Friday, April 4, 2025

UnionBank Elite unveils ‘Next in Wealth’ for the Year of the Snake in exclusive market outlook events


 UnionBank Elite, one of UnionBank’s premier wealth management programs, continues to take wealth to the next level with its recently concluded series of market outlook events for 2025.


A Night of Insights, Expertise, and Celebration

Designed to provide clients with valuable investment insights, UnionBank Elite’s exclusive Chinese New Year-themed Market Outlook events, “Next in Wealth: Seizing Success in the Year of the Snake,” brought together its most valued clients for an evening of expert knowledge and celebration. Held across three prestigious venues—Solaire Resort North, Grand Hyatt Manila, and Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu— the event set the stage for strategic wealth planning in 2025.

 UnionBank’s unwavering commitment to delivering elite banking experiences that go beyond traditional wealth management was underscored by the presence of UnionBank’s top leadership, led by President and CEO Ana Aboitiz-Delgado, Consumer Bank Head Manoj Varma, and Wealth and Brokerage Head and UFSI Board Director Therese Chan.


 Expert Insights for Smart Investing

To help clients understand and navigate the complexities of the global market in 2025, UnionBank had their leading global fund house partners present the latest market updates and investment strategies.

 Allianz Global’s Karen Chen, Sr. Product Specialist, and Jason Lim, Sr. Channel Sales Manager, discussed the impact of shifting geopolitical dynamics in the U.S. and the risks and opportunities they present. PQ Lim, CEO of HSBC Asset Management Singapore, shared insights on how clients can capitalize on India’s rapidly growing economy. Phil Hagedorn, President and Chief Investor Engagement Officer for ATRAM, highlighted strategies for diversifying within the Philippine Equity market.

 

Beyond investment growth, the event also emphasized wealth protection, with presentations from Jose Eduardo Ang, InLife Chief Product and Innovation Officer, and Jose Paulo Lorenzo T. Puno, InLife Product Development Officer. Additionally, representatives from Oona and Aboitiz InfraCapital introduced other financial solutions designed to strengthen clients’ wealth portfolios.


By integrating global expertise into UnionBank Elite’s wealth management services, and with the guidance of its team of wealth experts, UnionBank continues to provide clients with personalized solutions that empower them to make informed financial decisions confidently, this 2025 and beyond.

 

“At UnionBank, we are committed to staying a step ahead as we take wealth management and banking to the next level. We are happy and grateful for your continued trust in us, as your partner in growing your wealth. You can be sure that your Relationship Managers, and the entire UnionBank team, are here to help and guide you every step of the way.” said Ana Aboitiz- Delgado.

 

VIP Experiences Beyond Banking

True to its commitment to offering world-class experiences, UnionBank Elite elevated the evening with special performances by some of the country’s top artists. Adding a unique perspective to the festivities was renowned Feng Shui Master Marites Allen, who provided a prosperity forecast for the Year of the Snake and gave clients an insightful look into favorable financial opportunities this year.

 

UnionBank remains at the forefront of delivering levelled-up banking experiences that support clients in achieving their financial aspirations. The Chinese New Year Market Outlook series is just one of the many exclusive offerings under UnionBank Elite, designed to help clients build, grow, and protect their wealth.

 

To learn more about UnionBank Elite, visit www.unionbankph.com/wealth/elite or email ubwealth@unionbankph.com.


EastWest’s "Further For You" in Action: Spreading Hope and Empowering Dreams Through Young Focus

EastWest volunteers share moments of joy and learning with children from Young Focus, embodying the spirit of giving and community through the Cards of Hope initiative.

 Beyond banking, EastWest is committed to going further and making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves. This came to life through Cards of Hope, a heartfelt initiative that turned a simple holiday tradition into an opportunity to change lives.

EastWest employees and internal clubs—EastWest Milers, EastWest Click, and EastWest Voices—rallied together to support Young Focus, an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Instead of traditional holiday decorations, EastWest employees purchased intricately designed ornaments and postcard sets, knowing that every peso would go toward scholarships and essential learning resources for children from Smokey Mountain.

For EastWest, the partnership with Young Focus went beyond financial aid—it created opportunities that equip the next generation with the tools to shape their future. “Education reshapes destinies, creating pathways to a future filled with possibility,” said Martin Reyes, EastWest’s Head of Marketing. “Our support for Young Focus isn’t just about giving—it’s about equipping these children with the means to build a better life.”

A Walk of Dreams: Witnessing Resilience and Hope

EastWest volunteers joined the Walk of Dreams and visited various communities in Tondo to connect with residents and better understand their daily challenges. Experiencing the children’s struggles firsthand gave them a stronger perspective on the impact of their efforts.

“Coming from the visit, it was a lot to take in,” shared one volunteer. “But what struck me most was their tenacity—their unshaken drive to learn, to dream, and to push forward despite the odds. Their determination was both humbling and inspiring.”

The experience deepened the Bank’s belief that real change happens when communities come together—not just through financial aid, but through shared moments of kindness, learning, and connection.

Turning Generosity Into Action

As EastWest celebrates its 30th anniversary, initiatives like Cards of Hope exemplify the Bank’s enduring mission to go Further For You—beyond banking, beyond business, and into the heart of communities in need.

Through this initiative, EastWest employees proved that even the simplest gestures—a card, an ornament, a shared dream—can make a lasting difference. One child, one opportunity, and one future at a time, Cards of Hope is turning generosity into action, ensuring that the next 30 years are just as impactful as the first.


A new way of purposeful giving: Globe empowers customers to drive positive change with GoGIVE



In line with its mission to uplift the lives of Filipinos, Globe has launched an innovative way to engage its customers in its mission of doing good.

GoGIVE is an innovative feature within the GlobeOne app that enables Globe Prepaid users to support causes they deeply care about by using mobile data. 

GoGIVE provides a seamless way to align Filipinos’ digital lifestyle with purpose-driven action. Globe Prepaid customers can now help their advocacy of choice just by using their mobile data. When they go about their daily online activities such as streaming, gaming, messaging, and browsing, they can earn "hearts" that they can send as support to the causes they care about. 

For every GB of data used, Globe customers collect hearts that they can allocate to their chosen advocacy, including animal welfare, environmental protection, children's education, fighting hunger, and more. 

“GoGIVE is designed to inspire our customers to create lasting change. By simply going online, they will be able to make a difference each day. Every post they create, every video they watch, every game they play, they can contribute to making our world a better place,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid. “This campaign reinforces Globe's dedication to sustainability and aligns with our purpose of uplifting lives through technology.” 

Through GoGIVE, users can select from a range of advocacies from Globe partners, including:  

Connect to Compassion: Saving More Animals with Technology - in Partnership with Philippine Animal Welfare Society 

Guardians of the Forest: Empower Indigenous Youth with Conservation Education - in Partnership with Philippine Eagle Foundation

Strong Women, Stronger Connections: Digital Literacy for Women - in Partnership with  Project PEARLS

Every Child Safe, Every Child Seen: Building Stronger Communities Together -  in Partnership with World Vision

Supporting Healthcare Heroes: Advancing Medical Training and Research -  in Partnership with PGH Medical Foundation

To join GoGIVE, Globe Prepaid users can simply download the GlobeOne app, click the GoGIVE banner, and select their preferred advocacy to begin making automatic donations. 

GoGIVE is Globe's latest initiative in its commitment to nation-building and sustainability, expanding on programs such as the Hapag Movement, Globe's G-Gantic Goals, and Climate Champions, among other efforts. 

By consistently engaging its stakeholders to help shape a better Philippines, Globe continues to redefine what it means to drive impact through digital innovation— providing customers with exceptional services and the means to foster lasting positive change as they “#GoForwardTogether.” 

Download the GlobeOne app today and learn more about Globe, by visiting https://www.globe.com.ph/. 



FWD launches new Set for Life Plus with more benefits to support life’s plus-ibilities


 FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) launched a new insurance plan that provides life protection plus more benefits to support policyholders as they take on different roles while achieving more.


In recent years, more Filipinos have embraced shifting lifestyles and achieved success outside traditional paths compared to previous generations. The Philippine Institute of Development Studies recently reported how 30-40% of the employed workforce have careers that do not align with their educational background. Recent trends also indicate that most young Filipinos are delaying marriage or having kids to prioritize personal passions, fuelled by changing aspirations and economic realities.


Recognizing these evolving priorities, FWD Philippines introduces Set for Life Plus, an investment-linked insurance that complements young Filipinos who want to explore life’s plus-ibilities—be it as a parent, an entrepreneur, a hobbyist, and more.


The plan guarantees life protection with up to 25% Start-up Bonus, plus a one-time Guaranteed Milestone Increase that can be activated upon hitting major life goals such as getting married, having a new baby, graduating, buying a new real estate property, retiring, or celebrating the policy’s 10th anniversary.





A Loyalty Bonus is also awarded in the 10th year of the policy, plus every 5 years after. A Premium Extension Bonus of 2% is also invested in the account when premium payments are continued after the required period.


Accidental death coverage and waiver of premium are also already included in the benefits. Policyholders can also customize according to their needs and add coverage such as additional life protection, hospital cash benefit, and critical illness protection. 


“As the insurer of the next generation that’s committed to nation-building, FWD recognizes the ever-evolving goals and aspirations of Filipinos. We want to help them celebrate living while building their best future,” said FWD Philippines President and CEO, Manuel “Jumbing” De Rosas. “With Set for Life Plus, they can embrace every opportunity in life and fulfill their goals while having reliable life protection and financial growth.”


Learn more about FWD Set for Life Plus by visiting https://www.fwd.com.ph/investment/set-for-life-plus/. Sign-up to talk to an FWD financial advisor here and get a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to South Korea. 


EastWest, Puregold, and Visa Launch Co-Branded Credit Card for the Everyday Filipino

If you're a regular Puregold shopper, you might want to pay attention—because your grocery run just got way more rewarding.

In a collab that screams power move, EastWest Bank, Puregold, and Visa have teamed up to launch the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card—a game-changing product designed to help Filipinos earn real rewards just by doing what they already do best: shopping smart.

Why “Always Panalo”?

The card’s name says it all. Whether you're stocking up on rice, cooking oil, or that one item you forgot for the fifth time—every swipe at Puregold (and even outside it) earns you points. For every ₱30 spent, you get ₱1 reward, and you can rack up to ₱3,000 per month. And the best part? These points go directly to your Puregold P-wallet, so you can literally use them for your next grocery haul.

No gimmicks. No confusing mechanics. Just actual cashback on essentials.

“This card is for the everyday Filipino—those who take care of families, run small businesses, or just want more bang for their buck,” says Lawrence Lee, EVP and Head of Consumer Lending at EastWest Bank.

 

Built for the Masses, Backed by Giants

Let’s be real: most credit cards in the market are either too exclusive, too complicated, or just not relatable. The Always Panalo card flips that script.

With Puregold’s massive base of 2 million First Club members and 500+ branches nationwide, this card is tailored for mass and mass-affluent customers—aka most of us.

“This isn’t just another credit card. It’s for the masa—our loyal suki shoppers,” shares Ivy Piedad, Head of Marketing at Puregold. “We want to give them value, not just convenience.”

Even Visa is all-in on the mission to democratize digital payments and financial access.

“We’re enhancing behaviors people already have. You buy groceries anyway—now you earn while you do it,” Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager, Visa adds.

Application? Super Simple.

No need to guess where or how to apply. EastWest is setting up credit card application booths inside Puregold branches, so you can shop and sign up in one go. Yes, there are standard KYC requirements (because it's a bank, after all), but the whole process is built to be seamless, especially for first-timers.

“We know a lot of Filipinos have never owned a credit card,” Lee says. “This is their stepping stone. It’s access made easy.”

The Backstory: Two Years in the Making


This wasn’t a rush job. The EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card was two years in the making, including one full year dedicated to infrastructure, tech integration, and streamlining the rewards system.

The goal? A financial product that’s actually useful, not just shiny.

TL;DR: Why This Card Slaps

✅ Earn ₱1 for every ₱30 spent
✅ Rewards go straight to your Puregold P-wallet
✅ Redeem up to ₱3,000 worth of rewards per month
✅ Apply in-store at your nearest Puregold
✅ No change in your routine—just better value for your money

So next time you're doing a grocery run and someone says “Gastos nanaman!” you can proudly say:
“Hindi, rewards to.”

Watch here the full video interview



Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Stay Cool, Stay Connected This Summer with Up to PHP 15,000 Off on HUAWEI Wearables, Tablets, Smartphones, and More




HUAWEI kicks off the summer season with exclusive deals on its range of device offerings. Stay cool, stay connected, and enjoy up to PHP 15,000 discounts on select HUAWEI wearables, tablets, laptops, smartphones, and audio devices this April.


Check out the exciting offers and upgrade your devices today.


Capture a Smarter Mobile Experience with HUAWEI Smartphones


Upgrade to a faster, smarter smartphone with HUAWEI’s exclusive deals on its top models this April. Unfold the classic with the HUAWEI Mate X6, which defies expectations by delivering peak performance in a slim, light, and tough build. Engineered with premium materials, advanced precision hinge, and a distributed architecture, the phone is designed to withstand heavy use. Its advanced camera system, with Ultra Chroma Camera, captures vibrant, lifelike photos. 


With its expansive display and Live-Multitask, you can multitask on a single device better than ever before. This foldable marvel is available for PHP 99,999 and comes with a free DJI Neo. In-store purchases also come with trade-in tokens worth PHP 10,000.







Unveil a bold and unique attitude with the HUAWEI nova 13 Series. The HUAWEI nova 13 and HUAWEI nova 13 Pro look unique and stylish with the dynamic plaid texture design, which plays on light and shadow. The Super Star Orbit Ring grabs everyone’s attention. Capture stunning photos with the 50MP Adjustable Aperture Camera and 8MP Ultra-Wide Macro Camera on the HUAWEI nova 13 Pro. The AI Best Expression keeps everyone in the photo looking their best. The 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo powers the HUAWEI nova 13 Series up to 50% in just 9 minutes. 


Grab the fashionable and functional HUAWEI nova 13 Series, for discounted prices online and in-stores. The HUAWEI nova 13i, available at PHP 10,999 exclusively on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store, comes with a free Thermos. The HUAWEI nova 13 retails for PHP 22,999 on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store and comes with a free HUAWEI Band 8. The HUAWEI nova 13 Pro is priced at PHP 29,999 on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store. It also comes with a free HUAWEI Band 8.


Upgrade Your Style and Fitness with HUAWEI Wearables


This summer, stay fit, be on top of your wellness, and enhance your lifestyle with HUAWEI Wearables. Add flair to your fitness with the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3, now with a square screen. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 is broadly compatible with Android and iOS devices. It also features comprehensive health and fitness management as well as the GCash supported cashless payment feature, Watch Pay, that you can easily access. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 in Grey enables access to NFC-enabled doors. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 has a durable battery life that lasts up to 10 days of maximum usage. Typical usage gives you up to 7 days of battery life. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 is available for PHP 5,999 on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 in Grey (NFC-enabled) and Pearl White are offered at PHP 6,099 online. Get a coffee cup freebie when you purchase the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 at any HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.



HUAWEI debuted a smarter wearable experience powered by the HUAWEI TruSense on the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series. The latest in the HUAWEI WATCH GT Series takes on a more holistic approach to wellness with the Emotional Wellbeing Assistant. It introduces the Pet Panda watch face feature, which animatedly reflects your mood to keep you aware of how you’re feeling. 


The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 in 41mm and 46mm are available for as low as PHP 8,999 on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store, while the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro starts at PHP 17,999. Enjoy a free strap with the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series when you purchase online and in stores.







Power Up Your Work and Play with HUAWEI MatePad Tablets



Discover HUAWEI MatePad tablets, giving you the perfect blend of power and portability to keep you productive wherever you go. The HUAWEI MatePad SE 11” has a premium look and breathtaking sturdiness thanks to its metal unibody design in high-quality aluminum with sleek edges and integrated camera. Its 11-inch eye comfort display is made for immersive viewing while keeping your eyes protected with low blue light and flicker free display. Designed for all-day enjoyment, the HUAWEI MatePad SE 11” has a 7,700mAh battery with 22.5W Fast Charge. The HUAWEI MatePad SE 11” is available starting at PHP 7,999 on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store. Freebies await when you purchase the HUAWEI MatePad SE 11” online and in stores.



Upgrade your productivity with the HUAWEI MatePad 12 X, which features a stunning 12-inch PaperMatte Display that ensures crystal-clear visuals even under bright sunlight. The PaperMatte technology reduces light interference to make the screen easier on the eyes while delivering a natural, paper-like writing and drawing experience. It pairs with the HUAWEI M-Pencil powered by NearLink technology. The stylus offers over 10,000 pressure sensitivity levels and ultra-low latency which allows for precise and natural strokes when creating on the GoPaint app.


The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X is available on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store for PHP 32,999. The HUAWEI MatePad 12 X is discounted at PHP 33,999 in stores with a freebie bundle including PC-Level WPS Office, HUAWEI Smart Keyboard, HUAWEI Bluetooth Mouse, and HUAWEI NearLink M-Pencil.


Unlock Next-Level Speed and Performance with HUAWEI MatePad Laptops


The high-performing HUAWEI MateBook laptops come with exclusive discounts and freebies this April. Maximize your vision with the 16-inch screen on the HUAWEI MateBook D 16. With its slim and lightweight form, the laptop is portable enough to keep you productive wherever you’re headed. The HUAWEI MateBook D 16 is powered by the 13th Gen High Performance Intel® Core™, a multi-tasking master that supports more powerful and stable computing performance. The HUAWEI MateBook D 16 is available starting at PHP 31,999 exclusively on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store. Along with a classic backpack, the HUAWEI MatePad D 16 comes with a free Microsoft365 for in-store purchases.


Power up your productivity while keeping your eyes safe with the Eye Comfort HUAWEI FullView Display on the HUAWEI MateBook D 14. The sleek and slender laptop supports seamless multi-device connection with Super Device. With the HUAWEI Metaline Antenna, the HUAWEI MateBook D 14 has an expanded connection range, increased file download speed, and boosted anti-interference and wall penetration performance, so you can stay connected wherever life takes you. The HUAWEI MateBook D 14 retails for a discounted price as low as PHP 28,999 on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store. Purchase yours at the nearest HUAWEI Experience Store and get a free Microsoft365 and classic backpack.


Dive into a Better Listening Experience with HUAWEI Audio Devices


Immerse yourself in crystal-clear audio with HUAWEI’s high-performing audio devices, now available at discounted prices this April. The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 is easy on the ears and on the eyes with a synthetic leather case with futuristic metal detailing. Lightweight and compact, the earbuds were meticulously designed to provide a natural and comfortable fit. The HUAWEI FreeBuds are the perfect all-day listening companion with up to 42 hours of battery life when used with the charging case. A single charge powers up the earbuds for 9 hours of listening time, while a quick 10-minute charge gives you up to 3 hours of playback. 


The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 3 is offered at PHP 1,399 exclusively on Shopee and HUAWEI Online Store, and comes with a 1-year warranty extension.


Shop for New Tech and Save This April with HUAWEI


Don’t miss your chance to upgrade your tech with unbeatable deals and exclusive bundles this April. Grab these discounts and freebies online at Shopee, HUAWEI Online Store, and at all HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.


Enjoy special installment promos of up to 24 months for credit card purchases and up to 19 months with Home Credit. 


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



Score Hot Summer Deals at the OPPO 4.4 Sale

Beat the summer heat with cool discounts at the OPPO 4.4 Sale! From April 2 to 7, get up to 57% off on select OPPO devices, plus exclusive freebies and vouchers. Time to upgrade your tech game this summer for your upcoming beach trips, or simply a nifty new gadget for streaming your favorite shows, playing in the pool, or staying connected under the sun. Whatever tickles your fancy, OPPO has the perfect device for you.

Mark your calendars and get ready to shop and drop on TikTok (April 2,12AM), Lazada (April 3, 8PM), and Shopee (April 1, 12AM) to get all the platform exclusive deals!

Big Discounts and Bonus Opportunity

Score the best deals of up to 57% off on selected OPPO smartphones and gadgets:

  • ₱1,000 off with no minimum spend on OPPO Reno13 F 4G/5G, OPPO Reno13 5G, and OPPO Reno13 Pro 5G.

  • ₱500 off with no minimum spend on OPPO Reno12 F 4G

Payments are also made easy when you avail OPPO products of this 4.4 sale via LazPayLater with up to 0% interest installment for 45 days in all OPPO Products and SPayLater with 0% interest on select OPPO products.

Freebies with Every Purchase

Make the most of your summer adventures with free gifts when you shop OPPO devices:

  • OPPO Find N3 Flip: Free Pearl Case and OPPO Enco Buds2—perfect for hands-free calls on the go.

  • OPPO A78 4G/5G, or OPPO Reno12 F 4G: Free 10,000mAh power bank to keep your phone charged all day.

  • OPPO Reno13 F 4G/5G: Free OPPO Enco Buds2 for seamless music streaming.

  • OPPO Reno13 5G, OPPO Reno13 Pro 5G: Free OPPO Enco Buds2 and 10,000mAh power bank for the ultimate summer soundtrack.

  • OPPO Pad Neo Wifi/LTE: Free Keyboard and Case (Black) for productivity anywhere.

  • OPPO Pad 3: Free Keyboard and Pencil for creativity on the go.


What’s more exciting is you can get a chance to win one of four MLBB Exclusive Gift Boxes when you buy any product during the 4.4 Sale.


My OPPO App 7 Million Celebration Promo

OPPO has reached over seven million registered members on the My OPPO App, marking a milestone for its growing community. To celebrate, OPPO is launching the My OPPO App 7 Million Celebration Promo from March 22 to April 30, 2025, offering exciting rewards to registered users.

How to Join:

  1. Open the My OPPO App and log in.

  2. Click on the 7M Celebration campaign banner on the homepage.

  3. Access the 7M Capsule Carnival and tap the "Click & Win" button to enter the raffle.

  4. Get three free plays per day or redeem 30 OPPOints per extra attempt.

Prizes include:

  1. E-gift vouchers from Zalora, Jollibee, KFC, Chatime, and VIU.

  2. OPPO devices, including the Find X8, Reno13 Pro 5G, Reno13 F 5G, A5 Pro 5G, Enco Air 3, and OPPO Watch Free.

The My OPPO App is a loyalty platform designed for OPPO users, offering exclusive rewards, OPPOints, and special services. This promo gives members a chance to win prizes while staying engaged with the OPPO community.

Upgrade your summer experience with the hottest deals on OPPO devices. Stay tuned for more exclusive OPPO promos and visit OPPO’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok stores, and shop now.

To know more about OPPO’s 4.4 Sale, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

To get the best care for OPPO devices, visit the nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.