Friday, July 28, 2023

Making Timplang Happy Meal Times with Magnolia Chicken Timplados | PR Post | MarkMyName

Introducing the newest #Madalicious delight from Magnolia Chicken Timplados! It's newest offering, Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ seasoning, offers a unique cooking experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family. 

The classic family favorite can now be served and enjoyed without the added stress, giving valuable extra minutes for family bonding. With the added bbq flavor seasoning, even kids can join in on the cooking preparation where they can "shake things up" to add an extra flavor kick to the beloved fried chicken. Mas masarap ang timpla ng meal time, especially when prepared with love and alaga from Magnolia.

Siguradong Timplang Happy basta may Magnolia Chicken Timplados


Sa agahan, tanghalian, merienda o hapunan, may Magnolia Chicken Timplados na para sa'yo! Madaling lutuin, masustansya sa protina, at masarap pa kaya masaya ang timpla ng araw ng buong pamilya. Lalo na pag nasubukan ang bagong Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks na may dagdag na BBQ seasoning na pwedeng i-shake shake pa so siguradong magdadagdag ng tuwa sa meal time. Ganyan ang Alagang Magnolia!

Shop #PambansangManok now at:

🛒 nearest Magnolia Chicken Stations

🛒 Monterey Neighborhood Meatshops

🛒 *San Miguel Mart: https://bit.ly/MCOnSanMiguelMart

🛒 **Shopee: https://bit.ly/ShopMCOnShopee 

🛒 **Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/l.0Zj7 


*Available in Metro Manila, some parts of Rizal, and Cavite only.

**Available in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal only.

IS METRO MANILA NOW READY FOR NCAP? | PR Post | MarkMyName

Last August 2022, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the implementation of the no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) for traffic violators in Metro Manila.

The TRO stops the implementation of NCAP-related programs and ordinances and any apprehensions through the said policy and ordinances "shall be prohibited until further orders from the Court."

The order also halted the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and all parties acting on its behalf from giving out motorist information to all government units, cities, and municipalities enforcing NCAP programs and ordinances.

But last June 14, 2023, renewed calls to bring back NCAP were revitalized after a fatal accident happened at the EDSA Shaw Boulevard tunnel where a motorcycle driver was hit by an SUV driver. Both motorists happened to be in the EDSA Carousel Bus Lane resulting in the former getting run over by a tanker driver in the adjacent lane.

Because of this, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) wasted no time in coordinating with the Office of the Solicitor General in the filing of a motion before the Supreme Court to consider lifting the temporary restraining order on the implementation of the NCAP.

It’s sad to know that a gruesome incident had to happen but aside from this, MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said they will use the data they obtained in the past months showing an increase in the number of road accidents and traffic violations after the NCAP was suspended in August last year.

“We find it difficult to enforce the exclusivity of the said lane without the certainty of a CCTV-assisted apprehension, thereby exposing our motorcycle riders to a greater risk,” said Artes. “We keep on reminding motorists not to use the innermost lane of EDSA as it may result in an accident, but despite our repeated calls and pleas, many drivers of privately-owned vehicles and motorcycle riders disregard the policy,” Artes added.

Aside from MMDA, Metro Manila Council President and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora is also leading the discussion to raise the TRO on NCAP.

According to Zamora, MMDA data shows from August 2022 to May of the present year has already resulted in an average of 25,926 per month as compared to a monthly average of 9,500 before NCAP was suspended.

RETURN OF NCAP. As we experience pre-pandemic traffic, it is ideal in terms of safety and discipline to lift the TRO of NCAP.

“This data shows that we have more than a double increase in the number of violations. Having been Mayor of San Juan for the last four years, it is close to impossible to have traffic enforcers all over the city of San Juan, more so all over the entire Metro Manila. Having NCAP deters motorists from committing traffic violations” shared Zamora.

For those with an interest in road safety, NCAP represents a step forward, in terms of our enforcement of traffic laws.

In the few months it was implemented in San Juan, Quezon City, Manila, Valenzuela City, Muntinlupa City, and Paranaque City, NCAP did bring benefits that some would say were unfairly ignored in the debate.

These cities that have fully implemented NCAP cited a decrease in obstructions, choking off traffic from apprehended vehicles, reckless driving, and hazardous motorist habits.

It is unfortunate that we needed to wait for a fatal accident in order for us to see the benefits of NCAP. And aside from this incident, many agree that it is now time for the TRO to be lifted. With NCAP already addressing a lot of the public’s concerns, this July the handheld device for the Single Ticketing System (STS) will have a pilot test to be spearheaded by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

With the STS in place, it will enable the Metro Manila local government units to strictly enforce traffic laws, at the same time, harmonize the existing national and local laws on traffic enforcement to establish an effective transport and traffic management system.

DETERRENT. Metro Manila Mayors believe that the NCAP is an effective deterrent to erring motorists to avoid road accidents.


 

Luciano Armand Copok Excels in Both Academics and Sports | PR Post | MarkMyName

 

Images from Ms. Tiffany Chua Copok (@tcopok) https://www.instagram.com/p/CuovNSPucJ2/?hl=en

Manila, Philippines - Luciano Armand Copok recently made headlines by winning Bronze in the 4th Copernicus Math Olympiad and 2 Championships for Golf in the US Kids Hudson Valley Tour and the Oceanside Invitational by SCJGT, all held in the USA.

Luciano Armand, 14 Years Old and a Grade 8 Student from British School Manila, has remarkable success in both fields as he juggles his studies and training simultaneously.

In the recently concluded 4th Copernicus Math Olympiad Global Round, He won Bronze in the Grade 7 - 8 division out of over 100 finalists from 22 countries, demonstrating his intelligence and dedication to the subject. Fellow Filipino Math Wizard Francis Deinmel Legaspi also won in his category. The Copernicus Olympiad is an international competition joined by students from Grades 3 to Grade 12, which aims to enhance and develop their potential by honing their logical deduction abilities and connecting with a like-minded group of people from around the globe.

Luciano Armand was also named Champion for two separate US golf tournaments. He first competed in the US Kids Hudson Valley Tour for Boys 13-14 Years Old Category last July 8 in Freehold, New York. Then moved and claimed another Championship in Oceanside Invitational by SCJGT last July 18 in Ormond Beach, Florida.

His success is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. He has proven that it is possible to excel at two seemingly unrelated activities and that it is possible to achieve success even when it requires juggling two different pursuits.

Armand's Mom, Ms. Tiffany Chua Copok, is thankful for the support they received for their son's competition journey.

The success of Luciano Armand in both the Math Olympiad and the Golf Tournaments is a reminder of the power of hard work and dedication and a testament that it is possible to succeed in multiple fields.

Metro Manila’s Middle-Class Gen Zs and Millennials Felt the Impact of Inflation | PR Post | MarkMyName

Growing Concern: 94% of Metro Manila’s Middle-Class Gen Zs and Millennials Felt the Impact of Inflation in the 2nd Quarter of 2023 – NRI Singapore-Manila Branch

Metro Manila's middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials have expressed growing concern over the impact of inflation during the second quarter of 2023, according to a survey conducted by the Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Singapore-Manila Branch. The survey, which was conducted from May to June, revealed that a staggering 94% of respondents felt the effects of inflation during this period.

The rising costs of essential goods and services, such as food, transportation, fuel, and utilities, have forced these young adults to make cuts in their non-essential spending, including leisure and entertainment expenses. Among the respondents, 60% reported that the continuous price increases had the greatest impact on their food and beverage expenses, followed by transportation and fuel costs at 15%, and utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet bills, at 14%. Additionally, an overwhelming 83% of participants stated that they had reduced their spending on non-essential goods, while 79% found it necessary to cut back on leisure and entertainment expenses.

The survey also highlighted the financial challenges faced by this demographic. Approximately one-third of respondents (32%) reported being unable to save over the past 6 to 12 months. For those who managed to save, 44% saved a lower percentage of their income. The persistent inflationary pressures have led 38% of respondents to adjust their savings goals by either reducing the target amount or delaying their timelines. Similarly, 47% of participants had to make similar adjustments to their savings plans.

To cope with the financial strain, a significant number of respondents have turned to loans. Of the surveyed individuals, 71% reported having outstanding loans. In an attempt to augment their incomes, 43% of respondents resorted to taking out additional loans in the past year. Among those who already had loans, 58% had to cut back on other expenses to meet their loan obligations, while 19% were forced to delay payments. The survey also revealed that 41% of respondents possessed credit cards. Personal loans were the most prevalent type of loan, accounting for 30% of respondents, followed by alternative installment loans and salary loans, each representing 19% respectively.

Regarding investments, 52% of respondents had existing investment portfolios. Among these, mutual funds and stocks were the top investment products, chosen by 18% of participants each. However, due to the inflationary pressures, 12% of respondents had to partially liquidate their holdings for increased liquidity, and a minimal 1% sold off their entire investment portfolio.

Given the challenges posed by inflation, respondents have adopted a diverse array of coping strategies. A notable 94% expressed concerns that continuous price increases would persist over the next 6 to 12 months. Consequently, 91% of participants felt the need to explore additional income streams. To adjust to the current economic situation, 86% of respondents planned to continue cutting back on expenses, while 73% intended to reduce their spending on entertainment and leisure activities.

In terms of savings, 34% of participants expressed plans to increase their savings allocations to better prepare for the future, while 33% aimed to maintain their current savings pattern. However, 16% of respondents planned to reduce their monthly savings allocation due to inflationary pressures.

The survey also shed light on borrowing habits, with 46% of respondents indicating that they were less likely to take out loans, while 28% stated they were more likely to acquire additional loans.

Regarding investments, 12% expressed a desire to explore risky investments in the hopes of achieving high returns over the next 6 to 12 months. Meanwhile, 40% were considering more conservative options. Notably, 30% stated that they would choose to stay away from investing altogether, while 18% aimed to maintain liquidity.

The online survey conducted by the NRI Singapore-Manila Branch included 295 adults from Metro Manila, consisting of 92 Gen Zs and 203 Millennials from the middle-class. The participants had monthly individual income ranges of PHP 13,000 to PHP 41,000 and PHP 41,001 to PHP 163,000.

As inflation continues to impact the daily lives and financial well-being of Metro Manila's middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials, it is clear that they are actively seeking ways to navigate these challenges and secure their financial futures.

All PCPPI Manufacturing Plants Receive Recommendations for Food Safety System Certification | PR Post | MarkMyName

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) continues to embody how excellence is best demonstrated through commitment and consistency. PCPPI recently announced that all its manufacturing facilities across the country received recommendations for the coveted Food Safety System Certification (FSSC), with its Naga Plant being the most recent site to be certified.

Frederick D. Ong, the president and chief operating officer of PCPPI, said completing the FSSC status fulfills the organization’s unswerving commitment to developing a strong food safety and quality culture.

“At PCPPI, it has always been our mission to produce safe, high quality, and reliable products that deliver the best experience for our customers. It is imperative for us to adhere to global industry standards through continuously raising our performance. We do this by adapting to regulatory requirements and consumer demand, and embracing industry innovation,” said Ong.

Obtaining FSSC recognition provides PCPPI an advantage, as the certification recognizes its capacity to produce safe food and food packaging products, reduce hazards and incident risks, roll out resource optimization initiatives, reinforce its supply chain relationships, and maintain food safety protocols and programs.

The FSSC status was recommended by SGS, one of the top global audit and certification companies, following a period of undergoing a rigorous review process which was led by a dedicated Plant Audit Team. This team comprises representatives from across the facility’s functions: from food safety and logistics, to human resources and environmental health, safety, and security.

SGS tested the plants’ processes and policies in accordance with FSSC standards, which are aligned with ISO 22000 upon onsite inspection. FSSC evaluation is done annually, with scheduled and unannounced audit visits done.

“As we successfully complete our FSSC status, we are optimistic that this will enable more market opportunities for PCPPI and further grow the confidence of both internal and external stakeholders in our organization,” Ong added.

PCPPI operates 12 manufacturing facilities across the country. The FSSC-recommended facilities are Muntinlupa, San Fernando, Santo Tomas, Rosario, Davao, Bacolod, Naga, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Tanauan, and Cebu City.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country. Other than Pepsi, it distributes well-loved brands such as Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier Purified Water. For more information about PCPPI and its products, please visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.

iQor Provides Financial Aid to Employees and Communities in Need Through iQor Qares | PR Post | MarkMyName

 iQor Qares is now a registered nonprofit charitable organization in the Philippines.

iQor — a managed services provider of customer engagement and technology-enabled BPO solutions — celebrates the registration of iQor Qares as a nonprofit charitable organization in the Philippines. iQor Qares is one of iQor’sCSR initiatives, focused on giving back to iQor employees and their local communities by providing financial assistance to individuals facing catastrophic or life-altering events.

“The recent registration of iQor Qares as a charitable nonprofit in the Philippines will expand our ability to help our employees, their families, and our local communities in need. We are inspired by the generosity of individuals and corporations that support iQor Qares’ commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. We look forward to helping even more iQorians,” said Fleurette Navarro, iQor’s chief people officer, and chair of iQor Qares in the Philippines.

Since 2019, iQor Qares has provided a total of $150,000 in employee cases around the world. These donations have helped iQor employees rebuild their lives after natural disasters, care for loved ones in need of medical and end-of-life care, and address housing insecurity, as well as other life-altering events. 

Putting people first, supporting local communities

The creation of iQor Qares highlights iQor’s company value of the need to give back, as it encourages employees to support fellow iQorians and their communities. “At iQor, we want people to succeed in their careers as well as in other aspects of their lives. Part of that success comes from providing employees with opportunities to foster interpersonal connections and contribute to their communities. In this way, we are doing our part as Filipinos to keep our bayanihan spirit alive,” said James Down, senior director for operations.

“iQor Qares has provided assistance to 54 Filipino employees, and we have committed to help another 38 more people since registering as a nonprofit in April. More than 25% of iQor employees have pledged and donated to the Philippines, totaling 8,377 PH donors to date and this number is growing! In addition, the iQor Qares steering committee has visited our sites in Clark, Fairview, Dasmarinas, Sta. Rosa, Iloilo, Bacolod, Talisay, and Davao,” said Down.

For the past 25 years, iQor has been a steadfast presence in the Philippines, with 17 contact centers in Cavite, Davao, Iloilo, Laguna, Negros Occidental, Pampanga, and Quezon City. Thus, it's only fitting that, through iQor Qares, iQor continues to actively support the communities where they operate whenever an urgent need arises. iQor Qares remains committed to expanding support in the communities where iQor employees live and work as well as in the surrounding areas.

iQor cultivates a culture that cares

iQor Qares has helped foster empathy and unity among colleagues. As James Down said, “Every iQorian can choose to give one-time or recurring contributions and 100% of the money raised for iQor Qares in the Philippines will help local employees, their family members, and their local communities in need of financial assistance due to life-altering or catastrophic events beyond their control. We can provide financial assistance to any iQorian for three such events during their tenure with us, with a maximum allocation of PHP100,000 per event (and this may be waived with approval). We value our team in the Philippines, which makes up about 80% of our total global operations.”

iQor Qares creates a sense of unity among colleagues and sustains its charitable activities, via one-time and recurring donations from iQor employees, quarterly fundraising parties, auctions, and other activities.

“I’m proud to share that every iQorian cares for their colleagues, whether it’s a team member next to them at work or in their community. Even before iQor Qares was established, we have stories of people passing the hat for fellow iQorians, helping out in any way they can to ease others’ financial burdens. With iQor Qares, we are able to expand our existing commitment to taking care of one another,” shared Michael Oliver Dela Pena, vice president for operations.

Donate and learn more at iQorQares.com today.



Bring Third Wave Coffee Right In Your Home With Breville’s Line of Espresso Machine | PR Post | MarkMyName

 Coffee is more than just a quintessential drink. It is a hobby, a culture, and even a lifestyle for many. While a lot of trends have come and gone for everyone’s favorite morning pick-me-upper, many will agree that we are now in the golden era of appreciating and enjoying this drink as we continue to ride the great third coffee wave.

For a quick refresher, third-wave coffee started in the 1980s when more focus was given to the coffee beans and the roasting methods used in crafting the drink. The goal of the movement was simple: bring exotic flavors out of well-grown beans to start a whole new level of appreciation for coffee. The third wave movement was a whole 360 turn from the first wave—where the beverage was highly commercialized for fast consumption with low priority given to quality (think 3-in-1 and instant packs)—and second wave coffee where cafe culture rose.

Vanessa Caceres, a pro in the field, has this to say to describe the third-wave movement: "It represents a shift from the mass production and standardization of coffee to a focus on the unique characteristics of individual beans, cultivation methods, and brewing techniques. Third-wave coffee enthusiasts often prioritize direct trade relationships with farmers, sustainable farming practices, and meticulous roasting and brewing methods to highlight the flavors and nuances of the coffee. This movement has led to an increased appreciation for coffee as a craft beverage, similar to the way wine or craft beer is appreciated.”
As third-wave coffee continues to evolve, the appreciation for its culture continues to grow.
Unlike the early years when the understanding of third-wave coffee was limited to a certain niche, however, access to it has now become more open to everyone. Breville Philippines, the leader in premium lifestyle home and kitchen partners, is one brand that has definitely helped unlock the appreciation for third-wave coffee with its top-of-the-line range of espresso machines. For Breville, their mission was simple—give everyone a chance to bring home their love for third-wave coffee through their products.
Proof of their dedication to this market promise is their wide range of espresso machines that fit the needs of every kind of coffee lover. Regardless of your love for the drink or your skill in making it, Breville has a kitchen partner that can blend in perfectly with your lifestyle.
The Barista Express is for those who feel more confident in exploring more ways to enjoy their coffee with its features that allow easier customization while the Barista Touch is recommended for coffee lovers who still need help in other aspects of coffee brewing with its auto milk function, user-friendly touch screen for customization and personalized brewing settings.
Patricia Villegas, a third-wave coffee enthusiast who considers herself a newbie still when it comes to the culture has this to say about her love for the drink."The greatest challenge would be not knowing where to begin. I just knew I love coffee and I wanted to deepen my knowledge about it. Thankfully, there is a lot of great content and online groups dedicated to this topic which enabled me to learn more about third-wave coffee one day at a time."
Vanessa adds to this, saying, "With the third wave coffee, it’s not only about educating the people about the drink but sharing the story behind the cup. [A big part of it] is all about providing a genuine experience for those who want to experience it. From the consumer’s perspective, that means having a good espresso machine they can use. What I like about Breville is that it was able to design models that opened up this possibility for everyone–and without compromising the quality of the drink.”
The rise of brands like Breville has totally changed the game of third-wave coffee culture by making it more accessible to the market all while retaining the ‘romance’ and precision that comes with it. Quality-wise, all coffee lovers can expect the same refined taste and experience regardless of their level of understanding of the culture. With the Breville Barista Line, anyone can elevate their current love for coffee by bringing home kitchen partners that can help them experiment more with their favorite drinks.
Those who want to elevate their home coffee experience will also be glad to know that Breville has more exciting things in store this year that will make all their caffeine-loving hearts beat harder, pun intended. Watch out for upcoming news from the brand and learn how you can #BringBrevilleHome by following their FacebookInstagram, and Tiktok accounts. You can also learn more about their products by visiting their website.

Smart Printing For The Budget-Conscious | PR Post | MarkMyName

HP launches new, affordable Smart Tank printers

HP recently launched its latest line of smarter, more affordable Smart Tank printers. Designed to cater to the needs of budget-conscious consumers, these printers offer a winning combination of top-notch features, user-friendly functionality, and unbeatable affordability. Whether you're an individual or a family, these printers are the perfect choice for those who refuse to compromise on quality, while keeping a close eye on their wallet.

Experience simplicity and power. The Smart Tank 210 has a compact design and robust capabilities that make it the perfect printing solution for any task. Enjoy wireless printing convenience and exceptional quality with up to 1200 dpi resolution.

Affordability meets functionality

The newly launched HP Smart Tank printer series includes three models: Smart Tank 210, Smart Tank 520, and Smart Tank 580. Each model addresses specific printing needs while ensuring that cost remains a top priority.

The Smart Tank 210

The Smart Tank 210 is an excellent option for those seeking a straightforward printing solution. It's compact design and robust capabilities offer everything you need in a printer. The Smart Tank 210 has wireless printing capabilities, allowing you to conveniently print from your mobile devices using the HP Smart App, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, HP Print Service Plugin, or Wi-Fi Direct Printing. It is a reliable workhorse for personal and professional use. With a resolution of up to 1200 dpi, your prints will showcase exceptional detail and clarity. Whether you're printing important documents or school assignments, the Smart Tank 210 delivers outstanding results at an affordable price.

The Smart Tank 520 and 580

Alongside high-quality printing, the Smart Tank 520 and 580 are models that offer copy and scan capabilities, providing a convenient all-in-one solution. With their wireless printing capabilities, you can effortlessly print, copy, and scan documents, photos, and more.

User-Friendly experience

HP understands the importance of a user-friendly experience. That is why the Smart Tank printers are designed to be intuitive and easy to use. Whether you're a tech-savvy parent or a student on a tight budget, these printers offer a seamless printing experience. Their compact and sleek designs fit seamlessly into any home or office setup. Plus, the wireless printing features ensure a hassle-free printing experience, allowing you to print from anywhere within your home network.

Make the switch to Smart Tank

Upgrade your printing experience and embrace the convenience, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of HP's all-new Smart Tank printers. To get your hands on these game-changing printers, visit the official HP flagship store at https://bit.ly/HPLazadaFlagshipStore or explore the HP official store at https://bit.ly/HPShopeeOfficialStore.


Tackle printing tasks with ease. Experience the power of productivity with the HP Smart Tank 520 and HP Smart Tank 580, an all-in-one printer that allows you to print, copy, and scan documents effortlessly, all in stunning detail with resolutions up to 1200 dpi. It is ready to handle your high-volume printing needs.

Unleash the Gaming Power of Victus 15 by HP powered by Intel®: The Ultimate Gaming Laptop for Avid Gamers | PR Post | MarkMyName

 

Elevate Your Gaming Experience with Victus 15 by HP, built for the next generation of gaming with 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor.
Immerse yourself in lifelike graphics and experience every detail with the Victus 15 by HP. Equipped with the powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti Laptop GPU and a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, this gaming laptop delivers stunning visuals and a smooth gaming experience.


If you're an ardent gamer searching for the ultimate gaming experience, look no further than the Victus 15 by HP. As one of the best gaming laptops in 2023, the Victus 15 combines cutting-edge technology and exceptional features to take your gaming to new heights. With its powerful performance and immersive capabilities, this gaming laptop will elevate your gameplay, ensuring you have the edge over your opponents and experience gaming at its absolute best.
At the heart of the Victus 15 lies the 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor, a true gaming powerhouse that brings unrivaled processing power to your fingertips. 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors use a performance hybrid architecture design to transform your gaming and computing experience by integrating two all-new core microarchitectures (Performance core and Efficiency core) into a single die to increase compute efficiency and delivers intelligent workload optimization.
The Intel Thread Director does the behind-the-scenes magic that seamlessly coordinates the performance-cores (P-cores) and efficient-cores (E-cores) to work together harmoniously. This intelligent coordination ensures you experience the perfect balance of clock speed, cores, and threads, delivering immersive experiences and low latency during competitive gameplay.
The Victus 15, however, is more than just a gaming machine; it offers users the freedom to multitask without compromising performance. Whether you're chatting with friends, browsing the internet, streaming content, editing videos, or recording gameplay, this laptop effortlessly handles it all. With its powerful capabilities, you can seamlessly switch between tasks without missing a beat, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your gaming experience.
Graphics are a crucial component of any gaming laptop, and the Victus 15 excels in this department. Powered by the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti Laptop GPU, it delivers stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensures that every detail comes to life with breathtaking clarity. You'll be fully immersed in the virtual world, with fluid motion and reduced motion blur, making your gaming experience truly captivating.
The Victus 15 boasts immersive audio tuned by B&O and dual speakers to enhance your gaming immersion further. From thunderous explosions to subtle ambient sounds, every audio detail is amplified, creating a rich and realistic soundscape that truly draws you into the game. With the Victus 15, you'll experience gaming audio like never before.
Extended gaming sessions can strain a laptop's cooling system, but the Victus 15's upgraded cooling system ensures optimal performance even during intense gaming marathons. Say goodbye to overheating and performance throttling, and enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions with peace of mind. This laptop is designed to keep up with your gaming demands and maintain peak performance throughout.
Connectivity is made effortless with the Victus 15, which supports multiple 4K displays and features Thunderbolt™ technology. Whether connecting to external displays or organizing your peripheral suite, the Victus 15 provides the flexibility and convenience to create your dream gaming setup. Stay prepared and ready to dive into the gaming action at any moment.
Customization and optimization are key to achieving your gaming goals, and the Victus 15 offers just that through the Omen Gaming Hub. This centralized control center allows you to fine-tune your settings, monitor system performance, and connect with other gamers. It's your one-stop shop for enhancing your gaming experience and staying ahead of the competition.
The Victus 15 by HP is a gaming beast that will take your gaming experience to the next level. With its sleek design, powerful performance, immersive display, enhanced audio, and upgraded cooling system, it stands out among the best gaming laptops available in 2023. Whether you're a casual gamer or a serious esports enthusiast, the Victus 15 is the ultimate gaming companion that will take your gaming journey to the next level.
Unleash the full potential of your gaming experience with the Victus 15 by HP. Gaming happens with Intel®, and with the 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor, this laptop is built for the next generation of gaming. Don't miss out on this exceptional gaming companion. Visit the official HP stores on Shopee and Lazada to discover the Victus 15 and elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Get ready to conquer the virtual world like never before.

Get Set for Immersive and Uninterrupted Gameplay with 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor. Say goodbye to overheating and performance throttling with HP's upgraded cooling system of the Victus 15. Enjoy uninterrupted gaming marathons and maintain peak performance, allowing you to focus on achieving victory and dominating the virtual world.

Lessons of Success: How Billy dela Fuente Went from Fast-Food Crew to Serial Entrepreneur | PR Post | MarkMyName


For many in the world of professional consumer direct marketing, Billy Dela Fuente needs no introduction.

Together with his wife Josephine, Billy is among the Philippines’ most successful entrepreneurs and direct marketing professionals. He was USANA Health Sciences’ top income earner in the Philippines between 2013 and 2019 and its youngest “Million Dollar Club” member globally, a prestigious recognition of his sales performance.

His 13-year-old organization, XTRM 1-11 (pronounced “Extreme One Eleven”), is present in 8 countries, namely the United States, Germany, Canada, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Italy.

Billy is an entrepreneur and salesman by heart and a mentor, leader, and inspiration to many. He believes in professionalizing direct marketing not just as a corporate sales strategy for wider product distribution but also as an opportunity for enterprising Filipinos to make the best use of their talents.

A rebel, a waiter, and an engineering student

The third among the four siblings, Billy’s father was an entrepreneur who made money selling chemical supplies. This business meant that the Dela Fuentes were constantly moving across the country. Billy hopped from one school to another until college when he entered the chemical engineering program at the University of Santos Tomas.

While in college, Billy witnessed the downfall of his father’s business and how it affected his life severely. As the family went bankrupt, he was asked to stop his school for the time being to focus on selling soft drinks. But Billy rebelled; he packed up his things and left home, angry with the unwelcome detour of their fortunes.

“It was a difficult period in my life to be alone, broke, hungry, and trying to keep up with my academics. I remember being in debt with almost everyone I knew, and I even sold my SIM card for 50 pesos just to have something to eat on one particular day,” recalls Billy.

He found work as a waiter at Red Ribbon. It was then that he discovered his love for selling and interacting with people. He was so good at upselling cakes that he was frequently rewarded at the end of his shift. He was made a cashier as a result. He eventually left waiting tables as a working student and discovered modeling, a career that he soon realized was not for him.

Having married Josephine in 2009, they found success in direct selling and made it into a partnership that blossomed over the years while tending to 4 growing children. Billy became the Philippines’ first 2-star diamond director (and eventually its first 10-star diamond director). His successive climb eventually reached Asia Pacific; for four years from 2011, he was among the 25 fastest-growing direct sellers in the region. For 2 consecutive years, Billy was also awarded as part of USANA’s Fortune 25, a recognition reserved for top global income earners. He was the first Filipino to be included in this group.

His laurels continued to arrive: In 2017, Billy was awarded by ANCE with its People's Choice Rising Star Global Best Male Award, and, the year after, he received the Most Outstanding Trainor in the Philippines award from the Junior Chambers International. In the U.S. Billy received the USANA True Health Ambassador Award, a recognition of associates who support USANA’s True Health Foundation through charity, service, and promotion.

“Earning money is different from managing money,” he shares. “You have to know both to achieve your personal ambitions.”


Lifelong learning & paying it forward.

An important ingredient to Billy’s success is his ability to form a great team. Having founded XTRM 1-11 in 2010, he, Josephine, and his core group of leaders expanded the organization internationally to nearly 400,000 associates, and at one point he became the top enroller in Asia Pacific by sponsoring the most number of new direct associates.

Billy’s personality and outlook have made him a popular inspirational speaker, giving 60 talks each year before the pandemic. This record included speaking engagements in Mexico for 15,000 people and South Korea for 10,000 listeners.

He inspires people by going beyond selling, helping them understand purpose and how to make sense of their careers and personal lives. “Everyone has the potential to succeed. The challenge is how to turn that potential energy into kinetic energy,” he says.

He founded and invested in several businesses, including Infinitemedia Corporation, a digital marketing agency, and House of Bilao, a restaurant in Pasig; he invested in Xpanse, an IT company that provided automatic delivery systems for SMEs; and he was a franchise store owner of a Technomarine shop in Uptown BGC. While these businesses were significantly affected by the pandemic, Billy understands that one learns more from failing than they do from winning. He used these lessons to drive XTRM 1-11 further.


“People often ask me: ‘How do you become driven?’ I acknowledge it can be difficult to push oneself. We are often drawn to settle and take the short route. One should learn or find out about their “Deep Why”. There will be a lot of tests and hardships ahead, but when you know the things that will push you to do greater things in life, you will become unstoppable.”

“Successful people are disciplined. They become winners through consistency,” he shares.

Billy dreams of mentoring up to a million associates both directly and through the mentees he has taught for over a decade and a half. Only 40 years of age, Billy is accelerating forward while paying it forward. 

Sunday, July 9, 2023

Jollibee Group Strengthens Growth of its Foreign Franchised Brands | PR Post | Mark My Name

Record-Breaking Store Openings. The Jollibee Group opened 23 stores of Burger King in 2022, the highest number of store openings in a single year for Burger King in the Philippines.

The Jollibee Group is focused on strengthening the performance of its foreign franchised brands in the Philippines as part of its growth plans.

“We aim to become the leading market developer of foreign restaurant brands in the country. By leveraging our brand portfolio to provide diverse offerings for various market segments at different price points, and strategically expanding our store network, Burger King, Yoshinoya, and Panda Express are expected to continuously contribute to the sustainable growth of our domestic business,” said Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee Group Country Head for Philippine Business.

Store Openings

As part of the company’s expansion efforts in 2022, Burger King opened 23 stores, which is the highest number of store openings in a year. It also opened its 125th milestone store in 2022 and five Bike ‘n Dine stores located in Shaw Wack-Wack San Juan; Visayas Ave. Quezon City; Vermosa in Imus, Cavite; Alabang-West in Muntinlupa; and Carmona Cavite.

In 2022, the Jollibee Group also relaunched Japan’s world-famous Beef Bowl Chain, Yoshinoya. This is its first-ever Japanese food chain, making it a strong addition to the foreign franchised brands currently operated by the company. Yoshinoya serves a beefed-up menu in a newly redesigned contemporary and casual Japanese space headlined by their world-famous gyudon or beef bowl.

Successful Relaunch. The Jollibee Group successfully relaunched Yoshinoya in the Philippines with a refreshed store design and menu offering.

Last year, Yoshinoya opened four stores and renovated three existing stores. The Jollibee Group formed a 50-50 joint venture with YIPI—the Philippine subsidiary of Asia Yoshinoya International Sdn. Bhd. and Yoshinoya Holdings Co. Ltd. in June 2021. The said partnership established Yoshinoya Jollibee Foods, Inc., which operates the Yoshinoya stores in the country and plans to expand Yoshinoya’s store network to 50 stores in the long term.

Meanwhile, Panda Express opened ten stores last year, five of which were the first in its host cities—Robinsons Place Ermita in Manila, SM Southmall in Las Piñas, Betterliving in Parañaque, Shell SLT in Muntinlupa, and Greenhills in San Juan. In February 2023, Panda Express opened its first drive-thru restaurant in Asia with the launch of its Sumulong Highway branch. This new location in Marikina City also marks Panda Restaurant Group’s 100th international restaurant. Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. (PRG) and the Jollibee Group formed JBPX Foods, Inc., a joint venture in 2019 to bring the world’s largest American Chinese dining concept to the Philippines.

Milestone Opening. The first drive-thru store of Panda Express in Asia was opened by the Jollibee Group in Marikina City. This also marks the brand’s 100th international branch.

Exciting Product Offerings

The Jollibee Group’s thrust with its foreign franchised brands is to bring an authentic experience to Filipinos. Apart from this, the Jollibee Group also provides menu offerings that are either unique to Philippine market or among the best performing for these franchised brands in the region and the world.

On top of its iconic entree, the Original Orange Chicken®, Panda Express introduced Kung Pao Fish last year for the season of Lent. Its Beef Broccoli and Honey Walnut Shrimp are also among the best-selling dishes in the region. Meanwhile, Yoshinoya—with its signature beef bowl—also offered dishes that Filipino foodies can enjoy such as Tempura, Karaage, and desserts like Mochi Matcha Ice Cream and Coffee Jelly.

Burger King Philippines was also acknowledged as having one of the best-in-class launches in Asia for its new product Chicken King. Other exciting new products that guests enjoyed for a limited time last year were Cheese Bites, Plant-Based X-tra Long Chicken, Spicy Chicken King, Spicy Chicken Nuggets, and Truffle Whopper.

For this year, the Jollibee Group is set to open more stores for Burger King, Yoshinoya, and Panda Express. These new store openings form part of the company’s goal to become one of the top five restaurant companies in the world.

“Our thrust is to bring the original experience of these popular brands to the Filipino people. I am confident that with the success of our foreign franchised brands, and with the continued support of their fans, Jollibee Group will succeed in achieving its long-term growth plans,” Tanbuntiong added.