Ecooter Philippines is transforming the transportation landscape with the launch of its flagship store, a significant milestone in its mission to lead the electric motorcycle revolution in the country. Offering cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and unparalleled performance, Ecooter motorcycles are designed for the modern rider looking for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Why Choose Ecooter?
At the heart of Ecooter’s innovation are its advanced electric motorcycles, which provide a seamless blend of technology and practicality:
• Zero Emissions: Ecooter motorcycles are powered by lithium batteries, helping reduce your carbon footprint while promoting a cleaner, greener environment.
• Superior Performance: Riders enjoy smooth, quiet acceleration and long travel distances, making Ecooter ideal for both city commutes and extended journeys.
• Cost Efficiency: Lower maintenance requirements and the elimination of fuel costs ensure significant savings over time.
Cutting-Edge Models
Ecooter’s lineup, including the E2, E3, and E5, is tailored for riders seeking performance, safety, and convenience. Key features include:
• Short Charging Times: The E3 charges in just 2.5 hours, while the E5 takes 5 hours, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Smart Technology: Features such as cruise control and an app for connectivity keep riders in control and informed.
• Advanced Safety: The E5 comes equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), enhancing rider safety in all conditions.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Since its establishment in 2017, Ecooter Philippines has championed the shift to sustainable transportation. Notable initiatives include a partnership with Miss Earth Philippines and hosting the Ecooter Cup, the country’s first all-electric motorcycle race. These efforts underscore Ecooter’s dedication to promoting environmental responsibility and advancing the electric motorcycle industry.
The Flagship Store: A Hub for the Future
Ecooter’s flagship store — located at #1 North Edsa Cars, Project 7, Quezon City — serves as more than just a showroom; it’s a gateway to the future of transportation. Visitors can explore a curated selection of electric motorcycles and receive expert guidance from knowledgeable staff. The store also offers top-notch maintenance and after-sales support, ensuring a smooth ownership experience.
Ecooter Philippines is redefining the motorcycle industry with its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or exploring electric mobility for the first time, Ecooter is ready to take you on the road to a greener future.
Discover more by visiting Ecooter Philippines on Facebook or Instagram.
For more than a decade, people all over the world have consistently enhanced their productivity and creativity by turning to Galaxy smartphones. Chief among them, the Galaxy S Ultra series, which is built on a legacy of innovation of our Galaxy Note series has become synonymous with boundless creativity and is loved by countless Galaxy fans.
With its incredible power, expansive screen, and iconic S Pen, Galaxy S Ultra is renowned for helping people seamlessly follow their inspirations or capture ideas anytime, anywhere — even without unlocking the phone and digging for a note-taking app.
Creativity Like Never Before
Last year, Samsung introduced Galaxy AI, ushering a new era of mobile experiences. This groundbreaking technology helped the Galaxy S Ultra series evolve into an even more indispensable tool for maximizing creative freedom. And now, your creativity is about to reach new heights.
Sketch to Image, now integrated into Drawing assist, is now evolving. Utilizing more than a single input, like drawing with S Pen or your finger, it is becoming a multimodal experience. Now you can breathe life into your ideas by sketching them, writing out a description of the image you want with text, or using the voice command say what to draw. If you can envision it, Galaxy AI can help you create it.
Let’s say you want to really let your imagination run wild. You can draw a cat using S Pen and then, with multimodal Galaxy AI, you can type a “spacesuit” to put your cat in a space suit and visualize them in outer space. Or maybe you’re thinking about your dream home. Using the S Pen, you make a quick drawing of the façade. But maybe you’re not sure where you want your dream home to be. Simply type some possible locations, like “by the beach” or “in the mountains” and Drawing assist will help you see your future home in a new light.
From Note to Ultra and Beyond
This level of creative freedom is built on a legacy of innovation that began in 2011, when we introduced the Galaxy Note to redefine what was creatively possible on a smartphone. That power and spirit of innovation lives on through the Galaxy S Ultra series, and it continues to evolve with Galaxy AI.
With One UI 7, Samsung’s first integrated AI platform, your phone will become a true AI companion that understands natural language through text and speech, as well as images. It will be a new standard of multimodal mobile AI that enables incredible creativity. But this is just a preview.
Tune into Galaxy Unpacked on January 23, 2:00 AM PH Time to see how the next Galaxy S series can truly unleash your creativity. Join us as we unveil a new chapter in mobile AI – premium Galaxy innovations that bring seamless convenience into every moment of your life. The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning at 2:00 AM PH Time.
AI was the biggest trend in tech for 2024. From the continued development of Large Language Models, more Generative AI, and AI integration in our day-to-day devices, AI has been at the forefront of technology in the past year. So, when Microsoft got in the AI inside devices game with their Copilot+ PCs plus the utilization of the ARM infrastructure as part of the AI revolution it was enough to make want to try it out.
That time is finally here with the ASUS Vivobook S15 (S5507), a Copilot+ PC from ASUS – running on the Qualcomm Snapdragon X platform. After a week of testing and trying it out, I finally saw a glimpse of the future of personal computing.
Design: 4/5
ASUS has always produced great-looking laptops. Its Zenbook series is some of the sleekest devices on the market with its minimalist design and metallic body. The Vivobook series, meanwhile, strikes a balance of minimalists with hints of a unique youthful design. The Vivobook S 15 take on more of the Zenbook aesthetic with ASUS opting for a simpler yet sleek design.
When you take the laptop out of the box you’ll immediately see the aluminum body as well as the simple ASUS Vivobook name engraved on the cover. To be honest it feels out of place from most Vivobooks and Zenbooks, something unique that blends the aesthetic of both. Moving on to the body, the all-metal body gives the laptop a premium feel and at the same time gives you confidence when handling it.
Opening the laptop, you’ll be greeted with the 15.6-inch 3K (2880 x 1620) ASUS Lumina OLED display. Unlike most new ASUS Laptops with a 16:10 aspect ratio, the Vivobook S15’s display only has a 16:9 aspect ratio, but it already has a 120Hz refresh rate and a max brightness of 600 nits.
On top of the display you’ll have the HD IR Webcam covered by the privacy shutters. These webcams are great, clearer than most of its competitions. Moving on to the body, the ASUS Vivobook S15 has a full-sized keyboard and a number pad for those who need it. The keyboard is chiclet-type and was a joy to type on. It also has an RGB backlight which you can customize within the MyASUS app.
On the left is a full-size HDMI 2.1 port, two USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C with support for display and power delivery, a MicroSD slot, and the 3.5mm combo jack. On the right are the two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and the LED notification lights.
Hardware: 4/5
Underneath the hood, the Vivobook is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor. Our review unit came with the Snapdragon X Plus processor though ASUS is also offering a version with the more powerful Snapdragon X Elite processor. Paired with the processor is an Adreno GPU, and because the laptop is a Copilot+ PC, it also comes with Qualcomm’s own Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that helps with AI tasks.
Aside from the main processors, the Vivobook S15 comes with 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of PCIE Gen. 4 SSD. For connectivity, the Vivobook S15 has Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
In terms of performance, all I can say is that the Vivobook S15 is a mixed bag. Don’t get me wrong, the laptop is powerful enough. In fact, it’s better in some productivity aspects than most other laptops. That said, the ARM-based system does show its dreaded fangs in some instances. While running benchmarks, I found that PCMark 10 was still incompatible with ARM devices. Games are also a big no-no, with most games either crashing or outright failing to install.
That said, the Vivobook S15 does shine in tasks that are compatible with ARM. Other day-to-day tasks, such as writing with a bit of photo or video editing, are a breeze with the Vivobook S15. Additionally, the Copilot button on the keyboard does help when you need to quickly access Copilot, which I mainly used for grammar checks and spelling checks.
One of the more impressive specs underneath the Vivobook S15’s hood is the 70Wh battery. According to ASUS, this battery can last up to 18 hours of non-stop productivity and entertainment. While I did not reach that long during testing, I was still impressed with how long the battery lasts on this laptop (more on this later).
User Experience: 4/5
The Vivobook S15 is a great on-the-go laptop. It was really fortunate that our review coincided with an out of the country trip, so I got to fully try out the laptop and its portability. Weighting in at just 1.42kg, the Vivobook S15 was a blessing during the trip. Its thin and light body made it easy to handle in the ever-so-hectic airport security. The large 15.6-inch OLED display was also great when I had to quickly finish a write-up inside the plane and maybe a movie or two.
What made the Vivobook S15 a better travel companion was its battery life and power efficiency. After setting up the device the night prior to my trip, I was left with around 85% of battery. After a bit of work in the airport and on the plane, I was left with around 77% of the battery. Finally, after settling in at our hotel and working for another 3 to 4 hours, I was still left with 54%, which lasted me another two days of brief on-and-off work.
When the battery did fall, I was able to fully charge the laptop to 100% in just under 2 hours with the included 90W charger.
Speaking of work, transferring work was also seamless with the ASUS Vivobook S15. The laptop comes with a free Microsoft Office Home and Student 2021 license and a 1 Year subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal. I was able to easily continue my existing work with the Office 365 and carry over projects with the free 1TB of Microsoft Cloud storage with the subscription.
As an AI laptop, the ASUS Vivobook S15 also has ASUS’ StoryCube, the brand’s own One-Stop AI Media Hub that organizes your media files. StoryCube can organize your files even on your different cloud storages and effortless identify people or scenes automatically. StoryCubes helps in expediting your project workflow by having all your files ready and waiting.
Besides productivity, another aspect where the Vivobook S15 excels is media and entertainment. The laptop’s 3K OLED display is gorgeous to look at and binge-watching movies on this laptop was a blast. The speakers were also surprisingly amazing, sounds were loud yet whole; more than enough to fill a small room and more.
ASUS also included its new Marshmallow Keyboard (KW100) during our review, and while I enjoyed typing on the Vivobook S15, the keyboard was extremely useful when I needed to work on multiple devices. Just a simple press of some buttons, and I’m connected to the Vivobook S15, my tablet, and even my Desktop. Additionally, the ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard (KW100) was great to type on, as key travel was decent and satisfying. That said, when choosing between the Vivobook S15 and the keyboard, I would still go for the built-in keyboard on the Vivobook S15.
One thing to note about the ASUS Marshmallow keyboard is that you need to get used to its small size. While the letter keys were reasonably sized, I found that it was a bit hard to quickly reach the smaller-sized backspace and enter keys. But, like I said, once I got used to the layout, I quickly returned to my groove.
Value: 4/5
Coming in at PHP69,995 for the Snapdragon X Plus processor model and PHP84,995 for the Snapdragon X Elite variant, the Vivobook S15 has a pretty stiff price. Its place as an ARM-based system does have some drawbacks for some users, yet its power efficiency is next to none.
If you are an executive who wants a device that will last you well beyond a day, then the Vivobook S15 is the perfect device for you. Its power efficiency is one of the best in the market, while its diminutive size allows it to be carried everywhere. This laptop is the perfect work everywhere device.
For those who want extra peace of mind when they travel, the ASUS’ Vivobook S15 also comes with ASUS’ celebrated 4A quality and service that includes up to 2 years of international warranty covering free service and spare parts.
As of writing, the ASUS Vivobook S15 is one of the devices included in the ASUS Share 2024 promo, where your tech upgrade get you up to a PHP5000 Sole Academy e-voucher. Check out the full promo and mechanics here. ASUS Share 2024 is happening from December 05, 2024 to January 31, 2025.
Specifications:
Processor: Snapdragon® X Plus X1P 42 100 Processor 3.4GHz (30MB Cache, up to 3.4GHz, 8 cores, 8 Threads)
Display: 15.6-inch 3K (2880 x 1620) OLED 16:9 aspect ratio 0.2ms response time 600nits HDR peak brightness 100% DCI-P3 color gamut
Graphics: Qualcomm® Adreno™ GPU
NPU: Qualcomm® Hexagon™ NPU up to 45TOPS
Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X
Storage: 1TB M.2 NVMe™ PCIe® 4.0 SSD
Camera & Microphone: FHD camera with IR function to support Windows Hello with privacy shutter
Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (data speed up to 5Gbps), 2x USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C with support for display/power delivery (data speed up to 40Gbps), 1x HDMI 2.1 TMDS, 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack, Micro SD card reader
Battery: 70WHrs, 3S1P, 3-cell Li-ion
Dimensions: 35.
What’s Hot:
Good keyboard
Amazing battery life
Great speakers
What’s Not:
ARM app support is still not all-encompassing
Bottomline:
The Asus Vivobook S15 is the perfect laptop for those who want the freedom to go go go.
Reviewed by Gabriel John Pe Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 25 No. 6 Issue.
Challenging the extremes of the Bicol weather this month are 698 delegates from all over the six provinces of the region who will come together once again for PADUNUNGAN 2025, the annual Battle of Intellects.
Maybe it’s easy for you to scream “resilience” because you are not the one drowning. As the rain continues to pour non-stop all over the Bicol region this early January, it is high time not just to amplify already existing discussions on genuine disaster mitigation but to have the youth participate in such calls for change.
PADUNUNGAN 2025, spearheaded by UP Ibalon, a sociocultural organization of Bicolano students from the University of the Philippines Diliman, commences this January 18-19, 2025, at the Sta. Cruz National High School in Naga City with the theme, “Debunking Resilience: Intensifying the Youth’s Call for Genuine Disaster Mitigation.” The much-awaited event features a combination of valuable educational discussions and competitions that allow participants to showcase their talents, wit, and skills in various categories as they interpret the call for debunking the resiliency narrative.
On the Oragon Branding
PADUNUNGAN 2025 intends to shed light on the current state of disaster risk reduction and management in Bicol, specifically how the youth may aid in debunking the traditional resiliency narrative and replacing it with a demand for accountability. Even more highlighted through Padunungan are the sectoral communities such as agriculture and fisheries who feel the effects of disasters thrice as intensely as the common individual. Through discussions among these sectors and the student participants, the event takes pride in promoting alternative narratives in the hopes of calling for a collective change in regional and national policies concerning disaster mitigation.
Fleshed out in this resilience narrative would be the very branding of Bicolanos as “Oragons” rooted from the strength to endure setbacks. However, this branding should not be used as an excuse to turn a blind eye on the real roots of disasters–inefficient management, insufficient funding, failed flood control and waste management projects, rapid industrialization, and the like. This narrative therefore, is what Padunungan 2025 targets to dissect forwarding the idea that resiliency is but an aftermath-centered concept that the youth should discuss in their own terms.
Transcending Friendly Competition
While the competitive spirit remains alive in every high school competition, Padunungan provides a platform for Bicolano students to engage in educational discussions. This 2025, the discussions recognize that there is nothing natural about its man-made intensity and that systemic failures to protect natural biodiversity and the inefficient management of the climate crisis all contribute to its adverse effects. Moreover, Padunungan also strives to strengthen the already-empowered youth’s call for change in the hope of providing them with a future that may not be disaster-free but disaster-ready.
Staying true to its cause of providing the youth with an avenue to show their ability to dissect societal crises, UP Ibalon’s 38th installment of Padunungan explores a variety of competitions. Individual events include Tigsik Writing, On-the-spot Essay Writing, Impromptu Speech, and Editorial Cartooning. A new category emerged in its recent installments and the prevalence of digital media with the Infographic Design competition. Meanwhile, group event also dominate the annual participant count with Debate, Quiz Bee, Short-Form Video Making, and Cultural Presentations.
Since the event’s conception in 1981, it has only begun to reach high participation after the pandemic. The increasing turnout for Padunungan underscores not only the organization’s perseverance in debunking narratives and forwarding public consciousness but also the Bicolano youth’s eagerness to understand and engage with these issues affecting them at diverse levels. Beyond the competition, this is a collective pursuit of social action. The true triumph lies not in its rankings but in the awakening of a student’s mind toward societal discourse.
In today’s fast-paced world where every second counts and memories are often fleeting, capturing life’s moments with precision and flair has become quite essential so nobody misses out on the good stuff.
From being a creative person to a travel enthusiast documenting your adventures, or a night owl who loves a good party, the OPPO Find X8’s powerful camera, matched with its powerful and latest AI innovations, is here to enhance every snapshot that will last forever.
Powerful AI Meets Powerful Camera
The OPPO Find X8 is more than just a smartphone, it’s your personal AI assistant for photography with a range of AI tools designed to ensure that every photo tells your story exactly the way you want it to. It is also equipped with a Hasselblad Master Camera System featuring three 50MP cameras – from ultra-wide landscapes to telephoto close-ups, the HyperTone Image Engine – which ensures every shot is vibrant and true to life.
AI Tools to Elevate Every Frame
Ever scrolled through your gallery and come across an old photo that doesn’t quite capture the vibrancy of the moment? With AI Photo Remaster, you can breathe new life into those images as it intelligently enhances colors, sharpness, and details, making your photos look like they were taken yesterday—perfect for sharing #throwback memories or creating stunning travel albums.
The AI remaster is a suite of nifty AI tools. Each tool is designed to instantly fix any hiccups in your photo.
AI Unblur
Whether you’re chasing sunsets, snapping candid shots of your friends, or trying to capture the energy of a night out, blurry photos can be a buzzkill. Enter AI Unblur. This game-changing feature sharpens moving subjects, ensuring your pet’s playful antics or your friend’s dance moves are captured in crystal-clear detail. Simply hold down the shutter, and let the Find X8 work its magic.
AI Clarity Enhancer
For those who demand perfection in every shot, the AI Clarity Enhancer ensures your photos are nothing short of spectacular. Whether it’s a cityscape during golden hour or a group photo under dim party lights, this feature optimizes every detail. Expect sharper edges, vibrant colors, and balanced lighting, no matter the scenario.
Photo Taken by Magic Liwanag using the AI Clarity Enhancer
AI Reflection Remover
Taking photos through glass often results in frustrating reflections, whether you’re at a scenic lookout or capturing your latte art at a cozy coffee shop. The AI Reflection Remover eliminates these distractions, giving you crisp, reflection-free images. Say goodbye to those pesky window glares and hello to clearer views
The OPPO Find X8 also has the AI Telescope Zoom that lets you get up close and personal with distant subjects, whether you’re snapping the band on stage at a concert or capturing architectural details from across the street. At 120x zoom, the AI ensures every shot is sharp and detailed, making it perfect for adventurous spirits who love exploring and documenting their surroundings.
Photos taken using the AI Telescopic Zoom of Find X8 by Colin Craig Chan of UnGeek
Moreover, the OPPO Find X8’s camera capabilities are further elevated by Lightning Snap for capturing split-second actions without missing a beat, Stage Mode powered by AI Telescope Zoom for stunning shots of concerts and events, even from a distance, and Livephoto for bringing stills to life, perfect for reliving the energy of a bustling city street or a vibrant party.
Photo taken by Magic Liwanag using the Lighting Snap
Redefining Smartphone Photography with powerful AI
The OPPO Find X8 empowers you to share your life in its best light, no matter where your passions take you. Ready to redefine how you capture moments? The OPPO Find X8 is waiting to elevate your photography game.
The OPPO Find X8 is available nationwide for PHP 54,999 and comes in two colorways – Space Black and Star Grey. Visit any authorized OPPO stores or OPPO’s official e-commerce platforms in Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop to get your hands on this powerhouse device.
To learn more about the OPPO, Find X8, and visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the Asia Pacific (APAC) region in 2025, offering innovative solutions to address critical challenges in sustainability, security, and digital transformation. Governments and businesses across the region are leveraging AI to meet the demands of rapid urbanization and a booming digital economy, particularly in energy management, hybrid cloud architectures, and intelligent automation.
AI Drives Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Data centers, which serve as the backbone of the digital economy, face soaring energy demands. In response, organizations in APAC are turning to AI-powered digital twins—virtual models of physical infrastructure—to optimize energy usage and simulate efficiency improvements.
“Retrofitting existing data centers with digital twin technology is already yielding significant reductions in power consumption,” said Matthew Hardman, Chief Technology Officer for APAC at Hitachi Vantara. This innovation isn’t just a concept; it’s being applied in real-world scenarios across the region, where the data center market is projected to grow over 5% annually through 2029, reaching USD 14.41 billion.
Beyond data centers, AI is revolutionizing smart grid technologies, allowing governments and utility providers to optimize energy distribution, predict demand fluctuations, and seamlessly integrate renewable sources like solar and wind. These advancements are helping to build a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
The Hybrid Cloud Revolution
The adoption of hybrid cloud architectures is surging across APAC as enterprises seek to balance the flexibility of public cloud platforms with the security of on-premises infrastructure. AI-driven management tools and container orchestration platforms like Kubernetes are enabling dynamic application deployment while ensuring compliance with evolving data sovereignty regulations.
“As organizations scale their AI capabilities, they are rethinking traditional storage systems,” Hardman explained. Object storage solutions, which are accessible via industry-standard protocols, are proving to be more scalable and cost-effective compared to traditional block storage. These solutions provide the infrastructure needed to manage the exponential growth of data required for AI training and deployment.
AI-Enhanced Cybersecurity
With cyber threats growing more sophisticated, AI is playing a pivotal role in bolstering cybersecurity across the region. Advanced anomaly detection models are enabling real-time responses to cyberattacks, while generative AI technologies are being deployed to simulate potential threat scenarios, allowing businesses to proactively strengthen their defenses.
Regulations such as Singapore’s Model AI Governance Framework and Indonesia’s data sovereignty laws are further driving the adoption of AI-powered compliance tools. These tools help organizations navigate complex legal landscapes while safeguarding their operations against breaches.
SMEs and AI: Leveling the Playing Field
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the backbone of APAC’s economies, are increasingly adopting scalable AI solutions to remain competitive. AI-powered tools are enabling SMEs to automate customer service with multilingual small language models (SLMs), optimize inventory management with predictive analytics, and streamline other operational processes.
“AI is empowering SMEs to scale and compete effectively in the digital economy,” Hardman noted. By leveraging accessible and scalable AI solutions, smaller businesses are gaining capabilities traditionally reserved for large enterprises.
Building a Future-Ready APAC
As emerging technologies continue to enhance AI’s capabilities, APAC is poised to address localized challenges with unprecedented precision. AI is no longer a buzzword—it has become a critical driver of sustainability, security, and economic resilience in the region.
This analysis is based on insights from Matthew Hardman, Chief Technology Officer for APAC at Hitachi Vantara, who has extensive experience driving technological innovation across the region.
Hitachi Vantara, a subsidiary of Hitachi Ltd., empowers organizations to innovate through data-driven solutions. With expertise in data storage, infrastructure systems, and digital transformation, Hitachi Vantara helps businesses build sustainable foundations for growth. Learn more at www.hitachivantara.com.
The sixth edition of the Asia Pacific (APAC) Predator League by Acer officially opened on January 11, presenting a grand regional esports tournament that has grown significantly since its inception in 2018. This is the first time that the APAC Predator League is hosted in Malaysia, with the Minister of Youth and Sports Malaysia, Hannah Yeoh, gracing the opening ceremony.
The APAC Predator League 2025 marks a new era with the introduction of two dynamic champions (avatars), Nero and Yuffy. These characters, born from a regional design competition, embody the Predator brand’s pursuit of gaming excellence and tactical precision, adding a new layer of excitement to the tournament. Nero and Yuffy’s journey, from childhood friends to formidable contenders, highlights themes of rivalry, support, and inner strength, reflecting the Predator League’s position as a stage for high-stakes battles that test both skill and character.
To further enhance the event’s cultural engagement, the league unveils “It Lies Within”, a new theme song performed in local languages by renowned artists of each region. This reflects the league’s commitment to embracing local cultures and languages, fostering a deeper connection with the growing audience in the region.
A total of 28 teams from 14 regions converged in Kuala Lumpur to vie for a place in gaming history and triumph. Acer Pan Asia Pacific president Andrew Hou said, “Anchored on our flagship gaming brand, Predator, the APAC Predator League is more than just a tournament – it is a vibrant, community-driven platform that connects gamers of all levels while empowering every role in esports. With the introduction of new characters, an animated storyline, and fresh music, we envision this tournament to evolve into a dynamic and unifying gathering where gaming, technology, and entertainment come together.”
Acer Malaysia managing director Kon Tek Yoong added, “The Asia Pacific Predator League 2025 Grand Finals at MITEC will offer a festival-like experience beyond the typical esports tournament. The event seeks to bridge the gap between gamers and non-gamers by showcasing the vibrant spirit of competitive gaming. Visitors will enjoy an immersive experience that highlights the energy, teamwork, and community aspects of esports. Alongside top esports teams, Acer has arranged special guest appearances by international singers and Malaysia’s award-winning artists. The Predator League is a unique celebration of esports, inviting everyone to explore the depth and excitement of competitive gaming beyond online representations.”
Headlining the performances at this year’s APAC Predator League are Sandara Park, also known as Dara, and Minzy of the iconic K-pop group 2NE1. They are joined by Malaysian stars Aina Abdul and Hael Husaini, and G22 from the Philippines. The two-day event will also feature a Coswalk competition that highlights the creativity and passion of the gaming and pop culture communities. Visitors can engage in immersive on-site activities to claim rewards, transforming the APAC Predator League 2025 into an event that goes beyond an esports tournament.
The APAC Predator League features Dota 2 and VALORANT, with teams comprising enthusiasts and professional players showcasing their strategies and gameplay in the elimination rounds. Four VALORANT teams are now battling in the semi-finals, with the winners heading straight into the finals. The same format is set for the Dota 2 teams playing the next day. Gamers in this year’s Predator League are equipped with the Predator Orion X desktop, Predator XB253Q gaming monitor, Predator Galea 365 gaming headset, and Predator gaming chair.
The total prize pool for the qualifiers and winners of the tournament is USD400,000. The APAC Predator League 2025 Grand Finals will showcase 28 of the best esports teams from across the region, competing for the prestigious Predator Shield and a share of their tournament prize pool. The top four teams from each competition will receive prizes as follows: Champion – USD65,000, 1st Runner-up – USD20,000, and 2nd and 3rd Runners-up – USD7,500 each. In addition to these prizes, special awards will be given to MVP players and All-Star team selections.
For more information about the APAC Predator League 2025, visit the official website and follow the tournament’s exciting developments on Facebook and Instagram.
The Tesla Model Y, the world’s best-selling vehicle and holder of the highest safety ratings across four continents, is being unveiled in its refreshed form, the New Model Y. To mark this major milestone, Tesla introduces the exclusive Launch Series of the Model Y, and the new exterior color, Glacier Blue. The New Model Y is now available to order in two variants: Rear-wheel drive and long-range, with prices starting from PHP2,369,000 and PHP2,689,000, respectively, on Tesla’s official website: tesla.com/en_ph/modely/design#overview.
The New Model Y comes with a bespoke cyber design — the single, cross-car lamp is the first indirect reflective body panel taillight of its kind and was inspired by the Cybercab and Cybertruck respectively, giving a symbolic and futuristic look to the world’s top vehicle.
The Launch Series of the New Model Y comes with various unique designs, including a customized ‘Launch Series’ badge at the rear, a puddle light, and a doorsill plate. Apart from the exclusive exterior styling, the charging console and the floor mat come with a special launch design with silver accents and an all-black vegan suede interior trim.
In addition to the unique and refined styling, the New Model Y comes with a noticeably quieter cabin with double-layer glass for all windows and the panoramic glass roof which features silver-coated glass to further reduce the UV rays and heat entering the cabin. Tesla also introduces the newly designed wheels and a rear diffuser, to reduce air resistance and optimize the lift balance between the front and rear wheels. This enhances rear-wheel downforce delivering a quieter, more stable, and highly efficient experience at high speeds.
Signature features in the Model 3, such as ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and second-row 8’’ display for passengers are also available in the New Model Y. The rear passenger seats are upgraded to power recline seats that customers can now easily press a button to adjust the position or fold down to expand the trunk space to a total of 2,130+ liters of storage.
From the front bumper to the taillight, the exterior of the New Model Y is completely redesigned to unlock maximum efficiency so owners can get the most range out of every charge. With Tesla Supercharging, the New Model Y Long Range only needs 15 minutes to charge up to 266km of range which is equivalent to 6 round trips from Tesla Experience Centre at Uptown Parade to Quezon City.
Contact Tesla Philippines at 1-800-1322-0087 or visit the Tesla Experience Centre at Uptown Parade, BGC for more information; or visit tesla.com/en_ph/modely to learn more.
New Model Y Launch Series
Variant
Model Y
Model Y Long Range
Motor
Rear-Wheel Drive
All-Wheel Drive
Range (WLTP)
466 km
551 km
Top Speed
201 km/h
201 km/h
0-100 km/h
5.9 sec
4.3 sec*
Vehicle Price
PHP2,369,000
PHP2,689,000
*The New Model Y Long Range Launch Series comes with Acceleration Boost.
Tunog Siglo: Rocking the Stage, Uniting Mapúa’s Finest Bands!
The Mapúa Council of Organizations (COO) hosted the much-anticipated Tunog Siglo: Battle of the Bands 2024 on December 12, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Mapúa University Intramuros Campus Gymnasium. Seven bands, representing various student organizations, competed in a vibrant showcase of musical talent and creativity just in time for Mapúa’s Centennial Year.
The performers—Confidential Band, Demodulation, Ephemoria, PolyCats, Shirmoment, Sisa Street, and Xeropriska—delivered electrifying performances, energizing the crowd with their unique styles and powerful stage presence.
Sisa Street, representing the Honor Society of Mapúa (HSM), emerged victorious by attaining the title Champion with a performance that dazzled both judges and audience members. Confidential Band secured 1st runner-up, representing the American Concrete Institute of the Philippines (ACIP) – Mapúa Chapter and the Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers (PSSE) – Mapúa Chapter. Demodulation claimed 2nd runner-up for the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP) – Mapúa Chapter, while Xeropriska represented the Circle of Management, Business, and Industrial Engineering Students (COMBINES) with a memorable set attaining the 3rd runner-up.
The event celebrated the exceptional talent, teamwork, and passion of Mapúans, fostering creativity and camaraderie. Tunog Siglo not only entertained but left a lasting impression, setting the stage for future celebrations of artistry within the university.
Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has unveiled the most-awaited HONOR X9c 5G, the latest addition to its viral X9 Series line-up. Setting a benchmark with an All-Angle Triple Defense, the toughest phone of 2025 is now available for pre-order for only PHP16,999, and from January 10 to 24, you can get a chance to win a ROLEX DATEJUST Watch (worth PHP600,000)!
“The newest and toughest HONOR X9c 5G seamlessly integrates outstanding durability, long-lasting battery life, stunning display quality, photography capabilities, and advanced AI experience. Encased in a lightweight design that elevates premium aesthetics to new heights, the HONOR X9c 5G is definitely the best choice for a smartphone right now,” said HONOR Philippines vice president Stephen Cheng.
Optimal Durability with All-round Protections
Committed to pioneering innovative technologies designed to mitigate user pain points, the latest HONOR X9c 5G showcases the new generation of HONOR Anti-Drop Display, offering impressive resistance to drops from heights of up to 2 meters. Its ultra-tempered glass and resistance shield provide comprehensive protection, while the unique bézier curve design safeguards the corners from impacts. The HONOR X9c 5G achieved a remarkable 166% enhancement in comprehensive reliability when compared to its predecessor.
Equipped with a three-layer waterproof structure, the HONOR X9c 5G provides 360° protection against water exposure, together with an IP65M rating for water and dust resistance. It can withstand splashes and has been tested to function after being submerged in water for up to 5 minutes at a depth of 25cm. Supporting wet hand touch control, the HONOR X9c ensures seamless interaction even with wet or greasy hands, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
Enduring Power with Enhanced Safety & Fast Charging
As the industry’s first smartphone with an ultra-large 6600mAh Silicon-carbon Battery, the HONOR X9c 5G sets a new standard in battery innovation, offering exceptionally long battery life and the largest capacity available today. Users can enjoy a full day of seamless use, with up to 48.4 hours of music streaming and 25.8 hours of Online video playback on a single charge.
To enhance durability, the battery features an Armor-level Protective Coating and a specialized safety coating that works with the HONOR Power Management System to isolate the electrodes in extreme conditions. With multi-point temperature monitoring, the battery performs well in temperatures from -30°C to 55°C, delivering up to 20 hours of audio calls in -30°C and 30 hours of audio calls in 55°C.
Additionally, the AI enables the device to maintain continuous calls for up to 50 minutes when the battery drops to 2%, while the 66W wired HONOR SuperCharge rapidly revives the battery for extended usage. The AI Safe Charging System ensures safe and efficient charging, providing users with peace of mind while powering up.
The HONOR X9c 5G features a 6.78-inch Eye-comfort OLED Display, which supports 1.07 billion colors and a 1.5K resolution, delivering vibrant hues and breathtaking details for a more immersive viewing experience. With a high refresh rate of 120Hz, the display showcases incredibly smooth motion and improved responsiveness for a more fluid interface. In addition, the display ensures an exceptionally sharp and clear viewing experience with its industry-leading peak HDR brightness of 4000nits. The HONOR X9c also guarantees a comfortable viewing experience with eye-comfort features such as 3840Hz Risk-free PWM Dimming, Circadian Night Display and Dynamic Dimming.
AI-powered Smartphone Photography Experience
Packed with a robust 108MP Ultra-sensing Camera featuring a 1/1.67” large sensor, the HONOR X9c captures images with exceptional detail and enhanced brightness. Leveraging its 9-in-1 pixel binning technology equivalent to a pixel size of 1.92μm, this main camera enables users to take well-lit and sharp images in any lighting scenarios. With 3x Lossless Zoom and three distinct portrait modes – 1x Environmental Portrait, 2x Atmospheric Portrait, and 3x Close-up Portrait – users can create stunning portrait shots with diverse focal lengths. To elevate the photography experience, the main camera is equipped with OIS, effectively reducing blurring and shakiness for ultra-clear images. Furthermore, the HONOR X9c 5G integrates AI photography features like HONOR AI Motion Sensing and AI Eraser, enhancing image quality and streamlining photo editing on smartphones.
Smart User Experience in Stylish Design
Boasting an ultra-slim design and a refined titanium finish, the HONOR X9c 5G is exceptionally lightweight and sleek, weighing just 189g and measuring 7.98mm in thickness. Additionally, powered by the latest MagicOS 8.0 based on Android 14, the HONOR X9c 5G delivers a truly personalized and seamless user experience, enriched with intelligent features including Magic Capsule, Magic Portal and Parallel Space.
Design, Pricing, and Availability
Catering to users’ diverse style preferences, the HONOR X9c 5G is available in three captivating colorways: Titanium Purple, Titanium Black, and Jade Cyan.
Priced at only PHP16,999, HONOR X9c 5G pre-order starts from January 10 to 24, 2025, when you can get a FREE HONOR Gift Box and a chance to win a BRAND-NEW ROLEX DATEJUST Watch (worth PHP600,000). What are you waiting for? Run to any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9c_PR) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9c_PR).
For more affordable payment options, the HONOR X9c 5G is also available through installments via TikTok Paylater with the same freebies until January 24, 2025.
For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s websitewww.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
LG Electronics has unveiled its groundbreaking 2025 QNED evo lineup, pushing the boundaries of premium LCD TVs with innovations in wireless technology, AI-powered performance, and hyper-personalization. These advancements reflect LG’s commitment to maintaining its leadership in the global TV market through a dual-track strategy that emphasizes both its self-emissive OLED and QNED evo technologies.
The 2025 QNED evo lineup incorporates LG’s new proprietary wide color gamut technology, Dynamic QNED Color Solution, which replaces traditional quantum dots. This innovative technology enables the backlight to deliver pure, true-to-life colors with remarkable accuracy. Certified 100% for Color Volume by Intertek, the lineup ensures that the rich colors of original images are preserved without distortion, providing viewers with an experience that closely mirrors real life.
For the first time, LG is integrating its revolutionary True Wireless 4K technology into the QNED evo (QNED9M) series. This feature, previously exclusive to the OLED evo M Series, enables wireless transmission of 4K content at 144Hz through a Zero Connect Box. This innovation eliminates the need for traditional wired connections, providing flexibility in setup while maintaining picture quality and minimizing delays. Gamers, in particular, will benefit from the AMD FreeSync Premium certification, which ensures smooth, lag-free visuals. The QNED evo models require only a power cord, allowing users to conveniently store gaming consoles and set-top boxes out of sight.
The 2025 QNED evo lineup is powered by LG’s α8 AI Processor, which offers a 70% improvement in AI performance over previous models. This processor drives advanced features, such as Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro, which analyzes scenes to fine-tune HDR effects and brightness across zones for exceptional clarity. AI-powered sound optimization converts standard audio into virtual 9.1.2 surround sound and isolates voices from background noise for crystal-clear dialogue. Enhanced upscaling ensures seamless rendering of faces, objects, and backgrounds, staying true to the filmmaker’s intent.
Personalization is at the forefront of the 2025 QNED evo experience. The AI Magic Remote features an AI button that enables tailored recommendations and intuitive searches. Powered by a Large Language Model (LLM), the remote supports advanced contextual queries. For example, users planning a trip to Paris can ask for movie recommendations set in the French capital, and the AI will suggest relevant titles based on the user’s preferences. Additional personalization tools include Voice ID and Generative AI Gallery, which adapt TV settings and content recommendations to individual viewing habits.
The lineup also benefits from LG’s advanced webOS25 platform, which offers hyper-personalized services and supports up to five years of software updates through the webOS Re: New Program. This ensures that users enjoy a future-proof experience with continuous improvements in content and features.
LG has expanded the screen size options for its QNED evo lineup, ranging from 40 inches to an ultra-large 100-inch model. This move addresses growing customer demand for immersive, super-large displays that deliver unparalleled home entertainment experiences.
Hyoung-sei Park, president of LG Media Entertainment Solution Company, emphasized the significance of these advancements: “Our renewed 2025 LG QNED evo lineup inherits OLED’s differentiated picture quality along with a true wireless viewing experience and ultra-personalized solutions to deliver an outstanding super-large viewing experience that no other LCD TV can offer.”
LG’s dual-track strategy reinforces its leadership in the global premium TV market, blending the distinct qualities of its OLED lineup with the accessible and innovative QNED evo series. As a recognized innovator in television and display technology, LG continues to enhance the media entertainment experience through its OLED and QNED evo TVs, gaming monitors, projectors, and the webOS smart TV platform.
Ready to see the world from a new perspective? The vivo X200 Pro lets you explore the rarely-seen details of your everyday surroundings through macro photography!
Whether you’re aiming for a career in photography or simply exploring it as a hobby, you will find yourself drawn to the fascinating world of extreme close-up photography, as immersing yourself in the beauty of macro shots is a true rite of passage for every camera aficionado.
It is indeed a genre that requires patience, develops your attention to detail, and fosters creativity, while also making you more attuned to your surroundings.
The best part? The vivo X200 Pro features a powerful camera system that will be your companion on this fun photography journey as you open your eyes to the world’s hidden wonders!
Zoom in on the unseen. 🔍✨ With vivo X200 Pro’s Macro Mode, every tiny detail becomes a masterpiece. From intricate textures to the smallest wonders of nature, discover beauty in the close-up! #vivoX200Series#vivoZeissImageGoFar#fyp#viral#foryoupage
Co-engineered with ZEISS, the vivo X200 Pro redefines what you can expect from smartphone photography and more!
Equipped with industry’s highest 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera, the vivo X200 Pro offers five innovative telephoto capabilities, including the Telephoto Macro mode, designed to capture intricate details with stunning clarity.
While lenses of this caliber usually come at a premium, the collaboration between vivo and ZEISS has made these specialized lenses and superior optics accessible to everyday consumers.
With ZEISS’ prestigious optics standard and approval, you’ll be sure to experience expert-level photography like never before with the vivo X200 Pro!
Nature’s hidden details in vivid macro shots
From the gentle filaments of a yellow garden flower to the fuzzy body of a resting spider, the vivo X200 Pro captures small subjects in breathtaking, larger-than-life visuals.
Delivering DSLR-like performance minus the heavy equipment, the vivo X200 Pro excels in capturing vivid macro shots, edging imagery closer to real life—as if you can touch it!
Take your macro photography to the next level with the NEW vivo X200 Pro! Available for PHP69,999 in stunning Titanium Grey, with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, at vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and authorized retail stores nationwide! Discover more at vivoglobal.ph.
Kicking off 2025 with a bang, Genshin Impact has launched its most thrilling promotion yet—a chance to win a Mavuika-Themed Motorcycle inspired by the fiery Pyro Archon herself in an event that seamlessly blends the game’s iconic artistry with real-world speed. It’s a collector’s dream for fans and motorcycle enthusiasts alike.
The custom-designed motorcycle channels the essence of Mavuika and her Flamestrider, blending bold flames, intricate detailing, and a sleek, modern design. It’s more than a ride; it’s a tribute to Genshin Impact’s world of adventure and its passionate community.
Adding to the excitement, Genshin Impact is bringing the world of Teyvat to Cebu City for the first time ever, giving fans in the region a chance to immerse themselves in this one-of-a-kind experience.
Join the adventure and be rewarded by the Night-Igniting Flame
Genshin Impact continues to blur the lines between virtual and real-world experiences, bringing its vibrant universe to life through unique events. This year, fans have a special treat: the chance to embody the Night-Igniting Flame, Mavuika, through the exclusive Mavuika-Themed Motorcycle giveaway. As one of the most anticipated characters of the Natlan update, Mavuika’s radiance is captured in this custom motorcycle, offering Travelers a tangible piece of Teyvat’s magic.
Get a chance to win the motorcycle and other Genshin Impact freebies until January 12, 2025, at the City Wing Atrium, Ground Floor, SM Seaside City, Cebu, and from January 16-19, 2025, at the Level 2 Concourse, One Ayala, Makati, and earn lucky draw tickets by:
Completing all Activities Booth tasks at designated roadshow venues grants players one (1) lucky draw ticket.
Subscribe to Genshin Impact’s Facebook Messenger or email newsletter to receive 1 x Temporary Body Tattoo.
Post a photo on any social media platform with the hashtags #GenshinImpact and #StandWithMavuika to get 1 x Scratch Card with in-game rewards (including Primogems).
Existing Travelers can present proof of claiming their Daily Commission rewards from Katheryne, while new Travelers can show proof of downloading Genshin Impact to receive a set of Red Packets.
Purchasing merchandise from the Merchandise Booth earns one (1) lucky draw ticket for every PHP600 spent. For instance, spending PHP2,000 qualifies for three (3) tickets.
Players can redeem up to 5 lucky draw tickets per day.
Natlan! The Journey Continues
Four months since the introduction of Teyvat’s newest region, Natlan, players have been immersed in its beautiful landscapes, rich stories, dynamic characters, and enhanced mobility and combat prowess that expand Genshin Impact’s adventure. With Mavuika, the Pyro Archon, finally becoming playable with Genshin Impact’s Version 5.3 update on January 1, 2025, the main story of Natlan will come to its climax as the Traveler joins Mavuika in the decisive battle against the Abyss.
As 2025 begins, the launch of Mavuika and the motorcycle giveaway is just the beginning of an exciting year filled with fresh updates and more adventures. Whether you’re a longtime Traveler or new to the world of Teyvat, this promotion offers a unique opportunity to engage with the game in ways you’ve never imagined. So, gather your lucky draw tickets, embrace the fiery spirit of Mavuika, and get ready for more thrilling adventures in the ever-evolving world of Genshin Impact!
Consecutive years of detecting rising numbers of suspicious matches, match-fixing at all levels of global sport registered a notable decline in 2024, according to the annual integrity report (Integrity in Action 2024 Global Analysis & Trends) published by Sportradar Integrity Services, a unit of Sportradar.
Throughout 2024, Sportradar Integrity Services monitored more than 850,000 matches across 70 sports worldwide, and 1,108 suspicious matches were identified, a 17% decrease from 2023. The highest number of suspicious matches were found across Europe, the region historically facing the most significant integrity issues. However, the year still ended with a 34% reduction in suspicious matches overall in this territory with 439 matches identified compared to 668 in 2023. Africa also finished with a considerable decline with 69 suspicious matches detected, a 36% decrease from 108 matches the year before.
Notably, the world’s most popular sport, soccer, saw a considerable downturn, with 721 suspicious matches detected in 2024, a reduction of 18% from 881 matches in 2023. Moreover, Brazilian soccer, which has been affected by match-fixing cases in recent years, recorded a marked decrease of 48% with 57 suspicious matches discovered last year, down from 110 in 2023. Nevertheless, despite the overall reduction in the number of suspicious matches detected, match-fixing remains a persistent issue worldwide.
Sportradar uses advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) through its Universal Fraud Detection System (UFDS) to monitor competitions and identify irregular betting patterns. While AI flags unusual activity, such as substantial wagers on unlikely outcomes, Sportradar’s team of integrity experts is crucial in confirming match-fixing activities for further investigation.
Andreas Krannich, executive vice president of integrity, rights protection & regulatory services, Sportradar, said: “While the notable reduction in suspicious matches in 2024 gives us reason to be optimistic, it also signals the need for continued vigilance and innovation, given that the number remains significant.”
“Our investment in innovation combined with data insights into the betting industry and continued education on integrity are at the forefront of keeping pace with the ever-evolving global sports integrity landscape. We remain committed to refining our methods and capabilities and collaborating across the sports and betting industries to support foundational fair play and safeguard the integrity of sports worldwide,” explained Krannich.
During 2024,Sportradar provided integrity support for major global events such as the IOC 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, UEFA EURO 2024, CONMEBOL Copa America 2024, and AFC Asian Cup 2023, showcasing its advanced bet monitoring and intelligence capabilities. In July, the company partnered with the ATP and Tennis Data Innovations to launch an AI-driven safe sport solution to protect athletes from online abuse, highlighting its commitment to using innovation to address wider integrity issues in sport.
Sheraton Manila Bay welcomed 2025 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve Dinner and Countdown Celebration, delighting guests with an evening of exceptional cuisine, vibrant entertainment, and a dazzling view of the city’s fireworks.
The celebration featured an elegant buffet spread at the Manila Bay Kitchen, showcasing a blend of international and Filipino flavors. Guests savored culinary highlights such as a roasted prime rib, fresh seafood on ice station, and signature desserts crafted by the hotel’s talented chefs. Live entertainment set the festive mood, leading up to the highly anticipated countdown to midnight.
As the clock struck 12, attendees gathered at the rooftop for a panoramic view of Manila’s skyline, lit up by a spectacular fireworks display. The evening was a true celebration of new beginnings, bringing families and friends together in a memorable experience.
Sheraton Manila Bay thanks all guests, partners, and suppliers who made the event possible. AppleTree Productions, Host of All Seasons, Adrian Pantonial, S.C. Vizcarra, and to our wonderful band who made the night one to remember, CROSSROAD Band! Again, thank you for celebrating this milestone with us and we look forward to creating more meaningful moments in the year ahead.
For more updates on upcoming events and promotions, visit its website or follow @SheratonManilaBay on social media.
