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    FWD launches inaugural “FWD Innovation Fest” to drive insurance industry transformation

    FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) recently launched its inaugural FWD Innovation Fest at Xylo at the Palace in Uptown, Taguig, on August 22, 2023.

    The FWD Innovation Fest showcased FWD’s latest roster of innovative products, services, and initiatives designed to revolutionize the insurance industry while contributing to nation-building by creating a positive impact for Filipinos through financial inclusivity.

    FWD president and CEO Antonio Manuel “Jumbing” De Rosas, highlighted how the event marks their upcoming 10th anniversary in the Philippines.

    During his opening speech, FWD Philippines president & CEO Antonio Manuel “Jumbing” De Rosas, highlighted that the event marks the company’s upcoming 10th anniversary in the industry since its operations began in 2014.

    “We see innovation as a tool in changing the way people feel about insurance. That is why we continue pushing the boundaries in developing products, services, and initiatives that champion customers’ evolving needs so more Filipinos can have financial protection,” shares De Rosas.

    Innovation Culture at FWD

    FWD Philippines chief information and transformation officer JC Principe added, “Innovation is in our DNA at FWD, and it fuels our unrelenting drive to set the benchmark as the insurer of the next generation. We continue to harness technology, data analytics, and consumer insight to offer inclusive and first-in-the-market products and services.”

    Chief information and transformation officer JC Principe discussed FWD’s innovation culture.

    During the event, Principe unveiled two services powered by the FWD AI engine to help customers plan their finances and long-term goals more effectively and be better equipped to decide the best insurance they should purchase based on their lifestyles and needs.

    ‘FWD AI Protection Score ’ will be available soon to current policyholders, suggesting relevant products to enhance their financial health coverage for added security, followed by an actual onboarding with a Financial Advisor. ‘People Like You’ is available for everyone through FWD’s AI Chatbot Fi, a first-in-the-market tool that allows customers to discover their protection gaps and benchmark their existing coverage against people with similar profiles.

    Innovating Products and Services

    According to insurance commissioner Reynaldo Regalado, insurance penetration in the Philippines remains very low at 1.75%, one of the lowest rates in Southeast Asia. FWD aims to close the protection gap by providing products that are easy to understand, buy, and claim. It is also important to help consumers to celebrate living by giving them apt coverage based on their lifestyles and needs.

    To help with this goal, FWD Philippines also announced that everyone can now have better access to insurance through the fully enhanced FWD Online Shop. Gifting insurance policies to family and loved ones is now possible, SMEs and corporate business clients can also purchase premiums for their employees in bulk, and exclusive rewards are given to customers with direct online purchases.

    Furthermore, FWD announced the sponsorship of the upcoming 12th season of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League (MPL) as the official insurer. FWD’s The One for Gamers insurance policy was also announced and will be available on FWD’s Online Shop. An exclusive offer during MPL Season 12, The One for Gamers is an insurance plan that can be customized to include critical illness and accidental death benefits and uniquely comes with Mobile Legends in-game rewards.

    FWD is also changing the way people feel about insurance with its latest 2-in-1 supercharged app, Omne. The easy-to-use app provides a suite of activities and content – including music, mini-games, sketching, health, wellbeing, and a vast array of engaging features – that are personalized to an individual’s preferences and interests, while also providing intuitive policy management.

    Innovating Financial Literacy

    FWD Philippines also showcased their newest online game show, Pinoy Money Master hosted by DJ/Content creator Show Suzuki

    FWD Philippines also showcased its newest online game show, Pinoy Money Master, which brings together pop culture and financial literacy. Featuring personalities representing different generations, it seeks to educate and update viewers on financial skills worth having to succeed in today’s interconnected world. The first episode is available to stream, with more to come this September on FWD Philippines’ Facebook page.

    Innovating Initiatives

    To drive recruitment for its ever-growing network of financial advisors, FWD Philippines highlighted its enticing corporate framework and the exciting benefits it can offer.

    FWD brandished its flexible career opportunities and employment benefits for aspiring bancassurance and agency financial advisors at the event. FWD employees are empowered to help promote and take into action FWD’s mission to enhance Filipinos’ financial literacy.

    It is also revealed that FWD’s annual SpringboardX Student Challenge will commence on August 28. Since 2021, FWD SpringboardX Student Challenge challenges students across 10 markets in Asia to come up with innovative and impactful solutions for real-life business challenges. The program is completely free and open to students from all academic backgrounds.

    “FWD is 10 years young, and we take great pride in our journey thus far. We are excited to share our latest first-in-the-market initiatives that redefine the possibilities of what an insurance company can achieve. Our goal is to empower more Filipinos to celebrate living”, concluded De Rosas.

    CryptoRom scammers now using AI Chat Tool and fake hacks on crypto, Sophos Finds

    Sophos, a global leader in innovating and delivering cybersecurity as a service, recently released new findings on CryptoRom scams—a subset of pig butchering (shā zhū pán) schemes designed to trick users of dating apps into making fake cryptocurrency investments—in its latest report, “Sha Zhu Pan Scam Uses AI Chat Tool to Target iPhone and Android Users.”

    Since May, Sophos X-Ops has observed CryptoRom fraudsters refining their techniques, including adding an AI chat tool, like ChatGPT, to their toolset. Scammers also expanded their coercion tactics by telling victims their crypto accounts were hacked and more upfront money is needed. 

    Sophos X-Ops additionally discovered that scammers were able to sneak seven new fake cryptocurrency investment apps into the official Apple App and Google Play stores, upping the potential for victims. 

    In 2022, investment fraud caused the highest losses of any scam reported by the public to the US’ FBI’s Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3), totaling USD3.31 billion in the US alone. Frauds involving cryptocurrency, including pig butchering, represented most of these scams, increasing 183% from 2021 to USD2.57 billion in reported losses last year.

    Sophos X-Ops first learned of CryptoRom scammers using the AI chat tool—most likely ChatGPT— when a conned victim reached out to the team. After contacting the victim on Tandem, a language sharing app that has also been used as a dating app, the scammer convinced the victim to move their conversation to WhatsApp. The victim became suspicious after he received a lengthy message that was clearly partly written by an AI chat tool using a large language model (LLM).

    A screenshot showing how the scammer used large language model-based AI in chat responses.

    “Since OpenAI announced the release of ChatGPT, there has been broad speculation that cybercriminals may use the program for their own malicious activities. We can now say that, at least in the case of pig butchering scams, this is, in fact, happening. One of the main challenges for fraudsters with CryptoRom scams is carrying out convincing, sustained conversations of a romantic nature with targets; these conversations are mostly written by ‘keyboarders,’ who are primarily based out of Asia and have a language barrier. Using something like ChatGPT can be a more efficient and effective way to keep these conversations going, making the scams less labor intensive and more authentic. It also enables keyboarders to simultaneously engage with multiple victims at one time,” said Sean Gallagher, principal threat researcher, Sophos. 

    Sophos X-Ops also uncovered a new scammer tactic designed to extort additional money. Traditionally, when victims of CryptoRom scams attempt to cash in on their “profits,” fraudsters will tell them they need to pay a 20% tax on their funds before completing any withdrawals. However, a recent victim revealed that after paying the “tax” to withdraw money, the fraudsters said the funds had been “hacked” and they would need another 20% deposit before receiving the funds.  

    Upon further investigation, Sophos X-Ops found seven fake cryptocurrency investment apps in the official Google Play and Apple App stores. These apps have seemingly benign descriptions in the app stores (BerryX, for example, claims to be reading-related). However, as soon as users open the app, they are met with a fake crypto-trading interface. 

    To get past the Apple App Store review process, the app developers use the same technique Sophos first reported on in February 2023. They submit the app for approval using legitimate, run-of the-mill web content. Then, once the app has been approved and published, they modify the server hosting the app with code for the fraudulent interface. 

    Many of these seven new apps recycled the same templates and descriptions, suggesting the same one or two pig butchering rings are creating the scheme. 

    “Prior to being able to get their apps into the Apple Store, CryptoRom fraudsters had to use an awkward technical workaround to target iOS users, which could alert their victims that something was amiss. Now, it’s much easier for them to target iPhone users, expanding their victim pool. These apps are also easy to recycle and reuse. In fact, the BerryX app appears related to the fake apps we discovered and blocked earlier this year. While we’ve alerted Google and Apple to these latest apps, it’s likely more will pop up. These fraudsters are ruthless. Today, they’re telling victims their accounts have been hacked to extort more money, but in the future, they’re likely to think of new methods of initial and double extortion. The best defense against pig butchering is awareness of these campaigns. We encourage users who are suspicious or think they may have been a victim to reach out to us,” said Gallagher. 

    Learn more about the latest tactics used by CryptoRom scammers in “Sha Zhu Pan Scam Uses AI Chat Tool to Target iPhone and Android Users” on Sophos.com.

    Canon introduces new multi-function devices for business needs

    Canon announced the latest additions to the extensive lineup of A3 and A4 color and monochrome laser multi-function devices (MFD) — the imageRUNNER ADVANCE (iR-ADV) DX C3900i series, iR-ADV DX 8900i series, iR-ADV DX 4900i series, iR-ADV DX C359i, iR-ADV DX 619i, imageRUNNER (iR) 2900i series and iR C3326i.

    Building upon its current imageRUNNER ADVANCE and imageRUNNER offerings, the new Canon multi-function devices are ideal for today’s diverse work environments, providing businesses with excellent functionality from productive workflows to preventative security measures. 

    “Canon continues to push forward innovative devices for an increasingly evolving work environment. The latest range of imageRUNNER ADVANCE and imageRUNNER devices integrate technologies that allow businesses to work more efficiently, safely, and securely,” said Kenichiro Kitamura, director of Office Imaging Products (OIP). “With Canon’s business solutions, we help simplify business complexities while enabling business agility and digital transformation.”

    Safeguarding Business Data against External Threats

    The iR-ADV and iR MFDs provide a range of preventative security measures that is increasingly important in the current digital workplace. Verify System at Startup and McAfee Embedded Control verifies the integrity of the system and checks for any tampering from startup to operation, preventing attacks from malware or unauthorized modifications.

    Depending on the type of abnormality detected during startup, the device can automatically reboot to recover, minimizing downtime. Notably, the iR-ADV MFDs also support Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 to safely encrypt critical data stored on the MFDs, further protecting it against malware. 

    Boosting Workplace Productivity

    Designed for optimal ease of use, the MFDs share similar features on the user interface (UI) across iR-ADV and iR devices, providing a consistent experience. Smart Timeline feature displays the history of the last 10 settings used, helping users save time spent on repetitive operations. The MFDs also provide users with the ability to customize preferences, offering personalization of initial display screen, display language and frequently used functions. Users can streamline repetitive operations, significantly improving productivity.

    Managing Prints Usage

    With businesses shifting to cloud-based solutions, the new MFDs lineup works seamlessly with Canon’s proprietary uniFLOW Online, a cloud-based print management solution that helps businesses manage their print environments. uniFLOW Online provides businesses with central control by tracking print, scan, and copy usage. Administrators can review the information within the uniFLOW Online Dashboard and identify potential areas for cost reduction. The solution also helps strengthen security by preventing unauthorized access with device authentication. 

    Availability

    The MFDs are now available for ordering through authorized Canon distributors and dealers.

    The iR-ADV & iR portfolio includes:

    • iR-ADV DX C3935i/C3930i/C3926i/C3922i 
    • iR-ADV DX 4945i/4935i/4925i
    • iR-ADV DX C359i1
    • iR-ADV DX 619i1
    • iR C3326i 
    • iR2945i/2935i/2930i/2925i 

    RUSH Technologies boosts small business’ growth with Spark Lite e-commerce solution

    At a time when small business owners are eager to transition online but find it complex and costly, RUSH Technologies offers a lifeline. Recognizing challenges faced by entrepreneurs, RUSH introduces Spark Lite, an all-in-one eCommerce solution designed to speed up business growth without breaking the bank. 

    Spark Lite empowers entrepreneurs to launch and manage their own eCommerce website for only PHP500 per month. Starting with one branch, businesses can add more as they grow, and accept and manage an unlimited number of orders for maximum profits.

    Subscribers to Spark Lite will also get free access to the Fast Track business acceleration program, a large-scale Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) empowerment initiative by RUSH. This program offers a holistic experience, starting with free participation in the Learning Tracks from August to October, and attendance to the culminating Pop-up Bazaar event in November, among many other benefits.

    In the Learning Tracks, entrepreneurs will learn how to launch their RUSH eStore platforms, reach their target market, and stay in the lead. The training will be held physically, with business experts as trainers.

    Participants in the training program will get the chance to win a spot in the Pop-up Bazaar, where they will have a dedicated selling space, access to large foot traffic, win awards and freebies, and get to offer a RUSH-powered seamless shopping experience.

    The Fast Track program also supports the Hapag Movement, a Globe-led initiative aimed at addressing the problem of involuntary hunger and unemployment. Its support for small business owners is aligned with RUSH and The Hapag Movement’s thrust toward making sustainable livelihood accessible and achievable through technology. RUSH will provide Hapag Movement beneficiaries with training under the Learning Tracks program. 

    “RUSH is committed to handholding entrepreneurs through the process of starting their online platforms with the right tools, and using the platforms effectively with the right program,” said Jeferson Cruz, chief commercial officer of RUSH Technologies.

    “With Spark Lite and the Fast Track program, we’re taking small business owners from being stuck to being fast-tracked towards success. It’s all about enabling them with our solutions to give them a comprehensive experience.”

    Take the first step towards a thriving online business by subscribing to Spark Lite now. Book a free Spark Lite demo here and get more information about the whole Fast Track program here

    Ford PH helps address food wastage in partnership with SOS food rescue program

    Ford Philippines entered into a partnership with Scholars for Sustenance (SOS), a global food rescue foundation, to support its food rescue operations with a donation of a Ford Transit van and a grant of USD30,000 through Ford Fund.

    Ford Philippines turned over the Ford Transit during SOS’ Zero Summit Philippines 2023 held last August 8, 2023. With the theme “Zero to Hero”, the summit aimed at fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including the academe, business organizations, civil societies and government agencies to achieve the goal of zero food waste and zero hunger by 2030.

    The food rescue program of SOS Philippines aims to reduce food wastage through collaboration with its donors in collection of surplus food, ensuring food safety in handling and delivery of the goods to partner communities. With the Ford Transit, SOS Philippines can proactively recover and transport non-perishable food items and subsequently transform the collected items into more nourishing meals to effectively address hunger within underserved communities while reducing food wastage.

    “We are fully committed to supporting SOS Philippines and its advocacy of serving undernourished communities and curbing food wastage in the country. We trust that the Ford Transit will boost their mobility needs from various establishments to the communities who will benefit from this worthwhile endeavor,” shared Josie Gonzalez, director, government and corporate affairs, Ford Philippines.

    This initiative is crucial to meeting SOS Philippines’ goal in curbing food wastage, considering that in the Philippines alone, one in every ten households experience issues of food insecurity and hunger while a substantial amount of food goes to waste from establishments. 

    “There is an abundance of food available, and our mission at SOS is to ensure it reaches those in need. Reducing food waste and alleviating hunger requires a multifaceted restructuring of the entire food system, from production and distribution to consumption,” shares James Leyson, SOS Managing Director for the Philippines and Thailand.

    SOS is a global food rescue foundation that aims to address the long-standing food security problem in the most undernourished communities across Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines through various programs, including the Rescue Kitchen Program where unused food ingredients are collected from various establishments and Food Rescue Program where quality surplus food from establishments are collected and are transformed into nourishing meals. 

    Enjoy shareable connectivity using Globe At Home Prepaid WiFi with PHP88 WiFi SIM offer

    With just PHP88, you can enjoy shareable connectivity with Globe At Home using its prepaid WiFi SIM offer. 

    With this Home Prepaid WiFi SIM, you can make the most out of the internet for online earning, learning, social media interactions, video streaming, mobile gaming, remote working, and more with free 10GB of preloaded data. 

    This data is shareable, valid for seven days, and guarantees uninterrupted and reliable connectivity for all household members.

    “We want to make it hassle-free for customers to use their Globe At Home Prepaid WiFi for their connectivity needs. This offer makes fast, shareable data connectivity affordable and available to all, in line with our goal to bridge the digital divide,” said Raymond Policarpio, vice president of Globe at Home Brand Management. 

    “This product is designed with the Filipino family in mind. It fits the budget without compromising on quality or performance and acknowledges that each family member has unique internet requirements for their daily activities,” he added.

    Customers can further enjoy the benefits of the offer by registering their Home Prepaid WiFi SIMs through the GlobeOne app. The ease of activation and use, coupled with the added advantage of exclusive discounts and rewards on the GlobeOne app makes the deal even sweeter.

    As an ideal companion for the new prepaid WiFi SIM, Globe At Home is offering FamSURF199.  This promo provides customers with an additional 30GB of data, inclusive of 23GB of shareable data na pwedeng i-share sa family members up to three devices plus a bonus 7GB for watch, chat, learn, and earn apps.

    “This is not just about connectivity. We are empowering each Filipino household with an affordable, shareable, and fast internet experience that can transform their home into a hub for productivity, learning, earning, entertainment, and more,” said Policarpio.

    To avail of this incredible offer, visit Globe’s online shop at glbe.co/prepaidwifisim or any Globe store nationwide. A whole new world of fast, reliable, and affordable connectivity is now at your fingertips with Globe At Home’s Prepaid WiFi SIM.

    Isuzu treats customers with Drive & Fly, VIP Promos

    Isuzu customers may soon enjoy travelling for free through its Drive & Fly promo, from August 15 to October 31, 2023. Customers who purchase the new Isuzu D-MAX or Isuzu mu-X will get a chance to win a trip for 2 to Tokyo or a trip for 4 to Boracay or Palawan. 

    To avail, the customer must book a test drive at any Isuzu dealership nationwide or at any Isuzu display and caravan within the raffle period and fill out the raffle coupon at their respective Isuzu dealer after they have completed their sales transactions. Three winners will be announced and notified by November, with a travel period within four months after the winner’s validation and acceptance of the prize as per terms and conditions.

    On top of that, all existing Isuzu customers who will purchase an Isuzu D-MAX or Isuzu mu-X within the same period can avail of its new Valued Isuzu Partner (VIP) Promo and get an additional PHP20,000 cash discount on top of any existing promo, or PHP25,000 worth of Isuzu VIP Coupons which can be used to purchase parts & accessories at any Isuzu dealership nationwide.

    Truly, it pays to be loyal! And with Isuzu, it’s an easy thing to do. with its durable and reliable vehicles, its customers and their families are able to enjoy their ride for a very long time. To learn more about these exciting promos from Isuzu, log on to www.isuzuphil.com/promos.

    vivo Y27: Perfect companion for tech-savvy Filipinos

    The highly anticipated vivo Y27 officially landed in the Philippines on August 19, offering an array of cutting-edge features that cater to the needs and desires of tech enthusiasts.

    Priced at an astonishing PHP8,999 and available in two stunning colors, Burgundy Black and Sea Blue, the vivo Y27 is set to redefine your smartphone experience.

    With top-tier features, the vivo Y27 aims to deliver a seamless and unparalleled user experience. Here are some of the key highlights:

    1. 44W Fast Charging Capability: Say goodbye to long charging times. The vivo Y27 boasts an impressive 44W fast charging feature, ensuring that your device is ready to go when you are.

    2. Nighttime Charging Protection: Rest easy at night knowing that your device is protected while charging, thanks to vivo’s innovative nighttime charging safeguards.

    3. 6GB RAM and 6GB Extended RAM: Enjoy smooth multitasking and swift app launches with the vivo Y27’s ample 6GB RAM, further extendable to cater to your demanding needs.

    4. Memory Booster: The Memory Booster feature optimizes your phone’s performance by intelligently managing memory usage.

    5. 128GB ROM: Store all your photos, videos, and apps with ease with the generous 128GB of internal storage.

    6. Expandable Storage: Need more space? The vivo Y27 supports up to 1TB of expandable storage through a micro SD card, ensuring you never run out of room for your data.

    7. 5000mAh Battery: Power through your day with confidence, thanks to the robust 5000mAh battery that keeps you connected and entertained.

    8. IP54 Water and Dust Resistance: Don’t let life’s unexpected moments slow you down. The vivo Y27 is designed to withstand water splashes and dust, adding durability to your device.

    9. Ultra Game Mode Feature: Gamers, rejoice! The Ultra Game Mode feature enhances your gaming experience by optimizing performance and minimizing distractions.

    10. Multi Turbo 5.5: Enjoy blazing fast speeds and superior connectivity with Multi Turbo 5.5, enhancing the overall performance of your device.

    11. Interface Preserver: Keep your interface sleek and smooth with the Interface Preserver feature, which prevents unnecessary UI disruptions.

    12. RAM Booster: The RAM Booster ensures that your device operates at peak performance by intelligently managing RAM usage.

    13. MediaTek Gaming Processor: Get ready for a lag-free gaming experience with the powerful MediaTek gaming processor.

    The vivo Y27 is now available for purchase at vivo’s website, e-commerce platforms such as Shopee, Lazada and TikTok, as well as physical stores nationwide.

    Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your smartphone experience with the vivo Y27.

    Pre-order the HONOR 90 5G to enjoy a 200MP flagship camera for only P24,990 with a FREE JBL Flip 6!

    It’s official! The much-awaited HONOR 90 5G is within your reach. Pre-order now until August 25 to get a FREE JBL Flip 6 worth PHP7,499!

    Experiencing the 200MP Flagship Camera in Bataan, HONOR Philippines unveiled the HONOR 90 5G on August 15 for only PHP24,990! And until supplies last, HONOR fans can get a FREE JBL Flip 6 worth PHP7,499 during its pre-order period from August 16 to 25, 2023. Go now to the nearest HONOR Experience and Partner stores, or purchase online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/3YAczVu), Shopee (https://bit.ly/45snjI6), and TikTok Shop (bit.ly/HONOR905G-TikTok).

    “We are truly grateful for the reception of the public when we officially launched HONOR 90 5G in the Philippines. In just three days, pre-orders have surpassed our expectations, and HONOR fans still have until August 25 to get a chance to avail of our freebie. But more importantly, we are very excited to bring HONOR 90 5G’s 200MP Flagship Camera and revolutionary eye protection to our consumers,” said HONOR Philippines vice president Stephen Cheng.

    The launch was well attended by guests from the media, partners, and Home Credit partner marketing lead Richard Sarinas. HONOR Philippines paraded its vast pool of content creators during the launch led by The Miss Philippines Pauline Amelinckx, GMA Stars Shaira Diaz, EA Guzman, Klea Pineda, and Kate Valdez.

    HONOR 90 5G’s 200MP Flagship Camera

    HONOR 90 5G’s Flagship triple camera system consists of a 200MP Main Camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide and macro camera with a 112° field of view and a 2MP Depth Camera that helps the camera more accurately gauge distance. Supporting multi-frame fusion, noise reduction algorithm, and pixel binning to achieve the light-capturing performance that is equivalent to having large 2.24µm pixels(16-in-1), the 200MP Main Camera produces excellent high dynamic range (HDR) photos and detailed, bright shots in low light situations.

    HONOR stars led by The Miss Philippines Pauline Amelinckx, GMA Stars EA Guzman, Kate Valdez, Klea Pineda, and Shaira Diaz

    Revolutionary Eye Protection

    Equipped with a 6.7-inch Quad-Curved Floating Display, the HONOR 90 5G supports a high resolution of 2664×1200, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and up to 1.07 billion colors, bringing visual content to life in stunning colors and vivid clarity. Reflecting HONOR’s commitment to human-centric technology, the HONOR 90 5G is equipped with industry-leading eye comfort features. Receiving the TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free Certification and achieving the risk-free dimming level, the HONOR 90 5G is perfect for today’s entertainment-hungry generation who spend long hours viewing and watching content on their smartphones. The display supports the industry’s highest Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Dimming frequency of 3840Hz, effectively minimizing the strain it puts on users’ eyes when it is set at low brightness. The display also features Dynamic Dimming, which simulates natural light to alleviate eye fatigue, as well as HONOR’s Circadian Night Display technology which filters blue light and promotes natural melatonin secretion to improve user sleep quality at night.

    Available in stunning Diamond Silver, Midnight Black, and Emerald Green, the HONOR 90 5G is now available for pre-order until August 25 for only Php 24,990 with a FREE JBL Flip 6 worth PHP7,499 at any HONOR Experience and partner dealer stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/3YAczVu), Shopee (https://bit.ly/45snjI6), and TikTok Shop (bit.ly/HONOR905G-TikTok).

    HONOR Fans can also avail of the HONOR 90 5G via Home Credit for as low as Php 1,002 per month on a 0% interest installment payment.

    Leading credit card providers BDO, BPI, Citibank, Eastwest, Metrobank, PNB, and Security Bank also offer 0% interest, payable up to 12 months.

    For more updates and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

    The Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed Wireless Headset is a game-changer for gamers

    In a groundbreaking move that is set to redefine the gaming audio experience, Logitech has officially launched the Pro X 2 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Headset. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Pro X Wireless Headset, the Pro X 2 LIGHTSPEED aims to elevate gaming audio to new heights, combining cutting-edge technology with Logitech’s commitment to delivering top-tier peripherals. 

    For gamers looking for no-nonsense, no-frills equipment during their MMO battles and MOBA PC games, this new wireless headset could be the one for you as it is style, utility, and comfort all rolled into one. 

    50mm graphene drivers

    At the heart of the Pro X 2’s capabilities is its advanced audio technology. It uses graphene, a revolutionary new material that delivers enhanced audio response, reduced distortion, and unrivaled sound. The headset offers unprecedented audio clarity and precision. Gamers can expect rich, immersive soundscapes that allow them to hear every footstep, gunshot, and whisper with astonishing accuracy.

    DTS Headphone:X 3D audio support

    One of the standout features of the Pro X 2 is its DTS Headphone:X 3D audio support. 

    This technology creates a three-dimensional soundscape that accurately simulates the direction and distance of in-game sounds, giving players a competitive edge by enhancing their situational awareness. Whether it’s identifying enemy positions or tracking movements, the DTS Headphone:X technology provides a distinct advantage in various gaming scenarios.

    Comfortable design

    Designed in collaboration with the world’s top gaming pros, the Pro X 2 boasts a sleek and ergonomic design that prioritizes comfort during extended gaming sessions. The headset features plush memory foam ear cushions that conform to the user’s ears, ensuring a snug fit that effectively blocks out external noise and distractions. Its lightweight construction means that gamers can enjoy its immersive sound without sacrificing comfort.

    Play comfortably at any angle, with a rotating durable hinge and soft memory foam earpads — available in leatherette or breathable velour. PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED achieves the perfect balance of comfort and strength with durable aluminum materials and a steel frame. 

    The Logitech G Pro X 2 also comes with an adjustable headband, so you can be sure it will fit any head size perfectly. Its lightweight design, meanwhile, helps reduce fatigue – thus ensuring extended gameplay.

    LIGHTSPEED Wireless

    Another notable aspect of the Pro X 2 is its wireless capability. Equipped with LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, the headset offers a lag-free and reliable connection, ensuring that every audio cue is delivered in real-time. 

    Gamers can say goodbye to tangled wires and enjoy the freedom to move without compromising on audio quality. Get up to 50 hours of use on a single charge — plus a robust connection range of up to 30 meters. 

    Multiple connection options

    Aside from LIGHTSPEED, gamers can seamlessly switch between Bluetooth connectivity and a reliable 3.5mm wired connection, adapting to your gaming setup and preferences with ease. You can easily transition from intense gaming sessions to casual audio enjoyment, making the Pro X 2 not just a gaming accessory, but an audio companion tailored to your diverse needs.

    Blue VOICE microphone

    The Pro X 2 also features a detachable and noise-canceling Blue VO!CE microphone, which delivers studio-quality voice communication. This ensures that teammates can hear every command and strategy clearly, making collaboration in multiplayer games more effective than ever before.

    Sustainably-designed

    Logitech’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in the Pro X 2’s design. The headset is constructed using eco-friendly materials, further underscoring the company’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact. 

    With its blend of comfort, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on delivering a competitive advantage, the Pro X 2 looks set to become an indispensable tool for gamers seeking the ultimate audio experience.

    Logitech understands gamers, so that is why it has consistently delivered top-notch products that combine style, comfort, and impressive sound quality. If you wish to truly take your gaming experience to new heights, then watch out for several other noteworthy enhancements that the company will be introducing soon.

    Available online and at local shops

    Logitech accessories are available at the Logitech Official Store in Shopee and other partner retail stores nationwide. Logitech products are also available at partner outlets, PC Express, Silicon Valley, DataBlitz, Octagon, Electroworld, Complink, iTech, Techwarez, GameOne, Interpace Computer Systems, GameXtreme, TTI, GameOne, DynaQuest PC, Digi-Serv Solutions, Concept Computer, NUTECH, DFE (Davao Futurebright Enterprises), Villman, PCWorx, Abenson, Digistore, and Greenware. 

    Visit the Logitech website and official Facebook Page to learn more.

    NodeStealer 2.0 stealing Facebook business accounts 

    Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 researchers have unveiled a new phishing campaign named NodeStealer 2.0, aimed at Facebook business accounts. The campaign entices victims with free business tools, like spreadsheet templates, to completely take over the accounts. This strategy indicates a concerning trend among threat actors, who have been increasingly targeting Facebook business accounts which emerged around July 2022.

    In May 2023, Meta released a report on NodeStealer, a new information-stealing malware initially compiled in July 2022. The report highlighted malicious activities involving NodeStealer that were identified in January 2023. In December 2022, a campaign featuring a new version of Nodestealer emerged. This new campaign involved two Python-written variants with enhanced capabilities, including cryptocurrency theft, downloading abilities, and a complete takeover of Facebook business accounts.

    NodeStealer 2.0 Phishing Campaign 

    The main infection vector was a phishing campaign focusing on advertising materials for businesses, allowing threat actors to steal browser cookies to hijack accounts on the platform, specifically aiming toward business accounts. The threat actor used multiple Facebook pages and users to post information, luring victims to download links from known cloud file storage providers. After clicking on it, a ZIP file was downloaded to the machine containing the malicious info stealer executable. 

    “In early 2023, Meta reported it has reached 80.30 million Facebook users in the Philippines, equivalent to 69.0 percent of the total population at the start of the year. This extensive presence potentially exposes the country to considerable risks from NodeStealer, which greatly threatens individuals and organisations. Besides the direct impact on Facebook business accounts, which is mainly financial, the malware also steals credentials from browsers, which can be used for further attacks. We encourage all organisations to review their protection policies and use the indicators of compromise (IoCs) provided in this report to address this threat.” said Vicky Ray, director at Unit 42 Cyber Consulting & Threat Intelligence, Asia Pacific & Japan at Palo Alto Networks.

    Facebook business account owners are encouraged to use strong, complex, hard-to-guess passwords and enable multifactor authentication. Take the time to educate your organisation on phishing tactics, especially modern, targeted approaches that address current events, business needs, and other appealing topics. 

    To know more about the other dangerous threats posed by the new version of NodeStealer, visit the blog here. 

    FUJIFILM holds Nationwide Photo and Video Walk 2023

    FUJIFILM Philippines is all set to hold its most significant community event of the year: the Fujifilm Nationwide Photo and Video Walk 2023. This event is scheduled for August 19, 2023, across more than 25 locations in the Philippines simultaneously.

    The Fujifilm Nationwide Photo and Video Walk 2023 promises to be an exciting gathering of passionate photo and video enthusiasts. Participants will embark on captivating journeys through their respective areas, capturing the essence of their surroundings with their cameras. At present, there are approximately five thousand registrants from all over the country.

    This event provides a unique opportunity for participants to explore their areas while indulging in their shared passion for photography and videography. From bustling urban streets to serene natural landscapes, the event aims to encapsulate the diverse charm that the Philippines has to offer.

    As part of the celebration, FUJIFILM is excited to offer participants the chance to win remarkable prizes, including coveted items like the GFX50SII 35-70mm Kit Medium Format Camera, the new X-S20 camera, and the new XF8mm lens.

    The event’s contest is open to registered participants of any skill level, using cameras of any brand. This inclusive approach reflects FUJIFILM’s commitment to fostering a sense of community among photography and videography aficionados.

    FUJIFILM recognizes the importance of empowering participants with tools that enhance their creative capabilities. That’s why they’ve partnered with industry leaders such as Aputure, ASUS, DJI, Hollyland, Joby, Lacie, Lowepro, Nanlite, SanDisk, Seagate, SmallRig, and Zhiyun to make this year’s prizes even bigger and more exciting. With these partners, the total prize pool is worth a staggering P700,000 in products. This grand prize pool showcases the company’s commitment to providing participants with extraordinary rewards that amplify their creative journey.

    The Fujifilm Nationwide Photo and Video Walk 2023 is a testament to FUJIFILM’s dedication to promoting creativity, self-expression, and the joy of capturing moments through imagery. As a company that consistently pushes the boundaries of imaging technology, FUJIFILM takes pride in being part of an event that celebrates the artistry and innovation that photography and videography bring to our lives.

    For more information about the Fujifilm Nationwide Photo and Video Walk 2023, check out the official social media pages of FUJIFILM Philippines:

    • @fujifilmphilippines on Instagram
    • Fujifilm Philippines on Facebook
    • Official event hashtag: #FujifilmPHNPVW2023

    The risks and rewards of AI integration in education

    Students should not be deprived of using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their learning experiences, but faculty members must establish clear boundaries anchored on ethical considerations when integrating it into delivering quality education.

    This was the position of Dr. Elmer-Rico Mojica, associate professor at Pace University in New York, during his talk on the risks and benefits of generative AI tools in teaching and research hosted by the Technological Institute of the Philippines (T.I.P.) last July 27, 2023. 

    The webinar entitled “Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Research: Boon or Bane?” is another product of an ongoing partnership between T.I.P. and the Philippine-American Academy of Science and Engineering (PAASE) of which the speaker is an active member. 

    The longtime chemistry professor from the University of the Philippines Los Baños shared some strategies for working with this technology based on his experience using software applications such as ChatGPT and Google Bard in his teaching and research practices. 

    Recognizing the inevitable impact of AI on education, Dr. Mojica advised school executives and academicians to lay down the ground rules when incorporating these large language model chatbots in generating outputs for teachers and learners. For more insights on this topic, you can refer to expert paper writer services.

    AI integration

    “Since this is a discipline-based decision at the department level, teachers should tell their students what is acceptable or not, and the students should know it. That’s why we encourage them (educators) to put it (terms and conditions of AI use) in the syllabus,” he said. 

    Dr. Mojica also emphasized the importance of promoting academic integrity among students from the start, so they can become responsible users of technology and be well informed about the consequences of its misuse. 

    Citing his personal experience and recent research, he said the penchant for using AI tools may actually stem from the initiative of students to learn more and produce better outputs rather than to cheat, as most teachers fear. 

    Nevertheless, Dr. Mojica acknowledged the necessity of putting guardrails against the risks attached to ChatGPT and other generative AI applications, considering their limited sources of information. This is where expertise on the subject matter becomes indispensable for educators.

    When teachers recognize ambiguities or questionable information in student submissions, then the students may be asked to conduct additional research using traditional sources of information like books and journals, according to the Pace University mentor.

    Although his experience in using chatbots to generate ideas and other prompts for writing and research has been positive, Dr. Mojica is aware that AI can sometimes “hallucinate and give you answers that don’t exist.” Critical thinking, therefore, remains crucial when accessing such tools. 

    The lecturer, meanwhile, backs the use of AI-powered resources to ease the workload of teachers particularly when it comes to grading students’ outputs or automating curriculum design. This saves them time while keeping them abreast of useful technologies. 

    Allaying fears of many who see AI as a threat, Dr. Mojica echoes the argument that ‘AI will not replace humans, but the people who use it will.’ Regardless, gray areas such as the sinister rise of deep fakes and other manipulative tools of mass disinformation must be addressed properly.

    “If you don’t know which one is true, you will believe anything generated by these AI tools. To prevent this kind of misinformation, I think human expertise and judgment are needed,” he said. Consequently, it is essential to constantly improve our digital literacy skills. 

    Dr. Mojica also mentioned that personal interaction between students and teachers must remain as much as possible despite the proliferation of AI and all kinds of machine learning technologies because “personal intervention is the best way to deal with the students.”

    “AI like ChatGPT and Google Bard are just tools that can help us improve the teaching, learning and research writing process. We should ensure that the rise of AI does not get out of hand,” he concluded.

    For more information on T.I.P., please visit tip.edu.ph or follow its social media accounts through @TIP1962official on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

    Explore BGC at night with vivo Y36

    With the continued adoption of the digital lifestyle, sharing cherished events through images or videos has become second nature. 

    We need a smartphone that can capture moments superbly from day to night to enable such a lifestyle. 

    Most of us today — especially Millennials, GenZs, and Gen Alphas — love to take pictures and videos at night because of the dramatic city scenes when buildings, streetlights, and signages are all in a full magical glow. Having a mobile device that has an excellent night photography feature to rely on is vital. 

    Not only because it is difficult and pretty challenging to focus on the subject when it’s dark but because usually night photos and videos don’t come out as vivid, photogenic, and clear as compared to the ones taken during the daylight. This is primarily due to the low-light conditions at night. 

    With vivo Y36, capturing nighttime scenes at their best is easy! vivo consistently improves its smartphone devices. 

    In July 2023, it introduced vivo Y36 with a 50MP Super Night Algorithm feature that combines numerous exposures, as well as clever blueprints to improve details, eliminate noise, and create stunning images and videos with vibrant colors. 

    Let’s take you to some scenic views of BGC at night, the financial business district of Taguig City, Metro Manila, with vivo Y36. 

    Chill in Bonifacio High Street

    Bonifacio High Street is the perfect place to be when you are looking for an area to rest, sit in, and relax after a long day of work or school. 

    From its luxurious shopping centers, boutiques, and restaurants that colorfully light up and become more lively at night, it is a place for relaxation that is worth taking pictures of and can be a worth it priceless possession as it manifests how spectacular nighttime landscapes can be. 

    By this means customers can use the vivo Y36 as their best companion to capture stunning night photos in this IG-worthy area in BGC. 

    The vivo Y36’s Super Night Algorithm leverages advanced computational photography techniques to significantly enhance the camera’s performance in low-light scenarios. 

    You can now capture clear and vivid images without the need for external lighting equipment.

    Appreciate BGC Arts Center

    Looking for a place unleashes your creativity at its fullest potential or highlights arts and culture? Well, BGC Arts Center is the place to visit! 

    Make your BGC Arts Center adventure at night a memorable one. Click and effortlessly capture images at night with vivo Y36. The phone has a user-friendly interface that makes it effortless for users to activate the Super Night Algorithm feature. 

    With a simple tap, you can switch to the dedicated night mode and experience instant improvement in photo quality.

    Al fresco dining in Forbes Town

    Get away from the hustle of city life with al fresco dining in Forbes Town. It has bars, aesthetic cafes, and fine dining options with a stunning ambiance at night.

    We all know that simply dining in without taking a perfect picture of the idyllic set-up would be a sin. Use the vivo Y36 to make your al fresco dining at night memorable.

    Take home the vivo Y36 for only Php 12,999. Available in two colorways, Glitter Aqua and Meteor Black, you can now purchase the vivo on its official website, e-stores such as ShopeeLazada and TikTok, as well as physical stores nationwide.

    MPTC, SMC officially inks deal to build CBEX and NBEX

    Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the tollways infrastructure unit of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to design, build and operate the 87.96-kilometer Cavite-Batangas Expressway (CBEX) and Nasugbu-Bauan Expressway (NBEX). The project aims to connect MPTC’s Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) to Bauan, Batangas, making travel easier and more convenient for motorists. 

    The signing ceremony, led by MPTC chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan and SMC chief executive officer Ramon S. Ang, along with Chaye Cabal Revilla and SMC SVP, Infrastructure Business head Lorenzo Formoso III, marks a significant milestone in the development of the PHP72 billion CBEX and NBEX project. 

    The MOA signing underscores the commitment of both toll road companies to deliver world-class expressways that will serve the needs of millions of motorists and commuters in the CALABARZON region. Throughout the project, MPTC and SMC will work closely with the Philippine government, local communities, and stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and responsible development that aligns with the country’s infrastructure goals.

    “Our shared commitment to nation-building has led us to this historic collaboration. Together, we aim to deliver world-class road networks that will serve as arteries of progress, growth and development for our country and the Filipino people.  This collaboration stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we are united in purpose,” SMC president and ceo Ramon S. Ang said.

    “Together with SMC, we envisage a future where our CBEX and NBEX can help pave the way for connectivity and economic growth in the CALABARZON region. We look forward to leveraging on our respective strengths for the realization of this vital infrastructure project.” said MPTC chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan

    Under the agreement, MPTC and SMC will jointly undertake the construction, operation and maintenance of the 88-kilometer-long toll road projects. This will encompass two vital expressways: one is the 27.06-kilometer CBEX that will establish a crucial link connecting CALAX’ Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to Nasugbu, Batangas, while the 60.90-kilometer NBEX will provide seamless connectivity from Nasugbu to Bauan, Batangas. The groundbreaking is scheduled for 2024 and CBEX and NBEX are expected to be completed and open to the public in 2027.

    The route will traverse the townships of Silang, Amadeo, Tagaytay, Indang, Mendez, and Alfonso in Cavite before crossing into Nasugbu and finally reaching Bauan, Batangas. 

    In 2018, MPTC presented a proposal for the 50.4-kilometer Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas Expressway (CTBEX) project to the Department of Public Works and Highways and was granted the original proponent status. Similarly, SMC’s unsolicited proposal for the CBEX and NBEX was approved by the Cavite and Batangas government. Both projects share the common goal of connecting the provinces of Cavite and Batangas through Tagaytay City and MPTC and SMC have come together as partners in this significant venture. 

    Both MPTC and SMC share a common goal of contributing to the development of road infrastructure and enhancing the transportation sector in the country. Aside from CALAX, MPTC currently holds the concession for several vital expressways, including the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), its C5 Link Segment, the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), the NLEX Connector Road, and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in Cebu. Whilst SMC holds the concession for crucial toll roads such as the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway, NAIA Expressway (NAIAX), Star Tollway, Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), and the Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCX).

    The implementation of the transaction is subject to completion of certain conditions, including the execution procurement relevant approvals and execution of definitive agreements.