Resorts World Cruises, an international cruise line that is homegrown in Asia offering luxury and dynamic lifestyle experiences, has announced an agreement with SES to install its fully integrated Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) service on the cruise lines’ flagship Genting Dream with similar future plans for the Resorts World One cruise ship. The installation of the MEO and LEO service will provide reliable high-speed connectivity, offering the next level of guest experience at sea. These include unlocking a suite of personalized digital services ranging from world-class entertainment and shopping to dining experiences onboard.
Resorts World Cruises is the first cruise line in Asia to deploy the new integrated offering, SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink PRO Service. This enables its guests to enjoy power-connected applications across the ship’s onboard accommodations, including the all-inclusive luxury Palace suites, spas, and first-class entertainment.
Launched in 2023, SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink PRO is a fully integrated end-to-end service that combines SES’ Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite coverage to provide unmatched connectivity of up to 1.5Gbps for the ship, meeting the needs of both passengers and crew, wherever in the world they are sailing.
“At Resorts World Cruises, we are constantly striving to enhance our onboard guests’ experiences with best-in-class hospitality and services, complemented by the latest innovations and technology offerings. In this digital age, state-of-the-art connectivity is at the heart of many vacationers. As such, we are delighted to engage SES to pioneer connected experiences at sea for the cruise market whilst also making the most of this connectivity to optimize our operations,” said Michael Goh, president of Resorts World Cruises.
“Reliable high-speed connectivity is an essential enabler for Resorts World Cruises’ ambition of redefining cruising, with world-class luxury accommodation, exclusive restaurants, spas, and other facilities, as well as personalized, tailored experiences for their guests,” said Simon Maher, Global Head of Maritime Cruise at SES. “With our fully integrated, end-to-end service that brings together the power of multiple orbits, we are proud to deliver unmatched connectivity that powers cruise liners’ cutting-edge onboard offering and helps companies maintain their competitive edge.”
To learn more about SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink packages, click here.
Starting your food vlog only really requires the boldness and courage to film yourself munching on good eats. In terms of equipment, you don’t need the fanciest dedicated camera, the most flattering lighting, nor the highest fidelity microphone. Your smartphone — a device most likely with you 24/7 — is more than enough to get you started.
However, if you feel that your current daily driver’s camera and overall performance are not up to par for launching this new hobby, then you’re in luck! vivo recently launched the vivo V30e, a capable midranger able to pack everything an aspiring food vlogger needs in a sleek and decently priced package.
Here are five reasons why the vivo V30e is a great device for those looking to create their own food vlog.
Vlogger-centric cameras
The vivo V30e sports a 50MP main camera and an 8MP ultra-wide camera.
Your food vlog’s drool-worthy dishes should be captured in drool-worthy images and videos. Thanks to the vivo V30e’s stellar rear and front shooters, this won’t be a problem. On the back, it features a functional combination of dual lenses — the main is a 50MP Sony Ultra-Sensing Camera with a wide aperture of f/1.79 and a standard field of view (FoV) of 79°; the secondary is an 8MP ultra-wide 120° FoV camera with a still-open f/2.2 aperture. At the front, you have a 32MP HD selfie Camera with a likewise wide f/2.0 aperture and 84° FoV.
Even in dim cafe lighting, the vivo V30e still manages to produce drool-worthy food shots
What these numbers translate to is great output. Colors and details come out crisp and clear even under non-ideal lighting conditions. During these moments, the vivo V30e’s rear Aura Light 3.0 system comes in handy. Instead of the harsh throw of a traditional white LED flash, the Aura Light 3.0 provides soft, consistent fill light in a hue ranging from orange to cream to white. A screen-based Aura Light system is also present to support the front camera. Aesthetic cafés and romantic restaurants usually have dimmer-than-usual lighting, making the Aura Light a welcome addition to the vivo v30e’s shooting arsenal.
For videos, rear movies top out at a maximum resolution of 4K at 30 frames per second (FPS), with 60fps available in 1080p and 720p resolutions. Meanwhile, front videos are available at 1080p and 720p, both at 30fps. You are sure to have gorgeous showcase shots, be able to crop in and reframe when editing, and your reaction shots will look spot on!
It’s got the editing chops
The vivo V30e is easily able to handle 4K video editing.
4K food clips are nothing if the phone doesn’t have enough horsepower to actually edit them into a click-worthy video. This the vivo V30e has in spades. It is powered by a 4nm octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, which strikes a perfect balance between power and efficiency. It specifically has 4 Cortex-A55 cores clocked at a maximum of 1.8GHz, another 4 Cortex-A78 cores clocked at a high of 2.2GHz, and an Adreno 710 graphics processor. This chipset is paired with 8GB of RAM to further ensure multitasking and editing fluidity.
Speaking of fluidity, the vivo V30e’s massive 6.78-inch 2400×1080 resolution screen with dual 3D curved edges not only facilitates finer control of editing tools, but the 120Hz maximum refresh rate also makes the process feel more accurate and smoother. The cherry on top is its 100% DCI-P3 color space coverage, which means better color reproduction and fidelity when color-correcting clips. This is especially important when food vlogging — no one wants to watch someone eating something unappetizing to look at.
Battery and storage that allow you to shoot all day
If you’re hitting up a couple of trending food places in one day, then the vivo V30e’s 5500mAh battery will definitely see you through, with juice left to spare to make it home. In fact, recording a 30-minute long 4K video at 50% screen brightness only drops the battery 9%! This amazing battery life means you can confidently shoot away to your heart’s content. As a nice bonus, the vivo V30e comes packaged with a 44W fast charger, which can charge the device from nil to 100% in around an hour. That is less time tethered to the wall and more time filming and editing content!
Along with the battery, the vivo V30e also comes with 256GB of internal storage where you can store all your videos that are still up for editing. If that is still not enough space for you, it also comes with a combo card slot that can fit either two nano-SIMs or one nano-SIM and a microSD card for even more storage flexibility.
Looks classy yet is deceivingly tough
The vivo V30e is both beautiful and brawny with its IP64-rated build.
The vivo V30e is a phone you won’t be ashamed to whip out in public. It comes in either Coco Brown or Cloud White colorways which, along with the circular camera island framed in a ridged silver bezel, are oh-so elegant to look at. But more than beauty, the vivo V30e is also a robust phone. It is rated IP64 for dust and water resistance for your peace of mind. You can be sure that accidental drink splashes and sauce droppings won’t be a problem!
It won’t break the bank
The vivo V30e is able to wrap all the above features (and more!) in a package that is tagged at a competitive PHP17,999. Check out a sample vlog here shot and edited entirely with the vivo V30e to see how it can empower aspiring foodies to begin their vlogging journey!
Get the new vivo V30e at your nearest vivo concept store or kiosk, as well as through vivo’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok platforms.
To show the importance of supplementation in maintaining wellness, USANA Philippines met with around 300 health professionals nationwide at its inaugural symposium. Building on its 15th anniversary celebration, this event echoes the brand’s commitment to reach one million families globally — with a continued focus on product research, innovation, and education.
USANA Philippines’ general manager Cherry Dionisio-Ampig officially starts the program.
“For 15 years, USANA Philippines has strived to fulfill the vision of its founder, Dr. Myron Wentz, to create the healthiest family on earth. As we step into this milestone, we’re fortifying this goal by hosting our first ever health symposium and strengthening our partnerships with health professionals,” says Cherry Dionisio-Ampig, general manager of USANA Philippines.
This health symposium reflects how the brand places science, specifically research and innovation, at its core.
The guest speakers address questions from the audience during the Q&A segment of the health symposium.
“One very consistent value of USANA’s is the science behind its products. The foundation of everything we do is anchored in science—giving meaning to our influence on the health of our communities,” says David Mulham, chief sales officer of USANA Health Sciences, Inc.
As an industry leader, the company conducts thorough research and evaluations to determine specific market demands and discover new ingredients to best fit evolving needs. This process creates products specifically developed to support people on their journey to maintaining wellness.
Dr. Rolando Maddela, USANA’s executive director of global health education and nutrition research, discusses how dietary supplements help in addressing nutrition-based health issues.
“As a company, we continuously research and innovate. We’re committed to developing new products and upgrading existing ones to be even more competitive and to continuously promote healthy living” says Dr. Rolando Maddela, USANA executive director of global health education and nutrition research.
This health symposium served as a way for medical professionals and others in attendance to learn and engage in meaningful discussions about the country’s current health landscape and the pivotal nurturing role supplements play. Esteemed speakers from the medical field included Dr. Susano “Yves” Tanael, Registered Nutritionist-Dietician MaryRose del Rio, Dr. Alex Delgado, and Dr. Rolando Maddela.
In yet another industry-leading step, Globe, a frontrunner in telco services and digital solutions in the Philippines, has created a new AI development group to lead the company’s adoption of artificial intelligence, as it consistently innovates to address Filipinos’ daily pain points.
Ernest Cu, Globe president and CEO, announced the establishment of Globe’s AI Development and Enablement Group (AIDE), marking a significant stride towards leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance business operations, service delivery, and customer experience.
AIDE, which will formally start as a group on June 1, 2024, will spearhead Globe’s AI initiatives, focusing on strategic AI planning, development, business integration, and governance.
“To sustain our competitive advantage, we must continuously innovate and adopt new technologies. The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) signals a pivotal shift, promising to revolutionize the way we do business and serve our customers. We’ve begun to see AI’s impact by way of the different teams across Globe having ongoing initiatives to take advantage of its benefits, but it is imperative that we move forward with unified intent and renewed vigor to navigate these new technological frontiers swiftly,” said Cu.
To lead the new AI development group, Globe has named cybersecurity and data privacy expert Anton Bonifacio as its first Chief AI Officer (CAIO). Bonifacio, concurrently the company’s chief information security officer, is behind some of Globe’s cutting-edge innovations in data protection and cyber defense.
“The creation of AIDE signifies a strategic investment in our technological capabilities and a concerted effort to integrate AI seamlessly into our operations,” said Bonifacio.
Globe has already begun adopting AI into its business operations, leveraging the technology for efficiency and cost transformation. AI is at various stages of implementation in internal processes such as credit and collection, financial reports, and procurement contracts. Globe has also started using AI for customer care and credit scoring.
“We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and responsible AI use, ensuring that our advancements not only drive business growth, improve service delivery, and enhance customer experience, but also adhere to the highest standards of governance and compliance,” said Bonifacio.
Calling all explorers! Yamaha Motor Philippines introduces the all-new Yamaha PG-1, your perfect companion for outdoor adventures. This aptly named Playful Gear (PG) motorcycle is designed to quench your thirst for exploration and take moto-adventures to the next level. The Yamaha PG-1 boasts three key features that make it ideal for any getaway: Rugged Outdoor Performance, Functional Features, and Timeless Design.
Rugged Outdoor Performance
To ensure a smooth and comfortable ride on any terrain, the Yamaha PG-1 utilizes an H-shaped front fork instead of the conventional wishbone type. This design offers increased rigidity and superior handling stability, resembling the look of a sportbike’s front fork. It excels at absorbing bumps on rough roads and enhances control on unpaved surfaces and flat dirt.
Block-patterned tires provide excellent balance and adaptability to a wide range of terrains. For added protection against off-road obstacles, the Yamaha PG-1 boasts a generous 190mm ground clearance and protective rubber boots for the forks.
To handle the demands of unpaved roads and long-distance journeys, the Yamaha PG-1 features a wide-dimension swingarm. This design element enhances overall rigidity, reduces vibrations in the swingarm, and contributes to a more comfortable riding experience.
Functional Features
The dual seat, split into separate rider and passenger sections, offers increased riding freedom. The extra-long rider section provides ample space, while the rear seat allows for luggage storage. The 5.1L fuel tank delivers a good range for hassle-free weekend getaways. The Yamaha PG-1’s upright handlebars and slim body create a comfortable, upright, and relaxed riding position.
Timeless Design
The Yamaha PG-1’s analog instrument cluster with gear indicator matches well with the look of the body. The layout combines a circular speedometer with the oval-shaped fuel gauge and an array of other information, all of which provide great readability. What adds to the iconic look are the round headlight and taillight with a simple and compact design that complements the overall aesthetic. The minimal condensed design boasts a tough yet timeless look that encourages the rider to take the long route and get lost in the outdoors.
Whether it’s seeking an escape from the ordinary or finding individuality on uneven terrain, there’s more than one road to liberation. Break away from everything that holds you back and start your outdoor exploration with the Yamaha PG-1!
The Yamaha PG-1 comes in a matte brown color and is now available in YZone, Revzones, and Yamaha 3S Shops nationwide with an SRP of PHP96,400.
The evolving landscape of technology necessitates a strategic approach to IT recruitment. Businesses across the globe face the challenge of finding the right talent to meet their specific needs. The one-size-fits-all method no longer suffices; instead, tailored recruitment solutions have become essential. This overview explores various approaches to IT recruitment, highlighting the importance of customization to ensure alignment with organizational goals and the dynamic nature of the tech industry.
Understanding the Diverse Needs of IT Recruitment
The IT sector encompasses a wide range of specializations, from software development and cybersecurity to data analysis and network management. Each of these areas requires a distinct skill set and level of expertise. A successful recruitment strategy begins with a thorough understanding of the specific needs of the organization. For instance, a company focusing on software development might prioritize candidates with strong coding skills and experience in agile methodologies, while a firm in the cybersecurity domain would seek experts in threat analysis and prevention. Recognizing these diverse needs is the first step in crafting an effective recruitment strategy. Moreover, the fast-paced evolution of technology means that the desired skills and qualifications can change rapidly. Recruitment processes must be agile enough to adapt to these shifts. This requires staying updated with industry trends and continuously refining job descriptions and candidate profiles to match the current demands.
The Role of Specialized Recruitment Agencies
Specialized recruitment agencies play a crucial role in the IT hiring process. These agencies possess deep industry knowledge and have access to a vast network of professionals with niche skills. Partnering with a specialized agency can significantly streamline the recruitment process, saving time and resources for the organization. These agencies employ various strategies, including targeted advertising, networking events, and headhunting, to identify and attract top talent. In addition to finding candidates, specialized agencies offer valuable insights into market trends, salary benchmarks, and competitive intelligence. This information can help organizations make informed decisions about their recruitment strategies and ensure they remain competitive in attracting high-caliber candidates.
Leveraging Technology in Recruitment
Technology has transformed the recruitment landscape, providing tools that enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) automate many aspects of the recruitment process, from posting job openings to screening resumes and scheduling interviews. These systems can significantly reduce the administrative burden on HR teams and allow them to focus on strategic tasks, such as building relationships with candidates and assessing cultural fit.
Recruitment in Emerging Markets
Emerging markets present unique opportunities and challenges for IT recruitment. These markets often have a growing pool of tech talent and can offer cost advantages compared to more established markets. However, recruiting in these regions requires a deep understanding of local cultures, employment laws, and market dynamics. Tailored strategies that consider these factors are essential for successful recruitment. For instance, IT recruitment in Poland has gained prominence due to the country’s highly skilled workforce and favorable business environment. Companies looking to tap into this talent pool need to navigate the local landscape effectively.
The Importance of Employer Branding
A strong employer brand is a powerful tool in attracting top IT talent. Employer branding involves creating a positive image of the company as a desirable place to work. This goes beyond competitive salaries and benefits; it encompasses the company culture, work environment, career development opportunities, and overall employee experience. Companies with a strong employer brand are more likely to attract high-quality candidates and retain top performers.
Adapting to Remote Work Trends
The rise of remote work has added a new dimension to IT recruitment. Companies are no longer limited to local talent pools; they can now access a global workforce. This expanded reach allows organizations to find the best candidates regardless of their geographic location. However, remote recruitment also comes with its own set of challenges, such as managing time zone differences, ensuring effective communication, and maintaining team cohesion.
Continuous Improvement in Recruitment Strategies
The recruitment landscape is constantly evolving, and companies must be proactive in continuously improving their recruitment strategies. This involves regularly reviewing and refining recruitment processes, staying updated with industry best practices, and being open to innovation. Gathering feedback from candidates and hiring managers can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement and help ensure a positive recruitment experience for all parties involved.
Tailored IT recruitment solutions are essential in meeting the diverse and dynamic needs of the tech industry. From understanding specific organizational requirements to leveraging specialized agencies and technology, a strategic approach to recruitment can significantly enhance the quality of hires. Employer branding, emerging market strategies, and adapting to remote work trends further contribute to a comprehensive recruitment strategy. Continuous improvement and investment in recruitment capabilities ensure that organizations remain competitive in attracting and retaining top IT talent.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we work. Remote work became a norm with the onslaught of the pandemic. Now, the remote work setup is here to stay, with millions of office workers favoring the setup.
This shift to new types of work setups presents new challenges both for companies adopting and workers who adopted. For companies, the transition to the new normal is accompanied by logistical issues. Maintaining cybersecurity for crucial data means providing employees with vetted and secured devices to prevent any leaks. Other companies have faced “quiet quitting” or the phenomenon where employees lose productivity by doing only the bare minimum.
For employees, working from home or remotely comes with its own set of unique challenges. First is the technological challenge of having the appropriate devices. Many did not have a device suitable for remote work and their internet connection could not keep up with the fast-paced demands of the modern workforce. Communication also presented difficulties as there is a massive difference between personal face-to-face communication and online messages. There could be more misunderstandings when working remotely versus onsite.
A new issue plaguing remote workers is the loss of balance, particularly the loss of work-life balance.
Maintaining your Zen in an ever-changing workspace
With the continued adoption of remote working options, remote workers are struggling to find a balance between work mode and home mode. One of the primary reasons for the loss of balance is the unclear boundary between working and rest, which could mean longer or shorter periods devoted to work, or vice-versa. There’s also a sense of loneliness and isolation because of a lack of physical contact and a monotonous routine.
Here are some ways to regain or maintain one’s Zen in the new normal:
Stick to a strict schedule
Sticking to a strict schedule helps in maintaining the balance between work and leisure. This allows you to set a boundary not only for others but also for yourself. Adhering to a strict schedule also helps in building a daily routine. It helps keep your mind set on which tasks to do or when to cut off thinking about work.
Setting a schedule also helps in maintaining a boundary between you and others. Don’t be afraid to remind people of your work hours and tasks, and avoid “Work From Home Guilt.”
This phenomenon makes you feel guilty (hence the name) for not working enough, or you feel like you’re not as productive as those working onsite. Reminding yourself of your tasks and what you’ve accomplished is a start in overcoming the guilt. It’s a tough road mentally, but once you get used to the routine it becomes a bit easier.
Of course, scheduling also helps in doing household chores. Providing a strict schedule for chores also helps in maintaining your household. Laundry may pile up or dishwashing is pushed back later, but setting a specific time devoted to household chores can actually break the monotony of your work day.
Finally, don’t forget to also add a strict schedule for cooking and eating. Working remotely offers the unique boon (or bane) of having home-cooked meals. This means you have the opportunity to make your food, avoiding the additional costs of eating out. While you can still order out, what’s important is that you remember to eat. Often, we’re so invested in our work that we forget to eat.
Follow your work routine
To completely separate work time from leisure time, one of the most effective solutions is to treat working (albeit at home) as a regular work day. This means trying to replicate your daily work routine (minus the commute) during your work hours.
Dressing up in regular work clothes also help keep you in the right mindset, and help you get on track as fast as possible. The same goes for relaxation mode, getting out of work clothes and into comfortable pajamas can stimulate the brain to cut off work thoughts and shift into rest mode.
Try to work in a designated area as much as possible
Finally, working in a specific designated area of your home will help prevent work-from-home relaxation. Working from home offers a lot of possible distractions as compared to working onsite. Finding your working niche at home can limit the unnecessary distractions affecting your productivity.
Finding a specific working spot also tunes your mind. It sets a mental boundary where the area is for only for work and the rest of the house is for other things. Setting spaces apart helps set a routine faster and regain a sense of control of both work and life matters.
If you can do it, also try working outside your home from time to time. One of the biggest drawbacks of working at home is the monotony. Unlike working onsite, being stuck at home means you’re stuck looking at the same sights day by day. This can lead to feeling isolated and lonely, which adds unnecessary stress. Changing your pace every so often helps in bringing back some uniqueness in a routine. A good way to do this is by setting face-to-face meetings, giving you the perfect excuse to work outside yet remain productive.
Finally, the most important way to regain your Zen is to step back and take a deep breath. If everything feels overwhelming or you feel that you’re not being productive, take a step back and breathe. If that’s not enough, a quick vacation could be a good way to get back to the right mindset.
Words by Gabriel Pe Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE May 2024 Issue
The Digital Bank Association of the Philippines (DiBA PH) reiterated their commitment to improving financial health during a significant roundtable discussion with H.M. Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, who is the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development (UNSGSA), and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
The roundtable, hosted by DiBA PH and Maya, was organized as part of Queen Máxima’s visit to the Philippines in her UN capacity. It aimed to bring together the six digital banks and the BSP to explore avenues for collaboration in advancing financial health initiatives and metrics.
Angelo Madrid, president of DiBA PH and Maya Bank, said: “Millions of Filipinos now own a financial account, thanks to e-wallets. The next big challenge is here, and in less than two years of operations, safe and reliable digital banking is proving that we can help Filipinos use their financial accounts to improve their financial health. We are committed to providing better experiences, safety, and privacy through digital technologies.”
According to the UNSGSA Financial Health Working Group, financial health refers to the extent to which a person or family can smoothly manage their current financial obligations, has the capacity to absorb financial shocks, is on track to reach future goals, and has confidence in their financial future.
Madrid further emphasized: “Enhancing the financial health of our customers is intrinsic to digital banking, and we are dedicated to advancing this agenda. In the short term, we support conducting a national survey and developing complementary internal metrics to measure our impact on the financial health of our customers. Beyond that, we continue to deliver groundbreaking innovations that empower Filipinos to make bolder financial choices.”
Key leaders from the digital banking industry attended the roundtable, including Madrid, GoTyme Bank president and Co-CEO Nathaniel Clarke, GoTyme Bank co-CEO Albert Tinio, Overseas Filipino Bank officer-in-charge Atty. Reo Andarino, Tonik Digital Bank vice chairperson Ma. Lourdes “Long” Pineda, UnionDigital Bank president and CEO Henry Aguda, and UNO Digital Bank president, CEO and founder Manish Bhai. Also present were representatives from UNSGSA Queen Máxima’s Reference Group, including World Bank, Better Than Cash Alliance (BTCA), Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI), and Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP). Co-leading the discussion was Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat of the BSP.
DiBA PH’s commitment comes at a time when the Philippines is making great strides towards financial inclusion. According to the BSP’s 2021 Financial Inclusion Survey, the number of adults with a financial account grew from 29% in 2019 to 56% in 2021, thanks to the rising adoption of e-wallets.
Despite this progress, the same survey showed that only 4% of adults borrow from banks, and 52% keep their savings at home. Additionally, 41% of Filipino adults said they could not fully meet living expenses and 46% said their current finances would not last through emergencies.
In response, digital banks have rolled out innovative services and products that enable Filipinos to form healthier savings habits. Digital bank customers earn higher interest rates on deposits, driving them to save. Users are also motivated to open goals-based deposit accounts that allow them to start small and build their savings over time.
The digital banking sector grew its depositor base by 26% at the end of December 2023, compared to a 4% increase in the overall banking system during the same period.
Digital banks have also significantly expanded credit access by pioneering alternative credit scoring models and rolling out responsive and responsible credit offerings. Despite infrastructural challenges such as the rollout of the national ID system and a more robust credit bureau, the total loan portfolio increased to nearly Php25 billion from 2022 to 2023.
For nearly four decades, the Palawan Group of Companies has built a good, solid reputation for being the most trusted go-to place for pawning, remittance, and a wide range of financial transactions, catering to the diverse needs of everyday Filipinos. Their unwavering dedication to offering winning financial services and solutions to their “sukis” has popularized “I-Palawan Mo Na!”, showcasing people’s deep connection and trust in their services.
With its commitment to providing “mura, mabilis at walang kuskos balungos” (affordable, fast, and hassle-free) pawning services, along with domestic and international remittances, micro insurance, and e-wallet, the Palawan Group has become the market-leading pawnshop and remittance company, offering reliable financial solutions that Filipinos can depend on, especially during times of need. Combining the extensive network of over 3,300 Palawan branches with PalawanPay, the company’s digital wallet and fastest-growing app in the country, championing BrickTech strategy. This approach merges physical branches with digital innovation, enhancing accessibility and reliability, and solidifying the Palawan Group’s leadership in the financial industry.
When parents find themselves in a financial crunch such as needing quick cash to pay for their kids’ tuition, replenish their “sari-sari” store inventory, or boost their business capital, they can pawn their jewelry at Palawan Pawnshop. Palawan’s high appraisal and low interest ensures that “sukis” can avail the best rates, ultimately providing them with higher cash and take-home pay.
Similarly, Palawan Express Pera Padala (PEPP) is a reliable channel for overseas Filipino workers to send money back home, guaranteeing safe and prompt money transfers through its international remittance services. With Palawan’s “cash agad ang tanggap” feature, families receive much-needed support promptly and securely. Additionally, OFW families benefit from free ProtekTODO personal insurance coverage when claiming international remittances through PEPP or PalawanPay, providing them and their families with added security and peace of mind.
“At Palawan, our “sukis” are at the heart of everything we do. We’re dedicated to constant innovation, always seeking ways to serve them better and provide winning financial solutions through our “mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos na serbisyo,” said Karlo Eugene Castro, president and CEO of the Palawan Group of Companies.
As a testament to its commitment to providing a comprehensive suite of winning financial solutions for its customers, the Palawan Group of Companies continuously enhances the features of its digital wallet, PalawanPay. Seamlessly integrated with key services such as pawn renewal, international remittance claims, and ProtekTODO insurance, customers can now conveniently manage their financial needs anytime, anywhere, “pwede sa branch at pwede rin sa app” (either in-branch or through the app), ensuring greater convenience and accessibility. These services and other features have propelled PalawanPay as the fastest-growing e-wallet, achieving 18M users in just 2 years.
One of the Palawan Group’s key strengths is its extensive network and digital innovations. With over 40,000 outlets nationwide, customers enjoy unparalleled flexibility and convenience in accessing financial services regardless of location. They can transact in-branch or through PalawanPay, the company’s mobile app. It allows users to manage their financial transactions anytime, anywhere, offering a seamless blend of in-branch and online services.
With a legacy rooted in integrity and service excellence, the Palawan Group has earned the steadfast loyalty of its customers for 38 years, setting standards for convenience, value, and winning financial solutions. Firmly rooted in their goal of bringing financial inclusivity to the country, they make it a point to create products and services that aim to make Filipinos’ lives easier and more convenient through more affordable means. By prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional, affordable service, the Palawan Group ensures every interaction is a win-win for all its “sukis”.
Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Express Pera Padala, and PalawanPay are supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. For more information, go to Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay Websites.
Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, has made its Alibaba Cloud Certified Associate (ACA) Generative AI Engineer Course available to its global customers, partners, and developers, including the Philippines, starting in May 2024. The course is available as part of Alibaba Cloud’s commitment to supporting digital talent development and making AI more accessible.
The ACA Generative AI Engineer course, developed by Alibaba Cloud Academy, teaches fundamental knowledge about the technology. It covers topics from its roots in machine learning to natural language processing, encoder-decoders to generative adversarial networks, leveraging models via retrieval-augmented generation, agents, and more. Alibaba Cloud Academy is the training and certification division of Alibaba Cloud.
Through the course’s three-step approach — learn, imagine, and apply — users can develop the skills to deploy Generative AI apps on Alibaba Cloud platforms. Users who complete the course and pass the exam will obtain an ACA Generative AI Engineer certificate. With the wider rollout now underway, the program aims to equip 10,000 to 20,000 learners worldwide with basic AI knowledge by the end of 2024.
“Generative AI is a transformative technology promising to bring the creativity of individuals and companies to new heights. Our ACA Generative AI Engineer course aims to help customers, partners, developers, and users of various backgrounds globally to unlock that potential and drive tomorrow’s digital agenda,” said Selina Yuan, president of International Business, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, “We are strongly committed to supporting talent in mastering essential digital skills, and we’re excited to continue expanding our training offerings around the world.”
Since April 2023, over 60,000 people from various backgrounds have received training certificates through Alibaba Cloud’s talent development initiatives, including university programs, training partners, online training courses, and offline Skills Centers and Training Centers. Alibaba Cloud Academy offers over 300 online & offline certification courses, 17 professional certifications, and 250 online hands-on labs with over 300 associated partners worldwide.
Empowering Tech Education: Alibaba Cloud Partners with National University Philippines
Alibaba Cloud collaborates with more than 80 universities across 16 countries and regions outside the Chinese mainland, offering cloud computing learning resources to equip future talents.
In the Philippines, Alibaba Cloud forged a partnership with the National University (NU) Philippines last year to equip students and faculty with digital technologies and AI expertise, providing access to Alibaba Cloud’s learning and training resources.
At Asia Pacific College which is in consortium with NU, Alibaba Cloud offered ongoing online training sessions covering topics like GenAI, cloud computing, security, and databases for students, aiming to enhance their technological knowledge. Additionally, over 50 professors and teachers from NU participated in a comprehensive training program featuring a blend of interactive onsite and online learning sessions.
In Hong Kong, Alibaba Cloud partnered with The University of Hong Kong Business School to jointly announce the first cloud computing credit course for undergraduate students. Over 50 undergraduate students from different majors, including computer science, finance, law, and design, have completed the course.
In Indonesia, Alibaba Cloud has established partnerships with esteemed universities such as Binus University, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Universitas Pendidikan Manadalika, and Universitas Pelita Harapan. These collaborations facilitate the integration of cloud computing and AI-centric courses into their curricula, thereby supporting the nation’s strategic goals of cultivating a robust and competitive skilled workforce for the future.
Enhancing training capabilities worldwide
Alibaba Cloud recently launched its first Training Center in Singapore, partnering with Trainocate Singapore to offer courses on various subjects, including cloud computing and AI. The Center works to empower local customers, partners, and instructors with knowledge-sharing opportunities and organize events such as the recently held “AI’s Impact on the Education of Today’s Youth” — a roundtable attended by 25 professors from 15 universities in seven countries and regions, exploring the potential of university-industry cooperation in delivering crucial skill-building opportunities to students.
Alibaba Cloud Academy Skills Centers and Training Centers are offline hubs designed to enable people of all ages, professions, and walks of life to come together to discover the power of cloud computing and stay up-to-date on the latest technological advancements. Both Centers offer exhibits, free training, and specific courses to build in-demand job skills. The Skills Centers are designed for students still learning the basics, while Training Centers are tailored for professionals already engaged in the cloud computing industry, enabling them to enhance their skills further.
Skills Centers and Training Centers are Alibaba Cloud Academy’s latest initiative to improve digital training capabilities worldwide. It has launched six offline facilities in six markets, such as the Middle East, Malaysia, Thailand, and Hong Kong. In 2024, Alibaba Cloud plans to expand the reach of its Skills Centers and Training Centers to more markets in Asia and Europe.
Synology is transforming global customer service by integrating support AI into the entire process, significantly enhancing the efficiency and quality of support provided.
Vincent Tsai, director of Technical Service
“Synology provides comprehensive technical support, encompassing product usage inquiries, critical troubleshooting, and advisory for complex deployments.” said Vincent Tsai, director of Technical Service. “With the introduction of the new support AI, our goal is to substantially reduce response times for basic inquiries, thus enabling our technical support engineers to concentrate on addressing complex cases that demand immediate attention.”
Leveraging a Retrieval-Augmented Generation architecture, Synology’s support AI has access to anonymized technical materials and troubleshooting insight gained from Synology’s experience serving millions of customers worldwide. Further alignment and reinforcement learning processes ensure the response is high-quality, helpful, and self-improving.
With the introduction of Synology’s first-generation support AI, customers can anticipate a significantly faster support response time, improved by up to 20 times, leading to a more optimized service experience.
Synology at a Glance
Staying at the forefront of data management, Synology innovates and adapts to ever-evolving technologies, and continues bringing new possibilities to the table, including but not limited to solutions for data storage and backup, file collaboration, video management, and network infrastructure – all designed with one goal in mind – presenting a centralized platform to simplify IT administration while driving digital transformation for businesses worldwide. For more information, kindly visit: https://www.synology.com/en-sg
The PiXEL Loot Fair is a much-awaited event where creators, fans, and enthusiasts can gather at a marketplace of ideas. A cross between a convention and a conference for creators, the PIXEL Loot Fair will be happening from June 1 to June 2, 2024, 10 AM – 10 PMat Estancia Mall, Pasig City.
Content creation has grown to be a lucrative field in recent years, with the explosive rise of influencer marketing and the spread of short-form video content on social media platforms. Content creators have grown into a niche of their own, with them being branded as entrepreneurs, monetizing their interests, hobbies, and other aspects of their lives. It’s very much like running a business, and with that comes the challenge of balancing it all.
Eplayment brings a content aggregator platform, PIXEL, designed to help burgeoning creators manage their content and social media accounts to elevate monetization opportunities and build a community among fans and content creators. The platform hopes to further its goals at the first-ever PIXEL Loot Fair.
“We recognize that there is quite a lot of potential for content creators to monetize the ideas they bring to life,” Eplayment CEO Karlos Naidas states. “We hope that through this event, we can bring together creators and their fans so we can build a community and a safe space for creativity to thrive and be enjoyed.”
A number of fun and educational activities await those attending the PIXEL Loot Fair, from PIXEL Creator Chats, where on-stage interviews with PIXEL’s Partner Creators will be conducted. This is also an opportunity for fans and fellow creators to ask questions and win raffle prizes.
For those visiting the merchant booths, PIXEL’s donation feature will be accepted as a valid mode of payment, so both fans and creators can experience the seamless transfer of funds that PIXEL promises. A live auction for partner creators’ most prized possessions will be held as a way for fans to score a sentimental piece from their favorite creator.
An exciting cosplay runway will also happen to showcase talents and their personal branding and cosplaying skills on stage. AC Soriano, Kang Dupet, and Euleen Castro will surely have some goodies that fans will be happy to snag.
The PIXEL Loot Fair is open registration, and everyone is welcome to attend and meet the creators you love. This event is just the start of Eplayment’s many creator-centric programs to support the community, foster relationships within, and extend opportunities to aspiring creators.
Off-road SUV and crossover specialist BAIC, which made its public launch at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS,) is poised for rapid growth with the signing of eight major auto groups into the brand’s nationwide dealership network. These are: ANGs Automotive Group (Iloilo), Angcore Motor Group (Davao), AutoSpeedyGo Group (Marilao), Automotive Icon Inc. (Alabang), Autonomics Motor Corp (Tuguegarao), Laus Auto Group (Pampanga), Magnet Motors (Cagayan De Oro), and Oro Autoworld (Zamboanga). The dealerships are set to commence sales operations in June 2024.
The dealer partners were recognized at a signing ceremony held last May 22, 2024, at Cafe Aurora in Makati City. The onboarding of these seasoned automotive dealership groups is a clear testament to the trust and confidence extended towards BAIC and its official Philippine distributor, United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI).
“We are excited to mark this new growth in UAAGI’s nationwide dealership network, and we acknowledge the support of our roster of distinguished BAIC Philippines dealer partners,” says UAAGI chairman Rommel L. Sytin.
UAAGI and its dealers are positioned to introduce the BAIC brand to the Filipino motoring public with its impressive SUV lineup and advanced technology paired with UAAGI’s brand of specialized customer service,” said UAAGI Chairman Rommel Sytin.
Alongside UAAGI chairman Rommel Sytin, also present at the event were group managing director Froilan Dytianquin, chief marketing executive Lyn Manalansang Buena, and brand head and general manager Christopher David Yu.
“Having eight major dealer groups commit to our new brand is certainly an auspicious start for BAIC and UAAGI. We can’t wait for Filipinos to experience firsthand the characteristics and capabilities of our world-class SUV models,” remarked Dytianquin.
BAIC is a formidable player in the global market, boasting a diverse portfolio of products. Its esteemed status as a Fortune Global 500 company, ranking 193rd in 2023, is underscored by its performance as the third largest player in the Chinese automotive industry. With a vast network comprising over 360 sales and service outlets, the brand has cemented its global footprint across 30 countries spanning Asia, America, and Europe.
Setting BAIC apart from the burgeoning number of new automotive brands in the Philippines is its true 4×4 SUV models with genuine off-road capabilities and strong yet fuel-efficient diesel engines. These attributes will surely appeal to executives and entrepreneurs who live active lifestyles and who want and need large, spacious, high-riding diesel-powered SUVs for out-of-town trips. Millennials and Gen Zs will gravitate towards its lineup of stylish and equally capable crossovers.
The initial lineup of BAIC models introduced in the Philippine market will be composed of an all-SUV-and-crossover range. These are the B40 Ragnar, B60 Beaumont, B80 Wagon, which are all body-on-frame true SUVs, and the X55 Verve and X7 Grandeza monocoque crossovers.
All BAIC vehicles are made in the company’s world-class, state-of-the-art, fully automated plants in Shunyi, Beijing. These vehicles have contemporary styling and modern comfort, convenience, and safety features, while the higher-end models boast upscale features like huge touchscreen displays, automatic power tailgates, automatic LED headlamps, cruise control, Smart Key Entry System, power-adjustable seats, LCD instrument panel, panoramic sunroof, leather seats, 20″ alloy wheels, among many others. For safety and performance, higher BAIC models are complemented with multiple airbags as well as a full suite of advanced electronic driver-assist systems and sophisticated four-wheel drive systems. As a testament to BAIC’s quality, all BAIC automobiles come with a 5-year warranty.
For more info, visit BAIC Philippines’ Facebook and Instagram pages or its website, www.baic.ph.
The highly anticipated Cyberzone Challenger Series is back, bigger and better than ever! eSports enthusiasts gathered at the Annex Event Center in SM City North EDSA on May 25-26, 2024, for a thrilling weekend of gaming activities.
Hosted by Cyberzone, the Philippines’ largest IT retail hub, and presented by realme, with PC Express as co-presenter and powered by PLDT Home, this two-day event marked the successful start of the 2024 series. Over the years, the Cyberzone Challenger Series has become a cornerstone of the Philippine eSports scene, providing aspiring gamers with a platform to showcase their skills and achieve glory. Cyberzone’s unwavering support for the local gaming community underscores its commitment to nurturing Filipino gaming talent.
Strategic Battles and Electrifying Gameplay
Elevated strategic plays and electrifying matches surely kept last weekend’s participants on the edge of their seats with Tekken 8 1v1 Mini Challenge and Call of Duty Warzone ‘Solo Yolo’. The F1 Racing Challenge saw racers vying for the fastest lap times, while the nostalgic Tetris game offered millennials and ’90s kids a chance to relive their childhood memories and win prizes.
Both online and onsite gaming lineups were packed with excitement, as individuals and teams battled for top spots and impressive rewards. The Call of Duty Mobile and Valorant tournaments were the highlights of the event, with winners taking home a total of PHP60,000 in cash prizes. The champions of these tournaments were:
CODM Tournament
Champion: SKADI
2nd Place: Team Star Magic
3rd Place: THANATOS
Valorant Tournament
Champion: Bestial Esports
2nd Place: Tyrant Esports
3rd Place: No Org
The gaming community had a glimpse of the latest gaming products on display as well, and more #TechAssured items designed to enhance their gaming experience.
Upcoming Events for Gamers and eSports Enthusiasts
Mark your calendars and get ready to witness more epic battles! Get your teams together and don’t miss your next chance to have fun, meet other gamers, and win big.
The Cyberzone Challenger Series 2024 offers more thrilling events for both gamers and esports fans. The 2nd leg of the Cyberzone Challenger Series happens on August 2 to 4 at SM Mall of Asia, Music Hall, and the final run in October.
Stay updated on the newest gadgets and competitive tech deals by visiting Cyberzone at an SM Mall near you or through the SM Malls Online app. For the latest tech news and gaming event information, including the Cyberzone Challenger Series and Cyberzone Mobile Mania, follow SM Cyberzone on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or by visiting its website at www.smcyberzone.com.
Don’t miss out on the action—#CheckCyberzone for all your tech and gaming needs!
Brix Leonard Ivan M. Bernardino, a student from Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya, has been named the winner of the vivo Nightography Challenge. Announced last May 23, Bernardino will receive a vivo V30 Pro 5G co-engineered with ZEISS, as his prize.
It’s been an exciting journey for all photography enthusiasts! The vivo Nightography Challenge garnered significant attention from photophiles across the Philippines, with numerous snapshots captured using vivo smartphones.
Looking back on the entries, it was a close competition with many photos under the hashtag #vivoUnrivaledNightography, making the challenge memorable with stunning portraits and landscapes worthy of recognition.
The winning entry of #vivoUnrivaledNightography was shot on vivo V27
A Medical Laboratory Science college student, Bernardino’s passion for photography began at a young age. He finds joy in taking photos with his phone. He enjoys being creative with his shots and keeps pictures as cherished mementos.
You can check some of his photographs using vivo V27 below:
The triumphant #vivoUnrivaledChallenge journey
In an exclusive interview with vivo, Bernardino shared that he joined the #vivoUnrivaledChallenge to showcase entries he captured using his vivo V27 smartphone, which he has been using since June 2023.
The 21-year-old was motivated to join the Nightography Challenge because he aspired to win the vivo V30 Pro and was confident in the impressive photo quality of his vivo V27.
When asked about his favorite feature of the vivo V27, he highlighted the 50MP main camera with a Sony IMX766V sensor, which allowed him to take better photographs without the need for editing. He credited his vivo device for enhancing his mobile photography skills.
Regarding his thoughts on winning the contest, he expressed, “I was thrilled and excited about winning the challenge because I wasn’t expecting to be chosen. I still can’t believe I won. It kept me awake the whole night. But I am so grateful and happy.”
According to Bernardino, he is looking forward to holding his vivo V30 Pro 5G to try its ZEISS Triple Main Camera and take portraits. He also shared that he will still continue to take photos and post them online.
Before concluding the interview, the Nightography Challenge winner shared that he’s hoping for vivo to continue to push the limits of mobile photography by exploring different lighting, angles, and creative techniques. He is also encouraging vivo users to inspire more people to view the world through their eyes using their smartphones. Congratulations to Brix Leonard Ivan M. Bernardino and all participants for making the vivo Nightography Challenge a success!
Make sure to follow vivo’s official Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X pages to not miss out on their next campaigns and be the next one to bring home a brand new vivo smartphone.
Don’t forget to visit vivo’s official website to be updated with their latest smartphone releases.
