Saturday, December 31, 2022

NET25 WelcomeS 2023 with A New Year Countdown Special and join Selfie with the Agila promo!

10:13:00 AM

 


A press release from the Agila Net25 welcoming the New Year. 

Let’s all welcome 2023 with the loudest cheers and biggest prizes as we celebrate with NET25’s Let’s NET together 2023 Countdown Special live at the Philippine Arena! NET25 stars, celebrities, and bands will entertain New Year's revelers to say goodbye to 2022 and welcome the new year with a blast!

Joining the celebration are TITO, VIC AND JOEY, AGA MUHLACH, ERIC, EPY AND VANDOLPH QUIZON, ARA MINA, LOVE AÑOVER, EMPOY MARQUEZ, ACE BANZUELO, PRICETAGG, GLOC-9, Nobita, Alexa Miro, Jay-R, G22, Mayonnaise, Emma Tiglao, Billie Hakenson, Isabelle De Los Santos, Daiana Menezes, Rikki Mathay, Bearwin Meily, Wej Cudiamat, Tonipet Gaba, CJ Hirro and Jumanji Band and many more!

 

As the clock strikes midnight, see the night sky come to life to the grandest firework display!

Everyone can join the celebration and watch the NET25 New Year Countdown Live at the Philippine Arena and participate in “Selfie with the Agila Promo” by signing up online via NET25.com and filling up their contact details with their complete name and complete address (House Address, Street Name, Baranggay, City or Municipality, and Province)

Televiewers need to be ready to take their Selfie with the Agila while watching Let’s NET Together 2023 New Year Countdown Special on TV. They must upload their photos on NET25.com from December 31, 2022, 10 pm until January 1, 2023, 1 am. Lucky raffle winners can win three (3) brand-new cars and cash prizes as high as P100,000.00.

Promo Period is from 10:00 PM on December 31, 2022, to 1:00 AM on January 1, 2023. See posters or visit www.net25.com for the complete set of mechanics. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-158400 Series of 2022.


The Philippine Arena grounds will be open as early as 9 AM with rides, bazaars, food market, and booth stalls that offer a variety of goods and delicacies. It is one of the country’s safest and cleanest areas for family picnics, bonding, and get-togethers after which the New Year Countdown program will start at 10 PM.

Watch Let’s NET Together 2023 - NET25 New Year Countdown Special and join Selfie with the Agila promo to win.

You can watch NET25 thru these following channels: Channel 49 (digital free TV), 25 (Analog free TV), 18 (Skycable), 17 (Cablelink), 14 (Cignal), 18 (destiny), 25 (Satellite), at 42 (G-Sat).

HONOR Philippines to dominate 2023

12:05:00 AM

 


It is indeed a magical comeback for HONOR as they officially set foot in the Philippine market again in August 2022 and has been unstoppable since then, launching a tablet, two smartwatches, and six mobile phones in just a span of four months. And take note I have witnessed it. 

To excite HONOR fans, the leading global smart devices provider teased that 2023 will be a very busy year for them – more launches, events, and exciting treats for consumers.

“2022 is just the beginning for HONOR Philippines and we are taking the brand to even greater heights come 2023. We have a very solid lineup for the whole year and you definitely don’t want to miss what we will be bringing from the HONOR ecosystem.” said HONOR Philippines Vice President for Marketing, Stephen Cheng. “The expansion of our markets and channel partners is in the works already, and we will stay committed to focusing on creating innovations for everyone. For us, there’s really no way to go but up.”

Since the relaunch, HONOR has opened and established more than 600 stores composed of kiosks and multi-brand stores. In fact, HONOR is now present at 17 dealers: Abenson, Cellboy, EC Panda, MemoXpress, Octagon, Present, Rules, Silicon Valley, Globe, Lazada, Shopee, and Kimstore.

HONOR indicated an increase of 366% in its manpower since its launch to augment the workforce for the company. Now, in three months’ time, HONOR currently has at least 1,000 employees including promoters to cater to newly opened stores in the country.

HONOR recently hinted the launch of its highly-anticipated foldable flagship HONOR Magic Vs, and while fans patiently wait for it, here’s a rundown of what HONOR has launched so far.


 
HONOR 70 5G

HONOR 70 5G carries the industry’s first 54MP IMX800 Super Sensing Main Camera, bringing users incredible enhancements in smartphone photography. It also takes pride in the revolutionary Solo Cut Mode, an innovation enabling users to simultaneously produce a group video and a portrait vlog that spotlights a specific person.

#BestVloggingPhone HONOR 70 5G is equipped with a 4800mAh large-capacity battery supported by high performance 66W HONOR SuperCharge power brick. The screen of HONOR 70 5G supports 1.07 billion colors, 100% DCI-P3 and HDR 10+, bringing users vivid colors in sharp and crisp detail. Available in Midnight Black, Titanium Silver, and Emerald Green, you can get the HONOR 70 5G for PHP 26,990.

 


HONOR X Series

HONOR X6, X7, X8, and X9 boast SuperCharge feature for all-day connectivity and productivity. The series also offers big screens providing better display, most especially the HONOR X9 which has 90hz refresh rate and 94% screen-to-body ratio. The X series brings promising camera features for mobile photography and videography. HONOR X6 and X7 have a 50 and 48MP main camera respectively while both HONOR X8 and HONOR X9 have 64MP. All are packed with wide and macro lenses and bokeh effect.

Available in Midnight Black and Titanium Silver, the HONOR X6 is priced at Php 7,490 while HONOR X7 and X8 is at Php 9,990 and Php 12,990 respectively. The HONOR X9 debuted at Php 14,990 in Midnight Black and Ocean Blue colors.


 
HONOR Magic4 Pro

The Power of Magic. HONOR Magic4 Pro introduces one of the most powerful and versatile camera systems on an HONOR smartphone to date: 50MP Wide Camera with customized 7P Lens, 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera, 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera, a Flicker Sensor, and an additional brand-new custom-made image processor.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 5G Mobile Platform, the HONOR Magic4 Pro delivers blazing fast performance and incredible battery efficiency across all typical usage scenarios. The 6.81-inch next-generation LTPO Display delivers fluid, vibrant visuals with support for adaptive refresh rate to help users conserve battery.

Available in Black and Cyan, the HONOR Magic4 Pro is priced at Php 52,990.


 
HONOR Pad 8

As the first HONOR tablet in the Philippines, the HONOR Pad 8 delivers an exceptional entertainment experience with all-round smart features and a sleek and premium design. Boasting an impressive 12-inch 2K HONOR FullView Display. The HONOR Pad 8 pushes industry benchmarks to deliver an immersive visual and audio experience.

The tablet packs an extra-large 7250 mAh battery for all-day connectivity that supports up to 14 hours of offline local video playback, or 10 hours of learning online. HONOR Pad 8 is available in Dawnlight Blue for PHP 17,990 with a FREE Smart Keyboard worth PHP 5,990.


 
HONOR Band 6 and HONOR Watch GS3

HONOR also has two affordable yet high-profile smartband and smartwatch: the HONOR Band 6 and HONOR GS3.

HONOR Band 6 has long-lasting capabilities lasting 2 weeks compared to other available smartwatches in the market. The top-of-the-line smartwatch HONOR GS3 has higher consumer expectations with its music playback, alarm clock, flashlight

You can buy HONOR products and catch amazing deals at any HONOR kiosks and partner stores nationwide or online at Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

Friday, December 30, 2022

WELCOME 2023 WITH A SUPER DIVAS SING-OFF THIS NEW YEAR SUNDAY ON 'ASAP NATIN 'TO'

10:08:00 PM

Let's kick off 2023 with a bang, as your favorite Kapamilya stars and guest artists bring you the freshest world-class acts on stage, featuring a must-watch Super Divas sing-off, a pop collab from Darren and Alamat, Andrea and Maymay's dance-off, plus treats from Sarah G, Moira, Nobita, and much more this New Year Sunday only on "ASAP Natin 'To" on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, and TV5.

Welcome the new year with a showstopping Super Divas sing-off from Morissette, Nina, Klarisse de Guzman, and Regine Velasquez alongside Elha Nympha, Fana, and Lara Maigue as they belt out the best birit hits of 2022. Plus, tune in to Sarah Geronimo's fresh performance in the latest edition of "Sarah G Specials."

Keep the party vibes flowing with a highly requested P-Pop collab from Alamat and Asia's Pop Heartthrob Darren, plus a sizzling dance showdown from Andrea Brillantes and Maymay Entrata in the latest edition of "Clash Dance."

Meanwhile, celebrate the unstoppable spirit of Filipino talents as we usher in the year with a mix of upbeat acts from Alexa Ilacad, KD Estrada, Kice, Enchong Dee, Jameson Blake, Angela Ken, and the whole ASAP family with special guest performer Nik Makino. Also joining the all-star New Year's celebration is Janine Gutierrez.

Say hello to 2023 anew with a fierce solo K-Pop dance cover from ASAP's Queen of the Dancefloor herself, Kim Chiu.

Don't miss a senti hits medley from Moira dela Torre alongside Anji Salvacion, Jeremy G, Ryssi Avila, Ann Raniel, Bryan Chong, Janine Berdin, plus balladeers Ogie, Martin, Jed Madela, and Jason Dy. More fresh musical treats come your way from OPM band Nobita, plus a collab from Gary Valenciano and Khimo Gumatay.

And usher in the year with more stellar duet performances from ASAP icons Gary Valenciano, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Martin Nievera, Erik Santos, Morissette, Ogie Alcasid, and Regine Velasquez with Sheena Belarmino, Jason Dy, JM Yosures, Klarisse de Guzman, Sam Mangubat, Reiven Umali, and Darren in "The Greatest Showdown."

Let's welcome 2023 the right way with a star-studded afternoon party from the country's longest-running musical variety show, "ASAP Natin 'To," this Sunday, 12 NN on local TV via Kapamilya Channel, Jeepney TV, A2Z, and TV5, online through Kapamilya Online Live and iWantTFC, and worldwide via TFC.

Viewers who use any digital TV box at home, such as the TVplus box, only need to rescan their device to watch "ASAP Natin 'To" on TV5 and A2Z.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Friday, December 16, 2022

The Brilliant Life, Ms. Glenda Victorio's Unraveling Story

12:31:00 PM


The Brilliant Life is a mini-series depicting the life story of Glenda Victorio, founder, and CEO of Brilliant Skin Essentials and one of the country's youngest successful CEO in the beauty products industry.

Ms. Glenda's life story will be airing on TV5 with actress-singer Arci Muñoz as the inspiring 25-year-old CEO of Brilliant Skin Essentials. The story will present Ms. Glenda's rags-to-riches story, a young mother from Morong, Rizal who beat the odds and reached for her dreams until she became a young millionaire entrepreneur.

In a press conference, Ms. Glenda Victorio shared that she'll bare all the stories of her life in this mini-series. Even some of the private parts of her life. She gathered all her courage and let them be part of the mini-series.


 

Ms. Glenda shared also that they have an annual activity but this time this is happening, The Brilliant Life. Through this mini-series, she will share not just her stories of struggles and hardships but also her determination, passion, and faith in God that helped her in overcoming all her life trials. “Grabe talaga ang pinagdaanan ko simula pagkabata. Kaya noong nagkwe-kwento ako sa writer nitong mini-series, hindi ko mapigilang maiyak. Marami talagang dapat abangan dito sa The Brilliant Life,” Glenda shared.

It was asked in the presscon why Arci Muñoz? According to Ms. Glenda, she (Arci) was the first choice for the role since most people always say that she looks like Arci.


 

Arci on the other hand was very grateful and blessed that she learned a lot from Glenda and that her story, as young as she is, is indeed very inspiring because she has experienced a lot of ups and downs in her life and she kept moving forward. Glenda said that the people who work for her are her moving force because she knows that she is not only working for herself but a lot of people are counting on her.

JM De Guzman is also part of this heart-warming story as "Mac", the husband of Ms. Glenda.


 

Watch the inspiring story of Ms. Glenda and her journey in The Brilliant Life, which premieres this December 17, and every Saturday on TV5.

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Pinoy Ghost Tales Trilogy Not Your Usual Horror Film

2:58:00 PM


 

Pinoy ghost tales or pinoy ghost stories are part of our culture, the rich Filipino culture. I believe these stories are what makes every halloween to expect. Even though, we Filipinos love to have ghost stories all year-round.

Recently, I was invited for a viewing of a horror film genre. Since, I love to watch movies I went to the viewing party, which later on a press conference with aome of the actors and director of the film.

Actually it is a trilogy, a three story film that will give viewers different flavors from the usual horror film.


 
According to a line, "some stories are not meant to be told."

Pinoy Ghost Tales is a trilogy horror film featuring spine-chilling stories. Written by Lawrence Nicodemus, and directed by Afi Africa, Jojo Nadela, and John Isaac Natividad. The film is produced by LGM Grand Entertainment and LMK Productions.

The Imaginary Friend is about a kid who forms a bond with an unknown entity. Little by little, her whole family starts feeling the presence of her imaginary friend that disturbs their harmony. Starring Shermaine Santiago, Arkin Del Rosario, Elia Ilano, and Richard Quan.

The Manager tells the story of a newly-promoted manager of an advertising company. As she assumes her new role, it seems that the previous manager, who mysteriously disappeared, won't give up the position. Starring Aubrey Caraan, Katrice Keirulf, Veronica Reyes, and Ping Medina.

The Actress tackles the tale of a newbie prod house that is shooting for a horror movie. However, they experience a real life terror when a ghost haunts them in the middle of their production. Starring Jeric Raval, Rob Sy, DJ Durano, and AJ Raval.

 

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

1000 Wheelchairs roll out in Laguna and Quezon on International Day of Persons With Disabilities

5:00:00 AM


Wheelchairs have been significant to me in the past years. I'm not disabled, nor any of our family, but my father, who suffered a stroke, did use a wheelchair. The wheelchair was a donation at that time.

So, seeing all these Persons With Disabilities (PWD) beneficiaries fills me with so much gratitude. Very thankful that there are people who extend their hand to people in need.

The event coverage I went to was the giving of these wheelchairs to PWDs which was led by the PWD-founded non-profit Alagang AKAY in partnership with the Sol Aragones Foundation. In all, both organizations are to donate 1000 wheelchairs to PWDs and families. Aside from these they were also given other items plus the livelihood showcase.

 

The event I covered was in Sta. Rosa, Laguna at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex. It was a jampacked event. There were also an event in Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City in Quezon.

The event were in line with the global commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities which was set by the United Nations General Assembly 30 years ago in 1992 to be held on the 3rd of December each year.

The initiative was launched in partnership with Sol Aragones Foundation chaired by former news reporter and media personality Sol Aragones who also became Laguna 3rd District Representative for three terms.


According to Aragones: "Napakahalaga ng araw na ito para sa mga PWD at kanilang mga panilya na bahagi ng Alagang Akay community. nais namin ng akay Foundation na tuparin ang pangarap ng mga PWD na magkaroon ng wheelchair at saklay sa abot ng aming makakaya."

"Gusto din namin sila bigyan ng inspirasyon na piliin na maging masaya kaysa malungkot. May pag-asang naghihintay sa PWD - aakayin namin sila," Aragones added.

Alagang AKAY Ambassadors: Quality of Life, Dignity, Passion for Service

The celebrations were led by AKAY Ambassadors Dwight Bayona, a leg amputee and multi-sport athlete who wears a mechanical leg and "Chef with No Hands" Maricel Apatan.


"Alagang AKAY is PWD-led and founded on a mission to uplift the quality of life and uphold the dignity of PWDs through a holistic approach that includes, direct care, education, livelihood, employment as well as opportunities for community service," said Bayona whose leg was crushed in an accident when he was 24 years old. The accident happened when he himself stopped to aid an earlier crash victim.

Chef with no Hands Maricel Apatan meanwhile demonstrated cooking skills via an AVP shown at the program.

According to Apatan: "Nagtapos po ako ng HRM at nagpatuloy sa Culinary Arts. Sinundan ko lang po ang aking puso."

Apatan added: " ang letrang A po sa AKAY ay para sa Aral o Education. Kung susundan po natin ang ating puso o passion sa anumang bagay, kailangan pong aralin natin ang larangan iyon. Nagpapasalamat ako sa pagkakataon na makapag-aral at sundan and puso ko."

We all complain a lot but we often forget that there people who struggles in their life because of their disabilities. Let us be grateful and see the beauty of God's creation and revelations.

Saturday, December 3, 2022

Mystery Box Raffle Starts!!!!

11:29:00 PM

 

(UPDATE) 

The Mystery Box Raffle starts now, and we're starting with BOX No. 1!

PRIZE IS PHP1,000

To join the contest, read the mechanics make sure to follow the instructions and the details. 


Mystery Box Raffle Mechanics to be eligible for the raffle:

1. Visit our YouTube channel KWENTO NI TOTO .

2. Subscribe to our channel. 

3. Watch any of the video, like, and comment. 

4. Return to this post and comment the title of the video you've watched and a bit of explanation why you liked it. 

5. Raffle contest will run from December 3 - 20, 2022.

6. Once complete all you have to do is Fill out the google form of Mystery Box Raffle to be included in the raffle. 


So, join now! You might win in the raffle!

Shopee launches 2023 Graduate Programs to hone future tech leaders

10:00:00 PM


When you think you're done learning from school, well, fortunate there are things we can still learn. As the saying goes, we stop learning when we die. So, here's one news to ponder to let ourselves develop and be on top of everything. 

As the e-commerce industry continues to evolve, Shopee seeks to train the next generation of young tech talents and prepare them for a career in e-commerce through its Graduate Programs. Composed of the Global Leaders Program (GLP) and the newly launched Fresh Graduate Accelerated Program (FGAP), Shopee’s Graduate Programs aims to fast-track the growth of fresh graduates and young professionals and prepare them to take on key leadership positions upon program completion.

With these, participants are given the opportunity to receive direct mentorship from senior management, work on the end-to-end processes of highly impactful projects, and expand their leadership capabilities through local and regional exposure.


 

Global Leaders Program
GLP is a 2-year graduate program consisting of 2 local and 2 overseas rotations in different departments, designed for individuals who would like to immerse themselves in the different fields within the e-commerce industry. Since 2018, GLP has helped train numerous young professionals who continue to grow and make an impact in Southeast Asia and Taiwan’s leading e-commerce platform.

Fresh Graduate Accelerated Program
For young tech talents who are keen on honing their expertise in Marketing, Business Development, Logistics and Operations, FGAP offers focused rotations to accelerate mastery in a chosen field. Participants of this 6-month program will undergo 2 local rotations within a single department before undergoing permanent placement.

Karen Perez, Head of People at Shopee PH said, “Nurturing and enabling local tech talent remains a priority for Shopee. We believe in using our resources to provide young talent with the opportunities to access the digital economy. Through our programs, we aim to sharpen our participant’s ideas, hone their leadership skills, expose them to the different challenges surrounding the industry, and enable them to make impactful contributions to the industry early on in their careers.”

Shopee is calling on fresh graduates and young professionals with up to 2 years of work experience to apply for both programs through https://shp.ee/f27d5nj. Deadline for applications is on December 15, 2022.

Friday, December 2, 2022

P-Pop star Mona Gonzales shows global potential with debut single “Always Remember”

12:00:00 AM


While I was browsing my TikTok account, I just so happened to land on one of the accounts where I find it entertaining because according to what was mentioned in rap-song like delivery tells that she will have a debut release. Coincident or not I find an email invitation to her debut release. Unfortunately I wasn't able to attend because of a reason. 

The female influencer, now star was Sony Music Entertainment and ShowBT Philippines Corp's latest P-Pop sensation with immense global potential, Mona Gonzales. It was indeed one event I feel sorry for not attending. Anyway, when I browsed her details on the net I was in awe because this girl is one of the anime theme song coverer that I liked. So, no wonder she has that immense global potential.  

If you listen to her covers you'll definitely love her voice. 

With more than 17 million followers on TikTok alone and an impressive portfolio of anime soundtracks that went viral, breakthrough artist Mona Gonzales ranks among the industry’s newest batch of megastar hopefuls.

The promising solo act marks her debut as a recording artist with “Always Remember,” an effervescent cut that champions the value of self-worth and preservation in an attempt to bravely face the world and conquer everything. Capturing the unabashedly colorful spirit of K-Pop and J-Pop with commanding confidence, Mona Gonzales aims to uplift listeners with her anthemic and captivating delivery—doing it like a seasoned pro.

“The way I personally describe it is something like a soft pop rock for me,” says the promising TikTok sensation turned P-Pop star. “The sound of electric guitar with a pop style beat is dominating through the whole song. The style is not really new, but the sound is unique in its own way. It’s a little different from the OPM that we’re used to. I think that makes it interesting.”

Produced by Oh Won Lee, an industry veteran who has helmed tracks by K-Pop icons Stray Kids, SHINee's Taemin, and Wanna One, and the country’s very own SB19, “Always Remember” is an inspirational track that pushes the envelope of modern pop production with breezy, summer hooks and a minimalist instrumentation. The end product is a mesmerizing take on P-Pop, one that is creatively boundless and flows with so much effortlessness.

As Mona Gonzales puts it, “Pinoy Pop Music doesn’t really have a certain and specific style and sound. Most of us new artists want to be unique. That’s true for me, but I want to add a new flavor and variety along with the existing Pinoy pop music right now. And with every Pinoy music artists, we will prove that P-POP can expand. And then people will talk about how the Pinoy pop music has evolved, its potential and where it can go.”

The release of the song comes with a vibrant music video that metaphorically follows Mona Gonzales’ journey as an artist with so much to explore and grow on. Shot in multiple locations that showcase the beautiful scenery of the Philippines, Mona Gonzales dances, sings, hops, and walks with the excitement of someone ready to navigate the world on her own terms.

Mona Gonzales’ “Always Remember” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and ShowBT Philippines Corp. Watch the music video below.

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Galing Pook Foundation Recognizes Outstanding Local Government Programs for 2022

3:48:00 PM

 

 

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. recognizes the 10 winners of the Galing Pook Foundation 2022 at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacanang Palace. He commended the Galing Pook Foundation for recognizing and incentivizing top performing LGUs. With them in the photo are: Galing Pook Foundation chairman Mel Sarmiento, Local Government secretary Benjamin Abalos, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.

Ten outstanding local governance programs were recognized in the 2022 Galing Pook Awards held at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacanang Palace last Tuesday, November 22, 2022.

Galing Pook Foundation with its co-presenters SM Prime Holdings Inc., and the DILG-Local Government Academy, and sponsors Cebu Pacific and Airspeed named local government units from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao that promote innovation and excellence.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended the Galing Pook Foundation for recognizing and incentivizing top performing LGUs. He stressed how strong collaboration between the public and private sector can lead to more meaningful and successful programs that truly benefit the Filipino people.

“The recognition that you give to cities and municipalities inspires them to accelerate their drive towards improvement and it encourages LGUs to adopt practices that make us paragons of excellence in public service. It is necessary for us to underscore the importance of strengthening partnerships between the government and private organizations, such as the Galing Pook Foundation, especially as we bring about meaningful progress in the country.”

Galing Pook Chairperson Mel Sarmiento expressed his gratitude to all the local executives and LGU teams that participated this year: “It’s truly inspiring to see the impact of the work that you do, and I’m sure you’ve brought value to many Filipinos all over the country. Our collaborations bring us closer to realizing our shared vision, na ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino, may simple pero kumportableng buhay.”

The winners of the 2022 Galing Pook Awards were: The Green Wall of Alcala (Alcala, Cagayan); Advancing and Sustaining Good Governance and Community Actions towards Resiliency and Empowerment (Basilan Province); Bataan Public-Private Partnership Programs (Bataan Province); Balik-Biñan Project: Tourism Development through Heritage Conservation (Biñan City, Laguna); From Black to Green: Fishponds, Eco-Tourism and Full Employment (Brgy. Cayabu, Tanay, Rizal); Trekking to Unlock Community Ailments and Difficulties (TUCAD) (Goa, Camarines Sur); “I-BIKE” A Program Promoting the Development of the Iloilo City Bike Culture (Iloilo City); Yaru: A Whole-of-Community Approach Towards Disaster Management (Itbayat, Batanes); Libertad Fish Forever Savings Club (Libertad, Antique); and Basta Piddigueño, AgriHenyo: Consolidated Farm Production System (Piddig, Ilocos Norte).

The 10 winners were chosen from 18 finalists and a record field of 196 applications from different LGUs in the country.

Launched on October 21, 1993, the Galing Pook Awards has recognized 329 LGU programs from 200 LGUs in the country that have been promoted for replication to benefit more communities.

SM provides conducive learning environment for learners

3:31:00 PM


School is the second home of children, so it would be best for them to have conducive learning environment. This is what SM Foundation's story for us. 

More than just an area where students gather to hold classes, a school environment plays a vital role in learners’ cognitive development. Research has shown that with an environment conducive to learning, students increase their attention and focus, and they are more motivated to practice higher-level critical thinking skills.

Adamant to provide students with venues where they can fully hone their skills and knowledge, SM Foundation (SMFI)—the corporate social responsibility arm of the SM group—cemented its partnership with the Department of Education (DepED) in 2002 through DepEd’s Adopt-A-School Program.

Through this, SMFI builds SM school buildings in grassroot communities, complete with basic furniture and equipment. More so, SMFI integrates specialized features to each SM school building to address the unique needs of their school recipients—some received rooms dedicated as a guidance office, a clinic, a mini-library, and some even got a water tank and a handwashing facility.

SM school building in Sorsogon City




To date, SMFI has turned over more than 100 SM school buildings nationwide with the help of its partners, which share the same aspirations for the Filipino learners and teachers. One of which is the SM Prime Holdings (SMPH) - one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia. Since the project’s inception, over 90 SM school buildings out of the more than 100 were built through the social good collaboration with SM Prime.

Infrastructure for calamity prone areas
SMFI and SMPH ensure that the SM school buildings incorporate a disaster resilient design to guarantee the safety of the students, teachers, and other school personnel. Emergency lights at both staircases, and fire and earthquake alarm bells are also installed.

Principal Joji Buelvo, school principal of Basud Elementary School (BES) in Sorsogon City, shared the state of their school community before they accepted the fully furnished SM school building from SMFI and SM Prime in 2021: “Ang aming paaralan ay saksi sa maraming kalamidad. Kaya karamihan ng mga classrooms ay may kalumaan na, ang mga kisame ay malapit na bumagsak—talagang hindi na conducive for learning.”

“But through your [SMFI and SM Prime] donation, our BES learners now have a haven where we can nurture their young minds to be academically-ready and well-rounded members of the community,” Buelvo further expressed.

 

SM School building in General Santos City



Addressing classroom shortage
The continuous rapid growth of the country’s population is taking a toll on schools—leaving the students, even the teachers, with overcrowded classrooms which affect learners’ academic performance.

In 2012, the Banisil National High School (BNHS) in General Santos City received its first SM school building. But being the only secondary school in Barangay Tambler, BNHS records a significant increase in their enrollment per year. With this challenge, SM Foundation decided to provide another edifice of hope for the sub-urban Muslim community in 2021, addressing the growing needs of BNHS learners and teachers.

BNHS then principal Shiela Balbon said, “Yung patuloy na paglobo ng population every year ay talagang naging suliranin namin.” “Pagpasok ng 2020, nagkaroon ng COVID. So naisip ko baka hindi na matuloy. Pero itong SM Foundation, walang pande-pandemya sa kanila. Talagang desidido silang matugunan yung pangangailangan sa classroom ng mga estudyante,” she added.

Green space which promotes environmental consciousness.


“Our salute to our longtime partner, SM Foundation and SM Prime, for being so generous and proactive in providing us with school buildings that are conducive to learning. We are so grateful for your extended support to our school amidst the pandemic,” Balbon concluded.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School project. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide.

Henry Sy Sr. Hall in UST boost health education

1:44:00 PM




Pursuing its objective of driving Philippine social development by fostering the youth and the culture of excellence through education, the Henry Sy Foundation, Inc. (HSFI) recently inked a partnership with the University of Sto. Tomas (UST) Research and Endowment Foundation to construct a building that elevates health education in the country.

  Named in honor of the late SM Founder, the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall of UST will rise on the main campus in Manila to respond to the needs of digital medical education.  

The Hall will feature technologically advanced facilities and equipment that complement UST’s teaching, learning, and research practices. Focused on interdisciplinary collaboration in medical studies, it will also house the simulation and research facility of the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (UST-FMS).   

Paragons with passion  

Fr. Richard Gaw Ang, OP, Rector of UST, thanked the Sy family as they work together to provide the best education to future physicians and increase UST’s research productivity to fill the gaps where communities are disadvantaged.

“Your family consists of industry leaders who have visions for the Filipino community. Your choice to support this endeavor of the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery is a significant stamp of approval to the work and tradition of this medical institution,” Fr. Ang said in a letter to the Sy family.  

Leaders of Henry Sy Foundation Inc. (HSFI), led by the Sy family (L-R: Harley Sy, Hans Sy, Elizabeth Sy, Debbie Sy, Tessie Sy, Henry Sy Jr, Engr. Ramon Gil Macapagal (extreme right)) , formalize its partnership with the University of Sto. Tomas (L-R: UST Rector Fr. Richard Gaw Ang, OP, Dr. Ma. Lourdes Domingo, Fr. Angel Aparicio, OP, Fr. Maximo Gatela, OP)



“Your family’s Patriarch, Henry Sy, Sr., had principles in life that we, as an institution, give our best to also follow. We aim to lead as paragons with passion, integrity, far-reaching and optimistic vision, sensible priorities, and discipline. At the core of this is a deep sense of charity for God, the church, and the nation,” Fr. Ang added.  

UST’s future Henry Sy, Sr. Hall

Rising as an intellectual hub for future physicians, the building has a dedicated floor for the Faculties of Medicine and Surgery Research Center and the Medicine and Surgery Graduate Programs and Ethics Review Board. Here, medical education research and various medical-related specialty research will be reviewed and conducted. 

The building will include specialized centers, rooms, and laboratories, such as Medical Simulation Centers and Care Ultrasound Institute, and Otorhinolaryngology Laboratory. These will be equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology to develop medical students’ competencies in multiple simulated healthcare settings crossing the human lifespan.

Thumbs up! Leaders of the Henry Sy Foundation Inc. (HSFI) and the University of Sto Tomas during the Henry Sy Sr. Hall partnership signing. 


 
The HSFI is a non-stock, non-profit organization inspired by SM founder Henry Sy, Sr.’s desire to aid educational institutions to drive Philippine social development. Its projects are undertaken in partnership with the SM group and its foundations to honor the SM founder by supporting educational institutions in promoting academic excellence as a key to a brighter future for the youth. Through the years, the foundation established and supported several academic infrastructures, such as the Henry Sy Sr. Primary School Building in Xavier School, Nuvali Laguna; Henry Sy Sr. Innovation Center in Miriam College, Quezon City; NU Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna; NU Nazareth School in Manila; and a Henry Sy Sr. Hall each at Immaculate Conception Academy, San Juan City, and Assumption College. 

ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022 stuns audience with rich musical traditions and cross-cultural showcases

12:24:00 PM



Music Festival, we've all missed it so much! So, here's some story in the ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022. 

Heralded as a game-changer that aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote cultural exchanges, ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022 delivered an astounding comeback that not only presented resilience during the time of the pandemic, but also championed shared histories and traditions among the participating partner-nations.

The three-day festival, which was organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and Seher—India’s premier cultural organization that works closely with the Indian government, showcased an exquisite merging of artistic heritage and cutting-edge modernity as headliners brought a slice of their culture on stage through music.

The second edition of the music festival featured an eclectic lineup from 11 countries, including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and India. The event took place in Purana Qila, one of the most prominent and oldest forts in Delhi, India from November 20 to 22, and promoted rich musical traditions that connected the present and the past to a crowd of thousands.

Some of the most notable performances include Singapore’s Linying Band, whose compelling songwriting style and folk-pop sensibilities proved to be a hit during the festival run. The acclaimed hitmaker, who takes pride in being the first Southeast Asian act to get signed under Canadian Record Company Nettwerk Music Group in 2016, considers the experience of performing in India and representing Singapore a career milestone.

“It feels great,” says the Good Behaviour songstress. “And I think I didn't expect for this venue to be so breathtaking and so amazing. And I think that's something that's so unique. It’s cherry on top already, such an interesting opportunity to play, [this city is] already one of my favorites.”

The Philippines’ very own Bayang Barrios at Ang Nilayagan also brought the house down with anthems that tackle socio-political issues in the Philippines, particularly the vast destruction of the forests in the countryside due to ongoing urban developments. Singing soulful but powerful hymns against a backdrop of tribal-infused beats and ethnic instrumentation and delivering spiels in both English and Filipino, the eclectic singer-songwriter drew loud cheers from the audience who seemed captivated by her undeniable charisma and talent.

“Music is universal,” Barrios reiterates. “Despite the difference in language, people will always be connected in rhythm and pulse. What matters is that you are able to communicate your message through distinct but universal expressions—be it body movements or a smile.”

Host country India proved that they’re a powerhouse in terms of global music influence with artists such as Jonita Gandhi and Sukhbir elevating the art of performing in a uniquely compelling way. The latter in particular, performed with a percussion ensemble that masterfully blended Bhangra and Bollywood influences with modern pop, dance, and hip-hop music.

During his backstage interview with select Southeast Asian lifestyle and music press, Seher Founder/Director Sanjeev Bhargava emphasized that the success of ASEAN-India Music Festival lies on strengthening cultural ties among participating countries and fostering a global community that transcends beyond boundaries.

“Let’s bring the people of the world closer together,” Bhargava said. “And over here, my mandate is very clear. People in India have always been drawn towards the West. They want us to go to university in London or Canada or the U.S. Nobody tells us to go to Vietnam. Nobody tells me that there’s a beautiful culture in Cambodia.”

ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022 celebrates 30 years of India and Southeast Asia’s diplomatic relations. With its utmost goal of increasing awareness of the ASEAN identity amongst creative intellectuals and the public at large, the cultural festival has also done showcases in Shillong Meghalaya in Northeast India, as part of its plan to bolster its ‘Act East’ policy.

For more information about the ASEAN India Music Festival, visit the official website.

See and Experience 3D Whale Shark billboard, Space Tunnel, Golden Gateway and Dazzling Light shows all at SM

10:10:00 AM

 



Kwento Ni Toto readers!!!! Here's another fun things to do at SM Supermalls this yuletide season! 

SM Supermalls celebrates not just joyful, but also fun, immersive and experiential holidays. This year, we take you to the deep oceans with SM Megamall’s first-ever 3D Whale Shark LED billboard, see the Northern lights at the Aurora Trail of SM City North Edsa, Sparkle at the Light show and Holiday fireworks at SM Mall of Asia, enter the Golden gateway of SM Aura Premier and explore the outer space at the Mega Space Odyssey.



NORTH EDSA’S AURORA TRAIL

The illuminating lights of the Aurora Borealis is at the North this Christmas. Walk and indulge in a family friendly immersive experience at the Aurora trail ascending the giant holiday tree with a magical array of lights, forestry, rein-bears & holiday polar express.


 

MEGA SPACE ODYSSEY & 3D WHALE SHARK

Travel to majestic galaxies in outer space and take photos and videos with your space explorer friends. Experience the first-ever immersive 3D LED tunnel in Manila on October 21 to December 25 at the ground level Mega Fashion Hall (at the back of the Giant Christmas Tree).

SM Supermalls introduces the new 3D technology along EDSA by screening a hyper-realistic 3D Whale Shark at SM Megamall’s LED billboard. Bringing you the first in the Philippines, High-Definition Immersive content at the heart of the bustling metropolis. Netizens are awestruck of a larger-than-life Whale Shark peeking out of a digital billboard spanning over 2,000 square foot. The Mega Whale Shark was first teased on April 27 but customers, tourists and motorists can catch the short preview every 15 minutes starting April 28 at peak hours from 12nn to 10pm daily. Watch out for the new 3D content this Christmas. The Philippines has the 2nd largest population of whale shark in the world at over 1,950.


 


MOA SPARKLE OF LIGHT SHOW AND HOLIDAY FIREWORKS

Feel the Christmas spirit as you watch the brightest and merriest indoor Christmas tree music and lights show. Be in awe as you watch over one hundred thousand lights set to music. Catch the show DAILY, every hour from 10am to 10pm until end of December at the Central Atrium.

Enjoy the most awaited and better than ever fireworks display at the MOA Complex every Friday and Saturday from November to December 2022. Make sure to experience this magical moment with your families and loved ones.


 

AURA’s GOLDEN GATEWAY and NIGHTS OF DAZZLING LIGHTS

Tucked behind the giant Christmas tree is a golden gemstone-shaped immersive experience. In partnership with global smartphone brand TECNO Mobile, technology and art meet to transport all who enter this enclosure into scenes of an opulent holiday palace and fantastical golden worlds. Simply present PHP 1,000 in single or collected receipts and enter a whole new world filled with glitz and glamour.

The theatrical room isn’t the only technological experience the mall has. Equally spectacular is a choreographed light and sound display at SM Aura Premier’s Skypark at Level 5. Visitors of the Skypark enter a space with tall tree-like sculptures made of strings of lights. As they go through a forest of lights, a jaw-dropping musical show will entrance and excite them. Visitors can stop and enjoy the choreographed audio and visual performance at 7pm on all Sunday nights of December, including December 25 th itself.



About Me

About me
Hi!, This is Marco a.k.a. Toto Blogger and Publisher. I created this blog to provide stories, personal experiences, entertainment, and insights on products I like. I'm here to share and inform you (readers) on things about music, movie, food, travel, and events.

You can also meet my wife on her blog www.mommysmaglife.com.


For project collaborations, product reviews, event invitations, or hotel and resort experience reviews, kindly email me at marcopolojdemo@yahoo.com.



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