by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 16, 2018 | Business
Citi, the country’s leading foreign bank, remains positive about economic growth in the Philippines despite current global market volatility. At a series of mid-year outlook events, Citigold clients heard expert views on the current market environment and implications for investment strategy shared by Citi and guest speakers.

Manoj Varma, Consumer Banking Head of Citi
Citi’s consumer banking head Manoj Varma opened the sessions and explained the importance of understanding risks and opportunities when investing. Varma said, “Citigold clients look for trusted advice and up-to-date information, especially during times of market volatility.”

Ramon, Tejero, Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (CFSI) investment product head
According to Ramon Tejero, Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (CFSI) investment product head, market data shows that we are in the midst of the second longest and third strongest equity bull market since 1970. Recent market volatility has been primarily caused by rising interest rates, potential trade wars, and geopolitical tensions.
“Despite market concerns, there appear to be opportunities in technology, financials, healthcare, and industrials due to continued earnings growth in these sectors,” said Tejero.
The economic climate in the Philippines
In the Philippines, Citi believes the country’s economic growth momentum will be sustained in the coming years. Citi forecasts GDP will grow by 6.8% in 2018 and 6.7% in 2019. A primary source of growth will be the government’s infrastructure program.

Citi Philippines consumer banking head Manoj Varma (2nd from right) joined speakers who shared their expertise with Citigold clients at the 2018 Mid-Year Market Outlook (L-R): Kelvin Lam of Allianz Global Investors, Anis Tiasiri of J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Julian Tarrobago of ATR Asset Management Inc., and Ramon Tejero of Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Philippines Inc.
However, businesses and consumers are showing cautious optimism on the back of ongoing inflation concerns. Citi expects inflation to top 5.3% in the third quarter of 2018 before declining to below 5.0% in the following quarter.
“Investors can focus on diversification across asset classes and geographies and income themes while watching out for tactical opportunities,” concluded Tejero.

Citi Philippines Retail Bank head Rene Aguirre (right) welcomes clients to the 2018 Mid-Year Outlook along with Citigroup Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Philippines president Lester Cruz.
“The world is indeed shrinking and when, where, and how we invest is largely influenced not only by domestic factors but also by global market events,” said Rene Aguirre, Citi Retail Bank head. “As trusted advisors, we help our clients grow and protect their wealth. In recent months, 10 new investment products have been launched and digital innovations continue to be developed, such as the recently unveiled next-generation Citi mobile app.”
For more information, visit www.citibank.com.ph.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 15, 2018 | Business
Essilor’s Eye Can Succeed has once again bagged awards from yet another prestigious award-giving body, the 2018 Philippine Quill Awards held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom.
Essilor’s Eye Can Succeed, which received the merit award for Communication Management under the Corporate Social Responsibility category, aims to help Filipino senior high school students achieve better sight by providing free eye check-ups and giving free eyeglasses to those in need.
The Eye Can Succeed campaign is a program launched last year by Essilor Vision Foundation (EVF), the philanthropic arm of Essilor which is committed to eliminating poor vision and providing underprivileged people the opportunity to live a better life through better sight.
The Philippine Quill Awards is presented by the local division of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), and honors dedication, innovation and passion of communicators on a global scale. For more information, visit Essilor’s website at www.essilor.com.ph, and follow @EssilorPH on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 14, 2018 | Discounts, Sales, and Giveaways
Lazada, the country’s leading online shopping and selling destination, is set to launch its biggest series of Flash Sales this August 15, dubbed as “Wild Wednesday.” With big discounts of up to 88%, these deals will be spread out among three Flash Sales which will happen in the morning, at noon, and at night.
Over 100,000 Items Up for Grabs
Don’t miss the chance to buy some of Lazada’s novelty items such as umbrellas and necklaces for as low as Php 39. Top tech items such as power banks, wireless mouse and electric drills are also up for grabs, for up to 50% off.
Some of Lazada’s bestselling beauty products will catch your attention too. Among these include Precious Pad Nature’s Lemon Spa and Noni Soap for just Php 25, Aztec Clay for Php 39, and Ever Bilena’s City Romance Liquid Lipstick Beauty set at over 60% off.
Over 300,000 Flash Sale Fans
“Lazada has been working closely with its brands, sellers, and customers to provide the best online shopping and selling experience. For our sellers, Wild Wednesday is a great opportunity for better visibility and store ratings. With over 300,000 visitors each flash sale, the platform really is a wild win for everyone.” said Lazada CEO, Ray Alimurung.
Nationwide Free Delivery
It doesn’t stop at discounts. Lazada will also offer nationwide free delivery for any flash sale purchase this coming Wild Wednesday. Mark your calendars and gear up for the wildest Wednesday online shopping has ever seen. Visit www.lazada.com.ph or download the Lazada mobile app for free today to join the hump day fun.
About Lazada Group
Launched in 2012, Lazada is the number-one online shopping and selling destination in Southeast Asia – present in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. As the pioneer of the eCommerce ecosystem in Southeast Asia, Lazada has about 350,000 sellers and 3,000 brands serving 560 million consumers in the region through its tech-driven platform, supported by a wide range of tailored marketing, data, and service solutions.
Lazada offers the widest range of products in categories from consumer electronics to household goods, toys, fashion, sports equipment and groceries. Focused on delivering an excellent customer experience, it offers multiple payment methods including cash-on-delivery, comprehensive customer care and hassle-free returns through its own first and last mile delivery arm supported by approximately 100 logistics partners. Lazada Group is majority owned by Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA)
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 8, 2018 | Lifestyle
TechnoMarine declares there is truly no time to wait, as it dares you to be part of its campaign.
TechnoMarine’s “No Time To Wait Tour” celebrates creativity, individuality, and drive.
Join TechnoMarine and drop by a participating store on the scheduled dates for a chance to be featured online and shared across social media channels to inspire, motivate, and encourage people to seize the day. Plus, you can definitely expect an afternoon full of excitement and awesome prizes from TechnoMarine.
Those who are keen to own a TechnoMarine watch can trade in any pre-loved wristwatch – any brand in working condition at participating branches – for a 40 percent discount on all TechnoMarine watches!
No Time To Wait Tour
Catch the TechnoMarine “No Time To Wait Tour” at the following branches and on the following dates:
- August 11, 2018 at Edsa Shangri-La Mall in Mandaluyong City;
- August 12, 2018 at Greenbelt 3 in Makati City;
- August 18, 2018 at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City;
- August 19, 2018 at SM North Edsa Main Wing in Quezon City;
- August 25, 2018 at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City;
- and lastly on August 26, 2018 at SM Megamall.
The video booth and trade in is time bound and can only be offered within 1:00PM to 6:00PM in each stop.
TechnoMarine timepieces inspire a carefree coastal resort spirit with their use of water-inspired elements. A bright mix of colors and premium components let urban souls dream of international destinations while sporting watches by innovative designers who enthusiastically develop each collection concept.
For more information, follow @TechnoMarinePH on Facebook and Instagram.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 7, 2018 | Advocacy
Uratex, the country’s leading sleep specialist, partners with philanthropists and society personalities Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Kaye Tinga for the company’s ongoing CSR campaign, Project 50, which aims to provide a total of 2,500 mattresses to 50 public hospitals and nursing homes nationwide.
As brand ambassadors, Prieto-Valdes and Tinga chose four hospitals where 200 mattresses were donated under their names. One of their beneficiaries was the Ospital ng Makati. Other recipients of Uratex include:
As the leading manufacturer of quality foams and mattresses in the country, Uratex is committed to education and health advocacy, rehabilitation programs, community service, and volunteerism. Robert G. Cheng/Uratex Foundation serves as the CSR arm of the RCG group of companies.

In photo shows Uratex executive vice-president Eddie Gallor; Kaye Tinga; Tessa Prieto-Valdes; Uratex CEO and president Natty Cheng; and Ospital ng Makati division for medical services director Robert So.
For more information, visit https://www.uratex.com.ph.
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