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| vivo Vision Mixed Reality (MR) Headset (Image Source: Rappler/vivo Global) |
The Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 commenced in Boao, Hainan, China last March 25, 2025. As a strategic partner of the event for the fourth consecutive year and a new member of the Boao Forum for Asia Board of Directors, vivo showcased its cutting-edge innovations including the Blue Technology Matrix (BlueImage, BlueLM, BlueOS, BlueChip, BlueVolt), vivo Vision (vivo MR headset), 6G advancements, and more. vivo’s upcoming flagship imaging smartphone, the vivo X200 Ultra, was honored with the title of “Official Smartphone of Boao Forum for Asia”. During the “vivo Release Moment” session at the Boao Forum, vivo Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and vivo Central Research Institute President Hu Baishan delivered a keynote speech titled “Humanity in the Future of Technology by vivo”.
In his speech, Hu stated that the mobile phone industry is a microcosm of China’s technological innovation, and vivo’s development reflects the progress of this sector. Hu elaborated on the company’s core business philosophies applied over the past three decades, highlighting three different dimensions: long-termism, humanistic thinking and focus on collaboration and mutual achievement. To date, vivo has been the number one domestic mobile phone brand in the Chinese market in terms of market share for four consecutive years and serves over 500 million users in more than 60 countries and regions worldwide. Hu stated that over the past few decades, the mobile phone industry has served as an “incubator” for new industries, transforming how we live and work. Today, advancements in AI and robotics represent the pinnacle of technological achievements in the digital and physical worlds, respectively. Yet, these two worlds remain relatively independent and have not yet been perfectly integrated. The mobile phone industry, with its massive consumer base, the most forward-looking technological ecosystem, and diverse application scenarios, could help bridge these two worlds. Robotics could represent the future of the mobile phone industry, blending digital connectivity with physical capabilities.
Importantly, this future will continue to emphasize people-oriented values and focus on user scenarios to create ultimate experiences. In his speech, Hu revealed that vivo has officially established the vivo Robotics Lab. By leveraging vivo’s decade of “BlueTech” experience in fields like AI large learning models and imaging, together with the real-time spatial computing capabilities accumulated through vivo Vision, vivo will focus on developing two core areas, the “brain” and “eyes” of robots. At the same time, vivo will focus on the consumer market, developing robotic products for personal and home use. vivo aims to bring technology out of the laboratory and into users’ everyday lives. This way, it will focus on gradual breakthroughs and continuous innovation to address real-life scenarios and solve user pain points, iterating product development along the way. vivo Vision, unveiled for the first time at the Boao Forum, marks a significant milestone in vivo’s exploration of mixed reality technology. Building on this momentum, the upcoming vivo X200 Ultra, slated for release next month, will also integrate vivo’s latest advancements in imaging. Looking ahead, vivo envisions a world where robotics enhances everyday life and is committed to collaborating with industry partners to bring robots to households around the globe.
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The Business Of Social Good: National University Marks 125th Anniversary With Two New Campuses
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| An artist's perspective of National University Cebu Campus (Image Source: Philippines Graphic/National University) |
National University (NU) marks its 125th anniversary in 2025 with a significant milestone – the opening of two new campuses in Cebu and Las Piñas within SM properties, bringing its total campus count to 14 this year. This expansion is expected to increase student enrollment to 85,000, deepening NU’s commitment to its mission of providing accessible and quality education to more Filipinos. The expansion also reflects the shared vision of the SM Group and NU to foster positive change through education and community development. The new campuses, slated to open later this year, are an integral part of NU’s goal to reach more students across the country. This reflects both the SM Group and NU’s dedication to social good, as they work together to break barriers and create opportunities for all Filipinos. Henry Sy Sr. firmly believed that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, and this belief continues to guide the Sy family’s support of NU since 2008.
“We’ve been expanding with the purpose of providing more access to quality education, which is core to the SM Group’s commitment to social good. For us, giving back means ensuring that excellence in education reaches more Filipinos, regardless of their background. The Sy family has always aimed for excellence at NU — whether in academics, infrastructure, or sports,” said NU President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Renato Carlos H. Ermita Jr. In line with SM’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility along with its belief in every student’s potential, NU maintains an open admissions policy and invests in assessments that determines necessary intervention to help Senior High School (SHS) graduates to be college-ready. This ensures that a wider pool of Filipino student have the chance to pursue higher education regardless of their background or status. This is aligned and supportive of the SM Group’s broader aspiration of creating opportunities for growth and social mobility through education. NU’s ongoing pursuit of excellence is further reflected in its growing international recognition. Recently, the university earned a QS 3 Stars rating, with 5 Stars in Employability and 4 Stars in Teaching, Social Impact, Facilities and Good Governance, across 13 categories evaluated by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). QS is the world’s leading provider of services, analytics, and insights for the global higher education sector and its rating highlights NU’s commitment to global best practices in education.
Dr. Emilia shared, “We are focused on building international credibility for NU. This recognition from our international peers is a testament to our commitment to our students and graduates. Our chairman, Dr. Hans Sy, recognizes the value of research and faculty development, which is why we are transforming NU into a research-oriented university. This is in direct alignment with the SM Group’s long-standing advocacy for advancing education and social progress.” As part of this vision, NU aims to offer greater international mobility for its students, ensuring their credentials are globally recognized. This, along with SM’s support, enhances opportunities for students to compete in the global marketplace. In true NU fashion, Dr. Ermita concluded, “Our students can rise above their circumstances through hard work, dedication, patience, humility, strength, and conviction. With the continued support of the SM Group, together, we embark on this ongoing journey to success, driving social good through education.”
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Hallyu Star Choi Bo-Min’s Love For PH Sparks Collaboration With The Tourism Promotions Board
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| Shown inside the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines office, L-R: TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Choi Bo-Min, Universal Records Philippines Managing Director Kathleen Dy-Go (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/Tourism Promotions Board Philippines) |
In a heartfelt gesture of admiration for the Philippines, South Korean actor and K-pop artist Choi Bo-Min is excited to collaborate with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines to help showcase the country’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality to his fans around the world. Through Universal Records, Choi Bo-Min has offered his support as a goodwill advocate of Philippine tourism. Visiting the Philippines for the first time, he was moved by the Filipino spirit and is now driven to inspire others to explore the wonders of the Philippines.
A rising figure in the global Hallyu wave, Choi Bo-Min is a multi-talented performer known for his work as a singer, actor, and host. He began his career as a member of K-pop group Golden Child, and has since earned acclaim for roles in hit dramas like A-Teen 2, 18 Again, and Shadow Beauty. He is represented in the Philippines by Universal Records and GLXY Talent Management as he embarks on more projects in the country including new music releases and a forthcoming drama series. “This gesture is both humbling and inspiring. We are honored by Bo-Min’s genuine interest in getting to know the Philippines beyond the usual tourist routes. His enthusiasm to share our country’s wonders with his followers reflects his deep appreciation for cultural and natural diversity. With his wide-reaching influence, we are confident that more people will come to see the Philippines in a new and meaningful light,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. :
South Korea remains the Philippines’ top source of international visitors. In 2023, the country welcomed 1.45 million South Korean tourists, rising to 1.57 million in 2024. From January to February 2025 alone, the Philippines has already welcomed 294,652 Korean tourists, making up 25.23% of all inbound arrivals. Planning is currently underway for a series of visits and content collaborations that will allow him to experience and share the best of the Philippines. Both TPB and Choi Bo-Min are excited about what’s ahead, and more details will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates by following Tourism Promotions Board Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.
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Dance Your Way To Php1M With The #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/OPPO Philippines) |
Turn up the summer heat and dance to the beat with the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge! This high-energy social media contest invites Filipinos to showcase their best moves for a chance to win Php1M (1 Million Pesos). The #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge highlights the durability and reliability of the newest and strongest A Series device yet from OPPO, the OPPO A5 Pro, by tapping into Filipinos’ creativity and rhythm as they dance through various weather conditions or unpredictable moments in life alongside the device as their dependable companion.
Show your best moves at the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge
Ready to turn up the heat or conquer the rain with the OPPO A5 Pro? Get a chance to slay the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge by following these steps:
1. Film your best dance moves using the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge’s official audio for a minimum of 15 seconds while creatively incorporating different weather elements like heavy rains, hot weather, or windy days. Hit up Jackie Gonzaga, Ken San Jose, Joshua Decena, Aira Casim, and Sesable’s posts for the official dance challenge audio and maybe get some slick move ideas along the way!
2. Post your video on TikTok using the hashtag #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay, tag @oppophilippines, and ask your friends to hype up your entry by engaging on your post.
3. Secure your entry by filling out this Google Form (https://bit.ly/4k5CoXX) and manifest your success.
Official entries to the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge will be evaluated by a group of judges based on the following criteria:
• Choreography – You must display creativity, originality and skillful execution of your moves.
• Creativity – Your entries must also creatively show your dance moves in any weather conditions or water elements.
• Stage Presence – Show off your swag, confidence and charisma in your dance video.
• Execution/Precision – Be flawless when you flaunt your moves.
Overall Impact – Showcase yourself having a great time while snapping and slaying your way to winning.
There is no limit to the number of entries you want to submit. Each dance video you post until April 25, 2025 will be counted as one entry.
Your reliable companion in every situation — the OPPO A5 Pro 5G
The #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge is powered by OPPO’s strongest A Series device yet, the all-new OPPO A5 Pro 5G. Upholding the true meaning of #OPPOLangSakalam, get to experience durability and reliability with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G (8 GB + 256 GB) priced at Php15,999 and available in two stunning colorways—Bloom Pink and Mocha Brown. The OPPO A5 Pro (8 GB + 128 GB) is also a great option for Php10,999. It will be available in colorways Mocha Brown and Olive Green. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G and OPPO A5 Pro are available in OPPO Philippines concept stores and authorized dealers/resellers nationwide and online via OPPO’s official Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop channels. If you want to get the OPPO A5 Pro 5G or the OPPO A5 Pro in flexible payment terms, Home Credit is offering a 6- to 18-month payment scheme with no interest while credit card users get a 6- or 12- month 0% interest payment options.
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AirAsia Philippines Among Key Markets In AirAsia Aviation Group’s 30-Route Expansion
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| (Image Source: iOrbit News Online/AirAsia Aviation Group) |
AirAsia Aviation Group has announced exciting news for the Philippines as it will be among the key markets to gain from over 30 new routes set to launch in 2025 as the Group pushes forward to achieve strong recovery in strengthening ASEAN regional and domestic connectivity. This year, AirAsia Group will be focused on optimising its route network with frequency increases across high-demand routes including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia aiming to support growth in high-demand destinations such as India, China, and throughout ASEAN.
As part of this growth, AirAsia Philippines confirms it will ramp up its Taipei service to 17 weekly flights from 14 times weekly starting in July 2025. “We look forward to supporting AirAsia Aviation Group’s strategy to enhance connectivity for both domestic and international services focused on flying the most profitable and popular routes. The Philippines offers immense potential, especially in terms of global tourism with strong forecast demand. Increasing our Taipei flight frequencies is part of our forward strategy and brand promise in democratizing air travel while providing purposeful journeys that will endear travelers to explore their dream destinations,” said AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla. These efforts lay the foundation for a sustainable, viable and profitable future, ahead of the proposed acquisition of AirAsia by AirAsia X Berhad from Capital A Berhad when the consolidation of both short- and medium-haul airlines into an enlarged and robust aviation group is complete.
“In 2025, as we return to full capacity, we’ll be balancing sustainable growth with profitability. Our network strategy will prioritise strategic, demand-driven connectivity across Asia. With over 30 new routes and increased frequencies on our most popular services, we are responding directly to market demand and Fly-Thru connecting opportunities. Our Fly-Thru traffic grew to 4.3 million in 2024, and we are targeting over seven million Fly-Thru guests this year, accounting for approximately 10% of total passengers. This growth supported by the reactivation of 16 aircraft and the delivery of 14 new aircraft in 2025 will form the backbone of our ongoing expansion plans,” said AirAsia Aviation Group CEO Bo Lingam. This year, the airline expects to operate a fleet of 234 narrowbody aircraft across the airline’s five short-haul airlines, restoring full pre-pandemic capacity. Only 16 aircraft remain to be reactivated, while 14 new aircraft deliveries have been confirmed for 2025, four from Airbus and 10 via lessors.
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BPI’s VYBE Cash-In Now Available At ECPay Locations Nationwide
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| (Image Source: Fintech News Philippines/Bank Of The Philippine Islands) |
VYBE, the e-wallet platform developed by the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), has broadened its cash-in accessibility across the Philippines through a strategic partnership with Electronic Commerce Payments Inc. (ECPay). The collaboration aims to provide Filipinos with more convenient access to digital financial services, leveraging ECPay’s extensive network of over 4,000 locations nationwide. Users of VYBE can now seamlessly top up their e-wallets by selecting ‘VYBE By BPI’ at any of the 1,300 ECPay kiosks available across the country, with the added benefit of zero convenience fees. Furthermore, the partnership will soon extend cash-in capabilities to over 4,000 partner stores, encompassing supermarkets, pawn shops, petrol stations, and local sari-sari stores.
This initiative is part of BPI’s ongoing efforts to introduce innovative financial solutions, as exemplified by their recent BPI Awesome Travel Fair 2025 which offered exclusive travel deals to Filipino travellers. By aligning with ECPay, VYBE reinforces its commitment to providing a free and secure financial tool to a wider demographic. The expanded partnership simplifies the process of adding funds to VYBE wallets, even for individuals without a BPI account. ECPay’s widespread network plays a crucial role in enabling VYBE to reach a broader user base, encompassing both urban and rural areas, thus facilitating greater participation in the digital economy. Such development is particularly significant in bridging the financial access gap for those traditionally underserved by conventional banking services.
“Our strengthened partnership with ECPay marks a pivotal step in enhancing VYBE’s accessibility for Filipinos nationwide,” stated BPI Head of Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems Eric Faustino who also said that the company is also thrilled to offer users a straightforward and convenient method to top up their e-wallets and engage with the digital financial ecosystem, thereby fostering financial inclusion across the Philippines. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in making digital financial services more readily available to a broader spectrum of the Filipino population.
