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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Google) |
In the Philippines’ dynamic digital environment, 'tiwala' or trust is paramount for brands seeking to engage consumers and drive results, according to Google. Recent IPSOS data found that Google and YouTube together are trusted by more people in the Philippines in their purchase journey than leading social media platforms. The data shows that this trust reflects the platforms’ reliability, consistent value delivery, and focus on substantial content that aids informed decision-making. Trust is significant, given the need for reliable information sources in a digital space often filled with fleeting content and inauthentic interactions. It also greatly helps Filipinos’ consumer journeys that Google Search and YouTube are easily present during the four key online behaviors: searching, streaming, scrolling, and shopping. According to the data, Google and/or YouTube are present in 75% of journeys where consumers in the Philippines said they discovered a new brand, product or retailer.
Because of this, Search and YouTube foster a trusted environment where businesses can build meaningful connections and achieve results, turning passive discovery into active discovery and actual purchases. Google’s data points to a few local companies that have successfully managed to utilize its tools. For example, UnionBank, a leading financial institution in the Philippines, tapped into this trusted environment where Filipinos actively seek information related to financial products. The bank was able to identify high-intent search queries and tailor ads to specific customer segments. Through this insight and in tandem with a cross-channel strategy, the bank was able to successfully almost double credit card approvals with a 90% higher approval rate compared to previous campaigns. They also leveraged Google AI to efficiently sustain the increased volume of credit card applications while remaining below the bank’s cost per acquisition target. Another case is that of CoCo Tea, a Filipino beverage company. The brand maximized the use of YouTube to connect with consumers, creating a successful comedic video campaign featuring the iconic broadcaster Ces Drilon that resonated with the local audience. Winning the YouTube Works Awards Best of Country in 2024, this campaign generated over 25 million views, and drove 50% sales growth.
These examples demonstrate the importance of aligning business strategies with platforms that Filipinos trust. By prioritizing genuine value and engaging content within Google and YouTube’s trusted digital spaces — and also impacting them during the purchase journey — businesses can achieve greater reach, efficient acquisition, and stronger brand resonance. They can unlock the true potential of the Filipino digital market, creating lasting relationships built on the confidence that drives purchasing decisions.
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OPPO Unveils Agentic AI Initiative At Google Cloud Next 2025, Showcasing Innovations And Leadership In AI Experiences
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| (Image Source: OPPO) |
OPPO articulated its strategic vision for Agentic AI at Google Cloud Next 2025, underscoring its strategy as a leader in AI experiences through in-house development and strategic collaboration with Google. OPPO Research Institute President Jason Liao stated, “OPPO’s focus has always been on the user, and our goal is very clear: to lead innovation in AI experience and provide the best experience. We are continuously enhancing AI experiences through strategic collaborations with partners like Google Cloud, aiming to deliver Agentic AI capabilities to OPPO users.”
At Google Cloud Next 2025, OPPO showcased AI Search, a powerful system-level AI tool in collaboration with Google Cloud, which empowers users to efficiently search and retrieve complex multimodal document information using natural language queries. Furthermore, OPPO highlighted its significant advancements and innovative features across AI Productivity, AI Creativity, and AI Imaging. Looking ahead, OPPO is actively exploring the next phase of Agentic AI experiences, with a focus on creating personalized and intelligent user experience. OPPO is developing a new user knowledge system to serve as a centralized repository for user data, addressing the challenge of information fragmentation on mobile devices. It is designed to learn and adapt from user activities, interests, data, and memories, to provide highly personalized AI experiences, driving progress towards a future vision of intelligent, AI-driven operating systems.
Earlier this year, OPPO announced its latest advancement in AI Security with the launch of Private Computing Cloud (PCC), which leverages Confidential Computing from Google Cloud. It provides a dedicated and secure environment, ensuring that AI data processing happens within a secure, isolated system with end-to-end encryption to keep all AI interactions private. Leveraging cutting-edge innovation and a steadfast commitment to enhancing user experience, OPPO is collaborating with key partners like Google Cloud to accelerate the development and adoption of AI technology, ultimately redefining the daily experience of AI across devices and services. By the end of 2025, OPPO aspires to empower nearly 100 million users worldwide to harness the transformative potential of OPPO AI.
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Globe’s Eco-Friendly SIMs Made From 100% Recycled Plastics Now Available To Prepaid Users
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| (Image Source: Daily Tribune/Globe Telecom) |
In a bold move towards sustainability, Globe Telecom is ramping up the use of eco-friendly SIMs, introducing the product to Globe Prepaid and TM customers. This innovation makes eco-friendly SIMs available to Globe’s entire mobile base with over 96% of mobile customers composed of Globe Prepaid and TM users. Globe previously launched eco-SIMs in 2022 for Postpaid users, becoming the first Philippine telco company to use recycled plastic for its simbeds. By transitioning from virgin plastic SIMs to SIMs made from 100% recycled plastic, Globe Prepaid and TM are taking a proactive stance in environmental responsibility. This shift aims to support United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) No. 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and No. 13 on Climate Action.
“Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. We continue to look for areas in the business where our practice leads to greater impact,” said Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto. Globe’s Head of Consumer Mobile Business Eric Tanbauco said, “The launch of our eco-SIMs is just one of the many ways Globe is working towards a greener Philippines, and we invite our customers to be part of this journey.” As sustainability becomes a key priority for consumers, Globe continues to integrate eco-friendly initiatives into its services. This move resonates deeply with today’s customers — especially Gen Z, who demand real action from brands on climate change. At the same time, TM remains the top choice for value-conscious consumers, proving that sustainability and affordability can go hand in hand. With TM, users can contribute to sustainability in small but impactful ways, without added costs. This ensures that customers can enjoy a consistent connection while making a positive difference for the planet.
Beyond eco-SIMs, Globe is continuously integrating green initiatives into its operations. These efforts include green network solutions, use of renewable energy, shift to electric vehicles, and other climate action strategies that help minimize environmental impact. Globe Prepaid and TM’s eco-SIMs will soon be available nationwide, making it easier for customers to participate in meaningful changes toward a more sustainable future. Through this initiative, Globe reaffirms its role as a leader in responsible and innovative telecom solutions — ensuring that every connection contributes to a greener tomorrow.
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realme 14 5G Confirmed For PH Launch To Fuel The Action At RMC Season 9
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| (Image Source: What's Happening Manila/realme Philippines) |
As the excitement builds around the kickoff of the realme Mobile Legends Cup (RMC) Season 9, realme has confirmed that the realme 14 5G will soon be available in the Philippines. This smartphone is set to serve as the official device for the tournament’s regular season, delivering exceptional performance for gamers. In line with its founding principles, the RMC continues to foster a strong gaming community for Filipinos. It serves as a training ground for aspiring eSports athletes, simulating the high-stakes atmosphere of professional competitions. By doing so, RMC not only hones the skills of everyday gamers but also inspires them to pursue their dreams and seize opportunities in professional tournaments.
RMC Season 9 promises an intense competition as teams from diverse backgrounds go head-to-head in a series of gripping matches. This season features a massive prize pool totaling Php1.6M (1.6 million pesos), making it both an exciting opportunity for participating teams and a captivating event for the Squad. Champions will take home Php600,000 cash prize, along with five units of the flagship realme GT Series, while the 1st Runner-Up secures Php250,000 in cash and five units of the realme Number Pro Series. Meanwhile, the 2nd and 3rd Runner-Ups will also enjoy big rewards: Php100,000 and Php50,000, respectively, along with smartphones from the realme Number and C-series lines. Even teams that place 4th to 7th will score realme Buds T Series devices. On top of this, the MVP award comes with Php100,000 worth of prizes. Additionally, realme will be hosting broadcast and offline event giveaways worth another Php100,000, making every match even more exciting for fans.
This season, the open qualifier round encompasses six regions throughout the Philippines. Aspiring teams will battle it out in the Eliminations, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and Grand Finals, with only the finest athletes seizing the sought-after RMC Championship title. The RMC Season 9 registration is now officially open until May 7, 2025 only, allowing qualified teams to display their talents and establish their dominance on the battlefield. Teams that are prepared for the challenge can register online via https://rb.gy/y61bym.
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Roam More, Spend Less With Globe RoamSurf4All
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| (Image Source: Mindanao Times/Globe Telecom) |
Globe Telecom offers budget-conscious group travelers better value with the refreshed Roam Surf4All, now available at up to 45% off and with more data GBs through the GlobeOne app. From now until April 30, 2025, Globe customers can take advantage of Roam Surf4All’s introductory pricing and generous data allocation, ideal for group trips abroad. The affordable offer starts at just Php1,999 for 10 GB over 5 days or Php80 per user per day. Heavier data users can opt for 15 GB at Php2,999 for 15 days or 20 GB at Php5,299 for 30 days, with rates as low as Php40 and Php35 per user per day, respectively. The improved price/day of Roam Surf4All makes it even more affordable vs pocket WiFis.
Roam Surf4All is the country’s first shareable data roaming package with real-time promo activation. It allows Globe customers to share data with up to four others using just their Globe and TM SIMs, enabling them to stay connected and reachable abroad. Best for cross-country travels and trips with layovers, one Roam Surf4All subscription can already be used for multiple destinations at no extra cost charge. Travelers can stay online without relying on pocket WiFi, which often involves security deposits, courier fees, and throttling after 500 MB to 1 GB per day. There’s also no need to pick up, carry, or return a separate device. Groups can move freely without staying close together, as each member can access data wherever they are. Roam Surf4All provides full-speed data with global coverage under a single promo, and data sharing and usage limits can be easily managed in real time through the GlobeOne app. “Roam Surf4All makes the experience of traveling abroad with friends or family even better. It’s now more affordable to stay connected, with more GBs to go around and no need for extra devices or complicated setup. Just register via the GlobeOne app and share your data anytime, anywhere,” said Globe Head of International Business Paula Rivera-Castillo.
To avail of the introductory package, users simply need to download and open the GlobeOne app, tap “Buy Promos”, select their destination, and choose the Roam Surf4All offer that fits their travel plans. Once registered, the group owner can invite up to four Globe users, set data limits, and track usage. This refresh supports Globe’s effort to make high-quality roaming services more accessible to different types of travelers. By providing larger data allocations and lower per-user costs, Roam Surf4All helps customers stay connected with ease — whether they’re traveling as a family, barkada, or team. Visit glbe.co/roamsurf4all to learn more about how to roam and share better.
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AirAsia Philippines Lands As Official Airline Partner Of Love Boracay 2025
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/AirAsia Philippines) |
AirAsia Philippines strengthens its commitment to promote local tourism as it takes flight as the official airline partner of the Love Boracay 2025 campaign. As part of this commitment, AirAsia is offering an exciting Php544 one-way base fare to Caticlan. The Boracay Summer Fiesta seat sale runs from April 7 to May 4 with a travel period from April 7 to September 30, 2025. Beginning this summer, AirAsia Philippines increased its weekly flight frequency to Caticlan from 56 to 60 flights while keeping a strong 21 flights to Kalibo, generating an overall 81 weekly flight options to the island of Boracay.
AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head, First Officer Steve Dailisan, shares, “The AirAsia Fiesta Series is a continuing journey of supporting local tourism, boosting economic opportunities and highlighting the best of the Philippines. Boracay remains a dream destination for foreign and local tourists alike — and through AirAsia’s affordable fares, this dream is well within reach. As the official airline partner of Love Boracay, AirAsia intends to actively take part in advocating responsible travels, giving more meaning to this annual island celebration.” As part of the festivities, AirAsia Philippines will host the AirAsia LFG! Love Boracay Fiesta 2025 on April 30-May 1, 2025 at Station 2 in Boracay Island featuring a vibrant beach party, music festival, and exciting on-ground activities. Passengers holding an AirAsia Boracay Boarding Pass and flying to Caticlan between April 26 and May 1 will enjoy exclusive VIP access to the Love Boracay concert, headlined by popular Filipino bands The Juans, Itchyworms, and more.
In addition, travelers flying with AirAsia between April 1 and July 31 can enjoy up to 20% discounts from partner hotels and restaurants across the island. Meanwhile, AirAsia MOVE is kicking off a hotel flash sale ahead of the event, offering travelers up to Php900 off on hotel bookings made through the AirAsia MOVE app using the code FLASHMOVE on April 24-27, 2025. For an even more seamless and value-packed journey, travelers can opt for SNAP (Flight + Hotel) bundles and enjoy a Php720 discount by using the code SNAPNOW.
