Visa partners Thames International and City Government of Baguio to drive digitalization and tourism growth

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Five-year digital partnership to empower Baguio MSMEs with digital tools, innovation support, and marketing insights for tourism growth

Visa, a global leader in payments technology, has announced a strategic partnership with Thames International, a leading provider of education and training solutions, and the City Government of Baguio to enhance the digitalization of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The partnership launched today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

This five-year Digital Partnership Program by Visa Government Solutions, which partners with governments globally to drive economic growth and digitalization, aims to help MSMEs in Baguio City by driving acceptance of digital payment modes,, supporting innovation, sharing knowledge, and offering marketing guidance and Visa Destination Insights – which provides detailed spending and visitation data through interactive dashboards and reports – to bolster the tourism sector.

[From Left: Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager of Visa Philippines, and Hon. Benjamin Magalong, City Mayor of Baguio City] Visa and the City Government of Barguio sign a Memorandum of Agreement for a five-year digital partnership that would enhance the digitalization of MSMEs in Baguio.

Small businesses playing a key role in Baguio City’s local economy & tourism sector

As the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio is a key part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) alongside Cebu and Iloilo. Since 2017, Baguio has held the UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art title, joining a network of 246 cities globally committed to embedding creativity in sustainable urban development. Beyond its creative contributions, Baguio also boasts a flourishing MSME sector that fuels local growth and innovation.

As of August 2023, Baguio has 22,121 registered businesses, with 19,874 being microenterprises primarily in wholesale and retail. This underscores the significance of small businesses to the local economy and tourism, with MSMEs serving as vital tourism front liners.

From Left: Gian Carlo De Jesus, Program Director of Thames International; Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager of Visa Philippines; Hon. Benjamin Magalong, City Mayor of Baguio City; Jaime Noel Santos, President and Co-Founder of Thames International; and Chancellor Dr. John Batten of Thames International.

Supporting MSMEs to innovate and tap into data to upskill them to drive tourism

The partnership includes initiatives to support MSME innovation and payment digitalization, enhance data insights, and upskill MSMEs in the digital economy. It aims to facilitate connections with technology providers and banks and ensure financial inclusion. The program will also develop a data-first tourism strategy, host workshops on data trends, and use Visa Destination Insights for policy development.

The partnership will also expand its reach through media and official channels, promote digital literacy across sectors, and connect Baguio City stakeholders with global Visa experts. This collaboration will enable peer exchange workshops and innovation study tours, allowing stakeholders to share best practices in building an inclusive, digitally empowered government.

This is a significant step towards supporting Baguio City's tourism sector by enhancing the overall visitor experience and promoting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Small businesses, essential to the local economy, will benefit from digital solutions and the growth of the creative economy, positioning Baguio City to attract more tourists and stimulate local business growth.

Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: "We are thrilled to partner with Thames International and the City Government of Baguio to drive digitalization and support the creative economy. Tourism is a vital part of the Philippine economy, and we are delighted to provide our tools and resources to help drive the growth of the industry. Our partnership enhances the visitor experience, promotes cultural heritage, and empowers MSMEs to boost tourism and local businesses, creating a digitally and financially inclusive ecosystem for all in the Philippines."

A1 Expands Valentine’s Tour in the Philippines with Bacolod and Cagayan De Oro Shows!

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With the intent of reaching a wider audience through their music, Beloved British-Norwegian boy band A1, known for their timeless hits and captivating performances, is bringing their Valentine’s Tour to more Filipino fans! The iconic pop group has added Bacolod City and Cagayan De Oro City to their highly anticipated Valentine’s Tour in February 2025.

The group announced that they will also perform live at the SMX Convention Center, Bacolod City on February 12, 2025, at 8:00 PM, and at The Atrium, Limketkai Center, Cagayan De Oro City on February 13, 2025, promising a Pre-Valentine’s Day to remember for their fans in Mindanao. This is in addition to their shows in Cebu this February 14, 2025, at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, Cebu City, aside from the Manila leg of their Valentine’s Tour 2025 on February 15, 2025, at the New Frontier Theater, Araneta Center, Quezon City.

Following the success of their TWENTY FIVE concert tour in 2023, which celebrated their 25th anniversary in the music industry, A1 is once again ready to serenade Filipino fans with their chart-topping classics and crowd favorites. Expect to hear unforgettable hits such as Like A Rose, Everytime, Same Old Brand New You, Caught in the Middle, and many more.

A1, comprising Paul Marazzi, Christian Ingebrigtsen, Mark Read, and Ben Adams, remains committed to creating memorable experiences for their audience. “The Philippines has always held a special place in our hearts,” says Mark Read. “We are thrilled to expand our Valentines tour to reach even more fans in Bacolod and Cagayan De Oro.”

Tickets for SMX CONVENTION CENTER, Bacolod City & THE ATRIUM, Limketkai Center, Cagayan De Oro will go on-sale Monday, November 25th, 2024, at 12 noon. Available at all SM Ticket outlets or log on to www.smtickets.com or call 8470-2222 for more details.

SMX CONVENTION CENTER, Bacolod City, Wednesday 12th February 2025 (8PM)

Ticket prices:

VIP - Reserved Seating – 4,500 Php

GOLD - Reserved Seating – 3,000 Php

SILVER - Free Seating – 2,000 Php

GENERAL ADMISSION - Free Seating – 1,000 Php

*Exclusive of ticket service charge

Tickets available at all SM Ticket outlets or log on to www.smtickets.com or call 8470-2222 for more details.

THE ATRIUM, Limketkai Center, Cagayan De Oro, Thursday 13th February 2025 (8PM)

Ticket prices:

VIP - Reserved Seating – 4,000 Php

GOLD - Reserved Seating – 3,500 Php

SILVER - Free Seating – 2,500 Php

BRONZE - Free Seating – 1,500 Php

LOWER ALFRESCO - Free Seating – 1,000 Php

UPPER ALFRESCO - Free Seating – 700 Php

*Exclusive of ticket service charge

Tickets available at all SM Ticket outlets or log on to www.smtickets.com or call 8470-2222 for more details.

WATERFRONT CEBU CITY HOTEL & CASINO, Cebu City, Friday 14th February 2025 (8PM)

Ticket prices:

VIP - Reserved Seating – 4,790 Peso

GOLD - Reserved Seating – 3,730 Peso

SILVER - Reserved Seating – 2,660 Peso

BRONZE - Free Seating – 1,600 Peso

BALCONY - Free Seating – 850 Peso

*Exclusive of ticket service charge

Tickets available at all SM Ticket outlets or log on to www.smtickets.com or call 8470-2222 for more details.

NEW FRONTIER THEATER, Quezon City, Saturday 15th February 2025 (8PM)

Ticket prices Manila:

Orchestra VIP - Reserved Seating – 5,750 Peso

Orchestra B - Reserved Seating – 5,000 Peso

Orchestra C - Reserved Seating – 4,250 Peso

Balcony VIP (Loge) - Reserved Seating – 5,250 Peso

Balcony 1 - Reserved Seating – 4,000 Peso

Balcony 2 - Reserved Seating – 3,000 Peso

*Exclusive of ticket service charge

Tickets available at all TicketNet outlets or log on to Ticketnet.com.ph or call (02) 911-5555 for more details.

Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early as demand is expected to be high. Don’t miss the chance to relive the magic of A1 and create new memories with their music this Valentine’s season.

For more concert updates, check out A1’s Facebook page /a1official or follow Concert Republic’s website www.concertrepublic.com or /@concertrepublic on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, @concert.republic on TikTok.

Philippine Cinema’s Brightest Stars, Aga Muhlach, Nadine Lustre, and Vilma Santos Gather In Not Just An Ordinary Party - 'Uninvited'

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• Uninvited is generating buzz for its intriguing plot and powerful cast

Philippine cinema’s brightest stars come together in Uninvited, a mystery, gripping thriller-drama set to electrify this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) as it celebrates its golden anniversary.

Leading the powerhouse ensemble cast are three of the best forces in Philippine Cinema - Aga Muhlach, Nadine Lustre, and the Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos, supported by an impressive lineup that includes RK Bagatsing, Mylene Dizon, Lotlot de Leon, Gabby Padilla, Elijah Canlas, Ketchup Eusebio, Gio Alvarez, Cholo Barretto, Ron Angeles, and Tirso Cruz III.

From Mentorque Productions—the makers of the most-awarded Filipino horror movie of all time, Mallari—comes a remarkable cinematic milestone Filipino audiences can't afford to miss. Adding even more prestige, the film is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, which also helped catapult last year’s MMFF to success. Joining the team is Project 8 Projects in their first collaboration with Mentorque.

"Hindi Lang 'To Basta Party!"

The tagline “Hindi lang ’to basta party!” (“This is no ordinary party!”) teases the gripping mystery at the heart of Uninvited. What are the real stories and secrets behind the characters, and how are they connected?

Directed by Dan Villegas in his comeback directorial film after six years, Uninvited showcases an unforgettable collaboration of some of the most celebrated actors in Philippine cinema, with a screenplay written by Dodo Dayao.

Official Synopsis

Eva Candelaria (Vilma Santos) has been waiting for this day for the last ten years—the birthday party of Guilly Vega (Aga Muhlach), the billionaire who brutally murdered her only daughter a decade ago and escaped justice.

Disguised as a socialite, Eva attends the opulent event with a single goal: revenge. As the night unfolds, she carefully stalks each person involved in her daughter’s murder, inching closer to her ultimate target. But who is the true villain of her story? Is it Guilly or his daughter Nicole (Nadine Lustre)? Unarmed and without a concrete plan, Eva must make life-or-death choices as her options dwindle. Will she fulfill her mission, or will the night claim her life instead?

A Gift to Filipino Audiences

In celebration of MMFF’s 50th anniversary, Uninvited stands as a testament to the unparalleled excellence of Filipino filmmaking. Mentorque Productions, following the massive success of the MMFF 2023 entry Mallari, teams up with Project 8 Projects to craft a movie that guarantees a meaningful and unforgettable experience for viewers.

“We understand the challenges Filipinos face today,” shares Mentorque CEO John Bryman Diamante. “Watching a movie in theaters is a luxury, so we made sure this is worth every peso.”

It’s indeed a full cinematic experience in theaters this Christmas!

Filipino Talent on Full Display

Guilly Vega’s ominous line in the teaser—“Hindi lang ’to basta party!”—emphasizes the film’s deeper themes. Behind the mysterious story and lavish setting lies a gritty, thought-provoking message.

Mentorque’s growth in the industry speaks volumes about its dedication to Filipino talent. From modest beginnings to producing festival-worthy films, the company remains steadfast in its mission to highlight local stories and bring them to the global stage.

Mark Your Calendar!

Uninvited hits theaters nationwide starting December 25, as part of the highly anticipated 50th edition of MMFF. With its gripping story, stellar cast, and visuals rivaling Hollywood blockbusters, the film is a Christmas gift to Filipino moviegoers and a celebration of the resilience and artistry of Philippine cinema.

Not just an ordinary party, it’s a grand cinematic experience created by Filipino artists for Filipino audiences of all walks of life. Don’t miss this thrilling ride on the big screen!

Join the conversation by using the hashtag #UninvitedMMFF and visit the official social media pages of Mentorque for updates.

HONOR Magic V3 is Now Available in PH for Php 89,999 via Globe Postpaid Plans with FREE HONOR Pad X9

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Global technology brand HONOR today unveiled its newest and thinnest foldable smartphone HONOR Magic V3 with AI-enabled hardware capabilities and a collaborative AI privacy protection architecture, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovative empowerment in an AI-driven world.

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For as low as Php 1,514/month you can now get the HONOR Magic V3 starting a

GPlan Plus 1799 with FREE HONOR Pad X9 worth Php 9,999!

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“It feels like just yesterday when we launched the HONOR Magic V2 and now, we are ecstatic to introduce HONOR’s newest and thinnest foldable smartphone, the HONOR Magic V3. AI is slowly but surely reshaping our industry, enriching and creating new experiences that improves creativity and productivity for consumers all around the world, every day, and right now, it’s our priority to make comfort and technology accessible to more Filipinos” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The World’s Thinnest Foldable with Robust Performance

Continuing to push the boundaries of foldable devices, HONOR introduced the all-new HONOR Magic V3, the world's thinnest inward foldable phone with enhanced durability, battery, display and AI experience, to global consumers.

With a sleek folded thickness of 9.2mm and featherlight body weighing just 226g, the HONOR Magic V3 rivals the slimness and weight of a flagship bar phone, ensuring utmost portability for users. This feat is accomplished through the meticulous application of 19 innovative materials and 114 microstructures, propelling foldable devices into a new era of precision and slimness. Featuring a dome-shaped octagonal camera module, the HONOR Magic V3 seamlessly combines the architectural beauty of dome structures with technological innovations. This camera module showcases a diamond cut, adding an element of elegance and sleekness to the device's overall appearance.

Adding to its durability, the HONOR Magic V3 incorporates a Special Fiber into its body material, enhancing impact resistance by 40 times compared to other flagship bar phones while reducing the back cover's thickness by over 30%. Moreover, featuring the proprietary HONOR Super Steel Hinge, the device can withstand up to 500,000 folding cycles and has attained the prestigious SGS Durability Certification. Fortified with the HONOR Super Armored Inner Screen and HONOR Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield, the HONOR Magic V3 is crafted to endure the rigors of daily use.

Equipped with a 6.43-inch external display and a 7.92-inch internal foldable screen, the HONOR Magic V3 delivers an immersive dual-use experience, offering an enjoyable visual journey to users. Dedicated to prioritizing user well-being and comfort, this device incorporates a range of innovative eye-comfort features, such as the world’s first AI Defocus Display technology, 4320Hz Risk-free PWM Dimming, Dynamic Dimming, Circadian Night Display and Natural Tone Display.

In addition, the HONOR Magic V3 is packed with an advanced 5150mAh Third-generation Silicon-carbon Battery, supported by the lightning-fast 66W Wired and 50W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, ensuring users an uninterrupted and stress-free mobile experience. Featuring the innovative HONOR Falcon Camera System which encompasses a 50MP Periscope Telephoto Camera, a 50MP Main Camera, and a 40MP Ultra-wide Camera, the device promises unparalleled imaging quality and versatility for users seeking stunning smartphone photography.

HONOR Magic V3 offers a host of intelligent features. These include Magic Portal on Foldable, along with on-device AI enabled photography features like HONOR AI Motion Sensing for Lightning-fast shots, and the HONOR AI Portrait Engine for portrait enhancement. Collaborating with Google Cloud, HONOR enriches a range of productivity features supported by Google’s AI models and Cloud technologies to empower users to improve overall efficiency, including HONOR AI Eraser, Face to Face Translation, and Translation tools in HONOR Notes. These deliver on HONOR’s promise of a new era of AI-enabled versatility and productivity, catering to the evolving demands of business and professional users.

HONOR Magic V3 is now available in PH!

Inspired by the wonders of natural landscape, the HONOR Magic V3 comes in two stunning colorways Green and Black for only Php 89,999, now available via Globe Postpaid Plans starting at GPlan Plus 1799 with a FREE HONOR Pad X9 worth Php 9,999!

For as low as Php 1,514 per month for 36 months, you can enjoy HONOR Magic V3 with FREE 20GB Data and Unli All-net Call and Text on top of exclusive perks! Go now to the nearest Globe Store it get it online via: https://bit.ly/Globe_MagicV3_PR.

For more information about the HONOR Magic V3, you may visit: https://bit.ly/Web_MagicV3_PR. 

To be in the loop of exciting updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on:

Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), 

Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and 

TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

Labubu Your Way to Global Deals This Black Friday with ShippingCart – No Passport Needed

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This Black Friday, you don’t need to hop on a plane to shop international deals—just grab your phone or laptop, and get ready to Labubu (shop to your heart's content!) from the comfort of your home! ShippingCart, a secure, fast-growing cross-border delivery service in the Philippines, is helping you unlock the best international Black Friday deals and delivering them straight to your doorstep.

“We’re breaking down barriers to global shopping for Filipinos,” said Raffy Vicente, President and General Manager of ShippingCart. “Whether it’s finding favorite brands or unique collectibles like Pop Mart’s Labubu, we want to make discovering and receiving international items as simple as local shopping. It’s all about creating that seamless, worry-free experience so our customers can enjoy the thrill of global finds–delivered right to their doorstep.” added Raffy.

With ShippingCart, Filipinos can access top international retailers, unlocking global Black Friday deals that are usually out of reach. Forget waiting in long lines or missing out on those limited-edition items—ShippingCart lets you shop the best of what the world has to offer, all in one place. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about hefty markups or reseller prices, as you’re getting items straight from the source. It’s simple, convenient, and all about bringing what you love closer – without extra cost.

Here’s how you can ‘Labubu’ through ShippingCart this Black Friday:

1. Sign Up for Free
   Create an account on the ShippingCart app or website and instantly receive your U.S. shipping address – your ticket to global shopping!
2. Shop Like a Pro
   Browse the best Black Friday deals from international stores and hundreds of other retailers. Fill your cart with your favorite finds from gadgets like PS5, Apple products and more. Shop stylish fashion from lululemon, gymshark, or grab collectibles like Pop Mart’s popular Labubu series, and ship them to your ShippingCart address.
3. Let ShippingCart Do the Work
   Once your items reach the ShippingCart warehouse, you can simply check out and pay for ShippingCart to forward them straight to the Philippines. With all-inclusive shipping fees, you don’t have to worry about any additional custom fees including shipping, duties, and taxes that are already covered. Plus, you have the option to choose your preferred shipping method, whether by air or sea cargo, for a smooth, predictable, and worry-free delivery experience.
4. Track Your Labubu
   Stay updated every step of the way with real-time tracking via ShippingCart App. You’ll always know where your goodies are—until they arrive at your door!
5. Get Ready to Enjoy
   Once your international treasures arrive, you’ll get your hands on those global deals you’ve been dreaming about—all in time for the holidays!

Where to Download ShippingCart:

●     App Store: Download ShippingCart

●     Google Play: Download ShippingCart

●     Website: www.shippingcart.com

This Black Friday, why wait for a plane ticket to score the best deals? With ShippingCart, Filipinos can shop global sales effortlessly—without the usual barriers and no passport needed. With additional warehouses in the U.S., UK, Australia, Japan, and Korea, you can access an even wider selection of international stores. It’s the best way to bring home what you love from around the world, all in time for the holidays.

Skyrocket Studios Inc., an omnichannel digital agency, is the official agency partner of Shippingcart.