by | Jun 20, 2025 | Business
Fathers don’t always ask for much—but behind the strong front are long hours, sore muscles,
and a well of unspoken exhaustion. This Father’s Day, it’s time to turn the tables. Let’s not just
thank Dad. Let’s give him something he rarely asks for but absolutely deserves–rest.
OGAWA Philippines invites you to celebrate the heart of the home with the Meister Massage Chair—a next-generation wellness experience designed for the ultimate relaxation and recovery. It’s more than just a massage chair. It’s your dad’s new personal sanctuary.
Introducing the OGAWA Meister: For the Man Who Does It All
The OGAWA Meister Massage Chair, now officially launched in time for Father’s Day, redefines what it means to give back to Dad. Every inch of this chair was built to support the ones who support us.
From early mornings at work to late nights fixing what’s broken, the Meister is a thank-you in the form of advanced wellness technology—delivered with luxury, comfort, and care.
Next-Level Features Fit for a Hero
Powered by Overseer Technology, the Meister doesn’t just massage—it understands. Its AI Fatigue Measurement and AI Analysis & Program Recommendation systems scan and assess the body, then intelligently recommend the ideal massage for your dad’s current state.
With 25 automatic massage programs to choose from, the Meister makes sure every muscle gets the attention it deserves—whether it’s a deep tissue session after a long day or a gentle unwind before bed.
The Meister also includes:
Voice Control for hands-free convenience
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) for targeted relief
Over-The-Air Technology for seamless updates and added programs
It’s not just a chair—it’s a wellness companion that evolves with your dad’s needs.
Make His Comfort a Priority—Now More Than Ever
This Father’s Day, the OGAWA Meister is available at a special promo price of only ₱299,000.00 (down from ₱429,000.00 SRP).
And with up to 36 months installment through partner banks, giving Dad the luxury he’s long put off is now easier and more accessible than ever.
Because Dads Deserve More Than Just a Tie
This year don’t settle for a generic gift. Give Dad what he truly deserves: peace, quiet, and a chair that treats him like the king of the house.
Visit any OGAWA showroom nationwide to experience the Meister for yourself or explore the full collection at www.ogawaworld.net.ph.
Let Dad sit back, relax, and feel appreciated—not just on Father’s Day, but every day.
Operating at full capacity with over 30 stores nationwide, OGAWA branches include key locations in One Ayala Makati, Greenhills Mall, Gateway Mall 2, Shangri-La Plaza, SM Megamall, Greenbelt 5, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Robinsons Manila, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Eastwood Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Fairview, SM North EDSA The Block, TriNoma, UP Town Center, Promenade Greenhills, Alabang Town Center, Evia Lifestyle Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, SM BF Parañaque, and Newport Mall. For those outside Metro Manila, OGAWA can also be found in SM City Bacoor, Ayala Solenad 3, SM Sta. Rosa in Laguna, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, SM Clark in Pampanga, and SM City Olongapo Central.
by | Jun 20, 2025 | Business
Investors want to open self-managed super funds, to invest in cryptocurrency, and make use of artificial intelligence, found investment platform moomoo Australia and New Zealand in its recent survey of share investors.
But a key finding was that the complexity and cost of opening a SMSF is stopping those interested in opening a fund from doing so.
SMSF complexity holds investors back
Moomoo aims to simplify the complex setup of SMSFs, which is why 24% of interested Australians say they haven’t opened a fund. At the same time, moomoo and its partners offer a transparent range of fees to reassure the 21% of people that cite costs as their reason for not opening a SMSF.
A key third reason interested Australians hold back from opening a SMSF is not knowing what to invest in (24%). So, moomoo is providing a broad range of news and content, including from SMSF experts, to help investors manage their super to deliver for the long term.
“There are clear, legitimate reasons that even those Australians familiar with share investing and interested in opening a self-managed super fund, haven’t done so. We answer these concerns head on with our trading account service, administration partner services, and sophisticated investing resources,” says moomoo Australia and New Zealand chief executive officer Michael McCarthy.
Not only can investors use moomoo to set up a SMSF trading account, but also our partners for investment guidance, and other services including fund setup, rollovers, reporting, compliance and ongoing management.
They want to make use of artificial intelligence
Most Australian share investors (67%) would use artificial intelligence in their SMSF investing, found moomoo Australia.
Specifically, survey results show a third would use AI for their SMSF investment strategy, while 37% would use it to analyse individual investments. A third would also use AI to help manage the fund, and almost 30% to meet compliance requirements. Just over a quarter of respondents would use AI tools to meet all four needs.
“Australians’ recognition of the power of AI to lessen the burden of managing a SMSF is particularly interesting given that they cite the complication of opening a SMSF as a leading reason for not doing so,” explains Mr McCarthy.
“This need comes at the right time for moomoo, with our AI assistant launching this month. Combined with the platform’s other AI-powered features, including our trend projection and market monitoring automation, we’re using the full power of artificial intelligence to really help investors make easier, smarter, more informed trades.”
An appetite for cryptocurrency
Australians interested in opening a SMSF are far more likely to trade Bitcoin than those who already own a self-managed super fund, found moomoo Australia.
Almost two thirds (60%) of those interested in SMSFs are either trading or want to trade cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin (88%) and Ethereum (56%). Almost a third are interested in stablecoins and altcoins.
But for the more conservative current SMSF owners, just over half (55%) are trading crypto or would like to. And they’re far more diversified in their interest, with 40% trading or wanting to trade Bitcoin, a third focused on memecoins and a sizeable minority (27%) on stablecoins.
“There is strong investor interest in cryptocurrency. And the moomoo platform provides for them, with access to more than 26,000 securities across the Australian, US and Hong Kong markets, including a broad range of crypto-based stocks and exchange-traded funds,” says Mr McCarthy.
About the survey
Moomoo Australia surveyed 153 sharemarket investors experienced in trading and managing superannuation (independent of the moomoo platform). About one third of respondents held a self-managed super fund, with 22% interested in opening one.
Characteristics of those that own or would like to own a SMSF are quite similar. Generally, aged over 45, they work full time with a household income between $50,000 and $150,000. Those not yet running a SMSF have less share-trading experience (about one year) and are less confident in their investment knowledge (describing themselves as ‘intermediate’).
Australians that invest in shares and hold a self-managed super fund, or want to:
are either intermediate (41%) or advanced (35%) in their level of investment knowledgebelieve their retirement balance can be up to $200,000 (23%), $500,000 (32%), $1m (26%)would use AI investing tools (67%), to strategise (33%) and analyse investments (37%)believe AI is great for SMSF reporting (37%), management (37%), but isn’t secure (31%).
Those that haven’t yet set up a SMSF:
haven’t done so because they’re satisfied with their current fund (55%), see the process as too complex (23%) or don’t believe they have enough funds (23%)would want to invest in Australian stocks (76%), property (55%), crypto (39%), ETFs (30%)would not invest in crypto (36%), futures (24%), bonds (18%), non-US global stocks (18%).
by | Jun 20, 2025 | Business
Neil Gregori Garen
Ever felt like your usual weekend getaways just don’t cut it anymore? Looking for a destination that clears your head and fills your soul at the same time?
A quick flight away, Sa Pa, Vietnam might just be the shift in rhythm you didn’t realize you needed. With its mist-covered peaks, rich cultural roots, and sweeping views, this highland haven is ideal for young professionals in search of something beyond the usual.
A highlands escape that feels far from everything
In a world filled with rushed weekends and familiar destinations, Sa Pa offers something rare: a peaceful place that still feels alive. Located in the mountainous north of Vietnam, it feels like a retreat but still gives you a mix of adventure, culture, and clarity.
We visited this June, and it felt like walking through a dream. The mountain air was cool, the mist clung to the terraced hills, and the views were so wide and open you couldn’t help but pause and take them in. Located in Lào Cai Province, Sa Pa combines stunning landscapes with rich cultural roots. It’s a great option for young professionals who want more than just beaches or busy cities—and who still have the energy for long walks, uphill treks, and scenic descents.
Even getting there is part of the experience. From Hanoi, we took a sleeper bus where you can actually lie down and enjoy a built-in electric massage. Shoes aren’t allowed inside, but the driver provides plastic covers. At the two bus stops along the way, free slippers are available so you don’t have to put your shoes back on. The five-hour ride was smooth, and a shuttle was already waiting when we arrived to take us to our hotel. Everything went seamlessly. After that, exploring the town was easy—walkable streets, friendly locals, and a slower pace that lets you breathe.
Once you’re in town, something might catch your eye. The name “Sa Pa” has a space in it, and that’s actually the proper way to spell it in Vietnamese. Still, you’ll see plenty of signs that use “Sapa” as one word. It’s nothing to stress over, since both versions are commonly used and understood by everyone.
Culture at the base, heaven at the peak
The town of Sa Pa has its own quiet charm. An old French colonial church stands in the town square, framed by mountains. Around it, you’ll find restaurants and shops offering everything from local noodle soups to European-style comfort food. Many local dishes are perfect for vegans or those who enjoy a healthy balance of meat and vegetables—think hearty broths, stir-fried greens, and fragrant herbs. During our visit, we even met fellow Filipinos exploring Sa Pa. Some were trying out Vietnamese phrases like cảm ơn (thank you), while others taught locals to say salamat. To our surprise, many shopkeepers already knew the word—proof of the warm and growing connection between cultures.
Not far away is Cat Cat Village, home of the Black Hmong people. We walked past traditional wooden houses, saw handmade indigo fabric being dyed, and joined a cultural show filled with dancing and stories from the tribe’s past. Visitors are also welcome to try on traditional clothes. The whole experience feels natural and welcoming.
But the most unforgettable part of the trip was reaching the top of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Vietnam. It’s often called the Roof of Indochina.
This journey is part of Sun World Fansipan Legend, a modern mountain resort complex that still respects tradition. It starts at Hotel de la Coupole. From there, you ride the Muong Hoa funicular, which travels through hillsides and tunnels with great views along the way. At the top station, you transfer to the Fansipan cable car. It’s one of the longest and highest cable cars in the world, floating above forests and clouds. The 15-minute ride offers peaceful and amazing views that you won’t forget.
Once you reach the summit, everything feels calm and sacred. Stone steps guide you to temples, pagodas, and giant Buddha statues, all partly hidden by the mist. Prayer flags wave in the wind while clouds pass close to your face. It’s a quiet and moving place. The best time to go is from March to June or September to November. But even if the weather is foggy, it’s still a special experience.
High adrenaline, deep perspective
If you’re looking for more excitement, Sa Pa has that too. Rong May Glass Bridge, also known as Cloud Dragon, is a clear walkway suspended high above a forested valley. You can also try the zipline, glass elevator, sky bike, and a narrow suspension bridge that follows the same dizzying route as the sky bike. With the ground far below and only glass or cables beneath you, it’s the kind of thrill that makes your palms sweat before you even step forward.
After that, we found the Bản Mòng Alpine Coaster, Sa Pa’s most modern mountain slide. You control your speed as you glide past tall pine trees and sweeping hillside views. It’s fast, fun, and safe enough that we couldn’t resist going for another round.
What truly stands out is the involvement of the local community. Tourism is growing, but many residents remain at the heart of it. Some run homestays, while others lead treks through rice terraces and hill tribe markets. It’s not just a destination to check off — it’s a place where stories and everyday life are openly shared with visitors.
Discover Sa Pa, Vietnam before the crowds do
In Sa Pa, you don’t have to choose between adventure and culture. You get both, all in one place.
For young professionals tired of deadlines and digital overload, this mountain town offers something rare, a true break. It’s the kind of trip that stays with you, not because of the photos you take but because of how it makes you feel.
So go now, while your legs still love the climb and your heart’s still curious. Go before it becomes another crowded stop. Go while Sa Pa still feels like a secret — one worth keeping, but even better when shared.
About the author: Neil Gregori Garen finds poetry in plane tickets and meaning in misty mountains—writing so others can feel it, too.
by | Jun 20, 2025 | Business
San
Pedro, Laguna, Philippines
– Eight years ago, a vision shared by two real estate firms—one Filipino, one
Japanese—gave birth to P.A. Properties Hankyu Hanshin (PAHH). Today, that
vision stands as a living blueprint for purposeful, people-centered housing
development.
What
began in 2017 as a joint venture between Philippine developer P.A. Alvarez Properties and
Development Corporation and Japan’s Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp.
is now a significant contributor to the country’s middle-income housing
landscape, with more than 5,700
housing units launched across six cities in four provinces.
“Our
next 100 years begin with today,” said Keiji
Okamoto, President of Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp. Philippines
“Through this partnership, we’ve seen how our philosophy of long-term,
people-centered development can resonate in new contexts—and help address real
challenges like urban sprawl and the housing backlog.”
At
the heart of the partnership is a shared belief: that decent, affordable
housing should not sacrifice quality or community. This belief materialized
into the Idesia
brand, which today is regarded as a model
for livable, sustainable communities—built around Filipino
values and Japanese discipline in planning and execution.
“The
foundation of our success is trust—built through years of open dialogue, shared
values, and mutual respect,” said Jonathan
G. Lu, President of PAHH. “What makes this partnership work is
not just complementary expertise, but a genuine belief in each other’s
integrity and purpose. That trust allows us to make decisions with confidence
and build communities that reflect both ambition and care.”
A Partnership of
Complementary Strengths
The
strength of PAHH lies in its balanced synergy: combining Hankyu Hanshin’s century of experience
in transit-oriented and lifestyle-rich developments in Japan with P.A. Properties’ deep understanding
of the Filipino housing market.
This balance has enabled PAHH to
introduce new standards in economic and mid-cost housing—from site selection
and construction methodology to architectural design and customer service thus
redefining community living in the country.
“What we see in PAHH is not just a business
success story,” said Romarico
T. Alvarez, Chairman of P.A. Properties. “It’s proof that
international partnerships can build tangible social impact—when the
partnership is grounded in mutual respect and shared purpose.”
Communities with
Character: A Different Kind of Growth
The
Idesia developments are notable not just for their scale but also for their
intentional design, where walkability, open spaces, and social connectivity are
central. Unlike many large-scale subdivisions, Idesia communities are planned
to foster neighborhood
belonging rather than just occupancy.
The
communities are currently located in:
·
Dasmariñas,
Cavite – Idesia
Dasmariñas Phases 1 & 2, Idesia Heights, Idesia City
·
Lipa,
Batangas –
Idesia Lipa
·
Cabuyao,
Laguna – Idesia
Cabuyao and Idesia Cabuyao East
·
San
Jose del Monte, Bulacan
– Idesia SJDM
Collectively,
these developments span more than 73
hectares and are home to thousands of families who now enjoy
access to integrated community spaces, essential services, and future
commercial hubs.
Looking Ahead: Purpose-Driven Expansion
In
2024 and 2025, PAHH expanded with the launch of Idesia Cabuyao East (covering 20
hectares) and Idesia
Heights Phase 2, signed MOUs
for new projects in Pampanga
and Metro Manila,
and initiated plans to co-develop additional economic housing sites across Luzon.
Its
aim: to become not just a builder of homes, but a shaper of livable futures—where
Filipino families can thrive in safe, well-designed, and culturally relevant
communities.
“We
don’t want to grow fast. We want to grow well,” Lu added. “Our impact will be
measured not just in houses delivered, but in how people live and feel in these
spaces 10 or 20 years from now.”
Hachi: 8 Years of Partnership, Progress, and Purpose
As
PAHH celebrates its 8th founding anniversary, it reflects not only on the
communities it has built but also on the trust
and shared mission that have fueled its journey. The Japanese
word for eight, “Hachi,”
symbolizes prosperity
and continuity—a fitting theme for this milestone year: “Hachi: 8 Years of Partnership,
Progress, and Purpose.”
Eight
years on, PAHH continues to demonstrate how genuine collaboration—rooted in
trust and guided by purpose—can create not just housing, but hope, belonging, and a better future.
by | Jun 20, 2025 | Business
MANILA, Philippines – June 20, 2025 – iGamingPH.com, a leading online resource for safe and informed gaming in the Philippines, today issued a critical advisory to Filipino players concerning the evolving landscape of online casinos. While regulatory bodies are implementing new safeguards to protect consumers, the risks associated with certain mobile-first gaming applications that prioritize rapid access over verified compliance, such as those exhibiting characteristics frequently seen in promotions for online gaming app Casino, remain significant.
The advisory comes on the heels of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR)’s launch of its new “PAGCOR Guarantee” website. This crucial online platform empowers the public to verify the legitimacy of online gaming providers, offering a direct tool to avoid falling victim to fraudulent operators. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco emphasized that this initiative is a “key component of our regulatory framework to protect both the industry and the Filipino people,” directly addressing concerns over unlicensed operations that often withhold winnings and erode public trust.
“The ‘PAGCOR Guarantee’ website is a vital step forward in empowering players to make informed decisions and and avoid illicit platforms,” states an iGamingPH.com spokesperson. “However, the allure of easy access offered by many mobile apps continues to draw players. It’s crucial for players to understand the inherent dangers behind what appears to be quick convenience, especially from platforms whose operational details are not fully transparent or verifiable through official channels.”
The Model of Apps Promoted Like Gaming App Casino: Convenience vs. Critical Safeguards
Apps frequently promoted like Casino, for example, exemplify a trend in the market with features such as:
Seamless GCash Integration:They often boast efficient deposits and withdrawals via GCash, leveraging its popularity for user convenience.Minimal Verification:New users can often register quickly with no extensive ID verification, lowering barriers to entry.Aggressive Marketing:These apps typically rely heavily on affiliate marketers and social media (Telegram, Facebook, TikTok) for promotion, frequently using bonus codes and exclusive offers to attract users.
While these features offer undeniable convenience, iGamingPH.com’s analysis of such platforms reveals critical underlying risks that players must recognize:
Ambiguous or Unverifiable Licensing:Many apps operating in this manner do not publicly display a clearly verifiable gaming license from PAGCOR or other recognized regulatory bodies. This absence of transparency indicates a potential lack of legal oversight and consumer protection, making it difficult for players to ascertain their legitimate operating status.Manual & Opaque Withdrawals:Unlike regulated casinos with automated systems, withdrawals often rely on manual requests via agents, leading to unpredictable response times and frequently undisclosed rollover rules that can trap player funds.No Verifiable Game Fairness:Without independent RNG (Random Number Generator) audits and certifications from recognized testing labs, players cannot verify if the games are truly fair and random or if their outcomes are manipulated.Absence of Responsible Gaming Tools:Crucially, these apps typically lack essential safeguards such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, or in-app reminders, offering no support for players at risk of developing problematic gambling habits.
Broader Industry Efforts Towards Player Safety and Integrity
Beyond PAGCOR’s new verification tool, the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently reaffirmed its commitment to combating financial crimes, including money laundering within the casino sector. This intensified focus on anti-money laundering (AML) efforts, coinciding with the country’s removal from the European Commission’s high-risk list for financial crimes, signifies a broader push for integrity across the financial ecosystem, including gaming.
Furthermore, leading digital payment provider GCash continues to issue strong warnings to users against scams involving gambling apps that misuse its brand for phishing, urging users to never share their MPINs or OTPs.
The importance of responsible gaming is also gaining traction. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) recently observed its “Responsible Gaming Awareness Day” with the theme “Play Smart, Play Safe,” while PAGCOR-licensed operator DigiPlus (through its BingoPlus Foundation) is pioneering in-app safeguards, financial education campaigns, and mental health training for staff.
iGamingPH.com strongly advises players to utilize its comprehensive resources, including:
Responsible Gaming AdviceYour Money, Your Life (YMYL)guidelines for financial safety.Detailed insights on How We Review Mobile Gaming Apps.
“Our mission is to equip Filipino players with the knowledge to navigate the online gaming world safely,” Miya Kassandra Lee added. “Always choose platforms with clear Privacy Policies and transparent Terms and Conditions. For regulated and secure options, explore our mobile gaming section.”
About iGamingPH.com: iGamingPH.com is a dedicated online resource providing comprehensive reviews, guides, and news on the Philippine iGaming market. Our mission is to promote responsible gaming and empower Filipino players with accurate, unbiased information to make safe and informed choices. Learn more on our About Us page.
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