DITO kick starts 2025 by landing major global awards in Barcelona

DITO Telecommunity, the fastest-growing telco in the country, clinches three prestigious awards during the recently concluded 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Spain, winning the Best Digital Experience Platform from Whale Cloud, the First Large Scale Redcap FWA Commercial Deployment in the World award from Huawei Technologies, and Fastest Mobile Network from Opensignal. These awards recognize DITO's immense and valuable contribution to delivering new technologies, aggressive 5G deployment, and high-speed connectivity in the Philippines.

Whale Cloud, a leading technology company, granted DITO the Best Digital Experience Platform award, acknowledging the young telco's leadership in operational excellence and groundbreaking innovations in the digital space.

DITO Telecommunity Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Eric Alberto accepts the award for the Best Digital Experience Platform Award from Whale Cloud Global CEO Mr. Ben Zhou.

Meanwhile, Huawei's First Large-Scale RedCap FWA Commercial Deployment in the World award validates DITO's significant contribution to 5G deployment in the Philippines when it launched the DITO Home WOWFi last year–the first ever 5G RedCap WiFi in the world for home application, driving the future of digital homes in the country.

DITO Telecommunity Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eric Alberto, accepts the trophy for the First Large-Scale RedCap FWA Commercial Deployment in the World recognition from Mr. Jason Tao from Huawei Technologies.

Powered by DITO's true 5G network or 5G standalone (SA) infrastructure, the DITO Home WOWfi is a breakthrough product made possible through DITO's strategic partnership with Huawei Technologies, a global leader in 5G deployment. This home WiFi is the most value-packed wireless broadband in the market and the most affordable way to experience 5G connectivity. It capitalizes on the power of 5G RedCap, a dynamic new version of 5G which offers the right balance of 5G capabilities such as low latency, high peak data rate, and maximum capacity.

This emerging 5G technology is globally used for industrial and manufacturing. But here in the Philippines, DITO paved the way to bring this technology straight to Filipino homes, allowing households to enjoy the benefits of 5G at a very affordable price.

Last, but certainly not the least, DITO also won Opensignal's Fastest Mobile Network award with a robust 5G download speed of 287.2 Mbps and an overall download speed of 34.6 Mbps, leaving competition far behind in the speed race.

Opensignal hailed DITO as the Fastest Mobile Network in the Philippines. DITO Telecommunity executives, led by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Eric Alberto, officially received the award during the recently concluded 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain.

Now on its fourth year of commercial operations, these achievements solidify DITO's position further as the duopoly disruptor, leading the way in providing digital excellence, access to affordable 5G solutions, and high-speed connectivity.

According to DITO Telecom CEO Mr. Eric Alberto, these global recognitions validate the company's growing contribution and significance in the telco landscape.

"We're glad to be recognized by global industry giants like Whale Cloud, Huawei, and Opensignal. For four years, we've been relentless in pursuing the right balance between providing next-gen products and services, while maintaining our value-for-money stance, to provide more digital access to millions of Filipinos nationwide. Receiving these awards validate that we've reached a new level of operational excellence in 5G deployment, network speed, and performance. Truly, we're thankful to all our supportive DITOzens and progressive business partners for helping put DITO on the map on the global ICT stage," Alberto said.

DITO products and services are available via the DITO App, DITO Experience Stores, Device Retail Partners, Shopee, Lazada, and more! For more information, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook and Instagram or visit https://dito.ph/.

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The Travel Club’s Donate Your Old Case for a Cause Returns This March

A suitcase carries more than belongings—it holds stories. Now, yours can embark on a new adventure, helping others travel toward new opportunities. The Travel Club is once again rolling out its Donate Your Old Case for a Cause, an initiative, happening from March 13 to 16, 2025, at SM Mall of Asia, Eastwood Mall, and Estancia Mall. This program allows customers to trade in their pre-loved but still usable luggage and bags in exchange for up to 40% off on select travel gear.

But more than just great deals, this initiative carries a bigger purpose. In partnership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), all donated luggage will go to first time Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who need reliable travel companions as they embark on their new journey abroad.

Customers who participate in the trade-in program can enjoy special discounts on featured items. Discounts range from 15% to 40%, depending on the collection. For those who prefer regular-priced items, a 10% discount will be offered.

The trade-in follows a simple one-to-one basis:
One (1) luggage = Discount on one (1) luggage
One (1) bag = Discount on one (1) bag

Traded-in bags (such as backpacks, messenger bags, and duffel bags) may be used to avail of discounts on bags, but if the customer opts to purchase luggage instead, a lower discount will be applied.

What Can Be Traded In?
Accepted luggage and bags must be in working condition. Minor issues like missing zipper pullers or dents are fine, but those with broken wheels, damaged zippers, or cracked shell will not be accepted. The final assessment of donated items will be made by The Travel Club team.

How It Works

1. Bring your pre-loved luggage or bag to any participating The Travel Club stores.
2. Hand it over to the store representative in exchange for a Sale Number Tag (SNT).
3. Use your SNT to avail of discounts on featured collections or regular-priced items.
4. Complete your purchase at the cashier.
5. If you don’t find the perfect item, you can either reclaim your luggage on the same day or use your SNT for 10% off regular-priced items.

A Trade That Goes Beyond Shopping
More than just decluttering, this initiative is an opportunity to help others take their first step toward a new beginning. By donating your old luggage, you’re making a meaningful impact on the lives of OFWs who are setting off to build a future for their families.

Be part of this cause and catch trade in sale happening from March 13 to 16, 2025, at The Travel Club SM Mall of Asia, Eastwood Mall, and Estancia Mall.

For more details, read more at The Travel Club website.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-216901 Series of 2025.

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Turn Ideas into Action: Submit Your Entries for the 2025 LG Ambassador Challenge

Building on its strong commitment to driving positive change in communities since 2022, LG is excited to announce that entries for the 2025 LG Ambassador Challenge have officially opened on March 13, 2025. Led by LG Philippines in partnership with Korean Food for the Hungry International (KFHI), and Community Chest of Korea (CCK), this global program reflects LG’s dedication to empowering local communities and supporting sustainable growth.

The LG Ambassador Challenge is all about working together to make a real difference. It encourages individuals, groups, and organizations to come up with innovative ideas that can solve important social issues and improve lives. Since its launch, the program has empowered local changemakers by providing financial support and resources to help bring their projects to life, making a lasting impact on communities.

Originally launched in Bangladesh in 2017, the LG Ambassador Challenge has grown across Asia, encouraging individuals and organizations to propose solutions for key societal issues. The program provides financial grants to selected projects, empowering changemakers to drive meaningful and sustainable change in their communities.

The LG Ambassador Challenge has also delivered outstanding results since its local launch in the Philippines. In 2024, the Life's Good Library On the Go visited seven barangays in Nagcarlan, Laguna, offering learning opportunities to children in underserved communities with limited access to education and structured learning. The children and teachers also received free eye checkups from a local optometrist. Previous winning programs include the 2023 winners—Life is Good, When Life Has Light in Calauan, Laguna which installed solar-powered light posts that contributed to the community’s safety and security. Paliparan Community Livelihood in Dasmariñas, Cavite enabled housewives and out-of-school youth with a means of support for their families. Flowing Water for Growing Future in Lawaguin, Laguna—provided potable water which continues to make a positive impact by improving lives and empowering communities. The 2022 winners include Ride for Hope by Bahay Aruga in Quezon City, which provided ambulance transport for children cancer patients, and Roof for Siargao by Red Charity Gala, which supported home reconstruction after thousands were left homeless during the Typhoon Odette in December 2021.

This year, LG, KFHI, and CCK are focusing on key areas that can create meaningful change:

• “No Poverty” - End poverty in all its forms everywhere
• “Quality Education” - Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
• “Climate Action” - Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

By making use of LG's products and technology, participants have the opportunity to develop practical solutions that can make a lasting, positive impact on their communities.

Interested applicants can simply submit the items below.

All project entries shall include the Entry Form Format which you can also download here or visit https://bit.ly/2025LGACEntryForm.

Email Subject: LG Ambassador Challenge - (Project Entry Name and Location)
Name:
Designation:
Organization:
Telephone Number:
Mobile Number:
Email Address:
Program location:
Project description:
What is the biggest social problem in your community and how can it be resolved?
Why should LGE and KFHI select your project:
Budget (Detailed 100-day implementation plan required, including unit price, quantity and timeline):

For supporting documents, put all photo and photo captions into a single Microsoft Word file format and landscape orientation for video attachment/s

Submit the digital format entry in not more than 20MB to email address: joaquin.espiritu@lge.com

Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines, expressed his excitement for the upcoming program: "The LG Ambassador Program reflects our ongoing commitment to the 'Life's Good' philosophy. It’s an honor to support Filipino changemakers who are working hard to uplift their communities. Through this program, we aim to embrace new ideas, support innovative solutions, and create a lasting positive impact on Filipino lives.”

Take the first step toward creating a lasting impact — be part of the change and help make Life's Good for your community. Submit your entries today and turn your ideas into meaningful action!

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MOVIE REVIEW: Ne Zha 2

We were invited to the special screening of Ne Zha 2 hosted by SM Cinema with special guest, Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian.

Ne Zha 2 delivers a thoughtful and valuable story that explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and power while also highlighting the importance of family. At its core, the film emphasizes how love, trust, and understanding within a family can shape one's destiny. Ne Zha’s journey is not just about proving his strength but also about understanding his connections with those who care for him. The emotional depth in the film makes it more than just an action-packed adventure—it’s a touching reminder of how the support of loved ones can help overcome any challenge.

Visually, the film is nothing short of breathtaking. The animation quality is so stunning that it feels like watching a PlayStation cutscene in 4K resolution. Every detail, from the fluid combat sequences to the richly designed environments, enhances the cinematic experience. The battle scenes are especially exhilarating, with smooth choreography and dynamic camera work that make every fight feel immersive. The vibrant colors and incredible visual effects bring the mythical world to life, making it a feast for the eyes.

Beyond the spectacle, Ne Zha 2 balances intense action with humor and warmth, keeping the film engaging for audiences of all ages. The comedic moments are well-placed, lightening the mood without detracting from the story’s emotional weight. The interactions between characters, especially between Ne Zha and his family, highlight the importance of love, patience, and sacrifice. These heartfelt moments add layers to the narrative, making the characters feel more relatable and their struggles more meaningful.

With its compelling story, stunning visuals, and strong family values, Ne Zha 2 sets the stage for an even more exciting third installment. The film ends on a thrilling note, leaving fans eager to see how Ne Zha’s journey will continue. If this sequel is any indication, Ne Zha 3 is bound to be another powerful blend of action, emotion, and life lessons.

Ne Zha 2 is now showing in theaters, in Chinese Mandarin with English subtitles.

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Own Your Shine This Women’s Month at SM Malls in the East!

March is all about recognizing the incredible women in our lives—their strength, beauty, and brilliance. And what better way to celebrate them than with a well-deserved treat? Whether you’re looking to spoil the special women in your life or encourage them to take a moment for themselves, SM Malls in the East—including Angono, Antipolo Downtown, East Ortigas, Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, and Taytay—have lined up the ultimate shopping, self-care, and bonding experiences to make Women’s Month extra special.

 Glow Up & Stand Out

Style is power, and there’s no better time to refresh your wardrobe or upgrade your look. Whether it's for your partner, your mom, your sister, or even your bestie, check out trendy fashion finds from For Me, Unica Hija, Surplus, and Bayo. Top it off with stylish accessories from SM Store, a sleek pair of OJO Eyewear shades, or comfy yet trendy sneakers from World Balance.

Want to go the extra mile? Aesthetic upgrades aren’t just about clothes—gifting a pastel AquaFlask keeps hydration on point, while eyewear from Ideal Vision makes both a functional and stylish statement.

The Ultimate Pampering Experience

A true queen deserves to unwind! Whether it’s a relaxing massage, a mani-pedi at Nailaholics, or a rejuvenating facial at K Skin, the ladies in your life will love these self-care experiences. For those who prefer a silky-smooth finish, Hey Sugar offers painless waxing sessions to complete the glow-up.

Coffee Dates & Meaningful Conversations
Sometimes, the best way to celebrate Women’s Month is through quality time. Treat the special women in your life to coffee and conversations at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or ZUS Coffee. Whether it’s a heart-to-heart chat over a warm latte or a quick caffeine fix in between shopping sprees, these little moments make all the difference.

Self-Care & Wellness Finds

Want to give the gift of beauty and wellness? Watsons, Healthy Options, BLK, Happy Skin, and SM Beauty have all the must-have skincare and wellness essentials to keep that glow going strong. Whether it’s a luxe serum, a skincare set, or health-conscious products, these picks are perfect for every woman who loves to take care of herself.

Make This Month About Her

This Women’s Month, SM Malls in the East is the go-to destination for celebrating the queens in our lives. From exciting shopping finds to pampering sessions and coffee dates, there’s no shortage of ways to show appreciation.

Visit SM Center Angono, Antipolo Downtown, SM City East Ortigas, Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, and Taytay this March and make every moment about her!

Don’t forget to follow SM Supermalls for the latest updates and share your Women’s Month moments with us.

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Cinema Under the Stars: A Night of Magic and Community at Amiya Raya

There’s something truly special about watching a movie under the night sky, and on February 22, 2025, Amiya Raya turned that dream into reality with Cinema Under the Stars. Set against the breathtaking heights of San Mateo, Rizal, this enchanting event brought together homeowners, friends, and families for an unforgettable evening of film, fun, and togetherness.

The lineup featured two much-anticipated films: Wicked, the mesmerizing musical that reimagines the tale of the witches of Oz, and Moana 2, the thrilling sequel that continues the adventures of Disney’s beloved wayfinder. Against the backdrop of Amiya Raya’s expansive open skies, the magic of cinema came to life in an even more immersive way.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the atmosphere transformed into a cozy outdoor retreat. Plush seating arrangements and picnic-style lounging invited guests to settle in for the night, while carefully curated food stalls served up delectable snacks and refreshing tropical beverages to complete the experience.

The first film of the night, Wicked, captivated the audience with its powerful performances and iconic musical numbers. Applause and cheers filled the air as viewers were swept into a story of friendship, ambition, and destiny. After a short intermission filled with lively chatter and stargazing, Moana 2 took center stage. The sequel’s heartwarming adventure resonated with both young and old, with children gleefully singing along and families sharing laughter under the twinkling stars.

More than just a movie night, Cinema Under the Stars was a testament to the strong sense of community at Amiya Raya. It was an evening where neighbors became friends, and where the simple joy of watching a movie became a cherished memory. Events like these showcase what makes Amiya Raya more than just a place to live—it’s a place where life’s moments are celebrated in the most extraordinary ways.

As the credits rolled and guests lingered a little longer, basking in the cool night breeze, one thing was clear: Cinema Under the Stars was not just an event, but an experience—one that reminded everyone of the magic in storytelling, the beauty of shared experiences, and the joy of coming home to a community that truly feels like family.

Amiya Raya continues to create exceptional experiences for its homeowners, proving that luxury and nature can harmoniously blend to create the perfect place to call home.

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Critically-acclaimed Tenor Arthur Espiritu all set for One Night Only concert on April 2 at Miranila

A welcome-home concert for this “rare spinto-tenor in the tradition of a Pavarotti... a well-trained tenor (with) no fear of heights”

The MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with Leon Gallery and Gallery MiraNila of The Blue Leaf with support from the Bizu Groupe proudly presents “Tenor Arthur Espiritu Welcome-home Concert Amid Critical Acclaim in Europe” on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Main Hall of MiraNila.

Arthur Espiritu

Enter the thrilling world of Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu to witness his “magnificent vocal power” and “effortlessness and radiance.”

He returns from European cities after playing leading roles in opera houses and concert halls.

MiraNila promises a magical experience and an exploration of the power of love and the drama of opera with pieces by Gabriel Fauré, Franz Lehar, Giacomo Puccini, Charles Gounod, Richard Strauss, Andrew Lloyd Weber and Francesco Sartori.

In an interview with Michael Ching, Mr. Espiritu recalls, “I started my career in Europe... I had no trouble landing leading European-type roles." Still, he had to prove himself by working harder as he was not as tall as the locals. "In some ways,” he added, “it was easier for female performers."

His advice to younger talents? “Work really, really hard at your artistry, put yourself into that character... take that extra step with a chip on your shoulder (that is how I built my career) and leave the audience to see you as an Asian-American doing that role.”

Tenor Arthur Espiritu was born in Morong, Rizal, Philippines.

He migrated to the United States with his parents in his teens and finished with an Artist Diploma in Music Performance at the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music. He won the La Scala award at the Belvedere Competition in 2007 and the distinguished George London Award in 2009.

Mr. Espiritu has portrayed numerous leading roles in North America, Europe, and Asia, with early career highlights that include his very first Ferrando in Michael Hampe’s staging of Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte in the Teatro alla Scala, the role of Tamino in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte with the Israeli Opera Tel-Aviv, and the role of Publio in Mozart’s early work, Il sogno di Scipione, with the former Gotham Chamber Opera, New York.

His recent roles include Roberto of Leicester in Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda in the Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz (the Munich opera house); Edgardo in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor in the Daegu International Opera Festival, South Korea; Gualtiero in Bellini’s Il Pirata; Alfredo in Verdi’s La Traviata; Cassio in Verdi’s Otello; Rodolfo in Puccini’s La Boheme; and Don Ramiro in Rossini’s La Cenerentola, in Munich’s Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz. His opera commitments continue unabated in 2025. Read more about him at: https://www.arthurespiritutenor.com/

Performing with Mr. Espiritu is the multi-awarded soprano Jade Riccio. Virtuoso pianist Mariel Ilusorio will accompany them on MiraNila’s newly restored 1904 Steinway, considered rare in the Steinway & Sons catalog.

Mariel Ilusorio, pianist

Jade Riccio, soprano

Soprano Jade Riccio, an Italian-Filipina who hails from Palawan, earned a slot in the 2024 Person to Watch: Women Who Made It in Music. She was the sole recipient of the 37th Aliw Awards 2024 Hall of Fame from which she won five consecutive awards, including Best Classical Performer in 2018 and 2020 and Best Female Crossover Performer in 2019 and 2022. She earlier received highest recognitions during vocal competitions at the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 2014 and the Jovita Fuentes Vocal Competition in 2015. As one of the most sought-after celebrity vocal coaches to some of Asia’s most shining stars, Ms. Riccio is also the CEO, creative producer, and chairperson of a music company called Riccio Music and Artistry (RMA) Studio Academy, a creative hub she founded during the pandemic, which now nurtures nearly 400 students from around the world.

Pianist Mariel Ilusorio studied at the Juilliard School of Music in New York, Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio, and the State College of Music and Theater Hanover (now Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media) in Lower Saxony, Germany. Under the tutelage of Stella Brimo, she won top prizes in Philippine piano competitions before continuing her studies overseas. After performing in the U.S., Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Indonesia and having lived twenty-six years in the U.S., Germany, and South Africa, she has made the Philippines her home. She continues performing and now organizes concerts and recitals. She is also in the faculty of the UST Conservatory of Music, St. Scholastica's College of Music, the Philippine High School for the Arts, and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

This April, the public gets the chance to hear these three outstanding performers in an environment conducive to master-level performances. In the once bucolic environs of Cubao, this four-story 1929 heritage house boasts a living room and library with near perfect acoustics. With its charming gardens and chapel, the grounds are likewise not to be missed.

Book your tickets now and appreciate why critics continue to laud Mr. Espiritu’s performances. With this brief interlude to visit family in the Philippines, his opera engagements in Europe remain steady. Here are some reviews:

—Das Opernglas
Arthur Espiritu as Roméo . . . interpreted his leading role with a heroic tenor. Powerful and musically secure in all registers, he steered timelessly, singing his melodious tenor voice and making his role debut through the demanding role. The soft tones are touching.

—Angus McPherson of Limelight Magazine
Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu as the poet Rodolfo, whose sound is exquisitely polished and contained—almost delicate—with a fine, burnished sheen. Espiritu’s voice warms in Che Gelida Manina as he sensitively crafts the swells and diminuendos.

—Detlef Obens of Opernmagazin Das Opern & Kulturmagazin
As one of the rare Spinto-tenors in the tradition of a Pavarotti, which combine safe heights with lyrical melt and great virtuosity, he travels at large houses worldwide. Sparks spark in the duets of the two.

—Peter Skorepa of OnlineMERKER
Arthur Espiritu achieved great success with his Duke, who also had an impeccable voice. With his well-trained tenor and no fear of heights, he showed how to musically implement the specifications of Leggerezza.

—Florian Krenstetter of The Kronen Zeitung
Photo Credit: Mark Glassner
Arthur Espiritu convinces with a powerful sensitive implementation in the title role. His Don Carlo is characterized by emotions, suffering and hopelessness, to which he submits little rebelliously. His tenor follows effortlessly in all layers and warms with full bright timbre.
—Dr. Andreas Ströbl of Klassik begeistert - Der Opernfreund
The Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu makes this feeling at the mercy of his own doubts and desires come alive with his magnificent vocal power and fantastic height confidence. He crowns this production with top performances in singing and acting, for which he repeatedly receives applause from the audience.

—Alan Neilson of @operawire.com
The tenor Arthur Espiritu... has a sweet timbre and he sings with a lilting Italianate intonation, ideal for the bel canto repertoire, which his aria “Ah! Rimiro il bel sembiante” beautifully confirmed, by highlighting his natural lyricism. He performed exceptionally well in the numerous interactive recitative passages and ensembles.

—Norbert Pabelick of Der Opernfreund
Filipino-American opera singer Arthur Espiritu, who embodied the title part with wonderful Italianita. He is an extremely beautiful, sympathetic and high-altitude Rudolfo, who does not need to fear the comparison with stars... His high C in the aria hit “Che gelida manina” is of an effortlessness and radiance that require admiration. (December 24, 2024)

Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the program promptly starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets @ P1,500 (Library) and P2,500 (Main Hall) are limited, so order now. Text Robeen @ 0927 277 6335.

Guests are requested to wear soft-soled shoes as these are kinder to old floors.

Pre-concert and intermission snacks and bottled water are available for sale in the East Patio. The Gift Shop will also be open.

MiraNila Heritage House & Library is located at 26 Mariposa Street, Brgy Bagong Lipunan Crame, Q.C. (Find us on Facebook: MiraNila Heritage House and Library & MiraNila Heritage House Events)

“Critically-acclaimed Tenor Arthur Espiritu All Set for One Night Only Concert at MiraNila on April 2” is presented by the MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with Leon Gallery and Gallery MiraNila of The Blue Leaf with support from the Bizu Groupe.

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