Beachfront Bliss: Live, Work, and Thrive at Seafront Villas

Living by the beach offers an unmatched sense of peace and wellness, transforming each day into a chance to rejuvenate both body and mind. At Seafront Villas by Aboitiz Land, homeowners are granted the opportunity to craft a sanctuary tailored to both relaxation and productivity. With thoughtful design and amenities, you can create an ideal space to truly “seas the day” while making the most of beachside living.

The Benefits of Living by the Beach for Your Health

Coastal living is known to have a range of health benefits that go beyond just the picturesque surroundings. Studies show that living near “blue spaces”—like oceans and lakes—enhances mental and physical health, from reducing stress to improving mood and creativity. Here’s a closer look at why living near the beach can have such profound effects on well-being:

Reduced Stress. The beach environment promotes a calmer state of mind. The sound of waves can induce a meditative state, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Daily exposure to nature’s rhythms allows the body and mind to unwind naturally, providing a sanctuary from everyday pressures.

Better Sleep. The calming effects of the beach are also conducive to sleep. The fresh air, enriched with negative ions, improves oxygen absorption, which can promote deeper, more restful sleep. Regular exposure to natural environments like the beach supports better sleep quality, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed.

Enhanced Creativity and Mood. Proximity to water has been shown to boost creativity and improve mood. For those looking to harness inspiration, the beach provides a peaceful yet stimulating environment that allows the mind to wander, fostering creative thinking. Whether you’re writing, painting, or working on projects, being close to the ocean provides that spark of creativity often missed in urban settings.

The “blue mind” effect describes the unique impact of water on well-being, as it helps increase focus and clarity while reducing the mental clutter that often comes with city life. With this science-backed understanding of blue spaces, living in a beach condo at Seafront Villas opens up daily opportunities for both rejuvenation and productivity.

How to Make the Most of Your Day in a Beach Condo

Turning a beach condo into a sanctuary requires thoughtful design choices that enhance relaxation while supporting productivity. Here are some ideas to help you create a balanced living space at Seafront Villas:

Declutter for Clarity. A clean, organized space is essential for mental clarity. Minimize clutter by incorporating smart storage solutions like built-in cabinets or shelving units. A decluttered environment reduces distractions and promotes a sense of calm, making your condo feel more open and inviting. Reducing visual clutter is also known to reduce mental fatigue, giving you more energy for each day.

Maximize Natural Light. Embrace the sunlight streaming in from the coast by using light-colored curtains or blinds that allow natural light to fill the space. Studies show that natural light can improve focus and mood, making it an ideal feature for a sanctuary-like condo. Floor-to-ceiling windows or glass doors leading to the balcony can flood your home with light and capture stunning ocean views.

Incorporate Coastal Elements. Integrate beach-inspired decor to create a cohesive and calming aesthetic. Use light tones, natural textures, and touches of blue to echo the surrounding sea. Adding elements like driftwood, seashells, or woven textures brings the beach indoors, enhancing the calming atmosphere. Decor choices that reflect the ocean and natural surroundings can help amplify the sanctuary feel and make your condo a more inviting space.

Create Dedicated Zones. Designate specific areas for different activities to make the most of your beach condo. Consider creating a cozy reading nook, a work corner for when productivity calls, and a relaxation area where you can unwind. This approach helps to maintain balance, ensuring that your condo remains both a restful retreat and a functional living space. Zoning helps you mentally transition between activities, giving each moment and activity its dedicated space.

Each of these design choices not only elevates your living experience but also enhances the sense of tranquility and purpose, making every day in your beach condo feel like a fresh start.

Seafront Villas: A Haven for Beachside Living

Located within the award-winning Seafront Residences community in San Juan, Batangas, Seafront Villas offer an unparalleled beachside experience. Part of Aboitiz Land’s master-planned development, Seafront Villas is crafted with luxury, wellness, and community in mind, creating a retreat from urban life. Recognized for its innovative design and sustainable living practices, Seafront Villas combines high-end design with a focus on enhancing the lives of its residents.

Seafront Villas cater to individuals looking for a vacation home, a permanent residence, or a valuable investment property. The development’s beachfront location offers direct access to the sea, creating a unique opportunity to live in harmony with nature while enjoying modern conveniences. The villas are designed to maximize the coastal lifestyle, with open layouts and luxury finishes that encourage relaxation and connection to the natural beauty of Batangas.

Amenities that Enhance the Beachside Lifestyle

Seafront Villas are more than just beautiful residences; they’re part of a community where a variety of amenities make beachside living effortless and enjoyable. Here’s a look at some amenities that contribute to the sanctuary experience:

Swimming Pools and Kiddie Pool. With pools designed for both adults and children, Seafront Villas provides an enjoyable way for families to cool off or have fun in the water. The pool area is designed for relaxation and leisure, enhancing the vacation-like ambiance of the community. These pools are designed for maximum enjoyment and relaxation, with lounging areas perfect for unwinding under the sun.

Landscaped Pathwalks. Thoughtfully designed pathways wind through the community, allowing residents to enjoy a scenic stroll or a casual jog while taking in the lush greenery and sea views. This integration of nature and walking paths promotes an active yet relaxed lifestyle, perfect for retirees, families, and solo residents alike.

Play Area and Multipurpose Hall. For those who enjoy socializing and staying active, the play area and multipurpose hall are ideal. The play area provides a safe, fun environment for children, while the multipurpose hall can host community gatherings or private events, reinforcing the strong sense of community at Seafront Villas. This space also allows for year-round activities, making it easier to connect with neighbors.

Direct Beach Access. One of the standout features is the direct beach access, allowing residents to enjoy the coast whenever they please. This access transforms each day into an opportunity for beach walks, sunset viewing, or simply lounging by the water. The ability to enjoy the beach at a moment’s notice enhances the sanctuary feel of Seafront Villas, as residents have constant access to the natural beauty of the coast.

Each of these amenities is designed to support a lifestyle that balances relaxation and active living, making Seafront Villas a perfect retreat for those who value both wellness and connectivity.

Investment and Community Benefits

Seafront Villas isn’t just a place to live; it’s a valuable investment that offers future potential. With the steady demand for coastal properties, homes at Seafront Villas are poised to appreciate in value. Additionally, Aboitiz Land offers leasing and management services, making it easy for owners to generate rental income when they’re not using their villas. Whether used as a primary residence, vacation spot, or rental property, Seafront Villas is an investment that can provide both lifestyle benefits and financial gains.

If you’re ready to transform your dream of beachfront living into reality, Seafront Villas offers the ideal setting to do so. Visit Seafront Villas to learn more about the exclusive amenities, beachfront access, and community-focused living that make Seafront Villas a unique sanctuary. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a permanent residence, Seafront Villas provides a space where you can truly “seas the day.”

With leasing and property management services available, Seafront Villas also appeals to those interested in a sound investment. Take the step towards owning a coastal sanctuary that promotes well-being, inspires productivity, and offers the perfect blend of tranquility and luxury.

OPPO A5 Pro 5G: Your Unstoppable Summer Companion

In a busy summer season where you are almost always on the go, you need a smartphone like the OPPO A5 Pro 5G to keep up with all your activities in life. The most durable and strongest A Series from OPPO is built for the unpredictable and everything in between.

Strong for the summer and all season 

Life moves fast and sometimes your phone takes a hit for it. Whether it slips out of your pocket while rushing to get on a jeepney or gets run over by a motorcycle, its reinforced interior keeps it protected. Built with Military-Grade Shock Resistance, the OPPO A5 Pro 5G can survive drops from up to five meters.

Power that keeps you going, no matter the grind

For those long days that blend work, study, and play, a smartphone with a battery that gets drained halfway through isn’t an option. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G’s massive 5,800mAh battery will keep you powered for as long as 35.7 hours, enabling you to study on-the-go or scroll mindlessly between breaks without hunting for a charger. 

And when you do need to juice up, its 45W SUPERVOOCTM fast charging gets you back to 100% in just 83 minutes. With a 4-year battery lifespan and 1,600 charge cycles, it's in it for the long haul—just like you.

Built to survive splashy moments

Between juggling attending classes and other activities, accidents are bound to happen. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G is built with IP66, IP68, and IP69 dust and water resistance, so it can shrug off steam during quick lunch breaks, splashes from sudden downpours on the way to work, and even accidental drops during a hectic commute.

Elevate your smartphone experience with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G 

Choose the most durable and reliable OPPO A5 Pro device—built to keep up with your everyday hustle.

• The OPPO A5 Pro (8GB+128GB) is available for Php 10,999 and is available in Mocha Brown and Olive Green colorways.
• The OPPO A5 Pro (8GB+256GB) is priced at Php 13,999 and is available in Olive Green and Mocha Brown colorways.
• The OPPO A5 Pro 5G (8GB+256GB) is priced at Php 15,999 and is available in Bloom Pink and Mocha Brown colorways.

Ready to level up your summer? Find your perfect OPPO A5 Pro match and make it yours—available now on OPPO Stores and Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop platforms. 

Getting your hands on the powerful OPPO A5 Pro is now easier than ever! With Home Credit’s flexible 6- to 18-month installment plans at 0% interest, you can upgrade without the upfront stress. Prefer using your credit card? Enjoy the same worry-free experience with 6- or 12-month 0% interest installment options at OPPO Stores.

Dance your way to a million pesos at the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge!

Get your dance moves on and join the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge for a chance to win 1 Million Pesos by following these easy steps:

• Film your best dance moves using the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge’s official audio for a minimum of 15 seconds while creatively incorporating different weather elements like heavy rains, hot weather, or windy days. Check out OPPO’s how-to post or posts from Jackie Gonzaga, Ken San Jose, Joshua Decena, Aira Casim, and Sesable for the official track and inspo!
• Post your video on TikTok using the hashtag #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay, tag @oppophilippines, and ask your friends to hype up your entry by engaging on your post. 
• Secure your entry by filling out this Google Form (https://bit.ly/4k5CoXX) and manifest your success!

Converge Empowers Next-Gen Filipino Tech Leaders at Hackfest 2025

Converge team members and managers from the Network group and the IT Operations group served as judges of the Hackfest and earnestly evaluated the solutions created by the students at the end of the 11-day event. 

Leading Philippine fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is leading the way in shaping the minds of tech-oriented youth as it recently concluded participation in the 11-day Google Developer Student Clubs Loyola’s Hackfest 2025 Horizon, a  hackathon competition that provides a unique platform for students to apply their technical skills and develop innovative digital solutions for real-world challenges.

No less than two ranking executives of Converge - and startup entrepreneurs in their own right - spoke to over a hundred participants of the Hackathon, attended by the GDSC members: student tech society and circles of Ateneo de Manila University, University of the Philippines, De La Salle University, Adamson University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, among others. 

Converge Chief Executive Advisor Eugene Yeo and Converge Chief Network Transformation Officer (CNTO) Paulo Martin ‘Santi’ Santos delivered messages underlining the path of digital transformation the Philippines is on, and students’ role in this future as the next generation of tech leaders and innovators. 

Converge CNTO regales the young developers with his experience in transforming the digital infrastructure of Unionbank and also selling his start-up to a bigger telco. 

“We fully support the building of this community of young thinkers and developers. Most of the apps and systems  we use today are not localized or Philippine-based. But it's not because we don't have the talent - we do. We just need to harness it. You, the youth, are the future and this is a dream that Converge wants to keep pushing and investing in,” said CNTO Santos. 

Converge CEA Eugene Yeo shared his own experience as a start-up builder in the 90s, which he eventually sold to Yahoo! 

“There’s a huge opportunity in the Philippines to transform the way Filipinos live their digital lives. Converge built an amazing digital infrastructure but so what? If there are no solutions or no devices to leverage on that? That’s what we want to see at Converge, we want to go to the next level,” added Yeo during the opening ceremony of the Hackfest. 

Mentoring and advising the student teams involved in the Hackfest were key team members of the Network Operations Group, namely Research & Development Assistant Manager Charlene Patawaran, IT Operations’ Head of Technology Solutions & Engineering Management Steven Maverick Paradeza. 

The winning solution to the Hackfest was a waste management system innovation created by PUP students. 

The duo crafted the main problem statement that the teams targeted to solve using their coding and programming know-how. The winning teams were : 

1st Place : Team Infinity Stones with ScrappyHappy (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

2nd Place : Team Hacklanons with Smiles (Ateneo de Manila University)

3rd Place : Team Divathon with Kalinga (Ateneo de Manila University)

The teams came up with innovative and scalable solutions that address UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and moreover, empower communities that face structural challenges in waste management, resource redistribution, and civic engagement. 

Affordable Teletherapy in the Philippines: MindNation's Stress Relief Offer

In recognition of Stress Awareness Month this April, mental health and well-being organization MindNation is offering up to 50% OFF on select well-being programs to empower individuals to take action on their mental health and emotional healing.

Stress is a natural part of life and plays an important role in survival and growth. But when it becomes chronic, it takes a toll on both mental and physical well-being. Unchecked stress can lead to:

• Increased risk of anxiety and depression
• Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue
• Reduced productivity and workplace burnout

According to 2024 MindNation WellBeing Survey results, 72% of employees report feeling stressed at work often or more than half the time. While 49% say they can cope well, many remain unsure about their ability to manage stress. 

“Stress Less, Save More” offers two limited time discounted offers: 

• Trauma Processing Bundle – Now ₱5,400 for 5 1-hour sessions with a licensed MindNation psychologist (Trauma expert) from ₱9,000 (40% OFF)
• Get Things Done Program – Now ₱1,200 for 3 1-hour sessions with a trained Motivation Coach from ₱2,400 (50% OFF)

This initiative aims to raise awareness of the real and lasting impacts of stress, while also providing affordable pathways to healing and personal growth for individuals across the Philippines.

“At MindNation, we believe mental health support should be accessible, proactive, and rooted in empathy,” said Cat Triviño, Co-Founder and Chief Product and Data Officer of MindNation. “Stress Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to encourage people to finally prioritize their well-being and make it easier to do so without financial burden.”

Mental Health, Now Giftable

The discounted bundles may also be gifted to loved ones — a thoughtful alternative to the usual tokens of care. With e-coupons and no limit to the number of bundles that can be purchased, individuals can now support a friend, sibling, or colleague who may be quietly struggling.

This initiative is part of MindNation’s broader mission to normalize healing, promote mental health equity, and help communities thrive by taking proactive steps toward better well-being.

The “Stress Less, Save More” promo runs until April 30, 2025 and is open to individuals aged 18 and above. All sessions are virtual and can be booked by emailing book@mindnation.com.

For more information, follow MindNation on Facebook and Instagram @mindnation.

Grab Philippines Launches Green Programme: 1,000 Mangroves Planted in La Union

Grab Philippines Director for Strategy Greg Camacho [1st from right] and Grab’s Head of Group Sustainability Iris Chang [2nd from right] spearheaded the planting of the initial batch of mangrove trees in Dulao, La Union, together with volunteer Grab users, driver-partners, and employees

Grab Philippines has planted the first 1,000 of 80,000 pledged mangrove trees in Dulao, La Union, marking an early milestone in its newly launched Green Programme. Done in celebration of Earth Day 2025, the initiative underscores the superapp’s broader push to embed environmental sustainability into the country’s ride-hailing and on-demand delivery industries.

The Green Programme, which was launched in the Philippines in February 2025, empowers users to play an active role in environmental stewardship through tech.  By enabling the Green Program toggle on the Grab App, users get to contribute PHP 2 for every GrabCar ride and PHP 1 for every GrabFood or GrabMart delivery transaction. 

GrabForGood Forest in Dulao, La Union

One of the flagship initiatives to emerge from the program is the GrabForGood Forest in Dulao, La Union — a planned five-hectare mangrove enrichment site set to nurture thousands of mangrove seedlings. The initiative is a collaboration between Grab, the Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer’s Cooperative, the Philippine-based sustainability NGO Fostering Education and Environment for Development (FEED), and the environmental tech platform EcoMatcher. 

La Union's coastal village of Dulao is among the communities in the country that grapple with escalating water and food security threats driven by climate change, notably rising sea levels, and intensifying typhoons. Mangrove enrichment has become a pivotal strategy to fortify natural defenses. This initiative is a cornerstone of the "Ridge to Reef" (R2R) strategy, championed by FEED and Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), alongside various private, public, academic, NGO, and community-led efforts in La Union. This collective endeavor fosters an enabling environment for inclusive, integrated, multi-stakeholder collaboration aimed at sustainable development. Mangrove forests are crucial habitats for marine biodiversity and enhance the livelihoods of Dulao’s fishing community.

The Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer's Cooperative is at the forefront of sustainability efforts in their community, emphasizing the critical role of environmental action and conservation in supporting their livelihood and daily lives.

The project kicked off with the community mangrove-planting event led by volunteer Grab users, driver-partners, employees, representatives from partner organizations, and the local community — a grassroots push to anchor long-term resilience. FEED and the Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Cooperative took an active role in facilitating the orientation, providing a comprehensive introduction on proper mangrove planting techniques, and explaining the positive impact of this initiative on the community. Delailah Lacadue, Head of Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer's Cooperative, notes, “We wish to express our gratitude to Grab, FEED, DMMMSU, the local government of Aringay, EcoMatcher, and to all stakeholders for this mangrove enrichment project. This will surely help us in terms of environmental protection and livelihood as well. Kami po ay kasama ninyo sa pangangalaga ng Kalikasan para sa mga susunod pang henerasyon. We, the local community, commit to being your active partner for sustainability.”

“This is just the beginning — a pivotal first step in our long-term commitment to environmental sustainability,” said Greg Camacho, Director for Strategy at Grab Philippines. “The Green Programme is grounded in a simple yet powerful idea: when eco-friendly choices are made easy, inclusive, and accessible, they can inspire real positive impact for communities like Dulao. The planting of this first wave of mangroves, made possible by initial contributions via the Green Programme, proves that climate action doesn’t have to be distant or difficult—it can be seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of millions.”

The partnership with EcoMatcher enables tree tracking, ensuring transparency in where contributions are directed. “For sustainability-minded consumers, transparency is key,” said Bas Fransen, CEO of EcoMatcher. “Partnering with Grab Philippines through the Green Programme allows us to bring our advocacy for transparency-driven sustainability closer to Filipino consumers in a meaningful way.” 

With growing participation among users, the leading superapp is geared to scale the environmental impact of the Green Programme and turn individual contributions into lasting, collective change in more areas across the country. 

OPPO and Google Cloud: Redefining AI Experiences at Google Cloud Next 2025

OPPO articulated its strategic vision for Agentic AI at Google Cloud Next 2025, underscoring its strategy as a leader in AI experiences through in-house development and strategic collaboration with Google.

“OPPO's focus has always been on the user, and our goal is very clear: to lead innovation in AI experience and provide the best experience,” stated Jason Liao, President of the OPPO Research Institute. “We are continuously enhancing AI experiences through strategic collaborations with partners like Google Cloud, aiming to deliver Agentic AI capabilities to OPPO users." 

At Google Cloud Next 2025, OPPO showcased AI Search, a powerful system-level AI tool in collaboration with Google Cloud, which empowers users to efficiently search and retrieve complex multimodal document information using natural language queries. Furthermore, OPPO highlighted its significant advancements and innovative features across AI Productivity, AI Creativity, and AI Imaging.

Looking ahead, OPPO is actively exploring the next phase of Agentic AI experiences, with a focus on creating personalized and intelligent user experience.

OPPO is developing a new user knowledge system to serve as a centralized repository for user data, addressing the challenge of information fragmentation on mobile devices. It is designed to learn and adapt from user activities, interests, data, and memories, to provide highly personalized AI experiences, driving progress towards a future vision of intelligent, AI-driven operating systems.

Earlier this year, OPPO announced its latest advancement in AI Security with the launch of Private Computing Cloud (PCC), which leverages Confidential Computing from Google Cloud. It provides a dedicated and secure environment, ensuring that AI data processing happens within a secure, isolated system with end-to-end encryption to keep all AI interactions private.

Leveraging cutting-edge innovation and a steadfast commitment to enhancing user experience, OPPO is collaborating with key partners like Google Cloud to accelerate the development and adoption of AI technology, ultimately redefining the daily experience of AI across devices and services. By the end of 2025, OPPO aspires to empower nearly 100 million users worldwide to harness the transformative potential of OPPO AI.

Hop into Fun: An Egg-cellent Easter Celebration Awaits at SM Supermalls in the East!

Get ready for a basketful of joy and excitement this Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, as SM Supermalls in the East burst with festive fun for the whole family! From thrilling egg hunts to creative costume contests and exciting pocket activities, there's an egg-stra special treat waiting for everyone. So, gather your loved ones and hop on over to your nearest SM mall in the East for an unforgettable Easter celebration!

Here's a peek at the egg-citing activities lined up just for you:

SM City East Ortigas: Prepare for a delightful Egg-Hunting adventure at the Main Atrium. Join the fun at 3:00 PM and see how many colorful treasures you can find!

SM City Marikina: Experience the full Easter spectacle at SM City Marikina! Join their grand Easter Parade, showcase your best attire in the Easter Costume Contest, and participate in the thrilling Egg Hunt all happening at the Mall Atrium Ground Level.

SM City Taytay: The hunt is on at SM City Taytay! Head to the Bldg A Ground Level at 3:00 PM for their special Easter Egg-Hunting event. Get ready to scamper and discover hidden surprises! 

SM City Masinag: The Easter fun never stops at SM City Masinag! Be part of their vibrant Easter Parade, flaunt your creativity in the Easter Costume Contest, and join the exciting Egg Hunt. Plus, enjoy an engaging Easter pocket activity including a colorful coloring activity at the Mall Atrium. 

SM City San Mateo: Head to the 4th Level of SM City San Mateo for a day filled with Easter cheer! Witness their festive Easter Parade, join the adorable participants in the Easter Costume Contest, and embark on a fun-filled Egg Hunt. Don't miss their engaging Easter pocket activity too! 

SM Center Angono: Get your creative costumes ready! SM Center Angono is hosting an exciting Easter Costume Contest at the Upper Ground Level (in front of BDO) starting at 2:00 PM. Show off your most imaginative Easter-themed outfits and win fantastic prizes!

SM Antipolo Downtown: Celebrate Easter in style at SM Antipolo Downtown! Join their exciting Easter Parade, participate in the thrilling Egg Hunt, and unleash your creativity with their Easter pocket activity which includes delightful Easter egg painting at the 2nd Level.

Don't miss out on these fantastic Easter celebrations happening across SM Supermalls in the East! It's the perfect opportunity to create cherished memories with your family and friends.

Join the fun and share your egg-stra special moments with us using the hashtag #ExtraExcitingEast! We can't wait to celebrate Easter with you!