Friday, October 29, 2021

Latest Tech Launches on Shopee you just can’t miss!

This one’s for the techies out there! As we approach the holiday season, it’s now time for you to treat yourself with the latest gadgets that you’ve been eyeing. Here are some exciting new gadgets that you should definitely be adding to cart now! 



  1. Apple iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 (₱52,490 - ₱71,990) has the most advanced dual-camera system ever on an iPhone. Along with its lightning-fast A15 bionic chip is its Super Retina XDR display that gives you a faster and more responsive feel. The lengthy battery life and its durable design gives you a smartphone that doesn’t leave much to be desired. All these upgrades definitely makes the iPhone 13 one of the most highly anticipated smartphone releases on Shopee this year.


Shopee Tip: Get free shipping with a minimum spend of ₱600 and avail of discounts up to ₱1,000 off if you’re a Mastercard user. These deals are only available until October 31, 2021 so check them out here!


  1. Xiaomi 11T Series (Xiaomi 11T Pro and Xiaomi 11T)

Xiaomi brings you the ultimate cinematic experience in the palm of your hand with the Xiaomi 11T Series! The 11T Series comes with two new smartphones that you can choose from starting with the Xiaomi 11T Pro (₱26,990). With industry-leading technology, it gives you a 100% battery life in just 17 minutes which is perfect for content creators out there to minimize downtime and maximize their creativity. It also boasts a powerful triple camera setup, 8K recording, and AI Cinema modes. Next we have the Xiaomi 11T (₱20,990) that provides “Cinemagic” to every user with its high-resolution triple camera. With its power-efficient technology and 5000mAh battery, you can make your own cinematic footage throughout the day!


Shopee Tip: These smartphones launched last 23 October and users can already pre-order today until 29 October to get a Mi Watch and wireless earphones for free! Besides the exciting launch of the Xiaomi 11T Series, users can also enjoy 10% off on their selection of mobile devices and up to 35% off on Xiaomi must-have accessories and appliances. Check out these amazing deals on Xiaomi’s Official Store on Shopee!


  1. realme Pad

The realme Pad is the brand’s first-ever tablet that  launched on Shopee last  21 October. With the realme Pad, users get to experience an immersive and vivid viewing experience thanks to its 10.4”WUXGA + Immersive Display and Dolby Atmos Quad Speakers. Its ultra slim and lightweight design allows you to bring it everywhere you go. What’s great about the realme Pad is that everyone in the family can enjoy it given that it’s user-friendly and perfect for kids to play and entertain themselves with. The realme Pad is available in Real Gold and Real Grey colorways and comes in three variants: 3+32GB (₱10,990), 4+64GB (₱14,990), and 6+128GB (₱16,990) giving you more options to choose from that will fit your needs.


Shopee Tip: Starting October 22, you can get an early-bird offer of ₱2,000 OFF on the realme Pad exclusively on the realme Official Store on Shopee! After being sold out just 6 minutes after its launch, the realme Pad is available again on Shopee so you better check out now while stocks last!

QURE: A teleconsultation & wellness website made by Filipinos for Filipinos



 A teleconsult website that promises to make medical consultations easy and convenient for many Filipinos was finally launched today, October 20.

QURE.ph, an all-Filipino-made website, provides a platform for online video consultations, connects doctors and patients for easy scheduling of appointments, and makes available a directory of pharmacies and other health and wellness providers.

QURE.ph offers a free platform for doctors who want to expand their services via teleconsult amid increasing demand for virtual consultation.

“We created this platform with the Filipino patient in mind. It’s a simple website and it does not complicate the teleconsultation process. Even those not comfortable with technology will find these consultations easy to do. This is our new normal and QURE is here to help you navigate the future of healthcare,” said Gary Libby, QURE Chief Technology Officer.

A trip to the hospital may also be burdensome these days, as the COVID pandemic persists. QURE will help Filipinos find their way through this public health crisis while keeping their health in check.

“This will definitely benefit doctors and patients. No more overbooking for doctors, and no more long lines for patients waiting for their turn at clinics. Whether via teleconsult or face-to-face check-ups, the scheduling system of QURE helps both patients and doctors,” Libby added.

Andrea Trinidad, Chief Executive Officer of QURE, said the idea of the teleconsult platform started last year when the lockdowns extended and it became difficult for patients to see their doctors.

Trinidad, who has a life-long disorder called hemophilia and is the president Hemophilia Advocates-Philippines, said the pandemic really affected patients.

“When I was approached by my friends last year and they shared with me their idea of a telemedicine platform, I told them it was brilliant. We envision QURE to be an e-mall of health services where you can book consults, buy medicines, book laboratory appointments and even book a consult with the veterinarian for your fur babies,” she added.

More to know about QURE:

The platform is data-safe, both for patients and doctors. Registering is FREE for patients and doctors. Consultation fees range from P500 to P1,500, depending on doctor’s specialization. But for its introductory price, QURE is offering a 50 percent discount for consultations.

Registered users can look for doctors for their tele-consult. Specialists have expertise on:

Cardiology; General Surgery; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Integrative General Medicine; Internal Medicine, Dermatology; Otolaryngology (ENT); ENT Specialist Head & Neck Surgery; Psychiatry-Adult; Physical Medicine/Rehab; Pediatrics; Allergy & Asthma, Immunologist; Urology; Sleep Medicine/Insomnia; Ophthalmology; Family & Occupational Medicine; Cardiology; Pediatrics-Pulmonology; Family Medicine; Lifestyle Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery and Hematology/Oncology.

Also in QURE’s pool of experts: Nutritionist Dietician; General Dentistry/Orthodontics; Dentistry/Prosthetic and Esthetic;

The website lets you know who is online.

Is the doctor in? No need to guess or call the doctor’s secretary. Through the QURE website, you can easily see if the doctor is available to take consultations.

Find doctors in your area or teleconsult with a specialist anywhere in the Philippines

QURE has a growing number of specialists from all over the country. The drop-down menu on the website shows that many doctors have already signed up. Many more are joining QURE in the following weeks.

It’s a growing health and wellness community.

In the coming months, expect more health and wellness features. You will also soon see reviews of doctors done by patients themselves.

For more information about QURE, you may contact us at support@qure.ph or 0991.398.8781. To check our pool of specialists, visit https://qure.ph/search-doctor

Thursday, October 28, 2021

Saving Money in the New Normal

 


With all the challenges that we are facing right now brought about by the ongoing pandemic, financial problem comes attached to it. This we really need to revisit our spending habits and start saving money in the new normal.

1. What is saving money and why is it crucial to save?

Did you know that according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ 2019 Financial Inclusion Survey, only 53% of the adult population saves?

This result is as alarming as it sounds. That’s why awareness on the importance of saving money should be discussed more.

World Savings Day is a dedicated time frame where financial institutions whether public or private including financial advocates can gather and promote saving mobilization. The idea is clear - saving is for every Juan!

Saving is the process of putting cash/money and parking it in a safe place and can be accessed easily when needed.

Here are more reasons why you should know how to save money:

To reach financial independence

The ultimate goal to those personal finance savvy is to finally reach total financial independence wherein you never have to worry what tomorrow will bring in terms of your finances. This can only be achieved if you take care of your money.

To be prepared in case of emergencies

Unexpected expenses such as car repair, loss of job, medical issues in the family call for an emergency fund. Your savings could cover the amount needed for the said unexpected expenses so you won’t be in debt.

To reach a financial and/or personal milestone

Saving money enables you to achieve each of the financial and personal milestones you may have.

Without proper savings you can never buy and invest for a house and lot or a start up business for example. You need to save money to have enough down payment on a bigger house. Other personal milestones include a new car or a trip abroad etc.

To not pass up an opportunity

Sometimes life opens opportunities to us that can cost money. Opportunity like a seat sale to your dream destination, a pre-sale house and lot within your budget, a new stock on its IPO stage or even a new business idea.

Your savings can be your starting capital. Remember, the more money you have, the more options you'll be getting.

2. Why Filipinos find it hard to save money

Most Filipinos find it hard to save money for the following reasons:

      Not having enough money.

      Leaving things to fate a.k.a. bahala na mentality.

      Not knowing how to save money.

      Debt, debt and more debt.

      Thinking it is already too late to save.

Here’s what you need to remember:

Saving money is the single most effective way to get rich.

If you can live within your means, save and invest the rest, you have done well for your future self.

3. The #NewNormal when it comes to saving money

One of the biggest financial lessons this current pandemic situation has taught us is how important saving money is. Emergencies do happen and those without any money prepared, will find themselves worrying how to put ends meet.

The pandemic also opened new found time for people to do their side hustles for extra income. From people becoming bakers, online sellers, or vloggers, to businesses in line of health supplies like masks booming.

This can also be an opportune time to sell any unused items you have once you do a general home cleaning. Lastly, school transitioning to online also means extra savings for lunch and commuting, same with those who are working in the office.

4. How much should you really save?

Perhaps this question has been on your mind for quite some time.

We were always taught that saving money each month is important but we weren’t aware of how much we should really be saving. Of course not all of our income can be put in our reserve money.

It all depends on certain circumstance below:

Your Age

Your idea of perfect savings depends on your age.

People in their 20’s will have plenty of time to worry about their retirement so most of their saving goals are short-term. They may be thinking of a car, a condo, a gadget or a branded handbag. Thus, how much you save each will be lower.

Once you hit your 30’s your priorities will differ.

You start to build a family of your own and will have to take care of your aging parents too. Your savings will be long-term now. You start to think about retirement, your kids’ education and your health.

This will require a bigger amount to save each month.

Your age surely plays a vital role in knowing how much you should save.

Your Goal

Goals are just a permanent part of every financial move a person should do. They are the reason why you are doing the things you do.

       Short-Term Goals are things achievable in less than a year. This could be the vacation abroad you’ve always wanted, a special gift to your loved ones or a debt you’ve wanted to pay off.

       Mid-Term Goals are things that are achievable in 5-10 years time. This could be a house, payment for your wedding and/or start a business.

       Long-Term Goals are the ultimate things you want to achieve. Retirement is a solid example of a long-term goal you want to think deeply about.

Have you listed your goals yet? Once you manage to specify your objectives you will be surprised at how quick you are in coming up with the next actions.

Your Income

Your income has a lot to do with how much you’ll be able to save.

Maybe you are thinking of a saving goal that’s too much that what you’re being paid. If you want a better savings you need to increase your income, find other sources of extra money you can put in your kaban.

Given the three circumstances above, this is how we will approach the whole “How Much Should I Save” question: Save according to your span, your reach and your means.

The more your income grows, the more your savings you should have and not the other way around. Treat it as a never-ending cycle of wealth.

5. Easy To Do List to Save More

How do you save more money?

      Review your finances. Make sure that you have an idea of your current financial situation. One way you can do this is by calculating your net worth. It is essentially the difference between your total assets minus your total liabilities.

      Make a budget. A budget is an estimate of your income and expenses over a set period of time. Normally done on a monthly basis, budgets work to:

       Allocate your salary/income/money wisely

       Know how much is coming in and going out in your cash flow

       Identify the areas where you can spend less to save more

       If you don’t have a budget, now is the time to create one. And if you are already budgeting, it’s best to take a look at how you budget your money and keep it as effective as possible.

      Track your spending. This is one of the most overlooked ways to save money especially but, super effective - track your spending. Record where your money goes and match it with your prepared budget.

      Cut back on unnecessary expenses. Take a look at your recurring expenses and see where you can cut down. Is there a particular subscription you can omit? Can you adjust your utility bills and find ways on how to conserve your water or electricity.

       With more people stuck at home it’s easy for our utility expenses to go high. Make sure that you talk with the people in the household and share to them your goal to save as well. Through proper communication, everyone will get involved and it’s way easier to achieve your objective to save more money.

      Learn to live within your means. Living within your means doesn't mean limiting yourself. To live within your means is simply making necessary adjustments to maximize the limited money/asset you have.

      Set saving goals. Set your yearly and monthly financial goals now. Goals work as motivational tools that will keep you from building wealth instead of the other way around. Once you have a set of clear financial goals it will be easier for you to assess your next action list.

      Start small and make it a habit. You don’t have to make it big at first. Always start with a small and doable amount.

       Psych yourself and your wallet on saving 1000 pesos every month for example. At the end of the year you’ll have 12,000 pesos more on your savings fund.

       Do not force yourself to save a lot of money at once, make it as gradual as possible so you won’t slack off midway.

      Join saving challenges. A good way to force yourself to save money each month is to join challenges. You can try the 52-Week Money Challenge, Invisible Money Challenge, 1% Money Challenge, and so on.

      Increase your income. Our savings can be limited because of our income. Thus, try to increase your sources of income as much as possible. Engage yourself in extra income projects that you are passionate about. Choose a side hustle you can work on along with your full-time job.

6. Where to Put Your Savings

Now where should you put your savings?

Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings is the perfect answer to the World Savings Day call to save more, especially for our fellow Filipinos who don't have the means to really save.

For one, the Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings account can be opened for only Php 50. Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings works like a normal savings account wherein you can deposit and withdraw anywhere at your most convenient time to Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches nationwide.

Your Micro Savings account is already accredited to almost 21,000+ Bancnet ATMs nationwide for easy withdrawal. What’s amazing is you can even use your Micro Savings account to pay at any of 350,000 Unionpay and Bancnet accredited retail stores nationwide.

 

Last but not the least, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings account offers a competitive interest rate of 0.20%. This is higher than other savings accounts can provide. And because there are zero to minimal fees whenever you do your transaction, your money will keep on growing. Just make sure you reach the minimum maintaining balance to earn interest which is Php 500.

Monday, October 25, 2021

GSMA announces the formation of a new Asia Pacific 5G Industry Community

 


GSMA announced at Mobile 360 Asia Pacific the formation of the Asia Pacific (APAC) 5G Industry Community; a new ecosystem established for those seeking opportunities to deliver Industry 4.0 and digital transformation from 5G networks, edge-cloud services, enterprise IoT and AI. The Community has been designed for stakeholders across the value chain including government and agencies, industry associations, mobile network providers, enterprises and industry players, solution providers, analysts, and consultants.

 

The APAC 5G Industry Community is comprised of 12 Contributing members, as well as the existing IoT and 5G emerging market community, which have over 500 members in more than 30 countries. APAC 5G Industry Community contributing members include AIS, Axiata, DEPA, DHL, Globe, Huawei, Kominfo, Maxis, MDEC, Schneider Electric, Telkomsel and, Viettel.

 

The 5G Imperative

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital transformation and more businesses are now driving forward with new technologies, with a particular focus on 5G. GSMA predicts that 5G will contribute $5 trillion to the global economy by 2025[1], as countries increasingly benefit from the improvements in productivity and efficiency brought about by the increased take-up of mobile services. 5G will benefit all economic sectors during this period, with services and manufacturing seeing the most impact.

 

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the mobile ecosystem acted as a lifeline for people, businesses, and society. The industry demonstrated its resilience, and we must now continue to push the boundaries of possibility. The purpose of the APAC 5G Industry Community is to unlock the power of 5G connectivity so that people, industries and society thrive. GSMA is committed to playing a leading role in supporting and amplifying the vital work our industry is doing at this time,” said GSMA’s Head of Asia Pacific, Julian Gorman. “We are thrilled to announce the formation of APAC 5G Industry Community as a collaboration platform to support 5G industry innovation, application and business opportunities.”

 

“5G will enable the substantive digital transformation of our economy, and the goals of the APAC 5G Industry Community initiative resonate with MDEC. We look forward to effective collaborations with both public and private stakeholders, in line with our vision to lead a progressive digital economy and in support of MyDigital, the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint,” said MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation)’s CEO, Mahadhir Aziz.

 

“Huawei has been working on digital transformation to support industries for viable paths of 5G connected services in recent years. Now, we have a golden key to open the gate of this trillion USD market for all potential industries to explore more converged technologies and business partner solutions with an agile and open ecosystem alliance platform from the APAC 5G Industry Community foundation.  We are pleased to become one of the key contributors of the Community and look forward to engaging more business partners and organizations in the APAC region,” said Dennis Xiao, President of Carrier Business Group, Huawei Asia Pacific Region.

 

Visit https://www.gsma.com/asia-pacific/whats-new/ap5gic/ for further insights and commentary from the APAC 5G Industry Community’s contributing members.

 

A story of two parts

 

Across APAC, while North Asia and the Oceania region are global pioneers for 5G deployment, there is still significant progress to be made in the rest of the region. There is an impetus to provide more support for education to industries, ecosystem development, innovation, and appropriate advocacy. As such, the APAC 5G Industry Community will seek to build a platform for people who are passionate about 5G and its benefits to industries and enterprises, to connect with peers and share their knowledge to build the next generation of the mobile ecosystem.

 

The ecosystem’s purpose

 

As part of the 5G Industry Community, there are three Industry Interest groups: Manufacturing, Logistics, Port and Transportation, and Healthcare. These groups will help members:

 

  • Share 5G experiences to foster a learning culture that helps industry partners and innovators innovate
  • Understand industry requirements, explore scenarios and applications of 5G
  • Promote commercial use, reference, and best practices
  • Network, build ecosystems and new partnerships

 

Additional benefits for community members will include:

 

  • A regular newsletter with the latest 5G industry developments and insights
  • Access to Industry Interest Group activities
  • Inclusion in 5G industry reports and case studies
  • Opportunities to speak and showcase in GSMA 5G activities. i.e., webinars, conferences, and a new 5G tour
  • A bespoke networking service where businesses are matched with innovators, social impact enterprises, and mobile operators

 

 

To find out more on the APAC 5G Industry Community, please visit: https://www.gsma.com/asia-pacific/communities/ap5gic/