press release – Page 40 – Jellybeans in the City

Hanabishi combines grinder and coffeemaker into one device

Enjoying freshly brewed coffee doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t have to invest in an expensive coffeemaker to have one every day. Neither do you have to travel far or get in line. Thanks to Hanabishi, you can have it right in your own home.

Recently, the company known for its affordable and quality appliances introduced the Hanabishi 2in1 Grinder and Coffeemaker. Available for just PhP3,750, it can make four cups of coffee in one brew. You can use it for both coffee beans and ground coffee.

“To say that Filipinos love coffee is an understatement. We are proud of our kapeng barako and we are fond of exploring different varieties of coffee. It was evident with the success of coffee shops from Starbucks, UCC Café, and Coffebean and Tea Leaf in the local market,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, Vice President, Finance and Marketing at Hanabishi.

According to Ong-Chua, Hanabishi’s new product offering, the 2in1 Grinder and Coffeemaker, is an innovation that aims to bring the coffee connoisseur experience right to every Filipino’s home. However, they have simplified the functions of the machine.

Operating it is easy. Just add your coffee beans or ground coffee, pour in some water, select the setting, and your coffee would be ready in minutes. Cleaning it is just as fuss-free.

The Hanabishi 2in1 Grinder and Coffeemaker is also a good product to invest in if you’re running or looking to put up a coffee shop. It’s less expensive than most coffee makers and functions just as efficiently.

For more information about Hanabishi’s 2in1 Grinder and Coffeemaker, visit myhanabishi.com.

Spanning more than three decades, Hanabishi has established its reputation as a provider of affordable yet quality home products that lasts, which paved the way for its tagline “Kapartner from Start to Forever.” Hanabishi Home Appliances are available at leading appliance stores nationwide. For more information about Hanabishi, please visit it website or its Facebook Page.

Product image and details provided by Hanabishi in a recent press release.

SG R&B trio brb releases new single off sophomore EP

Just months after the release of their debut album, Singaporean R&B trio brb. returns with a brand new single, “my type”— now out on all digital and streaming platforms worldwide.

Beyond the suggestive title, “my type” alludes to navigating the feelings that come with loving someone. Messages of acceptance and understanding are accompanied by a wistful chorus set against a tropical beat that is sure to leave you bopping.

Steeped in radiant electronic beats and soulful production, brb.’s latest jam brims with experiments gone right. But make no mistake: it’s a song that grapples with optimism—the kind that surges with both finesse and adrenaline, but delivered with the occasional oddity that we’ve come to experience from the alt-R&B group’s previous material.

“We hope to introduce a different energy into our upcoming releases. Our EP relationshit was rather somber and we wanted to write happier songs this time round. We’re excited for you to hear what we have in store this year.”

“my type” is taken off brb’s upcoming sophomore EP which is slated for release in 2021.

Image and details provided in a recent press release.

Love Plus Foundation gives back by helping Filipinos in need during the pandemic

Our lives have been disrupted and impacted by the pandemic in unprecedented ways. The corona virus has affected our day to day lives and is slowing down the economy for almost six months – and people still cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel. During these hard times, an organization who works under the radar are helping Filipinos to cope up on the effects of the pandemic.

Love Plus Charity Foundation, an organization founded by Chinese national, Hu Sun, started to provide aid in their own little ways by means of food delivery for front liners on different checkpoints, across several cities back in March when the government imposed city lockdowns in the country. The organization wanted to reach remote areas that were not focused on by mainstream media – which draw attention from several individuals and organizations, that lead to the growth of donation to the foundation.

“We are not brothers by blood, but we think of Filipinos as a part of our family because they welcomed us with open arms. I think it’s time for us to return the favor and provide assistance in any way we can because that’s what a family does. They help each other get through the rough times.”, said Hu Sun.

When the Chinese Medical Team first arrived in the country to provide their expertise in combatting the deadly virus, Love Plus Charity Foundation spearheaded the translation between them and local health care officials to make sure no message is lost during translation. With over 50 individuals going hand in hand to donate food, medical equipment, and other necessary items to combat the corona virus, Love Plus Charity Foundation doubled their efforts especially on the months of April and May when they visited major hospitals in NCR, including Lung Center of the Philippines, RITM, Jose Abad Santos General Hospital, Bulacan Medical Center and so much more. Love Plus Charity Foundation was also one of the first organizations to provide aid in terms of basic necessities such as food and water when the Pandacan Church caught fire back in July.

As of August 1, 2020, a combination of 487 Chinese organizations and individuals have donated to Love Plus Charity Foundation, garnering a total of Php 6,000,000 in cash, 3,144 boxes of surgical masks, 1,340 sets of PPE, 2,000 sets of rapid test kits, baby essentials like formula milk and diaper, in addition to food donations such as rice, bread, instant noodles, canned goods, fruits and vegetables, enough to feed an entire community.

When the government implemented another lockdown on August 4, Love Plus Charity Foundation did not waste any time to lend another helping hand to Filipinos, despite of challenges such as distance and heavy rains.

“We believe that in times like these, there is no nationality, but only unity. The Philippines has been our home and we felt like it was our responsibility to help anyone in need – no matter the distance and race, as we need to rise up in the middle of this pandemic.”, said Hu Sun.

Love Plus Foundation will continue to lend a helping hand to those in need, with their next mission to provide aid schools and students, as we take on the new normal when it comes to education. Contact Love Plus Foundation on Facebook or contact InfinitUs Marketing Solutions via email at info@infinitusph.com for more information.

BTS launches world premiere of “Dynamite”

Global superstars BTS recently released the music video for their new single “Dynamite” worldwide through their official social channels.

The new music video of “Dynamite” is colorful and bright, featuring retro concept props, hairstyles, and attire. The overall mood is lively and vibrant from start to finish, perfectly capturing the joyful energy of the song’s melody and lyrics.

It opens with the image of BTS as they stand gathered but soon scatter. The members one by one express their own style and individuality in different spaces.

BTS delivers dynamic performances in and out of various locations, including a room, doughnut shop, record shop, basketball court, luxurious stage, and open field. The “Dynamite” music video shows off not only remarkable group choreography but also improvised dances, as well as solo and unit performances. The members perform with seriousness and charisma, but also brighten the mood with playful expressions.

The second half of the music video features vibrant “color powder” rocketing into the sky, accentuating the explosive energy and joyful performance of BTS as they dance on an open field.

This vivid Disco Pop track marks the superstar group’s first-ever song to be released completely in English; having sought a “breakthrough” to overcome a sense of disheartenment stemmed from the current global climate, BTS embarks on a new challenge through “Dynamite.”

BTS, an acronym of Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Beyond the Scene,” is a South Korean boyband that has been capturing the hearts of millions of fans globally since their debut in June 2013. The members of BTS are RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook. Gaining recognition for their authentic and self-produced music, top-notch performances, and the way they interact with their fans, the band has established themselves as global superstars breaking countless world records. While imparting a positive influence through activities such as the LOVE MYSELF campaign and the UN ‘Speak Yourself’ speech, BTS has mobilized millions of fans across the world (named ARMY), topped prominent music charts, performed multiple sold-out stadium shows across the world and has been named as one of TIME 100: The Most Influential People of 2019. The band has also been recognized with numerous prestigious awards like the Billboard Music Awards and American Music Awards.

Image and details provided in a recent press release.

Pepsi continues to serve Pinoys amidst COVID-19 crisis

PCPPI directs business attention to benefit employee, customers, and communities amid COVID-19 pandemic

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) continues to direct its business attention towards employee protection and delivering the company’s obligation in service to the Filipino people amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As medical experts deem that this global health crisis will not be over soon, our three guiding principles have helped us navigate the new normal with an urgent concern for our people and the nation. These are part of our efforts to manage the effects of the pandemic to our people and operations,” said PCPPI president and CEO Frederick D. Ong.

The guiding principles and actions taken by PCPPI targets at helping employees cope during varying stages of Community Quarantine, to take action to support the needs of community and partners across the country; and to remain responsible in delivering its products—which is considered by the government as basic goods—nationwide.

For its employees, PCPPI continues to implement Flexible Work Arrangement. Those who are reporting to work on given days are provided with assistance such as transportation support/carpooling, site lodging, and food allowance. All PCPPI employees are also given PPE kits that include alcohol supply, washable face masks, and face shields.

PCPPI also offered its people with additional leave benefits, such as five-day COVID Crisis Leave and VL/SL Leave Availments for all employees. The company, likewise, released early payments, specifically pro-rated 13th Month Pay, as well as interest-free Calamity Loan assistance. All these are on top of government support programs which the company also helped facilitate for their employees.

Sustained operations

Despite the shift to MECQ, PCPPI commits to unhampered operations to produce hydration products for the consumption of the Filipinos. The company also continues to replenish stocks and display in groceries, supermarkets, and in traditional sales channels.

Meanwhile, to help and reach out to those in need, PCPPI is sustaining its donations to frontliners. Over 165,000 drinks or about 9,000 cases of beverage products were already donated to checkpoint frontliners, major hospitals, Local Government Units, COVID-patient centers, and various donation sites across the country.

“These are indeed uncertain times and the least we can do to ease the hardships of our fellow countrymen is assure them that PCPPI remains committed to deliver our products and assist them during these trying times,” Ong added.

Sabby Sousa takes the spotlight with new single “Emerald”

Toronto-based artist Sabby Sousa taps into something nostalgic and exhilarating on her new single “Emerald”—out today on all digital platforms worldwide.

Despite its openness to tackle a romantic relationship gone astray, the smooth R&B song inhabits an optimistic headspace that values emotional maturity over impulsive demeanor.

With her syrupy vocals complementing the track’s atmospheric sonic backdrop, Sabby remembers her past relationship fondly, setting aside bitterness for a peace of mind. “I had gone through a breakup and didn’t want to write anything sad or angry,” the teen-pop sensation shares. “I wanted to remember what it felt like in those moments and hold them close. It reminded me that not all relationships are meant to last forever. What lasts forever is the memories you make. So live life to the fullest.”

Unlike her viral bop “Cream n’ Frosting,” which hit more than two million streams on all music platforms and landed on Spotify Viral 50 charts in the Philippines and Malaysia, Sabby’s smoky new track establishes her more introspective side as both a singer-songwriter and a vocalist.

This time, she mines a wistful narrative straight from a journal entry: confessional in form and function, but also hopeful in the way it was written and delivered.

“There’s a lot of electric guitar and synths that make the song so dreamy,” Sabby Sousa adds. “I would definitely say, it’s a lot different to previous songs as it marks the beginning of a new sound for me.”

“Emerald” is produced by House of Wolf, a rising French-Canadian electronic duo who has worked with the likes of Cheat Codes and Carlie Henson.

Recorded in August last year, the infectious jam sounds like a star turn from a young artist who is now ready to take the spotlight and make a lightning strike, one more time.

Image and details provided in a recent press release.

Achieve the Perfect Work-from-Home Setup with Shopee

Get everything you need for your workspace at home.

With the current global pandemic driving people to stay indoors, many migrate from the typical office lifestyle to working from home. Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, offers easy access to work-from-home essentials. Here are some must-haves for the perfect work-from-home setup:

A Dedicated Desk
Finding the perfect work desk is possible! Setting the ideal office area is key to getting into that ‘work’ mindset, after all. Choose a sturdy, yet comfy work table that allows you to focus and get the job done.

An Ergonomic Chair
A good office chair is an excellent investment. It minimizes back pain and prevents injury in the long term. Get a chair that’s the right height to maintain a comfortable posture. Remember, with less pain, there’s more focus!

A Good Lamp
Lighting in the work environment has a significant effect on productivity and concentration. The ambient light needs to be bright enough to read comfortably. Choosing the right kind of lighting prevents the risk of eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. Natural light is the best, but a desk lamp ensures the area is well-lit for ultimate productivity.

An External Monitor
A wide external monitor or a dual monitor setup means more space for all the tabs on the screen. Make sure to get one with high resolution and to keep the monitor height at eye level to prevent back pain from too much slouching.

A Fast and Reliable Router
Working from home means the intense usage of a reliable internet connection. Faulty connections are extra frustrating, especially during video calls. With more people using the internet at home, a good router can boost connectivity and productivity.

Making these small changes makes a huge difference in productivity and quality of work which eventually leads to less stress and more motivation to enjoy what the new normal brings.

With these office accessories and furniture, it is now possible to set up the perfect work-from-home office. Shopee provides a variety of items to choose from. In addition to that, shoppers can enjoy freebies and exclusive discounts when they use ShopeePay as their mode of payment.

ShopeePay Special Promotions

From July 24 to 31, users can win cash prizes, earn ShopeePay credits, and claim vouchers and Shopee coins with ShopeePay special promotions.

Lucky Draw

Regular ShopeePay users: ₱10,000 cash prize and ₱1,000 worth of ShopeePay credits
New ShopeePay users: ₱10,000 in cash prize and ₱1,000 worth of ShopeePay credits.
Bills Payment: One lucky winner of ₱10,000 when they pay their bills via
ShopeePay. They need to spend at least ₱800 to join the raffle. Promo duration is from July 24 to 29.

About Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan. It was launched in 7 markets in 2015 to connect consumers, sellers, and businesses in the region.

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Images and promo details provided by Shopee in a recent press release.

Limited HBO series THE THIRD DAY debuts September 15 exclusively on HBO GO and HBO

Created by Felix Barrett and Dennis Kelly, the limited HBO Original Series THE THIRD DAY debuts same time as the U.S. on Tuesday, September 15 at 9am exclusively on HBO GO and HBO. Each episode encores the same evening at 10pm on HBO, with new episodes airing at the same time every Tuesday. The show’s six episodes are divided into “Summer” and “Winter.”

Told over the first three episodes, “Summer” stars Jude Law (HBO’s “The New Pope”) as Sam, a man who is drawn to a mysterious island off the British coast where he encounters a group of islanders set on preserving their traditions at any cost. Isolated from the mainland, Sam is unable to leave the idyllic and dangerously enchanting world he has discovered, where the secretive rituals of its inhabitants bring him to grapple with experiences of loss and trauma hidden in his past through the distorted lens of the present. As boundaries between fantasy and reality fragment, his quest to unlock the truth leads the islanders to reveal a shocking secret. “Summer” is written by Dennis Kelly and directed by Marc Munden.

“Winter” unfolds over the latter three episodes and stars Naomie Harris (Academy Award nominee for “Moonlight”) as Helen, a strong-willed outsider who comes to the island seeking answers, but whose arrival precipitates a fractious battle to decide its fate as the lines between fantasy and fact are distorted. “Winter” is written by Kit De Waal, Dean O’Loughlin and Dennis Kelly and directed by Philippa Lowthorpe.

Along with Jude Law and Naomie Harris, the series also stars Katherine Waterston (“Fantastic Beasts” franchise), Emily Watson (Emmy® and Golden Globe nominee for HBO’s “Chernobyl”) and Paddy Considine (HBO’s “The Outsider”).

THE THIRD DAY is a co-production between Sky and HBO. It is the first original drama to be produced by Sky’s new production house, Sky Studios, in conjunction with Plan B Entertainment, the world-renowned immersive theatre company Punchdrunk, and writer Dennis Kelly (“Utopia,” “Pulling”). Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Felix Barrett and Dennis Kelly executive produce.

HBO Original Series as well as live channels are also available for streaming to SKYcable subscribers on HBO GO for as low as Php99/month. To subscribe, call your local SKY office or fill up this form.

Subscribe to SKY Fiber and get your first three months’ access to HBO GO courtesy of SKY Fiber. More details on this promo here.

Show details and images provided by HBO in a recent press release.

Disclosure: I work for SKY and part of my job is promoting its products and services, especially the content it provides to its subscribers. I consider being able to share my love for TV shows and movies and the experience of watching and talking about them with like-minded people some of the biggest perks of my job.

Juan Karlos inspires hope and strength amid the pandemic with their latest single, “BLESS Ü”

Manila, Philippines) OPM hit-making band Juan Karlos (stylized juan karlos) channels their inner strength with their newest single, “BLESS Ü,” out on all digital and streaming worldwide this July 24, 2020 (Friday) via Island Records Philippines. The pop-R&B track delves into our collective toughness of spirit during these challenging times and hopes to ease some of our worries and fears.

The song’s uplifting message was something juan karlos strives to bring forth to the public whenever we’re faced with adversity, but more so and critically, during a health crisis with seemingly no end in sight right now. “The song, or at least the idea of it, was already made prior to the lockdown. Basically, it was just on standby. But when the pandemic happened, all gigs were cancelled,” frontman JK Labajo shares. “We thought it’d be a good idea to record something different from the music people are already familiar with from us.” While the circumstances then and now are vastly different, their intentions remain the same: finding hope. “Just hold on tight / For in the end of every tunnel / baby there’s light,” he croons.

The songwriting and recording process for “BLESS Ü” had its fair share of unique, unprecedented challenges. Completing it during the lockdown meant adjusting to several limitations. “Not all of our members have their own home setup so [doing it separately] was just not feasible,” according to JK. “But when the lockdown was lifted, we were able to record it properly.” The band welcomed the experience, knowing that ultimately, the song is bigger than their own. JK hopes for listeners to trust in our ability to overcome and that together, we’ll get through.

In just a few years that the band has been making music, they’re not one to shy away from shedding light on critical and necessary topics, often drawing from their own lived experience. “I’ve experienced depression and anxiety… and it’s really frustrating, the feeling of being down all the time,” JK describes. With “BLESS Ü,” they wanted to offer people going through the same mental health situation some comfort, to “help them feel somehow lighter,” he adds.

In addition, the band pledged part of the revenue streams of “BLESS Ü” to help fund COVID-19 relief efforts, as well as hold a special online fundraising concert to support our countrymen and connect with fans virtually.

“BLESS Ü” also follows the release of the band’s debut album Diwa and the emotionally charged single” Sampaguita,” which emphasizes the hardships faced by OFWs. A lot has changed since the album’s release, but his fearless message on these topics remains embedded in his music.

Music has always been one of the most powerful forms of culture due to its ability to rally people’s spirits. Right now, what we need is a resounding feeling of hope and compassion more than ever. If you believe that this song has that very power, then honey, God BLESS Ü.

About Juan Karlos

Juan Karlos is a Filipino band and six-time Platinum awardee signed under MCA Music composed of JK Labajo on vocals and guitar, Jeriko Aguilar on guitar, Louise Bayas on bass, and Gian Hipolito on drums. Formed in 2018, the eponymous band went under several personnel changes and ultimately released their smash hit, “Buwan” in the same year. Frontman JK Labajo shared that his solo music career is currently inactive. Hailing from Cebu, he first gained recognition as a finalist on The Voice Kids Philippines and went on to pursue a career in music and acting. Following the release of his albums under MCA Music, JK (2015) and JKL (2017), he realized that he has to stop settling and commit to what he really wants: to write, produce, and perform his own songs the way he hears it in his head and heart and be part of a band. Juan Karlos aims to “dream big or go home” and to make a mark in OPM and globally. “I want to be able to make a change, a difference,” he said. I want to show people the importance and beauty of music. I’m in music for the art, to earn in order to fund my daily needs and dreams, and for recognition so I can have reach and to be heard.”

Details and image provided by Island Records Philippines in a recent press release.

Where to Go in the Awesome Tarlac Neighborhood

Tarlac offers an awesome neighborhood in Northern Luzon. Pangasinenses, Ilocanos, Kapampangans, Bulakenyos, and even Tagalogs flock to the province to enjoy a time for adventures and leisure.

If you’re looking to explore the neighborhood in Tarlac, here are some of the best spots that you need to visit.

Capas National Shrine

If you want to learn about the stories of the war, then Capas National Shrine is the best place to visit in Tarlac. This was built to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Bataan Death March. It’s an even more meaningful place as the site used to be a concentration camp, even reminding us today about the repercussions of war.

Isdaan Village

Looking for an awesome place with great food? Then, Isdaan Village is the place to go. It’s a floating restaurant that offers a variety of Filipino and other Asian cuisine. Dining in at Isdaan is also an experience with singing cooks and overlooking picturesque views. The place is perfect eating with your family or a large group.

Aquino Ancestral House

If you want to appreciate the democracy of the Philippines more, then you should head on over to Aquino Ancestral House. This is the house where the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino lived before he entered into local and national politics.

Kart City Tarlac

Do you enjoy the adrenaline rush? You should check out Kart City Tarlac! The place is perfect for kids at heart with their F1 carts available for driving! If you’re bringing your children, you won’t need to worry as there’s a designated place specially designed for them.

Mount Pinatubo

As the province borders Mount Pinatubo, this means more adventure for you! You can enjoy a nice ride by 4×4 trucks going uphill and a hike by foot going to the summit. What’s even more wonderful is meeting friendly Aeta locals along the way.

Tarlac has indeed an awesome neighborhood that makes for a perfect getaway spot in Luzon. More than visiting from time to time, the great thing is that you can also easily secure a home in the province!

If you want to purchase a home in Tarlac, there are affordable houses that BellaVita offers. Settling a home in the province means that you’re one skip away to these amazing destinations – which is a great benefit for you.

For more information about the location of their homes and their pricing, visit BellaVita website or Facebook page.

Header photo by JC Galidon on Unsplash