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| (Image Source: Starmometer/Smart Communications Inc.) |
Over a hundred farmers, fisherfolk, and small business owners across the province of Laguna are now ready to become digital entrepreneurs, through a training conducted by the International Trade Centre (ITC) under the Digital-PINAS initiative or the Joint Programme on Inclusive, Competitive, and Responsible Digital Philippines, bringing community-based MSME workshops to local communities with support from sole telco partners PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. through the PLDT Group’s #KonektedForLivelihoods initiative.
In the workshops conducted in the towns of Sta. Cruz, Pila, Victoria, and Los Baños, PLDT and Smart representatives held sessions on smartphone photography and cybersecurity awareness to enable participants to better showcase their products online while protecting themselves from falling victim to online scams. The Group also distributed Smart Prepaid pocket wifi units and load cards to support the sessions. “True digital transformation in the countryside isn’t about giving small business owners complicated software they don’t need. It is about taking the fear out of technology and showing a farmer or a local food vendor that a smartphone can be a powerful tool to protect their daily harvest, reach new buyers, and secure their family’s income right from their farms or kitchen tables. But without internet connectivity, bringing this digital transformation to the most in need is challenging. We are proud to count PLDT and Smart as our partner in supporting internet access during our trainings under Digital-PINAS and enhancing the connectivity of small businesses across the Philippines,” said Digital-PINAS Lead ITC Digital Expert Lorna Bondoc. “Our participation in Digital-PINAS reflects the PLDT Group’s broader commitment to inclusive growth, particularly for communities that have long faced barriers to entry in the digital economy. But our role goes beyond connectivity, because these sessions are meant to give the participants both the skills and the confidence to compete as digital entrepreneurs,” said PLDT and Smart Assistant Vice President and Head of Stakeholder Management Stephanie V. Orlino.
In Santa Cruz, the logo creation and smartphone photography modules gave members of the Coalition Alliance of Farmers in Sta. Cruz, Laguna (CAFSCL) the foundation to begin building their online presence. “From being ‘just farmers’, our members can now become farmer-entrepreneurs,” said CAFSCL Secretary Queen Anino. In Pila, 40 farmer-MSMEs and local business owners, including members of the Pila Laguna Agriculture Cooperative, applied smartphone photography techniques to their own products on-site. In Victoria, women entrepreneurs Jennifer Soria of Momshie Jen’s Bites and Filominas Espiritu of Pinky’s Pasalubong learned to improve their products’ appearance on social media. In Los Baños, cooperative leaders from the Municipal Cooperative Development Council and partner organizations learned the correct process of practical product photography. “This is excellent training for entrepreneurs like us,” according to the council's Vice Chairman Rafael J. Jumawid. Through #KonektedForLivelihoods, the PLDT Group partners with likeminded institutions like the ITC through initiatives like Digital-PINAS to help advance digital entrepreneurship among MSMEs. Digital-PINAS is funded by the UN Sustainable Development Goals Fund with generous contributions from the European Union and implemented by ITC, the International Labour Organization, and the UN Development Programme alongside key government agencies led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology.
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DAZN And Kings League Expand Partnership For International Coverage Of Kings World Cup Clubs 2026
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| (Image Source: DAZN) |
DAZN, the world-leading sports entertainment platform, has expanded its partnership with Kings League to secure international rights for the Kings World Cup Clubs 2026, which will be streamed live and free-to-view on July 26-August 1, 2026. DAZN will broadcast all 27 matches of the tournament in Spain and across Europe, Canada, Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Oceania, bringing the climax of the 2025-26 Kings League club season to fans around the world. The deal strengthens the growing relationship between two groundbreaking sports brands, redefining how fans experience live sport through digital-first entertainment.
Hosted in Milan, Italy, the Kings World Cup Clubs 2026 will see 16 of the top teams from Kings League’s seven regional competitions compete to become Kings League World Champions. The tournament will feature teams led by some of football’s biggest names including Lamine Yamal (La Capital CF – Kings League Spain), Neymar Jr. (Furia FC – Kings League Brazil), James Rodríguez (Atlético Parceros – Kings League México), and Hasan Salihamidžić (No Rules FC – Kings League Germany). Joining them will be many of the creator economy’s most influential personalities including Blur (Stallions – Kings League Lottomatica.sport Italy), Dr7bh (DR7 – Kings League MENA), Gaules (G3X – Kings League Brazil), Ibai Llanos (Porcinos FC – Kings League Spain) and Juan Guarnizo (Aniquiladores FC – Kings League México), highlighting the unique blend of elite football and digital entertainment that defines Kings League. Kings League CEO Djamel Agaoua said, “The Kings World Cup Clubs is the pinnacle of our club season and a powerful showcase of the global Kings League ecosystem. We’re delighted to continue building on our successful collaboration with DAZN and bring this unique competition to even more fans around the world. As Kings League continues to redefine how a new generation experiences sport through elite competition, creators and unforgettable emotions, we’re proud to do so alongside partners like DAZN, who share our ambition to bring innovative formats to fans everywhere.”
DAZN Group CEO Shay Segev said, “Kings League is one of the most exciting new sports entertainment properties in the world and we’re delighted to expand our partnership to bring the Kings World Cup Clubs 2026 to fans live and free-to-view on DAZN. This tournament combines football, creators and entertainment in a way that reflects how modern audiences engage with sport. As the global home of football, DAZN is uniquely positioned to help established and fast-growing formats – such as Kings League – reach new fans and grow its international audience.” DAZN’s coverage excludes Latin America, MENA (including Israel), Portugal, and the U.S. where rights have been licensed separately.
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Cabanatuan Eyes Faster, More Responsive Government Services Through PLDT, Smart’s AI-In-A-Box
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| PLDT and Smart Assistant Vice President and Head of Stakeholder Management Stephanie V. Orlino and Cabanatuan City Mayor Hon. Myca Elizabeth R. Vergara (Image Source: Starmometer/Smart Communications Inc.) |
Cabanatuan City takes a huge leap into a smarter future with PLDT and Smart’s AI-In-A-Box program. Under the initiative, the city government will develop its own AI-powered solution aimed at making public services smarter and more efficient. “We see artificial intelligence as a practical tool for improving governance and delivering better outcomes for our people. We are committed to institutionalizing this initiative and integrating it into our operations. This is part of our broader vision of building a smarter, more responsive city government that listens, acts, and serves more effectively,” said Cabanatuan City Mayor Myca Elizabeth R. Vergara.
With support from PLDT-Smart Foundation and Microsoft Philippines, AI-In-A-Box is the PLDT Group’s initiative to make artificial intelligence more accessible to communities, combining digital tools, connectivity, and training to help organizations and local governments turn emerging technologies into practical solutions. Each kit includes a laptop, a smartphone, a connectivity device, and premium access to AI tools. “AI-In-A-Box is about helping communities turn innovation into tangible benefits for the people they serve. By giving local governments access to practical AI tools and training, we hope to support more responsive public services, strengthen digital capabilities, and create more opportunities for Filipinos to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” said PLDT and Smart First Vice President and Head of Public Engagement Roby A. Alampay. Key personnel from different city government offices have been brought in for the AI mentorship and acceleration program. In the next few months, these Cabanatuan City LGU personnel will develop a centralized query platform that will receive citizen concerns, and route them to the appropriate office. Powered by AI, the system is expected to streamline public feedback management and help shorten response times for requests and inquiries. The city plans to integrate the solution into the existing ‘MyCabanatuan’ application.
As Cabanatuan City begins its AI Mentorship journey together with PLDT and Smart, it becomes one of several local government units exploring how technology can help make public services more responsive and accessible. The city joins Baguio City, Cebu City, and the province of Lanao del Sur, which have likewise partnered with PLDT and Smart to tap AI-enabled solutions for local governance. Through AI-In-A-Box, PLDT and Smart provide participating communities with access to digital tools, training, and mentorship as they build solutions designed to address local concerns. The initiative supports the PLDT Group’s much broader efforts to expand digital inclusion and encourage innovation in line with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goal (UNSDG) No. 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
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Angeline Quinto Celebrates 15-Year Journey Filled With Dreams Fulfilled In "AQuinse" Concert
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| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
Angeline Quinto is celebrating her 15th anniversary with “AQuinse” concert that will take place on August 22, 2026 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, promising an unforgettable evening filled with nostalgic music and heartfelt performances reliving her journey throughout the years. The Power Diva, best known for her signature hit “Patuloy Ang Pangarap”, described the show as a celebration of every dream she has fulfilled and every turning point in her life since emerging as the winner of the ABS-CBN reality singing competition “Star Power” in 2011 and becoming one of today’s most beloved singers.
Angeline shared, “Itong concert na ito, talagang very personal siya para sa akin dahil sa loob ng 15 years, napakaraming nangyari sa kwento ko na gusto kong maibahagi sa mga tao. May mga nakakaiyak, mga nakakatuwa, nakaka-inspire, at mga nakaka-inlove. Ang lahat ng pangyayaring iyon, I’m sure may isang kanta na tumatak talaga sa puso ko at sa puso ng mga supporters ko na gusto kong balikan. Pag narinig nila sa August 22, magbabalik yung ganung pakiramdam, yung gusto ko na parang napaka-nostalgic ng feeling.” Joining Angeline as special guests are Erik Santos, Skusta Clee, Viñas Deluxe, Brigiding, and Precious Paula Nicole (Divine Divas), Baby Dolls, and more.
Tickets to “AQuinse: The Angeline Quinto 15th Anniversary Concert” are available on Ticketnet and priced at Php8,999 (Super VIP), Php7,999 (SVIP), Php6,999 (VIP), Php4,999 (Patron A), Php3,999 (Patron B), Php2,999 (Lower Box), Php1,999 (Upper Box), and Php950 (Gen Ad).
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Celebrate The Launch Of Street Fighter 6’s First Filipina Character, Yasmine, At The Official Community Launch Event On August 9th
| (Image Source: PinoyGamer.ph/CAPCOM Co. Ltd.) |
CAPCOM invites fans, competitive players, and fighting game community members to the Official Street Fighter 6 ‘Yasmine’ Community Event to celebrate the historic debut of the first-ever Filipino character to enter the Street Fighter series. This high-octane celebration will be held on August 9, 2026 at Salud! by Primera Bar & Restaurant in Palanan, Makati City featuring a packed afternoon of fierce tournament play and fun community activities.
Since its global release, Street Fighter 6 has redefined the fighting game genre, surpassing 7 million units sold worldwide and dominating the global eSports landscape with its innovative and high-intensity combat mechanics. Now, as the game enters its highly anticipated Year 4, CAPCOM is kicking off the next competitive chapter with the arrival of a new character roster. Hailing from the Philippines, Yasmine learned how to fight alongside her Kuya (older brother) under the guidance of her Lolo (grandfather). Following the sudden disappearance of her brother, Yasmine put down her Karambit knife until FooTube videos of a certain French supermodel inspired her to cut a path to her lost sibling. On her journey of discovery, Yasmine will use various high-speed Eskrima techniques. Yasmine is the first character to be released from the upcoming Year 4 roster including Arjun, Tifa from the FINAL FANTASY VII Remake Series, and Bosch. Yasmine’s release will also coincide with Battle Balance adjustments for the entire Street Fighter 6 roster. Headlining the official community launch event is a community tournament featuring a double-elimination bracket comprising of a Best-of-Three/FT2 in the opening rounds and a Best-of-Five/FT3 from the quarterfinals to the finals. Those who can't make it to the event and international fans can catch all the action on the official YouTube channels of CAPCOM Asia and Enduins. Meanwhile, all event attendees stand a chance to go home with exclusive event goodies and on-site raffle prizes including an Original Official Event Exclusive Street Fighter 6 Yasmine theme T-shirt, an Original Official Event Exclusive Street Fighter 6 Yasmine theme Lanyard, an Original Official Event Exclusive Street Fighter 6 Yasmine theme keychains (6 design variants), and themed event food and refreshments. In addition, they can also expect a lineup of special guests, including cosplay icons, veteran figures from the local fighting game circuit and popular creators, set to grace the stage.
Yasmine will be unlocked and ready to cut class (and her opponents) on August 3, 2026 for players who own or purchase the Year 4 Character Pass or Year 4 Ultimate Pass. Yasmine’s Outfit 1 showcases her in Eskrima combat attire while Outfit 2 depicts Yasmine in her school uniform between bouts. Outfit 2 can be unlocked by maxing out her Acquisition Gauge in Avatar Arcade Mode or with Fighter Coins. Join the conversation online and share your hype using the hashtags #SF6LabanYasmine and follow CAPCOM Singapore's online accounts for more localized updates.
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Melai Cantiveros And MJ Felipe Share Extraordinary Filipino Stories In ABS-CBN News’ “Ibang Level ‘To”
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| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
Kapamilya comedienne-host Melai Cantiveros-Francisco joins forces with resident Star Patroller MJ Felipe in bringing extraordinary stories of Filipinos in ABS-CBN News’ newest news magazine show, “Ibang Level ‘To”, airing every Saturday starting July 25. “Ibang Level ‘To” promises engaging storytelling of extreme and outrageous accounts on Pinoy subcultures, inspiring experiences, groundbreaking innovations, and trending social media moments that go beyond the ordinary. Combined with Melai’s signature humor and MJ’s wit, both hosts will also provide a distinct Filipino perspective on such stories on screen.
For its debut episode, the show will explore some unconventional Filipino homes, from floating houses in Manila Bay and hanging shelters beneath the bridges of Tondo to an upside-down home in Benguet. Then, join Melai and MJ on an extreme gastronomic journey as they feature and try some of the country’s bizarre delicacies such as the Northern Luzon treat abuos or red ant caviar, the crispy sinuso or lechong kawali out of pork breast in Bulacan, and Pampanga’s exotic take on the classic adobo by using a strange organ from a rat as the main ingredient. Lastly, get to know the amazing healing properties of the calabash fruit that is said to relieve the nagging pains of arthritis and gout, the wonders of plant grafting that made a simple mango tree bear three kinds of fruit, and a berry that makes sour fruits taste sweet.
Don’t miss out on next-level Filipino stories in “Ibang Level ‘To” every Saturday starting July 25 at 6:45 pm on ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, and Kapamilya Online Live. It will also stream on ABS-CBN News’ YouTube channel and iWant. Filipinos outside the Philippines can catch the show on TFC (The Filipino Channel).
