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    Feel the cyber thrill this August!

    Looking for the best deals on everything tech? Ready to play at the largest nationwide sports area? Now is the best time to visit SM Supermalls and unleash the gamer within as it celebrates the latest tech innovations and gadget trends, with exclusive deals and promos this Cyber Month! 

    From August 1 to 31, a celebration of e-sports and all things tech that make our lives easier and more convenient will take place at SM Supermalls. Essential gadgets, thrilling activities, and new discoveries are waiting to be made and will welcome every individual with various needs.

    The 2023 Cyber Month Launch at SM North EDSA

    Get ready as SM transforms its malls into a larger-than-life e-sports arena

    Gamers and e-sports fans are in for a treat at the CyberMonth celebration, at over 60 malls nationwide, as community tournaments and an immersive gaming environment take center stage. Tag along with your friends and watch some intense and epic battles as players try to outplay each other at the community matches.

    Gaming that never goes out of style

    If you are a gamer who loves your classic video games, the Retroverse is for you. Select malls every Saturday will be setting up Retro Gaming Stations featuring classic consoles and games from the past. Relive the magic of iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Tetris, and Sonic the Hedgehog

    Venture into different worlds with AweSM Kids

    Kids and kids at heart can have some fun at the Kids Zone—an interactive area featuring popular games like SM Kids Roblox and Minecraft every weekend for the whole month of August. 

    The GeekCon is on!

    SM celebrates all things geek this Cyber Month, including a Cosplay Competition. Every Sunday, bring your favorite anime, manga, games, TV series, and comic book characters to life through elaborate costumes and performances that will wow the crowd. The GeekCon will also feature activities that geeks will love, such as collectible toy displays, visual arts masterclasses, meet-and-greets with popular streamers, and Collectible Card Game Tournament. 

    Techtopia for all your tech needs

    SM malls nationwide will have multiple activity areas bringing together a wide range of gadgets, interactive installations, and displays at Techtopia. Get your hands on the newest and trendiest gadgets, devices, and even smart home appliances at SM. Plus, at the Techtopia zone, you can check, test, and ensure the product’s quality before making that big purchase. 

    Discover the hottest tech deals

    Gear up and get your baskets ready for SM Supermalls’ month-long nationwide tech and gadget sale. Whether you shop at your favorite SM mall or scroll through your go-to SM Online and SM Deals apps, there are a lot of great gadget deals all for you. Avail of these special promos, special offerings, and bundles on select items with up to 50% off in participating stores this August. 

    Mark your calendars! August is geek-out month with these fun-filled activities and deals in store for you this Cyber Month at an SM mall near you. Game on and shop #TechAssured gadgets and get exciting deals when you #CheckCyberzone. 

    For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com/cyberzone or follow @SMSupermalls and @smcyberzone on social media.

    TECNO Launches CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition with world-first graffiti-style back cover in Philippines

    TECNO, an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 global markets, launched the CAMON 20 Pro Series Mr Doodle Edition — a new addition to the popular CAMON 20 Pro Series designed in collaboration with the graffiti artist Mr Doodle. Starting August 8, 2023, fans can get CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition for only PHP11,999 on TikTok Shop, Shopee, and TECNO partner retail stores. The phone adopts the moon phase color-changing technology, combining Mr Doodle’s graffiti paintings with CAMON 20 Pro’s unique 3D design. The back cover absorbs light during the daytime and releases it as fluorescence at night, allowing the phone’s back to display Mr Doodle’s graffiti works. The unique design of CAMON 20 Pro Series Mr Doodle Edition makes it a fashion icon during the day and an eye-catcher at night, making it a true master that combines fashion and art.

    Mr Doodle, otherwise known as UK-based artist Sam Cox, has been interested in graffiti since he was 2 years old and started his doodle journey from his furniture to his bedroom. His signature slogan is to leave no corner undoodled and he won’t stop until he has filled every blank space with his markers. His large-scale doodle art installations have garnered over 36 million views online, making him an internet sensation. To him, anything can be a canvas, and he dreams of covering the moon with his doodles. Today, with millions of followers on Instagram and collaborations with world-renowned fashion brands such as Adidas and Fendi, he releases co-branded fashion products, making him one of the hottest millennial art pioneers today.

    “TECNO CAMON series has always been committed to embracing art with innovative technology that constantly breaks boundaries and bringing consumers products both artistic and high-tech. This is in line with Mr Doodle’s creative spirit of leaving no blank undoodled. We hope the masterpiece, which conbined both TECNO and Mr Doodle’s joint efforts, will bring users an innovative experience,” said TECNO general manager Jack Guo.

    “TECNO also expects to encourage individuals to follow Mr Doodle’s creating spirit, and to show the fashion attitude and capture wonderful moments without leaving any blank,” he adds.

    Following the industry’s first CAMON PUZZLE deconstructionist design of TECNO CAMON 20 Pro Series, the back cover of TECNO CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition is constructed from a 3D PGI material and applies 3D diamond cutting design technique to give the surface a three-dimensional effect that reflects light from different angles, creating a dazzling diamond-like shine. In addition, the moon phase color-changing technology TECNO CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition adopted enables the back cover to refract light from its diamond-like surface in a dark environment and display the Mr Doodle’s graffiti painting. TECNO CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition also comes with Mr Doodle graffiti-style customized wallpaper, AR SHOT, and AOD, bringing users more surprise beyond looks.

    “It was a great experience working with TECNO to produce the CAMON 20 Pro Series Mr Doodle Edition,” said Mr Doodle. “I am always looking for new ways to bring my designs to life and to bring joy through my work. TECNO’s philosophy of uniting the worlds of art, innovation, and technology with modern, stylish designs is really inspiring to me. Based on this consensus, I just let my hand to the happy work and was able to incorporate my usual flowing lines, happy characters, and abstract details with a particular focus on technology as a general theme to the content. It’s very exciting to see the beauty of graffiti art that can be shared with more people through TECNO’s innovative product”.

    TECNO CAMON 20 Pro Series Mr Doodle Edition reflects TECNO’s ambition to push the limits of both artistic and technological possibilities. Through continuous innovation, the series delivers not only a one-of-a-kind design but also advanced, professional photography capabilities and exceptional user experience. Empowering users to capture special moments in stunning detail, TECNO CAMON 20 Pro Series Mr Doodle Edition boasts 4K OIS portrait video and 64MP RGBW Sensor for crystal-clear portraits even in low light. It will help gamers stay ahead and clinch a win with MediaTek’s latest Dimensity 8050 processors and lag-free gaming experience with 16GB extended RAM + 256 ROM.

    TECNO Promos and Recent Events

    TECNO CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition will first go on sale at the Shopee 8.8 sale, giving buyers the chance to get up to PHP1,500 worth of vouchers and get the phone at around PhP10,499.

    TECNO Philippines Facebook and TikTok will start the “Share to Win Doodle Edition Gift Set” activity from 8.8-8.15. By sharing a Doodle related post, participants will have a chance to win TECNO CAMON 20 Pro 5G Doodle Edition Gift Set and Doodle related freebies.

    In addition, TECNO Philippines Facebook is also opening the POVA 5 GGWP Season 1 Tournament registration, where competing teams will have a chance to win up to PHP250,000 and 6 POVA 5 series units.

    Google deepens fight against misinformation, launches new Fact Check Explorer image search feature

    Google continues to deepen its commitment to fighting misinformation and supporting fact-checking communities by announcing a new innovative image fact-checking feature to its Fact Check Explorer service. The upgrade aims to further empower netizens seeking to combat the very real danger of fake news on the internet.

    Initially only available for text searches, Fact Check Explorer’s new image search feature addresses the challenges faced by fact checkers when verifying images. Fake or manipulated images are a persistent threat, especially in the Philippines where 51% of the population find it difficult to distinguish false information. Journalists, researchers, academics, and even concerned netizens can now simply upload or share the link of an image to determine if it has been previously fact-checked.

    Currently in a global beta version, the new search feature enables fact checkers to understand the timeline and context of an image. This updated capability allows researchers to track when an image was first indexed by Google and its subsequent usage over time. By providing valuable insights into an image’s history, this feature empowers fact-checkers to assess the accuracy of images and its context to effectively combat harmful misinformation.

    Fact Check Explorer is one of Google’s latest initiatives to combat fake news online. In addition to this, Google and YouTube announced a groundbreaking USD13.2-million grant to the International Fact-Checking Network to establish the Global Fact Check Fund, which aims to support fact-checking organizations worldwide.

    Anyone can now use the Fact Check Explorer and look up the latest verifications by going here

    Finecast partners with iWantTFC to offer addressable CTV inventory in the PH

    Finecast, GroupM Nexus’ addressable TV solution, has partnered with iWantTFC, the premier Filipino streaming platform, to offer connected TV (CTV) inventory to clients in the Philippines. According to this year’s Nielsen Consumer and Media View, more consumers than ever before are now watching TV via digital extensions. In fact, the ownership of CTV has increased from 6.1% before the pandemic to 17.2% currently. This presents a favorable moment for advertisers in the country as the partnership arrives at an opportune time.

    With Finecast’s expertise in addressable TV and iWantTFC’s position as a leading streaming platform, this is set to revolutionize the advertising industry in the country. This collaboration allows Finecast to expand its reach and solidify its position as a leader in the media industry while enabling iWant to enhance its advertising capabilities.

    Speaking on the partnership, Yasmin Mallari, chief investment officer, GroupM Philippines says, “Finecast is delighted to partner with iWant to bring CTV inventory to clients in the Philippines. This partnership is a game changer for the industry and will drive the evolution of TV advertising in the country.”

    “We are excited to offer our clients the opportunity to reach audiences through CTV and make the most of the evolving media landscape in the Philippines. This will enable brands to capitalize on this trend and deliver their message to audiences on the big screen for maximum impact,” says Kathryn Domingo, Finecast director for the Philippines

    TV remains the cornerstone of media planning in the Philippines, with a substantial adoption rate of 79% in urban areas and 71% in rural regions. However, the TV landscape is evolving, and linear TV alone is no longer sufficient. Despite this shift, TV continues to hold cultural significance in the country, particularly for family viewing during primetime. To adapt to the changing media landscape, brands can leverage CTV as part of their TV transformation strategy, which offers them the opportunity to deliver impactful and engaging experiences on the “big screen,” maximizing their impact on the target audience.

    “We are excited to collaborate with Finecast, the leading addressable TV solution provider, to provide CTV inventory to our clients in the Philippines. As a pioneer and innovator among publishers in the country, iWant is devoted to providing our fans with the finest streaming experience possible, and our relationship with Finecast helps us maintain that aim. With Finecast’s expertise in addressable TV, we are convinced that our customers will benefit from highly targeted advertising campaigns that efficiently reach their intended consumers,” says Jamie Lopez, head Of Digital at ABS-CBN Corporation (iWantTFC). 

    According to GroupM’s This Year Next Year forecast, spending by advertisers on CTV in the Philippines will triple from USD18 million in 2020 to USD59 million this year. By 2024, this category is expected to grow by a further 28%.

    The partnership also marks a significant milestone for both companies, as it provides a unique opportunity for advertisers to tap into the growing CTV market in the Philippines and connect with audiences in innovative ways.

    Mitsubishi Motors Philippines cultivates a sustainable legacy, nurturing education and environment

    Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) continues to demonstrate its commitment to environmental sustainability and community development through two significant initiatives.

    MMPC preserves environment thru 100-hectare forestation project with DENR

    In a recently concluded project, Mitsubishi Motors PH successfully completed its three-phased forestation project, planting various species of trees on a 100-hectare land in different provinces in Luzon. As part of its commitment to make Filipinos’ lives better, MMPC embarked on a large-scale forestation project that aligns its vision for a greener and more sustainable future.

    Recognizing the pressing need to address the environmental issues that Filipinos are facing, MMPC initiated its 100-hectare forestation agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), adopting 3 different locations in the country – Bangui, Ilocos Norte; Siniloan, Laguna and its last site, Infanta, Quezon Province.

    The latest tree planting activity took place in Barangay Pinaglapatan, Infanta, Quezon Province, where a beach forest was established by planting bamboo, mangrove, and other beach forest species along Agos River. This effort, initiated by Samahan ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda ng Pinaglapatan (SMMP) through the support of MMPC and DENR, aims to rehabilitate the riverbanks, preventing soil erosion in the area.

    With the combined efforts of dedicated Mitsubishi Motors PH employees, local communities and government, a total of 78,700 tree seedlings were planted on the 38-hectare land along Agos River, which will be continuously monitored by Mitsubishi Motors PH with the help of DENR.  Along with the trees planted, the company also donated a lighthouse to help assist fishermen and farmers. “For 60 years, it’s been MMPC’s commitment to make life better for Filipinos not just through our vehicles but also through our services and CSR efforts. And today, we are about to nurture this community’s future, one seed at a time. I hope that the seeds we plant today will flourish for generations to come,” said MMPC chairman Noriaki Hirakata during the tree-planting activity.

    MMPC’s Balik-Baterya Scholarship Program empowers senior high school students

    In another significant move, Mitsubishi Motors PH partnered with Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) to formalize its Balik-Baterya Scholarship Program. The program, which began in 2019 in collaboration with Oriental Motolite Marketing Corporation (OMMC), involves the proper recycling and disposal of used hazardous lead-acid batteries generated in the MMPC Plant. Proceeds from recycling are allocated to MMPC’s CSR fund, part of which is now being directed towards scholarships for senior high school students of Don Jose Integrated High School and Biñan City Senior High School – Timbao Campus.

    This initiative aligns with Mitsubishi Motors PH’s commitment to continue making a positive impact on society, both in environmental conservation and education. Through this collaboration with PBSP, which was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed last July 13, 2023, scholarships have been provided to a total of 20 senior high school students from the beneficiary schools under the Technical Vocational Livelihood (TVL) Track. The chosen scholars are those taking Electrical Installation and Maintenance and Shielded Metal Arc Welding, which will allow them to gain skills and qualifications in the automotive industry.

    As Takehisa Usami stated in his speech, “I am grateful that this collaboration has led us to contribute not just to the preservation of our environment, but also to giving back to the community by raising funds to support scholarships for students. By investing in the education of the youth, we provide opportunities for the younger generation to realize their full potential and to create a difference in the world.”

    These two initiatives exemplify Mitsubishi Motors PH’s dedication to driving positive change, fostering a sustainable future for both the environment and the Filipino youth.

    Hyundai Motor PH solidifies its presence with the groundbreaking of Hyundai Marilao under the ANC+ Group

    Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. (HMPH) continues to solidify its presence in the country through the construction of Hyundai Marilao. The groundbreaking, which took place last July 28, 2023, marked the start of a budding partnership between the brand and the ANC+ Group of Companies (ANC).

    The momentous event was attended by key personalities from HMPH including president Dongwook Lee, and managing director Cecil Capacete, as well as ANC executives president and chairman Anthony Cheng, executive vice president Dr. Mike Tan, managing director Minnie Valencia-Bustamante, and vice chairman Timothy Cheng.

    Lee warmly greeted them onboard saying, “We are very pleased to welcome not just the city of Marilao to our roster of dealerships, but also the ANC+ Group of Companies to our expanding network. Hyundai Motor wishes to contribute and help accelerate the progress in the province of Bulacan through innovative and sustainable products, spaces, and services. So, we look forward to working alongside ANC on this.”

    The Metro Manila area is surrounded by neighboring provinces that have, over the years, transformed into highly urbanized clusters. Bulacan, being one of them, serves as the link to Northern Philippines. It has become the home to several industrial estates and parks due to its strategic geographic location. And Hyundai is determined to cater to the rising needs of Bulaceño residents and businesses alike.

    ANC also further established its commitment to support HMPH’s growth with the contract signing for its next outlet in Abad Santos, which is set to open in the first quarter of 2024.

    For more news, visit Hyundai Motor Philippine’s Website and social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

    Globe named PH’s strongest brand by Brand Finance

    Leading digital solutions platform Globe has been named the Philippines’ strongest brand by Brand Finance, the world’s leading independent brand valuation and strategy consultancy. 

    In its 2023 annual report on the most valuable and strongest Filipino brands, Brand Finance highlighted Globe’s impressive AAA brand strength rating and brand value of USD2.028 billion. These achievements underscored Globe’s exceptional performance across its range of services. 

    Globe recorded consolidated service revenues of PHP157.98 billion last year, a testament to its robust mobile and corporate data business performance and the sustained growth of its non-telco services. 

    It has also made significant strides in 5G network rollout across the nation, successfully bringing 5G connectivity to 74 more cities and towns in the first quarter of the year. This achievement, coupled with its expanded global 5G roaming presence around the world, signifies Globe’s commitment to technological innovation.

    “Globe has always been known for its innovative spirit and first-to-market digital solutions. We are happy for this recognition which reflects our commitment to uplift the lives of our customers through technology,” said Ernest Cu, Globe Group president and CEO. 

    “From our tireless efforts in delivering top-tier connectivity and introducing innovative solutions, we strive to serve our users, regardless of their location. This extends to our digital financial services that aim to boost financial inclusivity and our unwavering dedication to sustainability. In every facet of our operation, we aim to not only excel but also make a positive and meaningful impact.”

    Globe has also been driving digital transformation in the Philippines, expanding its services beyond telco to address Filipinos’ daily pain points through innovative technology. Currently, the digital solutions platform has services in the areas of fintech, healthtech, adtech, edutech, climate tech, shared services, investments, and entertainment, among others. 

    In addition to its technological prowess, Globe is committed to sustainability, earning recognition as the Most Sustainability-Driven Network Operator in the Philippines by Standard Insights and as one of Asia Pacific’s Climate Leaders by the Financial Times and Statista for two consecutive years. This reflects the company’s active role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficient technologies and green network operations. 

    Globe also supports communities affected by calamities, consistently providing connectivity support and telehealth consultations in areas wherever disasters strike.

    All these efforts earned Globe a commendable Sustainability Perceptions Value (SPV) of USD194 million, underscoring the increasing significance of sustainability in brand value. As part of its analysis, Brand Finance assesses how sustainable specific brands are perceived to be and calculates the SPV for each brand.

    Brand Finance’s unique valuation process begins with an extensive study of consumer perceptions involving over 100,000 global respondents, including more than 25,000 from the Asia Pacific region. This research provides a comprehensive view of brand strength based on awareness, consideration, and reputation metrics. 

    To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/

    Acer brings together the best musical performances for an epic experience at Acer Day 2023: #AceYourWorld concert

    It was a double celebration as Acer Philippines marked Acer Day 2023 and its 20th anniversary on August 6 with an epic #AceYourWorld concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

    The line-up made the Acer Day: #AceYourWOrld concert a dream event, with Acer brand Ambassadors Sarah Geronimo, Donny Pangilinan, Belle Mariano, international superstar Sandara Park, and a powerhouse cast of artists that included, Sunkissed Lola, December Avenue, Zach Tabudlo, Sponge Cola, Mayonnaise, Ben&Ben, and Ely Buendia.

    “We chose a line-up that Filipinos of different generations will enjoy so everyone can watch the concert and have a great time,” said Acer Philippines senior marketing manager Princess Laosantos.

    It was a full house at the SM MOA Arena and on Facebook, with an estimated 15,000 attendees watching in person and online.

    Hosted by Robi Domingo, Acer Day 2023, which had the theme #AceYourWorld was indeed a night to remember. The artists performed their biggest hits, turning the concert into one big party with fans dancing the night away. Predator Gaming brand ambassadors also joined in on the fun, and Acer treated concertgoers to many activities where they got to take home prizes such as Acer products.

    Sarah G. performed two songs— “Cuore” and “Alam”— to open the concert in the biggest way possible.

    For her part, Sandara Park, together with the GForce Dancers, sang “Festival,” the lead single to her self-titled solo debut mini album. It was her first time performing the song live before a Philippine audience. She also performed “T Map,” “In or Out,” and “I Am the Best.”

    The country’s favorite young love team DonBelle brought kilig to the concert with a duet of the song “Byahe” by John Roa.

    Although currently on their world tour, kings of P-pop SB19 prepared a video greeting to their Acer family.

    Sunkissed Lola kept the ball rolling with “Pasilyo,” “Pakisabi,” “Damag,” and “Makalimutan Ka.” pop-alternative rock group December Avenue followed up with their hit songs, “Kahit ‘Di Mo Alam,” “Bulong,” “Dahan,” “Eroplanong Papel,” “Ilang Beses Kita Mamahalin?,” “Wala Nang Iba,” “Huling Sandali,” “Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw,” “Saksi Ang Langit,” and “Sa Ngalan Ng Pag-Ibig.”

    Next up was rock band Mayonnaise, who delighted the audience with “Bakit Pt. 2,” “Synesthesia,” “Kapag Lasing Malambing,” “Tayo Na Lang Dalawa,” and “Jopay.”

    Filipino singer-songwriter Zach Tabudlo brought the house down with three of his hits— “Give me your forever,” “Pano,” and “Binibini.”

    Finally, Sponge Cola took the stage with “Pasubali,” “Tuliro,” “Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay,” “Kunwari,” “Bitiw,” and a special rendition of “Jeepney,” and “Puso.”

    Gen Z favorite Ben&Ben gave the crowd eight songs, including “Ride Home,” “Sa Susunod na Habang Buhay,” “Leaves,” “Kathang Isip,” “Pagtingin,” “Araw-araw,” “Maybe the Night,” and “Paninindigan Kita.”

    To end the evening on a high, Ely Buendia took the stage with iconic Eraserhead songs, “Alapaap,” “Toyang,” “Pare Ko,” “Spolarium,” “Ligaya,” “Magasin,” “Superproxy,” “With a Smile,” and “Huling El Bimbo.”

    Fans got tickets to the #AceYourWorld concert through social media contests held on Facebook and Twitter or when they purchased from Acer’s Back-to-School promo! Every promo purchase entitled the customer to a concert ticket and a Php 500 pledge to the GreenEarth Heritage Foundation.

    “This concert is not just an anniversary celebration but a way for Acer to give back to the community by staging a memorable event that brings all the hottest musical acts in town,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines general manager.

    Follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com for more details.

    Xiaomi Pad 6 first impressions

    The Xiaomi Pad 6 is finally here!

    Two years after the launch of the Xiaomi Pad 5, Xiaomi is officially bringing its successor, the Xiaomi Pad 6, to the country.

    Full disclosure, I own a Xiaomi Pad 5. I bought it way back in October 2021, and continue to use it as a portable workstation when I’m out and about. While I’d like to share some comparisons between the siblings, you’ll have to wait for our full review, which is coming very soon. These are just some of my initial thoughts on the new tablet from Xiaomi.

    Opening the box, you’ll be greeted with the tablet itself. Underneath are the 33W charger, the USB A to USB-C cable, and finally some paperwork. Xiaomi also sent us some accessories, including the second-generation Xiaomi Smart Pen, a cover case, and the Xiaomi Pad 6 keyboard case.

    Taking the tablet out of the box, you’ll immediately notice that it’s pretty light. The Pad 5 is already a great portable workhorse but, at first glance and feel, I think the Pad 6 can top that.

    Speaking of glances, the Xiaomi Pad 6 has a great display. It’s a WQHD+ (2880 x 1800) display with 144Hz refresh rate. Did I mention that it’s Dolby Vision supported? The audio is quite good, too, thanks to its quad speakers. It can get pretty loud and still retain great audio.

    When I first opened the device, I tested it out with some YouTube videos and was completely immersed to the point of losing track of time. (It was still a time well spent, though).

    In the looks department, the Xiaomi Pad 6 does not deviate too much from the Xiaomi Pad 5. It still has a decent-sized 11-inch display. A first look side-by-side, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is also roughly the same size as its predecessor.

    As someone who uses the Xiaomi Pad 5 as a daily driver, I can confidently say that this is the perfect size for a tablet. It’s portable and easily blends in as a book or notebook when you’re holding it.

    The one improvement that I am really happy with is the selfie camera. The Xiaomi Pad 6 now has the selfie camera in the center when it’s in landscape mode! For me, this was a much-needed change from the older generation, which had it centered during portrait mode. The older camera layout made video conferencing a bit difficult since you’re always looking away from the camera.

    As for the camera at the back, there is a bit of improvement in that aspect as well, but I will discuss this more thoroughly in the full review.

    Finally, for the power users out there, you’ll be happy to hear that, so far, I have no complaints in that department. While I have yet to run some benchmarks, the tablet is noticeably fast. I tried some games on it, and it handled them pretty well.

    As for how much it will cost, as of writing, Xiaomi has yet to reveal the price of the Xiaomi Pad 6. But if it is anywhere near the price of its predecessor, then it’s sure to be a winner.

    Xiaomi brings “Live Vivid” closer to students with Redmi Note 12 Campus Tour

    Xiaomi kicked off its Redmi Note 12 Series Campus Tour, which featured fun and interactive booths where students could join activities and experience the smartphone firsthand.

    Tech-savvy spirits soar high at the TUP campus! The Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) in Taguig City was abuzz with excitement as the Redmi Note 12 Campus Tour kicked off, introducing students to a world of mobile innovation, entertainment, and the boundless fun possibilities that Redmi Note 12 offers.

    Following the launch of the Redmi Note 12 Series in the Philippines, Xiaomi brought the “Live Vivid” campaign closer to younger audiences through the Campus Tour, in partnership with the Collegiate Center for Esports (CCE). It aimed to give students a vibrant experience with spaces catering to content creation, gaming, and photography.

    Snap, Smile, Sizzle! TUP students strike a pose with the iconic, Filipino-clad Xiaomi Bunny mascot.

    “The younger generation are enthusiastic about their passions, and they always seem to find a way to pursue them. Xiaomi has made it possible through our smartphones like the Redmi Note 12 series, which is also a great and practical choice for students,” said Tomi Adrias, head of Marketing for Xiaomi Philippines.

    Friends, Fun, and ‘Live Vivid’ Moments! TUP students light up in the fun-filled atmosphere, infusing every laughter-filled moment shared with friends with ‘Live Vivid’ vibes.

    The first stop of the Redmi Note 12 Series Campus Tour was the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) in Taguig City. It featured a self-shoot photography booth, gaming area, fun arcade activities, scooter track, and smart home displays. Xiaomi also prepared exclusive promotions and deals for the TUP academic community.

    Game On, Redmi Style! Student participants revel in the thrill of the fun games, their infectious smiles shining brighter as they snag fun prizes and awesome freebies from Xiaomi.

    The campus tour will make stops at other universities and colleges in the country. Keep an eye out on Xiaomi’s official Facebook page to see when it’s coming to your campus!

    For more information, visit Xiaomi’s official website. Online purchases are available via Xiaomi’s Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok shops (@XiaomiPhilippines).

    From thrilling sports action to drama, you can find all these shows on Cignal TV

    The new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan comes with unli internet, landline with unli mobile calls, and unli entertainment from Cignal TV. 

    A relaxing weekend at home calls for a perfect bonding time with the family. You can stay in and huddle in front of the TV while watching your favorite shows and feasting over your comfort home-cooked meals. 

    From the world’s biggest sports events to the hottest movies and shows, here are the best shows to watch on Cignal TV: 

    FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 | On One Sports+ (Ch. 91)

    Filipinos and families looking to satisfy their passion for basketball will love bonding over the historic action slated to happen on home soil in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.  

    Hosted jointly by the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia, 32 of the best basketball teams from around the world will compete for the most prestigious title in the sport. The past four editions of the World Cup were dominated by Spain and the USA, but all teams remain poised to bring success to their respective nations. However, new regions are on the rise and are ready to take the crown for themselves. The question is: who will emerge as champions? 

    It’s an even bigger deal for this basketball-loving nation, as Gilas Pilipinas represents the country in the biggest and most anticipated international sporting event of the year. Can’t watch the game live? You can go all-out when you watch the games in the comfort of your home.

    Black Adam | On HBO (Ch. 210 HD)

    Superhero and comics fans looking for a new icon may tune in to HBO to watch Black Adam. Megastar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stars as an ancient Egyptian slave who was given the powers of Egyptian gods to become the people’s champion. After being awakened, he goes on a rampage until the Justice Society helps him use this incredible power to become a protector for his people. Realizing his potential, Black Adam helps his fellow heroes to stop a threat, known as Sabbac, from taking over the world.  Families looking for a fresh new superhero story to follow can enjoy one of DC Comics’ most action-packed titles in recent memory. The film also stars legendary James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan, popular young actor Noah Centineo, as well as an awesome cameo by beloved Superman actor Henry Cavill. 

    It’s definitely a treat for comic fans who might want to relive the adrenaline rush of one of the biggest superhero movies of 2022, in the comfort of their own homes. 

    The Hows of Us | On Cinema One (Ch. 45)

    This emotional romantic drama about the trials and tribulations of a young couple named Primo and George, respectively played by iconic Filipino actors Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo, can be seen on Cinema One.

    Despite their relative youth, they have been in a long-term relationship and have dreamed of growing old together and having a fairy-tale ending. However, they must face many growing pains and overcome difficult challenges together. This includes sacrificing their dreams to support each other’s needs, and even going through a prolonged break-up that tests the limits of their relationship.

    The Hows of Us was a highly successful film both in the Philippines and around the world thanks to the powerful performances of the popular leads. KathNiel fans—as well as those looking for a heartwarming love story—will feel that familiar kilig and fall in love when they relive the magic all over again on TV, especially on cozy days when you’re feeling more than a little senti. 

    It’s even better for those watching it for the first time, as they get to experience and find out why Daniel and Kathryn are two of the most acclaimed local actors of their generation.

    Unlimited entertainment with PLDT Home

    Now, it’s easier than ever to catch all these red-hot titles with Cignal TV, which now comes with your internet subscription at home thanks to PLDT Home’s new Fiber Unli All plans.  

    Cignal TV offers a wide range of entertainment, with over 85 channels. This includes the best movie channels, sporting leagues and events, music, and family entertainment. With these channels, there’s no shortage of quality home entertainment for PLDT Home subscribers.

    With the all-new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plans, you can also experience the fastest internet speeds and other awesome perks for your digital needs at home. 

    You get a complete home setup for entertainment, work, play, and more all in one package when you subscribe to Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 or 1799. On top of PLDT Home’s award-winning fastest internet, as certified by Ookla®, you also get access to seamless HD TV, all the way up to 4K streaming. The blazing-fast home broadband allows for hassle-free and uninterrupted work and study, quick file transfers, as well as lag-free video calls and conferences; and when it’s time to unwind, indulge in high-quality online gaming connections at home. 

    The PLDT Home FiberUnli All also lets you keep in touch with everyone with unlimited mobile calls from PLDT landline to Smart, TNT, and Sun. Moreover, the whole family gets to stay healthy and safe with the built-in access to the best digital healthcare with a Health Pass from mWell and an Emergency Pass from Lifeline.

    Enjoy the best digital home experience with award-winning internet speeds, top-level entertainment, unlimited calls, and thoughtful healthcare with the PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plans. 

    Visit this link to find out more!

    KodeGo bridges STEM gender-employment gap, opens new opportunities for women in tech

    KodeGo, the innovative online tech boot camp by Globe’s 917Ventures, is charting a new course for women in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by providing opportunities that aim to address gender disparity in local employment. 

    The Philippines currently exhibits a 22% gender-based disparity in the STEM workforce, the largest in Southeast Asia, according to a study by professional networking platform LinkedIn. Although women make up 58.8% of employees in non-STEM fields, this figure dramatically falls to a mere 36.3% within the STEM sectors.

    KodeGo’s mission to democratize education for all is proving to be instrumental in this context, equalizing opportunities for women in these rapidly evolving and highly sought-after disciplines.

    The online boot camp has a curriculum patterned after in-demand tech skills and soft skills sought by companies.  Short-term tech-related courses include Full-Stack Web Development, UX Design, and WordPress Development. 

    KodeGo has seen an increasing number of women enrolling in its programs, with the number rising as KodeGo increased the number of boot camps it offers. Currently, women make up 26% of KodeGo’s student population, with a total of 572 as of June 2023– a testament to increased female interest in traditionally male-dominated fields because of KodeGo’s dedication to offering accessible, gender-neutral education.

    “KodeGo is deeply committed to addressing the glaring STEM gender-employment gaps in the country,” said Cristina Gervasio, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at KodeGo. “By providing quality training, we aim to empower Filipinos, no matter what their gender may be so that they could be more competitive in the IT industry. We envision a future where the tech world sees equal representation of genders, fostering innovation, diversity, and resilience.”

    Recognizing that the most significant drop in female representation in the STEM workforce occurs between graduation and employment, KodeGo is intensifying efforts to provide a seamless transition for its graduates. By partnering with top-tier companies, KodeGo ensures graduates receive first-rate education and gain hands-on experience in real-world projects, further cementing their place in the STEM workforce.

    As an initiative under 917Ventures, KodeGo signifies the Globe Group’s ongoing commitment to improving the caliber of Filipino software engineers and promoting gender equality in the tech sector.For more information about KodeGo and 917Ventures and how they are empowering women in the STEM fields, please visit www.kodego.ph  and www.917ventures.com.

    EdgePoint PH appoints William Walters as new CEO

    EdgePoint Philippines, a leading provider of telecommunications infrastructure solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of William Walters as the new Chief Executive Officer. With over 24 years of experience in the telecoms sector, William brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in delivering successful telecommunications infrastructure projects.

    As Chief Executive Officer, William will continue to drive the company’s growth by leading EdgePoint Philippines’ expansion plans, further strengthening the company’s customer relationships and focusing on building a sustainable ecosystem of telecommunications partners and vendors.

    Speaking on the appointment, William shared, “It is truly dynamic times for us here! In May 2020, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) published its first guidelines to an independent Common Tower Policy, and it has enabled more foreign investments, eased local partnerships, and improved the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure. A target of 50,000 towers for the next seven to ten years was set, and we are steadily progressing towards this target; as of May 2023, there are approximately 22,650 cell towers in the country which is almost half. EdgePoint has a great team in country, and I am excited to continue supporting our customers’ connectivity expansion plans by identifying potential sites for new telecom towers as well as providing a network of suitable sites for co-location”.

    Before this, William served as the vice president for Digitalization and Operations at EdgePoint Infrastructure, successfully leading the deployment of internal operational digital platforms, driving efficiency and innovation within the organization.

    William has worked across multiple countries in Asia, including Hong Kong, Malaysia, and the Philippines, gaining valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within each market. Over the years, he has held key roles in telecommunications companies, serving as Country Managing Director for Isoc-Edotco Philippines, VP APAC at Accuris Networks, Sales Director at Mbr Global, and Vice President of Customer Services and Regional Delivery (APAC) at Logica Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

    “We are delighted to welcome William to the EdgePoint Philippines team as the new Chief Executive Officer,” said Suresh Sidhu, chief executive officer​ and Founder EdgePoint. “His extensive experience in the telecoms sector, coupled with his proven leadership capabilities, make him the ideal person to drive our business forward and strengthen our position as a trusted partner for telecommunications infrastructure solutions in the Philippines.”

    To date, EdgePoint Philippines operates 2557 active sites in the country, with the number targeted to reach 3000 by the end of 2023. 

    For more information on EdgePoint, please visit https://edgepointinfra.com/ 

    Victus 15 by HP powered by Intel — the ultimate gaming laptop for avid gamers

    If you’re an ardent gamer searching for the ultimate gaming experience, look no further than the Victus 15 by HP. As one of the best gaming laptops in 2023, the Victus 15 combines cutting-edge technology and exceptional features to take your gaming to new heights. With its powerful performance and immersive capabilities, this gaming laptop will elevate your gameplay, ensuring you have the edge over your opponents and experience gaming at its absolute best.

    At the heart of the Victus 15 lies the 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, a true gaming powerhouse that brings unrivaled processing power to your fingertips. 12th Gen Intel Core processors use a performance hybrid architecture design to transform your gaming and computing experience by integrating two all-new core microarchitectures (Performance core and Efficiency core) into a single die to increase compute efficiency and deliver intelligent workload optimization.

    The Intel Thread Director does the behind-the-scenes magic that seamlessly coordinates the performance-cores (P-cores) and efficient-cores (E-cores) to work together harmoniously. This intelligent coordination ensures you experience the perfect balance of clock speed, cores, and threads, delivering immersive experiences and low latency during competitive gameplay.

    The Victus 15, however, is more than just a gaming machine; it offers users the freedom to multitask without compromising performance. Whether you’re chatting with friends, browsing the internet, streaming content, editing videos, or recording gameplay, this laptop effortlessly handles it all. With its powerful capabilities, you can seamlessly switch between tasks without missing a beat, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your gaming experience.

    Graphics are a crucial component of any gaming laptop, and the Victus 15 excels in this department. Powered by the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti Laptop GPU, it delivers stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensures that every detail comes to life with breathtaking clarity. You’ll be fully immersed in the virtual world, with fluid motion and reduced motion blur, making your gaming experience truly captivating.

    The Victus 15 boasts immersive audio tuned by B&O and dual speakers to enhance your gaming immersion further. From thunderous explosions to subtle ambient sounds, every audio detail is amplified, creating a rich and realistic soundscape that truly draws you into the game. With the Victus 15, you’ll experience gaming audio like never before.

    Extended gaming sessions can strain a laptop’s cooling system, but the Victus 15’s upgraded cooling system ensures optimal performance even during intense gaming marathons. Say goodbye to overheating and performance throttling, and enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions with peace of mind. This laptop is designed to keep up with your gaming demands and maintain peak performance throughout.

    Connectivity is made effortless with the Victus 15, which supports multiple 4K displays and features Thunderbolt™ technology. Whether connecting to external displays or organizing your peripheral suite, the Victus 15 provides the flexibility and convenience to create your dream gaming setup. Stay prepared and ready to dive into the gaming action at any moment.

    Customization and optimization are key to achieving your gaming goals, and the Victus 15 offers just that through the Omen Gaming Hub. This centralized control center allows you to fine-tune your settings, monitor system performance, and connect with other gamers. It’s your one-stop shop for enhancing your gaming experience and staying ahead of the competition.

    The Victus 15 by HP is a gaming beast that will take your gaming experience to the next level. With its sleek design, powerful performance, immersive display, enhanced audio, and upgraded cooling system, it stands out among the best gaming laptops available in 2023. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious esports enthusiast, the Victus 15 is the ultimate gaming companion that will take your gaming journey to the next level.

    Unleash the full potential of your gaming experience with the Victus 15 by HP. Gaming happens with Intel®, and with the 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor, this laptop is built for the next generation of gaming. Don’t miss out on this exceptional gaming companion. Visit the official HP stores on Shopee and Lazada to discover the Victus 15 and elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Get ready to conquer the virtual world like never before.

    ‘Ace Your World’ featuring Sarah G. and SB19 now streaming on online music platforms for Acer Philippines’ 20th anniversary

    As part of Acer Philippines’ 20th anniversary and the celebration of Acer Day 2023, Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo and phenomenal P-pop boy group SB19 collaborated on a song called “Ace Your World.”

    The song, available on online streaming platforms starting August 4, was written and composed by Radkidz, the duo of John Paulo Nase (Pablo) and his brother, Joshua Daniel Nase.

    “This song is very different from other songs we have released. “Ace Your World” is more edgy and hype. We gave Pablo creative freedom to write this song, and it turned out exceptionally well. The song conveys Acer’s message to #AceYourWorld perfectly,” said Princess Laosantos, senior marketing manager at Acer Philippines.

    Written in English and Filipino, it urges listeners to take control of their lives and “Ace Your World” no matter what they do. Through the song, Sarah G and SB19 encourage everyone to stay strong regardless of their challenges because their lives are their own destinies.

    Listen to the powerful voices of Sarah G. and SB19 as they sing “Ace Your World” on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Deezer. A music video will be released soon.

    Follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com for more details.