by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 25, 2023 | Technology
HP recently launched its latest line of smarter, more affordable Smart Tank printers. Designed to cater to the needs of budget-conscious consumers, these printers offer a winning combination of top-notch features, user-friendly functionality, and unbeatable affordability. Whether you’re an individual or a family, these printers are the perfect choice for those who refuse to compromise on quality, while keeping a close eye on their wallet.
Affordability Meets Functionality
The newly launched HP Smart Tank printer series includes three models: Smart Tank 210, Smart Tank 520, and Smart Tank 580. Each model addresses specific printing needs while ensuring that cost remains a top priority.
The Smart Tank 210
The Smart Tank 210 is an excellent option for those seeking a straightforward printing solution. Its compact design and robust capabilities offer everything you need in a printer. The Smart Tank 210 has wireless printing capabilities, allowing you to conveniently print from your mobile devices using the HP Smart App, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, HP Print Service Plugin, or Wi-Fi Direct Printing. It is a reliable workhorse for personal and professional use. With a resolution of up to 1200 dpi, your prints will showcase exceptional detail and clarity. Whether you’re printing important documents or school assignments, the Smart Tank 210 delivers outstanding results at an affordable price.
The Smart Tank 520 and 580
Alongside high-quality printing, the Smart Tank 520 and 580 are models that offer copy and scan capabilities, providing a convenient all-in-one solution. With their wireless printing capabilities, you can effortlessly print, copy, and scan documents, photos, and more.

Tackle printing tasks with ease. Experience the power of productivity with the HP Smart Tank 520 and HP Smart Tank 580, an all-in-one printer that allows you to print, copy, and scan documents effortlessly, all in stunning detail with resolutions up to 1200 dpi. It is ready to handle your high-volume printing needs.
User-Friendly Experience
HP understands the importance of a user-friendly experience. That is why the Smart Tank printers are designed to be intuitive and easy to use. Whether you’re a tech-savvy parent or a student on a tight budget, these printers offer a seamless printing experience. Their compact and sleek designs fit seamlessly into any home or office setup. Plus, the wireless printing features ensure a hassle-free printing experience, allowing you to print from anywhere within your home network.
Make the switch to Smart Tank
Upgrade your printing experience and embrace the convenience, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of HP’s all-new Smart Tank printers. To get your hands on these game-changing printers, visit the official HP flagship store at https://bit.ly/HPLazadaFlagshipStore or explore the HP official store at https://bit.ly/HPShopeeOfficialStore.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 23, 2023 | Business
Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) continues to embody how excellence is best demonstrated through commitment and consistency. PCPPI recently announced that all its manufacturing facilities across the country received recommendations for the coveted Food Safety System Certification (FSSC), with its Naga Plant being the most recent site to be certified.
Frederick D. Ong, the president and chief operating officer of PCPPI, said completing the FSSC status fulfills the organization’s unswerving commitment to developing a strong food safety and quality culture.

Frederick Ong, President and CEO of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc.
“At PCPPI, our mission has always been to produce safe, high-quality, and reliable products that deliver the best customer experience. It is imperative for us to adhere to global industry standards by continuously raising our performance. We do this by adapting to regulatory requirements and consumer demand, and embracing industry innovation,” said Ong.
Obtaining FSSC recognition provides PCPPI an advantage, as the certification recognizes its capacity to produce safe food and food packaging products, reduce hazards and incident risks, roll out resource optimization initiatives, reinforce its supply chain relationships, and maintain food safety protocols and programs.
The FSSC status was recommended by SGS, one of the top global audit and certification companies, following a period of undergoing a rigorous review process that a dedicated Plant Audit Team led. This team comprises representatives across the facility’s functions: food safety and logistics to human resources and environmental health, safety, and security.
SGS tested the plants’ processes and policies in accordance with FSSC standards, which are aligned with ISO 22000 upon onsite inspection. FSSC evaluation is done annually, with scheduled and unannounced audit visits done.
“As we successfully complete our FSSC status, we are optimistic that this will enable more market opportunities for PCPPI and further grow the confidence of both internal and external stakeholders in our organization,” Ong added.
PCPPI operates 12 manufacturing facilities across the country. The FSSC-recommended facilities are Muntinlupa, San Fernando, Santo Tomas, Rosario, Davao, Bacolod, Naga, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Tanauan, and Cebu City.
PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country. Other than Pepsi, it distributes well-loved brands such as Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier Purified Water. For more information about PCPPI and its products, please visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 23, 2023 | Business
Metro Manila’s middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials have expressed growing concern over the impact of inflation during the second quarter of 2023, according to a survey conducted by the Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Singapore-Manila Branch. The survey, which was conducted from May to June, revealed that a staggering 94% of respondents felt the effects of inflation during this period.
The rising costs of essential goods and services, such as food, transportation, fuel, and utilities, have forced these young adults to make cuts in their non-essential spending, including leisure and entertainment expenses.
Among the respondents, 60% reported that the continuous price increases had the greatest impact on their food and beverage expenses, followed by transportation and fuel costs at 15%, and utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet bills, at 14%. Additionally, an overwhelming 83% of participants stated that they had reduced their spending on non-essential goods, while 79% found it necessary to cut back on leisure and entertainment expenses.

SM Megamall Fashion Hall
The survey also highlighted the financial challenges faced by this demographic. Approximately one-third of respondents (32%) reported being unable to save over the past 6 to 12 months. For those who managed to save, 44% saved a lower percentage of their income. The persistent inflationary pressures have led 38% of respondents to adjust their savings goals by either reducing the target amount or delaying their timelines. Similarly, 47% of participants had to adjust their savings plans.
To cope with the financial strain, many respondents have turned to loans. Of the surveyed individuals, 71% reported having outstanding loans. To augment their incomes, 43% of respondents resorted to taking out additional loans in the past year. Among those who already had loans, 58% had to cut back on other expenses to meet their loan obligations, while 19% were forced to delay payments.
The survey also revealed that 41% of respondents possessed credit cards. Personal loans were the most prevalent type of loan, accounting for 30% of respondents, followed by alternative installment loans and salary loans, each representing 19%, respectively.
Regarding investments, 52% of respondents had existing investment portfolios. Among these, mutual funds and stocks were the top investment products, chosen by 18% of participants each. However, due to the inflationary pressures, 12% of respondents had to partially liquidate their holdings for increased liquidity, and a minimal 1% sold off their entire investment portfolio.
Given the challenges posed by inflation, respondents have adopted diverse coping strategies. A notable 94% expressed concerns that continuous price increases would persist over the next 6 to 12 months. Consequently, 91% of participants felt the need to explore additional income streams. To adjust to the current economic situation, 86% of respondents planned to continue cutting back on expenses, while 73% intended to reduce their spending on entertainment and leisure activities.
Regarding savings, 34% of participants expressed plans to increase their savings allocations to better prepare for the future, while 33% aimed to maintain their current savings pattern. However, 16% of respondents planned to reduce their monthly savings allocation due to inflationary pressures.
The survey also shed light on borrowing habits, with 46% of respondents indicating that they were less likely to take out loans, while 28% stated they were more likely to acquire additional loans.
Regarding investments, 12% expressed a desire to explore risky investments to achieve high returns over the next 6 to 12 months. Meanwhile, 40% considered more conservative options. Notably, 30% said they would avoid investing altogether, while 18% aimed to maintain liquidity.
The online survey conducted by the NRI Singapore-Manila Branch included 295 adults from Metro Manila, consisting of 92 Gen Zs and 203 Millennials from the middle class. The participants had monthly individual income ranges of PHP 13,000 to PHP 41,000 and PHP 41,001 to PHP 163,000.
As inflation continues to impact the daily lives and financial well-being of Metro Manila’s middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials, it is clear that they are actively seeking ways to navigate these challenges and secure their financial futures.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 23, 2023 | Bon Appetit
Do you recall me mentioning how we usually have chicken by default here at home? It is a no-brainer, to be honest. When we can’t think of what to cook or what to order in we just go CHICKEN!
For those of you who have gotten into the habit of ordering using apps like Grab or Foodpanda, you know how expensive it can get to order food. You start off just intending to buy for yourself but then there is a minimum needed to get free delivery or discounts using vouchers. In the end, you end up spending more than you intended.
I happen to be one of those people that love to cook and often prefer to do things from scratch. I love Magnolia for coming up with the bridge between cooking from scratch and instant food. Hooray for Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks!


Contents of one (1) Magnolia Chicken Timplados RTC Friend Chicken Drumsticks
The packet comes with 3 drumsticks, breading, and BBQ flavoring. This is either good enough for sharing with 1 or 2 people or, just enough for me if I eat it alone without rice.
It isn’t an instant meal like a TV dinner that you can just pop in the microwave and eat. This ready-to-cook packet is, as it says … ready to cook, so it does require some rudimentary cooking skills to come out well. I posted some directions on how to cook the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Ready-To-Cook Fried Chicken Drumsticks on Hearthandhomebuddies.com and CleanSpoonChronicle.com in case you need to know how it is done.
This package I got was not for BBQ chicken. It isn’t a saucy dish. No, it is fried chicken with BBQ powder coating it.

I love the marinade! It is flavorful but not overpowering. The breading gives that crispiness we look for in fried chicken, and the BBQ powder flavoring gives this simple dish that extra zing! I can’t finish a pack on my own but I know that my nephew and niece certainly can. It pairs perfectly with pasta!

I had my BBQ-flavored fried chicken with creamy tomato pesto with Italian sausage and mushroom. I liked it so much that I did it again the following day, lol!
If you live alone or with just one other Magnolia Chicken Timplados is something you may want to consider having in your freezer. It is ready to cook any time you are. Magnolia Chicken Timplados is available in all leading supermarkets.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 22, 2023 | Technology
If you’re an ardent gamer searching for the ultimate gaming experience, look no further than the Victus 15 by HP. As one of the best gaming laptops in 2023, the Victus 15 combines cutting-edge technology and exceptional features to take your gaming to new heights. With its powerful performance and immersive capabilities, this gaming laptop will elevate your gameplay, ensuring you have the edge over your opponents and experience gaming at its absolute best.
At the heart of the Victus 15 lies the 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor, a true gaming powerhouse that brings unrivaled processing power to your fingertips. 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors use a performance hybrid architecture design to transform your gaming and computing experience by integrating two all-new core microarchitectures (Performance core and Efficiency core) into a single die to increase compute efficiency and deliver intelligent workload optimization.
The Intel Thread Director does the behind-the-scenes magic that seamlessly coordinates the performance cores (P-cores) and efficient cores (E-cores) to work together harmoniously. This intelligent coordination ensures you experience the perfect balance of clock speed, cores, and threads, delivering immersive experiences and low latency during competitive gameplay.

The Victus 15, however, is more than just a gaming machine; it offers users the freedom to multitask without compromising performance. Whether you’re chatting with friends, browsing the internet, streaming content, editing videos, or recording gameplay, this laptop effortlessly handles it all. With its powerful capabilities, you can seamlessly switch between tasks without missing a beat, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your gaming experience.
Graphics are a crucial component of any gaming laptop, and the Victus 15 excels in this department. Powered by the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti Laptop GPU, it delivers stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensures that every detail comes to life with breathtaking clarity. You’ll be fully immersed in the virtual world, with fluid motion and reduced motion blur, making your gaming experience truly captivating.
The Victus 15 boasts immersive audio tuned by B&O and dual speakers to enhance your gaming immersion further. From thunderous explosions to subtle ambient sounds, every audio detail is amplified, creating a rich and realistic soundscape that truly draws you into the game. With the Victus 15, you’ll experience gaming audio like never before.
Extended gaming sessions can strain a laptop’s cooling system, but the Victus 15’s upgraded cooling system ensures optimal performance even during intense gaming marathons. Say goodbye to overheating and performance throttling and enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions with peace of mind. This laptop is designed to keep up with your gaming demands and maintain peak performance throughout.
Connectivity is made effortless with the Victus 15, which supports multiple 4K displays and features Thunderbolt™ technology. Whether connecting to external displays or organizing your peripheral suite, the Victus 15 provides the flexibility and convenience to create your dream gaming setup. Stay prepared and ready to dive into the gaming action at any moment.
Customization and optimization are key to achieving your gaming goals, and the Victus 15 offers just that through the Omen Gaming Hub. This centralized control center allows you to fine-tune your settings, monitor system performance, and connect with other gamers. It’s your one-stop shop for enhancing your gaming experience and staying ahead of the competition.
The Victus 15 by HP is a gaming beast that will take your gaming experience to the next level. With its sleek design, powerful performance, immersive display, enhanced audio, and upgraded cooling system, it stands out among the best gaming laptops available in 2023. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious esports enthusiast, the Victus 15 is the ultimate gaming companion that will take your gaming journey to the next level.
Unleash the full potential of your gaming experience with the Victus 15 by HP. Gaming happens with Intel®, and with the 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor, this laptop is built for the next generation of gaming. Don’t miss out on this exceptional gaming companion. Visit the official HP stores on Shopee and Lazada to discover the Victus 15 and elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Get ready to conquer the virtual world like never before.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 21, 2023 | Book Reviews
I am in love with the Screaming Eagles! There must be something in the beer these guys are drinking because all the guys (so far) just seem so fantastic! In threes or fours, it doesn’t matter, bagging a Screaming Eagle sounds like heaven, and Crash, Preacher, and Devil are no exception. I realize this isn’t the norm for MCs but … oh my!
Good Girl for the Bikers by Stephanie Brother tells the story of Summer, a sheltered girl, the daughter of a pastor, and the Fallen Angels crew of the Screaming Eagles MC, namely Crash, Preacher, and Devil.
Summer and Crash are step-siblings but have not seen each other Since Crash (formerly Jacob) left the mansion they were living in when he was 16 to escape the beatings he received from his stepfather. Summer got left behind and was molded into being the timid, submissive girl, the epitome of good.
Many years later (to the present) Summer found Crash’s number and calls him to let him know that his mother has passed away. Like a boulder rolling off a cliff, this led to a series of events that prompted Summer to reach out to Crash once again and ask to be rescued … except it was Devil who picked up the call, not Crash.
Good Girl for the Bikers by Stephanie Brother does have a hurdle for Summer and Crash to overcome but this story doesn’t have too much external angst and that it gave us a chance to savor their growing relationship. Even knowing that she would eventually end up with all three of them, I was still excited to go through the journey.
A marvelous story, as always, Stephanie! As always, I look forward to your books. Will the rest of the Screaming Eagles, like Wraith, get into reverse harems, too? I can’t wait to find out!
If anyone out there wants to check out Good Girl for the Bikers by Stephanie Brother you can find it on Amazon for 2.99 and free with a Kindle Unlimited account. Don’t forget to check out the bonus chapter after you are done reading the book … exclusively on stephaniebrotherbooks.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 20, 2023 | Public Service
Last August 2022, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against implementing the no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) for traffic violators in Metro Manila.
The TRO stops the implementation of NCAP-related programs and ordinances and any apprehensions through the said policy and ordinances “shall be prohibited until further orders from the Court.”
The order also halted the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and all parties acting on its behalf from giving out motorist information to all government units, cities, and municipalities enforcing NCAP programs and ordinances.
But last June 14, 2023, renewed calls to bring back NCAP were revitalized after a fatal accident happened at the EDSA Shaw Boulevard tunnel where an SUV hit a motorcycle driver. Both motorists happened to be in the EDSA Carousel Bus Lane resulting in the former getting run over by a tanker driver in the adjacent lane.
Because of this, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) wasted no time coordinating with the Office of the Solicitor General in filing a motion before the Supreme Court to consider lifting the temporary restraining order on the implementation of the NCAP.
It’s sad to know that a gruesome incident had to happen. Still, aside from this, MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said they will use the data they obtained in the past months showing an increase in the number of road accidents and traffic violations after the NCAP was suspended in August last year.
“We find it difficult to enforce the exclusivity of the said lane without the certainty of a CCTV-assisted apprehension, thereby exposing our motorcycle riders to a greater risk,” said Artes. “We keep on reminding motorists not to use the innermost lane of EDSA as it may result in an accident, but despite our repeated calls and pleas, many drivers of privately-owned vehicles and motorcycle riders disregard the policy,” Artes added.
Aside from MMDA, Metro Manila Council President and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora also lead the discussion to raise the TRO on NCAP.
According to Zamora, MMDA data shows that from August 2022 to May of the present year had already resulted in an average of 25,926 per month as compared to a monthly average of 9,500 before NCAP was suspended.
“This data shows that we have more than a double increase in the number of violations. Having been Mayor of San Juan for the last four years, it is nearly impossible to have traffic enforcers all over San Juan, more so all over the entire Metro Manila. Having NCAP deters motorists from committing traffic violations,” shared Zamora.

DETERRENT. Metro Manila Mayors believe that the NCAP is an effective deterrent to erring motorists to avoid road accidents.
For those interested in road safety, NCAP is a step forward, in terms of our enforcement of traffic laws.
In the few months it was implemented in San Juan, Quezon City, Manila, Valenzuela City, Muntinlupa City and Paranaque City, NCAP did bring benefits that some would say were unfairly ignored in the debate.
These cities that have fully implemented NCAP cited decreased obstructions, choking of traffic from apprehended vehicles, reckless driving, and hazardous motorists’ habits.
It is unfortunate that we needed to wait for a fatal accident for us to see the benefits of NCAP. And aside from this incident, many agree that it is now time for the TRO to be lifted. With NCAP already addressing a lot of the public’s concern, this July the handheld device for the Single Ticketing System (STS) will have a pilot test to be spearheaded by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
With the STS in place, it will enable the Metro Manila local government units to strictly enforce traffic laws while harmonizing the existing national and local laws on traffic enforcement to establish an effective transport and traffic management system.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 19, 2023 | Food & Beverage
Introducing the newest #Madalicious delight from Magnolia Chicken Timplados! Its newest offering, Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ seasoning, offers a unique cooking experience for the whole family.
The classic family favorite can now be served and enjoyed without the added stress, giving valuable extra minutes for family bonding. With the added bbq flavor seasoning, even kids can join in on the cooking preparation where they can “shake things up” to add an extra flavor kick to the beloved fried chicken. Mas masarap ang timpla ng meal time, especially when prepared with love and alaga from Magnolia.
Siguradong Timplang Happy basta may Magnolia Chicken Timplados
Sa agahan, tanghalian, merienda o hapunan, may Magnolia Chicken Timplados na para sa’yo! Madaling lutuin, masustansya sa protina, at masarap pa kaya masaya ang timpla ng araw ng buong pamilya. Lalo na pag nasubukan ang bagong Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks na may dagdag na BBQ seasoning na pwedeng i-shake shake pa so siguradong magdadagdag ng tuwa sa meal time. Ganyan ang Alagang Magnolia!
Shop #PambansangManok now at:
nearest Magnolia Chicken Stations
Monterey Neighborhood Meatshops
*San Miguel Mart: https://bit.ly/MCOnSanMiguelMart
**Shopee: https://bit.ly/ShopMCOnShopee
**Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/l.0Zj7
*Available in Metro Manila, and some parts of Rizal, and Cavite only.
**Available in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal only.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 17, 2023 | Book Reviews
I came across You Are Mine, Omega by AlisTae on Goodnovel and decided to give it a chance because I was curious about what was so special with this omega that an alpha or two would be desperate to claim her. In most stories, omegas are treated with disdain or indifference.
Allison is the Beta’s daughter, but instead of having Beta blood, she is (apparently) an omega. She likes to keep things low-key so no one in school knows who she is except for the alpha’s son, Ethan, who she has had a crush on for a long time. Because of this, she gets bullied, but she ignores it.
On her 18th birthday, she discovers that Ethan is her mate, but he rejects her. In the meantime, Ryan, Ethan’s brother, is constantly in the picture and seemingly into her without saying anything.
But at the same time, he also alternately pays her attention and then ignores her completely. I swear it is causing whiplash.
Because the rejection almost killed Allison, she is unsure about how she feels for Ethan. However, she is also confused about how her body reacts when Ryan is near. Does anyone else think that Ryan is her second-chance mate?
The story has potential but needs a lot of editing, not just grammatically but also for consistency. The author tends to be repetitive, perhaps to emphasize a point. Instead, it appears that the author didn’t proofread before posting.
That I think is unfair to the readers who are paying per chapter, especially when we consider that most of these authors who post on reading apps are keeping track of their word count, and I’ve noticed that quite a few would write the bare minimum to publish a chapter as scheduled.
That being said, The story is engaging enough for me to say, “Go ahead and give it a gander,” but with a warning label that says, “Proceed with caution. It may inflame you, lol!”
It is still an ongoing story, a quick read, and not too much drama. You may enjoy it. You can find You Are Mine, Omega by AlisTae on Goodnovel.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 14, 2023 | Food & Beverage
From all walks of life, Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ Seasoning can be relied on to offer an #Madalicious delight throughout the day. Find solace in how quickly a fried chicken meal can be served and enjoyed, adding valuable extra minutes as one navigates through a busy schedule. Make family bonding moments count over the preparation and “shake-shake” fun experience.
Share unforgettable memories over a comforting meal of tender fried chicken. Magnolia Chicken Timplados offers more than just a dish; it creates experiences that bring joy and connections. Sa Magnolia Chicken Timplados, iba’t-ibang easy chicken sarap!
Magnolia Chicken Timplados, Maasahan Ano Mang Oras Sa agahan, tanghalian, merienda man o hapunan; kaagapay mo ang Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ Seasoning. Ihain na para saýo, sa iyong pamilya o bisita. Madaling lutuin, masustansya sa protina at masayang ihain. I-shake-shake na ang paboritong Fried Chicken! Siguradong #Madalicious! Sa Magnolia Chicken Timplados, iba’t-ibang easy chicken sarap!
Shop #PambansangManok now at:
nearest Magnolia Chicken Stations
Monterey Neighborhood Meatshops
*San Miguel Mart: https://bit.ly/MCOnSanMiguelMart
**Shopee: https://bit.ly/ShopMCOnShopee
**Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/l.0Zj7
*Available in Metro Manila and some parts of Rizal, and Cavite only.
**Available in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal only.
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