Saturday, November 23, 2024

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Big Bad Wolf Books began as a small 500-square-foot bookstore in Malaysia in 2006 and has since become a global leader in the bookselling sector. Our objective is to encourage reading by making books more accessible and affordable.


Big Bad Wolf Books, founded by Malaysian entrepreneurs Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng, set out to change Malaysia's reading habits. Since then, the company has become the world's largest book sale, reaching millions of readers in several nations and pioneering a new paradigm for cheap literacy.


Realizing that many potential readers don't regularly visit traditional bookstores, the founders of Big Bad Wolf Books set out to create an entertaining, reasonably priced book-buying experience that draws families and friends. In 2009, the company hosted its first major event, the "Big Bad Wolf Book Sale," intending to bring books directly to people. Non-readers have even been exposed to books for the first time during these book sale events and have subsequently adopted the reading habit. These sales eventually reached millions of books, giving the company the title of "World's Biggest Book Sale" for reasonably priced, high-quality books.


The impact has been profound: “In 2015, we started noticing that young adult books were selling out faster than ever before,” says Big Bad Wolf Books co-founder Jacqueline Ng. “This was a turning point for us, as we realized that the children who had attended our early sales were now teenagers choosing books.” This organic increase in young adult readership has reinforced Big Bad Wolf’s commitment to cultivating a lifelong love of reading.


In 2016, the business began its worldwide expansion, first visiting Indonesia and Thailand before moving on to the Philippines in 2018. There were logistical difficulties associated with this international development, including moving millions of volumes, dealing with customs, and setting up warehouses in partner nations. "We had to come up with innovative solutions for every logistical problem we encountered," Ng stated, adding that collaborations with regional logistics companies, like their agreement in the Philippines, have made it simpler to distribute books to events while maintaining affordable costs.


Big Bad Wolf Books remains committed to its goal despite the rise of e-books and digital reading platforms. “Physical books, especially for children, are invaluable,” says Ng. “There is a special joy in holding a book, choosing one from the shelf, and bringing it home. That’s a joy that digital media cannot replace.” The company has observed that parents who bring their children to Big Bad Wolf Book Book Sales are delighted with the event’s book offerings and their affordability, which allows them to buy multiple books without breaking the bank


With a clear mission and a steadfast faith in the transformative potential of books, Big Bad Wolf Books keeps innovating and growing, advancing accessibility and literacy one book sale at a time.



The Big Bad Wolf Davao 2024


Both ardent readers and people who might not think of themselves as regular readers are welcome at Big Bad Wolf Davao this year. The event is an inclusive celebration of literature to ignite everyone's curiosity and love of books. Big Bad Wolf aims to make reading interesting and accessible for everyone by offering a large selection of genres and steep savings.


The Tent in Azuela Cove, Davao City, will host Big Bad Wolf Books Davao 2024 from November 22 to December 1. It is open from 10:00 AM to midnight every day and from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM on the weekends.
Along with other offers to make holiday shopping easier, Metrobank cardholders can take advantage of a special 3-month 0% payment promo on purchases of P3,000 or more. For more information about special offers and discounts, follow Big Bad Wolf Books on social media!

In collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Big Bad Wolf is bringing the love of reading to underserved communities. In order to assist children's access to high-quality writing, guests can give books, making the holiday experience memorable.


Don't pass up this wonderful chance to discover holiday gems, take part in fun events, and change the world. To keep up with the most recent book sale events and deals, visit Big Bad Wolf Books' website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. 


Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH

Friday, November 1, 2024

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BINI members together with IAM Worldwide GM Joanna Mañego, President Allen Marvin Yu Eder, and VP Aika Lorraine Uy.

IAM Worldwide Corporation, a leading health and supplement marketing organization, just announced BINI as part of its brand ambassador roster for 2024/25.


BINI is an eight-member girl group that debuted on June 11, 2020, during the height of the pandemic. The "Nation's Girl Group" consists of young, modern Filipinas who want to share their musical talent and creative energy with the rest of the globe.


Lead vocalist Colet, hardworking leader Jhoanna, Gwen of Albay, Visual Aiah from Cebu, Lead Rapper Mikha, Main Dancer Sheena from Isabela, Lead Rapper Stacey, and Main Vocalist Maloi.


The members include major visual Aiah from Cebu, lead vocalist Colet, Albay's Gwen, industrious leader Jhoanna, main vocalist Maloi, lead rappers Mikha and Stacey, and Isabela's main dancer Sheena. 

Some of their hit songs include Salamin, Salamin, Pantropiko, Karera, Na Na Na, I Feel Good and Born To Win.


The group was signed as the face of IAM Worldwide’s Amazing Pure Organic Barley and its popular variant Choco Barley. 


“Before we signed them, the girls and their parents informed us that they are avid users of Amazing Pure Organic Barley and Choco Barley,” says Allen Marvin Eder, co-founder & President. “Immediate effects were felt on improving their health; taking barley daily gave them added energy and stamina to perform and be at their best. That’s why we are so happy to have the girls as part of the IAM Worldwide family.”


“Like what BINI stands for, IAM Worldwide has always encouraged the youth to be at their very best,” adds Aika Lorraine Uy, co-founder & Vice President. “And having great confidence, passion, and productivity is made better if one leads a healthy lifestyle.”


General Manager & co-founder Joanna Mañego chimes in: “As a certified BLOOM, I watched their concert and bought whatever merch was available. I introduced them to my partners, so we are all thrilled and ecstatic.” 

“These are exciting times for IAM Worldwide as we welcome the country’s best girl group! Here’s to Aiah, Colet, Gwen, Maloi, Stacey, Mikha, Sheena, and Jhoanna … cheers to good health and years of top-charting success!”


IAM Worldwide formally welcomed the girls on stage during their just-ended 7th Anniversary Event on October 20, 2024, at the MOA Arena.


Aiah from Cebu, lead vocalist Colet, Gwen of Albay, hardworking leader Jhoanna, main vocalist Maloi, lead rappers Mikha and Stacey, and main dancer Sheena from Isabela.


Members of the group instantly expressed their delight in joining IAM Worldwide.

“Salamat sa Amazing Barley at Choco Barley, nabibigyan kami ng extra energy,” says BINI Sheena. “Bukod sa masarap at refreshing, iwas sakit pa given our hectic schedules.”


BINI Gwen also told the crowd, “Nag-research pa talaga ako and nakita ko eto yung best brand of organic barley. I also bought it for my parents. I encourage every BLOOM to make this part of your daily regimen. Make sure you only get the original from IAM Worldwide.”


As for BINI Aiah, she testified how “Amazing Organic Barley is my favorite. I have been drinking it morning and evening. Pampalakas at pampaganda!”


BINI now joins Alden Richards, Marian Rivera, Heart Evangelista, Piolo Pascual, Small Laude, and others as admirers of IAM Worldwide's unique products.


Bini became the first Filipino pop act to participate in the annual KCON music festival in July, performing their latest single "Cherry on Top" at KCON LA 2024's pre-show event in Los Angeles.


Check out the “IAM BINI” campaign by following IAM Worldwide’s official social media accounts at @iamworldwidecorporation or visit their website at https://iam-worldwide.com/



Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

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The ease of working remotely, maintaining family ties, and having a wide range of entertainment options at home are just a few benefits of living a digital lifestyle today.

An estimated 69 million Filipinos have internet connection now, and they spend nine hours a day on average, but in practice, consumers are cutting back to prioritize their needs. Ultimately, we need to manage our finances more wisely.

In order to provide families with greater value for their money, PLDT Home has introduced a new Fiber Unli All plan that combines unlimited internet with up to two times faster speeds, unlimited landline and mobile calls, and limitless entertainment via Cignal TV.


Five reasons why you should get PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 



1. Unlimobile calls

The Fiber Unli All Plans come withan enhanced unlimited mobile calls feature, which lets the whole family enjoy free calls and texts from mobile to mobile, unlimited calls from mobile to landline, landline to landline, and landline to mobile. To enjoy this feature, customers can register five (5) Smart or TNT numbers.



2. Unliinternet with faster speeds

The Fiber UnliAll plan 1399 now comes with speeds of up to 100 Mbps speeds, which is twice as fast as the previous plan at 50 Mbps. Your whole family can enjoy playing games or watching online videos on multiple devicesseamlessly. Downloading and uploading heavy files from the cloud can be done in a snap at double the speed!



3. Minimize spending on a plan

Not all internet usage is the same. A household of five obviously has heavier usage than solo nesters. Conversely, the same number of people may have bigger demands if they’re gamers or working from home, and lesser demand if they’re at the office all day.


Solo nesters may opt for the Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 while families with heavy bandwidth requirement may choose FiberUnliAll Plan1799, ensuring that they get the best deal for their internet subscription based on their digital lifestyle.



4. Premium movies and TV shows

With Fiber Unli All, you can get Cignal Plan 290 with 93 amazing channels bundled into the deal!


This gives you access to Cignal’s vast selection of premium channels that feature daily choices of popular international and local movies, TV shows, sports, news and kids’ programming. There’s really something for everyone in the family to enjoy, whether it’s classic movies and TV series or highly anticipated new blockbusters. It’ll take your family’s movie night to the next level, for sure!



5. Simplified billing, multiple services

Receiving and paying for one bill for multiple services make it easier to do monthly budget and tracking expenses, potentially leading to further savings. The convenience of paying for an internet and cable TV services (plus unlimited calls or texts for free) all in one account also enables the convenience of using digital payment apps to schedule monthly payments. 



PLDT Home gives customers the option to choose between two plans in their FiberUnliAll Plans, available here: (https://pldthome.info/BenchFiberUnliAll), ensuring that they get the best deal for their internet subscription.



Check out how PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plans can supercharge your home by visiting this link.



Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH
 

Monday, October 21, 2024

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IMAGE CREDITS. IAM Worldwide / Spring Company (Korea) / PUBLICITYASIA

Ji Chang-Wook, an actor from South Korea, is the new international ambassador of IAM Worldwide, a Filipino-owned company well-known for its line of daily health products and supplements.


The handsome star is known for his breakthrough roles in popular Korean Dramas such as “Empress Ki” (2013), “Healer” (2014), “The K2” (2016), “The Sound of Magic” (2022), “The Worst of Evil” (2023) and “Welcome to Samdal-ri” (2024).


He will next play an outlaw who will add himself to the list of suspects in a case involving unexplained disappearances in the television series Gangnam B-Side. Disney+ will premiere the drama on November 6, 2024.


“Ji Chang-wook is a dream come true for IAM Worldwide,” says co-founder and President Allen Marvin Yu Eder. “In line with our company’s objectives to enrich the lives of our customers and wholesalers by bringing them world-class products and offerings, we are very pleased to announce that Ji Chang-wook has joined the IAM Worldwide family as a brand endorser.”


“We are very thankful to Ji Chang-wook for choosing IAM Worldwide as his preferred health and wellness partner in the Philippines,” adds Aika Lorraine Uy, co-founder and Vice President. “His mark of approval recognizes our efforts and gives us confidence in continuing our commitment to better the lives of those we serve. Gamsahamnida!”



IMAGE CREDITS. IAM Worldwide / Spring Company (Korea) / PUBLICITYASIA


Meanwhile, General Manager Joanna Mañego says: “As an avid fan of Ji Chang-wook, having my all-time favorite K-Actor is truly an honor for us. We cannot wait to welcome him back to the Philippines. Mabuhay ka, Oppa!”

Acai Berry Extract with Collagen, Grape Juice with Garcinia Cambogia, Organic Barley Drink, Choco Barley, and health supplements like Immunergy are among IAM Worldwide's "Amazing" products. Its approved network of direct distributors offers products for sale both domestically in the Philippines and abroad.


IMAGE CREDITS. IAM Worldwide / Spring Company (Korea) / PUBLICITYASIA

Ji Chang-wook has won numerous acting honors, including the Next Generation Award at the 2023 Asian Film Awards and Best Actor at the 2019 Asia Artist Awards for his performance in "Melting Me Softly."

Fans of the celebrity are already looking forward to Ji's return to the Philippines and his appearance at another event hosted by the well-known health and wellness company since his announcement.


Visit IAM Worldwide's website at https://iam-worldwide.com/ or follow their official social media feeds at @iamworldwidecorporation to learn more about the "IAM JI CHANG-WOOK" campaign.


Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!

-BENCH

Saturday, October 19, 2024

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Lime Resort El Nido

When discussing paradise, El Nido in Palawan frequently comes to mind first. From April 5–9, 2024, I had the honor of visiting this magnificent location, made possible by Cebu Pacific, Davao Bloggers Society, and Palawan Content Creators and each time I think about my experience it is like entering a dream. This little piece of heaven was just as lovely as I had imagined, with its breathtaking limestone cliffs and crystal-clear blue waters. Allow me to take you on a tour of the things that made this vacation so special.


First Impressions: The Gateway to Paradise


When I arrived in Palawan and made my way to El Nido, I was immediately captivated by the natural beauty around me. The air was fresh, the sky was a dazzling blue, and the landscape seemed to spread indefinitely in all directions. The trip to El Nido, flanked by lush flora on one side and the huge ocean on the other, set the tone for an unforgettable few days.


The village of El Nido greets you with its quaint, relaxed atmosphere as soon as you arrive. It's a quiet, charming village where life goes more slowly and peacefully rather than a busy metropolis. The streets are alive with the warmth of the inhabitants, who welcome you with smiles that quickly make you feel at home, while small boats line the coast, ready to take visitors away on island-hopping adventures.


Pristine Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters


Perhaps El Nido's most well-known feature is its breathtaking beaches. For example, Nacpan Beach is a lengthy stretch of golden sand with a gentle water lap along the beach, making it the ideal place to relax and take in the beauty. You may just lie down there, observe the waves, and let all of your troubles melt away.


An afternoon at Lime Resort El Nido as pictured above, was one of the highlights of my trip. The resort was bathed in a mystical glow as the sun began to set, turning the sky into a canvas of gentle pinks and blazing yellows. One of those times when I stopped to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of nature was while I was watching the sunrise and enjoying the gentle air.


Sibaltan Kite Boarding and Island Hopping


Island-Hopping: A World of Wonder


Island hopping is one activity in El Nido that you simply must not miss. As you venture out to discover the numerous islands dotting the blue waters, El Nido's full enchantment becomes apparent. Every island possesses its own appeal, ranging from secret lagoons to immaculate beaches that resemble postcards.


One of my favorite stops was at Sibaltan, Sibaltan, a beach community on El Nido's eastern shore, has long been a haven for backpackers, a hidden gem for those who want to get away from the crowds, see a different side of El Nido, and go even further.


Sibaltan is an El Nido barrio located roughly 45 kilometers or one (1) hour drive from the town core. It is an idyllic and laid-back community with stunning views of the sunrise, rich waters, and a panoramic seascape. There is no easy way to travel to Sibaltan, but the extra work will be rewarded with more miles and an amazing experience.


Canopy Walk and Dreamcatcher by El Nido Via Ferrata


Lush Forests and Limestone Cliffs: Nature at its Finest


El Nido is home to breathtaking scenery of verdant forests and sheer limestone cliffs in addition to its beaches and islands. One of the region's defining characteristics is the cliffs. The jagged edges of these magnificent rock formations, which rise sharply out of the sea, contrast sharply with the calm, gentle seas below.


One morning, I hiked up Taraw Cliff, which was a difficult but very worthwhile experience. It felt like we were climbing a sheer rock face at one point since the ascent was so steep. However, the view was well worth the effort once we arrived at the summit. From the top, you had a broad view of El Nido below, with the town, the islands, and the ocean all illuminated by the gentle morning light. Standing there and admiring the majesty of the surroundings was an experience of sheer awe.


El Nido Zipline


Leaving El Nido: A Bittersweet Goodbye


I found myself hesitant to depart as my stay in El Nido drew to a close. It's a location that makes a deep impression on your heart, where the splendor of the natural world connects you to something far greater than yourself. With a strong sense of appreciation for having visited such a location, I vowed to myself that I would return someday.


El Nido, Palawan, is a nature lover's dream come true in every manner. It provides an experience that is nothing short of amazing, from its immaculate beaches and glistening waters to its verdant forests and striking limestone cliffs. You won't regret visiting if you ever get the chance.


Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!
-BENCH

Friday, August 16, 2024

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Davao City, Philippines – August 16 – Red Planet Davao recently sponsored the exciting "Lounge & Learn: Bloggers Slumber Party," in collaboration with the Davao Bloggers Society. This theme went nicely with the venue, providing a great backdrop for an evening that smoothly merged relaxation and teaching.




Red Planet Davao's recently renovated amenities, rooms, and building design were all on display at the event. Ms. Clarisse Lim, Assistant Hotel Manager, welcomed the guests and announced, "Over the past three months, we’ve been dedicated to reimagining and elevating our hotel’s ambiance to provide a more comfortable and convenient experience for every guest. Tonight, we are thrilled to reveal the stunning new look of our hotel and our refreshed room designs. We believe these upgrades will offer a new level of comfort and convenience, from the ground floor where we welcome you, to the venue for tonight, and into your new room designs."

Under the leadership of President Gem Tadefa, the event featured engaging workshops aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of the invited bloggers.



Red Planet Hotels' and the Davao Bloggers Society's alliance demonstrates their shared dedication to developing connections and relationships within Davao City's tourist industry. This partnership not only draws attention to Davao's natural beauty but also extends an invitation to visitors from other parts of the Philippines and outside to enjoy its distinctive attractions and culture.



Discover and enjoy Davao with up to 35% off your hotel accommodation. Red Planet Davao is offering an exclusive promotion: use promo code REDPLANETDAVAO, rates may vary without prior notice. Travelers may book directly at https://redplanet.link/RPDavaoPromo to take advantage of this great offer.


Thanks for reading and see you in the next one!
-BENCH