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| Luchi Cruz-Valdes delivering her farewell address during TV5's tribute assembly for her (Image Source: Manila Standard/TV5 Network Inc.) |
Luchi Cruz-Valdes, a leading figure in Philippine broadcast journalism, has been officially retired after 15 years of exemplary service as the head of News5, the news and information arm of TV5 Network Inc. In recognition of her achievements, the management of the Kapatid network led by President and CEO Guido R. Zaballero recently held a tribute assembly for her at Studio 6 of the TV5 Media Center in Reliance, Mandaluyong City.
Since 2010, Cruz-Valdes’ accomplishments include groundbreaking initiatives such as the 360/News5 Everywhere digital platform and Radyo5 92.3 True FM, the country’s first FM radio news channel. She also introduced the first 24/7 Filipino-language news channel AksyonTV and played a key role in developing Cignal TV’s premium English-language news channel One News. With Cruz-Valdes at the helm, News5 provided comprehensive coverage of three presidential elections, each time partnering with PLDT and Smart Communications to harness cutting-edge technology that enhanced its reportage. She moderated the 2016 Pilipinas Debates presidential debate which remains one of the important turning points of that electoral contest.
Earlier this year, Cruz-Valdes received the “Best TV Public Affairs Program Host” award at the 12th Makatao Awards for Media Excellence of People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP). Under her leadership, News5 has developed a dynamic team of anchors, correspondents, and producers. Despite countless challenges, Cruz-Valdes has helped raise the standards of journalism through numerous award-winning newscasts and public affairs programs. Her unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity has solidified News5’s reputation as a respected, credible, and reliable news organization.
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Bilyonaryo News Channel's "Kwadro Kantos" Sparks Critical Discussions On PH Politics
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| The hosts of Bilyonaryo News Channel (BNC)'s newest weekly talk show "Kwadro Kantos": (L-R) Guido David, Alan German, Michael Fajatin, Ronald Llamas (Image Source: The Manila Times/Bilyonaryo News Channel) |
Bilyonaryo News Channel (BNC), the newest business news channel in the Philippines, recently debuted its newest weekly program "Kwatro Kantos", a fearless talk show dedicated to exploring the complexities of Philippine politics and other pressing social issues. Each episode features in-depth discussions and analyses, offering viewers a well-rounded understanding of the current affairs shaping the nation. The one-hour show airs every Saturday at 10:00-11:00 am with replays on weekdays.
The show is hosted by veteran broadcast journalist Michael Fajatin who is known for his insightful reporting and engaging discussion style. Joining him is PR expert Alan German who provides a nuanced understanding of communication strategies and public perception, enriching the dialogue with his expertise on how narratives are constructed and received. Former Cabinet Secretary for Political Affairs Ronald Llamas adds depth to the conversation with his extensive experience, offering insights into governance and societal issues in the Philippines. Additionally, Professor Guido David, a renowned data analyst, ensures evidence-based insights and trends drive discussions, grounding the conversation in reality.
"Kwatro Kantos" features expert interviews, discussions, and audience participation. Each episode focuses on a specific issue, with hosts offering different perspectives. Viewers are invited to share their thoughts and questions, promoting dialogue on the topics. The show aims to inform the audience about the political climate in the Philippines and encourage civic engagement and critical thinking. By addressing the nation’s challenges and opportunities, "Kwatro Kantos" encourages viewers to take part in their democracy. Catch "Kwadro Kantos" on the Bilyonaryo News Channel, available on free-to-air television via BEAM TV 31 (through digital TV boxes in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Baguio, Zamboanga, and Naga), Cignal Channel 24 and on Cignal Play. It can also be viewed on-demand on BNC's official YouTube channel.
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BINI Collaborates With Indonesian Icon AGNEZ MO For "Cherry On Top (BiniMo Remix)"
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/ABS-CBN Corporation) |
The nation’s girl group BINI surprises fans with a thrilling collaboration with Indonesian superstar AGNEZ MO for “Cherry On Top (BiniMo Remix)", now available on all digital streaming platforms. This unexpected union brings together two of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated female artists in a cultural and musical fusion bound to captivate listeners globally. The collaboration between BINI and AGNEZ MO emerged after they crossed paths at Enterprise Studios in Los Angeles and Billboard Korea’s K Power 100 launch event in Seoul. Their heartfelt connection was fueled by their shared creative experience of being strong, independent women in the music industry. Both artists have a strong passion to uplift local cultures while introducing their rich heritage to a global audience.
"Cherry On Top (BiniMo Remix)" builds on the momentum of BINI's fast-growing international reputation and AGNEZ MO’s ongoing global mainstream prominence.
• The Cherry On Top single has amassed over 43 million streams globally, including nearly 1.7 billion TikTok views and 23 million TikTok creations.
• Earlier this year, BINI became the first Filipino pop group to perform at KCON, the world’s largest Korean culture and music festival. Their appearance broke records with nearly 500 media attendees at their panel and the hashtag #BINIatKCONLA2024 trended at #5 worldwide on X during the event.
• BINI sold 50,000 tickets for the “Grand BINIverse” concert series across 3 dates at the Araneta Coliseum with the final date selling out in just 2 hours.
• Viral TikTok collaborations with global acts such as ENHYPHEN and KATSEYE have boosted BINI’s international presence, amassing millions of views and broadening their fanbase worldwide.
• In Los Angeles, over 500 fans (affectionately known as BLOOMs) gathered within an hour’s notice to watch BINI’s surprise performance aboard the iconic Wish Bus.
• BINI recently lit up the Tensquare 3D billboard in Singapore to celebrate the original "Cherry On Top". The eye-catching display featured BINI’s black cat, Ling Ling, in a larger-than-life presence, exciting both BINI members and their fans.
• AGNEZ MO has been collaborating with some of the biggest names in music, recently from Ciara’s 2023 #1 global hit “Get Loose” to now BINI.
• AGNEZ MO’s most recent single, “Party in Bali", debuted at #1 in August 2024 in Asia upon its release.
Further solidifying their place in pop culture, BINI was recently spotlighted in Grammy’s "14 Pinoy Acts You Should Know" and "12 Rising Girl Groups" and Vogue Singapore’s "P-pop Groups to Know" and nominated for Best Asia Act in the 2024 MTV European Music Awards. AGNEZ MO, on the other hand, is Asia’s most highly awarded recording artist and actress, with over 350 accolades and over 60 million followers across social platforms. Both artists continue to break boundaries, carrying that momentum forward with new music, solidifying their status as international stars.
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De La Salle Lipa's New Partnership Offers World-Class IELTS Training
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
Both Lasallians and the broader community have an exciting new certification program to look forward to as De La Salle Lipa's (DLSL) School for Professional Advancement and Continuing Education (SPACE), through its Institute for Professional Advancement and Continuing Education (iPACE), signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Soaring Scores Speech and Language Training Center last September 30, 2024 at the DLSL Boardroom. This partnership is set to create global opportunities for students and professionals seeking to study or work abroad by enhancing their communication skills, crucial for excelling in international exams. It will also establish opportunities for DLSL students and clients to receive training and certification in various courses offered by Soaring Scores, particularly the IELTS program.
Signing the agreement for DLSL were Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Tessie Palma, SPACE Dean Dr. Lanie Santos, Director for External Affairs and Internationalization Dannah Sanchez and iPACE Managing Director Sebastian Puache, iPACE Managing Director. Soaring Scores, on the other hand, was represented by CEO and Founder Rolly E. del Rio, Vice President for Operations Mariz del Rio and Owner Alfonso Ruiz E. del Rio. “Our mission goes beyond IELTS. No matter how difficult the questions, you'll always have an answer, delivered with confidence and ease. It's a pleasure to collaborate with De La Salle," remarked Rolly del Rio. He emphasized that their goal, alongside De La Salle Lipa, is to help individuals hone communication skills that will provide a unique advantage not only in test-taking but also in every professional and personal situation they encounter. He also shared that their Language Center has helped countless individuals who are now successfully working around the globe, including many in the nursing profession.
This IELTS training and certification will equip students and professionals with essential skills to confidently navigate global opportunities, reinforcing DLSL’s commitment to providing world-class education. The program aims to empower participants through intensive language training and comprehensive test preparation that goes beyond the classroom, preparing them for real-world challenges. It can be recalled that DLSL also entered into a partnership with the Center for Global Training and Development (CGTD) Inc. last July 22, 2024, making the institution an authorized testing center for the Certiport Certification Program offered through iPACE. These ongoing initiatives reflect DLSL’s dedication to expanding its course offerings and furthering its role as a gateway for global opportunities. With more innovative programs on the horizon, iPACE continues to be an integral partner for both students and professionals to have access to cutting-edge learning pathways that can open doors in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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ONE Championship Announces 2025 Calendar For Prime Video Events Featuring Two On-Ground Events In The U.S.
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| (Image Source: ONE Championship) |
ONE Championship (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, officially announced calendar dates for its United States primetime events in 2025 which, for the third straight year, features 12 live shows on Prime Video in America and Canada. Two of the 12 live shows will be on-ground events in the U.S. ONE made a successful return to the U.S. on September 6 with ONE 168: Denver, nearly selling out Ball Arena with a live gate of over US$1.28M. Though the organization was slated to return to America with ONE 169: Atlanta on November 8, the event will now be moved to Bangkok, Thailand due to partner obligations in the said country. Those who have purchased tickets to ONE 169: Atlanta will receive a full refund via Ticketmaster. Fans can also sign up for exclusive access to discounted tickets to ONE’s 2025 U.S. events at https://onefc-6876030.hs-sites.com/en/en/us-prereg-signup.
ONE 169 in Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium will still feature the blockbuster bouts slated for the Atlanta card including Anatoly Malykhin vs. “Reug Reug” Oumar Kane, Rodtang vs. Jacob Smith, and more. Here are the dates of upcoming ONE Championship events taking place in the final months of 2024 and 2025 which will be aired on U.S. primetime.
• November 8, 2024, 8:00 pm ET (November 9, 2024, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE 169 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• December 6, 2024, 8:00 pm ET (December 7, 2024, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 26 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• January 10, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (January 11, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 27 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• February 7, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (February 8, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 28 (TBA)
• March 7, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (March 8, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 29 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• April 4, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (April 5, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 30 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• May 23, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (May 24, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – U.S. event (TBA)
• June 6, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (June 7, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 31 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• July 11, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (July 12, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 32 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• August 1, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (August 2, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 33 (TBA)
• September 5, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (September 6, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 34 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• October 3, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (October 4, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 35 in Bangkok (Lumpinee Stadium)
• November 7, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (November 8, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – ONE Fight Night 36 (TBA)
• December 5, 2025, 8:00 pm ET (December 6, 2025, 8:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) – U.S. event (TBA)
(*Full global calendar including Asia primetime events to be announced)
ONE 170, the promotion’s next numbered tentpole event, will broadcast live in Asia primetime from Bangkok’s Impact Arena on January 24, 2025. This event will play host to a shoot for “The Beast In Me", an MMA action-drama co-starring Russell Crowe and Daniel MacPherson that ONE has partnered with ahead of its 2025 release. Details on the fight card and ticket sales for this event will be announced in the near future.
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Dive Into SUPERVIVE: A Full Week Of Nonstop Action At Steam Next Fest
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Theorycraft Games) |
Theorycraft Games announced that SUPERVIVE, its free-to-play MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) battle royale meets hero shooter, will debut a feature-rich demo at Steam Next Fest: October 2024 Edition. On October 14-21, 2024, all interested players can experience SUPERVIVE’s wild, open-ended combat sandbox at any time and from anywhere without the need to sign up for an account. Dedicated matchmaking servers in North America, Europe, and Asia ensure a smooth and explosive experience. Competitive squads hungry for their next “10,000 hour game” can wishlist SUPERVIVE on Steam here at https://store.steampowered.com/app/1283700/SUPERVIVE.
In SUPERVIVE, face off in all-out, multi-squad teamfights, take down boss monsters for big loot, get that W (win) and run it back. Squad up with friends and dive into 10-team battle royales, 2-player duos, or 4v4 deathmatches. With 16 unique hunters, each with distinct abilities, players can build a team of hyper-styled heroes, all designed to be exciting playmakers. Featuring dynamic map-based objectives and game-changing storm shifts, SUPERVIVE ensures that no game is ever the same. Over the course of Steam Next Fest, players can access special events and unlock exclusive collectibles by playing the game. A new trailer is also coming out on October 14, 2024 to kick off the event.
SUPERVIVE received overwhelmingly positive press coverage and ranked in Top 10 for Twitch viewership during its June debut, setting a strong foundation for its road to open beta planned later this year. SUPERVIVE will always be free-to-play and is designed to ensure that cosmetics are the only in-game purchases, with no pay-for-power elements, ever. Players eager to show their support for Theorycraft and SUPERVIVE’s development can purchase Supporter Packs, granting premium currency, exclusive cosmetics, and more perks at https://www.playsupervive.com/en-us/supporter-packs. Join in the SUPERVIVE discord community at https://discord.gg/SUPERVIVE to get the latest game updates and interact with other players.
