Samsung’s Galaxy Watch6 : Unlocking a heart healthier lifestyle on your wrist

The Galaxy Watch6 series has BP and ECG tracking to help you monitor your heart health

Unlock a healthier lifestyle with Samsung's latest smartwatch! The Galaxy Watch6 series is taking wellness to the next level with blood pressure and ECG monitoring and other features that help you monitor your heart health.

With heart disease being the country’s leading cause of death in 2022, there’s no time to waste when it comes to taking care of your health. Samsung Electronics is committed to helping Filipinos achieve better heart health through its groundbreaking Galaxy Watch6 and Watch6 Classic, which comes with a slew of new heart-friendly and fitness features designed to improve your overall wellness. Let’s check them out!

Blood Pressure & ECG Monitoring

Lessen your worries with a heart monitoring package that allows you to have peace of mind. The Galaxy Watch6 series has a built-in PPG sensor that periodically measures your heart rate and heart rhythm while you wear it.

You can also add a quick blood pressure check with no added equipment required using your Galaxy Watch6. To enable the blood pressure monitoring feature, install the Samsung Health Monitor application onto your Galaxy smartphone and connect it to your compatible Galaxy Watch then calibrate it with a traditional cuff. They will then be able to tap to “measure” the blood pressure anytime, anywhere.

The Galaxy Watch6 measures blood pressure through pulse wave analysis, which is tracked with the Heart Rate Monitoring sensors. The program then records the relationship between the calibration value and the blood pressure change to determine the blood pressure. Once the calibration and set-up process are completed, users can access this information and export measurements to PDF.

The Galaxy Watch6 also includes an electrocardiogram (ECG) function that works by recording the heart’s electrical activity via a sensor on the compatible Galaxy Watch. All you need to do is open your Samsung Health Monitor app while seated comfortably, and ensure the watch is fitted firmly to your wrist. Next, rest your forearm on a flat surface and lightly place a fingertip from the opposite hand on the top button on the smartwatch for 30 seconds.

The app will then measure your heart rate and rhythm, which will be displayed as either a Sinus Rhythm (a normal, regular heartbeat) or AFib (when the heart beats irregularly). You can also export this data to PDF.

Achieve Better Heart Health through Customized Workouts

The Galaxy Watch6 also offers a ton of exercise features to help you create your own unique fitness journey. Start things off by checking your Body Composition - the Galaxy Watch6 can actually measure skeletal muscle, basal metabolic rate, body water, and body fat percentage, to help give you a baseline for your fitness goals and to track your progress. Get more guidance from the new Personalized Heart Rate Zone, which will measure your heart rate based on your fitness capacity and define five optimal running intensity levels to help users set their own goals based on what fits them – from burning fat to high-intensity workouts.

In addition to over 100 existing workout trackers, the newly added Track Run records the user’s runs on a track, while Custom Workout allows users to build and track their personalized workout routine.

Elevated Design

The Galaxy Watch6 and Watch6 Classic also sport key upgrades like a bigger display, a more powerful processor and battery, and even more customizable options in watch faces and bands.

The Galaxy Watch6 series now offers a 20% larger display to make reading and typing easier and delivers smoother and faster interactions with its new Exynos W930 Dual-Core 1.4GHz processor, resulting in 18% faster processing.

You can also make your Galaxy Watch6 uniquely your own. Choose from a wide collection of bands in different styles and materials from feather, leather and even metal bands that can take you from day to night. Switching is easy - simply press the band release button to detach your watch straps then swap them out to change from workout to go-out styles with just one click. You can also customize your watch face with your favorite colors, designs - or even photos of your pet!

Galaxy Watch6 series comes with a larger battery and reduced battery consumption to support its larger and brighter display. With just eight minutes of quick charge, users can add an additional eight hours, perfect for tracking their sleep during the night.

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Start a heart-healthy lifestyle with the Galaxy Watch6 Series! The Galaxy Watch6 retails for PHP 16,990 (40mm) and PHP 18,990 (44 mm) while the Watch6 Classic is available at PHP 22,990 (43mm) and PHP 24,990 (47mm).

For more information on the Galaxy Watch6, visit https://www.samsung.com.ph

iPhone 11, Now Within Your Reach with Home Credit’s 0% Interest Promo

No More Breaking the Bank: Experience iPhone 11 with Home Credit’s 0% Interest Promo - Extended by popular demand, you can enjoy this incredible deal until September 30!

As we continue to embrace the digital lifestyle, we rely more than ever on our gadgets, especially smartphones. From the moment we wake up, these devices are our constant companions that enable us to stay updated on relevant happenings, connect with our loved ones and colleagues, work through our everyday tasks, relax and unwind in our downtime, and many more.

Because of this, choosing the right smartphone is crucial to ensure that your go-to gadget companion can keep up with your day-to-day needs. With an array of options that boast powerful features and capabilities, selecting a smartphone can be a challenge but, of course, it pays to opt for trusted brands like Apple.

For years, Apple has delivered numerous quality devices built with outstanding cameras, seamless performance, and other cutting-edge specs that empower your lifestyle, particularly its iPhone line. However, how can you get such incredible devices without breaking the bank?

Experience iPhone 11 with Home Credit!

Fortunately, owning an iPhone is now within reach, thanks to the leading consumer finance company, Home Credit. With its limited-period offer, you can now get the iPhone 11’s 128GB or 64GB variant in 6-, 9-, or 12-month installment plans with 0% interest, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your budget.

If you are curious about how the iPhone 11 will perform in your everyday needs, here are the specs and features of this remarkable device, which you can easily get your hands on with Home Credit’s amazing deal extended by popular demand until September 30.

Features effortless performance to support daily activities

Equipped with a powerful A13 Bionic chip, the iPhone 11 is a powerhouse that makes multitasking seem effortless every day. Thanks to this processor, you can seamlessly switch between apps, play graphically demanding games, and stream videos without lag. It ensures you stay ahead of the curve as it is built to handle the demands of modern life.

The iOS 13 operating system complements this chip for a remarkable user experience. Aside from that, it also boasts longer battery life, making your daily moves unstoppable. It has a 3110mAh battery capacity, providing at least 65 hours of music playback or 17 hours of video viewing to give you enough power for your daily activities.

Showcases a powerful dual-camera system to capture life’s best moments

In addition to its outstanding features, the iPhone 11's camera system is like a magical lens that turns moments into memories. Packed with 12MP Ultra-Wide and Wide cameras, you can easily shoot gorgeous portraits and landscape photos to document every OOTD, occasion, celebration, or even simple achievement in your life. Its cameras also support a 4K feature to allow you to record crystal-clear videos.

Exhibits incredible display, design for leveled-up usage

To deliver an incredible experience whenever you are using the device, the iPhone 11 features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display exhibiting a 1792x828 resolution for better viewing. Its screen is accompanied by a water-resistant design rated IP68 to ensure protection from accidental spills or water immersions up to two meters for 30 minutes. This makes sure that the iPhone 11 can last for a long time. This design is available in six eye-catching colors: Black, Green, Yellow, Purple, Red, and White.

What are you waiting for? Do not let this chance slip your fingers! Purchase the iPhone 11 now via Home Credit and experience a powerful device that can easily conquer your day-to-day demands!

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Cancelled Flight: What will happen to me?

Originally posted on July 2016. Updated on August 18, 2023

This post is not about ranting about canceled flights. Instead, let me just share with you the things that normally happen to canceled flights and to their passengers.

When I went to Cebu last June for my mom's birthday, my flight going back to Bacolod got canceled due to aircraft trouble. Since Cebu Pacific only have 2 flights per day with the CEB-BAC route and I had the later flight, we really did not have the option to be transferred to the next flight on that day. We were informed that we had to stay overnight and wait for the first flight the next day.

Source: www.cebupacificair.com

The announcement came around 10 minutes before boarding time. All passengers were asked to go to Cebu Pacific's check-in counters for assistance. Thus, it is very important to listen and be mindful of the announcements while waiting to board the plane. 

Here's what you should expect and some tips on what you need to do when your flight gets canceled. 

1. You need to choose an option to either rebook the flight (whether you would like the next available flight or any other preferred schedule), ask for a refund, or have it refunded and stored as a travel fund with Cebu Pacific. During my recent trip, most of the passengers opted to be rebooked for the first flight the next day.

2. Contact your family and/or friend. More likely, you have to contact someone, especially the person who's picking you up at the airport, and inform them about flight cancellation. If you have no load (for prepaid users) or if your phone runs out of battery, you can ask assistance from the airline's personnel and you may use the phone in their office. Part of the Passenger's Bill of Rights is to be entitled to a free phone call or assistance in communication if necessary. 

3. If the flight is canceled and your flight is moved the next day, they should provide food, accommodation, and hotel transfers. This is absolutely free and all arrangements will be done by the airline. Just to manage your expectations, this may take some time and will test your patience as there are no chairs near the check-in counters so you'll end up standing for an hour or more while waiting.

With our experience, we were billeted in Crown Regency Mactan. Buffet dinner and breakfast were served. If you are traveling alone, there might be instances when the airline would ask you to share a room with another passenger. You can definitely decline and ask them to book individual rooms for you.

4. Don't forget to claim your check-in baggage before leaving the airport to go to the hotel. They won't be keeping it for you. You still need to check in your baggage again the next day.

5. Get the airport office's contact number. Even though they would be completing all arrangements, it would be very hard for you to contact them should there be any problems. Calling Cebu Pacific's hotline will be useless as they do not have specifics about your arrangements. So, it would be best if you have a way to call the local staff of the airline.

6. They normally give some sort of compensation (e.g. free one-way ticket). Aside from rebooking our flight for free, they also gave all passengers a free one-way ticket for domestic travel that we can use within 180 days. It can be redeemed online or by calling their hotline.

August 2023 UPDATE: We had another flight canceled and we were moved to another flight the same day. This time, they gave us two one-way tickets as compensation. We can use it in the next 18 months. 

Generally, my experience of a canceled flight was not that dreadful. It was definitely tiring and it led to some cancelled appointments the next day but I can say that Cebu Pacific has done their part in taking care of our needs and making it up to their passengers.

Book Feature: From Where I Stand: A Collection of Poems on Travel + Exclusive Interview with Author Odyssa Rivera Abille

"Traveling - it leaves you speechless then turns you into a storyteller." - Ibn Battuta

This is exactly what our featured book today is all about. Through this book, we get to read through the author's travel stories. We listen to her as a storyteller and embark on this unique journey with her. "From Where I Stand: A Collection of Poems on Travel" is a compilation of travel poems, with each piece beautifully capturing the essence of a unique place visited by the author in the past. 

This is written by Odyssa Rivera Abille, a teacher and writer based in Hanoi, Vietnam. She is also the writer of two poetry books entitled "Like A New Sun Rising" and "From Where I Stand" Her articles and poetry are featured in foreign online magazines such as Amendo, The Good Men Project, GirlTellMe, and The Fairy Tale Magazine. As a mentee and scholar, she is currently enrolled in the Write program at Middle Tennessee State University.

And today, we're grateful to have this opportunity to have this exclusive interview with her.

1. Can you share with us something about the book that isn't in the blurb?

The book is a compilation of poems based on my travel experiences from previous years, with each piece intricately woven around a specific place and time. This book marks the second installment in my series titled 'Rhymes and Recollections', following the first book, "Like A New Sun Rising: A Collection of Poems on Love".

2. What inspired the idea for your latest book?

The concept of travel, how it changes us, and how our perspective of travel changes through time.

3. How long did it take you to complete the book?

The travel poems were written during my mid-twenties to early thirties. It took me approximately six months to gather, refine, and edit them to their current form.

4. What part of the book was most challenging to write and why?

Crafting the introduction for my book was a little difficult as I tried to recall a compelling angle. Eventually, I settled on recounting a personal experience when I was forbidden to travel - a more interesting way to kickstart a book on the topic.

5. What do you hope your readers take away from this book?

My desire for readers of the book is to walk away with the realization that life is a continual journey of change and to follow the path that the heart is leading them to.

6. If you’re planning a sequel or writing the next book, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?

Yes! This year, I am releasing the third book from the "Rhymes and Recollections" series. That book is a collection of poems about family. I'm excited about it!

7. Where can they buy your books or find out more about you?

You can order my books via Shopee or via Amazon.  

I also share regular updates regarding my books and personal life on my website, www.odyssawrites.com

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Thank you, Author Odyssa for agreeing to this interview. We are happy to know more about your book and we are excited for the upcoming one. 

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We love supporting authors! Do you want your book to be featured? 

Here's how: https://www.mymetrolifestyle.com/p/do-you-want-to-promote-your-book.html

10 Things You Can Expect at the Philippine Book Festival

We are happy to share that the 2nd leg of the Philippine Book Festival is happening on August 18-20, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center, Davao City. 

This exciting event is the largest traveling book festival in the Philippines where you can meet your favorite authors, join a workshop, explore an exhibit, and shop Filipino books. It is definitely more than just a book fair, it's actually a complete book experience that every bookworm shouldn't miss. 

Here are 10 things you can expect at the Philippine Book Festival

1. MEET AND GREET - Connect with your favorite writers and creators. Attend book readings and book signing events. 

2. DISCOVER NEW TITLES, EXPLORE RARE BOOKS AND OTHER CURATED BOOK COLLECTION - Explore new and diverse titles across all genres. With hundreds of publishers participating, you'll be sure to find something that suits your taste. You can also explore and view rare books from the National Library of the Philippines. 

3. ATTEND TALKS AND WORKSHOPS - We offer a range of workshops that cover various topics such as decolonizing reading, Filipino publishing, cross-media adaptation, and much more. 

4. READ AT THE BOOK NOOK - Enjoy the special place where you can do your favorite thing to do. The organizers will prepare a special place for you to browse and read books for free! Talk about bringing a mini library to the event. :)  

5. ENJOY LIVE PERFORMANCES - Enjoy live performances by actors and storytellers who will entertain and captivate you with their tales. 

6. PARTICIPATE IN WRITING WORKSHOPS - If you are an inspiring writer, here is your chance to learn from experts and start honing your craft. 

7. ENGAGE IN LITERARY DISCUSSIONS AND DEBATES - If you enjoy books and literature, the event provides ample opportunities to engage in lively debates and discussions with fellow book lovers. 

8. EXPLORE DIGITAL PUBLISHING AND E-BOOKS - Discover the latest technology in digital publishing and explore the world of e-books. 

9. BOND WITH YOUR FAMILY - You can expect programs for the whole family. Join in on storytelling sessions, create your own family book, and enjoy special tours. 

10. SHOP FILIPINO BOOKS AND MERCHANDISE - Find exclusive deals on Pinoy tiles and curate your own home library.  

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The best part? The entrance is free. 

For more details, you may visit National Book Development Board's FB page for more details. 

The Ultimate Checklist: Essential Factors to Consider for Back-to-School Laptops

Home Credit is key when shopping for sulit devices to gear up for the next school year

In today's technology-driven world, gadgets like laptops have become essential tools in empowering students in their education. From college to grade school, students now rely on these devices to research information, access digital learning materials, complete assignments, and activities, and even communicate with teachers and classmates.

This reality calls for a reliable and efficient partner that every student can use in their day-to-day needs, such as a versatile laptop that can multitask and handle demanding applications for school tasks. However, during this back-to-school season, parents and students have various options to choose from.

The good thing is that Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company, is here to guide you on your quest to find the perfect device for the upcoming school year. From features for usability to budget, here are the ‘wais’ things you should look for before purchasing a laptop.

Check its performance for everyday tasks

A laptop’s performance can affect a student’s overall productivity. Lags or slow response times can interfere with a student’s ability to work efficiently on school activities, assignments, and projects at a given time. For that reason, it is vital to have a high-performance or reliable laptop that can provide a smooth multitasking experience.

Check if the device has a powerful processor and at least 8GB of RAM for better performance. Additionally, ensure it has the latest operating system for compatibility with modern applications and a good graphics card if school tasks require various editing software and more. Such features are built in a wide range of laptops, including Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM/256GB.

Ensure bigger storage for files, applications

Storage is a vital feature to consider when looking for a laptop this upcoming academic year. Having a sizable storage will give a student enough space to store different files, such as research papers, learning materials, and more. It can also provide considerable storage for educational applications and software with larger sizes. With that in mind, make sure to get a laptop built with at least 500GB to 1TB of ROM to not worry about running out of capacity, such as the Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, and ASUS Vivobook 15.

Assess its battery, design for portability

For students, the battery is a crucial factor for a laptop. Power outlets are not always available for the next recharge whenever they are outside the house or on campus. With long-lasting battery power, students can take their laptops anytime and anywhere and use the device for an extended period to work on their school tasks. Look for a laptop equipped with a battery that has the power to last for more than eight hours. For instance, there are the Acer Aspire 3 i3 and the HP 15S i3 Silver Laptop for a reliable study partner.

Additionally, a laptop’s weight and dimensions impact its portability. Because students sometimes bring their laptops to school, a heavier or bulkier device may not be ideal as it might strain their shoulders and backs. That is why always consider a lighter and slimmer design like the Realme Book i3 Work Laptop for a handy device.

Make sure it adheres to the budget

If there is already an established budget for the laptop, stick to it to avoid overspending. As there are various options available out there, it is appropriate to first compare the specs and prices before buying. Choose the one that is affordable and has the specs that can meet a student’s needs, and do not forget to take advantage of on-sale laptops to save money.

Get ‘sulit’ laptops with Home Credit this back-to-school season

To avail of powerful or reliable laptops this coming school year, Home Credit is the key! With its back-to-school promo, enjoy flexible POS with 0% interest to purchase ‘sulit’ laptops.

You can get your hands on the best high-performance laptops below PHP2,499 per month, such as Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM, among others. There are also value-for-money laptops under PHP1,999 per month, including Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, ASUS Vivobook 15, and more.

If you want budget-friendly laptops below PHP1,499 per month, then Home Credit got you covered because you can take advantage of the Acer Aspire 3 i3, ASUS Ryzen 3 Laptop, Realme Book i3 Work Laptop, and more.

Aside from these ‘sulit’ laptops, Home Credit has more in store if you are a Home Credit customer. You can also enjoy its back-to-school cash loan promo that you can use for other school expenses. With just one minute of processing time, you can enjoy PHP3,000 up to PHP150,000 loan amount with flexible payment options from 12 to 60 months. Other than that, if you are an eligible customer, you can also have up to five months of free installment when you pay on time.

So, what are you waiting for? Shop now with Home Credit, and do not miss the chance to enjoy its back-to-school promo. Visit this link to be updated.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Philippine Veterans Bank Gears Up for the 1st Historic Victory Day Bike Ride in Baguio Honoring WWII Veterans

Baguio City will witness a momentous event that blends history and sportsmanship. The inaugural Victory Day Ride spearheaded by the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) slated on September 3, 2023, will take cycling enthusiasts and history aficionados on a journey to honor the sacrifices of World War II veterans and raise awareness about Baguio Victory Day.

Mike Villa-Real, PVB first vice president for marketing and communications, said “the enactment of R.A. 11216 in 2018, marks September 3rd of each year as a special working holiday, marking Yamashita’s surrender and Victory Day in the Philippines. This day in 1945 is clearly a significant historical event marking the success and along with it, the toil and sacrifices, of the soldiers of both the United States and the Philippines. However, it is not as well-known as the “Araw ng Kagitingan” (Day of Valor) commemorated April 9 each year.”

Organized in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), City Government of Baguio, Wartime Heritage Guild Philippines (WHG), Without Limits, Salgado PR, this ride aims to foster a deeper understanding of the city's significant role during WWII while encouraging active participation in the sport of cyclists of all ages and backgrounds.

Inspired by the annual Ride for Valor that retraces the infamous Death March, the Victory Day Bike Ride takes a different route, focusing on the historical sites and landmarks associated with Baguio City's role in World War II. Cyclists and participants will embark on a 44.5 kilometer route that meanders through the city's picturesque landscapes and historical spots, providing a unique opportunity to relive the past and honor the heroes who fought valiantly for freedom.

While the Ride for Valor primarily focuses on the Death March, the Victory Day Bike Ride aims to balance the narrative by shedding light on the broader scope of World War II history in the Philippines. The Victory Day Bike Ride seeks to increase awareness about Baguio City's role during the war. The event intends to give due recognition to the countless Filipino and American soldiers who fought for the country’s liberation.

The Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) invites sports and cycling enthusiasts to join the Ride for Victory Day, a bike-for-a-cause event that aims to raise funds for the maintenance of the country’s historical markers and other World War 2 heritage sites.

The ride is open to fully vaccinated cyclists and all types of bikes with brakes. Villa-Real said participants may ride at their own pace, and will also implement a "No Helmet, No Ride" policy to ensure the safety of the participants.

Villa-Real also said a mechanic will be available to help those who encounter mechanical difficulties, while roving marshals will be present to keep track of the riders' progress. Support vehicles are allowed, but riders should only ride in the vehicle if they choose to drop out of the event.

The non-competitive bike ride will have 5 pitstops: Start at Baguio City Hall, First Stop, Camp Allen, Second Stop, USAFIP-NL Marker, Third Stop, Sablan View Deck, Fourth Stop, Fort Del Pilr (Philippine Military Academy), Fifth and Final Stop, US Embassy in Camp John Hay.

The registration fee for the Ride for Victory Day is P600, which includes an official event shirt, a race bib and passport, a loot bag, a post-ride meal, and a commemorative medal.

Interested individuals may register online at https://bit.ly/victorydayride-regform while groups may email rideforvalor@gmail.com until September 1. 

PVB is a private, commercial bank owned by World War 2 veterans and their families. With its new Charter signed into law, the Bank's ownership now includes Post War Veterans and AFP Retirees.

For more information about the event, follow Victory Day Ride on Facebook.

5 Common Business Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Did you know that 90% of businesses online fail in just 4 months? 

Yes, you read that right! It's sad but it's true. 

So, if you are a business owner or if you are aspiring to be one, then let us share with you the Top 5 Common Business Mistakes and Tips on How to Fix Them: 

1. Unable to Establish a Niche or Focus - The online world can be overwhelming. With the endless possibilities and opportunities, one may also fall into the trap of being all over the place which in return, makes the brand easily lose its identity.  

It is important for brands to establish a niche or identify their area of focus in that way, people can easily remember and recall the brand when doing significant consumer decisions. 

TIP: When starting a business, ask the big questions because your answers can help you identify your niche.  

• What is the purpose of my business?
• What problems am I trying to solve?
• What gaps in the market am I trying to fill in? 

2. Targeting a Broad and Large Market - As great as it sounds, targeting a broad and large market might not be the most efficient way to spend your time and your marketing budget. We have to understand that not everyone can be our customers. The market is so diverse with varying needs, interests, and purchasing power.    

TIP: Know your target audience. Identify consumers who are likely to buy your products and services, and customize your digital marketing strategies to use to engage them.  Do not over-stretch your budget just because you want to reach everyone. 

3. Failing to Establish Online Presence - Whether we admit it or not, digital and online marketing is the way to go. According to a recent study by GE Capital Retail Bank, 81% of retail shoppers conduct online research first before making a purchase.

Thus, by failing to establish your online presence, you set your business NOT being considered in a consumer purchasing decision. 

TIP: Maximize the use of social media platforms like Facebook, IG, Tiktok, Linkedin, etc. 

4. Not Having a Blog - Many businesses build their company websites but miss out on the huge opportunity and benefits of including a blog. As business owners, we have to keep in mind that the goal is not simply to put up a business but rather to become an industry leader. 

By keeping an updated blog and publishing relevant articles, you market yourself and your brand as an expert in your industry. Not to mention your blog posts can get indexed which also helps in the SEO of your website. 

5. Unable to Maximize Online Resources - We just talked about creating a blog and yes, we know that content creation may be a bit challenging for some. However, it is not a sufficient excuse that you don't do it. 

If you don't have a blog because writing is not your forte, or you tend to avoid social media because you don't know how to create posters or edit videos, then you are making the biggest mistake in running your business. There are so many available online resources available now that can help you with your content writing or graphic design needs. 

There is even a database of all the popular tools for digital marketing that you can use so, you don't have to search all over. These tools are user-friendly making it possible even for non-tech-savvy individuals to harness the benefits of using these online resources. 

Indeed, running a business is not easy however, by avoiding these simple mistakes we can increase our chance of success by being focused, creative and resourceful. 

A Home that Cares: Home Credit Extends HMO Coverage to Domestic Partners to Strengthen Inclusivity Efforts

As Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) continues to foster inclusivity and support diverse families in the workplace, the leading consumer finance company now includes domestic partners as dependent in its medical benefits program for eligible employees.

Home Credit Philippines Chief People Officer Alpha Omega Aquino noted that this new policy is aligned with the company’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its employees.

“With this initiative, we hope to create an environment where every employee feels supported and valued. We want to help promote a caring and nurturing work culture that feels like home to empower our employees further,” said Aquino.

With this new policy, qualified employees can now extend their HMO coverage to their domestic partners if they meet certain criteria. The employee and domestic partner should be both single and never married and not related by blood, whether legitimate or illegitimate. The partner must also be of legal age and not more than 65 years old.

If eligible, the employee can enroll the partner by submitting the following requirements for the medical benefits program: barangay certification of co-habitation, the partner’s Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) certified copy of birth certificate, and PSA certificate of no marriage (CENOMAR).

“By extending our medical benefits program to domestic partners, we aim to enable our employees to build strong and healthy families, regardless of marital status. The coverage will encompass inpatient and even outpatient services, including checkups, laboratory tests, rehab, therapy, emergency care, dental, mental health care, and pre-existing conditions,” Aquino added.

As a strong advocate of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), this initiative complements the Same-Sex Partner HMO Coverage that Home Credit started to offer its employees in 2021 to provide medical benefits to LGBTQIA+ partners. Currently, the company already has several employees enjoying this benefit.

“At Home Credit, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We remain committed to fostering a workplace that promotes DEI, allowing us to embrace different perspectives and backgrounds to make every employee feel welcome and appreciated. We will continue enhancing our programs for our employees as we believe our success will not be possible without them,” Aquino remarked.

As a testament to Home Credit’s commitment to upholding DEI practice, the company recently received another Gold Stevie® for the Innovative Achievement for Diversity and Inclusion category during the tenth annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards last June.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).