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Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have been making waves in the past few years. With its recent boom, more people are utilizing AI, especially with more companies integrating AI into their work processes. During the two-day trade mission headed by US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Microsoft announced that they will be training 100,000 Filipinas in AI and cybersecurity.
The tech giant revealed that they will provide training to government employees in cooperation with government agencies and local schools. Aiming to help combat the country’s problem with disinformation, the program will allow women to have access to an online platform that will teach them how to use Microsoft's AI tools, some of which are powered by OpenAI's large language models.
The said platform will help them develop workplace skills and increase their ability to identify cybersecurity threats. Along with this program, the tech giant also plans on rolling out an AI-powered reading progress tool for around 27 million Filipino students, in partnership with the Philippine education department.
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Just weeks after introducing its new Tap to Pay feature, which lets users conveniently complete transactions by tapping their phones directly onto terminals, GCash is once again proving that making purchases on the app can be even more rewarding with an exciting new promo!
The country’s leading finance super app is raising the stakes on everyday spending with “Pay It, Win It,” where every P50 spent on GCash builds your chances to win over P20 million worth of exciting rewards. This new campaign transforms everyday payments into extraordinary wins with prizes designed to match the passion and lifestyle of all its users, such as a brand-new BYD Seal 5 DM-i Dynamic, a Yamaha NMAX, and a shiny Samsung Smart TV where you can binge all your favorite shows.
Gamers can also experience a fun way to level up with a chance to win the latest gaming console (PlayStation™ 5), a high-performance gaming laptop (ASUS ROG Strix G16), and the ultimate gaming phone (ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro). Moreover, there are also several online pay-exclusive offers available across food, shopping, and entertainment categories.
Courtesy of GCash
More Fun to Stan with GCash
Last Sept. 11, GCash hosted its very first K-Wave Experience at the newly opened Eggdrop branch in BGC. The mini K-get together brought media friends and Hallyu fans for a fun afternoon of K-inspired games and activities, from slaying’ photo booths to a DIY luggage charm bar.
But the highlight of the event came in the form of an exciting announcement. Starting today (Sept. 12), you can make your travel dreams come true as GCash’s new promo can transform your bills and shopping receipts into plane tickets! Win a trip for two to Seoul or Busan and make your ultimate K-dream a reality!
This raffle prize will be awarded to five lucky winners, and includes round-trip flights, accommodation for 4 nights, and a K-Pop tour hosted by Klook, where you’ll be taken around the city to visit the spots where you’re K-Pop biases went to.
Photo by The Beat Asia
But wait, that’s not all. During the event, verified app users had the chance to claim their own GCash Visa cards on the spot, which is an important part of their second Hallyu promo. Get your lightsticks ready, chingus! GCash is giving you the chance to attend the 2025 MAMA Awards in Hong Kong!
Presented by Visa for the second year in a row, the MAMA Awards is a prestigious annual award show where all the top K-idols and other Asian artists come together for a night filled with explosive performances and unforgettable moments. The “Pay It, Win It” MAMA Awards promo includes not just two event tickets, but also round-trip airfare for two and three-night hotel accommodations.
How to Join
Head over to the “Pay It, Win It” page by clicking the "Tap for Promos" banner on your GCash app and choosing a prize to register. Every P50 spent instantly counts as a raffle entry.
You can pay any way you like, whether it's scanning or generating a QR code, paying with your GCash Card, paying online, buying load, paying bills inside the GCash app, or paying with GCash Tap to Pay. For the MAMA Awards promo, you’ll need to use your GCash Visa card and spend a minimum of P100 to gain one raffle entry.
Winners are drawn weekly and announced every Friday through their official social media channels and in-app promo page. All winners will also be notified via email and in-app alerts.
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We can all agree that catching up on new episodes of our favorite television shows used to be relatively more difficult. With cable channels as one of the few available options — and new movie releases only available in theaters or months later as TV reruns or physical releases — watching what we wanted, when we wanted, was a challenge. Fortunately, with the emergence of streaming platforms, consuming content has become much easier and more accessible.
In the modern digital landscape, streaming services provide an abundance of entertainment options. Yet, with countless platforms offering different content and features, deciding which one to subscribe to can also be challenging. To make your decision easier, we’ve compared some of the leading streaming services to help you find the best match for your viewing preferences.
Netflix
Photo from Website/Netflix
Whether Netflix is the best streaming service out there is, of course, very subjective. It will always depend on one’s preferences, but it is considered one of the streaming giants for a variety of reasons, one being its slew of critically acclaimed originals — from movies and television series to documentaries and anime. It also features a user-friendly interface, which can be easier to navigate for different types of subscribers.
Netflix prices vary between countries, but a premium subscription typically costs $24.99 per month, with an additional $6.99 for extra members. The standard subscription, on the other hand, is available for $17.99 per month.
Reason to subscribe: Netflix is best known for dropping full seasons at once, so if you’re a habitual binge-watcher who isn’t fond of waiting another week for a new episode, it’s the best platform for you. Apart from its original content (which spans a wide range of genres), the streamer also offers a large selection of movies and shows in its extensive library, though availability may vary by region. The platform also takes note of your viewing habits, so its algorithm tailors recommendations based on your interests.
Original titles: Bridgerton, BoJack Horseman, The Crown, Castlevania: Nocturne, Emily in Paris, Ginny & Georgia, The Night Agent, Nobody Wants This, Outer Banks, Squid Game, Stranger Things, Sweet Magnolias, Virgin River, Wednesday, The Witcher, and more.
Why it may not be perfect for you: Netflix has been increasing its subscription prices over the years, which can be a huge deal-breaker for some users. As mentioned, what’s available in other regions may not be available in your location, possibly making content availability an issue as well. Netflix also constantly removes titles from its library, so you may need to allot time to catch up on your to-watch list before it’s too late.
For more information on subscription fees, plans, and other details, you may visit Netflix's official website.
Disney+
Photo from Website/Marvel Studios
Disney+ is a family-friendly streaming platform, perfect for fans of classic Disney originals. It features a massive catalog of fan-favorite Disney titles like Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, A Bug’s Life, Brave, Encanto, Inside Out, Turning Red, Lilo & Stitch, and Finding Nemo, among a handful of others. If you’re also a fan of Marvel, Star Wars, or Pixar, Disney+ is also the ideal platform for you.
Prices depend on your subscription bundle, and you can unlock more content by signing up for a Disney+ Bundle with Hulu, Max, or ESPN+. The Disney+ ad-free subscription costs $16 per month, but bundles are generally much pricier.
Reason to subscribe: With access to Disney’s extensive vault of classics, Disney+ is a haven for both kids and kids at heart. It’s a huge plus if you’re a fan of both Marvel and Star Wars, as it is the only platform that features original content for both franchises.
Original titles: Andor, Ahsoka, Daredevil: Born Again, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, Ms. Marvel, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Agatha All Along, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, X-Men '97, The Mandalorian, Obi-Wan Kenobi, WandaVision, Ironheart, The Acolyte, and more.
Why it may not be perfect for you: Unlike Netflix, most — if not all — Disney+ shows do not release entire seasons at once. While this may not be a problem for some, if you're not a fan of waiting and prefer to binge-watch an entire season in one go, a Disney+ subscription might not be worth it. Additionally, Disney+ heavily caters to family-friendly content, so mature content is typically not available.
For more information on subscription fees, plans, and other details, you may visit Disney+'s official website.
Max
Photo from Instagram/The Last of Us
HBO Max, now simply called Max, is home to a wide range of content, including popular HBO titles, Warner Bros. classics, the DC Universe, and even Studio Ghibli films. A subscription to Max also grants exclusive access to blockbuster hits like Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Mamma Mia!, Crazy Rich Asians, Barbie, Wonka, and many more. Of course, prices vary by region, but an ad-free subscription typically costs $20.99 per month.
Reason to subscribe: Max is, again, home to a number of classics. Especially if you’re a fan of older titles and critically acclaimed darlings, a subscription to Max is perfect for cinephiles. Additionally, the platform makes movies available for streaming shortly after their theatrical releases, making it perfect for those who want to relive a movie experience or those who missed it in cinemas.
Original titles: The Pitt, Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake, Hacks, Peacemaker, The Last of Us, Creature Commandos, Harley Quinn, Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, Tokyo Vice, Love & Death, The Girls on the Bus, The Sex Lives of College Girls, Velma, and more.
Why it may not be perfect for you: Of course, with such great content comes a price. Max is considered pricey, even with an ad plan. It is also not available in every country, so some users may not be able to access Max in its entirety.
For more information on subscription fees, plans, and other details, you may visit Max's official website.
Apple TV+
Photo from Website/Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has rapidly gained a reputation for its acclaimed and top-tier original content spanning a variety of genres. At just $9.99 per month, the streaming service also provides one of the most budget-friendly subscription rates, making it an excellent choice for fans of its exclusive originals.
Reason to subscribe: Apple TV+ prides itself on its 4K streaming and Dolby Vision features, offering not only top-tier content but also stunning visuals. Additionally, it’s completely ad-free, providing an uninterrupted streaming experience, something that sets it apart from other platforms, even those with premium subscriptions.
Original titles: Acapulco, The Morning Show, The Buccaneers, Ted Lasso, Loot, Invasion, Severance, Pachinko, Prime Target, Silo, Slow Horses, Presumed Innocent, Palm Royale, The Studio, and more.
Why it may not be perfect for you: While Apple TV+ has earned an impressive reputation for its originals, it is still relatively new; meaning, its overall library remains smaller compared to its competitors. If you're looking for a broader selection of content, you might find Apple TV+ not worth the subscription.
For more information on subscription fees, plans, and other details, you may visit Apple TV+'s official website.
Prime Video
Photo from Website/Prime Video
Prime Video also boasts a massive catalog of movies, television shows, and documentaries, though it may not be as extensive as its fellow streaming platforms. What Prime Video lacks in sheer volume, it makes up for with its slew of original content. If you’re already a member of Amazon Prime, you’ll get access to Prime Video’s library at no additional cost. Amazon Prime membership is priced at $14.99 per month, while a standalone Prime Video subscription costs $8.99 per month.
Reason to subscribe: Unlike other major streaming platforms, Prime Video is much more affordable. It also allows users to rent or buy movies and shows that are not included in their subscription.
Original titles: The Boys, Citadel, Countdown, The Devil's Hour, Fallout, Gen V, Invincible, The Summer I Turned Pretty, Reacher, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Terminal List, We Were Liars, Upload, Hazbin Hotel, and more.
Why it may not be perfect for you: Prime Video’s interface is considered difficult and confusing to navigate. And it also has fewer exclusive releases, which can be a deal-breaker, especially for non-Amazon Prime subscribers.
For more information on subscription fees, plans, and other details, you may visit Prime Video's official website.
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Calling all aspiring content creators, vloggers, and more! If you’ve been eyeing a camera to finally start your content creation journey, then you might want to add this one to your wishlist.
DJI Philippines has officially introduced their first 360 action camera — the Osmo 360 — a compact and revolutionary camera designed to push the boundaries of content creation with its expanded functionality and innovative features.
Image Quality to its Finest
The DJI Osmo 360, DJI's first 360 action camera | Photo from Facebook/DJI Philippines
At the heart of the DJI Osmo 360 is its one-inch 360 imaging, the first brand to introduce the square HDR image sensor. By maximizing sensor utilization, the DJI Osmo 360 delivers crisp, sharp, and vivid photos to life while consuming less power.
It is also the first 360 camera capable of shooting at 8K/50FPS 360 video and the only one that can shoot for 100 minutes continuously at 8K/30FPS, setting a new standard for high-resolution, long-form video capture in 360 cameras. The Osmo 360 captures ultra-clear 360 photos up to 120 megapixels, achieving razor-sharp detail for still images.
Responding to the Changing Needs
The DJI Osmo 360 is built for today’s creators, with new interesting features that answer the needs of its users: seamless transition between the front and rear lens without stopping recording, single-lens mode for a first-person POV, a broader 170-degree field of view and smooth 4K/120FPS video in Boost Mode, and a lightweight, ultra-compact body with a 105 GB built-in storage.
Photo from Facebook/DJI Philippines
The Osmo 360 is also capable of recording for over 1.5 hours in freezing conditions as low as -20 degrees Celsius, and battery life is no longer a problem with the Osmo 360 Battery Extension Rod. In just 12 minutes, the Osmo 360 will be recharged with 50% power.
Stabilization is powered by HorizonSteady and RockSteady, while gesture and voice control allow users to go completely hands-free. Other creator-friendly features include slow-motion capture, an invisible selfie stick, and multi-platform editing support by DJI Mimo and DJI Studio.
Accessories from the Osmo Action series are compatible with the Osmo 360, making for a seamless DJI Osmo ecosystem. The Osmo 360 also offers OsmoAudio Direct Microphone Connection, allowing users of the Osmo 360 to connect directly to two DJI microphone transmitters without a receiver, capturing studio-quality sound.
Your All-in-One Adventure Companion
The launch highlighted that the DJI Osmo 360 is an all-in-one adventure companion for every filmmaker, videographer, vlogger, and content creator who is passionate about creating crisp, vivid, and real video content using a small, smart yet revolutionary action camera.
Jawo Motovlog, Team Katagumpay, and Hammerman | Courtesy of DJI PhilippinesGadget Pilipinas, Ungeek, and Unbox PH | Courtesy of DJI Philippines
The Philippines’ moto vlogging community was spotlighted during the launch, with creators like Jawo Motovlog, Team Katagumpay, and Hammerman sharing their experiences with the new DJI Osmo 360 camera. Tech experts Gadget Pilipinas, Ungeek, and Unbox PH also shared their thoughts on the new camera, which can be summed up into three words: Easy, Creative, and Freedom.
The Osmo 360 is priced competitively, with essential accessories designed for creators on the go. The Osmo 360 Standard Combo is priced at P24,990, which includes the Osmo 360 camera, action extreme battery plus, protective pouch, lens cleaning cloth, USB-C to USB-C PD Cable (USB 3.1) and rubber lens protector; while the Osmo 360 Adventure Combo is priced at P30,990, which has the inclusions in the standard combo, with the addition of the Osmo Action Multifunctional battery case 2, Osmo adjustable Quick Release adapter mount, and Osmo 1.2 invisible selfie stick.
Whether you’re vlogging your daily life or traveling on the go, the DJI Osmo 360 camera is your all-in-one adventure companion.
Follow DJI Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for more information and product updates.
DJI products are available in major shopping malls around the country: SM Aura, SM Pampanga, SM Dasmarinas, SM Seaside, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM City Palawan, One Ayala, and Abreeza Mall Davao.
Purchase DJI products online via DJI Philippines’ official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and the DJI website.
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Fintech just got a little bit more fashion-forward as GCash, the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and largest cashless ecosystem, launches its latest payment innovation, Tap to Pay, which allows users to pay by simply tapping onto Mastercard-enabled terminalsthat accept NFC payments.
To bring this stylish convenience to life, GCash tapped Philippine fashion icon and actress Heart Evangelista-Escudero as the face of this new feature, even releasing a special film to showcase it.
Hot on the heels of this collaboration, the company unveiled the second installment of their GCash Spotlight YouTube Series last Aug. 12 at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in BGC. The Beat Manila got to attend this exclusive live recording, where Heart sat down with King of Talk Boy Abunda for an intimate afternoon chat where she opened up about life at 40, her fashion beliefs, and how GCash has changed her life — all while serving looks and giving us a dose of fame, style, and celebrity stories.
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Heart’s Soft Power Era
In true Tito Boy fashion, he opened the program with some hard-hitting questions that revealed Heart’s vulnerable side. This year’s GCash Spotlight event explored the milestones she has accomplished and how her journey has changed her perspectives on fame and life in general.
“This year, I am living my truth and entering my soft power era. I know when to say no!” She said, explaining how she molded into different versions of herself to please people due to her strong desire to be part of the “in” crowd in the past.
“I allowed them to chop me up and sell pieces of me just to make people happy,” she added. “But now I’m not going to waste my energy. I have channeled my energy towards building my future and towards being productive.”
And productive she has become indeed, as Heart is now one of the most sought-after figures in fashion, gracing global runways, front-row seats, and designer brand collaborations that cemented her status as a true style icon. However, the star emphasized that to get to where she is today, she had to walk a road littered with challenges and obstacles, and had to overcome her fear of not belonging and feeling like a “factory reject,” before eventually finding her place in the world. “I don’t have any regrets. I accept what I’ve done. I accept what has happened to me. And I just magically adjusted into the woman I am today.”
“Although I still have my moments, the difference now is that I know what to do with them. I know what to do with this feeling, and I’m going to fight it. I’m going to be productive. I’m going to create something with what I feel. I’m an artist, and this is what feeds my soul. So I’m not going to let it rob me of a life I didn’t live. I’m going to fight it, and I’m going to be what I am today, however big or small. I’m going to make sure that there’s a reason that was put in me. I think that has made me more grounded and grateful.”
Photo by The Beat Asia
The stimulating talk also touched on her fashion work, where she revealed that it’s more than just an aesthetic but a form of empowerment. From couture gowns to a plain t-shirt and jeans, Heart stated that there are no rules when it comes to what’s ‘right’ in fashion.
“Fashion is self-expression. It’s truly an armor. I’d rather dress than put my anxiety all over my face,” she told Tito Boy. “This is my way of fighting it. Some people say fashion is so pompous, it’s so shallow — no, it’s not. It’s how I live, and it’s how I choose to fight my battles every day. Fashion week is not all about taking photos. It’s a party where everybody can come as they are, dress however they want, and be whoever they want. It’s so liberating to be able to just ‘be.’”
Next Level Payments Meet Next Level Looks!
They were also joined by Vogue Philippines’ Fashion Director Pam Quiñones, who shared her perspective on ‘trends’ and how fashion is more than just a look but a narrative, removing the belief that it should feel intimidating.
“My personal relationship in fashion has changed through the years, and I feel that when we say ‘trend,’ we put it in the framework of the now and of a season. If it’s uso (trendy) now, it’s potentially not uso next year,” she explained.
“And I started having this relationship with my clothes in a way that I look at them as objects that I’m committed to, and having a personal investment in these pieces. So when I look at your look, it’s not a trend for me. It’s a story. It’s a point of view. It very much communicates what your beliefs and interests are. It’s the physical manifestation of what’s inside. And what’s beautiful about it is that you can add to that story next year or go back to it. It’s not a trend, it’s a story that goes on.”
Pam also led a styling segment that attempted to create some of Heart’s iconic fashion week looks, allowing guests to learn more about finding their personal style and what pieces work for them.
Heart Evangelista with Pam Quiñones | Courtesy of GCash
Beyond fame and fashion, the second episode of GCash Spotlight highlights the brand’s mission of providing accessibility and convenience in the lives of every Filipino. Throughout the talk, Heart mentioned how GCash Tap to Pay had been so useful and how it had given her more breathing room between work. From attending fashion shows, filming content for her social media pages, to producing and creating storyboards for her TV show, “Heart World,” Heart has a lot on her plate, and it makes a big difference that she can expedite the process when it comes to her purchases.
“You save so much time! When I travel, I’m there for work, I go to café shops, and sometimes we’d take a side trip for a tour. Having GCash saves one or two hours of your time. And for me, time is precious. Before you have to line up, and it’s going to take forever. Now it’s so convenient. Wala kayong choice(you don’t have a choice), you will see me on the app all the time! *laughs*"
Aside from purchasing being easier and faster, Heart also pointed out that GCash makes her more responsible in her spending as she can track her transactions in real time.
Courtesy of GCash
GCash Tap to Pay is now widely accepted at thousands of partner merchantsnationwide and internationally via its partnership with Alipay+ and Mastercard. This makes travelling for Filipinos simpler and more seamless, and they can choose to either scan via QR or tap via NFC at small local stores, as well as their favorite restaurants, cafes, and shops while abroad.
“The introduction of the new GCash Tap To Pay is in line with GCash’s bigger goal of creating products with our customers in mind, helping provide ease and convenience throughout their day-to-day,” said Ferdie Perez, Product Innovation Head of G-Xchange, Inc. “With GCash Tap To Pay, there’s no more fumbling about with signatures and PIN numbers. A single tap is all you need to get exactly what you need. It is quick, fast, instant, and secure. Making everyday moments more convenient and a lot more stylish!”
As of the moment, GCash Tap to Pay can only be used on Android phones, and the device has to support NFC. Once you’ve activated the feature through these steps here, you can just tap away!
You can catch all of Heart’s tips and insights in the upcoming GCash Spotlight podcast dropping soon on their YouTube channel. For updates, follow GCash on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram.
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Commuters and cashless payment enthusiasts, rejoice!
Visa contactless payments are now live at MRT-3 stations, giving over 350,000 daily commuters a faster and more secure way to pay—no more fumbling through your pockets for cash or queuing long lines for tickets!
Since its start on July 25, 2025, passengers can simply tap their Visa credit, debit, or prepaid card, or any Visa-enabled mobile device, directly at the turnstiles. This new feature is part of Visa’s continued support for open-loop transit systems in the Philippines, in partnership with GCash and the Department of Transportation.
Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines | Courtesy of Visa PhilippinesJeff Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines, and Henry Aguda, Secretary, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
“We’re proud to bring Visa contactless payments to MRT-3 and help modernize everyday commuting for millions of Filipinos,” said Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines. “This marks a significant step in building a more connected, cashless future for public transport in the Philippines. Through our partnership with the Department of Transportation and GCash, we’re enabling faster, safer, and more seamless journeys for commuters across Metro Manila.”
This move seeks to improve commuting experiences for more than 350,000 Filipinos who take the rail line every day. It’s a step forward in modernizing public transport and improving everyday commutes—one tap at a time.
The Cashless Payment methods accepted at the MRT-3 | Photo from Facebook/Department of Transportation-Philippines
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Leading multinational payment card services company, Visa, unveils an exciting lineup of products that will change the way you pay and manage online transactions.
Since its foundation sixty years ago, Visa has been driven by the same mission: “to be the best way to pay and be paid for everyone, everywhere.” With this, they created the first global payment ecosystem, giving millions of buyers and sellers the ability to confidently transact online.
Last July 1, Visa invited its partners and customers for an insightful session at the Samsung Hall at SM Aura Premiere for the unveiling of a suite of digital payment solutions, showcasing how the company is enabling the new era of commerce.
The Philippines’ digital payment sector is rapidly expanding, with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reporting that 50% of retail payments were digitized in 2023. With digital transactions increasing, Visa’s AI-enabled solutions are set to empower Filipino consumers and business owners by providing secure and seamless payment experiences.
“The continuously growing digital payment sector in the Philippines makes it a prime environment for technological innovation — one that harnesses AI for the benefit of the digital Filipino business owner and consumer,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines.
Jeffrey Navarro | Photo by The Beat Asia
Expanding Connectivity and Payment Innovations
The first of the innovative payment solutions that was introduced touches on the very foundation of how Visa enables seamless commerce in today’s digital world.
“In the physical world, trust is easier to establish because each card is embedded with a cryptographically protected EMV chip, and that cannot be counterfeited,” explained Michelle Mascariñas, Head of Value-Added Services, Visa Philippines. “When a person makes a transaction, we can be confident that it’s you.”
This isn’t the case in the digital space, however, where online fraud is rampant due to the way buyers still have to manually input their credentials, which include the very sensitive 16-digit card number, CVV, and expiry date, on every merchant’s site that they’re purchasing on. According to Michelle, online fraud is 8x higher compared to face-to-face transactions, and on the seller side, the success rate is 6% lower than what it should be.
Digital Identity is composed of a suite of solutions that simply ensure that the person making the digital transaction is truly who they claim to be. This includes Passkeys, Tap to Confirm, and enhanced data that identify and authenticate digital users. The solutions are meant to make the process smoother and quicker for consumers, taking away the clunky One-Time Passwords (OTP) while improving payment security and authorization rates with enhanced transaction data and ultramodern fraud prevention techniques.
The company has already launched this with partners in the Asia Pacific region, including Australian supermarket chain Coles, and Maybank, a leading financial services provider in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
Michelle also introduced another product meant to lessen the stress of thinking about how to manage your cards. According to their consumer research, the average Filipino has about five cards, including digital wallets, which means consumers are thinking about which card to use every time they pay, such as: "Should I pay for my coffee using my debit? My dining, to my cashback, and so on."
What if we tell you that Visa can do the thinking for you? With Flex Credential (Flex), cardholders can switch and toggle not just payment modes, but also installments and multi-currencies. It’s also poised to go even further with AI-driven recommendations tailored to each client’s preferences, spending habits, and more.
Two years ago, Visa first launched Flex in partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Sumitomo Mitsui Card Company (SMCC), through their product Olive. Today, there are more than five million Olive account holders benefitting from it, with cardholder transactions averaging 40% higher than the national average in Japan over the past year. They’re not stopping there as Visa plans to launch it with Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (ACB) and two more issuers in Vietnam before the year ends.
Michelle Mascariñas | Photo by The Beat Asia
It's been mentioned that digital payments are rising in the Philippines, and many people today have mobile wallets — either the green or blue one, IYKYK. And although they make transactions more convenient, their footprints are often localized and specialized, meaning they can’t be used abroad. For the average Filipino traveler, this becomes an issue.
And so Visa is presenting us a solution with Visa Pay,a service designed to connect any participating wallet to any Visa-accepting merchant, local or international, in-store or online.
“No physical card, no problem. With just a few clicks, you will have access to over 150 million merchants at the palm of your hand,” stated Ezer Escolar, Head of Product, Visa Philippines.
It was also explained that Visa Pay will be embedded into the apps, thus streamlining the experience. There will be no complex enrollments or separate cards to manage. Simply activate it and you’re ready to go! This service also has a “Tap to Pay” feature, so buyers can simply pay by tapping their phones directly onto the terminal. Through partnerships with LINE Pay in Taiwan, Maya in the Philippines, OpenRice in Hong Kong, and Woori Card in South Korea, Visa is expanding access to its global network, giving consumers more ways to pay globally.
Photo by The Beat Asia
On the merchant side, Visa is extending a hand to microentrepreneurs and informal sellers such as street vendors and freelancers through Visa Accept,a new solution that allows them to receive payments directly to their eligible Visa debit card using any NFC-enabled smartphone. With this service, sellers will only need to activate the feature on their bank or wallet app, enter the amount, and let their customers tap their card on their phones. This exciting service is poised to launch in Vietnam, and hopefully in the Philippines as well, considering there are about a million micro merchants in the country, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), that could benefit from it.
“We are excited to work with local banks, acquirers, merchants, and the government in bringing these innovations to the Philippine market. Working with the right partners will help us translate these global innovations into real, tangible impact for local stakeholders — helping us all advance into the future of payments,” said Jeffrey.
Introducing Visa Intelligent Commerce
Poojyata Khattar, Head of Product for Regional Southeast Asia at Visa, led us through an exciting talk about what the future could look like in a new era of agentic commerce, where AI agents will be able to browse, purchase, and manage transactions on behalf of users. It’s like having a personal assistant, but better.
Over the past decade, Visa has invested more than US$3 billion in AI and data infrastructure, enabling regional partners — including AI platforms, fintechs, banks, and merchants — to connect effortlessly to the Visa network.
Visa Intelligent Commerce brings a suite of integrated APIs and a commercial partner program to AI platforms that enables developers to deploy Visa’s AI commerce capabilities securely and at scale. They announced that they’re exploring this innovation with Ant International, Grab, and Tencent to provide consumers with a secure and seamless checkout experience.
Poojyata gave a brief but packed demonstration of how AI commerce can ultimately manage one’s travel plans, helping you book your flights, hotels, and even activities for your trip. The AI agent will be able to do the work for you to find the best deals — and by best, we don’t just mean on the financial aspect, but also the personal side, as it can be set to match your preferences.
“Imagine the possibilities that AI brings to everyday life for Filipino digital consumers — from automatically ordering your favorite meals on Grab before you even think of it, to alerting you about the next big K-Pop concert and arranging all your travel plans,” she said. “With Visa’s trusted payment infrastructure and advanced AI capabilities, these seamless, secure, and enjoyable experiences are now within reach for everyone in the country.”
Although there are no specific timelines as to when we’ll be able to utilize these products in the country, we can’t wait to see how it all pans out. It’s safe to say that the future is gearing towards a more digitized world, one that prioritizes convenience and broader connectivity, giving way to seamless and secure transactions.
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Nothing completes a look quite like good hair does. Do you have that one coworker who always looks put together no matter the time of day or how few hours of sleep they got the previous night?
As a writer, I’ve been privileged enough to have attended some pretty fabulous events, from exclusive restaurant tastings to fashion shows and product launches. Beyond the glitz and glamor of lifestyle journalism, unfortunately, I don’t always feel that way. Despite all my attempts at picking beautiful outfits and doing my makeup, I still somehow feel frumpy standing next to gorgeous models and influencers who have definitely won the genetic lottery.
So, what have I realized from all this? Well, it’s that hair really does make a difference. I can walk into a room wearing the most beautiful ensemble, with perfect blush and bronzer plastered on my face, but if my hair is stacked up in a bun – which it usually is – then chances are, I won’t look as incredible as I’d hoped.
Enter: my hairstyling era. I’ve never been one to focus on hair, because as I’d wrongfully thought, it didn’t matter. But it’s true what they say: having beautiful, perfect waves, or a voluminous blowout can complete a look, adding that much more value to one’s carefully thought-out OOTD. So, if you're looking to upgrade your hair life, this is the review for you.
A Personalized Experience
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Of course, when one thinks of perfect hair, their train of thought automatically (or at least eventually) leads to Dyson. Specifically, the Dyson Airwrap, which is something of a holy grail to beauty enthusiasts. This remarkable tool has jokingly been dubbed as the girl version of a PS5 and is a cult favorite at this point.
The Airwrap’s biggest selling point is that it uses the Coanda effect, a physics phenomenon that shows how a gas passing over a specific surface (particularly a curved or convex surface) will adhere to that shape. Using this principle, engineers at Dyson have figured out a way to style hair without clamping or extreme heat, introducing a tool that helps customers steer clear of heat damage.
While the Dyson Airwrap first made waves in 2018, the company has constantly been updating their invention, releasing its latest iteration – the Airwrap ID – in 2024.
The Airwrap ID is straightforward and easy to use: there are four “buttons” on it, each of which can be toggled up or down. There is one for heat (users can adjust air temperature to cold, hot, and maximum heat), another for airflow (light, medium, strong), one to unlock and remove the attachments, and one to power the device on and off.
The Dyson Airwrap attachments | Instagram | Tonaor.por
The Airwrap ID also comes with six attachments, each of which has a specific purpose.
There is the fast dryer attachment for drying hair, the large volumizing brush for volume, the soft smoothing brush for shine and straightening, the flyaway smoother to tame hair strands, a 40mm barrel attachment for loose, bouncy curls, and a conical barrel for tighter, more defined curls. Unlike previous Airwrap models, the Airwrap ID barrels can now switch between left and right curling directions with the switch of a button found at the top. (Previous models saw users having to remove and reattach barrels to change the direction of the curl.)
With a focus on personalization, the Airwrap ID also allows users to connect the tool to an app on their phone; this allows them access to a library of styling tutorials as well as a “personalized curling sequence” that allows one to curl one’s hair with a click of a button.
For this, users simply have to download the MyDyson app and register their Airwrap ID onto it (scan the serial number or input it manually). They can then switch on their Airwrap ID and it will automatically connect to the app via Bluetooth. It will take the user to a questionnaire about their hair profile; once answered the app will generate a personalized styling sequence to optimize the time spent wrapping, styling, and cold shot (to set the curl).
So instead of having to switch between temperatures and air flow strength, all one needs to do to curl their hair is toggle the power on button upwards to “ID Curl” and the machine automatically does the work. Just hold the Airwrap ID in place and relax. Of course, specific timing can be adjusted to your preference.
My Favorite Parts
The Dyson Airwrap ID with the large round volumizing brush | Instagram | Dyson Beauty
Those approaching hairstyling as a complete newbie – with zero experience at all – will find the MyDyson app is something of a godsend. Aside from the personalized curling experience, the MyDyson app also contains a library of tutorials lasting between 1 to 4 minutes on how to achieve specific hairstyles. There are styles for short, medium, and long hair, ranging from Retro Waves to a Slick Back look, and even a K-pop hairstyle for short hair styling.
It's also helpful that plenty of people love the Airwrap ID. Content creators have already made helpful videos and discovered their own hacks for creating long-lasting styles.
The Airwrap ID creates beautiful curls | Instagram | Sammi Wong
If you've ever been burned by a hair tool, then you can understand the fear of that happening again. Needless to say, the Airwrap ID takes away all fear of a repeat burn!
Although the Airwrap ID does heat up to a degree, it does so at a tolerable temperature. In fact, you can bring the device close to your face or to the roots of your hair, and the heat will still feel manageable.
Ultimately, people also love the Airwrap ID for its versatility. Because it comes with so many attachments, styling hair feels less bulky and a lot more streamlined. All you have to do is attach a head to the Airwrap ID body and you can instantly, dry, straighten, or curl your hair. The fact that it even comes with a flyaway smoother shows just how much thought Dyson put into creating a comprehensive hairstyling experience. You’re definitely getting more than one hair tool with the Airwrap ID.
The Difficulties
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Don’t get me wrong though: purchasing a Dyson won’t automatically make you a pro at hairstyling. As it is with anything else, practice makes perfect and even the best tools will fail if you don’t have the skills to use them.
The only other drawback of the Airwrap ID I have observed is that in order to get really beautiful, defined curls on the barrel attachments, you have to take small sections of hair at a time. Taking a big chunk won’t work; the hair simply will not wrap around the barrel. So it’s fairly time-consuming to have to section your hair and do them one at a time, though the payoff is beautiful.
Is it Worth It?
The Dyson Airwrap dryer and flyaway smoother | Instagram | Beautyst
It all comes down to: is it worth it? Is the Dyson Airwrap ID a good investment?
Personally, I would say it depends. If you’re someone who’s new to hair or doesn’t take styling too seriously, then getting an Airwrap ID right away might not be your best investment at the moment.
However, if you are constantly out or under the spotlight, or simply someone who loves to do hair or learn about styling, then the Airwrap ID is definitely your best friend. The tool is versatile, chic, and easy to use. It’s less damaging than a lot of other styling products on the market and its wide array of tutorials and attachments will open you up to plenty of stylish looks.
This is a truthful product review and the opinions expressed within represent the views of the author.
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The holiday season is always the best way to send good vibes and cheer, and Power Mac Center has just the thing to make it even better.
Enjoy big discounts on Apple devices and accessories and get some limited-edition mystery bags chock-full of premium items at the Power Mac Center!
“Gifts of tech are always a hit during the holiday season, so we make it a point to add a little something for the giver — be it a discount or bundled items. With the holiday theme ‘Gifts and Giggles,’ we showcase how generosity and thoughtfulness are always received with joy,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management.
Here’s a rundown on what Power Mac Center is offering for this holiday season:
Score exclusive discounts with your credit cards
Get huge discounts on your purchases and on flexible payment terms! From Dec. 13 to 31, 2024, BPI, Metrobank, and UnionBank credit cardholders can get up to P6,000 off on select Apple devices and accessory bundles when paid through 24-month installments.
BPI, Metrobank, and UnionBank credit cardholders also get an instant discount equivalent to one (1) month of the participating device’s amortization when paid through 24-month installments.
This offer is available at Power Mac Center and The Loop stores nationwide.
Blind unbox a ‘Bag of Wonders’
Ever wanted to have that “Bag of Wonders” from your childhood? Well, this one’s the adult version.
Power Mac Center offers a mystery bag called the “Bag of Wonders,” containing a curated assortment of premium accessories for just P1,500. This offer is exclusively available at the Greenbelt 3, Power Plant Mall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA – Annex, Robinsons Magnolia, and TriNoma branches until supplies last! Keep in mind that only one "Bag of Wonders" can be availed per customer.
Shop for others, get rewarded yourself
Customers are qualified to earn entries to the “Miles and Milestones: The 30th
Anniversary Raffle!” Get a chance to win a brand-new BYD ATTO 3 Dynamic Electric Vehicle, business class trips to Osaka or San Francisco via Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, the latest Apple devices, and more!
Interested in joining? Simply sign up for membership to 1 Infinite, PMC’s lifestyle rewards program for Apple enthusiasts, in-store or online. Then, make a single-receipt purchase of at least P30,000 by Dec. 31, 2024.
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Having commuting blues? Don’t prefer riding motorcycles? Fret not, because motorcycle taxi and delivery service Angkas has launched its new four-wheel service, Angcars.
Now in its beta phase, Angcars offers passengers an option to book a car ride. Currently, the feature is only available in selected areas, including Makati City, Bonifacio Global City, Mandaluyong City, and Pasig City.
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Booking Angcars is easy. There’s no need to install another app, too!
To book, all you need to do is open the Angkas app, pin a location within the said areas, and click on the “service type” tab. In this tab, you should be able to see three options: Passenger, which will let you book a motorcycle; Padala, their package delivery service; and finally, Angcars, where you can book a car.
As of this writing, only four-seater cars are available via Angcars. However, the company is eyeing to launch rides with six-seater vehicles as well, which will be called “Angcars Plus,” Angkas Founder Angeline Tham told reporters during the Management Association of the Philippines 22nd International CEO Conference last Sept. 10.
For those who are outside the Metro, worry not, because Angcars will also be rolled out in more areas soon!
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The pandemic triggered a frenzy for online shopping, especially during the lockdown days. But even with the non-existent lockdown restrictions today, it seems that online shopping is not showing any signs of slowing down. Even though we can buy just about anything in physical stores, nothing beats the convenience the Internet gives us when it comes to shopping.
Leading the pack among e-commerce platforms in the Philippines are Shopee and Lazada. And if having our parcels delivered directly to our doorsteps wasn’t convenient enough, these two apps provide even more convenience by lightening the burden on our wallets through their buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) features.
Although they have similar policies, Shopee’s SPayLater and Lazada’s LazPayLater differ in many ways. If you’re stuck with choosing which BNPL offer suits your online shopping needs the best, below is a guide to help you compare the two and choose.
Application and Requirements
Both SPayLater and LazPayLater are available for Shopee and Lazada users aged 21 to 45 years old. Applying for them is fairly easy. You only need a one-time PIN (OTP) from your registered mobile number, a clear photo of a valid government ID, a selfie for face verification, and a filled-out form with the necessary details. Just make sure the ID you’ll be submitting has a date of birth for faster approval.
Approvals for both SPayLater and LazPayLater both take a few seconds to up to 24 hours. However, while there is very little chance, your application may be rejected if you provided inaccurate information, did not meet the requirements, or have a bad credit history, among other reasons.
Verdict: Tie, both have around the same requirements and turnaround time for approvals
Credit Limit, Interest Rates, and Processing Fees
Those who are just starting a LazPayLater account can get a credit limit of up to P15,000. This is calculated based on the personal information you input and Lazada’s comprehensive evaluation of your profile. This limit increases the more you use and repay your LazPaylater bills.
SPayLater’s credit limit, on the other hand, ranges from P1,500 to P50,000, calculated depending on your spending behavior and payment history. This will also go up as you use the funds and repay them. Shopee also grants temporary credit limit increases, which you will be notified of as long as you turn on accepting notifications from the app.
In terms of interest rate, SPayLater gives from 1% to 5% of the total checkout amount, plus a processing fee of 0% to 2%, which is calculated depending on the selected installment plan.
Meanwhile, LazPayLater’s interest fees, according to CIMB Bank, also range from 1% to 5%, depending on the total checkout amount and installment plan. The main difference is that no processing fee is needed for LazPayLater payments.
Photo by Website/Lazada
If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot products that are under these apps’ 0% interest programs, too!
Verdict: Tie — while SPay Later may offer a much higher initial credit limit, LazPayLater has no processing fee.
Installment Plans and Due Dates
For both SPayLater and LazPayLater, you can choose installment plans from one to 12 months. The longer the plan you choose, the higher the interest fee.
These two BNPL options differ in due dates and statement cycles. For Lazada, the billing begins every first day of the month, ends on the 30th or 31st day, and runs from the moment you checkout an item via LazPayLater. Monthly statements are given on the first day of the next month, with a due date on the 16th day following the statement.
SPayLater is more flexible with due dates on every fifth or 15th day of the month. Only when your parcel arrives and you click the “Receive” button will the bill for the item you purchased be added to your payment due.
Photo by Website/Shopee
The due date for SPayLater orders completed from the current month’s fifth day to the succeeding month’s fourth day will be on the latter’s 15th day. Meanwhile, the due date for orders completed from the current month’s 25th day to the succeeding month’s 24th day will be on the fifth day after the billing cycle.
Verdict: SPayLater
Late Payment Fees
It is always recommended for Lazada and Shopee users to pay their BNPL bills on the required due date. But in case you fail to pay on time, SPayLater will add a 2.5% to 5% late payment fee to your bill.
On the other hand, LazPayLater has more tolerance for late payments with a two-day grace period. Failure to pay during the grace period will result in an overdue fee, which is calculated depending on your payment terms and loan amount.
Verdict: LazPayLater
Depending on what you need or what you’re more comfortable using, LazPayLater and SPayLater both have their pros and cons. Just a friendly reminder, though: never let your SPayLater and LazPayLater perks ruin your financial priorities. Remember, using these BNPL features still means you’re incurring debt, so shop wisely!
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