Product Showcase
Red is the new green
National Book Store, the largest bookstore chain in the Philippines, introduced its RED (short for Reduce Earth’s Destruction) bags in response to the ever-pressing challenge of reducing solid waste by limiting the use of plastic bags in retail stores.
By R.E.E. Mancesa
“They are the unwelcome souvenirs from a trip to the grocery store: plastic bags.” So writes Whitney Mitchell in Paper Nor Plastic for the New River Community College, as he adds that “(our) options on how to dispose of them are limited, and the fact remains it will take 10 to 12 years for each one to decompose” – and this is if at all, since studies show that plastics, especially in bulk, can actually take up to 1,000 years to decompose.
This is why the introduction of green bags – reusable shopping bags – has been a welcome development, allowing consumers to use and reuse (and reuse and reuse and…) special bags whenever shopping.
It is in line with this that the National Book Store (NSB), the largest bookstore chain in the Philippines, introduced its RED (short for Reduce Earth’s Destruction) bags, NBS’ “response to the ever-pressing challenge of reducing solid waste by limiting the use of plastic bags in retail stores. As the largest bookstore chain in the country, (we) recognize(our) role in the proliferation of non-biodegradable refuse, and (our) greater influence in reversing this harmful practice,” the company states in a prepared statement. This was, “(NBS) is saving the Earth one shopping bag at a time with its new reusable shopping bag.”
NBS isn’t the first to do promote the use of green bags.
Overseas, eco-friendliness is gaining attention for, among others, Stella McCartney, whose fully-sequined organic cotton tote costs $495; Anya Hindmarch’s “I’m not a Plastic Bag,” the popular environmental bag used by international celebrities, originally sold for only $15, but now sell over 10 times that price when bought on eBay; and Hermes’ Silky Pop, a handmade silk bag that folds into a wallet-sized calfskin pouch, costing $960.
More than a fashion statement, however, NBS hopes for the RED Bags to “help change the Filipinos’ consumption practices and do its part in caring for the environment.”
Avail of the RED Bag for P65, and get P0.50 off purchases when shopping using it. For more information, visit any National Book Store outlet.
Product Showcase
Pru Life UK introduces PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund
This innovative, Peso-denominated Fund gives customers access to the ATRAM Global Technology Feeder Fund of ATRAM Trust Corporation (“ATRAM”) whose target fund is Fidelity International’s Fidelity Funds – Global Technology Fund (the “Target Fund”).
Pru Life UK is tapping into the dynamic growth of the global tech industry with its exciting new offer, the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund. This innovative, Peso-denominated Fund gives customers access to the ATRAM Global Technology Feeder Fund of ATRAM Trust Corporation (“ATRAM”) whose target fund is Fidelity International’s Fidelity Funds – Global Technology Fund (the “Target Fund”).
The Target Fund is one of the largest in the world with USD 23.9 billion in assets as of July 2024. ATRAM is the leading digitally-powered asset and wealth management firm in the Philippines with over PHP 360 Billion in assets under management as of June 2024.
With the tech sector outperforming other industries, the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund offers a gateway to investing in stocks of some of the world’s most influential tech-driven companies, including Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Microsoft Corp, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. These companies are not just at the forefront of technology but are also shaping the future of various industries worldwide.
The PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund is ideal for new and existing Pru Life UK customers with an aggressive investment risk appetite. It allows customers to invest in dollar-denominated equity assets while using Philippine Peso, providing the potential for additional returns through favorable foreign exchange rate movements (while there may be potential returns, note that there may be potential losses, too, depending on the performance of Philippine Peso against US dollar).
The current short-term volatility in the global tech market presents a prime buying opportunity. By investing in the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund now, customers can maximise long-term potential capital gains by acquiring high-quality tech stocks while prices are relatively low.“The PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund is proof of our purpose to help Filipinos achieve their financial goals. Through our investment-linked insurance products, we want our customers to have access to the growth of tech-driven companies worldwide with a fund that largely invests through ATRAM in the Fidelity Funds – Global Technology Fund of Fidelity International,” Pru Life UK Vice President and Chief Product Officer Garen Dee shares.
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Enjoy seamless travel with Singapore Airlines’ connections
Known for its industry leading service, product offerings, and excellent network connectivity of the SIA Group spanning 123 destinations1 across the globe, SIA welcomes you on board with us.
The holidays are here, and Filipinos are gearing up for a wonderful time of vacations and adventures. Set the tone for an amazing trip ahead with Singapore Airlines (SIA).
Known for its industry leading service, product offerings, and excellent network connectivity of the SIA Group spanning 123 destinations1 across the globe, SIA welcomes you on board with us.
With two local hubs operating out of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Singapore Airlines is every Filipino traveler’s gateway to destinations like Melbourne, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, offering various flight schedules and multiple daily departures for a seamless transit experience.
Here’s a travel hack for you: Conveniently kick off your global escapade from Manila and Cebu. Get away to cities like Jakarta and Bali to enjoy the blend of urban energy and island serenity. Whether you’re craving the cosmopolitan charm of Sydney, the vibrance of Brisbane, or the romantic allure of Paris, Singapore Airlines offers you a seamless journey ahead, allowing you to focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.
Still deciding where to go? Here’s a quick look at Singapore Airlines’ great connections from Manila and Cebu.
- Best connections out of Manila (4 departures daily)
Route | Flight No. | Departure | Arrival | Layover Time | Frequency |
Manila – Singapore | SQ915 | 07:40 | 11:20 | – | Daily |
Singapore – Jakarta | SQ958 | 12:30 | 13:15 | 1h 10m | |
Manila – Singapore | SQ917 | 14:15 | 17:50 | – | |
Singapore – Sydney | SQ221 | 20:20 | 05:55 +1 | 2h 30m | |
Singapore – Los Angeles | SQ38 | 20:45 | 21:40 | 2h 55m | |
Singapore – San Francisco | SQ34 | 19:50 | 20:15 | 2h | |
Singapore – Denpasar (Bali) | SQ948 | 21:20 | 23:55 | 3h 30m | |
Manila – Singapore | SQ919 | 16:55 | 20:30 | – | |
Singapore – Melbourne | SQ227 | 22:00 | 07:25 +1 | 1h 30m | |
Manila – Singapore | SQ921 | 18:30 | 22:20 | – | |
Singapore – Paris | SQ336 | 00:15 | 07:35 +1 day | 1h 55m |
*Subject to regulatory changes. All
timings in local.
- Best connections out of Cebu (1 departure daily)
Route | Flight No. | Departure | Arrival | Layover Time | Frequency |
Cebu – Singapore | SQ901 | 15:30 | 19:15 | – | Wednesday, Friday, Saturday |
15:45 | 19:15 | – | Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday | ||
Singapore – Melbourne | SQ247 | 20:40 | 06:00 +1 day | 1h 25m | Daily |
Singapore – Brisbane | SQ235 | 21:30 | 06:55 +1 day | 2h 15m | |
Singapore – Los Angeles | SQ38 | 20:45 | 21:40 | 1h 30m | |
Singapore – Paris | SQ336 | 00:15 | 07:35 +1 day | 5h |
*Subject to regulatory changes. All timings in local. Whether you’re a young professional seeking a new adventure or a family looking forward to creating unforgettable memories, your next great journey is just a flight away. Experience the world with Singapore Airlines’ Great Connections. Book now and let your adventure begin.
Product Showcase
New Hard Mountain Dew launched
Designed to complement the vibrant and dynamic lifestyles of Filipinos, Hard Mountain Dew brings a refreshing twist to any gathering. It’s not just a drink; it’s the ultimate vibe setter— perfect for those who seek to make every moment memorable, whether it’s a fun night at home or an adventure out of town.
Looking for a fun way to add an extra buzz to your nights with friends? Mountain Dew has just the thing. Introducing Hard Mountain Dew, the game- changing beverage that blends the iconic, bold flavor of Mountain Dew with a 5% alcohol twist kick and 95% vibe – the perfect formula for a 100% epic night.
Designed to complement the vibrant and dynamic lifestyles of Filipinos, Hard Mountain Dew brings a refreshing twist to any gathering. It’s not just a drink; it’s the ultimate vibe setter— perfect for those who seek to make every moment memorable, whether it’s a fun night at home or an adventure out of town.
Hard Mountain Dew is the perfect way to elevate those nights with your barkada. Whether it’s an exciting weekend getaway, a karaoke session with friends, or simply a spontaneous night out – the refreshing burst of flavor and the 5% alcohol kick guarantees nothing but a fun and good time for those who are young and young at heart.
Ray Philip Pine, Marketing Director of PepsiCo Philippines said: ” We know Filipinos love to have a good time, and Hard Mountain Dew is all about taking those moments to the next level. With 5% alcohol, it’s your new drinking companion for epic and unforgettable nights. But it’s also about doing so responsibly – making sure that every fun night is one you’ll remember for all the right reasons.”
Hard Mountain Dew is now available in supermarkets, convenience stores nationwide and online-selling platforms for consumers of 18 years and above. It comes in two flavors, Original for that unique citrus punch and Beach Blast for a hint of tropical fruits. Remember, while Hard Mountain Dew is all about having a good time, it’s essential to enjoy it responsibly. The best nights are the ones that are fun, balanced, and safe. Follow and share your memories with Hard Mountain Dew by tagging @hardmountaindewph on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, and @HardMtnDewPH on X (formerly Twitter), and get ready to say a hard yes to those epic kind of nights.
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