From left to right: Content creator Camille Co, Vincent Lee, the country head of Shopee Philippines, Sapna Chadha, the vice president of Google Southeast Asia and South Asia Frontier, Tyron Syling, the business development manager for e-commerce at Colgate Palmolive Philippines, and Mond Salem of Hardwage Voyage

Both Shopee merchants and video producers have exciting potential as a result of the Philippines' debut of the YouTube Shopping Affiliate Program. Through this agreement, Shopee sellers can now reach a wider audience by working with an even more extensive network of content creators. This gives them the chance to reach a highly engaged, incremental audience and increase sales like never before. This smooth interaction between sellers and creators increases brand reach, speeds up product discovery, and eventually raises conversion rates. 

For eligible local creators, this partnership unlocks new business opportunities, enabling them to monetize their influence by promoting products to an audience they have already built connections with. As consumers in the Philippines increasingly seek engaging, content-driven shopping experiences, this collaboration meets their evolving expectations.

Taking advantage of the Philippines' growing creator economy and video commerce

With video commerce reaching 20% of the region's e-commerce gross merchandise value in 2024—a fourfold increase since 2022—Southeast Asia is one of the e-commerce markets with the quickest rate of growth in the world. With over 450 channels with over a million members and over 6,000 channels with over 100,000 subscribers, the Philippine creator economy is flourishing at the same time.

The transition from traditional discovery to a video-first purchasing experience is fueling this development, as customers seek out knowledge and enjoyment from online content produced by reliable artists. YouTube creators are trusted counsel for brands, in addition to being business owners and cultural influencers. A global study reveals that online users are 98% more likely to trust recommendations from YouTube creators than from other social platforms. This trust translates directly into purchase confidence. In fact, YouTube drives 3.8 times greater purchase intent than other social platforms on average.

This emphasizes viewers' demand for real product reviews and demos, which eventually leads to conversion, and their faith in creators' suggestions. This in-depth interaction with reliable YouTube producers highlights the platform's exceptional position to support consumers' desire for amusement that is driven by searches and videos to enhance their purchasing experiences.

Sapna Chadha, Vice President for Google Southeast Asia and South Asia Frontier, said, “Southeast Asia is shaping the future of shopping with its powerful combination of a deeply engaged video-first audience, a profitable digital economy, and a vibrant creator community. We’re thrilled to bring YouTube Shopping to the Philippines, making Southeast Asia home to six out of nine countries globally that have it. Just seven months since our regional debut, we’re seeing strong traction across creators, sellers, and advertisers already. Building on this early momentum, YouTube Shopping will continue to grow, unlocking new opportunities for viewers, creators, brands, and partners across this dynamic region.”

Use the YouTube Shopping affiliate program for creators to increase your income.

Creators can pin products during live streams and tag them in both new and old videos using the YouTube Shopping affiliate program. The video's description and "Product" sections provide a quick overview of the entire list of tagged products and details about each one. For a smooth transaction, clicking on a product will take users straight to an external Shopee sales page. 

Now that YouTube Shopping is launched in the Philippines, creators like Camille Co are excited – she is already sharing her favorite makeup products by tagging them on her videos.

“I always get asked where I got this and that makeup or clothing, or home stuff on my vlog, and for a long time, it’s been challenging to share them all,” Co said. “Now with YouTube Shopping, it’s so much easier to share these products that I love and truly believe in. A huge plus also for me because I get to earn on the side while doing so!”

Mond Salem of Hardware Voyage, a Filipino tech channel, is also optimistic about the feature. “I’m so excited about YouTube Shopping finally being in the Philippines! I’m looking forward to my fellow creators earning more with featured product sale commissions,” he said.

Opportunities for companies and advertising to reach and engage

“This recognition reflects the strength of our network strategy and, more importantly, the partnerships we’ve built with our airport partners and stakeholders. It’s a meaningful reminder of our commitment to accessible air travel and expanding our presence across key regional markets,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer.

In 2024, the airline added 28 new routes, 19 local and 9 international, linking travelers to popular locations including as Chiang Mai, Kaohsiung, and Sapporo. In addition to its core hubs in Manila, Cebu, and Clark, new hubs in Davao and Iloilo have been constructed, improving connectivity.

“I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Cebu Pacific for its invaluable contribution to enhancing connectivity and tourism in Davao. As one of the leading airline carriers in the Philippines, Cebu Pacific has played a pivotal role in making Davao more accessible to both local and international travelers, significantly boosting the region’s economic and tourism landscape,” said Tanya Rabat-Tan, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism XI. 

Stream the Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt-starrer and more with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix 1599 – value-packed with lag-free internet speeds and bundled with a Netflix subscription!

(Warning: Spoilers ahead)

In this adaption, after their parents were killed in a vehicle accident, Michelle believes her brother Christopher (Woody Norman, The White Princess, Troy: Fall of a City) is dead and must travel across a war-torn United States and parallel reality to find him. She has to deal with the dangers of a tense USA brought on by a devastating war between sentient machines and humans that just ended.

Greene picks up some valuable lessons about sacrifice, friendship, and family along the way. Many Filipinos who place a high value on family and friends may strongly take away the following three lessons:

When it comes to family, you’ve got to hold on to hope.

Without her family, Michelle leads a lonely life at the beginning of the movie. However, despite the remote possibility and absurdity of the scenario, Michelle takes a risk by trying to find Christopher after a renegade robot discovers her and claims that it is her lost brother in a different form.

No matter how slim the chances are, we must have faith in them and give them the benefit of the doubt when family members or loved ones are involved. It's just the proper thing to do, and we want our loved ones to do everything in their power to support us when we are the ones who might need it.

You’ve got to fight for your friends.

Our lives are not just about family; we also meet and develop a lot of friends along the road. Additionally, our friends may be going through their own struggles; it is our responsibility to stand by them when they are standing up for what is right.

In the film, Michelle and Keats (played by Chris Pratt in Guardians of the Galaxy) encounter a group of peaceful, sentient robots who merely wish to live without human oppression. The human protagonists take up their cause and fight back against those who wish to destroy them after realizing their predicament, acknowledging their right to life, and realizing that they are also capable of sentiments, ideas, and emotions.

Sometimes, we have to make huge sacrifices for our loved ones.

At the film's climax, Michelle must make a very tough choice that would mean making the ultimate sacrifice for Christopher. She must make this decision for his welfare, even though it is incredibly depressing and heartbreaking.

In actuality, there are instances when the most significant acts of support for our friends or family members are those that may bring us a tremendous deal of personal suffering. However, that is the reality of life: you must give up something for the sake of another person. recognizing that, even though it may be the reverse for you, it will benefit others.

Stream Netflix’s trending sci-fi adventure film The Electric State and more unli entertainment with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix 1599 – the leading digital service provider’s most value-packed internet and home entertainment plan. Subscribe to the plan to enjoy 150 Mbps internet bundled with a Netflix Basic Subscription. Apply now until June 30, 2025, to enjoy a free 300 Mbps speedboost for a much more seamless streaming experience at home!

For more info on PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599, visit pldthome.com/fiber-netflix.

The newest smartphones in the Galaxy A series, the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G, were launched today by Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. In order to provide a secure and long-lasting mobile experience, the Galaxy A series is incorporating Awesome Intelligence for the first time. This includes Galaxy's popular AI-powered features that reimagine creativity, along with improved durability and longevity and strong security and privacy protections.

“The new Galaxy A series marks an important step in our mission of AI for all, by opening Galaxy’s incredible mobile AI experiences to even more people around the world,” said TM Roh, President, and Head of Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “With these awesome new features and capabilities, we are excited to unlock limitless creativity on the Galaxy A series while ensuring a safe, reliable, and fun mobile experience.”

Awesome Intelligence for Advanced Search and Creativity

The first all-inclusive mobile AI, Awesome Intelligence, is only accessible on the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G and offers consumers strong, entertaining, and user-friendly AI tools. Users of the Galaxy A series may enjoy incredible search and visual experiences thanks to the new Awesome Intelligence features, which are powered by One UI 7.0.

Google's improved Circle to Search, a user favorite on Galaxy A series handsets last year, made it simpler than ever to search and find using the phone's screen. Users can now accomplish even more on their phones thanks to the most recent updates. With only one tap, consumers may take action thanks to Circle to Search's rapid recognition of phone numbers, email addresses, and URLs on the screen.

Recently, Circle to Search was improved to allow users to search for music they hear instantaneously without switching apps. Simply long-press the navigation bar to activate Circle to Search, then tap the music button to quickly identify the song name and artist, whether it's music playing from speakers nearby or on social media on their phone.

With its creator-focused capabilities, the Galaxy A series also elevates the photographic experience. It begins with a robust triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP primary lens on all devices and a 10-bit HDR front lens recording on the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G for clear, bright selfies. With a 12MP ultra-wide lens, the Galaxy A56 5G boasts cutting-edge camera technology, and the entire Galaxy A series uses clever visual editing to unleash creativity in novel and fascinating ways.

With Greatest Face, which is only available on the Galaxy A56 5G, choosing and combining the greatest facial expressions or facial features for up to five people in a motion photo makes it simpler than ever to get the ideal group snapshot. Everyone appears their best in a single, seamless photo thanks to Best Face, regardless of whether someone blinked or turned away. Additionally, the Galaxy A56 5G improves nightography by adding support for wide cameras and introducing Low Noise Mode to the 12MP selfie camera, which allows for the shooting of breathtaking images in low light.

The improved Object Eraser on the Galaxy A 56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G enables users to eliminate undesirable distractions from photographs. With a few clicks, users can choose which things to remove—whether it's an unwanted bystander or an eye-catching shadow—for a final image that is cleaner and more polished. Additionally, Filters makes it possible to create bespoke filters by removing colors and styles from pre-existing images, which users can then use to create a distinctive and customized impact based on their preferences and moods. Users can easily edit and improve their images with these clever tools, adding a fresh dimension of creativity to each photograph.

Built To Last With Upgraded Displays and Software Longevity

The Galaxy A series further strengthens its software endurance with up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, as well as six years of security patches. These updates provide more assistance in maximizing the device's lifespan, guaranteeing that users will continue to have a dependable and seamless experience for many years to come.

Additionally, the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G feature a bigger display designed for a sharp, engaging visual experience. With brightness levels up to 1200 nits, the 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED displays on both devices provide a more vivid and engaging entertainment experience. Rich, well-balanced sound from new stereo speakers further improves the experience.

The new Galaxy A series, which includes a 5,000mAh battery across the board, is made to keep up with consumers' everyday activities. Super Fast Charge 2.0 technology and 45W charging power are supported by the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G, providing even faster charging for longer use. Because the Galaxy A36 5G has the Snapdragon® 6 Gen 3 Mobile Platform and the Galaxy A56 5G is powered by the Exynos 1580 processor, both models also offer improved performance. Both devices include a bigger vapor chamber, which helps maintain performance and guarantees fluid video playback, gaming, and multitasking.

The new Galaxy A series is designed to endure life's unforeseen events in addition to its performance. For robust weather protection, the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A365G have an IP67 dust and water resistance rating. Furthermore, a layer of resilience against scratches and cracks is added by an innovative Corning® Glass cover material.

Expanded Protections for Security and Privacy Assured

Thanks to the integration of One UI 7.0 on the Galaxy A series for the first time, Samsung is further supporting robust security and privacy. With Samsung Knox Vault, the Galaxy A series provides an extra, fortified layer of device safety, transparency and user choice – ensuring sensitive data always stays protected. Equipped with the latest One UI 7.0 security and privacy features, Galaxy A series users benefit from holistic protection  — including enhancements in Auto Blocker, Theft Detection, More Security Settings, and other features.

The new Galaxy A series is available in a range of colors. Galaxy A56 5G is available in Awesome Light Gray, Awesome Graphite, and Awesome Pink. Galaxy A36 5G is available in Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black, and Awesome White.

Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G will be available in the Philippines by March 17, 202,5 at Samsung Experience Stores and partner retailers, and in the Samsung Online Store by March 24, 2025. 

To find out more about Galaxy A56 5G, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-a/galaxy-a56-5g-awesome-lightgray-128gb-sm-a566bzasphl. 

To find out more about the Galaxy A36 5G, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-a/galaxy-a36-5g-awesome-black-128gb-sm-a366bzksphl.

Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH

All things considered, the realme 14 Series 5G promises Triple Clarity in Every Shot, producing superb image quality in any situation or location. It guarantees that every moment is captured with breathtaking detail and clarity thanks to its sophisticated camera features, which include Night Photography for brilliant low-light photography, Underwater Mode for smooth aquatic captures, AI Snap Mode for intelligent scene optimization, and Telephoto for accurate long-range shots.

First-Selling Offers and Availability

The realme 14 Series 5G comes at a low price, starting at P27,999 SRP for the realme 14 Pro+ 5G (12GB+512GB) and P21,999 SRP for the realme 14 Pro 5G (12GB+256GB). It is available in fashionable Pearl White and Suede Grey hues.

Realme is giving the Squad thrilling first-selling promos to formally welcome the newest member of its Number Series. Fans can get the realme 14 Series 5G and a TechLife Bluetooth Speaker 2 worth P1,799 for free when they visit any realme physical store in the country from March 20–30, 2025.

Additionally, from March 20–30, 2025, there are discounts that are only available offline. Customers who use Home Credit and Credit Cards can take advantage of an 18-month installment plan with no interest. Additionally, on March 21–23 and March 28–30, 2025, customers can enter a "Spin The Wheel" event at select realme Offline Stores for a chance to win thrilling prizes including a TechLife Bluetooth Sensor Speaker, a realme Watch S2, a realme Pad, or a realme Pad Mini.

Up until March 27, 2025, online consumers can also take advantage of fantastic discounts. The realme 14 Pro+ 5G is available for as little as P25,363 at the realme TikTok Shop. While supplies last, a free realme Watch S2 with a steel strap valued at P4,499 is included with this.

Similarly, the realme Shopee Flagship Store has the realme 14 Pro 5G available for as low as P19,499, along with a FREE realme Watch S2 with a silicone wristband worth P3,999.

Keep posted on the latest news and announcements from realme, visit the brand’s official website, and follow its Facebook page.

ASUS Philippines announced the release of the first-ever all-CeraluminumTM ASUS laptop, the ground-breaking Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA), and the lightest 14-inch Zenbook Copilot+ PC. Additionally, the Zenbook A14 is the first Zenbook model to use the newest AI-enabled Snapdragon X Series CPUs.

Lightweight laptops are redefined by the Zenbook A14. Its all-ceraluminumTM chassis is incredibly lightweight (less than 899g), long-lasting, and has zero maintenance, making it ideal for daily usage. The dual-fan thermal design provides ideal cooling at up to 45W with no noise, while the Snapdragon X Series CPUs offer exceptional power efficiency and performance with multi-day battery life. As a Copilot+ PC, its sophisticated AI capabilities boost creativity and productivity.

Unload: 899 g all-Ceraluminum™ design

The Zenbook A14, weighing only 899 g, establishes a new standard for ultraportable Copilot+ PCs. For regular travelers, its sleek, portable design is perfect since it lets them move freely without being constrained by their technology.

Furthermore, the entire chassis is made of CeraluminumTM, a tactile and inventive material that is three times stronger and 30% lighter than anodized aluminum. This cutting-edge material guarantees mobility and durability, making it perfect for daily usage. The Zenbook history of classic design is upheld by the refined touch of the color scheme inspired by nature.

Unplugged: Multi-working-day battery life

Thanks to its high-capacity 48Wh battery and power-efficient Snapdragon X Series processor, the Zenbook A14 offers exceptional multi-day battery life. With more than 23 hours of continuous video playback on a single charge, it guarantees uninterrupted use for several business days.

With two lightweight fans and a heat pipe, the novel thermal system maximizes component placement for silent, efficient cooling. The laptop boasts remarkable power efficiency, with a 0dB Whisper Mode for silent operation and performance up to 45W chipset power. The Zenbook A14 is the ideal travel companion for lengthy flights, road excursions, or days filled with meetings because it maintains steady performance even when unplugged.

Unlimited: A Copilot+ PC driven by the Snapdragon X Series

The Zenbook A14 provides sophisticated Copilot+ PC experiences with its 45 TOPS Qualcomm Hexagon NPU for AI workloads, providing real-time insights, performance optimization, and improved responsiveness for productivity and multitasking. Users can anticipate quick task switching, smooth video playback, and effective app loading.

With a larger touchpad with Smart Gesture support for comfortable navigation, smudge-free keycaps on evenly spaced keys with a comfortable 1.3mm travel, and a comprehensive set of I/O ports that enable users to connect devices and peripherals without the need for dongles or adapters, the Zenbook A14 provides a sophisticated user experience. A precisely engineered ASUS EasyLiftTM hinge for steady, wobble-free screen opening and balanced weight distribution is another feature of the user-centric design.

With two strong speakers for excellent audio output and a 14-inch FHD+ IPS NanoEdge display that produces vivid colors and deep contrasts, the Zenbook A14 offers an immersive multimedia experience. High-resolution audio for rich, detailed 24-bit 192kHz sound, ultra-low latency to guarantee audio and graphics match flawlessly, and sophisticated noise cancellation to cut down on background noise for crystal-clear voice calls and immersive audio are all features of Snapdragon SoundTM.

The new ASUS Zenbook A14 will be available in both Zabriskie Beige and Iceland Grey at PHP 65,995 within March 2025.  Each purchase also includes a complimentary Office 2024 Home free lifetime license, plus a free 1-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Basic. The Zenbook A14 is also entitled to ASUS’ sought-after after-sales service, which includes a 2-year International Warranty and ASUS Perfect Warranty with 1-year accidental damage protection.

Visit the nearest ASUS Concept Store now!

ASUS Vivobook 16 All-Day Battery and AI Capabilities

Along with ASUS Zenbook A14, the ever-durable Vivobook 16 (X1607QA) and Vivobook 16 (X1607CA) will also be available in Quiet Blue, in March 2025. 

Designed for multitaskers, the Vivobook 16 (X1607QA) Copilot+ PC is powered by the Snapdragon X Series with 45 TOPS NPU, offering up to 27 hours of battery life. It will be available in stores for PHP 45,995.

Meanwhile, the Vivobook 16 (X1607CA), features an Intel Core Ultra 5 Processor 225H, delivering a balance of performance and power efficiency for everyday AI tasks. This model will retail for PHP 50,995.

Both models boast 16-inch displays and a full set of I/O ports, ensuring maximum productivity anywhere.

To know more about the ASUS’ AI Laptops and other Always Incredible news and updates, check out the ASUS Philippines website and follow the official Facebook page.

Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH