Donny Pangilinan an eSports gamer in Good Game "GG"

“It really made me respect more professional gamers and how much hard work they put into it. It’s really a real profession; it shouldn’t be taken lightly,” ~Donny Pangilinan, who is an Acer Philippines Brand Ambassador

In ‘GG,’ actor Donny Pangilinan goes out of his comfort zone by portraying Seth, an introverted gamer who plays for a rookie esports team while experiencing various personal challenges. 

Directed by Prime Cruz, ‘‘GG’’ or “Good Game” is produced by Mediaworks, Cignal Entertainment, and Create Cinema and distributed by ABS-CBN’s Star Cinema. The film showcases Acer and Predator gaming products as the official PC partner.

‘‘GG’’ is the country’s first full-length movie that delves into the world of professional esports. 

‘‘GG’’ is also a family affair for Donny. It marks the first time Donny and his mom, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, appear onscreen together. Donny’s dad, Anthony Pangilinan, owns Mediaworks, while his sister, Hannah, also co-wrote and co-produced the movie.

The film’s cast includes Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, Boots Anson-Roa, Baron Geisler, Gold Aceron, Igi Boy Flores, Kaleb Ong, Johannes Risler, and Icebox. Anthony Pangilinan, Jake Ejercito, Kim Atienza, Bigboy Cheng, Jake San Diego, Nicole Borromeo, and John Arcilla also made special appearances in the movie.

Get into the game and watch ‘‘GG’’ in cinemas nationwide!

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world's top ICT companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. As Acer evolves with the industry and changing lifestyles, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another, creating ecosystems and opening up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. Acer's 7,700 employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

Thai alt-rock duo SCRUBB will be staging their debut concert in the Philippines

“We’ve been wanting to perform in Manila for the longest time. The opportunity has finally presented itself, so we’re definitely looking forward to meeting our Filipino fans and serenading them with our music as well as personal favorites.” ~SCRUBB in the press statement

Thai alt-rock duo SCRUBB will be staging their debut concert in the Philippines this weekend!

 

The award-winning music act behind the original soundtrack of the global BL hit, 2gether: The Series, will be performing with a full band set on Saturday, February 10, 2024 (6 p.m. onwards), at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City.

 

To date, Scrubb has graced several sold-out shows in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Singapore, and key cities across Asia. The internationally renowned music act is composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha.

 

SCRUBB: Live in Manila will also be joined by two opening acts: prolific actor-rapper Elijah Canlas and chart-topping singer-songwriter TONEEJAY, who will be gracing the show with their own unique sets.

 

Tickets to #ScrubbLiveinManila are now available for fans to purchase: bit.ly/scrubbmnl.

 

This event is presented by GNN Entertainment Productions with official hotel partner, Discovery Suites and major sponsors: KATINKO and Greenwich.

Revolutionising Digital Entertainment in the Philippines

“The success of BingoPlus has paved the way for [DigiPlus] to undertake a strategic transformation to position itself as a digital entertainment platform.”

Putting the GAME in eGaming: DigiPlus utilizes cutting-edge technologies and a deep bench of experts from different spaces within the gaming industry.

Traditional bingo holds a significant place in Filipino culture, serving as a communal activity where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to enjoy, unwind, and establish meaningful connections during each session.

However, the gaming landscape underwent a substantial transformation due to the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic, which led to quarantine restrictions prohibiting social gatherings. This global crisis accelerated the widespread adoption of digital technologies, particularly among the digitally savvy younger demographic, with a notable increase in Internet and smartphone usage in recent years.

For DigiPlus Interactive, a gaming and leisure company, this presented both a challenge and an opportunity. They found themselves at the forefront of driving the digitization of the Philippine gaming industry, aiming to create enjoyable experiences for players across various platforms in the evolving digital landscape.

DigiPlus Interactive has launched BingoPlus in January 2022. It is the first digital platform where bingo-loving Filipinos can play with the convenience of time and place by bringing the game live online. BingoPlus leverages the company’s deep understanding of its customers whilst bringing in innovation and technologies to offer new entertainment product formats to more Filipinos.

BingoPlus’ brick-and-mortar or traditional bingo operations also complemented the foray into the digital space. DigiPlus Interactive currently operates at least 200 bingo halls in different parts of the Philippines, which continue to be popular amongst Filipinos.

The strong performance of BingoPlus propelled the robust growth of DigiPlus. In 2022, DigiPlus posted a turnaround in its financial performance, with a net income of ₱686.9m coming from a net loss of ₱894.6m in the previous year. Furthermore, in the first nine months of 2023, DigiPlus registered a net income of ₱2.1b, more than a tenfold growth from 2022.

As the first and only government-licensed digital bingo platform in the country, BingoPlus is reshaping the country’s gaming industry. Continuing to dominate the digital gaming space, BingoPlus has opened up new opportunities, triggering a proliferation of online gaming platforms in the Philippines. This healthy competition fosters innovation and creativity that fundamentally benefits the customers.

The platform has also since become a community and entertainment platform, a source of revenue for the Philippine government, and a contributor to various social and educational non-profit programmes.

It added its plans of launching new and innovative game offerings to cater to broader demographics and lifestyle preferences.

The platform’s continued investment in research and development, as well as its efforts in revolutionising the digital gaming experience, has been lauded by the inaugural Asian Management Excellence Awards, with the company bringing home the Philippines Innovator of the Year - Media & Entertainment category win.

The coveted awards programme celebrates the finest business leaders, innovators, and companies in Asia, and commends exceptional achievements in the various aspects of operations, including employee engagement programmes, diversity and inclusion projects, and health and wellness initiatives.

Celebrate Love in Every Form this Valentine's Day at Belmont Hotel Manila

At Belmont Hotel Manila, Valentine's Day is a celebration for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a couple, hanging out with friends, or looking to share the love with your family, they've put together special offerings that suit all kinds of celebrations. Their goal is to ensure that your hearts be filled with the warmth and love you deserve.

Say it with a Buffet

Php 1,888 nett per person

February 14, 2023 | 6:30 PM

A Valentine's Day dinner buffet with a free glass of wine or mocktail, and acoustic serenade.

*5 years old and below are free of charge.

*6 to 12 years old are entitled to a 50% discount.

To reserve, email dine@belmontmanila.com or call (02) 5318 8888 / +639270079952.

Mon Amour

Php 2,400 nett

Made of a blend of dark chocolate ganache, red velvet, a smooth diplomat cream, and luscious blueberry compote.

To order, email dine@belmontmanila.com ​or call (02) 5318 8888 / +639270079952.

Rendezvous at Belmont

Rates start at Php 9,000 nett inclusive of:

• Overnight stay for 2
• Breakfast buffet for 2
• Dinner buffet for 2 at Cafe Belmont
• Bottle of wine with cheese platter
• 20% discount at B-Calm Spa and restaurants

valid on February 14, 2024

Runway Romance

Rates start at Php 8,000 nett inclusive of:

• Overnight stay for 2
• Breakfast buffet for 2
• Bottle of wine with cheese platter
• 20% discount at B-Calm Spa and restaurants

valid whole month of February

To easily secure a reservation for any of these room packages, you may email stay@belmontmanila.com or call (02) 5318 8863 / +639178179281.

Moonlight and Music

Php 6,800 nett for 2 persons

February 14, 2024 | 7:30 pm

A Valentine's Day dinner for 2 persons at Rooftop 11 inclusive of:

•  4-course dinner​
• Glass of wine​
• Special gift for the couple​
• Romantic live music performances​

Immerse yourself in an enchanting atmosphere where romance intertwines with culinary excellence through a meticulously designed 4-course set menu.​

Picture yourselves surrounded by the soft glow of fairy lights, the gentle rustle of the breeze, and panoramic views of the cityscape under the starlit sky. Rooftop 11 offers an intimate and dreamy setting, where you and your loved one can enjoy each other's company amidst the enchanting ambiance.​

Limited tables are available for this exclusive event. Secure your spot now! For table reservations, email dine@belmontmanila.com ​or call (02) 5318 8888 / +639270079952.

Visit Belmonth Hotel Manila's Website for more promos and discounts and checkout their Facebook Page.

Great Taste Cream-O is a delicious collaboration between two well-loved brands

Here’s a brand collaboration that you wouldn’t want to miss: Great Taste Cream-O, a coffee mix that offers the signature “aromanamnam” goodness of Great Taste coffee and the yummy cookie crumbles of Cream-O

Meaningful achievements often result from effective collaborations, as evidenced by the coordinated efforts of skilled artists collaborating on beloved songs and films. Similarly, in the fashion industry, brands frequently establish unexpected partnerships, unveiling new and enticing products for their customers.

Guest social media content creators joined the fun during Great Taste Cream-O’s stop at Mapua University Manila

Collaborations play a pivotal role in both education and employment realms. Working together not only speeds up task completion but also fosters a motivating environment that encourages the generation of creative ideas. Taking breaks between tasks is essential, and one delightful way to enhance these breaks is by enjoying a unique coffee blend, such as the one provided by Great Taste Cream-O.

Great Taste Cream-O booth at Mapua University Manila

Great Taste Cream-O is a delicious collaboration between two well-loved brands: Great Taste offers its signature “aromanamnam” taste, while Cream-O adds a layer of deliciousness with its real cookie crumbles. It is a unique coffee-cookie mix that’s great for those who are looking for a delicious drink to enjoy during their break time.

Great Taste Cream-O comes in a compact twin sachet pack, for only P15.00 (SRP), so you can carry a pack with you and quickly whip up a delicious drink to enjoy your break times with your classmates or colleagues.

University students enjoy breaks with Great Taste Cream-O

To give students an enjoyable experience at school, Great Taste shared its newest coffee blend to select universities in Manila. Its first stop was at the Mapua University Manila last January 23, 2024, where Great Taste Cream-O set up an exciting booth with a 360-degree photo and video booth they could visit in between classes, and make memories while enjoying Great Taste Cream-O with their blockmates. Making the moment even more enjoyable for the students, the brand collaborated with one of the University’s dance groups, and a guest influencer, to entertain guests with an energetic dance number.

Students enjoyed fun activities at the Great Taste Cream-O booth in Mapua University Manila

For students looking to add flavor-sarap to their coffee and make their breaktimes more enjoyable, this is your chance to get your Great Taste Cream-O fix. Watch out as Great Taste might make a stop at your university in the coming weeks. Be sure to follow Great Taste Coffee on Facebook for more updates and information.

Home Credit Philippines' Back-to-School Campaign Clinches Silver at 59th Anvil Awards

"We understand the challenges that parents face during the back-to-school season. Our Back-toSchool Campaign aimed to provide not just financial assistance but also peace of mind to mothers who work tirelessly to ensure their children receive a quality education. Winning the Silver Anvil is a testament to the campaign's impact and the recognition of our Public Relations efforts to support families in this crucial aspect of their lives." ~Ken Lerona, Head of PR, Home Credit Philippines

In a celebration of excellence at the 59th Anvil Awards, Home Credit Philippines' innovative "Home Credit is the Key: Back-to-School (BTS) Campaign" secured the prestigious Silver Anvil in the Marketing and Brand Communication subcategory under the Public Relations Programs category.

The awards ceremony, dubbed the 'Oscars of Public Relations' in the Philippines, took place at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Newport City on January 31, drawing representatives from companies and agencies across the country.

Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company, addressed the challenges faced by parents, particularly moms, during the back-to-school season. The campaign aimed to empower mothers as the primary financial decision-makers and budget planners in their families, navigating the rising costs of education and school supplies.

Running from July 1 to September 30, 2023, the "Home Credit is the Key" campaign provided a backup for moms by offering affordable financing options. Home Credit introduced zero-interest payment plans, easing the financial burden on mothers striving to provide their children with the best education. Flexible payment plans were also made available, ensuring that the cost of education could be spread over manageable installments, thus alleviating financial strain.

The campaign also emphasized maintaining peace of mind for mothers by using Home Credit's services, allowing them to preserve their savings as a safety net for emergencies or future investments.

The campaign strategically employed public relations and communication tactics to engage and empower its target audience, specifically mothers and their children. Home Credit Philippines collaborated with its agency-on-record, Dugenia, Marayan and Associates Company (DM&A Co.), to implement this compelling initiative.

A key aspect of the campaign's success was the dissemination of impactful narratives to various media titles, partners, and bloggers. By pitching these powerful stories, the campaign effectively resonated with the intended audience, making their back-to-school shopping experience easier and lighter.

“Working with Home Credit Philippines on this campaign was a rewarding experience. We aimed to not only meet the challenges faced by parents but to exceed expectations in providing practical solutions. The Silver Anvil is a validation of the effectiveness and innovation embedded in our approach.” ~Michael Dugenia, Managing Partner of DM&A Co.

The Anvil Awards, presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), received nearly 500 entries from over 100 companies and agencies, including local government units. The 59th Anvil Awards showcased new categories under PR Programs, such as Best Use of Digital, Best Use of Social Media, and Best PR-led Integrated Campaign.

Home Credit Philippines' Back-to-School Campaign stood out among the top entries, securing the Silver Anvil, and reinforcing its commitment to excellence in community support.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

About Home Credit

Home Credit Philippines is the lifestyle partner of every Filipino, providing access to credit through fast, convenient, and affordable financing in more than 15,000 partner stores nationwide. The brand offers a wide range of products from smartphones and laptops, home appliances and furniture, bicycles, and motorcycle accessories to electronics and hardware, sports equipment, and many more – offered at low or 0% interest rates in easy monthly installments.

In its 10th year in the Philippines, Home Credit has served over 10 million Filipinos. Beyond installment financing and related insurance services, Home Credit also offers cash loans, a virtual spending limit named Qwarta, and a credit card for its existing qualified customers. With the My Home Credit app, Filipino customers are just a click away to get the products they want for an elevated lifestyle.

More information on HCPH is available at www.homecredit.ph.  

The Newest Branch of Tsurumaru Udon X Tempura in SM City Grand Central

Tsurumaru Udon X tempura Now Open at SM City Grand Central

Experience a seamless fusion of cutting-edge design, sustainably sourced ingredients, and an immersive Japanese dining experiencer at the newest branch of Tsurumaru Udon X Tempura in SM City Grand Central. Catering to both loyal patrons and newcomers to Caloocan's renowned shopping hub, the restaurant introduces an invigorating concept that harmoniously blends the robust flavors of Osaka-style wheat flour udon noodles with an assortment of delightful side dishes.

Hailing from Osaka, Japan, Tsurumaru introduces a self-service Udon dining concept that aligns with the dynamic and contemporary Japanese lifestyle. The restaurant's dedication to excellence is apparent in its use of the finest ingredients for udon noodles and broth, crafted freshly each day. The atmosphere radiates a modern Japanese street vibe, showcasing an open kitchen that allows patrons to observe the meticulous preparation process.

Navigating the dining experience at Tsurumaru Udon X Tempura is a breeze. Guests can grab their food trays and approach the counter, where they can communicate their preferences for udon or donburi (Japanese rice bowls) preparations. The menu extends beyond noodles, offering a tempting selection of side dishes, including freshly cooked tempura and flavorful omusubi (Japanese rice balls).

With its seamless order integration, conscientiously sourced ingredients, and mouthwatering offerings, dining at Tsurumaru Udon X Tempura promises a delightful and uniquely Japanese culinary experience. Visit Tsurumaru Udon X Tempura at the 5th level of SM City Grand Central.