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| (Image Source: Philippine Information Agency/Department Of Science And Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute) |
The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) is calling on local designers to develop creative footwear designs that highlight Filipino identity through storytelling, design, and materials. As part of the celebration of Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month with the theme “Weaving Circularity”, the DOST-PTRI recently launched the 10th Filipino Footwear Design Competition, which will be a platform to highlight Filipino creativity and promote the local footwear industry in the country. The agency said, “The local footwear industry may not currently match its previous level of international recognition and scale, but it is poised for a resurgence, driven by growing global trends in sustainability and innovative design. By connecting the textile and footwear industries, sustainable textile technologies can be applied to create eco-friendly footwear, meeting the demand for both sustainable options and iconic local designs.”
As the lead agency responsible for advancing the textile and footwear industries, the DOST-PTRI launched the Shoes and Footwear Accessories R&D Towards Omnibus Solutions, commonly known as SAFATOS in 2022. The agency said the program seeks to include the power of computer-aided tools and digitalization in the textile and footwear manufacturing sector. “Through the SAFATOS Program, textile-based innovations have been developed, such as the re-engineering of handloom woven textiles to meet the requirements for footwear applications and the creation of woven uppers using bamboo and banana textile fibers,” said DOST-PTRI. The 10th FFDC is a joint effort among the Philippine Footwear Federation Inc. (PFFI), the Department of Trade and Industry – National Capital Region Office (DTI-NCRO), and the DOST-PTRI. In this year’s competition, the FFDC will collate the designs from the participants and hold a pre-judging event which will narrow down the submissions for the next step.
The semi-finalists will have an opportunity to prototype their designs in partnership with local footwear manufacturers, turning their designs into reality. Final judging will be based on the finished prototypes with a presentation from the designers. According to DOST-PTRI, aside from the cash prize of Php50,000, the winners of the FFDC will also get a chance to present their prototypes in the International Footwear Design Competition to be held in Guangzhou China. The agency said, “This year’s theme, Weaving Circularity, reflects a dedication to crafting pathways for growth, collaboration, and inclusivity within the textile industry. It builds on 2023’s Pushing Boundaries and 2024’s Spinning Innovations, emphasizing the fusion of science, technology, and sustainable practices.”
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A Toast To 12 Years: Solaire Resort Entertainment City Shines With Signature Fusions From Renowned Mixologists
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| (L-R) Akihiro Igarashi, Tea Master He Jia, Craig Swindell and Shingo Gokan (Image Source: Daily Tribune/Solaire Resort Entertainment City) |
To celebrate its 12th anniversary, Solaire Resort Entertainment City welcomes beverage experts from around the world to share their signature drinks that pair perfectly with the culinary creations of Michelin Star chefs Jun Yukimura, Sun Kim, and Heinz Beck. These award-winning mixologists and “masters” of their craft have worked closely with the chefs to give guests an extraordinary dining experience to remember. Starting February 28 until March 16, catch these experts’ collaboration with the chefs at Yakumi, Waterside, and Finestra. For their own bar takeovers, visit Baccarat Room & Bar and Whisky Bar.
Renowned mixologist Shingo Gokan and Sake Master Brewer Akihiro Igarashi, joins Michelin Star chef Jun Yukimura at Yakumi for an exquisite drink pairing dinner from February 28-March 1 at 6:00 pm. Akihiro crafts high-quality sakes deeply rooted in Japan’s sake traditions. He is a Board Member and Director General of the Kagamiyama Brewery in Japan. Shingo, on the other hand, is known for his innovative bar concepts and cocktail executions. He owns multiple bars including SG Club in Tokyo, The Odd Couple in Shanghai, Gokan in Hong Kong, and more. Discover cocktail flavors with a modern flair at his bar takeover in Baccarat Room & Bar at 8:00 pm. On March 2, indulge in an elegant Sunday brunch with Chef Yukimura’s signature dishes paired with unique cocktail flavors and premium sakes. Tea Master He Jia adds to the list as she spotlights Waterside alongside Michelin Star chef Sun Kim, owner of Meta, a 2-Michelin Star restaurant in Singapore. She is recognized for her expertise in the art of tea making and the ability to educate others about the intricate processes of selecting and preparing tea. She is also the known Champion of ‘Tea Fairy’ tea ceremony culture and listed tea art expert in Professional Skills Expert Database, Mian Yang. Get a taste of her tea creations paired with Chef Kim’s signature dishes for dinner and brunch and gain insights on its health benefits from March 7-9. Whisky lovers can join a masterclass on March 15 at 4:00 pm at the Whisky Bar featuring Craig Swindell, a preeminent global specialist for The Dalmore. He played a key role in championing the brand globally and contributing to its recent innovations such as The Dalmore Portfolio Series and The Dalmore Cask Curation.
“We always strive to offer our guests unforgettable experiences, and we are proud to celebrate our 12th anniversary as we showcase the artistry of world-renowned mixologists. Their creativity and passion not only elevate the cocktails they craft but also enriches the entire experience of our guests,” says Solaire Resorts' Director for Beverage Daniel Blais. Celebrate and toast to 12 years at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. For details and more information, you may email at restaurantevents@solaireresort.com. You can also check out https://sec.solaireresort.com/ or Solaire’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
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Globe Harnesses AI To Drive Operational Efficiency
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| (Image Source: SunStar/Globe Telecom) |
As enterprises increasingly adopt advanced Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) for security and efficiency, Globe Telecom is making notable progress in integrating this technology to streamline operations, optimize network performance, and elevate customer service. A GSMA outlook for 2025 showed that telecommunications operators around the world are looking to AI in driving business objectives including better customer experience and enhancing financial performance. Globe’s commitment in AI reflects these findings according to Globe's Chief AI Officer Anton Bonifacio, stating, “The integration of generative AI is central to our efforts to improve both our operational processes and the services we provide. AI enables us to drive efficiency and sustainability, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our customers and the environment.”
The company leverages GenAI in its network to prevent service interruptions and improve uptime while also applying it in backend operations to ensure more efficient energy use. To further its AI initiatives, Globe has established a dedicated AI Group and appointed Bonifacio as Chief AI Officer, the first in the Philippines. This shift demonstrates Globe’s long-term commitment to AI across its operations, ensuring it stays at the forefront of technological innovation. In customer service, Globe is looking to adopt AI models that understand Tagalog that will serve as conversational AI to better understand and respond to customer queries, reduce wait times, and increase satisfaction. GCash, Globe’s financial services arm, benefits from AI through automated credit scoring, enabling faster, more accurate loan approvals for millions of customers.
Globe also views AI as a powerful tool to make employees happier by streamlining tasks, improving work-life balance, and freeing up time for more impactful work. This, in turn, drives better customer experiences and, ultimately, increases shareholder value. Employees are also empowered to build their own bots to address their own work needs and enhance workflow and productivity. For Globe, responsible AI is a critical component in driving sustainable digital transformation. It has adopted the GSMA’s industry-first Responsible AI (RAI) Maturity Roadmap to ensure its AI delivers business value while contributing to sustainable development.
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FIBA Asia Board Highlights Major Progress, Sets Ambitious 2025 Goals
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| (Image Source: Sports Bytes Philippines/FIBA) |
The FIBA Asia Board convened its third meeting of the 2023-2027 cycle last January 28, 2025 in Jeddah, KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). Chaired by FIBA Asia President Dr. K Govindaraj, the meeting included notable attendees such as FIBA President Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al Thani, FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, and FIBA Asia Executive Director Hagop Khajirian. This year’s first Board meeting followed a highly productive period from April to December 2024, during which FIBA Asia’s Regional Office implemented pivotal initiatives. These included the launch of the Women’s Basketball League Asia, continental youth events, and the successful first season of the BCL Asia Qualifiers.
The FIBA Asia Board reiterated its commitment to FIBA’s three pillars of Strategic Priorities for 2023-27. The FIBA Plus initiative, designed to empower national federations, was emphasized as a cornerstone of these goals. The inaugural Women’s Basketball League Asia, held in October 2024, received widespread acclaim. The event not only attracted a live audience of 8,000 spectators but also garnered an impressive 2.7 million online viewers for its final game. This success highlighted FIBA Asia’s focus on advancing two key pillars: Women in Basketball and Shaping International Club Competitions. The Board also reviewed the progress of the FIBA-WASL league and celebrated the restructured competition format for the BCL Asia Qualifiers, now known as BCL Asia-East. A major focus of the meeting was planning the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in Jeddah, and the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 in Shenzhen, China. Both events aim to set new benchmarks in execution, presentation, and fan engagement.
Dr. Govindaraj expressed optimism about the Board’s vision, saying, “These initiatives reflect our commitment to fostering basketball growth across Asia. From empowering national federations to promoting women’s basketball, we aim to elevate the sport at every level.” The meeting concluded with activity reports from the Regional Office, highlighting the growing success of FIBA-owned leagues in Asia and their alignment with strategic objectives. The FIBA Asia Board’s dedication to achieving unprecedented standards in basketball is clear with a focus on inclusivity, innovation, and impactful partnerships driving its mission forward.
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NBA Africa, UM6P Unleash Basketball Revolution In Morocco With Historic Youth Programs
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| University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) President Hicham El Habti and NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum at a signing ceremony at UM6P France in Paris, France (Image Source: Sports Bytes Philippines/NBA Africa) |
NBA Africa and University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) have joined forces to revolutionize youth basketball in Morocco with their most expansive initiative yet. Through the launch of the first-ever NBA Basketball Schools and four Jr. NBA leagues, this transformative collaboration aims to inspire a new generation of athletes while strengthening Morocco’s sports ecosystem. Implemented by UM6P’s sports development subsidiary EVOSPORT, the program will reach nearly 2,000 boys and girls aged 18 and under annually in Khouribga, Gantour, Laayoune, and El Jadida. Beyond youth participation, over 200 local coaches will benefit from Jr. NBA Coaches Workshops, fostering a dynamic environment for basketball development at all levels.
The historic collaboration was announced during a signing ceremony at UM6P France in Paris, France, attended by UM6P President Hicham El Habti, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, and Basketball Africa League (BAL) President Amadou Gallo Fall. “This initiative aligns perfectly with UM6P’s mission to inspire and develop young minds through innovation. Through EVOSPORT, we are committed to creating opportunities for young athletes to thrive,” said El Habti. Akamanzi added, “We’ve seen the incredible passion for basketball in Morocco. Together with UM6P, we’re significantly expanding youth basketball efforts to provide opportunities for thousands of Moroccan youth to learn and play the game.”
This partnership builds on NBA Africa’s and OCP Group’s previous initiatives, which have already engaged over 100,000 Moroccan youth and coaches. As the Basketball Africa League (BAL) prepares for its first games in Morocco this April, the momentum for basketball development in the country is stronger than ever. With NBA Africa and UM6P leading the charge, this program promises to unlock the potential of Morocco’s youth, paving the way for a brighter and more dynamic basketball future across the nation.
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Games For Change Announces 22nd Annual Festival Focused On “Designing For Tomorrow”
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| (Image Source: Games For Change) |
Games For Change (G4C) will host its 22nd annual Festival at Parsons School of Design at The New School in New York City on June 26-27, 2025. For over two decades, the G4C Festival has been the premier global event for bringing together game developers, creators, educators, and social innovators who believe in the power of games and immersive media to drive real-world change. Under the theme “Designing For Tomorrow”, the Festival will explore how games and immersive media can foster collaboration across generations, perspectives, and sectors. During the two-day Festival, attendees will engage in keynotes, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities centered around three primary tracks: Games & Learning, Civics & Social Issues, and Health & Wellbeing. XR programming will be integrated throughout all tracks.
New this year, G4C will host a Masterclass series on June 25 where industry leaders and game design experts will lead in-depth learning sessions. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from high-profile gaming professionals as they share their expertise on topics like in-platform game development, the power of play and design, and securing funding. These are carefully curated sessions tailored for the G4C community. The Games For Change Awards ceremony on June 26, a cornerstone of the Festival, will celebrate excellence in social impact games and immersive media. Categories include Most Significant Impact, Best in Innovation, and Best Narrative, among others. This year, the Awards ceremony introduces a new category “Best Platform-Based Project”, recognizing impactful games and immersive experiences created within established gaming platforms (such as Minecraft, Roblox, or Fortnite Creative) that leverage built-in tools and communities to drive meaningful social impact.
“For 22 years, the Games for Change Festival has been a meeting ground for cross-sector innovation in games and immersive media. As our industry continues to evolve, we’re expanding our programming to meet the moment. Our new Masterclass series and enhanced awards program reflect the growth and excitement of our sector. We’re thrilled to return to Parsons, where we can build on this momentum and foster the next wave of collaboration and innovation,” said G4C President Susanna Pollack. For more information, visit festival.gamesforchange.org.
