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| 2026 Junior Chamber International (JCI) World Congress Director Luis Angelo Sevilla on the podium during an JCI event in Taiwan to announce that Clark, Pampanga, the appointed venue of the 2026 JCI World Congress, is ready to welcome and host thousands of young leaders from across the globe. (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/Junior Chamber International Manila) |
Junior Chamber International (JCI) Manila, a leading leadership development organization in Asia, alongside its Angeles City Culiat chapter, has been granted the esteemed hosting rights to the JCI World Congress in 2026. This prestigious event is expected to attract thousands of young leaders from around the globe, providing a platform for dynamic talks from pioneering businessmen, networking, and collaborative projects. The event aims to connect Filipino JCI members with their global counterparts, fostering the exchange of ideas and best practices. It is an initiative that not only promotes international collaboration but also strengthens local chapters through valuable relationships. By doing so, JCI Philippines ensures it remains a vibrant and innovative community of young leaders.
“Securing this hosting right is a testament to the exceptional organizational capabilities and dynamic spirit of these two esteemed chapters. As preparations gear up, the anticipation builds for a conference that promises to leave a lasting impact on all participants and further elevate the Philippines’ standing in the global community,” said Luis Angelo Sevilla who has been appointed 2026 JCI World Congress Director. Founded to empower young people to create positive change, JCI Manila and JCI Angeles City Culiat have been actively involved in various initiatives that address community needs and foster leadership development. Their projects range from disaster relief and educational programs to environmental sustainability and public health campaigns. For instance, JCI Angeles City Culiat has a proven track record of organizing impactful events that uplift communities. Following the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991, JCI Angeles City Culiat launched “Tigtigan Terakan Keng Dalan” (TTKD), a street party event aimed at boosting community morale and revitalizing the local economy. Over three decades later, JCI Angeles City Culiat continues to spearhead TTKD which has grown into the largest street dance party in the country. This annual event has garnered JCI prestigious recognition including the Best Civic Involvement Program award.
Through their dedicated efforts, these chapters not only provide immediate benefits to their communities but also inspire future leaders to take action, contributing to a culture of active citizenship and impactful service. JCI Manila and JCI Angeles City Culiat are ready to embrace their role in such a prestigious event after 28 years following the historic 1998 conference held in the Philippines. Opportunities like this highlight the hospitality and potential of Filipinos on a global scale, reinforcing the country’s position as a hub for leadership and innovation. The conference will be held at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga in partnership with the Clark Development Corporation. Recognized as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) destination in the Philippines, Clark offers world-class facilities and an ideal setting for international gatherings.
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MILO® Expands Sports Programs With Safe Swim In Partnership With PH Red Cross
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/MILO Philippines) |
As part of the 60th year anniversary celebration to make sports more accessible to Filipino children, MILO® Philippines proudly launched the MILO® Safe Swim – Drown Prevention Program this year. Mounted in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross with whom MILO® shares a goal of drowning prevention awareness, the program provides kids and parents with the foundational skills and techniques to stay safe in and around water. This comes after drowning was found to be a leading cause of death among Filipino children aged 0-14 with an average of 3,200 kids losing their lives annually from a lack of emergency skills and training in the water. All in all, MILO® and the Philippine Red Cross, through Safe Swim, aim to ultimately encourage water confidence and safety in both parents and kids and to help pave the way in reducing the risk of more drowning incidents in the country.
The first programs were held across Quezon City, Pasig City, and Cavite City with the participation of nearby elementary school kids as they began their journey in water safety with Swimtech, which delivered fundamental swimming instruction. The swimming segment focused on basic water skills like floating, kicking, and staying calm, all serving as important techniques that form the backbone of drowning prevention. By learning these essentials, children are equipped to respond to situations that may lead to panic or drowning. Each participant gained skills that emphasized staying afloat and moving safely in the water, allowing them to build confidence and feel empowered during water activities. The program’s second half was led by experts from the Philippine Red Cross who introduced children to first aid and emergency rescue techniques specifically designed for water safety. The kids learned the critical “reach, throw, don’t go” approach which teaches them how to assist others in trouble without endangering themselves. This segment also included basic first aid principles such as identifying safe and unsafe water practices, and ensuring participants gained the skills and knowledge to act responsibly in emergencies. The Philippine Red Cross training added a new layer of preparedness, emphasizing that knowing what to do can make a crucial difference in an emergency.
Through the MILO® Safe Swim program, both kids and parents have learned invaluable lessons — not only the technical skills but also the mindset and confidence to be safe in and around water. With this initiative, MILO® aims for parents to see their children grow more self-assured and prepared, and for children to develop a deeper understanding of water safety fundamentals, contributing to a community-wide sense of water preparedness. With the success of this year’s program, MILO® Safe Swim will expand to more cities nationwide next year. For more information on the program, visit https://www.milo.com.ph/ and the MILO® Philippines' official Facebook page.
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Smart Welcomes New Subscribers With Happy Hour Of Free YouTube And Facebook
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Smart Communications Inc.) |
Mobile services provider Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) is giving mobile users another reason to switch to Smart as it welcomes new subscribers with a happy hour of FREE access to YouTube and Facebook from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm. Available for only a limited time, this welcome gift applies to new customers who register and activate their Smart Prepaid SIM card or eSIM or sign up with a Smart Postpaid Plan from now until December 15, 2024.
To start enjoying Smart's happy hour of FREE YouTube and Facebook, new prepaid users just need to register to any eligible 3-day or 7-day prepaid offer such as Power All, All Access, and more - whether by logging into the Smart App, Smart Online Store or their preferred mobile wallet; dialing *123# on their smartphone; or topping up at convenience stores nationwide. Prepaid customers can enjoy Smart's happy hour every day for as long as their chosen prepaid promo is valid. On the other hand, new postpaid subscribers of SIM-Only or Device Plan 599 and above can enjoy Smart's happy hour of FREE YouTube and Facebook for 30 days upon successfully registering and activating their account.
“This is the perfect time for mobile users to switch and experience the power of Smart and take advantage of our happy hour of FREE YouTube and Facebook,” said Smart Senior Vice President for Consumer Wireless Business Kristine A. Go. With its happy hour, Smart empowers new subscribers to make the most of their lunch break at work or school as they binge-watch the latest viral videos on YouTube or catch up with their loved ones and friends on Facebook. Subscribers can enjoy their happy hour every day powered by Smart which has been recognized for delivering the Philippines' Best 5G Coverage Experience by network analytics firm Opensignal.
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ABS-CBN's "Kuan On One" Hits Over 15 Million Views For Season 1, Now On Its Second Season
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| Kuantie Melai Cantiveros-Francisco returns to deliver candid conversations and good vibes to Bisaya and non-Bisaya viewers in the second season of ABS-CBN's trending Bisaya talk show "Kuan On One". (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
ABS-CBN's trending Bisaya talk show “Kuan On One", hosted by Kuantie Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, has gained over 15 million views in its first season and returned for its second season streaming every Tuesday on ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel and iWantTFC. During the Season 2 announcement, Melai expressed her excitement about bringing more laughter and lessons to both Bisaya and non-Bisaya viewers, saying, "Gusto kong ma-pickup ng viewers yung mga individuality ng in-interview na mga Bisaya celebrities and influencers. Na kapag na-touch mo kung saan sila nanggaling, makikita mo na normal lang silang tao, sobrang humble nila, at deserve talaga nila na maging idol natin."
Grateful for all the positive feedback she received as a solo host, Melai treats viewers again with candid conversations with personalities from the showbiz and music industry as well as from the drag, social media, and sports communities. Season 2 kicked off last November 12, 2024 with its first guest JK Labajo and among the expected guests in upcoming episodes are Kyle Echarri, PBB Gen 11 housemates Jas and Binsoy, Sylvia Sanchez, Davao Conyo, Morissette, Chito Samontina, Khianna & Hana Beshie, Sisi Rondina, and many more. Don't miss "Kuan On One" Season 2 premiere on ABS-CBN Entertainment's YouTube channel and iWantTFC as well as every episode's extended scenes per episode exclusively available for Super Kapamilya Members on ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube Channel. You may also catch "Kuan On One" Season 1 on-air every Sunday at 4:30 pm on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live and A2Z or on-demand on ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube Channel and iWantTFC.
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Get 30 Days Of Unli 5G For Only Php749, Exclusively With Smart Bro
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| (Image Source: Gadget Pilipinas/Smart Communications Inc.) |
Those who need uninterrupted high-speed connectivity to get work and research done as well as stream their favorite series or play their favorite games anytime and anywhere can now enjoy Unli 5G data at a more affordable price with Smart Bro’s exclusive Unli 5G offer valid for 30 days for only Php749. Originally priced at Php999, Smart Bro Unli 5G 749 still provides 30 days of Unli 5G in 5G areas and non-stop data connectivity in non-5G areas, enabling users to enjoy a seamless and reliable connectivity experience for much less.
Smart Bro subscribers may avail of this exclusive offer on the Smart App or via the Smart Online Store. Customers may also register for the promo by dialing *123# on their smartphones, or by topping up at accredited retailers, convenience stores, and Smart booths at airports nationwide. Subscribers may also avail of other Smart Bro Unli 5G offers that suit their lifestyle needs such as Unli 5G valid for 1 day for only Php75, 3 days for Php125, and 7 days for Php249. To fully enjoy 5G speeds, subscribers must have their Smart 5G SIM in their Smart 5G-compatible device and be in a Smart 5G-covered area. Smart Bro Unli 5G 749 is best paired with the Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro which can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro is available in two models — the Evoluzn (LCD display) and the Genew (touchscreen LCD) which are both equipped with the powerful Qualcomm’s SDX62 chipset and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery, ideal for busy professionals, freelancers, and families who need a high-speed connectivity on the go. Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro is also ideal for travelers who want to share their adventures on social media in real time - from capturing breathtaking sunsets to documenting scenic mountain trails. Concert-goers can also rely on Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro to stay connected even in crowded venues of world-class music events and festivals. Powered by Smart 5G, subscribers can post live videos, share story updates, and stay connected with friends without lag or interruptions. On the other hand, gamers can enjoy a huge advantage with Smart 5G’s ultra-low latency, which delivers a more responsive and lag-free mobile gaming experience. To know more about Smart Bro offers, visit https://smart.com.ph/bro.
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MLB RIVALS On Steam: Authentic Baseball Action Now On Early Access
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| (Image Source: Steam/Com2uS) |
Com2uS, a powerhouse developer behind MLB (Major League Baseball)-licensed games, announced that MLB RIVALS, a previously mobile-only competitive baseball game, is bringing the competition to Steam Early Access followed by a full global launch on Spring 2025. MLB RIVALS was officially released on Steam last November 12, 2024 and it is now available in Korean, English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Spanish. The Steam release allows users to cross-play the game on both mobile and PC platforms using the same account. Experience baseball action on PC and enjoy updated graphics and epic competition based on real-life teams, MLB Players, and stadiums that Rivals is already known for on mobile.
MLB RIVALS boasts high-quality graphics that showcase all MLB teams and stadiums plus tens of thousands of spectators in high-definition. Players will also be able to utilize game controllers (such as the DualSense Wireless Controller and Xbox Wireless Controller) for an updated gaming experience while taking advantage of Cross-Play across mobile and PC. Experience a dizzying array of gameplay modes including single player and multiplayer modes like League, Live Match and Ranked Slugger. By using motion capture to bring the Players' unique forms and actual movements to the game, MLB Rivals offers an immersive, wholly authentic presentation. “Since the success of MLB RIVALS at launch last year, Com2uS has wanted to expand the ultra-competitiveness and realism to a wider audience and create a baseball gaming experience worthy of their passion. With high-definition graphics, more control options, and more content than ever, this is an elevated baseball experience for newcomers and seasoned players alike," said Com2uS USA Director of Business Development Richard Grisham.
Players can follow MLB RIVALS here and will receive 50 Advanced Scout Tickets if the 10,000 followers milestone is reached and 20 additional Advanced Scout Tickets for every 10,000 followers beyond that. MLB RIVALS, previously titled MLB 9 INNINGS RIVALS, embodies two decades of baseball game production expertise and technology to showcase invigorating baseball features, including realistic ballparks of all MLB clubs and top-notch graphics of fan-favorite MLB Players, officially licensed by MLB Players Inc. and the league. Steam is one of the world's largest PC game platforms with over one billion users. It recorded over 35 million concurrently online users in March, renewing its own 34 million record in a week. Stay ahead of the competition and check out more details regarding the Steam version on the game's official community page.
