Elevate your style, start winning with the POVA 7 Ultra 5G for as low as Php12,999 plus three freebies

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• 2025 no. 1 official gaming phone in the Philippines

• Most stylish design and powerful award-winning AI-driven gaming phone in its price range

TECNO, an AI-driven innovative technology brand, unveils the POVA 7 Ultra 5G and POVA Curve 5G today with the most significant performance and design leap in its record. Designed for the next generation of users, the new series combines futuristic, minimalist, and premium aesthetics with next-level AI capabilities and high-performance hardware tailored for immersive gaming and all-day entertainment.

The POVA 7 Series features 3 devices: POVA 7 Ultra 5G, POVA Curve 5G and POVA 7. Topping the lineup, the interstellar-inspired POVA 7 Ultra 5G brings flagship power with a durable 6000mAh battery, 70W Ultra Charge, and 30W Wireless Fast Charge, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate AI Processor for top-tier gaming performance and multi-tasking efficiency.

Notably, the POVA 7 Ultra 5G achieves series-first integration of 30W Wireless Fast Charge - leading their segment in performance while redefining smartphone aesthetics with a bold, minimalist design philosophy. In addition, the POVA Curve 5G marks the POVA Series’ debut curved screen, combining a futuristic edge-to-edge display with bold performance and elevated style, expanding the POVA family’s appeal to gaming fans and trendsetters.

“With the POVA 7 Series, we’re delivering not just raw power, but intelligent power that adapts to our users' real-world needs—from seamless gaming experience to immersive entertainment and AI-enhanced creativity,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO. “It definitively establishes new benchmarks not just in performance, but in trend-tech aesthetics - redefining what a smartphone can achieve through the fusion of advanced technology and contemporary style."

Built for Winners

The POVA 7 Ultra 5G is the 2025 number 1 official gaming phone in the Philippines. It is the official gaming phone of PMSL SEA & PMCL, SIBOL and HOK Philippines Kings League (PKL).

TECNO Mobile Philippines is the official smartphone partner of Philippine national esports team SIBOL. This partnership aims to empower SIBOL's champions in their quest for success in various esports tournaments, including the SEA and Global Esports Games.

The POVA 7 Ultra 5G is the most powerful smartphone for all 120fps popular games in its price range with its official price of PhP16,999. During the TikTok Super Brand Day first exclusive launch sales this month, buyers can take advantage of discounts of up to PhP4,000 and freebies worth PhP1,999.

A Futuristic Statement of Style, Built for the Bold

Introducing an all-new design language for the POVA lineup — bold yet refined, futuristic yet elegantly minimalist — the POVA 7 Series makes a confident visual statement for the next generation. Inspired by “Interstellar Spaceship Design,” the POVA 7 Series stands out with bold, sleek lines and a minimalist, pure style designed to capture the imagination of a new generation of users. Its signature triangular geometry emblem punctuates purity with personality. An upgraded Mini-LED Status Light delivers customizable lighting effects for calls, notifications, and gaming, adding instant feedback for daily use. For immersive viewing, the 6.78" 1.5K Smooth AMOLED Display brings content to life with a 144Hz refresh rate and 4500 nits peak brightness, making it perfect for gaming, scrolling, and streaming under any lighting condition.

The technological progress also seamlessly converges with software revolutions in HiOS 15 Special for POVA 7 Series - marking the most significant OS evolution in POVA's history. For the first time, TECNO introduces system-wide customization with user-defined icons, fonts, and dynamic wallpapers, alongside a clean, bloat-free experience. This major update delivers a uniquely expressive and distraction-free interface, brought to life by neumorphism-inspired design and POVA’s exclusive typeface, setting a new standard for personalization and purity across the TECNO ecosystem.

Completing the vision are custom-designed accessories made to match: a power bank, protective case, and wireless magnetic card, letting users extend their style beyond the screen. Every detail is crafted to complement both form and function, allowing users to express their personal aesthetic while staying powered and protected.

Power Without Limits: Next-Level Gaming and Off-Grid Connectivity

POVA 7 Ultra 5G empowers users to play hard, stream fast, and stay connected — without compromise. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate 5G processor, the device delivers flagship-level performance with an AnTuTu score surpassing 1.53 million, and easily handles 120 FPS gameplay in titles like PUBG.

Whether in the middle of an intense match or on a remote road trip, the Hyper Cooling System uses 12-layer Cooling Architecture and a 5,300mm² vapor chamber to keep the device cool under pressure, reducing device temperature by up to 3°C for sustained peak performance. A 6000 mAh Durable Battery supported by 70W Ultra Charge, 30 W Wireless Fast Charge, and 10W Reverse Charge banishes “low battery anxiety,” even during long travel days or marathon gaming sessions.

For off-grid adventures and emergencies, the debuting FreeLink feature enables peer-to-peer communication — calls and messages — across a range of up to 1km in signal-free environments. Whether coordinating on a hike, camping in the wild, users stay connected without relying on mobile networks.

Designed for full immersion, POVA 7 Ultra 5G delivers a 4D Gaming Vibration, Dual Speakers with Dolby Atmos, and a suite of customized gaming features, creating an audio-visual experience built for the next generation of mobile gamers and explorers.

Unlock Practical TECNO AI — Smarter Features, Accessible to All

For the first time, AI is fully integrated across the entire POVA 7 Series, strategically aligning with the brand's AI-driven intelligent ecosystem. Outshining same-tier brands, POVA 7 Series combines comprehensive AI integration with best-in-class multilingual processing capabilities, setting new intelligent performance standards for its category.

At the heart of it is the AI Anywhere Portal, a one-stop command center offering seamless access to all core AI tools and daily shortcuts. One tap opens a world of productivity and creativity, including Ask Ella, AI Full-Link Call Assistant, AI Writing, Circle to Search, AI Studio for image AI creation and editing.

Exclusive First Online Sale at the TECNO Super Brand Day on TikTok Shop

The official price of POVA 7 Ultra 5G is PhP16,999. Avail the early bird price of PhP12,999 for the POVA 7 Ultra 5G from August 8 to 10 during the TECNO Super Brand Day at the TikTok Shop. From August 11 to 14, the Super Brand Day discount price will be PhP13,999.

Pre-order the POVA 7 Ultra 5G Nationwide

From August 8 to 21, pre-order the POVA 7 Ultra 5G in TECNO retail stores and get PhP1,000 off the standard retail price of PhP16,999 plus three freebies. Use Skyro to enjoy additional PhP500 discount, or use Home Credit to enjoy up to 18 months, 0% interest payments of PhP24 per day.

Freebies for All Buyers for TikTok Super Brand Day and Offline Preorder - Buy 1 Get 3!

DITO Mobile, TECNO, and PUBG Mobile have joined forces to create the "Perfect Gaming Squad," offering Filipino mobile gamers an exclusive bundle with a winning edge. The bundle features the TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G—the official PUBG Mobile smartphone—and a DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM. Recognized by Opensignal as the Philippines' fastest network, DITO ensures a superior gaming experience with reduced lag and fast loading times. Subscribers who get the exclusive DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM also receive unlimited PUBG Mobile access, valid as long as they are subscribed to select DITO Level Up promos. This powerful collaboration delivers unbeatable performance and a premium gaming experience at an accessible price.

TECNO TikTok Super Brand Day and retail store preorder buyers will receive freebies worth PhP1,999 when they buy the POVA 7 Ultra 5G and get 3 items (limited stock) – 1 POVA wireless powerbank (5000mAh), 1 customized DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM for PUBG Mobile, and 1 special edition PUBGM case card.

Globe AT HOME rewards loyal customers with speed boosts of up to 1 Gbps at no extra cost

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Globe AT HOME is boosting internet speeds for many of its loyal GFiber Plan postpaid customers at no extra cost. No sign-ups, no hidden fees, just faster, stronger, and reliable connectivity delivered straight to their homes.

“We know our customers rely on us more than ever to stay connected, whether for work, entertainment, or everyday life,” said Abigail Cardino, Vice President and Head of Brand Management, Broadband Business at Globe. “We are committed to stay true to our promise of delivering more value without asking more from our loyal customers.”

The new speeds are based on tenure, with boosts reaching up to 1 Gbps. To complement the upgraded speeds, Globe AT HOME is also upgrading customers to the latest WiFi 6 modems at no extra cost, along with a refreshed 24-month lock-up. This upgrade lets families connect up to 50 devices with low lag, enjoy ultra HD streaming and smooth multiplayer gaming, and stay protected with stronger built-in security.

This initiative reflects Globe AT HOME’s commitment to delivering meaningful experiences that match the evolving digital lifestyle of Filipino households, and to showing real appreciation for customers who continue to trust Globe with their home connectivity.

“We anticipate our customers’ needs and take the lead in making sure our loyal customers get the service they deserve,” Cardino added. “At the end of the day, this is about showing our commitment. Because nothing connects like Globe AT HOME.”

No action is needed, qualified customers will be notified via the GlobeOne app and will receive their FREE speed boost automatically. To be eligible, accounts must be active and bills up to date.

To check your new speed, manage your account, and pay your bills real-time, download and register your Globe AT HOME account via the GlobeOne app.

Isaiah Joe brings NBA Championship energy to vivo's 10th Year

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A decade of capturing life’s best moments hit a high note as vivo Philippines celebrated its 10th Anniversary in style, welcoming Isaiah Joe of the Oklahoma City Thunder to a fan meet at the vivo Concept Store in SM Megamall.

Fresh off his team’s historic NBA Finals victory in June, Isaiah Joe brought championship energy to vivo fans both onsite and online, turning a regular afternoon into an unforgettable celebration of the Filipino's passion for basketball. The crowd was buzzing as he shared stories, posed for selfies, and connected with the vivo community.

Building a legacy through consistency and trust

During an interview hosted by local sportscaster Anton Roxas, Isaiah opened up about the Thunder’s journey to winning their first-ever NBA championship in franchise history after moving to Oklahoma City.

“Each and every game held its importance,” Isaiah said. “We played all the way to July and built up every game. By the time we got to the playoffs, nothing was new. Everything was a habit. We built a consistency that allowed us to play free and have fun, which led us to win the championship.”

When asked about the one moment he would have captured on his phone, Isaiah smiled and became reflective.

“When the buzzer sounded, we were filled with excitement. But seeing my family on the court, that’s when the emotions hit. I started tearing up. It’s been a long time coming, and to finally achieve that with my family there, that’s a moment I’ll cherish forever," he said.

He added, “Next time, I need my whole team to have vivo phones. When the buzzer sounds, we’ll zoom in on every player and capture every emotion.”

Beyond the game: A champion with heart

The fans went wild as Isaiah demonstrated his now-iconic three-point celebration, revealing the playful Marvel inspiration behind it.

“It’s an Iron Man reference. You have the mask with one hand and the repulsor with the other, but I turned it into a three. I’m a big Marvel fan,” he shared, much to the delight of the crowd.

Beyond his on-court heroics, it was Isaiah’s sincerity and humility that stole the show. When asked about his community work in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Isaiah spoke from the heart.

“Growing up, we didn’t have NBA players coming to Fort Smith. Now, kids tell me I’m their inspiration, which is hard to believe. They’ve built me up to be who I am, so the least I can do is give back,” he shared, highlighting his efforts in supporting youth programs and initiatives like the Fort Kids Children’s Museum.

Fans celebrate a champion's warmth

Throughout the afternoon, Isaiah made sure every fan felt valued. He posed for selfies, signed merchandise, and took time to have genuine conversations with attendees.

As a token of appreciation, vivo gifted limited-edition merchandise during the signing session, making sure every fan had a token to remember the day by.

Capturing every victory with vivo X200 FE

The event also spotlighted vivo’s latest innovation, the vivo X200 FE, which became an instant favorite among fans who used it to capture crystal-clear photos of their moment with Isaiah.

Featuring a 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera with up to 100x zoom, a 6500mAh BlueVolt Battery, and 90W Flash Charge, the compact flagship X200 FE is designed to capture life’s biggest wins and everyday victories.

As vivo celebrates a decade of helping Filipinos capture life’s best moments, the message of the day was clear: Every victory, big or small, deserves to be remembered and celebrated. Make sure to follow vivo's Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit vivoglobal.ph, so you'll be updated on the next event!

Westlife announces ultimate flyaway fan campaign

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Win a trip to see them live at the Royal Albert Hall

To celebrate 25 years of music, memories, and unforgettable moments, Westlife is giving fans in the Philippines the chance of a lifetime to join them in London for their 25th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall this October.

As part of this exclusive fan campaign, two lucky fans will be selected to receive an all-expenses-paid trip to London including round-trip flights, hotel accommodation, exclusive Westlife merchandise, and tickets to see the band live at one of the world’s most iconic venues.

"Asia has always held a special place in our hearts," says Westlife.

"This is our way of saying thank you for the love you’ve shown us over the years and we’d love to see you in London."

The campaign runs from August 4 to September 30, 2025, and is open to fans in Asia. Fans can sign up via a dedicated link, with winners announced on October 3.

Why Asia? A Region That’s Been There for Westlife Since the Start

Westlife’s connection with Asia runs deep – from airwaves to karaoke nights, their music has become a part of everyday life across the region. With countless number-one hits and sold-out concerts, their songs are not just popular but also personal to their fans. This campaign is a tribute to the fans who’ve been with them through it all.

Recent Tour Highlights: Wild Dreams Tour 2023

●     Indonesia

o      Tangerang City, ICE BSD – 9 February 2023

o      Jakarta, Stadion Madya, Gelora Bung Karno –11 February 2023

o      Bandung, Play List Festival – 12 February 2023

●     Hong Kong

o      AsiaWorld Arena – 14 &15 February 2023

●     Singapore

o      Singapore Indoor Stadium – 16, 17 & 18 February 2023

●     Philippines

o      Metro Manila, Araneta Coliseum – 20 & 21 February 2023

●     Malaysia

o      Kuala Lumpur, Axiata Arena –23 & 24 February 2023

●     Taiwan

o      Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung Arena – 26 February 2023

●     Thailand

o      Bangkok, Impact Arena – 28 February 2023

 

Don’t miss out! This is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of a legacy shared with millions of fans across Asia. Whether you’ve been there since the beginning or recently discovered their music, this is your chance to be part of Westlife history.

Enter now at westlife.lnk.to/wlfph

Entries close on September 30, 2025, and winners will be contacted directly.

For Life’s Uninterrupted Moments, PLDT Home is Always On

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In homes where life never stops and every second matters, PLDT Home introduces a game-changing innovation designed for today’s fast-paced, always-connected lifestyle. PLDT Home’s Always On, the country’s first hybrid modem with built-in fiber and LTE backup, ensures uninterrupted connectivity so Filipino families can stay online no matter what.

From early-morning meetings and online classes to streaming marathons and remote work setups, staying connected has become a non-negotiable part of daily life.

“Always On was built around the realities of how Filipinos live and work today—complex, multitasking, and digitally-driven,” said John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of Home Consumer Business, Sales and Development at PLDT. “At PLDT Home, we are committed to creating innovative solutions that meet the real needs of our customers. Even a moment of disconnection can mean missed opportunities or lost time with loved ones. That’s why Always On is more than just a device. It’s our promise to keep families connected when it matters most.”

Seamless Internet, Even During Outages

PLDT Home Always On features automatic LTE failover, allowing it to switch to a wireless connection whenever fiber service is disrupted. There’s no need to reset or configure—once fiber is restored, the device automatically switches back, ensuring continuous connectivity for video calls, meetings, classes, and more.

What sets Always On apart is its proactive care feature: the modem detects a fiber issue and automatically generates a repair ticket, starting the resolution process even before you have to report it.

With Always On, PLDT Home reaffirms its commitment to delivering reliable, responsive, and future-ready connectivity for Filipino households across the country.

Discover how Always On can keep your home connected. Watch the video.

Shop Smart and Save Big at OPPO’s 8.8 Sale

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Ready to upgrade? OPPO’s 8.8 Sale is here and it’s your chance to score unbeatable discounts and exciting freebies.

From now until August 12, enjoy limited-time offers across OPPO's official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop platforms. Whether you're after your next daily driver or a content creation powerhouse, OPPO has deals worth adding to cart.

Shop Big, Save Bigger with OPPO All-Day Vouchers

You are in for a treat - OPPO is rolling out major discounts on a wide range of devices, from wallet-friendly models to flagship releases.

Use OPPO All-Day vouchers to make your 8.8 shopping haul even more rewarding. No minimum spend required on the following offers:

●     PHP 200 off on the OPPO A5i

●     PHP 1,000 off on the OPPO A5 and OPPO A5i Pro

●     PHP 1,800 off on the OPPO Pad SE

●     PHP 2,000 off on all variants of the OPPO A5 Pro and OPPO Reno13 Series 5G

On Shopee, use the code OPPO88S to apply your All-Day Voucher when purchasing the OPPO Reno13 Series 5G.

For bigger-ticket upgrades, shoppers can also get a PHP 3,000 All-Day Voucher on the OPPO Find X8, OPPO Reno13 Series,  and OPPO Pad 3 with a minimum spend of PHP 19,999.

More Platform-Exclusive Deals on Lazada and TikTok

If you prefer to shop via Lazada or TikTok, take advantage of zero-minimum-spend All-Day Vouchers for select OPPO A Series models:

●     PHP 100 off on the OPPO A3 (6GB and 8GB variants)

●     PHP 101 off on all variants of the OPPO A3x

Plus, unlock exclusive vouchers only available on each platform:

●     Lazada-Exclusive - PHP 2,500 off on all OPPO A5 Pro variants

●     TikTok-Exclusive - PHP 1,000 off on all OPPO A5x variants

Flexible Payment Options Make It Even Easier

To sweeten your 8.8 deals, OPPO is making your 8.8 haul easier to manage with flexible installment terms.

●     On Lazada, enjoy up to 0% interest storewide for up to 45 days via LazPayLater

●     On Shopee, avail of 0% interest for up to 6 months on select devices with SPayLater

Whether you’re going all in or breaking up the bill, these payment options make your upgrade lighter on your wallet.

Get Exciting Freebies with Every Purchase

It doesn’t stop at discounts—select purchases during OPPO’s 8.8 Sale also come with free must-have accessories:

●     Free 10,000 mAh Tangojet Powerbank for all OPPO Reno12 F 4G purchases

●     Free OPPO Enco Buds2 for all OPPO Reno13 Series 4G/5G purchases

●     Free case for all OPPO Pad SE WiFi / LTE purchases

This is the sign you’ve been waiting for—check out the OPPO device you’ve been eyeing and take advantage of the 8.8 Sale while it lasts. Shop now via OPPO’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.

To know more about OPPO’s 8.8 Mega Sale, check out OPPO Philippines’ official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop or visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ and Facebook page.

To get the best care for OPPO devices, visit the nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.

AXA Philippines clinches double win at 2025 Insurance Asia Awards

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As one of the largest and fastest-growing insurance companies in the country, AXA Philippines took home a significant double victory at the 2025 Insurance Asia Awards, winning Health Insurance Initiative of the Year for its superior critical illness plan, Health Max Elite and International General Insurer of the Year for its expansive general insurance solutions, including the AXA Smart Traveller, which was also recently recognized with a Platinum Seal by the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards 2024. These back-to-back accolades underscore AXA’s stronghold as a trusted, innovative, and all-around insurance provider, protecting over a million Filipinos through accessible, relevant, and customer-first products.

The Insurance Asia Awards recognizes the best of the best in Asia’s insurance industry, celebrating insurance companies that rise above market challenges while delivering customer satisfaction and sustainable growth. AXA’s double recognition underscores its leadership in both life and general insurance, driven by standout initiatives such as first-in-market health coverage, award-winning travel protection, and strategic partnerships that make insurance more accessible to every Filipino.

Gear Up for Another Fierce Season of the World’s Biggest Streetball Tournament as Red Bull Half Court Returns to the Philippines

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Get your squads ready as Red Bull Half Court returns to the Philippines for a brand-new season filled with unmatched energy, raw determination, and high-stakes action. The biggest 3-on-3 streetball tournament is the ultimate battlefield for rising local talent to prove their skills for a chance to represent the Philippines at the Red Bull Half Court World Final, set to take place in the UAE in November.

Photo Credit: Ezra Acayan / Red Bull Content Pool

The Ultimate Streetball Tournament is Back in the Philippines

Red Bull Half Court brings the fastest version of 3-on-3 streetball to players across the globe. In partnership with FILA and Spalding, Red Bull Half Court will hold qualifier rounds across five continents and over 20 participating countries, including South Africa, Norway, and Kosovo as the rookies.

Legendary NBA shooting coach Chris ‘Lethal Shooter’ Matthews shared his excitement for this year’s tournament, saying, “Year after year, Red Bull Half court continues to push the game forward. Seeing the sport grow in new countries and watching these athletes bring their best is truly special. I can’t wait to see who makes it to the World FInal in the UAE.”

Photo Credit: Markus Berger / Red Bull Content Pool

Unlike traditional basketball, Red Bull Half Court games only take up half the court, with teams of 3 players. Games follow FIBA rules and are played with a regulation time of 10 minutes and a maximum of 21 points. Winners of each match are determined by who reaches the highest score within the regulation time or who reaches the maximum number of points first.

To add a surprising twist to the game, teams who accumulate the most scoring points across all games will receive the “Own the Court” bonus that will help them advance to the next stage. Making the game faster and more intense, 3-point shots can be made from two special circles located behind the arc.

Red Bull Half Court, in partnership with 7-Eleven, ups the intensity for its 2025 season in the Philippines with a new 2-day competition structure for qualifier rounds. Regional qualifiers will take place in Davao on August 30 and 31, Cebu on September 13 and 14, and Manila on September 27 and 28. Elimination rounds are set to take place on the first day, while the qualifier showdown will happen on the second day. Winning teams from each regional qualifier will advance to the Red Bull Half Court National Final in Manila, happening on October 18, where each team, along with select wildcard teams, will face off for a chance to represent the Philippines at the Red Bull Half Court World Final in UAE.

Photo Credit: Ezra Acayan / Red Bull Content Pool

Own the Court at Red Bull Half Court Philippines

Think your squad has what it takes to run the court? Gather a team of 3 to 4 players, who are 18 years old and above. Players must be residents of the Philippines, with at least 3 holding valid Philippine passports.

To register, simply purchase four cans of Red Bull from any 7-Eleven store and upload the receipt upon signing up through the official Red Bull Half Court website. Registered teams automatically get a set of light and dark Red Bull Half Court jerseys.

Lace up and register for the Red Bull Half Court qualifiers today! Catch the first qualifier round in Davao on August 30 and 31. Don’t miss the Red Bull Half Court National Final, happening in Manila on October 18.

For more information and updates, visit the official Red Bull website and the following social media pages (Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok )

Hitmaker on a Mission: Mark Feist returns to Manila with collabs, strategic partnerships, and industry-backed initiatives

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With HITMAKERS ENTERTAINMENT and a new partnership with Symphonic Distribution, Feist sets sights on shaping tomorrow’s streaming-era superstars

Philippines’ R&B King, Jay R and Filipino-Australian producer Mark Feist

Acclaimed Filipino-Australian producer Mark Feist—renowned for his work with global icons like Destiny’s Child, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Celine Dion, John Legend, The Spice Girls, Outkast, Brian McKnight, Kelly Rowland, Regine Velasquez, and many more—is back in the Philippines to bring with him a wave of exciting musical projects and industry-shaping collaborations.

Leading the charge are two new tracks produced by Feist, in collaboration with the Philippines’ R&B King, Jay R. Their first release, “Tunay,” which dropped on Friday, July 25, 2025, delivers a refreshing New Jack Swing-inspired beat paired with a slick R&B hook, capturing the effortless cool of a laid-back summer anthem. The second one, still under wraps, is a duet between Jay R and rising pop newcomer Shanice.

“Jay R is an artist who truly inspired me,” says the multi-platinum producer. “His talent, his voice, and his work ethic are world-class. Our collaboration on Tunay came from deep creative conversations, and what we created together is something I genuinely believe can sit alongside today’s biggest global releases. At this point in my career, I only work on music that can compete at the highest level, and Jay R absolutely meets that standard.”

A proud nephew of OPM legend Pilita Corrales, Mark has built an impressive international career as a producer and composer, contributing to albums and singles that have collectively sold over 35 million units worldwide, including the worldwide no. 1 hit “Emotions” by Destiny’s Child. He recently started HITMAKERS ENTERTAINMENT, a full-service label/production/publishing company. One of their success stories so far is Australian pop artist Tash, whose music continues to rack up more than 80 million streams across different platforms.

“Real artist development in the streaming era is our core mission at Hitmakers Entertainment, and TASH is the perfect example of that,” shares Mark Feist. “We signed her at 15 with zero fanbase—now she’s built a formidable catalog, amassed millions of streams, and is selling out shows with fans flying in from around the world. TASH is a once-in-a-generation artist, and she’s just getting started.”

Further cementing Hitmakers’ forward-thinking approach, Feist recently announced a strategic partnership with Symphonic Distribution, a leading music technology and services company for independent labels, managers, and artists. The partnership, according to a recent press release, “marks the beginning of a broader relationship between Symphonic and Hitmakers, with future initiatives planned to support emerging and established artists from Australia and Southeast Asia.”

Mark sees the alliance as a game-changing initiative to develop and support some of the most promising new talents in Asia and the Pacific.

“Symphonic Asia’s Guji Lorenzana is a rare kind of music executive: he brings together sharp instincts, profound industry experience, and a forward-thinking approach to tech and streaming,” explains Mark. “His perspective allows him to see opportunities others might miss. Jorge [Brea], as CEO, is a true visionary—he builds exceptional teams and has a clear sense of where the music industry is headed. Together, Symphonic and HME form a powerhouse partnership that’s poised to break barriers, set new standards, and create the next generation of post-streaming superstars.”

Heads Up! There’s a New Way to Pay in the Philippines — And It Happens with One Tap of Your Smartphone

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GCash continues to bring future-forward innovations to the Philippines with the official launch of GCash Tap to Pay, a contactless payment system that lets users of the app pay merchants with just one tap of their smartphone. Now available to Android users, GCash becomes the first e-wallet in the country to enable NFC-powered payments, allowing users to log in to the GCash app, tap and pay at any Mastercard accepting POS terminal nationwide.

While Tap to Pay technology has long been the norm in major cities around the world, offering speed and convenience, this marks the first time such a seamless, NFC-based payment experience is being made widely accessible in the Philippines through a local e-wallet. With this innovation, GCash not only brings global payment standards to Filipinos but also reinforces its position as the country's top fintech platform, continuously innovating to allow its users to level up their lives.

Tap into quicker - and safer - payments, accepted at millions of local and international stores through GCash and its partner, Mastercard.

From navigating morning grocery runs, commuting around the metro, to late-night dinner runs, errands, and schedules can already be difficult enough to manage, the last thing you need is the added burden of figuring out if you have enough cash to last you through the day.

GCash Tap to Pay is designed for ultimate convenience with quicker payments powered by Near Field Communications (NFC) technology. This allows devices in close proximity to exchange data securely. Each payment uses authentication protocols to verify user identity, while all transmitted data is encrypted, making transactions resistant to tampering and fraud. With this, GCash ensures that users enjoy a frictionless and protected payment experience every time.

Tap to Pay works at any terminal that accepts Mastercard payments, both locally and abroad. This partnership allows users to enjoy the same seamless tap-and-go experience wherever they go, even when traveling internationally, where it can be a huge hassle to be weighed down by a wallet filled with foreign coins, bills, and multiple cards.

Through this innovation, GCash eliminates the various everyday hassles by simplifying the payment process; just tap your phone, and you’re good to go. There’s no need to scan a QR code or fumble through your spare change, because all you need to pay for your morning cup of coffee or your unexpected grocery run is your smartphone – and no additional fees!

Experience payments in a tap today

Ready to experience effortless and secure payments? Activate GCash Tap to Pay and enjoy transactions in just one tap. Here’s how you can activate and use GCash with your phone:

One-Time Setup: How to Activate GCash Tap to Pay

1. Under “Settings”, open “Connections”
2. Enable “NFC and contactless payments”.
3. Log in to your GCash app.
4. Tap “Tap To Pay”.
5. Agree to the stated terms and conditions.
6. Your “Tap To Pay” feature should now be activated!

How to use GCash Tap To Pay

1. Log in to your GCash app
2. Tap your phone on the store's POS terminal. Done!

Experience it for yourself today and download the GCash app on the App Store or Google Play Store.

Zoom beyond expectations with vivo X200 FE's 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera

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In a world of next-level content, is your camera up to the challenge?

These days, photography isn’t just about what fits in the frame. It’s about what the power of zoom unveils through crisp detail, true depth, and striking focus. And that’s exactly what the vivo X200 FE was made for!

Engineered for precision at a distance, this smartphone makes faraway moments feel up close, without having to move a single step.

With its powerful 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, it can lock in every detail. Whether you're shooting from the back of the crowd or across the street, best believe, every shot stays sharp and share-worthy.

Designed for creators who demand absolute clarity from extreme distances, the vivo X200 FE combines professional-grade optics and intelligent imaging technologies in a compact, lifestyle-friendly design.

Discover the city with every zoom

Every city tells a story through its towering skyscrapers, striking architecture, and the raw energy of everyday street life.

From across the lane or high above, the vivo X200 FE that can zoom up to 100x makes every shot look like you're just right there! You can capture the skyline from afar, focus on the fine details of architectural design, or freeze a fleeting moment on a bustling corner, all without losing clarity or aesthetic.

Even better? Its AI Telephoto Enhance feature boosts every photo with richer colors and sharper details!

So whether you're an urban explorer or a casual shooter, the vivo X200 FE's telephoto power lets you see the city your way, one focused frame at a time.

Front-row feels, wherever you are

Concerts, live shows, festivals — these moments are fast, bright, and full of energy. Now, so are your photos.

With the vivo X200 FE’s Stage Mode, capturing live performances is a breeze. Whether you're in the crowd or seated far back, you can still shoot like you’re front row.

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Thanks to an advanced telephoto sensor, self-developed algorithms, and custom tuning, the X200 FE captures facial features with lifelike precision, even from a distance.

Expect accurate colors, soft tones, and just the right pop of saturation. From dramatic lighting to bold stage outfits, every scene comes through with striking realism.

The X200 FE effectively retains the stage's vibe while preventing overexposure. From spotlight shots to ambient lighting, it preserves the emotion and excitement, just as you felt it.

From everyday to extraordinary, see it all with the vivo X200 FE. Get this now for Php 44,999 at all vivo physical stores nationwide or online via vivo website.