS PH RECORDS

HIGHEST SALES IN 2023

itsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) recorded its highest annual sales volume in the fiscal year (FY) 2023 with 81,473 units sold from April 2023 to March 2024. With this volume, MMPC was able to secure 18.5% market share in industry. This remarkable sales achievement emphasizes the company’s unwavering dedication to providing top-notch products and services for the continuous satisfaction of customers.

Compared to the previous fiscal year, MMPC recorded a significant sales growth of 34% from its 60,630 units sales last FY 2022. Notably, the Mirage, Xpander, and L300 emerged as the top-selling models, respectively, leading the sales charts for MMPC. With the higher production capacity of its plant in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, MMPC was able to locally produce more CKD units and sell 26,139 units of Mirage and 13,101 units of L300. The Mitsubishi Xpander has also been hailed as the bestselling MPV this year with its 24,178 units sales volume, as certified by Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI).

While there are many external factors, MMPC’s sales growth can be mainly attributed to the competitive promotions implemented, new product and Special Action Models offerings and strategic marketing campaigns. The timely introduction of the All-New Triton in January 2024 contributed to the remarkable sales growth. Furthermore, through several initiatives such as the MMPC 60th Anniversary Expo and All New Triton Go Beyond Limits Tour in different key locations, MMPC was able to reinforce excellent customer experience for all its models.

“We focused on customer-centric approach the past years, aiming to provide wonderful car life experience to Filipinos. We highlighted EXPERIENCE as an important part of customer’s purchasing journey. And we’re very grateful to our valued customers, dealers, suppliers, and business partners for their positive feedback on this approach and for their continued support to the Mitsubishi Motors brand,” said MMPC president and CEO Takeshi Hara.

In addition to achieving the highest sales volume by far in MMPC’s history, MMPC also remains committed to its corporate social responsibility initiatives, contributing to the sustainable development of communities and the environment. The company’s holistic approach to business reflects its vision of creating a better world through mobility, innovation, and responsible practices.

Ending FY 2023 on a high note, MMPC aims to maintain the momentum and continue to drive towards further rowth and success for FY 2024. With an already exciting product lineup and additional new models to be introduced within the year, the company is wellpositioned to continue exceeding expectations and shaping the future of the automotive industry in the Philippines.

For updates and more information about Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation and its products, please its official social media pages and website (www.mitsubishi-motors.com.ph).

Gaming

DEVELOPER Rabbit and Bear Studios PUBLISHER 505 Games

PLATFORM PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Words by Jose Alvarez

What is a spiritual successor? It could be summed up as an unrelated product or fictional work inspired by another product or fictional work. Gaming is full of spiritual successors—think Mighty No. 9 for the Mega Man franchise or Yooka-Laylee for Banjo-Kazooie. When Konami announced a remaster of Suikoden and Suikoden II in 2022, my heart started racing as that was the impetus for me to get into games journalism. Many Suikoden developers, including the late Yoshitaka Murayama, created Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes as a spiritual successor to the Suikoden franchise. Does Eiyuden Chronicle live up to the standards of JRPGs that Murayama set almost 30 years ago?

Seign Kesling

At first glance, Eiyuden Chronicle follows in the 2DHD format that has become popular with JRPG players over the past few years. There are three protagonists: Nowa, a 17-year-old member of the Elitsweiss Watch (or just “The Watch”); Seign Kesling, an 18-year-old officer of the Galdean Empire; and Marisa, a 16-year-old girl who watches over the forest. The discovery of a Primal Lens threatens to plunge the world into war and chaos.

Nowa

Marisa

Gaming

You can field up to six characters in battle, keep one in support, and have three in reserve. You can customize what these characters do in “autobattle” if you just want to get through a particular dungeon or area of the game. Short-ranged characters can only attack from the front line, while medium-ranged characters can attack from either the front or the back line but can only attack the front line, and long-ranged characters should stay in the back as they can hit anything on the field. You can also participate in war battles or one-on-one battles. You can learn magic through rune lenses and certain characters can unite for more powerful attacks. Affixing runes to characters can also increase their physical or magical strength—but be aware that some characters are better at physical attacks, and others are better at magical attacks.

One of my favorite aspects of Suikoden was the acquisition of a castle where your characters live and provide a variety of services. Eiyuden Chronicle takes this much further — you can grow the base, protect it from enemy invasions, develop new weapons, recruit new characters, and create items. Over time, Fortress Town will grow to the point where you can create guilds that will give you quests and rewards for characters to learn new skills that can be used in battles. You can also grow crops and have livestock and even expand your farm. You can even play a variety of minigames at your Fortress Town, such as cooking, fishing, raising, breeding, and racing animals, and you can even play an in-game collectible card game.

One of my complaints about JRPGs, in general is some of them being too easy. Thankfully, Eiyuden Chronicle has a hard mode, which can be challenging at times, depending on how you build your team. You can even give yourself further restrictions, such as no money drops from enemies, restricting items in battle, or even making shop purchases more expensive. There is so much to do in the game that could easily stretch the completion time much higher than the source material that Eiyuden Chronicle drew inspiration from, especially the recruitment of certain characters that require you to go out of your way to make sure you get them and use them in battle.

I’ve sunk a lot of time into this game, and it might be one of the best JRPGs in recent years. If you’re looking for something immersive and want great storytelling and a challenge at the same time, give Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes a try. As of this writing, there are still things that have yet to be placed into the game, which may give you a reason to come back and explore what the late Yoshitaka Murayama created as a spiritual successor to one of the most underrated JRPG franchises ever.

GAMING PLATFORM

By embracing the digital landscape, FBM has empowered players to connect with their favorite FBM games inside bingo hall venues in ways never thought possible. The platform’s user-friendly interface, seamless navigation, and engaging content ensure players are always at the forefront of innovation and entertainment. Players can immerse themselves in a diverse range of FBM-exclusive games, slots, table games, and much more, all designed to deliver thrills and excitement.

The launch of FBM E-Motion indicates FBM’s start to the world of online gaming in the Philippines. With its promise of innovation, excitement, and accessibility, the platform is ready to captivate players and redefine their gaming experiences. With the new FBM E-Motion, players can now enjoy a seamless gaming experience anytime and anywhere, all in the palm of their hands.

What to expect from FBM® E-Motion?

Accessible:

FBM E-Motion aims to make gaming convenient and available to users anytime, anywhere, being accessible via web and mobile platforms.

Entertaining:

Provides enjoyable and engaging gaming experiences with various game categories and providers available to choose from.

Credible:

Users can trust FBM E-Motion to deliver consistent and high-quality gaming services, maintaining the standards of FBM as a pioneer and leading brand in the land-based gaming industry.

Exciting:

FBM E-Motion offers thrilling gaming opportunities, keeping users excited and engaged with enticing jackpots and bonuses.

Licensed:

As a licensed platform by PAGCOR, FBM E-Motion ensures legality and compliance with gaming regulations.

User-centric:

Prioritizing the needs and preferences of users, enhancing overall satisfaction through 24/7 customer service and availability in Bingo Halls nationwide.

FBM Exclusive Games:

FBM E-Motion stands out as the sole digital platform offering FBM games in the Philippines, providing unique gaming experiences.

ONLINE PLATFORM

Simple antivirus is not enough anymore

Responding to the increasing demand for an all-in-one solution, ESET is introducing an improved ESET HOME, a comprehensive security management platform.

“Today’s digital landscape has become increasingly sophisticated, with online threats, such as phishing and banking scams, frequently making headlines. At ESET, we are committed to empowering consumers to remain protected online. The new ESET HOME Security is powered by a combination of AI, human insight, and cloud protection, providing all-in-one security solutions that enable our users to safeguard themselves, their families, and their homes from various digital threats. This will enable them to connect, explore, shop, bank, and thrive in the digital space,” said Parvinder Walia, ESET president for Asia Pacific and Japan.

Complete security management platform

Research among ESET customers shows that the vast majority of ESET HOME users define themselves as home admins, those who take care of their household’s digital security. They are techsavvy but don’t want to spend much time managing ESET products. To meet customers’ needs, ESET has made improvements to ESET HOME. Now, as a complete security management platform, it is a seamless part of the user experience. In this version, managing devices, making online purchases, subscription activation and renewal, downloading or upgrading security solutions, and enabling powerful functionalities like VPN security, Password Manager, and more.

To enhance user experience and simplify the platform’s management, ESET has made several interface changes, including the introduction of Overall Protection Status, so users can see the level of protection for their households in one view. This combines both the validity status of a user’s subscriptions and the security status of devices connected to the account in three categories: Protected, Attention Required, and Security Alert.

These changes aim to provide customers with cutting-edge protection, while minimal interaction is needed to set up the product. At the same time, this new ecosystem provides meaningful options and functionality for proactive users who want to control and customize it. ESET HOME is an easyto-use web portal and mobile app available for both iOS and Android.

Cyber Security

ESET

Explore new subscription tiers and their features

Also introduced with this launch are three subscription tiers for this new ecosystem — ESET HOME Security Essential, ESET HOME Security Premium, and ESET HOME Security Ultimate. Subscription tiers provide all-in-one protection, from the entry-level of protection up to the ultimate level, covering the complex needs of individuals and their households for digital life privacy and security. ESET HOME Security subscriptions are available on all major operating systems — Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

ESET HOME Security Essential is an entrylevel subscription tier with protection features, including improved modern endpoint security and multilayered real-time protection, as well as additional tools that further enhance the user’s ability to protect against various threats. Included are the Safe Banking and Safe Browsing features, designed to protect users’ sensitive data, and Network Inspector, a diagnostic tool providing information on the security of the user’s router and display of devices connected to the network. Newly developed browser extensions provide enhancement of the Browser Privacy & Security feature. This includes cleanup tools, such as Browser Cleanup, which cleans cookies, history, and much more from the browser, regularly or on demand.

The middle tier, ESET HOME Security Premium, extends the feature set further by adding other security functionalities, such as a Password Manager, which protects and stores users’ passwords and personal data. This includes an automatic and accurate form-filling feature, saving users time when filling out web forms. Secure Data functionality boosts their privacy and security with powerful encryption of files and removable media, preventing data theft in the event of USB or laptop loss and ensuring secure collaboration and data sharing. ESET HOME Security Premium offers the ESET LiveGuard tool, cloud-based protection

specifically designed to mitigate never-beforeseen threats.

ESET HOME Security Ultimate is the most advanced subscription tier; it seamlessly provides complex all-in-one protection and introduces a brand-new ESET feature: VPN. This feature is also complemented by the browser extension functionality (Browser Privacy & Security), to ensure that the user’s browsing is protected. Additionally, Metadata Cleanup removes metadata from uploaded pictures to the browsers on Windows. Website Settings Review allows users to easily review and change permissions granted to websites.

ESET HOME Security Ultimate

Enhancing online security: Introducing VPN feature

ESET’s new VPN feature offers users a confidential internet experience by establishing a private network connection guaranteeing protection while using public Wi-Fi, and enforcing a strict no-logs policy to make it more difficult to track. It encrypts users’ online activities and enables unlimited bandwidth access to geo-restricted content, including unrestricted and private access to websites in more than 60 countries worldwide. Thanks to this feature, users can securely access their home countries’ TV shows and movies while traveling or enjoy their favorite streaming services from different parts of the world. Even more features are available on the VPN service running on desktop, including DNS leak protection, MAC spoofing, proxy gateway for other devices, firewall, and split tunneling. By adding a VPN on iOS, ESET is strengthening its presence on this platform, where Password Manager and ESET HOME are already established.

Prices for ESET Home Security start from PHP1,094.91. Shop ESET HOME Security products here

PWords by Sky Gavin

arlon is the ultimate beauty hack for everyone. It’s a platform where you can browse, buy, and book your next beauty and wellness appointment seamlessly. This innovative platform streamlines the booking process, putting the power of pampering right at your fingertips.

The Parlon app understands the hectic schedule of modern Filipinos. Its user-friendly interface allows you to browse a vast network of partnered salons, spas, and wellness centers across the Philippines. With a few taps, you can filter by location and service type, find exclusive deals, and so much more.

PARLON: A TRULY THAT REVOLUTIONIZES AND SELF-CARE

TRULY FILIPINO APP REVOLUTIONIZES WELLNESS

“I needed a place where I could browse salon services, view their prices, book appointments, and make purchases with ease — similar to the convenience I experience when shopping on e-commerce platforms. With more than 16 million Filipinas aged 20-39, the Philippines was the perfect starting point,” co-founder and CEO of Parlon, Claire Ongcangco, shares.

Whether it’s a haircut, facial, nail care, massage, or even a wellness retreat, you can find it all on Parlon. Some partner merchants include global brands like Browhaus, Strip, and The Smile Bar. Celebrity faves are also on Parlon, such as Benibana Beauty Hub, O2 Skinlab, Marqed Salon, Culture Salon, The Secret Lounge, and even Hiraya Wellness Resort and Ecopark in Pangasinan.

What we love most about Parlon is that we don’t have to worry about how much we have to pay at the salon. What you buy within the platform is all that you have to pay during your visit. Scheduling is also super easy because Parlon empowers you to schedule appointments directly within the app, ensuring a seamless booking experience.

If you are not yet sure where to go, Parlon allows you to explore detailed profiles of partner establishments, including photos, service menus, customer reviews, and pricing information. If you want to learn more about each service, the app also has a curated selection of beauty and wellness articles, providing valuable tips and insights to help you make informed decisions about your self-care routine.

You can also give the gift of self-care, where you can directly send gift codes to other Parlon users from as low as PHP500 up to PHP10,000. You can also be an OG (Original Glowster) member, where you can get exclusive deals and discounts from its lifestyle partners like Love, Bonito, VIU, Konsulta MD, Electric Studio, Edamama, Picasso Hotel, and Kindred, just to name a few.

“Parlon has always been true to its promise of making beauty and wellness accessible for everyone. Now, with our OG Lifestyle Card, we curate offers that will make our lifestyle more beautiful,” shared Ongcangco.

Parlon is the fastest-growing salon and wellness tech platform in the Philippines and recently raised over USD400,000 in successful preseed funding from WIP Global Ventures, A2D Ventures, and a group of esteemed angel investors.

“The salon and wellness service industry has long been underserved. This industry is a niche on its own. Often, it has been treated as an additional

vertical or category on platforms. This compels the salon and wellness industry to handle tasks manually or adapt to the tools available out there. This beautiful industry deserves a platform that revolves around how it operates. With Parlon, they take the spotlight, and we design and ship features to help them grow, innovate, and make their operations more efficient,” shared Miko Cornejo, co-founder and CTO of Parlon.

Parlon is also proud to be the first and only Philippine company, so far, to be in partnership with Reserve with Google. This allows users to have an unparalleled booking experience within Google that is fully integrated with Parlon.

Parlon also launched Parlon Singapore (www. parlon.sg), which is expected to redefine convenience, accessibility, and elevated experiences for both customers and salon professionals.

Parlon is available in the App Store and Google Play.

INTRODUCES AI CHAT SUMMARY

Leveraging the technology behind ChatGPT, it condenses long conversations into bullet points to ensure important details don’t get lost

Rakuten Viber, a global leader in private and secure messaging and calls, as well as the leading communications app in the Philippines, has leveraged the technology of OpenAI to launch a conversation-summarizing AI feature for unread messages in group chats. Developed to meet the needs of millions of busy users, this cutting-edge solution offers a seamless and rapid way to distill essential information from up to 100 unread messages in a chat into a concise summary.

The AI summarizer extracts the most important parts of a user’s group conversations and, in an instant, concisely conveys in bullet points what has been discussed, not only saving time and energy but also enhancing decisionmaking and productivity. The rapid delivery helps users stay up-to-date without going back through a long scroll of messages.

Initially focusing on group chats, the AI summary feature will cater to the most popular form of communication among Viber users. They will be able to pull together key decisions, action items, and discussions to easily use as a reference point. Imagine the convenience this will allow for parents managing their children’s school or sports team events through collaborative discussions, family members planning a birthday party for a loved one, or groups of friends making travel arrangements.

Activation is effortless: users entering a group chat with unread messages will receive a prompt to obtain an optional summary of the missed part of the conversation. Importantly, these summaries are visible only to users who request them, ensuring privacy and confidentiality.

Data privacy and safety were top-of-mind considerations in the development of this feature. The AI chat summary content does not include any identifiers beyond usernames, so specific conversations cannot be externally connected to any group members. Additionally, Viber does not access or save conversations or summaries on its servers, creating a secure and private user experience.

“We’re constantly seeking new and innovative ways to make our users’ lives easier and simpler,” said Ofir Eyal, CEO of Rakuten Viber. “That’s why we’re harnessing the power of generative AI to save them time and make sure they don’t miss any important conversations: From classmates discussing school projects to friends or family making weekend plans on the go, our users can get up to speed in a flash on anything they might have missed.”

The feature is gradually rolling out to users in the Philippines as well as the US, Ukraine, Japan, Bulgaria, and Poland with more countries to follow soon. It supports iOS and Android platforms and comprehends more than 50 languages.

HOW CAN MSMES BETTER MANAGE THEIR PAYROLL SYSTEMS?

Payroll can be a pain for budding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) who are looking to grow their profits, scale their operations, and take their business to the next level. However, while having a functional payroll management system is critical to success, getting there is easier said than done. MSMEs face various hurdles in doing so, including limited human resources, compliance with the maze of bureaucratic regulations, complicated benefit computations, and diverse payroll schedules, among others. These, not to mention the birthing pains of transitioning to a payroll management system. As such, some MSMEs go at it the good old fashioned way: manual pen and paper processes that take time and effort.

If you’re an MSME on the fence about investing in a payroll management system, you’re in luck. We outline below what makes a payroll management system worth it and what you should look for in one.

A good payroll management system should, at its very core, enable MSMEs to automatically crunch the government-related mandatories of their employees, including taxes and contributions to social security, state healthcare, and housing, with all computations compliant with regularly updated standards. Such benefit calculations can be complex and may take into account even factors such as location, working hours, and active days. One wrong entry and you might find yourself in a needless and easily avoidable legal battle. Automated calculations reduce the risk of human error, ensuring accurate disbursement of benefits to employees.

Every company has its unique policies and structures regarding salaries and payroll schedule disbursement. MSMEs with more than a handful of employees with different functions will likely have varying payment structures and payroll cycles. Company policies regarding compensation and benefits may also change over time as business health, industry standards, or regulations evolve. Moreover, businesses may have a combination of daily, weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly payment schedules. An adaptable payroll system enables MSMEs to easily handle these variances while ensuring that employees are paid the correct amount at the correct times.

Human resources (HR) functions such as attendance tracking, leave management and employee onboarding should go hand in hand with your payroll management system. Integrating these streamlines administrative tasks, reducing manual data entry, minimizing error, and increasing overall organizational efficiency. Moreover, a payroll management system with automated HR features ensures that data related to employee presence management is accurate and up-to-date, at the same time ensuring that payroll calculations are correct and compliant with labor laws and company policies. This seamlessness becomes more critical the larger a workforce becomes.

Real-time reports and metrics

Easy setup 4 5

Your payroll management system should be able to provide realtime reports and analytics into payroll trends, employees costs, and compliance metrics to enable you to make decisive actions when they count. This is especially important when the MSME is trying to resolve an issue, identify trends with salaryrelated finances, and optimize payroll processes. By having trends and patterns in payroll data easily accessible, organizations can make adjustments to manage costs, such as adjusting overtime schedules, monitoring labor expenses, and optimizing staffing levels.

But what good is a functional payroll management system if it is a pain to set up and is hard to use? Ideally, the payroll management system you start using is straightforward in this aspect so you can deploy it quickly while minimizing downtime and disruption to your payroll processes. An easy to setup system also means less training time, freeing up your HR staff to focus on their other important responsibilities. Lastly, as competition gets tighter and tighter in all business sectors, a quickly installable payroll management system will enable your MSME to better position itself for success.

As a decades-long partner of MSMEs, M Lhuillier knows the struggles that business owners face when it comes to managing payroll finances. In developing its ML Payroll PRO system, M Lhuillier seeks to share its legacy of financial expertise to revolutionize the way MSMEs operate, empowering them by simplifying and automating their critical payroll functions and processes. Not only does the ML Payroll Pro boast of the above features, it also is COMPLETELY FREE TO SETUP and has NO SUBSCRIPTION FEES. What more can you need?

For MSMEs looking to explore the advantages of the ML Payroll PRO system, you may contact (+63)947-999-0751 or email hanna.mendola@mlhuillier.com to discuss how ML Payroll PRO can take your business to the next level.

EASY CREDIT

ired of feeling trapped, turning to unlicensed and unregulated lenders as if they’re your only option for financial freedom? Fret not!

With Maya Easy Credit, the country’s #1 Digital Bank is flipping the script with a virtual credit line that’s always there when you need it most.

Maya understands the frustration of scrambling for extra cash when you urgently need it. That’s why Maya Easy Credit is super convenient – just a few taps on your phone and you’ll have an instant budget boost right in your Maya account. Say goodbye to the stressful ordeal of dealing with unlicensed lenders!

With a credit limit of up to PHP30,000, you can effortlessly use it for various transactions — whether you’re scanning any merchant’s QRPh, purchasing load in Shop, or paying online with select merchants, simply by opting for Maya Easy Credit as your payment method at checkout. Plus, you have the flexibility to transfer your credit limit to your Maya wallet whenever you need to pay bills and more. Remember, you have the option to pay within 30 days to keep your credit refreshed for continued use.

So, how does it work? It's simple, and you can get instant approval too!

Head over to the Credit dashboard in your Maya App and tap 'Apply Now' to see if you’re eligible to access funds of up to PHP30,000.

Review: Take a moment to review your credit details and set your billing end date.

Accept the terms and conditions, and you're good to go! Just remember, timely payment is crucial to avoid penalties and keep your credit refreshed for continued use.

With Maya Easy Credit, managing your finances becomes a breeze, empowering you to take charge of your finances effortlessly. It provides the flexibility and support you need to confidently navigate life’s twists and turns.

Just note that Maya Easy Credit is subject to credit evaluation. To access this feature, all you need to do is continue using Maya for your everyday transactions.

For more information about Maya Easy Credit, visit maya.ph and mayabank. ph. Stay updated by following @ mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Enter your OTP for

and voila — realtime updates on your application are at your fingertips.

AFFORDABLE HIGH-SPEED 5G MOBILE DATA BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

In today’s rapidly evolving digital sphere, access to reliable highspeed internet has shifted from a convenience to a necessity. Across education, healthcare, business, and entertainment, digital connectivity is fundamental. Yet, as seen in developing countries like the Philippines, a stark digital divide persists, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. The urgent call for affordable, high-speed mobile data solutions has never been clearer.

Amidst these challenges, the advent of 5G technology offers a promising solution. With its unparalleled speed, reliability, and capacity, 5G holds the potential to transform internet connectivity, opening avenues for innovation and progress. From smart city initiatives to remote healthcare and education, opportunities abound. Yet, realizing widespread adoption hinges on addressing key factors: affordability and accessibility.

Telco

Pioneering true 5G connectivity

Among the companies at the forefront of these efforts is DITO Telecommunity which, while a relatively new player in the Philippine telecommunications market, demonstrates a robust commitment to expanding access to digital services and bridging the digital divide. Leveraging the power of its 5G Standalone (SA) network, DITO sets itself apart from competitors by offering a truly independent and cutting-edge

infrastructure, ensuring the full benefits of 5G technology.

This 5G technology is 20 times faster than 4G or LTE (Long Term Evolution); it is also 100 times better in terms of traffic capacity and network efficiency. DITO’s 5G SA network works even better than its competitors’ 5G offering because the company’s digital infrastructure is built to house this next-generation technology. Other telcos use their legacy 4G infrastructure

as a jump-off point to provide 5G, hence these are non-standalone (NSA) 5G. DITO’s 5G SA offering, with its ultralow latency and wider range of use cases for new devices, is dubbed “the real 5G”.

A growing list of 5G SA smartphones or dual-mode 5G smartphones are available in DITO’s website. More devices running on these networks are expected to be widely available as the 5G network becomes the standard for mobile connectivity.

DITO’s coverage is now available across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The company continually develops and deploys its 5G SA infrastructure to deliver blazing-fast speeds and seamless connectivity and close the digital divide by revolutionizing the mobile experience for millions of Filipinos.

Range of products for every need

But accessibility is only part of the equation; affordability is equally

crucial, especially in a country where a significant portion of the population belongs to the lower-income bracket. Recognizing this, DITO has introduced a range of mobile postpaid and prepaid products tailored to suit different needs and budgets.

For those who prefer the convenience of a postpaid plan, DITO offers flexible and value-packed options that include generous data allowances and unlimited calls and texts. The company recently unveiled its newest and most affordable postpaid plans- DITO Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlan 388 and UNLIMITED 5G data offering for its SIM-Only plans. For FLEXPlan 388, customers can enjoy a total of 50GB of data; the usual 25GB plus an additional 25GB of 5G data, UNLI all-net calls & texts, 12 months Prime Video subscription, and other perks - all starting at only PHP 288 per month for the first three months.

Meanwhile, DITO also revamped its SIM-Only Plans and introduced UNLIMITED 5G data offerings for SIM-Only Plans for as low as Php 888, which comes with 40GB of 4G data per month. All SIM-Only plans come with UNLI all-net calls and texts and no lock-in period.

Plans like these are designed to provide affordability without compromising on the quality of service, making it easier

for users to stay connected as easy-onthe-pocket as possible.

On the other hand, for those who prefer the freedom and control of prepaid services, DITO offers a variety of prepaid products that cater to different usage patterns.

From affordable data promos to unlimited call and text offers, DITO’s prepaid options are designed to give users the flexibility to customize their mobile experience according to their needs and budget. Interested customers can start their DITO journey with the DITO SIM Starter Pack for only Php 39 packed with up to 25GB of data. DITO also has affordable prepaid subscriptions like DITO Level-Up 99. For only Php 99, customers can enjoy 7GB of all-access data, unlimited text to all networks, 300 minutes of all calls to other networks, unlimited DITO to DITO calls, and bonus Prime Video subscription- all valid for 30 days.

In addition to affordability, convenience plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide. With DITO’s userfriendly mobile app and intuitive selfservice features, managing one’s account and purchasing data packages has never been easier. Whether you’re a tech-savvy urbanite or a first-time smartphone user in a rural village, DITO’s simple and accessible mobile solutions give the power of connectivity into your hands.

LEADING THE FUTURE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN THE PHILIPPINES

Words by Sky Gavin

The Philippines is known for its warmth and resilience, but we are now facing a growing challenge with mental health. With the increasing pressures of modern life, the challenges of the pandemic, the stigma surrounding mental illness, and a lack of resources, Filipinos are struggling to prioritize their well-being. This is where MindNation steps in, offering easier access to mental health services in just a few clicks.

MindNation was established in 2019 and is helping individuals and teams with mental health and well-being services using their holistic approach that is easy to access- anytime and anywhere. As an organization, they work tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental health to normalize conversations about mental health and encourage everyone to seek help.

Since its establishment, MindNation has helped hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide through their comprehensive 24/7/365 online therapy sessions with psychologists and WellBeing Coaches, webinars, surveys, and more. “When mental health support is convenient and easily accessible, people are motivated to proactively take care of their mental health and make it a habit,” says MindNation chief impact officer Kana Takahashi.

Being at the forefront of this mental health movement, MindNation has made every step easier and more accessible for those in need. Their app is a one-stop-shop for your mental health needs, like access to 24/7 video, voice, and text therapy. They also have Daily Mood Tracker and WellBeing Quiz© that you can take regularly to track emotions and understand your state of well-being. Clinically based and data-backed, the results come with recommended ways to attain better states of wellbeing.

The app also had MindED, an on-demand learning program that could help you master mental health skills and develop good well-being practices, including audio/visual exercises, toolkits, and worksheets.

One of the hurdles that the Mental Health space is trying to overcome is how to make Mental Health services more affordable. “Apart from stigma, high cost has always been one of the barriers to seeking mental health support,” explains Cat Trivino, MindNation’s chief product and data officer. “It is MindNation’s mission to create happier and healthier

A session with a psychologist usually ranges from PHP3,000 - 5,000, but with MindNation, you can book as low as PHP2,300 for your initial session. There are also more affordable packages with 3, 5, and 6 sessions. On the other hand, initial sessions with WellBeing Coaches start at PHP800. These can all be paid online via bank transfer or GCash for the convenience of most Filipinos.

Mind Nation’s mission is clear: to create a world where mental health is valued and accessible to all.

To book a consultation with MindNation, simply message their 24/7 Care Helpline on Facebook Messenger or email hello@mindnation.com.

For more information, follow MindNation on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, as well as their website communities, and we can achieve this by relieving people of these barriers.”

OPTIMAL LIVER HEALTH

Did you know your liver is a multitasking champion? This largest organ in your body filters blood, absorbs nutrients, removes toxic substances from the body, makes protein building blocks for your cells, and acts as your body’s vitamin and mineral bank. However, despite its ability to keep the body functioning properly, liver disease quietly claims thousands of lives each year in the Philippines alone.

Liver disease refers to any condition that affects the liver’s structure or function which can develop into four stages: Hepatitis, Fibrosis, Cirrhosis, and ultimately — liver failure. According to The Global State of Liver Health 2022 Report, liver disease complications resulted in a death rate of 2.65%, with an estimated 16,500 fatalities in the Philippines — a stark reality we cannot overlook. While alcohol is a major culprit, habits like regularly consuming fatty foods, sedentary routines, unhealthy diets, and relying on certain medications for a prolonged time also lead to liver problems.

The Hepatology Society of the Philippines (HSP) states that the risk is especially high for those who are overweight, diabetic, or suffer from hypertension; making over 18 million Filipinos vulnerable to or already struggling with fatty liver disease. However, a surprising number of 11.9% of Filipinos also have the disease despite not being overweight.

A global initiative aims to raise awareness about liverrelated conditions and promote proactive measures for liver health as liver diseases often go unnoticed. Experts emphasize that, alongside necessary tests, adopting healthy eating habits, making lifestyle changes, and considering the potential benefits of supplements can significantly contribute to tackling this growing problem.

Protecting the liver holistically

LAC (Leader in Antioxidative Control™), a leading health and wellness supplement retailer in the Philippines, supports a proactive approach to liver health through LAC Activated Liver Protector™, a capsule supplement containing a blend of Traditional Chinese

Medicinal herbs such as Hawthorn Fruit, Oriental Waterplantain Rhizome, and Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome that can prevent and relieve fatty liver, promote healthy liver function and lower bad blood lipid levels.

“At LAC, our mission has always been to empower individuals on their lifelong wellness journeys — this commitment extends to liver health. Especially with the evolving lifestyles of Filipinos marked by shifts in dietary habits, increased stress, and higher exposure to toxins, maintaining optimal liver health has become imperative to counteract modern health challenges and sustain holistic well-being,” Evelyn Teo, chief of marketing at LAC Global, explains.

Recognizing the liver’s pivotal role as the body’s detoxification powerhouse, LAC understands the importance of protecting, nourishing, and aiding detoxification for holistic wellness. This led LAC to develop LAC Activated Liver Protector™, a potent supplement designed to support optimal liver function. With its blend of herbs that have been used for centuries, the brand is bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and modern solutions–offering a convenient and effective approach to liver health all within one capsule.

Filipinos can take charge of not just their liver health but also their overall well-being through informed choices and high-quality supplements. As a champion of holistic wellness, LAC empowers individuals by providing a comprehensive range of supplements tailored to meet daily health needs at every life stage while promoting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

CHASING NOTES TO CATCH A STAR

Words by Alyssa Joji Silva

Back in the day, when we were just kids, we all dreamed big. Some of us wanted to be professional chefs; others imagined themselves joining the police force; a number considered entering the medical world. But let’s not forget those of us who dreamed of belting out tunes like our favorite singers. It may have been inspired by those angelic voices pouring out of the TV when our favorite singers performed, or the echoing voices of neighbors as they got into the groove of late night karaoke sessions. For some, dreams start just by watching loved ones perform, and that’s precisely what happened to Filipina singer and songwriter Anna Aquino as she pursued her musical dreams.

I met Anna Aquino during a hangout with my friend at Glorietta’s Top of the Glo. Her voice filled one of the restaurants where she was performing, and it was so beautiful that it drew us in, making us want to listen and admire her performance even more. She even accommodated us by singing one of our requested songs, “Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift. My friend and I were just jamming with her at the moment, to the point where I found myself wanting to learn more about her story.

In our conversation, Anna shared how she got the idea of becoming a singer when she saw how much her dad loved singing in their mini karaoke. As Anna listened to her dad singing with emotion, she understood the lyrics and found inspiration to write her

songs. She described this experience as being similar to receiving a “sandbox” to play in, where she could freely express herself through music. Over time, she discovered artists who deeply resonated with her and became sources of inspiration when writing songs, influencing her creative process and style. Artists like Ogie Alcasid and Rey Valera, as well as international artists such as Taylor Swift, Sarah Bareilles, Julia Michaels, and Selena Gomez, played significant roles in shaping her musical journey.

From there, Anna entered the music scene through live performances in 2015. Initially, she didn’t consider pursuing music as a career; rather, she used it as a means to fully convey her thoughts and engage in conversational topics through her unique music style. However, as her audience began to encourage her more, a spark of motivation and determination ignited

within her, propelling her to pursue her path as a music artist with even greater passion and commitment. In 2019, she shared her very first song titled Biglaan with Henry Alburo, which quickly became a popular hit, garnering 1,608,877 listeners on Spotify. The earnings she received from its success became her income to record and write more songs for her audience, since her main goal in sharing her music was to forge a genuine connection with her audience, making them feel reassured that they weren’t alone in facing life’s challenges, particularly in matters of love. To me, her compositions felt like a sincere tribute to her listeners. Her melodies have a way of enveloping you in comfort during your toughest moments, serving as a source of solace and clarity. Plus, it possesses a remarkable ability to uplift your spirits to navigate through your daily routines with ease.

Anna Aquino contract signing PolyEast 2023

In 2020, she attended training sessions with PHILSCAP and PHILPOP, aiming to refine her songwriting abilities. She had the opportunity to learn from renowned Filipino songwriters such as Rico Blanco, Noel Kabangon, and Jungee Marcelo. She even shared her experiences, mentioning how she faced the challenge of composing a song within a timeframe of 2 to 3 minutes. Anna’s experience throughout the workshop was educational and fruitful because she wasn’t afraid to ask questions in hopes of developing her songwriting skills. She simply focused on her goal and felt blessed because a lot of people were able to help her along the way.

Anna now has a top hit single titled Kung Sabagay, which has become her most playable track, attracting 2,172,750 listeners. Here’s a small story: Anna composed this song in about 25 minutes during her college years in 2013. It was inspired by the idea that “kung sabagay lang naman ang lahat ay natapos ng walang dahilan.” She wasn’t able to share it at that time because she thought people wouldn’t like the song, but she finally released it in 2020.

Honestly, listening to the track gave me the impression of an after-breakup song. The lyrics seem to convey the feelings of a girl who deeply loved someone but ended up with a broken heart.

At the end of our conversation, I asked Anna if she had released a new single recently, and she had! It’s titled Kwarto, a cover song by the band Sugarfree. She was inspired to share this song because of her experience in moving out of her parent’s house and stepping out of her comfort zone. As she wants to venture more of the purpose that God has given her. Plus, the message that she wants to convey with this song is that it’s okay to explore because

growing older without regrets brings the happiest moments and memories you can cherish forever.

Finally, Anna offers some advice for aspiring singers and songwriters: Enjoy the journey, appreciate those who value you, and ignore those who try to discourage you. Being with people who give you constructive feedback believes in you to keep improving your skills in the music industry. Plus, look for opportunities listen to your past work for growth and inspiration, and consider taking music lessons to enhance your abilities. Since a positive support system and perseverance are essential for a thriving music career.

Filscap Mentor, Quest

“It’s okay to explore because growing older without regrets brings the happiest moments and memories you can cherish forever.”

HONDA PHILIPPINES REDUCES CARBON FOOTPRINT WITH SOLAR POWER PROJECT

Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) celebrates a significant milestone in its journey towards a cleaner future with the official inauguration of its 1.056MW rooftop solar power project. This project, initiated in collaboration with Skye Renewables, now enters its operational phase at HPI’s manufacturing plant in Tanauan, Batangas.

“This inauguration marks a crucial step towards achieving our global carbon neutrality goal by 2050,” said Sayaka Arai-Hattori, president of Honda Philippines, Inc. “We are not just a company that manufactures and sells products; we strive to be a positive force for society. This project embodies our commitment to environmental responsibility and demonstrates our dedication to inspiring a more sustainable future for both our employees and customers.”

To make this initiative a reality, HPI tapped Skye Renewables, a leading developer of captive solar solutions in Southeast Asia.

“Skye Renewables has always been committed to supporting the energy transition across Asia and we are delighted to help support Honda Philippines, Inc. in its sustainability journey,” said Gary Espino, head of Philippines for Skye Renewables.

“With this project, we helped install the solar panels, which then convert the energy of the sun’s photons into electricity. This clean energy will power HPI’s operations during the day, and if needed, they can seamlessly switch to grid electricity when necessary. In some countries, even excess solar energy can be fed back to the grid.”

The newly inaugurated solar power project consists of a total of 1,958

panels, each with a capacity of 540-watts. This technology harnesses the abundant Philippine sunshine, generating at least 35 percent of HPI’s maximum daytime energy demand. This translates to 1,267MWh of clean energy utilization annually, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to environmental benefits.

Additionally, the solar power project will help HPI experience cost savings since solar energy is typically cheaper than traditional grid-purchased power. The project also aids in strengthening the company’s sustainability strategy, enabling HPI to achieve its goals of becoming carbon-neutral in its operations.

From L-R: Mr. Arnold Panghulan, HPI general manager for Manufacturing Operations Office; Mr. Juan Gerry Datario, HPI assistant vice president - Business Administration; Ms. Maria Fe Quijano, HPI assistant vice president - Finance and IT; Mr. Jomel Jerezo, HPI vice President - MC Sales Office & Supply Chain Management Division; Mr. Yasunori Miyamoto, HPI vice president – Finance & IT; Mr. Kohei Yamamoto, HPI executive vice president – Manufacturing; Ms. Sayaka Arai – Hattori, HPI president; Mr. Ross Coull, Skye Renewable Energy CEO; Mr. Gary Espino, Skye Renewables Philippines Inc. president; Mr. Atsushi Kawasaki, Idemitsu Lubricants Philippines Inc. president; Mr. Toshifumi Yokoyama, Singapore Branch Shoseki International K.K head; Mr. Atsushi Koyano, Idemitsu Lubricants Philippines head of sales.

CARSOME PH AND SEAOIL PARTNER FOR A "WHEELY" GOOD DEAL

CARSOME Philippines, the largest online platform for certified pre-owned cars, has partnered with SEAOIL, the country’s leading independent fuel provider, to launch the exciting “Free Fuel Frenzy” campaign. This dynamic partnership goes beyond just savings –it’s about creating a seamless and costeffective used car ownership journey for Filipinos.

All CARSOME car buyers can now enjoy year-round savings between April 1 and December 31, 2024, with discounted gas (PHP3 off per liter for gasoline, PHP2 off per liter for diesel) at participating SEAOIL stations throughout 2024. This ongoing

partnership with SEAOIL ensures you benefit from consistently lower fuel prices, putting more money back in your pocket for the year.

“This partnership with SEAOIL allows us to further enhance the car buying experience in the Philippines. By combining CARSOME’s wide selection of quality pre-owned cars with SEAOIL’s extensive network of gas stations and controlled fuel rates with the PriceLOCQ app, we’re making car ownership a more accessible and rewarding experience for all Filipinos,” said Alan Cheah, country head of CARSOME Philippines.

“We are delighted to be part of the car ownership journey of CARSOME customers. This partnership is also an opportunity to introduce more motorists to the Alagang SEAOIL experience through the exciting deals available on the PriceLOCQ app. We also look forward to offering our top-quality products to them and enhancing their driving experience,” said Jayvee Dela Fuente, SEAOIL VP for corporate and consumer marketing.

Don’t let these scorching deals pass you by! Visit the CARSOME Philippines website at https://www.carsome.ph/ and browse the extensive selection of certified pre-owned cars.

GLOBAL TEAM TOYOTA FROM ASIA ALL SET FOR PARIS 2024

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has launched the next chapter of the “Start Your Impossible” (SYI) global marketing campaign, igniting excitement for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. The global campaign showcases the power of local communities across the world rallying behind their athletes and emphasizes Toyota’s belief that no journey is taken alone.

In Asia, Toyota partnered with 11 athletes from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam in “START YOUR IMPOSSIBLE,” Toyota’s first-ever global corporate initiative. These athletes are set to participate and compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. Progressing themselves toward their sporting aspirations, these 11 exceptional athletes will join more than 200 Global Team Toyota Athletes (GTTA), from across the globe, at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024.

The full line-up of 11 Team Toyota Asia athletes includes:

• India: Murali Sreeshankar, Athletics

• Indonesia: Ni Nengah Widiasih, Para Powerlifting

• Malaysia: Abdul Latif Romly, Long Jump – Para Athletics

• Nepal: Nabita Shresta – Table Tennis

• Pakistan: Arshad Nadeem –Athletics

• Philippines: Carlos Yulo, Artistic Gymnastics

• Philippines: Ernie Gawilan, Para Swimming

• Singapore: Toh Wei Soong, Para Swimming

• Thailand: Kunvalut Vitidsarn, Badminton

• Thailand: Pongsakorn Paeyo, Wheelchair Racing – Para Athletics

• Vietnam: Lê Văn Công, Para Powerlifting

Currently, 8 out of the 11 Team Toyota Asia athletes have qualified for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, with other qualifications still ongoing.

“On behalf of Toyota Motor Asia, we are thrilled that top athletes across Asia will be representing their countries and are heading to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. Each Global Team Toyota

athlete in Asia is not only a trailblazer but also a ‘Dual Hero’, where they champion social causes through Hero Projects that foster a positive change in their community. We take pride in the unrelenting dedication they have displayed in their respective disciplines, and wish them the best on the international stage,” says Preston Tan, vice president, Toyota Motor Asia Singapore.

The “Start Your Impossible” initiative underscores Toyota’s dedication to cultivating a society that is more inclusive, sustainable, and mobile — empowering each individual to challenge themselves and achieve their ‘impossible.’

Being a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Toyota is committed to providing sustainable mobility solutions that aid in fostering a decarbonized and inclusive society. In the run-up to Paris 2024, Toyota has announced the supply of 500 fuel cell Mirai vehicles as part of its official fleet for this major sporting event. This highlights the company’s goals in achieving carbon neutrality and its belief in a multi-path approach towards sustainable mobility.

PH DIGITAL BANKS POST RAPID GROWTH

The country’s six digital banks have reported impressive growth, outperforming traditional banking institutions in expanding access to financial services.

From September 2023 to December 2023, the digital banking sector experienced a 27% growth in their depositor base, significantly higher than the overall banking system’s growth of 4%. This has elevated the total digital banking depositor base to 5.9 million as of December 2023.

“Digital banks are changing the game for financial inclusion in the country beyond access. This kind of growth in such a short amount of time is unprecedented in onboarding the unbanked and underserved,” said Angelo Madrid, president of the Digital Bank Association of the Philippines (DiBA PH) and president of Maya Bank.

This outstanding growth involves the country’s only six licensed digital banks: GoTyme Bank, Maya Bank, Overseas Filipino Bank, Tonik Bank, UnionDigital Bank, and UNO Digital Bank. These organizations are the founding members of the industry association DiBA PH.

Robust growth trajectory

Since the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) introduced the digital banking category in 2021, the sector has evolved rapidly, setting the stage for all six banks to go live by 2023.

Despite their recent entry into the market, these banks have reported a near doubling of deposits from over 35 billion to 69 billion from 2022 to 2023, with gross total loan portfolio increasing from over 11 billion to nearly 25 billion for the same period.

These milestones were achieved despite considerable infrastructural challenges,

including the rollout of the national ID system and limited coverage by the national credit bureau.

Growing Financial Inclusion

According to the BSP Financial Inclusion Survey for 2021, only 23% of the 56% of the adult population with financial accounts have bank accounts. The number of savers is much less, with 31% of adults with savings putting their money in banks. Only 4% of adults with loans get their credit from banks.

Since their introduction, digital banks have transcended infrastructural limitations to significantly boost financial inclusion, offering deposit accounts and credit to populations that traditional banks have typically overlooked.

“This democratization of financial services is a testament to the potential of technology-driven banking solutions to foster economic empowerment and inclusivity,” added

Manish Bhai, DiBA trustee and founder-CEO at UNO Digital Bank.

“The growth of digital banks highlights the sustained shift in consumer demands towards accessible, responsive, and user-friendly financial services. We are pleased with the digital banking sector’s trajectory and its rippling effect towards a larger banking trend of optimizing technology in providing financial services. We now keenly anticipate the next wave of innovative and bespoke services that will address the needs of the banking public.” said BSP deputy governor Chuchi Fonacier.

Looking ahead, the industry’s stability is a priority, as outlined by Long Pineda, vice president of DiBA PH and chairperson of Tonik Digital Bank, Inc. “The next three years are pivotal for reinforcing the digital banking sector’s foundations, scaling lending operations, and solidifying confidence among investors and customers alike,” Pineda emphasized, highlighting the sector’s ambition for sustainable growth and broader financial inclusivity.

SM CARES, PLDT, AND SMART JOIN HANDS TO PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE E-WASTE DISPOSAL

To strengthen its efforts in promoting the responsible disposal of electronic waste, SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, recently tapped PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc., two of the leading telecommunications providers in the country for a strategic partnership that will expand SM’s Electronic Waste Collection (EWC) Program and drive further positive change in electronic waste management in the country. The partnership was launched to the public last April 22, 2024.

In a short message, Joaquin L. San Agustin, SVP for marketing of SM Supermalls, underscored the need for the responsible disposal of electronic waste to help minimize its impact on human health and the environment. He also thanked PLDT and Smart for partnering with SM for the initiative. “Through this partnership, our goal is to promote and expand the reach of the E-Waste Collection Program, leveraging our combined expertise and resources to drive positive change in electronic waste management in the country,” he added.

“Recognizing the importance of sustainability and responsible consumption, our brands, PLDT Home and Smart, have been actively promoting e-waste collection and recycling as part of their sales, marketing, retail operations, and customer engagement activities. We are thus grateful to have found a likeminded partner in SM, as this joint initiative significantly expands our reach and makes e-waste collection and circularity solutions even more accessible and convenient to our customers and the general public,”

said Melissa V. Vergel de Dios, chief sustainability officer at PLDT and Smart.

To reinforce the initiative’s sustainability messaging, SM, PLDT, and Smart unveiled new designs for the bins that will be used to collect the e-waste, which are made from 8,400 pieces of used beverage cartons. The e-waste bins will be available at SM Malls nationwide, particularly in Cyberzone areas.

Launched in 2021, the Electronic Waste Collection (EWC) Program encourages tenant and customer participation in the responsible disposal

of electronic waste or e-waste which is considered hazardous, while also promoting decluttering in households and bringing to light conscious consumerism.

Since 2021, a total of 11,600kg of e-waste has been collected through the program, diverted from ending up in landfills and causing harm to humans and the environment to the designated facilities where they are disposed of responsibly.

This partnership between SM Supermalls, PLDT and Smart is the

latest initiative under SM Supermalls’ solid waste management program, which is also in line with SM Cares’ Programs on Environment.

Aside from this, SM Cares spearheads initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community, including programs for Persons with Disabilities, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

MINIMUM WAGE

What is considered a work-life balance? Is it only working 40 hours a week and no more? Is it about pursuing personal projects outside of work and making those personal projects another source of income? While I believe our jobs don’t solely define us, the idea of work-life balance involves balancing our dedication to our craft(s) and personal fulfillment, such as relationships, involvement in the community, and more. For me, what greatly helps with work-life balance is the minimum wage since it means a guaranteed paycheck of at least a certain amount for your labor. Still, as the prices of goods and services rise compared to the minimum wage, we must revisit its role in providing a work-life balance.

The concept of minimum wage is much older than one thinks, and the debate rages on to this day about how much we should get paid and whether or not that pay is commensurate to our productivity

in society. In fact, medieval England set a maximum wage as early as 1349; England continued to pioneer the idea over the centuries as labor unrest continued. New Zealand and Australia, former British colonies, set minimum wages in the 1890s to stop sweatshop labor practices in their countries. The Gilded Age, a time of economic prosperity, also prompted another former British colony, the United States, to consider minimum wage laws to support workers to continue that economic prosperity.

The United Kingdom set a minimum wage law in 1909. Then-President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) said in 1933, in the grip of the Great Depression, “In my Inaugural I laid down the simple proposition that nobody is going to starve in this country. It seems to me to be equally plain that no business which depends for existence on paying less than living wages to its workers has any right to continue in this country. By ‘business’ I

mean the whole of commerce as well as the whole of industry; by workers I mean all workers, the white-collar class as well as the men in overalls; and by living wages I mean more than a bare subsistence level —I mean the wages of decent living.” By 1938, the United States had a national minimum wage — a mere USD0.25 an hour (USD5.54 in 2024). The minimum wage in the United States would not pass that inflation-adjusted mark until 2007.

90 years later, FDR’s words still resonate among labor advocates. While there are positive and negative effects of having a minimum wage which could take up several issues of Gadgets, poverty has drastically declined in the 20th century thanks to technological advancements that contribute to the increased overall productivity of societies that we have covered here before in Relic. Part of this is due to the setting of a minimum wage, which allows employees to have a standard of living—although what one

Words by Jose Alvarez

would consider a decent living varies from person to person.

However, some employers have balked at the idea of a minimum wage due to the rising costs to businesses, as wages are generally the majority of business expenses. For instance, the non-tipped minimum wage in the United States of USD7.25 has not moved in the past 15 years, while tipped workers can be paid as low as USD2.13 an hour — this mark hasn’t moved in 33 years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of those affected were low-wage workers as they were considered “essential” workers due to the fact that they went to work daily, risking infection with COVID-19, prompting employees to switch jobs for better pay or seek remote working opportunities.

Some countries — notably Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland, which are considered worker-friendly countries and emphasize a work-life

balance due to the high satisfaction of life associated with those countries, actually have no national minimum wage as of 2024. In Asia, Singapore also has no national minimum wage, yet is also considered to have the same high standards of living as their Nordic counterparts. So does this mean that the minimum wage is completely useless? It depends on who you ask and what the context of the question is.

In economics, numbers are king. If one takes inflation into account, the minimum wage is actually going down. For example, the United States’ USD7.25 minimum wage set in 2009 should be USD10.55 today if it kept pace with inflation itself. While the minimum wage historically protected against the exploitation of workers, employers have not only lobbied to gut the enforcement of minimum wage laws, but minimum wage laws in general often do not protect those who are paid in cash or are on temporary

or contract jobs. In fact, the very act of unionizing or even considering doing so has prompted employers to lay off large portions of their workforce and then hire third-party contractors or temp agencies to fill the void. While this can look good on the accounting books, it can have negative effects on society, such as high unemployment and lower quality of goods and services.

As previously mentioned, numerous studies show arguments for and against the minimum wage and that minimum wage laws do not exist in a vacuum and thus this can have socioeconomic effects that we might not think about. What we do know, however, is that the minimum wage assures at least some compensation for our labor and thus contributes to a worklife balance. While we should all strive to make a decent living, governments should also do their part to ensure that all individuals can make a living wage that FDR envisioned back in the 1930s.

CHINI