Friday, June 13, 2025

HUAWEI nova Y73 & FreeBuds 6: Power & Sound Redefined!

HUAWEI is gearing up to elevate users’ smartphone and audio experience with the launch of the new HUAWEI nova Y73 and HUAWEI FreeBuds 6. A top-tier smartphone in its class, the HUAWEI nova Y73 delivers a powerful performance powered by a massive battery that lasts over a day, housed in a robust, reliable design that can handle anything. It also comes with the HUAWEI X-Button feature, designed to make the smartphone experience smarter and more seamless.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 offers an even more immersive audio listening experience with lossless transmission, powered by a dual-driver unit and HUAWEI Sound. The earbuds feature a unique droplet design for a comfortable, secure fit, and deliver clearer calls with AI Call Noise Cancellation.

Ultra-Long Battery Life for All-Day Use

The HUAWEI nova Y73 will carry a large battery, similar to its predecessor, which gives a boost to its battery life. Its 6620mAh Super Battery can support a higher energy density, which meets users’ day-to-day needs, while maintaining a thinner size. The HUAWEI nova Y73’s large battery will only require up to two charges a week, allowing users to stream, scroll, snap photos, and edit on the go without worrying about running out of power.

When fully charged, the HUAWEI nova Y73 can last for over a day, with up to 1.4 days of video playback, 2.6 days of music listening, and 2.2 days of calls. The large battery can survive temperatures as low as -20°C, so users can enjoy long-lasting battery power even in complex usage environments.

The HUAWEI nova Y73 is the first in the HUAWEI nova Y Series to support the 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo. With this fast-charging feature, a quick 10-minute charge gives users up to 5 hours movie-watching time on the HUAWEI nova Y73. The smartphone has also received certification for global battery safety with its AI Battery saving technology, which keeps users’ charging safe.

Reliable, Durable Build for Peace of Mind

With the HUAWEI nova Y73, users no longer have to worry about accidental drops. The device has an optimized architecture, which uses high-strength and high-thermal conductivity aluminum alloy, to offer a greater durability. With 360° protection and 5-star drop resistance certified by SGS, the HUAWEI nova Y73 can withstand up to 1.8m drops and maximum pressures of up to 65kg. Its IP64-rated dust and water resistance allows the HUAWEI nova Y73 to handle the wear and tear of daily commutes, outdoor adventures, or spontaneous trips without breaking down. 

Not only is the HUAWEI nova Y73 built to be incredibly tough, it’s also crafted to look sleek and stylish. To complement its slim build and its Double Star Orbit Rings, the HUAWEI nova Y73’s back design features the Dynamic Plaid Texture. This detailed geometric design produces a unique appearance and style with light and shadow effects. 

Smart, Intuitive, Convenient Experience for Easier Use

The HUAWEI nova Y73 has upgraded features for better convenience. One of these is the innovative HUAWEI X-Button, which brings breezier smartphone operation with a single-click. A single-press of the HUAWEI X-Button brings users to the Quick Access shortcut menu of their frequently used apps. A double-click or long-press opens core applications efficiently and conveniently. Users can further customize the HUAWEI X-Button according to their needs with One Click Tools access and One Click Call. 

The HUAWEI nova Y73 debuts the Infrared Smart Remote feature, which turns the smartphone into a multi-function remote control for home appliances. This feature helps users attain a smarter living experience. Now, users can quickly adjust the air conditioning temperature in their rooms or instantly switch TV channels with a single touch of the HUAWEI X-Button.

With EMUI 12, the HUAWEI nova Y73 enhances privacy and security, giving users better control over app permissions and personalised ads with Privacy Center and quick access to key protection tools with Security Center. The HUAWEI nova Y73 boasts a large internal storage of 256GB, allowing users to push the smartphone’s potential for more and giving them more space to install their favorite apps and download large files for work or for studying.

A New Way of Listening with Groundbreaking Open-Fit Audio and Dual Driver Technology on the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6

Beyond changing the game for smartphones, HUAWEI is also kickstarting a new chapter for premium audio with the launch of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6. The latest audio device from HUAWEI is the first open-fit earbuds with a dual-driver unit and HUAWEI Sound, delivering strong, punchy bass, sweet trebles and clearer, stable calls with AI-powered noise cancellation. It also supports up to 2.3Mbps lossless audio transmission for seamless, high-resolution music, and stable, clear calls for fuss-free communication.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 are as fashionable as they are functional with its sleek, ergonomic droplet design that offers the perfect balance between comfort, style, and immersive audio experience.

Face the Day with More Power and Less Worry with the HUAWEI nova Y73 and HUAWEI FreeBuds 6

Take your smartphone experience to the next level with long-lasting battery power, durable design, and smart access on the new HUAWEI nova Y73. Stay tuned for the official launch of the HUAWEI nova Y73, slated for release in the Philippines this June.

Score early bird vouchers worth PHP 300 for the HUAWEI nova Y73 from June 13 to July 31 on TikTok, Shopee, and Lazada.

Grab early bird vouchers worth PHP 500 for the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 on Shopee, TikTok, and Lazada. You can also get a free umbrella worth PHP 900 and a 1-year HUAWEI Loss Care to enjoy a 50% discount on a new, single earbud.

To learn more about the HUAWEI nova Y73, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Dad This Father’s Day at The Travel Club

He’s the one who carries the heavy bags without complaint, who maps out road trips and life lessons with the same steady hand. Strong, sturdy, and endlessly dependable, he’s the one you count on, whether you’re navigating highways or the twists and turns of life. This Father’s Day, The Travel Club+ honors the dads who lead with love, live with purpose, and always make space—in the trunk and in their hearts—for the ones they hold dear.

He may say he doesn’t need anything, but that’s all the more reason to surprise him. Let’s give him the kind of Father’s Day he won’t forget—thoughtful, fun, and just for him.  

Here’s how we’re celebrating all kinds of dads this June at The Travel Club:

Pop by with Pops at The Matcha Tokyo

Looking for a low-key but meaningful way to bond with Dad? Head to The Matcha Tokyo pop-up at The Travel Club+ TriNoma and treat him to a one-of-a-kind exclusive matcha drink. Choose from Matcha Maple Cream Latte from Canada, a creamy Matcha Banana Crème Brûlée from South Korea, and the fizzy Matcha Melon Cream Soda from Osaka—a flavor tribute to Expo 2025, where the Philippines is a participating country through the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board under the #LoveThePhilippines campaign. While you’re in store, feel free to grab a copy of the EXPO 2025 POP materials and help spread the word.

A Getaway at The Henry Hotels and Resorts, All for Dad

This Father’s Day, why not give Dad the one thing he rarely asks for but truly deserves—a well-earned break. Guests who shop at any The Travel Club+ store can receive an exclusive promo code for booking a stay at The Henry Hotels & Resorts. Even better? Each successful booking made from April 15 to June 30, 2025 earns a raffle entry for a chance to win a luxurious 3-day, 2-night stay at one of their beautiful destinations.

What to Give the Dad Who Has Everything (Except This)

He doesn’t need another mug, so skip the guesswork and shop gear that speaks his love language: practical, purposeful, and built to last. From the Gregory Border Carry-On for the organized adventurer, to the Montbell Rain Trekker Jacket for weather-ready days, the Allbirds Tree Runners for weekend strolls, or the Timbuk2 Messenger Bag for the everyday commuter, or the Ace Proteca Teofield Luggage for bold, ready-for-anything travel, or the Lojel Iloj Card Sleeve for sleek, no-fuss organization———there’s something at www.TheTravelClub.ph for every kind of dad. 

He’s always shown up for the journey, now it’s your turn. Celebrate Dad with gifts that go the distance. Visit The Travel Club and The Travel Club + stores or shop online at www.thetravelclub.ph or The Travel Club Tiktok Shop and find the perfect gift for the man who’s walked every mile with you.

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Where to Go This Father’s Day: 5 Must-Try Experiences for the Whole Family

This Father’s Day, go beyond the usual and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s thrilling action, relaxing entertainment, or friendly competition, these handpicked destinations promise unforgettable moments that every dad—and the rest of the family—will cherish.

Superpark Philippines at McKinley Hill and Eastwood City

Step into an indoor wonderland at Superpark Philippines, where technology meets play in exhilarating fashion. This next-generation activity park offers a dazzling array of interactive games, trampolines, obstacle courses, and playgrounds that invite families to move, laugh, and connect. 

Monza Barcade at Arcovia City

Rev up Father’s Day at Monza Barcade, a one-of-a-kind destination that blends the thrill of Formula 1 with the high-energy nightlife environment. Dads can dive into state-of-the-art racing simulators and browse official F1 merchandise before winding down with craft drinks and gourmet eats.

Uptown Tempur Cinema at Uptown Bonifacio

Treat dad to a cinematic experience like no other at Uptown Tempur Cinema. Recline on luxurious Tempur mattresses equipped with remote controls and enjoy seamless butler service and delectable fare—all while watching the highly-anticipated live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon.

Manila Padel Club at Arcovia City

This Father’s Day, rally the family for an energetic match at the Manila Padel Club—home to one of the fastest-growing racket sports in the world. With its vast open-air layout and professional-grade courts, it offers a healthy dose of friendly competition in a breezy, scenic setting.

Enter10 Bowling at McKinley Hill

For the dad who enjoys variety, Enter10 is a dream come true. From bowling and archery to private KTV rooms, there’s something for every kind of fun-seeker. Pair the excitement with a hearty serving of burgers, wings, and cocktails, and you have the recipe for a Father’s Day celebration that hits all the right notes.

Make this Father’s Day truly count by trading the ordinary for the exceptional at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. For updates, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (02) 8462-8888. 

SM Little Stars 2025 Launches at SM Valenzuela

If your child has a flair for the spotlight—whether they sing, dance, or juggle flaming hoops (okay, maybe just hoops)—SM Little Stars 2025 might just be their big break. The beloved nationwide talent search kicks off its preliminary screenings at SM City Valenzuela on June 14, bringing the stage closer to home for aspiring young performers.

Now on its 16th year, SM Little Stars has evolved with the times, embracing unisex categories and opening up more ways for children to showcase their individuality and skill. Contestants may audition in singing, dancing, or a special talent category that covers everything from beatboxing to painting to gymnastics.

More than just a contest, SM Little Stars is a launching pad. Past winners have taken on the global stage, from Broadway musicals to K-Pop fame, proving that the journey can start with one brave audition in a local mall.

And there’s more good news—if you can’t make it to SM City Valenzuela, preliminary screenings will continue at SM Center Sangandaan on June 21 and SM City Grand Central on June 28. Registration is ongoing via the SM Malls Online App, official website, or on-site from 10AM to 2PM on screening dates.

With full scholarships from National University, over ₱750,000 in prizes, and a brand new car up for grabs, this year’s SM Little Stars could open doors to a future filled with possibility. The stage is set—will your child take the spotlight?

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Changing Lives Through Opportunity with Home Credit

The country’s number one financial ally empowered a couple to rise from uncertainty to success, proving that the right support can change lives

Every Filipino dreams of a better life—one filled with comfort, stability, and opportunities to grow. Whether it’s owning a home, starting a new career, or simply managing everyday expenses with ease, these goals reflect the hopes we carry for ourselves and our loved ones. And while challenges and limited resources can sometimes slow us down, the right support can turn even the simplest moment into a powerful new beginning.

For many, that turning point came with Home Credit Philippines, the country’s leading consumer finance company. Through affordable financing solutions and flexible payment options, Home Credit empowers Filipinos to take the confident steps toward the future they have always envisioned–—one achievable milestone at a time.

A laptop that changed everything

Take the inspiring story of Manilyn and Mark Anthony Agus, both 35, who once juggled multiple side jobs to make ends meet. Today, they’re thriving as full-time virtual assistants, earning a combined six-digit monthly income–and it all began with one simple opportunity made possible by Home Credit. Before their careers took off, Mark worked at a factory and later became a delivery and ride-hailing rider. He also helped Manilyn sell home-cooked meals while she ran a small online business selling decorative pebbles.

Despite their hustle, most of their income went toward daily expenses and supporting Mark’s mother’s medical needs. Their dreams of owning a home and financial stability felt distant–until a chance encounter at a tech store changed their lives. 

“We were just walking around the mall in 2022 when a Home Credit sales associate introduced us to their installment plans,” shared Manilyn. “All they asked for was one valid ID. The process was quick—less than a minute—and we walked out with a laptop.”

That laptop was more than just a device. It was a stepping stone.

From Struggles to Stability

With her new laptop, Manilyn secured her first virtual assistant job. Realizing the potential of remote work, she encouraged Mark to follow the same path. Soon, they secured a second laptop through Home Credit, allowing them both to work from home full-time.

“Napakalaking tulong sa amin ng Home Credit. Ito ang naging pundasyon namin para makapag-trabaho as virtual assistants,” Mark shared.

(The laptop we got through Home Credit was a huge help. It became the foundation of our work as virtual assistants.)

Since then, the couple has taken out and successfully paid off 11 loans with Home Credit—including cash loans and product installments. They’ve gradually built the life they once only dreamed of: owning a home, upgrading appliances like refrigerators and washing machines, buying furniture, motorcycles, and even a PS5 for leisure.

“Sa tulong ni Home Credit, nakapag-umpisa kaming mag-asawa ng bagong career at ngayon ay kumikita na kami ng umaabot ng six digits,” Manilyn added.

(With Home Credit’s help, my husband and I were able to start new careers, and now we’re earning up to six digits.)

Most recently, they used a ₱30,000 Home Credit Cash Loan to renovate their kitchen—approved in just one minute through the Home Credit App. 

“Nag-avail kami ng cash loan through the Home Credit App. And in as fast as one minute, na-approve na siya agad,” Manilyn remarked.

(We availed a cash loan through the Home Credit App, and in as fast as one minute, it was already approved.)

“Malaki ang tiwala namin sa Home Credit dahil isa siya sa naging parte ng kung paano kami nakabangon. Kung tao si Home Credit, taos-puso kaming magpapasalamat dahil nakabili kami ng laptop na naging pundasyon para makapag-umpisa kaming mag-asawa. Malayo na rin ang aming narating mula noong panahong puro sideline lang ang aming kinakapitan,” Manilyn added.

(We have great trust in Home Credit because it played a big role in helping us build a better life. If Home Credit were a person, we would wholeheartedly say thank you, because it enabled us to buy a laptop that became the starting point for my husband and me to pursue our dreams. We’ve come a long way since the days when we relied only on side hustles.) 

Helping Filipinos Achieve the Good Life

“Mark and Manilyn’s story reminds us of what’s possible when financial access meets real ambition,” said Shiela Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines. “Our mission is to bring life-changing opportunities closer to everyday Filipinos. Their journey is proof that with the right tools and support, big dreams can come true.”

From a single gadget to a thriving home-based career, Mark and Manilyn’s experience reflects what Home Credit stands for: making progress possible, one empowered Filipino at a time. 

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or get the Home Credit App from Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  

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

Converge accepts resignation of Atty. Francis Lim from its Board, following appointment as SEC Chairman

Atty. Francis Ed. Lim was appointed to the Board of Directors of Converge in June 2020.

Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (PSE: CNVRG) has announced the acceptance of the resignation of Atty. Francis Ed. Lim on 9 June 2025 from its Board of Directors following his appointment as Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman by His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Converge Chairman Jose de Jesus thanked Lim for his invaluable contribution to the company since he joined the Board at the height of the pandemic in 2020.

“We are truly grateful to Director Francis for his steadfast guidance to the organization in the past five years. His wealth of experience in commercial and corporate law served us well in strengthening our organizational structure and putting in place the necessary guard rails for good governance, particularly during our early days as a publicly-listed company,” said de Jesus.

Converge President and Co-Founder Maria Grace Uy noted that Atty. Lim was also instrumental in steadily uplifting the company’s corporate governance practices, improving risk management, increasing transparency, and enabling the company to attract high-caliber talent as member of the Converge Board committees on Corporate Governance, Risk Oversight, Related Party Transactions, and Remuneration.

Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy said Atty. Lim helped steer Converge to unprecedented heights, providing sound legal advice as the company navigated the complexities of the pandemic and the demands of a public company.

“While his term with us has come to an end, we are elated that he will now lend in the service of government at the SEC his peerless legal expertise and deep knowhow of the capital markets. Without a doubt, his leadership of this important regulatory body will further lead to a robust, efficient and fair market functioning that will drive more businesses to flourish and attract fresh investments. We wish him all the best in his new capacity as corporate regulator,” he said.

“I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the stockholders for the trust and confidence they placed in me by electing me as a member of this Board. It has been a distinct honor and privilege to serve Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc. and it is my fervent hope that I have contributed in such capacity to the well-being of our Company,” said Atty. Lim in his letter to the Board. 

“To my fellow Directors and the Management Team, thank you for the camaraderie, wisdom, and support throughout my tenure,” he added.  

A prominent icon in corporate circles, Mr. Lim was named President and CEO of the Philippine Stock Exchange from 2004-2010 during which he also held several senior management positions at Securities Clearing Corporation of the Philippines, the Capital Market Development Center, Inc., the Philippine Stock Exchange Foundation, Inc., the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corporation, and the Securities Investors Protection Fund. 

  Mr. Lim also served in an extensive capacity in the Supreme Court through membership in several sub-committees, thereby taking part in the creation of a number of Rules of Court pertaining to commerce and corporate restructuring.

The Converge Board Nominations Committee will be reviewing potential candidates to take Lim’s seat at the Board and will announce his replacement following the election by the company’s Board of Directors.

Under Section 28 of the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines, the remaining directors may elect a replacement to serve for the unexpired term should a vacancy arise and it does not reduce the Board's composition below the quorum.

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

OPPO Releases 2024 Sustainability Report, Reaching its Climate Target Two Years Earlier than Planned

OPPO has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, marking its fifth consecutive year of publishing the annual report. OPPO announces in the report that the company has reached the peak of carbon emissions across its own operations in 2022, two years ahead of its original climate target. As a global technology company with operations spanning over 70 countries and regions, OPPO ranks as the world’s fourth largest smartphone brand for four consecutive years. The report also outlines OPPO’s efforts and achievements in building a more inclusive and sustainable future by focusing on the following five areas: virtuous innovation, environmental protection, ecosystem engagement, operations and compliance, and caring for employees. ‌ Driven by its brand renewal – “Make Your Moment”, OPPO will propel sustainability forward to create meaningful impact through green innovation and responsible technology.

Making its Operation and Products Greener BOLD 

Following its 2023 commitment to achieving carbon peak by 2024 and carbon neutral by 2050 across its own operations, OPPO has been actively exploring new models for reducing emission intensity. Many initiatives have shown results, with OPPO's operational carbon emissions falling in both 2023 and 2024. OPPO achieved a 3.2% year-on-year reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions in 2024, equivalent to the annual sequestration capacity of about 514,320 mature trees. By mobilizing its supply chain partners, OPPO reduced Scope 3 emissions by 9.3% compared to the previous year.

Beyond carbon reduction efforts, OPPO also implements green management practices across the entire lifecycle of its products. In 2024, OPPO implemented lightweight packaging design across its entire smartphone product line, reducing paper consumption by 10 tons per million units—equivalent to preserving approximately 200 trees. The company also adopts recycled materials made from plant residues such as sugarcane and bamboo to replace traditional paper materials. In Europe, the proportion of recycled material content in mobile phone box packaging increased from 45% to 55%. Furthermore, OPPO integrates innovative engineering solutions to improve the durability of its products. The OPPO A3 Pro, for example, uses Damage-proof 360° Armour Body to improve drop protection and enhance everyday durability. 

OPPO implements green management practices across the lifecycle of its products. 
 

Virtuous Innovation Simplifies Daily Lives BOLD 

OPPO maintains technology and innovation as a strategic priority, with a global portfolio of over 113,000 patent applications, with 91% of them being invention patents. Driven by its brand mission "Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World", OPPO is committed to making technology accessible to everyone. OPPO has also introduced AI functions across its entire smartphone product line, bringing over 100 AI features to 50 million users worldwide. Through its commitment to inclusive innovation, OPPO has developed accessibility features including real-time speech-to-text conversion, content magnification, and adaptive color correction, empowering users with hearing or visual impairments to fully engage with digital technology.

Health is another area where OPPO is leveraging its extensive resources and innovation to create more user-centric products and experiences. OPPO smartwatches integrate the proprietary “Health Insights” feature, which uses sensor data and AI algorithms to monitor vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, and sleep in real time. Combined with temperature change analysis, sleep quality analysis, and other features, the OPPO smartwatches provide users with personalized health risk evaluation and suggestions. Notably, OPPO’s AI-powered blood pressure classification algorithm enables continuous, unobtrusive hypertension risk assessment – particularly for young/middle-aged essential hypertension cases. This constitutes the world’s largest real-world study on unobtrusive blood pressure risk prediction.

OPPO health management toolkit

Engaging with Local Communities as Corporate Citizen BOLD 

In 2024, OPPO donated more than 450 million RMB to social and public welfare organizations, implementing a range of initiatives in areas such as environment, culture, sports and education that help to build more sustainable communities.

In collaboration with Discovery Channel, OPPO has launched the Culture in a Shot Initiative since 2024, which aims to showcase the cultural diversity through imaging technology. With its theme "Portraits of Legacy" in 2024 and “Celebrate the Moment” in 2025, the initiative spotlights inheritors of intangible cultural heritage, and stories of festivals as well as celebrations across 15 countries. In 2024, OPPO also partnered with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to donate 1,000 OPPO tablets, supporting youth education and cultural development in Africa and Asia.

Through its partnership with Discovery Channel, OPPO is celebrating unique cultural diversity around the world

As the Official Smartphone Product Partner of the UEFA Champions League, OPPO has been investing in the development of football culture both on and off the pitch. Through programs like local pitch renovations, equipment donations, and professional training courses, OPPO is providing the support and resources for young footballers from countries including Brazil, Egypt, and Mexico to pursue their football dreams and reach their potential.

Guided by its vision of becoming a sustainable company that contributes to a better world, OPPO will continue to advance sustainable development through technological innovation, creating a resilient technological ecosystem with global partners. Learn more about OPPO's sustainability journey in the 2024 OPPO Sustainability Report.‌

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Sunrise Trail Hike at Masungi Georeserve: An Empowering and Meaningful Birthday Celebration

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