October 30, 2024

The Manila Pianos Artist Series in collaboration with Artes Organization, present Al Gatmaitan in TRA MUSICA E SOGNO, an enchanted evening that highlights classical crossover pieces performed by the Man of Music that evoke a wide range of feelings, from nostalgia to inspiration,

“Andare con la tua arte”, which means, "Go with your art", a message that manifested in a dream of Gatmaitan who once contemplated on his desire to become a priest and his love for singing.

Tenor, musical theater artist, actor for television and film and commercial model, Al Gatmaitan received extensive vocal education at the University of the Philippines under Professor Emmanuel Gregorio; followed by studies at the Conservatory of Music, University of Santo Tomas, and finally finished his Music Degree at St Paul College, Manila, both under Dr. Ronan Ferrer.

He earned further scholarship in Italy where he studied L'insegnamento della Lingua Italiana all'Estero at Universita per Stranieri Dante Alighieri.

He was granted additional scholarships to attend Teatro Calabria (Acting and Diction) under Professor Rodolfo Chirico, soprano Maria Francavilla of the Consevartotio di Vibo Valennita (intensive private vocal formation training) and Spazio Teatro (Actor's Formation),

For this special show, Gatmaitan’s repertoire includes a mix of Italian, Spanish and English classical crossover songs influenced by Andrea Bocelli, reimagined with his unique style and flair.

Acclaimed concert pianist Dingdong Fiel, with his high level of expertise and refined playing style, shares the stage with Gatmaitan.

High-caliber vocal artists Margarita Roco, soprano and film and theater actor Red Nuestro are special guests.

TRA MUSICA E SOGNO is slated on 14 November 2024. Performance starts promptly at 7 PM. Venue is at the Manila Pianos Showroom, 4/F Ronac Lifestyle Center, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati City.

Concert tickets : P 1,000.00 (regular), P 800.00 (seniors), P500.00 (students).

To purchase your tickets, please send GCASH payment to; 0917-415-8876 under the name of Richard S. On the MSG line, please type : "(your name) (# of tickets), CROSSOVER".

Please send confirmation to the same number. Tickets will be ready at the gate on the day

of the performance.

October 29, 2024

Senator Loren Legarda 

In the wake of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine's widespread devastation, Senator Loren Legarda is urging a strategic shift in disaster risk reduction and management, emphasizing that community-centered, locally driven initiatives are essential to safeguarding lives and building resilience across the Philippines.

In a recent radio interview, Legarda highlighted the critical role of local chief executives in understanding disaster and climate risks within their jurisdictions. “Local leaders must not only recognize these dangers but also educate their constituents and work together to mitigate them,” she stated. “The aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine underscores the need for proactive measures at the local level.”

Legarda also acknowledged the vital support of government agencies in empowering local government units (LGUs) to reduce disaster losses and respond effectively. “Agencies like the Climate Change Commission, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development are crucial in ensuring that Local Climate Change Action Plans and Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans are science-based, up-to-date, and responsive to climate impacts,” she added.

Highlighting the importance of education, Legarda pointed to state universities and colleges as essential partners in guiding LGUs on risk assessment and local development planning. “Their expertise is invaluable for effective disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation,” she noted.

Known for her long-standing disaster risk reduction advocacy, Legarda emphasized that despite the Philippines' well-developed DRR policies and increasing awareness of climate risks, effective disaster risk management must prioritize local community engagement and capacity building. “From November to 2025, I will be organizing workshops for local governments focused on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. This commitment is about ensuring that preparedness reaches the last mile and is practiced by the people most at risk.”

As a UNDRR Global Champion for Resilience, Legarda underscored the need for risk-informed development and disaster-resilient infrastructure, including strengthened early warning and response systems across all levels. She urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to enhance hazard risk assessments, multi-hazard impact-based forecasting, and early warning systems. “Communities must be aware of flood and landslide risks to enable proactive disaster prevention. Timely forecasting, early warning, and rapid access to pre-positioned resources save lives,” she emphasized.

Reflecting on the immediate needs following Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, Legarda stressed the responsibility of local leaders in providing accessible food, potable water, and evacuation facilities. “We extend our deepest sympathies to those who lost loved ones. My team has been distributing essential supplies to affected families since the typhoon’s onset,” she noted.

She also called for a long-term strategy to address vulnerabilities, especially in underserved areas. “Beyond immediate relief, we must support agricultural and fishing communities in building back stronger through alternative livelihoods and social programs,” she emphasized.

Senator Legarda’s advocacy underscores the urgent need for heightened community awareness of landslide and flash flood risks, the pivotal roles of local leaders and government agencies, and the collaborative efforts needed to reduce disaster risks and prevent losses from increasingly frequent natural hazards amid climate change. (30)

October 26, 2024

Solaire Resort North proudly announces the grand opening of its integrated resort, a premier destination designed for family fun and luxury. Located at the heart of Quezon City, Solaire Resort North aims to redefine family-friendly getaways with its state-of-the-art Kids Club, set to open soon.

The Kids Club is an innovative haven for children who prefer indoor play, featuring a 6-level play structure that includes a vibrant play village and a soft play area. Additionally, the Kids Club houses a purpose-built children bowling alley, promoting key cognitive abilities through engaging activities that spark creativity and teamwork.

Parents can enjoy peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe, stimulating environment. The Kids Club also includes two versatile rooms perfect for hosting birthday parties and gatherings. Equipped with cutting-edge audio and visual technology, these spaces ensure an immersive sensory experience for all attendees.

“Our mission at Solaire North is to create memorable experiences for families,” said Gianpietro Iseppi, SVP Resort Operations. “With the introduction of our Kids Club, we’re excited to provide a space where children can explore and have fun while parents enjoy all the amenities our integrated resort has to offer.”

Pricing for the Kids Club is designed to be accessible for families: 5 to 17 years can take part in all the exciting activities. Admission rate is Php750+++ for the first two hours of play, succeeding hour Php300+++. Adult Guardian pass, available at Php300+++ flat rate per entry to ensure every child has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Solaire Resort North invites families to book their stay and discover the unmatched hospitality and entertainment that awaits them. With the promise of an unforgettable vacation, children can enjoy a delightful time at the Kids Club, leaving parents free to indulge in the resort’s luxurious offerings.

Family time is even more exciting and memorable with every experience at Solaire Resort North. Enjoy exclusive rebates and savings with the “Book Early, Stay Longer and Save” offer. Book your stay now by visiting www.solaireresort.com. For more information, you may also call +63 8888 8888.

October 25, 2024

Still high from its new tablet and affordable durable phone, HONOR is launching something new soon

Manila, Philippines, October 23, 2024 – Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is far from over in launching innovative and affordable smartphones in the market. Fresh from the launch of its newest tablet HONOR Pad X8a and affordable durable phone HONOR X6b, HONOR just teased what seemed to be a water-resistant smartphone.

“You are right; we are launching another smartphone very soon and we are excited for this. We are known for durable devices and now we are taking the standard up a notch! Don’t you miss our next updates to know more about this new phone,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

HONOR Philippines has launched a handful of revolutionary devices this year. Recently, the HONOR 200 Series, the new HONOR Pad X8a and HONOR X6b have been making waves and are the hottest HONOR gadgets currently.

Check out HONOR’s wide array of products on www.honor.com/ph and shop at any HONOR Experience and Partner stores or online via Lazada (bit.ly/HONORPHLaz), Shopee (bit.ly/HONORPHShpe) and TikTok Shop (bit.ly/HONORPHTikTok).

Excited for HONOR’s upcoming smartphone? Follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

October 26, 2024

Brighten up your days with awesome savings, and score exclusive deals with our October Cheat Sheet only with foodpanda! This handy guide is perfect for new and regular users looking for vouchers to save on their favorite food orders. So hurry, and make sure to take advantage of this month's vouchers before time runs out—because, as they say, "basta deals, panda!"

Check out these vouchers and make the most of your foodpanda experience: First-Timer Alert: Check Out These Exclusive Deals Just for You:

foodpanda is dedicated to bringing food lovers their favorite meals from curated local restaurants in the Philippines. Since its creation, the on-demand food and grocery marketplace has grown to more than 170,000 partner restaurants in more than 400 cities across 11 Asian markets. foodpanda Philippines currently operates in 150 cities and municipalities across the Philippines and continuously expanding. foodpanda is a subsidiary under Delivery Hero, a worldwide leader of the food delivery industry. For more information, visit www.foodpanda.ph. 

Through the foodpanda website or via the new iOS and Android apps, customers can enter their address and view a curated list of restaurants and shops serving their neighborhood. Once they have found their choice, they can place an order in the comfort of their home or office, paying online through foodpanda’s secure platform or via cash-on-delivery The order is then carefully prepared by the restaurant or shop, picked up by the foodpanda delivery partner and delivered straight to their doorstep. 

Facebook: foodpandaphilippines 

Twitter: foodpanda_ph 

Instagram: foodpanda_ph

October 25, 2024

In marketing, visuals consistently outperform text in terms of engagement. According to HubSpot, visual content is 40 times more likely to be shared on social media than other types of content. This increased engagement can lead to higher brand awareness, trust, and loyalty.

Brands like Airbnb, Coca-Cola, and Nike have successfully incorporated visual storytelling in their marketing strategies, using captivating visuals and powerful narratives to connect with their audiences and promote their brand values.

Effective visual storytelling consists of three key components: a clear narrative, compelling visuals, and strategic placement of these visuals within the content.

Color, imagery, and typography play a significant role in visual storytelling, as they evoke emotions, set the tone, and guide the viewer's attention. You should carefully consider these elements when crafting your brand’s visual narratives.

Static photos aren’t the only way to go. Videos and animations also offer unique opportunities for visual storytelling, allowing brands to showcase their products, services, and values in a dynamic, engaging way.

To effectively incorporate visual storytelling, brands must first understand their identity and target audience. These factors will inform the brand’s visual narrative’s visual style, tone, and messaging.

A visual style guide ensures consistency across all visual content, helping to reinforce the brand's identity and messaging. This should include details on color palettes, typography, imagery, and other visual elements.

To efficiently plan your visual narrative, utilize a storyboard. It will help in planning and organizing your visual narrative before implementation. Storyboarding involves mapping out the visual content to ensure a cohesive story.

Various tools and platforms, such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and Final Cut Pro, have elements, free images, and photo and video manipulation settings. These assets enable brands to create professional-quality visual content for their visual narratives.

Aside from static photos, you can bank on interactive visuals, such as infographics and data visualizations. They offer a dynamic, engaging way to present information and tell visual stories that can help brands educate, entertain, and persuade their audiences.

Once your visuals are ready, utilize platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to connect with your target market. They offer unique opportunities for visual storytelling, allowing brands to reach and engage with their audiences in a more personal, authentic way.

Brands should invest in high-quality visuals to ensure their visual narratives are engaging and professional. You can capture high-quality visuals by using natural light, investing in quality equipment, and experimenting with different angles and compositions.

Use these visuals along with persuasive text to achieve effective visual storytelling. Your material should seamlessly integrate visual and textual elements, making way for a cohesive and engaging story.

Another way to have engaging visual material is through user-generated content (UGC). By allowing brands to engage their audiences and showcase real-life experiences with their products or services, they become a powerful tool for visual storytelling. A public relations agency can help connect you with relevant influencers and effectively plan your UGC strategy.

To measure the success of your visual marketing strategy, look at your key performance indicators (KPIs) like engagement rates, conversion rates, and social media shares.

Analyzing engagement and conversion rates helps in understanding how well your visual narratives are resonating with your audiences and identify areas for improvement.

By regularly reviewing your analytics, you can adjust your visual storytelling efforts accordingly to better resonate with your target market. This can involve refining your visual style, messaging, or content distribution channels.

Common pitfalls in visual storytelling include using low-quality visuals, neglecting the narrative, and failing to consider the audience. You can avoid these problems by investing in high-quality visuals, crafting compelling narratives, and understanding your target audience.

A more intricate challenge is navigating copyright issues. When using pictures, videos, or other kinds of media, make sure to get permission from the copyright holder to avoid legal issues.

Visual storytelling trends are constantly evolving. Brands like yours have to adapt to these changes, so make sure to explore new visual formats like AR, VR, and 360-degree videos. You can also leverage emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, to create visual content.

Emerging technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and 360-degree videos, offer exciting opportunities for visual storytelling. They can elevate promotional materials to be more immersive and interactive for audiences.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used to create visual content, with AI-powered tools and platforms automating the design process. Using AI responsibly can help your brand produce high-quality visuals more efficiently.

As visual storytelling continues to evolve, brands can expect to see more interactive, personalized experiences, as well as increased use of AI and emerging technologies in visual content creation.

October 22, 2024

October 20, 2024

Samsung offers the best home cooling technology that keeps you comfortable all-day long

MANILA,Philippines—Your home can be a reflection of your personal style and a sanctuary of comfort, but it doesn’t have to come with a financial compromise. Energy efficiency remains to be a top priority for homeowners when choosing an air conditioner, especially since they work within a certain budget for household expenses. With Samsung’s WindFree™ technology, you can enjoy a perfectly cooled space while keeping your bills down.

Samsung air conditioners are designed to blend seamlessly into your home’s aesthetics while providing a smart solution to modern living. With Samsung’s advanced cooling technology, you can transform your home into an oasis that balances style, comfort, and cost savings.

Energy-saving is a top priority for most homeowners, and Samsung offers the perfect solution with its home appliances such as the 2.5 HP WindFree™ Air Conditioner Wall-mount AI Auto Cooling and WindFree™ Air Conditioner Wall-mount SmartThings. Featuring Samsung’s Digital Inverter Boost technology, your Samsung air conditioner can maintain optimal cooling performance while utilizing 77% less energy compared to traditional cooling modes. Samsung air conditioners also help you stay comfortably cool all-year round while reducing your carbon footprint.

Thoughtfully designed to fit into your home, Samsung’s air conditioners are both budget-friendly and stylish. These affordable, modern units blend seamlessly into any room, helping maintain a serene atmosphere whether you’re hosting gatherings or simply going about your day–making your space a welcoming retreat for all.

With Samsung’s sleek aesthetics, these air conditioners not only provide exceptional cooling for your space but also elevate your home’s interior.

Imagine stepping into a refreshing, cool space that feels just right, all thanks to smart automation that works behind the scenes. Whether you’ve had a long day at work or are just enjoying a quiet evening at home, Samsung lets you control your air conditioner anytime, anywhere with the SmartThings app. Adjusting your air conditioner’s settings to suit your preferences has never been easier, even when you’re not at home. With just a few taps, you can turn on your air conditioner and set it to your ideal temperature, ensuring you walk into a cool space upon arrival.

As you wind down for the night, Samsung helps you create the ideal sleeping environment. With effortless control over your air conditioner’s settings, including Samsung’s Good Sleep Mode, you can maintain a comfortable temperature that promotes relaxation. This feature creates the ideal climate for resting without the hassle of an unpleasant cold air flow, utilizing WindFree™ cooling to ensure deep, uninterrupted sleep–allowing you to wake up feeling fully refreshed.

Discover the ideal air conditioner that fits your lifestyle with Samsung! With sleek designs and advanced features, choosing between the WindFree™ Air Conditioner Wall-mount AI Auto Cooling and the WindFree™ Air Conditioner Wall-mount SmartThings is surely a breeze. Experience the cool comfort of Samsung’s innovative air conditioner lineup today. For more information, visit samsung.com/ph.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

October 18, 2024

Manila, Oct 15 Reinforcing its presence in the country’s entertainment scene, TECNO has been named the official smartphone partner of Billboard Philippines’ highly anticipated "Mainstage - The Year One Anniversary" event, a celebration of music and entertainment. Held on October 15 at SM MOA Arena, the milestone event showcased local talent and brought together some of the Philippines’ top musicians, celebrities, and rising stars. 

The key features of the SPARK 30 include the up to 800 nits Bright Display 6.8’’ FHD+ smooth display, a 64MP ultra-clear camera with Sony IMX682 sensor and a G91 Gaming processor. The 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging ensures users can enjoy long hours of seamless content consumption and gaming. The SPARK 30 Pro adds to this experience with enhanced performance, powered by MediaTek’s Helio G100 processor, boasting an Antutu score over 420,000, adding to the fluid performance even more. Additionally, both models are water-resistant, with the SPARK 30 equipped with IP64 certification.

Adding to the excitement is TECNO’s partnership with TRANSFORMERS, which brings a unique, limited-edition design to the SPARK 30 Series, appealing to fans of both the franchise and of stylish, modern smartphone designs.

The SPARK 30 Series will officially launch in the Philippines on November 5, coinciding with the country's massive 11.11 sales event, where it will be available both on TECNO’s offline and online platforms. With its entertainment and gaming-centric features, the SPARK 30 series is set to capture the attention of young Filipinos looking for a high-performing yet affordable smartphone.

TECNO is an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 countries and regions across five continents. Since its launch, TECNO has been revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging global markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies. Today, TECNO has developed into a recognized leader in its target markets, delivering state-of-the-art innovation through a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, HiOS operating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing”, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best and newest technologies for forward-looking individuals. By creating stylish, intelligent products, TECNO inspires consumers worldwide to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNO Philippines’ official site: https://www.tecno-mobile.com/ph/

For any related media queries, please contact pr.ph@tecno-mobile.com.

October 14, 202

Manila, Philippines — In conjunction with the grand celebration of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), a landmark event known as the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair was held for cinema workers at the Philippine Sports Arena on October 13-14. This initiative, spearheaded by the leadership of the MMFF and its principal stakeholders—the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), and AKTOR—aligned with the festival's commitment to bolster the flourishing Philippine cinema industry by directly supporting its backbone: the cinema workers.

The fair is established on the foundation of delivering Mabilis, Maayos, Maginhawa, at Masayang serbisyo publiko, featuring 23 participating agencies that will provide over 100 programs aimed at enhancing the welfare and growth of industry members.

This pioneering initiative is anchored in the Bagong Pilipinas vision promoted by President Marcos, marking a significant step towards recognizing and advocating for the cultural and economic contributions of the creative arts industry to the nation. 

Organized under the visionary leadership of House Speaker Atty. Martin G. Romualdez and in strategic partnership with the MMFF leadership , and stakeholders. The Serbisyo Fair was crafted to bridge government services and benefits more closely to those who contribute tirelessly behind the scenes of the film industry. Spearheading this momentous event were MMFF's Chairman, Atty. Romando Artes; MOWELFUND Chairman, Boots Anson Roa, alongside President and CEO, Rez Cortez; and from the FDCP, Chairman Joey Reyes with Executive Director III, Daniel David Morales, guiding the charge.

"The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair is a pivotal step in ensuring that our cinema workers are recognized, celebrated, and above all, supported," stated Atty. Romando Artes during the event's opening ceremony. "Through the collective efforts of the MMFF, MOWELFUND, FDCP, FAP, and AKTOR, we bring forth an era where the government's helping hand is more accessible to the people who form the backbone of our country's cinematic ventures."

Over two days, thousands of cinema workers availed themselves of various government services and benefits, which were specifically tailored to address their unique needs and concerns. The fair not only served as a platform for assistance but also strengthened the sense of community within the industry by providing novelties such as workshops, health consultations, and entertainment segments.

Boots Anson Roa, Chairman of MOWELFUND, emphasized the fair's role in uplifting the lives of cinema workers. "This is more than just an event; it's a testament to our continuous commitment to enhancing the welfare of every individual who contributes to the magic of Philippine cinema," she remarked.

The Bagong Pilinas Serbisyo Fair sets a benchmark for future initiatives aiming to support local cinema workers. Through collaboration and unified support, the MMFF and its stakeholders demonstrate an unwavering dedication to the prosperity and well-being of the film industry's unsung heroes, laying down a solid foundation for their recognition and security.

October 16, 2024

Survey by Visa shows Filipinos' shift toward contactless payments, experience-driven travel; Singapore and Japan preferred holiday destinations

Philippines, 14 October 2024 –It’s the holiday season—at least for Filipinos—and with it comes a surge in holiday shopping, travel, get-togethers, and festive activities. With the season being a peak time for getaways, Filipinos prioritize experience-driven travel, with Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan being top destinations. Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar survey reveals a significant shift in how Filipinos plan and pay for their travels, showing a growing preference for contactless payments alongside the continued use of cash.

Travelling for new experiences, shopping

For Filipino travelers, the holiday season is an opportunity to explore new experiences and create lasting memories as travel peaks in December, with 32% of surveyed respondents planning domestic trips and 23% choosing international destinations.

The survey found that most Filipinos travel to relax (80%) and seek new experiences (43%). While sightseeing remains the top activity (82%), experiencing local cuisine and dining (67%) and shopping (67%) are also key priorities. This shows that Filipinos are looking for destinations that offer a blend of leisure, entertainment, and adventure.

Singapore, a long-time favorite, emerged as the top destination for Filipino travelers over the past 12 months, with 38% of respondents visiting the city-state. Singapore continues to draw Filipino tourists with its vibrant blend of urban attractions and rich cultural experiences. Its close proximity to the Philippines, ease of access, and wide range of activities makes it an ideal choice, especially during the holiday season.

Hong Kong remains a favorite at 31%, particularly for travelers who enjoy combining shopping with festive celebrations. Its expansive retail scene and diverse culinary offerings make it appealing to Filipino families seeking both luxury and bargain shopping experiences.

Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes, festive markets and shopping districts alongside its deep cultural heritage, is another popular destination, with 30% of Filipinos visiting to experience the Land of the Rising Sun.

As Filipinos head overseas, many are also drawn to the Philippines as a tourist destination. Inbound travel to the Philippines is also on the rise, with the country welcoming 3.66 million international visitors from January to August 2024—a 10.14% increase from the same period last year, according to the Department of Tourism. Additionally, data from the World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) forecasts that international and domestic tourism spending will reach P715.6 billion and P3.7 trillion, respectively, surpassing 2019 figures by 5.7% and 1.8%.

Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: “At Visa, we are committed to ensuring a seamless, secure, and convenient experience for Filipino travelers heading abroad and for inbound visitors to the Philippines. We recognize that tourism plays a vital role in the economy, contributing to job creation and overall growth. We’re working to support the Filipino government's efforts to enhance tourism by improving digital payment methods and providing tourists with an enjoyable experience, which will help to further drive economic development and strengthen the tourism industry.”

Visa helps drive the growth of tourism in the Philippines by leveraging its global network and collaborating with local markets to promote the acceptance of Visa cards, creating a more enjoyable payments experience for tourists. In the Philippines, Visa supports small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by providing tools and knowledge for cashless transactions such as the SME Online Toolkit. Post-COVID, Visa launched the POSM Visibility Initiative to enhance marketing materials in tourist hotspots. Additionally, Visa partnered with the Pacific Asia Travel Association to conduct finance and digital skills workshops for tourism SMEs and Department of Tourism officials, benefiting 120 participants across Southeast Asia including Laguna in the Philippines.

Shift in Payment Preferences: Contactless and Cash

A key trend emerging in Filipino travel habits is the shift toward contactless payments. In a survey commissioned by Visa done by YouGov in Aug 2024 reveals that 66% of Filipino travelers now prefer using contactless methods like mobile wallets and tap-to-pay cards, while 67% said they will likely get cards with contactless features.

"As cross-border travel continues to grow, Visa sees a tremendous opportunity to remain a key part of the traveler’s journey. The convenience and security of digital payment options give travelers greater confidence when making transactions abroad—whether they are booking accommodation, dining, or shopping. Our goal is to continue supporting travelers at every stage, from planning and booking to the entirety of their trip, by encouraging the use of Visa for a seamless, secure, and hassle-free payment experience," Navarro added.

Despite the rise in contactless payments, 71% of holiday travelers still carry cash as a backup, particularly in areas where digital payment infrastructure may not be as widely available. The continued use of cash illustrates that there is some way to go towards full contactless payments, especially for holiday destinations that have not fully shifted to cashless payments.

As the holiday season approaches, the preference for more experience-driven travel, combined with evolving payment methods, reflects the changing dynamics of how Filipinos shop, pay, and explore the world. Whether through cash or contactless payments, the essence of Filipino travel remains centered around creating memories and sharing moments with loved ones—values that are as enduring as the destinations themselves.

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

October 15, 2024

DITO Transforms Bacolod into a Vibrant Hub of Music, Culture, and Connectivity

DITO Telecommunity is back to bring smiles at this year’s MassKara Festival, one of the Philippines’ most anticipated cultural events. Now celebrating its Sapphire Anniversary in its 45th year, this month-long grand celebration of Bacolod’s rich culture and joyful spirit has earned the city the nickname “City of Smiles.” Known for its Carnival-esque street parades, featuring performers in colorful, ornamented masks and tribal wear, the festival is a vibrant reminder of Bacolod’s inauguration as a city.

Dedicated to connecting Filipinos and promoting local talent and festivities, DITO ensures to create meaningful connections in communities and strengthen Filipino culture through its advanced technology. In collaboration with the City Government of Bacolod, this year’s MassKara Festival is set to be even more thrilling with DITO’s vibrant lineup of activities.

The celebration kicked off with the MassKara Festival Grand Countdown Salubong last October 11, 2024. Get ready for the next few days as DITO brings special awards and cash prizes for various events. First, the Coronation Night for Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 will take place on October 19, showcasing the city’s finest in beauty and talent. The Miss DITO Telecommunity 2024 special award will be given to the candidate who embodies confidence and passion for community-building. The TODO Na DITO sa MassKara ElekTROIKA Divas is a celebration of women in music, along with the TODO Na DITO sa MassKara Electric Float Parade on October 26. Bacolod’s Best Float of 2024 will be awarded to the parade’s most stunning display. This year's festival will wrap up with the exciting TODO Na DITO MassKara Street Dance & Arena Competition on October 27. The Unity Dance Segment will feature talented groups that will dance to the "TODO NA DITO" tune highlighting their creativity and the community's vibrant energy.

"At DITO, we believe our role as a telecommunications company goes beyond connectivity. We are here to empower communities, celebrate local heritage, and showcase Filipino talent. The MassKara Festival is the perfect platform to showcase Bacolod’s spirit, and we are thrilled to be part of this celebration of culture and creativity,” said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business.

Experience the Excitement of DITO Days at MassKara 2024

DITO is set to bring a spectacular three-day celebration packed with excitement and entertainment at the DITO Corporate Block on Lacson Tourism Strip from October 25 to 27, 2024.

Explore the vibrant and interactive DITO Experiential Hub featuring fun-filled and immersive activities, along with a cozy café for everyone to relax. Attendees can take home freebies with the purchase of DITO products, such as the Sim Starter and Level-Up mobile prepaid packs and FLEXPlan postpaid plans. They can also experience a home upgrade with the DITO Home 5G Postpaid WiFi, DITO Home 5G Prepaid WiFi, DITO Home Prepaid Starter Kit, and the newly launched DITO Home WOWFi, the world's first 5G RedCap technology for home use. With its affordable and accessible internet, this Home WiFi will truly make visitors say “WOW!”.

Bacolodnons can also look forward to the TODO Na DITO Contests on all DITO Days, where talented individuals will compete in the TODO Kantahan, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Gaming events. End each night with unforgettable memories as DITO brings the TODO Na DITO MassKara Concert. Enjoy amazing performances from popular artists, including Cup of Joe, known for their hit song “Tingin” on October 25, the dynamic P-pop group ALAMAT who sang “Maharani,” and the talented Hev Abi, popular for his song “Walang Alam,” both performing on October 26, along with other fantastic DJs and local artists, making it a celebration full of great music and energy.

As Bacolod gears up for the MassKara Festival, DITO is ready to power the city’s most awaited moments, keeping everyone connected as they celebrate the vibrancy and resilience of the Filipino spirit. For more details about DITO Telecommunity, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

About DITO Telecommunity

DITO Telecommunity Corporation, is the newest major telecommunications provider in the Philippines after it was awarded a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity by the National Telecommunications Commission in 2019.

DITO commits to provide world class, fast, affordable, and secure telecommunications services that endeavors to connect and empower Filipino communities wherever they may be and aims to see a day where data access is no longer a privilege, but a right for everyone.

DITO is a Filipino company and is a consortium that includes Udenna Corporation and China Telecommunications Corporation.

DITO Telecommunity Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DITOphofficial

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