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    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.

    YAMAHA Club Mania: Bringing all Visayas riders together in Cebu!

    Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc. (YMPH) continues to bring out the riding passion of every motorcycle enthusiast through Yamaha Club. With its long history founded in 2010, Yamaha Club has been evolving its approach to appeal to every rider’s interest regardless the age and motorcycle lifestyle. It’s an initiative of YMPH to empower the riding community of the Philippines by giving more experience to all Filipino riders. 

    With this goal, the Yamaha Club Mania was created to gather riders in different regions of the country. Its first leg kicked off in Alabang for Luzon Riders last May 2023; now, Visayas riders have the exclusive mania experience in Cebu!

    Hundreds of moments were shared in the new era of Yamaha Club

    The Yamaha Club Mania offers activities where YClub members can win raffle prizes, test ride Yamaha Motorcycles, enjoy freebies, and have fun in a full-day program filled with contests.

    The morning started with everyone’s cup of tea – the lunch ride. Headed by the YMPH Motorsports team and Marketing Customer Relations, the YClub group officers and motovloggers Idol Moto and Motour had a surreal moment riding at the newest state-of-the-art Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).  The short ride ends at the Hoops Dome, Lapu-lapu City where the rest of the program happened. 

    The program concludes everything they have to know about Motorbike Tourism, Traffic Safety Education, and Motovlogging. Speakers from the Department of Tourism and City Traffic Management System of Lapu-Lapu City impart their knowledge to educate YClub riders in sharing the road responsibly. But aside from these safety tips, YClub also got to meet Idol Moto and Motour to give them fun and exciting tips in motorcycle vlogging.  

    Event Sponsors’ booths (Racing Boy, SEC Motosupply, and Imprint Customs) are also there to present discounted offers for their products. The fun does not stop inside the hoops dome as the Yamaha Riding Academy set up a test ride course where everyone can enjoy riding other Yamaha motorcycles.

    Memories gathered in the hoops!

    Overall, the new YClub slogan which states, “More than just a ride” highlights what Yamaha is willing to go for in creating memories that last. It goes beyond riding a motorcycle, it’s about building a safe and excitement-filled lifestyle that every Yamaha motorcycle owner could ride on.

    Stay updated by following the Yamaha socials:
    Website: https://www.yamaha-motor.com.ph/index.html
    FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/ph.yamaha
    YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/yamahamotorphils
    IG: https://www.instagram.com/yamahaphilippines/?hl=en
    Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yamahamotorph?_t=8aR1Jf7XBgX&_r=1
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/YamahaMotorPH

    The Mapúa edge in health sciences in Mindanao

    Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (Mapúa MCM) establishes its mastery in health through its College of Health Sciences. Its programs include BS Biology, BS Psychology, BS Pharmacy, and BS Physical Therapy. Harmonizing its knowledge in healthcare and its strong reputation in tech and engineering, MAPÚA MCM provides various opportunities to students through global learning, advanced research, and digital technology.

    The Bureau of Labor and Statistics states that employment in the healthcare field is projected to grow by 13% from 2021 to 2031. This increase indicates the creation of 2 million jobs over a span of 10 years, much higher than the average for all occupations. With this, students who wish to pursue a career in the medical field have a plethora of options waiting for them locally and abroad.

    There are many routes one can take to pursue a career in the medical field. One of them is health sciences, which prepares them to take on a great variety of roles in both clinical and non-clinical settings.

    Mapúa MCM’s College of Health Sciences has collaborated with Arizona State University (ASU) to prime the quality of education it offers. Through this collaboration, Mapúa MCM pre-med students are honed to be globally ready, proficient with advanced and immersive facilities and digital mastery.

    Arizona State University (ASU) is ranked #1 in the U.S. innovation ahead of MIT and Stanford for 8 consecutive years by U.S.News and World Report. ASU is also among the top 1% of universities worldwide, ranked by the Center for World University Ranking 2022-2023, and among the top 150 universities worldwide by the Shanghai Ranking, 2022. The groundbreaking collaboration between Mapúa schools and Arizona State University focused on Business and Health Sciences programs. 

    MAPÚA MCM College of Health Sciences is one of the few schools in the region that boasts of immersive simulation rooms where students can work on 3D anatomical models, virtual dissection tables, and human body projections via AI. These technologies allow them to have a significant advantage in the field of health sciences and knowledge in tune with the modern world.

    But above and beyond technological innovations, MAPÚA MCM College of Health Sciences ensures that their students are anchored on solid ethics and human values through hands-on experience and real-world exposure. Its students all undergo internships in hospitals, clinics, and community centers where they learn about promotion, prevention, treatment, and intervention as they get to interact with real patients.

    The medical track is one of the most competitive fields to be in. But by choosing a program and institution that align with one’s personal goals, students can have a huge leg-up that will benefit them in the future.

    “The medical field is an ever-evolving industry, and the demand for healthcare workers is stronger now than ever. We build our capacity to address this gap through a collaboration with the Healthway network, wherein we streamline the career path of our students — from school to internships and hands-on clinical rotations, straight to career opportunities,” said Dr. Adorico M. Aya-ay, Dean of the MAPÚA MCM College of Health Sciences. For students seeking additional academic support, platforms like DoMyEssay can be valuable resources for managing complex assignments and maintaining a strong academic performance.

    MAPÚA MCM also substantiates that its faculty members stay updated with the latest advancements and industry trends by sending them to training and seminars abroad to learn from experts worldwide.

    The medical track is one of the most competitive fields to be in. But by choosing a program and institution that aligns with one’s personal goals, students can have a huge leg-up that will benefit them in the future.

    Read more about Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao – College of Health Sciences on the school’s website.

    3 reasons why your smartphone needs security protection now

    When you get a new phone, it’s automatic to look for a protective case to keep it unbreakable despite potential falls. But how about installing smartphone security beyond antivirus to protect all the data you will store in it?

    Kaspersky today shares three important reasons why mobile devices also require software protection.

    Your money is, probably, on your mobile phone

    Southeast Asia was named the fastest-growing mobile wallet market after the pandemic triggered a boom in the local adoption of online banking and e-wallet usage.

    Payments via mobile devices continue its steady growth with 86 live mobile money services in SEA as of last year, and more unicorns are predicted to rise and piggybank on the trend.

    Kaspersky’s own research on Digital Payments revealed that Android smartphones are the most used device for online financial transactions in the region.

    On a per country view, the majority use Android-powered phones. More than four in five (82%) of the digital payment adopters in Indonesia and in the Philippines use their Android devices for mobile transactions, while it’s 76% in Malaysia, 73% in Thailand, 67% in Vietnam, and 54% in Singapore.

    In 2022, Kaspersky blocked a total of 1,083 mobile banking Trojans which almost infected its users in SEA as well as 207,506 mobile malware incidents.

    “Compared to threats like phishing and ransomware, mobile banking Trojan detections are still relatively low in volume, mostly because the basic hygiene of putting security solutions on mobile devices is still a work in progress in Southeast Asia. Our money, bank accounts, mobile e-wallets, and even our investments are literally in our smartphones now – may it be an Android or an iOS device. It’s time to protect them with a robust security solution against financially motivated cybercriminals,” says Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.

    You access your workmail with your smartphone

    Mobile devices are a known business risk.

    Beyond mobile banking, mobile phones have been known to be used for accessing company mail and assets.

    The danger with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) lies in the fact that 96% of smartphones that can connect and access corporate networks are non-work issued, meaning, they are intended for personal use.

    Kaspersky’s researchers, through the years, have seen cases of Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) that enter a company’s systems through an infected mobile device.

    Mobile malware APTs like Pegasus and Chrysor are spywares deployed through Android or iOS exploits installed on victims’ smartphones. Kaspersky, in 2022, has also detected 10,543 mobile ransomware Trojan installers globally.

    “The lack of security solutions on personal mobile devices can impact a company’s overall IT security posture. We acknowledge the convenience of BYOD, but enterprises should also play their part in encouraging their employees to install protection on their smartphones that have the freedom to connect on critical enterprise networks,” reminds Hia.

    Your mobile device carries all your social apps

    A survey revealed one in four internet users in Asia Pacific (APAC) has fallen victim to identity fraud. But the most interesting part is that users could not care less. Many remain unconcerned about securing their identity against thefts and online fraud.

    Most fraud happens on social media, mostly accessed through mobile devices.

    Another study done by Kaspersky also showed nearly one in four (38%) of social media users say they know someone personally who has experienced a data compromise while using social media. For those aged 18-34, this figure rises to more than half (52%). Seven percent of users worldwide say they have been victims of fraud via social media.

    Kaspersky’s phishing report for 2022 also revealed that the global cybersecurity company’s mobile solution blocked 360,185 attempts to click on phishing links from messengers last year. Of these, 82.71% came from WhatsApp, 14.12% from Telegram and another 3.17% from Viber.

    “Our mobile devices are treasure troves of the social media and messaging apps that we use. In each of them, we have conversations, photos, and private information that we want to keep away from the wrong hands. The other side of the coin is that cybercriminals are also lurking on these platforms, waiting for prey to fall into their traps. A safety net is necessary if we want to enjoy the powers of our mobile phones and to secure our digital reputation and identity,” adds Hia.

    GCash partnership with law enforcement agencies to curb crime yields results

    GCash lauds the successful operations of the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) against cybercriminals.

    The DOJ, NBI, and PNP-ACG conducted a series of raids and arrests of alleged cybercriminals in the past months. They have successfully arrested suspected perpetrators of various crimes like love scams and task scams, as well as seized SIM Cards purportedly used for dubious purposes.

    The authorities are working on the arrest of the suspects linked to the illegal operations — a big win in the shared fight against scammers, fraudsters, and other cybercriminals.

    “GCash is supportive of the operations of the DOJ, NBI, and PNP-ACG in going after perpetrators. We are an active partner of our law enforcement agencies as we exchange technical knowledge and expertise on the latest cybersecurity measures” said Atty. Maria Corazon PMR Alvarez-Adriano, chief legal officer of GCash.

    In addition to its partnership with law enforcement agencies, GCash is driving the passage of a bill that, among others, will criminalize the buying and selling of so-called mule accounts which are used by criminals to hide their identities when transferring illicit money.

    The leading e-wallet continues to invest in best-in-class security technologies and innovations. GCash recently reached 100% rollout for its industry-first security feature, DoubleSafe, to ensure that the person accessing an account is the same as the one who registered in GCash by using face ID technology. 

    “With the DoubleSafe Face ID feature, even if the users inadvertently give out their MPIN or OTP, their account cannot be accessed from a new device without scanning the owner’s face,” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash’s chief information security officer.

    GCash remains steadfast in educating its customers and the general public on how they can better protect themselves from scammers. Through educational materials under the #GSafeTayo campaign, GCash encourages users to be wary of Phishing sites and links that spoof official portals of financial institutions and online shopping websites. 

    Customers are also advised to transact only through GCash’s official channels and remember that it will NEVER send personal messages to address concerns or ask for users’ MPIN, OTP, or other personal information.

    Report scams and other suspicious activities in the official Help Center inside the app or at help.gcash.com

    Gaming on the vivo Y36: is it all it’s cracked up to be?

    The new vivo Y36 promises a smooth and seamless experience for all its users—including casual gamers—at a wallet-friendly price. True enough, in a recent review we did, the vivo Y36 was able to handle some of today’s most popular games without much hiccup. Here are some of the reasons why the vivo Y36 not only looks great but plays great too.

    The Snapdragon 680 is a well-balanced processor

    Beating at the heart of the vivo Y36 is a 6nm Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor with an Adreno 610 GPU. While it is not the newest nor most powerful chipset out there, it is still very efficient and has 8GB of RAM to help it along. It has no problem running popular games such as Mobile Legends, Call of Duty Mobile, and Pokemon Unite at smooth and steady frame rates without the need for the user to sacrifice too much in terms of graphics. Even big team clashes did not slow down the vivo Y36 too much. More heavily-demanding games such as NBA 2K and Asphalt 9 are also decently playable as long as graphics settings are turned down.

    Sure, casual gamers will have a little less eye candy to look at. But considering that the tradeoff is that it does not get too hot and it has a longer battery life, we would say that it is worth it as it ultimately means a more comfortable gaming experience for hours on end—this the vivo Y36 capably delivers.

    The display has a 240Hz touch sample rate for lightning-fast inputs

    MOBAs and shooters require quick inputs from the player. Otherwise, what would have been a fun and competitive match just becomes a steamroll with you on the receiving end. But what use are quick reflexes if the phone will not register your touches in the first place?

    The vivo Y36’s huge 6.64-inch Full HD IPS display not only outputs good looking, high resolution visuals, but it also comes with a 240Hz touch sampling rate to make it more responsive to each of your presses. You can mash buttons and be confident that your inputs are being picked up virtually in real time. The effect is quite subtle but critical when the difference between going back to the game lobby and winner winner chicken dinner is only a few milliseconds. Trust us when we say that you will have a hard time going back to gaming on something with a lower touch sampling rate after you experience what 240Hz is like.

    Moreover, the vivo Y36 also comes with a 90Hz refresh rate to make the gaming experience even smoother and more precise.

    It comes with a 44W fast charger

    One of the worst things that can happen when you are on a ranked winning streak and are completely in the zone is getting your gaming session interrupted by hours-long charging. The lost momentum is often so hard to regain that the next time you are in-game, you might be hopping on board the downrank train.

    The vivo Y36 comes with a 44W fast charging power brick and USB Type C cable out of the box to help you avoid these situations. In our testing, the vivo Y36 was able to charge its sizable 5000mAh battery from completely empty to almost half in just 30 minutes. It can also easily last over a day without needing to be plugged into the wall. If you top off its charge every time you take a quick bio, nap, or coffee break from your gaming sessions, then you will almost never see the vivo Y36 run dry. Its battery life is so long that you might end up falling asleep long before the vivo Y36 does.

    There is a dedicated gaming optimizer for the OS

    While the Snapdragon 680 is already an efficient processor, vivo also made sure to keep the Y36’s software very gaming friendly through its Multi-Turbo 5.5 system optimizer. As the name implies, Multi-Turbo 5.5 boosts the phone’s performance by prioritizing system elements—such as data usage, processing power, and RAM allocation—in favor of your current game for the smoothest experience possible. It also turns off pesky notifications and floating windows so you can play uninterrupted.

    As an added bonus, vivo also has the frame-rate priority setting for select games. This instructs the phone to render particularly graphic-intensive games at a lower resolution to ensure more stable frame rates.

    The above points plus an attractive price tag of just PHP 12,999, make the vivo Y36 a hard-to-beat phone for young, casual gamers. It is available for purchase in Glitter Aqua and Meteor Black colorways through vivo Concept stores and kiosks, phone retailers, and the official vivo website, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok online platforms.

    Enhancing commuter convenience: Mocasa, beep™ team up for effortless payment solutions

    Mocasa, the Philippines’ first virtual credit wallet, and AF Payments Inc. (AFPI), an automated fare collection service provider, recently announced their partnership aimed at improving the everyday travel experience for millions of Filipino commuters. Through this collaboration, users can now easily and securely reload their beep™ cards using Mocasa.

    The collaboration comes at an opportune moment with the Philippine government, spearheaded by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), pushing for cashless payment transactions, particularly in the transportation sector.’

    Mocasa Chief Executive Officer Robin Wong and AFPI President and CEO Jonathan Juan Moreno

    To reload a beep™ card, users simply need to download the Mocasa mobile app and apply for a Pay Later account and activate their virtual Mastercard. Once approved, they can choose either to top-up or use their virtual Mastercard to reload.

    For the top-up loading option, users simply need to go to the “Buy Load” section, select “BEEP” and choose their desired denomination. Users have to enter their beep™ account number and pay with Mocasa credit.

    Users can also reload using the virtual credit card (VCC) option. They just have to tap the beep™ logo in Mocasa’s home page, which will redirect them to beep™ app. Once rerouted, a pop-up window will show users instructions on how to reload using their VCC by tapping the “MPay” logo and keying in their card details checkout section. This integration streamlines the payment process, and users can be assured that their personal and financial information remain protected at all times.

    In addition, Mocasa and AF Payments Inc. will develop loyalty programs that reward frequent Mocasa-beep™ users with exclusive perks and incentives. Both companies also promise to continuously enhance their systems and processes to meet the ever-evolving needs of commuters.

    “We are honored and excited to partner with AF Payments Inc. to further ease the way people travel and pay for transportation services,” said Robin Wong, chief executive officer of Mocasa. “By leveraging our virtual credit technology and AFPI’s extensive network, we aim to redefine the commuting experience, making it more seamless and enjoyable for passengers.”

    Jonathan Juan Moreno, president and chief executive officer of AF Payments Inc., expressed equal enthusiasm, “This partnership represents a significant milestone in our mission to provide Filipino commuters with the most advanced and user-friendly payment options. Together with Mocasa, we are excited to introduce an innovative payment method that simplifies and enhances the travel experience.”

    Both companies are committed to an efficient and timely integration process, with the first phase of the partnership’s offerings expected to roll out to commuters within the quarter.

    beep™ cards can be purchased and used at Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2), Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) stations, select Point-to-Point (P2P) Bus Stations, and retail partners. They are also available on AFPI’s official e-commerce platforms — Lazada, Shopee, and FB Marketplace.

    Users are also encouraged to download the beep™ mobile app and register their card for convenient reloading, to check their balance, monitor transactions, and earn rewards points.

    Mocasa is a financial technology company duly licensed and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and an accredited accessing entity of Credit Information Corporation (CIC). To learn more about the latest updates from Mocasa, visit www.mocasa.com or its Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok accounts. Customers are encouraged to download the app in Google Play or App Store to know more about its services and latest promos.