NEWS
Staying confident when shopping online this Christmas

December 11, 2021 7:55 p.m.
WHATEVER the crisis is, Christmas is still the ultimate holiday event for Filipinos. Hard times won’t ever cancel this season of celebrations and generosity. Feasting and gifting are staples which means one thing — shopping.
According to a recent survey conducted by Kaspersky, Filipinos are the top new e-cash adopters in the Asia Pacific region at 37% followed by India (23%) and Australia (15%).
Survey respondents from the region said they have used digital payments due to convenience.
The pandemic has ushered in an extraordinary online shopping experience where window-shopping (checking out products), comparing prices before buying, and having the goods delivered right on the customer’s doorstep can all be done at home anytime with just one click.
Unfortunately, this rise in digital adoption is where cybercriminals are directing their efforts to.
The recently reported sim-swap incident worth almost two million pesos in just one attempt is an example.
Sim-swap is a scam used to intercept online banking SMS verification codes. To get hold of one-time passwords for financial transactions, cybercriminals create or fraudulently obtain a copy of the victim’s SIM card from the mobile operator.
It’s no surprise that a third of the survey respondents (31%) in APAC admitted being concerned about losing money when it comes to making online transactions.
“The pandemic has triggered more people to embrace online shopping. Although physical safety is essential, the safety of our finances, devices and information is also important, especially as phishing scams become more and more sophisticated and targeted. We expect cybercriminals to continue using tricks that will lure more victims to take the bait hence this festive season, we urge everyone to put their guards up against messages, calls, and even emails asking for critical information such as account number, OTPs, passwords, and more,” said Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.
Here are some practical tips from Kaspersky for online shopping:
1. Stick to familiar brands you know or have heard of.
2. If you’re checking out a new brand, research it carefully and get its contact details like email, phone number, or address. Also, look for its return policy and feedback history which are good indicators of honesty and credibility.
3. Ensure your online accounts are off limits to your children and restrict their access to your credit card and bank information.
4. Consider getting an antivirus or anti-malware protection for your device.
Try Kaspersky Total Security (KTS) which has the useful Kaspersky Safe Money feature. It provides an extra layer of protection when shopping online — ensures you’re visiting a secure website, or it can open the site in a special, protected mode to prevent your passwords, credit card number, or personal data from being accessed by cybercriminals.
Kaspersky solutions with Safe Money features such as Kaspersky Total Security and Kaspersky Internet Security are currently being offered with up to 50% discounts during the anticipated 12.12 sale at Shopee and Lazada.
While ordering online:
1. Don’t give out any more information than is necessary to complete your purchase. Never share personal information over the phone unless you made the call. Never reply to any unsolicited request for personal information such as passwords, credit cards, or bank account numbers.
2. Only make payments online using safe and trusted methods. If you accidentally enter your credit or debit card information into a suspected malicious website or email, call your credit card company as soon as possible.
When you complete an online shopping session:
1. Always log off, especially if you share a device with someone else.
2. Keep a paper trail: print and save records of online transactions.
3. Read credit card statements when you get them and check for unauthorized charges that you should report immediately.
NEWS
Motolite cranks up sustainability drive with use of e-bikes for delivery

10:12 p.m. January 22, 2025
Motolite, the country’s leading, most trusted battery brand and leader in technology and product innovation, shifted its sustainability drive to a higher gear as it started deploying to key outlets eco-friendly e-bikes for the delivery of batteries to customers.
These e-bikes will now be part of the delivery fleet of Motolite Express Hatid (MEH) hubs and will be used by well-trained technicians in providing services to motorists.
The deployment of e-bikes started last November 28, with the MEH Maceda Hub and Cebu Hub receiving the initial batches of three units each. The MEH hubs in Mindanao Avenue, Las Pinas, Mandaluyong, Katipunan, and Pasong Tamo are also included in the project’s pilot phase.
E-bikes produce zero emissions, making them a more environment-friendly option for delivery. They help reduce air pollution and have three times less carbon footprints than conventional vehicles.
E-bikes also do not contribute to noise pollution and are lighter and easier to navigate than regular motorcycles, especially on busy metropolitan roads. Their speed is also comparable to conventional gas-powered motorcycles.
The deployment of e-bikes for delivery is part of Motolite’s heightened sustainability campaign, which also includes programs for the recovery and recycling of used lead acid batteries (ULAB) and the mounting of solar panels on the rooftops of its retail, warehousing, and production facilities.
Motolite’s battery production plants in Bulacan alone have an installed photovoltaic system capacity of 7,472 kWp, cutting its carbon footprint by 2,346 tons of CO2.
Both the solar panels and e-bikes are being supplied by Greener Solar Power and Electric Motor, Inc. (GEMI), a rising player in the country’s green energy sector.
Motolite’s ULAB recovery and recycling program, meanwhile, significantly reduced its dependence on fresh plastic resins and newly mined lead for its battery production.
“We are looking for every opportunity to contribute to the global effort to limit climate change. We are the only battery brand that takes its sustainability drive seriously, from manufacturing to retail and delivery,” Richard A. Chan, Motolite Vice President for Sales and Marketing, shared.
Aside from its free battery delivery 24/7 nationwide, Motolite also provides services to motorists such as emergency refueling, jumpstarting a dead battery, assisting with overheating, and changing a flat tire via the Motolite Res-Q App.
NEWS
The story on how EJ Obiena vaulted over controversy

6:57 a.m. January 17, 2025

The Philippines’ top pole vaulter and Olympian EJ Obiena faced a challenging moment when he became the subject of a controversial accusation last October, 2023.
However, the 29-year-old athlete demonstrated grace under pressure, addressing the claims with professionalism and composure. His dignified response not only refuted the allegations, but also earned widespread praise. Ultimately, the accuser issued a public apology, acknowledging the false nature of the claims against him.
Behind the scenes, Obiena’s coach and mentor, James Michael “Jim” Lafferty, played a vital role in guiding the athlete through the ordeal.
Lafferty, a seasoned executive coach and motivational speaker, provided strategic PR and crisis management support to help Obiena navigate the situation effectively. Known for his dedication to nurturing athletic talent, Lafferty has also mentored other Filipino Olympians, including long jumper Marestella Torres-Sunang.

“Whilst I have long stated that EJ Obiena is a world-class athlete, yet an even better human being, he, like all celebrities, has been unfairly embroiled in various controversies,” Lafferty recalled.
He highlighted Obiena’s remarkable ability to overcome challenges, including handling multiple crises over the years.
Despite these hurdles, Obiena rose to become the world’s No. 2 pole vaulter, Asia’s top pole vaulter, a member of the six-meter club, and now a two-time Olympian.
Recognizing a broader need for expert crisis management among businesses and public figures, Lafferty, who also serves as the Chairman of Katapult, one of the country’s leading end-to-end marketing solutions providers, took action.
“Sensing the need to better serve EJ and other clients, Katapult has established a new PR and Crisis Management division as of January 1,” Lafferty said.
Lafferty is collaborating with Media Head Anika Basa and Data Analytics Head David Rosario to ensure the seamless integration of services.
The launch of this division underscores Katapult’s commitment to help clients navigate challenges, while safeguarding their reputations and achieving sustainable growth.
Lafferty’s leadership experience spans over three decades, during which he has held CEO roles at multinational companies such as Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, British American Tobacco, and Fine Hygienic Holding. His proven track record of driving success across industries makes him exceptionally qualified to lead Katapult’s PR and Crisis Management division.
CEO Francis Uy highlighted Katapult’s comprehensive approach: “Katapult was born as a digital-first company with a sniper-shotgun strategy—combining precision targeting of specific consumer personas with broad-reaching campaigns that maximize impact. By leveraging insights from our AI-powered platform, we not only drive marketing success but also provide a robust safety net for brands navigating crises. With our expanded services, including PR and crisis management, we ensure our clients’ reputations are protected and their stories resonate in even the most challenging situations.”
Rosario’s team enables hyper-precise consumer targeting, fostering authentic campaigns and lasting connections.
Together with Basa’s team, they seamlessly execute the Sniper-Shotgun Approach—combining the wide-reaching impact of a shotgun with the pinpoint precision of a sniper rifle to deliver tailored ads that drive maximum impact.
Discover how Katapult can help safeguard your brand’s reputation and lead you through any crisis with precision and expertise. Reach out today to learn how we can support your brand’s continued growth, no matter the challenges ahead.
Check us out at katapultdigital.com.
NEWS
Agoda: Cebu is tourist favorite to welcome ‘The Year of the Snake’

10:30 a.m. January 13, 2025
As the Lunar New Year approaches, digital travel platform Agoda unveils Cebu to be the most sought-after destination for international visitors celebrating the start of ‘The Year of the Snake’ in the Philippines. Agoda further reports that, based on accommodation searches made on the platform, Manila is the top-searched domestic destination, with Hong Kong being the most popular among Filipino travelers looking to spend the Lunar New Year holiday abroad.
International travelers are increasingly looking to the Philippines as a Lunar New Year destination, with accommodation searches growing 19% compared to the previous year. The archipelago draws the most visitors from South Korea, United States and mainland China. Cebu, with its world-renowned beaches, marine life, and cultural heritage continues to charm as the top destination for international travelers during the holiday period, with accommodation searches rising 15% from last year.
Domestic travel during the Lunar New Year holiday is also increasingly popular in the Philippines as witnessed by a 52% rise in accommodation searches on Agoda. The most popular destination for domestic travel is Manila, with a nearly 50% increase in searches compared to last year. The capital is a favorite among Filipinos looking to usher in the Lunar New Year in what is said to be one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world, featuring traditional dances, lantern-lined streets and festive fare.
For Filipinos looking to celebrate ‘The Year of the Snake’ abroad, Hong Kong slithers into the lead with a 120% growth in accommodation searches compared to the previous year, overtaking Tokyo. With its impressive skylines and melting pot of cultures, Hong Kong offers an exciting array of festivities including fireworks, parades and performances to usher in a prosperous new year. Overall, outbound accommodation searches increased by 67%, indicating Filipino travelers’ growing desire to spend the holiday period abroad.
Mike Hwang, Country Director, Philippines at Agoda said, “The Lunar New Year holiday is one of Asia’s most popular travel periods and it’s great to see growing interest in the Philippines from international and domestic travelers alike. Cities like Cebu and Manila showcase the wonderful diversity of experiences in the Philippines, from stunning island escapes to cultural festivities in the heart of the capital city. Whether celebrating the new year from the Philippines or traveling abroad, Agoda offers travelers great deals on flights, accommodations and activities to usher in the Year of the Snake.”
The Lunar New Year holiday marks new beginnings and the arrival of Spring, making it a significant travel period as people look to reunite with family and friends. ‘The Year of the Snake’ symbolizes rebirth and transformation and is said to present an auspicious opportunity for embracing self-discovery and exploring new horizons. Known for their association with good fortune, snakes inspire travelers to shed the old and welcome the new — whether by rediscovering familiar places or venturing abroad during this festive season.
Looking at the combined preferences for Asian travelers, Japanese cities in particular emerged as favorites for the Lunar New Year holiday, with Tokyo taking the crown followed by Bangkok (Thailand), Osaka (Japan), Fukuoka (Japan), and Seoul (South Korea).
As travelers prepare to shed the old and embrace the new, Agoda offers exceptional deals for their Lunar New Year holiday on over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities and experiences that are available on the platform. The latest deals are available in the Agoda app or on agoda.com/deals.