Catalyst, a dynamic three-day ideation and pitching competition, is set to ignite the creative minds of Filipino students from Grade 9 to Grade 12. With the mission of fostering innovation and addressing critical national issues, Catalyst channels the energy and ingenuity of young participants toward designing ingenious solutions, all under the guiding principles of the Sustainable Development Goals.
At its core, Catalyst provides a vital platform for the youth to delve into the complexities of contemporary Philippine challenges. Through this competition, participants not only present their insights but also demonstrate their creative prowess in crafting solutions that hold the potential to make a tangible impact. Moreover, Catalyst is committed to instilling a strong sense of social responsibility among its participants, alongside fostering the design methodology thinking essential for future engineers.
The event unfolds across three pivotal components:
A. Inspiring Talks: Renowned figures from various domains, including academia, the scientific community, and the vibrant Philippine startup ecosystem, will deliver engaging talks. These sessions are designed to enrich participants’ understanding of the event’s theme and provide them with the fundamental tools for idea generation.
B. Empowering Workshops: Participants will have the invaluable opportunity to receive personalized mentorship from experts during dedicated workshop sessions. Through these consultations, students will refine their proposals, aided by professionals from relevant fields and adjacent STEM disciplines. The workshops serve as a platform for honing not just technical skills but also professional communication and collaboration abilities.
C. Culminating Pitch Event: The pinnacle of Catalyst is the highly anticipated pitch event on the final day. Here, selected teams will showcase their ideas before a distinguished panel of judges and fellow participants. This segment serves as a crucible for refining public speaking and effective communication skills, all while highlighting the depth of participants’ STEM knowledge to a broader audience.
As Catalyst 2024 unfolds, it promises to be more than just a competition — it is a transformative journey for its participants. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to societal betterment, Catalyst paves the way for a new generation of Filipino leaders ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Global technology leader Epson has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd), represented by Oranbo Elementary School and Demetrio Tuazon Elementary School, under the ‘Adopt A School’ Program. The public-private partnership aims to address the gaps in education by providing support through necessary resources, equipment, and learning materials to public schools.
With the rapid development of technology, it is essential to incorporate it into the classroom to provide students with the best possible learning experience. Epson Philippines recognizes this need and has provided the two schools selected by DepEd with state-of-the-art projectors, printers enabled by Epson’s heat-free technology, and compact scanners.
“We believe that technology plays a crucial role in shaping the future of education, and we are committed to providing sustainable and innovative solutions that will help students learn better,” said Masako Kusama, president and director of Epson Philippines.
The ‘Adopt-A-School’ program signing ceremony was held at Epson Philippines’ headquarters in Pasig, attended by Masako Kusama from Epson Philippines, Director Margarita Ballesteros of the DepEd-Partnerships Service-Adopt a School Program Secretariat, School Head Shirley Alambra from Demetrio Tuazon Elementary School, and School Head Diosdado Manubag from Oranbo Elementary School.
“We are extremely grateful for this partnership with Epson Philippines, and we believe that the integration of technology in our classrooms will significantly benefit our students,” said Manubag. “Their generous sponsorship will transform the way we teach and inspire our students to learn more effectively.”
“The partnership with Epson Philippines is a significant step towards achieving our goal of providing quality education to Filipino children,” shared Alambra. “We are excited to see how this technology will enhance the learning experience of our students and improve the quality of education we provide.”
Both Epson and DepEd believe that by leveraging technology as a crucial tool in both teaching and learning, educators and students alike are empowered with access to resources and opportunities previously beyond their reach.
“As technology continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that students have access to the latest tools and resources to help them succeed in their academic pursuits. The integration of technology in education has proven to be effective in enhancing student engagement, improving learning outcomes, and preparing them for the demands of the modern workforce,” stated Director Ballesteros, who served as a witness during the MOA signing. “We hope to continue working with Epson Philippines to further the integration of technology into our schools, ultimately improving our education system.”
The ‘Adopt A School’ partnership with DepEd is not the first time Epson Philippines has contributed to the advancement of education in the country. The two organizations previously collaborated in a multi-year sponsorship project called the Epson’s Gift of Brightness program, which equipped deserving, underprivileged schools in the country with Epson innovations such as printers, projectors, scanners, label printers, document cameras, and a supply of inks and cartridges. DepEd assisted in selecting several beneficiary schools for the program.
Through these initiatives, Epson Philippines has demonstrated its commitment to making a positive impact on society and contributing to the development of the next generation.
“Our partnership with DepEd is just one of the many initiatives we have undertaken to support education in the country. We remain committed to providing innovative solutions that will help students learn better and prepare them for the future,” concluded Kusama.
On April 17, 2024, vivo delighted basketball enthusiasts with an exclusive Meet and Greet event in collaboration with the National Basketball Association (NBA), featuring the esteemed 5-time NBA Champion, Derek Fisher.
Held at vivo Concept Store in SM Megamall, the event offered fans an opportunity to engage with one of basketball’s most iconic figures.
A highlight of the event was the exclusive groufie with Fisher, captured using the latest vivo V30 Pro. With its state-of-the-art ZEISS triple main cameras, including a 50MP selfie camera, the vivo V30 Pro showcased its exceptional photography capabilities, delivering clear groufies.
Aside from the iconic groufie, host Nikki Viola set the stage for an unforgettable experience filled with excitement and insight. Attendees were treated to an engaging Q&A session with Fisher, during which he shared anecdotes from his illustrious basketball journey and reminisced about memorable championship victories.
Fisher also offered valuable advice to young people in achieving their dreams, where he compared owning a business to becoming an athlete like a basketball player.
“If you can see it, you can dream it. You can get there, but then there’s light years of work still to do in order for you to maintain that dream,” he shared.
Attendees also had the privilege of witnessing Fisher autograph official Wilson Basketball merchandise. Attendees then participated in a fansign session, receiving personalized autographs and photos with Fisher, creating lasting memories of an unforgettable evening.
For more highlights from the NBA x vivo Meet and Greet with Derek Fisher, follow vivo on Instagram and TikTok, and join the conversation on Facebook and X. Meanwhile, the vivo V30 Pro with 12GB RAM and 512GB ROM is available for PHP34,999 at any vivo concept store or kiosk and online on website, Shopee, and Lazada.
Instead of the usual in-ear or over-ear designs, JBL describes the Soundgear Sense as wireless open-ear headphones. Although reminiscent of the bulky headsets with ear hooks that were popular in the early days of wireless audio, it earned a 2023 Red Dot Design Award for its use of air conduction technology to deliver sound without blocking the ears. How does it perform in real life?
DESIGN – 3.5 / 5
For those of us who remember, the Soundgear Sense earpieces have a retro feel which, with their ear hooks and bulkier dimensions, resemble the Bluetooth earphones of the early to mid-2000s. Despite the dimensions of the oval plastic body, they are surprisingly lightweight at 13.1g each, making them easy to wear for extended use. The ear hooks are adjustable to fit various head shapes and sizes, ensuring a secure fit. A detachable neckband provides additional security and stability. This focus on comfort is evident in the way the Soundgear Sense feels during use.
Still, the bulkier dimensions and open-ear format might not appeal to everyone. I personally have mixed feelings about the Soundgear Sense: While I appreciate its lightweight and comfortable feel, I wish it were more discreetly-sized and less conspicuous, especially when in public places and social situations.
HARDWARE – 4.5 / 5
The Soundgear Sense leverages air conduction technology to deliver sound without blocking your ears. Its 16.2mm dynamic speakers ensure good sound quality with a balanced profile. Bass is present but doesn’t overpower the mids and highs, resulting in a clear and enjoyable listening experience. While the open-ear design might not deliver the noise-canceling immersion of some closedback headphones, it excels in clarity and allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.
Four built-in microphones deliver excellent voice quality, and the open-ear design provides a more natural-sounding experience during calls.
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, it has multi-point connectivity and can be paired with two devices simultaneously. In my case, I paired the Soundgear Sense to both my phone and my laptop, and I was able to use it to attend Zoom meetings on my laptop and then listen to music and take calls on my phone seamlessly without the inconvenience of having to connect/disconnect either device.
The Soundgear Sense features intuitive touch controls on the earbud housings. These controls allow you to play/pause music, skip tracks, adjust volume, answer/reject calls, and activate your voice assistant. The controls are responsive and can be customized through the JBL Headphones app to match your preferences. For example, you can assign a specific function, like activating ambient mode to a single-tap or double-tap gesture.
Each earbud offers a respectable battery life of 6 hours on a single charge. The included charging case provides an additional 18 hours, bringing the total playtime to 24 hours. While not the longest battery life on the market, it’s sufficient for extended listening sessions between charges. The included Type-C USB cable allows a quick charge of 15 minutes to deliver an additional 4 hours of playback, and a full charge takes only 2 hours.
USER EXPERIENCE – 4.5 / 5
Surprisingly, the Soundgear Sense shines in terms of comfort and fit. The lightweight design and adjustable ear hooks ensure a secure fit, while the open-ear design allows for passive ventilation, which eases ear fatigue during extended use. In fact, I often actually forgot they were sitting on my ears and would only be reminded after some hours when the pressure of the ear hooks started to feel uncomfortable. Compared to other in-ear headphones, I tended to wear the Soundgear Sense longer.
The open-ear design is a double-edged sword. While it allows for complete situational awareness, it also means sound leakage. This can be an issue if you’re listening to music in quiet environments or want complete noise isolation. Additionally, outside noise can interfere with your listening experience at times. For instance, traffic noise on a busy street or loud conversations in a crowded cafe can disrupt your audio. In general, I liked using the Soundgear Sense while working and during commutes as they allowed me to enjoy my playlist while staying aware of what was going on around me. For spending alone time in cafes, though, I prefer the JBL Live Free noise-canceling in-ear buds.
Adding to the ease of use and functionality of JBL audio devices is its JBL Headphones app, which is user-friendly and convenient. The app allows me to customize the touch controls, adjust EQ settings, check battery life, and even “find my earbuds” — all from my phone.
ScreenshotScreenshotScreenshotScreenshot
VALUE – 3.5 / 5
The JBL Soundgear Sense is listed at PHP9,499, falling within the mid-range price bracket for wireless headphones. Considering the unique open-ear design, good sound quality, and comfortable fit, they offer a compelling value proposition for users who prioritize situational awareness during activities for a safe and comfortable listening experience.
Bluetooth transmitter: Frequency range 2.4 GHz – 2.4835 GHz | Power <10 dBm
Weight: Earbuds 12.85g per pc, 25.7g combined | Charging case 68.1g | Neckband 5.3 g
Batteries: Lithium-ion | Earbud 70mAh | Charging case 600mAh
Charging time: 2hrs from empty
Playtime: Music with BT on up to 6hrs | Talk time up to 3.5hrs
Power supply: 5V 1A
What’s Hot
Lightweight, comfortable
Good sound quality
JBL Headphones app
What’s Not
Larger than in-ear buds
Not very stylish
Rather pricey
Bottom Line
The JBL Soundgear Sense offers a solid option for those seeking a comfortable and secure pair of open-ear headphones, delivering good sound quality with a balanced profile.
Reviewed by Maribelle Alba Also published in GADGETS Magazine May 2024
Owning a smartphone endowed with exceptional camera prowess not only enhances social media presence but also empowers one to capture life’s moments with unmatched quality and clarity.
Global smartphone brand vivo launched the much-talked-about V30 Series in March 2024. The collaboration with ZEISS for the vivo V30 Pro brought forth a wave of attention, thanks to its remarkable camera capabilities.
Aside from having a ZEISS triple main camera on the rear, the vivo V30 Pro also boasts a diverse array of popular ZEISS lenses. These provide users with a versatile range of creative options for their portraits.
Six ZEISS Style Portraits to choose from
From the distinctive rendering of the Biotar lens to the immersive cinematic experience offered by the Cinematic and Cine-flare lenses, and the crisp clarity of the Sonnar, Distagon, and Planar lenses, the possibilities for expression are limitless.
1. ZEISS Biotar Style Bokeh
It has a distinctive swirly bokeh. The lens reproduces the unique effect characteristic of ZEISS optics, with its exceptional visual representation result that embodies the ZEISS style.
2. ZEISS Cinematic Style Bokeh
Elevate photography with film-style portraits, boasting an aspect ratio of 2.39:1, accompanied by oval flares and a mesmerizing blue trail effect, particularly enchanting when capturing scenes illuminated by street lights at night.
3. ZEISS Cine-flare Portrait
Capture cinematic flair even against intense backlighting, as this lens recreates the mesmerizing flare often seen in movies. Powered by advanced algorithms, it guarantees natural and crystal-clear portraits, ensuring your subjects stand out in every shot, regardless of lighting conditions.
4. ZEISS Sonnar Style Bokeh
With a creamy blur that casts a romantic ambiance over the backdrop, the Sonnar style transforms the scene into a captivating setting, ideal for capturing enchanting street portraits.
5. ZEISS Distagon Style Bokeh
With its distinctive hexagonal bokeh in the background, the Distagon lens adds a unique touch to compositions, radiating remarkable aesthetics that are ideal for artistic visual representation.
6. ZEISS Planar Style Bokeh
The smooth and sharp bokeh characteristic of the Planar style lends an elegant and professional aesthetic to photographs, offering a new level of visual appeal.
Take your creativity to the next level with the timeless charm of the vivo V30 Pro. ZEISS’s restored bokeh, flare, and glare effects allow users to effortlessly capture artistic and atmospheric portraits.
For optimal results, pair these ZEISS Style Portrait effects with point light sources to unlock the full potential of the lenses.
The vivo V30 Pro with 12GB RAM and 512GB ROM is available for only Php 34,999 at vivo concept stores and kiosks nationwide, as well as through e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada.
Discover the full range of features and options offered by the vivo V30 Series by visiting vivo’s official website.
Samsung, the world’s leading innovative technology company, offers a groundbreaking, sustainable, and comfortable way for Filipino families to keep cool with WindFree™ Technology.
In a tropical country with immense heat and humidity, air conditioning has become a household necessity. However, the Philippines also has one of the highest electricity rates in the region, and the combination of the summer heat and the need to keep cool can be a heavy burden on Filipinos.
“The heat in the Philippines can be unbearable, especially during the warmer months. Almost all homes have ACs for this reason. However, we want Filipinos to transform their homes into spaces that offer utmost comfort and value, and our WindFree™ innovation helps them achieve this,” Kim German, Samsung head product manager for AC, said.
WindFree Technology releases air evenly into the space, optimizing AC performance and saving 77% of energy consumption. This innovation is easy on the pocket, especially when high electricity bills are involved.
Samsung offers a wide variety of WindFree models catered to the needs of every home, such as the S-Inverter, WindFree SmartThings, WindFree BESPOKE, and WindFree ActivClean. S-Inverter cools the room 43% faster for optimal comfort; WindFree ActivClean works as an air purifier, keeping both the air-conditioner and the air 99% clean; and WindFree SmartThings allows users to control their AC and monitor energy savings using a smartphone while automatically adjusting settings according to usage patterns and room conditions.
For those looking for a certain model that harmonizes with the aesthetic of their space, WindFree BESPOKE comes in Midnight Black, Morning Blue (exclusive to Samsung.com and Ansons), and Metallic Silver (exclusive to SM) while also providing the best features of a WindFree™ air conditioner.
Samsung’s WindFree ACs are also perfect for Filipinos upgrading to smart homes, ensuring ease of use and more control for users. Now compatible with SmartThings, a free app that uses Wi-Fi to connect smart devices built on the Matter protocol, families can control their settings, and monitor their energy savings and usage with just their smartphones. It is also powered by artificial intelligence (AI), making it capable of studying usage patterns and room conditions, and can adjust accordingly.
NLEX continues to support the growth of its host communities as it recently kicked off the 2024 Pag-unlad at Paglago ng Pamayanan (PUNLA), the company’s capacity-building program for women-led small businesses.
“Ang Pag-unlad at Paglago ng Pamayanan, o PUNLA is one of our flagship community development initiatives aimed to equip organizations with the necessary knowledge and skills to help improve their enterprise,” said NLEX Corporation vice president for Communication and Stakeholder Management Donna F. Marcelo.
NLEX partnered with Philippine Support Service Agencies (PHILSSA), a social development organization that focuses on community development, to train the 60 participants from pre-qualified 12 enterprises in a 4-session training that will last until May. The 12 enterprises from NLEX and SCTEX host communities are Barangay 171 Bagumbong Person with Disability Association, Inc., Samahan ng mga Taong may Kapansanan sa Bataan (SATAMAKABA), Asosasyon ng Magbabayong sa Atis Potrero, Samahan ng Kababaihang Mananahi ng Tibag, Inc., Tabon San Jose Farmers Association, Inc., Vizal Sto. Nino Rice and Livestock Farmers Association, Balanga Agrarian Reform Beneficiary MPC (BARB-MPC), Sining Kahoy Association of Bagac, Makabakle, Kadenang Kristal at Marimar Community (MAKAMAL), Concepcion Calamansi Growers & Rice Producers, CAT – Employees Dependents Producers Cooperative, Makabagong Agrikultura ng Dinalupihan Marketing Cooperative (MA-DMC).
Representatives from (upper row) Concepcion Calamansi Growers & Rice Producers, PHILSSA, NLEX, CAT – Employees Dependents Producers Cooperative (lower row) Makabagong Agrikultura ng Dinalupihan Marketing Cooperative, Sining Kahoy Association of Bagac, Makabakle, Kadenang Kristal at Marimar Community, Balanga Agrarian Reform Beneficiary MPC
To further empower the enterprises and propel their growth, the top 5 businesses based on the set criteria will receive grants for the implementation of their enhancement plans and will undergo coaching and mentoring sessions with PHILSSA from June to August.
A reassessment will be conducted on the top 5 enterprises, leading to the selection of the grand enterprise at the end of the 8-month program. Additional grants will be provided to further facilitate business development.
“Isang malaking karangalan ang mapabilang sa programang PUNLA. Naging daan ito para maging mas matatag ang samahan sa aming kooperatiba. Nagbigay din ng lakas ng loob ito sa aming mga miyembro dahil nakita naming may bukas palad palang organisasyon na handang umalalay sa aming munting negosyo upang mas mapalawig ito,” said CAT- Employees Dependents Producers Cooperative chairman, Teresita A. Dizon.
Aside from PUNLA, NLEX also has other women-centric programs lined up this year such as Basketboys Clinic for Girls and Barangay emergency responders training as the company recognizes the vital role that empowered women play in driving socio-economic development.
In addition to women empowerment initiatives, NLEX also pledges its continuing commitment to conduct programs on community development, environmental conservation, road safety awareness, and youth education, all aim to make a positive impact and help uplift the quality of life of every Filipino.
NLEX Corporation is a subsidiary of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the toll road arm of the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC).
International gaming developer and publisher MOONTON Games and premier coeducational tertiary school National University Laguna have forged a partnership to establish a framework of cooperation and collaboration to implement esports and gaming programs for its students.
Held in National University-Laguna’s Inspire Academy Lounge, the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) formalized the first-of-its-kind partnership for the increased collaboration between the learning institution and the publisher to mount community events, spearhead curriculum development, and provide mutual access to relative information for university endeavors such as immersion, internships, and researcher-student opportunities, among others.
The MOU was penned by MOONTON Games community manager Ken Ryan Lee, and NU Laguna vice president and assistant director for Academe-Industry Linkage Dr. Narro R. Navarro.
“We are grateful to NU Laguna for this momentous partnership that will create a pathway for cooperation to reach new heights of academic and research excellence. This collaboration sets forth our intention to help hone our students and bridge the gap between the industry and the academe. We are thrilled for NU Laguna scholars and faculty members to be part of the efforts to further push esports and gaming education in the Philippines,” says Theon Hsu, MOONTON Cares director.
“National University Laguna’s core is sports, wellness, and sustainability; esports has been part of the university’s DNA and has been dubbed as a great equalizer in the sports community. NU Laguna’s collaboration with MOONTON Games will pave the way for great opportunities and strategic advancement for the students and the university. We are thrilled about the projects and other opportunities this collaboration will bring. National University Laguna and MOONTON Games will work together in bringing esports to the forefront,” says Navarro.
Also present during the ceremonial signing were NU Laguna managing director Benjamin F. Uichico, senior academic director Dr. Josefina G. San Miguel, and senior director for administration Jose Ricardo SA. Ocampo.
Among the first programs to be mounted in NU Laguna will be the esports and gaming journalism workshops, which will be conducted in partnership with the Philippines’ esteemed esports and gaming journalists. The workshops will provide participants with insights on Media Ethics, Basic Sportswriting, Mobile Journalism, Making Sense of Journalism in Today’s TikTok Age, and the Pros and Cons of using AI tools in Journalism. The program will launch in May 2024.
Educational workshops and partnerships are part of the corporate social responsibility programs of MOONTON Cares, the philanthropic arm of the company, to promote positive societal, humanitarian, and environmental change to build a more sustainable future for the next generation.
Are you ready to experience your iconic moment? The Xiaomi Fan Festival 2024 is officially happening on April 20 at MOA By the Bay, with special musical guest SB19 to deliver an explosive performance.
The yearly Xiaomi Fan Festival is a celebration of Xiaomi’s anniversary, and also the tech brand’s way of showing its gratitude for its fans’ unwavering support. This year’s festival will be an immersive event that will exude energy and excitement to captivate the Xiaomi community. It will also debut the limited-edition fan collectible, the Xiaomi Fan Festival Redmi Note 13, which comes in Mystic Gray and the XFF logo embossed on the case.
Electrifying local acts
SB19 will be headlining the concert. The P-pop group, known for hits like “Gento” and “Mapa,” is the newest member of Xiaomi’s #TeamRedmiNote. They bring with them an infectious energy that Xiaomi fans and A’TINs won’t get enough of.
“We are really happy to be part of the Xiaomi’s #TeamRedmiNote and thankful kaming SB19 dahil may mobile phone brand na nagtiwala sa amin na maging partner nila,” SB19 said. “Maganda yung Redmi Note 13 for us and sa fans namin kasi alam natin na napapadalas ang mga event ng SB19, including the Xiaomi Fan Festival, so kailangan talaga ng reliable phone to take videos and pictures.”
Joining SB19 are local performers, including Juan Caoile, Demi, Alisson Shore, Arthur Miguel, Nateman, P4blo, and Seann Jefferson. Their performances will be the cherry on top of the iconic festival, which aims to bring together Xiaomi fans through their love of music.
Experiential zones and activities
The Xiaomi Fan Festival isn’t complete without experiential zones. Attendees can check out Xiaomi’s latest smartphones, such as the Redmi Note 13 Series and Xiaomi 14 Series, in the Pop-Up Showroom. They can also show off their creativity at the giant Color Me Iconic art installation and the interactive Photo Wall. The festival will also feature fun games and raffle draws, where fans can get the chance to win special prizes from Xiaomi.
You don’t want to miss this iconic celebration at the Xiaomi Fan Festival on April 20 at MOA By the Bay. Catch SB19 and other talented performers live, and be part of other amazing activities. Be sure to like and follow Xiaomi Philippines’ Facebook page for information on how to join the Xiaomi Fan Festival concert and other updates. Visit the Xiaomi website as well to check out promos and deals.
Prepare to embark on an intellectual odyssey as the Junior Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers – Batangas State University (JPIChE-BatStateU) proudly presents ChEin Reaction 2024. Mark your calendars for April 20, 2024, as this captivating journey unfolds at the Batangas State University’s Fitness Development Center.
The 6th ChExpertise invites Senior High School students to showcase their competencies as effective communicators while engaging in multidimensional exploration. Through pitching, promotional video creation, and infographic design, participants demonstrate their ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and persuasion. Moreover, they are tasked with crafting prototypes that contribute to community betterment, showcasing their commitment to social responsibility and civic engagement. As participants set sail on this voyage of productivity and creativity, they embody the spirit of lifelong learning and innovation.
Meanwhile, the 20th ChemCollision celebrates scientific inquiry among Junior High School students, providing a platform for collaboration and discovery. Tailored for students across Region IV-A and Region IV-B, ChemCollision fosters the collision of minds and brilliance of intellect. Here, young scientists delve into the depths of scientific inquiry, unraveling complex equations and exploring the intricacies of natural phenomena. Beyond a mere competition, ChemCollision offers an immersive experience designed to inspire a passion for scientific discovery, cultivate critical thinking skills, and forge lifelong connections among participants.
ChErvivor 2024 introduces an intellectually rigorous clash across diverse disciplines, challenging participants to push beyond known boundaries. From science and mathematics to history, geography, pop culture, sports, and beyond, students immerse themselves in a battle for survival like no other. In the arena of ChErvivor, participants compete fiercely for the podium of intellectual resilience, embracing academic novelties within the societal landscape. Through twists and turns that test their fortitude, they navigate the tumultuous waves of challenges, emerging as the ultimate ChErvivor.
In a world propelled by innovation, Science Investigatory Projects (SIPs) serve as emblematic expressions of youthful curiosity and ingenuity. This year’s program is committed to maintaining this legacy, offering a diverse array of projects that not only tackle contemporary challenges but also redefine the boundaries of scientific exploration. As the curtains rise on the 9th Science Investigatory Project Competition, anticipate a surge of discovery. Within the CALABARZON and MIMAROPA regions, Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) students will engage in a riveting competition of intellect and innovation. Contestants will unveil their studies, spanning disciplines such as applied science, chemistry, physics, robotics, engineering, biology, medicine, ecology, and agriculture.
Additionally, this year’s ChExhibit promises to be a testimony to the long-lasting legacy of the ChEin Reaction, with a tapestry of academic stalls. These booths act as portals to the past, present, and future, providing nostalgic reflection, motivating encouragement, and opening doors to new prospects. Each booth has been thoughtfully designed to cater to different aspects of the event, enticing attendees to participate in entertaining and educational activities. These events are not just a celebration of previous accomplishments, but also a rallying cry for sustained commitment to the future of sustainable development.
Lastly, ChEscussions, a pioneering initiative to cultivate critical thinking among junior and senior high school students, is poised to grab minds and stimulate incisive discourse on key issues. This subevent offers to develop students’ intellectual prowess by inviting them to participate in thought-provoking discussions that challenge conventional ideas. ChEscussions, which aim to improve participants’ wit and eloquence, will pit student teams against one another in a fight for ideas. Participants will create persuasive arguments that show their deep understanding of crucial problems, with the “affirmative” team advocating for the chosen topic and the “negative” team providing counterpoints.
Join us on this exhilarating quest as we venture into new territories of knowledge and innovation. Together, let us push the boundaries of human understanding and redefine the landscape of scientific excellence. Will you be there to witness history in the making?
In this digital age, the question arises: have printers become anachronistic relics? As we rely more on digital communication and cloud storage, are home printers still relevant? With the new HP Smart Tank 580 Wireless All-in-One, I rediscovered the convenience of having a versatile multi-function device. It bridges the gap between the digital and tangible worlds, offering printing, scanning, and copying functionalities that streamline everyday tasks.
Design: 4/5
HP’s commitment to user-centric design is evident in the Smart Tank 580. Following the recognition of their 2023 Smart Tank printers with a Red Dot Design Award, the HP Smart Tank 580 maintains a compact and minimalistic aesthetic. The matte black plastic construction exudes a clean and professional look that blends seamlessly into most home or small office environments. Its footprint is relatively small (434.66 x 361.53 x 157.26mm) considering its ink tank system.
Paper feed is only through the rear tray, which is rated to accommodate up to 100-pages. However, for thicker paper (80gsm or more), a capacity of 30-50 pages might be more realistic.
The flatbed scanner sits on top, allowing you to scan documents and photos directly onto your computer. The control panel features a small display and a handful of buttons for basic operations like printing, copying, and scanning. Overall, the design prioritizes functionality without unnecessary frills, making it suitable for users who appreciate a no-nonsense approach.
Hardware: 4/5
The key feature of the HP Smart Tank 580 is its innovative ink tank system. Unlike traditional cartridge printers, it utilizes refillable tanks that hold a significantly larger volume of ink. This translates to ultra-low running costs – a major advantage for frequent printing. HP claims the included ink bottles can deliver up to 6,000 black and 8,000 color prints, a substantial yield for home users.
Print speeds are decent, rated at up to 12 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and 5 ppm for color prints. While not the fastest, these speeds are adequate for most home printing needs. Print quality is suitable for everyday use, producing sharp text and vivid color graphics. Photo prints might lack the detail of dedicated photo printers, but they are acceptable for casual use.
The flatbed scanner offers basic scanning capabilities and can handle documents up to A4 size. It’s sufficient for scanning documents and photos for everyday use, and its ID scanning/copying function is an added convenience.
User Experience: 4/5
Out of the box, the HP Smart Tank 580 needs to be properly set up, following the detailed Set Up Guide. Though not overly complicated, this may present a challenge for some people. Filling up the ink tanks is quite easy and not at all messy with the non-spill, resealable ink bottles. The next step, installing the print heads (one for black, and one for color) could present some difficulty with warnings to avoid touching delicate parts. Once the printheads are aligned and the software properly installed, the HP Smart Tank 580 is ready to serve.
Although not the fastest in terms of print speeds, this HP Smart Tank 580 is adequate. I was able to print about 2-reams worth of pages for a project completion report, and it delivered clear, crisp, and vivid images.
Its wireless connectivity makes it easy to print documents or even photos direct from my phone or laptop, without being physically connected to the printer. In fact, I can send a print job from my laptop while watching TV in the living room and just pick up the printout whenever I want.
So to the question — are printer passe? The answer is clear: Nothing beats the convenience of having a home printer that also doubles as a scanner/copier. While we have fewer printing requirements, there are still essential documents that need physical copies, such as official forms, legal contracts, government licenses and permits, and the like. An all-in-one device like the HP Smart Tank 580 not only gives the convenience of printing on demand, but also simplifies document management through its scanning and copying capabilities.
Value: 4.5/5
The HP Smart Tank 580’s biggest selling point is its budget-friendly operation. The initial price tag might be slightly higher than some traditional cartridge printers, but the included high-yield ink bottles and refillable ink system significantly reduce the cost per page. On the Lazada official HP Flagship Store, the HP Smart Tank 580 is listed with an SRP of PHP11,200. Replacement inks are affordable as well, with black ink costing PHP275 and colored inks (cyan, magenta, and yellow) priced at PHP290 each, bringing the total for all four inks to just over PHP1,000. This translates to significant savings over time, especially for users who print frequently.
Specifications:
Functions: Print, Copy, Scan
Print Speeds: up to 12ppm (black), up to 5ppm (color)
Duty Cycle: up to 3,000pp/month
Recommended Monthly Volume: 400 to 800
Print Technology: HP Thermal Inkjet
Print Quality: up to 1200×1200 rendered dpi (black), up to 4800×1200 optimized dpi (color)
Businesses are successfully using artificial intelligence (AI) to power more personalized, intelligent interactions with their customers, but face challenges around transparency and lack of customer data, according to new research from Twilio. The customer engagement platform that drives real-time, personalized experiences for today’s leading brands, recently released its fifth annual State of Customer Engagement Report. The global report, covering 18 countries, including the Philippines, surveyed more than 4,750 B2C executives and 6,300 consumers. It explored how brands are implementing AI to build better relationships with their customers, where AI is yielding the most return on investment for brands, and what engagement trends are most important to consumers.
The report underpinned the growing importance of disclosing how brands use customer data to deliver AI-powered experiences. It also raised a warning about the risks of underestimating consumers’ expectations for transparency.
77% of Filipino consumers want clear information on how their data is used in AI, but only 53% of brands are fulfilling this critical expectation. In addition, brands in the Philippines are less likely to inform customers when they’re interacting with AI (41%) and disclose with whom customer data is shared (30%).
“Customers today expect personalized experiences and want to understand how businesses use their data to shape those experiences,” said Kathryn Murphy, SVP Product at Twilio. “It’s imperative for brands to be clear about how they use AI, ensuring that they balance how they deploy it with equally robust measures to protect customer privacy. Transparency is not optional — it’s a critical component of building and maintaining customer trust and loyalty.”
Filipinos rank highest in valuing transparent communications as the most effective way to maintain trust
As businesses embrace AI to drive personalized customer engagement, they gather every customer’s click, share, follow, like, and purchase to understand their preferences and needs. More than ever, businesses must keep their customers’ data safe to maintain their trust. This year’s report found that more than any other market, three out of four Filipino consumers regard transparent communication, such as clear and concise terms and conditions, return policies, and privacy policies, as paramount for brands to earn their trust.
Consumers aren’t the only ones worried about data privacy. 41% of businesses surveyed report that their most pressing challenge is protecting customer data, with a further 53% citing compliance and data privacy concerns as the biggest obstacles to understanding their customers. Addressing these challenges to enhance the customer experience, 60% of brands in the Philippines say they are leveraging AI for risk and fraud management, a critical strategy for a hotspot for online scams like the Philippines. “When a company safeguards information and invests in AI-powered fraud detection and customer data protection tools, it enhances its customer experience and fosters mutual trust,” Murphy further noted.
AI bridges the disconnect between brands and customers, but activating data and having the right tools remain a challenge
While data is crucial for personalized customer experiences, brands in the Philippines are among the least likely to agree that they have the data needed to understand (51%) and develop comprehensive profiles of their customers (52%).
The report found AI is helping businesses close this gap and improve their customer engagement. In particular, seven in 10 companies already leverage AI to predict customer behavior, 69% to understand customer needs and pain points, and 68% to personalize content and marketing. As a result, these forward-thinking brands are realizing many benefits, including better data-driven decision-making (48% of companies), higher customer satisfaction scores (47%), and increased cross-selling and upselling opportunities (44%).
Even as more businesses in the Philippines are embracing AI and have invested in tools like CRM or customer relationship management (70%) and CDP or customer data platform (54%), a mere 54% report having the right tools to understand their customers. On the upside, reliance on third-party cookies decreased from 87% in 2022 to 57% in 2023.
AI-driven personalization boosts the bottom line but Filipino brands underestimate its impact
When companies embrace AI-powered personalization, consumers reward them by spending an average of 54% more with them compared to brands that do not. Focusing on the Philippines, 57% of consumers are willing to spend more money for a customized experience and half say they’ve made a repeat purchase from a brand based on the level of personalization they received.
Personalization isn’t just preferred by Filipino consumers – it’s expected – and the majority of consumers (78%) are likely to quit a brand that fails to deliver personalized interactions. While 40% of Filipino consumers care about personalization, only 8% of brands treat it as a priority, personalizing engagement just 47% of the time.
The full 2024 State of Customer Engagement Report is available here.
Report Methodology
Twilio’s State of Customer Engagement Report is based on a survey of more than 4,750 B2C executives in key sectors and a parallel survey of over 6,300 consumers in 18 different countries. It also incorporates data from Twilio’s Customer Engagement Platform.
Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. continues to reign as the no. 1 life insurance company for 13 consecutive years after garnering PHP 55.79 billion in Total Premium Income.
This is according to the 2023 report released by the Insurance Commission based on submitted unaudited Quarterly Report on Selected Financial Statistics. In the same report, Sun Life also ranked no. 1 in Total Assets with PHP 306.33 billion, and Net Income with PHP 8.79 billion.
“Being consistently no. 1 means that our clients continue to trust us to help them secure a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones,” Sun Life Philippines CEO and country head Benedict Sison said. “It is a privilege to be their chosen partner in their financial journey, and we will continue to honor their confidence by serving them with excellence.”
This milestone comes on the heels of Sun Life’s 129th anniversary, making it the first and longest-standing life insurance company in the Philippines. As a further testament to its dedication to delivering excellence, the company also received accolades from regional award-giving bodies recently. Sun Life was recognized as one of the Industry Champions of the Year at the Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) Awards. Likewise, it was also bestowed with the Corporate Excellence Award at the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) for demonstrating effective talent mobilization and organizational capability that deliver consistent business results while remaining aligned to the company’s purpose.
“We would not be where we are today if not for the passion and dedication of our advisors and employees,” Sison added. “We would like to thank them for their commitment to our mission of helping Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.”
Metrobank is hailed as the Most Recommended Retail Bank in the Philippines by The Asian Banker in the publication’s recently held Global Excellence in Retail Finance Awards.
The recognition was given based on the results of The Asian Banker’s Annual BankQuality™ Consumer Survey, which gathered feedback from over 12,000 customers across Asia in January 2024. The survey measured the participants’ engagement, and satisfaction with retail financial services institutions based on their experience with services, channels and products.
According to The Asian Banker, Metrobank has earned a strong reputation among its clients for its trusted financial services, and hassle-free banking experience. These served as the main drivers for Metrobank’s BankQuality score of 101.48 – the highest among the participating banks in the Philippines, and the 6th among the banks in Asia.
This positive feedback among the Bank’s clients is supported by a study conducted by NielsenIQ in 2023*, where Metrobank emerged as one of the Top Recommended Banks in the Philippines. About a thousand respondents were asked how likely they would recommend each bank cited in the survey to their peers. According to the results, Metrobank edged out all the other local major banks, and has held this position since 2022.
For Metrobank, these recognitions serve as a strong vote of confidence that the Bank is on the right track in fulfilling its promise to clients as their trusted financial partner in every life stage.
Metrobank constantly aims to provide clients with reliable and relevant banking services to help them achieve their goals – whether the client is an individual growing his savings, an aspiring entrepreneur starting a new business venture, or an established individual looking to manage the growth and distribution of their wealth.
“For decades, fulfilling our promise of keeping Filipinos in good hands has been Metrobank’s north star. Every product and service we have, was developed to address our clients’ needs. We are strongly committed to help Filipinos achieve their dreams, and foster growth in the communities we are a part of,” said Digs Dimagiba, Metrobank’s chief marketing officer.
“This mission is what fuels our drive to deliver an exceptional brand of service, and we are grateful that this is being recognized both by clients across the country, and by global banking experts such as The Asian Banker. Metrobank is the Most Recommended Retail Bank in the Philippines, because each Metrobanker is dedicated to helping our clients, and our communities grow,” he added.
Celebrating partnerships that lead to growth
As Metrobank celebrates meaningful partnerships with clients through these awards, the Bank also reaffirms its commitment to becoming their partner in success with the launch of a new film, “Grow with Metrobank.”
The film represents the millions of Filipinos whose journey to growth and success was aided by the Bank, in the past 60 years. These stories are seen through the eyes of mother-and-son bakers Gigi and Andy, who are successful Metrobank clients.
There is the character of Mrs. Bueno, a pharmacist, who is celebrating because Metrobank approved her business loan. Then, there is Charlie, who owns a chain of computer repair shops that have been modernized to allow cashless payments. And, of course, single delivery van owner Ben, who now owns a new fleet of delivery vehicles, thanks to Metrobank. Finally, Sharon, a Relationship Manager from Metrobank, visits the bakeshop of Gigi and Andy to discuss potential investment opportunities for their family.
By the end of the film, Metrobank underscores its belief that ‘where communities grow, we all grow.’
For over 60 years, Metrobank has been keeping Filipinos in good hands. Leading international financial institutions and publications, including Asian Banker, Euromoney, and AsiaMoney, have recognized the bank for its strength and reliability for customers, businesses, and entire communities.
Discover how Metrobank can cultivate success and growth in a community, making every step of your financial journey meaningful and rewarding. Visit their website at http://www.ingoodhands.com.ph or your nearest Metrobank branch to learn more.
Suzuki Philipines Incorporated returned as the official motorcycle partner of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) for the second consecutive year. This partnership between a powerhouse brand and the MPBL also known as “Liga ng Bawat Pilipino”, strengthens the latter’s mission of discovering and developing exceptional basketball players across the country. With that, Suzuki Scooters take center stage as the flag bearers of the brand, perfectly complementing the fast-paced action on the court. Team Suzuki joined the MPBL as it tipped off its 2024 season at the Calasiao Sports Complex in Pangasinan on Saturday, April 6, 2024. The roar of the crowd and the heart-pumping action on the basketball court marked the electrifying return of professional basketball action.
The opening ceremony, hosted by the province of Pangasinan, a new addition to the MPBL family this season, was a fitting start to another exciting season. Thirty teams, including three exciting newcomers – the Abra Weavers, Pangasinan Heatwaves, and Tarlac United Force – gear up to battle it out for the coveted championship title. The Pampanga Giant Lanterns, reigning champions and North Division victors of the previous season will be a formidable force to contend with.
Dignitaries gracing the event included MPBL founder Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, commissioner Kenneth Duremdes, board member Joseph Ramos, marketing head Seth Jamora, Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III, Calasiao Pangasinan Mayor Kevin Roy Macanlalay and La Paz, Abra Mayor Joseph Bernos. They were joined by Suzuki Philippines’ Marketing Communications Group head Ms. Edelyn Yanilla, Product Marketing and Data Group head Ms. Victoria Caringal, and Field Marketing Group head Mr. Johnny De Guzman.
Suzuki Philippines will also bring more fun to the live games with the thrilling half-court shootout competition. Three participants will be trying their luck to shoot the ball to win a brand new Suzuki Avenis each game. In addition, customers can also check out Suzuki’s latest scooters on display with special promos when bought during the event.
