Mapúa University Inks Historic MOU With CAPCOM Singapore And Prime Manpower To Advance Gaming, Intellectual Property, And Digital Talent Development

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LIFESTYLE, GAMING | February 3, 2026

L-R: CAPCOM Singapore Pte. Ltd. Managing Director Ricky Bian Li, Mapúa University President and CEO Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo, Prime Manpower Resources Development (Philippines) Inc. President and CEO Rommel Roque (Image Source: MegaBites/Mapúa University)

Mapúa University has officially solidified a groundbreaking and strategic tripartite collaboration with gaming powerhouse CAPCOM Singapore and industry linkage leader Prime Manpower through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last January 26, 2025, at the Mapúa University Intramuros campus. This milestone underscores the partners’ commitment to delivering industry-relevant, globally aligned education and strengthening the Philippines’ role in the rapidly evolving gaming, digital content, and intellectual property (IP) sectors across the ASEAN region. 

Grab, MOVE IT Strengthen On-Trip Protection With Expanded COCOLIFE Partnership

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LIFESTYLE | February 3, 2026

Following the signing of the memorandum of agreement between Grab Philippines, MOVE IT and COCOLIFE, L-R: Grab Philippines Head of Central Operations Clarize Morito, MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto, MOVE IT General Manager; COCOLIFE Healthcare Division Head Atty. Alloysius Yebra, COCOLIFE First Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing Department Christopher V. Tan (Image Source: SunStar/Grab Philippines)

Grab Philippines and motorcycle taxi platform MOVE IT have expanded their emergency insurance support with COCOLIFE, widening hospital assistance and financial protection for both rider-partners and passengers in a bid to make coverage more accessible and comprehensive for users of the on-demand mobility services. Through the deepened partnership, rider-partners and passengers gain 24/7 access to a wider network of more than 700 COCOLIFE-accredited hospitals nationwide for emergency situations involving a Grab or MOVE IT ride. 

Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Confirms More Teams, Reveals Format, Opens Ticket Sales

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SPORTS | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Iron Trader News/Harley-Davidson/MotoGP)

Harley-Davidson, in partnership with MotoGP™, announced a series of key milestones for the inaugural season of the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup, as the provisional grid expands, the official weekend schedule format is confirmed, and ticket packages go on sale for all six rounds of the 2026 championship. 

Taipei Game Show Announced Indie Game Award 2026 Winners — And Roger Moves Judges To Tears And Claims Two Major Honors

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GAMING | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Events For Gamers/Taipei Game Show)

Hosted by Taipei Game Show, the Indie Game Award 2026, the Asia-leading game industry awards program, officially announced its winners recently. The Japan-based TearyHand Studio’s And Roger captured both the Grand Prix and Best Audio, earning widespread acclaim for its deeply emotional narrative and perfectly integrated, moving soundtrack. Judges praised the game’s refined controls and its ability to fully immerse players in the story through music, with many panelists admitting they were “moved to tears”. Even after the game ends, its story lingers — a truly outstanding work that leaves a lasting impression. 

Love Is In The Air: Legendary Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Returns To New Clark City On February 13-15, 2026

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LIFESTYLE | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Metropoler/Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta)

Love is truly in the air! This Valentine’s weekend, couples and adventure seekers alike can soar above New Clark City in Tarlac aboard colorful hot air balloons. On February 13–15, 2026, the skies come alive with breathtaking views, magical balloon rides, and unforgettable moments that will make your Valentine’s weekend truly one to remember. 

Puregold CinePanalo Announces Top 20 Student Shorts Finalists For 2026 Festival Run

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/Puregold CinePanalo)

Puregold CinePanalo, currently on its third iteration, has unveiled the top 20 student short films culled from an impressive pool of 267 submissions nationwide. Chosen from an initial top 53 shortlist, the select entries were crafted by the Philippines’ most promising student filmmakers who are poised to shape the future of Philippine cinema. 

OPPO And Google Cloud Deepen Strategic Synergy: Redefining The Next-Gen AIOS Through "Memory Symbiosis" And "Privacy Protection"

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TECHNOLOGY | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: OPPO)

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform smartphones from tools into personal intelligent assistants, OPPO has unveiled its vision for next generation AI Operating System (AIOS). At the recent Google Cloud Export Summit in Beijing, OPPO outlined its strategic roadmap, made possible through its collaboration with Google Cloud, focusing on "Memory Symbiosis" and "Privacy Protection", to guide the industry toward a native and fully intelligent future. 

Manila To Host Largest ASEAN-Korea Music Festival “ROUND” On April 2026 At The Smart Araneta Coliseum

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: The Chronicle PH/National Commission For Culture And The Arts)

A two-day free concert will be the centerpiece of the regional music calendar as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and KBS WORLD TV officially unveiled the complete lineup for the 2026 ROUND Festival last January 28, 2026. This monumental musical exchange is set to take place at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on April 18-19, 2026, marking the largest iteration in the festival's history to coincide with the Philippines Chairship of ASEAN this year. The announcement was made during a high-profile production press conference at the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2 featuring special appearances and presentations by P-pop sensations KAIA and HORI7ON. 

Gaming News: eSports World Cup Foundation Announces Fortnite And Rocket League Tournaments For EWC 2026

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GAMING | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: eSports World Cup Foundation)

The eSports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) and Epic Games recently announced a partnership that will bring Fortnite to the eSports World Cup (EWC), the world’s largest eSports and gaming event, alongside the return of Rocket League. Over the next three years, the collaboration will create more competitive opportunities for Fortnite and Rocket League players and eSports clubs, establishing a premier location for top-tier competition. The collaboration with Epic Games strengthens EWCF’s mission to bring together the world’s most influential games under one competitive banner, to expand their reach, engage new audiences, and shape the future of eSports as a global sport and mainstream entertainment. 

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Charts Global Ambitions With Five-Region eSports Overhaul, M8 World Championship Breaks Ground In Türkiye And Thailand

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SPORTS, GAMING | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: MOONTON Games)

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) enters a bold new era of global expansion as MOONTON Games Chief Executive Officer Cloud Zhang unveiled the 2026 MLBB eSports Roadmap — a five-region blueprint designed to unify the global ecosystem — at the M7 World Championship Grand Finals. As part of MLBB's international expansion strategy, Türkiye will host the M8 World Championship (M8) Finals — the first time MLBB's flagship tournament will be held in Europe. Additionally, MLBB was unveiled as the first title for the inaugural eSports Nations Cup (ENC) 2026 in Saudi Arabia and will debut at the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 as a medal event. These all ladder up to MLBB eSports' ambitions to reach over 70 regions, stage over 5,000 events, and surpass 600 million Hours Watched (HW) in 2026. 

Sony Music's Next Gen: Introducing The New OPM Artists Poised For Breakout Success This 2026

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Starmometer/Sony Music Entertainment Philippines)

A new wave of OPM artists is gaining momentum. Poised for their official breakout moment in 2026, these fresh and compelling acts are set to drop new releases that defy conventions and embrace artistic promise. In the months ahead, their work is expected to leave a distinct mark in contemporary OPM, so make sure to show your support and bookmark their names as early as now. 

Disney Cruise Line Announces The Lion King-Themed Fireworks Show Featuring Globally Acclaimed Star Shah Rukh Khan

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Starmometer/Disney Cruise Line)

Disney Cruise Line announced that the night skies above the Disney Adventure will be transformed by an all-new, original fireworks spectacular titled “The Lion King: Celebration In The Sky”. As the only cruise line in the world to present dazzling fireworks displays at sea, Disney Cruise Line will elevate this fan-favorite signature tradition with entertainment icon Shah Rukh Khan starring as the new show’s narrator when it debuts on the Disney Adventure. 

Theatre Group Asia Unveils 2026-27 Season Lineup

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: ClickTheCity.com/Theatre Group Asia)

Theatre Group Asia (TGA) has unveiled its 2026–27 season lineup featuring three productions that will be staged in the Philippines for the first time, marking what the company considered as its most ambitious season to date. TGA Creative and Overall Artistic Director Clint Ramos shares, “TGA’s 2026–27 honors three unforgettable, powerful stories that stir, challenge, and transform. This season places the human capacity to influence through love, survival, and creation on center stage. While each production proudly spotlights artists and narratives, the season ultimately celebrates something even greater: the power every person holds to shape hearts, defy limits, and leave a lasting mark.” 

Ben&Ben Releases ‘Duyan’ Music Video Starring Khalil Ramos And Gabbi Garcia

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: INQUIRER.net/Sony Music Entertainment Philippines)

Ben&Ben continued to solidify their status as one of the most important voices of OPM in 2025. The acclaimed band made history as the first Filipino act to surpass three billion streams on global streaming platform Spotify while also earning major wins at the 28th Awit Awards including Album of the Year for their third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions and Best Performance by a Group Recording Artist for “Triumph”. As the year drew to a close, Ben&Ben’s music found itself intertwined with national consciousness when “Kapangyarihan”, its collaboration with SB19, emerged as a modern anthem in protest spaces, echoing public anger amid allegations of corruption surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects. 

TikTok LIVE Celebrates Filipino Creativity At The First TikTok LIVE Awards

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: TikTok Philippines)

TikTok LIVE celebrated Filipino creators who have built vibrant communities through storytelling, authentic conversations, and real-time interactions in the inaugural TikTok LIVE Awards in the Philippines. With over 20,000 active LIVE hosts nationwide, the awards marked a historic milestone for the Philippine creator community. "We are proud of the Filipino TikTok LIVE creators who have used the platform to share their craft, build meaningful connections, and contribute positively to their communities. The TikTok LIVE Awards celebrates authenticity, creativity, and community – attributes that have become the pulse of TikTok LIVE," said TikTok Philippines Head of Public Policy Yves Gonzalez. 

CJ ENM Honors Best-Performing Global IPs As 2026 Visionary

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ENTERTAINMENT | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: CJ ENM)

CJ ENM has announced that it has selected characters and character builders who captivated audiences worldwide with distinctive creative sensibilities as the ‘2026 Visionary’. The 2026 Visionary evaluated CJ ENM IPs across all major sectors in 2025 including television, film, music, and OTT platforms. Following an initial assessment based on commercial performance, platform contribution, and public recognition, 20 members of the CJ ENM Selection Committee conducted in-depth reviews to determine the final recipients with a focus on IP sustainability and character impact. This year’s Visionaries include the key characters and character builders behind six standout IPs: Bon Appétit, Your Majesty; Boys II Planet; Severance; Marry My Husband (Korean and Japanese versions); Our Unwritten Seoul; and Study Group. 

eSports World Cup, eSports Nations Cup Welcome Trackmania

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SPORTS, GAMING | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: eSports Insider/eSports World Cup Foundation)

The eSports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) and Ubisoft Nadeo recently announced a multi-year partnership that will bring Trackmania to the eSports World Cup (EWC), set to return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this summer. The addition of Trackmania expands the EWC’s 2026 multi-genre line-up by introducing a racing eSport that bridges gaming and global sport. Built around time-trial racing and round-based elimination with no upgrades or randomness, races are often decided by thousandths of a second, rewarding mechanical skill, rapid adaptation, and consistency under pressure. 

On The Radar: Quezon City Eyes Resilient Teaching Strategy With PLDT, Smart-Backed CVIF Dynamic Learning Program

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ON THE RADAR | February 3, 2026

(Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/Smart Communications Inc.)

The Department of Education Schools Division Office (DepEd SDO) of Quezon City strengthens learning resiliency in District 4 through the adoption of the Central Visayan Institute Foundation’s Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF-DLP). Nearly 300 teachers from public high schools are now onboard the pandemic-tested approach that helps students learn more independently. The district adopted the resilient teaching strategy after national achievement tests showed weaker-than-expected performance among learners. District 4 schools now implementing CVIF-DLP include Krus Na Ligas High School, Manuel A. Roxas High School, Quezon City High School, and Dr. Josefa Jara Martinez High School. 

Power To Play, Stream, And Multitask All At Once With The New Samsung Galaxy A07 5G

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TECHNOLOGY | January 31, 2026

(Image Source: Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation)

Samsung Electronics recently announced the launch of the new Galaxy A07 5G, with this latest addition housing a larger battery capacity in the A Series line-up, a 6nm processor for faster loading, and AI features including Google Gemini, and Circle to Search with Google to deliver more ease and convenience through mobile experiences. And with a dual camera to improve storytelling on social media, smoother refresh rates, and a brighter screen, users can enjoy and immerse themselves in their favorite content wherever they are. 

One App For Every Trip: How GCash Brings All Your Travel Needs Together

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LIFESTYLE | January 31, 2026

(Image Source: The Chronicle PH/GCash)

The new year brings a new set of travel goals, from flying out for Lunar New Year for an auspicious celebration, going to an underrated island this summer, making the most of August’s two long weekends, or chasing snow on the other side of the globe. For many, however, traveling comes with worrying about the same old hypothetical scenarios that are also valid concerns, including flight delays to lost baggage. They overprepare and, in turn, are labeled as “OA”.