Monday, August 18, 2025

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HONOR Philippines Celebrates Three Years of Amazing Growth at the HONOR SEA & Middle East Summit, Setting a Global Standard | #BenchPaylaBlog

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Honor Global executives come together. (L-R) Mr. George Zheng, CEO, Southeast Asia Business Department; Mr. Wang Ban, President, Sales, Marketing, and Service Department; and Mr. Stephen Cheng, Vice President, Honor Philippines.

Manila, Philippines, August 13, 2025 – HONOR Philippines has transformed from a market re-entry to one of the most well-known, rapidly expanding, and prosperous technology brands in the entire HONOR global network in just three short years. At the HONOR SEA & Middle East Summit, where leaders from 35 nations convened to share ideas, commemorate achievements, and gain insight from one another's experiences, this success story took center stage.

HONOR Philippines showcased its incredible development since August 2022 at the conference, outlining the strategy that has allowed it to grow so quickly: planned product launches, solid partnerships, and a thorough understanding of Filipino consumers. In addition, the team participated in an engaging Q&A session where they shared their own tactics for navigating the very competitive smartphone market and learned a lot from other nations.

From day one, our mission has been clear: to bring the best technology and experiences to the Filipino people,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. “Being recognized on a global stage and sharing our story with over 35 countries is a proud moment for us. It validates our hard work and fuels our drive to keep pushing boundaries—not just to lead locally, but to inspire globally.”



In front of 35 markets from Southeast Asia and the Middle East, Mr. Stephen Bryan Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines, gave a presentation on the organization's development and significant achievements.

HONOR Philippines’ 3-Year Key Milestones:

  • 40+ devices launched to meet diverse consumer needs across price segments.
  • No. 1 Hero Product ranking for three consecutive years
  • Consistent 100%+ year-on-year sales growth, with record-breakers like HONOR X9b, HONOR X9c, and HONOR 400.
  • Multiple sold-out launches, including HONOR 400 selling out in just 3 days
  • Grew 2,500+ Retail Stores with 2,000+ Regional Sales Advisors


A Local Success Story with Global Impact

HONOR Philippines’ trajectory has become a blueprint for success within the HONOR global network. Its story proves that with the right combination of innovation, customer connection, and strategic execution, a brand can rise to the top—even in a highly competitive market.

With this recognition, HONOR Philippines is poised to further expand its influence, delivering world-class technology to Filipino consumers while contributing to HONOR’s mission of becoming a global leader in smart devices.

For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/), and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.honor.com/ph/retailers/

 

Thanks for reading, and see you in the next one!

-BENCH




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Sunday, August 17, 2025

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From Every Home to the Streets: Join PLDT Home in Celebrating Kadayawan | #BenchPaylaBlog

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Davao City, Philippines — As the city celebrates the Kadayawan Festival 2025, Davao's streets are a riot of color, music, and tradition. This year, PLDT is bringing the celebrations from the colorful parade routes directly into every Filipino household.


PLDT Home confirms its dedication to upholding regional customs, encouraging community pride, and maintaining family ties as a proud partner of the Kadayawan Festival. In addition to its general support of the festival, PLDT Home is a major sponsor of Hiyas sa Kadayawan, one of the most eagerly awaited cultural events that highlights the legacy, beauty, and talent of Davao's indigenous communities.


Joao Constancia, TV5 Vibe jock and P-Pop Heartthrob



TV5 Vibe jock and hottie Joao Constancia is joining the Kadayawan celebrations, adding celebrity power to the event. Joao originally won people over as the leader of BoybandPH and is now well-known for his exceptional performances in TV dramas and movies. His youthful vigor and captivating demeanor add interest to the festivities. He will be available to greet fans, take pictures, and participate in interactive activities at PLDT Ponciano, Gaisano Grand City Gate, and PLDT Home's main booths at Magsaysay Park and Rizal Park throughout the festival. His presence is expected to attract large crowds and produce unforgettable experiences.


Festival Fun, Powered by PLDT Home Fiber


This year, PLDT Home goes above and beyond sponsorship by providing dependable PLDT Home Fiber connectivity to power a few festival venues and important Davao activities. The Davao Tourism Office, Kasikas sa Kadayawan, Hiyas ng Kadayawan, and the Kadayawan Trade Fair and Bazaar are among them; they guarantee smooth connectivity for festival organizers, performers, media, content producers, and attendees so they can livestream performances, share images and videos instantly, and maintain relationships with loved ones throughout the festivities.

Festival-goers can visit main PLDT Home booths at Magsaysay Park and Rizal Park, or drop by satellite booths across the city. Here, applicants can sign up for PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 and up and enjoy the special Kadayawan Festival Sale, with savings of up to ₱3,600 for free activation and installation of the line.


With PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 1399, enjoy a FREE speed boost for six months (from 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps), plus FREE Cignal cable (61 SD + 14 HD channels) — the perfect way to stream, watch, and share every Kadayawan moment. The plan also comes with UNLI calls from landline to landline and landline to mobile. The mobile feature covers five (5) nominated Smart/TNT numbers.


PLDT Home is also launching PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, which offers limitless fiber on your terms, for customers who would rather have a less expensive plan without a long-term commitment. Get seven days of unlimited 50 Mbps for just ₱999, and enjoy dependable internet anytime you need it.


PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Home Consumer Business, Sales and Development.


Celebrating Culture, Strengthening Connections


“Kadayawan truly captures the vibrant culture, deep sense of community, and limitless creativity of Davao,” said John Y. Palanca, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Home Business and Sales & Development. “We’re honored to partner with the City of Davao in bringing this celebration to life. By powering key festival venues and supporting flagship events like Hiyas sa Kadayawan, we help showcase the city’s rich heritage to the world—while ensuring communities remain connected wherever they may be."

 

“As a proud Davaoeño, it is an honor for PLDT Home to be part of a celebration that truly showcases the heart and heritage of our city,” added Melvin Lacuna, Zone Head, PLDT Home Davao City. “Through our presence on the ground — from powering key festival areas with fiber connectivity to engaging with the community at our booths — we hope to make Kadayawan even more memorable for families, friends, and visitors alike. This Kadayawan, we’re making it even more meaningful by giving families access to our best fiber offers — from Unli All Fiber Plans with free speedboosts to the flexible Fiber Prepaid option.”


By fusing heritage and technology, PLDT Home, which has its origins in Filipino households, keeps fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring that customs like Kadayawan endure in the modern digital world.


Join the Celebration


PLDT Home offers you the best of Kadayawan. Bring the excitement of Kadayawan right to your house by stopping by the booths in Magsaysay Park, Rizal Park, and other satellite locations to meet Joao Constancia, take advantage of the Kadayawan Festival Sale, and engage in interactive activities!


Thanks for reading, and see you in the next one!
-BENCH
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Friday, August 15, 2025

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MY “BLINK-FOR-LIFE” Reaction to 𝐁𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐊’𝐬 “JUMP” | #BenchPaylaBlog

Lifestyle , 0 Comments

 
BLACKPINK, photo courtesy of YG Entertainment

Hey, this one's for you, Blink family. Even though I've been following BLACKPINK since their debut—can you believe that's been over ten years?—I still feel a rush whenever they release a new song. I was thus prepared—and thrilled, perhaps a little nostalgic as well—when I heard "𝕵𝖚𝖒𝖕," the first time it was released following a protracted three-year GG hiatus.


The Premiere Moment

They sang it live at the Deadline World Tour launch in Goyang, South Korea, on July 5. Imagine stadium lights, spectators screaming, and suddenly the beat hits. I had goosebumps as if we were all newborn Blinks again.


This Sound Has a Unique Hit

I hit play when the complete single came out on July 11. And those hard-style dance-pop beats, amazing. Instant adrenaline. Sharp and powerful, the chorus is designed to evoke a club or performance atmosphere. It's not subtle or gentle, and that's precisely why I found it so BLACKPINK.


It's Not Just About Energy

"𝕵𝖚𝖒𝖕" signifies a genuine reconnection. Every member—Jisoo, Lisa, Jennie, and Rose—had been traveling alone, pursuing acting, music, and other endeavors. However, even after some time away, this song reinforces their strength as a group and their harmony. Plus, it’s a monster on the charts. Topped the Billboard Global 200 and reigns across Southeast Asia and more. In South Korea, it grabbed eight music show wins. That’s domination. | -Wikipedia


Not everyone is crushing it, though

Not all fans are head-over-heels. Some think it ends too abruptly or lacks depth in the chorus, missing a memorable bridge. Still, others are all in—calling it a banger and praising its fresh energy. A few say it’s more like a fun club track than a full comeback sound, but hey—that’s exactly why it stands out. | From a random Reddit post


Final Thoughts

As a Blink in his 30s who has been stanning with the GG since "Boombayah" and "Whistle," "𝕵𝖚𝖒𝖕" was like reliving the electric energy of an old buddy. Although it's not flawless as others might say, for me it's unapologetically them, loud, and audacious. And that's more than sufficient for fans like myself.

So let's celebrate "𝕵𝖚𝖒𝖕" and hope it keeps us moving, remembering, and celebrating more than before. Praying and hoping to see them in the flesh this November in the Philippine Arena. Fingers-crossed!

Thanks for reading, and see you in the next one!
-BENCH


FULL LYRICS HERE from Genius Lyrics


BLACKPINK - 뛰어 (𝕵𝖚𝖒𝖕) (Romanized)


[Verse 1: Rosé, Jisoo]
I'm not that easy to tame
You should see me under these lights, all my tears turn to ice
That's the sweetest escape
Every time the feeling kicks in, I might stay through the night

[Pre-Chorus: Jennie, Lisa]
Bet you get it now
Rocked that, didn't I?
Chakgak haji ma, nuga nugunji, woah-oh-oh
Think you're running that?
Guess we gunnin' back
You know I walk it, yeah, I talk it
Nun gamgo, hana, dul, set (ttwieo)

[Chorus: Jennie, Rosé]
Ttwieo
Ttwieo
Ttwieo
Ttwieo
So come up with me, I'll take you high
That Prima donna, spice up your life
You know I got that shit that you like
So come up with me, run up, uh, jump (ttwieo)

[Post-Chorus: Lisa, Jisoo, Jennie]
Watch me runnin' up the place
I'm already stuntin' and my girls are on the way (ttwieo)
Watch me open up the place
Wanna see you bumpin', baby, bouncin' to the bass

[Verse 2: Lisa, Jennie]
Are you not entertained? (No)
I ain't gotta explain (No)
I'm with all of my sisters (Ah)
Got 'em going insane, yeah (Yeah)
You know we on a mission (Yeah)
All gas, no brakes, yeah (Woo, woo, woo)
Breaking out of the system
Breaking out of this cage, yeah

[Pre-Chorus: Rosé, Jisoo, Jennie]
Bet you get it now
Ate that, didn't I?
Sungan itji ma, nuga nugunji, oh-oh-oh
Think you runnin' that?
Guess we gunnin' back
You know I walk it, yeah, I talk it
Nun gamgo, hana, dul, set (ttwieo)

[Chorus: Jennie, Rosé]
Ttwi-ttwi-ttwieo
Ttwieo
Ttwieo
Ttwieo
So come up with me, I'll take you high
That Prima donna, spice up your life
You know I got that shit that you like
So come up with me, run up, uh, jump (ttwieo)

[Post-Chorus: Jisoo, Lisa, Jennie]
Watch me runnin' up the place
I'm already stuntin' and my girls are on the way (ttwieo)
Watch me open up the place
Wanna see you bumpin', baby, bouncin' to the bass

[Outro: Jennie]
BLACKPINK in your area
Ttwieo
Ttwieo
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Tuesday, August 12, 2025

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HONOR 400 Pro 5G First Day Sale Kicks Off with Grand Opening of Experience Store at SM Lanang Premier | #BenchPaylaBlog

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L-R: Ms. Kimberly Remolona, SM Lanang Premier, Mall Manager; Mr. Johnny Ong, Partner Dealer and Owner of Mikrocell; Ms. Therese Villamor, HONOR Star and Star Magic Artist; Mr. Tom Yuan, HONOR Philippines’ National Sales Director; and Mr. Pao Oga, HONOR Philippines’ Public Relations Manager. 
Manila, Philippines – August 11, 2025 – Global leading technology brand, HONOR Philippines, made history today in the King City of the South with a double celebration — the much-anticipated First Day Sale of the HONOR 400 Pro 5G and the grand opening of the newest HONOR Experience Store at SM Lanang Premier.

The event was graced by the Davao Bloggers Society and other local media partners, loyal HONOR fans, and special guests, including Mr. Johnny Ong, partner dealer and owner of Mikrocell, HONOR Philippines National Sales Director Mr. Tom Yuan, and HONOR Star and ex-Pinoy Big Brother housemate Gen 11, Therese Villamor. The launch marks a major step in HONOR’s mission to bring premium, AI-powered technology closer to Filipinos across the country.

The HONOR 400 5G made waves during its initial launch, selling out in record time. Due to overwhelming demand, HONOR Philippines proudly brings the upgraded HONOR 400 Pro 5G to Davao — delivering even greater power, intelligence, and camera excellence.

The new HONOR Experience Store, SM Lanang Premier, Davao City

“We’ve seen an incredible show of support from Filipinos nationwide, and Davao is no exception,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. “The HONOR 400 Pro 5G is designed for those who want nothing less than flagship quality at a competitive price. It combines cutting-edge AI features, professional-grade photography, and all-day power — exactly what our customers have been asking for. This store opening in Davao is a promise that we will keep bringing the HONOR experience closer to more Filipinos.”

Therese Villamor, HONOR Star 
HONOR 400 Pro 5G: Flagship Power Meets AI Brilliance

The HONOR 400 Pro 5G isn’t just a smartphone — it’s your all-in-one creative, gaming, and productivity powerhouse.

·         200MP Ultra Clear AI Camera – Capture every detail with unparalleled clarity

·         50MP Telephoto + 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera – Versatile photography for every shot

·         Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Chipset – Flagship performance for seamless multitasking and gaming

·         HONOR AI Features – AI Image to Video, AI Cutout, and more for next-level creativity

·         6,000mAh Battery with 100W HONOR SuperCharge – All-day power in just minutes of charging

·         Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Flagship Chip – Perfect for multi-tasking, gaming, and binge-watching

·         6.78” Quad-Curved AMOLED Display, 120Hz Refresh Rate – Immersive visuals for work and play

·         Up to 16GB RAM + 512GB Storage – Space and speed for everything you need

Davao Gets the Full HONOR Experience
The newly opened HONOR Experience Store at SM Lanang Premier is designed to give customers the ultimate hands-on experience with the latest HONOR devices, exclusive promos, and top-notch after-sales service.

With this opening, HONOR reaffirms its commitment to making premium technology more accessible, allowing Davaoenos to explore HONOR’s cutting-edge products right in their hometown.


Pricing and Availability

Available in stunning color options—Lunar Grey and Midnight Black—the HONOR 400 Pro 5G is now available for pre-order across the Philippines for only Php 32,999 (24GB + 512GB)!

 
Order now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada - https://bit.ly/Laz_H400Pro_PR, Shopee - https://bit.ly/Shop_H400Pro_PR, or TikTok Shop - https://bit.ly/TikTok_H400Pro_PR.


To know more about HONOR 400 Pro 5G, head on to: https://bit.ly/Web_H400Pro_PR. For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph), and TikTok (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.


Thanks for reading, and see you in the next one!
-BENCH




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Monday, August 11, 2025

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A 30-Year-Old-ish Guy’s Reaction to KPop Demon Hunters | #BenchPaylaBlog

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Photo from tvinsider.com

I’ll be honest from the start—animated movies and series have never really been my thing. At 30-ish, I usually spend my free time watching Korean dramas or listening to BlackPink (yes, I’m a proud fan). So when I first heard about K-pop Demon Hunters, I wasn’t exactly rushing to see it. But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a try.


And you know what? I was surprised.


The first thing that hit me was the energy of the movie. It’s colorful, flashy, and full of action—like watching a mix of a K-pop concert and a fantasy adventure rolled into one. At first, I thought it might be too over-the-top for me, but the longer I watched, the more I began to enjoy how the music and action worked together. It gave me the same kind of excitement I get when BlackPink drops a new music video (screaaams - Nun gamgo, hana, dul, set (ttwieo) stream JUMP by BlackPink - LOL | —intense, stylish, and full of life.


But what really caught me off guard was the heart of the story. Beneath all the fight scenes and the shiny visuals, it’s about friendship, teamwork, and facing challenges together. That part reminded me why I love K-dramas so much—the emotional side, the human struggles, and the bond between characters. Even in an animated setting, those themes came through clearly.


For the trailer, watch here:

KPop Demon Hunters | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube


I still wouldn’t say animated movies are suddenly my new favorite, but K-pop Demon Hunters showed me that stepping outside your comfort zone can be worth it. It opened my eyes to how creative and fun animation can be, especially when mixed with the energy of K-pop.


For someone like me—a BlackPink fan, a K-drama lover, and not really into cartoons—this movie was a refreshing surprise. It may not have turned me into a die-hard animation fan, but it definitely gave me a new kind of appreciation. And honestly, I don’t regret watching it one bit.


So yeah, KPop Demon Hunters? Better than I thought. Sometimes it’s good to step out of your comfort zone—you might just end up enjoying something new.


Thanks for reading, and see you in the next one!
-BENCH

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