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 CONFIRMED: HONOR has an entry in the flip phone category this 2024!  

MANILA, PH – June 11, 2024 – What if you could take your financial journey for a test drive? That’s exactly what you can do with Sun Life’s upcoming game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices, which is set to launch in June 2024. This Financial Independence Month, Sun Life is launching engaging activities that will foster financial literacy among Filipinos through gamification elements.  

Embark on Your Financial Journey with Play for Life 

Play for Life is a free, single-player online game that mirrors the financial decisions one encounters in real life. The objective of the game is to achieve your chosen life goals through strategic financial and life decisions while navigating the ups and downs. 

At the beginning of the game, players define their life goals and select a character representing a career. Gameplay revolves around dice rolls, guiding pieces across the board to squares that correspond with the dice outcome. The board features spaces that offer life-enhancing opportunities (‘Life Wins’), present challenges (‘Life Happens’), or require critical financial decisions (‘Life Choices’), allowing players to use their accumulated funds strategically.  

You win the game once you have accumulated enough play money to achieve your life goal. The journey involves managing both positive and adverse circumstances, reflecting the essence of life’s financial planning and decision-making.  

Step into the World of Play for Life 

For a more immersive experience, there will be a roving life-size version of Play for Life in select areas around the country. Navigate giant game boards and make real-life choices at SM Megamall from June 22 to 23, 2024, SM Sta Rosa from July 27 to 28, 2024, and more locations to come. To engage the mobile gaming community, the initial launch of the life-size version of Play for Life will be in partnership with Talon Esports, a leading esports and gaming organization. There will also be table-top boardgame versions of Play for Life, where you can play with friends, family, and even Sun Life financial advisors.  

Those interested to learn more about Sun Life’s new game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices, may visit http://sunlife.co/playforlife. 

Rank Your Money Moves with Sun Life’s New TikTok Filter 

Further amplifying its commitment to financial empowerment, Sun Life launched an interactive TikTok filter called “Rank Your Money Moves”. This gamified filter allows users to rank various priorities, such as love life, food, travel, and other possible money moves. Once priorities have been placed in order, the user gets a fun and playful financial personality type depending on how they ranked their money moves. 

Try out Sun Life’s new TikTok filter here: https://sunlife.co/RankYourMoneyMoves  

Marking 9 years of Financial Independence Month 

Financial Independence Month is Sun Life’s annual campaign encouraging clients to pursue financial preparedness at every life stage. Launched in 2015, it aims to make the national celebration of Independence Day more personal and meaningful, as it centers on the pursuit of one’s brighter future.  

“Financial freedom starts with a choice,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “This is why we are set to launch Play for Life: A Game of Choices. We want to equip Filipinos with the knowledge to make informed decisions on their financial journey. By making financial literacy more engaging and accessible, we hope to empower individuals to take control of their future and make life choices with confidence.” 

Looking for fun ways to honor the man of the house?

Spend quality time with the whole family this Father’s Day weekend with a double celebration at Blue Bay Walk and Met Live Mall!

At Met Live Mall, sports dads will enjoy a sports-themed display for a photo op, while car enthusiasts will adore the car display show in partnership with Grupo Toyota at Blue Bay Walk. Dads also get free swag in exchange for a minimum single-receipt transaction or accumulated receipts worth P1,000 any MET Live Mall and Blue Bay Walk establishments made from June 14 to June 16, 2024.

Come evening, families can gather at the Met Live Mall’s Center Atrium or Blue Bay Walk’s The Spine for a relaxing time listening to live music.

Interested? The event is open to the public and free of charge. Visit the official Facebook page of Blue Bay Walk at www.facebook.com/BlueBayWalkOfficial and MET Live Mall at www.facebook.com/MetLiveOfficial for more details.

Manila, Philippines – As we enter the second half of the year, HUAWEI, a key leader in the tech industry, announces its latest laptop deals for the month, with a special highlight on its HUAWEI MateBook D 14 2024 and HUAWEI MateBook D 16 2024 laptops. With their cutting-edge performance housed in sleek and minimalist designs, these laptops redefine the modern computing experience.

The promotional discounts for several of HUAWEI’s MateBook laptops, including the new HUAWEI MateBook D 14 2024 12th i3/8/512, will be available starting from June 1 and will end on June 30, 2024. 

Special promotion on select HUAWEI models

In addition to price discounts for HUAWEI’s current line of MateBook laptop models, the brand is also offering a special promotion on select variants of the HUAWEI MateBook D 16 2024 12th series. Customers can now enjoy a PHP2,000 price drop on models like the HUAWEI MateBook D 16 2024 12th i5/16/512 and i5/8/512, making these powerhouse laptops more accessible than ever for public consumption. With their high-performance processors, generous RAM, and ample storage, the HUAWEI MateBook D 16 2024 is designed to keep up with the demands of even the most demanding users.

Experience unparalleled performance in a laptop

The HUAWEI MateBook D 16 2024 stands out from its counterparts with state-of-the-art technology, which includes a 16-inch FullView display, a sleek 17mm profile, a remarkable 90% screen-to-body ratio and 180-degree hinge flexibility. Equipped with a battery which can last up to 13.5 hours  on a single charge, it can comfortably and reliably take on light day-to-day tasks and demanding activity, catering to both professional and casual users. Features like its Metaline Antenna ensure uninterrupted connectivity, its Super Device enhances collaboration, and AI integration enhances the overall user experience.

On the other hand, the HUAWEI MateBook D 14 2024 offers a perfect blend of style and performance, boasting a 16:10 golden ratio display with a remarkable 90% high screen-to-body ratio. Having the latest 13th Gen Intel Core processor, this laptop delivers lightning-fast responsiveness and seamless multitasking capabilities. Its innovative smart conference features, including mobile personal voice enhancement, ensure crystal-clear communication during virtual meetings. Additionally, the HUAWEI MateBook D 14 2024 facilitates multi-device collaboration, allowing users to effortlessly connect and share content across different devices for enhanced productivity.

Take advantage of these limited-time offers to upgrade your computing experience without needing to break the bank today!

To learn more about the HUAWEI MateBook Family laptops, visit Huawei’s official website, online HUAWEI Store, Shopee, Lazada or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) warned companies and the general public against the proliferation of executive phishing attacks, or whaling, which is known to be a sophisticated social engineering scam that preys on the members of an organization.

Jonathan John Paz, BPI Enterprise Information Security and Data Protection Officer, said executive phishing or whaling can occur over emails and messaging applications like Viber and WhatsApp, in which unscrupulous individuals pose as a senior management figure to induce the employees to execute fraudulent transactions or lure them into divulging sensitive or confidential information.

“Cyberattacks against organizations do happen and it could cost millions in terms of data loss, financial impact, and operational disruption,” he said.

“Line managers, particularly those with access to critical data or tasked with critical transactions, face the biggest risk of whaling, that is why it’s important to conduct regular cybersecurity awareness training and attack simulations within the company,” he added.

Paz urged the public to be alert and exercise caution with emails and attachments to protect themselves from this type of social engineering scams. He advised to follow these tips:

• Verify the sender. Before taking any action, make sure that the sender’s name, email address, and contact number are correct. If you don’t normally receive an email or message from the sender, ask a person in authority to verify their legitimacy.

• Don’t engage. Don’t click on links or download attachments from suspicious senders. Don’t respond to their message either.

• Check for viruses. Take an extra step by scanning attachments for viruses before opening them.

• Report immediately. If you receive a message from a sender who you suspect is impersonating an executive of your company, report immediately to your company’s cybersecurity team.

Moreover, Paz said companies must take a proactive approach in promoting cybersecurity awareness, urging them to instill among their employees the mindset that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, regardless of their position, title, or tenure.

“We must get everyone to understand that cybersecurity is a responsibility we all share and that it takes a collective effort to fight cyberthreats. Doing so will allow us to safely navigate the digital world while ensuring the company and employees are protected,” he said.

According to a report by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, cyber incidents in the country increased by 62 percent in 2023, signaling the need for a more aggressive cybersecurity awareness initiative to protect Filipinos.

Partnership for the Planet. The Jollibee Group has pledged support to the LLDA’s waste recovery program to help mitigate the adverse effects of plastic waste on Laguna de Bay. Photo by LLDA.

MANILA, Philippines. – The Jollibee Group continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental stewardship by supporting sustainable projects such as the “Abot-Kamay Para sa Laguna de Bay: Mission in Action–Solid Waste Recovery” of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA).

The LLDA conducted the solid waste recovery activity in Barangay Sucat, Muntinlupa City last April 30, 2024, in celebration of Earth Day 2024. With the theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” this year’s Earth Day urged for global awareness and efforts to reduce plastic production by 60 percent. The LLDA has been consistently supporting such environmental initiatives and has been focused on mitigating the adverse effects of plastic waste on Laguna de Bay and its surrounding ecosystems.

“The Abot-Kamay campaign not only exemplifies a localized response to a global crisis but also serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a cleaner and healthier Laguna de Bay for future generations,” said LLDA Acting General Manager Atty. Senando Santiago.

The Jollibee Group sent employee-volunteers from select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King to participate in the said waste recovery activity. In addition, the Company also provided meals to all 200 volunteers from different organizations.

Pepot Miñana Jr., Jollibee Group Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer, underscored the importance of the Company’s active participation in these initiatives as a manifestation of its global sustainability agenda called Joy for Tomorrow: “As stewards of our environment, we recognize that our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the confines of our facilities, and requires collective action from all stakeholders. Participating in lake clean-up drives is a tangible expression of our dedication to preserving natural resources and safeguarding the communities we serve. This collaboration with local organizations and the government amplifies our impact and cultivates a shared sense of responsibility for our planet.”

Jollibee Group Employee Volunteers. Some 100 employee-volunteers from Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King joined the clean-up of Laguna de Bay in Sucat, Muntinlupa City. The Jollibee Group also provided meals for all the 200 volunteers from different organizations.

Employee volunteers for the planet

Fostering a behavior of shared responsibility for the environment is an essential part of Jollibee Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Since 2023, the Jollibee Group, through its corporate development arm the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc., has implemented a mangrove reforestation program with a string of tree-planting activities held in several coastal provinces.

Over 200 employee-volunteers from the Company’s operations, manufacturing, and logistics divisions, including the brands Jollibee, Greenwich, and Red Ribbon, planted 2,250 mangrove propagules along the coastlines of Alaminos, Pangasinan and Carmen, Cebu; and 1,700 mangrove seedlings in Lemery, Batangas,

Beyond Spreading Joy. Jollibee Group employee-volunteers signed their pledge of dedication in support of LLDA’s solid waste recovery program. Many employees of the Jollibee Group are active ambassadors of the planet, actively participating in various initiatives that help protect the environment.

On May 9, 2024, more than 1,400 mangrove propagules were planted by Jollibee Group employees and local implementing partners of the JGF at the Bued Mangrove Ecopark in Alaminos, Pangasinan. 

Moving forward, the Jollibee Group will continue to extend employee volunteerism to support various environmental protection and preservation programs and initiatives.

“We hope that through employee volunteerism and engagement, we can inspire more partners and customers worldwide to embrace environmental stewardship and create changes that will positively impact the people and the planet,” Miñana added.

There’s something about fathers that inspires awe and wonder. They are usually their children’s first hero, first love, silent defender, and indulgent spoiler. From childhood to adulthood, their endearing (and sometimes exasperating) qualities have shaped how their children look at themselves and the world.

This Father’s Day (June 16), take the time to really make your father feel loved, recognized, and appreciated. This could often be a challenge because fathers come in so many shapes and sizes. Some are the quiet type and shy away from attention, some are grumpy or temperamental, some are outgoing and expressive, some work so hard they turn days into nights, some are sporty, while some are just happy to veg out in front of the TV.

No matter, here are some tips to make Father’s Day extra special for the family’s superhero: 

• For the foodie dad: Surprise him with lunch or dinner in his favorite restaurant. Try out a new place that serves his favorite cuisine or dish. If he enjoys cooking, get him a kitchen gadget or appliance that will elevate his cooking even more. For brew masters or coffee lovers, nothing beats driving up to old haunts or new finds for a glass (or two) of craft beer or freshly brewed coffee.

• For the stylish dad: Branded or not, formal or casual, your dad always looks dapper in whatever he chooses to wear. Why not take him out shopping and then surprise him with a special Father’s Day treat? A branded pair of shoes he has mentioned quite a few times, a classic watch, a pair of jeans and shirts that will make him look groovier and younger. There’s nothing like seeing your father’s face when you hand him your gift. Perhaps because he is so unbelievably touched the child he once carried can now afford to give him gifts.

• For the music-loving dad: Take him to a vinyl store so he can pore over to his heart’s content all the music albums of his youth. If budget’s not an issue, get him a turntable as well so he can enjoy listening to the first batch of his vinyl collection. Or simply get him a new Bluetooth speaker or earbuds so he can listen to his playlist anytime.

• For the sporty/adventurous dad: Join him in a round of golf, play pickleball together, go camping or biking with him, join him test-drive a car he has been eyeing, or better yet, surprise him with a local or overseas trip.

• For the techie dad: If he loves to tinker with gadgets, it may just be the time to upgrade his phone, tablet or laptop. You can also get him a TV stick or smart TV so he can watch movies, documentaries, or sports games.

Yet regardless of what your father is like, giving them the gift of health will always be a good idea. Parents in their pink of health are a family’s wealth. What better way to celebrate than to accompany your dad in his regular medical check-ups or in his first annual physical check-up in a long time. As a practical gift to your ever-pragmatic dad, get him a Sun Grepa Senior Care offered by Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc., a major life insurance company in the country. Sun Grepa Senior Care addresses the life and health protection needs of senior adults by providing financial security for medical issues that may happen. Your dad will gain security and peace of mind as it protects his hard-earned savings so he can continue enjoying his senior years without any worries. For more information, visit www.sunlifegrepa.com.

Home to the largest ensemble of Art Deco buildings in the country, Far Eastern University (FEU) in Manila reiterates its longstanding advocacy toward the preservation of Filipino cultural heritage with the meticulous restoration of its Administration Building.

The 75-year-old structure is an Art Deco masterpiece designed by Filipino architect and National Artist Pablo Antonio Sr.

It is one of six FEU buildings named National Cultural Treasure by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts through Museum Declaration-1-2018. It is also one of the buildings granted the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization Asia-Pacific Honorable Mention Heritage Award in 2005.

This status, which showcases world-class Filipino structural and artistic designs, motivated the restoration.

“We restored the wallpaper and conducted tile restoration on the ground floor. While doing this, we made sure to retain the integrity of the original design to preserve the building’s status as an important heritage site not just in FEU but also in the entire country,” said Nida B. Bulanhagui, manager of Facilities and Technical Services Civil Engineering and Architectural Design Department (FTS CEADD).

Bulanhagui described the painstaking process of restoring the marble tiles in the main building, where each tile was carefully dismantled, numbered, and handled to maintain its original arrangement and value. The tiles were cleaned to preserve their colors and designs before being reinstalled in their original positions.

The university allotted P1.2 million for the restoration project. Essential in the process was the jet grouting of the Administration Building to maintain the structural integrity of the heritage structure.

Aside from Italian sculptor Francesco Ricardo Monti’s “bas reliefs” depicting the various Philippine historical eras, the Administration Building also houses the country’s largest Art Deco mural, Antonio Dumlao’s “Sarimanok Triptych” in crushed glass and resin, and some Fernando Amorsolo paintings, all of which carry an important parcel of Filipino memory.

It is also the venue of the FEU Auditorium, which served as the first Cultural Center of the Philippines during the post-war years and now continues to serve as a venue for culture and the arts, thus enriching the students’ university experience.

A legacy of culture and art preservation

Continuing the legacy of the university as a champion of heritage site preservation and protection, the FTS CEADD is also expecting the restoration of the Science Building and the Architecture and Fine Arts Building this year. In 2025, Nicanor Reyes Sr. Hall is scheduled for jet grouting.

“Expect more renovations and building projects in our campus in the following years. We want to give our students state-of-the-art experience in our campus while maintaining our promise in preserving important heritage sites,” said Bulanhagui.

Aside from the restoration projects, FEU also hosts symposiums on cultural preservation and innovation. Recently, FEU’s Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts held ArtX, “Konsepto: Innovations of Filipino Arts, Fashion and Architecture.”

The symposium featured respected architects and an owner of a design and construction firm, who are pioneers in the field of local arts, fashion, and architecture.

“The greenest building is the one that is already built. That was a quote by Carl Elefante that captured my attention. As an architect, who happens to have a passion toward arts and history, restoration of heritage buildings is my way of preserving our rich culture and history,” said Gerard Lico, principal architect of ARC Lico and a professor of architecture, during the symposium,

FEU Manila is open for free art appreciation tours to anyone interested to personally experience the richness of Filipino cultural heritage and memory within the campus. These tours are available on Wednesdays, by appointment. To book a slot, you may sign up at https://bit.ly/FEUCampusTours.