DITO Telecommunity supports Palarong Pambansa 2024: Championing Filipino Talent and Excellence

DITO Telecommunity is proud to co-present this year’s Palarong Pambansa, showcasing its commitment to supporting youth development, sports excellence, and national pride. Happening from July 11-16, 2024 in Cebu City, this partnership marks a significant milestone for DITO, emphasizing its dedication to empowering Filipino communities through technology and connectivity.

DITO executives held a press conference to elaborate on their sponsorship of the Palarong Pambansa, engaging with the local Cebu media. The event highlighted DITO's commitment to supporting youth athletes and promoting sports development in the region.

Champion of Youth Development and Sports Excellence in the Philippines
Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer, emphasized the deeper mission behind DITO’s involvement. “DITO Telecommunity is more than just a telco provider. Aside from the next-generation technology and value-for-money products that we offer our customers, part of our core mission is empowering Filipino communities,” Jimenez explained. “Our collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) for this year’s Palarong Pambansa strengthens DITO’s standing as a champion of youth development and sports excellence in the Philippines.”

DITO Telecommunity Chief Revenue Officer-Consumer Evelyn Jimenez

Improving the event with high-tech solutions

Retired Major General Rodolfo “Genboy” Santiago, DITO Chief Technology Officer, shared insights on how DITO is enhancing the Palarong Pambansa experience with cutting-edge technology “To further elevate the experience of our athletes this year, I am also happy to share that DITO powered the various headquarters and gaming venues with our high-speed 5G connectivity,” Santiago announced. “Our strength lies in our standalone 5G technology that brings forth greater capacity, wider coverage, and internet connection speeds that are 20 times faster than 4G.”

DITO Telecommunity Chief Technology Officer Ret. Maj. Gen. Genboy Santiago

Santiago highlighted the progress and future plans for DITO’s network expansion. “We started the year with more than 7,000 cell sites covering over 830 cities. Our network currently has 84 percent coverage, and we are on track to target around 87 percent network coverage before the year ends,” he mentioned. In addition, DITO has provided 19,000 SIM cards, deployed cell sites on wheels, and ensured the provision of Wi-Fi in billeting areas and headquarters.

Honoring the values of sportsmanship and national pride
Carla Rodriguez, DITO Telecommunity Regional Sales Director for Visayas, highlighted the importance of this partnership. “We are humbled and thrilled to share with all of you that DITO is proudly serving as the co-presenter for this year’s Palarong Pambansa. This event holds a special place in our hearts as it celebrates the spirit of youth, sportsmanship, and national pride,” Rodriguez stated. “Partnering in such a prestigious event aligns perfectly with our mission to support and uplift communities across the country.”

DITO Telecommunity Regional Sales Manager Carla Rodriguez

The meaning of ’Galing DITO’

During the event, Jasper Evangelista, DITO Brand and Marketing Director, emphasized the significance of the phrase “Galing DITO” and how it’s tied to Palarong Pambansa. He explained that “Galing DITO” has three meanings. The first meaning is “GA-ling,” which means originating from here; the second, “ga-LING,” highlights talent that is proudly Filipino-made and homegrown; and the third reflects “Galing DITO,” showcasing the outstanding quality of DITO’s products and services. Evangelista noted, “Once they try the products and services, mapapasabi sila ng, ‘ang galing!’”

DITO Telecommunity Brand and Marketing Director Jasper Evangelista

As DITO continues to grow and innovate, its collaboration with Palarong Pambansa 2024 is a testament to its unwavering commitment to uplifting Filipino communities and showcasing the “Galing ng Pilipino.” The partnership is set to make this year’s Palarong Pambansa an unforgettable celebration of Filipino talent, diversity, and national pride.

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

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Hidden Gems in Hong Kong to Explore beyond Disneyland

Summer Triple Rewards from Hong Kong Tourism Board await all visitors

With over a million Filipino tourists having already visited Hong Kong early this year, the city continues to be a favorite destination. Surveys indicate Filipino travelers are increasingly seeking hidden gems and culturally immersive experiences. In response, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has curated a list of must-try activities perfect for every type of traveler:

1. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting Peng Chau

A quaint car-free island, Peng Chau offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s slower-paced lifestyle. Once a 
bustling industrial hub with over 100 factories, one of its now-defunct factories has been transformed by a
local resident into an art junkyard, showcasing quirky displays and vibrant graffiti.

2. Bike around Cheung Chau island

Get the best of Hong Kong’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while exploring this island by bike. For an adrenaline boost, explore the Cheung Po Tsai cave, a former treasure hideout of a 19th-century pirate. After a long day, treat yourself to delectable seafood all while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

3. Savor sunsets at the Braemar Hill

Also known as the Red Incense Burner Summit, this easy and short hiking trail offers a panoramic view of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and Victoria Harbour, perfect for capturing those golden-hour selfies.

4. Experience birdwatching bliss at Mai Po Nature Reserve

A haven for bird watchers, this wetland reserve is home to rare migratory birds. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the reserve's ecological importance, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

5. Embark on a spiritual retreat at Tsz Shan Monastery

Nestled in the lush hills of Tai Po, this monastery houses a majestic 230-foot bronze-cast white Guan Yin statue. Below it lies Hong Kong’s first museum dedicated to Buddhist art and relics, enriching visitors with mindfulness activities like tea meditation, zen calligraphy, and water offerings.

6. Step Back in Time with a Water Tour Around Aberdeen

Delve into the life of local fishermen and history of floating houses all at once. Indulge in a bowl of boat noodles, traditionally prepared by fishermen, while enjoying the picturesque view of Aberdeen Harbour from a sampan, a traditional flat-bottomed boat.

7. Enroll in a Mahjong Workshop

Mahjong is a beloved tradition deeply rooted in Hong Kong culture. Learn the process and enjoy the creative process of designing a mahjong tile that’s uniquely yours with metallic colors and patterns.

8. Create your own neon sign

What’s Hong Kong without its bright neon sign boards? They’ve become synonymous to the city’s vibrant nightlife. Now, you could take home a piece of this iconic scene by crafting your own personalized neon sign in a fun, interactive workshop.

9. Learn a new skill from a local artists at the Mills

Once a textile factory, The Mills is now a revitalised centre for arts, culture, and innovation, featuring a mix of shops, galleries, and eateries. Discover the rich history of Hong Kong’s textile industry while exploring modern creative spaces that celebrate innovation and design.

10. Hunt for rare collectibles at the Upper Lascar Row

Known for its eclectic mix of antique shops and thrift stores, this vibrant street offers unique finds and vintage treasures. It is a paradise for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind items, from antique trinkets to retro collectibles.

11. Taste tradition at Tai Ping

Known to be one of the oldest western restaurants opened by Chinese in China and Hong Kong, Tai Ping Koon is a historical restaurant known for its fusion of Western and Chinese cuisine, offering a nostalgic dining experience. Their roasted pigeon and Swiss style chicken wings are a must-try!

12. Enjoy a nostalgic evening at Kinsman
Inspired by Wong Kar-wai’s classic film In the Mood for Love, this bar pays homage to Hong Kong's rich heritage and traditions while showcasing the best of Cantonese and Chinese spirits. Be sure to try their Kowloon Dairy, which is the bar’s innovative interpretation of Hong Kong milk punch.

Explore Hong Kong to the fullest with the “Summer Triple Awards”

Discover these hidden gems and more with HKTB’s Summer Triple Awards which will be available starting July 11, 2024. Visitors can pick up their card from designated locations and enjoy over 500,000 sets of offers from restaurants, shops, transportation, and sightseeing tours. Eligible participants only need a non-local registered mobile phone number to register. The promotion and its offers are available in limited quantities on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more of Hong Kong’s hidden gems and exclusive deals, please visit:
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/what-s-new/highlights/hkhiddengems.html

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Meet the Tornado Wranglers in Action in the New Featurette

A group of fearless storm chasers risk their lives to face one of nature’s most terrifying forces in “Twisters.” The epic disaster film arrives in Philippine cinemas on July 17, but movie-goers can get their tickets now ahead of everyone else by logging in at www.twisters.com.ph.

To join the audience in the thrill ride of the year, let’s meet the tornado wranglers:

Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), is the charismatic leader of the pack. A former rodeo star, Tyler found fame on social media as a viral “extreme meteorologist,” seeking thrills chasing intense storms across the country.

Once passionate about trying to predict, chase, and tame tornadoes, Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones) settles for a life behind the desk to escape the failure of her pursuit. When opportunity presents itself with an anomalous extreme storm, a shot at redemption, and a second chance for adventure, is revealed to her.

Javi (Anthony Ramos) is similarly haunted by the tragedy that befell Kate’s crew. He re-enters Kate’s life as an entrepreneur, developing technology that aims to study tornadoes in an attempt to tame them. 

Joining the crew is Boone (Brandon Perea), who is part of Tyler’s squad as the videographer, capturing their escapades for social media. Lily (Sasha Lane), is also part of the crew as their drone-toting scouter.

Watch them chase the most extreme storms nature has to offer as “Twisters” crashes into Philippine cinemas on July 17.

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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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