Zoominglife

18/11/2024

LOOK: Experience the true spirit of Christmas in Cebu. Light the World Giving Machines at Robinsons Galleria let you donate essentials to those in need this holiday season.|

Experience the true spirit of Christmas in Cebu! Light the World Giving Machines at Robinsons Galleria let you donate essentials to those in need this holiday season.

18/11/2024

: Cebu Landmasters reports ₱14.1B in 9-month revenues, up 9.2%. Highlights include 7% net income growth, strong property sales, project launches, and industry awards. |

Cebu Landmasters reports ₱14.1B in 9-month revenues, up 9.2%. Highlights include 7% net income growth, strong property sales, project launches, and industry awards.

18/11/2024

Entrepreneur and ex-jungolf ace Brixton Aw rules Mabuhay Miles Elite golf

TAGAYTAY— Brixton Aw, a former junior golfer who has dabbled into business full time for the last 23 years, on Thursday topped the 28th Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational Golf tournament at the composite Midlands and Lucky 9 course after shooting a net five-under-par 67 using the System 36 method of scoring.

"It was a great day," Aw said after canning five birdies and almost acing two holes in a hot performance that made up for what he called was a sub-par stint he had last year when he was first invited to the tournament that was held at The Orchard in Cavite.

"Last year wasn't really for me because I couldn't nail the putts--that's why I won the most pars award," Aw said with a hearty laugh in recalling his tournament debut.

"I almost aced two holes this time and knew that it was a special round," added the 45-year-old owner of lubricants company Creative Sparx, Inc. He became an Elite member of the frequent fliers club of the country's flag carrier because of business trips to Malaysia, Abu Dhabi, among other countries.

"I really had a lot of fun."

The latest holding of the event was a blockbuster hit, with close to 350 invited members attending and playing the well-manicured Midlands and Highlands courses and the Lucky 9. The awarding ceremonies hosted by former volleyball star Gretchen Ho had a very jovial mood with actress Gabbi Garcia and hit band Side A performing even as food and beverages overflowed.

The victory was worth 134,000 Mabuhay Miles points for Aw--good for a business class ticket to the United States. Jenz Vincent Tecson won the low gross championship after firing a 75.

Jay Bengzon won the Sponsors/Guests division after shooting an 83 for a net 72, with Mary Jocelyn Garcia copping the ladies title also with a net of 72. Marvin Caparros fired a gross 78 and for a net 70 for the Seniors Championship.

The organizing Mabuhay Miles has promised to make this an even bigger event when the 29th edition rolls along next year.

The 28th staging of the 18-hole tournament was supported by Hole-In-One sponsors Mercedes Benz Philippines, Okada Manila, Newport World Resorts, Get Go’s Golf Cart and Philippine Airlines.

Diamond sponsors included Mastercard and Nustar Resort and Casino, while HSBC was a Platinum sponsor.

Gold sponsors were PNB, Megaworld Hotel and Resorts, Seda Hotels, Tumi and Asian Journal. Silver sponsors included The Farm at San Benito, Tanduay Distillery, Asia Brewery, Marivent Hotels & Resorts Inc./Las Casas Filipina de Acuzar, SMAC, Converge ICT Solutions Inc., Seafood City, ETON PROPERTIES PHILIPPINES, INC., MICROWINE/Liquor Kingdom Trading, LA CONDESSA/Global8 Finance Corp., The Travel Club and Hertz Asia Pacific.

Panorama Villas, Innovator Luggage and Wharf Hotels joined as donors.

18/11/2024

Take your Christmas celebrations to the next level with Digido’s Ho-ho-holiday Extravaganza raffle promo
Prizes include PHP 30,000 cash, SM Gift Passes and Lazada Gift Cards.

Manila, Philippines | November 2024 — Multi-awarded digital lending platform Digido is pleased to announce its Ho-ho-holiday Extravaganza raffle promo, offering its borrowers the opportunity to take their Christmas celebrations to the next level.

Prizes consist of SM Gift Passes, Lazada Gift Cards and PHP 30,000 cash for one winner.

First-time or repeat clients who successfully apply for a new loan from November 14 to December 11, 2024 are eligible for the festive promotion.

The winners of the giveaway will be announced on Digido’s official page (https://www.facebook.com/digidoph/) using the clients’ Lifetime IDs.

Digido offers a First Loan For Free service, where first-time borrowers can avail up to PHP 4,000 with 0% interest and a standard Personal Loan up to PHP 25,000 for repeat clients. It can be accessed through its official site digido.ph, its apps in Google Play and the iOS App Store, as well as Lazada Loans.

Commenting on the promotion, Digido business development manager Rose Arreco said: “It’s no secret that Filipinos are big on the significance of Christmas and festive celebrations. Through this promotion, we wanted to give back to our clients by helping during the holiday rush and have a role in their Noche Buenas, get-togethers and gift-giving events. We are incredibly grateful to them for trusting our services this year and are eager to remain their financial partner in the years to come.”

Services under the Digido platform are financed by Digido Finance Corp. with SEC Registration No. 202003056 and Certificate of Authority No. 1272.

Digido’s trusted services have been lauded by the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards, International Finance Awards, World Business Outlook Awards, International Business Magazine Awards, Pan Finance Awards, The Global Economics Awards, the Global Banking & Finance Review and the Global Financial Market Review.

18/11/2024

NUSTAR Launches Bingo Royale for Weekends of Wins

Get ready for excitement as NUSTAR Resort Cebu presents Bingo Royale, a regular weekend event bringing high-energy entertainment and a chance to win jackpots.

NUSTAR sweetens the deal with fantastic promotions for Bingo Royale players. New NUSTAR Rewards members receive a complimentary card for the first Speedy Game, available after completing two Speedy Games, giving them a winning edge. Plus, players who purchase two game packages will get one bonus bingo card for the third Speedy Game, boosting their chances for big wins.

As a bonus, all players can enjoy complimentary beverages, including coffee, sodas, iced tea, and more, while playing. Plus, free shuttle services are available to and from NUSTAR, with priority access to NUSTAR Rewards members. Bingo Royale is the perfect way to spend your weekends with thrilling games and fantastic prizes. Participants must be 21 years of age or older to join.

Where and When

Bingo Royale takes the spotlight at the Axis Entertainment & Sports Bar in NUSTAR Resort Cebu every Saturday and Sunday, starting November 16, 2024. The fun kicks off at 1:00 PM and runs until 5:00 PM, offering an action-packed afternoon. Whether you're a seasoned bingo enthusiast or trying your luck for the first time, Bingo Royale promises unmatched thrills and anticipation.

Get Your Game Set and Win Big

For just Php700, players can purchase a set of 40 bingo cards (4 cards per game across 10 games). Games 1 through 9 each offer a top prize of Php10,000, while the final game boasts an impressive Php30,000 prize. A special jackpot prize also awaits anyone who completes a blackout pattern within the first 50 balls. As a bonus, another jackpot called, “Star Ball,” can be won during the special games.
In addition to the regular games, participants can join special rounds by purchasing extra cards, where even bigger prizes are up for grabs.

About NUSTAR Resort Cebu

NUSTAR Resort Cebu is the flagship project of Universal Hotels and Resorts, Inc. (UHRI), a privately owned corporation of the Gokongwei Group focused primarily on gaming and integrated resort developments across the Philippines.

Visit www.nustar.ph for more information or email them at [email protected].

18/11/2024

PLDT, Smart Kids Learning Caravan empower Visayas vs OSAEC

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) bolster their child online protection initiatives in Visayas by conducting the “Better Today for Kids: Bata, Bata Kami ang Iyong Kasangga” learning caravan, in the municipalities of Daanbantayan in Cebu and Miagao in Iloilo.

Launched in August 2024, the Learning Caravan seeks to raise awareness on the prevalence of online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC) in the country. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent in producing Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM), this initiative aims to equip vital sectors, such as local government units (LGU), barangay personnel, educators, and parents, with the necessary knowledge and digital tools to combat criminal activity online.

“As internet service providers, one of our priorities is to protect our customers online, including children. We are grateful to work with the LGUs of Daanbantayan and Miagao in amplifying our call to end OSAEC, encouraging more individuals to help make this world a safe space for our children,” said Marylou B. Gocotano, Stakeholder Management Visayas Relations Head at PLDT and Smart.

PLDT and Smart partnered with Save the Children Philippines, International Justice Mission Philippines, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office Region 6 for the Visayas run of this caravan.

More than 360 participants deepened their understanding of Republic Act No. 11930 or the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act, as well as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Moreover, the learning session covered the dangers of AI-generated CSAEM and provided ways to address this emerging issue. PLDT and Smart also shared tips to guide participants in building a safer digital environment for children.

"As a core institution, it is our prime responsibility to protect the rights of our learners, especially our children. The impact of this seminar is very beneficial in the sense that it adheres to the core values that we educators are implementing at school. It will serve as our constant reminder that we need to take part in addressing pressing issues in our community, such as OSAEC and CSAEM," said Lemuel Soliva, Senior High School teacher at Bacolod National High School in Miagao.

These efforts underscore PLDT and Smart’s commitment to helping the Philippines attain UNSDG 16, which promotes just, peaceful, and inclusive societies. [END]

About PLDT
PLDT is the Philippines' largest fully integrated telco company. Through its principal business groups — from fixed line to wireless — PLDT offers a wide range of telecommunications and digital services across the Philippines’ most extensive fiber optic backbone, and fixed line and cellular networks.

PLDT is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE:TEL) and its American Depositary Shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:PHI). PLDT has one of the largest market capitalizations among Philippine — listed companies.

Further information can be obtained by visiting www.pldt.com

About Smart

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is a wholly-owned wireless communications and digital services subsidiary of PLDT, Inc., the Philippines’ largest and only integrated telecommunications company. Smart serves approximately 96% of the country’s cities and municipalities with its combined 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G network*, providing mobile communications services, high-speed internet connectivity, and access to digital services and content to over 71.8 million Filipinos*, supporting the country’s growing digital economy, and providing the best customer experience for an increasingly digital Filipino lifestyle.

18/11/2024

Cebu Pacific Offers Exclusive Seat Sale for Sapporo Flights

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, keeps the holiday spirit alive as it offers another seat sale – this time for the newly opened direct route to Sapporo, Japan (New Chitose).

From November 13 to 19, CEB travelers may book flights from Manila to Sapporo for as low as PHP 1,488 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period will run from January 16 to March 29, 2025.

As the promo covers the best time to visit Sapporo, travelers can look forward to participating in all sorts of winter activities. From skiing and snowboarding at the Teine Ski Resort to sledding and building snowmen at the Takino Suzuran Hillside Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

CEB travelers are also invited to experience the charm of the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, where the city comes alive with snow and ice sculptures illuminated at night.

Beginning January 16, 2025, CEB will operate flights between Manila and Sapporo three times weekly – every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. CEB will be the only airline to offer direct flights between these two cities.

Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail themselves of other add-ons. CEB also offers other payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets.
CEB operates in 35 domestic and 27 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
Book your flights now at bit.ly/CebuPacificSale.

18/11/2024

CBS China Bank Savings Opens Its 170th Branch in Talisay City, Cebu

China Bank Savings (CBS), one of the leading thrift banks in the country, marked a significant milestone with the opening of its 170th branch today at South Coast Center on Monday, November 18, 2024 in Talisay City, Cebu.

The inauguration was graced by CBS executives from the Head Office in Makati and prominent local dignitaries from the Cebu sector.

James Christian Dee, President of CBS, expressed optimism for the bank’s growth in the region. "Talisay, Cebu was chosen for its vibrant community, strong ties with potential clients, and opportunities for growth. We hope to open five more branches next year in Visayas and Mindanao."

Established in 2008 following the acquisition of Manila Bank by China Bank in 2007, CBS has steadily expanded over the past 16 years. Strategic mergers with Unity Bank and Planters Development Bank solidified its position as the second-largest thrift bank in the Philippines.

Today, CBS boasts 170 branches nationwide and offers a robust platform for retail banking, auto and housing loans, teacher financing, and SME services. Its mission is to deliver financial inclusivity and enhance the quality of life for consumers and entrepreneurs under its "Easy Banking for You" service philosophy.

The Talisay branch is CBS’s fifth branch in Cebu, underscoring the bank’s commitment to fostering economic development in the region. By providing accessible financial products and services, CBS aims to support individuals, families, and businesses in Cebu and beyond.

CBS offers a range of services, including:

📌Deposits and Placements
📌Auto and Home Loans
📌Personal and Salary Loans (APD Salary Loan)
📌SME/SmallBiz Loan
📌ATM and Payroll Services
📌Cash Management Services
📌Online and Mobile Banking through the CBS GO App

As CBS continues to grow, its focus remains on meeting the needs of entry-level customers, the broader consumer market, and the strategic Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector.

With the launch of its 170th branch, CBS reaffirms its dedication to financial inclusiveness and economic upliftment, providing valuable opportunities for local communities and businesses in Cebu and beyond.

16/11/2024

Rekindling My Passion for Photography: A Journey of Growth and Rediscovery
By: Iste Sesante Leopoldo Photography

Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I first picked up a camera at the age of 12, captivated by its ability to freeze moments in time. By 20, I had turned that passion into a profession as a photojournalist for The Freeman Newspaper.

Yet, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Transitioning from film to digital photography came with a steep learning curve, particularly in mastering editing software—an essential skill in today’s digital age.

Pausing for Life’s Priorities

Life eventually shifted my focus. Marriage and raising a family meant setting aside photography. Upgrading equipment became costly, and the demands of parenthood often left little time for creative pursuits. Over the past two decades, my relationship with photography has been on and off—a passion I couldn’t fully abandon but couldn’t wholly pursue either.

A New Chapter: Embracing Hybrid Photography

Recently, I had the chance to reignite that spark by attending the Sony workshop for hybrid shooters facilitated by hybrid shooter and content creator Jack Ponpon better known as JAK73.

The workshop, focused about being a hybrid photographer and videographer opened my eyes to new possibilities, particularly in videography—a field I’ve always been curious about but hesitant to explore.

Ponpon’s guidance was both practical and inspiring, especially his advice for aspiring travel hybrid shooters:

- Plan Ahead: Always determine the kind of content you want to create and make a shot list to save time.

-Visualize Your Sequence: Imagine how your shots will flow together.

- Experiment with Lenses and Angles:Use different lenses and camera types to create variety.

- Compose Thoughtfully: Apply principles like the rule of thirds, balance visual weight, and use leading lines or symmetry for aesthetically pleasing shots.

Lighting and Timing: The Keys to Great Shots

Ponpon emphasized that lighting is key:

"Be aware of the natural light in your environment, and learn to use it to your advantage," he shared. Timing, too, is crucial. Waiting for the perfect moment can elevate an ordinary shot to something extraordinary.

Moving Forward

The workshop not only reignited my love for photography but also reminded me of its evolving nature. Today’s hybrid shooters—photographers who master both stills and video—represent the future of visual storytelling.

With renewed enthusiasm, I’m now exploring ways to enhance my skills further, investing time in both photography and videography. The journey is far from over, and I’m excited to see where this path leads.

For anyone hesitant to reignite their creative passions, take it from me: it’s never too late to start again. Whether it’s through workshops, mentorships, or simply picking up your camera, the opportunities to grow and rediscover your love for the craft are endless.

16/11/2024

Sony Workshop to Focus on Creating Travel Content for Hybrid Shooters

Aspiring and professional content creators in Cebu are set to elevate their craft as Sony Philippines, in collaboration with Digikaden, hosts a workshop on creating compelling travel content for hybrid shooters.

The event is at Dragon Cafe, Bonifacio District, Cebu City.

This highly anticipated workshop will provide participants with insights, techniques, and hands-on experience to master the art of travel storytelling using Sony’s cutting-edge hybrid camera systems.

With the growing demand for dynamic travel content, the session promises to equip attendees with skills to shoot high-quality photos and videos seamlessly. Whether you're a vlogger, photographer, or filmmaker, the workshop aims to inspire creativity and enhance technical know-how.

The event is part of the initiative, bringing together passionate creators and showcasing Sony’s innovative tools for modern storytellers.

16/11/2024

LOOK: The Light the World Giving Machine was officially unveiled on November 16, 2024, at Robinsons Galleria Cebu, launching a unique holiday initiative that encourages charitable giving.

The ceremonial unveiling was led by President Paul Johnson, secondary counselor of the Philippines Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder Michael B. Strong and his wife, Sister Christine Strong.

Leaders of the beneficiary organizations, including Rev. Fr. Alex K. Cola Jr., Executive Director of Cebu Caritas, and Maida Salcedo-Mission, UNICEF Philippines Corporate Funding Officer, attended the event. Also present were Richard Sarmiento, Robinsons Galleria Cebu Mall Operations Manager, and Cebu City Councilor Joel Garganera.

Since its inception in 2017, the initiative has inspired people to follow the example of Jesus Christ by spreading kindness and serving others.

A Unique Approach to Giving

The Giving Machines provide an innovative way for people to give back. Unlike regular vending machines, these allow individuals to purchase essential items—such as food, school supplies, and medical kits—for those in need. Donations go directly to partner charities, ensuring immediate and meaningful impact.

The Giving Machines will be available throughout the holiday season, offering Cebuanos a chance to make a difference in the lives of others. |

14/11/2024

LUCKY SEVEN FOR UC WEBMASTERS: A WIN AWAY FROM HISTORIC SWEEP

The University of Cebu (UC) Webmasters took another dominant step toward history, routing the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Wildcats, 84-65, to remain unbeaten in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) Season 24 men’s basketball tournament on Thursday night, November 14, at the Cebu Coliseum.

With a perfect 7-0 record, the Webmasters secured the No. 1 seed and earned a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four. But the bigger milestone is within reach: UC is now just one win away from completing a historic 8-0 sweep of the elimination round — an achievement that would mark the first time in the school’s CESAFI history, and something that even the legendary June Mar Fajardo-led Webmasters couldn’t accomplish during their back-to-back championship reigns in 2010 and 2011.

Coach Atty. Kenneth Kernn Atilano Sesante, who has led the Webmasters to their best start in recent memory, praised his team’s resilience and discipline in their continued dominance. “We’ve worked hard for this, and every player is focused on the goal,” said Sesante. “But we know that the job is not done yet. We’ll stay grounded and prepare for our final game.”

The Webmasters’ perfect run could be capped with a win over Benedicto College (BC) Cheetahs on November 26, the final day of the elimination round. Should they emerge victorious, the Webmasters will cement their place in CESAFI history, entering the Final Four with an unblemished record and a significant advantage heading into the playoff rounds.

As UC continues its pursuit of the elusive sweep, the team’s focus remains unwavering. With a roster full of talent, depth, and chemistry, the Webmasters are not just aiming for a perfect elimination round—they are determined to claim the ultimate prize and write a new chapter in UC basketball history. | via University of Cebu Webmasters Collegiate Basketball Team

14/11/2024

Penbrothers Founder Nicolas Bivero: A Visionary Creating High-Value Careers in the Philippines

At the 7th Annual Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) Conference, held at JPark Island Resort and WaterPark in Lapu-Lapu City, Penbrothers founder Nicolas Bivero took the stage to share the inspiring story behind the company’s creation.

In 2014, Bivero, alongside co-founder Gui Faria, launched Penbrothers with a bold vision: to provide high-value career opportunities for exceptional talent in the Philippines, particularly in underrated and untapped locations.

What began as a simple but powerful idea — to build a platform where top-tier talent from smaller cities could thrive — has now evolved into a major success. Penbrothers helps innovative startups and SMEs around the world scale their operations by connecting them with highly skilled local talent. Today, the company employs over 1,500 people across a range of industries, including retail, e-commerce, gaming, IT, and FinTech, serving more than 90 startups and enterprises.

As Penbrothers continues to grow, Bivero’s mission remains steadfast: to create a future where Filipino talent, no matter where they’re based, can access world-class careers without having to leave the country. His vision is not just about jobs — it’s about transforming the way the world views talent from the Philippines.

14/11/2024

The A Little Tea Philippines to Open 5th Branch in Lapu-Lapu City with Exciting Promotions

The A Little Tea Philippines is set to open its 5th branch in Lapu-Lapu City on November 15, 2024, at LG Garden Walk, Mactan.

To celebrate the grand opening, the first 50 customers can enjoy their delightful milk teas for just Php 1.00 each, with a maximum of 5 orders per person.

Additionally, customers can take advantage of a buy-one-get-one promo on any drink of their choice, available throughout the opening day. Please note that this offer is exclusively for walk-in customers and cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.

Don't miss out on this chance to savor a little moment of joy with every sip.

See you at The A Little Tea in LG Garden Walk, Mactan. | via Trisha Zara Sesante Leopoldo








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14/11/2024

LOOK: Island Souvenirs launches My Islands, a Creative Studio at Mactan Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City.

According to Andrea Aldeguer, this innovative venture offers travelers a unique, personalized experience, elevating the souvenir journey by bringing creativity and customization to the next level.

It’s all about giving travelers a meaningful, personal piece of the islands to take home. |

14/11/2024

: Carmela Padasas, Techpreneur at Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) Conference, Shares Journey with Wedd.ph

At the 7th Annual Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) Conference, 27-year-old techpreneur Carmela Padasas shared insights into her startup, Wedd.ph, a platform that’s transforming the wedding planning experience. A graduate of business administration with a major in financial management from Adamson University, Padasas launched her SaaS digital marketing company soon after college.

Inspired by friends struggling to find reliable wedding suppliers, she created https://wedd.ph/ to bridge the gap. The platform allows suppliers and clients to connect directly, streamlining the process of finding and booking services. Since its launch, Wedd.ph has gained thousands of subscribers, demonstrating the demand for digital solutions in the wedding industry.

14/11/2024

: At the 7th Annual Geeks On A Beach conference, a press conference was held to kick off the two-day event, bringing together over 500 entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, and global leaders in tech, startups, and design. Set at a world-class beach resort, JPark Island Resort and Waterpark in Lapu-Lapu City s, the conference promises a dynamic lineup of insightful discussions and invaluable opportunities to drive forward the future of innovation.

14/11/2024

The Little Tea Philippines is having a grand opening on November 15, 2024, at 1 PM at LG Garden Walk, Mactan!

Be among the first to experience their delightful teas and savor a little moment of joy with every sip. See you there! 🍃🫖