Monthly Archives: November 2022

TODO Na DITO ang GAMING!

No doubt the gaming and esports scene in the Philippines keeps on growing. According to a recent report by Twitter, the Philippines ranked 7th in the list of top countries Tweeting about gaming in the first half of 2022. During this period, Twitter saw about 1.5 billion Tweets about gaming and these were driven by new game releases and events happening globally.

Filipinos are not just avid players, many are climbing up the ranks to worldwide success with eSports now recognized as a legitimate sport. Gaming and eSport communities have been emerging, providing gamers opportunities to hone their skills to competitive levels.

Mobile and internet accessibility has fueled these developments and DITO, the newest telco player, has been massively supporting gaming communities through its next-generation technology. Further igniting Filipinos’ love for gaming and potential in excelling in eSports, DITO commits to provide seamless mobility to further advance the country’s gaming scene, allowing gamers to go all out in making the most of their talents, interests, and passions.

“DITO Telecommunity supports Filipino gamers because we believe that gaming can bring communities together. This resonates with our own mission of weaving together stronger communities through digital innovation and stronger connectivity. We remain committed to providing gamers with the best game adventures possible with fast, reliable, and hassle-free mobile data services. DITO is an ally of Filipino gamers and we are thrilled to witness their success as they move up the ranks and represent the country in the gaming universe,” said DITO Telecommunity Brand and Marketing Director Jasper Evangelista.

Level Up Entertainment

DITO takes gaming and entertainment to the next level with up to 6GB open access data for free!

For a minimum purchase of Php 100.00 worth of products or services from select DITO gaming partners or atleast 1 month subscription from select entertainment partners, DITOzens can now enjoy 2GB daily open access data valid for 3 days.

With this promo, DITOzens can play their favorite mobile games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty Mobile, Gameclub and many more. They can also enjoy an affordable streaming experience with HBO GO, Vivamax, Jungo Pinoy, iTunes, and iQIYI.

Filipino alt soul/rock outfit of Mercury welcomes edginess with youthful exuberance on full-length debut album,CHANGIN’

Filipino alternative soul/rock outfit of Mercury has finally dropped their debut studio album, CHANGIN’ via Sony Music Entertainment.

According to the band, the 12-track release serves as an exploration of the different experiences that “we face as humans.” Submitting to the pull of their heart without hesitation, CHANGIN’ dredges up old memories with refined maturity and no-filler honesty.

“One of the things that we did a bit differently is being able to write together,” the Fools trio shares in a statement. “The many songs that we wrote are some things that we have gone through as a band and individually: heartbreak, love, laziness, productivity, stress, doubt, confidence, fear, and realizations. These are just some of the emotions we go through in our lives.”

CHANGIN’ was co-produced by of Mercury with former bandmate knōwmaad, whose subtle experimentation added edginess to the music’s youthful exuberance. The result is a timeless sound that hardly feels dated at all, an artistically fulfilled effort that merges their past music influences with newly-found technical chops.

“Working with knōwmaad, there was a lot of things that we had in mind but couldn’t execute, and he was able to do it,” reveals of Mercury’s lead vocalist and guitarist Nathan Huang. “It was interesting to have him in our project because it felt like he came back to the group (since he was our former bassist). With our ideas and his ideas combined, we were able to pull off something beautiful and authentic.”

Initially released as a three-part volume, CHANGIN’ culminates with old and new songs that are all flesh and blood, as if extracted from a place of familiarity.

Its focus track “I KEEP FALLING” is a straight-up love song that doesn’t deny its sense of earnestness. Written during the pandemic, the song articulates the idea of inseparable love that lasts. “It’s about falling for the person over and over again no matter what,” Huang discloses with fervent adoration.

of Mercury is slated to debut the entirety their debut full-length album, CHANGIN’ live on Friday, November 11 at The Nook Molito in Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Also billed as a celebration of their 6th year as a band, of Mercury’s CHANGIN’ Album Launch will feature a long set from the headliner themselves, and guest performances by their peers in the music industry, including Any Name’s Okay, Lola Amour, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT, and Over October.

CHANGIN’ is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Pentatonix and Lea Salonga spread holiday cheers with their rendition of “Christmas In Our Hearts”

Their version of a Christmas classic is part of Pentatonix’s new album, Holidays Around The World

American pop group Pentatonix lights up the holiday season with the release of their sixth album, Holidays Around The World—out via RCA Records.

The a cappella ensemble brings their global vision back to life as they collaborate with some of the biggest pop stars and idols from different parts of the world, including Chinese pianist Lang Lang, Congolese gospel singer Grace Lokwa, Lebanese singer Hiba Tawaji, Latin band La Santa Cecilia, Indian superstar Shreya Ghoshal, Japanese YouTubers HIKAKIN & SEIKIN, British a cappella ensemble The King’s Singers, and American superstar Meghan Trainor.

As for the Philippines, Pentatonix teams up with multi-awarded Broadway icon Lea Salonga for the Yuletide classic “Christmas In Our Hearts,” which was originally written and performed by Diamond-certified Filipino artist Jose Mari Chan. Brimming with effervescent harmonies and powerhouse vocals, the rendition revisits the Christmas holidays with a comforting, dream-like spin.

“I had the most wonderful time recording this classic Filipino Christmas song with Pentatonix,” Salonga posted on Instagram a few weeks ago. “And yes, this is the Christmas In Our Hearts you think it is.”

The song is currently making rounds on local mainstream radio and streaming platforms, thanks to its crossover sensibilities and gift of familiarity.

Following its release, Pentatonix is set to embark on a multi-city tour in North America and Asia to promote their new album, Holidays Around The World.

Pentatonix’s Holidays Around The World is now available on all digital music platforms via RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment. Listen to “Christmas In Our Hearts” here.

Here’s the winning recipe according to Blacklist International

The three-time Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines title holder, Blacklist International, knows a thing or two about what it takes to be a champion. The MLBB team, consisting of Ohmyv33nus, Wise, Edward, Hadji, Oheb, Kevier, Bon Chan, Master The Basics, DexStar, and Eson, applies a consistent winning formula that keeps them #DesignedToBePowerful.

With mobile gaming and esports growing in popularity in the Philippines, members Ohmyv33nus, Wise, and Edward share their insights as to how the mix of individual skill with the right tools and partners can successfully foster the next generation of victors.

Practice and mental strengthening as keys to victory

Becoming a champion doesn’t just happen overnight and, in fact, requires lengthy and demanding preparation, even for experienced players like Blacklist International. As the category becomes more competitive, members must up their game even more. “As much as possible, we practice every day from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.,” shares Wise.

To cope, the players also note the importance of mental preparation in order to focus on training and improving for tournaments. “Mental preparation is so important because any little thing can affect the outcome of a match,” adds Wise. “Another factor is confidence in yourself.”

Mental fortitude also comes in handy when dealing with the pressure of being on a global stage. The Blacklist members credit the intense training and setup their managers create as a way to get them used to the environment of a competitive match.

“In our recent preparations, our team prepared simulation training, which recreated the scenario and ambiance of a grand finals match,” recalls Ohmyv33nus. “We had our headsets on with white noise, and there was an audience watching too, so that we could get used to the feeling and wouldn’t falter when the moment arrived.”

An eager look towards the future of esports

The future of esports in the Philippines looks bright, and Blacklist expects it to only grow even more. Whereas gaming was previously seen only as a hobby, it is now respected as a profession. “I still remember the time when people would laugh when I would say that my dream was to be a gamer,” says Wise. “But now, when people say they aspire to be in esports, that’s not the case anymore.”

Ohmyv33nus adds that support and recognition from established companies, international organizations, universities, and even the government can only mean good things for the industry. “Personally, it’s exciting because this is my passion and this is what I want to do. So I’m really happy to see that it’s growing and that more and more people and organizations are supporting the industry, from big companies to the government and even universities that give scholarships for esports.”

The team also credits the role smartphones and technology play in advancing esports and the growing interest among the general public. Now that many Filipinos have a mini computer in their hands at all times, mobile gaming has become a hobby and even a career. “Everyone in the younger generation, even kids, now have smartphones, so esports is so much more accessible,” Edward says.

“When I was growing up, everyone was into computer games, not really phone games,” adds Ohmyv33nus. “But not everyone has a PC. Since smartphones are more accessible, it’s easier to get into esports and the opportunities to make it are a lot bigger.”

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Thankfully, smartphones like the OPPO A96 have features to support mobile gaming to the fullest. As Ohmyv33nus seeks for RAM and powerful battery life, the A96’s 8GB+256GB and its unique RAM Expansion feature provides a smooth experience while playing Mobile Legends. Its 33W SuperVOOC technology and 5000mAh battery also keeps their streak going. “Getting a low-battery notification while gaming is annoying. It’s also hard to play while your phone is charging, because it might overheat and you won’t be able to maximize the game,” Ohmyv33nus says.

Wise, on the other hand, singles out the dual speakers of the OPPO A96. “You can clearly hear the other team’s skills while playing, so it’s a big help.” The A96’s All-Day Eye Care also helps them stay comfortable during the long hours of practice.

Balance life in and out of the game

While they eagerly await the next batch of esports players, Blacklist members also have essential advice for those who are looking to make it their career. “There are a lot of kids who become addicted to games, and it’s not just the case for Mobile Legends,” says Ohmyv33nus. “I see it even among my younger cousins.”

For Blacklist, one’s health and education are essential, and must not be put aside in favor of gaming. “Studies need to be a priority because, in esports, not everyone has a success story. Especially now, there are a lot of people trying to pursue a career, so it becomes much more competitive,” shares Wise. “Completing your education gives you a fallback if anything should not pan out.”

“Don’t forget to take care of yourself and to finish your studies,” adds Edward. “I admit that before, I would neglect some of my assignments in favor of gaming, and that shouldn’t be the case.”

The members also remind young players to never pass up the chance to unwind by spending time with family or simply relaxing and capturing these moments with the A96. “When we’re not gaming, we still use our phones to take photos. Wise has a vlog, and sometimes we also do live streams using our phones, so the camera is an important feature,” says Ohmyv33nus. Wise adds that they also use the A96’s 50 MP and AI-powered camera features to shoot Tiktok content.

Stay #DesignedToBePowerful like Blacklist International with the OPPO A96. Now available for Php 15,999, grab yours today via OPPO Brand stores, authorized dealers, and e-commerce platforms, such as Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop. To know more about the latest OPPO A96, visit the OPPO Philippines’ official website at https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or its official Facebook page at OPPO Philippines.

EARLY CHRISTMAS SHOPPING WITH SM’S GRANDEST 3DAY SALE IN MARILAO, PULILAN

Christmas fever is starting to kick in as there are less than 45 days left to Christmas. To start your holiday prep early, SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan give you the grandest holiday shopping in the province with the amazing 3-DAY Sale on November 18, 19, and 20.

Check-out huge discounts on wide selections of apparels, fashion accessories, home furnishings, baby needs, sporting goods, electronic gadgets, home appliances, and many more! Get up to 70% off on countless items mall wide and enjoy great bargains from The SM Store, SM Hypermarket, Ace Hardware, Body Shop, Our Home, Toy Kingdom, Watsons and SM Appliance Center, Miniso and at countless stores at the mall.

Lucky shoppers may also win in the 3 DAY SALE raffle promo. By simply presenting a minimum purchase of P1, 000.00 receipt gives shoppers a chance to win a Brand New Suzuki Burgman Street. Increase your chances of winning by getting additional coupons when you shop on Saturday and Sunday. Shoppers may also grab the opportunity and register at https://gosm.link/SM_eRaffle app to win.

As an added treat, SM Advantage Card holders will get extra 10% off from 10AM to 12NN on October 19 and 20 on all SM Mall affiliates. SM Prestige Card holders will also enjoy an extra whole day 10% off on October 18, Friday when you shop at The SM Store and other participating mall affiliates.

As we get inch closer to Christmas season, don’t forget to mark your calendar and avoid the rush of holiday shopping on November 18, 19, and 20.

Enjoy great discounts and selection on your favorite brands and snag the best deals only at SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan’s 3 Day Sale!

HONOR continues to expand its presence in SM Malls!

HONOR Philippines

HONOR has recently announced that starting November 15, HONOR fans can already experience its latest products up close as it officially opens its new kiosks in select SM malls in the country.

After its HONOR 70 5G, HONOR Pad 8, and HONOR X6 Grand Launch last October and its first exhibit kiosk in SM Megamall last Oct. 28 to Nov. 2, the leading global provider of smart devices, is now ready to serve more customers who have been waiting for the latest products to arrive in the stores near them.

HONOR will now be finally present at SM Rosales, Pampanga; SM Baliuag, Bulacan; SM Center Dagupan, Pangasinan; and, SM Butuan, Agusan del Norte.

“Since we started reestablishing the brand again last September, we are very happy to share that we’ve already reached 80% of our target in opening stores nationwide for Q4. This expansion will continue in 2023 as we also grow the brand and business,” Stephen Cheng, VP of HONOR Philippines, said.

In the next coming months, HONOR will be visible to more SM stores in Metro Manila, other parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Purchase HONOR via Online Stores

Don’t miss the chance because HONOR has great deals and offers this 11.11 Mega Sale of Shopee and Lazada. Avid HONOR fans can purchase the #BestVloggingPhone HONOR 70 5G, HONOR Magic4 Pro, HONOR X6, HONOR X7, HONOR X8, and HONOR X9 through HONOR’s physical stores, Lazada, and Shopee apps.

HONOR fans can snag selected products at its retail price and get exclusive deals such as free shipping, free shop voucher, flash sale, and JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth speaker worth PHP 6,999 for FREE during Lazada’s Biggest Sale and Shopee’s Mega Pamasko Sale!

BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER LIVES ON AT SM CINEMA

Black Panther Wakanda Forever

Marvel fans are in luck this November as the sequel to the iconic Black Panther is set to stir emotions on the big screen with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, now showing at SM Cinemas.

Directed by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will hit right at every fan’s heart as it revolves around the story of grief, strength, and solidarity.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever highlights heroes to watch out for, such as Wakanda’s queen and mother of King T’Challa, Ramonda; his sister Shuri, who will play a big role in designing a new technology for Wakanda; M’Baku, leader of Wakanda’s mountain tribe, the Jabari; and Okoye, the head of the Dora Milaje, Wakanda’s all-female special forces. Together, they will face the biggest fight of their lives to defend their nation in the wake of King T’Challa’s death.

Join the Wakandans as they courageously move forward as a nation and become each other’s heroes, with the help of significant characters including Nakia, an undercover spy for Wakanda from the River Tribe, played by Lupita Nyong’o, and Everett Ross, an agent of the Central Intelligence Agency, played by Martin Freeman.

Let the revolution begin and catch Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at SM Cinemas in SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, SM City San Jose Del Monte, and SM City Grand Central.

Don’t forget to check out the unique mall happenings at SM Malls in Novaliches, Valenzuela, and Sangandaan in Caloocan. Enjoy the full cinematic experience only at SM Cinema.

Filipinos turn to Shopee’s 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale as over 150M deals were up for grabs in the Philippines

With Christmas quickly approaching, Filipinos turned to Shopee for irresistible deals and exciting rewards during this year’s 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale. Local sellers and brands were eager to give shoppers much to look forward to as they offered over 150 million deals on the platform.

Local shopping trends early into the 11.11 Mega Pamasko Sale:

Filipinos jumped at exclusive mas mura deals for their favorite Mobile Gadgets, Home & Living, and Health & Personal essentials just in time for the holiday season.
In the first two hours, local sellers found success during the highly-anticipated sale with 15x uplift in items sold as compared to a regular day with one local seller completing almost 40,000 orders of face masks.
Residents from Metro Manila, Cavite, and Bulacan were especially eager to take advantage of the best deals this 11.11.

Filipinos can look forward to even more exciting deals with the best value-for-money all throughout the 11.11 Mega Pamasko sale until November 13. For more details on the sale, visit Shopee’s Mega Pamasko Sale.

Filipino alt-rock icons Acel, Aia, Barbie, Hannah, Kitchie and Lougee form a ‘supergroup’ for a one-night concert at Solaire

Aside from delivering individual performances that highlight some of the defining moments of their career, Filipino singer-songwriters Acel Bisa, Aia de Leon, Barbie Almalbis, Hannah Romawac, Kitchie Nadal and Lougee Basabas will be collaborating for a special number at their joint concert dubbed TANAW, happening on November 26, Saturday (8pm onwards) at The Theatre at Solaire.

“It’s going to be a surprise, but let’s just say that we’re forming a group for a one-night-only performance that will surely delight music fans,” Barbie Almalbis shares in a press statement.

Rocking the big stage with a vibrant and dynamic set list that cuts across multiple generations, the six iconic artists are set to showcase their hard-earned legacy in a space that has always been dominated by men.

As pointed out by Aia de Leon, one of the TANAW headliners, the concert also serves as a celebration of meaningful friendships and solidarity.

“There is no other group of people who will have understood the fullness of my life, in every aspect, except for these ladies,” de Leon adds. “We grew up in an era together, we paid our dues together. We share a profound joy making music, writing songs, and performing them in front of a live audience. We’ve never braved a celebration in this scale together before, and I feel very blessed to be a part of this.”

TANAW marks the first time that the six solo acts will be performing together for a concert. From their early days as lead vocalists of late ‘90s/early 2000s bands, to establishing their identity as individual artists, the six acclaimed singer-songwriters have proven their staying power with sold-out tours and concerts, chart-topping singles and albums, and a dedicated fanbase.

The one-night show is produced by GNN Entertainment, and co-presented by Solaire Resort Entertainment City with valuable support by Official Glam Partner, David’s Salon and minor sponsors Payaba Flower Boutique and United Graphic.

Tickets to TANAW are available online via Ticket World and its partner outlets nationwide. Click here for a full list of ticketing outlets.

Ticket pricing:

SVIP with Meet & Greet: P4,600.00
SVIP without Meet & Greet: P4,100.00
VIP: P3,700.00
Lower Orchestra: P2,900.00
Upper Orchestra: P2,800.00
Lower Balcony: P1,700.00
Upper Balcony: P1,300.00

Peaceful Gemini finds her way towards introspection and healing on her 4-track EP, Leo Rising

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Filipina rapper-songwriter Peaceful Gemini has released a new EP shaped by her personal experiences, ideas, and beliefs.

Aptly titled Leo Rising, the 4-track release maps her journey as a woman finding her way towards self-discovery, healing, and introspection. According to the talented newcomer, her latest EP under Sony Music Entertainment is as personal as it gets, with each song reflecting the reality that she’s going through for the time being–her struggles and newfound learnings included.

“Through time, experience, and maturity, I changed and grew more mindful about my past and my roots, and started connecting with my body, mind, and emotions in order to heal. Leo Rising lands at a perfect time when I was able to address my inner worlds and wounds, and express my truth in a more fierce and radical way.”

The cosmic, soul-inflected EP is produced by Skeematic, who is known for fusing classic boom bap beats with bohemian flair. His work complements Peaceful Gemini’s conscious rap narrative, while maintaining a sense of rawness and grit.

Other collaborators include Nicole Anjela, who provided supporting vocals for “Gising na Gising” and “Moment to Breathe,” and Nuevo for the romantic crossover track “Twin Flame.”

Leo Rising serves as a follow-up to Peaceful Gemini’s Middle of NowHere, a critically acclaimed record that explores spiritual and outside themes within the content of hip-hop. Considered as a bigger sister of Middle of NowHere, Leo Rising is a more matured and evolved affair that comes from a place of awareness.

Its focus track “Moment To Breathe” addresses healing with a deeper perspective. “Being tasked to frontline a shift that can be so fragile as an old world dies and a new paradigm emerges,” Peaceful Gemini shares. “I am facing it all, knowing that I am guided and blessed with the potential of a deeper understanding of an essence beyond me.”

Peaceful Gemini’s new EP, Leo Rising is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

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