January 16, 2025

How a True AI Companion Can Unleash Your Creativity


For more than a decade, people all over the world have consistently enhanced their productivity and creativity by turning to Galaxy smartphones. Chief among them, the Galaxy S Ultra series, which is built on a legacy of innovation of our Galaxy Note series has become synonymous with boundless creativity and is loved by countless Galaxy fans.

With its incredible power, expansive screen and iconic S Pen, Galaxy S Ultra is renowned for helping people seamlessly follow their inspirations or capture ideas anytime, anywhere – even without unlocking the phone and digging for a note-taking app.

Creativity Like Never Before

Last year, Samsung introduced Galaxy AI, ushering a new era of mobile experiences. This groundbreaking technology helped the Galaxy S Ultra series evolve into an even more indispensable tool for maximizing creative freedom. And now, your creativity is about to reach new heights.

Sketch to Image, now integrated into Drawing assist, is now evolving. Utilizing more than a single input, like drawing with S Pen or your finger, it is becoming a multimodal experience. Now you can breathe life into your ideas by sketching them, writing out a description of the image you want with text, or using the voice command say what to draw. If you can envision it, Galaxy AI can help you create it.

Let’s say you want to really let your imagination run wild. You can draw a cat using S Pen and then, with multimodal Galaxy AI, you can type a “spacesuit” to put your cat in a space suit and visualize them in outer space. Or maybe you’re thinking about your dream home. Using the S Pen, you make a quick drawing of the façade. But maybe you’re not sure where you want your dream home to be. Simply type some possible locations, like “by the beach” or “in the mountains” and Drawing assist will help you see your future home in a new light.

From Note to Ultra and Beyond

This level of creative freedom is built on a legacy of innovation that began in 2011, when we introduced the Galaxy Note to redefine what was creatively possible on a smartphone. That power and spirit of innovation lives on through the Galaxy S Ultra series, and it continues to evolve with Galaxy AI.

With One UI 7, Samsung’s first integrated AI platform, your phone will become a true AI companion that understands natural language through text and speech, as well as images. It will be a new standard of multimodal mobile AI that enables incredible creativity. But this is just a preview. Tune into Galaxy Unpacked on January 23, 2:00 AM PH Time to see how the next Galaxy S series can truly unleash your creativity. Join us as we unveil a new chapter in mobile AI – premium Galaxy innovations that bring seamless convenience into every moment of your life. The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning at 2:00 AM PH Time.

Make sure to visit news.samsung/com/ph for all upcoming teasers, trailers and updates ahead of Unpacked 2025. Register to Galaxy Unpacked and get up to ₱5,000 e-voucher when you complete your registration by visiting https://www.samsung.com/ph/unpacked/.

Business Chamber Launches Innovative Power Initiative Amid Regional Growth

The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is establishing a pioneering "Power Alliance" initiative that addresses the growing energy demands of one of the Philippines' key economic centers.

This development comes at a critical time as Cebu's industrial and commercial growth continues to drive increasing power requirements, highlighting the importance of collaborative approaches to energy security in expanding economic hubs.

“We're looking into expanding our Power Committee with this alliance to support sustainable economic growth through enhanced coordination between business stakeholders and energy sector partners,” said CCCI President Jay Yuvallos. “As businesses expand and new industries emerge, ensuring reliable and affordable power becomes increasingly crucial for maintaining competitiveness.”

The significance of this initiative is underscored by Department of Energy data showing Cebu's current demand at 1,223 MW, compared to its local generation capacity of 1,123 MW. This 100MW deficit underscores two critical challenges for Cebu's power security: first, the urgent need to expand reliable local generation capacity, and second, the region's significant dependence on the broader Visayas transmission network, including interconnections with Luzon (via Leyte) and Mindanao.

Addressing both aspects—through increased embedded generation and enhanced transmission infrastructure—is imperative for sustaining Cebu’s economic momentum and maintaining its attractiveness as an investment destination.

Looking ahead, DOE projects Cebu Island's peak demand to reach approximately 1,400 megawatts by 2026, reflecting the region's rapid economic expansion. This growth in demand is part of the broader Visayas region's projected increase from 2,464 megawatts in 2023 to 10,678 megawatts by 2050.

“Our Power Alliance aims to create a collaborative platform where businesses, power providers, and stakeholders can work together effectively,” Yuvallos explained. “This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting both large industries and MSMEs in their growth journey through reliable power infrastructure.”

The alliance will focus on fostering dialogue between business stakeholders and energy partners, promoting a reliable electricity supply that will support the growth trajectory of the province. With nearly 700, predominantly MSMEs, CCCI's initiative demonstrates how business organizations can contribute constructively to addressing energy challenges.

"When we look at Cebu's growth trajectory, particularly in manufacturing, hospitality, tourism, and IT-BPM sectors, reliable power infrastructure becomes fundamental to sustaining this momentum," added Yuvallos. "According to NEDA estimates, ensuring reliable electricity and sustained economic development could help lift around 200,000 Cebuanos out of poverty. Our goal is to ensure that power supply can effectively support not just business expansion, but also the broader social development of our region."

GCash broadens global reach, allows users to scan to pay in over 3 million merchants in Japan

GCash expands its global reach, enabling users to scan and pay at over 3 million merchants 
across Japan

Filipino travelers can now enjoy the convenience of cashless payments in more places in Japan with GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem.

With GCash Global Pay’s expanded coverage, users can scan to pay everywhere in Japan, from metropolitan areas to countryside destinations, thanks to the partnership of Alipay+ with PayPay. This unlocks access to cashless payments at over three million merchants spanning shopping and leisure. Users can enjoy dining out, booking accommodations and tours, souvenir shopping, and availing services, no matter where their trip takes them—all with the digital wallet they can trust.

“As more Filipinos make Japan their top travel destination, GCash is committed to pursuing partnerships that enable them to make the most out of their experience there,” shared Paul Albano, General Manager of GCash International. “GCash users no longer need to worry about the constraints of limited payment options, knowing there’s a readily available and secure payment method they can rely on.”

Since becoming available in Japan in 2023, GCash has sought to empower more users through its affiliation with Alipay+. With the latter’s expanded partnership with Japan’s leading QR payment operator, PayPay, GCash has become part of the country’s mission to promote in-depth tourism. Today, going cashless with GCash goes beyond major city centers like Tokyo and Osaka. Smaller towns and rural charms in Japan are now included, allowing Filipino tourists to enjoy a more immersive experience in the country. The expanded coverage means access to a more diverse set of merchants, too by enabling cashless payments local businesses like izakayas, wagashi shops, guesthouses, and anime merchandise shops.

GCash users heading to Japan can make payments by scanning PayPay QRs and enjoy a seamless and familiar QR scanning experience: Customers can scan the merchant’s PayPay QR or show the merchant the QR code generated by the “Pay abroad with Alipay+” option on the GCash app. After completing their transactions, they may also view their receipts in the local currency and Philippine pesos.

GCash users enjoy benefits such as real-time and low foreign exchange rates, and zero service fees, allowing them to maximize their travel budget. GCash adds to this experience by offering exclusive promos on the GCash app through A+ Rewards. Here, users can avail of exclusive discounts when they pay with Global Pay QR.

Just in time for the holidays, Alipay+, in collaboration with PayPay merchants, will offer an exclusive 10% discount (up to a maximum of JPY 1,000) to GCash users paying via PayPay QRs in Japan from December 20, 2024 to January 10, 2025.

“Through the partnership between Alipay+ and PayPay, we are making a crucial step forward in bridging a gap in global tourism through seamless, cashless payments,” shared Albano. “So whether this holiday season takes our users to Japan’s metropolitan cities or off-the-beaten-path tourist destinations, we at GCash look forward to them unlocking the best travel experience.”

To discover more travel promos, tap “A+ Rewards” on the GCash app and, in the upper left corner, select “Japan” as your destination. To learn more about GCash Global Pay, click here.

January 14, 2025

OPPO Find X8: Redefining Smartphone Photography with Powerful AI


In today’s fast-paced world where every second counts and memories are often fleeting, capturing life’s moments with precision and flair has become quite essential so nobody misses out on the good stuff.

From being a creative person to a travel enthusiast documenting your adventures, or a night owl who loves a good party, the OPPO Find X8’s powerful camera matched with its powerful and latest AI innovations are here to enhance every snapshot that will last forever.

Powerful AI Meets Powerful Camera

The OPPO Find X8 is more than just a smartphone, it’s your personal AI assistant for photography with a range of AI tools designed to ensure that every photo tells your story exactly the way you want it. It is also equipped with a Hasselblad Master Camera System featuring three 50MP cameras - from ultra-wide landscapes to telephoto close-ups, the HyperTone Image Engine - which ensures every shot is vibrant and true to life.

AI Tools to Elevate Every Frame

Ever scrolled through your gallery and come across an old photo that doesn’t quite capture the vibrancy of the moment? With AI Photo Remaster, you can breathe new life into those images as it intelligently enhances colors, sharpness, and details, making your photos look like they were taken yesterday—perfect for sharing #throwback memories or creating stunning travel albums.

The AI remaster is a suite of nifty AI tools. Each tool is designed to instantly fix any hiccups in your photo.

AI Unblur

Whether you’re chasing sunsets, snapping candid shots of your friends, or trying to capture the energy of a night out, blurry photos can be a buzzkill. Enter AI Unblur. This game-changing feature sharpens moving subjects, ensuring your pet’s playful antics or your friend’s dance moves are captured in crystal-clear detail. Simply hold down the shutter, and let the Find X8 work its magic.

AI Clarity Enhancer

For those who demand perfection in every shot, the AI Clarity Enhancer ensures your photos are nothing short of spectacular. Whether it’s a cityscape during golden hour or a group photo under dim party lights, this feature optimizes every detail. Expect sharper edges, vibrant colors, and balanced lighting, no matter the scenario.

Photo Taken by Magic Liwanag using the AI Clarity Enhancer

AI Reflection Remover

Taking photos through glass often results in frustrating reflections, whether you’re at a scenic lookout or capturing your latte art at a cozy coffee shop. The AI Reflection Remover eliminates these distractions, giving you crisp, reflection-free images. Say goodbye to those pesky window glares and hello to clearer views

The OPPO Find X8 also has the AI Telescope Zoom that lets you get up close and personal with distant subjects, whether you’re snapping the band on stage at a concert or capturing architectural details from across the street. At 120x zoom, the AI ensures every shot is sharp and detailed, making it perfect for adventurous spirits who love exploring and documenting their surroundings.

Photos taken using the AI Telescopic Zoom of Find X8 by Colin Craig Chan of UnGeek

Moreover, the OPPO Find X8’s camera capabilities are further elevated by Lightning Snap for capturing split-second actions without missing a beat, Stage Mode powered by AI Telescope Zoom for stunning shots of concerts and events, even from a distance, and Livephoto for bringing stills to life, perfect for reliving the energy of a bustling city street or a vibrant party.

Photo taken by Magic Liwanag using the Lighting Snap

Redefining Smartphone Photography with powerful AI

The OPPO Find X8 empowers you to share your life in its best light, no matter where your passions take you. Ready to redefine how you capture moments? The OPPO Find X8 is waiting to elevate your photography game.

The OPPO Find X8 is available nationwide for PHP 54,999 and comes in two colorways - Space Black and Star Grey. Visit any authorized OPPO stores or OPPO’s official e-commerce platforms in Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop to get your hands on this powerhouse device.

To know more about the OPPO Find X8, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

MMDA Honors Top Barangays in Results-Based Incentives Awarding for Solid Waste Management

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) proudly recognized the top-performing project barangays of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) for their exemplary implementation of community-based solid waste management (SWM) under the project's Results-based Incentive (RBI) scheme. The awarding ceremony took place at the Red Hotel in Cubao, Quezon City, highlighting the success of the barangays in managing solid wastes in their communities and contributing to the minimization of waste in waterways, which is critical for flood mitigation.

A total of 12 top-performing barangays from across the 85 project barangays of MMFMP in Metro Manila were selected based on agreed performance measures on community-based plans and practices in waste collection, segregation, and diversion. Under the RBI scheme, these barangays consequently underwent a performance validation process led by a technical working group composed of representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and the De La Salle University.

Usec. Procopio G. Lipana, MMDA General Manager, delivers a warm welcome during the Results-Based Incentives (RBI) Awarding Ceremony, emphasizing the importance of community-led solid waste management practices and the shared responsibility of building cleaner, flood-resilient communities in Metro Manila.

The top three barangay winners are recognized on stage during the Results-Based Incentives (RBI) Awarding Ceremony. MMDA officials and partners present the awards to honor their exemplary efforts in sustainable solid waste management and community-driven initiatives, setting a benchmark for other barangays in Metro Manila.

After the evaluation, three barangays emerged as the top performers. The best-performing barangays, Barangay 136 in Manila, Barangay San Isidro in Makati, and Barangay 94 in Manila, each received major incentives and a Solid Waste Management Investment amounting to PHP 750,000 for their outstanding efforts in improving waste collection, segregation, and disposal practices. Meanwhile, the remaining top barangays received minor incentives, including solid waste management (SWM) tools worth PHP 50,000 each.

Dir. Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr., Director IV of the Solid Waste Management Office, addresses the audience during the Results-Based Incentives Awarding Ceremony, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in implementing sustainable solid waste management practices across Metro Manila's communities.

It was a full turnout for the Results-Based Incentives Awarding Ceremony, represented by barangay leaders, MMDA officials, stakeholders, and community members, all gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements in solid waste management and environmental stewardship across Metro Manila.

MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes emphasized the significance of the RBI scheme, stating, “Our Results-Based Incentives scheme is a very tangible initiative with clear results rooted in the power of collaboration. The success of these barangays proves that with the right support, community engagement, and incentives, we can make significant strides in reducing waste in Metro Manila’s waterways, ultimately preventing flooding and creating cleaner, more sustainable neighborhoods.”

ACTUAL QUOTE: MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Procopio G. Lipana emphasized that “Since the launch of the RBI in 2023, we have partnered with various agencies to assess and evaluate the performance of barangays in managing their waste. I send my heartfelt congratulations to the twelve barangays that have demonstrated exemplary dedication and leadership in solid [waste] management. Your efforts are making a real difference, not only in your communities but across Metro Manila.”

“What we are doing now is all anchored on our ten-year roadmap to zero waste. Because that is now the trend, we have to remove the word ‘garbage.’ But we have turned the waste into a valuable resource. Pursuant to Republic Act 9003, we have to segregate at source,” he added.

The RBI program is part of the larger Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) under Component 2, which aims to minimize solid waste in waterways. The program incentivizes barangays to improve their SWM practices, thereby reducing the volume of waste that accumulates in waterways and pumping stations, which can inhibit their flood control functions.

The top-performing barangays demonstrated innovative strategies and exceptional dedication to solid waste management, setting benchmarks for other communities. Barangay 136 of Manila implemented a robust waste segregation program, achieving approximately 90% household participation through ordinances, seminars, and social media campaigns. Barangay San Isidro, Makati formalized a subsystem for inaccessible areas, increasing waste collection coverage to nearly 100% and diverting more biodegradable waste since 2021. Meanwhile, Barangay 94 of Manila established a Barangay Materials Recovery Facility near its estero to streamline waste management and recycling efforts, ensuring proper waste disposal and promoting tie-ups with local junk shops and NGOs. These barangays not only improved their local environments but also inspired sustainable practices among their residents, contributing significantly to Metro Manila’s waste management goals.

As the top performers were recognized for their solid waste management initiatives that not only improved waste collection and segregation but also fostered a culture of sustainability among its residents, the RBI program’s pilot implementation will continue to be refined, with plans for replication in more barangays across Metro Manila. The MMDA hopes to inspire other local government units to adopt the same model, further expanding the reach of community-based solid waste management practices.

Dir. Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr., Director IV of the Solid Waste Management Office, said “"As public servants, we don't expect to be recognized for our service to the nation, as it is our sworn duty. However, MMDA chooses to give importance to these efforts. We understand the hardships and challenges you've endured in managing waste in your communities."

"Today, the MMDA recognizes the steps you have taken to maintain order and cleanliness, not only in your respective barangays but for the entire Metro Manila. We hope this continues and that the initiatives you have chosen to establish serve as a model, enabling us to do what’s right for our shared environment. We are beyond grateful to be your partner in providing an ecological, systematic, comprehensive, and, most importantly, sustainable solid waste management program for the people of Metro Manila," he continued.

The ceremony also included presentations from the winning barangays, showcasing their innovative SWM initiatives and plans, as well as sustained improvements in waste management practices. The event concluded with a commitment from the MMDA and partner barangays to continue working together in achieving a cleaner, flood-resilient Metro Manila.

For more information about MMDA’s Results-Based Incentives program and other initiatives under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project, visit the MMDA website or follow @MMDA on social media.

About MMDA: The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is responsible for coordinating service delivery and implementing projects aimed at improving infrastructure, flood control, waste management, and urban planning in Metro Manila. Through the Metro Manila Flood Management Project, MMDA seeks to enhance flood prevention efforts by addressing solid waste management and other critical issues affecting the region’s drainage systems.

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