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| The delegation from Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia at De La Salle Lipa (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
In a significant step toward international collaboration and knowledge exchange, De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) recently welcomed a delegation from the Swinburne University of Technology from Melbourne, Australia, composed of 13 students whose courses range from cybersecurity, computer sciences, and aviation management. Led by Dr. Caslon Chua who is the Department Chair of Computing Technologies from the School of Science, Computing, and Engineering Technologies, the group’s visit last December 5, 2024 showcased DLSL’s commitment to gathering meaningful global partnerships.
The day’s activities highlighted the strong academic and technological capabilities of DLSL. The Swinburne delegation toured the modern ICT (Information and Communications Technology) Center where they gained invaluable insights into network monitoring and infrastructure operations. The hands-on exposure underscored DLSL’s dedication to providing world-class learning environments, making it an ideal partner for international collaborations. The visit also included a dynamic discussion on pressing cybersecurity issues. It was inspiring to witness Swinburne students actively engaging with their DLSL counterparts and exchanging ideas. These moments of collaboration underscore the shared commitment of both institutions to addressing global technological challenges. No Filipino hospitality is complete without local delicacies, and the visitors were treated to an authentic experience with a snack featuring the beloved puto, pansit and turon. The gesture not only added a cultural touch to the visit but also left a lasting impression on the Swinburne group who expressed their delight at the warm reception.
The successful visit was made possible through the coordination of DLSL Linkages Director Grace Sanchez with steadfast support from Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Tessie Palma and Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalization Bro. Manuel Pajarillo FSC. The collaborative efforts showcased DLSL’s strategic thrust to enhance global engagement and nurture international relationships. Both De La Salle Lipa and Swinburne University are optimistic about future endeavors, looking forward to more collaborative projects and opportunities to learn from each other. The visit is part of DLSL’s ongoing internationalization efforts, reinforcing its vision to be a global academic institution that bridges cultures and ideas for a better future. De La Salle Lipa remains steadfast in its commitment to cultivating partnerships that elevate educational experiences and equip students with the global perspective necessary for today’s interconnected world.
(With words by Dfezie Tipan, De La Salle Lipa)
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PLDT, Smart, Muenchen, TPC Empower MSMEs As 'Key Opinion Leaders'
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| (Image Source: MegaBites/Smart Communications Inc.) |
PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart), continue to empower Filipino Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through technology, driving economic growth and digital inclusion in communities nationwide. Under its eBizNovation program, PLDT and Smart have partnered with Muenchen and its affiliate Telepreneur Corporation (TPC) to upskill its MSME members in digital marketing, with a focus on influencer marketing. This collaboration helps MSMEs build strong personal brands, craft compelling messages, and leverage social media to expand their reach and grow their businesses.
“In today’s digital-first economy, the ability to harness social media is a game-changer for our MSMEs. Through our eBizNovation program, we aim to create a lasting impact by enabling MSMEs to harness the power of technology to achieve their goals,” said PLDT and Smart Assistant Vice President (AVP) and Head of Stakeholder Management Stephanie V. Orlino. TPC Vice President for Sales and Marketing Sajiron Lusanto R. Dayao views this training as the first step in empowering their members to become Key Opinion Leaders, stating, “We have a significant market for our programs. Partnering with Smart will provide us with additional support. This new model, different from traditional multi-level marketing, will strengthen our relationship with Smart and its value brand TNT. By empowering our members as Key Opinion Leaders or brand ambassadors, we can further enhance our partnership. We are extremely grateful for their support.” TPC Team Leader Mary Jane Quimno stated, “I learned from this session the importance of being always present on my social channels. A Key Opinion Leader has to grow their audience by engaging with them. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Smart and TNT for teaching this type of online marketing.”
PLDT and Smart’s commitment to digital inclusion aligns with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically UNSDG #1: No Poverty and UNSDG #8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By equipping MSMEs with the necessary tools and knowledge, PLDT and Smart are helping to build a more inclusive digital economy.
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Warner Music Philippines Presents An Epic APT.-Themed Performance
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| (Image Source: The Manila Times/Warner Music Philippines) |
ROSÉ and Bruno Mars fans in Bonifacio High Street at Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig City were delighted last December 21, 2024 when local musicians from Banda San Jose surprised them with an incredible pop-up performance. Those who witnessed this musical feat got to hear the record-breaking collaboration between Bruno Mars and Blackpink’s ROSÉ, “APT.”, as well as two songs from the latter’s newest solo album “rosie” – “number one girl” and “toxic till the end”. To give the crowd something to move and groove to, the band also performed some of Bruno Mars’ greatest hits like “Uptown Funk”, “Just the Way You Are” and “Locked Out of Heaven”.
This lively marching band performance comes months after the release of the hit single APT., which has garnered critical acclaim throughout the world. To date, this collaboration by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars has achieved the feat of being the biggest debut for a male-female duet on YouTube. APT. also debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Philippines Hot 100 charts, and retained this spot for five weeks. As individual artists, ROSÉ and Bruno Mars have also been breaking records of their own. The former has set the record for the highest monthly listeners on Spotify by a K-Pop artist which isn’t surprising given the success of her debut album. Meanwhile, Bruno Mars has amassed over 120 million monthly listeners on Spotify, making him the number one artist in the world.
It’s clear that both these musical icons continue to go beyond their already-impressive portfolio, and have cracked the code for producing hit after hit. Whether or not ROSÉ and Bruno Mars do another collaboration, fans are sure to get more amazing music from both of them in the future.
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Infinix's Neighborhood Map Is An Exciting Way To Experience MLBB's Exciting IRL
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Infinix Philippines) |
The world of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) is filled with magic and wonder. Players spend their time in the arena, known as the Land of Dawn, to battle heroes from across all seven regions. Experienced players already know every nook and cranny of MLBB’s map as they come up with effective strats to reach the coveted Mythic rank. If you’ve ever wanted to feel the feeling of running through MLBB’s world, Infinix is bringing an IRL adventure called #NeighborhoodMap which has fun challenges, mini-tournaments, and more.
The map plots down select MLBB-themed physical stores where participants must bring their A-game to complete various tasks for a chance to take home awesome physical rewards, like Pop Sockets, T-shirts, and earbuds. There will also be experience zones to test out Infinix’s latest gaming phones including the MLBB Professional League (MPL) Philippines' official smartphone GT 20 Pro. “Mobile Legends: Bang Bang provides thrilling gaming experiences to millions of Filipinos, no matter where they are in the world. We are excited to see our community have fun and express their love for the game at the Neighborhood Map events,” said MOONTON Games Business Development Manager Kevin Acuña. “We always strive to bring fun and immersive activities to our fans, especially those who are avid players of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. It’s an exciting MOBA to play and watch, so we wanted to translate that feeling through the Neighborhood Map’s challenges. At the same time, they can level up their gameplay with the latest Infinix gaming phones, such as the GT 20 Pro,” said Infinix Philippines eSports and Gaming Strategy Manager Harry Leonardo.
Apart from the challenges, Infinix’s #NeighborhoodMap is also a chance to meet and bond with fellow MLBB fans in the flesh. They might even meet their future teammates for tournaments during the event. The Infinix x MLBB #NeighborhoodMap kicked off last December 18, 2024. Be sure to check out the official Infinix Philippines Facebook page and Community page for details about this exciting event. Share your moments with the hashtag #GGWithInfinix.
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More Rewards, Unli Fun For PLDT Home Customers In Mindanao
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/PLDT Inc.) |
Loyal PLDT customers have one more reason to celebrate this Christmas as PLDT Home Rewards rolls out its partnership with the Romgarjal Group, the company behind Glorious Fantasyland – the largest theme park in Mindanao, Dakak Resort and Properties, Villa Angelina, and many more. Located in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, this iconic destination offers thrilling rides, magical attractions, and unforgettable entertainment for all ages, especially this holiday season.
Under this partnership, PLDT Home Rewards members can enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on entrance fees and other exciting offers when they visit Glorious Fantasyland, a five-hectare theme park established in 2009 by the owners of the world-famous Dakak Beach Resort, along with other rewarding discounts in restaurants, accommodation, experiences, food and beverage, and even car rental services. The park features more than 30 rides, live entertainment, cultural parades, and unique attractions like a 5D cinema and Lakbay Pilipinas, a train ride showcasing replicas of Philippine landmarks. This collaboration between PLDT Home and Romgarjal Group is part of Visitamos Rizal, a unified initiative positioning Dapitan City as Mindanao’s premier destination for family-friendly fun and adventure, steeped in history and cultural significance. “At PLDT Home, we are committed to creating meaningful experiences for our customers through delightful rewards and perks. This partnership also supports our commitment to promoting local tourist destinations to both Filipinos and international visitors, contributing to livelihood generation and boosting the local economy during the holiday season,” said PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Sales and Development John Y. Palanca.
PLDT Home Rewards makes every connection more rewarding by giving loyal customers exclusive perks and benefits. With every payment, customers earn crystals that can be redeemed for exciting rewards such as bill rebates, vouchers, and lifestyle deals. It’s PLDT Home’s way of thanking loyal customers for choosing the country’s fastest and most reliable internet connection. For more information, visit https://pldthome.com/loyalty-and-rewards. Not a PLDT Home Rewards member yet? Activate your membership for free via https://rewards.pldthome.com/login and take advantage of this and other amazing perks. For more details, visit pldthome.com or follow PLDT Home on Facebook.
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BRAVE International Combat Week 2024 Sets New Standards In Global Combat Sports Events
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| (Image Source: BRAVE Combat Federatio) |
BRAVE Combat Federation concluded a groundbreaking year with the spectacular 2024 edition of BRAVE International Combat Week, recently held in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The event set new global standards for combat sports, blending high-stakes competition with a star-studded audience. With over 15,000 fans attending, BRAVE International Combat Week, featuring BRAVE CF 91, BRAVE CF 92, and the IMMAF (International Mixed Martial Arts Federation) Asian Youth MMA Championships, not only shattered attendance records but also marked a pivotal moment in MMA history by attracting dignitaries and personalities from various industries.
BRAVE Combat Federation drew more than 15,000 fans to Bahrain, reflecting its growing influence and appeal beyond traditional MMA audiences. The event was graced by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the visionary leader behind BRAVE CF. Other notable attendees included UAE Cricket Federation General Secretary Mubashshir Usmani, former BCCI CEO Rahul Johri, and Russia’s Minister of Sport Mikhail Degtyarev. Prominent sports leaders such as Mustafa Ghouse, Bahrain’s Minister of Industry and Commerce Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, and General Sports Authority CEO Dr. Abdulrahman Sadiq Askar further highlighted the event’s stature. Global MMA icons like former BRAVE CF fighter and world champion Ilia Topuria, Middle Eastern stars Abdullah Al Qahtani and Hattan Alsaif, and former Olympian Mahmoud Fawzy Sebie added prestige to the event.
The Combat Week showcased BRAVE CF’s unparalleled ability to transcend traditional MMA events by creating a dynamic and inclusive sports platform. With record-breaking achievements and the presence of influential personalities from sports, politics, and industry, BRAVE International Combat Week 2024 has solidified BRAVE CF’s position as an industry leader. As the organization wraps up a historic year, it sets the tone for an even bigger 2025, reaffirming its commitment to redefining the combat sports landscape.
