SM Cares empowers Marikina Persons with Disabilities and Elderly to become disaster-ready at 2024 Emergency Preparedness Forum

As a country that is vulnerable to natural calamities due to its geographic location, SM Cares knows the importance of empowering Filipinos to become better prepared for these unforeseen events, especially senior citizens and PWDs, which is why SM Cares has programs like the Emergency Preparedness Forum which are aimed towards these sectors. As part of its activities in line with National Disaster Resilience Month this July, SM Cares recently held the third leg of the 2024 Emergency Preparedness Forum in the City of Marikina to help senior citizens and persons with disabilities become more prepared for disasters and emergencies.

Launched in 2015, the forum features expert-led lectures and practical drills tailored for these vulnerable sectors.

The Emergency Preparedness Forum aims to empower the most vulnerable groups in the community be more prepared during emergencies

Since the forum first began in 2015, SM Cares has been able to provide training to 7,417 senior citizens and PWDs across the country since the forum’s conception and was awarded Gold in 2020 and Silver in 2023 at the Public Relations Society of the Philippines’ annual Anvil Awards.

EPF participants become champions for preparedness where they can share their emergency preparedness knowledge with their families and communities.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

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TWISTERS movie review

I can still remember a scene wherein we are able to see inside the eye of a tornado in the 1996 version of Twisters. In this remake from the same producers, Warner Bros. Pictures, Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, our characters are braver to get into it and apparently were able to find a solution to "tame" nature's wrath.

In Twisters, it advances the technology of forecasting a tornado and tracking its course which somehow our characters would be able to prevent its destruction and help in the survival of the communities it may hit.

The difference between the 1996 and this versions, is that they injected a love factor between Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Tyler (Glen Powell) while they are pursuing their passion with science. And what's more scary if a tornado hits at night? If I remember correctly, the 1996 version sends you in the experiences of the characters and it's very original at that time. That would make it a hit especially when played in a 4D theater house.

Daisy Edgar Jones and Glen Powell's on screen chemistry was at least not cringey and lines were not cheesy. Anthony Ramos at least got his character arc which I also thought if he was ever going to be in a love triangle with Kate and Tyler. But are conversations in Kate's old lab and scientific explanations accurate? Hope someone can explain to me in the comments.

Twisters is now playing in theaters.

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Beetlejuice is back! Coming to theaters September 4.

Beetlejuice is back! After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and the portal to the Afterlife is accidentally opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

Tim Burton, a genre unto himself, directs from a screenplay by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar (“Wednesday”), story by Gough & Millar and Seth Grahame-Smith (“The LEGO® Batman Movie”), based on characters created by Michael McDowell & Larry Wilson. The film’s producers are Marc Toberoff, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Tommy Harper and Burton, with Sara Desmond, Katterli Frauenfelder, Gough, Millar, Brad Pitt, Larry Wilson, Laurence Senelick, Pete Chiappetta, Andrew Lary, Anthony Tittanegro, Grahame-Smith and David Katzenberg executive producing.

The film stars Michael Keaton (“Batman,” “Birdman”), Winona Ryder (“Stranger Things,” “Little Women”), Catherine O’Hara (“Schitt’s Creek,” “Corpse Bride”), Justin Theroux (“Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi”, “The Leftovers”), Monica Bellucci (“Spectre”, “The Matrix” films), Arthur Conti (“House of the Dragon”), Jenna Ortega (“Wednesday”, “Scream VI”), and Willem Dafoe (“Poor Things”, “At Eternity’s Gate”). Watch the trailer here:

In cinemas September 4, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

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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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