TBC News

Tag: tech

  • Small appliance, big help for busy Filipino holidays

    Small appliance, big help for busy Filipino holidays

    The festive holiday season brings joy, but also a challenge: keeping up with the demands of hosting family and friends. Between preparing meals for Noche Buena, serving guests, and managing the constant need for drinks, every host knows that the smallest conveniences can make the biggest difference.

    Wells Philippines understands this. Their award-winning flagship model, The One, brings 23 years of Korean engineering expertise to Filipino households, offering a quiet solution for Filipino families navigating the busiest season of the year. 

    Built for Filipino Celebrations

    The One makes holiday hosting easier for Filipinos, thanks to the following features:

    Temperature Versatility: The One serves water at your preferred temperature across three levels. Make spiced tea, coffee, or hot tsokolate in seconds with hot water at 50°C, 70°C, or 85°C. Prepare cold fruit juice at 6°C, and use ambient water at 27°C for your Christmas stews. 

    Compact Design: At just 8.8cm in diameter, The One doesn’t take up too much space on Filipino kitchen counters. During the holidays, when lechon dominates the table, and fruit salad cups crowd the countertop, every inch of space matters.

    One Wheel Touch: Its One Wheel Touch feature allows you to control water temperature and volume with just a fingertip. While you’re busy serving Noche Buena, guests can easily help themselves to water.

    9-Step Filtration: The compact 6-inch filter removes seven types of heavy metals and 35 types of harmful micro-organisms. Filipinos can trust that every glass served to guests meets high-quality standards.

    Auto Water Draining System: After back-to-back festive celebrations, the last thing you want is another chore. While you rest, The One’s automatic sterilization feature refreshes unused water every 24 hours, ensuring that clean water is one less thing to worry about after the party.

    With Wells The One, your home is ready for whatever the holidays bring. You and your loved ones can focus on the moments that make gatherings memorable—the conversations, laughter, and connections. 

    Wells The One is available in Red, Dark Brown, Mint, Pink, and White, perfect for modern Filipino homes. For more details, visit https://larxtrading.com.ph/shop/water-purifier/wells-the-one/.

  • Canon CSR initiative puts children’s smiles at the heart of community work

    Canon CSR initiative puts children’s smiles at the heart of community work

    Canon Marketing Philippines, in partnership with Kanlungan sa Er-Ma Ministry, Inc. (KSEM), a non-profit dedicated to protecting and empowering vulnerable children—held a meaningful Kyosei CSR Day in Malate, Manila.

    KSEM’s mission to serve, protect and develop children aligns closely with Canon’s Kyosei philosophy, which champions working together for the common good and building brighter communities.

    The initiative brought together 70 children from KSEM and 30 Canon employee volunteers for a day of nourishment, creativity, and shared joy. A highlight was the “Draw Your Big Smile” activity, where children expressed their happiest moments through art, guided and encouraged by Canon volunteers.

    The artworks were displayed on the Wall of Big Smiles, while a photo booth captured each child proudly posing with their drawings. Every participant took home a printed photo keepsake, a lasting reminder of their Big Smile moment.

    “At Canon, we believe progress means uplifting lives and creating lasting impact. Partnering with Kanlungan sa Er-Ma allows us to support children in need of special protection by not only providing nourishment, but also sparking joy and hope for brighter futures,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President & CEO of Canon Marketing Philippines.

    The event forms part of Canon’s 2025 community initiatives, which include coastal cleanups, tree planting, and youth programs—reflecting Canon’s commitment to Kyosei and its mission of “Delighting You Always.”

  • JAAF recognized as key education partner at DepEd QC Gawad Kaagapay awards

    JAAF recognized as key education partner at DepEd QC Gawad Kaagapay awards

    J. Amado Araneta Foundation, Inc. (JAAF) has been officially recognized for its outstanding commitment to supporting public education, receiving the Gawad Kaagapay Outstanding Stakeholder Award from the Department of Education – Schools Division Office in Quezon City.

    The award was received last December 18 during the 6th Gawad Kaagapay Awarding Ceremony, an annual event aimed at recognizing the partner-stakeholders who provide financial and material support to the city’s basic educational programs.

    This second consecutive recognition of excellence for JAAF shows that the foundation’s initiatives have been instrumental in bridging the gaps among the disadvantaged students and out-of-school youth within the city.

    Among of these programs are Student Excellence Award and Scholarship (SEAS), a flagship program that provides four-year college scholarship grants to valedictorians from Quezon City’s public high schools; iLEAP (Immersion Link for Enablers and Adapters Program), a program that gives job trainings and immersions to out-of-school youth, with a chance to be hired within the Araneta Group; JAAF also partnered with the DOST-NCR to provide technological advancements and innovation for young innovators and communities in the Metro.

    The award ceremony gathered partners from the private sector and government agencies to laud the collaborative efforts in improving the learning system for Quezon City’s Youth.

  • Jimm’s Coffee Brings Wellness, and Energy In Every Cup

    Jimm’s Coffee Brings Wellness, and Energy In Every Cup

    Jimm’s Coffee continues to bring joy and energy to Filipinos, giving everyone a chance to experience their favorite cup of coffee in a more meaningful and refreshing way.

    The event was held at the Malabon Sports Center in Malabon City, celebrating the brand’s commitment to helping Filipinos stay energized and focused throughout the day.

    At the heart of every cup is Korean Ginseng, Jimm’s Coffee’s hero ingredient — a natural booster known to enhance focus, memory, and stamina. This dedication to wellness shines through in its expertly crafted blends.

    The 3 Plus 1 with Korean Ginseng is perfect for daily enjoyment, delivering the smooth, rich coffee taste you love while providing the natural benefits of Korean Ginseng to help you stay energized and focused throughout your day.

    The 5-in-1 with Korean Ginseng and Agaricus Mushroom is designed for those who need an extra energy boost, combining the power of Korean Ginseng with Agaricus Mushroom, known for its immunity and vitality benefits, making it ideal for busy mornings or long workdays.

    For complete wellness, the 7-in-1 with Korean Ginseng and Other Natural Ingredients goes beyond energy, supporting overall health with a unique mix of natural ingredients. It’s perfect for those who want to fuel their body and mind while nurturing their well-being.

    Brand Ambassador Coco Martin Joins the Event

    Adding even more excitement, Coco Martin, Jimm’s Coffee’s brand ambassador, joined the celebration. The event gave his fans a special chance to meet him in person and share their favorite Jimm’s Coffee moments.

    The day’s activities included free samples of Jimm’s Coffee Mix, an energetic dance session, fun games, and raffle prizes, keeping all who joined engaged and entertained throughout the event.

    Beyond the fun, the gathering highlights Jimm’s Coffee’s commitment to wellness, natural energy, and functional benefits, creating a space where Filipinos can learn how Korean Ginseng supports the energy, focus, and stamina needed to power through their day.

    “Jimm’s Coffee has always been about more than just enjoying a cup — it’s about giving Filipinos the energy and wellness they need to do more and achieve more every day,” said Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, President and Chief Executive.

    “Having Coco Martin with us strengthens this mission. He embodies hard work, resilience, and the everyday determination of Filipinos. These are the values that reflect what Jimm’s Coffee stands for,” added William Tiu Lim, Founder and Chairman of Mega Prime Foods.

    Coco Martin shared,“Napakasarap sa pakiramdam na pagkatiwalaan bilang Brand Ambassador. Sa pagiging bahagi ng Jimm’s Coffee Mix, nakikita ko rin na nire-representa ko ang lahat ng Pilipino na araw-araw lumalaban at nagsusumikap para sa kanilang pamilya. Marami na akong kapeng natikman, pero iba pa rin ang Jimm’s Coffee Mix para sa akin dahil sa health benefits at energy boost nito, lalo na’t may Korean ginseng. Sobrang proud ako na kahit sa iba ko pang talento, nakikita nila ang aking dedikasyon, at naipapakita ko sa pamamagitan ng Jimm’s Coffee Mix ang sipag at husay ng bawat Pilipino.”– Brand Ambassador of Jimm’s Coffee Mix

    With Coco Martin at the forefront and a focus on wellness powered by Korean Ginseng, Jimm’s Coffee reinforced its position as a daily companion that energizes, uplifts, and connects Filipinos.

    For more information and a complete list of promos, visit the Jimm’s Coffee Mix official Facebook page. To learn about our commitment to quality wellness products, visit the Mega Prime Foods Inc. official website.

  • Apple claims right to your in-app earnings anytime

    Apple claims right to your in-app earnings anytime

    Apple has revised its developer license agreement to allow the company to recoup unpaid commissions and other fees from in-app purchases processed on developers’ behalf.

    The change affects developers in regions that permit external payment systems, requiring them to report such transactions so Apple can claim its share.

    The update gives Apple the right to “offset or recoup” amounts it believes are owed, including funds collected from end-users, at any time.

    Developers could face deductions from digital goods, services, subscriptions, or one-time app fees if Apple determines earnings have been underreported. The agreement does not clarify how these determinations will be made.

    This move has implications for markets including the EU, U.S., and Japan, where the legality and rate of commissions on externally processed payments vary.

    In the U.S., courts are still weighing Apple’s ability to collect partial commissions, following a federal appeals ruling that instructed a lower court to consider allowing some collection but not the full 27% fee previously charged.

    The update also addresses region-specific charges, such as the EU’s Core Technology Fee (CTF), which will transition in January 2026 to a more complex, percentage-based Core Technology Commission (CTC) applicable to apps using external payments or distributed under alternative business terms.

    Apple can also collect unpaid amounts from affiliates, parent companies, or subsidiaries tied to the same account, broadening its enforcement reach across developer portfolios.

    Additional changes cover age assurance technology, new iOS app terms in Japan, and rules for voice-activated assistants, including restrictions on recordings made without user awareness.

    Apple clarified that applications may not be designed to facilitate such recordings but has not defined enforcement methods.

    The revisions underscore Apple’s focus on maintaining revenue capture amid evolving regulatory scrutiny and external payment alternatives, raising compliance and financial reporting considerations for developers operating in multiple jurisdictions.

  • ABB powers Philippines’ first AI-ready hyperscale data center in Santa Rosa

    ABB powers Philippines’ first AI-ready hyperscale data center in Santa Rosa

    ABB has powered VITRO Santa Rosa, the Philippines’ largest and most advanced data center, with a complete electrification solution, enabling the country’s first AI-ready hyperscale data center.

    Located in Laguna, just south of Metro Manila, the 50MW site is setting new benchmarks for AI readiness, reliability and sustainability as the Philippines emerges as one of the world’s fastest-growing data center markets.

    With demand for AI infrastructure, cloud and streaming services accelerating across Southeast Asia, the facility has been designed to meet TIA Rated-3 Certification and Rated-4 readiness standards, ensuring high availability and reliability for mission critical workloads.

    The data center integrates at least three independent fiber routes to ensure network diversity, resilience, and carrier neutrality, while also embedding sustainability across its supply chain, operations, and design, in line with LEED certification standards.

    In collaboration with Distribution & Control Products, Inc. (DCPI), ABB has delivered a complete medium- and low-voltage electrification solution, including ZX2 and SafePlus gas-insulated switchgear, Tmax XT, and Emax 2 circuit breakers, protection devices and M4M analyzers, to provide continuous uptime and energy efficiency.

    The integrated design ensures compliance with Philippine market requirements and gives VITRO Santa Rosa the flexibility to scale as AI workloads grow and demand for digital services accelerates.

    “Delivering the world’s most advanced data centers takes global expertise and strong local partnerships,” said Christine Macadamia Penequito, Marketing & Sales Director, Electrification Smart Buildings & Smart Power, ABB Philippines.

    “High performance starts with reliability – smart solutions that ensure critical power is always available. Partnering with DCPI to support the Philippines’ first AI-ready hyperscale data center, we are powering the future of digital infrastructure.”

    Vincent Tiamsic, President of DCPI, added “Working closely with ABB early in the planning stage, we were able to tailor an advanced, compliant solution, fully aligned with VITRO’s requirements.

    By combining with our deep local technical expertise, we’ve helped deliver a landmark facility that strengthens the Philippines’ role in Southeast Asia’s fast-growing data center sector and supports the country’s own digital development.”

    Victor Genuino, President and CEO, VITRO Santa Rosa, said: “VITRO Santa Rosa marks a significant leap in the country’s digital transformation and AI adoption. Through our partnerships with ABB and DCPI, we’re able to scale faster and deliver world-class infrastructure built for businesses in the age of AI.”

  • Franchise hopefuls say Potato Corner took their ideas

    Franchise hopefuls say Potato Corner took their ideas

    Potato Corner, one of the Philippines’ most visible food exports, is facing renewed scrutiny as online allegations question how the company treats its franchise partners even as it accelerates global expansion.

    Founded in 1992 as a single flavored fries cart, Potato Corner has grown into a worldwide chain with more than 2,300 outlets across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

    Its international push gained momentum after its 2022 acquisition by Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc., followed by high profile openings in London and Taipei’s Xinyi District.

    Company executives have repeatedly described overseas growth as a core strategy to introduce Filipino brands to global consumers and tap high foot traffic urban markets.

    That growth narrative, however, has been challenged by complaints circulating on Facebook, Reddit, and other online platforms.

    Several individuals claiming to be franchise applicants or former franchisees allege that proposals for prime locations were ignored, only for company owned Potato Corner outlets to later open in the same areas.

    Others claim their franchise agreements were not renewed once locations became profitable, with the sites eventually taken over by the franchisor.

    One Facebook post that gained traction described a franchise applicant who submitted a detailed proposal and waited months for feedback, only to discover a new company owned Potato Corner operating in her preferred location.

    Another commenter alleged that after his franchise was not renewed, a corporate outlet was later established in his area.

    Critics have labeled the practice as panunulot, or unjust takeover, raising concerns about transparency and fairness in site selection.

    In response, Potato Corner released a public statement acknowledging the concerns and stressing that the allegations do not reflect its values or policies.

    The company said franchisees are considered long term partners and confirmed that it has launched an internal investigation.

    Management added that it has reached out privately to those who raised complaints and emphasized that controls are in place to ensure fair site selection.

    How Potato Corner resolves the issue could influence its reputation among future partners, particularly as it continues expanding into newer markets such as the United Kingdom and Taiwan.

  • Christmas gifts that actually make sense for car owners

    Christmas gifts that actually make sense for car owners

    Finding the right Christmas gift can be tricky, especially for car owners who seem to already have everything they need. But here’s the good news: the perfect present doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes, it’s the thoughtful, practical gifts that show the most care.

    This year, surprise the car enthusiasts and everyday drivers in your life with gifts that fit them and their cars perfectly.

    As you start your holiday gift shopping for your car-owner loved ones, Prestone®, the #1 Brake Fluid and #1 Coolant in the Philippines, shares the ultimate gift guide filled with siguradong compatible ideas that combine usefulness, care, and a touch of holiday cheer.

    Car accessories that add style and function

    For car owners, the best gifts often combine style and practicality. Consider accessories that make every drive more comfortable and enjoyable, like seat organizers, magnetic phone mounts, dashboard cameras, or portable vacuum cleaners. You can also add advanced tech finds like CarPlay for fun and entertainment and portable car power station for emergencies.

    These small additions can instantly upgrade any ride, while showing that you pay attention to what makes their daily drives smoother. It’s a thoughtful way to say, “I want your trips to be safe and hassle-free.”

    Car maintenance or fuel vouchers for convenience

    When in doubt, give them something that takes care of their next car maintenance service. A voucher for car washing, oil change, or even a fuel gift card is always appreciated, especially for those who spend hours on the road.

    It’s a gift that’s not only practical but also kind because these vouchers will save them time, effort, and unexpected expenses. Think of it as helping them tick off a task in their car preventive maintenance checklist while making life a bit easier during the busy holiday rush.

    DIY car care kit for everyday upkeep

    For hands-on car lovers, a personalized car care kit makes an excellent present. Put together essentials like microfiber towels, tire inflator, cleaning sprays, wax, and an emergency kit.

    Not only is it useful, but it also encourages proper car maintenance, which is something every driver should prioritize. You can even pack it in a reusable storage bin or bag for that extra thoughtful touch.

    Siguradong compatible coolant for the gift of protection

    If you want to give something that truly stands out, you can give the gift of protection. Prestone Asian Coolant, the #1 coolant trusted by Filipino drivers, is more than just a car essential; it’s a symbol of care and reliability.

    Engineered with 5X Superior Cooling Action and Cor-Guard™ Technology, Prestone Asian Coolant protects engines from overheating, rust, and corrosion.

    The Prestone Asian Coolant 1L is available in RED/PINK, BLUE, and GREEN color variants.

    • RED/PINK COOLANT: For all Toyota®, Lexus®, and Scion® vehicles, all years
    • BLUE COOLANT: For all Honda®, Nissan®, Subaru® vehicles, pre-2009 to 2011 & Newer
    • GREEN COOLANT: For all Isuzu®, Suzuki®, Hyundai®, KIA®, Mazda® Mitsubishi® vehicles, pre-2009 to 2011 & Newer

    It’s the kind of coolant for car that gives lasting value which is a practical, thoughtful, and safety-centered gift any car owner would appreciate.

    Make your gifts merry and thoughtful

    Gifts that are siguradong compatible go beyond trends, they show love, thoughtfulness, and care that lasts all year long. Whether it’s accessories that make every ride more stylish, vouchers that make car maintenance easier, or coolants that protect the engine, the best presents are those that perfectly fit your loved one’s lifestyle.

    This Christmas, give the gift that says, “I care about you and your car.”

    Both Prestone products are available at leading automotive stores and retail outlets nationwide, including True Value, Handyman, Ace Hardware, Blade, and online through the official stores on Lazada, Shopee and TikTok Shop. Prestone also urges customers to purchase only from authorized retailers to ensure product authenticity and vehicle safety.

    To learn more about Prestone’s full range of products and car preventive maintenance tips, visit www.prestone.com.ph

  • Philips Lighting rolls out up to 50% nationwide Christmas price cuts

    Philips Lighting rolls out up to 50% nationwide Christmas price cuts

    This Christmas season, Philips Lighting brings brighter homes within closer reach of Filipino families with a nationwide price markdown of up to 50% across selected LED lighting products.

    More than a seasonal offer, this initiative represents a long-term commitment to making trusted, energy-efficient lighting more affordable for households across the Philippines.

    As families prepare their homes for festive gatherings, shared meals, and everyday moments, Philips Lighting aims to support Filipinos in creating spaces that feel warmer, safer, and more welcoming without compromising on quality or performance.

    “Christmas is about family, comfort, and the joy of coming home,” said Paolo Royol, Commercial Leader for Consumer Business, Philips Lighting Philippines. “By lowering our prices nationwide, we want more Filipino families to enjoy brighter homes that support their daily lives, not just during the holidays, but well beyond them. This is our way of making quality lighting more accessible and meaningful for everyone.”

    Nationwide Price Markdown Highlights

    Filipino consumers can now enjoy reduced prices on the following Philips Lighting products nationwide:

    High Lumen Bulbs – up to 54% off

    Essential Bulbs Mini – up to 13% off

    Essential LED Bulb A-Shape – up to 28% off

    Ecofit TLED (Single Ended) – up to 33% off

    Ecofit TLED (Double Ended) – up to 33% off

    Designed for energy efficiency and long-lasting performance, these products help families reduce energy consumption while enjoying dependable brightness across living spaces, kitchens, work areas, and shared family zones.

    Lighting Homes, Supporting Filipino Dreams

    This nationwide price markdown reflects Philips Lighting’s enduring commitment to Filipino households, helping turn everyday spaces into brighter homes where memories are made and dreams grow.

    As Christmas lights fill homes and communities across the country, Philips Lighting continues to deliver on its promise: to bring light that cares, inspires, and lasts, now made more affordable for Filipino families nationwide.

     

  • Sophos rolls out firewall v22 with built-in health check under secure-by-design push

    Sophos rolls out firewall v22 with built-in health check under secure-by-design push

    Sophos, a global leader of innovative security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, has launched  Sophos Firewall v22.

    The update enhances Sophos’ Secure by Design pledge with a brand-new Health Check feature and several other security enhancements:

    • Health Check – Sophos Firewall OS v22 checks dozens of different configuration settings and compares them with CIS benchmarks (Center for Internet Security) and other best practices, providing immediate insights into areas that may be at risk.

    • Hardened kernel – The next-gen Xstream Architecture in Sophos Firewall OS is built upon a new hardened kernel (v6.6+) that provides enhanced security, performance, and scalability to maximize current and future hardware.

    • Remote integrity monitoring – Sophos Firewall OS v22 now integrates Sophos XDR Linux Sensor that enables real-time monitoring of system integrity, including unauthorized configuration, rule exports, malicious program execution attempts, file tampering, and more.

    • Improved workload isolation – With Sophos’ next-gen Xstream Architecture, SFOS v22 introduces an all-new control plane re-architected for increased defense-in-depth and scalability. The new control plane enables modularization, isolation, and containerization of services.

    • Enhanced anti-malware engine – Sophos Firewall OS v22 integrates the latest Sophos anti-malware engine with enhanced zero-day, real-time detection of emerging threats using global reputation lookups.

    “Over the last several releases, we have continued to invest in implementing Secure by Design principles into all our products, including Sophos Firewall”, said Sophos CISO Ross McKerchar.

    As with every firewall release, Sophos Firewall v22 is a free upgrade for Sophos Firewall customers with Enhanced or Enhanced Plus Support and should be applied to all supported firewall devices as soon as possible.

    Additional details can also be found in this Sophos blog article. For more information about Sophos products and services go to https://www.sophos.com.