THE PRO JUST GOT BIGGER AS ASUS PHILIPPINES FINALLY UNLEASHES THE ZENFONE MAX PRO 4GB VARIANT

In a move that surprised a lot, but was already long-awaited by many, ASUS Philippines finally dropped the big news on the arrival of the 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM variant of the ZenFone Max Pro during its “Max Pro: Game Zone” event recently held in SM City North Edsa Cyberzone Annex.

ZenFone Philippines’ first-ever mobile gaming festival, in partnership with SM Cyberzone, was already met with loads of fanfare after joining forces with various international and local gaming developers, but the announcement of the arrival of this upgraded ZenFone Max Pro version was certainly the highlight of the event.

The ZenFone Max Pro that was announced sports the long-awaited 4GB memory and 64GB storage, together with the powerful combination of a Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 processor, 5,000 mAh battery life, 18:9 FHD+ display, 16MP + 5MP dual rear camera – definitely every gamer’s dream device to truly enjoy unbeatable performance and limitless gaming.

The ZenFone Max Pro 4GB + 64GB variant will be available nationwide for pre-order starting June 30 until July 22, 2018, with an exclusive pre-order bundle of a JBL T450BT Headset and ZenFone Max Pro Clear Case all worth PHP 3,698.00. Drop by any ASUS or ZenFone Concept Store, Kiosk and accredited multi-brand store nationwide to start you pre-order today!

ZENFONE MAX PRO: A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH

Earlier this month, the ZenFone Max Pro was introduced with the MAX A-TEAM, a group of influential names in the world of Philippine gaming: Kaisaya, Asurai Gaming, TriNhil, and GLOCO Gaming. Now, from a team of four, the partnerships expanded full force as ASUS Philippines not only introduced the newest variant of the mentioned Battery King but also officially announced their support and partnership with games and developers from both the international and local scenes. This special movement was called MAX FORCE.    

 “It is a ubiquitous notion that more potent and engaging games are truly going mobile, making the choice of handsets even more critical to the player. We at the Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP) are keen to this market movement and are distinctly honored to be a chosen partner of ASUS for their maiden gaming phone, the ZenFone Max Pro.” GDAP President, Alvin Juban, shared. “Let the pros know and let the games begin!”

ASUS Philippines Country Manager, George Su, also stated: “In ASUS, we believe that the incredible does not stop simply by providing the technology for it. We feel that it is only right to go beyond our duty and support the elements that drive the passions of our ZenFans. We are very happy to take part in Philippine gaming not just by providing a powerful tool for immersive gameplay, but also through taking part in the community that players thrive in – whether these games are hardcore, casual, international, or local.”

Officially, the ZenFone Max Pro was announced as the mobile partner of the following: internationally acclaimed arena game, Vainglory, developer of locally renowned game, Philippine Slam!, Ranida Games, up-and-coming local crowd favorite developers, Monstronauts, Inc., as well as local creatives, Synergy 88! The ZenFone Max Pro is also set to become Playerunknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) Mobile’s official event partner in the coming months.

ZENFONE MAX PRO, BUT MORE!

From 3GB/32GB, the ZenFone Max Pro now comes in 4GB RAM and 64 GB of ROM! Together with this higher memory and storage capacity, is the Battery King’s well-loved Snapdragon 636, 5,000 mAh battery, 18:9 FHD + display, and NXP Smart Amp. Now, users can enjoy enhanced and immersive gameplay with more and more!

In addition to the amazing performance that ZenFone Max Pro can surely provide, its dual bokeh camera now also comes in 16MP + 5MP, allowing users to get professional-like photos with even higher resolution.

ZenFone Max Pro still ships with pure Android™ 8.1 Oreo™, the latest version of the beautiful Android user interface that improves productivity, and simply lets users have more fun with their phone.

Model number	ZB602KL
SoC	Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 64-bit octa-core CPU (8 x Kryo 260 cores) Adreno 509 GPU 14nm FinFET (Low Power Plus) power-saving technology
RAM*	4GB LPDDR4
Storage*	64GB EMCP
WirelessConnectivity	LTE WLAN 802.11 a/b/g/n, 2.4GHz with Wi-Fi Direct Bluetooth 4.2 (with aptX)
Display	5.99-inch Full HD+ (2160 x 1080) Full-View IPS Panel, 450nits maximum brightness 1500:1 contrast ratio 85% NTSC color gamut 83% screen-to-body ratio, 2.5D arc glass panel
Cameras	Rear	Main rear camera: 16MP, F2.0, 80 degree view angle 25.8mm equivalent focal length in 35mm film camera Omnivision 16880 sensor with Phase Detection AF 5 element lens Second camera / senor: 5MP Secondary dedicated depth sensing camera for accurate bokeh effects
	Front	8MP, F2.0, 85.5 degree view angle 26mm equivalent focal length in 35mm film camera 5 element lens
Flashes	Rear and front Soft-light LED flashes
Video recording (Rear camera)	4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video recording 1080p FHD video recording at 30 / 60fps 720p HD video recording at 30 fps Still photo shooting while recording video capability
Audio	5 magnet speaker NXP smart amplifier
SIM / Memory card support	Triple-tray card Support: Tray 1: 4G Nano SIM* / Tray 2: 3G Nano SIM* / Tray 3: microSD card up to 256GB *Only one 4G and another 3G data connection supported simultaneously
Wired Connectivity	USB 2.0 Micro USB 3.5 mm combo audio jack
GPS	GPS, AGPS, GLONASS, BDS
Construction	Metal body with 2.5D contoured display glass panel
Biometric Security	Face Unlock, Fingerprint unlock with 5-finger recognition
Battery	5000 mAh
Dimensions	159 x 76 x 8.46 mm / 180 grams
Colors	Meteor Silver, Deepsea Black
OS	Pure Android 8.1 Oreo with future upgrade to Android P v9.0

MARKET AVAILABILITY

For just the price of PHP 13,995.00, buyers of this version of the ZenFone Max Pro will also take home a JBL (T450BT) Bluetooth Headset and ZenFone Max Pro Clear Case as exclusive pre-order gifts all worth PHP 3,698.

Furthermore, Vainglory fans that will avail of the ZenFone Max pro will also exclusively get a new hero with bonus skin and 2 rare keys. Other in-game freebies will also be announced sometime within July.

For more information on the ZenFone Max Pro, the ZenFone Max series, and other incredible products from ASUS, tune in to the ASUS Philippines Facebook Page and the ZenTalk Philippines Forum.

Venture Into the Quantum Realm with a Piip of a Button

Much has been said about Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War after it ended. People have been speculating, even formulating their own theories about the fate of their favorite superhero. And then there are those who are left thinking, where were the others like the infamous Hawkeye, Thor’s Valkyrie, Black Panther’s Nakiya, even the Ant-Man and the Wasp? Even Captain Marvel had her share of the silver screen through her insignia at the end. 

Where could they have been during all those fights? Could Ant-Man and the Wasp be in the Quantum Realm? With Piip’s latest marvelous promo, Piipsters have an opportunity to see what Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne are up to for as low as Php 150.00 during the first screening day of the Ant-Man and the Wasp on July 4, 2018, 7:30PM, at the Gateway Cineplex, Gateway Mall, Araneta Center.

Download the app now to Piip It! Limited slots available, reserve yours now!

Adding to the long list of food and merchandise that is available in the mobile app, Piip adds this exclusive deal for its Piipsters. Below are the mechanics to join this promo:

MECHANICS:

1. Download Piip on Google Play Store or iOS Store, install and complete your profile details.

2. Locate the Ant-Man and Wasp Promo on Piip's Billboard.

3. Tap on the 'Piip It!' button to chat with our representative and reserve your tickets.

4. Come in green and get a chance to win a prize from Piip!

TO QUALIFY:

1. The Piip mobile app must be installed upon claiming of the tickets and during the block screening event.

2. Share the block screening event post on your social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) with the hashtags: #PiipIt #PiipPH #PiipAntManWasp.

TO CLAIM YOUR RESERVED TICKETS:

1. Reserved tickets can be claimed starting June 30 to July 4 from 11:00AM to 8:00PM at the Piip booth located near the Gateway Cineplex area, 4th level Gateway Mall,

Araneta Center.

2. Please bring a valid ID and the mobile phone used to reserve the tickets for verification purposes.

PROMO RULES:

1. One (1) Piip App user or download is only allowed to have 1 ticket. (i.e. 2 phones with Piip = 2 tickets)

2. Promo participants are required to have Piip app installed during event as part of the entry verification process and the pre-event games.

To know more about Piip’s latest promo, visit: http://024digital.com/clients/piip/antmanwasp/ .process and the pre-event games.

To know more about Piip’s latest promo, visit: http://024digital.com/clients/piip/antmanwasp/ .

Game Nights Are On with the AXN Freedom Fridays Bar Tour

Get ready to break free and unwind with exciting games and surprises as AXN visits the best night spots in Manila featuring special guest star and TV host, Sydney Crespo.

AXN Freedom Fridays Bar Tour kicks off on July 6, invading Makati’s hippest bars including Rue Bourbon Salcedo, Poblacion: The Wild Poppy and H&J Sports Bar & Restaurant.

AXN fans should bring their A-Game as they’ll be challenged in a series of fun activities and games to win awesome prizes.  Bar chow, drinks and AXN giveaways will be on tap.

“AXN is all about redefining action, so the Freedom Fridays Bar Tour will redefine your Friday night. It’s about getting together with friends, celebrating the end of the week and having fun responsibly,” said Armi Malaluan, Director and Business Head, AXN Networks Philippines.

So what better way to end a week of hard work than to play even harder? Mark your calendars - AXN Freedom Fridays kicks off this July 6, and continues over the next few weeks.

AXN Freedom Fridays is brought to you by San Miguel Pale Pilsen, with official radio partner Wave 89.1.

For more information, go to www.facebook.com/axnasia.

About AXN

AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and ground-breaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to U.S telecasts. From The Blacklist and Quantico, to MacGyver and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action.

Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 19 territories and is available in both
SD and HD.

AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM.

DTI CHIEF URGES BUSINESS OWNERS TO GO DIGITAL

Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez wants small business owners to shift to digital in order to reach a global audience.

Secretary Lopez gave this advice to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) during the “Empowering Philippine SMEs with Digital Tools and Mentorship Opportunities” workshop last June 27 at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC).

The workshop was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the US-ASEAN Business Council in celebration of the International Day for MSMEs. The whole-day event featured trainings from Cisco, FedEx, HP, and Procter & Gamble.

“We need to create a nation of smarter, tech-savvy entrepreneurs,” said Secretary Lopez to address the disparity between the number of MSMEs and their contribution to the economy.

MSMEs account for 99.6 percent of the total number of businesses in the country, while also employing 62.8 percent of the total workforce. However, they only account for 36.5% of GDP.

“MSMEs must maximize the use of digital technology as it is a great equalizer, in terms of having more access to product and business model ideas; designs; real time market information and trends; entrepreneurship principles and teachings; microfinancing thru fintech (financial technology); innovative products and processes; financial literacy; and market access.  Digital technology is a must to every entrepreneur”, Lopez added.

In line with this, the trade chief shared initiatives to help business owners in this digital transition:

PTTC now an MSME Academy

Sec. Lopez declared that the Philippine Trade Training Center, an attached agency of the DTI, had been turned into a Global MSME Academy last April 18. The academy will be more inclusive and will focus on modules for MSMEs, especially on digital technology.  PTTC was originally established for medium and large exporters.

Online Mentoring

On the ASEAN front, the ASEAN SME Academy is an online resource that provides free modules on finance, human resources, management, marketing, operations, technology, and logistics. Two of the most popular courses are “Boost Your Business with Facebook” and “Social Media Marketing.” DTI is also taking the steps to bring its mentoring sessions online, with Secretary Lopez saying: “We want to give them access to mentoring 24/7."

Loans and Market Access

DTI’s Go Lokal! concept store tied up with ecommerce platforms to have online selling access.  Meanwhile, DTI SBCorporation also partnered with online lending platforms to manage the Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag asenso (P3), a microfinancing program initiated by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as an alternative to “5-6” lenders.

4th MSME Summit

DTI is also gearing up for the 4th MSME Summit with the theme “Accelerating 7Ms for Developing MSMEs 4.0” in Clark, Pampanga on July 10.

ONE CHAMPIONSHIP HOLDS KICK-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE FOR ONE: SPIRIT OF A WARRIOR

ONE Championship and telecommunications giant Telenor Myanmar recently announced a strategic partnership last February, which ensures the promotion is in pole position to deliver the most exciting rendition of authentic Asian martial arts to fans in Myanmar. The partnership aims to leverage ONE Championship and Telenor Myanmar’s capabilities to collaborate in the area of martial arts-related content, digital assets and services, events and telecommunication services.

In attendance at the Press Conference were Chief Commercial Officer of ONE Championship, Mr. Jack Lim, Chief Financial Officer, Telenor Myanmar, Ms. Yin Yin Htay, ONE Middleweight & Light Heavyweight World Champion “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang, ONE World Title Challenger Ken Hasegawa, as well as ONE Championship athletes Leandro Issa, Roman Alvarez, Elliot Compton, and Matthew Semper.

Jack Lim, Chief Commercial Officer of ONE Championship, stated: “ONE Championship is committed to delivering a unique and authentic martial arts experience to fans in Myanmar. The atmosphere is always electric whenever we visit, due in large part to hometown hero Aung La N Sang, who is revered and respected by all martial arts in the country for his embodiment of supreme skill and warrior heart which is a characteristic of the people he represents. It is my privilege to be here to kick-off this amazing event. Join us as we go live around the world at ONE: SPIRIT OF A WARRIOR this 29 June!”

Yin Yin Htay, Chief Financial Officer of Telenor Myanmar, stated: “We are pleased to partner with ONE Championship for the Official Launch of the ONE Super App in Myanmar. With many users now consuming TV shows, movies and content on their mobile phones, it is a great move that ONE Championship is allowing users to access all ONE Championship content via the free ONE Supper App. Our network now covers 90 percent of the country’s population, providing the widest and biggest mobile network in the country with 3G, 4G and fastest data services. Telenor subscribers across Myanmar can look forward to perks such as exclusive or early access to content on the app, ticket discounts and money-can’t-buy experience VIP experiences at ONE Championship matches. This strengthened partnership is part of our commitment to enriching our customers’ digital lives, and we will continue delivering best experience to all our customers, wherever they live, till they are satisfied.”

Aung La N Sang, ONE Middleweight & Light Heavyweight World Champion, stated: “Everytime I perform in front of my people in Myanmar, my heart is full and my soul fulfilled. As the reigning ONE Middleweight & Light Heavyweight World Champion, I welcome all challengers. Those who want to come get it, come get it. But this belt is staying in Myanmar, and I will do everything in my power to protect our honor. This title means a lot to me and my fans, and to everyone who has supported me since day one. I will step onto the canvas this 29 June in the best shape of my career and claim victory once again in front of my friends and family back home.”

Ken Hasegawa, ONE World Title Challenger, stated: “My career inside the cage has brought me to the pinnacle of the sport, and now, to a world title shot in Asia’s largest martial arts organization. It is an honor to lend my talents to ONE Championship, and I will relish this opportunity to showcase my skills to the world and to make Japan proud. Taking on Aung La N Sang for the middleweight title, it’s not going to be easy. He is a tremendous competitor and an even greater champion. But I am confident of victory and that my hand will be raised as the new champion.”

Leandro Issa, ONE Athlete, stated: “It is an honor for me to showcase my skills in ONE Championship. As a martial artist, I believe in taking on the biggest challenges possible, as a test of mental and physical capacity. My next bout is just another opportunity for me to test myself and I will head into the match in optimal condition in order to put on a good performance. Roman Alvarez is no doubt a difficult opponent, but I am confident of victory.’

Roman Alvarez, ONE Athlete, stated: “I am very excited to make my ONE Championship debut. The organization is the biggest in the world of martial arts, and I know the competition here is fierce and every opponent will be extremely tough. Still, I am confident in my skills and believe that I have what it takes to achieve success in the promotion. Leandro Issa is a tough, battle-tested veteran and I have to be in prime condition in order to score the upset. But the great thing about martial arts is that anything can happen, and I feel my time is now. I can’t wait to show fans what I’ve got and shock the world.”

Elliot Compton, ONE Athlete, stated: “I am excited about another great matchup with ONE Championship. It’s an honor for me to be fighting with a great promotion that shares my passion and devotion to martial arts. Matthew Semper is a very tough opponent and possesses a lot of power in all areas of his game. He’s aggressive and always determined to win. This is a great opportunity for me to showcase my skills. I can’t wait to see the beautiful country of Myanmar and put on an exciting, explosive, and dynamic display of combat for the fans in the arena and those watching live around the world through the ONE Super App. I’ve put in countless hours of hard work for this fight and have had a full training camp. I will come into this contest the fittest, strongest, fastest and most focused I have ever been! The fans can expect fireworks and a fight of the night performance. I’m hungrier than ever!”

Matthew Semper, ONE Athlete, stated: “I have total respect for my opponent, Elliot Compton. We have never trained together, but we have many friends and training partners in common. I think this is going to be a great matchup for us and I believe this Muay Thai bout inside the ONE Championship cage will be extraordinary. We have both put time in the game and it's a good win on both records in my eyes. I am honored to be making my ONE debut in Yangon, in front of some of the greatest martial arts fans in the world, and I can't wait to showcase my skills on 29 June.”

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

About ONE Championship™

ONE Championship is the largest global sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE Championship is the home of martial arts and is the world's largest martial arts organization, hosting bouts across all styles of martial arts such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Kung Fu, Silat, Sanda, Lethwei, Mixed Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, Submission Grappling, and more. The world’s most exciting martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world's best martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 1.7 billion potential viewers across 136 countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Bandsports, Startimes, Premier Sports, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, OSN, and more.

*This is Press Release

Filinvest City all set for 6th Endurance Weekend

It’s time to test your limits and build your strength as Filinvest City, the premiere lifestyle destination in the Metro South, once again plays host to the Endurance Weekend on July 7 to 8 at the Pacific Rim, Filinvest City.

Now on its sixth year, participants can look forward to a bigger and more exciting set of bike courses. Bikers can opt to go solo or with a team and choose from a category of 24-Hour Solo (Elite), 24-Hour Team, 12-Hour Solo (Age Category), 12-Hour Team, 6-Hour Solo (Elite), and 6-Hour Solo (Age Category).

“We are very excited to host our sixth Endurance Weekend following the success of the previous editions,” says Filinvest Alabang Inc.’s vice president for townships Don Ubaldo. “This sporting event is another opportunity for us to tap into the biking community and showcase Filinvest City as a garden city that promotes a healthy and active lifestyle.”

To register, aspiring participants may log onto https://reg.goorahna.com/#/event/endurance-weekend-2018. Online registration to the Endurance Weekend 2018 is open until July 4, 2018.

So get your biking gears ready and prepare for a fun race experience with thrilling bike trails and tree-canopied road networks only at Filinvest City.

For more information, visit Filinvest City’s official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/FilinvestCityOFFICIAL/.

The Eight Best PH Teams will Clash at the Mobile Legends Professional League PH Grand Finals

A total of eight teams are remaining after the action-filled regular season of the Mobile Legends Professional League Philippines. The country’s best ML teams are now headed to a grand two-day event at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, for the MPL Philippines Grand Finals. Only one team will take home the lion’s share of the USD 50,000 + USD 14,168 grand cash prize and the first MPL Philippines crown.

Moonton, the creators and developers of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, is committed to enriching the existing vibrant esports scene in the Philippines. MPL Philippines is the latest national tournament in the Mobile Legends Professional League series. The MPL has already crowned national champions for Indonesia and Malaysia & Singapore in the past.

MET, the top esports event organizer in the Philippines, will be producing the grand finals event at the Music Hall in Mall of Asia. The Mobile Legends Professional League Philippines is only MET’s latest foray in competitive mobile esports and they promise to bring the same level of quality as any of their numerous successful events in the past.

Participating ML Teams

Aether Main
Aether Valkyrie
DigitalDevils Demon Kings
DigitalDevils No Limit
DigitalDevils Pro Gaming
Invictus Godz
Obsidian Gaming
White Rascals
Tournament Schedule

June 30, 2018 – July 1, 2018
Gates Open at 10:30AM on Both Days
Tournament Venue

Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay, Philippines
The team which secures victory in the best-of-three grand finals series will be taking home the lion’s share of the USD 50,000 + USD 14,168 grand cash prize as well as the honor of being crowned the first national champions of Mobile Legends. Hundreds of hopeful teams took their chance at becoming legends and now only eight teams remain in the running to claim the highest honor in competitive Mobile Legends. Which team will rise and become legends?

The Mobile Legends Professional League Philippines Grand Finals will take place on June 30, 2018 – July 1, 2018 at the Music Hall in SM Mall of Asia, Philippines. Entrance is absolutely free and fans and players are invited to join in what promises to be an exciting weekend for mobile esports

PH, UNIDO to work on Innovation, Capacity Building Programs

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez discussed with United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Director General Li Yong the 1st UNIDO Country Programme for the Philippines (PH) as well as the technical assistance and support for the Philippine National System of Innovation.

“The partnership between the Philippines and UNIDO will greatly benefit the Filipino people and improve the current state of the country through various technical assistance and support in developmental areas. As the country programme is based on the macroeconomic agenda of President Rodrigo Duterte, it will support the government’s drive to reduce poverty and improve industries through the development of human capital, innovation, and connectivity in the country,” said Sec. Lopez.

The UNIDO Country Programme was crafted in line with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022. Its framework is based on the country’s national priorities and aims to strengthen collaborations among development cooperation partnerships of the PH government.

DTI has identified priority interventions that will benefit from the support and technical assistance from the partnership with UNIDO. These will focus on promoting innovation, upgrading industries, and facilitating manufacturing resurgence.

During the meeting, the trade chief highlighted PH’s thrust to push for rapid growth in the industry sector through the Inclusive Innovation Industrial Strategy (I3S), an industrialization program that will ensure the development of the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as part of the value chains.

“Our plan is to promote productivity, innovation, and inclusivity in industry development. These will allow participation of those at the bottom of the pyramid and solve the poverty situation,” Sec. Lopez added.

Director General Yong commended the programs of the government that reflects the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) strategies. He also lauded PH’s growth rate, the country’s initiatives empowering MSMEs, the drive for job and income generation, as well as the government’s efforts of linking MSMEs to the global value chains.

Meanwhile, Sec. Lopez conveyed the need to include and put emphasis on trade as well as building the manufacturing capacity in the country programme. He expressed that greater human capital, innovation, productivity, and resilience are essential in creating stronger manufacturing and export manufacturing base in the country.

“Our success in achieving our goal to balance trade and create surplus depends on capacity building—both physical capacity and human resources. The technical assistance as well as support in these areas are greatly needed,” said the trade chief.

Sec. Lopez also mentioned the need to address the power cost, which is one of the major challenges, as it affects the competitiveness of companies operating in the PH.

The UNIDO Country Programme aims to address key issues including challenges in investment and ease in doing business, competitiveness, innovation in the industry sector, skills mismatch (labor force vis-à-vis industry needs), availability of data and statistics (industry sector, especially MSME), productivity-enhancing support services, infrastructure (agriculture, forestry, and fishery sector), and vulnerability to climate and disaster risks.

DTI has started exploring cooperation with UNIDO in terms of strengthening the innovation ecosystem for industry and support to private sector innovation. This covers measures to strengthen academe-industry linkages for research and development, commercialization, and financing. It also includes firm-level innovation programs for PH’s priority industries such as electronic manufacturing services, automotive and auto parts, aerospace parts, chemicals, shipbuilding, design-oriented furniture and garments, tool and die, agri-business, information technology and business process management, transport and logistics, tourism, and construction. The institutional strengthening of the Department, government, academe, and industry partnerships was also emphasized.

*This is Press Release

Kids from Marawi, Metro streets and Batangas lakeshore towns benefit from YKK-Real Madrid Foundation football clinics

The two-day YKK Asia Group Kids Football Clinic came to a close last Sunday with 300 underprivileged kids getting the rare opportunity to learn football the Real Madrid way at the McKinley Hill Stadium in Taguig City.

Two kids from previously war-torn Marawi City were among those who experienced the world-class football training from coaches of the most multi-titled La Liga team in history with 33 Championship titles to its name. Children from Gawad Kalinga communities were first to undergo the clinics on Saturday, followed by children from lakeshore communities in Batangas on Sunday morning. Homeless children who live and sleep on streets and places like Luneta and the Caloocan Monumento who were cared for by Child Hope Asia Philippines had their own exhilarating football experience in the afternoon.

Mohammed Faried Anganto and Alintor Bangote were brought by their coach, Espiridion Paran under the auspices of Gawad Kalinga. “Football was one way for the kids to cope and transcend the experience of the past,” said their coach. “It was special for them to experience the YKK Football Clinic conducted by Real Madrid coaches because they learned new skills and trained with professional football gear. They’re used to playing with makeshift equipment, using tennis balls and playing barefoot,” he added.

Agustin Villarama, AVP for Marketing, YKK Philippines was elated about the outcome of the clinics, the second time that YKK Asia Holdings PTE LTD and YKK Philippines have brought the Real Madrid Foundation coaches to the Philippines to teach football to underprivileged kids.   

"After two days of clinics, we are happy to see that the kids are happy. We can see that these camps will produce positive effects for them in the future. Sports is a good tool to give a chance for these less fortunate kids," said Villarama.

Real Madrid Foundation coaches Pablo Gomez Revenga, Santiago Sanchez Martin and Hector Vicente were assisted by 30 local coaches who shared and demonstrated world-class training methodologies and training techniques throughout the sessions.

The Real Madrid Foundation coaches also promoted values through sports and education, teaching the kids about commitment, responsibility and teamwork, all while having fun.

"The coaches were very passionate about the country and about the kids that they taught football to. They also enjoyed themselves throughout. That’s how much they love football,” Villarama added.

All participants in the kids clinic received a full set of YKK/Real Madrid Foundation football kits, which include football boots, cap and socks. Everyone received a certificate at the end of the session. The Most Valuable Participants in the morning and afternoon sessions received Real Madrid t-shirts and bags.

NIL. Wala. Pero Meron Talaga!

NILalaman ng pagtatanghal na ito ang ilang mga eksena ng kawalan―ng malay, ng katinuan, ng bait, ng karapatan, ng buhay. Nakagugulantang ang mga imahe pero hindi nakagugulat sa karamihan ang ipinapakita. Naging laman ng mga balita, isinuka para sa maralita, habang nagpaparaya ang mga may-kapangyarihang dapat talagang makakita.

Sa KamayNILaan nakunan o saan man, ang mga litrato rito ay sumasalamin sa realidad na may nagtutunggaling mga panig sa anumang usapin. Sa isang banda, ihahalintulad ng ilan ang mga larawang ito sa basura, na dapat idispatya at huwag nang ilantad kaninuman. Sa kabilang banda, hindi kaunti ang maghahalintulad ng mga ito sa mga bagay na pampagising ng diwa, dala ng pagpupukaw na maaaring maranasan kung pagmasdan at pag-isipan ang makikita rito.

Iba’t ibang buhay man ang panandaliang iNILalahad rito, nagkakaisa ang mga litratong ito sa pagpapakita ng katiwalian. Ngunit sino ang tunay na tiwali? Ang mga nasa larawan? O ang lipunan o sangkatauhan na kaNILang NILalarawan?

Ang mga tao na makikita―karamihan ay mga DaNILo (hindi tunay na pangalan), may ilang mga BeNILda (hindi tunay na pangalan)―ay NILason ng gutom, hirap, poot, pighati o kaya, oo, maling asal at hindi wastong diwa. NILabas ang anumang armas o nagtangkang tumakas. NILamon ng kabaliwan, kamunduhan, kasakiman, kahirapan. NILusob, ng sarili man o ibang pwersa, ang sana’y mapayapa NILang mga tahanan, barangay o kinatatayuan. NILamas, hindi NILinis, ang pagkatao. NILunok ang dangal, NILamangan ng mga mapang-api, NILapastangan ng mapanghusga, NILoko ng matatakaw na kapwa tao na halimaw ang kalooban. Binalot ng trahedya, sinaksak ng pulitika, NILaglag ng sistema.

Ang masuwerte sa kanila ay NILalamok, NILalanggam sa selda. Hindi man makapag-NILagang paborito o relyenong gusto, maaari pang magbago, maaari pang lumaya. Ang iba rito ay NILagutan ng hininga, ninakawan ng pag-asa kapalit ng paglaya mula sa pang-habangbuhay na rehas nitong malupit na mundo.

Ang malungkot pa rito, bagama’t ilang taon na ang nakalilipas nang makuha ang mga larawang ito―noon kapanahunang hindi pa NILalabas ang pinagsanib na kamera at telepono―hindi pa rin nawala sa ating bansa ang ganitong mga eksena. Kung hindi natin papansinin ang mga detalye sa ilalim o paligid ng bawat litrato, iisipin natin na kahapon lang o nung makalawa nakunan ang mga nakalarawan dito.

Sa pagsulyap sa mga litratong ito, marahil ay mapapatanong tayo: May pag-asa pa ba ang mga Pilipino, lalo na ang kagaya NILa na karamiha’y dukha? May pag-asa pa ba para sa lipunang marahas? May pag-asa pa ba para sa ating iisang bayan na, sa kabila ng lahat, ating sinisinta?

Marahil ang sagot ay oo kung tatanggapin natin, pagniNILay-NILayan at gagawan ng paraan ang katotohanang ito: Sila ay tayo. Tayo ay sila.

Artinformal presents NIL, an exhibition curated by Erwin Romulo and Neil Daza at the gallery’s Greenhills location opening on June 9, 2018, 6PM. The exhibition will be on view until July 14, 2018.

Taking their cue from Daza’s Blacksoup exhibition in 2006, Romulo and Daza are mounting a new show of crime scene photographs taken between the years 1987 to 2002. Also included in the exhibition are video works by Cinema Regla.

Raw and at times graphic, the show asks: “Is there really such a thing as ‘the good old days’?

Editor, writer, producer, and composer Erwin Romulo curated Everyday Impunity: Ang Mga Walang Pangalan, an exhibition based on the work of photographer Carlo Gabuco at Art Fair Philippines 2018 as well as an exhibition of sound art and multi-media art during the fair’s 2017 and 2015 edition, respectively. He was also one of the curators of Wasak! Filipino Art Today, shown in Berlin in 2015.

Filmmaker and photographer Neil Daza is known for his work in films like Bwaya, Emir, and Dekada ‘70, among others. In 2017, he marked his 25 years in the film industry with an exhibition at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, 25 Times: Images From Behind The Camera. He has curated several shows of photography for arts space Blacksoup in Cubao, including KAMBYO, an exhibition of cellphone images, and Detritus, featuring photographs from which this current exhibition is based.

Filmmaker collective and guerrilla media outfit Cinema Regla is an online magazine and channel run by documentary filmmakers Rico Ibarra, Blair Camilo and Jun Sabayton. Founded by visual artist, animator and director Roxlee, it is dedicated to covering Filipino culture, with a focus on (in no particular order) art, photography, music, literature, science, politics, history, environment, crime, violence, truth, sex, drugs, and budotz.


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After viewing those photo display at Art Informal, Connecticut Greenhills, San Juan City-Killing and suicide are all around the country and those EJK myth are baseless, non of those were proven and true. If EJK is true why do keep on criticizing of human rights, were infact killers have no mercy to inocent human-but money they praise.

MPD Press Photogapher commit their job to be at their best.

GEJE EUSTAQUIO UNIFIES ONE FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP WITH SPLIT DECISION VICTORY OVER ADRIANO MORAES

In the main event of ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER, a riveting battle took place between two outstanding mixed martial artists in the world today as flyweight rivals Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio and Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes put everything on the line to unify the ONE Flyweight World Championships. Both men went back-and-forth, swapping solid blows and momentum-shifting takedowns from bell to bell. Neither of the two would give each other any quarter for five rounds as both men traded their best offense all throughout the highly-anticipated title unification contest. After a gruelling encounter inside the ONE Championship ring, Eustaquio sent the crowd into a rapturous chorus of cheers by clinching a split decision win over Moraes to become the undisputed ONE Flyweight World Champion.

Geje Eustaquio, ONE Flyweight World Champion, stated: “The feeling is awesome. I want to thank all my kababayans (countrymen) here who came out to support me. I came to Macau with one vision, and that is to [unify the flyweight titles], and I know I am not capable of doing this alone. I want to thank God, Team Lakay, and of course my family. And to all the fans, thank you so much for the undying support. Ladies and gentlemen, when I started 14 years ago, this was impossible. But now, after 14 years, impossible is not a word, it’s just a reason. Anybody can be a world champion, as long as you have the drive and the attitude. I am proud to be the undisputed ONE Flyweight World Champion this time.”

In the co-main event of the evening, “The Panda” Xiong Jing Nan of China successfully defended the ONE Women’s Strawweight World Championship, defeating elite South American contender Laura Balin. With the desire to leave Macau remaining the division’s queen, Xiong overwhelmed Balin with her superb grappling pedigree. On the canvas, Xiong continuously pummeled Balin with thudding strikes and tried to bring the bout to a close with multiple submission attempts throughout the championship clash. Xiong punctuated the bout by outslugging Balin in the final round, steering herself to a dominant unanimous decision victory.

Making his ONE Super Series debut, two-division Lumpinee Stadium World Champion Petchmorrakot Wor. Sangprapai emerged triumphant against French dynamo Fabrice Fairtex Delannon in a catchweight Muay Thai encounter. Proving his stature as one of the top pound-for-pound Muay Thai practitioners in the world, Petchmorrakot finished the task at hand with a series of elbows that opened up a cut on Delannon’s forehead, coercing the ringside physician to halt the contest just 43 seconds into the second round.

Malaysian-Kiwi spitfire Ev “E.T.” Ting defeated another notable name in the promotion’s stacked lightweight division, routing fellow former world title contender Koji “The Commander” Ando of Japan. It was a striking showcase from start to finish as both men delivered shattering blows. Although Ando gallantly traded punches with Ting, the latter connected on effective strikes through excellent counterpunching. Ting pulled away in the last round when he scored on a devastating high knee. With his gutsy performance against Ando, Ting was awarded a unanimous decision win.

In a fierce clash of top ONE featherweights, former ONE Featherweight World Champion Narantungalag “Tungaa” Jadambaa of Mongolia turned in a vintage performance, stopping top divisional contender Edward “The Ferocious” Kelly of the Philippines by technical knockout in the second round. Jadambaa dominated both striking and grappling exchanges, while Kelly tried his best to fend off the former champion’s advances. However, Jadambaa’s pressure was too much to handle for Kelly, who succumbed to a series of ground strikes from the back.

In a ONE Super Series Muay Thai flyweight contest, the legendary Lerdsila Phuket Top Team of Thailand overcame a tremendous effort from his younger opponent Sok Thy of Cambodia, winning by split decision after three rounds. The two locked horns in a spirited clash of talented strikers, peppering each other with fiery combinations while showcasing great defense. In the end, it was Lerdsila who was able to earn two of the three judges’ nods.

Moroccan promotional newcomer Tarik Khbabez left a lasting impression in his first ONE Super Series appearance, notching a third-round knockout victory over heavyweight Alain “The Panther” Ngalani. Khbabez silenced the Cameroonian with his pressuring offense, catching Ngalani with a stream of punishing strikes from the first round to the final frame. In the third round, Khbabez unleashed a torrent of impactful blows that brought Ngalani to his knees. An exhausted Ngalani failed to beat the 10-count, compelling the referee to wave off the bout and declare Khbabez the victor via knockout.

In a ONE Super Series Muay Thai flyweight contest, Yukinori Ogasawara of Japan overcame a tremendous effort from Rui Botelho of Portugal to win by scintillating knockout in the second round. After coming from behind in the first frame, Ogasawara unleashed a beautifully-timed spinning back elbow in the second, turning the lights out on Botelho to emerge victorious in his ONE Championship debut.

Former ONE Featherweight Beijing Tournament 2014 Champion, “The Underdog” Li Kai Wen of China walked out to a thunderous chorus of cheers as he took on Rodian “The Redeemer” Menchavez of the Philippines. Featuring his trademark aggression and explosive power, Li blasted Menchavez with a monstrous right hand to finish his Filipino foe impressively in the first round via one-punch knockout. The finish set a new ONE Championship record of fastest finish in featherweight history at 10 seconds, shattering the previous record of 21 seconds set by Team Lakay’s Edward Kelly. It also earned Li the GoDaddy KO of the Night honors.

Flyweight standouts Danny “The King” Kingad of the Philippines and “The Southern Eagle” Ma Hao Bin of China put on an electric performance for the raucous crowd in Macau, delivering a thrilling exchange of offense. A former ONE Flyweight World Championship title challenger, Kingad utilized a heavy torrent of leg kicks and ferocious ground-and-pound to dominate Ma over three full rounds. In the end, Kingad earned a unanimous decision victory for his efforts.

Kicking off ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER were bantamweights Rin Saroth of Cambodia and Mario Satya Wirawan of Indonesia. The two figured in a spirited scrap, setting the pace for an exciting evening of martial arts action. After a showcase of evenly-matched striking and grappling, it was Saroth who emerged victorious, defeating Wirawan via technical knockout in the third round.

Official results for ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER

ONE Flyweight World Championship bout: Geje Eustaquio defeats Adriano Moraes by Split Decision (SD) after 5 rounds

ONE Women’s Strawweight World Championship bout: Xiong Jing Nan defeats Laura Balin by Unanimous Decision (UD) after 5 rounds

ONE Super Series Muay Thai catchweight bout (67.0kg): Petchmorrakot Wor. Sangprapai defeats Fabrice Fairtex Delannon by TKO (Doctor Stoppage) at 0:43 minutes of round 2

Lightweight bout: Ev Ting defeats Koji Ando by Unanimous Decision (UD) after 3 rounds

Featherweight bout: Narantungalag Jadambaa defeats Edward Kelly by TKO (Strikes) at 4:58 minutes of round 2

ONE Super Series Muay Thai flyweight bout: Lerdsila Phuket Top Team defeats Sok Thy by Split Decision (SD) after 3 rounds

ONE Super Series Kickboxing heavyweight bout: Tarik Khbabez defeats Alain Ngalani by Knockout (KO) at 1:49 minutes of round 3

ONE Super Series Muay Thai flyweight bout: Yukinori Ogasawara defeats Rui Botelho by Knockout (KO) at 2:54 minutes of round 2

Featherweight bout: Li Kai Wen defeats Rodian Menchavez by Knockout (KO) at 0:10 minutes of round 1

Flyweight bout: Danny Kingad defeats Ma Hao Bin by Unanimous Decision (UD) after 3 rounds

Bantamweight bout: Rin Saroth defeats Mario Satya Wirawan by TKO (Strikes) at 2:30 minutes of round 3

About ONE Championship™

ONE Championship is the largest global sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE Championship is the home of martial arts and is the world's largest martial arts organization, hosting bouts across all styles of martial arts such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Kung Fu, Silat, Sanda, Lethwei, Mixed Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, Submission Grappling, and more. The world’s most exciting martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world's best martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 1.7 billion potential viewers across 136 countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Bandsports, Startimes, Premier Sports, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, OSN, and more.

*This is Press Release