TCS Philippines and local institutions rally together to promote inclusive and accessible education for Filipinos

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Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a leading global IT services, consulting, and business solutions organization, is partnering with prominent local companies to help Filipino students address the many adversities brought by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country’s education sector.

Recently, TCS Philippines announced the first-ever TCS Sustainathon in the country, an initiative to inspire and empower young minds to be part of the solution to help improve the Philippines’ overall learning system through technology. With this year’s theme, “Inclusive Education for all in 2030,” participants are tasked to develop practical and innovative solutions, addressing the challenge statements developed by TCS Sustainathon Challenge Partners --- Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. (Converge) (PSE:CNVRG), and Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, Inc.

Building Effective Peer-to-Peer Learning

Gokongwei Brothers Foundation highlights the importance of social learning amid the distance and blended education in this new normal setup. Through the Sustainathon initiative, the company aims to find practical and sustainable solutions on how students can help each other learn better while maintaining healthy social interactions.

“The Sustainathon Challenge is a commendable initiative as it empowers the youth through technology. We’re excited to be part of TCS Sustainathon Philippines and work with these competent young individuals to improve our overall learning system. The Filipino youth have so much passion and creativity to offer. What makes them more admirable is their compassion towards their fellow students.  We’re looking forward to how they will leverage trends in technology to develop practical and impactful solutions that will drive an inclusive education sector” shares Grace Colet, Executive Director, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation.

Fostering a Safe Environment for All

De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Benilde) has identified the importance of inclusion and acceptance in the community regardless of religion, gender, social status, or learning style. Cultivation of strong social relationships has always been essential in one’s overall well-being. With this, Benilde hopes to seek solutions that would ensure the development of social relationships between the members of the Benildean Community during and post-pandemic.

Jeremiah Adriano, OIC-Director of the Center for Inclusive Education shares, “The pandemic imposed distance among us but it also forced us to work together. We need to build strong, social relationships within our school community to create an inclusive space and safe environment. We are proud to be one of TCS’ challenge partners in this initiative and help promote strong connections inside and outside our community. The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde is very much excited to see the youth’s high-impact innovation to address their chosen challenge statement.

Breaking the “Digital Divide” in Education

The COVID-19 Pandemic caused much disruption in the country’s education system. In a study released last February 2021, the national Social Weather Survey (SWS) reported that 13 percent or over 4 million school-age Filipinos were not enrolled in the fourth quarter of 2020.   The shift in learning modality has highlighted the challenges in students’ access to internet connection, equipment, and learning-conducive space. Through TCS Sustainathon Philippines, Converge hopes to see young minds co-develop innovative solutions that would help the company effectively use its pure fiber fixed broadband network and unique capabilities and partnerships to further learning under the new normal.

“Learning in this new normal setup is a challenge to teachers and students alike, especially for those without a stable broadband connection at home. There is a glaring need to address issues on internet connectivity and access to learning tools and materials. As the fastest growing fiber internet provider in the country, we are more than willing to collaborate with Filipino students in this Sustainathon Challenge to design solutions that will help us effectively serve the students within unserved and underserved communities.”  Benjamin B. Azada, Converge Chief Strategy Officer shares.

Taking Literacy to a Higher Level

Lack of access to learning materials and resources (technology and infrastructure) in remote areas and limited student-teacher learning and consultation are some of the factors pointed out by Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines that affect the overall literacy of Filipino children. The pandemic aggravated the situation, thus, the company is encouraging the youth to leverage digitization to make learning materials easier to digest and access for teachers, parents and students.  Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines is looking forward to seeing simple, scalable, and useful innovation that can help further improve the reading comprehension of children, especially for learners in rural areas.

“As we immersed ourselves in the ground in helping improve literacy of children in rural areas, we have seen how the education interventions need reinforcement in terms of technology. While we acknowledge the efficacy of localized traditional type of learning, it is imperative for us to look for innovations that will further aid learners’ development. We are thankful to be one of TCS Philippines’ Challenge Partners for TCS Sustainathon as it gives opportunities for Filipino students to share their unique ideas and propose digitally enabled solutions that will help Filipino children know how to read. We believe in the youth’s capability to create cutting-edge innovations that would answer the call that no student should be left behind,” Marie Angeles, Executive Director, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines shares.

Visit the TCS Sustainathon Philippines website to know more about TCS Sustainathon and the four challenge statements.  Open to all 17 to 23 year old students nationwide, all they have to do is pick a challenge statement and brainstorm on a solution.  They can register and submit their entries at the TCS Sustainathon Philippines website until November 19. The 1^st place winner will receive Php150,000 while the second and third placers will receive Php100,000 and Php50,000, respectively.

TCS Philippines remains eager to materialize the vision and mission of the company and its partners. Embracing the company’s Building on Belief philosophy where every initiative is rolled-out based on purpose, TCS continues to work hand-in-hand with its partners to develop innovative, sustainable, and scalable solutions that will help solve the most pressing issues in the community.

Sony Music Philippines Launches New Christian label ‘WATERWALK RECORDS’

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Sony Music Philippines today announced the launch of WATERWALK RECORDS, a music label focused on bringing fresh Christian music to a new, streaming generation. The label will feature faith-based entertainment artists from across the length and breadth of the country, who represent the best of Christian music combined with their own unique styles.

Local Christian label launches with 12 new tracks across a variety of genres

“In the Philippines, Christian music emerges from daily life and is a reflection of the country’s rich culture,” said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Sony Music Philippines. “Pop music inspired by Christian melodies has arguably created some of the most interesting music in recent years. It’s a diverse genre full of talented artists who use faith as a regular way of connecting with people. WATERWALK RECORDS has huge opportunities to grow as we work with talented artists such as Morissette, Gloryfall and Hazel Faith and others to bring their music to fans all across Asia”.

“The Philippines is a musically rich country, well known for showcasing the best of Christian music in Southeast Asia,” said Ariel Fung, EVP, Sony Music Southeast Asia. “With WATERWALK RECORDS, our vision is to create a hub for Christian music in Asia that serves artists and writers who are creating ground-breaking music and impacting the lives of millions. Our stellar line up of artists we’re working with is just the start of helping us achieve that vision, representing the very best of local and regional talent.”

The artist, Morissette, popularly referred to as "Asia's Phoenix", will release the label’s first single, “Waterwalk” on 28 October. “Mapayapa” — a collaboration between Christian worship band Gloryfall and singer/songwriter Hazel Faith- will be released on 30 October.

“I am thrilled to be taking part in Sony Music‘s new Christian label and get to share, and sing, of the word of God and all His great works,“ added Morissette. “ It's only been a couple of years since I've made the decision to really follow Jesus and one thing I can really attest to is that we just need to trust Him in everything. I've been through some very challenging times too especially during this season, but it's His grace that saves me and keeps me going, His love that comforts and protects me, and His promise that I will always keep in my heart. The track "Waterwalk" portrays all of that, and a reminder that what He has done for His people then, He will also do for His people now, we need only to anchor on to Him.”

Rapper/actor Jericho Arceo and Stell of SB19, will also release a joint single. Arceo is well known for creating viral videos on social media and being a member of the cast for the show The World Between Us, while Stell who is a part of SB19, one of the most popular P-pop groups in the Philippines, is embarking on his first solo venture through this collaboration.

In another first, Nathan Huang from the band ‘of Mercury’ (formerly known as Nathan & Mercury) will also have his first solo venture through the label and will collaborate with Darla Baltazar, who was recently featured as one of the 16 Artists to Watch on the international website The Gospel Coalition.

Janine Danielle, a worship leader from Favor Church, will be singing a track penned and produced by one of Spotify’s most followed Filipino artists Moira Dela Torre, and Moira’s frequent collaborator and husband, Jason Hernandez. The lineup also includes singles from beloved worship leaders from various churches in the Philippines: Lee Simon Brown (from Victory Worship), Cola Cabalcar, Kent Charcos, Cherise Katriel, and Sam&Steff.

To showcase the richness of the region, WATERWALK RECORDS will also release a single from Ariel Tsai, a popular Taiwanese singer/songwriter, pianist, and YouTuber signed under Sony Music Taiwan.

The 12 tracks from WATERWALK RECORDS are expected to be released within this year.

For more updates on the new tracks, artists, and upcoming events, please follow:

Waterwalk Records: Facebook | Instagram

Netflix's 'Hellbound : “I’d like to welcome you all to the new world” (Official trailer debut)

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Hellbound Releases Main Trailer that Depicts Director Yeon Sang-ho's Unique Worldview

World’s leading streaming entertainment service Netflix is drawing attention by releasing the main trailer of Hellbound which shows director Yeon Sang-ho’s unique worldview.

A serial murder case or divine judgment?

The world you've never seen before.

Confusion that you've never experienced before.

In November, the whole world is falling into Hellbound

Watch the trailer here

The anticipation just continues to build up as Netflix series Hellbound slowly unveils itself. Director Yeon Sang-ho’s next-level imagination and penetrating message are packed in the newly-released main trailer. Netflix series Hellbound explores a world swept by a supernatural phenomenon where executors from Hell suddenly start to condemn people to Hell, and a new religious group called the New Truth emerges amidst this chaos, while others try to uncover the truth behind the series of events.

The main trailer starts off on an appalling note, laying bare what a hellbound decree actually is. While joyfully celebrating her birthday with her beloved kids, Park Jungja (played by Kim Shin-rok) out of the blue receives a hellbound decree from an angel. The sudden encounter with an angel leaves not only Park Jungja but also the viewers aghast. The composed voice of Jung Jinsu (played by Yoo Ah-in) then plays over the scene of the world that turned into utter chaos, further heightening tensions. Jung Jinsu claims that the supernatural phenomenon is God’s warning to sinners and that the accompanying fear will set people free of their sins. However, in the run-up to the live streaming of Park Jungja’s execution, the world spirals into an apocalypse. People become suspicious and hateful of each other, turning the world into a living hell.

Jung Jin-su’s words, “I’d like to welcome you all to the new world,” hint at the unforeseen stories to unfold in the anarchistic society.

Netflix series Hellbound, providing utmost suspense with hellbound prophecies which are just beyond anyone’s imagination, is based on a webtoon of the same title. Director Yeon, who has acutely penetrated the uncertainties and injustice in current society through his works like The King of Pigs, The Fake, Train to Busan, Peninsula, and The Cursed: Dead Man’s Prey, once again consolidates his worldview by creating the story for the webtoon and directing and co-writing the script for the live-action adaptation. Director Yeon’s compelling story Hellbound, the epitome of his worldview, swept the cast off their feet too. The cast commented that: “Hellbound simply depicted the hell we now live in,” (Yoo Ah-in) “You can enjoy the suspense and then it suddenly strikes with a deep message,” (Park Jeong-min) and “The script was just so immersive. People who repeat irreversible mistakes, people who stick to their convictions, people who sacrifice themselves… The circumstances, stories and attitude of each of these people stand in stark contrast with one another, which can convey a number of different messages depending on the perspective” (Won Jin-a). Director Yeon’s shrewd portrayal of the chaotic society and different aspects of people is keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

The exceptionally immersive main trailer of Hellbound alludes to the birth of yet another legendary Netflix series. Hellbound will premiere globally on Netflix on November 19th.

Infomation

• Title: Hellbound
• Original Work: The Hellbound, a webtoon written by Yeon Sang-ho and Choi Gyu-seok
• Directed by: Yeon Sang-ho
• Written by: Yeon Sang-ho and Choi Gyu-seok
• Starring: Yoo Ah-in, Kim Hyun-joo, Park Jeong-min, Won Jin-a, Yang Ik-june, Kim Do-yoon, Kim Shin-rock, Ryu Kyung-soo, Lee Re et al.
• Produced by: Climax Studio
• Distributed by: Netflix

Will Andrea and Francine fulfill Bro's mission in "Huwag Kang Mangamba"?

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Eula goes full-on delusional in last three weeks…

Witness the battle between good and evil in the final three weeks of “Huwag Kang Mangamba” on Kapamilya Channel, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live, iWantTFC, TFC, WeTV, and iflix.

Sisters Mira and Joy (Andrea Brillantes at Francine Diaz) will face an uphill battle in fulfilling Bro’s mission as they try to unite a town torn apart by a false god in ABS-CBN’s inspirational series “Huwag Kang Mangamba.” How will they restore the people’s faith in Bro and begin their community’s path to healing?

Witness the battle between good and evil in the final three weeks of “Huwag Kang Mangamba” on Kapamilya Channel, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live, iWantTFC, TFC, WeTV, and iflix.

Mira and Joy’s mission will confront its biggest threat yet as the evil “fake healer” Deborah (Eula Valdes) goes full-on delusional and claims that she is the one and only god. She will also resort to violence to make non-believers like Mira and Joy succumb to her wishes.

But before the sisters fight Deborah, they will have to settle their differences first as Joy continues to distance herself from Mira. Their relationship will also be tested even more because Joy will completely turn her back on Mira by joining Deborah’s cult.

As Deborah ramps up her efforts to gain complete control of Hermoso, Mira, Joy, and their friends will have to find solid evidence that proves Deborah is using her position to enrich herself through her illegal activities with mayor Miguel (RK Bagatsing).

Will Mira and Joy be able to show the right path to the people in Hermoso? Will they succeed in exposing Deborah and finally fulfill Bro’s mission?

Gain inspiration from the inspirational series “Huwag Kang Mangamba,” airing weeknights on the Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live, iWantTFC, WeTV, and iflix. Viewers who use any digital TV box at home such as the TVplus box only need to rescan their device to be able to watch “Huwag Kang Mangamba” on A2Z and TV5. Viewers outside of the Philippines can also catch it on The Filipino Channel on cable and IPTV.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Charlie Dizon is the newest member of Hello Glow squad

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Charlie Dizon is a budding actress to watch out for. The rising star is now the newest and first-ever celebrity endorser of Hello Glow!

Hello Glow’s newest celebrity ambassador Charlie Dizon

One of the most versatile young talents in the country, Charlie appeared in a gritty social drama “Fan Girl” which gave her the opportunity to showcase her talent as an actress. With her convincing portrayal of her role in the film as a teenage girl with movie star obsession, she won as the Best Actress at the Metro Manila Film Festival last year.

Behind the camera, Charlie is a huge skincare fan, making her the ideal celebrity member of Hello Glow squad. Charlie’s love for skincare blossomed when she was training in South Korea for almost a year, while pursuing her dream to become a K-pop star.

With Hello Glow’s Korean packaging aesthetic, gentle formulations and cruelty-free commitment, it’s easy for Charlie to feel connected with the brand.

“I’m honored to have been chosen as one of the ambassadors for Hello Glow. I’m a big fan of skincare products myself. Apart from its Korean feels, Hello Glow’s gentle and natural formulation makes me more confident in using it to care for my skin,” Charlie said.

Whether she is outside for her usual work routine or even at home, Charlie makes sure she applies Hello Glow 3-in-1 Lightweight Sun Care Gel on her skin to protect it while keeping it smooth and nourished.

Hello Glow Whitening Cream, a light skin-repairing moisturizer completes Charlie’s night time skincare routine, helping her skin to rejuvenate overnight after long hours of taping.

“We are very delighted to have Charlie as the newest and first-ever celebrity endorser of Hello Glow. Together with Charlie and our Hello Glow squad, we hope to empower everyone by helping them feel more beautiful and confident with their skin,” said Denice Sy-Munez, Ever Bilena Chief Sales and Marketing Officer added.

To know more about Hello Glow, like and follow its Facebook page (@helloglowofficial) and Instagram (@helloglowofficial). Hello Glow products are available in Watsons, Robinsons Department Store Beauty Section, SM Beauty Section, Waltermart, Landmark, Gaisano Malls, and all other leading department and supermarket stores nationwide.