Smart Encourages Pinoy Drivers to Use Mobile Devices Responsibly

With the Anti Distracted Driving Act (Republic Act No. 10914) now in force, leader in mobile Smart Communications (Smart) is reminding its subscribers who are licensed drivers that they will be penalized if caught using their mobile phones or engaged in distracting activities while driving.

The new law defines distracted driving as engaging in certain actions while in motion and even when the vehicle is temporarily stopped at a red light. These actions include the following:

· Sending or reading messages on a mobile device

· Making or receiving calls

· Playing electronic games

· Watching movies

· Surfing the internet

· Reading e-books

· Performing calculations

Those who are not covered by the law are people “using mobile phones for emergencies, including calls to a law enforcement agency, healthcare provider, fire department, or other emergency services, agency or entity,” and people “using mobile phones while operating vehicles providing emergency assistance,” such as ambulances and fire trucks.

Otherwise, the use of a mobile device while driving is allowed only when the driver uses hands-free tools such as a speaker phone and earphones.

Violators will be fined P5,000 for the first offense, and P10,000 for the second. Third-time violators will be slapped with a P15,000 fine and three-month suspension of their driver’s license. Fourth-time violators will be fined P20,000 and will have their driver’s license revoked.

In the US, more than 3,000 people were killed in 2014 and 431,000 were injured in vehicular crashes involving distracted drivers. A study by a US-based research group also shows that people who text while driving take their eyes off the road for about 5 seconds per SMS. At 90 kilometers per hour, this is equivalent to driving the length of seven basketball courts while blindfolded.

Smart enjoins everyone to use their mobile devices responsibly – not only for their own safety, but for the safety of their passengers and other motorists as well.

Newest Starbucks Cards commemorate Filipino’s rich culture and heritage, now on its third year in the Philippines

For years, Starbucks has kept its customers on their toes with regular releases of beautifully-designed Starbucks Cards. This month, in celebration of its 3rd anniversary, Starbucks Philippines offers Cards and merchandise with designs evoking a sense of pride about the rich history of the country.

Starting August 8, Starbucks will offer three new cards: Manila Starbucks Card available only in Metro Manila stores, Cebu Starbucks Card available only in Cebu and a Special Edition Siren Starbucks Card available in all stores. Both the Manila and Cebu Starbucks Cards have a matching tumbler available in the respective stores.




(L) Manila Starbucks Card and Tumbler and the (R) Cebu Starbucks Card and Tumbler

Inspired by “Summer Night in Manila,” the Manila Starbucks Card design focuses on the iconic Philippine commuter jeepney travelling the busy city at night. The colorful and intricate designs on the body of what is dubbed as the king of the roads in Metro Manila represent the vibrant culture of the Filipinos.

For those in the queen city of the south, the Cebu Starbucks Card features the exquisite scenery of the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and Mactan Mandaue Bridge as if viewed from the hilltops of Cebu that are decked with the Sinulog flower.

Aside from Cards that represent Filipino culture, the global coffee brand also offers a Special Edition Siren Starbucks Card, highlighting the Siren as the heart of Starbucks. It tells the story of Starbucks rich heritage, representing the brand’s loyalty to its roots as it evolves. This elegantly designed card is available in all stores nationwide.

All of the three Cards are available for an initial consumable load amount of ₱300 starting August 8. As an anniversary treat, customers who activate any of the featured qualified Starbucks Cards with at least ₱1500 from August 8 to 10 will receive a complimentary Starbucks mini green apron card carrier or any Grande handcrafted beverage. Qualified Cards are Manila Starbucks Card in Metro Manila, Cebu Starbucks Card in Cebu and Special Edition Siren Starbucks Card in all non-Metro Manila and Non-Cebu stores.

Also, from July 26 to August 1, customers who reload their My Starbucks Rewards® (MSR) account throughwww.starbucks.ph/card with at least ₱1,000 will earn three (3) complimentary Beverage Stars.

ASUS Philippines Confirms Arrival of ZenFone 3 Laser and ZenFone 3 Max in the Country this August

The Zenfone 3 family just got bigger and bolder! ASUS Philippines confirms the arrival of its newest addition to the ZenFone 3 smartphone series, the ZenFone 3 Laser and ZenFone3 Max together with the three phones slated to launch in August in the country.

Conceived with sophistication and affordability in mind, these two products have outdone their previous predecessors with sophisticated design, a world-class camera, reliable performance, and unparalleled, lasting longevity.

Beauty and Elegance Inside Out

The ZenFone 3 Laser and Zenfone 3 Max features a 13MP camera with the latest Sony IMX214 sensor that captures stunning photos without any lag. The ZenFone 3 Laser in particular is able to achieve focus in just 0.03 seconds, and its laser has an operational range of 1.5, twice compared to other smartphones.

This camera also has an industry-leading Low Light mode with pixel-merging technology that captures 400%-brighter photos at night or in extreme low-light scenes – all that without the need for any flash.

Meanwhile, their Backlight (Super HDR) mode can see through daytime shadow with superb clarity, while its Super Resolution mode captures detailed images at resolutions of up to 52MP.



The 5.5-inch ZenFone 3 Laser and 5.2-inch ZenFone 3 Max sport a sophisticated aluminum alloy with design elements that add visual aesthetics and an easy, comfortable grip.

Both phones have a finely sandblasted matt surface and a gently rounded edge, combined with a refined metallic-chamfered edge surrounding its display.

Both also sport the quintessential and ergonomic fingerprint sensor placed near the top of its rear panel, allowing the index finger to naturally rest on it. The fingerprint sensor allows it to rapidly unlock the phone, using authentication by other apps.

ZenFone 3 Laser is available in two attractive colors to complement even the most-color conscious attire: glacier silver and sand gold. While the ZenFone 3 Max is available in three attractive colors: titanium gray, glacier silver, and sand gold.

Extreme Performance and Longevity

The ZenFone 3 Laser boasts a powerful Snapdragon 430 octa-core processor, 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage that will be able to satisfy everyone’s entertainment needs, that is also backed with one of the loudest and clearest speakers in its class because of the magnets used in its voice coils that have an extremely strong magnetic flux.

Meanwhile, the ZenFone 3 Max offers longevity like no other with its 4130mAh battery that provides up to 30 days of standby time, and the ability to turn into a power bank with reverse-charging capabilities offering high-speed charging of other devices, it is also equipped with a powerful Quad-Core 64 bit processor running at 1.25Ghz complimented with a Mali T720 graphics processor.

An Incredible Smartphone Innovation

From the birth of ZenFone 2 Laser and ZenFone Max that pushed innovation to deliver an unparalleled smartphone experience, ASUS has outdone itself once more with a rebirth in the form of the ZenFone 3 Laser and ZenFone 3 Max which offers the best of both worlds in terms of design and performance, without a doubt – innovation is, and will always be, the middle name of ASUS.

SUN LIFE PHILIPPINES BRINGS TOGETHER CHARO, PIOLO, JUDY ANN, AND MATTEO IN “MONEY FOR LIFE” CAMPAIGN

Four of the entertainment industry’s brightest have come together to promote financial literacy in Sun Life Financial’s latest campaign promoting its program dubbed “Money for Life.”

Actor and triathlete Matteo Guidicelli, actress, chef, and award-winning author Judy Ann Santos, actor and producer Piolo Pascual, and top network executive Charo Santos-Concio were tapped to be the advocates of “Money for Life,” a comprehensive and customizable financial planning program that will help a client ensure that he will have sufficient funds no matter where life takes him and whatever life stage he may be in.

Charo, who retired as CEO of ABS-CBN last year, is enjoying life after retirement by spending time with her family and grandchildren while still engaging in her creative pursuits and hosting ABS-CBN’s longest-running drama anthology “Maalaala Mo Kaya.” “I am definitely more relaxed now, though I am still on the lookout for the next story that will inspire the audience,” she shared. “All of these are possible because I was able to save and invest for my future.”

Judy Ann is likewise money-savvy. “Years ago, when I was still starting in showbiz, one of the first things I spent money on was a Sun Life insurance policy,” she shared. “Now that I have three children, I know that their future will be taken care of with the right financial partner by my side.”

Meanwhile, Matteo is also embracing his own financial journey. “In the same way that I’m very hands-on with the projects I’m given, I want to understand how to manage my money too,” he said. “I have so many goals that I’d like to pursue, but with my investments, I’m sure that I can make all those a reality.”

For his part, long-time Sun Life ambassador Piolo is more than happy to welcome Charo, Judy Ann, and Matteo into the Sun Life family. “It’s definitely an honor. These are people whom I admire and respect in the industry” he said. “I am one of the many people who look up to Ma’am Charo for her passion and wisdom; I admire Matteo for being conscientious in all his endeavors from showbiz to sports; and of course, I am thrilled to be reunited with Judy Ann, who definitely played a big role in my showbiz career.”

Piolo, whose son Inigo is now also making waves in the business, is focusing on his own interests such as sports. “I’m into a lot of sports like cycling and badminton. I’m able to focus on my health and wellness, because I know Sun Life will always be there to take care of my finances,” he said.

As endorsers of the “Money for Life” campaign, Charo, Piolo, Judy Ann, and Matteo star in Sun Life’s latest TV commercial – a powerhouse casting never before seen in the insurance industry. “These four stars are admired in the industry not just because of shows and movies they’ve starred in; it’s because of who they are beyond the screen and how they are in real life,” Lopa said. “Sun Life looks forward to working closely with them in further inspiring Filipinos to find their way to financial security. It’s time for Filipinos to truly pursue the brighter life that they envision for themselves and their loved ones. Sun Life and its affiliates are ready to guide them in this journey.”

In the Philippines, “Money for Life”, Sun Life's unique approach to financial planning, is available through the following three entities: Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc., Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. and Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc.

SMART and Chatime offer something B1G

SMART together with Chatime is giving away FREE DATA upon purchase of 2 large drinks, yes you've heard it right. You can enjoy your favorite milk tea while surfing online with FREE data. 

This promo will happen every weekends until October 15, 2016. #SmartGigaSurf Na!!!

Visit these participating stores now!

Pioneer

Valero

Eton Centris

The Fort

Paseo

Eton Emerald

Shangri-La Plaza

Century Mall

Alphaland Southgate Makati

Cash and Carry

Satisfy your milk tea cravings, and get something B1G from Smart!

AlDub loves McDonald’s Chicken Fillet Italiana

You can now taste and enjoy every bite of McDonald’s signature chicken fillet, topped with meaty tomato sauce and melty cheese. This will surely make you say, delizioso!

Chicken Fillet Italiana is the latest favorite meal also of hit love team, Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza, popularly known as AlDub! In their latest TV commercial (which I'm sure you've already seen), AlDub celebrates their first year anniversary as a love team enjoying the new Chicken Fillet Italiana. Check out the TV commercial via http://tinyurl.com/je4hwk9.

You can also try the new Chicken Fillet Italiana with a regular drink for only P69. Available from 10:30 A.M. onwards, get this with friends or family at any McDonald’s store nationwide or via McDelivery (86-2-36, mcdelivery.com.ph or via mobile app).

ShareYou may share your photos enjoying Chicken Fillet Italiana on facebook.com/mcdo.ph or tag @McDo_PH on Twitter or Instagram. Love na'tin ito right? :)

Philippines makes its mark as global entertainment destination

The Philippines once again made its mark in the global entertainment scene as over 26,000 fans from across the globe gathered together for some explosive dance music performed by renowned local and international pop icons in this year’s biggest music event, the MTV Music Evolution Manila 2016.

Presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the one-night-only outdoor live music event, with the theme Can’t Stop Movin!, presented the amazing evolution of pop music and its dance influences. The Concert Grounds of SM Mall of Asia was basically on fire as fans danced, cheered and sang their hearts out on hit after hit of iconic and contemporary pop dance music.

World-renowned local artists, Mr. Pure Energy Gary V. and his son, Gab Valenciano opened up the stage with an intense set of performance. Filipino favourite teen love team, James Reid and Nadine Lustre followed, sending fans high above the love cloud with their kilig-filled performance.

American singer-songwriter, Bebe Rhexia also pumped up the stage with her hit songs including “Me, Myself and I” and “Broken Hearts”. Fans also went wild as A-Pink, one of Korea’s favorite K-pop idol female groups, flawlessly performed “Remember”, “Mr. Chu”, “Luv” and “No No No”. L.A. grown electronic dance trio Far East Movement got everyone singing, dancing and jumping with their hit singles, “Like a G6” and “Rocketeer”. The headliner, prolific hit-maker, One Republic, wrapped up their performance of “Counting Stars”, “Apologize”, “Stop and Stare” and “Secret” with an explosion of fireworks.

It gets even better as the Philippines will also be highlighted in a global telecast reaching an international audience of more than three-quarters of a billion households in over 160 countries under the MTV World Stage global series.

Only on its second year, MTV Music Evolution Manila 2016 proved once again that the Philippines is not only a premier global destination for arts and culture and leisure and adventure, but is also one of the world’s top destinations for world-class entertainment.

To know more, visit www.mtvmusicevo.com or www.tpb.gov.ph.

Trade Your Old Juicer for a New Hurom HA Series!

Get PhP5,000.00 off a new Hurom Slow Juicer HA Series if you trade in your old juicer of any brand. Hurom elevates juicing to a new level. Hurom slow juicers gently squeeze fruits and vegetables, nuts and grains to preserve their natural taste and nutrition, color, and flavor. There are no sharp edges or whirring blades, just pure nutritious deliciousness. Unlike commercial juices, Hurom juice is full of live, digestive enzymes. Make it a habit to drink to health and grab a Hurom juicer now. 

This is the second (2nd) year in a row that Hurom is doing their Slow Juicer Trade-In Promo. Last year’s campaign was so successful that Hurom has decided to do it again. The public who missed out last year have a chance to take advantage of this deal.

The customer can trade in any brand of juicer, in whatever condition, to any Hurom representative at participating stores: Rustan’s, SM, Landmark, Anson’s, Abenson, True Value, SM Appliance Center. The customer will be given a PhP5,000.00 discount upon purchase of the Hurom Slow Juicer - HA series. Customers can trade in a maximum of three (3) units for the entire duration of the promo period. The trade-in promotion cannot be availed in conjunction with other Hurom promotions except where indicated. The trade in juicers and blenders are not convertible to cash. Promo Period is from July 1-August 31, 2016.

Hurom Slow Juicers are available in Abenson, Anson Link, Duty Free, Gourdo’s, Rustan’s, Landmark, Metro Gaisano, Royal Duty Free, S&R, SM Appliance, SM Home, True Value, and Western Appliances. To learn more about Hurom Slow Juicers, visit the official website at www.hurom.com and follow us on our social media accounts: (Facebook) http://www.facebook.com/huromphofficial, and (Twitter & Instagram) @HuromPHofficial. You may contact directly to hotlines (+632) 926-8038 / (+632) 926-8009.

Grab announces James Reid as new celebrity ambassador

After a series of teasers on social media about a new addition to the Grab family, leading transport app, Grab Philippines, has officially announced Fil-Australian singer, actor, and Transportation, model, James Reid as its latest celebrity ambassador.

SWEET SURPRISE. As the newest celebrity ambassador of Grab, Teen Heartthrob James Reid is excited to surprise fans and lucky winners of the promo when they book and use the promo code JAMES

To celebrate its new celebrity partnership, Grab Philippines has also launched a new contest to give its loyal passengers the chance to meet their teen idol in person. To join, passengers just have to use the promo code JAMES when booking a GrabTaxi, GrabCar or GrabExpress.

The company aims to make customer experiences from the different Grab services as engaging as possible so that loyal passengers have something to look forward to.

For more information and to catch up with Grab Philippines’ promotions, check out their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/GrabPH or their website, www.grab.com.

Smart makes big splash with GigaSurf50, country’s first 1GB data offer at P50

Enjoy 1GB of surfing and apps plus 300MB for streaming on YouTube, iflix and more, valid for 3 days. Since Smart Communications is changing the way Filipinos enjoy their smartphones, it unveils GigaSurf50, the country's first 1GB data offer at P50.

Valid for three days, GigaSurf50 also comes with an additional 300MB for streaming on sites YouTube, iflix and more, empowering subscribers to ride the digital wave and enjoy more data, video and music right at their fingertips. 

To enjoy this latest offer, simply text GIGA50 to 9999.

Pasadata with GigaSurf50

GigaSurf50 is also big enough for subscribers to share with others through Pasadata, Smart’s innovative feature that lets subscribers pass on a chunk of their data to friends and loved ones. To share part of your GigaSurf50, simply text PASADATA MB and send to 808.

With GigaSurf50, you can go beyond your usual mobile Internet activities, from speaking your mind on the latest trending topic on Facebook and Twitter, watching the latest viral videos on YouTube, and binge-watching your favorite movies and series on iflix.

GigaSurf50 also lets you record more of your day’s best moments on Snapchat and Instagram, share more of your latest musings on your personal blogs, and connect more withyour groups on Messenger, Viber and Whatsapp, among many others.

Bridging gaps and breaking barriers

GigaSurf50 follows a string of awesome products and services that Smart launched since it refreshed its brand last June 13 to show a stronger commitment in empowering Filipinos to live a digital life without barriers.

Smart recently launched its P1,288 Prepaid Smartphone kit to offer the most value-packed big-screen smartphone in the country today, meant to break barriers for many Filipinos to own a smartphone.

Smart also recently unveiled its Smartlife app, a breakthrough digital discovery portal that lets subscribers enjoy exclusive daily perks, movies, music and games at their fingertips.

Network boost nationwide

All these new products go hand in hand with Smart’s rapid LTE deployment and network expansion to deliver faster, more reliable and affordable Internet services throughout the country.

To keep updated with Smart’s biggest offers, follow its official accounts on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SmartCommunications), Twitter and Instagram (@LiveSmart).