ZTE Corporation, a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, successfully concluded its ZTE Day 2024 exhibition. Under the theme ‘Unfolding the Intelligent Future,‘ ZTE showcased a comprehensive portfolio of ICT products and solutions, featuring 5G wireless, transmission, fixed network, maintenance solutions, and terminals.
Huang Lisheng, chief marketing officer of ZTE Southeast Asia MKT Department, delivers his opening speech at ZTE Day Philippines 2024, held at Shangri-La The Fort in Manila.
Huang Lisheng, chief marketing officer of ZTE Southeast Asia MKT Department, emphasized in his opening speech, ZTE’s continued collaboration with Philippine operators, focusing on ICT infrastructure construction and expanding the application scenarios of digital intelligence. Mr. Lisheng reiterated ZTE’s commitment to bringing a superior network experience to users.
Lisheng also conveyed to its telco partners that ZTE will continue “to make high-intensity research and development investments in the ‘connectivity and computing power’ technology, continuously innovating toward underlying core technologies and maintaining leading competitiveness in key products.”
ZTE Day 2024 featured sessions on global technology trends, including RAN superior efficiency, terabit era transport networks, FTTx evolution, extensive computing infrastructure, green site and green energy, intelligent modular data centers, and new smart home solutions.
ZTE exhibited its latest technologies and solutions tailored to DITO’s needs and expressed increased support for boosting the telcos’ brand value.
Rodolfo Santiago, chief technology officer of DITO Telecommunity, delivers his keynote speech at the ZTE Day Philippines 2024, held at Shangri-La The Fort in Manila, emphasizing the milestones of ZTE and DITO Telecom’s partnership.
At the ZTE Day 2024 event, Rodolfo Santiago, chief technology officer of DITO Telecommunity expressed gratitude for the network’s recent milestone as the number one mobile network, mentioning that its collaborative efforts with ZTE contributed to the recognition that the network has received in the past year.
DITO Telecommunity plans to continue its goal of shaping the future of intelligence and connectivity to converge and revolutionize how Filipinos live, work, and interact. This can be done through collaboration with ZTE Philippines’ cutting-edge solution technologies.
According to Santiago, “Working hand in hand, we can leverage the latest technical advancements to deliver smooth connectivity to our subscribers. Looking ahead, the opportunities for collaboration between DITO and ZTE are boundless.” The network also expressed continued collaboration with ZTE in building a network where “every individual, regardless of their location or background, can have access to seamless and intelligent connectivity” that will help enrich lives and empower them in this digital age.
With a steadfast focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, ZTE is committed to shaping the future of telecommunications through advanced technologies, strategic partnerships, and exceptional service. By strengthening its collaboration with DITO, ZTE is poised to explore new technologies and solutions, enhancing the digital life experience for the people of the Philippines.
Suzuki Philippines kicks-off the Suzuki Scooterista Fiesta Festival 2024, bringing together scooter enthusiasts across the country. This series of events aims to celebrate the growing scooter community and highlight the diverse range of Suzuki’s automatic motorcycles.
Capiztahan in Roxas City
The Suzuki Scooterista Fiesta Festival commenced in April at the Capiztahan Festival in Roxas City, Capiz, from April 29 to May 1, 2024. This event featured a dazzling display of Suzuki scooters, exclusive deals for scooter purchases, and a free test ride zone.
To bring more fun to the event, Suzuki also brought Suzuki scooter owner Reed Motovlog who celebrated the festivities with fellow riders. Other highlights were the Ms. Suzuki Capiztahan and the Suzuki Battle of the Bands with a live concert.
The Suzuki Scooterista Fiesta Festival then shifted gears and headed to Calapan, Mindoro for a special “Rider’s Day” celebration on May 5, 2024. The event attracted an impressive 3,550 motorcycle riders who enjoyed the same exciting activities as the Capiztahan leg, including the scooter display, free test rides, and an informative safety & training riding seminar, held by Suzuki Safety Riding Section Head Noel Villapando.
Kneeling Carabao Festival in Pulilan, Bulacan
Continuing the celebration of the Suzuki Scooterista Festival 2024, the Bulacan leg was held in Pulilan, Bulacan on May 13 and 14, 2024. The festivities coincided with the town’s renowned “Kneeling Carabao Festival.”
The event featured a massive Suzuki scooter motorcade, display and test ride zone for the latest Suzuki scooter models, and FREE ECM (Engine Control Module) upgrade offered exclusively for Suzuki Burgman Street, Burgman Street EX, and Avenis owners. Festivalgoers were also treated to a special guest appearance by well-known motorcycle content creator and Suzuki Burgman Street owner Motor ni Juan. The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the chance to witness the unique and colorful Kneeling Carabao Parade, a truly immersive cultural experience.
General Tire, debuting at the 2024 Trans Sport Show, is re-entering the Philippine market under YHI Philippines, Inc., an importer and distributor of automotive products, tires, wheels, lubricants, and industrial batteries, among others.
With the rise of all things overlanding comes an American tire brand with over 100 years of manufacturing experience, dating back 1915 from the town of Ohio. With this solid history, this brand has become one of the most trusted names in the global automotive industry.
Jason Delloso, general manager of YHI Philippines, talked about their vision when it comes to the brand’s progression in the country, “It will be our mission to carry on the brand’s legacy. We are looking forward to growing General Tire’s market share with the initial lineup of products, as we anticipate additional tire models in the future. The brand’s advancement is guided by our strong drive to market new sizes and patterns that will cater to a larger audience in the local SUV and 4×4 scene.”
The event was graced by Jimmy He, senior manager for international business development YHI International Limited, who shared the longstanding presence of the brand worldwide. “General Tires stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. It has a brand history of more than 100 years, with diverse success stories proven in the US. It is our honor to bring this distinguished brand into the Philippines as a part of our important tire portfolio,” said He.
Continental, the company that took General Tire under its wing in 1987, has been expanding its reach in Asia Pacific, with a true testament of commitment that is signified by its brand new manufacturing plant in Thailand. Jaey Wang, Continental’s head of sales and marketing for Asia Pacific Export Markets proudly said, “As we established one of the most technologically advanced plants in APAC, we are now able to supply the best quality General Tire products with a shorter lead time”. This means that the Philippine market is about to enjoy an extensive range of tires from the brand as the country’s Overlanding community expands significantly year after year.
From right to left: Jimmy He, senior manager for International Business Development – YHI International Limited. Jason Delloso, general manager of YHI Philippines.
General Tire is best known for its SUV and pickup tire technology that delivers unmatched performance across all types of terrains. No matter the adventure, the brand has a match for you.
With handling and comfort as the priority, the Grabber HT6 gives the driver the best experience on the highway. It is recommended for everyday use and is most reliable for the urban lifestyle.
For those with an ultimately dynamic lifestyle, the Grabber AT6 highlights adaptability and provides all-terrain toughness that does not sacrifice on-road comfort. It offers exceptional off-road traction across rough environments and cruises enjoyably with its low-noise highway performance.
With its all-terrain studdable and symmetric patterns, the Grabber A/Tx is the set that really means business for all overlanding enthusiasts. This next-generation, aggressive all-terrain tire provides exceptional off-road capability and durability. Carrying a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake badge, this tire is certified to perform exceptionally in all weather conditions.
Fitted for extreme adventures, the Grabber X3 will conquer the roughest conditions for SUVs and trucks that are meant to play in the wild. Designed to grip mud, dirt, and rocks, this is the weekend companion that will never dampen your thirst for thrills!
General Tire is now available nationwide via Wheel Gallery, Gears, Tri-J Marketing in Cebu, and PowerPoint Enterprises in Cagayan De Oro. As part of its Philippine expansion, General Tire is open to interested tire dealers and aftermarket shops that wish to offer the brand in their respective areas.
For inquiries on how to become a dealer, you may contact (0917) 854 2985.
In the realm of entertainment, whether it be game nights, events, or casual get-togethers, making decisions can often become a point of contention. From choosing what game to play next to deciding who goes first, these seemingly minor decisions can sometimes stall the fun. Enter the world of decision-making tools. These tools can introduce a fun, fair, and efficient way to make decisions, ensuring that the focus remains on enjoyment and engagement.
Why Use Decision-Making Tools?
Decision-making tools are not only practical but also add an element of excitement to any event. They eliminate biases and ensure that everyone feels included in the decision-making process, fostering a more engaging and harmonious environment. By introducing these tools, hosts and participants can avoid potential conflicts and keep the momentum going.
Number Randomizer
This is a digital tool designed to randomly select numbers within a specified range. These tools are often available as mobile apps, online services, or standalone software. They can be used for a variety of purposes, from simple tasks like picking a raffle winner to more complex applications in data analysis and simulations. The beauty of a number randomizer lies in its versatility. At its core, it generates random numbers without any human bias, making it an excellent tool for decision-making in both casual and professional environments. Whether you’re determining the order of players in a board game or selecting a random sample for a research study, this tool can simplify and streamline the process.
Coin Flips
The simplicity and timelessness of a coin flip make it an enduring method for making quick decisions. A single flip of a coin yielding a heads or tails result can instantly resolve a dispute or choice. This method is often employed when there are only two possible outcomes, such as determining who goes first or settling a tiebreaker. Digital versions are also available, making it easy to perform a coin flip with the tap of a button. Coin flipping is ideal for moments when a quick, clear decision is needed without any room for bias or favoritism.
Dice Rolls
Dice rolls are a straightforward yet versatile decision-making tool. Traditional six-sided dice can be used to determine numbers or actions, but multi-sided dice, like those used in role-playing games, offer even more options. Rolling dice can add an element of chance to decision-making, making it suitable for a wide range of scenarios— from deciding player order in board games to selecting a random number for a raffle. Digital dice-rolling applications are available for those who want a quick and easy solution without the need for physical dice. The tactile nature and randomness of dice rolling make it both a practical and entertaining way to make decisions.
Polling and Voting Systems
Polling and voting systems provide a democratic approach to decision-making, allowing participants to have their say on a particular issue or choice. These systems can be as simple as raising hands or as sophisticated as using electronic polling tools. In large gatherings or organized events, digital polling platforms like Poll Everywhere or Mentimeter enable real-time voting, showing instant results for greater transparency. This method is especially effective in scenarios that require collective agreement or community input, ensuring that the decision reflects the majority’s preference. By incorporating polling and voting systems, organizers can facilitate fair and inclusive decision-making processes.
Random Question Generators
For trivia nights, interviews, icebreakers, or even educational settings, random question generators can be incredibly beneficial. These tools generate questions randomly from a predefined list or database, making it easy to keep engagements fresh and dynamic. In an educational context, teachers can use random question generators to quiz students, ensuring that every student has an equal opportunity to participate. In social settings, these generators can help kickstart conversations and interactions, breaking the ice and creating a lively atmosphere. The spontaneity introduced by random question generators keeps participants on their toes, fostering a fun and engaging environment. For example, during a game night, a random question generator can be used to generate trivia questions or icebreaker prompts between rounds of gameplay.
Decision-making tools, whether digital or physical, play a pivotal role in enhancing the enjoyment and fairness of various activities. From number randomizers and spinning wheels to coin flips and polling systems, each tool brings its unique flair to the decision-making process. They not only ensure impartiality but also add an extra layer of excitement and engagement to any setting. By integrating these tools into your events, game nights, or social gatherings, you can create a more inclusive and dynamic atmosphere where everyone feels involved and valued. Embrace these tools, and you’ll find that making decisions can be just as fun as the activities themselves. So go ahead, introduce an element of randomness, and watch your events come to life with anticipation and joy.
Leaders of Philippine Cybersecurity and Data Protection Communities of Practice attending the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Technical Working Group joint meeting highlight the urgency for all government and private sector organizations to work in harmony together to fight against cyber threats in the Asia region.
“A harmonious whole-of-Asia and whole-of-society approach to fight cyber threats in the region has to be orchestrated among government and private sector leaders in ASEAN and Japan, along with other countries in the region,” Lito Averia, president of the Philippine Computer Emergency Response Team (PH-CERT) said. “Asian countries face the same threats, and all countries attending confirmed that their respective government’s digital infrastructure along with Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) are also being attacked constantly by international and even local threat actors,” Averia added.
“The constantly increasing cyber attacks on government digital ecosystems and CIIs call for nations in the Asia region to establish concrete solutions such as an Information Exchange Network which will serve as a cyber weather station that will receive, verify, then send out threat alerts to everyone that will be impacted in the region,” Sam Jacoba, founding president of the National Association of Data Protection Officers of the Philippines (NADPOP), and PH-CERT Vice President explained. ”In parallel, each country should continue to produce new cybersecurity professionals and to upskill current cybersecurity and information security personnel that are already working in government and private organizations,” Jacoba further said.
For the Philippines, PH-CERT and NADPOP estimate that the country needs 180,000 trained and validated cybersecurity professionals to fight cyber threats and proactively and effectively protect its CIIs. Both communities added that the Philippines also needs a similar number of Data Privacy and Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) trained and validated professionals.
PH-CERT and NADPOP are also attending the fifth board meeting of the newly-formed ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Community Alliance (AJCCA), which is a community event happening alongside the 2024 2nd ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Working Group Meeting, organized and hosted by the government of Cambodia.
The 2nd Joint Government-Industry-Academia (J-GIA) CA meeting between AJCCA and government cybersecurity representatives from ASEAN and Japan, highlights the importance of harmonious collaboration among countries in the region, focusing on the five pillars of the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) published by the United Nations International Telecommunications Union (ITU). The five cybersecurity pillars are the following: Legal, Technical, Organizational, Capacity Building, and Cooperation.
Averia and Jacoba shared that joint initiatives between the government and private sector to fight cyber threats will be rolling out soon as the main output of these quarterly regional meetings. These initiatives can address the main gaps in the GCI Cybersecurity Pillars for each country and the whole region as well.
“When government and private sector organizations work hand-in-hand to fight cyber threats, citizens will benefit the most,” Averia stressed. “We already see the positive dynamics and impact of this cybersecurity community in the region.”
“What is emerging through these meetings is a regional force for good that will serve as a shield for countries and citizens against threat actors, who are now using AI in their attacks.” Jacoba added. “We are inviting all active Communities of Practice in the region to collaborate with our regional community, the AJCCA, as threat actors are also organized in their actions. During these times, we truly need a whole-of-region, whole-of-society, and even whole-of-community cooperation to effectively fight cyber threats.”
There’s something about smart bands that resonate with me. Beyond being a fitness tracker, its small form factor makes it a joy to wear for everyday use. There’s also the connectivity between your phone and the band to allow you to monitor your notifications and messages. But what really gets me is the number of health monitors fitted on such a small device. Samsung has done that and more in their latest smart band, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3.
Design: 4/5
The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has a pretty straightforward design. The main unit has a 1.6-inch display, which is covered by a 2.5D glass design (slightly curved). The body is aluminum, making it lighter than most similar devices. The dimensions are 42.9 x 28.8 x 9.9mm, weighing around 18.5g (just the device) to 36.8g (with straps).
The 1.6-inch display is AMOLED with a 256 x 402 resolution. There’s no brightness indicated on the spec sheet, but during testing, the display was visible even under direct sunlight. The bigger display was a joy to use, especially when reading messages. There are big bezels around the display, but it’s surprisingly hard to spot immediately, thanks to the 2.5D glass design of the display
The Samsung Galaxy Fit3’s display is a touch screen. Navigation was fairly easy and returning to the watch face was no problem with the home button on the side. If you’re a lefty who wears their watch on their right hand, Samsung has got your back. You can set the device display to cater to right-hand wear with the home button still pointing outward.
Underneath the main device, you’ll find the main bulk of sensors and the strap release button. Samsung is selling different color variants of straps, but no metallic strap or any other strap variation is available.
The whole device is also waterproof, with an IP rating of IP68 and an ATM rating of 5 ATM. This means water exercises are no problem with the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3.
I would say the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is alright in the looks department. The main unit is only available in the color grey. Our unit came with a silver strap, which surprisingly was easy to fit into whatever outfit I needed to wear.
Hardware: 4.5/5
Samsung has updated the Galaxy Fit3 with some neat new features that are otherwise found in much more expensive devices.
Starting with the sensor, the Galaxy Fit3 is equipped with an Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Optical Heart Rate Sensor, and Light Sensor. I would have hoped for an ECG with it, but I guess Samsung has reserved that for the more premium Galaxy Watch line.
What it does have, which most budget bands do not, is the fall sensor. The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has a fall detection feature that can call and send a location to your emergency contact. The device will also display your registered medical information for first responders — pretty handy for users of all ages.
Regarding connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 only connects via Bluetooth 5.3. It does not have GPS, WiFi, or NFC capabilities. Despite the lack of built-in GPS, it can use your phone’s GPS to track your daily runs/jogs.
As for the battery, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 has a 208mAh battery. Samsung has rated the battery to last 13 days, depending on your use case. In testing, I found that with the Always-on-Display turned on and around 80 % brightness, the watch lasted around a week. If you do run out of juice it’s fairly quick to charge, going from 0-65% in just 30 minutes and fully charged in around an hour. For those looking to get a Galaxy Fit3, just make sure you have a type-C charger with you as the propriety magnetic charger is only available as Type-C instead of regular USB-A.
User Experience: 4.5/5
When I first saw the Samsung Galaxy Fit3, I was a bit skeptical. I was particularly concerned with the display. Before receiving our demo unit, I thought the display was too big for a smart band and would be too heavy or oversized so that wrist movement would be impaired.
Fortunately, when I was offered to review the Galaxy Fit3, all my skepticism was quashed. The display is actually a good size. It’s not too big that it impaired wrist movement, nor was it heavy. The rectangular shape was actually great for reading notifications and short messages. You didn’t have to scroll as much nor fiddle around just to get to the reply options.
Setting up the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 was easy, even if you don’t have a Samsung smartphone. Simply get the Galaxy Wear App and Samsung Health App, and you’re good to go. The device pairs via Bluetooth and utilizes Samsung Health to fully display the details of your activities on your phone.
One of the highlights of the Samsung Health App is sleep tracking. When you track your sleep with the Galaxy Fit3, the app provides insights on improving your sleep. But what I think sets it apart is how they do it. After completing a week’s sleep, the Samsung Health App assigns you a sleep animal that tells you about your sleep routine. I think it’s a cute way to be motivated to track your sleep schedule as you try to collect the animals.
The Galaxy Fit3 has over 101 recognized workouts. You can immediately access workouts when you double-tap the home button. The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 also has an automatic workout detection, meaning the watch recognizes when you start working out and immediately starts its tracking.
As for customizability, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is powered by Samsung’s own UI. While it doesn’t have WearOS’ versatility, Samsung still made an effort to make the device as customizable as possible. You can choose from over 100 watch faces and even create your own with your pictures. The tiles can be removed or replaced by tiles you’d usually use. Finally, you can customize the quick panel to easily access your most used features or apps.
Value: 3.5/5
Coming in at just PHP3,490, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 offers a lot for its value. The larger display has been a favorite upgrade for me. While it does not have the bells and whistles of more expensive smartwatches, it does more than the average smart band. Plus, fall detection and emergency calls are huge lifesavers and, I think, necessary features for the future.
The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is available on Samsung’s website as well as Samsung official stores and retailers.
Thinking about a vehicle that tackles business needs and conquers long hauls? Look no further than the Bajaj Maxima Z! See how it performed in terms of fuel efficiency, durability, and comfort in the grueling Cavite Endurance Challenge of YouTubers Mac Creus and Going Giddy.
Incomparable Fuel Efficiency
The challenging 700km route only took three full tanks for the Bajaj Maxima Z! Thanks to its Fuel Injection (FI) system and 8L tank capacity, it can go further with less fuel. Significant savings on gasoline expenses can also increase income for business owners.
Unparalleled Durability
Bajaj Maxima Z proves that other than big bikes and motorcycles, three-wheelers can finish an endurance challenge. No matter how harsh the road conditions in Quezon Province or the steepness of inclines in Ternate, Cavite, its durability can keep up, thanks to its heavy-duty CV shaft and dual front fork suspension. Also, loads and cargo up to 365kgs will surely be delivered in good condition with its 236.22cc engine.
Unmatched Comfort
As Going Giddy said, “Hindi mahalaga kung sinong nakatapos [endurance race], ang mahalaga kung sinong nakapag pahinga.”
The duo of Mac Creus and Going Giddy took 18 hours to finish the challenge, with all the resting and sleeping they did brought about by the foldable flexi seats of the Bajaj Maxima Z. Its 60:40 flexi seating advantage can also help the multi-purpose discharge for PUV use and business. Even on a day full of deliveries, the Bajaj Maxima Z will give you the comfort you need to drive your hustle.
Mac Creus and Going Giddy prove the multi-purpose capabilities of the Bajaj Maxima Z for business and endurance. It is available for a low downpayment of PHP25,000. Visit www.bajaj.com.ph to check the nearest authorized dealer shop Click on this link: https://bit.ly/inquirebajajthree-wheelernow for inquiries.
Buy any model of Bajaj Three-wheeler NOW for a chance to win the BAJAJ MAXIMA CARGO on Bajaj Dagdag Kabuhayan Raffle Promo.
International insurtech firm discovermarket has entered the Philippine market in partnership with Globe Telecom Inc., the leading Filipino telco, to launch a new embedded Personal Cyber Insurance product.
Based in Switzerland and with Southeast Asia regional headquarters in Singapore, discovermarket provides embedded insurance solutions to over 200 million customers across diverse industries, including hospitality, agriculture, and telecommunications.
While the Philippines has seen exponential growth in mobile and internet users and its digital economy, therein lies the rise of cybercrimes. An increase in such cases was reported in the first quarter of 2024 alone, with 4,469 cases compared to 3,668 cases in the same period last year.
In light of the situation, Globe has been taking active measures to clamp down and bolster its cyber security capabilities by investing in such solutions. With this partnership with discovermarket, the company is now able to provide unique insurance products for customers of their core connectivity products, by leveraging discovermarket’s innovative embedded insurance solution.
The new cyber retail product covers Globe’s Platinum customers from online identity theft, online shopping fraud, and internet payment transaction fraud up to PHP100,000. The coverage also provides claims assistance service in the event of a cyber incident. The product will be made available for new and re-contracting Globe Platinum subscribers who hold Plan 3799, Plan 4999, and Plan 7999.
“Having this partnership with Globe has been a great privilege for us,” said Patrick Bühler, CEO and founder of discovermarket. “By providing a hassle-free and digital-first experience, we are able to help Globe provide innovative insurance products as a safeguard for their users. As the digital presence of Filipino consumers continues to grow, it is crucial that there are comprehensive measures for everyone to be sufficiently protected from malicious cyber-attacks.”
“We appreciate this partnership we have with discovermarket as we are now able to deliver effective protection solutions through a digital operating model that adds value for our subscribers,” commented Mark Pasaylo, head and director, The Platinum Brand, Globe. “The new embedded CyberInsurance products demonstrate Globe’s commitment to ensure the safety of our subscribers’ online presence, giving them peace of mind when they go about their various activities on their smart devices.”
discovermarket’s core goal is to provide insurance products to the underserved segments of the community. This is achieved through its low transaction costs to tap into these market segments, offering embedded insurance products that are affordable, thereby improving accessibility to insurance. discovermarket’s marketplace-as-a-service platform also functions as a one-stop marketplace for ecosystem partners seeking digital insurance solutions. Partners can simply select from a variety of brokers, insurers, and prevention providers to create diverse insurance propositions and customize their embedded insurance journeys.
Following the partnership with Globe, discovermarket aims to expand its reach in the Philippines. With cyber products as a key priority, it plans to expand Cyber Insurance offerings for not just consumers, but businesses as well. In addition, discovermarket is also actively looking for opportunities to offer solutions that foster financial inclusion by working with the relevant ecosystem partners.
The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the Department of Agriculture (DA), in collaboration with the toll expressway concessionaires and operators of CAVITEX, NLEX, SCTEX, MCX, and SLEX, officially launched the Agri-Trucks Toll Rebate Program. This program, which will take effect on June 1, 2024, allows DA-accredited truckers transporting agricultural goods/products to receive toll rebates equivalent to the recent enumerated toll increases.
“This toll rebate program aims to protect the welfare of the general public by minimizing the impact of toll rate increase on the overall inflationary situation to ensure the stability of food prices. The TRB, together with the different government agencies, acknowledges the toll expressway concessionaires and operators for their full support and cooperation as this will not be possible if they did not agree to implement this exemption,” said TRB Executive Director Atty. Alvin A. Carullo
To qualify for the toll fee increase exemption, agri-trucks should be duly accredited by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and should have valid Autosweep and/or Easytrip RFID accounts.
Toll Rebate Program Enrollment Process:
1. Register RFID Account:
For Easytrip RFID account holders (NLEX, SCTEX and CAVITEX users), visit:
NLEX Balintawak Customer Service Center
CAVITEX Parañaque Customer Service Center
For Autosweep RFID account holders (SLEX and MCX users), visit:
C5 Office
Petron Commerce
Petron KM 44 Northbound
Calamba Customer Service Center
SLEX Greenfields
Southwoods Northbound
Southwoods Southbound
Sta. Rosa Northbound
Sta. Rosa Southbound
Star Toll Lipa Customer Service Center
Tarlac Customer Service Center
2. Submit/present requirements:
Original Department of Agriculture (DA) accreditation certificate
Copy of the vehicle’s OR/CR (Official Receipt/Certificate of Registration)
Valid ID
Easytrip/Autosweep card
3. Fill out the Agricultural Trucks Toll Fee Increase Exemption Form provided by the Customer Service Center personnel.
Submitted documents will undergo a verification process within 7 working days. Enrollees will be notified of their enrollment status via their registered email addresses.
Once approved, agri-truckers will enjoy a toll rebate that will be credited to their RFID accounts every Wednesday of the following week. As part of monitoring and to prevent abuse, spot checks will be conducted to ensure enrolled trucks are transporting agricultural goods/products. Non-compliance may result in disqualification from the program.
The toll rebate program will initially run for three months, subject to evaluation for possible extension. For queries on the DA accreditation process, agri-truck owners may call the DA Hotline (02) 8920-4072.
Smart Communications, Inc. warns customers to double-check URLs or links that are included in unsolicited SMS, even those supposedly coming from the network itself. Smart reminds its customers that its legitimate domain is https://www.smart.com.ph and any other iteration is fake. Smart also reiterates that its official domain ends with ‘.com.ph’.
“We remind our customers to carefully inspect and check URLs before opening them. Criminals often use spellings very close to legitimate domains to deceive customers into thinking they’re opening official websites,” said Cathy Yang, FVP and group head of Corporate Communications, PLDT and Smart.
Smart has recently denied owning the domain ‘smart-com-ph’ that was used in the fake ‘rewards’ text scam. Scammers used the fake domain to lead the victims to a fake site mimicking the Smart website, stealing the victims’ sensitive information. Smart has since blocked the phishing domain, along with similarly crafted domain names, from its network.
Additionally, Smart reminds customers that rewards points can only be redeemed via the Smart App. Smart likewise stresses that it will never ask for credit card information or require payment to redeem rewards points.
PLDT and Smart have boosted efforts to protect customers from scammers. In the first four months this year, PLDT Group has prevented more than 16 million SMShing messages from reaching customers. Smart also blacklisted more than 333,000 mobile numbers tied to scams and phishing activities from its network in the same period.
If you receive suspicious messages or calls, please report them to [email protected] or to the verified social media pages — Smart Communications on Facebook and @SmartCares on X — or call the hotline *888.
Leading mobility company Astara Philippines recently led the inauguration of the GAC MOTOR dealership in Iloilo City, Western Visayas. Headlining the inaugural event was the launch of the M6 Pro MPV and the M8 MPV, marking their arrival and the beginning of retail sales in Iloilo City.
GAC Motor Iloilo is owned and operated by Ang Automotive Inc. Located at 38 Luna Street, La Paz, Iloilo City, the showroom can display up to 6 vehicles, providing customers with a comprehensive showcase of the automotive brand’s extraordinary lineup.
The GAC Motor Iloilo facility is a full 3S dealership, with an operational service shop featuring a workbay with diagnostic equipment for use with GAC vehicles. The facility has an available stock of genuine parts, ensuring fast and dependable after-sales service for all GAC MOTOR vehicle owners.
“The arrival of our two new MPV superstars through our dealership in Iloilo is our response to the warm and strong reception of the Ilonggo community to the brand.
Together with Ang Automotive, we at Astara Philippines are dedicated to strengthening GAC’s brand presence and providing unwavering, top-quality service further in Iloilo,” said Franz Decloedt, brand head of GAC MOTOR, Astara Philippines.
Antonio L. Ang, president of Ang Automotive Inc. expressed their enthusiasm about the opening of GAC Motor Iloilo, remarking: “We are thrilled to welcome the M6 Pro and M8 to our lineup of offerings here in GAC Motor Iloilo. These two new vehicles will surely delight our customers and complement our guarantee of delivering top-quality cars and service to all.”
The seven-seater GAC M6 Pro is a masterclass in MPV design. It integrates safety, comfort, and practicality in a versatile vehicle that fulfills its passengers’ mobility needs. It can be a daily-driving family mover through urban jungles, a transport solutions provider for growing small to medium enterprises, or an adaptable command center for adventurers on open roads.
The premium seven-seater M8 was meticulously crafted to offer the epitome of comfort and convenience to discerning customers who prioritize luxury, style, and practicality in their driving experience. It is outfitted with indulgent amenities such as middle-row captain’s chairs with massage functionality, a multi-panel SRS airbag system, auto air-conditioning with fragrance system, and more.
Decloedt further added: “This summer of 2024 opens up more avenues for GAC Motor Philippines to empower more Filipino families, enterprises, and communities throughout the country through our brand’s state-of-the-art and high-performance vehicles, as we welcome more vehicle launches and dealership locations in the months to come.”
GAC Motor remains on track to reach 35 dealer locations by the end of 2024, with new locations set to open this year.
Customers are invited to visit the official GAC Motor Philippines website and social media channels to discover the full range of models and know more about GAC MOTOR’s exceptional offerings:
Skyro, a fast-growing fintech brand in the Philippines, has officially launched its new credit line product, Skyro Pocket. This latest offering from the brand provides customers with a swift and convenient payment solution, enabling them to shop at any QR Ph-enabled merchants nationwide.
Skyro Pocket serves as a flexible line of virtual credit provided exclusively to existing Skyro customers, offering personalized limits and accessible through the Skyro app. These credit limits can be further increased based on the customer’s timely repayment patterns and track record.
This new feature is compatible with a wide range of QR Ph codes, enabling customers to conveniently make payments at any store. Whether it’s a printed or virtual QR code, Skyro Pocket accommodates both modalities. This compatibility extends to popular e-payment platforms such as GCash, Maya, or BDO QR codes, ensuring integration with various merchants and payment systems.
Arsen Liametov, co-founder and co-CEO of Skyro, shared his excitement: “Skyro Pocket empowers our customers to shop with ease, flexibility, and peace of mind while rewarding responsible financial behavior. We at Skyro are committed to pushing the boundaries of financial technology, empowering users and the Filipino community to thrive in today’s digital economy.”
Eligible customers may enjoy an interest-free period of up to 45 days, allowing convenient repayments without incurring charges. For those with remaining balances, the customers may opt to have a minimum payment equal to 10 percent of their credit limit. Additionally, customers can make a free deposit once every month to settle their credit line balance, with subsequent deposits each incurring a nominal transaction fee of PHP25.
Access Skyro Pocket in just a few easy steps:
Navigate to the Skyro app and locate the Skyro Pocket feature.
Review the loan agreement and confirm by checking the box.
Click the “Sign the Agreement” button and enter the SMS code received on your registered mobile number.
Sergey Donskikh, Skyro’s head of customer experience, underscored the company’s dedication to delivering financial solutions that elevate both financial management and the shopping journey. He expressed, “At Skyro, ensuring seamless and innovative financial solutions is central to our mission. We’re committed to providing a satisfying customer experience that transcends mere financial transactions, extending to enhancing their overall shopping experience as well.”
Skyro Pocket users may also enjoy the first six months free of charge, followed by a nominal fee of PHP59 per month thereafter.
Skyro is a fintech company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). To learn more about digital financial products from Skyro, visit its official website www.skyro.ph. Follow its official Facebook and Instagram accounts to know more about its latest promos and offerings.
CIMB Bank Philippines, the most awarded digital-only commercial bank in the country, recently launched the first-ever CIMB Pinoy Mavericks Awards. The awards honor inspiring stories of triumph after travail while also promoting financial inclusion and social responsibility.
“We believe in celebrating the triumphs of everyday people who have overcome challenges and adversities to achieve extraordinary results and are exemplary contributors to their own communities,” said CIMB Bank PH CEO Vijay Manoharan.
“Through the Pinoy Mavericks Awards, we hope to inspire, empower, and ignite the spark within more of our fellow Pinoys to overcome their perceived limitations, make an impact on their communities, and truly pursue their purpose with the help of CIMB Bank,” he shared. “This is very much in line with our mission as a Bank in the Philippines that is a pioneer in driving financial inclusion and digital banking. Our mission is to impact and improve the lives of our customers through our products and services and give them easy access to saving and borrowing to meet their financial needs.”
For the inaugural run of the Pinoy Mavericks Awards, CIMB has chosen individuals who will share their unique stories of overcoming adversity and their journey of facing these challenges head-on. Their stories span a wide range of challenges experienced by many, such as financial adversity, physical disability, and loss of assets or loved ones.
“When we first came to the Philippines, we were a small player amid long-established banking giants in the country,” said D’Artagnan Aguilar, chief marketing officer of CIMB Bank Philippines. “Like David facing Goliath, we forged our own path to get to where we are now, the trusted partner of 8 million customers in just five years. This is the spirit of being a maverick we hope to impart with others so that they will be empowered to live their life purpose.”
The winners of the first Pinoy Mavericks Awards will receive a cash prize, half of which will be donated to a charity or cause of their choice to continue the spirit of giving back to the community. The pioneering nominees of the Pinoy Mavericks Awards will be announced soon.
Invading the Crunchyroll spring anime lineup comes the dystopian sci-fi story of youth, DEAD DEAD DEMONS DEDEDEDE DESTRUCTION. After premiering as a two-part film – Part 1 released on March 22 and Part 2 will be released on May 24 only in Japan – DEAD DEAD DEMONS DEDEDEDE DESTRUCTION will be available to stream on Crunchyroll, in over 200 countries and territories worldwide, as an all-new 18-episode television series version starting on Friday, May 24 at 11:00 AM PHST, with episodes releasing weekly featuring brand new footage never before seen in theaters.
Nominated for an Eisner Award in 2019 and recognized critically in 2018 at San Diego Comic-Con as one of the year’s Best New Manga, DEAD DEAD DEMONS DEDEDEDE DESTRUCTION is based on the original graphic novel created by Inio Asano (Goodnight Punpun) and published by Shogakukan from 2014 to 2022 with over three million copies in circulation.
DEAD DEAD DEMONS DEDEDEDE DESTRUCTION Official Synopsis:
As the world is threatened by the sudden appearance of a mysterious alien mothership, best friends Kadode Koyama and Oran “Ontan” Nakagawa carry on about their high school life. But as they grow up, they face existential questions, learning adulthood’s complexities and that the true threat may not be from above.
The anime is produced by studio Production +h. (The Orbital Children) and directed by Tomoyuki Kurokawa who is best known for his work on the PSYCHO-PASS series. The series composition and screenplay were written by Reiko Yoshida whose previous work includes the Violet Evergarden series, Liz and the Blue Bird, and A Silent Voice.
Additional production staff includes world setting by Takaaki Suzuki (Violet Evergarden series); character design and chief animation direction by Nobutake Ito (INU-OH); color design by Satoshi Takezawa (Digimon Adventure); art direction by Mika Nishimura (Typhoon Noruda); CG direction by Satoi Inami; cinematography by Takuma Morooka (Moriarty the Patriot); editing by Masayuki Kurosawa (Laid-Back Camp series); sound direction by Takeshi Takadera ([Oshi no Ko]); and music composed by Taro Umebayashi (Space Dandy).
The series stars lead voice performances by Lilas Ikuta (Hiro-chan in BELLE) as Kadode Koyama and ano (Memocho in [Oshi no Ko]) as Oran Nakagawa. Lilas Ikuta is also known as ikura, a singer-songwriter and vocalist of the popular music group YOASOBI whose songs include the global phenomenon “Idol” from the anime series [Oshi no Ko], “Brave” from the anime series Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, and “The Blessing” from the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam the Witch from Mercury. The multi-talented voice actor ano is also a musical artist whose notable single “Chu, Tayousei.” can be heard as one of the ending theme songs in the anime series Chainsaw Man.
The original movie theme song “ZeZeZeZettai Seiiki” performed by ano featuring Lilas Ikuta will also be a part of the new television version of DEAD DEAD DEMONS DEDEDEDE DESTRUCTION.
The supporting voice cast also includes the following:
Atsumi Tanezaki (Anya Forger in SPY x FAMILY) as Kiho Kurihara
Miyuri Shimabukuro (Carole in Carole & Tuesday) as Ai Demoto
Saeko Oki (Fumi Sanada in Case Closed (Detective Conan)) as Rin Hirama
Azumi Waki (Hinata Tachibana in Tokyo Revengers) as Futaba Takemoto
Ryoko Shiraishi (Hayate Ayasaki in Hayate the Combat Butler) as Makoto Tainuma
Miyu Irino (Ritsu Kageyama in Mob Psycho 100) as Keita Oba
Koki Uchiyama (Tomura Shigaraki in My Hero Academia) as Kenichi Kohiruimaki
Taito Ban (Jinwoo Sung in Solo Leveling) as Watarase
Junichi Suwabe (Shota Aizawa in My Hero Academia) as Hiroshi Nakagawa
Kenjiro Tsuda (Kento Nanami in JUJUTSU KAISEN) as Nobuo Koyama
Naoto Takenaka (Entei IN Pokémon 3: The Movie) as Chairman
TARAKO (Momoko “Maruko” Sakura in Chibi Maruko-chan) as Debeko
Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama) as Isobeyan
All 12 volumes of Inio Asano’s Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction graphic novel are currently available for purchase in the Crunchyroll Store.
Level Infinite has officially revealed the details for the upcoming Honor of Kings Invitational Season 2 Southeast Asia Qualifier set to kick off on May 24. Featuring top teams from around the Southeast Asia region, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Cambodia, the qualifier will see these squads compete for five spots in the upcoming Honor of Kings Invitational Season 2. The five successful teams will earn the chance to compete against the world’s best squads to secure a piece of the USD300,000 prize pool and a guaranteed place at the USD3M Honor of Kings Invitational Midseason at the Esports World Cup this summer .
The Invitational Season 2 Southeast Asia Qualifier follows a string of exciting announcements showcasing Level Infinite’s continued investment in growing the Honor of Kings esports ecosystem. Early this year, Level Infinite announced a USD15M investment in growing Honor of King’s competitive presence globally, starting with the Honor of Kings Global Invitational Series. Since then, Level Infinite has partnered with the Esports World Cup to feature Honor of Kings, along with hosting the Honor of Kings Invitational Season One event in Istanbul, Turkiye in March.
“The Honor of Kings invitational Season 2 Southeast Asia Qualifier is the latest opportunity for Level Infinite to increase the global competitive scene for Honor of Kings, bringing a new set of teams into the fold for the Honor of Kings Invitational Season 2 event,” said Gaga Li, head of Honor of Kings Southeast Asia Publishing and Esports, Level Infinite. “The Southeast Asia region is an important region for the future of Honor of Kings esports and one that we’re proud to invest in to bring more teams the opportunity to showcase their talent on the biggest stages. We look forward to seeing them fiercely compete for spots in the Honor of Kings Invitational Season 2 and into the future.”
The Honor of Kings Invitational Season 2 Southeast Asia Qualifier will run from May 24-26 and teams will be broken into four groups. The Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines regions will compete in their own regional groups, while Myanmar and Cambodia will compete in a single combined group. The winner of each group will earn a place at the Honor of Kings Invitational Season 2, while the second and third place teams will qualify for the last chance Qualifier Finals in June. All matches at the qualifier will be in the best-of-three format, while Finals is in the best-of-five format.
Fans can watch the Honor of Kings Southeast Asia Qualifier on the official Honor of Kings Global Esports YouTube andFacebook channel.
For more information on Honor of Kings, please follow our official Philippines social accounts on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube
