Thursday, September 30, 2021

Make the Smart move to the country’s fastest 5G network via MNP September 29, 2021 at 09:27PM

Out of Town Blog
Make the Smart move to the country’s fastest 5G network via MNP

Smart Move - Anne Curtis

Switch to Smart without changing your number through MNP

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (www.outoftownblog.com) – Switching to the country’s fastest and most reliable mobile network without having to change your number is now possible as Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) launches its Mobile Number Portability (MNP) capability starting today, Sept. 30.

Smart Move - Hidilyn Diaz
Smart Move – Hidilyn Diaz

MNP, which is covered by the MNP Act or RA 11202, enables Filipinos to retain their mobile number even when they change service providers, giving them greater freedom to choose the best network and services that suit their needs. Under MNP, customers may also switch their prepaid account to a postpaid plan and vice-versa without replacing their mobile number.

Make the Smart move now

To switch to the Smart network, a mobile user must first secure a Unique Subscriber Code from his or her originating provider to serve as clearance, and bring it to the nearest Smart Store along with a valid ID and any proof of mobile ownership. From there, Smart shall begin processing the MNP application without any charges. To know more about making the Smart move, mobile users may also visit x.smart/switch or head to the nearest Smart Store.

“MNP enables more mobile users to finally make the Smart move and experience the country’s fastest mobile data network without the hassles that go with changing one’s mobile number – from having to import contacts and inform your circles, to relinking digital subscriptions and e-wallets,” said Jane J. Basas, SVP and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.

“It is also a game-changer for the telco industry because it pushes us to improve and raise the bar on our services, which we at Smart have been constantly doing with our aggressive network improvement efforts and 5G rollout.”

Philippines’ Fastest 5G Network

Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, has recognized these efforts in a new report declaring Smart as the country’s most reliable 5G mobile operator*.

To clinch the award, Smart obtained the highest scores in 5G Consistency and 5G Availability based on Speedtest Intelligence data in Q2 2021. 5G Consistency is calculated based on the percentage of a provider’s users that meet minimum download and upload speeds. On the other hand, 5G Availability identifies the network whose users spend the highest percentage of their time on 5G.

Smart topped 5G Consistency with a score of 89.78 percent versus Globe’s 78.15 percent. Smart also led when it comes to 5G Availability with a score of 14.67 percent versus Globe’s 11.86 percent.

Prior to this, Ookla has also cited Smart as the Philippines’ Fastest 5G Mobile Network in Q1-Q2 2021**, with median download and upload speeds that are twice as fast as its closest rival. The firm has also declared Smart as the Philippines’ fastest mobile network for four years in a row now.

“These awards only reinforce the superior customer experience we offer our subscribers. These also inspire us to keep getting better and faster so our customers can live the Giga Life and pursue their passions in our increasingly digitized world,” said Basas.

Since it launched the country’s first commercial 5G service in July last year, Smart has now fired up over 4,000 5G sites in more than 3,000 locations across the nation, making it the Philippines’ first, fastest, and widest 5G network.

Innovative services for subscribers

Beyond providing fast mobile connectivity, Smart also constantly dishes out innovative services to stay ahead of subscribers’ needs.

Those who wish to switch to a Smart Postpaid may sign up for the new Signature Plans+ starting at P999 per month, and enjoy the first postpaid lineup in the country featuring Unli 5G access plus Unli Calls & Texts to All Networks, Unli Calls to All Landline Numbers and a 12-month mobile subscription to Netflix.

Smart Move - Anne Curtis
Smart Move – Anne Curtis

On the other hand, new Prepaid subscribers will enjoy Giga Hello data, call, and text freebies to keep them connected from the get-go. Smart Prepaid subscribers can also enjoy unlimited access to their favorite apps with Unli GIGA offers, while TNT customers can enjoy Double GIGA Video which comes with 14 GB for more streaming on YouTube, iWantTFC, CignalPlay, and GigaPlay plus 2 GB for all sites and apps valid for 7 days.

Smart also enables all subscribers to conveniently manage their digital lifestyle with the GigaLife App, an innovative one-stop app that allows subscribers to check their account details, monitor their subscriptions and usage, and buy promos from a comprehensive list of offers to suit every lifestyle. Subscribers may also conveniently transact on the GigaLife App using GigaPay as well as earn and accumulate GigaPoints that may be exchanged for exclusive rewards, lifestyle perks, and awesome experiences.

Make the Smart move now! Visit x.smart/switch or head to the nearest Smart Store to know more.

*Most Reliable 5G Mobile Network based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® 5G Availability and 5G Consistency data in Philippines Q2 2021. Ookla trademarks are used under license and reprinted with permission.

**Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for Q1–Q2 2021. Ookla trademarks are used under license and reprinted with permission.

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Make the Smart move to the country’s fastest 5G network via MNP
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Smart pioneers Unli 5G postpaid offers with new Signature Plans+ September 29, 2021 at 05:55AM

Out of Town Blog
Smart pioneers Unli 5G postpaid offers with new Signature Plans+

Smart pioneers Unli 5G postpaid offers with new Signature Plans+

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (www.outoftownblog.com) –  Leading mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continues to set the pace for 5G in the Philippines as it launches the Signature Plans+, the first and only postpaid line-up in the country that features Unli 5G access for subscribers.

Aside from Unli 5G access, the groundbreaking Signature Plans+ also come with other unlimited features for a truly worry-free postpaid experience. These include Unli Calls & Texts to All Networks, Unli Calls to All Landline Numbers, plus 12-month Netflix Mobile Plan subscription for unlimited enjoyment of thousands of award-winning shows, series, and more.

Smart pioneers Unli 5G postpaid offers with new Signature Plans+
Smart pioneers Unli 5G postpaid offers with new Signature Plans+

The launch of the Signature Plans+ comes on the heels of Smart’s latest recognition from Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, as the ‘Most Reliable 5G Mobile Operator in the Philippines.’* To clinch this award, Smart obtained the highest scores for 5G Consistency and 5G Availability in the country.

Ookla has also recently cited Smart as the Fastest 5G Mobile Network in the Philippines for Q1-Q2 2021,** with a Speed Score of 204.81 – twice the score of its closest rival – using real-world tests by subscribers.

Unlock unlimited possibilities with Unli 5G

“Our Signature Plan+ offers are in line with our strategic efforts to bring the game-changing benefits of Smart 5G to more Filipinos,” said Jane J. Basas, SVP and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.

“Speed has always been vital in our increasingly digital world, and we believe that by offering an Unli 5G experience on our fastest 5G network we are enabling you to realize unlimited possibilities in your careers and passions. We’ve designed the Signature Plans+ to be simply unlimited for the unlimited you,” she added.

With Unli 5G on the Smart Signature Plans+, subscribers can upload and download heavy work files in seconds, make crystal-clear video calls, and stream virtual seminars and classes seamlessly. Customers can also post and share their passions with the rest of the world faster and immerse in their choice of entertainment with seamless streaming and lag-free gaming anytime and anywhere.

The unlimited features of Signature Plans+ also make sure subscribers are worry-free especially when it comes to getting in touch with loved ones, checking in with friends and colleagues at work or business, as well as making important landline calls when necessary.

Enjoy simply unlimited plans starting at Php999 per month

Signature Plans+ come in four SIM-Only plans, which are all packed with bigger and better data allocation.

For Plan XL+ at Php2,499 per month, subscribers can get true Unlimited 5G & 4G data throughout their contract.

For the other plans, subscribers get Unlimited 5G data for six months plus big data allocations — Plan S+ (Php999 per month) with 20GB, Plan M+ (Php1,499 per month) with 40GB, and Plan L+ (Php1,999) with 60GB.

On top of that, all these postpaid plans are packed with Unlimited Calls & Texts to All Networks, Unlimited Landline Calls to All Networks, and a Netflix Mobile Plan subscription.

Smart will also soon provide options to pair Signature Plans+ with 5G devices through its partnerships with leading smartphone makers, including Apple, Huawei, OPPO, realme, Samsung, vivo, and Xiaomi, among others.

Smart Signature subscribers are also able to conveniently manage their digital life using the GigaLife App, a one-stop app that enables them to check their account details, monitor their subscription, as well as earn and accumulate GigaPoints for exclusive rewards and perks.

Make the Smart move now

The launch of Signature Plans+ reinforces Smart’s position as the pioneer of 5G in the Philippines. To date, Smart has fired up over 4,000 5G sites in more than 3,000 strategic locations across the nation, making it the first, fastest, and widest 5G network in the country.

Customers can apply for the new Signature Plans+ at all Smart Stores nationwide. There’s also no better time than now to switch and make the Smart move without changing your number through the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) facility. To know more about MNP, visit x.smart/switch.

You can also know the perfect Signature Plans+ offer that suits your unlimited lifestyle on the GigaLife App and at www.smart.com.ph/Signature.

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Smart pioneers Unli 5G postpaid offers with new Signature Plans+
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

28 inspiring beauties flaunt their #StrongerQueenWithin at Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Coronation Night, powered by PLDT Home September 25, 2021 at 05:24AM

Out of Town Blog
28 inspiring beauties flaunt their #StrongerQueenWithin at Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Coronation Night, powered by PLDT Home

PLDT Home powers Miss Universe Philippines 2021 coronation night. “Together, we continue to inspire and power Filipinas to be a #StrongerQueenWithin,” said Shamcey Supsup-Lee, MUP national director. (Photo credit: Shamcey Supsup-Lee)

Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Coronation Night

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (www.outoftownblog.com) – As the official broadband partner of Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) 2021, PLDT Home reignites its commitment in powering young Filipina queens on their quest to become an inspiration to the world.

The country’s leading telecommunications and digital services provider joins millions of Filipinos online this September 30 (Thursday), as 28 Miss Universe Philippines candidates get together at the Henann Resort Alona Beach, Bohol for the Grand Coronation night. What to expect: A showcase of beauty, talent, and heart that will altogether define what it means to be a #StrongerQueenWithin!

PLDT Home powers Miss Universe Philippines 2021 coronation night. “Together, we continue to inspire and power Filipinas to be a #StrongerQueenWithin,” said Shamcey Supsup-Lee, MUP national director. (Photo credit: Shamcey Supsup-Lee)
PLDT Home powers Miss Universe Philippines 2021 coronation night. “Together, we continue to inspire and power Filipinas to be a #StrongerQueenWithin,” said Shamcey Supsup-Lee, MUP national director. (Photo credit: Shamcey Supsup-Lee)

PLDT Home is coming off last year’s successful partnership with the much-anticipated local pageant, which then crowned Iloilo’s Rabiya Mateo as both Miss Universe Philippines and Miss PLDT Home.

Mateo, a top 21 finisher at the 69th Miss Universe Pageant in Hollywood, Florida last May, will also be present at the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 event to crown her Miss PLDT Home successor.

The Miss Universe Philippines 2021 coronation night will be streamed live via KTX on September 30, 7pm. It will be telecast via GMA 7 on October 3.

“We’re proud and delighted to have PLDT Home again as Miss Universe Philippines partner. We’re thankful for the brand joining and supporting our cause,” said MUP national director Shamcey Supsup-Lee.

“Together, we believe we can pave the way for queens to serve others and be an inspiration. Specifically, during this pandemic, it is through their strong and meaningful online connections that they become better, stronger, and more empowered women with a heart.”

The newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines will represent the Philippines in the international pageant, to be held in Eilat, Israel in December.

As MUP’s official broadcast partner, PLDT Home seeks to power our young queens through their life in the new normal. By building powerful digital connections that bridge them to the rest of the world, the brand is able to help these beautifully confident Filipinas in their different advocacies and causes.

Follow the journey of Miss Universe Philippines 2021 and join the conversation online using the hashtags #StrongerQueenWithin and #InspireYou. Get the latest updates about PLDT Home through its social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (@pldthome).

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28 inspiring beauties flaunt their #StrongerQueenWithin at Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Coronation Night, powered by PLDT Home
Team Out of Town
Out of Town Blog

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Shopee Debuts Kim Chiu as Brand Ambassador to Kick Off the 10.10 Brands Festival September 27, 2021 at 08:45PM

Out of Town Blog
Shopee Debuts Kim Chiu as Brand Ambassador to Kick Off the 10.10 Brands Festival

Shopee Debuts Kim Chiu as Brand Ambassador to Kick Off the 10.10 Brands Festival

Catch the Filipino actress’ new Shopee TV commercial and enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend, big brand giveaways, and up to P1,000 off brand vouchers at Shopee’s biggest brands sale of the year

 

Team Out of Town Blog Hub (www.outoftownblog.com) –  Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, introduces its newest brand ambassador, Kim Chiu, alongside the launch of the 10.10 Brands Festival, its biggest brands sale of the year. The famous actress, dubbed the Princess of Philippine Movies and TV, will feature in Shopee’s new TV commercial and many exciting in-app activities.

Shopee Debuts Kim Chiu as Brand Ambassador to Kick Off the 10.10 Brands Festival
Shopee Debuts Kim Chiu as Brand Ambassador to Kick Off the 10.10 Brands Festival

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Shopee Philippines is happy to welcome one of the country’s top entertainers into the Shopee family, Kim Chiu. Kim’s bubbly, charming personality and love for online shopping both resonate with millions of Filipinos who find joy and excitement on Shopee. This 10.10 Brands Festival, we hope to bring the best brand deals and so much more with our valued and trusted brand partners.”

Users can look forward to these from Shopee brand ambassador Kim Chiu:

  • Kim Chiu’s new Shopee TV commercial: Kim Chiu gives the viral “Proof of Delivery” trend her own spin. Fans can look out for the TV commercial on local TV networks and on Shopee’s official Facebook and YouTube accounts.
  • Kim Chiu for Shopee Prizes: Users can find Kim Chiu on in-app games such as Spin & Win and Guess It Right, which they can play to win rewards such as coins and vouchers.
  • Mini-games and contests with Kim Chiu: This October, users can join the #10BrandFaves contest featuring Kim Chiu for a chance to win 1,000 Shopee coins.

Fans can look forward to more Kim Chiu content such as behind-the-scenes videos on Shopee’s official YouTube and TikTok channels, and Kim Chiu-themed Instagram stickers. Users can also interact with the actress herself during her Twitter takeover on Shopee’s official Twitter account this October 9.

Shopee 10.10 Brands Festival

Until October 10, shoppers can enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend, big brand giveaways, and up to P1,000 off brand vouchers at Shopee’s 10.10 Brands Festival.

Lucky shoppers can win P430,000 worth of prizes, such as vouchers, bundles, newly launched items, and even a lifetime supply of products, from over 30 participating brands.

Shopee 10.10 Brands Festival
Shopee 10.10 Brands Festival
10.10 Shopee Big Brand Giveaways
10.10 Shopee Big Brand Giveaways

Leading up to 10.10, shoppers can also look forward to Nestle, Deerma, GoMO!, Lactum, Colgate Palmolive, Shigetsu, P&G Beauty, Garnier, and Belo Brand Days on Shopee Mall, where they can get discounts up to 80% off, branded items as low as P179, and a free gift with every purchase.

Starting October 1, shoppers can check out different themed sales on Shopee including the Groceries Fair on October 1, Fashion Fair on October 2-3, Mom & Baby Fair on October 4, Work From Home Fair on October 5, Gadgets and Gizmo Fair on October 6-7, and Beauty and Wellness Fair on October 8-9.

At the 10.10 Brands Festival, shoppers can use ShopeePay to buy load, pay bills, and scan to pay. They can activate their ShopeePay wallet and top up through online banking, debit card, and over-the-counter partners to get up to 50% discount on load from Globe, Smart, Sun, and TNT; 50% cashback from Maynilad, PLDT, and a growing list of partner billers; and ShopeePay P1 Deals from Puregold, Ultramega Supermarket, Potato Corner, and other partner merchants.

For more information, visit https://shopee.ph/.

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

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Shopee Debuts Kim Chiu as Brand Ambassador to Kick Off the 10.10 Brands Festival
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog