Thoney Pascual, Author at The Metropolista

27 May 202527 May 2025

For the Moms we love, let us count the ways BDO helps them grow their money

Being a mom means being the CEO of your home, which is also referred to as the Chief Expense Officer. From groceries to utilities to tuition fees to insurance premiums, you are responsible for a spending list that seems to go on and on.

However, as a mom, your goal is to manage all the bills and simultaneously save and grow the family’s finances. You’re doing it all your way, but here’s where BDO comes in. BDO is your financial partner for all your savings goals, offering products and services to help you and all the hard-working moms.

Spend smart, save smarter

With a BDO Smart Checking account, you can issue payments with cheques while enjoying the convenience of a debit card. Plus, unlike other checking accounts, your funds can earn interest. You can easily track your transactions online anytime, anywhere. For moms who hustle hard, run side gigs, and still make time for Sunday lunch, the BDO Smart Checking account is a smarter way to manage it all.

Dream big for your little ones

A BDO Junior Savers account can provide your children, nephews, nieces, or any other loved ones with a strong foundation for their future aspirations. Available for kids up to 12 years old, open an account with as little as P100. The maintaining balance is also only P100, and the account will start earning interest when the funds reach P2,000 or higher. The BDO Junior Savers account is a smart start for kids to learn the value of saving.

Financial security during the golden years

Look forward to your retirement with the BDO Prime Savers account. Or get this account for your parents and elderly relatives. Open and maintain a balance of P2,000, and start earning interest when your funds reach P5,000. Get special foreign exchange rates and priority handling when you visit any of BDO’s over 1,200 branches across the country. A BDO Prime Savers account is an affordable way to save for the golden years.

Begin growing your money today by opening a Smart Checking, Junior Savers or Prime Savers account. Visit the BDO branch nearest you and explore the account assist kiosks or approach any one of the friendly bank officers and staff. You can also conveniently open an account online here: www.bdo.com.ph/apply

For every saving goal for every kind of mom, choose the best financial partner with BDO.

27 May 2025

These Earphones are Breaking Language Barriers for Work & Travel with Real-Time AI Translation

Have you ever been in a foreign country and tried to order a meal, ask for directions, or negotiate the price of a taxi ride, only to get a blank stare in return? It’s a universal frustration: the language barrier.

It happens to everyone, and it’s why real-time language translation is becoming increasingly important. Earphones with built-in AI translation are quickly becoming the new travel and work must-have, and it’s what can help you overcome language barriers with ease.

Introducing the All-New Soundcore AeroFit 2

Whether you’re traveling alone for leisure, joining a global contingent for a conference, or simply trying to connect with colleagues who speak a different language, the all-new AeroFit 2 open-ear earbuds from Soundcore are breaking barriers not just in communication, but also in design and performance.

With these new earphones from Soundcore, you can enjoy your music while staying connected to the world around you through open-ear technology. Unlike traditional headphones that either cover your ears or sit in your ear canal, the AeroFit2 earbuds give you the freedom to hear everything that is happening around you while still enjoying crystal clear notes and sounds.

Its powerful new AI translation function makes these earbuds turn into an interpreter who translates directly into your ears in real time. Its two modes open up limitless possibilities, depending on your needs:

The Face-to-Face Translation feature is your go-to mode for everyday conversations. It’s like having a personal interpreter in your ear, making it perfect for when you’re traveling or find yourself in new social situations with people who don’t speak the same language.

Here’s how it works: your voice is captured by the AeroFit 2 earbuds, translated, and played through your connected phone. Your phone’s microphone picks up the other person’s voice, translates it, and delivers it straight to your earbuds when they reply.

Real-Time Translation comes in handy, especially when listening to lectures, webinars, or even watching foreign shows. It works simply: the speaker’s voice from wherever you may be streaming is received by your phone, translated, and delivered straight to your AeroFit 2 earbuds.

You can also follow along by reading the translated transcript on your screen. This is an invaluable tool for students or professionals who may encounter situations where understanding spoken content is crucial without active participation.

The AeroFit 2 earbuds support various languages, including but not limited to: English, Mandarin, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, Russian, Arabic, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Thai.

Now Even Better for Everyday Use

Featuring a rotatable ear hook design, these open-ear earbuds can adapt to different ear sizes and offer a secure yet ultra-lightweight fit, ideal for all-day wear. Its special design even adds comfort for those wearing their earbuds and glasses at the same time.

In comparison to its predecessor, the Aerofit 2 boasts an enhanced sound quality, featuring crisp notes and a robust bass. With touch-style controls, managing your playback, volume, or translation modes is effortless and intuitive. Plus, the addition of a wireless charging case makes powering up more convenient than ever.

It also supports wireless charging with a 10H playtime, while the charging case can extend that to a total of 42 hours.

How to Get Started

Getting started is easier than you think.

Step 1: Download the soundcore app on your smartphone.

Step 2: Pair your AeroFit 2 earbuds via Bluetooth and open the app.

Step 3: Pick Your Translation Mode, whether Face-to-Face Translation or Real-Time Translation

Whether you’re traveling the world or working across cultures, the future of communication is already here, and it fits right in your ear. The Soundcore AeroFit 2 is now available in the Philippines through soundcore.ph, and online at Shopee and Lazada.

27 May 202527 May 2025

BLACKOUT: The Community is the New Frontier

This coming BLACKOUT in June, the community takes center stage. Forged by community leaders, organizations, fans, hobbyists, and more, BLACKOUT cements its stand as an event that’s not just a festival.

A SPACE FOR EVERYONE

In one corner, a tattoo artist is at work. In another, a group of fans waits for their favorite performer to walk on stage. Backstage, our PPOP idols are getting ready to make their mark. Meanwhile, various parts of the venue host gaming tournaments.

Music, arts, or gaming, BLACKOUT seeks to create a space where anyone and everyone can find their people. Whether you’re a concert-goer, gamer, artist, or a TTRPG enthusiast, there is a place where one can feel belongingness.

Tier One Entertainment created BLACKOUT to bring the community together into a night where anyone can make it whatever they want it to be. The community builds and anchors the concept of BLACKOUT, whether it’s a gathering of friends, a moment for music, or a day to create experiences.

“Tier One has constantly evolved through the years.” Tryke Gutierrez, the CEO and Co-founder of Tier One, began his journey as a talent management specialist, built his esports teams, and later launched his first reality show, The Gaming House. “We take pride in bringing new and unique products to the market. For Blackout, our vision is to create a community-driven platform where individuals passionate about music, gaming, and the arts can celebrate their interests.”

He added, “Blackout marks the beginning of a new chapter, as Tier One Entertainment expands beyond gaming—and deeper into the heart of culture itself. At Tier One, we are committed to continuous improvement and never settle for less.”

THE COMEBACK THAT CONNECTS GENERATIONS

BLACKOUT will host the comeback of pop icon Iyaz, to connect generations together in a night they can remember. Iyaz’s return to the Philippines is a move to bring together a community from all generations, from the Gen Zs, Millennials, to the Gen X crowd.

2000s souls will sing out loud to the music they grew up with while connecting with the young crowd who resonate with Iyaz’s music and tone.

PARTNER AND COLLABORATE

Be part of the experience on June 14, 2025. Email blackout.inquiries@tier.one for inquiries.

Follow our official social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stay updated with the latest and be among the first to secure limited tickets

27 May 2025

Workspace, Redefined: COLAB Café Opens in Kapitolyo

COLAB Café officially opened its doors to the public and offered a redefined workspace that breaks the co-working space norms while adapting café culture. Every detail in the COLAB space answers the needs of a modern-day professional, from their Quiet Booths for independent tasks to the Interactive Material Library that sparks ideas and inspiration.

“When we conceptualized COLAB, we thought of all the struggles and pains of working beyond the office and home. We knew we needed to capture an environment that boosts productivity without limiting creativity,” said Karen Tui, the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of COLAB. As a modern professional, home and office are no longer the only options when it comes to work. And as more people aspire to have a work-life balance, it just makes sense to create a space that enables that, Tui explained.

The thoughtfully curated space takes pride in its centerpiece, the Material Library, which showcases a wide collection of material samples, swatches, and even books and magazines about design and architecture. It also features a working pod called Quiet Booth where guests can focus on independent tasks or take online calls with minimal distractions. Round tables for both big and small groups are also available for team huddles and brainstorming. A collapsible meeting room is also available for more confidential discussions, which is available for rent.

But what makes COLAB different from a typical co-working space is its actual business model. It does not charge by the seat; it provides a free-seating environment for its guests. “We wanted a space built by the community. If we charge by the seat, it gives a restrictive environment, and guests will just be limited to the seat they paid for,” argued Koko Tamura, Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer. “What we wanted to create is a community, and we believe a sound community is built by shared resources, collaboration and an open mindset. Most of our tables are for sharing; the community who enjoys the space will make the space sustainable by patronizing food and drinks offered at the bar, and occasionally, they would also use and rent the space to conduct talks, workshops and seminars that aim to share their knowledge. We designed the space and business to build the COLAB community.

COLAB Café is located at 2/F, The Vantage at Kapitolyo, 50 West Capitol Drive corner United Street, Kapitolyo, Pasig City. For more information about COLAB, visit their website at www.colabph.com and follow @colabcafeph on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

23 May 2025

TEAM ENERGY PARTNERS WITH QUEZON VICE GOVERNOR

TEAM ENERGY PARTNERS WITH QUEZON VICE GOVERNOR – TeaM Energy recently turned over to the Office of Quezon Vice Governor Anacleto Alcala III (2nd from right) various office equipment consisting of desktop computers, printers, and copying machines that will be distributed to various local government units and schools in the province. Formally turning over the items to Vice Governor Alcala is Froilan Gregory Romualdez III, Assistant Vice President for External Affairs, TeaM Energy. Also in the photo are Carlo Calvario, External Affairs Coordinator, TeaM Energy, and Katherine Ursolino, Executive Assistant, Office of the Vice Governor.

14 May 202514 May 2025

A Traveler’s Guide To Affordable and Fun Adventures

From take-off to touchdown, make your next travel worry-free with BDO

Going on vacations is one of life’s greatest joys—from exploring new destinations and experiencing different cultures to creating unforgettable memories with friends and family. Unexpected mishaps and last-minute changes should not derail it.

That’s where BDO Insure Travel Insurance steps in, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Whether medical emergencies, baggage delays, or flight disruptions, BDO Insure expertly selects packages from different insurance partners to provide only the best options tailored to your needs.

Affordable options are available for travelers aged up to 75 years.

Planning a four-day visit to Asia? Coverage for emergency medical treatment benefits of up to Ph500,000 starts at Ph350. Want more protection? Boost your coverage to Ph1.5 million for just Ph463. That’s a small price to pay for a big peace of mind.
Heading to the United States for 15 days? Enjoy up to Ph1.5 million in emergency medical treatment for as low as Ph917.
Planning to explore the Eiffel Tower in France? We’ve partnered with an accredited insurance provider whose plans are fully Schengen visa compliant, which is Ph2.5M in emergency medical treatment for as low as Ph1,749 for a 15-day trip.

Apart from these benefits, travelers can now opt for a more comprehensive cover which includes emergency treatment of pre-existing conditions and extreme activities, reimbursement of rebooking fees, and an additional benefit for the first 4-hour delay and baggage delay for return flights.

For a more seamless experience, purchase your travel insurance in the Philippines at least four hours before your departure.

Next time you pack, remember to include peace of mind with an insurance package that lets you travel safely and enjoy every moment worry-free. BDO Insure Travel Insurance includes COVID-19 coverage, travel inconvenience benefits, and access to a 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance Hotline.

We invite you to conveniently purchase your travel insurance online at https://www.bdo.com.ph/bdo-insure/personal/travel.

BDO Insure is a registered trademark of BDO Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers, Inc. (formerly BDO Insurance Brokers, Inc.), an insurance broker licensed and supervised by the Insurance Commission of the Philippines. Its financial products are not deposit products. The PDIC does not insure these products, nor does BDO Unibank, Inc. guarantee them.