Young Spellers Shine at SM Super Spelling Bee in SM City Masinag and Marikina

The young spelling battled it out at the SM Super Spelling Bee preliminary round in SM City Masinag last September 27 at the mall atrium. Students in Grades 4-6 from the surrounding schools in Antipolo City and Marikina City vie for the best spellers in the oral and written rounds of the contest.

The preliminaries of SM Super Spelling Bee in SM City Masinag was held at the mall atrium.

At the end of the spelling bee, it was Queencess Milado, 6th grader of the Antipolo Immaculate Conception School, who emerged as the best among her opponents in the SM Super Spelling Bee and was hailed as a finalist representing SM City Masinag.

Antipolo Immaculate Conception School 6 th grader Queencess Milado was hailed as the preliminary top contender, winning Php 10,000 worth of SM Gift Certificates from SM, Php 10,000 in Gift Certificates from National Bookstore and Php 3,000 in Gift Certificates from Jollibee. She will compete at the Grand Finals that will be held in SM Mall of Asia.

On October 11, the graders of Marikina City compete for the top spot in the preliminary round of the SM City Marikina leg of the SM Super Spelling Bee. The winner from the contest will also advance to the Grand Finals which will be held in SM Mall of Asia along with the other preliminary winners from other SM Malls.

The Grand Winner will receive P50,000 in cash and SM Gift Certificates, Php 150,000 in National Book Store Gift Certificates, Php 10,000 in Gift Certificates from Jollibee, a new laptop from Power Mac Center, and school tuition discounts from the National University (NU).

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DITO Telecommunity Celebrates 100 Years of Devotion at Peñafrancia Festival 2024

A showcase of culture and local talent through seamless connectivity

Traslacion of Our Lady of Peñafrancia
(Official Page of Naga City Government and Photo by: Gab Relayo)

Naga City experienced all-out fun and connectivity at this year’s Peñafrancia Festival with DITO Telecommunity. Celebrating 100 years of the Canonical Coronation of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, DITO ensured to make this grand religious event even more joyous with vibrant experiential booths, performances, and engaging activities to showcase Bicolano culture through its collaboration with the City Government of Naga. This century of deep faith and devotion was honored in a way that brought together tradition, community, and modern connectivity.

Miss Bicolandia 2024: A Showcase of Grace and Empowerment
DITO aims to enhance the experience of Filipinos by proudly sponsoring key festival activities. A highlight was the Miss Bicolandia 2024 pageant, celebrating the grace, intelligence, and talents of young women from the Bicol region. The anticipated Coronation Night held on September 11, 2024, concluded with Miss DITO Telecommunity Bicolandia’s, Mikki Angela Barcela being crowned as the Miss Bicolandia 2024.

Mikki Angela Barcela crowned as Miss Bicolandia 2024 and Miss DITO Telecommunity 2024 (Official Page of Naga City Government and Photo by: Abay Pixels | Aldren Abay)

TODO NA DITO sa Tagboan Arts Festival
DITO further elevated the festive atmosphere at the Tagboan Arts Festival from September 15 to 21, 2024. High-speed connectivity was provided through deployed cell sites on wheels, allowing everyone to enjoy seamless communication throughout the festival. DITO’s Experiential Hub immersed festival goers in fun activities with freebies and made it easier to purchase DITO products such as Level-Up mobile prepaid packs, postpaid FLEXPlans, and the new DITO Home 5G WiFi products.

DITO Telecommunity Experiential Hub at the Tagboan Arts Festival

“DITO is committed to enhancing connectivity and supporting lively communities, and we were thrilled to have been part of this year’s Peñafrancia Festival, bringing exciting activities and our cutting-edge technology to celebrate with the Bicolano community,” said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business.

Community Spirit Shines on DITO Day
DITO Day took the spotlight at the Tagboan Arts Festival on September 21, 2024. The day was filled with fun activities and events, including the TODO NA DITO Roadshow, where local talents showed their skills in various competitions and the TODO NA DITO Concert. DITO Day not only marked the conclusion of the festival but also brought the community together for a memorable celebration of culture, talent, and entertainment.

TODO NA DITO Roadshow: Celebrating Bicolano Talent
The TODO NA DITO Roadshow was filled with exciting competitions of TODO Gaming, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Kantahan which showcased the vibrant talent and spirit of the Bicolano community. The enthusiasm and energy of the participants not only entertained the audience but also created a sense of camaraderie. The champions included Zone of Lunatics for TODO Gaming, RINCONADANZ for TODO Sayawan, and Eden Mae Broqueza for TODO Kantahan, with each category also having deserving runners-up who contributed to the lively atmosphere.

TODO Gaming, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Kantahan Champions with (L-R) Shiela Briones, DITO Area Sales Manager for South Luzon Region, Hon Nelson S. Legacion, Naga City Mayor, Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business, and Jocelyn David, Regional Consumer Sales Director for South Luzon Region

Unforgettable Night of Music at the TODO NA DITO Concert
The festival came to a grand finale with the highly anticipated TODO NA DITO Concert, which featured electrifying performances from local talents like Ched Valencia and Calle IV. The night reached its peak with a spectacular final performance by MAKI, who captivated the audience with his hit songs, including "Saan?"and "Dilaw." His powerful performance ended the celebration on a high note, giving everyone a truly unforgettable experience. Check this video out to get a glimpse of the TODO NA DITO celebration!

MAKI performing at the TODO NA DITO Concert

DITO Telecommunity remains committed to supporting Filipino culture and tradition, while offering innovative technology and solutions to keep local communities connected. For more details about DITO, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

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Are You Getting the “True 5G” Experience?

Everything we need to know about 5G and wireless broadband

The bandwagon rollout of fifth generation (5G) wireless technology has paved the way for a new era of connectivity in the digital landscape. While the earlier generations like 2G up to 4G have advanced network connectivity and ushered in groundbreaking HD streaming and video conferencing capabilities, the advent of 5G, by far, a monumental leap forward.

Compared to its 4G predecessor, 5G is indeed 20 times faster and 100x better in capacity and reliability. 5G allows for faster speeds of up to 20 gigabits per second (Gbps), reduces latency, and provides better network reliability and capacity. 5G has radically changed the game from speed to reliability and has become the new golden standard in the telecom industry across the globe.

In the 5G spectrum, there are two types of networking systems which operators can run with- a basic 5G Non-Standalone Network (NSA), and then there’s the more advanced 5G Standalone Network (SA). 5G NSA can be found in the early deployments of 5G, wherein operators used their existing 4G and LTE towers as springboards for 5G technology. 5G NSA is deemed as the most basic and more affordable way to roll out 5G; however, this NSA architecture doesn’t truly capture the full promise and potential of the 5G spectrum.

On the other hand, 5G standalone (SA) systems are dedicated infrastructures or towers built specifically for 5G, unlocking the full potential and capabilities that 5G can offer, such as high speed, lower latency, increased capacity, and maximum reliability. Essentially, 5G SA is the “true 5G” experience.

In the Philippines, DITO Telecommunity, the fastest-growing telco provider in the country, prides itself on being the only telecom operator at this time to have the more advanced 5G SA technology bringing to our shores the real power of “true 5G.”

During the recently concluded 5G Core Summit in the United Arab Emirates, DITO also received the "Best Network 5G SA Core Network Construction Award" by Informa, recognizing the young telco’s outstanding contribution to 5G Core construction ideas and execution.

DITO now has over 7,000 cell sites covering over 830 cities and network coverage at 84 percent.

“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. This allows us to deliver minimum average broadband speeds (MABS) of 639 Mbps for 5G for all sites,” said Retired Major General Rodolfo Santiago, DITO Chief Technology Officer.

“I believe we are on track in targeting around 87 percent network coverage before the year ends, strengthening our current coverage, providing more reliability, and capacity,” Santiago added. 

DITO Home’s wireless broadband: The standard of true 5G 

As mentioned, not all 5Gs are created equal. Powered by true 5G, DITO Home launched into the market with wireless broadband offerings for prepaid and postpaid, boasting speeds of up to 500 megabits per second (Mbps). In today’s fast-paced world, DITO’s wireless broadband advantage is a big step up from wired connections, offering faster speeds and greater reliability versus Fiber, which is prone to rampant fiber cuts and prolonged downtimes.

Globally, the demand for wireless broadband is also on the rise due to its high speed, flexibility, and mobility. Data from Credence Research, a worldwide market research and counseling firm, showed that the 5G wireless broadband market is projected to grow from USD 30,128.47 million in 2023 to USD 224,474.59 million by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25%. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to have the fastest growth rate due to the increasing technological adoption of 5G technology.

This positive trend in 5G wireless broadband’s growth rate can be associated with the increasing demand for faster, more convenient, and more reliable broadband internet systems, especially in underserved rural areas.

5G wireless broadband provides fiber-like speeds or even faster in some instances, without messy wires and heavy installation – cut the cord, again, just plug and play! Such connections make a better choice for densely populated urban areas where wired connections are no longer feasible, and going wireless presents itself as the most practical and hassle-free connectivity solution, given its plug-and-play advantage.

5G wireless modems are also very resilient, especially in disasters and physical calamities, eliminating the fear of disconnection due to damaged wires or cables and fiber cuts that take hours and even days to fix.

With DITO Home, Filipino households can now enjoy affordable, high-speed true 5G connectivity with greater convenience, allowing faster uploads and downloads, more gaming, streaming, and browsing- without interruptions- paving the way for a more connected and empowered future for the Filipino people.

For more information about DITO Home and its wireless broadband products, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

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From Ryan Coogler, a new vision of fear comes this March

Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.

Dance with the devil and he’ll follow you home. From Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Ryan Coogler (“Black Panther,” “Creed”) comes a new vision of fear in “Sinners,” starring Michael B. Jordan (“Black Panther,” “Creed”) in a dual role, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell and more. Watch the trailer and check out the teaser poster.

Written and directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Ryan Coogler, “Sinners” stars Michael B. Jordan (the “Black Panther” and “Creed” franchises) in a dual role, joined by Oscar nominee Hailee Steinfeld (“Bumblebee,” “True Grit”), Jack O’Connell (“Ferrari”), Wunmi Mosaku (“Passenger”), Jayme Lawson (“The Woman King”), Omar Benson Miller (“True Lies”) and Delroy Lindo (“Da 5 Bloods”). Watch the trailer here:

The film is produced by Coogler and frequent collaborators Sev Ohanian and Zinzi Coogler. The executive producers are Ludwig Göransson, Will Greenfield and Rebecca Cho.

Coogler’s behind-the-camera artisans include his “Black Panther” franchise collaborators: director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Oscar-winning production designer Hannah Beachler, editor Michael P. Shawver, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, and Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter.

Warner Bros. Pictures presents A Proximity Media Production, A Ryan Coogler Film: “Sinners.” The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures and will open in Philippine cinemas March 2025.

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October 2024 Movies

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

October 2 - Joker: Folie à Deux (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Zazie Beetz
Directed by: Todd Phillips

“Joker: Folie à Deux” finds Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) institutionalized at Arkham awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also finds the music that’s always been inside him.

October 9 - The Wild Robot (Universal Pictures)
Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Catherine O’Hara, Bill Nighy, Kit Connor, Mark Hamill
Directed by: Chris Sanders

From DreamWorks Animation comes a new adaptation of a literary sensation, Peter Brown’s beloved, award-winning, #1 New York Times bestseller, “The Wild Robot.” The epic adventure follows the journey of a robot – ROZZUM unit 7134, “Roz” for short – that is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings, gradually building relationships with the animals on the island and becoming the adoptive parent of an orphaned gosling.

October 16 - Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Directed by: Ian Bonhôte & Peter Ettedgui (“McQueen”)

The story of Christopher Reeve is an astonishing rise from unknown actor to iconic movie star. Reeve portrayed the Man of Steel in four “Superman” films and played dozens of other roles that displayed his talent and range as an actor, before being injured in a near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. After becoming a quadriplegic, he became a charismatic leader and activist in the quest to find a cure for spinal cord injuries, as well as a passionate advocate for disability rights and care – all while continuing his career in cinema in front of and behind the camera and dedicating himself to his beloved family. This film includes never-before-seen intimate home movies and an extraordinary trove of personal archive material, as well as the first extended interviews ever filmed with Reeve’s three children about their father, and interviews with the A-list Hollywood actors who were Reeve’s colleagues and friends.

October 16 - Smile 2 (Paramount Pictures)
Cast: Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Raúl Castillo, Kyle Gallner
Directed by: Parker Finn

About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye is forced to face her dark past to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control.

October 23 - Venom: The Last Dance (Columbia Pictures)
Cast: Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, Peggy Lu
Directed by: Kelly Marcel

In “Venom: The Last Dance,” Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest and most complex characters, for the final film in the trilogy. Eddie and Venom are on the run. Hunted by both of their worlds and with the net closing in, the duo are forced into a devastating decision that will bring the curtains down on Venom and Eddie’s last dance.

October 23 - The Colors Within (Encore Films Philippines)
Cast: Sayu Suzukawa, Akari Takaishi, Taisei Kido, Aoi Yūki, Keiko Toda, Minako Kotobuki
Directed by: Naoko Yamada

High school student Totsuko (Sayu Suzukawa) can see the “colors” of others – colors of bliss, excitement, serenity, and many others. She forms a band with fellow student Kimi (Akari Takaishi), who gives off the most beautiful color Totsuko has ever seen. Rounding out their band is Rui (Taisei Kido), a music enthusiast they meet in a far corner of town. Even though Totsuko does not play an instrument, music brings them together.

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.*

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Alfa Gargle Helps Bring Smiles Through Smile Train Philippines

PascualLab’s Povidone-Iodine brand joins hands with Smile Train to support children with special oral health needs

Alfa Gargle, the povidone-iodine brand of one of the leading pharmaceutical companies, Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab), proudly announces its partnership with Smile Train Philippines, to support less fortunate children with cleft lips and palates.

As corporate social responsibility is a cornerstone of PascualLab's core values, the company remains committed to supporting underserved community members through various initiatives and in partnership with various organizations and institutions. PascualLab is proud to announce a collaborative effort with Smile Train Philippines, united by a shared belief: that the path to a happy and healthy life for every child begins with a smile. Through this partnership, more children with cleft will have the opportunity to tread this journey. As part of its commitment to enhancing oral health, PascualLab seeks to help in the post-operation care of these children through Alfa Gargle. For every purchase of Alfa Gargle, a portion of the sale goes to Smile Train Philippines.

Alfa Gargle, which contains 1% Povidone-Iodine and has been clinically proven to eradicate disease-causing bacteria, based on representative bacteria tested, provides an affordable option for the treatment of individuals with sore throat, tonsillitis, and mouth sores, to help them go on with their daily activities and remain productive.

Beyond consumers, the brand also reaches out to dentists who need post-op antiseptic solutions.

With Smile Train, Alfa Gargle hopes to assist less fortunate children with cleft lips and palates, help transform their lives, build their confidence, and give them more reasons to smile. For more information about Alfa Gargle and its partnership with Smile Train Philippines, you may visit www.facebook.com/AlfaGargle.

Alfa Gargle is available in all leading drugstores nationwide and PascualLab’s official online stores:

• Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/pascuallab
• Shopee: https://shopee.ph/pascuallabstore
• TikTok Shop: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialpascuallab

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Best Of 3 - championing Filipino talent for a cause

It is not every day that we get to watch amazing live acts, and we're happy that our friends from Vega Entertainment invited us to see our champions Rhap Salazar, Mama Clay and Jex De Castro in the second Best of 3 concert held on September 14 at Amorato in Quezon City.

The sold out concert is for the benefit of CRIBS Foundation Inc., an institution committed to the care and development, healing and recovery of children in need of special protection. Proceeds of the concert goes to CRIBS for creating opportunities for its staff, donors and volunteers to become whole and empowered instruments of changing social realities. Rhap, Mama Clay and Jex organized their concert in support of CRIBS, especially for the aid of the abused children.

Started with a lively medley of Blinding Lights (The Weeknd), Water (Tyla) and Levitating (Dua Lipa), the three perked up the venue with their lovely harmony and an early display of their amazing vocal power that we are expecting throughout the show. The fun jamming at the opening already had us applauding for more.

Then each of them had their own set. Starting with Jex, last night was just the only time I heard Love of My Life by South Border after a long. He delivered it with such excellence that it rivaled the original version. With impressive accolades like being the Grand Prix Champion at the 2023 Stars of the Albion in London, a nomination at the 2020 Awit Awards, and a 1st runner-up position at the 2019 Tawag Ng Tanghalan, Jex is far from an ordinary singer.

Mama Clay sang a calming duet of Someday from the West Side Story with Jex then she gave her amazing set. There are lots of things to appreciate to this woman. Her vocal powerhouse was backed up with a number of achievements and experiences like mentoring for international singing competitions, especially in Malta where she spent some time and she was generous to share her story with us. She also was an actor in the Sound of Music at Resorts World Manila. Not to mention that she was a backup singer for Lea Salonga and Regine Velasquez to include in her portfolio.

She started with Lizzo's About Damn Time and gave a wonderful set belting out the high notes and songs that put the house into a great party. We love her musical versatility as she can also rap and jive into pop singles.

Not but not the least is we had Rhap Salazar, who effortlessly played along with the songs on his set which is pure entertainment. A Sam Smith and Lady Gaga fan himself, he didn't mince his words to express the messages of the songs in his set. The former singing competition contender sang his original single Barely Breathing with deep emotions that he shed tears on stage that not putting his feelings on stage would be illegal.

Jex De Castro, Mama Clay, and Rhap Salazar are incredibly talented artists who have showcased Filipino talent on the global stage. Their achievements truly give us reason to be proud! If they happen to have mini concerts, please please support them.

Rhap Salazar, Jex De Castro, Mama Clay

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