Sun Life Philippines and its executives are closing the year on a high note, receiving accolades from prestigious award-giving bodies from local and regional organizations.

Sun Life scored a double win in the Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) Awards, held recently in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The company was recognized as one of the Industry Champions of The Year for demonstrating an ability to evolve the focus of the business along with the dynamic changes in its industry to sustain market leadership. Meanwhile, Sun Life CEO and Country Head,Benedict Sison was named as one of Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives in honor of his leadership, which brings the company to unparalleled business productivity and organizational efficiency.

Sun Life was likewise recognized in the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA), where it was once again bestowed with the Corporate Excellence Award for demonstrating effective talent mobilization and organizational capability that deliver consistent business results while remaining aligned to the organization’s purpose. Sun Life’s Chief HR Officer Michelle Cordero-Garcia personally received the award during the ceremony held recently in Singapore.

Locally, Garcia herself was honored in the Philippine HR Awards with the Platinum HR Leader of the Year Award. This is in recognition of her achievements in driving workforce initiatives through innovation while demonstrating excellence in different facets of human resources.

“It is truly a great honor to receive these awards for our efforts to be the number one in the hearts of our clients, advisors, and employees,” says Sison. “We are determined to uphold the essence of these recognitions as we strive to make life brighter for all of our stakeholders.”

Mark your calendars as one of the country’s leading global smart device brands, OPPO, debuts another remarkable Portrait Expert, the OPPO Reno11 Series 5G. This standout phone comes in two variants, the OPPO Reno11 5G and OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G, set to capture everyone’s attention in the Philippines on February 1.

The brand consistently showcases its technological innovations that have disrupted the smartphone industry, especially in the field of smartphone portrait photography. The OPPO Reno11 Series 5G sets another standard with its improved camera technology and flagship photography algorithms that produce striking images of different subjects in varied environments. Filipinos can get excited for another Portrait Expert that will prove to be a powerhouse in its price range.

Both OPPO Reno11 Series 5G variants are equipped with an Ultra-Clear Portrait Camera system featuring telephoto camera, and an ultra-wide camera that, together, capture photos and videos in the highest quality possible. From people to scenery, under any kind of lighting, subjects stand out in their natural, perfect forms. The OPPO Reno11 5G features a Sony LYT600 sensor for the 50MP main camera together with a Sony IMX709 sensor for the 32MP Telephoto Camera. Meanwhile, the OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G boasts a 50MP main camera with Sony IMX890 sensor and a 32MP Telephoto Camera with Sony IMX709 sensor, perfect for taking high resolution portraits.

Another remarkable flagship breakthrough in computational photography is introduced in the OPPO Reno11 Series 5G, the powerful new Portrait Expert Engine that returns from its predecessor. With the help of professional portrait photographers from around the world, the improved Portrait Expert Engine is sure to provide a great portrait shooting experience as it allows Facial Recognition and Subject/Scene Separation, Skin Tone Protection, Clarity and Facial Enhancement and Portrait and Environment Merging.

Embracing style with first of its kind new color finishes, the OPPO Reno11 5G Series features unique shimmering layers and a contoured design for a perfect hold, striking a slender silhouette that combines a beautiful, comfortable finish with a rich and elegant feel inspired by nature’s aesthetic. The OPPO Reno11 5G comes in a striking Wave Green hue with a flowing texture and is reminiscent of shimmering silk and the sight of green ocean waves lapping against a blue sky while the OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G’s Pearl White color option gives a shimmering pearl design that produces a signature luster.

Both OPPO Reno11 Series 5G phones come in Rock Grey color, suitable for those who would like to opt for a more subdued style while still unveiling layers of bright and soft silver-grey glitter when exposed to light, reminiscent of gentle sunlight on shoreline rocks. The device’s dual 3D curved design makes it comfortable to use even in long hours.

To learn more about the OPPO Reno11 Series and other Reno series smartphones, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Embrace a healthier and more energetic lifestyle as SM Supermalls in Bulacan – SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan present exciting offers for a wellness-focused New Year. 

Elevate Your Fitness Journey

Begin your fitness journey with Sports Central, Chris Sports, Sportshouse and Toby’s Sports and receive great discounts on high-quality sports and fitness gear, whether you’re a fan of foldable bikes or looking to improve your workout routine

Embrace a healthier you with a wide range of vitamins and supplements from Watsons at SM Bulacan malls.    Nourishing Your Well-being

Step into the new year with a focus on your overall wellness. Watsons is your partner inachieving nutritional support with a wide range of vitamins and supplements. 

Prepare food in a much healthier way with innovative air fryers and multi-cookers available at Bulacan malls’ SM Home and SM Appliance.

Kitchen Essentials for Healthy Living

Enhance your kitchen experience and discover a world of tasty and healthy meals for your family with SM Home and SM Appliance. Unleash your culinary creativity with air fryers, multi-cookers, and digital ovens that make trying something new as easy as a press of a button. 

Enjoy a sumptuous yet healthy meal at Goldilocks in SM City Marilao.

Flavorful Healthy Dining

Give in to the delectable taste of fresh ingredients from your favorite restaurants that will make you crave more. Treat yourself to a flavorful, healthy dish from Banapple, Conti’s, Wendy’s, Goldilocks, Kenny Rogers, and Kuya J.

For more info, follow the social media pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.

In a celebration of art, women empowerment, and the boundless creativity of Filipina artists, BDO Unibank, Inc. and SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, proudly announce the launch of the first-ever all-female national art competition in the Philippines – Sining Filipina. 

Entries for Sining Filipina, the pioneering all-female national art competition in the Philippines, are being accepted until January 31, 2024.

This groundbreaking competition aims to provide a platform for Filipinas to express their artistic talents, promoting them as originators of art and empowering them in the creative realm. With both Figurative and Non-Figurative categories, Sining Filipina invites participants to showcase their unique perspectives on the contemporary woman.

Contestants should submit original artworks, entirely conceptualized and executed by themselves, until the deadline on January 31, 2024. The competition offers a generous cash prize of up to P250,000 for the First Place Winner, providing not only recognition but also a significant boost to their artistic journey.

This initiative reflects the commitment of BDO Unibank, Inc., SM Supermalls, and the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs, to champion the flourishing talents of Filipina artists. As a testament to their support, the competition seeks to amplify the voices and visions of women in the realm of art.

(L-R): SM Supermalls’ Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno, Zonta International Foundation for Women District 17 Ambassador Armita Rufino, Zonta Club of Makati and Environs (ZCME) Past President Maritess Pineda, Zonta International Past President Olivia Ferry, ZCME Vice President Joanne Zapanta-Andrada, BDO Unibank Vice President and Head of Sustainability Office Marla Alvarez, BDO Private Bank Executive Vice President and Head of Wealth Management Group Stella Cabalatungan, ZCME President Rosario Abaya, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, BDO Unibank Senior Vice President and Head of Cash Management Services, Transaction Banking Group Carlo Nazareno, and BDO Unibank First Vice President and Officer in Charge for Marketing Communications Group Hannah Lopez

SM Supermalls’ President, Steven Tan (right), with BDO Unibank Vice President and Head of Sustainability Office, Marla Alvarez (second from right), Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Vice President, Joanne Zapanta-Andrada (second from left), and host Ces Drilon (left), during the panel discussion at the recent Sining Filipina National Art Competition Media Launch at the SM Aura Samsung Hall Lobby.

SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan

BDO Unibank Vice President and Head of Sustainability Office Marla Alvarez

Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Vice President Joanne Zapanta-Andrada

Join us in celebrating the richness of Filipina creativity – Sining Filipina awaits your masterpiece!

To know more about the exciting events at SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

Get ready to dive into the ultimate poppin’ celebration at SM Cinema on International Popcorn Day, January 19th! Join the worldwide festivities as SM Cinema rolls out an exclusive promo across all Snack Time branches for the entire day.



For just 19 pesos, treat yourself to 30 grams of pure popcorn delight. This special offer is a nod to the love we all share for this classic crunchy snack, delivering joy, flavor, and a sprinkle of nostalgia to popcorn enthusiasts across the globe. It’s the perfect pairing for movie aficionados, elevating every scene with the thrill of blockbuster films showing at SM Cinemas.



Don’t miss out on the excitement of exploring other popcorn flavors like cheese, sour cream, barbecue and melted butter- all available at regular prices, because there’s no such thing as too much popcorn on International Popcorn Day! See you at SM Cinema for a poppin’ good time!

Moovr is the simple solution to getting you ahead. Take charge of your own Mooves through the city and through life, one convenient ride at a time. Moovr’s newest electric-powered rides are available in expanded locations visible through their improved mobile app, making it easier for you to get where you’re going for the most affordable price in the city.

Moovr offers an economical alternative for your daily travels, allowing you to get to your destination for as low as P25. Being 100% cashless and self-serviced, you can use digital credits for seamless and affordable transportation. The app allows you to check real-time ride availability across stations in BGC, Mckinley Hill, and Makati where you can instantly rent a device, eliminating the need to navigate through traffic or wait for a ride. Simply open the app, locate the nearest device, and end your ride in multiple convenient locations in these cities.



Control your commute, manage your errands, get to school, or work at your own pace with Moovr’s newest rides available all over the city.

“We noticed the majority of our riders take long rides and we want to offer them a more comfortable riding experience. We looked at other cities in the world where micromobility has been successful, and adopted the same technology in our devices,” said Carlo Rombano, Head of Operations at Moovr.

Moovr brought devices used in first-world cities to Manila at a price point that’s accessible to Filipinos. Adapting to local consumer needs and demands.

“Our adaptability also extends to our app. With our latest update, we’ve applied comprehensive features that don’t just make every ride efficient but an enriching exploration,” added Shiela Raña, Head of Operations.

 

The new features include encrypted payments, which allow riders to save their details and top up with a single tap on a button, as well as an adaptive user interface that lets riders see parking areas, and vehicle details such as their availability, battery levels, and ride rates.




“At Moovr, we believe in redefining the way people move through their cities. Our commitment to innovation and user-centric design aims to inspire a sense of empowerment with every ride,” said Raña.




Moovr is committed to catering to your individual transportation needs. Last, January 13th, they launched two new ride options – the electric-powered bike and their upgraded e-scooters.

For the first time, Moovr’s bikes are going electric. This makes it easier to breeze through the city with less effort. The e-bikes feature a sturdy basket for quick errands, and are specifically designed for Filipinos. Meanwhile, the upgraded e-scooters also feature a sturdier base, and better suspension for bumpy roads and surfaces, perfect for longer commutes, or simply riding around town for a breather.



These newest e-bikes and scooters are designed not only for efficiency but also to enhance the overall ease of unlocking the city. Whether it’s breezing through traffic during the daily commute or leisurely cruising through the city streets, Moovr’s new ride options provide an unparalleled level of convenience.

See how to ride better, and keep up to date with Moovr through their social media pages (Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram).

Ready to ride? Download the Moovr app now to unlock the city. Don’t miss out on the fun, check out the newest e-bike and e-scooters at the nearest Moovr station near you through the Moovr application available on the Google Playstore and Apple app store.

TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and the world’s top two TV brand, today announced that multiple of its products and technical solutions, including the 115-inch QM891G QD-Mini LED TV, smartphones and tablets with TCL’s new NXTPAPER 3.0 display technology, RayNeo X2 Lite AR Glasses and TCL Q Class soundbars have been honored with the recognitions from authoritative media and organizations.

This year, TCL made a spark at CES with a leading portfolio of innovative technologies across multiple categories. Taking center stage, TCL won six accolades at the 2023-2024 Global Top Brands Awards Ceremony (GTB) organized by Asia Digital Group and European Digital Group, with support from International Data Corporation and TWICE. This event was characterized by professionalism and credibility in the global consumer electronics industry. Bill Jiang, Vice President of TCL Industries and General Manager of Global Marketing Center, attended the ceremony and accepted the awards on behalf of the company.

Notably, TCL’s 115-inch QM891G, the world’s largest QD-Mini LED TV, received the “Innovative Display Technology Gold Award of the Year” from GTB for the breakthrough in display technology that it represents. The latest tablet TCL NXTPAPER 14 Pro and RayNeo X2 Lite AR Glasses, both part of one of the industry’s first smart connected mobile devices entertainment solutions by TCL, also took home the “Eye Protection Display Technology Innovation Award” and “AR Glasses Innovation Award of the Year” respectively.

In addition, TCL was recognized by GTB as “2023-2024 Global CE Brands Top 10”, “2023-2024 Global TV Brands Top 10” and “2023-2024 Global CE Brands Top 50” for its commitment to “Inspire Greatness” through an extensive line-up of innovative products.  

Aside from the recognitions from GTB, the TCL 40 NXTPAPER smartphone was also honored with a CES 2024 Innovation Award in the “Mobile Devices, Accessories & Apps” category.  As the world’s first and one of the smartphones optimized for human eyes, TCL 40 NXTPAPER is recognized for bringing a revolutionary full-color, paper-like comfort visual experience to smartphones.

Moreover, many of TCL’s innovative technologies and smart products across categories that were unveiled at CES 2024 received “Best of CES 2024” awards from international media. In total, TCL was honored with over 34 recognitions from authoritative technology media, including Digital Trends, Android Authority, and more.

Boasting best-in-class quality and outstanding innovation in its comprehensive product portfolio, the company has also been recognized by various authoritative organizations. Its pioneering X955 and C755 TV Series were the first in the world to be certified by TÜV Rheinland for their Realistic Visual Experience. The 27R83U/34R83Q Professional Monitor Series received Pantone Validated recognition at CES 2024, which is based on the Pantone Matching System (PMS), the only validation with the real world color testing over 2,000 colors.

Over the years, TCL Electronics has been on a consistent journey of growth and transformation into a globally leading intelligent technology company. With several R&D centers worldwide and strong support from thousands of industry partners worldwide, TCL Electronics is leveraging this global synergy to continuously expand its product portfolio, create further breakthroughs in innovation and empower users to pursue greatness.

 Marks the company’s first foray into specialty coffee, all-day brunch

MANILA, Philippines. –The Jollibee Group is off to a great start this 2024 with the opening of the first Common Man Coffee Roasters (CMCR) cafe in the Philippines at the Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City last January 11, 2024. This milestone opening is part of the Jollibee Group’s aggressive growth plans this year, consistent with its vision of becoming one of the top five restaurant companies in the world.

“We’re excited to bring the Common Man Coffee Roasters in the country and give the community an elevated café experience,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group’s President and CEO.

“Common Man’s consciously sourced coffee and numerous deliciously healthy brunch options contribute to this experience and help fulfill our mission of spreading the joy of eating to everyone. We invite everyone to come visit our first ever Common Man Coffee Roasters café,” he added.

Championing specialty coffee & brunch

Established in 2013, Common Man Coffee Roasters aims to champion specialty coffee and the best all-day brunch and has expanded from Singapore to Malaysia, and now the Philippines. It also roasts and sells coffee beans and operates the Coffee Barista Academy in Singapore and Malaysia, which provides coffee training to baristas and coffee enthusiasts.

In the Philippines, the breadth of the café’s menu includes different types of specialty coffee, bannered by the Nitro Honey Oat Latte and Filter Brew. Its brunch is thoughtfully crafted, headlined by the Common Man Full Breakfast that has generous servings of sausage, bacon, portobello mushroom, hash browns, house-made baked chorizo beans, and greens along with artisanal sourdough. The crowd favorite Common Man Beef Brisket Benedict packs an indulging punch of savory in its tender braised beef topped by poached eggs and creamy hollandaise.

The first location in the country, which has a modern, casual, “come as you are” ambiance, also features its own roastery.

“Having a roastery on site for us to showcase the roasting method will not only help the customers understand the coffee process better, but it will also offer a unique dining and sensory experience for them,” said Koon Beng Chua, CEO of the Spa Esprit Group, which operates Common Man Coffee Roasters in Singapore.

A toast to the first brew! The opening of the Common Man Coffee Roasters’ first café in the country brings in consciously sourced coffee and all-day brunch together – aiming to elevate the café experience for Filipinos. Photo shows (counter clockwise): Jollibee Group’s Chief Business Officer, Joseph Tanbuntiong; Spa Esprit Group’s Chief Executive Officer and Common Man Coffee Roasters Co-founder, Koon Beng “KB” Chua; Ambassador of Singapore to the Philippines, Her Excellency Constance See; Vice Mayor of the City Government of Makati, Honorable Monique Lagdameo; Ayala Malls’ President, Mariana Zobel de Ayala; Jollibee Group’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Ernesto Tanmantiong; Jollibee Group’s Chief of Real Estate and Design Officer & Chief Business Support Officer, William Tan Untiong; Common Man Coffee Roasters’ Operations Head, Chynna Ramos; Jollibee Group’s Marketing for Foreign Franchised Brands, Paolo Aljibe; Jollibee Group’s AVP and Head of Technical Services Research and Development, Agnes McDonald; ; Jollibee Group’s Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications, Pauline Lao; Ayala Land Estates Inc.’s Group Deputy Head, Chris Maglanoc; Spa Esprit Group’s General Manager for Food Division, Michael Bovell; Jollibee Group’s AVP and Head of Marketing for Foreign Franchised Brands Philippines, Jia Du; Jollibee Group’s AVP and Head of Business Development for Foreign Franchised Brands, Ned Bandojo; and Jollibee Group’s President and Group Head for Greenwich, Red Ribbon, and Foreign Franchised Brands, JJ Alano.

Celebrating partnerships

The Jollibee Group announced its joint venture with Food Collective Pte. Ltd. (FCPL) through FCJB Foods Inc. to own and operate Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines in August 2023. The Jollibee Group owns 60 percent in FCJB Foods Inc.

“This is the first café from our partnership with the Spa Esprit Group and we’re looking forward to expanding the Common Man Coffee Roasters experience to more people. The strong collaboration between the two partners is very evident and is greatly rewarded by the enjoyment we see from people upon entering the café and upon tasting our menu selections. We recognize the increasingly discerning palate of Filipinos and we’re here to delight them,” said Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee Group Chief Business Officer, during the store’s inauguration and opening.

The inauguration rites were attended by Singaporean Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See, Makati Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo, Spa Esprit Group CEO and Common Man Coffee Roasters’ co-founder Koon Beng Chua, Spa Esprit Food Group’s General Manager Michael Bovell, Ayala Malls President Mariana Zobel de Ayala, and Ayala Land Estates Group Deputy Head Chris Maglanoc. The Jollibee Group was represented by its President and CEO, Ernesto Tanmantiong, its Chief Business Support Officer and Chief Real Estate & Design Officer, William Tan Untiong, and its Chief Business Officer, Joseph Tanbuntiong, along with the President and Group Head for Greenwich, Red Ribbon, and Foreign Franchised Brands, JJ Alano, and AVP and Head of Business Development for Foreign Franchised Brands, Ned Bandojo.

The Common Man Coffee Roasters at Ayala Triangle is open every Monday to Sunday from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.

To learn more about Common Man Coffee Roasters Philippines, visit their website, or follow them on social media via Facebook and Instagram.

The Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 came to a close on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, Philippines with the crowning of new DOTA 2 and VALORANT esports champions and electrifying performances from some of the Philippines’s most talented artists. This year’s edition of the Asia Pacific Predator League was a major success with sold-out arenas and online spectators tuned in via the Predator social media channels during the two-day event. From the 26 teams competing for top honors in the Dota 2 and VALORANT, Blacklist Rivalry and Team Secret emerged victorious and lifted the prestigious Predator Shield in their respective categories.


“The success of the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 is indicative of the strength of the region’s growing esports community and the Predator brand devices’ ability to support intense gaming sessions when playing the most popular titles,” said Andrew Hou, President of Acer Pan Asia Pacific Operations. “I would like to extend my congratulations to the tournament winners and my heartfelt appreciation to all the players, fans, and staff who make this yearly event possible.”

Dota 2 Highlights




Blacklist Rivalry prevailed over fellow Filipino team Execration in the Dota 2 grand finals. Abed “Abed” Yusop was in incredible form, averaging 8.5 kills and 14 assists in the series to spearhead the offense of his team. They were successful in shutting down Execration’s star Mark “Bob” Urbino, resulting in a heartbreaking defeat for team Execration and another second-place finish in the Predator League grand finals for two consecutive years.




As this year’s DOTA 2 Champions, Blacklist Rivalry will be going home with a cash prize of USD$ 65,000, while Execration will receive $20,000. Third and fourth finishers in China’s Team Aster and IHC Esports from Mongolia will also receive USD$ 7,500 each for their impressive showing.

VALORANT Highlights


Team Secret came into the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 as the favorites and exceeded all expectations. They were in full control of the Japanese side FAV gaming during the final, with Adrian “invy” Reyes continuing to be the brightest spot for the team. Team Secret, also known as the “The Adobo Gang” among its fans, has won its first LAN trophy and Predator Shield since the inception of its VALORANT team.




Team Secret goes home with the USD$ 65,000 prize pool, while FAV Gaming wins USD$ 20,000 for their performance. Third and fourth placers BOOM Esports from Indonesia and Team Flash from Vietnam also receive USD$ 7,500 each.

Intel MVP Award

Merits were given to exceptional players who stood out amongst the competition during the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024. For Dota 2, it was awarded to carry player Polo “Raven” Fausto while in VALORANT it was awarded to duelist player Jeremy “Jremy” Cabrera. Both players take home an extra USD$ 10,000 prizes as well as the Intel MVP Award Trophy for their individual performances. 

Beyond the live esports action, the audience was also treated to world-class entertainment composed of the Philippines’ brightest stars, including Acer ambassadors SB19 and Sarah Geronimo. There were also meet-and-greet sessions with Predator ambassadors Cong TV and the Team Payaman boys, burg, KuyaNic, Chibiby, Maggiekarp, amaratv, Een Mercado, Kang Dupet, and cosplayer Alodia Gosiengfiao.

Felip and Ylona Garcia were the opening acts for Day 1, exciting the crowd with their exhilarating performance. This was followed by numbers from Urbandub and Al James, and with a special appearance by TV personality Donny Pangilinan. Day 2 was just as impressive with amazing performances from Josh Cullen, Sandwich, Spongecola, Pablo, and KZ Tandingan, who sang the Predator anthem, “It Lies Within.”

Asia Pacific Predator League 2025 Host Announced

The next Asia Pacific Predator League will be held in Malaysia, with the qualifiers starting in late 2024 and the grand finals to be held in early 2025.

For more information and updates about the Predator League, visit the official website www.predator-league.com.