Enabling and Empowering Youth Athletes: DITO Powers and Supports Palarong Pambansa 2024

Dedicated to championing Filipino talents and empowering youth athletes, DITO Telecommunity proudly supported this year’s Palarong Pambansa as the main co-presenter in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) by providing technological support and seamless, high-speed connectivity for an enhanced experience for all athletes, delegates, and spectators in this highly anticipated sporting event in the country.

DITO Telecommunity champions and supports Filipino talent and excellence in Palarong Pambansa 2024 in Cebu City

DITO's next-generation technology played an essential role in powering 20 billeting quarters, 34 sporting venues, and all command centers. Such support benefited around 30,000 athletes and delegates, allowing them to access digital resources and stay connected with their families while being apart from each other, fostering a sense of unity and support regardless of distance.

Another standout feature of DITO’s support was the deployment of a cell site on wheels to provide stronger and more reliable network service. This technological boost ensured that all attendees, including athletes, delegates, and organizers could enjoy seamless connectivity and hassle-free communication all throughout the event duration.

DITO deployed a cell site on wheels to boost network signal to ensure seamless experience for all atheletes and delegates.

"To further elevate the experience of our athletes this year, DITO powered the various headquarters and gaming venues with high-speed 5G connectivity, bringing greater capacity, wider coverage, and internet connection speeds that are 20 times faster than 4G. With this, participants could easily connect to DITO’s WiFi hubs to enjoy and experience the reliability of our technology” said Ret. Maj. Gen Rodolfo “Genboy” Santiago, DITO Chief Technology Officer.

During the opening ceremony on July 9 which commenced with a vibrant parade introducing each region of the Philippines, highlighting the unique cultures of each region and emphasizing the diverse “Galing” of Filipinos across the country, DITO also ensured a seamless live stream on social media, giving Filipinos and spectators nationwide access to high-definition streaming experience of the largest sporting event in the country.

Palarong Pambansa Opening Ceremony on July 9, 2024 at Cebu City Sports Center

The opening event was further amplified by a spectacular performance by rising P-pop boy group and GalingDITO ambassadors Alamat. Their performance of the song “Ang Galing DITO” not only thrilled the audience but also inspired them with its powerful message of celebrating local talents and diversity.

Galing DITO ambassador Alamat energized the Palarong Pambansa 2024 opening ceremony with a spectacular performance of Galing DITO

Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business highlighted, "Our campaign GalingDITO which perfectly aligns with Palarong Pambansa celebrates undiscovered talents, champions diversity, and empowers more Filipinos to showcase their galing in a diverse mix of passions, giving local artists a powerful platform to showcase their talents." Jimenez also noted, "Palarong Pambansa 2024 is anticipated to be a true celebration of the galing ng Pilipino. This event is not just about competition; it is about coming together as a nation to honor and elevate the collective achievements and diverse talents of the Filipino people."

Making DITO’s products more accessible to Cebuanos and delegates, DITO also set up activation booths in the Cebu City Sports Center, billeting quarters, and sporting venues where they had the chance to explore and learn more about DITO's value for money mobile and home products such as mobile prepaid’sLevel-Up Socials, mobile postpaid’s most affordable FLEXPlan 388 SIM-Only, and DITO Home’s Unli 5G and Prepaid Home WiFi. The booths also provided exciting freebies to new subscribers.

Palarong Pambansa athletes and delegates had the chance to check out DITO's affordable products and services.

The Palarong Pambansa ended with a closing ceremony on July 16, recognizing the winners in various sports and acknowledging the participation and dedication of all young athletes in showcasing their true galing in their respective fields.

Asia Paraase from Region 7 and the first gold medal medalist of Palarong Pambansa 2024 is one of the Most Inspiring Story awardees.

Through DITO’s innovative offerings and steadfast support to Palarong Pambansa, the young telco has empowered young athletes to reach new heights, reflecting the company's dedication to nurturing Filipino talents nationwide.

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

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Check out the character posters for "Gladiator II"

Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger star in director Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, only in cinemas November 20.

From legendary director Ridley Scott, Gladiator II continues the epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeanc set in Ancient Rome. Years after witnessing the death of the revered hero Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius (Paul Mescal) is forced to enter the Colosseum after his home is conquered by the tyrannical Emperors who now lead Rome with an iron fist. With rage in his heart and the future of the Empire at stake, Lucius must look to his past to find strength and honor to return the glory of Rome to its people.

Directed by Ridley Scott, with screenplay by David Scarpa, based on characters by David Franzoni. Produced by Douglas Wick, Ridley Scott, Lucy Fisher, Michael Pruss, David Franzoni. Starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, Derek Jacobi, with Connie Nielsen and Denzel Washington.

In cinemas starting November 20, Gladiator II is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

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“GLADIATOR II” Opens in Philippine Cinemas on November 20

From director Ridley Scott, watch the new official trailer for Gladiator II, starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger – only in cinemas November 20.

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Manila Prince Hotel Hosts First-Ever Manila Bridal Fair

Manila Prince Hotel announces its inaugural Manila Bridal Fair, set to take place on July 26 and 27, 2024. The event will be held at the prestigious Grand Ballroom, promising an unforgettable experience for brides and grooms-to-be.

The two-day exhibit will showcase a variety of suppliers, covering all aspects of wedding planning. Attendees will find everything from bridal gowns and suits to floral arrangements, hair, make-up, photography services, and much more, making it a one-stop destination for all their weddings needs. Admission is free, allowing couples to explore a world of wedding possibilities.

A Curated Selection of Wedding Experts

Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel aims to bring together a curated selection of industry experts under one roof. On July 26, the event will open at 12:00 noon and run until 7:00 pm, featuring over 20 exhibitors. The second day, July 27, will extend from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Attendees can meet seasoned wedding planners, cake designers, talented photographers, hair and make-up artists, and skilled florists, all dedicated to making each wedding truly memorable. Couples will have the opportunity to consult with these professionals and book their services on the spot.

A Premier Venue for an Unforgettable Event

Located in the heart of Manila, Manila Prince Hotel provides the perfect backdrop for this premier bridal fair. The Grand Ballroom, with its elegant décor and spacious layout, creates an inviting atmosphere for exhibitors and guests alike. Attendees will also enjoy an exclusive preview of the hotel’s distinct wedding themes: Classic, Opulent, and Oriental. This event underscores the hotel’s commitment to excellence and its reputation as a leading venue for weddings and specials events.

Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel promises to celebrate love, style, and the art of wedding planning. For more information about the event, including exhibit opportunities and registration details, please call +632 8525 6228, email sales@manilaprince.com, or visit. www.manilaprince.com.

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Marvel Studios releases Captain America Brave New World trailer and poster

Following the Captain America saga from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series, Marvel Studios gives a glimpse as Sam Wilson takes the shield to Captain America: Brave New World, coming to theaters on February 14, 2025. Below is the initial poster showing the Red Hulk crushing the shield which gives us the major villain in the movie.

Watch the trailer here:

In the new trailer, Sam meets Harrison Ford’s U.S. president Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, who wants to recruit Captain America as a U.S. agent. The action intensifies rapidly as the superhero thwarts an assassination attempt at the White House. The trailer concludes with a glimpse of the new character Red Hulk, another gamma-irradiated monster, who is the alter-ego of “Thunderbolt” Ross in the Marvel comics. It remains uncertain if the fourth “Captain America” movie will adhere to the comic book storyline.

Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross

Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson / Captain America

“Captain America: Brave New World” marks Mackie’s return to the Marvel universe. The cast features his “Falcon and Winter Soldier” co-stars Danny Ramirez as the new Falcon and Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley; Shira Haas as the Israeli superhero Sabra; Giancarlo Esposito as a mysterious villain; and Ford stepping into the role of “Thunderbolt” Ross, previously played by the late William Hurt. The movie also includes a nod to the MCU’s past by bringing back Liv Tyler as Betty Ross and Tim Blake Nelson as the Leader from the “Incredible Hulk” movie.

Julius Onah directs “Captain America: Brave New World,” with the screenplay by Malcolm Spellman, Dalan Musson, and Matthew Orton.

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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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