Barbie Almalbis explains overcoming internal struggles on new single “homeostasis”

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Following the critically acclaimed comeback single “Desperate Hours” last month, Barbie Almalbis makes her early-awaited return to deliver another eclectic follow-up to mark the continuation of a new music era.

Photo by Nina Sandejas

The award-winning singer-songwriter has released her second single, “homeostasis,” which was derived from a biological term that illustrates our body’s regulating process as a way to adjust to changing external conditions.

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The song serves as the second single off her upcoming fifth album, to be released at the end of the year

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“I’m no scientist, so I’m using this concept very loosely and explaining it in the simple way I understand it,” explains the Dahilan pop-rock visionary. “It’s the process by which our body always returns to equilibrium, a balanced state, like how we involuntarily sweat when we’re too hot and shiver when we’re too cold. It’s the same with emotions: our body doesn’t want us to stay too ecstatic or too sad; it tries to bring us back to a steady state.”

Almalbis was undergoing a very challenging phase in her life, and felt the need to channel her frustrations into art. She couldn’t do anything to change the situation, so she thought of making a song that perfectly describes what she was experiencing at that moment.

The influential music figure reveals, “Homeostasis was giving me hope, that everyday my body is going to adapt, I’d feel less and less terrible in time, because it has that built-in function.”

Her constant collaborator Nick Lazaro of Eclectic Kiss arranged and produced the song, with Almalbis penning the material on guitarlele and brother/bandmate Karel Honasan writing the instrumental parts. The result is another riveting, non-conventional track that combines Almalbis’ confessional and poetic lyrics with edgy, art-rock production and minimal synths: think of St. Vincent or PJ Harvey, but with a more saccharine take in terms of vocal delivery.

“I love how Lazaro put all the dance and synth pop elements on it, as well as the more aggressive guitar riffs,” says Almalbis. “I’ve been interested in that dance pop/rock genre for a while. I had some songs like Run For Cover and Wicked Heart, but I love how Nick was able to do it this way, where the rock and edgy sound is more present; it kind of sounds closer to how we play these songs live too.”

Barbie Almalbis’ “homeostasis” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

 

HONOR To Launch AI Eye Tracking Feature soon

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In the development of new technology, the needs of people with disabilities are sometimes overlooked. International ALS foundations have been championing the cause, trying to raise awareness to encourage innovation that uplifts these communities. Adhering to HONOR’s commitment to human-centric innovation, the company stands as the first smartphone brand to introduce intent-based eye-tracking technology through its MagicOS 8.0 operating system. The AI-powered technology allows users to interact with their phone using just their eyes to open notifications and apps. The company will roll this feature out to global devices from 27th August 2024.

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#HONORtheChallenger Explores the Potential of Multimodal AI in Supporting People 

with Reduced Mobility

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“ALS is a progressive disease of the nerve cells in which your muscles gradually fail,” explains Limore Noach, executive director of ALS Foundation Netherlands. “Every loss of function is forever,” she says, adding that ALS patients often retain control only of their eye movement in the later stages of the disease. “People who have been diagnosed with a life-changing disease often find a renewed sense of purpose and want to do something meaningful.”

Committed to investing in ongoing research, HONOR is also developing non-invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies in its R&D laboratory. The technology allows people to communicate with external devices using brain electrical signals, creating more possibilities for people with disabilities. Wei Zhang, a 34-year-old Chinese ALS challenger who has lived with the disease for 26 years, recently experienced this groundbreaking technology, which allows him to interact with a computer through brain signals. HONOR aims to inspire a future of technology that creates new mediums for AI interactions between smartphones and other devices, benefiting people with disabilities or those requiring additional assistance.

HONOR the Challenger: Promoting Global Awareness Through Social Engagement

To bring attention back to the ALS community while paying tribute to the challengers who live with the disease, BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions has produced a short film featuring the powerful story of artist and ALS challenger Bernard Muller. The film demonstrates how Bernard Muller uses eye-tracking technology to express himself through artwork, demonstrating the power of AI in making life more enjoyable for people living with disabilities.

Social media users are invited to contribute to raising awareness about ALS, by participating in the #HONORtheChallenger social media challenge. View the challenge on TikTok, Instagram, X, and Facebook.

To learn more about the cause and make a contribution, visit the International Alliance of ALS Associations. 

And for more exciting announcements, check out HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), 

Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and 

TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). 

To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

New Chapter Begins: Big Bad Wolf Continues Hunt for 1M Readers at First-Ever Filinvest Tent Book Sale!

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Big news, Wolfies! Big Bad Wolf has officially landed at Alabang for the very first time! In pursuit of its mission to reach 1M new readers in 2024, Big Bad Wolf takes the world’s biggest book sale to the South at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang from August 23 to September 1, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 MN.

The opening of the book sale attracted a vibrant crowd of book enthusiasts and budding readers alike, all eager to explore the selection of titles available at budget-friendly prices. Metrobank returns, offering credit cardholders an exclusive 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000 at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale. Swedish furnishing brand IKEA is also heading to Alabang to give Wolfies from the South a special treat!

The Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale is part of Big Bad Wolf’s broader campaign to promote literacy and nurture a love for reading among people of all ages. The Filinvest book sale is the latest in a series of Big Bad Wolf book sales, dedicated to making books more accessible to more people across the country.

“We have always been passionate about igniting a love for reading and to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality books,” said Big Bad Wolf Books Co-founder Jacqueline Ng who was present at the Big Bad Wolf Filinvest Book Sale VIP Day.

Ng added, “It’s our first time in Alabang, and this marks another significant step toward our goal of bringing 1 million new readers into the fold. We believe that books have the power to change lives, and we are even more committed to making books available to as many people as possible.”

Big Bad Wolf Books Philippine Managing Partner Carol Chuaying echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Big Bad Wolf’s mission to promote literacy. “We believe literacy is the foundation of learning and personal growth,” said Chuaying. “At every book sale, we are not just selling books. We are opening doors to new opportunities, knowledge, and a brighter future for everyone. We are more than thrilled to be bringing the book sale to Alabang finally and to continue expanding our reach to more people.”

Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines Dato' ​​Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino and Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon, together with Filinvest Alabang, Inc. First Vice President Don-Don Mari S. Ubaldo; Filinvest Corporate City Association Inc. General Manager Engr. Kristine P. Triviño; Festival Supermall, Inc. Vice President and Head of Corporate Marketing Denise Rae O. Lagayan; Festival Supermall, Inc. Assistant Vice President and South Cluster General Manager Engr. Christian Wesley D. Villanueva; joined Ng and Chuaying to celebrate the opening of the Big Bad wolf Filinvest Book Sale.

Aside from great deals, discounts, and Big Bad Wolf’ wide collection of over two million books, guests can expect even more excitement as Big Bad Wolf cooks up more surprises for another grand book sale experience that wolfies won’t soon forget. Keep an eye on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages to stay in the loop and find out more about the sneaky treats that the Wolf has in store.

South wolfies, ready to howl? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book sale at Filinvest Tent, Alabang, open from August 23 to September 1. Doors open daily at 10:00 AM to 12:00 MN! Grab your pack and get ready for an adventure you definitely shouldn’t miss! We’ll see you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

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About Big Bad Wolf Books

The Big Bad Wolf Books was founded by Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng in 2009 and first launched in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In the words of the company’s founders, Big Bad Wolf aims to cultivate reading habits, increase English literacy worldwide, and build a new generation of readers by making books more affordable and accessible to everyone.

One of the company’s best highlights is its book sales, which is popular among readers around the world. As a global reading advocacy initiative, the sales aim to encourage people of all ages to discover the joys of reading, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and, importantly, empower them with the knowledge to realize them.

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has toured 15 countries and 37 cities. Among these include different cities in Asia like Malaysia, Cambodia, Manila, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Indonesia. The company has also begun branching out to book readers outside the Asia Pacific, having held book tours in Tanzania, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates.

Unlock Exclusive Deals: Shop LG’s Online Brand Store Today!

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LG launches its very own Online Brand Shop (LG OBS) – your go-to destination for a seamless and convenient shopping experience! This one-stop platform allows you to browse, purchase, and receive LG products directly at your doorstep, making it easier than ever to access the latest in electronics and home appliances.

The LG OBS (www.lg.com/ph) offers an extensive range of LG products, from state-of-the-art electronics to essential home appliances. Designed for user-friendliness, the website allows you to easily explore product features, compare options, and make well-informed decisions, all from the comfort of your home. With LG OBS, your purchase, delivery, and installation can be completed in just 3-5 days. LG provides full care from end-to-end, so you can enjoy your LG purchase and experience Life’s Good instantly.

Limited-Time offers from LG.com

Experience exceptional value with exclusive discounts and deals on the LG OBS website. LG.com customers can take advantage of exclusive freebies from the LG products and services team. Keep an eye out for special offers, limited-time promotions, and bundle deals that you won't find elsewhere, guaranteeing the best prices on your purchases.

For example, if you buy a window-type air conditioner from July 23 to August 23, 2024, you can receive a free window air conditioner cleaning service.[1] The complimentary service can be claimed within 6 months after purchase for every air conditioner purchased. This offer is valid for customers within GMA (Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal).

Additionally, you can get a free air filter[2] when you purchase a PuriCare 360° Air Purifier from July 23 to August 23, 2024. This promotion is valid only for the following models: AS60GHWG0, AS10GDWH0. The freebie will be delivered along with your air purifier purchase.

Lastly, enhance your laundry experience with our new washer-dryer sets, which are best completed with stacking kits. From August 8 to September 8, 2024, when you purchase from LG.com, you can receive a FREE stacking kit[3] with your washer-dryer set. The stacking kit will be included with your delivery. This promotion applies to select models only.

Payment flexibility is a key feature of LG OBS. You can choose from a variety of payment options, including credit cards, e-wallets like GCash and Maya, and financing plans such as BDO’s 3-month 0% interest installment or Home Credit. Secure online bank transfers are also available for added convenience.

By signing up for an LG Membership, you can enjoy perks like a 5% welcome coupon, free delivery, and complimentary installation services for eligible products. Visit the LG Online Brand Shop to explore the full range of products and benefits, and experience a smarter, more connected lifestyle with LG.

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^[1] https://www.lg.com/ph/promotions/free-cleaning-service-lg-best-care/

^[2] https://www.lg.com/ph/promotions/free-air-filter-puricare/

^[3] https://www.lg.com/ph/promotions/free-washing-machine-stacking-kit

OPPO unveils its more accessible AI Phone in the Philippines – the OPPO Reno12 F 5G

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OPPO enables more Filipinos to experience AI smartphone innovations with the official launch of  the OPPO Reno12 F 5G.

OPPO’s newest AI phone marks a significant milestone in the brand’s commitment to democratizing AI. The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is designed with intuitive AI features to help more consumers enjoy the benefits of AI and be equipped with a device that allows them to live out their dynamic lifestyle with a powerful camera system, stylish and durable design, and overall reliable performance.

An Ideal AI Portrait Expert

The OPPO Reno Series has long been known as the Portrait Expert, boasting an outstanding camera system, especially for portraits. The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is no exception, bannered by a 50MP Main Camera that can capture ultra-clear portraits with flagship-level quality. To achieve more natural bokeh effects when shooting in Pro Portrait Mode, the OPPO Reno12 F 5G is also fitted with a 2MP Macro Camera that can give users that distinct feeling of snapping pictures with a professional camera. Add to this an 8MP Ultra-Wide-Angle Camera with a 112º field of view, and users will be able to capture expansive landscapes or large group photos without compromising on details and clarity. Rounding this out is a 32MP Front Camera that offers multiple focal lengths to help you frame the perfect selfie.

With the help of AI Portrait Retouching, the OPPO Reno12 F 5G can enhance photos with more vivid and natural true-to-life- skin tones and clarity, making every image definitely worth sharing.

Level up your images with the AI Eraser 2.0

Similar to the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G devices, the OPPO Reno12 F 5G makes editing photos easier with the upgraded AI Eraser 2.0. It has the “Remove People” function, removing unwanted people or objects in the background can be done online with accuracy and speed with just a few taps. OPPO’s AI Eraser 2.0 employs a comprehensive Diffusion Model, making it comparable to professional photo editing softwares.

The Smart Lasso and Paint Over functions have also seen improved accuracy of up to 98% recognition accuracy for virtually any object in everyday situations.

Captivating and artistic digital avatars with AI Studio

The AI Studio in the OPPO Reno12 F 5G is a free, pre-installed app that gives users the ability to transform any of their photos into their own digital avatar or profile picture. It comes with a variety of creative filters and likenesses to choose from as long as the device is connected through the internet.

Uninterrupted, stable connectivity with AI LinkBoost and BeaconLink

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G, along with its predecessors in the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G, sets a new standard for mobile connectivity with its advanced AI LinkBoost technology, ensuring that you're always connected no matter where you are. This innovation boasts the 360-Degree Surround Antenna that intelligently distributes essential communication frequency bands across all sides of the phone ensuring you’re always linked to the strongest possible signal.

Whether you're deep into a gaming session or streaming your favorite shows, AI LinkBoost actively adjusts to deliver up to a 6% reduction in latency, giving you a smoother, more responsive experience. The AI LinkBoost particularly thrives in challenging environments such as areas that are crowded or with a weak signal. It can boost video sharing speeds by 12%, making sure browsing and streaming is never interrupted.

And when you find yourself in situations with no network coverage, the BeaconLink feature steps in, enhancing Bluetooth capabilities to allow voice calls over distances of up to 200 meters. Coupled with NFC support, the OPPO Reno12 F 5G not only keeps you connected but also offers convenience in daily tasks like using electronic access cards or digital wallets.

Other AI-Powered Features for Enhanced Creativity and Efficiency

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is packed with a wider suite of AI features designed to aid busy and on-the-go individuals such as AI Writer that provides content inspiration, AI Summary which condenses lengthy articles into bite-sized insights, and AI Recording Summary that takes your voice notes and turns them into easy-to-read summaries.

Exceptional Durability and Immersive Entertainment

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is built to last with its  All-Round Armor for unmatched protection against the elements. Using the phone with precision even when your hands or the screen are wet is made possible with its Splash Touch feature. Boasting an IP64 rating for water and dust resistance, plus SGS 5-star certification, you can trust this phone to withstand everyday challenges. Optimal eye comfort is also ensured with the OPPO Reno12 F 5G’s Smart Eye technology that adjusts the display even during long viewing sessions.

The OPPO Reno12 F also has Holo Audio, a spatial audio technology by OPPO that enhances your audio experience by placing multiple audio sources in their own audio space, making it possible to take a call while listening to music and map directions without the audio channels interfering with each other. In addition, the Dual Stereo Speakers and Ultra Volume Mode gives you an immersive audio experience by allowing you to turn up the volume to 300%.

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G has a 120Hz Smart Adaptive Screen featuring exceptional brightness with a super smooth refresh rate. The screen can also reach up to 2,100 nits of local peak brightness and an overall peak brightness of 1,200 nits.

Dependable Performance and Long-Lasting Battery

At its core is the ColorOS 14 and the Trinity Engine, OPPO's exclusive technology designed to enhance system performance at the algorithmic level. This smart engine fine-tunes and allocates computational power precisely where it's needed, ensuring your phone runs smoothly, even during demanding tasks. A standout feature within the Trinity Engine is ROM-Vita, which optimizes storage by tracking how often you use different apps and files. This means that your OPPO Reno12 F 5G has passed the 50-month fluency testing in OPPO Laboratory.

The OPPO  Reno12 F 5G is powered by a 5,000mAh battery that can last up to 1.94 days of regular use and 21 days on standby mode. When you do need to charge, OPPO’s 45W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge can quickly recharge the phone to an additional 14% in just five minutes, 1% to 24% in 10 minutes and 100% full in just 71 minutes.

Sleek and Elegant Design

With its Cosmos Ring Design inspired by classic wristwatches, the OPPO Reno12 F 5G stands out with a luxurious and futuristic appearance. The Halo Light, exclusive to the Reno series, syncs with your music and notifications, adding a touch of ambiance to your everyday life.

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G comes in trendy colorways - Amber Orange that exudes a vibrant, flame-like texture and Olive Green which gives a dynamic look with its fluid back cover.

Get your hands on your next AI Era Companion

Get the OPPO Reno12 F 5G for Php 18,999. Pre-order is ongoing until August 30, available in all OPPO authorized offline stores nationwide. All preorders of the OPPO Reno12 F 5G comes with a free TJ654 Bluetooth Speaker.

My OPPO App User Benefits

More benefits await loyal My OPPO app users. Here are some redeemable perks for OPPO Reno12 Series 5G users starting August 20 until stocks last:

●     4,500 Mabuhay Miles for the first 35 redemptions

●     P1,000 Happy Skin Gift Code for the first 30 redemptions

●     P300 Zalora Gift Code for the first 30 who create a new My OPPO account and redeem the code within 30 days

●     Custom OPPO x BASH Billow Mini Pocket for the first 150 redemptions

Standout with OPPO Protection Plan

If you want to add an extra layer of protection for your OPPO Reno12 F 5G, you can purchase it alongside an OPPO Care plan for a discounted price of PHP 999 until September 30. Regular price starts at PHP 1,299.

It offers one-time free screen replacement for accidental impact, crash, or collision damage within the first 12 months, a free screen protector, and extending the warranty by another 12 months for performance issues from factory defects, excluding screen damage.

 Official OPPO E-Commerce Stores

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G will be available on OPPO’s official Lazada page starting August 20, followed by Shopee and TikTok Shop channels starting August 27. Buyers are entitled to the following first sale benefits:

●     Free TG654 Bluetooth Speaker

●     Free Shipping

●     P100 GCash Product Review Cashback

●     OPPO P1,000 off Product Voucher

Operators

You can also purchase via Globe Plan starting August 20th, and get the following benefits:

Globe	●     OPPO Reno12 F 5G will be available via Plan 1499 with Php 1,500 cash-out ●     Comes with free OPPO Enco Buds2 until stocks last
The OPPO Reno12 F 5G is also coming soon to Smart stores this month, with the following benefits: Smart            ●     OPPO Reno12 F 5G will be available via Smart Signature Plan+ 999 ●     Comes with free OPPO Enco Buds2 until stocks last

Home Credit and Credit Cards

The OPPO Reno12 F 5G will also be available in installment plans via Home Credit and Credit Card payment options. Home Credit offers installment plans of 6/9/12/15/18 months at 0% interest in all partnered OPPO stores nationwide with lowest monthly payment of Php 809

You may also opt to purchase via credit card, available in 6- or 12-month installments at 0% interest for all credit cards.

For more details and updates on the OPPO Reno12 F 5G, MyOPPO App benefits and OPPO Care plans, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.