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Vic Vic Bautista

Lifestyle, News

Support for the Government’s Digital-First PH Agenda by Eastern Communications

Eastern Communications, in partnership with Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd), officially launched “Project Maaasahan” with the turnover of connectivity tools to its first beneficiary, Panicuason Elementary School, in Naga City.

Eastern Communications continues to assist the Philippine government’s digital-first plan by implementing programs that provide access to high-quality education, foster digital literacy, and improve connection. Eastern Communications is going above and above in bolstering the nation’s digital foundations, from assisting with the May 2025 election count to providing internet access to isolated schools and growing its regional presence.

“As a trusted technology partner, Eastern Communications is proud to stand alongside the government and like-minded private organizations in advancing digital transformation across the country,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications. “Through our efforts in connectivity, digital education, and regional expansion, we remain focused on enabling progress and inclusive growth for Filipinos everywhere.”

With a strong commitment to nation-building, Eastern Communications reinforces its mission of making technology more accessible for every Filipino by empowering institutions, communities, and individuals in today’s increasingly digital society.

Reliable connection for 2025 elections and remote classrooms

Eastern Communications played a vital role in supporting the May 2025 electoral process by providing stable and secure connectivity during the official vote count held at The Manila Hotel in Ermita, Manila. The telco provider’s reliable services enabled seamless real-time reporting and operations throughout the high-stakes national event.

“[Eastern’s] provision of reliable and high-quality connectivity services played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted transmission of data and communications throughout the entire electoral process,” said Atty. Joey Lina, President of The Manila Hotel, expressed his gratitude in a formal letter for Eastern Communications’ support during the official vote count.

“In moments when precision, efficiency, and transparency were paramount, [Eastern’s] commitment to service excellence significantly contributed to the integrity and success of this important national event,” Lina added.

Eastern Communications also strengthened its advocacy for inclusive digital access through its reaffirmed partnership with global non-profit Unconnected.org and the Department of Education (DepEd) to connect remote and underserved schools across the country. The initiative aims to bring internet connectivity to learners and educators in far-flung areas, providing them with the tools and opportunities to thrive in an evolving digital world.

[From L to R:] Naga City Government Education, Sports, Scholarship Office (ESSO) Department Head Mr. Ernani B. Suron, Eastern Communications Chief Marketing & Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, Panicuason Elementary School Principal Winnife Urot and OIC-Assistant Schools Division Superintendent of SDO Naga City Dr. Michael A. Del Rosario.

Under this partnership, Eastern Communications has begun delivering internet connectivity to several schools this year, including Panicuason Elementary School in Naga on July 15, San Jose Elementary School in Dipolog on July 22, and Namabbalan Integrated School in Tuguegarao on July 24.

Additional schools slated for turnover in August are Paopao High School in General Santos, Capisan Elementary School in Zamboanga, Patrocino A. Lachica Integrated School in Aklan, and Alambre Elementary School in Davao. These schools represent a significant step in the initial phase of the program, with three more schools to follow in the coming months.

Growing presence in Mindanao, educating local IT talent

Eastern Communications is accelerating its regional expansion, with a particular focus on Mindanao. The telco provider is set to officially launch its services in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on July 22, 2025, followed by General Santos City in the third quarter. These launches are part of the company’s broader effort to strengthen its presence in emerging business centers and help stimulate local economies through improved digital infrastructure.

To provide a secure and robust infrastructure, Eastern expands its reach through an ultra high capacity backbone transmission Dense Wavelength-Division Multiplexing (DWDM) Network. This cutting-edge technology delivers Terabits per second (TBPS) bandwidth, ensuring highly reliable and scalable connectivity across the country. Its capacity can also be replicated or expanded based on the demand, with spare fibers connecting various islands.

Alongside its connectivity rollouts, Eastern Communications continues to drive awareness and skills-building through its educational campaigns. Programs like “Access Eastern” and “Brown Bag Sessions” offer hands-on workshops, panel discussions, and learning opportunities for local IT professionals and community leaders, arming them with essential tools to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

“These initiatives are about more than connectivity, they’re about empowerment,” said Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista. “We believe that every Filipino deserves a seat at the digital table, and we’re doing our part to ensure that nobody is left behind.”

With more than 145 years of experience, Eastern Communications is still dedicated to its “High Tech” and “High Touch” pledge, fusing state-of-the-art technology with individualized care that fosters impact and trust. Eastern Communications remains a reliable partner in advancing important projects to create a digitally empowered Philippines by collaborating with both public and commercial partners.

For additional information on Eastern Communications and its programs, visit www.eastern.com.ph or call (02) 5300-7000.

 

 

 

July 18, 2025 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Globe’s latest pop-up store puts services closer to Bohol

The Globe Bohol pop-up store is now open at the Upper Ground Floor of Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City.

In order to facilitate locals’ and visitors’ access to broadband and mobile services, Globe has set up a new pop-up shop in Bohol. This is a component of the company’s continuous endeavors to provide dependable connection in areas where it is most needed.

This year, Bohol has seen a dramatic increase in visitors, especially to Panglao. According to the Philippine Information Agency, foreign tourist visits in the first quarter of 2025 totaled 110,253, a 7.3% increase over the same period in 2024, with 70,458 visitors in February alone. Globe saw the need to offer quicker, easier access to its services locally as the population grew and their digital needs increased.

“We’re excited to serve the people of Bohol more directly,” said Chai Alano, Vice President of Channel Management Group at Globe.“This pop-up store is one way we’re bringing our services closer to the community. We want Boholanos and tourists alike to stay connected, whether it’s for work, school, or simply staying in touch with loved ones.”

At the Globe Bohol pop-up store, customers can get prepaid SIMs, apply for new mobile postpaid lines with or without devices, or renew their existing plans. It also offers broadband services and reliable internet to households and small businesses through GFiber Prepaid and Globe AT HOME, providing reliable internet to households and small businesses. For local establishments such as small hotels, cafés, and restaurants, fiber connectivity can support online bookings, enable food delivery services, and offer WiFi to guests, helping them attract more customers and cater to the growing number of tourists.

(L-R) Premier Axis Traders Corp. President Aimee Te De La Peña, Island City Mall Administrator Mario Cirujales, Bohol First District Congressman Baba Yap II, and M&M Cell Depot’s Placedo Te at the Bohol Globe pop-up store ribbon cutting ceremony.

For mobile needs, the store offers prepaid SIMs that are well-suited for foreign visitors and digital nomads. These SIMs come with no long-term commitment and give users immediate access to data for social media, navigation, remote work, or simply staying connected while in Bohol. The store also accepts all forms of payment for bill transactions, making it easier for customers to manage their accounts.

The store is prepared to help with client concerns, including technical support and service issues, in addition to establishing new offerings. With its ease, quickness, and real-time support, it’s intended to be a one-stop shop for all things Globe.

The Bohol pop-up, which is situated on the upper ground floor of the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City, is a component of a larger initiative to enhance Globe’s service accessibility across the country, particularly in regions that are undergoing rapid development and have higher connection demands.

Go to https://www.globe.com.ph/ to find out more about Globe’s network initiatives in the Visayas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 18, 2025 by
Entertainment

We Are Imaginary explores the theme of toxic relationships in their dreamy new single, “Stockholm”

The latest single showcases the band’s more introspective and pensive side

We Are Imaginary, a Filipino indie rock band, is back with “Stockholm,” the newest song from their upcoming self-titled album, which will be available on vinyl through Eikon Records in the middle of 2025.

“Stockholm” is a compelling meditation on toxic attachment masquerading as love, delving into themes of emotional entanglement and vulnerability. The song is a turning point for guitarist and frontman Ahmad Tanji, who transforms years of unhappiness into one of the band’s most lyrically and sonically compelling albums to date.

The song opens with the Nietzsche-inspired line, “Staring at the abyss / staring back at me,” which immediately sets the tone for introspection. As the track unfolds, lyrics like “So used with bad directions / I’m following no leads” imply how the protagonist continues to spiral out of existential dread, losing the will to continue fighting—only to be pulled back by the subtle, grounding sound.

Nearing its final lap, “Stockholm” shifts from self-doubt to fleeting relief with the repeated line, “Then I hear my name / From the other line / And it don’t make sense / But everything turned right,” capturing the distorted comfort often found in unhealthy relationships, where even the smallest gestures feel strangely hopeful and redemptive, regardless of the cyclical doom that is about to happen.

According to Ahmad Tanji, lead vocalist and guitarist of We Are Imaginary, the track was inspired by his lyrical heroes from early 2000s indie rock/pop. “This time, after going through a depressive state over a toxic relationship, I looked inward and tried wording out the existential crisis I was in. It’s sort of a nod to that iconic Garden State scene, but through a grittier lens.”

Sonically, “Stockholm” exemplifies the group’s distinctive fusion of rich instrumentation and reflective narration. Tanji and producer Joey Santos worked together to adjust the production, with Santos initially favoring a louder, heavier arrangement.

“My mind was pushing it to be more in the vein of 90’s alternapop bands (Superdrag, Nada Surf, etc.) as it should serve the bounce and weight of the words,” shares Ahmad Tanji. “I think Angee Rozul’s (sound engineer) idea of adding an acoustic guitar to drive the song did wonders. Moving that instrument to the front seat made the vibe more, as you said, expansive and intimate.”

“Stockholm” by We Are Imaginary is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe.

 

 

 

 

 

July 18, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK won the 2025 Insurance Asia Awards’ International Life Insurer of the Year Philippines title

Pru Life UK Head of Brand & Integrated Marketing Communications Kathryn Cajucom (2nd from left) and Assistant Manager for Corporate Communications Lalaine Almazan (1st from right) received the International Life Insurer of the Year-Philippines recognition from Insurance Asia Awards.

Pru Life UK has once again demonstrated its status as a top insurer in the Philippines by winning International Life Insurer of the Year – Philippines for the fifth consecutive year at the recent 2025 Insurance Asia Awards.

The leading awards show for the Asia Pacific insurance industry is the Insurance Asia Awards. Its goal is to honor and celebrate the best insurance companies in the area for their inventiveness and profound influence on the lives of their clients.

“Winning the International Life Insurer of the Year – Philippines title for the fifth consecutive year is a testament to our dedication to excellence and inclusive growth. Over the past year, Pru Life UK has continued its focus on improving our business performance, while also empowering and accelerating value for our employees, customers, shareholders and communities,” said Kathryn Cajucom, Vice President and Head of Branding and Integrated Marketing Communications.

Maintaining customer trust

Pru Life UK attributes its recent victory to the unwavering support of its customers and partners. Throughout the years, the company has rolled out various initiatives to strengthen financial inclusion and to innovate its services to meet their needs.

These include extending financial protection to all Filipino communities—regardless of faith, background, or income—with PRUTerm Lindungi, Pru Life UK’s first life protection plan in the Philippines that is compliant with Islamic laws. The company’s expanded Madrasah initiatives have also provided more Filipinos access to its tailored solutions for diverse cultural and religious needs.

In addition, Pru Life UK introduced easy and secure cashless payment options to allow a more seamless and convenient experience for its customers. Its PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund enables customers to participate in dynamic growth opportunities within the global technology sector.

“These initiatives play an important role in our growth. To date, we have insured over two million lives,” said Cajucom.

Keeping employees delighted

Fostering employee well-being and development is also among Pru Life UK’s key priorities.

In the past year, the company opened the PRUHouse head office, aimed at enhancing collaboration and promoting a customer-centric culture.

“Our people remain our greatest asset. In the past year, we have also reinforced our commitment to employee welfare through well-being initiatives and career development support, ensuring that our workforce remains motivated, resilient, and equipped to meet future challenges,” said Cajucom.

Pru Life UK has grown its workforce to more than 40,000 dedicated professionals and expanded its network to over 200 branches and general agencies nationwide.

Cultivating a sustainable future

Regarding sustainability, Pru Life UK has intensified its strategy for climate resilience. It started educational programs and a comic book that emphasizes how climate change affects Filipinos’ mental health and financial stability as part of this endeavor.

“We recognise that sustainable growth requires collective action, and we will continue to collaborate with partners, communities, and stakeholders to protect the planet and make a positive difference for generations to come,” said Cajucom.

“Once again, we are grateful to Insurance Asia Awards for this honour. We will use this accomplishment as an inspiration to continue delivering impactful work that empowers Filipinos,” added Cajucom.

 

 

 

July 17, 2025 by
Automotive

In the compact SUV segment, LYNK & CO 02 GET THE HIGHEST EURO NCAP SAFETY RATING

The Euro New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP), a well recognized, independent safety body that conducts crash tests and assigns ratings based on new vehicles’ safety performance, recently gave the Lynk & Co 02 E-SUV a 5-star grade, placing it in a class of its own. This 5-star certification, which is the highest for a small SUV in the current evaluation cycle of Euro NCAP, validates the 02 E-SUV as the safest car tested in its class in 2025.

With exceptional performance in every evaluation category, including the highest ever recorded Safety Assistance rating of 89%, the 02 raises the bar for safety in its class and demonstrates Lynk & Co.’s dedication to fusing cutting-edge technology, practical sustainability, and creative design.

The 02 E-SUV now joins its stablemate the 01 PHEV as a new energy Lynk & Co ride with full marks for safety, as assessed and confirmed by the Euro NCAP.

The 02 E-SUV’s near-perfect rating was based on safety test performance across four categories: Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Vulnerable Road Users, and Safety Assist. It achieved outstanding results in every area: 90% for Adult Occupant Protection, 87% for Child Occupant Protection, 83% for Vulnerable Road User Protection, and a standout 89% for Safety Assist, the highest ever recorded by Euro NCAP in its current evaluation cycle.

For Lynk & Co, this recognition affirms the value of creating cars with integrity and putting real experiences at the heart of road safety. Whether navigating busy city streets or out on the open road, the 02 is designed and engineered to keep you and those around you as safe as possible.

For a closer experience of the 02 E-SUV’s 5-star safety, visit Lynk & Co dealerships in Alabang, Angeles, BGC, North EDSA and Quezon Avenue, and follow Lynk & Co Philippines on social media: FB: LynkCoPhilippines | IG: lynkco_philippines. You may also contact Lynk & Co Philippines via its hotline, 0917 175 LYNK (5965) to inquire. To book a test drive, request for a quote, and learn more about Lynk & Co’s exciting product lineup, you may visit LynkCo.ph.

Learn more about the Lynk & Co 02’s cutting-edge safety features by viewing the full product press kit, which includes product specifications, pictures, FAQs, and bios, here.

Please visit Euro NCAP Lynk & Co 02 to read the complete study and find out more about Euro NCAP.

July 16, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Manila Water encourages local involvement in the desludging rollout in July

A Manila Water Advocacy Manager conducting an information, education, and communication (IEC) program at a barangay hall in Pasig.

Manila Water’s July desludging program has been implemented throughout Metro Manila’s East Zone and portions of Rizal Province, further demonstrating the company’s dedication to clean and healthy communities. Residents are encouraged to participate in this vital service, which supports public health and helps avoid environmental contamination, by the company.

Before every planned service, Manila Water runs its information, education, and communication (IEC) program to make sure locals are aware and ready. In collaboration with barangay offices and local government units, the IEC sessions give households vital information on the desludging process, its advantages, and the preparations they must make before service day.

“Desludging is a shared responsibility, and through our IEC program on sanitation, we make sure communities are equipped with the knowledge they need to participate actively,” Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla said.

Manila Water rolls out its July desludging schedule, supported by its IEC program. In partnership with LGUs and barangays, the IEC sessions help residents understand the desludging process, its benefits, and how to prepare.

For July, Manila Water desludging trucks and ground personnel will be deployed in the following barangays: San Jose in Antipolo; San Isidro in Taytay; San Pedro in Angono; Mambog, Layunan, Libis, and Libid in Binangonan; San Jose, San Isidro, and Balite in Montalban (Rodriguez); Ampid II and Banaba in San Mateo; Gulod Malaya, Silangan, Sta. Elena, and Industrial Valley Complex in Marikina; Rosario, Santolan, and Buting in Pasig City; Alicia, Pasong Tamo, Loyola Heights, Bagong Pag-asa, San Roque, Ramon Magsaysay Damayang Lagi, and Holy Spirit in Quezon City; Balong Bato, Ermitanyo, Pedro Cruz, Little Baguio, and Maytunas in San Juan City; and Poblacion and Mabini-J. Rizal in Mandaluyong City.

Frequent desludging is essential for safeguarding water supplies, lowering pollution, and improving community health in addition to ensuring that septic systems operate as intended. Residents who take part in this program help to make the community safer, more resilient, and a cleaner place for everyone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 16, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

TIME Magazine and Statista selected Schneider Electric the Most Sustainable Company in the World

TIME Magazine and Statista have awarded Schneider Electric the “World’s Most Sustainable Company 2025” recognizing the company as a pioneer in the digital transformation of energy management and automation. Schneider Electric has been at the top of the list of the 500 World’s Most Sustainable Companies for the past two years.

This honor is a testament to Schneider Electric’s steady advancement toward its own sustainability objectives and dedication to assisting its clients in lowering their emissions and increasing their energy efficiency. The business is still making great progress toward its lofty sustainability objectives, which include achieving net-zero CO2 emissions throughout its value chain by 2050 and a 25% absolute carbon reduction throughout its value chain by 2030. The company’s plan, the SBTi-validated Schneider Sustainability Impact 2021-2025 (SSI) program, enables sustainable progress for its customers and local communities in addition to Schneider Electric and its partners.

“We’re incredibly honored to be recognized as the world’s most sustainable company for the second year in a row,” said Olivier Blum, CEO of Schneider Electric. “As a technology company, our goal is to be the trusted partner of our customer to deliver efficiency and sustainability. At Schneider, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We strive to be an Impact Company—where performance is the foundation. Our purpose drives us to engage our entire ecosystem, our mission positions us as part of the solution, and our culture sets us apart. This holistic approach ensures that every aspect of our operations and value chain contributes to a more sustainable world.”

500 of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies are selected after a pool of 5,700 businesses is assessed using 20 key performance parameters. It evaluates things like energy consumption and Scope 1 and 2 emissions in relation to the size of the company, emissions reductions, and the percentage of renewable energy used in operations. External elements are also taken into account, such as corporate reporting standards, sustainability ratings and commitments, and environmental and social performance indicators.

Additionally, Schneider Electric is the first company to rank first in its Global 100 twice and has been designated the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation 2025 by Corporate Knights. Corporate Knights has also recognized the French enterprise as the Most Sustainable Corporation in France and Europe.

 

 

 

July 15, 2025 by
Entertainment

Enchanted Kingdom’s Mega Birthday Bash elevates Eldar the Wizard’s special day

This July, Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ first and only top-tier theme park, will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its iconic character, Eldar the Wizard, with a month-long birthday celebration, adding even more magic and enjoyment.

EK recognizes its most cherished in-house character as part of The Enchanted Story of Eldar the Wizard campaign with a number of fun events, enthralling performances, interactive education, delectable snacks, and lots of surprises throughout the park.

Kicking off the festivities for his Mega Birthday Bash, Eldar enlisted the help of his Spaceport and Jungle Outpost buddies, Morgom, Cromatia, and Snaptooth in hiding invitation cards for his special day on their respective zones last July 12. Park guests who were able to find Eldar’s Missing Birthday Invitations enjoyed minigames and enchanting treats.

The enchantment continues on July 19, where guests can help Ogg the Guard in The Search for Eldar’s Birthday Hats at Victoria Park, Portabello, and Brooklyn Place.

EK will also bring an enchanting twist to the classic tradition of gift-giving through The Birthday Giver this July 19 and 20. Everyone is invited to bring heartfelt gifts such as toys, clothes, books, school supplies, and other non-perishable goods to our friends in need through the Magical Drop Box at the Midway Boardwalk.

The festivities will culminate at Eldar’s Mega Birthday Bash on July 26, Saturday at the Spaceport Grounds. This grand celebration promises a fun-filled day bursting with Magic, Education, Games, and Arts that will surely make guests of all ages forever enchanted. The selected beneficiaries of The Birthday Giver are also invited to be part of this special day.

Since the theme park first opened to the public in 1995, Eldar the Wizard has been known to spread magic across EK’s thriving storyverse. He also imparts his knowledge to everyone on how to uphold the EK core values of honesty, loyalty, love of God, respect, and inventiveness.

Visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and follow EK’s official social media pages @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram for additional details and updates about Eldar’s Mega Birthday Bash and EK’s other events and deals.

 

 

 

July 15, 2025 by
Tech

NU Bulldogs Win First Title in Infinix Champions Campus Esports at XCC 2025 Grand Finals

NU Bulldogs raising the championship trophy after being proclaimed as the XCC 2025 Grand Champion

In a thrilling best-of-five (bo5) Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) match, the National University (NU) Bulldogs from the Philippines defeated Cambodia’s Team TDN 3-0 in the Infinix Campus Cup (XCC) 2025 Regional Grand Finals, which celebrated esport excellence at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

The MLBB competition brought together the best campus esport teams in Southeast Asia, with over 1,000 teams from over 400 schools in five countries. In front of a boisterous home crowd, the NU Bulldogs won the regional championship after defeating formidable rivals including Little Pikaa of Indonesia, USM Vendetta of Malaysia, and KMD of Myanmar.

Infinix Campus Cup (XCC) 2025: A Festival of Talent and Technology

More than just a tournament, the XCC 2025 Grand Finals was a full-blown celebration of esports, pop culture, and cutting-edge tech—all under one roof. Hosted by MPL talents Hans Galeria and Bridgitte “Brigida” Ramos, the event transformed the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall into a vibrant playground for fans, creators, and student gamers alike.

Fans showed up in force to meet their favorite campus creators live, including Fuego Gaming, Jayat Gaming, Chacha Pega, and Kristine Santamena, known for their witty, game-inspired content. These personalities didn’t just make appearances; they played, connected, and celebrated alongside the community in immersive on-ground experiences.

From left to right: Fuego Gaming, Kristine Santamena, Chacha Pega, Jayat Gaming, Renejay, and Aurora Gaming

Esports energy hit new heights with GT 30 Pro ambassador Renejay and members of Aurora Gaming, including Edward, Domengkite, Demonkite, Yue, and Calad, brought championship-level intensity and inspired the next wave of student challengers.

Adding even more firepower was a show-stopping performance from P-Pop powerhouse G22, consisting of Jaz, AJ, and Alfea, who lit up the stage with high-energy hits, giving the crowd a concert-worthy experience.

The Female Alpha of P-Pop, G22, composed of members Alfea, AJ, and Jaz during their XCC performance

Lucky fans also had the opportunity to get hands-on with the Infinix GT 30 Pro, engineered for high-performance student gamers with elite specs and a striking design. Raffle prizes like the GT 30 Pro and a TTRacing gaming chair added to the day’s electrifying atmosphere.

XCC Regional Finals event hosts Hans Galeria and Brigida Ramos, together with the GT 30 Pro Raffle winner

Home Turf, Historic Win

The NU Bulldogs’ dominant sweep wasn’t just a win—it was a defining moment. Representing the Philippines on home soil, they carried both national pride and tournament pressure with poise, securing the lion’s share of the $30,000 prize pool, the championship trophy, and a historic place as the inaugural XCC Regional Champions.

The team was awarded by Lee Viloria (PH Esports Business Development and Partnerships Head at MOONTON Games), Jab Escutin (General Manager, SIBOL Philippine National Esports Team), and Levana Yan (Head of Global Community, Infinix)—a moment of triumph for NU and a proud milestone for the nation.

From left to right: Fuego Gaming, Kristine Santamena, Chacha Pega, Jayat Gaming, Renejay, and Aurora Gaming

“NU’s victory is a testament to the rising talent in Southeast Asia’s campus esports scene,” said Jab Escutin, General Manager of the SIBOL Philippine National Esports Team. “With Infinix leading the charge in campus tournaments like XCC, more student-athletes across the region are getting the platform they deserve. It was an honor to host the Regional Finals and witness such passion and skill from all competing nations.”

Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem at MOONTON Games, said, “We congratulate our partner, Infinix, for the successful hosting of the Campus Cup that gathered students from Southeast Asia campuses to compete in a regional MLBB tournament. This meaningful collaboration reinforces our commitment to discover students and provide aspiring athletes with opportunities to showcase their talent.”

From Campus Gaming to Global Opportunities

As part of its mission to empower the next generation of esports stars, Infinix continues to expand its gaming ecosystem beyond competition, bridging the gap between campus-level and professional play. A standout initiative was the XCC Bootcamp Visit & Training Program, a high-level experience for national champions ahead of the finals.

Before hitting the main stage, champion teams participated in intensive workshops, scrims, and mentorships hosted by top-tier MLBB squads, including Aurora Gaming (Philippines), ONIC Esports (Indonesia), HomeBois (Malaysia), Duck Rice Esports (Cambodia), and Mythic Seal (Myanmar). These bootcamps provided student-athletes with first-hand experience in MPL-level esports discipline, teamwork, and preparation.

XCC ID Champion Team Little Pikaa took part in a training at the prestigious ONIC Super Training Facility

In addition, Infinix is enhancing its development pipeline through a Team Tryout Program, where national champions gain early access and priority entry into pro team tryouts—paving a direct path into the professional scene.

Looking forward, Infinix is also developing exclusive international esports immersion programs, offering student-athletes and creators global exposure and opportunities to engage with wider communities on the world stage.

Infinix Powers the Future of Campus Esports

With its successful regional expansion, the Infinix Campus Cup (XCC) is scaling new heights, creating more opportunities for student-athletes, creators, and campus gaming ecosystems. What began as a local initiative is now a pan-Asian celebration of talent, technology, and youth culture.

“The success of the Infinix Campus Cup across Southeast Asia reflects our deep commitment to nurturing grassroots talent. We’re proud to be building meaningful pathways that empower student players to grow into global esports contenders,” said Tony Zhao, Chief Executive Officer of Infinix.

The XCC 2025 Grand Finals were powered by the Infinix GT 30 Pro, the official tournament phone for top-tier Mobile Legends: Bang Bang professional leagues. Equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate chipset, an All-Day 120 FPS System, and Responsive GT Trigger, the GT 30 Pro delivers ultra-smooth gameplay and console-level control engineered for elite competition.

The Infinix GT 30 Pro devices were used as the official tournament phone by XCC players ahead of its MPL debut next season

Under MOONTON’s MLBB E-Project, which permits a limited number of partners to stage tournaments utilizing official Mobile Legends: Bang Bang intellectual property, XCC 2025 is an Infinix-led project that has received official recognition. This support strengthens the Infinix Campus Cup’s standing as a major player in the grassroots esports industry. Additionally, TTRacing Philippines, the Infinix Campus Cup’s Official Gaming Chair Partner, makes the event possible.

For the most recent information on upcoming qualifiers, campus collaborations, and unique brand partnerships, follow Infinix Philippines on Facebook. Take advantage of early access to events, initiatives, and benefits designed specifically for our XFans by joining the Infinix Philippines Facebook Community group.

For more information, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com/

 

 

July 14, 2025 by
Lifestyle, Travel

2GO Transports the Mind Rover from the Mind Museum to Puerto Princesas

The Mind Rover travels to Palawan via 2GO.

The Mind Museum and 2GO, the biggest logistics and maritime travel company in the Philippines, have teamed up once more to introduce the islands to the wonders of science. The Mind Rover will travel to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, as part of this partnership.

Passengers on board the MV 2GO St. Francis Xavier, which was sailing from Manila to Puerto Princesa and Coron over the weekend, participated in a number of thrilling, science-themed activities as part of this program and in advance of the Mind Rover’s arrival in Palawan. These interactive seminars, which were organized by The Mind Museum, made STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education more engaging. For both children and adults on board, they transform maritime travel into an enjoyable, significant, and enriching experience.

This unique initiative brought logistics and learning together to move not just people and goods but also spark curiosity and imagination across the sea.

“We are thrilled to partner with 2GO. Through its shipping capabilities, the Mind Rover gets to visit provinces in the Philippines where it would have taken weeks if traveled by land and would have been difficult to transport without 2GO’s direct link from Manila. Through this partnership, we are able to impact more communities and hopefully encourage more kids to have an inspired engagement and view of science or maybe, even take up STEM in the future. We even get to reach more audiences as we also do science shows on board 2GO!,” said Maria Isabel Garcia, Managing Director and Curator of The Mind Museum.

Now on its third leg, the Mind Rover has successfully crossed Philippine seas through 2GO, following activations in Bacolod and General Santos. It now reaches Puerto Princesa with the same mission: to reimagine science, make it more exciting, and spark inspiration among Filipino children to become the country’s next generation of scientists and innovators.

“We are delighted to be part of this meaningful partnership. It is an honor to bring science closer to Filipino families through a unique onboard experience. By mounting the Mind Rover exhibit aboard our ships, in partnership with The Mind Museum, we’re creating a space for families to explore themes of sea travel, sustainability, and basic science while in transit. We believe that part of appreciating sea travel is understanding how it works — and through this experience, we hope to spark curiosity, awareness, and a deeper connection with our oceans,” said Francis Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel.

The Mind Rover is a 12-meter museum-on-wheels packed with interactive and hands-on exhibits, and live science shows and demonstrations. It continues to fulfill its mission of bringing science beyond museum walls and into underserved island communities. The Puerto Princesa leg is the latest in a growing series of island activations made possible through collaborations like this.

With operations across 19 ports nationwide and a firm commitment to moving communities forward, 2GO’s partnership with The Mind Museum underscores its role not just as a logistics provider, but as a bridge to learning, creativity, and nation-building.

This relationship exemplifies the ability of intentional alliances to provide memorable, impactful experiences on land and at sea.

Go to travel.2go.com.ph or send an email to [email protected] to find out more about 2GO’s shipping and travel options.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

 

 

July 14, 2025 by