KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad go from strangers to lovers in Hong Kong

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Estrada’s “Be With U“ music video livens up the screens with a charming romance set against the backdrop of Asia’s World City

In KD Estrada’s latest single “Be with U”, a serendipitous meeting between two unsuspecting individuals leads to a sweet journey through the beautiful bustling streets of Hong Kong. The song describes the feeling of wanting to spend every waking moment with that special someone, and in true kilig fashion, KD also stars in the music video alongside his long-time partner and fellow artist Alexa Ilacad. 

The couple, known as KDLex, has had their fair share of Hong Kong adventures, having starred in “Toss Coin” directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana, a microfilm about two Filipinos meeting and falling in love in Hong Kong, a near-mirror image of this music video. What makes it more special this time around is that the ever-enthusiastic KDLex fans helped pitch in with their own suggestions on which Hong Kong hidden gems to visit!

The video follows the two as they explore the different sides that Hong Kong has to offer, the city becoming the perfect couple’s paradise. More than the usual theme parks and city dwellings, Hong Kong has a lot more for couples who are looking for unique ways to spend their time together; from spontaneous weekend getaways to longer days touring the outlying islands of Hong Kong with your treasured person, take inspiration from KD’s “Be With U” music video and plan that trip to the city!

The view with U

KD and Alexa kick off the music video by meeting high up in the sky, at the Peak Galleria Observation Deck, a spacious observation deck adjacent to the Peak Galleria mall that offers a panoramic view from Victoria Peak. Just like KDLex, breathe in the high altitude air after a shopping trip and bask in the views of Hong Kong.

The quiet charm of Cheung Chau

The two stars eventually end up bumping into each other once more on the scenic island of Cheung Chau, the perfect getaway from the usual clamor of Hong Kong with its beautiful waterfront, filled with gently rocking moored fishing boats, and seafood restaurants. The island is just a short ferry ride away, with the standard ferry taking approximately an hour to reach Cheung Chau, while the fast ferry takes between 35 to 40 minutes. Central Pier No. 5 has a ferry service that travels daily to and from the island.

There are no cars on this island as the norm is bike riding, a habit that contributes to the peaceful atmosphere of the island. Alexa was charmed by this way of transportation, saying, “I don’t get to ride bikes often, so I was a bit shaky, but KD was there to help.” She goes on to gush about the island even more: “Cheung Chau was the perfect place to take it slow on the bike as it’s very scenic and there are no cars to chase you down,” Alexa adds with a laugh. “I hope to be back soon just to relax and take the atmosphere in,” the actress concludes. Here you’ll also find everything from hiking trails to hip cafes in a culturally rich community, celebrated by the annual Cheung Chau Bun Festival.

KD and Alexa dropped by Kwok Kam Kee, the oldest lucky bun bakery in Cheung Chau, sharing a sweet bite together. The bakery is the oldest lucky bun bakery in Cheung Chau and makes approximately 30,000 of the buns sold and given away during the Cheung Chau Bun Festival. Each bun is printed with the Chinese letters “Ping On” which translates to “safety”. The bold red print is hard to miss and the filling that bursts with flavor is equally unforgettable. “The sweetness is a nice surprise and is different from other steamed buns I’ve had,” Alexa says. KD agrees and adds, “The texture is what makes it stand out. It’s really filling, nakakabusog siya, no?”

Kwok Kam Kee can be found at G/F, 46 Pak She Street, Cheung Chau.

KD and Alexa continued on their Cheung Chau food trip with the MTR mosaic wall-inspired Cheung Chau Corner where they enjoyed a yogurt drink together, as well as tasty giant curry fishballs at Welcome Food Court. Space is another cafe along the quieter side of the Cheung Chau harbor that serves different menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with affordable prices. If traditional desserts are more your thing, Wan Sing Dessert is where they serve the Cheung Chau favorite, the famous mango mochi.

“Of course, as Filipinos, we had to try the mango mochi,” KD shares. “Just like the ones we have at home, the mochi was very refreshing. Super sarap!”

Welcome Food Court is located at G/F, 150 San Hing Back Street, while Cheung Chau Corner is at G/F, 78 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau. Space is at 7 Tai Hing Tai Road, Cheung Chau and Wan Sing can be found at G/F, 5 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau.

Nothing can get more romantic than the Love Lock Wall, a maze of chain metal walls where friends and couples hang locks and heart-shaped wooden plaques with hand-written messages to commemorate their visit to the island. This is where couples can leave a little piece of them, marking this destination as a part of their love story. In fact, KD and Alexa left a little easter egg for their fans who plan to visit Cheung Chau: a hand-painted portrait of the two of them on a heart-shaped wooden plaque. The BnB The Creative Workshop is where KD and Alexa got their craft on and is also where visitors can acquire souvenirs and trinkets that they can hang up on the Love Lock Wall.

You may find the Love Lock Wall at 156 Sun Hing Back Street, Cheung Chau.

The perfect date night in Central and Kowloon

Couples looking to end the night on a high should include the Temple Street Night Market and the West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade in their itineraries. Temple Street Night Market boasts Hong Kong’s diverse culinary culture, welcoming visitors with a wide range of Hong Kong-style snacks along the Temple Street Archway. After a quick bite, enter any one of the cafes, bars, and restaurants along the West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade for a drink and the perfect nightcap with views of the Hong Kong skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the outlying islands of Hong Kong.

And finally, the Hong Kong Observatory Wheel is there to make the night even more special, Located at the Central Waterfront Promenade, the 60-meter-high Hong Kong Observation Wheel provides panoramic views over Victoria Harbor, a scene that would truly take your breath away. This place is a hot spot for all the romantic gestures such as wedding proposals so there’s no shortage of romance here! Couples can go the extra mile and book a VIP gondola for a more private and exclusive night spent gazing down at the city.

The Hong Kong Observatory Wheel is located at 33 Man Kwong Street, Central.

The music video ends with a sweet moment shared by KD and Alexa, exchanging love locks on Central Pier 9, against the backdrop of the glittering lights and calm waters, the perfect place to spend a quiet moment with your significant other, enjoying the view of Victoria Harbour as the Star Ferry and Aqua Luna sail by. This location is also reminiscent of another beloved Hong Kong love story as Central Pier 9 is where a number of scenes from the movie “Hello Love Goodbye” take place. 

From older couples who have seen each other’s different stages in life to those still in the honeymoon phase, Hong Kong remains as the city where love continues to bloom. And if you’re like KD and Alexa in the music video, wandering solo around the city, you may just discover that love is right around every corner of Hong Kong.

Watch KD’s “Be With U” music video here and explore more of Hong Kong’s hidden gems here.

Over 13,800 jobseekers hired on the spot in Trabaho Para sa Bayan: J.O.B.S Nationwide Campaign

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Jobstreet by SEEK with SM Supermalls and PSAC representatives in a memorandum of agreement signing ceremony for Trabaho Para sa Bayan: J.O.B.S

Over 13,800 jobseekers have been hired on the spot at the Trabaho Para sa Bayan: J.O.B.S (Job Opportunities Building Skills) nationwide job fair, a partnership campaign effort by leading online job portal Jobstreet by SEEK together with SM Supermalls and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).

Since its inception in January, the job fair has managed to hire over 13,800 jobseekers on the spot, increasing the number of new talents for hirers as well as providing new opportunities for jobseeking hopefuls looking for a job that matches their skill set and passion.

"Jobstreet by SEEK feels honored and delighted with how many candidates were hired on the spot during this campaign, and we stand by in helping Filipino jobseekers step closer to their chosen careers. These collaborations with organizations like SM Supermalls and PSAC serve as motivating factors in boosting the labor market and increasing the talents of hirers, especially those in key industries," said Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK in the Philippines.

The Trabaho Para sa Bayan: J.O.B.S fair was a collaborative effort by Jobstreet by SEEK, SM Supermalls, and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), seeking to generate quality jobs for Filipinos and help address the current issue of job skills mismatch in the country. This is in line with Jobstreet by SEEK’s mission to contribute to nation-building through activities including a series of on-ground job fairs at SM Malls nationwide and daily online job fairs via Jobstreet by SEEK’s online platform.

Additionally, Jobstreet by SEEK has provided guidance materials for jobseekers through the platform’s Career Hub, offering valuable insights on key jobseeking skills such as interviews and resume writing, all to better increase the chances of acquiring the career jobseekers desire.

At the same time, Jobstreet by SEEK will be hosting a nationwide J.O.B.S. Caravan with SM Supermalls to share solutions and tips for hirers, as well as encourage more hirers to join the initiative.

Onsite job fairs are still ongoing nationwide, with upcoming fairs at SM City Trece Martires on November 15 and 29, SM City North Edsa on November 27, and SM City Lucena on November 28. Further locations are to be announced soon.

For more information on the Trabaho Para sa Bayan: J.O.B.S fair, jobseekers may visit and register at https://www.jobstreet.com.ph/page/sm-job-fair.

DOT’s Immersive Cube Experience Showcases the Philippines’ Tourist Spots Like an Artwork

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Like a visually appealing artwork, art enthusiasts and collectors marvel at the natural and man-made wonders of the Philippines through the “Immersive Cube Experience”— an innovative attraction that brought the country’s beauty to life in an art setting.

Inside the Department of Tourism’s Immersive Cube Experience, which shows the breathtaking views of rolling hills. Photo by the Department of Tourism

The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the Immersive Cube Experience during the ManilArt 2024, one of the country’s longest-running visual arts fairs, held at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig City last October 9, 2024. This event bridged the world of tourism and art, attracting both art aficionados and curious onlookers.

The photo and video booth enabled visitors to witness the Philippines’s world-renowned tourist destinations through five LED screens seamlessly arranged to create a 3D-like environment. The cube’s interior featured three walls, a ceiling, and a floor— swathed in blue, reminiscent of the Philippines’ crystal-clear waters. The vibrant Love the Philippines campaign was prominently displayed setting the tone for the celebration of the country’s natural and cultural riches.

Inside the cube, visitors were transported to some of the country’s best tourist spots— from the breathtaking sardine run to picturesque waterfalls, mountains, limestone formations, and pristine beaches. The exhibit also showcased man-made attractions like historic lighthouses, interspersed with flashes of the Love the Philippines slogan, reinforcing the message of love and pride for our country.

As part of the experience, guests gamely interacted with the display by posing with Philippine flags and signages like #LoveTravel and #LovethePhilippines, while donning traditional Filipino hats. This lively and participatory involvement with the installation blended fun with cultural appreciation.

The DOT described the exhibit as “a three-dimensional installation designed to immerse visitors in the beauty of the Philippines through seamless video mapping and programming.” This innovative approach aimed to bring visitors closer to the award-winning destinations of the Philippines by giving them a fully immersive and visually captivating experience.

Participants including children enjoy their experience inside the Immersive Cube Experience, which features one of the Philippines' old lighthouses that served as a guide for ships in the olden times. Photo by the Department of Tourism

Wearing traditional Filipino hats and waving Philippine flags, visitors take a photo at the “Immersive Cube Experience” and take pride in the Philippines’ natural wonders. Photo by the Department of Tourism

DOT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Gissela Marie Quisumbing (middle) was among the visitors who enjoyed the “Immersive Cube Experience” at ManilArt 2024. Photo by the Department of Tourism

(From left to right, first row) DOT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Gissela Marie Quisumbing, DOT Undersecretary for Administration and Finance Shereen Gail Yu-Pamintuan, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss, and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara cut the ribbon in the opening of ManilArt 2024, which also featured the DOT’s Immersive Cube Experience. Photo by the Department of Tourism

Leading the launch of the Immersive Cube Experience were DOT Undersecretary for Administration and Finance Shereen Gail Yu-Pamintuan and Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Gissela Marie Quisumbing who graced the event to emphasize DOT’s commitment to promoting the country as a top tourist destination. The launch also coincided with ManilArt’s gala night further emphasizing the department’s support for cultural promotion.

Also in attendance were Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara, National Museum of the Philippines Director General Jeremy Barns, National Artist Virgilio Almario, and foreign dignitaries such as Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss, Thailand Ambassador Tull Traisorat, and Malaysia Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the ManilArt Foundation opened this year’s edition of the ManilArt as part of the annual tradition of celebrating Museums and Galleries Month every October. With over 260 artists and 34 exhibitors displaying their artworks, the art fair – which featured paintings and sculptures by renowned and emerging Filipino artists using different mediums – ran from October 9 to 13, 2024.

The art fair “once again demonstrated its importance as a platform for Philippine contemporary art,” according to the NCCA. “An intersection of creativity, tradition, and innovation, ManilART 2024 promises to continue offering a vibrant showcase of the country's artistic,” it added.

With the theme “Prisms & Mosaics,” ManilArt 2024 “emphasized the richness and diversity of Filipino contemporary art,” the NCCA also said. During the five-day art fair, ManilArt 2024 welcomed over 5,000 attendees and participants “who enjoyed the immersive cube as well,” according to the DOT.

By joining art fairs and other events, the DOT aims to introduce the Philippines as a premier tourist destination that hosts vibrant cultures and heritage, takes pride in its natural wonders, and proudly displays the many faces of the Filipino identity.

“The Philippines is a powerhouse of mega biodiversity, being only one of 18 mega biodiverse countries in the world, a deep well of culture and history, a profound burst and taste of flavor and gastronomy, a tapestry of indigenous peoples and creative communities by whose work of their hands have safeguarded the dignity and integrity of the Filipino identity,” declared DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco during the launch of the “Love the Philippines” campaign in June 2023.

“These complexities and nuances of the Philippines have yet to be fully articulated to the world for indeed, the story of the Filipino has yet to be fully told, and we shall tell that story by telling them the story of love,” she added.

Discover the New Plot Twist of Tongits Go in Gamezone

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In the heart of Filipino culture, card games have always held a special place, bringing friends and family together for generations. Among these cherished games, Tongits stands out as a beloved classic, known for its unique blend of strategy, luck, and social interaction. Now, thanks to GameZone, the Philippines' leading card game developer, this traditional favorite has found new life in the digital realm with Tongits Go.

Tongits, traditionally played with a standard 52-card deck, has been a staple in Filipino households for decades. Its popularity stems from its engaging gameplay that combines elements of strategy and chance, making each round exciting and unpredictable. As technology advanced and the world became increasingly digital, it was only natural for this beloved game to make the leap into the online space.

GameZone recognized the potential of bringing Tongits to a wider audience and set out to create a digital version that would honor the game's roots while embracing the possibilities of modern technology. The result is Tongits Go, a comprehensive online platform that allows players to enjoy this Filipino classic anytime, anywhere.

A Digital Renaissance

The launch of Tongits Go couldn't have come at a better time. When physical gatherings became limited due to the global pandemic, many people resorted to digital platforms for connectivity and entertainment. Tongits Go emerged as a popular choice, offering a familiar and beloved game in a safe, accessible format.

GameZone's digital adaptation goes beyond simply replicating the physical card game. It enhances the experience with features that take full advantage of the online environment. Players can now compete with friends and family across different cities or even countries, bridging distances and keeping communities connected.

The platform's user-friendly interface makes it easy for players of all ages and tech-savvy levels to jump into a game. Whether you're a seasoned Tongits veteran or a curious newcomer, the intuitive design ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience from the first click.

Diverse game modes for every player.

One of the standout features of Tongits Go is its variety of game modes, each offering a unique twist on the classic gameplay:

Tongits Plus: This mode stays true to the traditional rules of Tongits, offering the classic experience that long-time fans know and love. It includes various difficulty levels, allowing players to find matches that suit their skill level and experience.

Tongits Quick: Perfect for those who prefer a faster-paced game, this mode uses a reduced 36-card deck and limits the number of cards dealt to each player. It's ideal for quick rounds during short breaks or for players who enjoy a more intense, rapid-fire experience.

Tongits Joker: Adding an extra layer of excitement and strategy, this mode introduces joker cards as wildcards. These jokers can be used to form combinations or disrupt opponents' plans, adding a new dimension to the game's strategy.

These diverse modes ensure that Tongits Go remains fresh and engaging, no matter how often you play. Whether you're in the mood for a traditional game or looking to test your skills in a new variation, there's always something exciting to try.

Building a Global Community

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tongits Go is how it has helped build a global community of Tongits enthusiasts. Players from all over the world can now connect, compete, and share their love for this Filipino classic. The platform's social features allow players to add friends, join clubs, and participate in community events, fostering a sense of belonging among players.

GameZone regularly hosts tournaments and special events, adding an extra layer of excitement to the Tongits Go experience. These events often come with unique rewards, giving players the chance to win prizes or earn in-game bonuses. For those who enjoy a more competitive edge, Tongits Go also offers real money tournaments, where skilled players can test their abilities against the best and potentially win cash prizes.

The introduction of leaderboards has added a new dimension to the game, allowing players to see how they stack up against others globally. This feature has sparked friendly rivalries and encouraged players to continually improve their skills, adding depth to the overall gaming experience.

Accessibility and Convenience

One of the key advantages of Tongits Go is its accessibility. Players can access the game on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. This flexibility allows users to enjoy a quick game during their commute, a lunch break, or a relaxing evening at home.

The Future of Tongits Go

As Tongits Go continues to grow in popularity, GameZone remains committed to enhancing and expanding the platform. Regular updates introduce new features, improve gameplay mechanics, and address user feedback, ensuring that the game continues to evolve and meet the needs of its community.

Looking ahead, there's potential for even more exciting developments. We might see the introduction of new game modes, enhanced social features, or even cross-platform tournaments that bring together players from different parts of the world in grand competitions.

Conclusion

Tongits Go represents more than just a digital version of a classic card game. It's a bridge between tradition and technology, a platform that preserves cultural heritage while embracing the possibilities of the digital age. By bringing Tongits to a global audience, GameZone has not only revitalized a beloved Filipino pastime but also created a vibrant, worldwide community of players.

Whether you're a long-time Tongits enthusiast or someone curious about exploring Filipino culture through its games, Tongits Go offers an engaging, accessible, and thoroughly enjoyable experience. As it continues to grow and evolve, Tongits Go stands as a shining example of how traditional games can find new life and reach new audiences in the digital world.

So why wait? Join the global Tongits community today and experience the excitement of this Filipino classic reimagined for the modern age. Whether you're playing for fun, competing for prizes, or simply looking to connect with friends and family, Tongits Go on GameZone is your gateway to a world of card-playing excitement. Visit the website today and rediscover the joy of Tongits in its new digital incarnation!

HONOR launches All-Angle Water-Resistant HONOR X7c, now available for Only Php 8,999

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You can get a FREE HONOR Gift Camping Light Speaker for every purchase of HONOR X7c this November 7 to 10, 2024

Leading global smart devices provider, HONOR Philippines, today just dropped HONOR X7c with a splashing price of just Php 8,999 and from November 7 to 10, you can get a FREE HONOR Gift Camping Light Speaker for every purchase! Run to the nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7c_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7c_PR).

“The HONOR X7c represents HONOR's dedication to providing practical, feature-rich smartphones that cater to the needs of budget-conscious consumers who still desire modern functionality and reliable performance in their mobile devices,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Exceptional Durability for Everyday Confidence

HONOR has implemented an innovative cushioning architecture that works in tandem with tempered glass screen protection to significantly boost the device's overall impact resistance. This comprehensive approach to durability ensures that the HONOR X7c can withstand the rigors of daily use, providing users with peace of mind and confidence in their device's longevity. The HONOR X7c sets a new benchmark in smartphone durability with its impressive 5-star Drop Resistance rating. This device has earned the prestigious SGS Premium Performance Certification for Drop & Crush Resistance, underscoring its exceptional build quality and resilience.

The HONOR X7c's robust design is further enhanced by an IP64 rating, offering protection against dust and water splashes. Whether it's accidental drops or exposure to environmental elements, the HONOR X7c is engineered to deliver superior protection, making it a reliable companion for users in various settings and situations.

Exceptional Battery Life and Performance

The HONOR X7c is powered by a robust 6000mAh Super Durable Battery, designed to keep up with the demands of modern users. This high-capacity battery offers worry-free usage throughout the day, supporting up to 28.5 hours of online streaming or an impressive 21.5 hours of YouTube video playback. For those unexpected situations when battery life is critical, the HONOR Ultra Power-Saving Mode allows users to make the most of every last percentage – even with just 2% battery remaining, users can still enjoy 55 minutes of continuous calls. Charging anxiety is a thing of the past with the 35W HONOR SuperCharge technology, which rapidly replenishes the battery via Type-C wired charging.

Ample Storage for All Your Needs

The HONOR X7c comes equipped with a generous 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space for years of precious memories. Complementing this power efficiency is HONOR's innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual). This ensures smooth performance even after extended use, allowing users to multitask effortlessly and switch between apps with ease.

AI Ultra-Clear Camera with a 108MP Main Camera

The HONOR X7c takes mobile photography to new heights with its sophisticated 108MP camera system. This cutting-edge setup is designed to capture life's most precious moments with exceptional clarity and detail. At the heart of this system is the powerful 108MP main camera, which delivers stunning image quality across a wide range of shooting scenarios.

Immersive Display with Enhanced Visual Comfort

The HONOR X7c features an expansive 6.77-inch display, offering an immersive viewing experience with its impressive 90.76% screen-to-body ratio. The display supports 16.7 million colors and boasts a crisp 1610 x 720 resolution, ensuring vivid and detailed visuals. With a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, users can enjoy fluid scrolling and responsive interactions across applications. HONOR has prioritized user comfort by incorporating TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification, reducing eye strain during extended use. This combination of a large, high-quality display with advanced eye protection makes the HONOR X7c an ideal device for both productivity and entertainment, all within a sleek form factor measuring 166.9mm x 76.8mm x 8.09mm and weighing just 199g.

HONOR X7c with a Splashing Price!

HONOR X7c was officially launched with a price tag of Php 8,999 and from November 7 to 10, you can get a FREE HONOR Gift Camping Light Speaker for every purchase! Run to the nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7c_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7c_PR).

The All-Angle Water-Resistant smartphone will also be FREE via Globe Postpaid Plans starting at GPlan 999 with 5GB Data and Unli All Net Call and Texts! Don't miss this out! Visit any Globe Store near you.

For more updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).