Ed Sheeran to play two sold special shows at London's Royal Albert Hall on 18th & 19th November

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Ed Sheeran announced last month on the Autumn Variations -“Last autumn, I found that my friends and I were going through so many life changes. After the heat of the summer, everything either calmed, settled, fell apart, came to a head or imploded.”

https://es.lnk.to/autumnvariations 

“When I went through a difficult time at the start of last year, writing songs helped me understand my feelings and come to terms with what was going on, and when I learned about my friend’s different situations, I wrote songs, some from their perspectives, some from mine, to capture how they and I viewed the world at that time. There were highs of falling in love and new friendships among lows of heartbreak, depression, loneliness and confusion.”

“My dad and brother told me about a composer called Elgar, who composed ‘Enigma Variations’, where each of the 14 compositions were about a different one of his friends. This is what inspired me to make this album. When I recorded Subtract with Aaron Dessner, we clicked immediately. We wrote and recorded non-stop and this album was born out of that partnership. I feel he has captured the feeling of autumn so wonderfully in his sonics and I hope everyone loves it as much as I do.”

Ed Sheeran will play two sold out shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall on the 18th and 19th November. Set to perform his upcoming album ‘Autumn Variations’ in full on both nights - where Ed will also be accompanied by a live band and string section - it will be the only remaining chance to see him perform in the UK this year.

Autumn Variations tracklisting:

1. Magical

2. England

3. Amazing

4. Plastic Bag

5. Blue

6. American Town

7. That’s On Me

8. Page

9. Midnight

10. Spring

11. Punchline

12. When Will I Be Alright

13. The Day I Was Born

14. Head > Heels

Guess who joined the Flip Side? Meet the top content creators and trailblazers who have joined #TeamGalaxy

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Samsung has officially launched its highly anticipated Galaxy foldable devices — the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5 in the Philippines at Conrad Manila, where they also unveiled the latest members of #TeamGalaxy. Meet your favorite celebrities and the nation’s top content creators and find out what convinced them to join the Flip Side!

Catriona Gray: The Galaxy Z Fold5 allows you to do everything in one place

Beauty queen, TV personality, singer, youth advocate, and art ambassador Catriona Gray has officially joined the Flip Side! For a multi-hyphenate whose schedule is always full, the Galaxy Fold5 is the perfect device for Catriona, who loves the phone’s big screen, multi-tasking capabilities and the S Pen that fits perfectly in her pocket.

“It allows you to do everything in one place. So, instead of needing your PC or a tablet, it’s all in your phone. I can take Zoom calls and stand the phone up so I can just angle it at any angle while on videos and I can also take down notes on the same device!” Catriona exclaimed.

As a content creator herself, the Galaxy Z Fold5’s biggest screen yet bestowed her the efficiency in performing multiple tasks with its versatile Multi-window feature for all apps. Not only does the Galaxy Z Fold5 give Catriona a PC-like experience in her pocket, she was also very impressed with its cameras and how easy it is to navigate when editing, “When I’m taking photos, the camera is really crisp and registers great color and contrast.”

AC Bonifacio: Galaxy Z Flip5 – the coolest content creation phone for Gen Zs

International dance sensation, singer, actress and now the new Team Galaxy ambassador AC Bonifacio is over the moon with the sleek design and color of the Galaxy Z Flip5 (the mint is her favorite!). AC described how much easier it is to create content and live independently with the pro-grade camera of the Galaxy Flip5 that comes with its unique FlexCam.

“It's helped me a lot. For the past few months, I've been much more independent than I usually am. Whenever I need to do any type of content or when I work out sometimes, it's nice to have the Flex Mode. I can just watch what I need to watch and I know it's steady also on the floor.”

AC definitely recommends the Galaxy Z Flip5 to Gen Zs, “It's super cool. Now that it's back, it gives you the feeling of that '90s flip phone, and at the same time, it gives you that Gen Z feeling because you have the content creation on it, the camera quality, gaming, everything all in one.”

Patricia Prieto: With the Galaxy Z Flip5, all you need is your phone and yourself

A fashion, travel/lifestyle blogger and content creator, Patricia Prieto can’t get over how wonderful her trip to Korea went for Unpacked - with the Galaxy Z Flip5 helping her capture every moment even when she was by herself.

“[With] the FlexCam, even if you're using the selfie camera, it's still so good. I can go to events by myself and not have to worry about a thing because I can just put it on a flat surface and take a photo of myself,” Patricia added.

She also shared how easy it was to sync up with the latest Galaxy Watch6, “ I was like, wow, I can do this. I can record by just using my watch. It was so easy.”

And after taking photos and videos, Patricia loves how easy it was to share these with the Quick Share feature and the high quality of photos when they were rendered even after transferring the files. “It's still as crisp. As clear, as vibrant as when you first record it.”

Michelle Dee: A phone that matches her productivity drive and elevates the experience

A multi-hyphenate as well, Miss Philippines Universe 2023 Michelle Marquez Dee finds that having a phone that can match her productivity-beast self is indispensable. Creative and entrepreneurial, she’s ecstatic about the newly redesigned S Pen and the multi-window that comes with the Galaxy Z Fold5’s huge screen when unfolded. “It has a great form factor that will make your life so much more convenient and your workflow so much more efficient… your productivity that's already at 100% just gets bumped up to 200% at that point.”

For Michelle, Samsung’s flagship foldable phone is truly the best in class. She describes the new aluminum bezels as sleeker and classier and even highlights, “The gap between the foldable screens is basically non-existent. I used to carry two phones, and now I don't have to because the Fold5 is able to handle everything that I need to do.”

Nico Bolzico: Galaxy Watch6 series – your wellness partner

A fitness and wellness buff, entrepreneur and social media superstar, Nico Bolzico, is thrilled to explore everything the latest Galaxy Watch6 can offer. “There is a new way of training that is related to your heart rate. It's not how fast you run but how to maintain your heart rate within two bands. Because I can check that with the Samsung watch, I'm very excited to try that.”

Nico also finds it essential to have a feature that monitors his sleep, especially for dads like him, “Sleeping, it's a luxury today. So having [a] good quality of sleep and being able to monitor not only how much but how my sleep quality is, [is] very relevant because sleep is as important as training and eating. So sleep is one of those pillars that you need for your overall wellness.”

Camille Co: With the Galaxy Tab S9 series, you won’t miss out on anything!

From blogging to vlogging about fashion, beauty, travel and so much more, Camille Co juggles a hectic lifestyle as a content creator, wife and mom – so the Galaxy S Tab9 and its new features that support one’s creativity and productivity are set to become her new besties.

As a fashion designer who loves drawing and writing by hand, it’s no surprise that the S Pen captivated Camille – especially as it now comes with an IP68 rating for water resistance, "I'm not scared of using it outdoors because it's really built to last.

It's the most powerful Tab yet. I love that I'm able to bring it out with me anywhere.”

Would she recommend the Galaxy Tab S9 series? “I definitely think creatives would love this, especially now that Good Notes is available on Android. I'm a Good Notes user as well, so I really love it. Whenever I design for my multiple brands and all my different deliverables, I do it on Good Notes. Because it's so powerful, we can even edit their videos just right on the tab.”

Along with DJ CRWN who served up upbeat music for the crowd, lifestyle content creators and fashion trendsetters such as Marina Summers, Melissa Gatchalian, Lexi Mendiola, Trasienne Estrada, Rex Atienza, Candy Gamos, Liam Labroy, Rocio Escano, JM Yrreverre, Marga Nicolas, Nicole De La Cruz, Chynna Beverly Lim, Lance De Ocampo, Bea Arboleda, Sofia Manzano and Deegee Razon were also present as new members of Team Galaxy

Also there to join the Flip Side are music, photography and film enthusiasts such as Leila Alcasid, Curtismith, Jaz Reyes, Shaira Luna, Jilson Tiu, Renee De Guzman, Patrick Diokno, Andrea Beldua and Jolo Luarca III.

The launch event wouldn’t be complete without personalities in wellness and technology. Spotted in attendance were Katz Salao, Marjo Salazar, Ida Paras, Jo Sebastian, Tim Nutrition, Coach Rio, Hannah Bacani, Tik Rosquillo, Joanne Villablanca, Gino Quillamor, Lea Inocian and Aryanna Epperson.

Are you ready to join the Flip Side too? Check out the latest Galaxy devices and get ready for the numerous surprises that await on the Flip Side. Order now! Visit any Samsung Experience Stores, Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, TikTok Shop, Abenson.com and MXMemoXpress.com.

https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/

https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/

https://www.samsung.com/ph/tablets/galaxy-tab-s9/

https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/

For more information, please visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/.

Transforming Education to Address The Talent Gap in The Workforce

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With the local IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry experiencing a “ talent demand-supply gap,” which according to a study by Kearney might grow to 300,000–400,000 by 2028 if left unchecked, Capital One Philippines reiterates its strong commitment to and maintains high importance for the future of the next generation through education. By advocating transformative education, the company seeks to address the demand-supply challenges within the IT-BPM industry.

Through its community education initiative, Contact Center Readiness Program (CCRP), a nine-month program in partnership with Tuloy Foundation, Capital One Philippines teaches students basic proficiency and other capabilities needed for entry-level positions in the IT-BPM industry.

JP Paperman and Kaneth Santiago of Capital One Philippines shared their thoughts on the industry talent gap, on education, and how the CCRP can help address this issue.

On addressing the talent gap

Over the years, the Philippine IT-BPM industry has grown exponentially - attributed to top notch customer service and hospitality Filipinos are known for.

Capital One Philippines’ Head of Operations, JP Paperman says, “The Philippines is a hub for customer experience due to its strong foundation that translates well in our industry. The country's proficiency in English is noteworthy, and we must continue investing in it. To ensure growth, we must identify the opportunities at a global scale and work towards achieving them.”

“Like many others, I naturally gravitate towards integrating the benefits of emerging and evolving technology seamlessly into the passion and Malasakit that we already have. By doing that transformation, incorporating technology with the heart will put us in a place where there is no other footprint in the world that will compete with our workforce regarding future readiness,” he added.

Capital One Philippines’ Director for Strategy and Community, Kaneth Santiago believes that we must find ways to make entry to the IT-BPM industry easier for new hires by incorporating soft skills in the current curriculum. “Education equips us with skill sets to prepare us to join the workforce, but it can be a disservice to future employees if they have to go through the same struggles we did.”

“Take, for instance, my experience in a contact center that dealt with American culture. Understanding customer queries, responses, and terminologies was a challenge. It was crucial to learn how to navigate through these challenges, including grasping the varying concepts of regions like the US, UK, or Australia. Education transformation does not require a complete overhaul. Instead, we can enhance it by integrating skills required in the workplace with the current education system. The focus should be on developing communication, business, and financial skills along with soft skills like persuasion, and de-escalation. Providing access to these skills will enable the youth to succeed in their workplace quickly.”

On the impact of the CCRP

The Contact Center Readiness Program is one of the flagship social investment programs of Capital One Philippines, strengthening its commitment to tap and maximize Filipino talent and generate more job opportunities for the industry.

Kaneth believes that the CCRP can help transform and bridge the gap between the supply and the demand or need of the organization and the (IT-BPM) industry. “One important goal to focus on is establishing clear criteria for hiring individuals in the contact center industry. Imagine a future where all contact centers can employ individuals with a CCRP certification, even if they lack BPO or contact center experience or a college degree. As a result, this would expand the talent pool and encourage more people to consider this field.”

She adds, “In my opinion, democratizing the program is crucial. The government and more organizations can help make it more accessible across the country beyond just the metro areas. Doing so would allow more youths to receive training and become part of the contact center industry in a shorter period.”

For JP, integrating the CCRP into their plans for the future is something organizations should consider. “Through the CCRP, we offer opportunities to highly motivated and talented individuals who require a unique form of investment early on to help them unlock their potential. By doing so, we gain access to gifted individuals, which, in turn, becomes a return of investment. CCRP is an excellent example of how this concept of “train and retain” works, as it has helped us discover some genuinely exceptional gems of talent.”

Kaneth adds, “We invite contact centers, IT-BPM shareholders, the academe, and the government to support the CCRP and help shape the next generation of workers for the industry’s continued growth.”

Advocating for Education

Capital One Philippines strives to bring its values of Excellence and Doing the Right Thing, and Investing For Good to life in everything it does. The organization believes that by investing in the community, businesses can establish vibrant neighborhoods and nurture an inclusive society. Capital One Philippines is committed and determined to enable genuine transformation and progress by investing in the future of the Filipinos through the IT-BPM industry and their work in the CCRP.

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About Capital One

Capital One Financial Corporation (www.capitalone.com) is a financial holding company which, along with its subsidiaries, had $343.7 billion in deposits and $467.8 billion in total assets as of June 30, 2023. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Capital One offers a broad spectrum of financial products and services to consumers, small businesses and commercial clients through a variety of channels. Capital One, N.A. has branches located primarily in New York, Louisiana, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and the District of Columbia. A Fortune 500 company, Capital One trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "COF" and is included in the S&P 100 index.

Capital One Philippines supports Capital One's US credit card and retail businesses.

Asian Forum on Enterprise for Society 2023: A Resounding Success in Advancing Corporate Responsibility, Innovation, and Inclusion

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The Asian Forum on Enterprise for Society (AFES) 2023 has made a triumphant return to hosting in-person gatherings, taking place on September 26-27 at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City, Philippines. This event reaffirms its status as the premier platform in Asia for substantive discussions revolving around corporate responsibility, innovation, and sustainable business practices.

Left to right: Dr. Anjan Ghosh- Board of Advisor, Ramon V. del Rosario Sr. Center for Corporate Responsibility; Dr Bradley Googins - Board of Advisor, RVR Center; Ambassador Jose Cuisia Jr., former Ambassador of the Phils to the United States, Chairman of the Board, RVR Center; Mr. Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, Chairman Emeritus , Nestle Group; Mr Oscar Hilado, Board of Advisor, RVR center Ramon R Del Rosario Jr, Board of Advisor, RVR Center; Susan Afan , President Ramon Magasaysay Award Foundation and Dr. Jikyeong Kang, President and Dean, Asian institute of Management

Organized by the Asian Institute of Management Ramon V. Del Rosario, Sr. Center for Corporate Responsibility (AIM RVR Center), AFES, formerly recognized as the Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility, boasts a storied history of assembling in diverse Asian cities. Its unwavering commitment to the pivotal role that businesses play in shaping a sustainable future remains constant. Under the 2023 theme, "Boosting Innovation and Inclusion Together," this edition carries forward the legacy by exploring how businesses can act as catalysts for resilience and inclusivity.

Amb. Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Advisers of the AIM RVR Center, said, “This year, the Asian Forum will underscore the imperative of sustainable, ethical, and purpose-driven enterprise for societal betterment in an ever-evolving, increasingly complex world. Our world has been reshaped by unprecedented challenges, and it is through thoughtful conversations facilitated by visionary thought and business leaders that we can co-create a brighter, more resilient future.”

With a rich heritage of advancing progress and transformation, AFES 2023 has successfully convened a diverse audience of over 400 participants. This ensemble includes global practitioners, thought leaders, business executives, and community representatives, all united by a shared objective—to address the most pressing societal challenges of our time.

AFES 2023 features a spectrum of action-inspiring conversations, each exploring diverse topics that are pivotal to our collective future. From co-creating nature-based solutions for food security and exploring new pathways for eco-tourism to promoting greener, more resilient fintech, and the responsible use of generative AI, these discussions delve deep into the issues that will shape the world for generations to come.

Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, Chairman Emeritus of the Nestlé Group emphasized in his keynote speech: "Inclusive capitalism places people at the heart of economic progress, prioritizing their well-being over profit. It's the imperative to embed responsibility throughout the entire supply chain, ensuring that every link in the economic ecosystem contributes to a fair and equitable society."

Dr. Jikyeong Kang, AIM President and Dean, reflects on the conference, stating, "Throughout this conference, we have had the privilege of engaging with thought leaders and experts who have shared invaluable perspectives on a wide range of critical topics. From AI, food security, and sustainable tourism to inclusive fintech, supply chain due diligence, and diversity and inclusion in the workforce, our discussions have been marked by a profound depth of knowledge and a commitment to discovering innovative solutions to complex challenges."

The Itchyworms to embark on a 3-city tour in Japan this October

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The Itchyworms have recently announced their three-city tour in Japan this October 2023!

The mini tour will kick off at the LIVE HOUSE GATTACA in Kyoto on October 6, followed by two more stops in Osaka (The Blarney Stone and Sengokudaitouryou) on October 7 and 8, respectively.

Prior to the announcement, The Itchyworms performed at the Tokyo Beyond Festival on November 22, 2022. They have also participated at the Kansai Music Conference in a virtual setting while delivering an exclusive live performance at the Big Baby Studios in Manila.

“There will be a lot of Filipino fans who will travel two or three hours just to see us live, so we will still be playing some hits,” the Di Na Muli hitmakers share in a collective statement. ‘We will also be playing some other songs that we think will be appreciated by the Japanese musicians and audiences. We feel that music is universal, and whether we sing in Filipino or in English, the audience will love it.”

The acclaimed band, consisting of core members Jazz Nicolas (lead vocals, drums, piano, keyboards, keyboards), Jugs Jugueta (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards), and Kelvin Yu (bass guitar, backing vocals), will be joined by their new recruits Ciudad’s Mikey Amistoso (acoustic guitar, keyboards, backing vocals, tambourine) and Weckl Mercado (lead guitar, backing vocals) for this particular tour.

This year, The Itchyworms have released two new singles: “Panic In My Mind,” which was specifically written for their bandmate Chino Singson, who moved to Canada with his family to start a new life, and the Beatles-inspired “The Morning After,” which features some of their most intricate productions to date.

The Filipino alt-rock outfit has also released 2013’s award-winning album, After All This Time on vinyl last November 2022, and a repress of their 2021 album, Waiting For The End To Start on the same format. Both records are available via Backspacer Records.

For more information about the tour, visit the band’s official social media pages and revamped website: www.itchyworms.com

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The Itchyworms’ “Panic In My Mind” and “The Morning After” are available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.