Tuesday, February 4, 2025

“Bahala na si Batman” won’t work for retirement—InLife Dreamweaver Sharon Cuneta shares why Bahala na si Batman

                                   


We often hear this phrase when we are unsure of how to respond—especially when it comes to making plans.

However, Megastar and InLife (Insular Life) Dreamweaver Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan says that when it comes to retirement, we can’t just let nature take its course.

“Think of it this way: If we can plan for the next chapter of our careers habang nagtatrabaho tayo, all the more we should plan for the next chapter of our lives. Start doing more for your future by doing less, by having a retirement income plan as early as your 30s or 40s. The younger you start, the more you will be able to save and the more your savings will grow.”

In her latest vlog as part of InLife’s Dreamweaver Stories, Sharon shared that while she is not yet planning to retire immediately, she nevertheless thinks of it. “Pag sinabi mong retirement, tungkol sa pagtanda lang natin. No, it’s about wanting to finally be able to rest and kasama na doon yung living our lives to the fullest nang hindi na tayo nagtatrabaho.”

She shares that one of the things she has learned in all her years in showbusiness and as a mother, is the value of planning ahead, including and most importantly, for retirement. “Minsan sa dami ng ginagawa natin, we just get caught up in the present. We work hard, we support ourselves and our families pero hindi natin napapansin na yung panahon natin para maghanda para sa sarili nating future ay slipping away.”

She quoted a recent study on retirement commissioned by InLife, which says 80% of senior citizens in the country do not have adequate financial resources once they retire. The respondents surveyed in the research also said they would need a monthly retirement income between P25,000 to P50,000 to sustain the lifestyle they have gotten used to, but this may not fit the lifestyle retirees dream of enjoying. The disparity in funds needed vs available funds upon retirement may become larger due to unforeseen circumstances, often involving healthcare costs.

“In 2023, Filipino households spent over PHP 600 billion out-of-pocket for healthcare. Dagdag pa natin dito ang projected inflation rate na 3% by 2029 - ito yung pagbaba ng value ng pera over time dahil tumataas ang cost of living. Lastly, ang mahirap pong i-predict is how much longer will we live. Kahit marami po tayong i-save, ang nakakatakot we will outlive our savings, lalo pa ngayon nag improve po talaga ang life expectancy dito sa Pilipinas. Mas humahaba ang buhay natin. This underlines the irony that while our lives continue to extend, there is so much to be done to financially prepare for those long retirement years.”

She also underscored the cultural practice of children being expected to take care of their parents. “I know it’s in our culture na maraming Filipinos rely on their kids to take care of them in their old age. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful gift to our children kung hindi tayo magiging pabigat? We don’t want to be a burden to them pagdating ng araw. Para naman lahat tayo sa pamilya—especially our children—can live our lives with less worries.”

All these future concerns, she says, may be addressed by preparing ahead. “We have a chance to turn things around. Retirement planning, it’s intimidating di ba, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We need to think long term. Magplano para sa ating mga kinabukasan. As your InLife Dreamweaver, I’m more than happy to share that every Filipino can now retire without worries! The secret lies in having a steady stream of retirement income for life—one that complements your pensions and helps you avoid dipping into your personal savings, emergency funds, or retirement benefits.”

Sharon then talks about InLife Retire Assure, the first true retirement insurance product in the country that has guaranteed benefits, is comprehensive, and has a hassle-free application process.

“It’s designed to provide guaranteed monthly income starting at age 60 or 65, all the way until age 100. Simply put, parang tumatanggap ka pa rin ng sweldo kahit na tumigil ka na sa years and years of pagtatrabaho. What’s even better? This income has the potential to grow over time through additional cash dividends, offering protection against inflation.”

Retire Assure includes guaranteed life insurance given to the insured’s beneficiaries in case of death. “Ang dual benefit na ito—retirement income at life insurance—ay nagbibigay ng tunay na financial independence at peace of mind, hindi lang para sa’yo kundi pati sa mga mahal natin sa buhay. Lastly, it features guaranteed issuance—no medical evaluation needed, regardless of your health condition.”

She encourages Filipinos to start saving for their retirement while they are still young. “Retirement isn’t about slowing down; it’s about starting an exciting new chapter. Let’s plan it right so we can live life to the fullest and retire without worries.”

InLife Dreamweavers Sharon Cuneta- Pangilinan and youngest daughter Miel Pangilinan have partnered with InLife for a series of videos and articles where they give tips on and talk about how they explore their passions, challenge their creativity and amplify InLife’s mission of providing A Lifetime For Good to its fellow Filipinos. Recently, Sharon shared her tips on saving in a video called “Mag-Sharon para sa Kinabukasan.” As Filipinos traditionally bring home extra food after celebrations ("mag-Sharon"), InLife encourages them to 'mag-Sharon' for the future by saving and securing insurance like Megastar Sharon Cuneta, who emphasizes the importance of “financial planning for a secure tomorrow."

For more information on the InLife Retire Assure, visit https://bit.ly/InLifeRetireAssure.

Dinagyang Festival returns to global spotlight, set to perform in Japan, New Zealand



After a seven-year absence on the international stage, the widely acclaimed Iloilo Dinagyang Festival is set to return to the global spotlight this year, ready to dazzle and impress a worldwide audience.




According to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas, the world-class festival got an invitation to perform in Osaka, Japan, and Auckland, New Zealand, in June and November, respectively.

“We are excited. This opportunity reignites our excitement to once again showcase internationally our pride and joy, the Dinagyang Festival,” Mayor Trenas said.

“It has always been a symbol of our faith, culture, unity, and creativity, and now, more than ever, we are eager to present the best of what we have to offer to a global audience,” he added.

The local government expects more invitations in the coming years with the COVID-19 pandemic already behind us, Trenas further said.


                               

The last time the Dinagyang Festival was showcased abroad was in 2018, when then-champion Tribu Panayanon performed during the Philippine Independence Day in New York City.

Dinagyang Festival is a multi-awarded spectacle, being the seven-time and reigning champion of Aliwan Fiesta, an annual event that gathers different cultural festivals of the Philippines held at the Star City Complex in Pasay City.

It also captured the Best Festival in the 2024 Philippine Leaf Awards and was recognized as the Asia-Pacific Folklore Festival of 2024 by the prestigious International Festival and Events Association (IFEA)-Asia at the Asian Festival Awards. It is the only recipient from the Philippines since IFEA’s inception in 1956.

This year, eight tribes competed, including Tribu Paghidaet, Tribu Parianon, Tribu Ilonganon, Tribu Pag-asa kang Manduryaw, Tribu Hangaway, Tribu Molave, Tribu Salognon, and Tribu Pan-ay.

They dazzled local and foreign visitors alike with their performances based on this year’s Dinagyang theme, “Buhi nga Pagtuo sa Kinabuhi sang mga Ilonggo.”

“Through the years, the Dinagyang Festival has served as a reminder to us Ilonggos that we can stand the test of time, becoming stronger and prouder with each passing year,” Trenas said in his Dinagyang message.

The League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) congratulated and commended Treñas, who served as its National Adviser, for successfully staging the Dinagyang Festival.

Recognizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage and presenting cities’ unique history and traditions, the LCP, through its representatives, also joined the City of Love and UNESCO’s Creative City of Gastronomy in the celebration of Dinagyang Festival 2025.

They were welcomed by colorful parades and rich cultural and food displays in Iloilo City during the festivity.

Meantime, Professor Ruben Gamala, through his Facebook posts, shared unforgettable impressions of his guests.

Gamala said that his visitors from Albay, Mr. Ben Artiaga and his wife Tess, commended Mayor Treñas, the entire city government, and the private sector for coming together to plan, organize, and execute a superb festival.

According to him, Australia-based Filipino nurse Sai Quemodo described the performances as well-prepared and artistic, as well as a great illustration of Iloilo’s history and appreciation for the environment.

He further shared another feedback from US-based friend and first-timer in Iloilo, Mr. Johan Dyseng, who said: “I like the Saturday performance of Dinagyang festival kasi yung theme is local festival. The music and costumes are New York Broadway quality, so is the choreography.”

He was particularly got impressed by the performance of Maasin’s Tultugan Festival, with “performers and the hundred of musicians all smiling and having fun while performing. Best of all, the instruments they are using are all made by bamboo.”

More visitors, especially the first-timers, took to social media to express their feel-good sentiments experiencing the Dinagyang.

“Attending the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City for the first time, I am truly in awe of the vibrant and festive atmosphere. The warmth, kindness, and hospitality of the people of Iloilo, the City of Love, have left a lasting impression on me. Truly, malambing, mabait, and accommodating,” vlogger MejasTravels posted as he shared some unforgettable moments he captured, which he described as – the faces of dedication, hard work, and devotion to Sto. Niño.

A Milestone on Wheels: Landers Superstore Celebrates 8th Year with a Porsche 911 Grand Prize




A brand-new Porsche 911 Carrera S worth PHP 18 million took center stage on January 20, 2025, as Landers Superstore awarded the grand prize to one lucky member during its Shop & Win Grand Draw. The awarding of the luxury car was the highlight of Landers’ 8th Anniversary celebration, held at its Arca South branch. The event brought together loyal members, media partners, and celebrity guests for a night filled with excitement, gratitude, and memorable moments.

Revving Up the Excitement with Interactive Experiences

The evening began with engaging activities that added excitement to the festivities. Guests tried their hand at the Porsche 911 Carrera S Racing Simulator, experiencing the thrill of driving the luxury vehicle. A Porsche-themed photo booth also provided attendees with memorable snapshots. Adding to the buzz, brand sponsors showcased their premium offerings through
product samplings, making the celebration even more enjoyable.

                                           


Celebrities, Cheers, and Show-Stopping Performances

Celebrity hosts Billy Crawford and Shaina Magdayao brought their energy and charm to the stage, keeping the crowd entertained and engaged throughout the evening. A powerful performance by Ms. Vina Morales captivated the audience, drawing cheers and applause.

Adding even more excitement to the night were Ruffa Gutierrez, Annabelle Rama, and Janice de Belen, whose presence added glamour and warmth to the celebration.

The star-studded event also featured Enchong Dee, Kyline Alcantara, JC De Vera, Aubrey Miles, and Empress Schuck, who mingled with attendees and joined in the festivities. Derrick Monasterio, Kristoffer Martin, Suzi Entrata, and Royce Cabrera added their charm to the celebration, creating opportunities for fans and guests to interact with their favorite celebrities.

One of the most thrilling moments of the evening was an interactive game of Bato-Bato-Pick, where members of the media, loyal customers, and celebrities competed for the top prize—PHP 50,000 worth of Landers Gift Certificates. The crowd roared with excitement as participants gave their all, making the game one of the highlights of the event. With celebrity interactions,
exciting games, and unforgettable performances, the night offered a perfect blend of entertainment and community engagement.






From Pizza to Porsches: The Ultimate Raffle Prizes


The Shop & Win Grand Draw was the highlight of Landers Superstore’s 8th Anniversary celebration, offering members an extraordinary lineup of prizes that added excitement to the evening. Among the minor prizes, Ryan Perry B. See won 8 Doppio coffee drinks per month for 8 months, while Jason Michael T. Ngo took home PHP 8,000 worth of Maya credits. Other
winners included Arlene T. Carpizo, who claimed an eight-year Landers membership, and Arturo D. Yong, who received an Urban Time Watch. Emma Carmela B. Topacio won a one-year supply of Landers Central Pizza, Ruth G. Alferez was awarded PHP 8,000 worth of Landers Gift Certificates, and Luningning B. Esmores took home an iPad 10th Gen.

Additionally, Leo M. Agustin II won a one-year supply of Caltex Fuel, adding to the night’s memorable moments.

The excitement intensified with the major prizes. Joy Felycitas G. Alzate claimed a Kia Sonet SUV, drawing cheers from the crowd. The highlight of the evening came when the grand prize—a Porsche 911 Carrera S worth PHP 18 million—was awarded to Ingrid Rose I.
Panuncialman. The announcement of the winner brought the audience to their feet, with applause and excitement filling the venue as the luxurious prize found its new owner.

Looking Back at Eight Remarkable Years

Landers’ leadership took the stage to reflect on the company’s growth over the past eight years.

Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings highlighted key milestones, including Landers’ expansion to 14 branches and its recognition as 2024 Retailer of the Year at the Vertex Awards.

He also credited the success to the unwavering support of the 2 million members who have made Landers a household name.

VP for Marketing & Membership Kenneth Ocampo expressed heartfelt gratitude to members and gave a sneak peek into what’s ahead for 2025. Exciting plans include PHP 1 million monthly giveaways and another luxury car raffle, underscoring Landers’ commitment to
delivering more value to its members.

More Than a Retailer: A Partner in Community Building

The event also spotlighted Landers’ dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). A video presentation highlighted the company’s efforts in disaster relief and community outreach programs, reaffirming its mission to bring MORE to its members and the communities it serves.

The Road Ahead: Exciting Plans for 2025

Looking to the future, Landers unveiled ambitious plans to bring even more value to its members. Aside from the aforementioned PHP 1 million monthly giveaways, 2025 will feature continued product innovations and shopping promotions designed to enhance the membership experience. Adding to the excitement, Landers also announced that another new luxury car will be up for grabs, giving members even more reasons to stay engaged. With these initiatives, Landers aims to redefine the retail experience once again while continuing to reward its loyal community.

Looking Forward to a Bigger Future

The 8th Anniversary celebration brought together over 700 in-person attendees at Landers Arca South, with thousands more joining via Facebook Live. The hashtags #Landers8 and #LandersShopAndWin trended online, amplifying the celebration’s reach.

As Landers moves into its ninth year, it remains committed to transforming the shopping experience with innovative perks, exclusive products, and exceptional rewards. For more details about Landers Superstore and its exciting offers, visit www.landers.ph.

Filipino Creators Shine at Bigo Live Philippines Awards Gala




Bigo Live, the leading global live streaming platform in the Philippines and globally, honours the incredible creators and agencies driving positive impact on Bigo Live and beyond at the BIGO Philippines Awards Gala 2024. The Gala is the biggest night for fans and the local community to recognise and celebrate their favourite creators who continue to be a key driving force behind meaningful and positive community engagement and innovative content creation.

The gala is an opportunity to honour all the trailblazers, trendsetters, and innovators on Bigo Live who are not only redefining boundaries but are also part of the thriving creator economy in the Philippines. There is a steady growth and an increasing user community driven by our creators over the past year. They are reaching new, global audiences by livestreaming with their passion, creativity and innovative content on our platform.

More than 400 million users use Bigo Live to discover, share, and engage on livestreams and our app across the world. Bigo Live remains committed to building and safeguarding a positive, inclusive and welcoming community, where all creators and users are supported and empowered to discover and share their passion and interests with the world.


Recognising Philippines’ Rising and Current Stars


BIGO Philippines Awards Gala 2024 was attended by more than 300 people including creators, users, agencies, partners and media. The awards night, which was livestreamed on the Bigo Live app, garnered over 100,000 views and featured electrifying performances by Bigo Live creators such as gonggcha, riyamariyaa, Jfaye and ANNRAIN.


                                             


The Gala saw current and rising stars share the spotlight as they were crowned winners across Performance and Special awards. The Performance awards include ‘Rising Star Of The Year’, ‘Livehouse Icon’, ‘Trailblazer Agency Of The Year’, ‘Super Giver Of The Year’ and ‘Top Family’ and the two Special awards, ‘’Most Impactful Icon Of The Night’ and ‘Family Of The Night”’ were added in for the first time this year. PH-PTA2 received the most awards and IkangMo was crowned the ‘Most Impactful Icon Of the Night’.

                                       

'It's such an honor - this one's for our whole Prime family. Our streamers work so hard every single day to bring their best to every stream, and it's amazing to see that recognized. Big thank you to everyone who tunes in and supports us, you guys make this all possible. And of course, thank you to BIGO for giving our amazing talents a platform to share their gifts!' said PH-PTA2.

The top creators in the Philippines will join hundreds of other creators from around the world at Bigo Live’s annual flagship event, ‘Global BIGO Awards Gala 2025’ held at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore on 24 January 2025.

Building a Safe Digital World and Thriving Creator Economy

Bigo Live has a strong and growing community in the Philippines. The platform offers various opportunities for its creators to realise their talents and build networks locally, regionally, and internationally in a safe and secure environment. Bigo Live Philippines spearheaded multiple community-first initiatives in 2024 empowering users and creators to thrive online and offline, showcasing the platform’s success in building connection and community. These include events such as Bigo Nights, Bigo Voice Music Fest, Bigo Stories, and its latest mid-year Gala celebration, bridging the virtual and physical world together and bringing the experience to a whole new level.

As the world’s leading livestreaming platform, Bigo Live recognises the power and size of the creator economy and remains committed to fostering safe and inclusive spaces that inspire joy and positivity, powered by users and creators. Bigo Live Philippines will continue to advocate for compassionate and connected communities by spearheading creator- and community-centric initiatives. These efforts will uplift our Filipino creators and audiences, allowing them to bond with one another while expressing their authentic selves and talents.

In 2025, both emerging and experienced creators can look forward to more exciting initiatives to help them unleash their full potential, along with fun activities for the whole community to enjoy.

Since its inception in 2016, Bigo Live has emerged as an international industry leader and a key contributor to the global creator economy with more than 400 million users across 150 countries worldwide.

To find out more about Bigo Live, please visit our website.


Sunday, February 2, 2025

Vice Ganda, kasama ng Santé Barley para sa #LiveForMore campaign



 


PORMAL na sinalubong ng Santé International, isang global lider ng mga organic health at wellness products, si Vice Ganda bilang pinaka-bagong mukha ng Santé Barley.

 

Binuo ng Santé International ang reputasyon nito bilang isang pinagkakatiwalaan na pangalan sa larangan ng health and wellness. Handog ng Santé ang mga dekalidad na barley-based na mga produkto na certified organic ng BioGro New Zealand. 


Sa misyon nitong makatulong sa mga tao na mamuhay ng mas maganda, naghahain ang Santé ng mga natural na health solutions na pinag-sasama ang siyensya at nature. Ang flagship product nito, ang Santé Barley, ay mula sa bukirin ng Canterbury region ng New Zealand, kaya naman tiyak ang mataas na kalidad nito at puno ng nutrients. Ang iba pang nga produkto ng kumpanya ay ang Santé Pure Barley Juice, Santé Pure Barley Capsules, Santé Fusion Coffee,  at iba pang mga inumin at wellness products para sa iba’t-ibang mga lifestyles.

 

Dahil sa magandang reputasyon nito, tama lang na makipag-sanib puwersa ang Santé International kay Vice Ganda upang i-endorso ang Santé Barley. 

Dahil sa kanyang tagumpay sa live concerts at comedy; pelikula; musika; telebisyon; at sa kanyang mga adbokasiya, patuloy na namamayagpag si Vice sa pag-inspire sa mga Pinoy na unahin ang kalusugan  — sapagkat ito ang kanyang sikreto kung bakit siya nasa tugatog ng kasikatan ay tagumpay.

 

Talaga namang ibang klase ang paglipad ng karera ng Unkabogable Box-Office Superstar, lalo na sa mga nakaraan niyang accomplishments na pinapakita ang kanyang pagmamahal sa kanyang trabaho. Nuong 2023, nanalo ang kanyang game show na “Everybody, Sing!” bilang Best Asian Original Game Show sa Content Asia Awards — patunay na ito ay innovative at groundbreaking na programa na mahal ng mga manonood sa Asian region.

 

Nuong Oktubre 2024, kinilala si Vice bilang isang Bahaghari Champion sa Bahaghari Awards dahil isa siyang role model sa kumunidad ng LGBTQIA+, kaya naman highlighted ang kanyang dedikasyon sa pagamit sa kanyang mga platforms para ipalaganap ang representasyon at empowerment.

 

Sa akting naman, ginampanan ni Vice ang kanyang unang dramatic role sa 2024 film na “And the Breadwinner Is...,” na dinirek ng award-winning filmmaker na si Jun Lana. Kakaiba ito sa mga comedy movies ni Vice at umani ito ng glowing reviews mula sa mga fans at industry insiders. Nanalo din si Vice ng Special Jury Citation sa 50th Metro Manila Film Festival nuong Disyembre 2024. Tagumpay din ang pelikula sa takilya dahil P400 million na ang kinita nito nuong Enero 2025, patunay sa lakas ni Vice takilya. 


Di lang ito patunay sa talento ni Vice dahil patunay din ito na kailangan din ang malusog na katawan at pagiisip upang maging matagumpay.

 

Sa lahat ng ito, aminado si Vice na kailangan niya ang kanyang lakas upang maalagaan niya ang sarili niya. Seryoso para sa kanya ang mga regular na health check-ups, self-care, at ang pag-maintain ng positibong pagiisip, at katuwang niya dito ang Sante Barley. Hitik sa mga essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, at antioxidants, mahalaga ang Santé Barley sa pang-araw araw na buhay ni Vice, at tinutulungan siya nitong maging malakas kahit sobra siyang busy.

 

“Kinakatawan ni Vice Ganda kung ano ang Santé Barley: to live life to the fullest while staying proactive about your health,” sabi ng Santé International CEO na si Joey Marcelo. “His ability to thrive in all aspects of his career while inspiring others at the same time makes him the perfect partner for our mission of helping Filipinos #LiveForMore.”

 

Excited din si Vice sa partnership: “Ang magandang kalusugan ang pundasyon ng lahat. I stay active and energized because I take care of my body, and Santé Barley has been a big part of that. I’m so excited to share with everyone how Santé Barley has helped me live for more — di lang sa aking career pero pati na rin sa ibang aspeto ng aking buhay.”

 

Bilang pinakabagong ambassador ng Santé, mangunguna si Vice sa kampanya na turuan ang mga Pinoy ukol sa transformative power ng mga produkto gaya ng Santé Barley. Mula sa pag-improve ng digestion hanggang sa pag-boost ng immunity at overall vitality, handog ng Santé Barley ang simple ngunit epektibong paraan upang mapagibayo ang kalusugan. 

Sa tulong ni Vice, layunin ngbSanté na ma-inspire ang mga tao na gamitin ang kanikang full potential at mabuhay live ng mas masaya.

 

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon sa Santé Barley at kung paano ang #LiveForMore, bisitahin ang mysante.com o sundan ang Santé sa social media: @santeofficialph sa Instagram at @OfficialSanteInternational sa Facebook.