DITO Celebrates “Galing” ng Pilipino at the Palarong Pambansa 2024

Pilipino, ipakita mo ang Galing DITO! DITO champions homegrown athletes in the biggest sports event of the year in Cebu City.

DITO Telecommunity renews its commitment to weaving stronger telecommunities and championing Filipino talents across the country as a proud co-presenter of Palarong Pambansa 2024, the largest sporting event in the country. In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the local government of Cebu City, DITO supports and celebrates the galing of young athletes as they go all out and compete in various sporting events.

The Palarong Pambansa has gathered young Filipino athletes across the Philippines since 1948. This year’s competition will involve the participation of 12,000 athletes, coaches, and officials in 22 regular sports, one demonstration sport, and four Para Games. Several “firsts” will also mark the historic event, including the addition of dance sports as a regular sport and the inaugural participation of athletes from the National Academy of Sports and the Philippine Schools Overseas. The games, slated to run from July 11 to 15, 2024, will be held in Cebu City.

A celebration of galing, determination, and diversity
The Palarong Pambansa has long been a proving ground for the skills, determination, and sportsmanship of young athletes. This year’s theme “Beyond Sports” boosts the holistic development of the athletes in sport and education, while helping strengthen the bond among athletes, their families, and peers – an endeavor that DITO fully supports.

“We at DITO are always committed to help build a stronger, progressive nation,” said Evelyn Jimenez, Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business. “Aligned with the principles behind our GalingDITO campaign, we want to recognize undiscovered talents, champion diversity, and empower more Filipinos to showcase their “Galing.” The Philippines is home to rich natural resources, cultural heritage, and homegrown talents; hence, we aim to put the spotlight on Filipino talent and excellence, especially in this gathering of tremendously talented and spirited young athletes from every corner of the Philippines.” Jimenez added.

More than the gold awaiting victors at the podium, DITO sees the coming together of hearts and talents as the bigger goal of events of this magnitude. “The talent and perseverance of every young Filipino athlete contribute to their personal achievements, but collectively, they will help shape an empowering narrative of unity that will positively influence our nation,” added Ms. Jimenez.

As a co-presenter of Palarong Pambansa 2024, DITO will join DepEd, the Cebu City community and its officials, the athletes, their families, coaches, and trainers in the Opening Ceremony on July 9, 2024 at the Cebu City Sports Center.

Exciting activities and exclusive freebies also await event attendees at the GalingDITO Booths. As a ramp-up to the Palarong Pambansa 2024, highly sought-after Pinoy pop boy group ALAMAT, who are GalingDITO Ambassadors, will also have a fan meet on July 7, 2024 at SM City Cebu.

“We’re so happy and honored to be here and take part in this year’s Palarong Pambansa. These activities aim to get DITOzens and Cebuanos into the spirit of the games and spread the celebration of Filipino talent and excellence that our GalingDITO platform fully supports,” Jimenez concluded.

For more information and updates, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook and Instagram or visit https://dito.ph/.

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DESPICABLE ME 4 movie review

Recently got invited to the VIP screening of Despicable Me 4 and I was very excited to see the minions again and Gru's (Steve Carell) recent adventure. This time, juggling his way into fatherhood with his family and the most adorable baby, his junior.

The film starts with a school reunion — the Lycée Pas Bon School of Villainy Class of '85 — where Gru (Steve Carell) encounters an old rival, Maxime le Mal (Will Ferrell), a French-accented insect-obsessed villain. An old time beef escalated that threatened Gru and his family's safety which AVL came into rescue.

While meeting new neighbors is a major adjustment with Gru and the girls while taking his cover from Maxime, a handful of minions are getting a major upgrade in AVL. There's a new line up of super minions that for sure you'll add to your collection. Aligned with Marvel superpowers, these minions are up to save Gru and his family. DM4 presents Gru in a more vulnerable guy than an unruly villain. 

Aside from Maxine, Gru has established another villain with no other than their school principal which is a total delight for us viewers. A sinister grandma is maybe what we needed for a more comic relief than with the minions entertaining us with their usual antics.

Despicable Me 4 is also a grand reunion of Gru's nemeses which you will find at the end of the movie. A fun closing to the installment. It's also a great treat to the fans to see them all in one screen enjoying their life in jail. Despicable Me 4 puts family as a major support in your background and Gru shows that he is another person on the inside and willing to sacrifice for the safety of his family.

Despicable Me 4 is now showing in theaters.

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Josh Hartnett in M. Knight Shyamalan's TRAP

30,000 fans. 300 cops. 1 serial killer. No escape. “Trap,” a new M. Night Shyamalan experience, starring Josh Hartnett, opens only in cinemas July 31.

Warner Bros. Pictures presents a new experience in the world of M. Night Shayamalan – “Trap” – featuring performances by rising music star Saleka Shyamalan. Watch the trailer here:
A father and teen daughter attend a pop concert, where they realize they’re at the center of a dark and sinister event.

Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, “Trap” stars Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills and Allison Pill. The film is produced by Ashwin Rajan, Marc Bienstock and M. Night Shyamalan. The executive producer is Steven Schneider.

In cinemas July 31, “Trap” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

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Iloilo City's Remarkable Progress from Tradition to Transformation

Iloilo City stands as a shining example of progress and inclusivity, driven by a commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment.

Over the past six years, Iloilo City has achieved significant milestones under Mayor Treñas' leadership, focusing on initiatives that promote economic growth, cultural richness, and environmental sustainability. These efforts have not only elevated the city's profile but have also enhanced the lives of its residents.

Recognized for its vibrancy and competitiveness, Iloilo City secured accolades such as being named the Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO, celebrating its rich culinary heritage and commitment to cultural preservation. The city's innovative I-Bike Program, which promotes a bike-friendly environment and garnered the prestigious 2022 Galing Pook Award, underscores its dedication to sustainable urban mobility and citizen engagement.

"Iloilo City is more than just a place; it's a community where innovation meets tradition," remarked Mayor Treñas. "Our achievements reflect our shared vision of building a city that thrives on creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability."

The city's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment has also been recognized, earning the 2023 Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (LGU) award from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). This accolade highlights Iloilo City's efforts in supporting local enterprises and attracting investments contributing to economic vitality.

Infrastructure development is pivotal in Mayor Treñas' vision for Iloilo City's future. This commitment exemplifies the upcoming revitalization of the Central and Terminal Markets through a public-private partnership with SM Prime Holdings. Valued at P1.5 billion to P2.5 billion, this project aims to modernize market facilities, providing a conducive space for local entrepreneurs to thrive and showcase their products.

City officials in Iloilo City discuss proposed developments at La Paz Plaza, including plans for a koi pond and butterfly garden to enhance community enjoyment. These efforts aim to elevate city facilities for the welfare of Ilonggos.

"We envision our markets not just as economic hubs but as community centers that promote local culture and entrepreneurship," Mayor Treñas emphasized. "By revitalizing these spaces, we create opportunities for our vendors to grow their businesses sustainably."

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas oversees a site inpection of the Uswag Dialysis Center in Brgy. San Isidro to ensure it progresses smoothly, aiming to promptly offer free services to residents.

Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, echoed this sentiment, highlighting SM's role in supporting local communities and promoting sustainable development through infrastructure investments.

Looking ahead, Mayor Treñas remains steadfast in his dedication to advancing Iloilo City's sustainable development agenda. "Our focus is on building a city that nurtures innovation, preserves our heritage, and enhances the quality of life for all Ilonggos," he affirmed.

For updates on Iloilo City's initiatives and community-driven projects, follow @SMSupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com.

Join us in celebrating Iloilo City's journey towards a sustainable and inclusive future. Together, let's continue to empower communities and preserve the cultural heritage for generations to come. 🌱🏙️ #IloiloCity #SustainableDevelopment #CommunityEmpowerment

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STREAMLINED:The National Artist ARTURO LUZ Exhibit set to open on July 2

The Renaissance Art Gallery presents the much-awaited exhibition of National Artist Arturo Luz.

Titled: “STREAMLINED: The National Artist ARTURO LUZ Exhibition” will be on display from July 2-13 at the Art Center, 4th floor of the SM Megamall Building A, EDSA, Mandaluyong City.

The works on display demonstrate the primary virtues that distinguished Arturo Luz from the rest of his contemporaries: linear and geometric, minimalist in conception, and executed with superlative technical skill and finesse.

Arturo Luz stripped Philippine art of its excesses in color and form, as evidenced by his classic subjects, ranging from cyclists, musicians, and performers down to his still lifes and Asian cities and architecture.

Cities of the Past - Acrylic, 2002

Three Men On A Wheel - Acrylic on canvas, 2003

Women Conversing - Acrylic, 2002

All the works are authentic and original, supplied with written and visual documentation.
Curated by Cid Reyes.

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Midyear movie treats this July

Don’t miss these movies, opening in cinemas in July!

July 3 - Despicable Me 4 (Universal Pictures International)

Stars: Steve Carrell, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Sofia Vergara, Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, Madison Polan, Joey King, Stephen Colbert, Chloe Fineman, Pierre Coffin, Steve Coogan
Directed by: Chris Renaud

In “Despicable Me 4,” the blockbuster franchise begins a new chapter as Gru (Steve Carell) and Lucy (Kristen Wiig) and their girls – Margo, Edith and Agnes – welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad. But it’s not all sunshine and roses for the family, as Gru faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina (Sofia Vergara), and the family is forced to go on the run.

July 10 - Fly Me to the Moon (Columbia Pictures)

Stars: Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum, Jim Rash, Ray Romano, Woody Harrelson
Directed by: Greg Berlanti

Starring Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum, “Fly Me To The Moon” is a sharp, stylish comedy-drama set against the high-stakes backdrop of NASA’s historic Apollo 11 moon landing. Brought in to fix NASA’s public image, sparks fly in all directions as marketing maven Kelly Jones (Johansson) wreaks havoc on launch director Cole Davis’s (Tatum) already difficult task. When the White House deems the mission too important to fail, Jones is directed to stage a fake moon landing as back-up and the countdown truly begins…

July 10 - Marupok A+ (Where is the Lie?) (Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusive)

Stars: EJ Jallorina, Royce Cabrera, Maris Racal
Directed by: Quark Henares

Based on a true story that went viral on Twitter, “Marupok A+ (Where is the Lie?)” follows Janzen Torres (EJ Jallorina), a hopeless romantic who goes on a dating app and matches with the seemingly perfect Theo Balmaceda (Royce Cabrera). On the day of their first date, Janzen gets ghosted. This then leads to an intricately-planned web of deceit, lies, and catfishing. A sociopathic mastermind named Beanie Landridos (Maris Racal) is behind all of Janzen’s struggles.

July 17 - Twisters (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Stars: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, David Corenswet
Directed by: Lee Isaac Chung

From the producers of the Jurassic, Bourne and Indiana Jones series comes “Twisters,” a current-day chapter of the 1996 blockbuster, “Twister.” Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Kate Cooper, a former storm chaser haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado during her college years, who now studies storm patterns on screens safely in New York City. She is lured back to the open plains by her friend, Javi, to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. There, she crosses paths with Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), the charming and reckless social-media superstar who thrives on posting his storm-chasing adventures with his raucous crew, the more dangerous the better.

July 31 - Trap (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Stars: Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills, Allison Pill
Directed by: M. Night Shyamalan

A father and his teen daughter attend a pop concert, only to get caught in the center of a dark and sinister event. “Trap” is the next new thriller from the mind of M. Night Shyamalan, starring Josh Hartnett. “Trap” also stars Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills, and Allison Pill.

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.*

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Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans give an action-packed Christmas with RED ONE

After Santa Claus – Code Name: RED ONE – is kidnapped, the North Pole's Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.

It’s never too early to get jacked for Christmas. Watch the trailer for “Red One” now, starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, and see the film only in cinemas November 13. Watch the trailer here:

The film stars Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Kiernan Shipka, Lucy Liu, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Nick Kroll, Kristofer Hivju and J. K. Simmons and Bonnie Hunt.

Directed by Chris Morgan, from a screenplay by Hiram Garcia. Produced by Dwayne Johnson, Hiram Garcia, Dany Garcia, Jake Kasdan, Melvin Mar and Chris Morgan.

In cinemas November 13, “Red One” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

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