lifestyle and culture

July 24, 2023

ZTE Opens First Kiosk at SM Grand Central, Caloocan, Offers Major Discounts Until July 31, 2023

Social media celebrity and ZTE brand ambassador Eric Tai leads the ribbon cutting at the first ZTE kiosk at the SM Cyberzone, SM Grand Central

To bring the brand closer to the consumers, ZTE, a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, recently opened its first kiosk located at the 4th level of SM Grand Central, Caloocan City. This is only the first of a series of kiosks that ZTE will be opening this year, across the country. Social media celebrity and ZTE ambassador, Eric “Eruption” Tai, himself a big RedMagic loyalist, graced the opening and indulged the attendees with his signature dance moves.

The new ZTE kiosk showcases the latest line of ZTE mobile phones--from the ZTE Blade Series--ZTE’s global hero series which is available in three variants, namely the the ZTE Blade V41 Vita 5G, the ZTE Blade V40 Design, and the ZTE Blade V40S, and the most sought after gaming phone, the Red Magic from Nubia, ZTE’s subsidiary. And as an opening promo, consumers are getting a huge price slash for these phone models from July 15-31, 2023.

The ZTE Blade V41 Vita 5G provides high performance with its powerful Octa-core 2.4GHz processor but still offers low power consumption to help with long lasting battery life. The Blade V40 Design is the sleek, elegant, and stylish model that offers the full suite of key photography tools such as 50 MP camera, with the bokeh camera and the macro camera features, among others. Whether you’re shooting food, landscapes, stunning night photos, or beautiful portraits, you’ll always get crystal clear shots. Performance wise, the Blade V40 Design uses 4GB+3GB Dynamic RAM for a smoother operation experience. It supports memory fusion technology which can expand the RAM by up to 7GB using the built-in storage. Finally, the most affordable option is the Blade V40S, which is as powerful but with an affordable price tag.
Social media celebrity and ZTE ambassador Eric Eruption Tai graced the kiosk opening.

According to Gavin Lian, general manager, Terminals, ZTE Philippines, “this is just the first of 7 kiosks we will be opening this year. ZTE is slowly but surely diving in the competitive Philippine smartphone market, and commits to bring the most innovative and powerful affordable mobile devices.”
Consumers are in for a huge price slash treat until the end of July 2023

ZTE helps to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future. The company provides innovative technologies and integrated solutions, its portfolio spans all series of wireless, wireline, devices and professional telecommunications services. Serving over a quarter of the global population, ZTE is dedicated to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, and enabling connectivity and trust everywhere. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. www.zte.com.cn/global

Stay up to date with the latest from ZTE Devices Philippines. Like and follow the official social media channels (@ztedevicesph) on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. You may also buy ZTE and RedMagic phones from authorized dealers and official flagship stores in Lazada, Shopee and Kimstore.com.
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July 19, 2023

LG CEO Announces Bold Vision to Transform LG into "Smart Life Solutions Company"

Company Aims to Advance Business Portfolio by Transitioning to Platform-based Service Business Model, Accelerating B2B Business and Procuring New Growth Engines

Mr. William Cho, LG CEO

LG Electronics (LG) declared its vision to transform from its current position as a top global home appliance brand to a “smart life solutions company” that can connect and expand customers’ diverse experiences while driving for global annual revenues of KRW 100 trillion by 2030.

In a landmark speech today at the LG Sciencepark in Seoul, South Korea, CEO William Cho outlined the bold vision built on three growth engines: pursuing new platform based service businesses through advancement of business portfolio, accelerating business-to-business (B2B) and exploring new business areas such as electronics vehicle charging and digital health. The CEO identified electrification, servitization and digitalization as key inflection points LG will focus on to achieve rapid mid- to long-term growth.

“LG will continue to pursue its bold vision to transform and leap forward as a smart life solutions company that connects and expands customers’ various spaces and experiences, rather than resting on its current position as the best home appliance brand that provides quality products,” said CEO Cho. “We will establish a brand-new LG by reinventing the way we work and communicate toward this goal.”

The CEO also highlighted the company’s financial objectives. “We will achieve Triple 7, which encompasses an average growth rate and operating profit of 7 percent or more as well as enterprise value to EBITDA ratio of 7,” said the CEO. “With the goal of raising sales from KRW 65 trillion last year to KRW 100 trillion by 2030, we will establish ourselves as a company that is properly recognized by the market and customers.”
Cho said LG will focus on the transition to the platform based service business model, acceleration of B2B areas and procurement of new growth engines based on competitive edge as three pillars to focus on customer experience. By 2030, the proportion of these three pillars in sales and operating profit is expected to increase to more than 50 percent.

The company plans to invest more than KRW 50 trillion by 2030 for the qualitative growth of the business, including the advancing of the business portfolio led by the three new growth engines. This includes an R&D investment of more than KRW 25 trillion, facility investment of more than KRW 17 trillion and strategic investment of KRW 7 trillion.

The company is also accelerating the expansion of its B2B business, the CEO explained. LG’s rich understanding of customers as well as the know-how to communicate and empathize with customers that have been accumulated in the B2C business, which has seen continuous innovation over the past 65 years, will be fully expanded to commercial, mobility and virtual spaces.

Cho highlighted how LG is accelerating company-wide changes from corporate culture to brand communication at every customer contact point with the ultimate goal of becoming a brand that warms the hearts of customers and puts smiles on their faces while enabling customers to feel the value and philosophy of Life’s Good. The company is also driving ESG management activities to fulfill its responsibilities as a global corporate citizen.

Life's about more than having the latest technology, rather, it's about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers consumer electronics through top-of-the-line home entertainment, home appliances, and air solution products that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide - from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao.

For more information about LG products in the Philippines, visit the official website at lg.com/ph. You may also follow the official social media accounts @LGPhilippines on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and Tiktok.
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July 17, 2023

LG OLED Celebrates 10 Years of Setting the Standard in Home Entertainment

L-R: Mr. Kim Myeongjin, KCC Director; Mr. Sunho Choi, LGEPH Product Director for Home Entertainment; Mr. Sungjae Kim, LGEPH Managing Director; LG OLED TV Ambassadors, Mari Jasmine, Michelle Marquez Dee, Enrique Gil, and Dominic Roque; Ms. Angelica Dumlao, Product Manager for Home Entertainment 
LG Electronics Philippines recently celebrated a momentous occasion, marking 10 years of LG's OLED technology. The event showcased the remarkable journey of LG OLED TV over the past decade, highlighting its groundbreaking innovations, unparalleled picture quality, and the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in home entertainment.

The celebration commenced with an opening K-Pop dance number by Project One, setting the energetic tone for the event. Mr. Sungjae Kim, LGEPH managing director, delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his pride and gratitude for the remarkable progress made by LG OLED TV and its impact on the industry. He said, "We are immensely proud to celebrate 10 years of LG OLED, a technology that has revolutionized the television industry. We have come a long way in delivering the best-in-class home entertainment experience, and this milestone is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovation of the LG team. We thank our customers for their unwavering support and belief in LG's OLED technology, which has been instrumental in our success."
Mr. Sungjae Kim, LGEPH Managing Director
LG Electronics Philippines partnered with the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) to launch a donation program aimed at enhancing cultural exchange in the Philippines. Through the contribution of LG OLED TVs, the program seeks to foster cultural understanding and bridge communities. Mr. Kim Myeongjin, Director of KCC, expressed gratitude for LG's generous donation, emphasizing the significance of utilizing advanced technologies to facilitate cultural exchange. "We are honored to host this event at the Korean Cultural Center," said Mr. Kim Myeongjin. "The remarkable LG OLED TV not only strengthens cultural ties but also serves as a medium to introduce Korea to the world and here in the Philippines. Let's maximize these technologies to promote cultural exchange among our communities." With LG's support, we are confident that we can create a vibrant and dynamic space where the beauty and richness of Korean culture can be shared and celebrated."
LGEPH donates 2 LG QNED 8K TVs and one LG XBoom Party Box to Korean Cultural Center
Ms. Angelica Dumlao, product manager for LG TVs , highlighted the key benefits of LG OLED technology. She summarized it concisely: "A, B, C, D, and E represent the pillars of LG's technical leadership in OLED. A stands for the α9 AI Processor Gen 6, showcasing LG's commitment to cutting-edge AI integration. B represents the Brightness Booster and Brightness Booster Max, enhancing picture quality in LG's top OLED TVs." She emphasized LG's confidence in their OLED technology, reflected in their 2-year warranty (C). She mentioned LG's sleek and innovative designs, including the impressive ONE Wall Design (D). Lastly, she highlighted the extraordinary viewing experience delivered by LG OLED TVs (E). Summarizing the advancements, Ms. Dumlao explained, "LG OLED evo TVs feature the α9 AI Processor Gen6, providing clearer details and greater depth. The improved Brightness Booster Max makes LG OLED evo G series TVs up to 70% brighter." She underlined the immersive experience LG OLED TVs offer, stating, "LG OLED TVs bring content to life, providing an α9-Reality immersion." Ms. Dumlao briefly mentioned LG's commitment to customer satisfaction with the 2-year warranty, the importance of design in complementing any decor, and the user-friendly interface of the latest webOS version.
Ms. Angelica Dumlao, Product Director for Home Entertainment
She also highlighted LG's gaming capabilities, stating, "LG OLED TVs support NVIDIA GeForce NOW at 4K, delivering an unparalleled gaming experience." Lastly, Ms. Dumlao emphasized LG's focus on enhancing lifestyle and quality of life, inviting everyone to join in exploring the limitless possibilities of LG OLED technology.

Throughout the event, LG OLED TV ambassadors Mari Jasmine, Michelle Marquez Dee, Enrique Gil and Dominic Roque shared their personal experiences and insights into the transformative power of LG OLED technology. Model and host Mari Jasmine highlighted the sleek and innovative design of the LG OLED One Wall Design, which seamlessly integrates into any living space. She exclaimed, "The LG OLED One Wall Design is a game-changer in home design. Its slim profile and sleek aesthetics make it a perfect fit for any interior, elevating the overall look and feel of the living space."
Mari Jasmine, LG OLED TV Ambassador
Michelle Marquez Dee, actress, model and current Miss Universe Philippines, showcased the cinematic excellence of LG OLED TVs, particularly with Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos, providing an unparalleled movie-watching experience. She shared, "Watching movies on an LG OLED TV is a whole new level of cinematic immersion. The vivid colors, deep blacks, and stunning contrast, combined with Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos, transport you right into the heart of the story, making every movie night a memorable experience."
Michelle Marquez Dee, LG OLED TV Ambassador
Enrique Gil, actor and model, shared his passion for entertainment and how LG OLED TV has taken his entertainment adventures to a whole new level. He expressed, "As an actor and performer, I appreciate the true-to-life picture quality and immersive sound that LG OLED TVs deliver. It allows me to experience my favorite movies, TV shows, and music performances with unparalleled realism, enhancing the way I connect with my craft and my audience."

The event also highlighted LG OLED's technical leadership with the five pillars of their technology: α9 AI Processor Gen 6, Brightness Booster and Brightness Booster Max, Confidence with a 2-year warranty, Design featuring the innovative ONE Wall Design, and the extraordinary viewing Experience.
Enrique Gil, LG OLED TV Ambassador
Dominic Roque, actor, model and gaming enthusiast, emphasized the immersive sports-watching experience and the advantage LG OLED TVs offer to gamers. He stated, "As an avid sports fan and gamer, LG OLED TVs have truly enhanced my viewing experience. The combination of fast response times, smooth motion handling, and exceptional picture quality delivers an unparalleled level of immersion, whether I'm watching my favorite sports team or battling opponents in the gaming world."
Dominic Roque, proud LG OLED TV owner
Renowned media outlets Manila Bulletin and Yugatech stand witness to the remarkable journey and enduring excellence of LG OLED TVs. Testimonials from representatives Art Samaniego and Abe Olandres highlight their experiences and praise the outstanding picture quality and longevity of LG OLED TVs. Art Samaniego, technology editor of Manila Bulletin, expressed his admiration for LG OLED TVs, stating, "LG OLED TVs have consistently impressed us with their vibrant colors, deep blacks, and incredible detail. The picture quality is unmatched, making every viewing experience a visual delight. Over the years, LG OLED TVs have proven their worth and cemented their position as a top choice for discerning viewers."
Mr. Art Samaniego, Tech Editor of Manila Bulletin
Abe Olandres, founder of Yugatech, shared his extensive experience with various TVs and commended LG OLED TVs for their unparalleled picture quality and overall performance. He stated, "We have tested and reviewed numerous TVs throughout the years, and LG OLED TVs continue to stand out in terms of picture quality and overall performance. They have truly set the bar high for other brands, and their commitment to innovation and excellence is evident in every aspect of their OLED technology."
Mr. Abe Olandres of Yugatech
LG OLED TVs have redefined the entertainment experience by delivering stunning visuals, unparalleled contrast, vibrant colors, and immersive sound. With their commitment to innovation, LG continues to push the boundaries of what a TV can do, enhancing the overall quality of life for their customers.

As the event came to a close, Mr. Sunho Choi, LGEPH product director for home entertainment, expressed his gratitude to the LG ambassadors, distinguished guests, and media representatives for their unwavering support. He acknowledged the remarkable progress made by LG OLED TV and its impact on the industry, urging everyone to carry the spirit of innovation, excellence, and boundless imagination as they embrace the future of home entertainment with LG OLED TV.
Mr. Sunho Choi, LGEPH Product Director for Home Entertainment
Life's about more than having the latest technology, rather, it's about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers consumer electronics through top-of-the-line home entertainment appliances that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide - from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao. LG OLED products are available via lg.com/ph and through its flagship stores in Lazada and Shopee. For more information, visit and follow their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube (@lgphilippines).
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July 14, 2023

Improved chiller maintenance experience with LG’s Total Maintenance Service

In the realm of big commercial buildings, where maintaining optimal indoor climate and ensuring efficient cooling are paramount, the significance of centrifugal chillers cannot be overstated. These technological innovations possess the remarkable ability to provide reliable and energy-efficient cooling solutions on a grand scale. From towering skyscrapers to sprawling shopping malls, centrifugal chillers stand tall as the unsung heroes, quietly working behind the scenes to create comfortable environments and drive sustainability efforts.
SM Malls, one of the largest shopping chains in the world with over 90 malls, knows the importance of cooling. The SM North EDSA North Tower exemplifies how commercial cooling on a massive scale should be done. The whole building is designed to meet the rigorous standards of LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, which is the most widely used green building rating system.
The building itself is a sprawling 1.75 hectares, with a gross floor area of 33.4 hectares. Tasked with cooling the whole area is 9 units of centrifugal water cooler chiller at 1,000 TR each from LG. SM chose LG because the South Korean brand was the only supplier who could pass the efficiency of .519 kilowatt per ton. The centrifugal chiller achieves high efficiency through a two-stage Compressor. With an optimized two-stage compression cycle, energy efficiency has been improved and operation costs have been reduced as opposed to the previous one-stage centrifugal chiller. It also has a variable diffuser that provides wider operation range at a low-load condition, and prevents stall from discharge gas for stable operation. Stable operation also helps keep costs at bay with an excellent partial load system that maximizes energy even when the loads are very light.
Another major factor that contributes to LG’s commercial cooling success is its TMS or Total Maintenance Service. LG Total Maintenance Service allows LG to monitor HVAC devices in real-time no matter where the devices are located. This solution utilizes LG’s cloud solution to access data on system operations and performance. By monitoring systems 24 hours a day, engineers can perform predictive maintenance, which makes maintenance and repairs more time-efficient and reduces overall system down time. Solutions to system failures can then be prepared in advance and rapidly implemented to mitigate the need for multiple on-site visits by engineers. In addition, systems can be monitored and controlled remotely to maximize efficiency and save energy. Facility managers and service partners are also privy to system operation and performance data through detailed reports covering multiple sites. Facility managers or end users also gain access to their system through their PC or mobile device.

For large buildings and sprawling commercial complexes, HVAC is an important aspect that needs to be prioritized. These advanced cooling systems not only provide efficient and reliable temperature control but also play a pivotal role in reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. With their ability to handle large cooling loads and adapt to varying demands, centrifugal chillers have revolutionized the way commercial buildings are cooled, offering enhanced comfort and cost-effectiveness. LG offers state-of-the-art commercial cooling technology together with an environmentally-sound approach, setting new standards for sustainability and efficiency.

LG air conditioning provides optimized solutions for every sector and climate with a wide range of cutting-edge systems that bring exceptional heating, ventilation and air conditioning performance to buildings worldwide. Through unmatched expertise and industry knowledge, LG responds directly to the needs of businesses seeking digitalized and eco-conscious HVAC solutions. LG is the partner your business has been looking for, and is well prepared to integrate our leading technology into day-to-day operations, supporting you and your business every step of the way. For more information, visit https://www.lg.com/ph/business/about-lg-air-solution

Follow @LGAirSolutionsPH and @LGPhilippines on Facebook and @lgphilippines on Instagram, Youtube and Tiktok for more HVAC offers and stories.
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July 6, 2023

ZTE brings new mobile devices with ecosystem, unveils new intelligent computing infrastructure at MWC Shanghai 2023

  • ZTE's new products powered by unprecedented technology fully cover consumer mobile communication scenarios.
  • Meanwhile, the new intelligent infrastructure is designed to address the computing power challenges associated with large-scale model computing.
  • ZTE is fully committed to driving continuous upgrades in computing power, foster the development of intelligent infrastructure, and embrace the new era of intelligent computing
ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, brings abundant new products to Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai 2023, offering unprecedented technology and user experiences.

For its Terminals business, ZTE provided visitors with the all-round display and experience featuring smartphones, tablets, smart AR glasses, MBB & FWA products and internet products for vehicles and industries. These offerings are integrated with the cutting-edge smart AI applications, leading mobile data terminals and updated smart V2X products.

Meanwhile, ZTE has also demonstrated a new type of intelligent computing infrastructure at the MWC. This infrastructure is designed to address the computing power challenges associated with large-scale model computing.

Fully Cover Consumer Mobile Communication Scenarios

ZTE 5G MBB and FWA products

ZTE showcased an extensive array of new products to fully cover consumer mobile communication scenarios at MWC Shanghai 2023. Innovative smart devices, including the latest AI-powered eyewear-free 3D tablet and the GPT wireless AR glasses, have become highlights in the booth.

nubia Neo Air 2

The nubia Neo Air, the world's first lightweight refractive AR glasses with GPT and wireless function, draws attention when makes a debut as it enables intelligent interaction such as a real-time interview, the voice assistants chatting and the voice data query through its embedded AI model. Additionally, ZTE exhibits its flagship 5G tablet, ZTE AxonPad, the office computer ZTE AxonBook and two flagship 5G smartphones, ZTE Axon 50 Ultra and nubia Z50 Ultra, demonstrating the achievements and breakthroughs it has made in display innovation, system security, and professional photography.
Prominently featured at the event were the ZTE 5G MBB & FWA products, whose market share ranks first in the world for the leading technology in commercialized field, and GIS (Green, Intelligence & Security) achievements, covering the latest 5th GEN of Wi-Fi 7 5G FWA, 5G indoor and outdoor FWA and 5G portable Wi-Fi. By connecting to the internet through wireless networks, the products support fast and efficient data transfer. During the exhibition, ZTE demonstrates the efficiency and convenience of these technologies, which are built on the product concept of power saving, intelligent scenario control and network security.

New Species of Intelligent Interaction Offers Unprecedented Experiences

As a new and significant addition to ZTE's smart ecosystem product lineup, nubia Neo Air is not only an wireless AR glasses, but also an intelligent accessory that is equipped with the AIGC algorithm, the same algorithm used in GPT technology. The GPT model used by the glasses combines the capabilities of multiple AI large models to achieve instant question-and-answer, which means users could interact by voice through voice command with the build-in AI assistant.

Eyewear-Free 3D Tablet Brings Mobile Vision to a New Generation

ZTE has also unveiled another blockbuster innovative smart device, nubia Pad 3D, the world's first AI-powered eyewear-free 3D tablet. Equipped with ZTE's unique eyewear-free 3D lightfield technology, this product can present high-quality eyewear-free 3D display as well as match up to comfortable viewing angles by AI face-tracking in real time. In addition, it supports real-time content conversion of 2D content to 3D, including images, videos, and streaming media, leveraging a technology based on the AI neural network deep learning algorithm. This technology can overcome the dilemma of limited 3D content sources, providing the more realistic and vivid 3D visual experience to users.

ZTE is actively cooperating with ecosystem partners in the field of industry applications to jointly drive the implementation of subdivided industry solutions and apply them to nubia Pad 3D.


The power of generative AI
The power of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, is playing a crucial role in driving digital transformation and intelligent advancements across various industries. As the demand for large-scale and complex deep learning model computing continues to grow, there is an increasing need for a transformation in computing power. The requirements for computing power are becoming more diverse as data volumes explode and data resources become ubiquitous. This surge in demand has provided a strong impetus for the development of the server and storage market. Consequently, there is a greater emphasis on the performance, reliability, and innovation of servers and storage solutions to meet these evolving requirements.

In terms of servers, ZTE offers a full series of server solutions that support GPUs and liquid cooling, enabling the creation of computing resources for large-scale model processing with exceptionally low power consumption. This results in a reduced Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of data centers to less than 1.13. ZTE has introduced the R6500G5 GPU servers, which can accommodate up to twenty GPUs. Additionally, ZTE plans to unveil a higher-performance R6900G5 GPU training server by the end of this year, further expanding their server portfolio.

In the field of storage, ZTE offers high-bandwidth multi-converged storage solutions to cater to the diverse data storage needs of AI training. Their offerings include a combination of distributed disk arrays and high-end all-flash disk arrays, capable of meeting requirements for large capacity and high performance. ZTE provides various types of storage options, including files, objects, and blocks. Moreover, the ZTE NEO intelligent cloud card facilitates the offloading of the high-performance storage transmission protocol NVMe, enabling storage performance of up to 3 million IOPS.
In the realm of networking, ZTE employs a high-speed "lossless" network architecture to ensure the optimal utilization of AI computing power. By utilizing high-performance RDMA (Remote Direct Memory Access) networks and lossless switches, ZTE establishes a super-large-scale computing power cluster built around DPUs (Data Processing Units). The introduction of the NEO intelligent cloud card further enhances the server's capabilities, enabling single-node forwarding performance of up to 800Gbps and achieving microsecond-level latency. This breakthrough in networking eliminates bottlenecks between nodes, maximizing the computing power of GPU clusters.

As an integrated solution provider of intelligent computing infrastructure, ZTE is committed to collaborating closely with operators and industry partners. Together, they will drive continuous upgrades in computing power, foster the development of intelligent infrastructure, and embrace the new era of intelligent computing. By doing so, ZTE aims to inject fresh impetus into the growth of the digital economy.

ZTE expects to foster more communication and discussion opportunities within the industries, facilitate industrial development, and jointly shape a future life characterized by intelligence and convenience.

ZTE helps to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future. The company provides innovative technologies and integrated solutions, its portfolio spans all series of wireless, wireline, devices and professional telecommunications services. Serving over a quarter of the global population, ZTE is dedicated to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, and enabling connectivity and trust everywhere. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. www.zte.com.cn/global. Follow the official ZTE Corporation social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Youtube.

You may also check the updates on ZTE Devices Philippines’ official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok (@ztedevicesph).

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July 3, 2023

Catch midnight screenings of Insidious: The Red Door on July 5

Midnight is the witching hour! Be among the first to see Insidious: The Red Door by booking tickets for July 5, at 12:01 am, in these participating cinemas:

  • AYALA MALLS CINEMA GREENBELT 3
  • EVIA LIFESTYLE CENTER
  • FISHERMALL CINEMA QC
  • NOMO LIFESTYLE CENTER
  • SM CINEMA BATAAN
  • SM CINEMA CDO DOWNTOWN PREMIER
  • SM CINEMA CEBU
  • SM CINEMA CLARK
  • SM CINEMA DASMARINAS
  • SM CINEMA DAVAO
  • SM CINEMA FAIRVIEW
  • SM CINEMA GRAND CENTRAL
  • SM CINEMA ILOILO
  • SM CINEMA MALL OF ASIA
  • SM CINEMA MARIKINA
  • SM CINEMA MEGAMALL
  • SM CINEMA NORTH EDSA
  • SM CINEMA SEASIDE CEBU
  • TEATRO DE DAPITAN ZAMBOANGA
  • VISTA MALL MALOLOS
  • VISTA MALL PAMPANGA
  • VISTA MALL STA. ROSA
  • VISTA MALL TAGUIG

**Due to demand of horror fans, cinemas offering midnight shows may still be expanded.**

Insidious: The Red Door brings the original cast (Patrick Wilson, Ty Simpkins and Rose Byrne) back together for the epic conclusion to the terrifying saga of the Lambert family. Directed by Wilson and produced by Jason Blum, Oren Peli, James Wan, and Leigh Whannell, the much-anticipated horror film opens in cinemas July 5. Book your tickets now: SM Cinemas https://bit.ly/InsidiousTheRedDoorAtSMCinema, Ayala Malls Cinemas www.sureseats.com, Vista Cinemas https://bit.ly/Insidious5AtVistaCinemas, Fisher Mall Cinemas https://fisherboxoffice.fishermall.com.ph

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Nicole Laurel-Asensio talks about WHAT MATTERS MOST

In an imperfect world where friendships are fleeting, where money slips though our fingers faster than we can count it, when we often run out of time right before we reach the top of the climb, We are reminded to celebrate the things and people that matter most … while we still can.

I see the little changes around me- friends that come and go, loves and losses and the lessons they bring, growing pains that come with each season… telling me to start over. As I take another trip around the sun, I would like to take this time to celebrate WHAT MATTERS MOST — all of you. This song is a little birthday treat to everyone who has remained in my life and inspired me to continue making music.

“What Matters Most” was written with sleepless eyes in the midst of a hot summer sunrise after wrapping up another production session. I recall going down the media rabbit hole to de-brief from another song we had just finished. Producer Gabe Dandan and I found ourselves immersed in the soundtrack of the film “Cadillac Records” featuring blues greats such as Etta James, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf.

“The inspiration for ‘What Matters Most’ was mostly quartet music from the 50s-60s. Nicole’s vocal versatility spans many styles and genres of music but I think she sounds at home and authentic in this setting.”

Sometimes you just have to let songs that draw inspirations from classic roots retain that classic sound. “The main focus of the simple no nonsense arrangement was to keep the song era-accurate with modern treatment and post production.”

“No doubt “What Matters Most” is a love song… I wanted to carve a little a space in time where I could freely celebrate love and the astronomical feeling of being loved through and through. I had these lyrics and a simple melody for this song scribbled somewhere for weeks before. Bits and pieces of the song were scattered in lost minutes between production sessions of other songs. I had also casually jammed versions of this theme with some friends before but it was after revisiting the blues greats that the song and lyrics took its final form. We finished recording the demo at 7:30am and for the sake of staying loyal to the song’s theme…. went out for a stack of celebratory pancakes.” - Nicole

“Working with Nicole is smooth because our writing chemistry is instant and natural, we have a dynamic where we can both freely express ourselves and understand our creative palettes and processes, this is also why we get along so well. She usually begins by humming a melody, then I make chords that work with it and we build it up from there.” - Gabe Gabe and I called Dan Gil (veteran producer and composer) to join in and take over keys recording duties, Gavino Sabalburo’s drums and Timpani recordings from Marvin Querido and ONQ studio made for a wonderful companionship and Gabe took over bass and guitar duties. Veteran engineer Angee Rozul took over tracking duties. It was a no-frills recording with simple instrumentation laced with incessant laughter and a cheerful round of drinks afterwards. There were times I was tempted to add a horns section or back-up vocals, but this time around I think the simplicity was needed. I was convinced by my co-musicians to keep it simple, light and happy. I probably have a lot of things to ‘hugot’ about…. and yes I have been writing about that too… Pero ayoko muna humugot… this isn’t the song for it… saka na ‘yan…. Let’s just stay in love for a little while… kahit mga five-ish minutes lang and celebrate the things that matter most.

“There wasn’t much post production to be done, at most it was just choosing from ad-lib takes and minimal curing for some instruments. Nicole does all her vocal comp-ing in her home studio. When the recording was done we sent it to Mr. Waxie G. Joaquin to mix and master the track and bring it to life.” - Gabe Waxified Sound Production indeed brought the sound back to that retro era with their post production and spacial audio experience. The track was mixed and mastered in Dolby Atmos by: Waxie G. Joaquin of Waxiefied Sound Production.

“What Matters Most.” is a sonic ride back in time to a 60s diner in a dreamy, creamy-white Cadillac. This five minute track encapsulates that nostalgic feeling of falling freely in love— no regrets, no holding back. A classic yet crispy new take on no-nonsense blues. Nicole's one-of-a-kind vocals are a red-hot lipstick stain on a tall strawberry milkshake- tastefully showcased with the perfect balance of grit, grease, soulfulness and vulnerability while delectably dripping over the band's perfectly ripened musical sensibilities and honest expression—the cherry on top.

“In the coming months you can definitely expect more music in a spectrum of different styles and stories, We enjoy creating with different musicians, so each song is a treat, making music is our favourite thing to do.” - Gabe

There are countless songs in progress as of today, it’s a matter of staying in love with the process and putting in the work to release each one into the world. patience, trust, time are all part of it, but staying in love with the process is what I am learning is perhaps the most important part. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of my life and music journey thus far. I am grateful for you all and for all the God given chances to make music for you. Let’s celebrate love and make every minute matter with the ones who matter most.

The music video is set to be released mid July with a double music video launch event (Nicole is set to launch another secret music video) The event is open to public and will be held at 9pm in Salon De Ning, Manila Peninsula Hotel on August 1, 2023. More details will be announced in her social media accounts: Nicole Laurel Asensio (FB) and @nicoleasensio (IG)

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Pilgrim Commute Guide: Jubilee 2025 Churches in the Diocese of Antipolo

The Ordinary Jubilee Year of Hope began this January, and the Catholic Church has invited everyone to visit the designated Jubilee churches...

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