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PLDT Home empowers Filipino arts, launches support for #TheFutureIsCreative campaign with new single “Muling Pagbangon”

Creative talent is the very fiber of Filipino culture, which ultimately also fuels the engine of Philippine economic growth. 


Following the pandemic’s heavy blow to the country’s creative industry, telco leader PLDT Home is expressing support for the sector’s recovery through its “The Future is Creative” campaign. 

To kickstart the initiative, it collaborated with young Filipino-American hip-hop prodigy Alex Bruce and the internationally acclaimed Philippine Madrigal Singers for an OPM anthem of hope titled Muling Pagbangon.


Muling Pagbangon inspires optimism for a brighter tomorrow when Filipinos rise triumphant over the present adversities, through passion and creativity. 


“Despite the Philippine Arts industry being one of the sectors that have been greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Filipino artists are coming together to show how important art can be in empowering our pandemic-stricken fellowmen. For us, this proved that nothing can stop Filipinos from forging stronger collaborations, making even more meaningful, greater art, and preparing a nation for a future full of creativity that’s nurtured from home,” said Al S. Panlilio, President and CEO of PLDT and Smart.


The song and its music video, shot entirely by the artists in their homes, debuted at the recent “The Future of Cities is Creative” virtual conference, a collaborative project of various government agencies and private sector organizations, the Philippine Creative Cities Network (PCCN) initiative of the League of Cities of the Philippines led by Bacolod City Mayor Bing Leonardia, Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Bloc led by Rep. Christopher de Venecia, and supported by PLDT Home, to rally support for Pinoy artists who endured economic dislocation.


At the digital conference, cultural icons like Lea Salonga, Virgilio Almario, Vilma Santos, Kidlat Tahimik, as well as Carlo Ople discussed the unifying role of digital technology in the nation’s cultural life and the artist’s economic prospects. They say, more than just serving as a venue for connecting Filipino artists with their worldwide audience, the strong internet connection now available to homes can also serve as a meeting ground for Filipino creatives and city executives to come up with innovative solutions to local community problems – even amid lockdowns.


Part of the topics discussed during the conference are programs that city executives could put in place to prepare for becoming a creative city, which includes enabling local communities with first-rate internet connectivity, nurturing their local creatives, and leveraging creative industries to drive sustainable economic growth.

OBRA

Love is in the air: 5 ways Google Gemini can help you plan for Valentine’s Day

8:08 p.m. February 13, 2025

Valentine’s Day is here, and the pressure to create a memorable experience for your loved one – or even your friends or family members – can be intense. There’s no need to worry, though, as Google Gemini is ready to help you navigate the sea of roses and chocolates and craft a truly special and unforgettable celebration.

With these five handy and reliable prompts, you can tap into Gemini’s power to plan a wonderful Valentine’s Day this year.

1.  Prompt: “Suggest unique date ideas for Valentine’s Day in [your city/region].”

Ditch the crowded restaurants and predictable movie nights. Gemini can be your personal concierge, unearthing hidden gems and unique experiences in your area. Whether it’s a cozy speakeasy, a scenic hiking trail, a pottery class, or a quirky museum, Gemini can provide a list of options you might never have considered. A bonus tip: refine your search further by adding specific interests, like “romantic picnic spots” or “live music venues,” to tailor the suggestions to your partner’s tastes. This prompt is perfect for sparking creativity and ensuring a truly memorable date.

2. Prompt: “Help me brainstorm personalized Valentine’s Day gift ideas for my partner, who is a [description].”

Generic gifts can feel impersonal.  Let Gemini help you create a gift that speaks volumes.  Instead of just asking for any broad gift idea, provide details about your partner’s personality, hobbies, and favorite things.  For example, “My partner loves reading, hiking, and trying new food.  Help me brainstorm personalized Valentine’s Day gift ideas for her.”  Gemini can then generate a range of thoughtful suggestions, from custom-made bookends to a curated foodie basket, ensuring your gift is as unique and special as your relationship.

3. Prompt: “Give me ideas for creating a romantic ambiance at home for Valentine’s Day.”

Don’t have that much budget this year? Not to worry – sometimes, the most romantic setting is the comfort of your own home. Gemini can help you transform your space into a love nest. Ask it for ideas on décor, lighting, music, and even recipes for a delicious and intimate dinner.  For instance, “Give me ideas for creating a romantic ambiance at home for Valentine’s Day, including decorations, music playlists, and a simple but elegant dinner menu.” Gemini can pull up suggestions for everything you need to create the magical love vibe at home, from scented candles and soft lighting to curated playlists and easy-to-follow recipes.

4. Prompt: “Help me write a heartfelt Valentine’s Day message for my [partner/loved one].”

Words can be powerful, but for many of us, they may be hard to find. No matter who you want to make feel special on the 14th, Gemini can help you express your love and appreciation with a personalized Valentine’s Day message. Provide some context about your relationship and what you want to convey, such as, “Help me write a heartfelt Valentine’s Day message for my wife, thanking her for her support and expressing my love for her.”  Gemini can then craft a message that captures your feelings and makes your partner feel truly cherished. And a bonus tip: don’t forget to edit Gemini’s message further to make it truly sound like you.

5. Prompt: “Create a Valentine’s Day itinerary for [date] including [activities/locations].”

Once you’ve decided on the activities, Gemini can help you organize the logistics. You can definitely ask it to create a detailed itinerary, including timings, addresses, and even travel directions.  For example, “Create a Valentine’s Day itinerary for February 14th, including a visit to the botanical gardens, a romantic dinner at [restaurant name], and a stargazing session at [location/area].”  Gemini can help you map out the perfect day, ensuring everything runs smoothly and you can focus on enjoying the special occasion with your loved one.

BONUS: “Suggest some ideas for a self-care date I can enjoy on Valentine’s Day. I’m looking for something relaxing and indulgent that I can do to show myself some love.”

If you’re single, you can still have fun on Valentine’s Day! Self-love is one of the most important kinds of love you can give, and if you want to treat yourself, Gemini can give you different ideas you can do. With Gemini’s suggestions, you definitely don’t need a partner to avoid boredom on the day of hearts.

By using these prompts, you can tap into Gemini’s capabilities to plan a Valentine’s Day that is not only romantic and memorable, but also perfectly tailored to your relationship, friendship, or even yourself. 

Start planning now and celebrate love in style by trying Gemini today.

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DigiPlus honored for innovation, sustainability, and ethical leadership at World Business Outlook Awards

1:34 p.m. February 8, 2025

DigiPlus Interactive, the company behind leading digital entertainment brands BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, has been recognized for its achievements at the World Business Outlook Awards 2024. 

These awards celebrate organizations worldwide that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact across various industries. DigiPlus was cited for ‘Excellence in Technological Advancement and Integration’, ‘Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Practices’, and ‘Best in Corporate Governance and Ethical Practices.’

Pioneering innovation with integrity

The award for Excellence in Technological Advancement and Integration highlights DigiPlus’ transformative efforts in delivering world-class entertainment experiences while preserving cultural heritage. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technologies, the company has brought iconic Filipino games into the digital age, the most recent one being Pinoy Drop Ball. 

DigiPlus’ commitment to ethical leadership earned it the Best in Corporate Governance and Ethical Practices award, as it upholds the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and integrity – principles embedded deeply into the company’s governance frameworks and operations. 

Making a lasting difference for communities

The Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Practices award underscores DigiPlus’ dedication to creating lasting impact through the BingoPlus Foundation, which operated with a ₱100 million commitment for CSR in 2024. Key projects include giving scholarships and robotics kits for youth, providing healthcare support for underserved communities, and establishing PLUS centers for livelihood and healthcare. Beyond these, the foundation plays a pivotal role in disaster recovery, clean water access, and infrastructure development across the country. 

In addition to community programs, DigiPlus also launched groundbreaking efforts in responsible gaming. By championing player protection and education, the company promotes safe and healthy gaming habits and has implemented advanced tools and proactive safeguards to ensure a safe environment for players. 

Committed to progress and impact

“These awards serve as inspiration for us to keep raising the bar,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “At DigiPlus, we believe that innovation goes hand-in-hand with responsibility. We are driven to create platforms and experiences that not only entertain but also uplift communities and reinforce trust among our stakeholders.”

DigiPlus’ recognition at the World Business Outlook Awards reflects the company’s steadfast commitment to innovation and responsibility. By delivering transformative entertainment experiences while creating value for communities, DigiPlus is committed to helping shape a more sustainable future for digital entertainment in the country.

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Sylvia Sanchez-Atayde grateful for MMFF’s recognition of Topakk 

9:25 a.m. December 31, 2024

TOPAKK’S first ever entry in the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) under Nathan Studios is satisfying and inspiring for its makers after the film took home three awards and 12 nominations, according to film producer veteran actress Sylvia Sanchez-Atayde. 

“We are grateful to the Metro Manila Film Festival for accepting us here even though we are new as a producer. With that, we are already a winner for making it in our first try,” Sanchez-Atayde said after receiving one of Topakk’s three awards — the Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence. 

Topakk — the only action-packed film entry in this year’s MMFF since 2022 and directed by award winning director Richard Somes — also bagged the Jury Prize Award for reviving a lost genres in action movie and the Best Float. 

The basis for the FPJ award is not only as being an epic action film but also the content and the film’s elements from creative execution, great appeal to the masses, redeeming values, and to the love for family and the oppressed have also seen in the movie. 

Sanchez-Atayde is very thankful to the FPJ board for recognizing the movie. 

She also shared that Topakk was also shown internationally in 2023 from the 78th Cannes Film Festival in France, at the 76thLocarno Film Festival in Switzerland in August 2023, and film festivals in Austin Texas, and Catalonia, Spain in September 2023 before coming home this year to the MMFF. 

“The movie was screened, praised and recognized by foreigners in various film festivals in Locarno, Cannes, Austin, Texas and Catalonia, Spain in 2023. That’s why I told Direct Richard why we do not show it in our own country.” 

Starring Quezon City first district Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde, antagonist Sid Lucero, and Julia Montes, Topakk has set the Filipino action movie into a higher global level from overall production, visual effects, great castings, sounds, cinematography, and unique storylines.

“We are incredibly happy that they allowed us to be in the MMFF this year. We didn’t encounter any problems with our staffs, actors, actresses and crews. We made sure every scene would be great for our viewers,” she added. 

Sanchez-Atayde added that Nathan Studios would return in the 2025 MMFF. 

Aside from the FPJ Award for Excellence and Jury Prize Award, Topakk also won the Best Float with its artistic design based on the movie during the parade last week. 

“I told direct to make a float and I wanted to win the best float. And we did,” Sanchez-Atayde said.

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