Latest Posts

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) celebrates World Recycling Day with the launch of Tela Tales, a program that upcycles condemned linens and empowers communities.


SMHCC Launches Tela Tales on World Recycling Day
SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) commemorated World Recycling Day with the launch of Tela Tales, a program aligned with their commitment to environmental stewardship. The program centers around upcycling discarded linens and creating a circular economy for these materials.

Tela Tales: Transforming Lives, One Textile at a Time
Tela Tales embodies the philosophy of "Transforming lives, one textile at a time." This initiative aims to empower communities residing near SMHCC properties by equipping them with the skills to create fashionable and eco-friendly bags from used linens. These bags will be sold at competitive prices, providing women with a sustainable source of income.

SMHCC's Sustainability Efforts
The launch of Tela Tales signifies a significant milestone in SMHCC's sustainability efforts. The company upholds a holistic approach that encompasses various environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. SMHCC's commitment extends to achieving zero waste, zero greenwashing, and zero biases.

Tela Tales Complements SMHCC's Road to Zero
During a sustainability briefing and exhibit titled "SMHCC Road to Zero," Leah Magallanes, SMHCC's Vice President for Quality and Sustainability, presented the company's comprehensive sustainability initiatives. These initiatives align with SMHCC's dedication to achieving zero waste, zero greenwashing, and zero biases.

SMHCC's Sustainability Achievements
SMHCC has partnered with key stakeholders to achieve impressive sustainability goals. Some notable achievements include:
  • Diverting over 198,640 kg of food waste through bokashi composting.
  • Transforming over 253 kg of used bar soaps into new ones.
  • Contributing over Php300,000 to construct classrooms while diverting more than 7,100 kg of plastic waste from landfills since 2022.
  • Upcycling over 10,000 kg of paper waste and 2,000 kg of plastic waste into sustainable products like Papel ni Juan recycled bond paper and Poly al Eco Boards.
  • Taal Vista Hotel's diversion of 11,672 kg of food waste using an Orca Biodigester installed in July 2023.

Plate for the Planet: A Sustainable Dining Experience
The launch of Tela Tales was followed by a special lunch called "Plate for the Planet." This program is part of SMHCC's Sustainable Diner initiative, showcasing their commitment to a circular economy within their operations. The menu for "Plate for the Planet" comprised dishes prepared using locally sourced and hotel-grown ingredients. Food scraps are then composted and used to cultivate vegetables, herbs, and fruits served at the hotel, reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.
BLUE PANDAN TEA MOCKTAIL - Made with Tsaa Laya's vibrant blends, crafted from the finest Philippine Ingredients.

Executive Chef of Taal Vista - Chef Jayme Natividad

ARANCINI - Crispy rice ball with trio of Tagaytay mushrooms, and kesong puti from Laguna. Served with malunggay pesto.

PANSIT BUCO (salad) - Melange of coconut meat, cabbage, lettuce carrots, jicama in coconut shell.

MALIPUTO - Poached fresh water trevally fillet with haricot verts, carrots and leeks on roasted squash and potato puree Served with Normandy Sauce.

PAVLOVA - Meringue with calamansi custard, Chantilly and pineapple calamansi compote

SMHCC's Commitment to Sustainability
The launch of Tela Tales and the Sustainable Diner program solidify SMHCC's unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility. The company continuously strives to create a positive impact, one linen and one plate at a time.

The TechLife Notebook Series are designed to boost your productivity in school and at work

Get up to P1,500 OFF this Mid Month Payday Sale on TikTok and Lazada
Nowadays, laptops have become a necessity for everyday individuals wanting to be productive at home, work, and school. The best option for casual users are laptops made for productivity, especially if they’re not after the heavy-duty specs meant for gaming, business, or editing.

Cue the TechLife Notebook Series - the TechLife Notebook and TechLife Notebook S are specially designed for students and young adults looking for a trustworthy laptop that can handle multitasking activities for everyday use.

Aside from the fact that it’s lightweight and easy to carry thanks to its 15.6mm slim design, the TechLife Notebook Series gives users the best value for money in terms of specs.

Both notebooks use Intel®l i3 Core processors, but the TechLife Notebook has the 11th Generation while the TechLife Notebook S has the 12th Generation so rest assured that it can easily handle tasks for school and the office - such as making presentations, writing papers, attending online meetings, email correspondence, and tracking projects, among others.

After a day of working and being productive, the TechLife Notebook Series are also perfect to use for leisure and downtime activities. Each device has a 14” display that will let users immerse themselves in binge-worthy series, plus the Intel® UHD Graphics will provide the best image and video quality output.

Both notebooks are equipped with 8GB RAM but the TechLife Notebook has 256 SSD Storage while the TechLife Notebook S has slightly higher storage capabilities with 512GB SSD. They can run multiple apps efficiently even in the background.

For users who like working at cafes or on the go, battery life is important to consider. Both Notebooks can last up to 8 to 10 hours, but they use different charging types - specifically, the TechLife Notebook uses 65W DC Charging while the TechLife Notebook S uses 60W Type C Charging.

The TechLife Notebook in Black retails for P24,999 while the TechLife Notebook S in the color Silver costs P29,999 - making both devices a great option for laptops that won’t break the bank.

This Midmonth Payday Sale, the TechLife Fam can get the TechLife Notebook S for P1,500 OFF when they check out from TechLife’s official TikTok Shop and Lazada Flagship Store from March 13 to 14. At the same time, other TechLife devices will be available for up to 60% OFF for a limited time only.

Meanwhile, the TechLife Fam can also buy the TechLife Notebook from any offline TechLife stores nationwide.

To get updates on TechLife announcements and promos, don’t forget to follow their official Facebook page.

Infinix Tops Charts with Largest Year-on-Year Shipments Increase Among Global Smartphone Brands in 2023

Press Release
Recognized for Marketing Excellence and Received TikTok for Business Overseas Marketing Awards

Infinix, a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers, is thrilled to announce its exceptional performance in 2023. According to IDC's Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, Infinix has achieved a remarkable milestone in year-on-year increase in units in smartphone shipments, surpassing all other global smartphone brands with an astounding accomplishment of over 13 million units increase. This translates to an impressive growth rate of 64.1% compared to 2022.
Tony Zhao, General Manager of Infinix, proudly attributes the company's achievements to a multifaceted marketing approach, technological innovation, and strategic collaborations with key industry players, such as TikTok. By utilizing the platform, Infinix successfully connects with its target users, empowering them to exceed their limitations and unlock their full potential.

"Infinix focuses on catering to youth preferences, providing tailored-made technological innovations, and recognizing the pivotal role of strategic partnerships. By leveraging TikTok as a creative platform, Infinix effectively reaches our target users, enabling them to conquer their limits and become the best versions of themselves.” Tony Zhao.
Infinix Receives TikTok for Business Overseas Marketing Award
Infinix's marketing prowess recently earned them TikTok for Business's Overseas Marketing Award for being the "Innovator", recognizing their standout efforts in the international markets. This prestigious award celebrates companies making waves globally, inspiring others with innovative marketing practices. Infinix's success stems from its strategic approach, utilizing TikTok's platform to its fullest. By embracing various gameplay options and collaborating with influencers, Infinix has effectively grown its brand from awareness to tangible results, showcasing the power of creative marketing.

Since its inception in 2013, Infinix has established a strong presence in overseas markets. The brand's engagement with users through compelling content and its sales success on e-commerce platforms highlight a symbiotic relationship. Campaigns like Infinix Super Brand Day and the "Capture Your Own Story" Vlog Contest have been key successes, further cementing Infinix's position as an innovative leader in the tech industry.

Game-Changing Innovations Unveiled at CES & MWC 2024
Infinix continued to make waves in the industry with its game-changing innovations showcased at CES and MWC. At CES, Infinix amazed the audience with the introduction of Infinix AirCharge, a revolutionary wireless charging technology that eliminates the need for cords or charging pads. This breakthrough innovation provides a hassle-free way to power up the devices. Additionally, Infinix unveiled the Extreme-Temp Battery, addressing the challenges of extreme temperatures to ensure smooth device performance in any environment. Infinix also introduced Infinix E-Color Shift, the industry’s first customizable display panel for smartphone appearances. At MWC, Infinix turned heads with their flagship mobile gaming concept, promising a new era of mobile gaming with top-notch performance and graphics. As 2024 unfolds, Infinix is poised to lead the way with more groundbreaking innovations, setting the stage for an exciting future.

For more updates and information, visit Infinix Philippines’ official website, Facebook page, and TikTok. Be an XFan today and join the Infinix Facebook Community page.

Lenovo and PHINMA collaborate to implement EdVision; aims to enhance the learning experience nationwide

PHINMA Education Network joins the growing network of schools empowered by the program.
Lenovo, a pioneer in innovative technology solutions, advances its commitment to ‘Smarter Technology for All’ through the extension of its EdVision program. This initiative now includes the PHINMA Education Network into its network of partner institutions, signaling a significant stride in leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences across the country. A signing ceremony to mark this effort to broaden the EdVision program took place at St. Jude College Manila.

“The future of our learners remains at the top of our priorities at Lenovo. It has always been our aim to not only make learning smarter but also more accessible, which is why we are honored to have our first partnership with PHINMA,” says Raymond Remoquillo, Enterprise Segment Lead of Lenovo Philippines. “This signifies our shared vision of empowering educators and students with the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital age. Together, we are shaping the future of education in the Philippines,” he added.

Through the EdVision program, Lenovo will provide technical training, Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) certification, and other essential resources to support educators and students in leveraging technology for enhanced learning experiences. Notably, PHINMA has purchased close to 1,000 units from Lenovo, further demonstrating their commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology solutions.

“As educators, it is our job to continue to offer our students the education they deserve, at prices they can afford. Providing a way, not just to reach them, but to incorporate these technological advancements into our systems,” says Ana S. Chua, COO of PHINMA Education NCR Network. “We believe that by providing good education and technology, we are future-proofing our students, giving them more opportunities to grow in a more technologically reliant tomorrow,” he added.

Educators are constantly challenged to evolve alongside technology, ensuring they can meet the ever-changing demands of the educational landscape. Rooted in its commitment to making technology smarter and more accessible for all, Lenovo stands as a force of innovation in education, empowering universities like PHINMA to thrive in this digital age.

For more information, visit https://edvision.lenovo.com/ph/.

Acer named one of the World’s Top Companies for Women

Acer has been named one of the World’s Top Companies for Women in 2023, marking the second consecutive year of being recognized on the Forbes list. With this, Acer climbed from 291 to 259 and ranked 12th in the Semiconductors, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Technology Hardware & Equipment category.
Forbes surveyed 70,000 women across 37 territories in partnership with Statista, and the evaluation criteria included workplace practices, gender pay equity, handling of discrimination, and equal opportunities.

The recognition reflects Acer's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment.

In the Philippines, Sue Ong-Lim is the managing director of Acer, leading a workforce of 139 employees.

She started in the company as a Senior Sales Executive in 2009 until she was named Managing Director this year.

As a leader, Ong-Lim describes herself as business-driven, but she said she relates personally to Acer’s employers, partners, and customers.

“Acer has 34.7% and 39% market share of consumer and gaming notebooks in the Philippines, respectively. This means that nearly a third of Filipinos who have a laptop own an Acer. The company has decades of building and strengthening brand equity through consistent sales, marketing, and customer service efforts. I see that as our edge over our competitors,” said Ong-Lim.

She attributes her success as a leader to her vision and thirst for learning. She has realized that even those at the top of their game should always continue having a learner's mindset.

Ong-Lim said her gender doesn’t hinder her being a leader in a male-dominated industry.

"I believe in equality and inclusivity and that people, regardless of gender, are what make an organization special and successful," she said.

For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com.

B-BOY ENGSKI AND B-GIRL YANI WIN FIRST-EVER RED BULL BC ONE REGIONAL CYPHER PHILIPPINES!

Press Release
Photo provided by Little Shao
B-Boy Engski and B-Girl Yani showcased their incredible talent and skill, emerging victorious from a competitive field of over 80 other breakers at the first-ever Red Bull BC One Regional Cypher Philippines last March 7, 2024 at Apotheka, Manila.
Among the fierce competition, these two dancers demonstrated exceptional skill which captivated both the audience and judges alike, earning them the prestigious title of Red Bull BC One Regional Cypher Philippines Champions. With their victory, they solidify their status as two of the finest breakers in the Philippines, starting their journey onto the global stage.
Photo provided by Little Shao
As winners of the Red Bull BC One Regional Cypher Philippines, B-Boy Engski and B-Girl Yani, together with second place finishers, B-Boy Killafour and B-Girl Liz, will travel to Indonesia to represent their country at the upcoming Red Bull BC One Southeast Asia Regional Final this March 22nd. The stakes couldn't be higher, as the regional champion in Indonesia will secure a coveted wild card slot at the Last Chance Cypher for the Red Bull BC One World Final in Brazil later this year.

“I’m grateful that a big event like this was held here in the Philippines, as the B-boy and B-girl communities are hungry for it. We are grateful, and we hope that they will continue to visit and host large events like this to provide possibilities for us coming from the Philippines,“ expressed by the breaker from Quezon City, B-Boy Engksy.

Meanwhile, B-Girl Yani shared her excitement about the inclusion of B-Girls in the Red Bull BC One Regional Cypher. She sees it as a significant step forward for the breaking community.

“I'm happy because this is the first time Red Bull BC One is in the Philippines and will feature a 1-v-1 category. Now that they've opened it for B-girls, I'm overjoyed and overwhelmed because it's not just for me, but for the entire breaking community,” she stated.

Leading up to the Red Bull BC One Regional Cypher, the Red Bull BC One All Stars engaged with the local dance community through a series of workshops spearheaded by renowned Filipino breakers such as B-Boy Ronnie and B-Girl Logistx. This initiative aimed to foster connections and inspire the next generation of dancers.

“I think they (Breakers) need more events like this, they need to get more support. And also, we did a session with them and they just need more opportunities to battle, travel, and to build with one another. They need more opportunities to connect within different cities." B-Boy Ronnie stressed.

B-Girl Logistx also added that the breaking community needs more support, funding, and events like Red Bull BC One.

“A lot of the [Filipino] breakers are so dope, but what I think holds them back in terms of opportunities is just the visibility. So we can have more of that, which people like myself and Ronnie are pitching for. And connecting with others to bring that visibility, and the support here and for them to stay inspired and keep it up, which I know they will,” she emphasized.

With breaking included in the Paris Summer Olympics for the first time, the Red Bull BC One All Stars eagerly embraced the opportunity to engage with the vibrant local dance community. This initiative underscored Red Bull’s dedication to promoting dance, arts, and culture in the Philippines and also amplified the significance of breaking on a global stage.

The Red Bull BC One Regional Cypher Philippines marks a pivotal moment for the country's breaking scene, showcasing the talent and passion that exists within its borders. As B-Boy Engski, B-Boy Killafour, B-Girl Yani, and B-Girl Liz gear up to represent the Philippines on the regional (SEA) stage, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of a nation, poised to leave an indelible mark on the global breaking community.
Photo provided by Little Shao
For more highlights and updates on B-Boy Engski, B-Boy Killafour, B-Girl Yani, and B-Girl Liz’s journey to the Red Bull BC One World Final, follow Red Bull Philippines’ social media channels at Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and Red Bull BC One’s official website.

Monet Through Modern Eyes: LG Philippines' Digital Innovation at Monet & Friends Alive

In a groundbreaking cultural endeavor, LG Philippines proudly announces its role as the Exhibit Partner for the Monet & Friends Alive. The exhibit has been enchanting art lovers at the BGC Arts Center since January. This marks a significant milestone as the Philippines hosts this immersive adventure into French Impressionism for the first time, bringing the timeless beauty of Claude Monet and his contemporaries to life in a way never before seen in the country.

Monet & Friends Alive, created and produced by the renowned Grande Experiences, offers a multi-sensory journey through the vibrant era of 19th century Europe. The exhibition, presented by the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. and made possible with the support of Del Monte Philippines, TicketWorld, LG Philippines, Alveo, and the City Government of Taguig, promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates over 150 years of Impressionist art.

LG Philippines, leveraging its expertise in cutting-edge digital display technology, transforms the BGC Arts Center into a canvas where the Impressionists' masterpieces are not just seen but felt. Following the success of Van Gogh Alive, LG continues to innovate, using state-of-the-art LG digital screens in the Art Studio and lobby to enhance the visual journey. These screens showcase the intricate details and vibrant colors of the artworks, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the bold brushstrokes and delicate hues of Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Cézanne, Degas, and more.
The exhibition's immersive technology, set to a powerful classical score, brings the art to life with an incredible application of light, allowing visitors to experience the Impressionists' depictions of modernity, movement, light, and shadow in a dynamic display. Through LG's innovative displays strategically placed in the Art Studio and lobby, the rich tapestry of colors, sounds, and even fragrances envelop the audience, offering a new perspective on the iconic images that have captivated generations.
LG TVs provide a clear exhibit virtual tour at the lobby
LG Philippines managing director Nakhyun Seong expressed his excitement with the new installation, saying "LG Philippines is thrilled to be at the forefront of blending technology with art, making the masterpieces of the Impressionist era accessible in a new and exhilarating way. Our partnership with the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. and Grande Experiences for Monet & Friends Alive exemplifies our commitment to enhancing cultural experiences through technology."
Art enthusiasts replicate Monet’s famous ‘The Japanese Footbridge’ through an instructional video played in LG OLED TVs at the Art Studio
The exhibition opened on January 31, 2024, at the BGC Arts Center, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, for a strictly limited season. Don't miss this chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of French Impressionism come alive, illuminated by LG's unparalleled digital display technology.

Life’s about more than having the latest technology, rather, it’s about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers consumer electronics through top-of-the-line home entertainment, home appliances, and air solution products that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring “Innovation for a Better Life” nationwide – from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao. For more details, follow LG Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and Tiktok. LG products are available in all authorized dealers nationwide both in-store and online. Visit lg.com/ph for a complete list of our retail partners. You can also visit LG’s Official Flagship Stores in Lazada and Shopee.

Wander the Galaxy Worry-free with Samsung Knox Vault

Press Release

Samsung expands Knox Vault Security Solutions to its A-Series Mobile Devices this 2024
Mobile phones have now become our daily companions - from helping us accomplish everyday tasks, to watching videos, playing mobile games, and sharing content as a way to connect with people. Thus, making it essential for our devices to have advanced security features to protect our data and ensure a worry-free mobile experience.

Samsung is giving us a galaxy of reasons to truly enjoy the things we love to do with our phones by expanding its Security Solutions to its Galaxy A Series mobile devices, giving even better protection for your personal and highly sensitive information as you go along your day-to-day living in this digital age.

Protect Important Data with Knox Vault Awesome Features
Knox Vault is a hardware-based security solution with its own processor, memory, and non-volatile secure storage developed by Samsung to protect the users’ highly sensitive data such as passwords and biometrics. It is an isolated, tamper-proof, and secure subsystem with a good interface meant to provide strong security measures that protects Samsung devices from firmware attacks.

Mobile devices are prone to malicious attacks that can compromise and access highly personal data. Knox Vault is tested to provide protection from any software and hardware attacks such as physical manipulation, forced information leakage, side-channel attack, and fault injection.

As one of its features, Attestation Key is a security program that is designed to protect the users’ personal information in case the device is lost or stolen and is detected to be manipulated by an unauthorized malicious user. It prevents unauthorized actors from accessing important systems like Samsung Pay, Samsung Pass, and Knox Services.

Speaking of security, Weaver, another feature for password authentication, ensures users that their data and secrets are protected as the binary exponential back-off algorithm is automatically triggered to keep data from being read and measured if the proper key is not provided.

A Galaxy of Expanded Protection
Knox Vault is recognized in 31 countries globally through the Common Criteria Recognition Agreement (CCRA), a framework for evaluating security products. Its components are evaluated by an independent third party, Common Criteria Testing Laboratory (CCTL) and underwent requirements evaluation in the Security IC Platform Protection Profile with Augmentation Packages at EAL4+ and EAL5+ assurance requirements.

Security paired with awesome entertainment
Enjoy your favorite series worry-free and clearly with the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G and A25 5G series, featuring a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with Vision Booster for optimal visibility. These phones also boast a speedy 25W charging battery, ensuring all-day use. Elevate your style with the Galaxy A25 5G starts at P15,990 (6GB+128GB) and P18,990 (8GB+256GB), while the sleek Galaxy A15 begins at P9,990 for LTE and P10,990 for 5G.

More awesome is also coming in your way this March as Samsung is gearing to kick-start an amazing summer! For more information, follow us at Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter).

To know more about Samsung’s latest offerings, visit www.samsung.com/ph/.

Five Films For Freedom: British Council celebrates a decade of LGBTQIA+ Stories

Five Films For Freedom, the world’s widest-reaching LGBTQIA+ digital campaign, returns on 13 March bringing five new films from the Philippines, India, Spain, the UK and USA to audiences across the world.
Over two weeks (13 to 24 March 2024) audiences worldwide are invited to dive into the world of LGBTQIA+ cinema from the comfort of their own homes and watch the films online for free.

The film programme continues the British Council’s partnership with BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, with the short films promoted across the British Council’s global digital networks and BFI Player for free.

Our tenth anniversary edition will showcase global LGBTQIA+ stories that resonate with strength and spirit, from the historic defiance of Compton's 22 in San Francisco to the heartfelt journey of love and understanding in Halfway. This year's selection, including Little One, Cursive, and The First Kiss, dives deep into themes of family, identity, and the universal quest for acceptance.

"We are immensely proud to mark the tenth anniversary of Five Films for Freedom," said British Council Director of Film, Briony Hanson.

"This platform has not only provided a vital space for LGBTQIA+ stories to be heard but has also fostered a global movement for equality and acceptance. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite audiences everywhere to join us in championing love in all its forms."

Audiences in Philippines are encouraged to watch the films online for free from 13 to 24 March 2024, and share their experiences using the hashtag #FiveFilmsForFreedom. For more information and to access the films, visit our British Arts YouTube channel.

"It is a privilege to showcase the exceptional work of these immensely talented filmmakers to audiences worldwide and we are truly proud to have a Filipino film included in this year's selection," said Lotus Postrado, British Council in the Philippines Country Director.

"Throughout the ten-year journey of Five Films For Freedom, we've been able to reach over 23 million viewers globally with these remarkable films. We take pride in our ongoing commitment to supporting this initiative, which not only sheds light on new narratives but also fosters new connections and understanding."

The Platters to Perform Live at GH Mall

Enjoy the soothing melody of the yesteryears as Ortigas Malls presents The Platters live in concert at GH Mall on March 10, 4pm. Get ready to go on a trip down memory lane and be serenaded with their hits that include “Smoke Gets in your Eyes,” “The Great Pretender,” “Remember When,” “Hello Everybody,” and “Twilight Time.”
The much-awaited golden concert also comes with CD selling, signing, and photo opportunity. Admission is free for all Ortigas Community Card members on a first come, first serve basis. Come and watch The Platters live at the East Wing Atrium of the GH Mall Mall at 4pm on March 10.

To avail of an Ortigas Community Card and to stay update on the latest Ortigas Malls events, visit the GreenhillsOfficial Facebook page or click @GreenhillsPH on Instagram.

Here's your one-stop app for all your Larger Than Life experiences: Sign up for the Ortigas Community Card via the Ortigas Malls app to get first dibs on amazing deals, discounts, and perks.

For more information and updates on Ortigas Malls’ events be sure to like and visit their official Facebook pages: Greenhills Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia Mall.

Daniel Padilla and Dominic Roque tagged as the mysterious "D" behind viral billboard begging not to break up

A billboard along C5 Southbound pleading against a breakup has captured the public's attention and sparked widespread speculation on social media.

The billboard, which bears the message "Wag na tayo mag-break, please" alongside a sad emoticon, is signed only with the initial "D."
A video capturing the billboard, posted by Gifer Fernandez, quickly went viral, amassing 17 million views, 382,000 reactions, 10,000 comments, and 41,000 shares on Facebook. The intriguing message led netizens to speculate about the identity of "D," with actors Dominic Roque and Daniel Padilla emerging as the primary suspects.

Both actors have recently experienced public breakups with their famous partners, Bea Alonzo and Kathryn Bernardo, respectively, fueling rumors about their possible connection to the billboard's heartfelt plea.

As the speculation continues to swirl, neither Roque nor Padilla has come forward to confirm or deny their involvement with the viral billboard campaign.

Meanwhile, netizens were quick to tag Darren Espanto, to which the actor reacted, “Ako talaga ‘to. ‘Di ko lang sinasabi kasi private love life ko HAHHAHAHA Kainis.”

The absence of a clear admission keeps the mystery alive, leaving fans and the general public guessing about the story behind the billboard's public appeal not to end a relationship.

Nissan to commercialize autonomous-drive mobility services in Japan by fiscal year 2027

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced its roadmap to commercialize its inhouse-developed, autonomous-drive mobility services in Japan.
This is a significant step towards the company's long-term vision, Nissan Ambition 2030, to empower mobility by solving transportation service issues faced by local communities in Japan. Local communities have been facing several mobility challenges, such as driver shortages, which are a result of an ageing population. With this service, Nissan will provide a broad range of new services that enable free movement.

Nissan has been testing business models for mobility services in Japan and abroad since 2017. These vicinities include the Minato Mirai area of Yokohama and Namie town, Fukushima Prefecture, where a manned mobility service called Namie Smart Mobility has been in operation since 2021. Outside Japan, Nissan has been testing autonomous-drive mobility in London and other areas with the support of the UK government.

Equipped with this knowledge, Nissan plans to begin offering autonomous-drive mobility services starting in fiscal year 2027, working with third parties such as local authorities and transport operators. Nissan will begin trials in the Minato Mirai area in fiscal 2024, and eventually scale up the trials the following fiscal year. During the trials, the level of autonomous driving will be gradually enhanced while assessing customer acceptance, with the aim to provide driverless services.

The following is a broad timeline:
This initiative will be promoted in close cooperation with the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; and other central ministries. The ministries will also promote initiatives to realize new autonomous mobility services at the Level 4 Mobility Acceleration Committee that they organize.

Here’s how Kathryn Bernardo maintains a ‘tamang’ balance in life

Press Release
Kathryn Bernardo shows no signs of slowing down. The beloved actress has been on almost every Filipino’s screens since she was a young girl. Now, she has a long list of successful teleseryes and blockbuster hits under her belt. She also started her own business and delved into other projects in between.
Kathryn Bernardo starts the year with her very first TV commercial shoot as the endorser of Great Taste White
Kathryn has been active in the industry for over 20 years, but she’s still so excited about trying new things, both in her work and personal life. Last year, she starred in A Very Good Girl, a movie which she earned many praises for because of her remarkable performance.

This year, Kathryn has a lot of plans. One of them is taking the role of Great Taste White’s newest celebrity endorser. “I’m excited for 2024. [I’m excited] for my new family, new beginnings, and my new partnership with Great Taste White,” she says.

Having the right balance
Kathryn is just like many of us: she always starts her day with a good cup of coffee to give her the “pampagana” she needs, especially during early shoots. Great Taste White allows her to get that “tamang timpla” caffeine fix at home or on set.

“Great Taste White has the right amount of everything – tamang timpla ng coffee, tamis and cream. ‘Yun ‘yung hinahanap ko sa coffee. May satisfaction na you’re ready to start your day,” Kathryn says.

Kathryn prefers to have a “tamang” balance not just in her coffee, but also in her lifestyle. She believes in the value of having work-life balance. She tries to achieve this by setting boundaries between being an actress and being a normal person. “I always remind myself, ‘You have to be a normal person as well. Hindi ka artista every day,’” Kathryn says. “It’s about knowing your limitations – ‘di sosobra, ‘di din magkukuluang. Mahirap siya, pero surrounding yourself with the right people can help pag na-overwhelm ka sa lahat ng nangyayari.”

The actress also plans on continuing honing her tennis and dance skills, and taking swimming and scuba diving lessons seriously this year. Despite having a busy schedule, she’s determined to find time for her new hobbies.

Kathryn considers her close friends and family, and hobbies as her “pampagana.” They motivate her to do well and be the best version of herself in everything she does. It’s safe to say that she’s found the right blend to keep her going.
Actress Kathryn Bernardo’s go-to coffee is Great Taste White, a brand that she grew up with. She loves how this coffee mix has the right amount of everything - tamang tapang ng kape, tamang tamis, and tamang creaminess
Growing with Great Taste White
From a child actress to becoming a versatile performer, Kathryn can be proof that people can evolve and strive to be better. Now, she’s looking forward to continue growing with Great Taste White, a staple brand in her home because of its “tamang timpla” coffee mix.

“Great Taste White is a brand I grew up with and I never thought that I would be part of this family,” Kathryn says. “Kilalang kilala ko ‘yung brand. Sa bahay, ‘yan din ‘yung iniinom namin lahat.”

Experience Great Taste White’s tamang tapang ng kape, tamang tamis, and tamang creaminess, and get your daily stash of this well-loved coffee at leading supermarkets and convenience stores; and via online shops such as Lazada.

Great Taste White is one of the leading White coffee mixes in the Philippines. It’s a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), the company behind well-loved, delightful snack and beverage brands such as C2 Cool and Clean, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Nova, Magic Crackers, Maxx, Cloud 9, and many others.

Huawei Perfects The Art of Display: HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition Changes the Game

Press Release
In today's fast-paced digital world, the demand for user-centric technology solutions is at an all-time high. For students and young professionals alike, finding the perfect balance between efficiency and comfort is paramount. Enter the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition – the ultimate non-glare companion designed with a PaperMatte screen to revolutionize the way we work, learn, and create.

Featuring a groundbreaking PaperMatte screen with anti-reflection, anti-glare, and anti-fingerprint technology, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition eliminates distractions, and enhances visual comfort.

Perhaps you are spending long hours in the library studying for upcoming exams, or writing a 100-slide presentation, with the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition, you can do both for long periods without straining your eyes. Its anti-glare and anti-reflection technology ensure that even under the library's bright lights, you can focus entirely on work or study without any distractions.

The tablet's high refresh rate and crisp resolution make reviewing diagrams and charts a breeze, helping you ace through anything! This transformative display is the first to obtain both the SGS low visual fatigue premium performance certification and the TUV Rheinland Reflection-Free Certification for PaperMatte products, solidifying its position as a leader in visual comfort and performance. The PaperMatte screen also boasts a 120Hz sky-high refresh rate, 86% body-to-screen ratio, and a stunning 2200 x 1440 resolution, and delivers crisp, fluid visuals that elevate every interaction. With a brightness of 420nit, the content remains clear and vivid even in bright environments.

Visual Comfort without Compromise: Efficiency and Productivity
The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition isn't just about visual comfort – it's also about enhancing productivity and efficiency. Equipped with PC-level WPS Office software, including Document, Spreadsheet, and Presentation capabilities, this tablet provides a seamless editing experience like that of working on a desktop.

You can rely on the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition for seamless productivity. During team meetings, its PC-level WPS Office software can easily help you collaborate on client presentations in real-time. With the detachable Smart Keyboard, you can quickly jot down ideas and make edits on the go, ensuring that you stay ahead of deadlines - combining the PC-level WPS Office software, Huawei Notes, and a detachable Smart Keyboard, you get a seamless and efficient workflow for note-taking, document editing, and multitasking.

Additionally, the enhanced "Printing" functionality allows you to quickly print out important documents directly, eliminating the need to search for a nearby printer and saving her valuable time during hectic events.

Cloud Collaboration and enhanced "Printing" functionality further enhance productivity and collaboration, enabling real-time document editing and simplified printing processes. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative features, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition is the preferred choice for students and young professionals seeking a versatile and non-glare tablet experience.

Top Apps for Top Performance
With a host of pre-installed applications tailored to meet the diverse needs of students and professionals alike, this tablet is a true game-changer. Dive into your favorite novels with ease using the Kindle app, or unleash your inner artist with Mojing Paint, which offers a wide array of tools and features for digital drawing and painting.

Need to spice up your presentations or design stunning graphics? The Canva app provides intuitive tools for graphic design and content creation.

The MatePad PaperMatte Edition goes beyond entertainment and creativity to offer essential tools for academic success. With Canvas, students can access their courses, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and view grades and course materials, all from the convenience of the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition. Stay organized and on top of your tasks with access to course calendars, To Do items, notifications, and Conversations messages. And when it's time to unwind, Viu offers a vast library of TV shows and movies to keep you entertained for hours on end.

Whether you're studying, working, or simply relaxing, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition has everything you need to stay connected, productive, and entertained wherever you go.

Pricing and Availability
Prepare to embark on a journey of unparalleled innovation with the highly anticipated release of the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5-inch PaperMatte Edition. Priced at PHP 24,999, this revolutionary tablet will be hitting shelves starting February 23. A bundle of freebies worth up to P18,996 will also come with each model. This includes a Detachable HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard, HUAWEI M-Pencil 2nd Gen, PC-Level WPS Office, and a one-year premium subscription to VIU. Potential consumers can also purchase the device on the HUAWEI Store and Huawei’s official stores on Lazada and Shopee.

Sony releases the latest addition to the CineAlta digital cinema camera line, the “BURANO”

Press Release 

Versatile, lightweight, and compact full-frame 8K cinema camera, now available in the Philippines
Directors, aspiring filmmakers, and media guests come together to celebrate the launch of Sony’s BURANO camera in the Philippines.
Sony Philippines has officially launched the BURANO Camera in the Philippines, Sony’s latest addition to the CineAlta digital cinema camera lineup that introduces a new era in cinematography. Professional filmmakers, aspiring film students, and photography enthusiasts alike were given the opportunity to witness Sony’s vision to create an innovative, next-generation digital cinema camera that aims to redefine the cinema shooting experience.
Live demonstration of the Sony BURANO camera
Launched in Green Sun Makati, BURANO was unveiled to participants from all over the film industry and academe. Present as well were internationally renowned cinematographer, director, and producer O Sing-Pui along with award-winning cinematographer and Sony Alpha professional JA Tadena, sharing their takes on high-quality cinematography that underlined Sony’s contribution to redefining the cinema shooting experience with the BURANO’s next-generation features. The launch was moderated by Sony Product Expert and commercial director Nigel Laxamana. Moreover, participants were able to learn quick tips from the guest speakers through the demonstrations as well as touch-and-try sessions.

The BURANO features a sensor that matches the color science of another iconic camera within the CineAlta line, the VENICE 2, and is specially designed for single-camera operators and small film crews. This camera combines exceptional image quality with high mobility and is the world's first digital cinema camera with a PL-Mount to feature in-body image stabilization.

The cinema camera features an 8.6K full-frame sensor that shares most of the VENICE 2 specifications, enabling it to work alongside that camera in all types of productions. The sensor features dual base ISO of 800 and 3200 and 16 stops of latitude that can produce stunning images even in the most challenging lighting conditions. The BURANO can film at frame rates including up to 8K at 30 frames per second, 6K at 60 frames per second or 4K at 120 frames per second.

“There are many things that need to be considered when shooting, like balancing the light when shooting an interior or exterior shot. The BURANO camera adjusts all these considerations by itself,” O-Sing Pui shared, underlining the camera’s ability to shoot in any lighting condition.

Likewise, JA Tadena was impressed with BURANO’s many accessible features that make the cinema shooting experience more efficient than ever before. “When you talk about cinema cameras, the first thing that comes to mind is that they are usually fully manual. There is no such thing as ‘Autofocus’” JA remarked. “Adjusting the focus is less of a problem now with the BURANO, which is equipped with the full Autofocus system present in other Sony cameras. This makes my work more efficient than ever”.

“The Sony BURANO camera has revolutionary features to cater to the needs of filmmakers in expressing their creativity and imagination,” Nigel Laxamana commented. “The BURANO’s smart features to adapt enables cinematographers to circumvent the long hours of production. Being able to have variation in shooting styles to take the perfect shot instead of shooting multiple times for a single scene.”
Panel Discussion with Nigel Laxamana, JA Tadena, and O-Sing Pui
The First Digital Cinema Camera with PL-mount and Built-In Optical Image Stabilization
BURANO is the world's first digital cinema camera with PL-mount to support in-body image stabilization. With a newly developed image stabilization mechanism and control algorithm that leverages the advanced image stabilization technology cultivated in the Alpha™ series of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras, unwanted camera shake, such as movement from shooting handheld or walking, can be corrected when shooting with an E-mount or PL-mount lens. With Fast Hybrid and Subject Recognition AF with AI, filmmakers no longer need a bigger crew to shoot stable, high-definition images, no matter how demanding the scenario is.

An Easier, Efficient Shooting Experience
Shooting film has never been easier with the BURANO’s multi-purpose touchscreen LCD monitor, a flexible mounting system, and a versatile, robust handle which makes the camera easily configurable to any different shooting style. With the camera’s ergonomic design, it is now easier to switch between shoulder-mount, handheld, gimbal, or drone operation. BURANO can be configured for large and small projects, solo or with an entire crew.

The BURANO is now available for purchase in the Philippines. Learn more about Sony’s innovative, lightweight cinema camera: https://bit.ly/SonyBURANO. 
A scene at the living room with the Sony BURANO camera

Nothing Introduces Phone (2a)

Phone (2a) builds from Nothing’s highly praised flagship smartphone, Phone (2), to deliver an optimal experience by doubling down on core user needs, while leveraging all of Nothing’s expertise and innovation.

Nothing today announced Phone (2a), its highly anticipated new smartphone offering. Phone (2a) is here to provide the optimal daily smartphone experience, doubling down on core user needs with all of Nothing’s expertise, engineering and craftsmanship. A device for people who love to explore new innovations and designs but also know what they want (and don’t want) from their smartphone. Including a powerfully unique processor, an exceptional 50 MP dual rear camera, an extra bright flexible AMOLED display, and an intuitive OS that delivers a fast and smooth experience with every interaction.

“This year is all about accelerating our progress, and Phone (2a) is our first big step forward. Phone (2a) is going to enable more people to experience the Nothing innovations that many have come to love, and we’re confident it will become our best selling product ever,” said Carl Pei, CEO and Co-founder of Nothing. 

Performance
Phone (2a)’s Dimensity 7200 Pro processor has been exclusively co-engineered with MediaTek to deliver the best performance with optimal power efficiency. 

Built on TSMC’s latest second-generation 4nm process technology, Phone (2a) effortlessly powers through any task with unparalleled power efficiency and blazing speed. Paired with an expansive 20 GB RAM with RAM Booster technology, the 8-core chip – clocking speeds up to 2.8 GHz – ensures swift and responsive multitasking all day long. This results in a performance that is 13% more powerful than Phone (1) and 16% more efficient. 

Together, Nothing and MediaTek have introduced optimisations such as Smart Clean (+200% UFS read/write speed over prolonged usage) and Adaptive NTFS (+100% file transfer speeds with Windows computers) and have been able to reduce power consumption of specific components by up to 10%. 

Battery and Charging
Nothing's biggest smartphone battery to date is a powerful 5,000 mAH unit. It delivers up to two days of use on a full charge. Not only is it larger, it also performs better. From Phone (1), Nothing has increased battery longevity by over 25%. This means it can maintain over 90% of its maximum capacity after 1,000 charging cycles, corresponding to over three years of daily charging. The battery also has a 13% reduction in temperature when charging and discharging compared to Phone (1), which contributes to its longevity. 

For rapid power-ups, Phone (2a) supports 45W Fast Charging, delivering 50% of power in just 20 minutes. An optimal charging solution that avoids the risk of depleting battery life, often related to higher watt count and charging speeds. 

Camera
For capturing life’s greatest hits, Phone (2a) features a flawless dual 50 MP rear camera that’s powered by our TrueLens Engine. The TrueLens Engine is a series of advanced computational algorithms that come together to ensure every shot taken on Phone (2a) is as close to real life as possible. This includes Ultra XDR, which has been co-developed with Google to ensure a more accurate display of highlights and shadows in every shot. It works by capturing eight frames at different exposure levels in RAW format, and then adjusting the brightness of each pixel up to five times to display the most true-to-life result. 

For landing the perfect selfies anytime, anywhere, Phone (2a) has an exceptional 32 MP front camera that uses the same sensor as Phone (2), which has 27% more light sensitivity versus Phone (1) and enables more details to come through.

Display
Phone (2a) has a 6.7” flexible AMOLED display, which means it can deliver stunningly accurate colour reproduction of 1.07 billion colours while minimising battery consumption. Also, with a peak brightness of 1,300 nits, Phone (2a) delivers an uncompromised viewing experience even in the brightest outdoor conditions.

With a refresh rate of 120 Hz, Phone (2a) provides sublimely smooth interactions that dynamically adapts to the content displayed. This refresh rate now ranges from 30 Hz - 120 Hz to ensure smooth responsiveness whilst allowing for better battery consumption.

Phone (2a) features the thinnest bezels in Nothing’s smartphone line-up, measuring just 2.1 mm symmetrically on all four sides of the screen. This achievement results in an impressive screen-to-body ratio of 91.65%, made possible through the combination of a flexible panel with structural engineering improvements. 

Design
Phone (2a) is the ultimate representation of Nothing’s unique design expression. In fact, it embodies the first-ever internal smartphone design concept that was created all the way back in 2020, a few months after Nothing launched.

With Phone (2a), by placing the cameras inside the NFC coil, Nothing has created a new product icon: the eyes. Behind these is the hub of intelligence that powers the phone, much like a brain. Phone (2a) features an industry-first with its 90° angle unibody cover wrapping around the edges to create a new dimension and perspective to Nothing’s design, while seamlessly integrating the dual camera module. Not only is this structure aesthetically pleasing, it makes the device sturdier, with a notable improvement on drop test results.

Adding to the cohesion between form and function, the unique camera ‘bump’ also plays a role in stabilising the phone when it's lying flat on a surface as well as helping minimise finger obstructions when taking a picture.

Nothing OS
Phone (2a) enters the market with Nothing OS 2.5. Unlike the majority of the devices in this category, it comes with Android 14 out of the box, with an impressive three years of software updates and four years of security updates.

With Nothing OS 2.5, Nothing has expanded its library with even more Nothing-designed widgets, with swipeable views and animations for more levels of information and interactions on your home screen. Phone (2a) marks the launch of a new Recorder widget which allows users to create voice memos on-the-go. Plus Nothing has introduced an AI-powered Wallpaper Studio, which enables unlimited personalised wallpaper options for your home and lock screen.

The Glyph Interface
On the back of the phone, Phone (2a) reimagines the iconic Glyph Interface. A new way to interact with a smartphone that encourages people to put their screens down and refer to light and sound patterns for key information. The new Glyph Interface still retains the new capabilities of Phone (2), including the Glyph Timer and Glyph Progress that utilises 3rd party integrations, whilst contributing to the distinct aesthetic of Phone (2a)’s new back design with a unique trio-light configuration.

Sustainability
Phone (2a) delivers Nothing’s lowest carbon footprint in a smartphone. At 52 kg, it’s 12.5% lower than that of Phone (1). With sustainability goals in mind, Nothing has developed a brand-new recycling process in Nothing’s manufacturing plant, which allows for plastic waste from the Ear (2) production line to be repurposed into Phone (2a). Nothing has also maintained its commitment to plastic-free packaging, using recycled fibre instead. The device itself also contains a number of recycled materials: 

● 100% recycled aluminium used in the mid frame
● 100% recycled tin on 6 circuit boards
● 100% recycled copper foil on the main circuit board 
● Recycled steel on 22 steel stamping parts 
● Over 50% of the plastic parts are sustainably sourced 

Availability, Pricing and Perks 
● Phone (2a) is available in Black and Milk, with two models to choose from 8GB/128GB(₱18,990), 12GB/256GB (₱20,990) in the Philippines. 
● In Manila, users will have the chance to be amongst the first in the world to pre-order Phone (2a), as well as get some exclusive perks and offers available on a first come first served basis. Full details are below: 
        ○ Address: Digital Walker Mall of Asia, 2/F North Wing SM Mall of Asia, 2153 JW Diokno Blvd., Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City 
        ○ Start time: 10:00 AM 
        ○ Date: Saturday, March 9th. 
● Beginning on Sunday, March 10 until March 11, customers will be able to pre-order Phone (2a) at all Nothing retail and online partners. 
● Phone (2a) will be publicly available in the Philippines on Tuesday, March 12. 
        ○ Online 
            ■ Nothing Lazada 
            ■ Nothing Shopee 
            ■ Digital Walker Website 
        ○ Retailers 
            ■ Digital Walker 
            ■ Open_Source by Beyond the Box 

A full list of specifications and features can be found on nothing.tech. To stay updated on all the latest information, please follow Nothing on Instagram, TikTok, and X/Twitter.

The CMF by Nothing sub-brand is also launching two new products today: Neckband Pro and Buds. Neckband Pro, the first 50 dB Hybrid ANC device in this category, will have limited availability outside of India. Whilst all global markets will have access to Buds, which deliver the best-in-class for ANC across the market.