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14 Best Filipino Comfort Foods

November 30, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

In a Filipino home, the heart of the family often resides in the kitchen. Considering how most nanays, tatays, lolos, lolas, uncles, and aunties show love through food, it’s no wonder that Filipino cuisine is filled with comforting and delicious dishes that are perfect for any occasion.

These dishes are not only delicious but also steeped in culture and tradition, making them the ultimate comfort foods for many Filipinos around the world.

If you’re looking for a taste of home or just want to try something new, here are some of the best Filipino comfort foods you should definitely try.

Chicken Mami

At its core, Chicken Mami features a soul-soothing broth, fresh egg noodles that add a comforting chewiness, tender flaked chicken, and an array of vegetables that contribute both color and crunch.

Chicken Mami is more than just a bowl that fills you with energy. It can also give you warmth with every spoonful.

When it comes to this dish, less is more. The trick to crafting the perfect Chicken Mami is to keep it simple, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. Each diner should have the freedom to adjust the taste to their liking, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to this already heartwarming dish, such as pepper, salt, soy sauce, fish sauce, and other seasonings.

Recipe: Chicken Mami

Bulalo

There’s nothing quite like Bulalo to make you feel like you’re home. This savory and hearty stew is a Filipino classic that is perfect for colder weather or when you need a hug in a bowl. The dish features a rich beef broth that is flavored with bone marrow, vegetables like corn, cabbage, and potatoes, and tender beef shanks.

To make the perfect Bulalo, you need to let the soup simmer for hours to extract the full flavor of the ingredients. The result is a broth that is both rich and comforting, with a depth of flavor that is hard to beat.

The tender beef shanks and vegetables make this dish filling and satisfying, perfect for those who need a warm meal to get through the day.

Recipe: Bulalo

Sinigang

You truly can’t go wrong with Sinigang, the most-loved sour soup in the Philippines. This popular dish features a tamarind-based broth that is tangy, flavorful, and comforting.

The soup can be made with a variety of meats such as pork, beef, or fish, and is loaded with vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and leafy greens.

The key to Sinigang is finding the perfect balance of sourness and saltiness. Some like their Sinigang more sour, while others prefer it to be more savory. Served over a bed of steaming hot rice, this dish will truly be your favorite.

Recipe: Sinigang na Salmon

Tinola

When it comes to Filipino comfort food, Tinola is definitely a crowd-pleaser. This simple yet delicious soup features tender chicken pieces, ginger, garlic, onions, and green papaya cooked in a clear broth. The result is a comforting and nourishing soup that is perfect for any occasion.

The ginger and garlic are the stars of this dish, infusing the broth with a fragrant and flavorful punch. The green papaya adds a subtle sweetness to the soup, while the chicken provides a meaty texture.

Meanwhile, the malunggay adds an extra layer of nutrients to the soup. You can serve this dish over freshly cooked rice and fish sauce for dipping.

Recipe: Chicken Tinola

Arroz Caldo

Chances are, you were served Arroz Caldo when you were sick as a child. This warm and comforting rice porridge is a staple in many Filipino households, especially during cold and flu season.

Arroz Caldo features tender chicken pieces, garlic, ginger, and onions cooked in a creamy and savory rice broth. It’s the perfect dish for when you need a little extra love and care.

When cooked for a long time, the different flavors of the ingredients meld together and the rice becomes creamy and soft. The chicken adds a protein element to the dish, while the ginger and garlic provide a healthy kick of warmth and spice. Arroz Caldo is best served with calamansi, pepper, soy sauce, and fish sauce.

Recipe: Arroz Caldo

Lomi

Imagine a steaming bowl filled with thick, wide noodles swimming in a flavorful and rich broth. Lomi usually comes with chewy bits of pork or chicken, and vegetables like carrots and cabbage.

What sets Lomi apart from other noodle soups is its signature thickness. The broth clings to the noodles, giving each slurp a satisfying texture. It’s a top choice for people looking for something to keep them warm on a rainy day.

Recipe: Lomi

Champorado

Champorado is an indulgent chocolatey bowl of goodness usually served for breakfast. It is made with glutinous rice and cocoa. When mixed together, these two ingredients create a velvety porridge that’s as rich in texture as it is in flavor.

Champorado also showcases a contrast of flavors. The sweetness of chocolate is perfectly balanced with a subtle hint of saltiness when paired with the classic accompaniment of salty dried fish or tuyo. So if you want to elevate your breakfast game, Champorado is the answer.

Recipe: Champorado

La Paz Batchoy

La Paz Batchoy is a hearty noodle soup that originated in Iloilo City. It’s the ultimate comfort food that is perfect for any time of day.

The soup features egg noodles, pork meat, and organs, crushed pork cracklings, and scallions, all swimming in a rich and flavorful broth that is made with beef or pork bones.

Aromatics like garlic and onions are added to the meat, resulting in a deeply satisfying flavor.

Recipe: La Paz Batchoy

Ginataang Bilo Bilo

When it comes to meriendas, Ginataang Bilo Bilo is a popular choice in the Philippines. This sweet and creamy dessert features small glutinous rice balls, sweet potato, taro, and plantain, all cooked in a rich coconut milk broth.

The coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also fragrance to the dish, while the sweet potato and plantain bring a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chewy rice balls. It’s a comforting treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Recipe: Ginataang Bilo Bilo

Chicken Sopas

Chicken Sopas is a creamy and comforting soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. This Filipino classic comfort food features macaroni noodles, tender chicken pieces, carrots, and celery. It is cooked in a creamy milk-based broth.

The creaminess of the soup comes from evaporated milk, giving it a rich and silky texture. The carrots and cabbage provide a healthy crunch, while the macaroni noodles and chicken pieces keep you full.

It’s a versatile soup that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Served hot with a slice of bread on the side, this dish is sure to warm your stomach.

Recipe: Chicken Sopas

Nilagang Baka

Visit a Filipino home on a rainy day, and you’ll likely find a pot of Nilagang Baka on the stove. This cozy soup is a mix of tender beef, potatoes, cabbage, and veggies in a clear broth flavored with ginger and onions.

What makes Nilagang Baka special is how everything is cooked together to let the flavors blend perfectly. The beef becomes super tender, the potatoes soak up all the tasty broth, and the veggies add a fresh element to the dish.

Recipe: Nilagang Baka

Dinuguan

Notoriously popular due to its unique ingredients, Dinuguan is a Filipino stew made with pork meat and blood.

To make Dinuguan, pork meat is simmered in a vinegar-based broth with garlic, onions, and chili peppers. Once the meat is cooked, pork blood is added to thicken the stew and give it its signature color and flavor.

The result is a filling, flavorful, and savory dish that’s best served with steamed rice. This dish is usually served on special occasions like birthdays and fiestas. As long as there’s lechon, you can count that there’s also Dinuguan.

Recipe: Dinuguan

Bistek Tagalog

There’s no mistaking the mouthwatering aroma of Bistek Tagalog. This beloved Filipino dish features thin slices of beef marinated and then cooked in a tangy mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and onions.

The meat is tender and the sauce is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet.

As a finishing touch, thin slices of onions are elegantly arranged atop the dish, not just adding flavor but also contributing to its visual appeal.

Recipe: Bistek Tagalog

Crispy Pata

A common dish served on the dining table or as pulutan, Crispy Pata is a Filipino favorite that features a deep-fried pork leg that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The dish is made by boiling the pork leg with aromatics like garlic and bay leaves until it’s tender, then deep-frying it until it’s crispy.

The crispy skin of the pork gives way to tender and juicy meat. It’s a burst of flavors when dipped in a tangy soy-vinegar dipping sauce mixed with onions, whole peppercorns, and garlic.

Recipe: Crispy Pata

7 Subjects That Will Help You Hone Your Photography Skills

October 25, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

As a budding photographer, you need to master the basics, such as light, aperture, depth of field, and other principal concepts. Then, you need to shoot, shoot, and shoot some more. After all, pursuing a career in photography in a cosmopolitan city like Cebu is not easy with so many talents already in the market offering their services. If you want to stand out, the best and only way is through consistent practice and improvement.

Keep in mind that photography is an art that thrives on diversity. The subjects you choose to take photos of play a significant role in shaping your skills and style as a photographer. Whether you’re an aspiring professional or a beginner in the field, selecting the right subjects can be pivotal in your career. Fortunately, with Cebu as your backdrop, you’ll hardly run out of diverse subjects to shoot.

In this article, we’ll explore different subjects in Cebu that will not only ignite your creativity but also help you master various aspects of photography.

Nature and Landscapes

Cebu’s natural beauty is a photographer’s dream come true. From pristine beaches to lush mountains, there are boundless nature scenes to capture. Not to mention, successfully capturing the island’s famous beaches and waterfalls in all of their dramatic glory is a feat of technical mastery.

When you focus your lens on Cebu’s natural wonders, whether it’s the breathtaking sunsets over the ocean or the serene beauty of forests, you’ll learn to perfect your composition skills while harnessing the power of natural lighting. Perhaps best of all, you can refine your photo-taking techniques while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Architecture

While Cebu is very well-known for its historical churches and forts, the city is also a bustling metropolis with world-class structures to rival other cities. Case in point, the newly built NUSTAR Resort and Casino with a sprawling 490,797 sqm development that includes Fili Hotel, which is considered to be the only authentic 5-star hotel in Cebu.

Set by the waterfront, NUSTAR presents a striking façade that’s inspired by Cebu’s coastline. Inside this integrated resort, you can capture every inch of opulence with your camera. Pretty soon, your memory card will be filled with detailed shots of the best hotel in Cebu. With your camera, some careful planning, and creativity, you can immortalize this architectural marvel that represents the bright and prosperous future of Cebu City.

Street Scenes

Cebu’s busy streets are always alive with energy, and capturing candid moments of people in their daily lives can be both challenging and rewarding. Try capturing the busy market of Tabon with locals selling tubs of dried fish. Better yet, go on a photo walk on Colon Street at dawn or dusk while keeping an eye out for interesting characters.

Remember that street photography is all about mastering timing and anticipating the right moments. With the vibrant street life in Cebu, you have countless opportunities to freeze the essence of everyday life into compelling images

Concerts

Did you know that Cebu is also known for its love of music? Indeed, some of the most respected musicians in the country hail from the Queen City of the South. As such, the city has a rocking music scene that you can and definitely should capture with your camera.

Photographing concerts will sharpen your action photography skills as you strive to immortalize the energy and emotion of performers and their audiences in pictures. Moreover, overcoming the challenges of low-light environments will also enhance your photography prowess.

Festivals

The island of Cebu is home to a number of festivals, with Sinulog being the most popular. If you’re lucky enough to be in the city during Sinulog, then take out your camera and start capturing the dynamic and crowded scenes. Aside from the challenge of maintaining focus, this photography exercise will teach you to immerse yourself in the moment, document cultural experiences, and find beauty in chaos.

People

Portraits are a powerful way to capture the essence of individuals and their stories. Whether you’re photographing strangers on the street or collaborating with models, perfecting portraiture involves honing your ability to connect with your subjects and capture their genuine emotions and expressions. In Cebu, you’ll find a diverse range of people to photograph, each with their own unique story.

Food

Cebu’s culinary scene is a feast for the taste buds—and the eyes. When photographing food, you’ll develop a keen eye for detail, perfecting lighting and composition to make dishes and various food products look irresistible. With Cebu’s rich street food and fine dining culture, you’ll not run out of visual inspiration.

In Cebu, every click of your camera’s shutter can be a step towards honing your photography skills. The diverse subjects found on this tropical island provide endless opportunities for unique, beautiful moments. So, it’s time to pack your cameras and let Cebu be your muse in your journey to photography.

Home-based Fun: Exciting Ways to Have Fun Without Leaving Home

September 4, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

If you’re seeking ways to enjoy your free days without the hassle of going out after a stressful week at work or at school, you’ll be glad to know that the digital age has provided ample options for entertainment and relaxation from the comfort of your home.

Instead of dealing with the preparations like getting dressed, planning, expenses, and travel involved in going out on a free day, you can explore these exciting ways to have fun without leaving the house.

Live stream concerts and performances

Music lovers can now indulge in the excitement of live concerts, music performances, and shows through online platforms. Entertainment companies have recognised the changing preference of audiences that are leaning more toward stay-at-home activities. This allows them to reach a broader audience and cater to the preferences of individuals who prefer enjoying music from the convenience of their own space.

You can discover live-stream concerts and performances on well-known platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Veeps, Twitch, and many others. This means you can skip the hassle of planning your concert outfits and endure the fatigue of traveling to the venue to see your favorite artists. Simply stay updated on their live stream schedules, and you’re all set to enjoy their performances.

Online casino gaming

If you’re looking to take your gaming experience to the next level, you can explore the world of online casinos. With thousands of platforms available, you’ll have access to a diverse array of games and delightful surprises. Plus, for an even smoother experience, you can also play Bitcoin casino games that offer seamless gameplay.

Immerse yourself in a vast selection of slot games that offer the chance to win big prizes. You can also engage in classic card games like poker, blackjack, and baccarat, each with an array of exciting variations. For a modern twist, there are also thrilling crypto games such as Plinko, Aviator, Hilo, and many others.

Virtual escape rooms

Have fun with your friends or family by trying out virtual escape rooms. In these virtual environments, you’ll solve puzzles, find clues, and work together to complete challenges. Each escape room has a different theme and story, and you’ll need to think critically, solve problems, and collaborate to escape within a certain time limit. It’s an exciting way to test your brainpower and enjoy a shared adventure with your loved ones.

Virtual escape rooms have become increasingly popular as an immersive and interactive form of entertainment. Some well-known examples include Breakout EDU, Trapped Puzzle Rooms, Escape The Room, and the Escape Game. These virtual experiences offer a variety of thrilling themes, such as prison break, money heist, and the asylum, among others. The digital age has provided a multitude of options for entertainment and relaxation from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re interested in live-streamed concerts and performances, play Bitcoin casino games, or immersing yourself in virtual escape rooms, there are countless exciting activities to keep you entertained without the need to go out.

How to Run Successful Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers Online

August 8, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Grabbing your customers’ attention online requires tried-and-true strategies, and nothing quite captures an impulsive buyer’s eyes and wallets than putting up a “Flash Sale” or “For a Limited Time Only!” sign on your website or product page.

Flash sales and limited-time offers have emerged as potent tools for businesses online, whether you’re located in the United States or the Philippines. Amazon, for instance, has their Lightning Deals, which typically lasts for 2 to 6 hours. Meanwhile, the Philippines’ largest online ecommerce platforms, Lazada and Shopee, have their monthly Payday and Flash sales. These promotions are designed to create a sense of urgency and encourage swift decision-making. If done properly, they prompt buyers to add items to their cart without previously intending to do so, boosting your sales in record time.

This article sheds some light on why your business should provide flash sales and limited-time offers for your customers. It also covers key strategies and best practices to maximize your success.

Defining Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers

Flash sales are time-bound promotional events during which products or services are offered at significantly discounted prices. They typically last for a few hours or even an entire day in some cases, creating a sense of urgency and excitement among customers. On the other hand, limited-time offers are short-term promotions that run for a specific duration, often a few days to a week, with special pricing or added value benefits.

Whether it’s a flash sale or a limited-time offer, these kinds of deals are the best opportunities to promote your products and services locally and abroad. With low-cost and convenient logistics providers, shipping from US to the Philippines is hassle-free.

Benefits of Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers for Online Businesses

1. Boosting Sales and Revenue. One of the primary benefits of flash sales and limited-time offers is their ability to drive immediate sales. And due to the time-sensitive nature of these promotions, your customers are compelled to act quickly, resulting in a surge in transactions and revenue.

2. Creating a Sense of Urgency and FOMO. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a powerful psychological trigger. You can capitalize on this by creating a sense of urgency with limited-time offers, prompting your customers to make purchasing decisions swiftly before the opportunity disappears.

3. Clearing Excess Inventory. If your business has surplus inventory, discounted sales offer an effective way to clear stock quickly. By providing attractive discounts, your business can move products that might otherwise stagnate.

4. Attracting New Customers and Expanding the Customer Base. The excitement and buzz generated by time-limited promotions can attract new customers to your online store. Once acquired, these customers can become repeat buyers with the right marketing strategies.

5. Building Customer Loyalty and Engagement. Offering exclusive access to loyal customers during flash sales fosters a sense of appreciation and loyalty. Engage with your customers through personalized offers to enhance the overall shopping experience and to strengthen your customer-business relationship.

Key Strategies for Successful Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers

1. Define Clear Objectives and KPIs. Begin by setting clear goals for your flash sale or limited-time offer. Are you aiming to increase sales, clear inventory, or attract new customers? Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of your promotion.

2. Segment Target Audience for Personalization. Tailor your offers to specific customer segments based on their preferences and buying behavior. Personalized promotions resonate better with customers and increase the likelihood of conversion.

3. Create Genuine Scarcity and Urgency. Emphasize the limited availability of the products or services on offer. You can use countdown timers, compelling headlines, and persuasive calls-to-action to instill a genuine sense of scarcity and urgency.

4. Utilize Multiple Marketing Channels. Promote your flash sale or limited-time offer across various marketing channels. To reach a broader audience and increase visibility, employ email marketing, social media, paid advertising, and website banners.

5. Optimize Website Performance for Increased Traffic. Ensure your website can handle the surge in traffic during the promotion. Perform stress tests and optimize your website to prevent crashes and slow loading times that can frustrate potential customers.

6. Leverage Mobile Optimization for Mobile Users. With the increasing number of mobile shoppers, optimize your website and promotions for mobile devices to capture mobile users’ attention effectively.

7. Offer Exclusive Access to Loyal Customers. Reward loyal customers with early access to the sale or special offers. This exclusivity enhances customer loyalty and encourages repeat business.

8. Highlight Social Proof for Credibility. Showcase positive customer reviews and testimonials to build trust and credibility. Social proof reassures potential customers about the value of the offer and encourages them to make a purchase.

9. Upsell and Cross-sell to Maximize Sales Potential. Use sales and limited-time offers as an opportunity to upsell customers with relevant add-ons or cross-sell complementary products or services.

10. Monitor and Analyze Performance for Continuous Improvement. Track and analyze key metrics such as conversion rates, customer acquisition costs, and overall revenue generated. Use these insights to refine your future flash sales and limited-time offers for even better results.

Flash sales and limited-time offers are effective sales and marketing tactics that can significantly impact the success of your online business locally and abroad. This has been proven many times over with famous sales events such as the Black Friday Sale after Thanksgiving in the US and the Philippine’s monthly online flash deals.

When planned and implemented thoughtfully, these time-limited promotions can boost sales and attract new customers. Aside from that, your company is more likely to retain loyal customers who are appreciative of the discounts afforded to them. And with multiple successful promotions, your business can steadily gain ground against the competition and be the brand leader it deserves to be.

7 Different Payment Methods Filipino Online Business Owners Can Explore

July 5, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Before the widespread availability of secure digital wallets like Maya (formerly PayMaya), the local e-commerce scene was hampered in its growth potential, as not all websites were able to offer payment methods that were accessible to potential customers. As a result, websites were often not much more than online catalogs that customers would check to see what was available before they headed out to a brick-and-mortar store.

Of course, things are quite different today. Filipino consumers now have more payment options available to them than ever before. Unfortunately, not all online businesses offer the payment methods their target customers prefer. If a business is not able to offer these methods on its website, they’re likely missing out on growth opportunities in an important e-commerce channel. In this article, we’ll look at a few important payment methods that Filipino businesses can explore to better match the needs of their customers.

1) Secure Digital Wallets

Digital wallets (also called e-wallets or virtual wallets) from providers such as Maya and GCash are in a position to become the country’s dominant online payment method very soon. These platforms enable users to load credits into a secure online account from their banks, remittance services, or other methods. These credits can then be used for quick and—most importantly—secure online payments.

Given the growing popularity of digital wallets, businesses should choose an online payment processing company that seamlessly facilitates them. Today, solutions like Maya Checkout are making it easy for businesses to expedite payments from a variety of popular and emerging digital wallets, credit and debit cards, and even virtual payment cards.

2) Bank Transfers

Today, direct bank transfers are a reliable and widely accepted payment method in the Philippines, often used for bills payments and remittances. In e-commerce settings, they’re often preferred by individuals who place more trust in traditional financial institutions as well as those who want to avoid sharing credit or debit card details online. Some individuals also believe that bank transfers may offer them more control of their finances.

Online businesses that offer direct bank transfers as a payment option can cater to customers who value security and financial control. However, it’s worth noting that significant numbers of Filipinos remain unbanked. Also, even individuals with bank accounts may prefer other payment methods. Given this, businesses that target Filipino consumers should also offer a variety of other settlement options.

3) Credit Cards

Credit card penetration is relatively low in the Philippines, with just 8.1% of Filipinos owning a credit card at the end of 2021. However, with the country’s increasing prosperity, adoption is seen to grow as more Filipinos start to qualify for them. Additionally, offering this method is usually desirable because individuals who do own credit cards may make more frequent purchases.

With these things in mind, Philippine businesses should consider accepting credit card payments, especially when pursuing high-value market segments. By leveraging secure internet payment solutions like Maya Checkout, businesses with existing websites can readily accept card payments, ensuring a smooth and secure checkout process for customers. Alternatively, businesses that don’t have their own e-commerce sites can also accept card payments through Payment Links—another payment processing service from Maya that only requires them to send a payment link to their customers’ preferred messaging app.

4) BSP National QR Code Standard (QR Ph)

In early 2021, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) introduced the National QR Code Standard to promote interoperable and secure person-to-person and person-to-merchant transfers. If you’re not yet using QR codes to accept payments, it’s about time that you did. Businesses like yours can readily accept QR code payments from various e-wallets and mobile banking apps, while your customers can enjoy a convenient and contactless payment option.

5) Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)

The buy now, pay later (BNPL) model has slowly gained traction in the Philippines, offering customers the flexibility to make purchases and pay for them in installments. Collaborating with BNPL providers allows online businesses to attract customers who prefer deferred payments, potentially increasing conversion rates and overall market penetration.

6) Over-the-Counter Payments

While this method has become less popular in recent years, many customers still prefer to pay over the counter at physical locations like banks, payment centers, convenience stores, or remittance outlets. And although these payment methods are no longer as important as before, local businesses that want maximum market penetration should still consider offering this method, especially because some customers are not yet as digitally savvy and may prefer to pay using cash due to security concerns or because they have limited access to electronic devices.

7) Cash on Delivery (COD)

Cash on Delivery remains popular in the Philippines, especially for more traditionally minded customers who prefer to pay in cash. COD is often preferred by shoppers who are concerned with online scams, as this method can allow them to verify a product’s quality and authenticity before payment. It’s also worth noting that for the sizable number of Filipinos who are unbanked, do not have a secure digital wallet, or live far from remittance centers, COD may be the only payment method available to them.

Offering COD is also important as it allows online businesses to build trust. This is true for the Philippine market where instances of consumer fraud are still commonplace. When skeptical customers see that an online store offers both COD and favorable return policies, it may help push them toward making a purchase, even through other payment methods.

Conclusion

Filipino shoppers have always been diverse, and this has not changed with the recent rise of Philippine e-commerce. Offering a range of appropriate payment methods is vital for online businesses to be able to drive conversions and build trust in their respective target markets. By thoroughly understanding the preferences of their target markets and choosing the right mix of

4 Interesting Facts About Pinoy Mall Culture

May 11, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

In the Philippines, it isn’t unlikely to see several malls built in close proximity with one other. For the rest of the world, however, having an abundance of malls located in one area can be seen as a bit excessive. As a nation of mallgoers, the Filipinos’ love for shopping malls gives them a distinct Pinoy culture that has piqued the interest of people who aren’t Filipinos or are simply living in the Philippines. And there are plenty of reasons as to why this is so.

Let’s take a look at four interesting facts about the shopping malls in the Philippines, and understand how they’ve become an integral part of shaping Pinoy mall culture.

Malls Are a Sign of Economic Progress

Malls are often signs of economic growth because they indicate that the people working and living near them have the spending power to afford many of the commodities and services that malls have to offer. Shopping malls also provide people with jobs and can attract a lot of businesses, which helps boost the local economy. As a result, it’s common to see restaurants, retail stores, and hotels near Mall of Asia (as well as other malls) because of the amount of foot traffic the mall generates.

Malls in the Philippines Are Built with Convenience in Mind

Like most shopping malls across the globe, the malls in the Philippines house plenty of shops where people can buy clothes, shop for their household goods and electronics, as well as sit down and have a nice meal. What makes the malls in the country a little bit different from the rest, however, is that they also include establishments and offices where people can complete their errands with ease.

People can do their groceries at the supermarket, book a medical appointment with a general physician at the clinic, and even get their driver’s licenses renewed at a satellite government office. They can also pay their household bills through a mall’s bills payment center, as well as mail a package to a family member living abroad via a shipping company that’s located in the mall.

Other businesses that can be found in a typical mall in the Philippines include:

Laundry services and laundromats
Shoe repair shops
Watch repair shops
Printing shops
Key duplicate shops
Pharmacies

With all of these establishments conveniently found in one location, mallgoers don’t have to travel far or go to a different location just to finish all of their errands.

Malls Are the Perfect Places to Spend the Weekend

A lot of Filipinos reserve their weekends for friends or family. Thus, they want to spend this time to enjoy the company of their loved ones before they head back to school or the office the following week. When it comes to choosing a place to hang out, malls are almost always at the top of the list. This is because malls in the Philippines are also designed to provide mallgoers with hours of fun.

Apart from window shopping, mallgoers can catch a movie at the cinema, eat at any of the many restaurants, and play games at the mall’s video arcade or other entertainment centers. People can also get themselves pampered at a wellness spa or salon. With so many fun and exciting things to do at the mall, it’s no wonder that mallgoers prefer going to the mall during the weekend.

Malls Have Become Popular Tourist Destinations as Well

As previously mentioned, it’s common for malls to be built near each other in the Philippines. In Makati alone, four of its malls are located so close to each other that they’re connected via footbridges. The five malls in Ortigas Center, on the other hand, are only a 10- to 30-minute cab ride away from each other—given that there’s no traffic. Because of this, malls have to find ways to keep mallgoers invested in shopping at their establishments.

One solution some malls came up with is to build attractions in or beside their shopping complex to entice more people to visit their malls. Pasay City’s Mall of Asia, for example, has the Bay Area Amusement Park. This amusement park features a wide range of rides and fairground games that give mallgoers a fun and exhilarating way to spend their weekend. There’s also the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig, which has a man-made canal where people can enjoy a quick gondola ride around the mall.

Because of these malls’ unique features, they’ve become tourist destinations in their own right. As a result, they’re able to attract more people, whether they’re locals enjoying their time in the mall or foreign tourists looking for something fun to do while they’re in the Philippines. The malls in the Philippines are an essential part of the lifestyle. Thanks to the convenience shopping complexes provide, Filipinos can complete their errands, spend time with their families, and relax and unwind under one roof. As a result, the malls in the country have helped create a mall culture that’s distinctly Pinoy.

Air Cooler or Air Conditioner: Which Is the Best for Your Small Business?

April 26, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

The Philippines is a tropical country, so the summers here can be quite brutal. Aside from the intense heat, many Filipinos also have to deal with high levels of humidity. The latter can hinder the body’s ability to cool itself and leave you feeling sticky and overheated for a good portion of the day. This can be bad for business, as heat is a potent productivity killer. Overheated employees may find themselves with low energy levels that make it difficult to focus on their work, while uncomfortable customers will not likely wish to stay for too long inside a warm store. Thus, investing in reliable cooling solutions for your office and other commercial spaces can be a beneficial move for your business.

There are plenty of options that you can explore for cooling your office or store this summer, and one of these is purchasing appliances that are dedicated to maintaining the temperature in a room. Often, this choice comes down to choosing between an air conditioner and an air cooler. While both are effective cooling solutions, the best option is the one that matches your business needs. Here’s how you can see if it makes more sense to buy air cooler online or if you’re better off spending your money on an air conditioner.

Understanding How Air Coolers and Air Conditioners Work

Before setting your heart on an air cooler or an air conditioner model, it’s important to know exactly how these appliances work. An air cooler may seem very similar to an aircon, but there are a few key differences in how they function. While they share the same end goal—that is, to bring down the indoor temperature—these two appliances achieve this effect in different manners.

This is quite obvious by observing the key components of an air cooler, which is also sometimes called an evaporative cooler. The appliance has three main components: a fan, a water tank, and an absorbent pad. The air cooler blows air through the water-soaked pad to reduce the temperature in the room. This works as intended, but it can also raise the humidity levels in enclosed spaces. In the long run, the rising humidity levels can make the room feel stickier and hotter than it already is.

Meanwhile, air conditioners are presented as more sophisticated devices. There are different makes and models of air conditioners, but in general, this appliance features an evaporator coil, a condenser coil, a compressor, and an expansion valve. The compressor pressurizes the liquid refrigerant, or the fluid that readily absorbs heat from the environment, while the expansion valve regulates the flow of the refrigerant into the evaporator.

The evaporator and compressor coils, respectively, receive the refrigerant and facilitate the transfer of heat. The cool side of the air conditioner features the evaporator and a fan that blows cooled air into the room, while the other components except for the expansion valve are usually found on the hot side of the appliance.

A Quick Look at the Pros and Cons of Each Appliance Type

Apart from the differences in how they operate, there are also different pros and cons to investing in either an air conditioneror an air cooler. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect from each appliance, so you can better determine the right option for your needs:

Air Cooler Pros and Cons:

It’s more affordable compared to air conditioners.
It’s easy to install, clean, and maintain.
It consumes less energy and is cheaper and more eco-friendly to run.
Its cooling capacity is limited to reducing only 5 degrees Celsius from the original temperature.
Its water tank must be topped up once it runs out of water.
It increases humidity levels as it cools the room.
It requires continuous air circulation in the room to eliminate the excess humidity.

Air Conditioner Pros and Cons:

It is capable of cooling a room down to as low as 14 degrees Celsius.
It can reduce humidity in the room as it brings down the temperature.
It can be a challenge to install if the room doesn’t have a built-in slot for a window-type aircon, or if you choose a split-type aircon that requires professional installation.
It can be quite pricey, depending on the features of the model.
It consumes more electricity compared to air coolers.
It requires regular professional cleaning and maintenance.
The use of certain refrigerants can contribute to climate change.

If you have the budget and you want to create a cool and comfortable indoor environment that allows people to focus on their tasks, then the air conditioner is a clear option. With such an appliance in your shop or office, you can rest assured that everyone can feel relaxed and unbothered by the heat, even at the peak of the summer season.

If you have an indoor space with plenty of windows for ventilation, however, then an air cooler may be a more practical choice. It should be an adequate solution for keeping a cool breeze circulating in the area without raising your energy consumption. Keeping these considerations in mind will help you make the best possible purchase for your business.

Taking a Look at the History of Philippine Airlines and Its Impact on Philippine Aviation

March 29, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the country’s flag carrier airline and its largest international airline. Founded in 1941, it has the distinction of being the only privately owned major flag carrier in the Southeast Asian region, as well as the oldest commercial airline in all of Asia. In the years since its inception, Philippine Airlines has come to play a critical role in supporting the growth of the country’s flourishing tourism industry, boosting general economic growth, and communicating Philippine cultural values to every corner of the world.

PAL has also consistently retained its position as a major leader in Philippine aviation over the past 82 years. The airline now boasts a growing fleet of state-of-the-art aircraft and a vast network that stretches across the entire world.

Many—if not most—aspiring aviators pursuing pilot training in the Philippines do so with the hope of one day flying for PAL. Not everyone, however, is aware of how the airline became the storied institution that it is today. This feature explores some major highlights of Philippine Airlines’ history and its most important contributions to the Philippine aviation industry.

Early History

On February 26, 1941, Philippine Airlines was founded by a group of businessmen composed of Andres Soriano Sr., former senator Ramon J. Fernandez, John R. Schultz, Juan Miguel Elizalde, and Ernesto Von Kaufmann. Soriano, the group’s designated head and widely recognized as one of the Philippines’ foremost industrialists, was named the company’s general manager.

PAL’s maiden flight took place nearly a month after its founding, on March 15th, using a Beechcraft Model 18 NPC-54 that carried two pilots and the airline’s five founders as passengers. The short journey began at Nielson Field in Makati City and ended in Baguio City—a route that was to become one of the airline’s daily services. Philippine Airlines was forced to enter a complete five-year hiatus during World War II, which lasted from around late 1941 to 1945 in the Philippines. It resumed operations in February 1946 with a fleet of five Douglas DC-3s and 108 staff members on its payroll, servicing 15 domestic destinations all around the country.

One of PAL’s landmark achievements was becoming the first Asian airline to send an aircraft across the Pacific Ocean. This flight, which used a chartered Douglas DC-4, took place on July 31, 1946 and carried 40 US servicemen from Nielson Airport to Oakland, California. Along the way, the aircraft stopped in Guam, Wake Island, Johnson Atoll, and Honolulu. Following the success of this transpacific flight, PAL opened regular service routes between Manila and San Francisco. It was designated as the Philippines’ official flag carrier in December of that same year.

Transfers of Ownership (1970s-1990s)

Ownership of PAL was transferred to the government in 1974 when then-president Ferdinand Marcos ordered the foreclosure of the country’s two other major airlines, Air Manila Inc. (AMI) and Filipinas Orient Airlines (FOA). This decision was due in large part to a fuel crisis resulting from the war in the Middle East. Now a government-owned monopoly, Philippine Airlines was required to absorb both the aircraft and staff members of the two foreclosed airlines.

PAL remained a government airline through the rest of the 1970s and the 1980s, and it also made several landmark flights during this period. In August 1979, it introduced routes to Canton and Beijing, becoming the first Asian carrier to enter China. Through the 1970s, PAL also began flying to Dubai, Paris, and Chicago. In 1992, the government sold 67% of PAL shares to the holding company PR Holdings, marking the airline’s re-privatization.

Modernization Programs (1990s-2000s)

In 1996, Philippine Airlines embarked on an ambitious re-fleeting and modernization project with the intent of becoming one of the best airlines in Asia within the next 3 years. The program required a hefty investment of USD 4 billion and revolved primarily around the acquisition of 36 cutting-edge aircraft from Boeing and Airbus. Between 1996 and 1999, PAL acquired 12 Airbus A320-200, 8 Airbus A330-300, 2 Airbus A340-200, 4 Airbus A340-300, and 8 Boeing 747-400.

The re-fleeting program was abruptly halted halfway in early 1998, due to the impact of the Asian financial crisis on the airline industry. At this point, PAL downsized its fleet considerably and pulled out of the majority of its active routes, and it would suspend operations entirely in September as the financial crisis worsened. Limited operations resumed in October.

In an attempt to restore PAL’s financial viability, chairman Dr. Lucio C. Tan and his associates made a capital infusion of USD 200 million in June 1999. They subsequently developed a full rehabilitation plan and received approval for its execution from the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). By 2000, in its first year of rehabilitation and after having weathered six years of steep losses, PAL regained its profitability. The Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation named it the “Airline Turnaround of the Year” for 2006 and 2007, citing a successful transformation and restructuring, innovative cost-cutting efforts, and other strategic contributions to the aviation industry.

Since the early 2000s, PAL has made frequent and bold changes to its management and operations in its continuing bid to reestablish itself as one of Asia’s best air carriers. These efforts include continual investments in innovative, sustainable aircraft and consistent service to in-demand destinations all over the world.

4 Concepts to Learn Before Starting an Online Business

March 24, 2023 By FAQ Leave a Comment

To veteran entrepreneurs and rookies alike, the prospect of starting an online business is an appealing one. When you’re using the internet as your main platform, you’ll have more chances to market your brand to a global audience, and you may gain a larger consumer base as a result. Managing an online business also entails a lower operating cost compared to a physical store, since you don’t necessarily have to rent an office or invest in office equipment to get started. That makes it a particularly low-risk and beginner-friendly type of venture compared to a brick-and-mortar business.

All the same, starting an online business comes with its own challenges. For one thing, you may be competing with thousands of other businesses in a similar niche as yours, so you might have trouble keeping your brand visible in the search engines. And for your online business to really take off, you’ll also need to invest in a working website that’s not only acceptable to your online users, but to search engines as well.

Fortunately, with the right business mindset and the help of companies that can fine-tune your brand’s online presence, you can expect your online business to flourish in the digital realm. Here are four concepts you should learn to give your online business a significant boost in performance and revenue.

The Importance of Creating, Optimizing, and Maintaining a Good Website

You can’t have an online presence without a good website, as it’s where your targeted audience will be able to find you in spite of the expansiveness of the World Wide Web. It’s not enough to create an aesthetically pleasing website, however; a good website must respond well and be easily accessed by both online users and search engines. That’s why it’s a good idea to learn about the concept of search engine optimization (SEO) and work with a trusted company that’s known for offering web development and SEO services Philippines-based and international businesses can trust.

SEO companies have the knowledge and resources to optimize your website. They can handle the on-page (everything that’s directly within your website) and off-page (actions taken outside of your website that can impact your online presence) aspects of your website so that it can rank high in online searches and reach your targeted audience. It’s also a plus if the SEO company has an in-house web development team. This way, they can create and help maintain your web pages, keeping your website updated, secure, and running smoothly as a result.

No matter what industry or niche you’ll operate in, it’s a must for you to learn about concepts like SEO, the role of aspects like web design and user experience (UX) in bringing customers to your (virtual) doorstep, and how you can leverage your website’s searchability to build your online presence. Once you do, getting word out about your business will be that much easier.

How an Effective Digital Marketing Strategy Boosts Business

Aside from the value of optimizing your website, you should also learn about how providers like SEO companies can come up with effective digital marketing strategies for your business. You should familiarize yourself with strategies like creating tailored content for your audience. These will make it so that your targeted audience will be more inclined to visit your website and purchase your products or engage with your services often.

A digital marketing campaign that truly suits your business will also allow you to be one step ahead of your peers. If your brand can stay relevant and be perceived by your audience as an innovative force—even when the competition is tight—you’ll be able to stand out from your peers in a positive way.

Using Social Media to Your Advantage

Social media is a powerful tool for cultivating your online visibility. Creating a social media profile and keeping it active will allow you to get the attention and engagement of thousands of users. If you play your cards right, these thousands could turn into tens of thousands or even millions.

However, having a noticeable and verifiable presence on social media takes time. It’ll also require you to use thoughtful strategies to increase brand awareness. Some of the most viable ones include opting for paid social media campaigns, properly incorporating social media trends into your posts, and posting interesting and relevant content. Spamming or being too “hard-sell” on social media won’t cut it, and if you lean on these approaches over thoughtful and honest social media marketing, it could backfire and decrease trust and interest in your business.

How to Do Basic Financial Management

If it’s your first time handling an online business, you might be surprised at the amount of money you can eventually make once your business stabilizes. Although having sufficient cash flow is a sign that your online business is doing well, you can lose revenue if your money isn’t managed properly.

Not knowing how to budget your business expenses correctly can cause permanent financial damage to your brand. Whatever industry or niche you’re breaking into, it helps to learn basic financial management so that you can allocate the right amount of money into various aspects of your business. This, in turn, will keep your operations going for a long time.

If your online business is experiencing rapid growth, it’s a good idea to hire a financial manager who can manage your brand’s finances. Doing so will help you reduce your financial risk and avoid making costly mistakes in your bookkeeping.

Starting an online business is an exciting venture because it gives you a chance to make your mark in the digital world. If all goes well, you’ll gain both fulfillment and financial stability for yourself and your employees. But in order to achieve that, you’ll still have to make timely and well-informed decisions—just like how you would if you were running an onsite business with more capital. After all, an online business is still a business.

If you master the four concepts listed above, it’ll be easier to ride out the growing pains of running your own business and gaining a large online following. You’ll also have an easier time working with companies who understand the needs of your online business and who are willing to help you reach your goals. Do right by your new business venture, and do your homework!

6 Things You Should Know about PEZA Zones

August 11, 2022 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA)’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have been critical in spreading economic growth throughout the country, particularly in the countryside. While it is just one of many SEZ authorities in the Philippines, its legal powers are the most comprehensive in scope, effectively giving it the lead in developing industrial parks and other special facilities.

Here are 6 things you should know about PEZA Zones.

1. PEZA Zones Attract Critical Foreign Direct Investments

PEZA zones were designed from the ground up to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs). Historically, FDI inflow into the Philippines has been limited by a combination of red tape, ownership laws, and the lack of infrastructure. PEZA zones and other special zones and parks were set up as a way for foreign investors to avoid these issues.

The perks offered by PEZA zones include expedited paperwork, relaxed foreign ownership restrictions, and reduced tariffs. Offering these has allowed the Philippines to better leverage its comparative advantage—high-quality labor. This combination of benefits has proved to be a winning one, as PEZA zones now attract thousands of foreign locators each year.

2. 16% Of the Philippines’ GDP Is Generated through PEZA Zones

PEZA zones generate immense value for the Philippine economy. In 2019, about 16% of the country’s GDP was attributed to economic activity generated within special economic zones, mostly managed by PEZA. About 70% of the country’s total exports of commodities were produced in SEZs as well. This all amounted to about USD 60.2 billion in direct economic value in 2019.

The economic merit of these zones was further underlined during the COVID-19 pandemic. These areas continued to be a source of income for the country despite the disrupted global supply chains. This recent event has proven that SEZs are now vital to the country’s stability.

3. They Are Key to Decentralizing Job Opportunities

One unfortunate fact about the Philippines is that there is currently a job equity gap between rural and urban Filipinos. While the cost of living tends to be much lower in the countryside, incomes tend to be disproportionately low as well, preventing individuals from saving, investing, or taking entrepreneurial risks.

Job opportunities in the Philippines are overwhelmingly concentrated in highly developed urban areas like Metro Manila and Metro Cebu. Jobs in these cities tend to be more plentiful, diverse, and better paying than in most other places in the country. This has led to massive urban migration from the countryside, simultaneously creating urban blight and negatively affecting rural job markets.

PEZA zones are now helping slow down this general trend of urban migration. The presence of PEZA zones in smaller regional cities has played a key part in convincing many Filipinos to stay in their hometowns. In most cases, these zones offer very high-quality jobs with better salaries and career advancement prospects than is typical for smaller communities.

4. The Biggest PEZA Zones Are in the Countryside

While there are numerous PEZA zones located within major cities, the largest ones are mostly located in smaller cities and municipalities in the countryside. When they are built in less prosperous areas, these zones are responsible for a large proportion of local economic activity.

Large PEZA SEZs are often located outside of big cities because of the much lower cost of land acquisition in rural areas, which consequently brings down the development cost of industrial parts. Additionally, industrial waste from factories is often easier to manage in the countryside, as waste treatment facilities can be difficult to set up in built-up urban areas.

5. PEZA Zones Boost Surrounding Communities

PEZA zones in the countryside do not operate in isolation. Industrial parks and other SEZs contribute significantly to local economies, wherever they are built.

The businesses connected to SEZs pay local taxes, generate local business opportunities, and boost local employment. Many of the service and market gaps that may exist in SEZs are often addressed by local entrepreneurs who, in turn, create additional value for the local economy.

Recognition has already been given to the role of industrial parks in boosting communities in the countryside. In 2019, Malacañang’s Administrative Order (AO) 18, “Accelerating Rural Progress Through Robust Development of Special Economic Zones in the Countryside,” was signed, effectively making SEZs an official tool for countryside development.

6. PEZA Zones Spur Domestic Innovation

Over the decades that SEZs have been in the Philippines, these areas have proven critical for vital technology and knowledge transfers. The establishment of foreign businesses in PEZA Zones has helped Filipinos become more familiar with various technologies and methods that were previously unknown or rare in the Philippines.

Many Filipino professionals and entrepreneurs have already created their own startups that leverage these learnings. A high proportion of Filipino entrepreneurs have gotten their start from working for multinationals located in SEZs. It would be hard to overstate the impact that SEZs have had in bringing local businesses to global standards.

PEZA SEZs have been an essential part of the Philippine economic formula for decades. They are a source of jobs, domestic innovation, and economic stability and have helped improve the lives of millions of Filipinos, especially in the countryside. One day, the successes of these zones may even be copied or exceeded in other parts of the country.