Made It Through Mum

Converge beat out other Catalyst teams, composed of global technology leaders and industry giants.  Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a leading fiber broadband provider, has been recognized for its groundbreaking AI-powered solution that optimizes customer journeys and drives significant business growth. The company, alongside partners Telecom Argentina, Vodafone GmbH, and Vodafone Group, secured the coveted Moonshot Catalyst Award at TM Forum's DTW'24 - Ignite & Innovate Asia 2024 event in Copenhagen. Their winning project, "AI-driven EBITDA Mastery: Revolutionizing Customer Journeys," showcases a cutting-edge AI architecture that leverages generative AI to personalize customer interactions and streamline service delivery. The solution, built using technology from Aria, AWS, Calvi, Nespon Solutions, and Salesforce, tackles real-world scenarios, such as billing inquiries and technical installation issues. "This Catalyst program perfectly showcases Converge's i...

Traveling can be stressful, especially when it comes to navigating airport logistics.  From packing to paperwork, the last thing you want is to worry about getting to the airport on time.  Grab, recognizing the need for reliable airport transportation, has launched its latest service: Advance Booking. Guaranteed On-Time Rides:  Grab Advance Booking offers guaranteed on-time rides to the airport using the GrabAirport fleet. This eliminates the anxiety of missing your flight due to transportation delays.  EJ Dela Vega, Head of Mobility at Grab Philippines, explains, "We understand the need for reliable airport transportation, and Advance Booking provides travelers the peace of mind they deserve. It's more than just an airport transfer; it's a guarantee that you'll arrive at the airport on time, every time." Benefits of Grab Advance Booking: - Plan Ahead: Book your ride up to 7 days in advance or as late as 2 hours before your scheduled departure. - On-Time Assuranc...

Batanes embraces digital payments (L-R): Atty. Noel Neil Malimban, BSP Regional Director for North Luzon; Provincial Governor Hon. Marilou Horlina Cayco; Dir. Pinky Jimenez, Regional Director, DICT Maya, the leading digital bank in the Philippines and an early adopter of QR Ph, proudly stands behind the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' (BSP) PalengQR initiative, recently introduced in Batanes. In partnership with the Batanes Provincial Government, BSP, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), this innovative "digi-palengke" program aims to modernize financial transactions in public markets and local transportation. Utilizing the standardized QR Ph system, vendors can effortlessly accept digital payments from various e-wallet providers or banks. The event also marked the introduction of the Free Public Wi-Fi Park and other initiatives aimed at empowering businesses and consumers with secure, efficient cashless transactions. Governor Hon. Marilou Horlina...

The back-to-school season is a time for upgrades, especially when it comes to student gadgets.  As academic demands increase, students need reliable laptops, tablets, and smartphones to keep up. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right gadget for your student while staying within budget.  Fortunately, thorough research can make all the difference. Here's why taking the time to research before you buy is crucial, according to Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company in the Philippines: 1. Matching Specifications to Needs: Every gadget comes with unique specifications and features.  Without research, it's hard to understand how these features impact performance.  By researching, you can ensure the chosen gadget meets your student's needs, whether it's for basic tasks like web browsing or more demanding activities like video editing. 2. Leveraging Product Reviews and Ratings: Online product reviews and ratings offer valuable in...

  As we approach the end of the first half of 2024, SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan are gearing up for a spectacular Mid-year End of Season Sale from June 28 to July 7. Get ready to snag incredible discounts of up to 70% off on a wide range of items throughout the malls. Update your wardrobe with the latest fashion trends from the SM Store and Surplus, and enjoy special markdowns at select beauty and wellness stores like Watsons and Miniso. Revamp your living space with discounted items from SM Home and Ace Hardware, or explore modern home appliances at SM Appliance Center for your DIY projects. Don't miss out on the Mid-year End of Season Sale at SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan. Stay tuned to the malls' official social media pages for event details and updates.

SM City Marilao is not just a shopping destination, it's a culinary adventure! The recently revamped SM Foodcourt offers a diverse and elevated dining experience, catering to every taste bud and preference.   A World of Flavors:   From authentic Japanese cuisine at Takoyadon and Kyushu Curry House to Filipino comfort food at S.A.L.O, Baliwag Lechon Manok, and Pares Retiro, the foodcourt boasts a wide array of options. International flavors are also represented, with Mr. Kimbob and Turk’s Shawarma offering a taste of Korea and the Middle East. Classic Favorites and Street Food Delights:   Indulge in familiar favorites like Lugaw Republic, Master Siomai, and Potdog, or explore the exciting world of Asian street food with Mr. Tentacles’ Baby Octopus Takoyaki, Korea Hotteok, and Tokyo Tempura.   Sweet Treats and Refreshing Drinks:   After your meal, satisfy your sweet tooth with Gugu Manju Korean mini cakes, Lil Orbits Mini Donuts, or a classic Pinoy Ice Scramble ni...

  Shopping spree with Piolo . Masayang sinamahan ni BDO Remit brand ambassador Piolo Pascual si Dolores Castaneda at pamangkin nyang si Jhared Magtabog sa surprise free shopping spree sa SM City Caloocan sa ilalim ng programang Kabayan Tuesday. GAANO ba kahirap ang maging anak ng isang overseas Filipino? Para kay Jhared Magtabog—anak ng isang domestic worker sa Japan—puno ito ng lungkot at pangungulila, lalo na dahil minsan lang sa isang taon nakakauwi sa Pilipinas ang kanyang ina. Pero sa tulong ng kanyang matatag na pananaw at ng BDO Unibank, nabawasan ang kanyang lungkot at napalitan ng saya at pagpapahalaga. Kamakailan ay napili ng BDO at SM ang pamilya Magtabog sa pangunguna nina Jhared at kanyang tiyahin na si Dolores Castaned bilang recipient ng surprise free shopping spree sa formal launch ng Kabayan Tuesday sa SM City Caloocan. "Napakabait po at napaka-generous. Grabe po dahil pina-experience nila ang ganito sa amin. Napakalaking tulong din po kasi talagang malungkot kam...

It’s official! Jollibee’s Cheesy Yumburger has once again taken the fast-food scene by storm, now championed by the rising P-Pop group, BINI.  Dubbed as the cheesiest, beefiest, and best-tasting cheeseburger by the trending OPM sensation, it's not just about flavor; it’s about a lifestyle choice that keeps up with today's generation, one that never settles for less than the best. It's about being at the top of their game, something that Jollibee and BINI always strive to be. Double the Patty, Double the Joy The Cheesy Yumburger isn't your average cheeseburger. Its secret? A perfectly seasoned beef patty paired with a creamy slice of cheese, hugged by soft and fresh buns.  It’s this simple yet timeless combination that makes the Cheesy Yumburger a standout—a cheeseburger that’s all about hitting the right notes of taste and satisfaction. Best of all, Jollibee is now introducing the Double Cheesy Yumburger, the same Cheesy Yumburger you know and love, but double the patti...

As the back-to-school season approaches, moms everywhere are gearing up to ensure their children have everything they need for a successful school year. With the Department of Education (DepEd) mandating the start of the next academic year for preschool through senior high school on July 29, and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) yet to announce the opening of classes for college, it's crucial to begin preparations early. From purchasing school supplies and uniforms to updating gadgets and creating an organized study space, there’s a lot to be done to prepare for the opening of the school year. So, where do you start planning? Here are some wais tips, as listed by Home Credit Philippines, the country’s leading consumer finance company, to help moms get a head start on back-to-school preparations: Create a back-to-school checklist . Before diving into shopping, make a comprehensive list of everything your child will need. This includes school supplies, uniforms, gadgets, and ...

Getting caught in a sudden downpour right after putting together the perfect sunny-day outfit can be a major fashion dilemma. The ever-changing weather can easily throw off our style game, but fear not - there's a stylish solution: jelly shoes. That's right - jelly shoes are back in the spotlight! This iconic footwear trend from the 80s and 90s is making a triumphant return in 2024. With a modern twist on the classic colorful designs, these jelly shoes are the ideal match for contemporary outfits. SM Malls in Grand Central, Sangandaan, and Valenzuela have curated a range of weatherproof footwear options to keep you looking fashionable and feeling comfortable, rain or shine. Step out in style with the lightweight white jelly sneakers from Simply Shoes at SM Center Sangandaan or the vibrant jelly sandals from Trusole at The SM Store in SM City Valenzuela . These versatile pairs can effortlessly complement dresses, shorts, or pants, making them a perfect choice for city life o...

Converge employees who are members of the LGTBQIA+ community pose in front of the Pride Wall installed in the company headquarters in Pasig.  Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc., in partnership with Pride PH, is fiber powering Pride Festival 2024, the biggest gathering of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies, on June 22 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle.  Converge, as the official live streaming partner of Pride Festival 2024, will connect the exciting on-ground events to the much wider online community members, supporters, and allies via various social media platforms. “Converge’s vision is all about empowering people – our customers, our employees, and our business partners. As an organization that constantly strives for greater equity, inclusion and acceptance, we are delighted to celebrate Pride with the LGBTQIA+ community,” said Chief Sustainability Officer  Benjamin Azada.  “The corporate practices and culture that we h...

The event has concluded, but the excitement continues to linger as Jollibee, the leading name in Filipino fast food, proudly introduces BINI, the 8-member girl group and rising P-Pop sensation, as its newest brand ambassadors. With their electrifying energy and authentic representation of today's generation, BINI is all set to infuse a fresh charm into Jollibee as the new faces behind the Cheesy Yumburger. BINI: Bringing P-Pop to Jollibee’s Cheesy Yumburger Since their explosive debut, BINI has captured hearts and playlists with their infectious tunes, viral dances, and empowering messages. Now, they are ready to tantalize taste buds at Jollibee, adding their signature style to the fast-food giant. Their mission? To share their love for Jollibee's cheesiest, beefiest, and most delicious Cheesy Yumburger, a must-try for all craving a delightful blend of cheese and beef flavors. It’s All About the Vibe "Na-excite talaga kami when we found out the good news. Teaming up with J...

Since I was a child, as soon as June approaches, I feel thrilled because it's my birth month. I don't eagerly anticipate gifts, but rather the greetings from family and friends. It brings me joy. I am easily pleased. It doesn't take much to make me happy. Whenever I am asked what I want for my birthday, my usual response is "nothing" or "I don't know; I can't think of anything I want or need." I am not materialistic. I am happy. I am healthy. I am blessed with family and true friends. Feeling ko nasa akin na ang lahat and I prefer inner peace. Fancy that! Haha. I find more joy in giving, whether to family, friends, or even strangers. But this time, I said, "Lord, can I give myself a gift this time?" Since a retreat in Batulao is not possible yet, I scheduled a day for myself for a pampering session at the mall. I want to have a massage, facial, manicure/pedicure. I simply wish to unwind and disconnect from the online world for an entire...

This Father's Day, honor the versatile modern dad who excels in balancing work, family, hobbies, and style. Explore this gift guide filled with thoughtful ideas to express your gratitude for all that Dad does, featuring essential finds available at the East's premier shopping destinations – SM City East Ortigas, SM City Taytay, and SM Center Angono. Fits for the Modern Man: Athleisure Chic : Dads on the go need comfortable yet stylish clothes. Think performance fabrics in joggers, polos, and zip-up hoodies available at Surplus shop. Tech-Savvy Dads : Consider tech-integrated clothing with hidden pockets for phones or earbuds, or a water-resistant parka available at Uniqlo SM City East Ortigas. Time is of the essence : watches with colored dials that suits Dads fits are perfect.  Get Seiko watches at The SM Store SM City Taytay and SM City East Ortigas. Visit Regatta SM City Taytay and SM City East Ortigas for that cool and comfy fits perfect for active and stylish Dads Gadgets ...

Prepare for the rainy season with essential home appliances that offer comfort and convenience, all available through 0% interest deals with Home Credit. As the rainy season sets in, bringing cooler temperatures and frequent showers, staying indoors becomes a priority. Managing daily tasks like laundry and entertainment can be challenging during this time, but with the right appliances, you can create a cozy and enjoyable atmosphere within your home. Home Credit presents a range of home appliances to help you navigate the rainy season with ease. Home Credit, the leading consumer finance company in the Philippines, is currently offering limited-time 0% interest installment deals until June 16, 2024, for those looking to purchase home appliances to enhance their comfort during the wet season. Here are some of the must-have home appliances you can acquire this rainy season through Home Credit: 1. Keep Your Clothes Fresh and Dry with Efficient Washing Machines: - Panasonic 8.5kg Inverter F...

Jenny Ann Balayan, a single mother and career-driven woman, values a job that not only provides for her family's needs but also allows her to dedicate time to her son, who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in childhood. Her journey took a positive turn when she discovered an opportunity to work for Surf2Sawa (S2S), the prepaid fiber brand of Converge. S2S offers affordable fixed-broadband internet plans with flexible top-up options, catering to budget-conscious customers in need of reliable connectivity. Joining S2S as a leader coordinator, Jen's exceptional skills and unique leadership style propelled her to the position of area sales head for Batangas and Mindoro. In this role, she supports S2S community distributors, ensuring that households in the area have access to high-speed internet through their community partners. Recognizing the importance of internet connectivity in today's world, Jen emphasizes the impact of Surf2Sawa in providing accessible internet ...

Seize the chance to be a part of the SM family and be like SM Little Stars alumni. In the photo are Nhikzy Calma, Lance Lucido, Haley Magtoto, Esang de Torres, Jourdanne Baldonido, Aljon Christoff Banaira, Eduardo Joson II, Chun Sa Angela Jung, Haley Magtoto, Gaea Salipot, Sheena Bentoy, and Aleynah Redillas – all of whom are welcomed home at SM.  Prepare yourselves, kids and parents! SM Little Stars 2024 has arrived, bigger and brighter than ever! It's an opportunity for your child to sparkle on a national platform and potentially change their lives. Through SM Little Stars, children can showcase their talents in the performing arts, fostering young potential and enriching our communities. If your child is aged between 4 and 7 and possesses a talent that can captivate the world, SM Supermalls is searching for YOU! This isn't just any talent showcase – it's the largest mall-based children's talent hunt in the Philippines, conducted annually across SM malls, including SM...

(L-R) Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo The Philippines, situated in the esteemed "Bean Belt" known for major coffee-producing nations, is witnessing a transformative shift in its coffee culture. Despite lagging behind in this global movement, there is a growing opportunity for the nation to cultivate a robust coffee culture where the populace embraces and appreciates the nuances of this beloved beverage while leveraging modern technologies to craft the perfect cup. IAJ Wellness Corporation (IAJWC), the exclusive distributor of Breville in the Philippines, has recently appointed Vanessa Maclang Caceres, a highly acclaimed barista and prominent content creator, as the brand ambassador for Breville, a leading Australian small kitchen appliances brand. This strategic partnership aims to elevate awareness and appreci...