2023v23n10-Online Safety

Ghosting the internet

HOW TO VANISH FROM THE WEB

Words by Chris Noel Hidalgo

In today’s day and age, it’s hard to imagine not having any sort of online presence. Our lives are so intertwined with the internet that for most of us, our smartphones are the first things we reach for in the morning. While the internet is great with all the information, entertainment, and conveniences it enables, it’s also quite terrifying. Cyberbullying, internet harassment, doxxing, online scams, phishing hacks, social engineering, digital finance heists, identity theft — all these and more can cause anyone to have mean world syndrome and contemplate ghosting the entire online world.

So…how exactly can you completely delete yourself from the internet?

Step 1: Know exactly where you are and where you have been

The first step to vanishing from the vast online world is by assessing the exact extent of your digital presence. Start by doing a thorough search of your personal information on search engines, social networking sites, and other online directories. Not only should you scour the internet for your active aliases using commonly accessed platforms, you should also think hard about the possible names or nicknames you’ve used, as well as fringe cases such as long-lost discussion forums or one-time big-time social media signups. Note anything and everything that appears that is even remotely related to you.

Step 2: Back up your digital legacy

Now don’t go deleting your entire digital life just yet. Make sure to preserve the important pieces of data and information you would like to keep on hand, especially those that have sentimental or significant value, yet you have no offline copies of. These can include photos and

videos of life events, important documents, and other cherished memories.

Next, choose a backup storage option. Since you would be deleting yourself from the internet, you cannot rely on cloud storage services. As such, your remaining options will be limited to your device’s native storage, external hard drives, USB flash drives, or the more old-school optical discs. Multiple redundant copies will ensure that your data will remain safe should one of these storage options likewise ghost you.

Step 3: Delete everything

After you’ve tracked down every piece of your digital breadcrumbs and kept the most valuable ones, you can now properly embark on your vanishing journey. The first avenue you should take care of is social media as these are usually some of the first results popping up when you look for yourself on a search engine. Most social networking sites have either a deactivate or a permanently delete option for personal profiles, making the process pretty straightforward. Additionally, some allow you to download your generated data, making Step 2 easier. The second place where you should start digitally vanishing is your other accounts for online

services such as shopping, deliveries, transportation, navigation, entertainment, and the like. Third should be any blogs or websites which you may have put up, discussion boards and forums that you have posted on, job sites you have signed up for, and the like. Search engines such as Google and Bing usually have content removal request forms that you can fill up to remove any indexed information pertaining to yourself.

Most of these platforms and companies should also have a straightforward delete option. However, if there is none obviously available, you can try contacting them, as under the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 10173 or the 2012 Philippine Data Privacy Act, you have the “right to suspend, withdraw or order the blocking, removal or destruction of [...] personal data” from the company’s databases.

After you have done all of the above, you can then delete your email accounts.

Step 4: Contemplate the consequences

While ghosting the internet means you have reached peak cybersecurity status, there are several heavy implications. In terms of your social life, you will have a harder time

communicating with your family and friends as most have shifted away from texting in favor of online messaging. Professionally, having no digital trace may be a potential red flag for recruiters. Financially, your digital identity is often tied to your banking accounts. Personally, it is hard to keep up with the latest in news, current events, and entertainment without having some sort of online presence. Of course, ghosting the entire internet will also worry your friends, family, and colleagues, much as it will in real life.

Make sure to inform those who need and have to know beforehand so they do not think you have just dropped off the grid without so much as a goodbye.

Bonus step: Starting from scratch securely

Should the inevitable moment come when you decide that life is not as interesting without the internet, there are some actions you can take to make sure you remain safe as you revive your online presence.

Some of these include:

• Use a unique email address for each aspect of your online life—social media, finances, forums, spam, etc. Each platform should likewise have a unique and complex password, along with having two-factor authentication (2FA). In the same vein, consider having a separate 2FA mobile number for your online financial activities to make life harder for online criminals.

• Consider using an online pseudonym on non-personal online platforms to ensure that these sites do not have any of your personal information.

• Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and avoid third-party data trackers from mining your online activities.

• Want to find out who’s been selling your data? Add the prefix +NAME OF PLATFORM to your email as such: juandelacruz+totallysafeforum@gmail.com. This will still redirect emails to juandelacruz@gmail.com but the “to” field will contain the name of the site you registered on. This way, you are able to see exactly which online platforms have been opening you up to spam.

• Carefully inspect browser links before inputting your personal data. Don’t just go putting your password and OTPs anywhere.

Remember, ghosting the online world should not be a spur of the moment, for the LOLs, decision. Your online presence is a unique reflection of who you are, and vanishing comes at a cost.

Keeping safe online

CYBERCRIME AND FRAUD

Words by Gabriel Pe

In recent months, we have seen a spike in cybercrime and fraud in the country. Just last May, one of the biggest e-wallets found itself under a lot of scrutiny following a massive phishing attempt that tried to take PHP37-million from users. Fortunately, the company managed to freeze the accounts, and their money returned to the affected users. Last year, a government bank also experienced a massive phishing attack, this time aimed at public school teachers and their hard-earned cash.

Beyond Phishing, there has also been a rise in other forms of cybercrime. Among these are Romance Scams that target the emotionally vulnerable, and its progenitor, the pernicious identity theft. Finally, there are the unrelenting attacks from various malware and ransomware taking advantage of your vulnerable devices.

Phishing: the most common cybercrime

Phishing is one of the most common cybercrimes in the country. Statista, a German online data gathering platform, recorded 1.8 million phishing attacks in the Philippines just for the first half of 2022. Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has also reported that the Philippines has been a major target for phishing attacks on financerelated transactions. The majority of these attacks have targeted payment systems, including credit and debit cards as well as mobile payment apps or e-wallets.

Phishing occurs when internet criminals try to fool victims by sending links to their emails. These links can either be malware or a fake webpage of another familiar website. More often than not, these websites are almost indistinguishable from the real one, giving victims a false sense of security to input sensitive information. This information would then be used by the criminals to access the real website and complete their attack. Even more deceitful is Spear Phishing where the criminal specifically targets an individual, utilizing his/her name to make the email seem more legitimate and thus more easily fool unsuspecting victims.

Phishing has also evolved, with scammers now employing Smishing and Vishing to further fool their victims. Smishing is the use of phishing links via SMS or phone messaging. Prior to mandatory sim card

registration, smishing was done simply by sending a message with the link. While the sim card registration was aimed to finally put an end to these forms of scam, many criminals have found a way past this with SMS Spoofing. SMS Spoofing allows a criminal to hide his number and masquerade as a different name or number on your device. Similar to traditional phishing, this is how they get your trust to trick you into sending sensitive information or clicking on the link that redirects you to a phishing website. Vishing works similarly, but this time, the scammer calls you pretending to be your bank, or other financial institution needing your One Time Password (OTP) or some other sensitive data.

Frauds using Identify theft

Another increasingly alarming cybercrime are those involving identity theft. Identity theft has risen with the prevalence of social media. Photos shared are easily downloadable and, since new accounts are not really checked and verified by these websites, identity thieves can easily find and pretend to be their target. More often than not, these criminals go unpunished as the best one can do is simply report and hope the account gets taken down.

Identity theft crimes can take on many forms. One that has been increasingly common is the romance scam. Romance scams have two victims — the victim of the

scam itself, and the person whose identity was stolen. The scam involves the criminal pretending to be a certain person o dating apps or social media networks, befriending and “courting” victims to earn their trust.

The scammer often pretends to be a highly successful businessman or ranking member of a foreign army. This allows them to look more trustworthy than regular individuals. Once they feel that they have established a good relationship with the victim, that’s when they strike. The scam is done in different ways. First, by “borrowing” money to aid in a slowly deteriorating business venture. Second, by offering to fix documents to allow the victim travel to his location. Third, by sharing an “investment opportunity” to the victim. The scammer would gain the victim’s trust by initially sending proof that the money is being spent correctly. Gradually the demands increase before eventually ghosting the victim. This type of scam has recently gained traction with the rise of cryptocurrencies with many “suitors” encouraging their victims to deposit their savings in a crypto website before slowly milking them dry.

How to keep safe online

The threat of cybercrime is not limited to big corporations nor high profile individuals. Anyone can fall prey to various online threats. Here are some ways to avoid becoming victims of these online scams.

Make sure that the website you’re looking at is secure

One of the easiest ways to check if the website you’re on is secured is by looking at your browser search bar. If you’re on a secure website you’ll notice that there will be a lock on the left of the website URL. This lock is an indication that the website is using an updated security certificate.

The lock icon depends on the website’s security certificate. A lock, like previously mentioned, means an updated certificate. An ‘i’ within a circle means that Google is insecure about the site’s certificate. You can double-check if the site has an updated page by using

the https:// at the start of the URL, if it proceeds to a new site then you’re good if it doesn’t, better avoid inputting any sensitive information. Finally, if there’s a ‘!’ within a red triangle, avoid sharing any critical data with the website.

Double-check the URL

Security certification is not the only means to avoid falling prey to phishing sites. Criminals may also have done their due diligence and use a secure certificate. But fortunately, they would not be able to use the URL of the original website.

You can double-check the URL and the website’s spelling. Most phishing sites either use a different url or change the spelling of the original url by adding a letter in the most unsuspecting place. They may also use a

different domain code, usually changing .com to .net or .org, etc. To ensure you’re on the correct website, you can always look at their social media pages to know the correct URL. Most banks and financial institutions have pinned their correct website on their profiles to remind users.

There are also various URL checkers online that check the legitimacy of any link sent to you.

Don’t use public Wi-Fi when inputting sensitive data

When using financial apps or inputting sensitive data, make sure you’re not using them on a public connection or Wi-Fi. Criminals use public Wi-Fi to collect data. Public Wi-Fi is usually unsecured, allowing criminals to plant malware that collect data from vulnerable devices.

Never share your data and OTP

In case the scammers try a vishing scheme, remember that no matter which bank or e-wallet you use, they will never ask you for your identifying information or OTP. If for some reason they ask for these, you can always decline and call back customer service to confirm that the prior call was indeed legitimate.

Review your privacy settings

To prevent becoming a victim of identity theft, review the privacy settings of your social media accounts. Setting the privacy limit would mean added anonymity by limiting the people able to see your profile. If you created your account a while back, you can also review your added friends and remove any strangers you don’t know. Of course, part of this is being careful in meeting people online.

Also be careful about what you post online. Sensitive information posted online, like IDs are usually the main arsenal of identity thieves. Always carefully review what you are posting to avoid inadvertently exposing yourself or others to this risk.

Use multi-factor authentications and complex passwords

Finally, for websites or apps that have them, it is better to use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) as well as strong and complex passwords. Remember to not use a similar password for multiple accounts to avoid compromising every single one in case of a breach. As for MFA, this is an added layer before anyone can open your account. Using an authenticator app for the MFA is better than email or SMS as the code is randomized every minute and only the holder of the authenticator knows the right combination.

While the online world can be a daunting place with dangers lurking all around, it does not have to be. As long as you know what to look for and what to do, you can ensure your online safety.

Malware Distribution

66.6% of total malware is delivered through PDF files attached to malicious emails, according to Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 Research

Palo Alto Networks, the global cybersecurity leader, recently released the Unit 42 Network Threat Trends Research Report Vol.2. The report highlights the current trends in malware while providing a detailed analysis of the most common types of malware and their distribution methods.

According to the research, 66.6% of total malware is delivered through portable document format (PDF) files attached to malicious emails. PDF files are commonly used in a business

environment, and victims are less likely to be wary of an expected file type, versus unexpected file types like EXEs. They could also simply be unaware that this type of file could be used for nefarious purposes.

Most people are aware of warnings against clicking strange links in emails, so PDF phishing schemes could fly under their radar better than a text-based email with just a plain link. Naming conventions expected in a business context like invoice_AUG_4601582.pdf

or Updated Salary Evaluation could lure unsuspecting targets into opening these attachments. The attachments themselves might contain a URL link to click, or a button that sends victims to a website with a malicious purpose.

In countries like the Philippines where phishing is one of the most prevalent scams, this trend emphasizes that Filipinos have to be familiar with social engineering tactics as these play a crucial role in making an attack successful.

“Today’s threat actors are like shapeshifting masters, continuously adapting their tactics to slip through the cracks of our interconnected network. With a cunning blend of evasion tools and camouflage methods, the bad actors have weaponized the threats,” says Steven Scheurmann, regional vice president, ASEAN at Palo Alto Networks. “They have become adept at exploiting vulnerabilities, and by the time security researchers and software vendors close the door on one vulnerability, cybercriminals have already found the

next door to creak open. Organizations must, therefore, simultaneously guard against malware designed to exploit older vulnerabilities while proactively staying ahead of sophisticated new attacks.”

Other key findings from the report include:

• Exploitation of vulnerabilities has increased by 55%, compared to 2021.

• Linux malware is on the rise, targeting cloud workload devices; an estimated 90% of public cloud instances run on Linux. The most common types of threats against Linux systems are: botnets (47%), coinminers (21%) and backdoors (11%).

• ChatGPT scams: Unit 42 saw a 910% increase in monthly registrations for domains, both benign and malicious, related to ChatGPT.

• Cryptominer traffic doubled in 2022.

• Newly Registered Domains: Threat actors were found more likely to target people visiting adult websites (20.2%) and financial services (13.9%) sites with newly registered domains (NRDs).

• Malware aimed at industries using OT technology is increasing: The average number of malware attacks experienced

per organization in the manufacturing, utilities and energy industry increased by 238% (between 2021 and 2022).

“As millions of people use ChatGPT, it’s unsurprising that we see ChatGPTrelated scams, which have exploded over the past year, as cybercriminals take advantage of the hype around AI. But, the trusty email PDF is still the most common way cybercriminals deliver malware,” says Sean Duca, VP and regional chief security officer at Palo Alto Networks. “Cybercriminals, no doubt, are looking at how they can leverage it for their nefarious activities, but for now, simple social engineering will do just fine at tricking potential victims. Organizations must therefore take a holistic view of their security environment to provide comprehensive oversight of their network and ensure security best practices are followed at every level of the organization.”

The Unit 42 Network Threat Trends Research Report Vol.2. presents a comprehensive analysis of global telemetry data collected from Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), Cortex Data Lake, Advanced URL Filtering, and Advanced Wildfire.

Ransomware: Most Widespread Malware-as-a-Service

The Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence team has presented a new study that reveals ransomware as the most widespread Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) over the past seven years. The study is based on research conducted on 97 malware families distributed on the dark web and other resources. Additionally, the researchers found that cybercriminals often lease infostealers, botnets, loaders, and backdoors to carry out their attacks.

Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) is an illicit model of business involving the leasing of software to carry out cyberattacks. Typically, clients of such services are

offered a personal account through which they can control the attack, as well as technical support. It lowers the initial threshold of expertise needed by wouldbe cybercriminals.

Ransomware is the most popular Malware-as-a-Service

Kaspersky’s experts examined various malware families’ sale volumes, as well as mentions, discussions, posts, and search ads on the darknet and other resources regarding MaaS to identify the most popular types. The leader turned out to be ransomware, or malicious software that encrypts data and demands payment

for decryption. It accounted for 58 percent of all families distributed under the MaaS model between 2015 and 2022. The popularity of ransomware can be attributed to its ability to generate higher profits in a shorter space of time than other types of malware.

Cybercriminals can “subscribe” to Ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) for free. Once they become partners in the program, they pay for the service after the attack happens. The payment amount is determined by a percentage of the ransom paid by the victim, typically ranging from 10 percent to 40 percent of each transaction. However,

entering the program is no simple task, as it entails meeting rigorous requirements.

Infostealers accounted for 24 percent of malware families distributed as a service over the analyzed period. These are malicious programs designed to steal data such as credentials, passwords, banking cards and accounts, browser history, crypto wallets data, and more.

Infostealer services are paid through a subscription model. They are priced between USD100 and USD300 per month. For example, Raccoon Stealer, which was discontinued in early February 2023, could be acquired for USD275 per month or USD150 per week. Its competitor, RedLine, has a monthly price of USD150, and there is also an option to purchase a lifetime license for USD900, according to information posted on the Darknet by its operators. Attackers also make use of additional services for extra pay.

Eighteen percent of malware families being sold as a service proved to be botnets, loaders, and backdoors. These threats are combined into one group since they often have a common goal: to upload and run other malware on the victim’s device. “For instance, the

price of loader Matanbuchus tends to vary over time. The price in June of the current year starts from USD4,900 per month. This type of malware is more expensive than infostealers, for example, the malicious code itself is more complex, and the operator provides all the infrastructure, meaning the partners

don’t have to pay extra for bulletproof hosting services when they use Matanbuchus. It is worth noting that the number of subscribers to Matanbuchus is very limited, allowing attackers to remain undetected for a longer time,” said Alexander Zabrovsky, digital footprint analyst at Kaspersky.

Components of MaaS and malefactor hierarchy

The cybercriminals who operate MaaS platforms are commonly referred to as operators, whereas those who purchase these services are known as affiliates. After closing a deal with operators, affiliates receive access to all necessary components of MaaS, such as command-and-control (C2) panels, builders (programs for quick creation of unique malware samples), malware and interface upgrades, support, instructions, and hosting. The panels are an essential component allowing attackers to control and coordinate the activities of the infected machines. For example, cybercriminals are able to exfiltrate data, negotiate with a victim, contact support, create unique malware samples, and much more.

Some types of MaaS, such as infostealers, allow affiliates to create their own kind of team. Members of such a team are called traffers – cybercriminals who distribute malware to increase profits and generate interest, bonuses, and

other payments from affiliates. Traffers do not have access to C2 panel or other tools. Their only purpose is to scale up the spread of the malware. Most often, they achieve this by disguising samples as cracks and instructions for hacking legitimate programs on YouTube and other websites.

“Cybercriminals actively trade illicit goods and services, including malware and stolen data, over the shadow segments of the internet. By understanding how this market is structured, companies can gain insights into the methods and motivations of potential attackers. Armed with this information, we are able to better help businesses better develop effective strategies that prevent cyberattacks by identifying and monitoring cybercriminal activities, tracking the flow of information, and keeping up-to-date on emerging threats and trends,” added Zabrovsky.

Learn more about operation of Malwareas-a-Service on Securelist. To protect your organization from related threats, Kaspersky experts recommend:

• Always keep software updated on all the devices you use to prevent attackers from infiltrating your network by exploiting vulnerabilities. Install patches for new vulnerabilities as soon as possible. Once it is downloaded, threat actors can no longer abuse the vulnerability.

• Use the latest Threat Intelligence information to stay aware of actual TTPs used by threat actors.

• Use Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence to help security analysts explore an adversary’s view of their company resources, promptly discover the potential attack vectors available to them. This also helps raise awareness about existing threats from cybercriminals in order to adjust your defenses accordingly or take counter and elimination measures timely.

• If you are faced with an incident, Kaspersky Incident Response service will help you respond and minimize the consequences. In particular they can identify compromised nodes and protect the infrastructure from similar attacks in the future.

“Cybercriminals actively trade illicit goods and services, including malware and stolen data, over the shadow segments of the internet. By understanding how this market is structured, companies can gain insights into the methods and motivations of potential attackers.”

MRG-B2000B-1A with Nano-Processing Technology is applied to achieve curved indexes with a grind-marketing finish.

G-SHOCK MR-G SERIES

KNOWN AS THE PINNACLE of the G-SHOCK brand, the MR-G was born after Engineer Kikuo Ibe, Casio’s head of watch design, created G-SHOCK in 1981 with the mission to offer a durable and reliable shock-proof watch that can withstand the rigors of daily life.

Armed with unparalleled craftsmanship and experience, the G-SHOCK MR-G series emerged more than a decade later, in fullmetal construction but with the sensibilities of indestructible strength and beauty. To make this possible, these timepieces have been carefully

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In developing the color, the Black Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating yields an all-black exterior to give the watch a sleek finish with its black sharp tone. In color treatment for the watch’s bezel and dial, two Japanese hues were applied: the Kachi-iro known to the samurai warriors as the “victory color” reflecting deep shades of navy blue, and the Akazonae which evokes the all-crimson armor to show valor by elite samurai units in the Warring States.

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As with finish, various techniques were applied, such as Sallaz Polishing, considered the ultimate in polishing techniques among highly skilled artisans. This is executed to achieve mirror finishes of flawless beauty on the surface of the titanium. A deep-layer of hardening process creates a coating four to five times harder than pure titanium on the surface while a further DLC coating serves to enhance scratch resistance. Likewise, its defined grind mark finish is possible with the state-of-the-art nano processing by YAMAGATA Casio. The special shape is created with high-precision die molding with a meticulously detailed finish.

ASANO Bihou, master of the traditional tsuiki hammering technique, created a unique relief pattern to produce a rugged texture on the surface. Renowned swordsmith GASSAN Sadanobu has carved the Yasuri-me patterns on the bands. This technique is typically applied in sword blades to represent the worldview inherent to Japanese swords. Along with this, an inscription of the GASSAN family is engraved to show their devotion to sword forging.

On the bezel, another traditional technique is applied by casting artisan KIKUCHI Masano for a rusted steel texture using a special die, and then hand-carved by master chaser KOYABASHI Masao with the image of a majestic dragon. Lastly, on the KOMATSU Kazuhito added his cutting/polishing expertise for the mirror-surface facet cuts in super hard cobarion.

All of these carefully-crafted manufacturing stages – from design and material to finish – prove that G-SHOCK MR-G is worthy of every watch enthusiast’s collection staple.

The MRG-BF1000R-1A joins the FROGMAN family of full-fledged diver’s watches, with its titanium armor-clad, airtight with ISO 200-meter water resistance

MRG-B2000GA-1A with Yasuri-me (rasp mark) patterns carved into the band by renowned swordsmith GASSAN Sadanobu

LENOVO YOGA PRO 9

STYLE AND PERFORMANCE come together with the latest Yoga laptops. Experience the most powerful Yoga devices through the Pro series, ready to power you through all your creative ambitions, and unlock your full potential no matter where you are with the ultra-portable Slim series, ensuring you’ll never miss a beat.

The new Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i is designed for a new generation of content creators to create and consume wherever and whenever needed. It comes with an enhanced PureSight Pro display, a new Yoga keyboard, and the Lenovo AI Engine+ which gives users fast and intuitive performance with the ability to anticipate their power or battery needs based on what they’re doing.

This generation of Yoga Pro laptops also introduces users to Lenovo X Power, a set

of hardware and software features that work together for faster and smoother performance allowing more time for creating, and less time for waiting.

With a custom-designed 13th Gen Intel processor, studio-validated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series graphics, and the brand new Premium Suite, the Yoga Pro 9i is unapologetically tailor-made for pro creatives who demand the very best in hardware.

The entire portfolio is also ethically and sustainably sourced, ENERGY STAR rated, and EPEAT Gold Registered, keeping true to Lenovo Yoga’s DNA of sustainable elegance.

The latest 2023 lineup of Yoga laptops is made for creating, consuming, and collaborating in a hybrid world.

Laptop

CANON POWERSHOT V10

THE NEW POWERSHOT V10 is a new video-centric concept camera designed for smartphone natives. With its slim, ergonomic form factor and seamless, high-quality footage, the PowerShot V10 marries Canon’s imaging technologies with a pocketable design.

Beneath its petite 9cm-long body, the PowerShot V10 is a video content creation powerhouse. An integrated retractable, tiltable stand unfolds to provide tripod-like support whenever and wherever you need it: no more scrambling for random supportive objects that leave you with little control over your angles! There is also a built-in large-diameter three-element microphone that cancels noise and produces clear, highquality audio, perfect for creating videos with that ASMR (Autonomous sensory meridian response) effect.

It’s your new 3-in-1 content creation kit essential for anything from travel vlogging, breakdancing demos, cinematography experiments, to on-location livestreams. It fits in a small bag with room to spare, along with your smartphone, earbuds, and power bank.

Canon’s EOS imaging technology allows the PowerShot V10 to produce stunning, low-noise footage with vivid colors, even in low-light venues with “romantic” mood lighting. Get ready to impress your audience with clear and beautiful footage from the PowerShot V10.

With various shooting modes that include auto and manual exposure, and as many as 14 color filters, the PowerShot V10 is equipped to help you achieve your ideal results regardless of your skill level or the extent you intend to edit your footage. You can experiment with different camera angles using the tilt-type monitor, which lets you see and adjust high- and lowangle shots comfortably.

Autofocus will prove to be a breeze even for beginners: While Face Tracking AF automatically detects and keeps your face in frame, you can also switch to Specified Frame AF to focus on wherever you tap.

The new Movie Auto ND filter automatically turns the builtin 3-stop ND filter on or off according to ambient brightness. Now you can record perfectly exposed transitions from the dim indoors to the sunny outdoors in one smooth take!

The ergonomic vertical grip provides both right- and lefthanders with a comfortable, stable hold, perfect for trying out new transitions or taking long handheld videos such as virtual tours of your travel accommodation.

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With 14 kinds of aspect ratio markers, you can be ensured that important elements are always perfectly framed even when your video is to be edited for different sharing platforms.

The PowerShot V10 supports real-time delivery methods such as livestreaming, which can be done directly to Facebook or YouTube via the Camera Connect app without the hassle of complicated settings. This can be achieved even when you are out and about: simply tap on your smartphone’s mobile network directly. Alternatively, you can also use the PowerShot V10 as a webcam via the plug-andplay USB-C connection.

PHP29,998 Camera

HUAWEI NOVA 11 SERIES

PHP11,999 – nova 11i (8+128GB)

PHP24,999 – nova 11 (8+256GB)

WITH THE brand’s careful watch over the growing needs of customers worldwide, the HUAWEI nova 11 Series is set to bring everyone’s A-game for selfies and vlogging.

This new series is frontlined by the HUAWEI nova 11 Pro which boasts of a bold and stylish vegan leather monogram.. This gives each user a luxurious feel without compromising the phone’s thermal cooling system. The Kunlun Glass, one of HUAWEI’s latest flagship smartphone features, makes its first-ever appearance on the nova Series as well. This increases the phone’s drop resistance capability by 10 times, vastly improving durability and reliability.

Both the nova 11 Pro and the nova 11 are equipped with a 60MP Front Ultra Portrait Dual Camera that is designed to bring out the best of every detail in your portraits. With its lowlight enhancement technology, expect richer details and more authentic colors captured even in poorly-lit environments. What’s more, the phone’s intelligent technology improves portrait light and shadow for cleaner, and more authentic skin texture.

Special moments with family and loved ones can be captured with the 60 MP Ultra Portrait Dual Camera, 100-degree ultra-wide angle, 1/2.61inch background, 4K image quality, and

PHP13,999 – nova 11i (8+256GB)

PHP33,999 – nova 11 Pro (8+256GB)

excellent resolution and light sensitivity. The 8 MP Close-up Portrait Front Camera supports 2x optical zoom and up to 5x digital zoom, including 0.7x group photo, 1x HD selfie, 2x textured portrait, and 5x makeup close-up experience, to clearly seize beauty at various distances.

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Say goodbye to low battery anxiety. The HUAWEI nova 11 Pro is equipped with 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo that can charge to 60% in just 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, the nova 11 features 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo that can charge 100% in just 31 minutes.

Completing the series is the HUAWEI nova 11i with a 16MP selfie camera and 48MP rear camera perfect for capturing everyday selfies and portraits. The nova 11i is equipped with a 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo that allows the phone to be charged to 60% in 30 minutes. It also has a 6.8-inch HUAWEI FullView Display and 1 mm ultra-narrow bezels that allow for an astonishing 94.9% screen-to-body ratio. The screen also intelligently adjusts your viewing experience depending on the ambient brightness of your surroundings. This model is also equipped with an 8+3 virtual RAM that is sure to make for an amazing phone experience.

Smartphone

HONOR MAGIC5 PRO

THIS NEWEST HONOR flagship is packed with humancentric innovations boasting impressive breakthroughs in design, display, photography, and performance, beating several industry benchmarks to deliver a best-in-class user experience.

Paying tribute to Antoni Gaudi, the HONOR Magic5 Pro features symmetry dual-curved ultra-narrow bezels on both sides and a Star Wheel Triple Camera Design sitting as the centerpiece on the back cover, blending the beautiful curves found in natural landscapes and modern architecture into the design of the cutting-edge device, demonstrating the harmonious combination of art and technology.

Featuring a 6.81-inch LTPO Display with a unique QuadCurved Floating Screen, the HONOR Magic5 Pro guarantees an immersive viewing experience whether users are browsing, gaming, or reading. Equipped with a Novel Display Luminance Enhancement Technology, it delivers peak HDR brightness of 1800nits, ensuring clear visuals even under bright sunlight.

The HONOR Magic5 Pro also features a Discrete Display Chipset to improve the visual quality of moving images. While offering an always-on high dynamic range (HDR) effect to enhance video clarity, the chipset delivers a higher frame rate with lower power consumption for a smoother, longer gaming experience. Certified with HDR10+ and IMAX Enhanced, it enables users to enjoy videos and movies with optimized picture quality. Relieving users’ eye strain, this smartphone boasts low blue light emission, as certified by TÜV Rheinland, and Dynamic Dimming which simulates natural light to alleviate eye fatigue.

It features a powerful Triple Main Camera combination comprising a 50MP Wide Camera, a 50MP Ultra Wide Camera, and a 50MP Telephoto Camera. With an increased sensor size for superior light-sensing performance, the

PHP59,990 Smartphone

camera system produces photos in refined detail every time, no matter the lighting conditions. Equipped with the all-new HONOR Image Engine, this smartphone debuts an all-new Millisecond Falcon Capture algorithm, enabling users to capture complex scenes with remarkable ease and clarity. Enabling budding creators to produce cinematic-level footage, it features IMAX Enhanced Movie Master, empowering users to shoot and edit stunning videos, all on their smartphone.

The HONOR Magic5 Pro features a Dual-TEE Security System co-developed with Qualcomm, offering hardware-level protection for users’ data. Equipped with a Discrete Security Chipset, the HONOR Magic5 Pro provides maximum security for passwords and biometrics like face IDs and fingerprints.

Bringing compelling upgrades to AI Privacy Call 2.0 , HONOR’s groundbreaking solution to sound-leaking, it introduces an industry-first Sound Energy Spatial Control Technology, which generates opposite sound waves to prevent sound leakage for private phone calls.

Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform from Qualcomm, the HONOR Magic5 Pro delivers an unrivaled flagship performance, enabling enhanced productivity and entertainment at all times. With the industry’s first Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standalone antenna architecture, it offers the ultimate flexibility and mobility for work and play. Supporting 66W Wired and 50W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, the HONOR Magic5 Pro packs with a super large 5100mAh battery to deliver a full day of uninterrupted usage.

Running the latest MagicOS 7.1 based on Android 13, the HONOR Magic5 Pro offers a range of smart features, such as MagicRing for multi-device collaboration and Magic Text for intelligent text recognition, helping users to further boost their productivity.

TECNO CAMON 20 PRO

VLOG MASTERS will find the TECNO CAMON 20 Pro Series a steady companion with its industry flagship OIS anti-shake technology. With the CAMON 20 Pro Series’ 2K and 4K OIS portrait video on 64 MP night portrait, images, and video are crisp and vivid, even when taken in dim lighting or while moving at speed. Users can vibe with their own tribe. They can fully express themselves and show the world their uniqueness.

With MediaTek’s new and powerful Dimensity 8050 processor, CAMON 20 Pro 5G has the latest and most advanced chipset in its price range. Dimensity 8050 operates on TSMC’s N6 (6nm) processor and a 5G modem. It brings the chip maker’s signature power with an advanced 6nm octacore architecture for ramped-up performance and connectivity. MediaTek’s Dimensity 8050 has a maximum display resolution of 2520x1080px and a maximum refresh rate of 168Hz. With up to 3GHz CPU frequency, performance is smooth and lag-free, whether running dayto-day apps or large-scale games. Vloggers and creators will never look back with MediaTek’s Dimensity 8050. Thanks to its incredible Cortex-A78 cores, Arm’s Mali-G77 GPU, UFS 3.1 storage support, and its capability to power up to 200MP cameras, the iconic hardware will enable them to

push their imagination to work on innovative multimedia projects anytime, anywhere.

When in use, TECNO CAMON 20 Pro Series offers 8GB+8GB extended RAM and up to 256GB ROM. TECNO CAMON 20 Pro 5G’s 5,000mAh battery gives users plenty of power whether at home, at work, or on the go, and the fast charging is perfect for a quick juice boost whenever it’s needed.

Inspired by the deconstructionist genre of postmodern architecture, TECNO fuses the aesthetic concepts of international fashion brands and pioneering designers and creates the unique CAMON PUZZLE design. TECNO tries for the first time to engrave with 20 irregular ribs in a luxury lychee pattern Magic Skin while sapphire-grade nanocrystalline ceramic is integrated into the device’s back cover construction. The combination of advanced materials and bold design challenge traditional smartphone design language and let CAMON 20 Pro users make a stylish statement.

The fusion of the magic skin with ceramic materials realized by TECNO’s designers creates incredible comfort with a natural tactile texture that doesn’t attract fingerprints. With a unique appearance and high-quality materials, CAMON 20 Pro Series brings industry design standards into a new era. As a result, the design recently won the prestigious MUSE Design Award 2023 as a gold winner and highlights TECNO’s position as a pioneer in smartphone design.

PHP9,999 – Camon 20 Pro PHP12,999 – Camon 20 Pro 5G

Smartphone

SAMSUNG GALAXY A54 5G

PHP26,990 – 256GB

PHP24,990 – 128GB

Smartphone

WHEN IT COMES TO PHONES, we want something that can provide flawless performance and a “premium feel,” yet they usually come at a high price. Thankfully, the new Samsung Galaxy A54 5G eliminates the need for compromise by providing the best of both worlds.

Taking its design cues from the ultraelegant Samsung Galaxy S23 series, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is also flaunting a revamped design similar to the flagship line; with Gorilla Glass 5 at the front and back for a premium look, a plastic frame that’s slightly rounded at the side to give you a more comfortable grip and a more high-end in-hand feel of the phone.

The A54 5G comes in vibrant shades sure to appeal to Gen Z vibes; the funky Awesome Lime, the classic Awesome Graphite, with the modern-looking Awesome Violet as an online-only offer. It also has a refreshed camera module design, getting rid of the camera bump from the latter version, which complements the high-end look of the phone. This phone also boasts an IP67 water and dust resistance rating, so you are in the clear from both the occasional splash and taking it on the road.

In terms of photography, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G delivers outstanding performance with its triple back camera setup, which lets you capture awesome moments from various perspectives. The new 50MP f/1.8 main camera has a larger sensor with 1.0µm pixel size that can capture brighter shots. At the back, there is also a 12MP f/2.2 ultra wide lens and a 5MP f/2.4 macro lens. Endless selfies can be taken with a 32MP f/2.2 front-facing camera. The camera’s night mode will let you capture amazing memories in low-light conditions with ease.

For its display, the A4 5G packs a brilliant 6.4-inch Super AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and crisp Full HD+ resolution for a watching experience like no other. You can even have an immersive viewing experience

even in harsh lighting conditions, thanks to its brightness that comes up to 1000nits.

Inside the premium-looking casing of this phone, you’ll find the in-house Exynos 1380 which keeps the Always-On display. It’s backed by 8GB of RAM and 128GB/256GB of expandable storage and ultra-fast 5G connectivity, giving you fast performance and more time for work or play and a wide storage for keeping files or awesome memories captured with your phone.

It also has a 5,000mAh battery that provides up to two days of battery life on a single charge, with video playing lasting up to 21 hours, so you can be uninterrupted as you watch your favorite shows, play mobile games, or just scroll through social media.

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G also runs on Android 13 with Samsung’s One UI 5.1, which allows you to personalize your phone’s display. You can also enhance pictures with features such as the Object Eraser, which removes unwanted objects in pictures, and the Remaster Mode, which optimizes photos by boosting their color and clarity.

It offers the best-in-class OS and five years of security updates for a worry-free ownership experience.

VIBRANT MOMENTS don’t stop for people who constantly seek excitement. This is why Xiaomi unveiled the new mid-range additions to the Redmi Note 12 Series: the Redmi Note 12 Pro and Redmi Note 12S.

With the tagline “Live Vivid,” the Redmi Note 12 Series encapsulates the younger generation’s enthusiasm for life and embarking on new journeys. Its triple camera system featuring a main lens, ultra-wide lens, and dedicated macro lens can capture everyday and momentous events.

For those looking for a complete entertainment experience, the Redmi Note 12S has an immersive stereo sound and a large 6.43” FHD + AMOLED DotDisplay with 90Hz refresh rate for smooth, lag-free visuals. Powered by an Octa-core MediaTek Helio G96 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, the Redmi Note 12S takes content consumption to the next level. Especially with its large 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging capabilities.

Meanwhile, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is an all-around device that’s equipped with a 108MP main camera and 8MP ultra-wide angle camera. Its 9-in-1 pixel binning and 2MP depth camera can create a natural bokeh effect for portrait shots. Likewise, the Redmi Note 12 Pro has a large 6.67” FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay with a 120Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Atmos spatial audio technology for a superb audio-visual experience. The Snapdragon 732G processor and 67W turbocharging ensure that users can get the most out of the device’s features while browsing social media, taking photos, and more.

VIVO Y36

Smartphone PHP12,999

VIVO’S GROWING Y Series lineup is known for fun and stylish smartphones with superb performance at affordable rates.

vivo promises no lag with Y36 even though there are too many apps running in the background. The smartphone offers 8GB RAM and up to 8GB Extended RAM, a RAM Saver, and an Interface Preserver for a smooth and seamless multitasking experience.

No need to worry about having full storage with vivo Y36’s 256GB ROM with up to 1TB micro-SD card slot for expansion. With this large storage capacity, anyone can store up to 250,000 photos, more than 500 hours of HD videos, and 6.5 million documents.

The vivo Y36 sports a 240Hz Gaming Touch Sampling Rate + 90Hz Refresh Rate for more accurate touch responsiveness when playing favorite games that require high frames per second, like Mobile Legends and Call of Duty. With the slightest finger movement, effortlessly control and win every game.

vivo offers longer fun, providing more battery capacity at 5000mAh and fast charging technology at 44W. One of the finest technological advancements of the current era is fast charging, and vivo appears to be a step forward in this area. The brand claims to get 70% battery life in just 34 minutes.

The device runs on Snapdragon 680, which has a 6nm processor capable of increasing speed but reducing unnecessary energy consumption. Expect longer battery life with this powerful chip at hand.

vivo Y36 has 50MP Super Night Algorithm technology that can bring nighttime photography to the next level. It is believed to enhance the brightness, vividness, and clarity of photos taken in low-light conditions.

EPSON SURECOLOR SC-T7730D

DEVELOPED WITH PRECISION and consistency in mind, the Epson SureColor T-Series is engineered to produce secure and accurately detailed prints for every professional project. The flagship SCT7730D model represents the T-Series’ high-end innovation and is suited for a wide range of corporate and government use.

The SureColor SC-T7730D boasts an improved print rate of 23 seconds – the fastest speed in its class – to help businesses achieve higher productivity rates with every print. Equipped with Epson’s core proprietary technologies such as the 2.64” MicroTFP printhead, businesses can be assured of accuracy that captures the finest details.

To minimize downtime from media changes, the Epson SureColor SC-T7730D comes with a dual-roll function with autoswitching and take-up reel for continuous printing of high-volume prints. It also supports board media and cut-sheet printing to facilitate optimized media handling.

The new and improved SureColor SCT7730D utilizes Epson’s UltraChrome XD3 6-Color pigment ink set, which is optimized for precise, accurate lines and detail. The addition of red ink enables rich

and vivid images with high color saturation to be produced, making it the ideal solution for Point Of Purchase (POP) signages and top-of-the-line professional posters.

The SureColor SC-T7730D showcases a sleek flat-top design to support a variety of modular workplace arrangements. Compact with full-frontal operations, users can easily adjust their settings and check on the ink tray with ease and convenience. This unique design feature allows for seamless operation and increased productivity.

Furthermore, the Epson SureColor SCT7730D utilizes an optional solid-state drive (SSD) to improve print capabilities for large amounts of data. The SSD, storage, and serverless authentication functions can be enabled with efficient throughput, delivering drastic functional improvements that make a tangible difference. Users will also appreciate the expanded convenience with Wi-Fi connectivity and USB host for direct printing. Compatibility with the Epson Smart Panel mobile app further allows for easy printing from a mobile device.

With Epson’s suite of software solutions, Epson SureColor SC-T7730D promises secure data handling and easy device management for administrators.

Large-format printer

REVIEWED BY GABRIEL PE

INFINIX NOTE 30 VIP

What does it mean to be a VIP? Personally, I think being a VIP means no expense spared. So when I was asked to review the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP, I had certain expectations. Of course, at the very top is a VIP experience. Using the phone, I found myself pleasantly surprised: Infinix really did manage to produce an outstanding device at an astonishingly affordable price. VIP treatment indeed.

SMARTPHONE

ALL-AROUND FAST CHARGING AND ULTRA FAST WIRELESS CHARGING

The main highlight of the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP is its 68W All-around FastCharge which is rated to fully charge the 5000mAh battery in just under an hour. During our test, it took just a bit over an hour, but still quite fast for its class. What makes the Infinix Note 30 VIP extra special is the inclusion of its 50W Wireless charging capability. I truly appreciate this feature and hope that more phone makers would bring wireless charging to more affordable devices.

As a daily driver, the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP performs very well. It has enough battery to last me through the day. On a long event day, I also used it to recharge my main phone with its reverse charging capability. It still had enough juice to get me through a night of Netflix and some last-minute dailies on Honkai Star Rail

DESIGN

The Infinix NOTE 30 VIP has a very similar design to its recently-launched Infinix NOTE 30 5G. However, unlike the NOTE 30 5G, the VIP edition is a bit smaller, with a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display. The display has a 120Hz refresh rate and is rated for 100% DCI-P3 color accuracy and TUV Reinhart Eye-Care.

Our review unit was the Glacier White variant. Its gradient changes color depending on how the light reflects on the phone. There’s also a Magic Black variant. The back of the phone is made of glass; the sides are plastic but look like aluminum.

Another unique thing about the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP is the inclusion of a hard plastic case instead of the now standard jelly case. I honestly think that a jelly case is better, with the hard plastic case earning scratches much more quickly than a jelly case. It also felt a bit brittle, like it could crack anytime whenever I reattach or remove it from the phone.

On the front of the phone is the earpiece and beneath that is the 32-megapixel selfie camera. At the back is the 108-megapixel Master Triple Camera setup. I’m not really a fan of how the camera setup looks, with most of the lens occupying a massive space. I really hope that they move away from this design layout in their next device and return to a more simple layout.

On top of the phone is the secondary speaker, and a mic hole. On the left is the sim card and microSD tray. On the right are the volume rocker and power button. Finally, beneath is the main speaker, the USB-C charging port, the main mic hole, and surprisingly a 3.5mm headphone jack (audiophiles rejoice). Another thing to note is that both speakers are tuned by JBL and can get pretty loud for their size.

HARDWARE

It has been a while since I was seriously blown away by a smartphone’s specifications. As a fan of bang-for-thebuck mid-rangers, the last couple of years have been disappointing, to say the least. The silicon shortage towards the end of 2020 was among the leading reasons why smartphone prices suddenly went up while specs stayed low (end). Finally, after two years, the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP is a shining star as a great mid-ranger.

The Infinix NOTE 30 VIP runs on MediaTek Dimensity 8050, a newly released octa-core processor which packs a punch similar to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 778G. Our unit had 256GB of storage and 12GB of RAM, which can be expanded up to 21GB thanks to the Infinix Mem Fusion feature. The storage itself can also be expanded via the MicroSD slot.

Benchmark actually affirmed the placement of the Dimensity processor with Antutu v10 scoring it 660815.

GeekBench 6 has its single-core at 1109 points and 3355 for multi-core performance. Meanwhile, PCMark had it at 14694. For graphics, the Mali-G77 MC9

garnered a scored of 4554 with an average of 27.30 frames in 3DMark Wild life. All very impressive, considering the phone’s price.

In real-world use scenarios, the phone is a surprisingly great performer. There was no slowdown during my testing and thermals were top-notch even under extreme load. For gaming, the Infinix Note 30 VIP can handle the most graphically intensive games with ease. It can handle Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail at high setting at 60fps. It can also run League of Legends: Wild Rift at 120fps with high settings.

For the camera, the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP shares a similar camera setup with the NOTE 30 5G. It has a triple camera setup with a 108-megapixel shooter main shooter, as well as a 2-megapixel depth and 2-megapixel AI camera. There’s also a 32-megapixel selfie shooter in front. There is no secondary ultra-wide nor dedicated macro lens, so the main camera is essentially a jack-of-all-trades.

The camera system produces great shots in daylight. At low light and with a difficult subject, it can be hit or miss, but when it does hit, oh boy, does it look great! There

is a super night mode that does help to brighten darker scenes a bit, but it feels a tad too artificial for my taste.

In terms of video output, the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP is able to produce up to 4K 30fps videos. The camera lacks optical stabilization, so shooting while running or moving is a definite no-no, unless you use a gimbal. It does have an ultra-stable mode, but this lowers the maximum output to 1080p 30fps with a fair bit of cropping.

USER EXPERIENCE

One of the notable things about the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP, is its heft and bulk. It’s not heavier compared to its competitors in the segment, but it does have heft. This heftiness isn’t a bad thing; on the contrary, it makes the device more solid. It feels like you’re holding a much more expensive device and this is confidence-inspiring.

Gaming is a blast with the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP, and I found myself doing more mobile gaming on it than on my regular device. The combination of the processor and speakers just makes it a must-have for mobile gaming. Additionally, the thermals on this phone are so amazing, even long Genshin sessions don’t make the phone burn up.

The JBL tune speakers are also great for media consumption. Netflix-binging is great on the Infinix Note 30 VIP with its outstanding speakers and great display. There are also built-in sound profiles, though accessing them can be a bit of a hassle, considering you’ll need to get into the settings menu to find them.

There are some nuisances to the phone. The XOS needs some time to get used to, and I struggled to find some of the necessary settings options. The Infinix smart menu has the same gesture as Android’s back, so there are times when I unintentionally open it rather than go back to the previous webpage. There are certain notifications that can’t be turned off, as well as the looking at you gesture control and navigation.

SPECIFICATIONS

Display: 6.67-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2400) AMOLED Display with 120 Hz refresh rate and Eye-care.

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity

8050

Graphics: Mali G77 MC9

Storage: 256GB expandable via microSD

RAM: 12 GB (can be expanded up to 21GB)

Camera: Rear: Triple Master Camera (108-megapixel main + 2-megapixel + 2-megapixle AI camera); Front: 32-megapixel

Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, Radio, USB-C

Battery: 5000 mAh with 68W All Around Fast Charging and 50W wireless charging and bypass charging

Dimensions: 162.7 x 75.9 x 8.2 mm

Weight: 190g

WHAT'S HOT

 Great Processor

 All-Round Fast Charging

 Wireless Charging

 Great speakers

 Price

 12GB RAM + Mem Fusion

VALUE

Coming at PHP13,999 the Infinix NOTE 30 VIP surpassed my expectations and reignited my interest in the lower midrange segment. It has a great price-toperformance ratio, with tons of neat features. That said, being a mid-ranger means there are certain trade-offs like its camera system and some nuances with the OS. But for me, I genuinely think that this phone is a great device with its current feature set.

The Infinix NOTE 30 VIP is in the Infinix Philippines TikTok Shop as well as Lazada and Shopee stores. You can also check the device yourself at Infinix Kiosks and concept stores nationwide.

 Single camera

Bulky Camera layout at the back

XOS needs getting used to

WHAT'S NOT BOTTOMLINE

The Infinix NOTE 30 VIP gives the mid-range a much-needed VIP treatment.

BY ALYSSA JOJI SILVA

XIAOMI REDMI NOTE 12 PRO 5G

Progressively changing for modern innovation, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is the new competitor to watch out for in Android smartphones. With its budgetfriendly price, anyone can achieve picture-perfect and colorful photos, videos, and a seamless mobile experience for everyday life. However, considering its flagship qualities, can the phone be considered a “storage master?”

SMARTPHONE

REVIEWED

DESIGN

A minimalist vibe is the design language of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G. Its simple and slender look exudes creativity and professionalism. I used it to take photos and videos virtually everywhere, wearing various outfits because the phone simply matches everything. It comes in three colors: Sky Blue, Midnight Black, and Polar White.

At first glance, you’ll immediately notice the mirror-like back structure of the phone, made with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. This highlights the modern and minimalistic vibe of the phone, especially if you have the midnight black colorway. It’s a fingerprint magnet, so you could end up constantly cleaning the back of the phone. Thankfully, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G comes with a clear and shockproof case in the box.

Taking the phone out of the box, there’s some heft to the unit. Holding the phone is manageable as it is not wide and bulky. The power button, which is

also a fingerprint scanner, is on the right side of the phone; beside this are the volume buttons. There are two speakers and microphones, placed at the top and bottom part of the phone. It also has a headphone jack at the top side of the phone. The nano sim card slot is at the bottom and next to it is the charging port.

HARDWARE

Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 1080 Octa-core and the latest MIUI 14 running on Android 12, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is responsive, while graphics are quite smooth for playing games and watching videos. I tested out its CPU and GPU in Geekbench 6 and the CPU benchmark score for single-core is 970 while the multi-core is 2267. As for the GPU, the openCL score is 2406. These numbers are quite good, indicating that this smartphone will be able to keep up with your daily tasks and gaming activities.

Its flagship camera has an IMX766 sensor with 50MP wide camera and a night mode 2.0. It captures colorful and great

quality photos that you can easily post in social media with no filter. The camera also features the Xiaomi Imaging Engine that automatically improves the quality of captured images. Zooming in the photo shows that pixels are smooth and not-sograiny.

The storage capacity of the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G test unit is 8GB + 128GB, which is good enough for downloading office and gaming applications. Unfortunately, it does not have expandable storage. Another good thing is the 5,000mAh battery, allowing me to play games and work on the phone longer. I also didn’t have to wait for the battery to charge since it has 67W turbo charging.

USER EXPERIENCE

The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G didn’t let me down with its overall experience. With its gorilla glass design and 6.67” 120Hz AMOLED screen, the phone was able to deliver colorful visuals and a good dual sound audio that made me feel like I’m holding a mini movie theater. The phone is supported by Dolby Vision and Atmos, so this phone will surely keep you up all night watching your favorite k-dramas, film series, and movies. Another noteworthy feature is its flagship camera that produces images with vibrant colors and outstanding quality. The results are certainly flex-worthy!

Two issues with a glass-backed phone are: (1) fingerprint smudges that require constant cleaning, and (2) extra care in handling to guard against accidental dropping and breaking. The included case addresses both these concerns.

Phone storage is also a concern. Since it’s not expandable, you might quickly run out of space considering that it is able to shoot 4K videos. Heavy gaming apps could also take a heavy toll on storage capacity, and we actually recommend the 256GB version so you can take more photos, shoot more videos, and play more games on the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G.

While this phone is not light as a feather, it’s also not so heavy to be bothersome.

I was able to play and capture photos and videos with this phone for considerably long hours, thanks to its 5,000mAh battery. The gaming performance of this phone is also excellent, allowing me to play Genshin Impact and Call of Duty in medium graphic quality. You can also play it on the highest quality but expect the cutscenes to lag. You can play Mobile Legends on the highest graphic setting.

Charging this phone is fast since it is equipped with a fast charging system and a 67W turbo-battery charger.

SPECIFICATIONS

Display: 6.67” FHD+ Flow

AMOLED display, Up to 120Hz refresh rate, DCI-P3 wide color gamut, Resolution: 2400 x 1080, Brightness: 900 nits peak brightness, Supports Dolby Vision Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 1080

OS: MIUI 14 based on Android 12

Memory: 8GB+128GB, 8GB+256GB

Camera: IMX766 50MP wide camera, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro; 16MP front camera

Battery: 5,000mAh (typ) battery, 67W turbo charging

Connectivity: Supports dual 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Supports NFC2, IR Blaster

Dimensions: 162.9 × 76 × 7.9mm

Weight: 187g

Colors: Midnight Black, Polar White, Sky Blue

WHAT'S HOT

 Great camera

Outstanding processor performance

Dolby Vision and Atmos support for audio-video

WHAT'S NOT BOTTOMLINE VALUE

The price of Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G in 8GB+128GB is PHP16,999 while the 8GB+256GB is PHP17,999. These are good price points for budget-friendly phones with flagship qualities.

 Non-expandable storage

Flagship qualities at an affordable price.

REVIEWED BY ALYSSA JOJI SILVA

POLY SYNC 20+

PORTABLE

The Poly Sync 20+ is a Microsoft Teams-certified speakerphone. It is great for group meetings particularly with today’s hybrid work situation.

DESIGN

At first glance, you know instantly that this speaker is meant for virtual meetings. With its black and gray compact design, the Poly Sync 20+ looks clean and professional. It comes with a BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter and lanyard for easy connectivity. The device is dust-resistant and protected against water spray from any direction. Small and lightweight, it is easy to bring along to offsite meetings.

You can wrap the USB cable of the speaker on the bottom part of the device, a clever move for packing up the speaker wire easily. Also at the bottom, are four rubber feet designed to keep the speaker firmly positioned so it does not slide.

The Poly sync 20+ is also not just a speaker but also a powerbank that can charge other devices via a USB Type-A port. Also on its side is a power button and Bluetooth button.

The top is where the speakers are placed together with a touch-sensitive control panel housing the volume up and down button, call and answer button, microphone mute, a rocket button for customization on the Poly lens app, and lastly, the Microsoft Teams button. There is also a status light bar along the length of the control panel. This glows up in different colors: green when there is an upcoming call, blue for a successful connection, and white for adjusting the volume of the speaker.

HARDWARE

The speaker of Poly Sync 20+ is not bad, producing sounds that are loud, clean, and clear. It is supported by a bass reflex system that can be found below the speaker. The microphone’s pick up range is around 7ft/2m in a frequency response range from 100Hz to 6.7kHz. When used for speaker calls, it automatically activates noise and echo reduction.

The rocket button can be customized through the Poly lens app that can be downloaded on Windows, MacOs, and even in smartphones. The button can be configured for specific functions, such as an alternative button for play and pause, redial (for mobile only), virtual personal assistant (VPA), clear trusted device list, status check, and a button for hold and resume call. Also, the device easily connects to compatible platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, Google Voice, Cisco, and other communication platforms. The battery capacity of the speaker is 3200mAh, enough to complete all your

scheduled video meetings for a day. Charging the battery to full takes about 4 hours.

USER EXPERIENCE

The moment I used Poly Sync 20+ for my video meetings and calls, I was amused and I enjoyed using it, especially for my Work-From-Home set-up. It really serves its purpose as a speakerphone — I even tried going to the kitchen while the speaker was in the living room to test if it could still catch my voice, and it did. But take note, don’t get too far as the pick-up range is only 7ft/2m.

The only problem with using a speakerphone is privacy, as everyone can listen in to your calls or meetings, particularly since the audio comes across loud and clear. This would be good for group meetings where everyone can listen in and participate in the conversation.

Using the Poly Sync 20+ for listening to music is perfect with its bass system. I was able to vibe through the music beat

of Nadine Lustre in her single Overgrown as it played through the speaker. Maxing out the volume produced very impressive loudness.

However, for watching films on on Netflix, the sound quality is low and I wasn’t able to appreciate some of the action scenes in Extraction 2. Also, the battery drains quickly when used as a speaker for listening to music and watching movies.

The Poly Sync 20+ connects easily and quickly to smartphones and desktops, and the buttons are very responsive and convenient. When I receive calls on my smartphone, I can answer by just pressing the button on the speaker. For video calls/ meetings, a simple press on a button lets me mute my mic. I also find the visual cues very convenient, as it glows when receiving calls, connecting to a paired device, or adjusting volume. It can pair with two devices via Bluetooth.

Connects to: Poly Sync 20+: PC via USB-A or USB-C cable (depending on model) or wirelessly via included BT600 Bluetooth adapter; smartphone via Bluetooth

Compatible with: Windows or Mac OS

User Interface Features:

Touch sensitive user controls for: Call/answer end, Mute, Volume +/-, Programmable function button

Push button user controls for: Power On/Off, Bluetooth pairing

Highly visible status light bar

Integrated USB-A or USB-C cable (depending on the model)

One USB-A port for smartphone charging

Wireless: Bluetooth v5.1, Supported Bluetooth profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP, BLE

Audio Features: Three microphone steerable array

Microphone pickup range: 7ft/2m, Ideal for room sizes up to: 13ft x 13ft / 4 m x 4 m

Microphone Frequency Response: 100Hz to 6.7 kHz

Full duplex audio

Noise and echo reduction

Loudspeakers 1x40mm high-performance music speaker

Peak audio output: 86dBspl@0.5m

Bass reflex with dual passive radiators

Battery:

Type: Lithium-ion

Capacity: 3200mAH

Talk time: up to 20 hours

Charge time: 4 hours

Dimensions: 34 mm x 95 mm x 182 mm / 1.3 in x 3.7 in x 7.2 in

Weight: 360g / 12.7 oz

Cable Length: 715mm

Environmental: IP64 dust and water resistant

Accessories: Carry case, Lanyard, BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter

Applications supported: Poly Lens and App, Plantronics Hub desktop and mobile versons. Plantronics Manager Pro suites: Asset Management and Adoption, Platform certification: Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Compatible with a wide range of platforms.

* Microsoft Teams versions only

VALUE

The Poly Sync 20+ retails for PHP10,734 — not cheap, but not outrageously priced either, considering its premium build and its speakerphone functionalities.

WHAT'S HOT

 It can be a powerbank. BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter.

WHAT'S NOT

 Everyone can listen in on your meeting if you’re in a public place

BOTTOMLINE

A handy device for work-from-home and hybrid setups

MAZDA CX-60

A NEW ERA OF MAZDA PREMIUM

The first-ever Mazda CX-60 has arrived, setting a new benchmark in style, quality, and performance for the brand and its Mazda Premium philosophy.

“The Mazda CX-60 is more than an exciting new SUV; it’s the evolution of Mazda Premium—a high-quality concentration of design, driving dynamics, technology, and comfort. It offers unmatched distinction in every way,” said Steven Tan, president and CEO of Mazda Philippines.

An SUV Like No Other

Every single aspect of the Mazda CX-60 has been refined to perfect the Mazda Jinba-Ittai experience of car and driver in complete harmony. This starts with Mazda’s Large Vehicle Platform that features a highly rigid bodyshell matched to a front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension setup, delivering a first-rate driving experience.

Built from the ground up, it exemplifies genuine luxury. This front-engine, rear-wheel drive mechanical layout not only delivers imposing strength and elegance, but also maximizes the driver’s potential by distributing the lateral and longitudinal workload between the two axles. Furthermore, by placing the powertrain units at the center, it transmits power to the road surface more efficiently.

Kinematic Posture Control further adds stability when cornering by braking the inside rear wheel to mitigate body roll. The optimal positioning of the highvoltage battery between the front and rear axles and located as low as possible further contributes to the low center of gravity.

Dynamics That Suit the Senses

Committed to a multi-solution approach to sustainable mobility, the Mazda CX-60 combines strong environmental performance with the driving pleasure inherent in every Mazda.

The gasoline-powered turbo-charged 3.3L Inline-6 HEV e-SKYACTIV-G engine produces 284PS and 450Nm and delivers an impressive 0-100 kph time of just 6.9 seconds, while the dieselpowered turbo-charged 3.3L Inline-6 HEV e-SKYACTIV-D produces 254PS and 550Nm and does the same sprint in 7.3 seconds. Both offer a top speed of 219kph.

The Mazda CX-60 employs a newlydeveloped SKYACTIV-DRIVE 8-speed automatic transmission without the use of a torque converter. The use of an electronically controlled multi-plate system in place of a torque converter results in clean and rhythmic switching between gears while also enabling accurate control of the M Hybrid Boost electric motor.

The new rear-biased i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive system is supported by Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive), facilitating switching between four different driving modes to suit different driving conditions: Normal, Sport, OffRoad, and Towing. This allows drivers

to optimize traction, performance, handling, and safety in the widest possible range of driving environments.

A Coveted Art Piece

Beauty through subtraction distills the Mazda CX-60’s design to its purest form. The all-new vehicle platform creates an SUV with ideal proportions, with the long hood and rearward cabin design. The powerful grille with its iconic wing shape is highlighted by sweeping adaptive LED headlamps, featuring a distinctive lighting signature for a sleek look.

Both Mazda CX-60 variants feature crafted 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels

with 235/50R20 tires, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power tailgate with height adjustment memory. The 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo showcases the signature Mazda design with its diamond-cut alloy wheels, gloss black bar-type grille, and bright chrome on the front signature wing, fender garnish, side window molding, and exhaust finishers. Meanwhile, the 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo-D Sport conveys a dignified look with its black metallic alloy wheels, gloss black honeycomb grille and side view mirrors, black chrome on the front signature wing, fender garnish, and exhaust finishers, and matte black side window molding.

Craftsmanship Revolutionized

The cabin of the Mazda CX-60 sets new standards for interior quality, design, and technology. The interior design concept presents a wide instrument panel with continuous lines that run through the cabin. With the generous 570-liter cargo hold, it is the most practical car in Mazda’s line-up. The rear seats also come equipped with a

center armrest with cup holders and dual USB Type-C ports.

Three main displays—a 12.3-inch fully digital driver’s instrument panel, a 12.3inch infotainment center display, and a 10.4-inch heads-up display put all the information right where it is needed.

The 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo features aluminum panels and silver accents, black Nappa leather seats, and black leather interior upholstery. The 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo-D Sport achieves the highest levels of craftsmanship with graphite panels and gunmetal accents, and tan Nappa leather seats with quilted Leganu suede inserts. Both variants offer 10-way power front seat adjustment, front seat ventilation, electric steering wheel adjustment, wireless device charging, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control with rear vents.

The latest generation Mazda Connect infotainment system allows passengers to connect via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 12-speaker

Bose sound system delivers expanded liveliness and reinforced low pitch for a full auditory experience.

A Personalized Experience

The Driver Personalization System, a new innovation from Mazda, makes it easy for drivers to achieve their ideal driving position.

After entering the driver’s height data via the infotainment center display, the automatic driving position guide uses an in-car camera to detect the location of their eyes. It then automatically adjusts the seat, steering wheel, Active Driving Display, and door mirrors to match the driver’s height and eye position.

The system also uses facial recognition to remember each driver’s preferences. Once the driver is detected, the Mazda CX-60 automatically restores more than 250 stored settings to match their preferences, including vehicle, audio, and climate control settings. The system stores settings for up to six different users, plus guests.

Safer All-Around

A range of i-Activsense driver assistance systems are designed to deliver safety performance for both occupants and other road users, including pedestrians. These include See-Through View, that projects natural footage of the vehicle’s surroundings; Hill Descent Control (HDC), which makes descending slippery road surfaces such as dirt tracks much safer; and Blind Spot Monitoring with Vehicle Exit Warning that alerts occupants if an object is coming into the vehicle’s blind spot as they are opening the door.

The Rear Cross Traffic Alert has been updated with Rear Cross Brake Support which automatically applies the brakes if there is a possibility of collision with a vehicle approaching from the rear when reversing out of a parking space.

These features enhance the full level of protection provided by the Mazda CX-60’s i- Activsense safety suite which offers Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Front Smart Brake Support with Forward Obstruction Warning, Rear Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Monitoring System, and Driver Attention Alert.

Colors and Variants

The first-ever Mazda CX-60 comes in Rhodium White Premium, Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Platinum Quartz, Sonic Silver, Deep Crystal Blue, and Jet Black. Two variants are available: the 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo retails for PHP2,790,000, while the 3.3L AWD HEV Turbo D-Sport is priced at PHP2,890,000

The price is inclusive of a 5-year Free Service Plan which covers the expenses of periodic maintenance at either 6-month or 10,000-kilometer intervals for up to 5 years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. This is on top of a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

HEADING OUT DURING A DOWNPOUR?

FORD PHILIPPINES SHARES FOUR TIPS TO DRIVE SAFELY DURING THE RAINY SEASON

The rainy season has started, which means drivers need to be extra careful on the road because of challenging conditions like flooding, slippery roads, and reduced driver visibility.

Leading automotive manufacturers like Ford equip their cars with safety features that are useful when driving amid a heavy downpour. Here are four tips for drivers to ensure safety on the road during this time of the year:

1. Check your Wipers: Having a clear vision of the road during a storm is essential. It allows you to respond quickly and maneuver the vehicle in the right direction at ease when needed. Always check your wipers and remove any debris that could potentially scratch your windshield before you leave. Check the condition of the wiper blades as well and if these need replacing to ensure your wipers are in top shape to clear rainwater.

Select variants of the Next-Generation Ford Ranger and Ford Everest are equipped with Rain Sensing Wipers that automatically turn on as soon as it drizzles on the road, making it less complicated to turn on wipers during the rainy weather.

2. Always Maintain Visibility: When driving in the rain, make sure you can see the road and other drivers can see you, too. Turning on your headlights is crucial during heavy rainfall as it improves your visibility of the streets ahead and lets others easily see you as well. Amid a heavy downpour, owners of select Ford Ranger and Everest variants can take advantage of LED headlights with C-Clamp daytime running lights and LED fog lamps for enhanced visibility of the road.

Vehicle cameras can also help improve driver visibility, especially on blind spots. The Next-Gen Ranger Wildtrak 4x4, Next-Gen Raptor, and Next-Gen Everest Titanium+ 4x4 are fitted with

a 360-degree camera that can help drivers see all angles of the vehicle especially during challenging weather conditions.

3. Know your vehicle’s Water Wading Capability: Understanding your vehicle’s capability to drive through floods allows you to traverse it with ease. While both the Ford Ranger and Everest have 800mm waterwading capability and the Raptor has 850mm water-wading capability, it is still important to assess the road condition first during a storm. If the road is passable, it is advisable to drive at the center where the flood usually tends to be the shallowest, and drive

in low gear to minimize the water from entering the engine and avoiding damage to the electrical parts of the vehicle.

4. Drive Slower: Vehicle traction and maneuverability are mostly reduced during rains and wet road conditions, hence the need to drive slowly. Always check your tires before driving on a wet and slippery road and ensure tread depth is good for whatever road conditions you may encounter.

You can also check your vehicle’s drive modes which can further help stability. The “Slippery” drive mode on select variants of the Ranger and Everest, for example, can be utilized as it allows the vehicles to optimize the engine and transmission to reduce wheel spin while the traction control delivers better grip.

To ensure a worry-free experience on the road, Ford also encourages its vehicle owners to visit a Ford dealer for proper vehicle check-up and maintenance, especially during the rainy season, where they can get access to genuine Ford parts, advanced service facilities, and a network of Ford-trained technicians.

Slippery Mode

360 Camera

PETRON BLAZE RACING ENGINE OIL

FORTIFIED WITH TS3 FORMULA SO YOU CAN DRIVE WORLD CLASS

Industry leader Petron Corporation continues to bring worldclass products to Filipino motorists with its line of Petron Blaze Racing engine oil with Thermal Stress Stabilizing System (TS3) formulation. To provide ultimate protection from engine stress, TS3 technology keeps the oil stable even under extreme temperatures. Engineered and tested to perform, Petron Blaze Racing engine oil has been proven to improve the performance of gasoline engines. This top-of-the-line automotive lubricant enhances engine protection and ensures excellent engine protection for remarkable power and efficiency.

Petron Blaze Racing gasoline engine oil is offered in various grades for different types of vehicles and to suit motorists’ diverse requirements.

Petron Blaze Racing HTP 0W-40

A polyalphaolefin (PAO)-based fully-synthetic engine oil, this is specially formulated to meet the most severe and stringent requirements of today’s high-performance gasoline engines. The premium, high-quality base oils and advanced additive system ensure outstanding properties, such as:

• Excellent engine protection against extreme driving conditions and high temperature

• Outstanding oxidation and thermal stability for superior engine protection

• Outstanding engine cleanliness for maximum efficiency and power

• Exceptional protection against wear and corrosion for longer engine life

Petron Blaze Racing BR830 Fully

Synthetic SAE 5W-30

Petron Blaze Racing BR800 Fully

Synthetic SAE 5W-40

Formulated with TS3 technology, the BR830 and BR800 are top-tier fully synthetic gasoline engine oils. Delivering excellent engine protection even under extreme driving conditions, these are recommended for use in modern, high-performance gasoline engines. Their performance benefits include:

• Improved fuel economy (B830 variant)

• Enhanced emission control

• Protection in engines operating on ethanol-blended gasoline fuels

• Improved high temperature deposit protection for pistons and turbochargers

• Stringent sludge control

They are proven to deliver:

• Excellent engine cleanliness for optimum performance

• Superior ability to withstand heat for longer oil drain interval

• Unsurpassed wear protection for longer engine life

combines mineral base oils with high-quality additives. It provides maximum engine protection for dayto-day driving. In addition, it also offers:

• Anti-wear protection for cylinder rings, liners, and valve trains

• Protection against sludge, varnish, rust, and high-temperature thickening

• Optimum thermal stability for longer oil drain interval

Petron Blaze Racing BR630 Synthetic

Blend SAE 5W-30

Petron Blaze Racing BR600 Synthetic Blend SAE 10W-40

These multigrade semi-synthetic gasoline engine oils with TS3 technology are designed to provide maximum engine protection for all passenger cars and light-duty trucks and vans powered by gasoline engines.

Petron Blaze Racing BR450 Premium Multigrade SAE 20W-50

Petron Blaze Racing BR400 Premium Multigrade SAE 15W-40

Premium multigrade engine oils formulated with mineral base oils, a special additive package, and TS3 technology, the BR450 and BR400 offer the following performance features:

• First-rate protection against wear and corrosion for longer engine life

• Overall engine cleanliness through effective control of sludge, rust deposits, gums, and resins

• Optimum thermal stability for longer oil drain interval

For every type of gasoline-powered vehicle, there is a Petron Blaze Racing gasoline engine oil designed to meet all types of driving conditions. It is custom-engineered according to global standards to ensure that Filipino motorists can enjoy not only a world-class driving experience but also the highest levels of engine protection.

The Petron Blaze Racing product range is available at Petron Car Care Centers, Petron service stations, and retail outlets nationwide. It can also be purchased from the official Petron store on e-commerce platforms Shopee and Lazada.

Petron Blaze Racing BR200

Multigrade SAE 20W-40

Enhanced with TS3 technology, this multigrade gasoline engine oil

Having served the motoring needs of the country for almost a century, Petron has a deep understanding of the unique driving conditions on Philippine roads, with Petron fuels and lubricants designed to meet the needs and lifestyle of every Filipino motorist.

MIO GEAR PLAYGROUND

CHALLENGING THE TOUGHEST PLAYERS IN CEBU!

Coming from the Mio Gear: Play Your Tough campaign launch in Manila, Yamaha Motor Philippines (YMPH) set the playground in Cebu to create more avenues for those who want to prove their toughness. The concept behind ‘Play your Tough’ follows the passion of anyone who rides their way out from different struggles in life, whether in sports, urban, or outdoor lifestyle. YMPH created this campaign for everyone to embody grit, resilience, and a tough attitude with their own Mio Gear motorcycle.

#PlayYourTough: What’s in the Mio Gear Playground?

Y amaha built the playground in the center of SM City Cebu Northwing. Hosted by Rizza Diaz and the local Cebuana Host, Christine Fernandez, the Mio Gear Playground became part of the mall goers’ weekend. Within the playground, YMPH exuded a street style-themed display of the newest Mio Gear color variant, a Spartan obstacle course, a basketball court, and an esports battle-ready setup.

Complemented by the latest product upgrades, the playground featured 4 different color variants of the Mio Gear: Worn Gray and Matte Gray for the standard version; Matte Black and Matte Brown for the S version. These hues emit the simplicity of being tough on your own combined with the motorcycle’s multifunctional features, scratch protection advantage, and agile handling.

Highlighting the ‘Play your Tough’ spirit, YMPH invited icons to have a special exhibition game from each lifestyle. In basketball, former Gilas Pilipinas players Kevin Alas, Paul Lee, and Jayson Castro together with Coach Mavs and his TEAM PHENO players had their spotlight in different basketball drills and shootout challenges. The Spartan Philippines

Team was represented by United VisMin OCR Community and had a tournament amongst their athletes. In the esports community, local (LV Dragons) and national (Crimson Esports) Mobile Legends players battled their way to victory.

Aside from the exhibition games, the entire Mio Gear Playground CEBU was open to everyone who wanted to show off their toughness and take on the challenges away from their daily metro routine.

Yamaha unlocked toughness in the Queen City of the South, what’s next?

YMPH dedicates its newest campaign to be within the reach of every passionate rider in the Philippines – those who are eager to play tough and willing to stay above the challenges. Now that the Cebuanos have already had their own Mio Gear Playground experience in Visayas, expect #PlayYourTough moments in Mindanao.

HONDA REBEL1100

A NEW MODERN STREET BOBBER STYLE BIKE

Regarding motorcycle forms, few are as admired as the bobber style. Its minimalist yet muscular lines and distinctive riding position will give any big bike enthusiast a sense of authority when tackling the road. To give Filipino riders a chance to experience this classic bike, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country, recently introduced The AllNew Rebel1100.

This big bike model features an eyecatching modern bobber design, a classic single-round LED headlight, and hunched fuel tank. The design evokes vintage-inspired styling while giving the rider a relaxed riding posture. The rider experiences a comfortable – and sophisticated –riding experience perfect for longand short-distance travels. At a suggested retail price of PHP650,000, owning this stylish, high-performing big bike is within easy reach.

Since this big bike is all about enjoying the joy of mobility in style, its front fork, exhaust, and shock absorber come in two-color choices that evoke style and taste: Gunmetal Black Metallic and Iridium Gray Metallic.

Another feature of this big bike is its smooth riding suspension settings. The big bike’s front fork is set to a lying angle for cruiser-like styling, which contributes to a smooth ride. It is equipped with preload adjusters that you can set according to your preference.

While the All-New Rebel1100’s styling is vintage-inspired, its performance specifications are definitely avantgarde. It is powered by a 1,083cc parallel-twin cylinder, liquid-cooled, single-overhead cam (SOHC) engine capable of producing 64kW of power @7,000rpm, and 98Nm of torque @ 4,750rpm. When combined

with the bike’s 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) — Honda’s exclusive automatic-style shifting clutch — you get a bike that provides the rider with exceptional riding confidence and performance control.

It also comes with cruise control, and advanced selectable riding mode. The cruise control feature allows the rider to maintain a steady speed within a specified range, helping reduce fatigue when traveling long distances. The selectable riding mode enables the rider to choose from four performance modes — Standard, Sport, Rain, and User — each of which offers different levels of power feel, torque control, engine brake, and shift schedule. Standard mode is ideal for everyday riding in optimal conditions, perfect for cruising around the city. Sport mode gives you a more aggressive throttle response for winding road conditions

and performance-oriented riding. Rain mode provides maximum safety control in wet conditions. User mode lets the rider customize the engine characteristics for his or her specific needs.

The bike’s front and rear disc brakes come with 2-channel ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with wheelie control. Its braking system ensures you’re able to stop immediately without giving up control. The big bike also has a USB Socket Type C under the seat for charging your phone and other gadgets. And all of these systems can be monitored efficiently on the bike’s high-tech inverted LCD meter display.

To know more about Honda Big Bikes visit your nearest Honda Flagship Shop. More information about HPI is available at www.hondaph.com.

5 REASONS YOU SHOULD PLAY THE MMORPG

ALBION ONLINE OFFERS LIMITLESS ADVENTURES WITH AN INTENSE COMPETITIVE TOUCH!

Albion Online is a Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMORPG) from Germany, developed by Sandbox Interactive. Available on various platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

The game was released in July 2017, and received a warm welcome from many enthusiastic fans. Recently, Albion Online revealed a new patch called Knightfall, which adds another layer of excitement to its playability. Further information regarding the Knightfall patch, can be found here.

For those who have not experienced the exciting world of Albion, we present five reasons why you should try playing Albion Online!

In Albion Online, you can choose to play various roles! Players can go on an adventure and freely change roles to become a warrior, mage, rogue or even a mix of the three providing endless possibilities!

The fictional world of Albion will take us on an adventure to the vast open world - exploring various environments such as forests, mountains, and oceans that feel like stepping into a brand new and exciting world every time.

Albion Online’s unique economy system is due to players making all the items in-game. You can play as a carpenter, miner, breeder, or blacksmith, and make a fortune selling the goods you created or produced. These conditions lead to a dynamic economic environment that can elicit social interaction between players.

Players are guaranteed endless activities to complete such as exploring the world, fighting mobs, collecting resources, assembling items, and much more. With its unlimited playability, there is no true way of playing Albion Online, it all depends on your play style!

Albion Online features full-loot PvP where players can lose their gear when they die, making for tense, challenging situations that encourage teamwork to protect against rival players. Furthermore, players can form guilds and alliances to claim territories in intense guild-versus-guild fights. A massive group battle? It’s guaranteed to be fun and intense!

Albion Online is free to download and play. Players can join the game, access nearly all contents, and roam freely without cost. Optional Premium features are also available but not required.

Forge your own path in this sandbox MMORPG. Craft, trade, conquer, and leave your mark on the world of Albion. Play now: https://albiononline.com/download!

1. Unlimited Roles to Choose From

2. Unique Economy System

3. Endless Activities to Do

5. Free to Play

4. PvP and Guilds

DEVELOPER PUBLISHER Blizzard Team 3, Blizzard Albany Blizzard Entertainment PLATFORM PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Words by Jose Alvarez

One of the (many) lessons I learned while growing up is that good things come to those who wait. In the gaming world, this is especially true—games are sometimes in development for years and even decades before being released to the world. The very first Blizzard game I played seriously was Diablo II, and after the (relative) disappointment of Diablo III, I had looked forward to the next installment in the franchise. This story takes me back to November 2019, when I laid eyes on Diablo IV for the very first time and played the demo. Since then, I have been waiting for a fun and immersive Diablo game—in this case, it was Diablo IV

After about three and a half years of waiting, Diablo IV was officially released on June 5, 2023. Having played the open betas and getting early access, I played over 100 hours of a possible 168 hours in a week, and then I scaled back as I was waiting for hotfixes to take place. You play as a character called the Wanderer, and your goal is to stop Lilith, who is corrupting the inhabitants of Sanctuary 50 years after Diablo III. The darker tone of Diablo IV is a welcome departure from Diablo III and a return to what I loved about Diablo II when I played it 20 years ago.

Five classes are available at launch: the Barbarian, Sorcerer, Druid, Rogue, and Necromancer. In my first playthrough, I opted to play as a Sorcerer as I was most familiar with spellcasters from previous Diablo installments. Procedurally generated dungeons and a promise of hundreds of hours of gameplay make this game appeal to newcomers and veterans alike. The robust customization of each class caters to one’s playing style—in my case, I like to be a glass cannon and easily wipe enemies out despite being fragile, but others may find mobility and survivability to their liking.

At the beginning of the game, you can choose between difficulty levels scaling all the way up to Torment Mode. First-timers should try playing on Adventurer Mode, while returning players should start on Veteran mode. After reaching level 50, you can choose Nightmare and Torment modes. For the truly bold, you can play Hardcore mode, which means if your character dies, that character is permanently gone forever. With this greater risk comes greater reward, as you can get far more powerful items playing in Hardcore mode. The risk of permanent death also extends to Player vs. Player (PvP) mode, so anyone else playing the game can also put an end to your pursuit of level

Now, to answer the first question: was Diablo IV worth the wait? I would say wholeheartedly that it was. A return to a darker aesthetic was what this franchise needed, and I had a lot of fun playing this game. Exploring Sanctuary and stopping Lilith was definitely an experience that was worth waiting for, and doing the same with powerful friends in tow was a great gaming experience that I’ll remember with fondness.

CRYPTO AND WEB3

CONSENSYS’ GLOBAL SURVEY REVEALS THAT FILIPINOS ARE OPTIMISTIC ABOUT CRYPTOCURRENCY

Leading web3 software technology company, Consensys, has unveiled a first-of-its-kind global opinion survey on web3 and crypto, conducted online by international online research data and analytics technology group, YouGov. The survey polled a representative sample of 15,158 people aged 18-65 between April 26 and May 18, 2023, in 15 countries across Africa, the Americas, Asia (including the Philippines), and Europe.

The results offer captivating and unique insights into the public’s overall understanding and views of the web3 and crypto ecosystem, beyond other surveys which just consider people’s perceptions

around investing in crypto assets. The survey explored topics such as data privacy, the crypto carbon footprint, the recent news cycle, and digital ownership. Results reveal that people worldwide are motivated to build and believe they are making valuable contributions online. This evolution indicates a shift in user behavior toward active participation, empowerment, and broader community ownership, characterized by web3.

Fieldwork was conducted in 15 countries: Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa, South Korea, The Philippines, UK, the US, and Vietnam.

FROM ‘USERS’ TO ‘BUILDERS’ — A PARADIGM SHIFT

The global survey results present a compelling picture characterized by widespread awareness of crypto and a strong desire for ownership, coupled with confidence in a crypto-led future:

• Overwhelming crypto awareness: 92% of participants demonstrated awareness of crypto;

• Net positive beliefs in crypto’s future: When asked about the main concepts associated with crypto, more than onethird of those familiar with the industry expressed beliefs in its potential as the future of money (37%) and the future of digital ownership (31%), surpassing associations with speculation (25%) or scams (26%);

• A desire for more ownership: 50% of respondents believe they add value to the internet, while a notable 67% believe they should own the things that they make on the internet and 70% believe that they should have a share of the profit a company makes from their data. Only 38% of respondents believe they are adequately compensated for the value and creativity they add to the internet;

• Concerns around data privacy: 83% of respondents said that data privacy is important to them, and 79% would like to have more control over their identity on the Internet.

YouGov’s full global report as well as country-level executive summaries are available here.

The results of the survey reveal an increasing mainstream desire for more control over online identity, the data we share, and the more equitable sharing of profits with those who are helping build platforms through their contributions. In this new world, web3 and crypto enable a global peer-to-peer network that empowers individuals. Web3 helps to address these desires by shifting control of identity from third parties to the individual, and establishing new paradigms of value creation and community formation. People engaging with crypto and web3, whether developing software, staking cryptoassets, or creating or purchasing NFTs, are more than a ‘user’ as typically defined, but directly contributing to and helping build their communities and the ecosystem overall.

Consensys sees the empowerment of the builder as fundamental to its purpose, and is focused on supporting people everywhere to see the potential of web3, the role it can play in their lives, and the tools they need to get started. Consensys reveals an evolved brand identity that encourages people to see themselves and the world differently: reframing “builder” to be more inclusive of artists, community creators, collectors—and ultimately, everyone. Further details about Consensys’ brand evolution can be found here.

Joe Lubin, founder and CEO of Consensys, said, “The survey confirms the emergence of a decentralized trust paradigm that empowers users and communities. The era of the builder aligns with the web3 ethos where everyone can contribute. Consensys aims to be a trusted steward for builders and developers, supporting community empowerment and positive global impact.”

WEB3 AND CRYPTO SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS IN THE PHILIPPINES

In the Philippines, the survey shows that Filipinos belong to the highest markets with the most awareness of cryptocurrencies (96%) compared to the global average (92%) and the highest among the markets in the Asia-Pacific region.

• Familiarity with web3 concepts: Despite still limited understanding with the “web3” concept (25%), Filipinos still show quite familiarity with the Metaverse (38%) and NFTs (35%).

• Data privacy: Aligned with global sentiments, most Filipinos value data privacy (77%) and desire more control over their internet/ online identity (84%). However, only 52% trust current internet services.

• Value compensation: Furthermore, following global sentiments, Filipinos share the belief that should have a share of the profit a company makes from their data (69%), but also share that they adequately more compensated for the value and creativity they add to the Internet (53%) compared to the rest of the global markets (38%).

• Barriers to enter the crypto ecosystem: The global and Asian average results show that the perception of volatility (53%) poses a barrier of entry to participate in cryptocurrencies followed by fear of scams (47%); however, the

Philippine results deviates by reflecting that the fear of scams (53%) being the highest barrier of entry to the crypto ecosystem in the country. Other major reasons shared by the Filipinos include market volatility (50%) and “not knowing where to start” (45%).

• Crypto ownership: Almost half of the PH respondents have owned cryptocurrencies at some point and are one of the top markets in Asia showing continued optimism with crypto with 58% expressing the intent to invest in the next 12 months, with 39% indicating a probability and 19% confirming definite plans.

• Reasons for investing in cryptocurrencies: Filipino respondents follow the global trend (57%) of “curiosity in crypto” (65%) as the top reason to invest, and show to be the most curious among its Asian neighbors. Furthermore, the Philippines also view participating in crypto as a way “to build a more inclusive financial ecosystem” (52%).

• Overall, more than half of Filipino respondents believe that Philippine financial banking can be improved, and are among the most optimistic about cryptocurrency considering it as the future of money (47%) compared to the rest of the global markets (37%) as well as in the Asia Pacific region. Furthermore, Filipinos acknowledge it as a potential alternative to the traditional financial system and the future of digital ownership.

With people embracing the power of web3 and crypto to become builders of the new internet every day, everywhere, Consensys is announcing the launch of a global virtual hackathon in order to unite builders across the globe and empower them to build solutions for the future. More information regarding the hackathon is available here.

OUTSMARTING AI

JobStreet by SEEK shares tips on how to stay competitive amidst the rise of artificial intelligence

With the increasing popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) tools that can carry out tasks typically performed by humans, there is growing concern that AI may supplant human intellect and eventually replace employees.

AI is a sub-discipline of computer science that simulates human learning and thinking from experience. It is designed to respond to new inputs and carry out human-like tasks that can provide support to a wide range of

industries. This includes automating repetitive chores, analyzing data, improving decision-making speed and accuracy, enhancing customer service, and more.

While AI is becoming more prevalent in the digital world, JobStreet by SEEK, a leading online job portal under SEEK Asia, believes that candidates can outwit and utilize AI to their advantage.

Here are some ways to withstand the AI challenge:

AI uses principles from statistics, mathematics, computer engineering, and digital logic to generate solutions. Its answers are essentially reliant on being programmed to use a pre-existing collection of data; hence, it cannot provide completely unique ideas. On the other hand, humans have a built-in capacity for innovation; thus, one strategy for outsmarting AI is to stimulate greater levels of creativity.

AI may be used to automate repetitive processes for higher productivity and efficiency, freeing up time for jobs that need human creativity and judgment. Although creativity is a defining characteristic of humans, generating ideas does not come in an instant. Find time to continuously learn, discover and expound perspectives.

IMPROVE SOFT SKILLS AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

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In relation to creativity, another essential factor in the workplace is collaboration. Humans learn not just from information but also through a variety of experiences. No matter how speedy and efficient AI is in executing tasks, it could never replicate human traits such as self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills.

Even with Pragmatic AI, a technology utilized to assist in solving real-world problems, human cognition is still necessary as the AI itself learns from human input. To maximize AI, people may use its readily available data to save time while still using their own judgment. AI’s precise information, combined with human empathy and emotional intelligence, may be used together, as both are necessary to make better decisions.

EMBRACE ADAPTABILITY

Realistically, AI can replace some manual labor, but it can never fully take over jobs that require physical embodiment. Given that continued technological advances may bring unprecedented changes in work settings,

being agile and versatile is a skill that can ensure job security. In addition, AI as software is not capable of having a presence that genuinely connects with people. Establishing a strong relationship with colleagues helps build trust in the workplace and is a quality that differentiates humans from machines.

“The world is constantly changing, and technology is rapidly evolving. We must learn how to adapt and use it to our advantage to help us do our jobs better,” said JobStreet Philippines country manager Philip Gioca.

“Continue upskilling and learning, and most importantly, keep in mind to take care of the things that separates us from machines – our passion, motivation, and determination towards success.”

For more insights and career advice, visit jobstreet.com.ph.

MAPUA MALAYAN COLLEGES CLINCH TWO AWARDS FOR EDUCATIONAL TECH AND INNOVATION

Anthology, a leading provider of education solutions that support the entire learner lifecycle, recently announced the winners of the 2023 Catalyst Awards. The Catalyst Awards recognize and honor innovation and excellence within Anthology’s global community, where millions of educators and learners work every day to push the boundaries of what is possible when leveraging technology. Winners are recognized across 9 categories and are selected by a cross-functional team of Anthology experts who represent the very best in their field.

This year, 40 winners were chosen among 109 nominees from institutions across 21 countries. Honorees will be recognized during Anthology Together, one of the world’s largest EdTech conferences, taking place July 17-20, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Among the recipients of this esteemed recognition, Mapúa Malayan Colleges (MMC) stood out by clinching not just one, but two Catalyst Awards.

The first Catalyst Award bestowed upon MMC Mindanao was in the category of Student Experience. This prestigious accolade acknowledges institutions that effectively leverage

technology to develop groundbreaking educational and administrative innovations, ultimately enhancing the overall learner experience both inside and outside the classroom. By adopting Anthology solutions, MMC has demonstrated its commitment to not only nurturing a conducive learning environment but also streamlining operational efficiency.

The second Catalyst Award secured by MMC, this time for their Laguna campus, recognized their exceptional achievements in the realm of Teaching & Learning. This award specifically acknowledges institutions that have implemented Anthology solutions in innovative ways to advance the process of education. MMC’s pioneering use of Anthology’s tools and resources has revolutionized the learning experience, empowering students and educators alike to embrace new opportunities for growth and development.

“More than ever, institutions are grappling with an evolving higher education landscape with new challenges to overcome,” said Jim Milton, chairman and chief executive officer at Anthology. “This year’s Catalyst Award winners from around the world are developing new and innovative ways to meet those challenges and drive student success.”

Below are the winners, listed by category:

Assessment & Institutional Effectiveness

This award recognizes institutions that have successfully grown in their assessment practices and influenced positive behavioral changes using Anthology solutions.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

This award honors those institutions leveraging technology to foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging practices using Anthology solutions to ensure that their services are fully inclusive and supportive of all learners.

• University of Miami - Division of Continuing and International Education, United States: The Ally Rapid Remediation Team - April Macadangdang, Alexa Rimart, Ron Rodriquez, Cate Dowman, Brianna Basanta, Nick Armas, Maite Saico, and Hanna Fife

• Grupo Ser Educacional S/A, Brazil: Ensino Digital - Jânyo Diniz, Joaldo Diniz, Enzo Moreira, Sérgio Murilo, Emanuela Rufino, and Luís Sena

• NCBI - Working for People with Sight Loss, Ireland: Kyran O’Mahoney, Chief Technology Officer

• Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar: Office of the Provost - Dr. Ala Al-Fuqaha and Mohja Jerbi

• Keiser University - Online Division, United States: The Online Division General Education Team - Sherry Olsen, Marcel Laronde, Neha Prakash, and Daniel DiStacio

Community Engagement

This award recognizes institutions using Anthology solutions to foster a connection between school districts, institutions, educators, students, and families that has improved student achievement and created a supportive learning environment.

• Saudi Electronic University, Saudi Arabia: Vice Presidency of Academic Affairs - Dr. Maha Helal, Abeer Binfarhan, and Sarah Almuhanna

• University of Phoenix, United States: Accessibility, Equity and Inclusion DepartmentRobert Becker and Kelly Hermann

Institutional Advancement

This award recognizes institutions that have made significant changes to enhance the alumni and donor experience using Anthology solutions.

• Eastern Kentucky University, United States: Online BSW Social Work Practicum TeamProfessor Pam Black, Dr. Caroline Reid, and Mary Henson

• American University of Beirut, Lebanon: Office of Advancement - Dr. Imad B. Baalbaki, Lina Jazi, Salma Oueida, Justin Tessier, Claudia Sarrouh, Samar Nassar, and Susanne Lane

• Colorado School of Mines Foundation, United States: MarComm Team - Rachelle Trujillo, Tammy Bartolet, Lynn Clark, Anica Wong, and Eliza Worrick

Leading Change

This award is for institutions that are on the forefront of educational innovation. It recognizes those who have used Anthology solutions to implement transformational initiatives that generate change on campus and in their academic ecosystems.

Student Success

This award recognizes institutions whose innovative use of Anthology solutions has led to increased retention, increased completion, or improved outcomes through the implementation of new academic and administrative resources, data analytics solutions, scalable advising and intervention strategies and student support programs.

• Greenville Technical College, United States: Lee McMinn

• Saudi Electronic University, Saudi Arabia: Vice Presidency of Academic Affairs - Dr. Hazzaa Alshareef and Dr. Maha Helal

• Savannah College of Art and Design, United States: SCAD Educational Technology

• Touro University, United States: Matthew Bonilla, Matthew Connell, Brian Diele, Ada Kurti, Kimberly Bryson, and Hector Martinez

• William Paterson University, United States: Instruction & Research Technology TeamPatrick Ryan, Jaehyun Kim, Housen Maratouk, Ming Jian, and Sena Bulak

Student Experience

• Cruzeiro do Sul Educacional. Brazil: Academic Executive Board and Innovation - Dr. Carlos Fernando, Dr. Marcos Ota, and Dra. Regina Tavares

• Keiser University - Online Division, United States: Sherry Olsen, Marcel Laronde, Online Division Academic Deans, and Online Division Faculty

• University of Florida and University of North Carolina Charlotte, United States: Larisa Olesova and Ayesha Sadaf

• University of Kentucky, United States: Office of Student Organizations and Activities

This award recognizes institutions leveraging technology to develop educational and administrative innovations that positively influence the total learner experience – outside and inside the classroom – and improve operational efficiency.

• King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia: Deanship of e-Learning and Distance Education

• Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (MMCM), Philippines: Dr. Flora Mae Cabacungan-Yparraguirre, Mr. Cesar Glen A. Josio, and Mrs. Gerlyn O. Amores

• Universidad Privada del Norte, Peru: Virtual Education Team - Rodríguez-Campra García, Milagros La Rosa Huamán and Carlos Mendieta Granda

• University of South Carolina, United States: Ambra Hiott, Jamie Ayres, and Megan Colascione

• VIU - Universidad Internacional de Valencia, Spain: Pere Juanes, Lucas Milián, Alba María Bonafont, Paula Corcuera, Carlos Casas, and Alicia Aparisi

Teaching & Learning:

This award recognizes institutions that have used Anthology solutions in innovative ways to advance learning.

Training & Professional Development

• Beacon Red, United Arab Emirates: Knowledge Management Team - Phil Burgess, Sean McGuinness, and Siobhan Connolly

• Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna, Philippines: Dr. Roel C. Rodrigo, Dr. Ramachandra C. Torres, and Mr. Donn Enrique L. Moreno

• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States: School of Professional Studies - John Benker, Allison Daniel, Amber

Palmer, Jon Page, Abigail Pomeroy, Shani Salifu, and Carol Stuckey

• Nipissing University, Canada: The Teaching Hub team - Pat Maher, Sarah Driessens, Heather Carroll, Chris Bird, Rob Boulet, Kyle Charron, Paul Courville, Samantha Fraser, Mark Giddens, Ryan Hehn, Stefan Phillips, and Lorrie Tunney Maxwell

• Sam Houston State University, United States: Peggy C. Holzweiss

• School of Medical and Health Science - Bangor University, United Kingdom: Mrs. Gill Roberts and Mrs. Heather Bloodworth

• University of Phoenix, United States: Competency-Based Education Program TeamDr. Marc Booker, Doris Savron, Justin Hallock, Mary Elizabeth Smith, Nicky Reynolds, LeAnna Montoya, Dan Barker, and Kari Vorderlandwehr

• University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia: Dr. Ali Alshammari and the Deanship of eLearning and Distance Education Team

• University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, India: Team SFL (School For Life) - Gaurav

Misra, Dr. Atri Nautiyal, Mr. Ravindra

Singh Rawat, Dr. Rekha Verma, Ms. Monika

Jugran, Ms. Swati Sharma, and Ms. Debadrita Chakraborty

• Western Kentucky University, United States: Crystal Bohlander, Alicia Pennington, and Catie Weaver.

This award recognizes institutions that display an organization-wide dedication to innovative training and development programs for their educators and staff

• Honoris United Universities, South Africa: Laura Kakon, Asmaa Fenniri, Dr. Ronel Blom, Nadeem Cassim, and Benjamin Lisimachio

• Northumbria University, United Kingdom: The Technology Enhanced Learning TeamDedicated to Christine Bone

• Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University – ITDL, Saudi Arabia: Dr. Abdulaziz Aldaej, Dr. Yousef Alharbi, Dr. Yasser Badr, Mr. Abdullah Alanazi, and Mr. Abdullah Mahdy

• PXL University of Applied Sciences and Arts , Belgium: Center for Digital Learning - Kristiaan Mesens, Wouter Hustinx, and Vincent Vanrusselt

• Savannah College of Art and Design, United States: SCAD Educational Technology

• Western Kentucky University, United States: Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning - Dr. Marko Dumančić, Dr. Micah Logan, Cierra Waller, Hannah Page, Dr. Hannah Digges-Elliott, and Sara Davis, Community of Practice Fellows for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in TeachingFabián Álvarez, Dr. Monica Burke, Dr. Nicholas Fortune, Dr. Kimberly Green, Michelle Jones, and Dr. Gayle Mallinger

For more information on the Catalyst Awards, full list of nominees, and complete category descriptions, please visit www.anthology.com/catalystawards.

Xiaomi officially kicked off the fourth installment of the Xiaomi Master Class Supported by Leica, featuring a series of educational online photography courses taught by Leica Akademie Instructors. This season also marks Xiaomi’s first collaboration with Leica on the Xiaomi Master Class program, bringing Leica’s extensive photography expertise and creative vision to wider audiences. The first offline course of this season was launched on June 17, 2023, led by renowned Filipino photographers Jojo Gloria, Patrick Uy, and Melvin Anore. Additional online courses will follow in the latter half of the year.

In May 2022, Xiaomi officially announced the Strategic Partnership in Imagery Technology with Leica. The partnership’s first co-engineered product, Xiaomi 12S Ultra, was launched in July 2022 and received high praise from users worldwide. The success of this product marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in mobile photography and paved the way for a fruitful collaboration between the two brands.

Xiaomi’s commitment to cultivating creativity and artistic passion is demonstrated in the Xiaomi Master Class series. Led by world-renowned photographers like Matt Stuart, Charlie Clift, Hannah Reyes Morales, Alan Schaller, and others, the series has been designed as an opportunity for participants worldwide to draw inspiration from masters and hone their photography skills.

The first masterclass to kick off the fourth season of Xiaomi Master Class was acclaimed Filipino photographer Jojo Gloria, an independent and Leica-certified photographer, Leica Philippines product specialist, and in-house instructor. He’s known for his work in architecture, product and food, editorial, and events coverage, among many others. He was joined by Patrick Uy, one of the most sought-after wedding photographers in the Philippines, and Melvin Anore, a visual storyteller specializing in street photography and social documentaries. All of them shared insights on their craft and how one can utilize the Xiaomi 13 in their photography efforts.

The Xiaomi Master Class program will also feature other offline seminars, which will be held in select Xiaomi stores, Leica stores, and other locations worldwide, where local Xiaomi Fans can participate in hands-on photography sessions led by renowned photographers.

Through this program, Xiaomi aims to provide an inclusive and interactive platform to allow beginner and experienced photographers alike to explore and demonstrate their creativity through photography.

More information about online and offline Xiaomi Master Classes will be available soon on Xiaomi social media and in Xiaomi Stores. Check out the website.

Xiaomi masters and their pupils. Xiaomi Master Class attendees show their gratitude to photographer speakers (L-R) Melvin Anore, Patrick Uy, and Jojo Gloria.

Greatness in photography. The Xiaomi-Leica partnership provides pro-level photography hardware to the Xiaomi 13. Enthusiasts can also cop camera equipment at the Leica Philippines store in Greenbelt 5.

Learning from the best. Renowned Filipino photographers (L-R) Jojo Gloria, Melvin Anore, and Patrick Uy share valuable insight on capturing moments that matter during the latest edition of Xiaomi Master Class.

FedEx Corp. and Floship, a leading global circular supply chain solutions provider for e-commerce brands, have announced a partnership designed to provide enhanced fulfillment and logistics services to e-tailers worldwide.

Through investment by the FedEx Innovation Lab (FIL), the partnership will create an end-toend digitalized fulfillment and return solution, enhancing operational efficiency through optimal inventory management and best-in-class delivery using FedEx services.

This partnership will give FedEx’s e-commerce customers access to Floship’s global network of warehouses and powerful logistics platform’s capabilities to streamline their

e-commerce fulfillment operations. At the same time, Floship’s customers will be able to leverage FedEx global networks as well as a full range of FedEx extensive transportation options to optimize their operations.

Additionally, FedEx’s and Floship’s cross-border e-commerce customers in Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Europe, and North America will gain access to enhanced fulfillment, last-mile delivery, as well as hassle-free returns.

“Partnerships like this will help us accelerate how we reimagine the future of logistics,” said Salil Chari, FedEx Express senior vice president for marketing and customer experience for Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa (AMEA) region. “E-commerce sales continue to grow worldwide. With the growing shift to online purchasing, consumers are looking for seamless service – from delivery times and easy returns to personalized experiences. At the same time, e-tailers are seeking to improve service levels while optimizing their operations and lowering their cost-to-serve. Collaborating with industry innovators like Floship will help online retailers better compete supported by the FedEx global logistics network.”

Speaking on the partnership, Joshua Tsui, Floship’s CEO shared, “Floship is tremendously thrilled to be working alongside FedEx to redefine the global e-commerce fulfillment landscape. As more consumers around the world embrace e-commerce, businesses must come together to provide customers with innovative solutions that redefine the traditional linear supply chain. By bringing this collaboration to market, our mutual goal is to provide e-commerce brands and retailers with a one-stop, all-inclusive two-way supply chain solution that enables brands to grow at an exponential rate whilst simultaneously delivering a superior customer experience.”

The FedEx Innovation Lab (FIL) makes early-stage investments in rising start-ups primarily in India. These collaborations will bring additional value in terms of capabilities and speed to market to start-up firms through FedEx’s global networks, resources, and customer base. The collaborations will also help expand FedEx advanced digital capabilities globally as it continues to evolve its operations and product offerings to meet the needs of the modern supply chain. This is the second investment by FIL.

MastercardMindanao Digital Partnership

To accelerate digitization in the region, the strategic partnership is the first Philippine region-level collaboration of its kind for Mastercard in Southeast Asia

(L-R) Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro, Assistant Executive Director, Investment Promotions, International Relations, and Public Affairs, MinDA, Kok Kee Lim, Senior Vice President, Government Engagement, Asia Pacific, Mastercard, Secretary Maria Belen Acosta, Chairperson, MinDA, Simon Calasanz, Country Manager, Philippines, Mastercard, Rozano Planta, Director, Government Engagement, Philippines, Mastercard

Mastercard and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the government agency mandated to promote the socioeconomic development of Mindanao, have announced a strategic partnership to empower more Filipinos to participate in the digital economy thereby creating sustainable communities.

The goal is to accelerate digitization in the region and deliver world-class solutions that contribute to the rapid digitization of the region’s citizen services, with a focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and the region’s agriculture and tourism sectors.

Secretary of MinDA Maria Belen Acosta stated that the partnership will help to enhance the region’s economy. “We are excited to collaborate with Mastercard to boost financial inclusion through citizen service digitization, tourism, and cyber resilience programs in the region of Mindanao,” she said.

“The collaboration will help the region bring better citizen experiences across the region’s local governments and attached agencies, improve financial literacy and participation, as well as improve the efficiency of digital payments and disbursements for MSMEs in agriculture and tourism, in the region dubbed as the ‘breadbasket’ of the Philippines.”

As part of this digital partnership, MinDA and Mastercard will collaborate on priority areas including, but not limited to, MSME digitization, sustainable tourism, and cybersecurity augmentation. This will enable growth opportunities in Mindanao where

a quarter of the Philippines’ total population lives.

The Mastercard – Mindanao Digital Partnership will commence with Mindanao first as a “pivot region” that can become a model for national partnerships.

By leveraging data and insights from Mastercard, the MinDA can tap into trends, consumer behaviors, and prospects, as well as formulate and implement tourism-related programs. This is expected to attract more visitors to the region—which saw the arrival of 1.66 million tourists in 2022— and to balance traffic flows during off-peak and high seasons and help drive tourists to visit lesser-known provinces.

“Mastercard is committed to helping build a more inclusive, sustainable digital economy to benefit the wider population. The company has been working with governments around the world to leverage the power of technology to effectively deliver socio-economic development programs benefitting businesses and consumers. Mastercard looks forward to working with the Mindanao Development Authority on initiatives to realize its ambitions on digital citizen services, MSME development, cybersecurity resilience, and broad-based enhancements across agriculture, transit, and tourism,” said Kok Kee Lim, senior vice president, Government Engagement, Asia Pacific, Mastercard.

Mastercard has formed several partnerships and initiatives as part of its commitment to driving financial inclusion. These include assisting small businesses in going

digital by equipping them with tools and resources to accept electronic payments, collaborating with corporations to develop solutions for cyber fraud, and working with governments to improve transit systems and make them more accessible to the public.

The Mastercard – Mindanao Digital Partnership is part of Mastercard’s drive to support the Philippines’ inclusive economic development agenda, including the improvement of relevant disbursement and MSME enablement programs, allowing Mastercard to bring more merchants into the fold by providing solutions that make card acceptance faster and more secure.

The partnership between Mastercard and MinDA will help to expand these programs and reach even more businesses in the region through the digitization of regional services by providing access to capital, market access, business support, and easier access to government services such as licenses and permits — contributing to financial inclusion and supporting economic growth.

Simon Calasanz, country manager, Philippines, Mastercard, said, “This partnership between Mastercard and the Mindanao Development Authority will deliver world-class solutions in areas such as agriculture, cybersecurity, and tourism within the region of Mindanao. The Philippines has long been an important market for Mastercard, and this is why Mastercard remains committed to supporting the government’s goal of driving financial and digital inclusion and improving the delivery of public services through innovative payment technologies.”

MYCYCLINGCLUB MATE & MYMOTOCLUB MATE

FPG Insurance Launches New Insurance Products for Bikers and Cyclists

FPG Insurance is rolling out two new group insurance plans that provide coverage to users of bicycles and motorcycles.

The plans, named MyCyclingClub Mate for cyclists and MyMotoClub Mate for bikers, were designed primarily to promote road safety awareness. As insurance instruments, both plans cover accidental death, permanent disability, medical reimbursement, and third-party liability, among other benefits, after an accident when using a motorcycle or bicycle.

Sensible Innovation

FPG’s new insurance plans are a timely response to the surge in the popularity of cycling and biking since the pandemic began, with more people now turning to these modes of conveyance as an alternative way to move faster from point A to point B for work, for business, for adventure and solo sojourns.

Unfortunately, the rising number of bicycles and motorcycles on the road comes with higher risks of accidents. Statistically, as they grew in number so did a notable increase in road crashes involving them.

The resurgence of bicycles during the pandemic has been seen in places once dominated by private cars and public transportation. As proof, 2.1 million bikes were imported into the Philippines in 2020, up 112% from 2019.

During the same period, the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS) reported that the number of bicycles involved in road accidents doubled from 2018 and 2019 to 2020.

As for motorcycle and scooters, available data showed the Philippines posted the fastest growth at 32.3

percent to 867,453 units in 2021 from 655,440 units the previous year. According to the MMARAS report, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) recorded a total of 26,768 motorcycles involved in road accidents in 2021 which was an increase of 1,560 from the previous year.

Safe Travels

MyCyclingClub Mate is a Group Personal Accident Insurance specifically designed for cyclists while MyMotoClub Mate is the counterpart Group Personal Accident Insurance for motorcycle riders.

Each of these programs covers bodily injuries caused by an accident 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, anywhere in the world, whether you’re at home, traveling by land or sea, or riding as a passenger on commercial flights. It even provides for a victim of dog bites, snake bites, drowning, and natural calamities.

Common provisions of the plans include:

• Accidental Death - Pays up to the Sum insured in the event of death due to accident.

• Disablement/Dismemberment - When injury does not result in loss of life of the Insured after the accident but results to losses of limbs, sight, ears, etc.

• Unprovoked Murder and Assault Endorsement - Pays for death or permanent disablement sustained as a direct result of the insured being a victim of Unprovoked Murder or Assault

• Accidental Medical ReimbursementPays for medical expenses incurred due to accidental bodily injury.

• Daily Hospital Income Benefit (Due To Accident) - Pays for the daily allowance to the insured as a result of accident hospital confinement up to a maximum of 7 days

• Fire Assistance Benefit - Pays for the loss and damages incurred to the Insured’s declared house residence or contents due to fire and lightning.

• Personal liability plan - Pays for the insured for costs and expenses, which

the insured may be obligated to pay for the damage to a property belonging to a third party because of negligence.

For an annual premium of PHP200, policyholders will get up to PHP100,000, to cover the cost of the insured’s accidental death.

The target market is Bikers and Cyclist Associations with at least 20 members aged between 18-65 years old. The insured must declare their permanent residence address upon issuance.

FPG Insurance’s chief underwriting officer Sharon Navarro said, “At FPG Insurance, we are committed to providing innovative insurance solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers. Our MyCyclingClub Mate and MyMotoClub Mate aim to promote road safety for cyclists and bikers who ride in groups as our latest plans offer comprehensive coverage that gives them peace of mind while they’re on the road.”

WINDFREE AIR CONDITIONERS

Finding the ideal air conditioner that matches your needs and preferences may be a challenging endeavor given the wide range of options available on the market. From customized design and specs to the latest technology and innovative features, air conditioners have come a long way and have vastly improved our daily lives. These days, you can control or even schedule smart air conditioners from your phone, or even leave it up to AI to work its magic in optimizing your room’s perfect temperature.

Samsung offers the best air conditioner choices for every style and requirement in one spot with their 2023 WindFree Lineup. The designs are sleek and modern yet still have all the features you want and need in an air conditioner.

Here are the highlights of each WindFree air conditioner to help you choose the best:

WindFree Inverter

This model features everything you need in an aircon, at a great deal! The WindFree Inverter provides the basics and are fully equipped with innovative features. This machine cools the room without direct air with WindFree Technology. Plus, it delivers powerful cooling without emptying the bank with its WindFree Cooling, saving up to 77% in energy!

WindFree SmartThings

A brand new offering from Samsung, this smart aircon is truly designed for your convenience. WindFree

WindFree Bespoke

If you’re looking to minimize the look of the appliances in your room, the WindFree Bespoke is your best bet because it blends in with modern and minimal interiors in a brand new stylish colors, Midnight Black, Morning Blue, and Metallic Silver, keeping your room stylish without compromising the features that you need. It features everything that you would look for— Windfree Technology, Digital Inverter, SmartThings, AI Auto Cooling—with a Bespoke aesthetic that will undoubtedly be a sleek addition to your home.

WindFree ActivClean

WindFree Cassette

Looking for an industrial or commercial AC for your space? Samsung also offers options for you under their WindFree lineup. First, the 4-Way Cassette provides fast cooling in wide areas with its large louver blades. With WindFree mode enabled, it effortlessly maintains the set and optimized temperature of the room, and with Motion Detect Sensors, it makes for energy efficient operation and customized air flow. On the other hand, the 1-Way Cassette lets you stay cool and comfortable without direct wind, with cool air gently dispersing through micro holes. It also features a large louver blade, designed to maximize coverage and cool the room quickly.

SmartThings

Inverter allows you to control your AC and monitor energy saving using your smartphone, accessing cooling comfort with your fingertips. Continuously adjusting the settings will not be a hassle with its AI Auto Cooling Technology that analyzes usage patterns and room conditions for best result.

Looking to streamline your appliances? The WindFree ActivClean is an aircon and purifier in one, cleaning in two ways, keeping both your aircon and the air clean through AI Auto Clean and Air Purifier PM 1.0 Filter. This model allows you to cool more and sleep more comfortably while keeping the air 99% clean and safe.

It’s never been easier to choose which air conditioner best fits your own style and needs. Cool, quiet, efficient—find the perfect AC for you from Samsung’s 2023 WindFree lineup.

HOME ENTERTAINMENT AND SMART

DOMESTIC TECH DEVICES

TCL, the leading consumer electronics brand and the world’s top two TV brand, recently held a Grand Summit to introduce their newest range of home entertainment products and smart domestic tech appliances. The event also included informative sessions spearheaded by TCL top key officials providing the latest updates and innovations about TCL products.

New Realms of Entertainment with TCL C Series TVs and Latest Soundbars

A pioneer of display technology and setting the industry benchmark when it comes to Mini LED, TCL launched the New TCL C845 Mini LED TV, a superior entertainment hub built with the latest generation of TCL Mini LED technology offering an even better visual experience thanks to high and precise contrast, less blooming, peak brightness, and better uniformity.

TCL C845 sets the bar for outstanding audio-visual quality and software function, ensuring excellent performance across any given user scenario. Based on TCL Mini LED technology, and backed by AiPQ Processor 3.0 picture quality algorithms, this model delivers

outstanding visuals. A peak brightness of 2000nits and superior contrast make it TCL’s all-round TV. With Game Master 2.0, HDMI 2.1, ALLM, 144Hz VRR, FreeSync Premium Pro, TCL Game bar, 240Hz Game Accelerator, and the latest HDR formats supported (including HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision, Dolby Vision IQ), this new TCL Mini LED TV is the best companion to enjoy HDR movies, sports, and games. The TCL C845 is available in 65” and 75’’sizes.

TCL also added two updates to its QLED range. The TCL QLED 4K TV C745 combines QLED together with Full Array Local Dimming technology, and 144Hz VRR for smooth, sharp, and colorful HDR picture quality. The TCL

C745 also comes with Game Master 2.0, a collection of TCL software functions tailored to optimize your gaming experience, making it the best gaming TV proposition in its field. The TCL C745 is available in 55” and 65’’sizes.

Finally, TCL’s best-in-class QLED TV, the TCL 4K TV C645 combines QLED technology, delivering genuine cinematic color. With Game Master, FreeSync, and latest HDR formats supported (including HDR10+, Dolby Vision), this TV is excellent value for those who want high-quality, interactive home entertainment. It comes in in 43’’, 50’’, 55’’, 65’’, 75’’, 85” screen sizes.

TCL Philippines and TCL Global Executives with TCL Philippines Brand Partner, Nico Bolzico, and Brand Endorser, Kathryn Bernardo

The TCL Breath+ Series is an upgraded version of the Fresh+ line and will soob be available in the Philippines. With this latest upgrade, the Breath+ will feature a “breathing functionality” which not only allows the AC to inhale fresh air but also exhale used air, ensuring the room atmosphere is kept fresh and comfortable. It will also be more intuitive and intelligent with a built-in sensor that detects TVOC in the air which initiates the breathing mode. Results are displayed in real-time on the dashboard, on top of the already powerful fresh air functionalities.

Enjoy a Healthier and More Comfortable Life with TCL Breath+ Series Air Conditioners Free

The Free Build-In refrigerator can perfectly fit into your kitchen, with only 0.4-centimeters required on both sides. On the other hand, the TCL Intelligent Fresh Series refrigerators are equipped with smart functions to keep your food chilled at the right temperature and ensure these stay fresher for longer, with the innovative Multi Airflow system, twin eco-inverters, AI radar, and the Automatic Anionreleasing Technology (AAT).

Double-A Class Washing Machines Make Doing Laundry Greener, Healthier, and More Convenient

The new TCL front-load C20 WashPro makes washing clothes such a breeze with its 10.5kg capacity and a drying capacity of 7kg. Other notable features include the Honeycomb Crystal Drum, Air Wash, Steam Wash, Fast Washing, Drying Low Temperature, Softly Drying, and Safety Lock. The TCL Wash Pro C20 also has a DD inverter motor for energy and better washing efficiency.

Meanwhile, the TCL P70 Direct Drive Top Loading Washer is equipped with a DD inverter attached directly to the drum, making it more stable, reducing energy and water consumption, and noise. The Honeycomb Drum technology provides less friction on the clothes to give more care to your fabrics.

Discover TCL’s full extensive range of innovative consumer electronics, rolling out to markets in Asia-Pacific in the coming months.

The 2023 National Food Fair, bannering its theme of “Go Discover, Taste, Enjoy!” opened on Wednesday, July 12, in simple ceremonies headlined by Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual as the keynote speaker and attended by House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

Organized by the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) in coordination with the DTI Regional Operations Group, the 2023 National Food Fair ran from July 12 to 16, at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Over 250 MSMEs from the country’s 17 regions exhibited their products onsite at the event venue. Simultaneously, an online national food fair on the Lazada e-commerce platform also offered the products of participating MSMEs, for a wider market reach nationwide.

The 2023 National Food Fair Opening Festivities held last July 12 were led by (L-R): The Speaker of the House of Representatives Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, DTI-Regional Operations Group Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, When in Manila chief operating officer Sky Gavin, DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion Director Marievic Bonoan, food entrepreneur and content creator Nina Bacani, and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual.

Showcasing the fusion of tradition and innovation, special settings, pavilions, and MSME clusters drew attention to developments that elevate traditional Filipino products to meet stringent food industry standards and be competitive in the global market.

These are:

• Philippine Coconut Industry Pavilion and Coconut-Based MSME Cluster

• Philippine Food Industry Innovations Lounge

• Philippine Fruits and Nuts Pavilion

• Innovative and Biotech Products Cluster

• Rural Agro-Industrial Partnership for Inclusive Development and Growth (RAPID Growth) Project Pavilion

• Farm Fresh Produce Pavilion

• KAPEtirya or Philippine Coffee Pavilion

• Philippine Island Wine, Beer, and Juice Bar

For culinary enthusiasts, renowned Filipino chefs were part of the daily program of activities, with live cooking and food preparation demonstrations, among others. The lineup includes:

• The Ultimate Filipino Adobo: Stories Through the Ages book launching and cooking demonstrations (Chef Claude Tayag)

• Isang Dekada ng Guevarra’s: An Inspiring Story (Chef Laudico Guevarra)

• Fiesta Recipes (Chef Boy Logro)

• Halal Recipes and lavish feast during social occasions (Chef Yed Dimaporo & Mustapha Ala, Jr.)

• SIMPOL Recipes Using Coconut (Chef Tatung Sarthou)

• Culinary Kurobuta Masterpieces (Chef Donatello Montrone)

• Changing the Food Mindset: Slow Food (Chef Jam Melchor)

• Plant-based Desserts (Chef Aileen of Studio Plantmaed)

• Benefits of a Plant-based Diet (Chef Mylene Dolonius of Studio Plantmaed)

• Healthy Daily Recipes (Chef YLYT Frixiah Manaig)

• Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (Chef Eric Gruba)

• The Farm at San Benito (Rose Pagcaliwagan)

• Philippine Wine Mixology (Bartender Nino Cruz)

The culminating highlight of this celebration of the diversity and rich heritage of Filipino food was an interactive cultural presentation of the BARMM Pagana Maguindanao, led by Mustafa Ala and Chef Yed Dimaporo.

Pagana is a traditional Maguindanaon celebration that holds great cultural significance in the Maguindanao province of the Philippines. It is a festive event that brings the community together to honor and celebrate important occasions such as weddings, religious holidays, or community milestones. The Pagana celebration is characterized by lively music, colorful costumes, and traditional dances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Maguindanaon people. The rhythmic beats of the kulintang ensemble, a musical ensemble composed of gongs, set the tone for the festivities, while traditional dances like the Singkil and Pangalay mesmerize the audience with their graceful movements. The event also offers a feast of traditional Maguindanaon cuisine, featuring flavorful dishes like LININGGIL A MANOK (chicken cooked in turmeric and coconut milk) and palapa (a spicy condiment made from chili and scallions). Pagana is not only a time of celebration but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds, pass down cultural traditions to younger generations, and showcase the rich artistic talents of the Maguindanaon people.

Also part of the daily program were entrepreneurship talks and learning sessions that provided food entrepreneurs with resources and ideas about how to strengthen and position their businesses for continued growth. The topics covered by various government agencies and partner-institutions participating in the daily program were:

• Coconut-based Coffee and/or Cacao Enterprise Development Project (Department of Agriculture)

• Geographical Indications and the Benefits of Registering One’s Trademark or Brand in IPOPHIL (Intellectual Property Office)

• Sustainable Planting and Replanting of Local Cultivars; Natural and Healthy Coconut Vinegar; Health Benefits of Coconut (Philippine Coconut Authority)

• Halal Culinary Tourism (Department of Tourism)

• Bioplastic Derived from Pineapple Waste Packaging Technology; Coco-Based Food Technologies (Department of Science and Technology)

• Kitchen Lab and Food Connect Plus (Philippine Trade Training Center)

• Dairy and Coconut Farming, A Viable Integrated Farming Enterprise (National Dairy Authority)

• Boosting Nutrition to Different MSMEs as Suppliers of Healthy Food Products (National Nutrition Council)

• Healthy Food Consumption Trends and Research on Health Benefits of Philippine Herbs (Department of Health)

• Franchising – A Way to Make Every Filipino Taste Your Lola’s Recipe (Philippine Franchising Association)

• Accelerating Growth Through One Research and Extension in Action (UP Los Baños-Agora)

• How MSMEs Can Thrive Online (Lazada)

• Unilever’s Healthy and Sustainable Food Program (Unilever Philippines)

• Maximizing Your Digital Marketing Potential with Analytics and Business Intelligence (Pamela Padilla)

The daily program of activities was open to the public and free of charge. For the benefit of remote viewers, these were also livestreamed and remain accessible on BDTP social media channels.

To stay updated about programs of the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion, please follow their social media accounts on Facebook (DTI.BDTP), Instagram (dti.bdtp), and Twitter (@DTI_BDTP). You may also email BDTP Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bdtp@dti. gov.ph.

GLOBE TAKES LEAD WITH 1ST VONR DEPLOYMENT IN PH

Globe has become the Philippines’ first telco to successfully deploy Voice over New Radio (VoNR), marking a significant step forward in voice communication technologies. This landmark achievement was showcased at the recent INNOVANIA-themed Technology and Innovations Day held at The Globe Tower recently.

The event, spearheaded by the company’s Network Strategy and Service Planning team under the Network Technical Group, offered an engaging platform for Globe experts and vendor partners. Together, they unveiled a dynamic array of cuttingedge technologies and trailblazing innovations that hold the promise of driving significant benefits for both the company and its customers. VoNR was one of the emerging solutions presented and showcased live at the event.

The breakthrough VoNR call was a collaboration between Globe’s dedicated technical experts, solutions

architect, and trusted technology partner HPE Singapore using their 5G in a Box solution. It was initiated using a VoNR-capable mobile device also provided by HPE.

VoNR is a pioneering voice solution built over a 5G standalone network that promises enhanced voice quality, rapid call setup, and seamless handovers. It elevates the standard of voice communication, providing crystal-clear audio with minimal distortion, optimized bandwidth usage, and seamless simultaneous voice and data transmission.

VoNR’s capabilities derive from its lower latency, which results in shorter call setup times and quicker call connections, enabling more concurrent voice calls within a given network.

“Globe’s successful deployment of VoNR technology is a testament to our commitment to innovation and to providing our customers with the best telecom experience possible,” said

He added: “VoNR is not just about improved voice quality and faster connections— it’s about the future of integrated communication. By harnessing the power of 5G, we’re opening up a world of possibilities for both our enterprise and individual customers and redefining what’s possible with voice services.”

As 5G networks continue to expand globally, VoNR integration ensures that voice services keep pace with the latest network capabilities. It paves the way for significant new business opportunities, potentially creating a host of services that cater to evolving customer needs.

Globe’s successful VoNR deployment is only the beginning. The company is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and continuing to revolutionize communications in the Philippines.

Gerhard Tan, director and head of technology strategy and innovation at Globe.

MPTC PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIP GRANTS TO COLLEGE STUDENTS

Some 70 students are expected to benefit from the scholarship program of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) this year as it recently signed a memorandum of agreement with 14 universities from all over the country.

Aimed at providing educational assistance to students from low-income households. MPTC, the leading mobility infrastructure and solutions provider in the Philippines, kicked off its scholarship program for the academic year 2023-2024 together with its subsidiaries— NLEX Corporation, MPT South, and Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway Corporation.

Launched in 2012, the MPTC scholarship program provides full tuition, monthly allowance, and financial assistance for internship, board review, and examination. In addition, job opportunities in the MPTC group upon graduation are offered to the scholars.

“We solidify our commitment to innovation and excellence by empowering students to pursue their careers and pave their way to success. We believe our nation’s youth will uphold our company’s values in their lives as students and as future professionals,” said MPTC chief human resources officer Lea Wong. Through the participation of its three subsidiaries, the MPTC opens more opportunities for deserving students from low-income households to pursue their careers in the fields of Accounting, Engineering, and Education without any financial hindrance.

NLEX Corporation president Luigi L. Bautista said, “The scholarship program signifies MPTC’s strong desire for public service and firm commitment to nation-building,

specifically one that will provide unparalleled opportunities for outstanding students whose personal circumstances might otherwise deny them the chance to study and pursue their dreams.”

He added that the program is designed to foster the value of malasakit or caring for others, a value that “our company has always been passionate about as we have this innate sense of responsibility to serve others and contribute to the greater good.”

For his part, MPTSouth president Raul L. Ignacio said, “We hope that this MPTC scholarship, together with the very able guidance of our partner colleges and universities, enable the deserving students to reach their full potential and help create with them the future that they want. Develop the students into competent professionals. And as important, inspire them to pay forward and give back to the community to be able to create a cycle of gratitude between scholars and education.”

In 2012, the primary aim of the program was to increase the number of engineering practitioners that will assist in addressing the infrastructure requirements of the country. It was also limited to only three universities in Metro Manila, Pampanga, and Bulacan.

Starting academic year 2023-2024, the program has been expanded to cater to more deserving students and increase the number of partner schools not just in Luzon, but in Visayas and Mindanao as well. These schools include the University of the Philippines–Diliman, Far Eastern University, Miriam College, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Bulacan State University, Don Honorio Ventura State University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines–Parañaque, Technological University of the Philippines–Cavite, Cavite State University System, Emilio Aguinaldo College–Cavite, Lyceum of the Philippines University–Cavite, Southern Philippines Institute of Science and Technology, Cordova Public College, and Mindanao State University.

SMART AND DARK LEAGUE STUDIOS JOIN FORCES TO FURTHER GROW ESPORTS IN THE PHILIPPINES

PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with Esports event management and production team Dark League Studios (DLS) to further advance Esports and empower aspiring gamers from the grassroots to level up to the pro leagues and become national athletes.

Smart and DLS will also work together to bring more exciting and immersive gaming experiences through the Smart GIGA Arena, the country’s first allin-one Esports platform that offers tournament experience to amateur players of popular games including Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Call of Duty Mobile, Player’s Unknown Battleground, and League of Legends Wild Rift.

The partnership will allow Smart to further grow GIGA Arena in terms of the number of tournaments, onboarding of game developers, and provide consumer-centric activities within the platform.

Since its launch in 2022, Smart GIGA Arena has hosted over 2 million users in nearly 1,000 tournaments, offering more than PHP 4.2 million in prizes.

Through this partnership, Smart and DLS have also committed to working closely and collaborating with the Philippine Esports Organization (PeSo) to adopt industry best practices and maintain the highest standards of integrity.

Both Smart and DLS are gearing up to engage more Filipino gamers with new tournaments and enhanced features on the GIGA Arena platform.

Bringing the best gaming experience to Filipinos

“Our partnership with DLS is in line with our commitment to provide the best gaming experience to Filipinos. We at Smart have always believed in the ability of Filipinos to dominate sports of all kinds – including Esports. Through our collaboration with DLS, we hope to empower more aspiring Esports athletes to level up their gameplay and compete in a much bigger arena,” said Al S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications president and CEO.

“We share Smart’s vision for Philippine Esports, and we are excited to leverage our expertise and experience in engaging the gaming community and inspiring Filipino gamers to fulfill their dream,” said Alfrancis Chua, cofounder & chief marketing officer of Dark League Studios.

“We are glad to see the support of Smart to elevate the industry and align our initiatives in favor of the sport. This will help generate more opportunities for aspiring Filipino gamers to showcase and develop their skills as they aspire to become the next

generation of Team SIBOL athletes,” said Marlon Marcelo, executive director of Philippine Esports Organization.

The Philippines’ fastest and best mobile network

Smart empowers Filipino gamers with the Philippines’ fastest and best mobile network, as recognized by Ookla, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence.

Smart is first and only Philippine mobile operator to win Ookla’s Best Mobile Network award in Q1-Q2 2022 and Q3-Q4 2022. To get this rare and prestigious recognition, Smart won both the Fastest Mobile Network and Best Mobile Coverage awards within the same reporting periods.

As of end-March 2023, Smart’s 3G, 4G/ LTE and 5G network covers 97 percent of the country’s population.

To learn more about Smart’s Esports programs and efforts and services, follow its official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, or visit its official website at smart.com.ph.

(L-R) Bobby Y. Rosales, Co-founder and Chairman of Dark League Studios; Al S. Panlilio, PLDT and Smart President and CEO; and Alfrancis P.. Chua, Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Dark League Studios.

MPT SOUTH REVITALIZES ENVIROSAFE TOUR

Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), revives this year’s “Envirosafe Tour” for stakeholders, showcasing its commitment to environmental safety and promoting sustainable tourism. In partnership with Acienda Designer Outlet and Henry’s Cameras, the toll road company embarked on an exclusive tour, accompanying media partners to explore both the current operational and the soon-to-open section of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX)the Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange or Subsection 4.

During the visit, MPT South showcased its dedication to innovation and green technology by highlighting energy-efficient equipment along CALAX. The operational sections of CALAX feature toll plazas equipped with solar panels, generating power for their own operations. LED fixtures are installed in both lighting and roadway systems, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability measures throughout the company.

MPT South is committed to carbon offsetting initiatives, actively involved in planting trees and creating biodiverse areas along CALAX. These initiatives have a two-fold purpose: offsetting the company’s emissions and mitigating the emissions produced by customer vehicles. During the tour, the toll road company showcased various

locations along the expressway that have been transformed into green spaces.

Guests also had the opportunity to visit the construction site of Subsection 4, which is currently at 80% completion. Once operational, this section will provide a crucial connection to the Aguinaldo Highway, the busiest highway in Cavite. This development will greatly enhance travel convenience to Silang town and Tagaytay, making it easier for tourists to reach ‘Instagramready’ destinations in the province.

Through the Envirosafe Tour, MPT South supports local businesses situated in its host communities by sourcing sustainable items from them and offering them as tokens to the tour guests. For this leg, the toll road company highlighted delicacies from the Municipal Economic and Investment Promotions Office (MEIPO) of Silang produced by the Municipality’s MSMEs, including Crispy Mushroom Chips, Kapeng Bigas and Plant-based fries. Additionally, handcrafted handbags made from recycled tarpaulins by the Imus City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) were also showcased.

“MPT South recognizes the importance of balancing progress with responsible practices, and we remain committed to implementing initiatives that prioritize sustainability, environmental

stewardship, and community wellbeing. Through this program, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the regions we serve, ensuring a better future for all,” said Mr. Raul L. Ignacio, president and general manager of MPT South”.

In 2021, MPT South announced its plan to convert CALAX as a ‘Green Highway’ as part of MPTC’s commitment to decarbonizing the transport sector in the Philippines. This transformative initiative aligns with Metro Pacific Investments Corporation’s (MPIC) broader sustainability efforts, which are in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By upgrading industries and infrastructures to ensure their sustainability (SDG 9) and embracing innovative approaches to building assets while prioritizing climate action (SDG 13), MPTC is actively contributing to the global agenda for a more sustainable and greener future.

MPTC is the biggest toll road developer and operator in the country. Aside from CALAX, MPTC also holds concession rights for ManilaCavite Expressway (CAVITEX), its C5 Link Segment, the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), the NLEX Connector Road, and the CebuCordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in Cebu.

GCASH PARTNERS WITH ALIPAY+ FOR USE IN EUROPE

GCash users can now opt for a hasslefree, cashless payment method on their next Euro trip as the Philippines’ leading mobile wallet is now accepted in Europe’s top travel destinations, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy.

This cross-border payment service is part of the e-wallet’s strengthened collaboration and partnership with Alipay+ to offer a seamless and secure payment experience, as well as realtime foreign exchange (forex) with no service fee, allowing customers to have a hassle-free and rewarding travel experience abroad.

Among the key merchants and stores that can accept GCash via Alipay+ are Harrods, Liberty London, and Harvey Nichols in the UK; Printemps in France; Müller and dm-drogerie markt in Germany; as well as itTaxi, and IVS Group, the leader in the vending machines market, in Italy.

“In line with our fervent commitment to make our customers’ everyday lives better and more convenient, we want to make sure that they can maximize their GCash account not only locally but wherever they are across the world. We look forward to expanding to other markets abroad soon and to partner with even more merchants in 2023,” GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon said.

When paying for your purchases at these destinations, be sure to look for the Alipay+ logo at the checkout. Open your GCash app and select the QR or PayQR button at the bottom of the screen. Scan the merchant’s QR code, or tap “Pay Abroad with Alipay+” to have the merchant scan your generated QR. Then check the amount, and click Pay to see the receipt.

So no need to bring cash or exchange currency for shopping abroad. Just choose the GCash Scan-to-Pay option for your purchases for a smooth and seamless travel experience – all in just a few taps on your phone via the GCash app! For more information, visit https:// help.gcash.com/ and click the “How to Pay QR Internationally” topic.

GCash is continuously expanding its international payment touchpoints

in partnership with Alipay+. Aside from the European destinations, the Philippine e-wallet can be used to pay in select merchants across Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Qatar.

It’s also making its services available to more Filipinos worldwide as the GCash app can now be used with international numbers in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Italy, and Australia.

IQOR APPOINTS CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER

iQor has announced the promotion and appointment of Fleurette Navarro as Chief People Officer (CPO), a newly created global position that focuses on guiding best practices for the company’s global human resource and recruitment functions. This appointment showcases the company’s people-centric approach and commitment to empowering women in key leadership positions, cementing iQor’s status as one of the Great Places to Work in the Philippines, and as a company that champions gender equality in the ASEAN region.

As Chief People Officer, Navarro will focus on talent acquisition and retention, employee development, cultivating positive workplace culture, and the strategic globalization of HR programs. Navarro’s appointment is a testament to iQor’s continued investment in global human resource leadership to meet increased demands and expansion into new territories.

Moreover, Navarro’s appointment as CPO cements the company’s thrust to uphold global standards of having men and women represented more equally in key leadership positions, which is in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals of gender equality and empowerment. iQor believes in fostering an inclusive culture that unlocks innovation and drives meaningful change to benefit employees, stakeholders, and the industry as a whole. At iQor, women comprise 58% of the workforce and 29% of the executive leadership team. In the past 15 months alone, iQor has attained 52% diversity in leadership hires and promotions. iQor is committed to providing equal

opportunities for career growth and development that value the quality of one’s work and pave the way for a more equitable future.

With 23 years in the BPO industry, Navarro brings extensive experience and a nuanced perspective to her role as a woman in a leadership position. Navarro has served as head of operations for global companies such as HSBC, CapitalOne, and Tata Consultancy. “I have developed a deep understanding of the BPO

industry through roles in operations, account management, training, quality assurance, and human resources for the past two decades,” she shared.

Navarro’s aim in this newly created position will be to unify iQor’s global human resources, recruiting, compensation, and benefits under her direction and leadership to ensure a consistent, people-centered and integrated experience. “I am excited to begin this new part of my journey with iQor,” said Navarro. “I will continue to advance our talent acquisition, employee development, and workplace culture through a strategic lens to ensure iQor remains a great place to work.”

Navarro has consistently advanced iQor’s human resources initiatives throughout her six-year tenure. She has also managed a highperforming human resources and global recruiting team, where she has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and the ability to empower those around her. Navarro also played an instrumental role in helping iQor work through the pandemic by building relationships with the government and putting actions in place to safeguard employees and the business.

As a member of the executive team, Navarro will report directly to iQor President and CEO Gary Praznik. “Flo has been a passionate advocate for all iQorians and has exemplified our shared belief that our strength lies in our diversity and the unique contributions of each team member. I am confident that under her leadership, our human resources and recruiting team will continue to thrive and create valuable employee experiences that make people smile,” said Praznik.

Fleurette Navarro Chief People Officer (CPO)

ARPANET

Since the dawn of the commercial Internet, people have made references to the Internet as a “series of tubes” or claimed that former United States Vice President Al Gore invented the Internet (he did play a key role in expanding Internet access, but didn’t actually invent it). Where was the Internet invented? When was it invented? While many people can claim that they helped develop the Internet into what it is today, the initial idea for the Internet started with the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) under the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) at the United States Department of Defense.

While Tim Berners-Lee is often cited as the father of the Internet, as he invented the World Wide Web in 1989, the initial idea of a network of computers came from J.C.R. “Lick” Licklider. Licklider’s

resume was extremely well-suited to the development of ARPANET. He triple majored in physics, mathematics, and psychology in 1937 at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Licklider joined ARPA in 1962 after a career in academia at prestigious universities such as Harvard and MIT. At ARPA, Licklider was named head of the Information Processing Techniques Office (IPTO).

However, it was Bob Taylor who initiated the ARPANET project in 1966. He incorporated many of Licklider’s ideas such as resource sharing between remote computers. In a public-private parntership with Bolt Beranek & Newman, a research and development company (today known as Raytheon), alongside concepts and designs for packet switching, and mathematical methods developed by Leonard Kleinrock at UCLA, ARPANET was officially born in

1969. This led to the development of one of the major components of the Internet, the Network Control Protocol (NCP), as well as Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), which is the backbone of Internet connections today.

By 1971, ARPANET was online. In a historical context, this was also at the height of the Cold War, which meant that the United States and the West had an advantage over the Soviet Union and the Eastern Bloc. Stephen J. Lukasik, who was the director of DARPA from 1970 to 1975, said about ARPANET, “The goal was to exploit new computer technologies to meet the needs of military command and control against nuclear threats, achieve survivable control of US nuclear forces, and improve military tactical and management decision making.”

One of the key features of ARPANET was distributed computation and re-

Words by Jose Alvarez

computation of routing tables, which allowed the network to operate in case of interruptions, a significant feat at a time where computers still took up entire rooms.

The first four hosts of ARPANET were UCLA, Stanford, UC Santa Barbara, and the University of Utah. By 1970, it reached the East Coast when the network went operational in Cambridge, Massachusetts. By June 1970, there were nine Interface Message Processors (IMPs), and 18 by 1971, when both universities and government facilities were connected to ARPANET. This number continued to grow in the 1970s, reaching 213 IMPs by 1981, with new hosts being added every 20 days on average. These circuits had connectivity capabilities of up to 230.4 kbit/s, although this was never reached due to cost and technical limitations.

In 1975, ARPANET was passed to the Defense Communications Agency, which also made encryption devices to support classified data and traffic. While TCP/IP was present in ARPANET, it wasn’t made the standard for military computer networking until 1980, and it became the standard for ARPANET on January 1, 1983, which was known as “Flag Day” in the computing world. By 1984, ARPANET was split into civilian and military networks, with MILNET becoming the standard for unclassified Defense Department communications, and ARPANET for civilian purposes such as research, although both were set up in a way that allowed them to operate independently in case of an emergency.

While the history and specifics of ARPANET are vast, it was essentially the basis for the commercial Internet as we know it today. By 1985, ARPANET

was scheduled to be decommissioned as universities and other government agencies started using the National Science Foundation Network (NSFNET). ARPANET became formally decommissioned on February 28, 1990. But this decommissioning didn’t spell the end of ARPANET—in fact, this only meant that work on the World Wide Web had just begun.

Then-Senator Al Gore authored the High Performance Computing and Communication Act of 1991, or “The Gore Bill” which led to rumors that Al Gore invented the Internet that persist to this very day. The bill passed in December 1991, and Gore referred to it as the “information superhighway.” Next time you connect to any Internet network, remember ARPANET—it’s the very reason why anything online can be done today.