The PR & Events Circuit

  Life insurance Annual Premium Equivalent (APE) sales for the first semester of 2023 grew just under 10% as the industry remains well-positioned to top its annual pre-pandemic sales levels for the first time.  APE is the annual total value of all single and recurring premium policies. Known for its heavy reliance on face-to-face transactions in marketing its products, the life insurance sector was seen to be among the most impac ted during the pandemic years. However, under the prevailing economic climate, Filipino families are increasingly seen to prioritize insurance to safeguard themselv es and their loved ones against unforeseen  events.  Moreover, they also look for ways to ensure they are secure financially through whatever means.   There are five critical assets a person should consider to achieve financial security:   •  Emergency Funds:   Emergency funds are savings for unanticipated expenses like medical incidents and house repairs. Thi...

Following the launch of the first lyf property in Malate, Manila, The Ascott Limited is thrilled to announce its expansion into the Visayas and Mindanao (VisMin) region with the opening of lyf Cebu City, the first international co-living serviced residence in the city. The latest property sets the tone for lyf’s continued growth and commitment to providing the new generation of travelers with a unique and vibrant co-living experience. lyf Cebu City aims to bring its unique and distinct brand of co-living spaces and community-centric service to the Queen City of the South. Last December 16, 2023, lyf Cebu City extended an invitation to local media and influencers from Visayas, treating them to an unforgettable experience at "lyf of the City." The event offered an exclusive sneak peek into the property through fun activities, live entertainment, an interactive tour, and a delicious spread of food and drinks.  Among the key personalities present were Rey Vergel Mulat, lyf Cebu C...

Various micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Leyte have seen their businesses grow after expanding and broadening their market with the funding support from BDO Network Bank. Carlo Romano, chairman of Palo Livelihood Cooperative Center, shared that there were cooperative members who took advantage of the Negosyante Loan from BDO Network Bank because their funds were not enough to increase capital in their businesses. "For instance, the producer of Moron and Binagol (rice-made desserts) took a loan from BDO Network Bank to add to their capital. Now, their business has a license to operate from the Food and Drugs Administration. It means their products are eligible for export. Even during the pandemic, their business is still thriving," explained Romano. A member of Palo Cooperative Livelihood Center shared how BDO Network Bank empowered her to become an exporter of Moron and Binagol. (Photo courtesy of Palo LGU and Carlo Romano) For her part, Zenaida Subang, a ...

In line with its commitment to make digital services accessible for Filipinos and to help uplift lives across the country, PLDT Home, together with Zone V Camera Club and the Virlanie Foundation, launched The Learning Hub in Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City. This initiative aims to empower Filipino students and their communities through reliable broadband internet connectivity, linking them with the rest of the world, and providing much-needed access to quality learning resources.  PLDT and Smart Communications Director, President, and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio and Zone V Camera Club President Angela Panlilio with beneficiaries of the Virlanie Foundation The Learning Hub seeks to provide Filipino children with a free-to-use learning space, powered by fast internet connection from PLDT Home and learning tools such as computers with digital applications. This initiative was likewise designed to unlock livelihood opportunities to benefit low-income families, while also offering com...

Mang Inasal , the Philippines’ Grill Expert, kicks off commitment to greater environmental sustainability with some of its stores installing solar panel-mounted rooftops. “In support of Jollibee Group’s efforts to shift to renewable energy, Mang Inasal is taking initial steps towards environmental sustainability,” said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. “And being a highly franchised brand, we are thankful that our franchisees back us up in this endeavor.” As of December 2023, Mang Inasal has launched the use of solar panels in its Sindangan and Molave stores in Zamboanga.   Mang Inasal Sindangan franchisee Hanzel Uy said the focus on being environmentally responsible makes running the business more meaningful as it does not only give them a more cost-effective option for energy consumption but also helps ensure a better world for future generations.   “Apart from the long-term savings on utility costs, we feel good knowing that we are able to contribute to a cleaner envir...

The newly rehabilitated rural health units in the municipalities of Dauis and Inabanga in Bohol were recently turned over by BDO Foundation (BDOF) to improve healthcare accessibility in the communities. With the completion of the two projects, more than 96,000 people in 62 barangays will have access to primary care that includes outpatient check-ups, vaccinations, and treatment for common illnesses, as well as maternal and child health services.  More than 96,000 people in 62 barangays will have access to primary care with the rehabilitated rural health units in the municipalities of Dauis and Inabanga in Bohol The rehabilitation efforts on the RHUs focused on refurbishing and upgrading the facilities to accommodate waiting areas, play corners for kids, offices, clinics, consultation, and treatment rooms – allowing health workers to serve more patients.   "We believe that these rehabilitated centers will continue to serve as vital hubs for healthcare delivery, m...

As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to fill your home with warmth and joy. The holiday season after all is a time for celebration, gratitude, and creating cherished memories. Whether you're looking to revamp your space or surprise your loved ones with thoughtful gifts, here's a curated list of holiday gift ideas that give warmth, comfort and style for the spaces we cherish most. • Surprise your loved ones with the gift of cozy moments this Holiday season with recliners available at Our Home. • Unwrap the joy of comfort this season with Our Home's collection of cushions that everyone will love to have and hug.  • Share the gift of a welcoming home with candles and scents. • Give the gift of organized beauty.  Our Home’s jewelry organizers  are designed to keep precious treasures safe and stylish.  • Looking for the perfect gift for those who love to host? Our Home’s serveware and barware make the perfect gifts for them. • Nespresso machines for cof...

  PLDT Home is playing Santa this Christmas with overflowing gifts for families. The PLDT Home Holideals promo is back with a trove of rewards including exclusive deals, treats, and chances to win smart entertainment and appliance packages. If you haven’t completed shopping for your Christmas gifts yet, PLDT Home’s Holideals got you! PLDT Home enables you to get the most value out of your gift purchases by giving you more rewarding experiences that you can share with the whole family at home this holiday season.     A Rewarding Christmas for loyal subscribers Of course, gift shopping remains a huge part of the Filipino holidays. It’s ingrained in our culture to shop for gifts for our loved ones even when we’re tightening our belt. Now you don’t have to miss out on the joys of shopping for gifts and groceries for the season. PLDT Home gives away up to P250,000 worth SM gift certificates to lucky subscribers who upgrade their plan or avail any device or entertain...

BDO Private Bank (BDOPB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of BDO  Unibank , broadens its reach with the opening of its  W ealth  C enter in highly urbanized  Mandurriao , Iloilo City, to support the financial and investment goals of the city’s High and Ultra High Net Worth residents.   Iloilo is home to BDO Private Bank’s ninth Wealth Center in the Philippines and its third outside of Metro Manila.  It  is located  within the SM City Iloilo Complex  and is considered the first-ever done by a private bank in Iloilo City.  It   is open Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM.    First Private Bank in Iloilo  BDO Private Bank opened on December 6 its Wealth Center located within the SM City Iloilo Complex. In the photo are (from left) Jay  Treñas , Executive Assistant to Iloilo Mayor Jerry  Treñas ; Albert Yeo, President of BDO Private Bank; Felipe  Uygongco , Vice Chairman of La Filipina  Uygongco  Group ...

For property developers, transitioning into energy-efficient buildings and greener developments has become the standard in light of the world’s climate change challenges. Balancing iconic modern aesthetic with environmentally sound practice: The FourE-Com Center, located in the SM Mall of Asia Complex, draws inspiration from crystal formations with its three adjacent rhombic towers. Such is the case for SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia. SM Prime is committed to building innovative and integrated sustainable lifestyle cities, with an eye toward long-term resilience and a healthier environment for future generations. “By focusing our efforts on sustainability, climate resilience, and operational excellence, we continue to create practical solutions that will elevate the quality of life of the Filipino people,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim.  Taking the LEED Over the years, SM Prime has gained international r...