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| (Image Source: 2nd Opinion/Bigo Live Philippines) |
The international community live streaming platform Bigo Live recently concluded its exciting mid-year gala held last August 16, 2024 exclusively at Xylo At The Palace in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City. Themed “Modern Masquerade”, the Bigo Live Mid-Year Gala is a half yearly celebration of the best and brightest that livestreaming has to offer. It is also an opportunity for fans and favorites to gather and mingle in an otherwise digital world.
Hosted by in-house Bigo Live celebrities Jannine Cartagena (bigo id: ninjajannine) and Nicole Cando (bigo id: simplynicole2021), the event saw approximately 300 livestreamers attending the in-person party and 15,654 online, among whom were the winners for PUGC Outstanding Contribution, PUGC Agencies and Families Award, as well as agency, families and hosts awards. These individuals were highlighted for being the best in their category and for their impressive contributions to the livestreaming community. The Mid-Year Gala was also viewed by global Filipino communities from countries in the USA, Middle East and Asia, banding together to celebrate the talented hosts and joining in the vote to pick the special winners for “Best Dressed”, “Family of the Night” and “Most Impactful Icon of the Night”.
Jannah Bocatiya (bigo id: jfaye), one of the winners of the Bigo Live Philippines Mid-Year Gala Awards 2024, shares, “2.5 years has been an amazing journey for me because while I’m doing BIGO, I’m also studying. And I’m very proud that for the first one year and a half years of me doing BIGO, it financed my education. I’m very proud to say I just graduated marketing management as a Magna cum laude. So imagine, I used to go live at night, graveyard shift and go to school the next day without any sleep. However it was all worthwhile, you don’t just work at BIGO, you also get to mingle with other people. They motivate you, they give you strength. Sometimes, kahit pagod ka na, may nanunood sayo, there’s always someone watching." Aside from the Mid-Year Gala, Bigo Live also concluded the inaugural edition of Bigo Voice Philippines, a hybrid talent competition celebrating and appreciating the multiple vocal powerhouses in-app through an off-line event held last June 2024. On January 2025, Bigo Live will host their annual awards gala in Dubai, UAE which will mark the first time that the Bigo Awards Gala will be held in the Middle East.
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Becky Armstrong's Angel From Laguna Celebrates As Winner Of vivo Y100 Smartphone
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/vivo Philippines) |
In celebration of its partnership with British-Thai actress and singer Becky Armstrong, global smartphone brand vivo announced an exciting giveaway for Filipino Becky angels – a chance to win a vivo Y100 smartphone! Many Filipino fans enthusiastically participated by commenting with green hearts on Becky’s post on Instagram, symbolizing their support for Becky. The fan with the most engagements took home the vivo Y100 in the photochromic Breeze Green variant that changes color from light to dark hue in as fast as three seconds. The giveaway sparked significant excitement and engagement among Becky’s fans and vivo’s community on both Instagram and Facebook.
On August 14, 2024, vivo proudly revealed Kenneth Despuig as the lucky angel to bring home the vivo Y100 through their official Facebook community page. The 24-year-old was thrilled as he revealed that he did not expect to win at all, exclaiming with joy upon discovering his win on Facebook. When asked about his plans to celebrate, Kenneth shared, “I will celebrate this win by just simply sharing my excitement with my family and friends. As for how I intend to use the Y100, I plan to make it my main device for staying connected and organized.” The lucky fan also shared that the vivo Y100 will be useful for his ongoing job search as he just recently graduated. He believes that the smartphone will be more than just a gadget as it will surely enhance his daily life and support him with his goals. Expressing his gratitude to vivo, Kenneth feels fortunate to be the lucky one among thousands of Becky’s fans to win the vivo Y100 and sees it as the ultimate birthday and graduation gift for himself.
The vivo Y100 is equipped with 80W fast charging technology that enables users to power up to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes. It also has a 5000mAh battery that can last all day long. Aside from that, vivo Y100 has a 120Hz refresh rate and a vibrant 1200nits 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED Dotch Display, certified by SGS Eye Care Display. It also features dual stereo speakers and up to 300% audio booster, designed to deliver a cinematic experience. Priced for as low as Php10,999, the vivo Y100 has 8 GB RAM + 8 GB extended RAM, and up to 256 GB internal storage (expandable up to 1 TB). The vivo Y100 can be availed either offline at any vivo store and dealer nationwide or online via vivo's official website and official online stores on Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada.
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Benilde Film "Beep Beep" Wins At CCP Gawad Alternatibo, UP Cinema's POV XX
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/De La Salle-College Of Saint Benilde) |
A De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) capstone film project won at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) 36th Gawad Alternatibo Para sa Pelikula at Video and UP Cinema’s Piling Obrang Vidyo (POV) XX. “Beep Beep", directed by Raya Martinez and Iane Patacsil from a screenplay by Hazel Juniosa, took home an honorable mention in the narrative category of CCP’s Gawad Alternatibo and bagged the Best Direction Award, Kidlat Tahimik Special Mention, Best Sound Design for Jansen Adarlo, and Best Production Design for Mei Abendan at POV, an annual interschool film festival, last month.
In the fantasy film set in the multiverse, an inconsiderate, middle-aged woman goes through a series of multidimensional trials to make it home and receive an important package. Fely (Sharon Ceneta) rides a jeep in what is seemingly a mundane day until she meets Caloy (Marcus Timbas), an intergalactic scout with a mission. As Fely’s selfish attitude clashes with Caloy’s mission, her ordinary ride home becomes an extraordinary trip to the multiverse. Juniosa, Martinez, and Patacsil also got ample support from director of photography Luigi Soriano, assistant directors Clarisse Llaguno and Alfred Garcia, art director Advent Rivera, script continuity Jireh Nalaza, production manager Angenique Lerio, camera operator Krimpsson Trillana, gaffer Vian Naguit, digital imaging technician Joshua Rayo, sound mixer Melanie Faye Tampos, and film scorer Gerimaree Morales, among others. The thesis film was under the mentorship of creative producer Seymour Sanchez and supervising producer Jose Javier Reyes.
Gawad Alternatibo is the longest film competition in the country and Asia with a harvest of Filipino films competing in various categories: Narrative, Experimental, Documentation, and Animation. Since 1987, it has presented an array of films showcasing the best in alternative storytelling. “We stand with Gawad Alternatibo’s mission in highlighting films that address critical social issues and promoting alternative films to mainstream commercial cinema,” said Juniosa. “Beep Beep” is available to stream online for free at Cinemata, a streaming platform dedicated to social issue films in the Asia-Pacific region, for a limited time only.
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Big Bad Wolf Continues Hunt For One Million Readers At First-Ever Filinvest Tent Book Sale
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| (Image Source: Love, Teacher Angel/Big Bad Wolf Books Philippines) |
Big Bad Wolf has officially landed at Alabang for the very first time! In pursuit of its mission to reach one million new readers in 2024, Big Bad Wolf takes the world’s biggest book sale to the South at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang from now until September 1, 2024, opening daily from 10:00 am to 12:00 midnight. The opening of the book sale last August 23, 2024 attracted a vibrant crowd of book enthusiasts and budding readers alike, all eager to explore the selection of titles available at budget-friendly prices. Metrobank returns, offering credit cardholders an exclusive 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least Php3,000 at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale. Swedish furnishing brand IKEA is there to give Wolfies from the South a special treat.
The Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale is part of Big Bad Wolf’s broader campaign to promote literacy and nurture a love for reading among people of all ages. The Filinvest book sale is the latest in a series of Big Bad Wolf book sales, dedicated to making books more accessible to more people across the country. “We have always been passionate about igniting a love for reading and to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality books,” said Big Bad Wolf Books Co-founder Jacqueline Ng who was present at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale VIP Day. Ng added, “It’s our first time in Alabang, and this marks another significant step toward our goal of bringing 1 million new readers into the fold. We believe that books have the power to change lives, and we are even more committed to making books available to as many people as possible.” Big Bad Wolf Books Philippine Managing Partner Carol Chuaying echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Big Bad Wolf’s mission to promote literacy. “We believe literacy is the foundation of learning and personal growth. At every book sale, we are not just selling books. We are opening doors to new opportunities, knowledge, and a brighter future for everyone. We are more than thrilled to be bringing the book sale to Alabang finally and to continue expanding our reach to more people," said Chuaying.
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino and Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon, together with Filinvest Alabang Inc. First Vice President Don-Don Mari S. Ubaldo, Filinvest Corporate City Association Inc. General Manager Engr. Kristine P. Triviño, Festival Supermall Inc. Vice President and Head of Corporate Marketing Denise Rae O. Lagayan and Festival Supermall Inc. Assistant Vice President and South Cluster General Manager Engr. Christian Wesley D. Villanueva joined Ng and Chuaying to celebrate the opening of the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale. Aside from great deals, discounts, and Big Bad Wolf’s wide collection of over two million books, guests can expect even more excitement as Big Bad Wolf cooks up more surprises for another grand book sale experience that wolfies won’t soon forget. Keep an eye on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages to stay in the loop and find out more about the sneaky treats that the Wolf has in store.
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Book Nook Expands Horizons With New Branch At The Podium
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| Top photo: Book Nook is a community-centric space where stories come alive within its corners. Bottom photo (L-R): SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation President Hans “Chico” Sy Jr., SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, Royal Pineda + Architecture Design’s Architect Royal Pineda, videographer Jason Magbanua, Mandaluyong City Councilor Charisse Abalos-Vargas, Book Nook founder Architect Shereen Sy, and WTA Architecture & Design Studio’s Architect William Ti Jr. (Image Source: Malaya Business Insight/SM Supermalls) |
In a celebratory atmosphere brimming with literary enthusiasm and community spirit, the Book Nook launched its second branch at the fifth level of The Podium on August 15, 2024. Building on the success of its first location at SM Aura, this new chapter ushers in an exciting milestone for Book Nook’s mission to empower Filipinos through literacy, self-expression, and communal giving. Book Nook, conceived by architect Sheeren Sy in December 2020, draws inspiration from a simple yet impactful book-sharing initiative she encountered in Melbourne, Australia. Sy’s vision was to create a similar space in the Philippines that not only promotes reading but also encourages communal unity — a hallmark of the Filipino value of “bayanihan".
The new Book Nook branch is a masterpiece by renowned Filipino architect Royal Pineda of Royal Pineda + Architecture Design. Pineda, celebrated for his work on iconic projects such as the New Clark International Airport and the Philippines Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020, lends his visionary touch to the Book Nook. He has transformed the space into a community-centric hub that nurtures learning, sharing, and social interaction. The Book Nook’s design is a testament to the power of simplicity and functionality. It is a continuous flow of space that seamlessly blends form and function. From nothingness, the Architect Pineda has crafted a venue for learning, a space where elements are interconnected and purposeful. A standout feature of the new branch is the Philippine History corner which includes numerous books donated by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) to promote historical knowledge. Among the collection are copies of Dr. Jose Rizal’s seminal work Noli Me Tangere. This dedicated area aims to deepen visitors’ understanding of Filipino heritage and history.
Located on the third level of SM Aura, the first branch of the Book Nook has become a beloved hub for book lovers and community members alike. Designed by acclaimed architect William Ti Jr. of WTA Architecture and Design Studio and with a growing collection of over 3,000 books, it has fostered a thriving culture of reading and sharing. The new branch at The Podium aims to continue this legacy, offering a cozy and welcoming environment for visitors to explore, donate, and exchange books. This vision wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of several organizations. Book Nook extends its heartfelt gratitude to Anvil Publishing, IBBY Philippines, Global Peace Foundation Philippines, National Bookstore, National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Phoenix Publishing House, Vibal Foundation, SM Aura, SM Foundation, and SM Prime. Their contributions have significantly enriched the Book Nook experience, offering a diverse book collection and developing a space for learning and connection.
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Kolehiyo Ng Lungsod Ng Lipa Welcomes College Freshmen In Abante Academic Kickoff
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| (Image Source: The Beat Publication - Kolehiyo Ng Lungsod Ng Lipa/Alona Myka Balbastro) |
Pushing forward a cordial salutation, the Student Executive Council (SEC) welcomed the freshmen students of Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Lipa (KLL) through "KLL Abante Academic Kickoff! held last August 16, 2024 at the Lipa Academy of Sports, Culture, and Arts (LASCA). SEC President Irish Ramos, one of the main organizers of the event, emphasized the significance of their campaign, highlighting the guise of the word "Abante" in the welcoming event, uttering, "Abante is the word that we use in our elections; in our campaigns for the SEC elections 2024 it stands out for an alliance of bright aspirants nurturing transformational excellence, but today we use again the ABANTE word, which means to move forward."
On the other hand, KLL's Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Anthony B. Llanes left an inspiring message for the opening remarks, stating, "I would like to welcome you sa bagong yugto ng inyong buhay, bilang hindi isang ganap na high school kundi isang ganap na college, a college student always alert, always busy, and always ambitious." Llanes also reminded the students that they enrolled for the sole reason that they had a dream. Moving forward, the event was graced by warm and welcoming messages from SEC's Vice Presidents for Internal Affairs and External Affairs, Vien Mission and James Robert Moren, respectively. Also extending their greetings and support for the freshmen were the chairpersons from various organizations within the campus including Norman Nigel Khuuya V. Casapao of Reserving Officer Training Corps (ROTC), Alexandra Denise Garcia of CCJE R.I.F.L.E., Mark Adolf John I. Suarez of CCS Computer Professional Union (CPU), Liam Carlo L. Calingasan of CCA League of Communication Arts Students (LECOAS), Mary Jane Gelsano of CBA Business Administration Student Executive (BASE), and Gio Anderson C. Laylo of CTE Teachers Have Class Society (THCS) Gio Anderson C. Laylo.
Meanwhile, Yvonne Mae S. Galgo of OBRA, Kristine May Ramirez of The Beat Publication, and Mary Christ Levida of SPORTS also shared their welcoming messages filled with enthusiasm and encouragement. As the event concluded, an intermission number featuring the diverse talents and passions of the KLL organizations provided a glimpse into the vibrant and engaging student life awaiting the freshmen. In an interview with The Beat Publication, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) freshman Jinlord Patrick B. Fule said, "I expect to learn a lot from new things at this college, and I'm expecting to get along with a lot of people here." He also mentioned how much he enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere of the event.
(With words by Claire Laroza, The Beat Publication, Kolehiyo Ng Lungsod Ng Lipa)
