Monday, January 31, 2022

PLDT is Philippines’ fastest internet provider in 2021 – Ookla® January 31, 2022 at 03:06AM

Out of Town Blog
PLDT is Philippines’ fastest internet provider in 2021 – Ookla®

PLDT Manila City Fastest Internet Broadband

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) –  PLDT Home remains undisputed as the fastest broadband network in the Philippines, dominating telco rivals with a Speed Score™ of 77.24 at the Ookla® Speedtest Awards™ for Q3-Q4 2021.

The latest result showed a big jump from PLDT’s Speed Score of 27.28 in the second half of the previous year. Speed Score is a measure that takes into account both upload and download speeds.

The latest data from the global benchmarking company also showed PLDT besting all other internet service providers (ISPs) in the country with top upload and download speeds of 217.07 Mbps and 203.97 Mbps, respectively.

In determining the network speed of ISPs, Ookla® compared data gathered from millions of consumer-initiated tests taken on Speedtest® platforms. The data include tests done by Filipino internet users on various networks using digital devices connected via Wi-Fi and fixed networks.

“Fast internet is no longer a luxury because it’s what Filipinos depend on to earn, work, and study from home. We’ve been relentless in continuously building and upgrading our network so that our customers enjoy better and future-ready homes,” says Butch G. Jimenez, Jr., Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business.

Fastest Broadband in PH’s Key Cities

Based on the latest Ookla® data, PLDT registered the highest upload and download speeds in key major cities in the Philippines – Manila, Cebu, and Davao Cities.

In Manila, PLDT bested major ISPs – including Converge, Globe, and Sky – with upload and download speeds of 54.52 Mbps and 58.57 Mbps, respectively. In Cebu, PLDT recorded 76.14 Mbps and 74.22 Mbps upload and download speeds. In Davao, PLDT is the fastest fixed network over ISPs Globe and Sky, with upload and download speeds of 70.06 Mbps and 71.50 Mbps, respectively.

PLDT Manila City Fastest Internet Broadband
PLDT Manila City Fastest Internet Broadband
PLDT Speed Score
PLDT Speed Score
PLDT Upload and Download Speed
PLDT Upload and Download Speed

When analyzing the fastest ISPs, Ookla assesses the fastest network speeds attained across a given network, accounting for tests that are taken on various Speedtest applications that connect to a fixed network, including tests taken on mobile phones over a Wi-Fi connection. Each top carrier accounts for at least 3% of the sample size in the geographic area.

Setting the Bar for PH Internet Speeds

PLDT has consistently dominated the Ookla® Speedtest Awards™ in the past four years as a result of the telco giant’s aggressive network expansion initiatives. In the second half of 2021, PLDT Home launched its biggest speed upgrade for customers with thrice as much speed versus the previous broadband plans.

In November 2021, PLDT Home launched the country’s first-ever 10,000 Mbps fiber-optic service in the Philippines, putting the country alongside first-world nations that have access to such ultra-fast home internet speeds as South Korea, Japan, Sweden, Norway, Italy, New Zealand, and the USA.

“The demand for the fastest broadband in the Philippines remains strong and we’re investing as well in our capabilities to install, upgrade, and repair throughout the year,” concludes Butch G. Jimenez, Jr., Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business.

PLDT Home continues to set the bar for the future of home internet connectivity in the Philippines as it provides access to future-ready innovations including top-of-the-line Smart Home solutions such as Wifi Mesh devices, Entertainment, and Security services bundled with its flexible broadband plans.

All these innovations are powered by the PLDT’s widest network in the country with its fiber infrastructure expanded to 743,700 kilometers, extending its reach to 13.9 million homes passed, and with over 5.77 million fiber-powered ports.

To date, PLDT Home has connected over 3.6 Million subscribers, proving to be the most trusted telco of Filipino families for fast internet speeds for work at home, online school, and family entertainment at home amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

For more information on PLDT Home, visit www.pldthome.com.

Disclaimer:
Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data Q3–Q4 2021. Ookla trademarks are used under license and reprinted with permission.

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Read: Smart 5G Is Nearly Twice The Speed Of Competitor, According To Ookla® Report

Original article: PLDT is Philippines’ fastest internet provider in 2021 – Ookla®

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

PLDT is Philippines’ fastest internet provider in 2021 – Ookla®
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Saturday, January 29, 2022

Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart January 28, 2022 at 07:11PM

Out of Town Blog
Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart

Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) –  No need to wait until you can travel to Japan or scout for inconspicuous suppliers to enjoy Japanese convenience store favorites, thanks to FamilyMart. Iconic items such as Strong Zero, and Cheeza are now easily accessible across all FamilyMart stores in the Philippines.

Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart
Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart

“We are so glad to add more Japanese treats to our stores, especially nowadays when travel is still limited. As a brand that originated in Japan, it’s only proper that we finally bring in these favorites so that we can delight more Filipinos amid these trying times,” shared FamilyMart General Manager Celina Matias.

The local franchise of the convenience store chain from Japan opened the new year by stocking its shelves with new products that Filipinos only used to enjoy when visiting the land of the rising sun. Some of the standout items include Strong Zero, a line of ‘chuhai’, which is a traditional Japanese liquor; the Suntory Horoyoi range, including the crowd-favorite peach flavor; and Cheeza, triangular cheese crackers with flavors like ‘Raw Cheese’ and ‘Camembert’. Meanwhile, a healthier option comes in Senbei, a savory, oven-baked rice cracker that’s ideal for snacking.

Aside from being available in stores for walk-in customers, these new offerings are also available via GrabMart, so even those working from home or simply staying in can enjoy these treats without even having to leave their house. According to Philippine FamilyMart, this is only the beginning as close to more items will be introduced starting next month.

Ms. Matias added, “We’re staying true to the brand’s Japanese heritage, and introducing to the local market close to a hundred new items in February, so watch out for that!”

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Read: Free Limited-Edition, Acrylic Bottle With Your Next FamilyMart Purchase

Original article: Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Strong Zero, Horoyoi Peach, and more Japanese faves now available in FamilyMart
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Friday, January 28, 2022

Unleash Your Inner Water Tiger: Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign January 28, 2022 at 12:26AM

Out of Town Blog
Unleash Your Inner Water Tiger: Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign

Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – In a few days, we’ll be celebrating Lunar New Year and ushering in the Year of the Water Tiger. Depending on the representative Chinese zodiac and element, it is said to impact one’s luck and chances to become successful. Take charge of your own destiny and learn the traits of the Water Tiger in order to become more financially savvy and prosperous in 2022.

Here are some financial tips to keep in mind this Lunar Year:

Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign
Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign

Don’t be afraid to be experimental and adventurous.

Water Tigers tend to be very open to new ideas. If you’re feeling stuck in an area of your life, this is the year to change things up. You can start small, such as listening to music genres that aren’t on your typical playlist, enrolling in a new hobby class, or taking on a new project at work. Soon you’ll find that you’re more courageous as you make bigger life decisions.

When it comes to finances, being receptive to non-traditional ways can help you become more prosperous and independent. E-wallets are a game changer in the financial world. This year, introduce yourself to ShopeePay, Shopee’s all-in-one e-wallet that enables you to buy load, pay bills, send money, and scan to pay at thousands of merchants nationwide. It only takes a few steps to enroll. Activate your ShopeePay account here.

Adaptability is key.

Water Tigers can quickly shift to improve their circumstances, making them ideal role models during a time of unprecedented changes. For businesses to continue thriving, entrepreneurs need to be more creative and strategic when it comes to running their operations. If you own a physical store, join ShopeePay’s growing list of Offline Partner Merchant’s for safe and convenient cashless transactions. ShopeePay’s Scan-To-Pay feature enables secure and real-time payments for your goods and services in-store via QR code. Enjoy the many benefits of ShopeePay by signing up to be a ShopeePay Partner Merchant. For those running an online business, chances are fund transfers are your primary means to get payments. Encourage your customers to transact using ShopeePay as it offers free and real time money transfers to any Shopee user or bank account.

Resourcefulness can help you go a long way.

Being resourceful like a Water Tiger means you’re able to find solutions to deal with problems or search for more efficient ways to perform a task. It’s actually one of the best traits to imbibe when it comes to money matters. Any good financial decision maker would weigh options and search ways to spend wisely and save more. Start by exploring your e-wallet’s features and keeping tabs on scheduled promos and ongoing deals.

Making sound financial decisions also means setting a budget and tracking expenses. With ShopeePay, you get access to exclusive promos and deals to help you stick to your budget. If you need to transfer money; whether it be to your family and friends, or to your own bank account, you can do so without the added transaction fees through ShopeePay’s free transfers feature. From January 26 to February 3, send personalized Angpaos and stand a chance to win up to P220,000 when you send at least P1 to any Shopee user with ShopeePay. You can even get the chance to win an additional P88 via ShopeePay when you cash in for free with your linked BPI Online Account. Finally, schedule your shopping and bills payments on January 30 in time for ShopeePay Day – where you can get up to 50% cashback on bills, discounts on load, and discounts on groceries and essentials with ShopeePay P1 Deals.

Those of the Tiger zodiacs portray courage and leadership. They’re determined to do anything to achieve their goal. 2022 is all about taking those traits and channeling them into opportunities to be more successful. After all, Water Tigers are action-based people who value hard work and don’t hesitate to make things happen.

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Read: Top 10 Items To Help You Fulfill Your 2022 New Year’s Resolutions

Original article: Unleash Your Inner Water Tiger: Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Unleash Your Inner Water Tiger: Financial Tips from 2022’s Chinese Zodiac Sign
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Smart is Philippines’ undisputed fastest 5G mobile network in latest Ookla® report January 27, 2022 at 11:38PM

Out of Town Blog
Smart is Philippines’ undisputed fastest 5G mobile network in latest Ookla® report

SMART FASTEST 5G AWARD

Smart 5G sweeps Ookla® Speedtest Awards TM in H1 and H2 2021

PLDT mobile services arm Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) remains as the country’s undisputed fastest 5G mobile network as it delivered significantly higher speeds for its subscribers during the second half of 2021, according to the latest report by Ookla®, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence.

Using 325,396 user-initiated 5G tests, Ookla declared Smart as the winner of its Speedtest AwardsTM for Q3-Q4 2021 with a Speed ScoreTM of 201.95, while its closest competitor posted a Speed ScoreTM of 116.08.

SMART FASTEST 5G AWARD
SMART FASTEST 5G AWARD

Sweeping awards for H1 and H2 2021

To bag the award, Smart posted a median download speed of 218.82 Mbps and a median upload speed of 22.46 Mbps, while its closest competitor posted a median download speed of 116.92 Mbps and a median upload speed of 10.81 Mbps.

Ookla also reported Smart’s median latency to be at 14 milliseconds while its closest competitor recorded a median latency of 19 milliseconds.

Having won ‘Fastest 5G Mobile Network’ for Q1-Q2 back in August last year, Smart’s latest accomplishment meant it effectively swept the Ookla Speedtest Awards for all award periods of 2021 amid its accelerated 5G rollout and continuous network improvement efforts across the country.

Huge speed gaps in Manila, Cebu, CDO

In its latest report, Ookla also showed huge speed gaps between Smart and its closest competitor in select cities.

In Manila for example, Smart recorded a median download speed of 263.67 Mbps while its closest competitor posted 98.44 Mbps. Smart also registered a median upload speed of 28.27 Mbps while its closest competitor hit 9.77 Mbps.

In the Visayas, Smart also dominated Cebu City with a median download speed of 214.27 Mbps while its closest competitor recorded 125.93 Mbps. Smart also led with an upload speed of 19.85 Mbps while its closest competitor clocked 10.34 Mbps.

In Mindanao, Smart led in Cagayan de Oro City with a median download speed of 217.83 Mbps while its closest competitor recorded 143.71 Mbps. Smart also posted a median upload speed of 21.82 Mbps while its closest competitor posted 12.20 Mbps.

Speed as key network performance metric

“As the pandemic sped up digital adoption across the world, we have made it our mission to provide Filipinos with the best customer experience through our superior network and innovative services that enable our subscribers to live the Giga Life and pursue their passions,” said Jane J. Basas,” SVP and Head of Wireless Consumer Business at Smart.

“Speed is the key metric when it comes to network performance and simply providing amazing digital experiences, and we are extremely proud that our 5G network has consistently been recognized as the fastest in the country based on the real-world experience by our subscribers,” she added.

Pioneering 5G services

Since it launched its 5G commercial service nationwide back in 2020, Smart has relentlessly pushed 5G revolution in the Philippines, deploying around 7,200 5G base stations around the country.

Smart also enables Filipinos to adopt 5G and enjoy its benefits through innovative products and services, such as the Rocket WiFi, Smart’s first and fastest 5G Pocket WiFi; and the Smart Bro Prepaid Home WiFi 5G, Smart’s first 5G-powered prepaid WiFi service that makes it easier for families to enjoy fiber-like wireless speeds at home.

Smart also introduced the groundbreaking Unli 5G data offer via the GigaLife App to give subscribers more data to enjoy all their favorite online activities powered by Smart 5G. Smart later brought this unlimited 5G experience to postpaid customers by launching the Signature Plans+.

Make the Smart move now

Through its superior network, Smart is gearing up to bring more exciting 5G experiences to subscribers.  To take part in these amazing experiences, non-Smart customers can now make the Smart move without having to change their mobile number through Mobile Number Portability (MNP).

To know more about switching to Smart via MNP, users may visit x.smart/switch or make the switch via the GigaLife App.

*Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data Q3–Q4 2021. Ookla trademarks are used under license and reprinted with permission.

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Read: Smart 5G Is Nearly Twice The Speed Of Competitor, According To Ookla® Report

Original article: Smart is Philippines’ undisputed fastest 5G mobile network in latest Ookla® report

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Smart is Philippines’ undisputed fastest 5G mobile network in latest Ookla® report
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Shopee gives you five days of deals and discounts this 2.2 Free Shipping Sale January 27, 2022 at 10:41PM

Out of Town Blog
Shopee gives you five days of deals and discounts this 2.2 Free Shipping Sale

Shopee 2.2 Free Shipping Sale

Shop your home needs safely while saving on shipping fees from January 30 to February 3

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Getting ready for another round of shopping for your essentials and budols? Lucky for you, you can shop without breaking the bank during Shopee’s 2.2 Free Shipping Sale. Prepare for five exciting days of Free Shipping with P0 minimum spend, P1 Flash Deals, and 10% off vouchers daily, as you shop for your stay-at-home needs from January 30 Payday Sale until February 3.

Shopee 2.2 Free Shipping Sale
Shopee 2.2 Free Shipping Sale

Score Free Shipping, Daily Midnight Sales, and Non-Stop Rush Hour Sales

This 2.2 Free Shipping Sale, make the most of the sitewide Free Shipping vouchers with P0 minimum spend for all your needs. On February 2, you can claim free shipping vouchers hourly and have all your home essentials shipped to your house safely without worrying about shipping fees.

For those eager to score the hottest deals at the lowest prices, check out Daily Midnight Sales from 12MN to 2AM from January 30 Payday Sale until February 3. Be one of the first to claim midnight vouchers, and exclusive deals from a wide range of brands and sellers.

If you’re an avid shopper who can sneak in checkouts during school and work breaks, then the Rush Hour Sales are made for you. Early birds can shop during the Big Morning Sale from 8AM to 10AM. If you’re taking your lunch break then check out the Big Lunchtime Sale from 12NN to 2PM. For those who thrive on last-minute shopping sprees, then the Last 3 Hours Sale from 9PM to 12MN is perfect for you. With each Rush Hour, expect limited-time vouchers and deals at irresistible prices to make your purchase rewarding.

Planning how to maximize the five-day sale this 2.2? Keep some of these incredible deals in mind:

Philips Vacuum
Philips Vacuum

For most, a clean home can help bring peace of mind. With the Philips FC9351/0 Vacuum, you get ultra-strong suction that takes care of all your dust and dirt problems so you can lounge around more comfortably.

Apple iPhone 13
Apple iPhone 13

For most of the day, your phone will be pretty much attached to you whatever you do and wherever you are at home. It’s time to upgrade your most prized gadget to the hottest one in the market, the iPhone 13. This 5G phone is powered by a super-fast A15 bionic chip that takes all your downloads, photos and video streaming to the next level.

Kyowa Dish Sterilizer
Kyowa Dish Sterilizer

Be extra careful that the dishes you use are clean and have no specks of food and bacteria that can harm your loved ones. With the Kyowa Dish Sterilizer, you’ll be serving your signature recipes in clean, sterile, and dry dishes.

Find Low Prices on Home Essentials this 2.2 Free Shipping Sale

Are you a bargain hunter on the prowl for the best deals for your home? Then check the Big Price Drop Sale on February 2, 6PM to 8PM for deals P222 and below. You’ll also find even more exciting low prices when you Add To Cart this January 31.

For home staples, check out these items below:

Lysol Disinfectant Spray Triple Pack
Lysol Disinfectant Spray Triple Pack

Being extra careful now goes a long way in protecting your family. With the Lysol Disinfectant Spray, you’re sure that the surface and air you breathe at home is free from harmful fungi, viruses, and bacteria. Apart from keeping your space clean, this also eliminates unpleasant odors, replacing them with a fresh, relaxing berry scent.

KF94 Face Mask
KF94 Face Mask

For a good quality mask that you can rely on, the Health Guard KF94 Face Mask is a must-buy. With 4 layers of thickness, this mask effectively filters disease-causing viruses so you can stay protected while on the go.

Memory Pillow
Memory Pillow

Say goodbye to restless nights and hello to sweet dreams when you get the Angbon Memory Pillow. Made from 100% rebound material, this soft memory foam pillow is designed to support your head and neck, relieving pressure points for a more comfortable slumber.

To enjoy 5-days of Free Shipping with P0 minimum. spend, P1 Flash Deals and 10% off vouchers daily, make sure to visit: https://shopee.ph/m/22

To enjoy more discounts on your purchases, use ShopeePay, Shopee’s all-in-one e-wallet where you can buy load, pay bills, send money, and scan to pay at thousands of partner merchants nationwide. This 2.2 Free Shipping Sale, enjoy more free shipping vouchers at P0 minimum spend, exclusively with ShopeePay.

This 2.2, you can also get up to 50% cashback on your monthly bills from participating billers such as Meralco, Maynilad, PLDT, Globe, Smart, Manila Water, and Converge. If you need to stock up on groceries or home necessities, get big savings with P1 Deals via ‘ShopeePay Near Me’ on the Shopee app. Redeem your discounts by paying with ShopeePay at partner merchants such as Puregold, National Bookstore, Ultra Mega, Metro Department Store & Supermarket,  FamilyMart, and many more.

With ShopeePay, you can also enjoy free transfers to any bank or any Shopee user. Until February 3, get a chance to win P110,000 when you send at least P1 to any Shopee user, or if it is your first time to send money with ShopeePay. Additionally, you can also cash in for free via InstaPay; get up to P25 cashback on your InstaPay fee when you cash in.

Activate and cash in your ShopeePay wallet for safe, cashless payments.

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

Follow #TeamOutofTown, on FacebookTwitterInstagramBloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel updates.

Read: Top 10 Items To Help You Fulfill Your 2022 New Year’s Resolutions

Original article: Shopee gives you five days of deals and discounts this 2.2 Free Shipping Sale

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Shopee gives you five days of deals and discounts this 2.2 Free Shipping Sale
Team Out of Town
Out of Town Blog

DOT: Philippines to accept fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries starting Feb. 10 January 27, 2022 at 09:21PM

Out of Town Blog
DOT: Philippines to accept fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries starting Feb. 10

fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – The Philippines will start to accept fully-vaccinated foreign leisure travelers from visa-free countries beginning February 10.

Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat made the announcement today January 28 (Friday) after the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) approved the proposal of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries
fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries

“We at the DOT are very thankful to our partners in the IATF-EID for approving our proposal to allow the entry of foreign leisure travelers. The Department sees this as a welcome development that will contribute significantly to job restoration, primarily in tourism-dependent communities, and in the reopening of businesses that have earlier shut down during the pandemic,’’ Puyat said.

“With years of coordination between national agencies, industry stakeholders, and the various local government units (LGUs) to prepare our destinations for tourism in the new normal, we are confident that we will be able to keep pace with our ASEAN neighbors who have already made similar strides to reopen to foreign tourists,” added the tourism chief.

Puyat clarified that the recent IATF-EID decision will cover only leisure travelers from countries whose nationals are allowed visa-free entry to the Philippines.

It can be recalled that last year, the IATF-EID approved the entry of fully vaccinated tourists from Green List countries/territories/jurisdictions starting Dec. 1, 2021, but was temporarily suspended due to the omicron variant.

Earlier today, the IATF-EID announced the suspension of the country classification system starting Feb. 1, 2022. Also starting Feb. 1, fully-vaccinated returning overseas Filipinos will no longer be required to undergo quarantine as long as they are able to present a negative result of an RT-PCR test taken 48 hours prior to departure from point of origin.

Likewise, starting Feb. 10 and upon consultation with health experts, qualified leisure travelers will also no longer be required to undergo quarantine as long as they are able to present a negative result of an RT-PCR test taken 48 hours prior to departure from point of origin.”

“We are also aware that there is no room for complacency given the unpredictability of the virus. We will closely monitor the situation and ensure that health and safety protocols are strictly implemented in all tourism establishments,” Puyat noted.

Based on the IATF-EID guidelines, leisure travelers from visa-free countries will be allowed to enter the country, provided that their passports are valid for at least six months at the time of arrival, and they possess outbound tickets to their country of origin or next country of destination.

Leisure visitors must also carry proof of vaccination against COVID-19 that are recognized by the IATF-EID. They include certificates of vaccination issued by the World Health Organization (WHO), VaxCertPH of the Department of Health (available at https://vaxcert.doh.gov.ph), and a national/ state digital certificate of a foreign government which has accepted VaxCertPH under a reciprocal arrangement unless otherwise permitted by the IATF.

The list of countries whose nationals are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa are those listed under EO 408 and can be found in this link: https://dfa.gov.ph/list-of-countries-for-21-day-visa

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Read:

DOT Clarifies Travel Guidelines For NCR Residents Under Alert Level 4

Original article: DOT: Philippines to accept fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries starting Feb. 10

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

DOT: Philippines to accept fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries starting Feb. 10
Team Out of Town
Out of Town Blog

Free limited-edition, acrylic bottle with your next FamilyMart purchase January 27, 2022 at 03:59PM

Out of Town Blog
Free limited-edition, acrylic bottle with your next FamilyMart purchase

FamilyMart is giving away this limited-edition Kohi-san acrylic bottle for free until the end of January.

How to get a Free FamilyMart acrylic bottle

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – The local franchise of Japanese convenience store brand, FamilyMart, is giving away free acrylic bottles for a minimum of Php 2,000 worth of products purchased at its Metro Manila stores.

FamilyMart is giving away this limited-edition Kohi-san acrylic bottle for free until the end of January.
FamilyMart is giving away this limited-edition Kohi-san acrylic bottle for free until the end of January.

Featuring Kohi-san, an original FamilyMart brand character, the limited edition bottle is available for redemption until January 31 at any of the 48 FamilyMart stores in the metro. It can be filled with water, milk, and other beverages, hot or cold.

“For the past years, FamilyMart has been actively improving its offerings and building better customer experience to be able to delight them beyond the typical convenience store transactions. Hence, in line with our goal of providing products and services at the best value, we are gifting our loyal customers with branded, limited-edition FamilyMart merchandise,” FamilyMart General Manager Celina Matias said.

Last year, FamilyMart offered limited-edition merchandise such as umbrellas and face masks featuring all the brands’ characters. The initiative was part of the company’s strategy to build a stronger relationship with its customers through a value-added brand experience.

True to its Japanese roots, the brand also started its own comics series regularly published on its official Facebook page, showcasing slice-of-life and daily routine depictions of FamilyMart characters.

About FamilyMart

The FamilyMart Company, Ltd. is a Japanese convenience store franchise chain. FamilyMart is Japan’s second-largest convenience store chain, behind 7-Eleven. There are now 24,574 stores worldwide in Japan, Taiwan, China, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Its headquarters is on the 17th floor of the Sunshine 60 building in Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo. There are some stores in Japan with the name Circle K Sunkus under the operation of FamilyMart.

Follow #TeamOutofTown, on FacebookTwitterInstagramBloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel updates.

Read: FamilyMart Arrives In Davao

Original article: Free limited-edition, acrylic bottle with your next FamilyMart purchase

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Free limited-edition, acrylic bottle with your next FamilyMart purchase
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup January 24, 2022 at 10:14PM

Out of Town Blog
BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup

2022 Busuanga Cup

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – The Bank of the Philippine Islands, through its Asset Management and Trust Corp., has teamed up with the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation (Phinsaf) to present this year’s edition of the Busuanga Cup, one of the country’s top and most exciting sailing tournaments, from Feb 17-22.

Now on its 6th edition, it includes the 135-nautical mile Nasugbu coast to Busuanga race, the Doni Altura Memorial Cup in Busuanga, and the Linapacan Rally around the Calamian Island Group.

BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup
BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup

There will be four boats taking part in the annual event—the IRC Racing Class, IRC Cruising Class, Cruising Class, and accompanying powerboats.

Fierce competition can be expected with many boats returning, including the Subic-based Beneteau First 36.7, Selma Star helmed by Jun Avecilla, which won overall in 2019 and 2021. Also competing is race record holder Bellatrix, an Ice 52 captained by Jun Villanueva, which won line honors in 2020.

2022 Busuanga Cup
2022 Busuanga Cup

Inter-club competition will be exciting as boats from the yacht clubs of Puerto Galera, Punta Fuego, Manila, Subic Bay, and the Lighthouse-based Subic Sailing join the fray.

There are no foreign entries due to the Covid travel restrictions, but an international fleet is expected to take part in 2023.

“The Philippines is an undiscovered paradise for sailing, as it is an environment-friendly sport and is safe even during a pandemic. With thousands of beautiful islands, friendly people, moderate wind, and seas, sailing has the potential to put the archipelago on the map as the world’s best,” says Phinsaf director Monchu Garcia.

Busuanga Cup 2022
Busuanga Cup 2022

In recent years, Phinsaf has been organizing sailing tournaments in cooperation with the Department of Tourism to help promote the country as a sports tourism hub.

The event fires off from Club Punta Fuego on Feb. 17, which will take an overnight race to Black Island at northwest Busuanga. Boats will anchor at Marina Del Sol Yacht Club in Busuanga Bay, with additional races around the picturesque islands the next day.

An open-air awarding takes place at Marina del Sol Resort, where the Doni Altura Perpetual Trophy will be awarded to the overall Racing Class winner and trophies and prizes to the class winners.

Social activities will be limited, and participants are required to be fully vaccinated and to take an antigen test 24 hours before the start of the races at Club Punta Fuego. Participants staying ashore in Busuanga will be required to take a new test upon arrival, as arranged by the Busuanga municipal government, supporting the event again.

Doni Altura Cup Winner 2020 and 2021 Selmar Star
Doni Altura Cup Winner 2020 and 2021 Selmar Star

The Linapacan Rally kicks off after the races, where boats take a 3-day cruise exploring the islands of Northern Palawan. In 2021, the boats circumnavigated Culion and sailed around nearby islands.

The Rally wraps up on Feb. 22 when boats return to Busuanga Bay. As in previous races, the start and finish boat and safety communications boat will be Broadwater Marine’s Lost in Asia, skippered by owner Peter Baird, a long-time supporter of the boating industry.

Protocols of the Inter-Agency Task Force and the DOT will be enforced to ensure the safety and health of participants during the event.

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Read: Resort Review: Busuanga Bay Lodge In Palawan

Original article: BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

DOT supports ‘Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites’ rollout in Baguio City January 25, 2022 at 08:59PM

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DOT supports ‘Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites’ rollout in Baguio City

Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat in her opening remarks said that aside from Baguio City residents, visitors or tourists may also obtain their booster COVID-19 shots at the Watson’s Pharmacy in SM Baguio and at the drive-thru vaccination site located at the Baguio Athletic Bowl

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said Wednesday (Jan. 26) that the “Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites” initiative of the national government would greatly contribute to the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) preparations for the country’s eventual reopening by ensuring that tourism workers and tourists are protected against Covid-19.

Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat in her opening remarks said that aside from Baguio City residents, visitors or tourists may also obtain their booster COVID-19 shots at the Watson’s Pharmacy in SM Baguio and at the drive-thru vaccination site located at the Baguio Athletic Bowl
Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat in her opening remarks said that aside from Baguio City residents, visitors or tourists may also obtain their booster COVID-19 shots at the Watson’s Pharmacy in SM Baguio and at the drive-thru vaccination site located at the Baguio Athletic Bowl

Puyat joined Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, National Task Force Against Covid-19 (NTF) Deputy Chief Implementer and Testing Czar Secretary Vince Dizon, Congressman Mark Go, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong during the launch of the program in the country’s summer capital.

“Now that we are battling an Omicron surge, we are trying to get ahead of it outside NCR by making booster shots as convenient as possible for everyone. There is no longer a need to join a long queue at a centralized vaccination site. Just come by the participating pharmacies like Watsons or Mercury Drugstore and get a free booster shot while you buy your necessities,” Puyat said.

L-R: NTF Deputy Chief Implementer and Testing Czar Secretary Vince Dizon, Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong, Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, and Congressman Mark Go witness the booster vaccination rollout during the launch of the program in Baguio City
L-R: NTF Deputy Chief Implementer and Testing Czar Secretary Vince Dizon, Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong, Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, and Congressman Mark Go witness the booster vaccination rollout during the launch of the program in Baguio City

“We look forward to seeing this initiative implemented in other parts of the country in the coming weeks,” she added.

The launch took place in Baguio City Convention Center, where the secretaries also led the turnover of COVID-19 response logistics to the Baguio City Government, then proceeded to the Watson’s Pharmacy in SM Baguio and the drive-thru vaccination site located at the Baguio Athletic Bowl where the vaccine rollout commenced.

Aside from its residents, tourists visiting Baguio City may also obtain their COVID-19 booster shots at Watson’s Pharmacy and Mercury Drug, and both vaccination and booster shots at the Baguio Athletic Bowl.

Vehicles queue up at the drive-thru vaccination site located at the Baguio Athletic Bowl
Vehicles queue up at the drive-thru vaccination site located at the Baguio Athletic Bowl

Puyat also commended Mayor Magalong and Baguio City officials for their successful efforts to vaccinate the city’s residents, particularly its tourism workers. “Congratulations for your hard work in protecting the lifeblood of our industry,” enthused the tourism chief.

So far, Baguio City has vaccinated 100 percent of its tourism staff in hotels and other tourism-related enterprises, covering a total of 10,305 workers. Meanwhile, as of 21 January 2022, 97% percent of Baguio City’s eligible adult population of 281,000 have been fully vaccinated.

Baguio City is open to visitors but guests shall be required to present a negative result of an RT-PCR test or a rapid antigen test conducted within 72 hours and 24 hours prior to arrival, respectively.

Travel companions who are 12 to 17 years old are also covered by the same requirement, with the option to undergo testing procedures once in the city.

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Read: DOT To Hold 2-Day Conference On English As Second Language (ESL)

Original article: DOT supports ‘Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites’ rollout in Baguio City

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

DOT supports ‘Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites’ rollout in Baguio City
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

9 Items to Help You Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger January 25, 2022 at 07:33PM

Out of Town Blog
9 Items to Help You Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger

Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger

Attract luck in love, good health, and success in business and career as you welcome the Lunar New Year with these items on Shopee

Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger
Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com)  – The Lunar New Year gives us another shot at a fresh start. With the hope and excitement that the Year of the Water Tiger brings, it could be the year of transformation we all need. For those born in the Year of the Tiger, it’s a year for making big changes, risk-taking, and new adventures. Whatever your zodiac sign is and whether you can expect good fortune in love, health, or wealth, equip yourself with these items on Shopee to boost your abundance and prosperity:

Luck in Love: Year of the Snake, Sheep, and Rabbit

Luck in Love for Year of the Snake, Sheep, Rabbit
Luck in Love for Year of the Snake, Sheep, Rabbit

For those born in the Year of the Snake, Sheep, and Rabbit, prepare to make strides in your love life! This year has opportunities for you to meet the right one or make your current relationship flourish.

If you’re single, it’s time to put yourself out there and meet new people. Turn heads with your youthful glow by trying Olay’s Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream + White Radiance Essence Dropper. This power duo formulation has Carob fruit extract and amino-peptide complex to give you plump and radiant skin. For those already in love, make your significant other fall for you even more with a Mikana 18k Rose Gold Plated Bangle Bracelet. The piece is a perfect gift for any occasion, even for spontaneous surprises for when your partner least expects it. Flaunt your couple status with matching INSPI Oversized Shirts, which come in a variety of sizes and colors. These closet staples aren’t just versatile, but also extremely comfy.

Good Health: Year of the Dragon, Dog, Rat, and Ox

Good Health for Dragon, Dog, Rat, Ox
Good Health for Dragon, Dog, Rat, Ox

Those whose sign falls on the Year of the Dragon, Dog, Rat, and Ox can thrive this new year while making strides in their overall health and wellness. Achieving a sound mind and body starts with the commitment to your daily fitness goals and ample rest and relaxation.

Start each day with Vicks Immune Defense Multivitamins, packed with Vitamin C to boost the immune system, Vitamin D3 to fight against infections, and Zinc to protect against cell damage. Focus on keeping your body in tip-top shape with the Kemilng M7 PLUS Electric Treadmill Foldable Machine. This is a must-have for your home workouts, which you should squeeze into your day no matter how busy it gets. When you need to unwind and de-stress, soothe your muscles using the HAN RIVER Massage Gun. Spend a few minutes with this to relieve tension, improve blood circulation, and boost your overall mood.

Success in Business and Career: Year of the Horse, Monkey, Rooster, Pig, and Tiger

Success in Business and Career for Horse, Monkey, Rooster, Pig, Tiger
Success in Business and Career for Horse, Monkey, Rooster, Pig, Tiger

Despite the optimistic fortune for those in the Year of the Horse, Monkey, Rooster, Pig, and Tiger, it won’t hurt to be extra careful in making big financial decisions and career moves. Hard workers can look forward to fruitful career milestones, along with growth and investment opportunities if things fall into place this Year of the Water-Tiger.

Maximize your productivity and efficiency with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, an on-the-go device that lets you stay on top of your work, side hustles, and money matters. Track all your to-do lists and jot down all your business ideas and important notes on the simple and straightforward The Everyday Classic Planner. Have the best of both worlds by enjoying the functionality of a gadget and the memory retention of classic notetaking. Lastly, stay comfortable through the long working hours by getting a home office essential like the Headrest Tiltable Mesh Home Office Chair.

No matter what zodiac sign, you can have a seamless, rewarding online experience this Year of the Water Tiger with ShopeePay, Shopee’s all-in-one e-wallet. Score exclusive deals and discounts when you buy load, pay bills, and scan to pay at thousands of merchants nationwide. Get up to 10% off on load across all networks and up to 25% cashback on your monthly bills from over 60 billers. For food and essentials, get big savings when you avail of P1 Deals via “ShopeePay Near Me” and redeem your discounts when you pay via ShopeePay at their physical stores.

Say goodbye to sneaky transaction fees, and enjoy free transfers to any bank and any Shopee user with ShopeePay! Withdraw money to your bank account, or send money to your friends and family to their ShopeePay wallet or bank account. Transferring money with ShopeePay is instant and available 24/7. You can also get up to P25 cashback on your transfer fee when you cash into ShopeePay via InstaPay; on your InstaPay fee. Enjoy these exclusive deals and more when you activate your ShopeePay, for a rewarding and cashless experience.

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

Follow #TeamOutofTown, on FacebookTwitterInstagramBloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel and online shopping ideas.

Read: Usher in good luck this holiday season with Prosperity Pancit

Original article: 9 Items to Help You Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

9 Items to Help You Prosper this Year of the Water Tiger
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol January 25, 2022 at 07:21PM

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The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol

The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – Staying true to its commitment in the midst of crisis, The Bellevue Resort in Bohol has been taking the lead to extend assistance to communities affected by supertyphoon Odette in the province.

The five-star resort in Panglao Island advocates for hospitality service by helping people in the community by inspiring and mobilizing support.

The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol
The Bellevue Resort relief operations in Bohol

The Bellevue led initiatives and donation drives to raise funds to deliver aid to the remote victims, organizing relief operations and mobilizing volunteers to extend immediate assistance in disaster-affected areas. Its relief operations helped respond to thousands of families in need which was made possible with its partners, donors, and volunteers.

Typhoon Odette caused massive devastation, which affected the water and power supply in Bohol. The Bellevue Group donated solar-powered lamps and provided clean water to Panglao residents to help them meet the basic necessities as they started to rebuild their lives.

The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol
The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol

“We would like to extend our gratitude to those who helped and contributed to the recovery efforts, like actress Gabbi Garcia, actor Khalil Ramos, the Bohol External Resources Facilitation Unit known as Hugop Bohol, and to all those who donated and tirelessly helped. These relief operations uphold solidarity and philanthropic spirit amid great adversity,” says The Bellevue Resort managing director Dustin Chan.

Since its opening in 2013, the luxury eco-friendly resort has been spearheading corporate social responsibility projects and sustainable tourism initiatives which benefit the local community.

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Read:

Original article: The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL) January 25, 2022 at 12:07AM

Out of Town Blog
DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL)

DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL)

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (Outoftownblog.com) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) strengthens its promotion of the country through the 2nd Hybrid Philippine Education Tourism Conference (PETC) happening from January 26-27, 2022 in Clark, Pampanga.

Led by the DOT through its Office of Product and Market Development (OPMD), the two-day conference aims to further develop English as Second Language (ESL) which is considered as the country’s key education tourism product being promoted by OPMD since 2013.

DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL)
DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL)

“Among the biggest challenges we face today is how to effectively provide students with their learning requirements. Because of the pandemic, teachers, students, and schools had to shift quickly to digital forms of instruction. Despite this difficult educational environment, we have to continue equipping our students with the necessary skills to succeed in an unpredictable world, which requires innovation and a strong support network. As such, the Department of Tourism will continue to conduct activities that will further the growth of the education tourism industry and assist our stakeholders,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, who is set to open the event on January 26.

Puyat also shared that prior to the pandemic, the Philippines was considered the world’s fifth-largest ESL provider.

To enhance the country’s position not only as an ESL hub but also as a multi-faceted education tourism destination, the PETC will showcase to both local and foreign students short-term online and offline education tourism programs that are being offered by institutions in the Philippines in the new normal.

The event will also invite local and foreign education tourism authorities to share their expertise on marketing strategies that will help local institutions make their offerings more appealing to foreign students. Invited experts will tackle topics that are relevant to stakeholders such as international mobility, the latest education requirements for foreign students, and best practices of neighboring countries that local institutions can adopt to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic.

Another major component of the PETC will be the virtual business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) networking activities slated on January 28, which aim to provide opportunities for stakeholders and key players to renew or forge new partnerships and exchange ideas and education trends.

The first-ever PETC was first organized by the DOT in July 2019 at the Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. The two-day event was attended by over 350 participants from ESL schools, colleges, universities, associations, and government agencies.

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Read: Eco-Friendly Millennial Resorts Pave The Way To Sustainability In Batangas

Original article: DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL)

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

DOT to hold 2-day conference on English as Second Language (ESL)
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Monday, January 24, 2022

Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award January 23, 2022 at 11:43PM

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Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award

Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award

Quest Plus Conference Center Clark received the prestigious ASEAN MICE Venue Award for its iconic Magellan Grand Ballroom last January 19 at the 2022 ASEAN Tourism Awards held in Preah Sihanoukville, Cambodia. This recognition is awarded to tourism establishments that have met the internationally recognized ASEAN MICE Venue Standards for meetings and exhibition venues.

Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award
Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award.

Quest Plus has 304 rooms and villas located in the heart of Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City inside Clark Freeport Zone. With its Culture of Clean in place and signature Filipino hospitality, the hotel is a favorite destination for both leisure and business travelers. In its five years of operation, Quest Plus Clark has hosted major international events such as the 2017 ASEAN Summit, the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, and the first sports bubble for the 2020 PBA Philippine Cup.

Other Philippine hotels and cities have also been awarded during the event for their commitment to upholding the highest standards in tourism. “This recognition of our local cities and hotels and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Convention, and Exhibition) venues not only serves as a testament to the Philippines’s commitment to upholding the best tourism standards, but it also mirrors the strong Bayanihan spirit we have exhibited to overcome this crisis,” shared Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat in a statement.

For more information on Quest Plus Clark, visit www.questhotelsandresorts.com/clark or email clarkrsvno1@questhotelsandresorts.com.

ABOUT CHROMA HOSPITALITY

Chroma Hospitality, Inc. is a young, forward-thinking company crafting bold, innovative hospitality brands. Owned by Filinvest Hospitality Corporation, Chroma is the management company behind Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, Cebu, Quest Hotel and Conference Center in Cebu City, Quest Plus and Conference Center in Clark, Pampanga, Quest Hotel Tagaytay, and Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay. For more information, please visit http://chromahospitality.com/.

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Read: Philippine Cities, Hotels Bag ASEAN Tourism Awards

Original article: Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award

©2022 Out of Town Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Quest Plus Clark wins at ASEAN Tourism Award
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog