The stripped-down OPM track marks the new direction of his upcoming EP, to be released soon

Following the resurgence in popularity of his OPM smash “Randomantic,” James Reid returns to his mellow, pop-leaning roots with the release of “Sandal,” his new single under Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

Stripped down the core with acoustic elements and smooth vocals, “Sandal” recreates the magical pull of his earlier records with a balance of accessibility and finesse.

As expected, Reid demonstrates his keenness to turn a simple gesture of romantic affirmation into a sterling piece of work. On “Sandal,” he is back with another serenade that has so much potential on both the commercial and artistic front.

“I just wanted to reconnect with my roots in music, blending my past music with my new sound and writing style,” the award-winning singer-songwriter and label mogul admits. “It’s also been a long-time request from my fans. Most of the songs in my new EP are written in Filipino.”

The recording superstar wrote the track together with Luke April of the Davao-based hip-hop and R&B group, Playertwo. Both Reid and April wanted to create a material that aims to easily comfort someone going through a tough time. As the former pointed out in his press statement, “The idea is that love is strength and vulnerability, and that I will be your sanctuary.”

James Reid adds, “This song means a lot to me personally. I wrote it for my girlfriend when she was having a terrible day. I wanted her to know that no matter what you’re going through, you can always lean on me.”

“Sandal” is also produced by Tim Marquez, who has helmed tracks for eclectic Filipino acts such as Ena Mori and Zild, and previously worked with James Reid on the piano ballad “Hurt Me Too.” Building on the initial ideas brought by Luke April, Tim approached Reid's new direction with a slow dance feel.

James Reid’s “Sandal” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

Making your kids’ baon can be a challenge. You want to give them an enjoyable, yummy school recess snack while making sure they’re getting something that’s filling and nourishing. While it may sound like a daunting task, you can do both.

Here are some yummy and “veggie-packed” snack ideas to help you level up your kids’ baon. The secret ingredient? None other than Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens. This crunchy and flavorful treat is made with malunggay (or moringa), a leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins. It’s also made with Nova’s signature four multi-grains—corn, wheat, oats, and rice—which are known to be good sources of energy.

Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens comes in two fun, tasty, and kid-approved flavors: Nacho Cheese and Sweet Corn. You can choose one of these (or both) when you prepare these yummy baon ideas:

1. Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Veggie Chip ‘n Dip

Here’s a colorful and easy-to-eat baon for your kid. In a baon container, mix Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Sweet Corn with your choice of chopped veggies such as carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Then, add a mayo dip or whip up some homemade corn and black bean salsa. You can toss this in with the snack-and-veggie mix or put it in a separate container as a fun dip.

2. Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Tuna or Chicken Salad

Salad as baon? Make it interesting with Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens. In a baon container, mix chopped fruit (apples or grapes are great options), chopped salad veggies (lettuce, tomato, and cucumber), your kids’ choice of protein (cooked tuna or chicken), and a sweet-sour dressing (maybe mango vinaigrette or ranch). Then, top it off with semi-crumbled Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Nacho Cheese to add a satisfying crunch and a cheesy twist.

The sweet-savory Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Sweet Corn may just be your kids’ new go-to recess treat. Level up their baon by making these four veggie-packed recipes.

3. Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Crunchy BLT 

Upgrade the classic bacon-lettuce-tomato sandwich with Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens. Layer crispy bacon, lettuce, and sliced tomato on a whole-wheat bread slice. Then, spread a dollop of mayo, sprinkle some semi-crumbled Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Sweet Corn for extra sweetness and crunch, and place the second slice of whole-wheat bread on top. You can slice it in half diagonally to make it easier for your kids to enjoy this tasty sandwich.

Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Nacho Cheese could be a hit for your kids who love cheese-flavored snacks. Not only is this treat yummy, but it’s also made with real malunggay.

4. Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Mini Pizza

Pizza is an all-time favorite for many kids. Turn Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens into a fun pizza snack. Spread some pizza sauce on a bed of Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens Nacho Cheese. Top it with quick-melting grated cheese and your kid’s favorite pizza toppings, like bell pepper, cooked mushrooms, onion, olives, and tomatoes. You can also make it hearty by adding cooked ground beef or fried chopped ham. Then, pop it in the toaster oven for a few minutes.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens on hand, the possibilities for fun, delicious, and veggie-packed baon that kids will devour are endless. And in case you’re wondering, Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens is delicious on its own. You can definitely add it as it is to your kids’ lunch boxes.

Ready to make baon that’s yummy and good? Make sure to have your stash of Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens in your pantry. It comes in two, affordable pack sizes to suit your needs: the solo pack for SRP P17.90, while the buddy pack is SRP P37.90. 

Enjoy yummy greens with Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens. Grab this snack from your favorite grocery store or supermarket or add to cart on Lazada. For more fun snack ideas and updates, follow Nova on Facebook.

Jack ‘n Jill Nova Greens is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), the maker of well-loved snacks and drinks such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Magic Flakes, Cloud 9, Payless, Great Taste Coffee, and C2 Cool and Clean. Visit www.urc.com.ph to learn more about URC’s delightful treats.

Donny Pangilinan, EasyWay Ambassador, shares how the app aligns with his personal values of financial literacy and accessibility during the interview. He highlights his partnership with EastWest as a natural fit, supporting the bank's mission to empower individuals through innovative digital banking solutions.

Manila, Philippines – August 28, 2024: EastWest Bank officially introduced the new EastWest EasyWay App, a mobile banking platform designed to streamline and elevate the banking experience of today’s Filipinos.

The launch of EasyWay is a major milestone in the build-up to EastWest Bank’s 30th-anniversary celebration, which kicked off this August and will run through July next year. It highlights the bank’s continuous drive for improvement, always striving to exceed the expectations of its valued customers.

Harvey Libarnes, FVP and Chief Digital Products and Channels Officer of EastWest Bank, delivers an engaging presentation and walkthrough of the new EastWest EasyWay app, highlighting its innovative features designed to enhance convenience and empower users in their digital banking journey.

EasyWay represents another important step in EastWest’s ongoing efforts to deliver customer-focused and up-to-date banking services. It is part of a broader digital ecosystem that includes EasyBiz, Komo, ESTA, and EastWest Pay, reflecting the bank’s holistic approach to addressing diverse customer needs with advanced solutions.

Jerry Ngo, CEO of EastWest Bank, shared his enthusiasm about the new app, noting that “EasyWay is more than just a banking app; it’s a clear demonstration of our efforts to make banking simpler and more accessible for our customers. As we mark our 30th anniversary, we are thrilled to present this intuitive tool that will redefine how our customers engage with us.”

(L-R) Martin Reyes, SVP and Head of Marketing and Cash Management, Jackie Fernandez, President, Donny Pangilinan, EasyWay Ambassador, and Jerry Ngo, CEO, at the ceremonial signing during the launch event, celebrating EastWest's commitment to building a comprehensive digital ecosystem that also includes EastWest Pay, EasyBiz, KOMO, and ESTA, ushering in a new era of seamless digital banking.

Transforming Banking for the Modern Generation

The EasyWay App is set to revolutionize how customers manage their finances, offering a user-friendly interface and a suite of easy-to-use features that cater to the demands of today's fast-paced lifestyle. Whether you're navigating your early career, balancing the needs of a growing family, or preparing for retirement, EasyWay adapts to each stage of life, ensuring that banking seamlessly integrates into your daily routine. With EasyWay, banking no longer disrupts one’s busy schedule but complements it, allowing customers to focus on what truly matters in life.

Donny Pangilinan, a popular Filipino actor, singer, and influencer known for his work in television and film, was chosen to be the face of EasyWay because of what he represents. He is part of the Gen Z generation that is hardworking, intentional, and acts with purpose. As an actor and business owner dedicated to his craft and advocacies such as financial literacy, the Bank sees him as a fitting representation of EasyWay to the younger, modern, up-and-coming markets it would like to reach.

As part of the EasyWay launch, EastWest Bank also introduces the tagline "Sit, Bank, and Relax," embodying the essence of what the app offers. This tagline reflects the app’s promise to make banking a seamless, hassle-free experience, allowing customers to manage their finances effortlessly. By integrating advanced digital features with a user-friendly interface, EasyWay ensures that customers can take control of their banking needs without the stress and time-consuming tasks traditionally associated with financial management. Be it paying bills, transferring funds, or managing loans, EasyWay streamlines these tasks, allowing customers to concentrate on what truly matters in their lives—relaxing and enjoying the peace of mind that comes with secure, efficient banking.

“EasyWay represents a new era in banking where convenience and efficiency are paramount,” said Harvey Libarnes, FVP and Chief Digital Products and Channels Officer of EastWest Bank. “We are excited to offer our customers the latest tool that not only meets but exceeds a modern-day customer's expectations in digital banking.”

(L-R) Martin Reyes, SVP and Head of Marketing and Cash Management, Jerry Ngo, CEO, and Harvey Libarnes, FVP and Chief Digital Products and Channels Officer, engage in a relaxed and lively discussion during the media roundtable at the EasyWay launch event, sharing insights on EastWest's newest digital innovation.

Key Features of EasyWay

• Seamless Account Management: Access and manage your accounts anytime, anywhere. Monitor your balances, view transaction history, and transfer funds with just a few taps.

• Efficient Bill Payments: Pay your bills effortlessly through the app. Whether it’s utilities, credit cards, or other services, EasyWay streamlines the payment process.

• Secure Transactions: EasyWay employs advanced security measures to ensure all your transactions are safe and secure.

• Loan and Credit Card Management: Manage your credit card and track your repayments with ease, all within the app.

• Customer Support: The app offers 24/7 customer support to assist you with any banking needs.

Upcoming Features

EastWest Bank is also excited to announce several upcoming features for the EasyWay App, designed to further enhance the banking experience:

• Wealth Management Tools: Exclusive Wealth Theme platform tailored for EastWest Priority members, robust Portfolio Management services, seamless eForex capabilities for USD to PHP and PHP to USD transfers within a client’s own accounts, and an intuitive interface for viewing investments.

• Mobile Check Deposit: Simply take a clear photo of the front and back of the check, enter the check amount, confirm the details, and submit. The app processes the deposit, eliminating the need to visit an EW Store, and provides a confirmation of the transaction.

• Credit Card Management: Instantly Lock or Unlock your EastWest credit cards for enhanced security, view real-time Credit Card transactions, and conveniently apply for EastWest Supplementary Cards directly through the app.

• Credit Card and Personal Loan Application: To strengthen new-to-bank and cross-selling initiatives, existing and new customers can conveniently apply for a credit card and personal loan directly through the app.

• QR Fund Transfers and Payments: Easily transfer funds or make payments by scanning a QR code, ensuring accuracy and security for all transactions.

Donny Pangilinan, the newly appointed EasyWay ambassador celebrates EastWest Bank’s newest digital banking platform that promises to make banking as effortless as a smile, allowing users to simply sit, bank, and relax!

Join Us in the Digital Banking Revolution

Think banking is hard? Think again with the new EastWest EasyWay app!

EastWest Bank invites its clients to experience the convenience and efficiency of the EasyWay App. Download the app today and discover how it can make your banking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

With account management, check deposits, installments, and more right at your fingertips—banking has never been more seamless and convenient.

Like EastWest EasyWay’s newest endorser Donny Pangilinan, just Sit, Bank, and Relax!

Download EasyWay on the App Store or Google Play today.

#SitBankAndRelax #EasyWayApp #EastWestEasyWay #EastWest #FurtherforYou

For more information about EasyWay and EastWest Bank’s services, please visit eastwestbanker.com.

About East West Banking Corporation: East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests, including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure, power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name.

GCash chief information security officer, Miguel “Migs” Geronilla received the “Enterprise Security Leader of the Year” award

National police cybercrime unit and leading finance app awarded for their exemplary efforts in safeguarding the Philippine digital space

The collaboration between the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) and the country’s leading finance app, GCash, has reached another milestone as their top cybersecurity leaders were recognized for their outstanding achievements in the prestigious PhilSec Awards held at the Manila Marriot Hotel in Pasay City. 

PNP-ACG Police Colonel and chief of cybercrime response unit Jay Guillermo was named ‘Cyber Innovator of the Year’ while GCash chief information and security officer Miguel Geronilla was distinguished as ‘Enterprise Security Leader of the Year’.

The PhilSec Awards recognizes individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and innovation in securing the digital space. It is supported by the National Privacy Commission (NPC), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“We are truly honored to receive these accolades, which serves as testament to the fruits of the collaborative efforts between PNP-ACG and GCash. The PNP-ACG has been instrumental in our thrust towards finance for all by establishing a safe cashless ecosystem for our users. Collaboration with the government is our best chance in fighting cybercrime. We express our utmost congratulations to the Police Colonel and chief of cyber response unit Jay Guillermo!” said Geronilla

PCol Guillermo was recognized for his innovative approaches and relentless pursuit of justice in cybercrime investigations. The top police official has been instrumental in developing strategies and technologies that enhance the PNP’s capacity to combat and respond to cybercrime, safeguarding both public and private digital infrastructures.

Meanwhile, Geronilla was recognized for his exemplary leadership in implementing advanced security measures that protect millions of GCash users from scammers, fraudsters, and cybercriminals. Under his stewardship, GCash has fortified its defenses against cyber threats, ensuring that users’ financial data and transactions remain secure.

The simultaneous recognition of the PNP-ACG and GCash from a prestigious awarding body underscores the success of their cooperative efforts in securing the country from cyber threats.

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com

MANILA, PH – (August 22, 2024) – Sun Life Financial Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF)

Clean drinking water is now accessible to certain remote areas in Palawan, following the completion of a project led by Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) in cooperation with the Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (Forest Foundation) and the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines (Canadian Embassy).

Its completion benefits 4,362 households or a population of 18,904 individuals in three different barangays within Palawan, including Brgy. New Busuanga in Busuanga; Brgy. 6 in Coron; and Brgy. Malaking Patag in Culion.

Initiated in January this year, the project was launched to increase the capacity of the Calamianes Watersheds and improve the availability and resilience of clean water in the islands. This was done via a two-pronged approach: by enhancing forest management and protection and by providing rainwater harvesting facilities and supporting the application of the 3R (Recharge, Retention, and Reuse) water technologies.

With these measures, the project hopes to better safeguard the Calamianes’ forests and increase their watersheds’ capacity to sustain the water needs of the population.

“We are delighted to see the completion of this project, knowing the benefits it will bring our community beneficiaries. This not only brings to life our health advocacy but likewise our sustainability priorities, as it supports biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation,” says Kristine Millete, Executive Director of the Sun Life Foundation. “We thank Forest Foundation and the Canadian Embassy for taking this journey with us and helping us touch more lives.”

Sun Life Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines.

About Sun Life

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of March 31, 2024, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1.47 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

In photo: Dexter Cuajotor, BPI’s Head of Retail Loans and Bancassurance, launched the BPI MyFiesta promo last August 2 at TriNoma Mall in Quezon City.

As the country’s auto and home finance markets are on a steady rise, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is offering Filipinos more ways to get their dream car, house, and even motorcycle.

These were unveiled at the MyFiesta fair held last August 2-4 at the Activity Center of TriNoma mall in Quezon City, Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod, and SM Downtown Premier in Cagayan De Oro simultaneously.

Auto Loan applicants can get free bank fees of up to Php 173,000 and lower interest rates. They will also have the option to avail of an All-In Financing or low downpayment and free bank fees of up to Php 30,000 through any BPI branch nationwide.

For Housing Loan applicants, clients can enjoy a 7% interest rate fixed for 7 years, and free bank fees of Php 7k for every Php 1-million loan amount (capped at Php 173,000).

Clients will automatically earn 100,000 BPI Rewards Points via BPI Vybe for any Auto or Housing Loan application via BPI Loans Marketplace. The VYBE points can be used to redeem rewards from over 200 partner merchants.

The promos apply to Auto Loan and Housing Loan applications made from August 1 to September 30 this year.

For Motorcycle Loan applications from August 1 to the end of 2024, clients will get monthly amortization discounts when they pay on time. The discounts that will be applied are Php 500 per month for a 12-month loan term, Php 600 per month for a 24-month loan term, and Php 700 per month for a 36-month loan term. This promo for the BPI Motorcycle Loan is exclusive to motorcycle units of Premiumbikes and Summit Superbikes dealerships.

BPI MyFiesta showcased the bank’s partnerships with car brands, property developers, motorcycle dealers, insurance providers, and sustainable financing partners. The collaboration makes possible the provision of mileages through BPI Auto Loan, Housing Loan, and Motorcycle Loan.

“The event’s theme seamlessly integrated physical and digital experiences (phygital), strategically engaging customers in a personalized and immersive way. This approach aimed to forge a deeper connection with Filipinos, supporting them on their journey to achieve their personal aspirations,” said Dexter Cuajotor, Head of Retail Lending and Bancassurance, BPI.

My Fiesta focused on several key areas: celebration, community, and personalization. This personalization extended beyond the event itself to the products and services offered. “We recognize that each Filipino has unique aspirations, and BPI is committed to helping them achieve their #LifeGoals,” Cuajotor added.

BPI MyFiesta—an event of celebration, community, and personalized experiences—provided Filipinos ways to acquire their dream car, home, motorcycle, and MORE! Partner brands that had booths at the event were: Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, Nissan, Honda, Isuzu, Geely, MG, Jetour, and GAC for Auto Loans; Avida, Amaia, DMCI, RLC, Juanito King, JECO, ML&D, A Brown Company Inc., Italpinas Development Corporation, and Pueblo de Oro Corporation for Housing Loans; Premiumbikes and Summit Superbikes for Motorcycle Loans; and Cubo Modular Inc, and Greenery Solar for sustainable financing partners.

The P-Pop kings open up about tour setbacks and career challenges on new documentary film

SB19’s highly anticipated film, PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY marks its nationwide theatrical debut today!

The much-buzzed documentary provides an inside look into the group’s collective and individual experiences on tour, while trying to navigate their ascension to global pop stardom with crippling fear of anxiety and pressure.

Aside from chronicling the P-Pop powerhouse’s journey as they “move forward to a new era of music, career, and emancipation,” the concert documentary also unravels never-before-seen moments that put their resilience and commitment to the test.

Watch the trailer here

“Part of what makes the film even more special is that it doesn’t sugar-coat the learnings and experiences that we’ve endured during the entire era of the PAGTATAG! tour and album release,” SB19 shares in a press statement. “The year-long run was filled with multiple setbacks that added mental and emotional distress. But as the title explains it best, the documentary will show how we bounced back from the adversities in life and career, and how we managed to mount a series of shows despite going through a lot of internal and collective struggles. We hope that through this movie, we will be able to inspire our A’TIN to become stronger and more resilient when they face a similar ordeal in a not-so-distant future.”

SB19’s PABLO, who currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 1Z Entertainment, emphasized that they’ve always thought about producing a documentary that captures the story behind the stage and the little moments that define the human aspects of mounting a tour of this scale and ambition.

“We’re grateful to First Light Studios and Jed Regala for helping us turn our vision into a reality,” PABLO reveals. “We’re lucky to have a team that understands the power of collaboration.”

The exclusive screenings will take place from August 28 to September 1 in cinemas nationwide.

Just recently, SB19 emerged triumphant in Billboard’s Fan Army Face-off, winning for the second consecutive year against some of the biggest and most iconic international music stars. The chart-topping five-piece act garnered 56.3 percent of the votes during the final round, beating Barbadian mega-star Rihanna. The GENTO hitmakers also represented the Philippines in Billboard Korea’s “Billboard K POWER 100” in Seoul yesterday (August 27), receiving the Voices of Asia Award for their groundbreaking contribution in putting Filipino music to the global stage.

Get your PAGTATAG! THE DOCUMENTARY tickets here.