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).

Popeyes Boosts Operational Efficiency with Paywatch’s EWA Program

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Popeyes Philippines, a global fast-food brand renowned for its Southern-style fried chicken and Cajun-inspired cuisine, has partnered with Paywatch to offer Earned Wage Access (EWA) as a new employee benefit. This initiative represents a new-generation approach to enhancing financial support for its workforce.

 Executives and team members from Paywatch and Popeyes Philippines gathered to celebrate their new partnership, which aims to empower Popeyes employees with on-demand Earned Wage Access (EWA)

This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing financial wellness for the Filipino workforce in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.

Popeyes returned to the Philippines in 2019 and has quickly expanded to over 50 outlets nationwide. With a focus on modernization and digital transformation, the company’s commitment to innovation extends to employee welfare. In an industry characterized by rapid growth and high employee turnover, Popeyes aims to improve workforce well-being with EWA—a program that enables employees to access a portion of their wages before payday. This service provides greater financial flexibility for daily expenses and emergencies, helping to reduce reliance on short-term loans.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency Amid Industry Growth

As the demand for convenience food continues to surge, the Philippines' quick service restaurant (QSR) market is projected to reach $7.9 billion by 2026, driven by the fast-paced lifestyle and evolving preferences of Filipino consumers, according to Allied Market Research.[1] To keep up with this anticipated growth, Popeyes is investing in operational efficiency through a workforce empowered by financial stability. With EWA, employees can access a portion of their earnings before payday without incurring debt or hidden fees. This immediate financial support reduces financial stress, translating to improved attendance, higher retention rates, and significant cost savings on retraining and rehiring, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency.

Chief Finance Officer of Popeyes Philippines Ed Kintanar—emphasizes the strategic importance of employee well-being in Popeyes’ operations.

"Retaining employees effectively helps our company avoid productivity setbacks. We believe that implementing EWA will enhance our employees’ well-being, leading to improved productivity and higher retention rates.," said Ed Kintanar, Chief Finance Officer of Popeyes Philippines. "Paywatch’s expertise makes them the ideal partner to help us introduce this innovative benefit."

Empowering Employees Through Financial Flexibility

Globally, Paywatch’s EWA solution has been adopted by leading brands, including well-known food service companies. By partnering with Paywatch, Popeyes Philippines demonstrates its leadership in employee welfare within the local QSR sector. The initiative not only aims to boost employee satisfaction but also to optimize business operations by fostering a more resilient and engaged workforce.

Popeyes staff have started using the Paywatch app, easing the burden of unexpected financial challenges and empowering them to focus on delivering exceptional service to customers.

"Paywatch is committed to advancing financial wellness across diverse sectors, including food service and retail," said Rowell Del Fierro, President of Paywatch Philippines. "We are excited to see the positive impact that EWA will bring to both employees and businesses, knowing it can enhance financial well-being while also improving overall operations."

By implementing Paywatch’s EWA program, Popeyes is setting a new benchmark for employee care in the fast-moving QSR industry, ensuring that its team is not only financially secure but also highly motivated to deliver exceptional service.

For more information about Paywatch, please visit https://www.paywatchglobal.com/

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About Paywatch

Founded by brothers Richard and Alex Kim, Paywatch is Asia's leading Earned Wage Access (EWA) service provider, committed to fostering holistic financial wellness for employees. By partnering with leading enterprises and top banks across Asia, we enable employees to secure brighter financial futures through safe and flexible financial access. Our mission is to empower people to live better lives. Currently, Paywatch operates in Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Indonesia, with support from Citi, UOB, Hana Bank, and Hong Leong Bank.

[1] https://qsrmedia.asia/videos/demand-convenient-food-drives-ph-qsr-market

#iPhoneforEveryONE: Home Credit makes it easy for Filipinos to own the iPhone 16 series

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Country’s leading consumer finance company unveils affordable

installment options at Digimap's Apple iPhone 16 midnight launch

Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, collaborated with Digimap for the launch of the highly anticipated Apple iPhone 16 Series in the Philippines.

During a midnight salubong event held on Oct 17 at One Ayala mall, Home Credit unveiled exclusive deals and promos, and flexible installment plans that make purchasing and experiencing the Apple’s newest devices easier for Filipinos.

“Our goal at Home Credit is to help Filipinos enhance their everyday experiences. By providing easier access to the latest devices, like the iPhone 16 Series, we enable individuals to easily upgrade from entry-level to top-tier devices that suit their needs. We are excited to offer these flexible installment options and great deals at Digimap, ensuring that more Filipinos can enjoy these devices without worrying about their budgets, making the #iPhoneforEveryONE a reality,” said Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of HCPH.

With just a 30% downpayment, customers can own the iPhone 16 with 0% interest on up to 12-month installment plans or 1% interest per month for up to 24-month installment options.

“At Digimap, we are dedicated to bringing the latest Apple technology closer to Filipinos. Our partnership with Home Credit makes it even easier for more people to experience the newest iPhone 16 Series, thanks to their financing services that are easy on the wallet. This enables Filipinos to live, play and connect—integrating the best technology into their daily lives, especially as we continue to embrace an increasingly digital lifestyle,” remarked Jill Baysa, Head of Marketing of Digimap.

The midnight launch featured an engaging Home Credit booth filled with interactive activities, graced by the Home Credit Salubong Squad: Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo, Mr. Manhunt International 2024 Kevin Dasom, and TikTok stars Ms. Deliciousness and Poca, with Sean Ortega and Patsy Reyes as hosts.

Additionally, the first 16 customers who purchased the iPhone 16 through Home Credit won exclusive Apple products—ranging from MacBooks and iPads to Apple Watches and AirPods—along with photo opportunities with the Home Credit Salubong Squad.

Acquiring the iPhone 16 through Home Credit is quick and hassle-free. With just one valid ID, eligible customers can get approval in as quick as one minute. To secure fast pre-approval for product installments, customers can download the Home Credit App from Google Play or the App Store or speak with a Home Credit sales representative at any Digimap branch for assistance.

“With minimal requirements and a fast approval process, we are making our financing offers accessible to more Filipinos. We will continue to ensure a seamless experience for our customers, making Home Credit’s products and services readily available to meet their needs,” Paul concluded.

The iPhone 16 Series is available in the following variants: the iPhone 16 in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB; the iPhone 16 Plus in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB; the iPhone 16 Pro in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB; and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

Customers can visit any Digimap branch to purchase the iPhone 16 with Home Credit’s installment options. For availability, they can check their preferred Digimap location here.

Home Credit’s iPhone 16 Series promos are also available through its partner stores nationwide, such as Abenson, Aerophone, Beyond the Box, Cellboy, Digimap, Digiplanet, Digital Walker, Fone Style, Gadget Headz, Greentelcom, Guanzon, In-box Personal Phone and Accessories, JI Telecom, Octagon, Power Mac, Silicon Valley, The Loop, Wiltelcom, and 8telcom, or at over 5000 Apple resellers nationwide.

To learn more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).