2023v24n4-GIFT GUIDE by Gadgets Magazine

Contents

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

VOLUME XXIV • Issue IV

Gift Guide Acer Acerpure Clean V1 Lite Acerpure Cozy F2 Aspire Vero Laptop

Casio G5 G-SHOCK Polychromatic Full Metal Series G-SHOCK Caution Yellow BABY-G Retro Pop Series Casio Vintage DOOGEE U10 U10 Kid T20 Mini T10S T10 T30 Pro

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GoPro GoPro HERO12 Black

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HATASU KUMI NERO HARU MAKO 2 HERO

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Infinix Zero 30 5G Note 30 5G Hot 30 SMART 8 Air 1 Pro INBOOK X2

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Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 IdeaPad Flex 5i IdeaPad Flex 5 Yoga Duet 7i Yoga Slim 7i Carbon

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TCL G51 C755 QD-Mini LED 4K TV

HONOR G29 Magic5 Pro 90 5G 90 Lite 5G X8a X9a 5G X7a X6a X5 Plus Pad X9 MagicBook X14 and X15

SM G53 Gift ideas that would bring a smile to kids Gift ideas for a cozier home Gift Ideas for the Eco-conscious MSI MSI Stealth 15 MSI Cyborg 15 MSI Bravo 15 MSI GF63 Thin

06 Feature Your Shopping Guide For Christmas Jewelry

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Contents

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

VOLUME XXIV • Issue IV

Gadgets Lab Samsung Z Flip 5

realme Buds Air 5

Honor X6a

Honor X5 Plus

Mobility The New Hyundai Custin: Experience Exceptional

Mitsubishi Triton: Go Beyond Limits

Yamaha Feel Life

Ford Philippines Celebrates Global Caring Month

Toyota Community Shuttle

Petron Treats Unveils Fresh Look And Fresher Delights

Suzuki Answers For An Exciting Future

Gaming Star Ocean: The Secondary Story R

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

8 Fun Web3 Games

Cyber Security What To Do If Someone Tries To Hack You

Is Your Computer Getting Slow? Hackers May Be Using It To Mine Crypto

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Employment

70 72

Docquity Jobs TrueProfile.io

Innovation 11th IdeaSpace Accelerator Program

Money Insurance For Gamers GCash Powered By Visa

76 78

Education FEU Tech: Education With Real-World Results

Apps Memo App Viber Plus Premium Service

82 84

Visual Space Christmas Memes

Travel

Travereel: Revolutionizing Travel Experiences

Newsbytes DITO Continues Winning Streak At OpenSignal Mobile Experience Awards

ASUS Solidi ies Commitment To Sustaining An Incredible Future

Epson Launches App To Combat Fake Inks

Relic SmarterChild 5

Gift Guide Acer has long established itself as a great computing option, but unknown to many the company is also making other great home products with their Acerpure line. The Acerpure lineup is aimed to keep you healthy and safe at home. For those still struggling to find something for their aesthetic, minimalist, or eco-conscious friend, here are Acer and Acerpure products you might want to consider.

Acerpure Clean V1 Lite For your minimalist friend

The Acerpure Clean V1 lite is a super lightweight vacuum cleaner at 550g with 13000Pa suction pressure power and a maximum of 15 minutes of cleaning time. It has a 2-in-1 usage, one button switch, a DC motor, and a USB type-C charger. It combines lightness, convenience, and power in one gadget to clean every nook and cranny of your home.

PHP 3,999

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gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

PHP 5,699

Acerpure Cozy F2 For your “aesthetics” friend The Acerpure Cozy is an air circulator that projects air up to 25 meters away with a 16-fan speed setting thanks to its 3D Airflow Technology. It also has 90° up/down and 95° left/right oscillating direction adjustment for easy, accurate control. The Acerpure Cozy comes in 3 colors – White, Beige, and Pink- perfect for achieving any home aesthetic goals.

WEBSITE

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Gift Guide

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Aspire Vero Laptop For your eco-conscious friend Acer Aspire Vero is the brand’s Green PC made of over 30% Post-Consumer Recycled plastics. The laptop is perfect for users looking for good performance, smooth connectivity, and efficiency in their daily computing needs. With a sleek and premium design and finish, being eco-friendly never looked this cool.

Starts at PHP 41,999

WEBSITE

LAZADA

SHOPEE

TIKTOK

November-December 2023

Gift Guide

G-SHOCK Polychromatic Full Metal Series Celebrate the G-SHOCK 40th anniversary in full-spectrum style with a masterpiece design that brings the colors of the rainbow to a splendid full-metal timepiece. Be free, stay true to your own style and values. Express yourself in all the colors of the rainbow. Featuring the iconic form of the very first G-SHOCK, the DW-5000, with design accents in a whole spectrum of color.

November-December 2023

PHP 42,510

GM-B2100PC-1ADR

gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

The G-SHOCK Polychromatic Full Metal Series is available in two designs. The GMB2100PC/ GMB2100BPC feature the classic analog watch face made special by two distinct gradation on it as well either black or silver bodies. The GMB2100PC features a silver body mated to a black dial, made special by the distinct purple and blue gradation on the hour and minute hand as well as the index marks. Meanwhile the GMB2100BPC features an all-black color scheme complimented by the orange and yellow gradation. The GMB2100PC/GMB2100BPC has a stainless steel body formed through repeated process of forging and cutting. They were crafted with an intense focus on producing precise components, even to portions that lie out of sight.

PHP 46,200

GM-B2100BPC-1ADR

PHP 48,610

Meanwhile the GMWB5000PC/ GMWB5000BPC features the classic Casio digital watch face. It comes with two all-metal body options, the classic silver body and the all-black body. As part of the Polychromatic series, the GMWB5000PC has blue and green gradation surrounding the digital face. It has the same level of precision craftmanship for its body. Other features of the G-SHOCK Polychromatic Full Metal Series include solar-powered timekeeping with added Bluetooth support for enhanced time accuracy and a super illuminator composed of double LED light for the GMB2100PC/ GMB2100BPC and full auto LED backlight for the GMWB5000PC/ GMWB5000BPC.

GMW-B5000PC-1DR

PHP 52,300

GMW-B5000BPC-1DR

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Gift Guide

G-SHOCK Caution Yellow Tough, yet stylish designs feature basic black, accented with touches of the bright yellow used for emergency rescues and safety signs. A cool, versatile look that complements both casual and work styles. Made with G-SHOCK’s iconic durability, the G-SHOCK Caution Yellow series, has both shock and magnetic resistance with up to 200 m water resistance. Other features from the Caution Yellow series include Bluetooth connection (on select models) which allows for a more accurate time telling by connecting with your phone. Select models also include solar charging capabilities allowing you to keep going and going with your active lifestyle without worrying about time.

PHP 7,580

GA-700CY-1ADR

PHP 8,880

GA-100CY-1ADR

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Choose from five models: the GWB5600 with Bluetooth connectivity plus radio control; the GAB2100 with Bluetooth connectivity and solar charging; the large case GA100; or the GA700 with front button design.

PHP 11,280

GA-B2100CY-1ADR

PHP 10,350

GW-B5600CY-1DR

PHP 9,060

GA-B001CY-1ADR

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Gift Guide

BABY-G Retro Pop Series

RETRO POP OUTDOOR

Go out in style with the BABY-G Retro Pop series. It comes in two different design the Retro Pop Outdoor and Retro Pop Flower Dial. Level up your outdoor look with these two sure classics from the BABY-G.

BABY-G brings in retro color combinations of burgundy, deep green, and mustard yellow to add a cute accent to your casual outdoor look. Details like the hour hand’s camping lantern motif enhance the playfully outdoorsy design

Both are made from bio-based resins in keeping with the BABY-G commitment to the environment. They’re also made to keep up your active outdoor lifestyle with its BABY-G shock resistance construction, and up to 100m water resistance.

PHP 9,060

BGA-310RP-9ADR

PHP 8,880

BGA-310RP-4ADR

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PHP 8,880

BGA-310RP-3ADR

gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

PHP 6,290

BGD-565RP-2DR

PHP 6,290

BGD-565RP-7DR

PHP 6,290

RETRO POP FLOWER DIAL

BGD-565RP-4DR

The charming floral pattern on the watch face is inspired by fields of flower. Activate the backlight and the blooms are echoed in the center display. A charming accent to outdoor styles, this compact, casual watch is an ideal fashion accessory for your active life.

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Gift Guide

Casio Vintage

Nothing beats the simplicity of the classics Enjoy a simple yet elegant look with the Casio Gen/ Vintage Tranquil Urban colors series and Trendy Color series. These two series features Casio’s iconic watch faces while maintaining a unique yet classy colors. These watches have stainless steel bands with adjustable clasps. It’s a perfect watch for any occasion thanks its classy look with elegant color options.

TRANQUIL URBAN COLORS Go low-key classic with a subdued color scheme and understated square form. Gray-tinged hues give the watch face an urban-retro flair. Slip on an antique-style design and comfortable fit you’re sure to fall in love with.

PHP 2,220

A168WA-8AYDF

PHP 2,220

A168WA-5AYDF

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A168WA-3AYDF

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PHP 2,610

AQ-230A-2A2MQYDF

PHP 2,610

AQ-230A-7AMQYDF

PHP 2,610

AQ-230A-2A1MQYDF

TRENDY COLORS The angular case frames a dial updated in the latest color trends. Retro simplicity meets modern functionality in an analog watch with small digital window for the info you need at your fingertips. A versatile, elegant design to complement every occasion, from dressy formal events to casual outings.

WEBSITE

LAZADA

SHOPEE

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TIKTOK November-December 2023

Gift Guide

ooking for a new device for work or school? Want an extra tablet for your special someone for Christmas? Then look no further than DOOGEE’s lineup of value-for-money tablets. DOOGEE is most recognized for its rugged phones, but the brand’s tablets are one to look out for because of its great value proposition. Here are some of DOOGEE’s products that will surely put a smile on anyone getting them this holiday season.

DOOGEE U10 PHP 4,499 The DOOGEE U10 was made to help your child’s school needs. This 10.1-inch tablet has an HD resolution (800 x 1280) and is powered by a Rockchip RK3562 processor with 4GB of base RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The RAM is expandable up to 9GB via the expandable RAM feature, while the internal storage is expandable through microSD card up to 1TB. The tablet was made for school work thanks to its keyboard and stylus support (both sold separate-ly) with the stylus capable of 1024 pressure points.

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The DOOGEE U10 has a main 8-megapixel camera at the back and a 2-megapixel selfie camera at the front. For battery, it is equipped with a 5060mAh battery able to last you a whole day of learning or just internet scrolling. Finally, the DOOGEE U10 is equipped with some latest tech, including an Android 13 OS and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for a more stable internet connection.

gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

PHP 5,499

DOOGEE U10 Kid Need a tablet for your kid? The DOOGEE U10 Kid has got you covered. This tablet was made especially for young children. It’s the DOOGEE U10 but with a specially designed anti-allergic liquid silicone case. The case was made to any accidental drops keeping the tablet safe for them to continue enjoying later. Similar to the DOOGEE U10 the U10 Kid is powered by a quad-core Rockchip RK3562 processor mated to 4GB of base RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The RAM is expandable up to 9GB or an extra 5GB from the unused internal storage. Meanwhile, the

internal storage is expandable up to 1TB via microSD. The display is the same 10.1-inch HD display with an 800 x 1280 resolution. As a tablet made for kids, DOOGEE has added several apps for your child to enjoy such as Kids World a collection of games that are not only fun but also help your child learn as well. Parents will be pleased that Kids World has parent control allowing you to lock the app and keep your child in a secure environment. For the artistic child, there’s also the builtin draw app now with two distinct features, painting and coloring. The drawing app is also interactive allowing your child to fully express themselves in whatever form.

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Gift Guide

PHP 6,999

DOOGEE T20 Mini The DOOGEE T20 Mini is a tablet designed for those who want a smaller device, yet are still capable of doing more than their smartphones. The DOOGEE T20 Mini comes in at just over 8 inches. Specifically, it has an 8.4-inch FHD+ display with TUV SUD blue light certification. It’s just 7.4mm thin, making it one of the thinnest in DOOGEE’s current lineup. It’s powered by an octa-core Unisoc Spreadtrum T606 processor which is mated to 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The RAM is expandable November-December 2023

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up to 9GB thanks to the extra-RAM feature which transforms any unused internal storage to additional RAM. Meanwhile, the internal storage is expandable up to 1TB via the dedicated microSD slot. The DOOGEE T20 Mini was made for those who need an on-the-go device and it can support that as well with its 5060 mAh battery lasting you the whole day. Another neat feature it has is GSM sup-port thanks to the dedicated SIM slot. In case you find yourself without Wi-Fi you can insert a SIM to the device to use mobile data to access the internet. It supports either two nano sims or a sin-gle sim and a microSD. gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

DOOGEE T10S The DOOGEE T10S is the brother of the DOOGEE T10. This tablet features some similar specs as that of the T10 such as the 10.1-inch FHD (1200 x 1920) resolution IPS display and the Unisoc T606 octa processor. What sets it apart from the T10 is the RAM capabilities, the DOOGEE T10S has up to 11GB of RAM (6GB internal + 5GB expandable) and 128GB of internal storage. Storage space is similarly expandable up to 1TB via microSD.

Another difference is the camera, the T10S has an 8-megapixel main shooter at the back, and at the front is a 5-megapixel selfie camera. For the battery, the DOOGEE T10S has a slightly smaller 6600 mAh battery. However, don’t count it out since it can still keep up with whatever you need from it.

PHP 8,499

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Gift Guide *Accessories sold separately

PHP 9,499

DOOGEE T10 The DOOGEE T10 is DOOGEE’s ultimate entertainment device. This 10.1-inch tablet is made from aviation-grade aluminum and comes in at just 7.5mm thin. The display has an FHD resolution (1200 x 1920). The display has a TUV Rheinland blue light certification meaning that the display is rated to be safe for your eyes even during long use. The DOOGEE T10 is equipped with a Unisoc T606 octa-core processor with up to 15GB (8GB + 7GB extended) RAM and 128GB internal storage. The internal storage is expandable up to 1TB via

November-December 2023

microSD. Where you’ll find the microSD slot is also the sim card slot; the T10 has dual sim capabilities though the second sim slot is also the microSD slot. On the camera side at the back, it has a 13-megapixel main shooter and at the front, it has an 8-megapixel selfie camera. The DOOGEE T10 is powered by an 8300 mAh battery which allows the tablet to keep up with you no matter what you’re doing.

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DOOGEE T30 Pro The DOOGEE T30 Pro was made for the ultimate experience. This tablet has an 11-inch display with a massive 2.5K resolution (1600 x 2560). It has an elegant unibody design that comes in three colors, Space Gray, Mint Green, and Ice Blue. Made with productivity in mind, it has a detachable keyboard (sold separately) as well as stylus support with 2048-level pressure sensitivity.

The DOOGEE T30 Pro has a MediaTek G99 octa-core processor with up to 15GB of RAM (8GB base + 7GB expandable RAM) allowing you to multi-task without any worry. In terms of storage, it has 256GB of base storage with up to 2TB expansion via the microSD slot. The microSD slot doubles as the secondary sim slot since the tablet also has dual sim capability. Finally, when you’re not using it for work, the DOOGEE T30 Pro is a very capable media device with its quad Hi-Res speakers. You also won’t have to worry about losing power since the device has an 8580 mAh battery able to keep up with what you need it to do.

PHP 16,599 *Accessories sold separately

LAZADA

SHOPEE

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TIKTOK SHOP

November-December 2023

Gift Guide

GoPro HERO12 Black HERO12 Black Discounted Price

November-December 2023

HERO12 Black + Max Lens MOD 2.0

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Action cameras have become a go-to camera for most creators. They are versatile, durable, and best of all powerful. They capture some of the most stunning images and videos from the most unexpected locations. They’re also one of the easiest cameras, simply connecting to an app and giving users access to unique videos and pictures for social media pages. HERO12 Black + Ride Bundle

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The GoPro HERO 12 Black has a 1/1.9-inch sensor which enables market-leading versatility with its extra-large 8:7 aspect ratio that can be cropped into vertical 9:16, widescreen 16:9, traditional 4:3 or full-frame 8:7 aspect ratios across all video resolutions and other capture options such as TimeWarp, Time Lapse, Night Lapse and all Night Effects modes. HERO12 Black features many new, powerful pro-minded capabilities that will also benefit more casual users thanks to their intuitive and convenient design such as Wireless audio support for Apple AirPods and other Bluetooth audio devices which is great for vlogging, scene narration, and issuing voice commands to control your HERO12 Black from a distance. GP-Log with available LUTs for more control and color grading in post-production. Wireless timecode sync an unlimited number of HERO12 Black cameras for easy multi-camera editing with Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premier, and other leading editing apps. Optimized encoding that delivers smaller file sizes with no compromise to image quality. When it comes to action cameras, GoPro has always been the go-to brand. They were the first action camera and continue to elevate the industry year by year with their flagship GoPro HERO-series giving us some of the most powerful cameras while retaining the durability and quality we came to love. There’s no better gift this holiday season to your aspiring content creator friend or yourself than GoPro’s HERO12 Black.

More casual users who may be looking for the perfect blend of convenience and control will love HERO12 Black’s updated user interface, which includes simplified controls plus a new Vertical Capture Mode that captures vertical 9:16 aspect ratio video while the camera is mounted horizontally—perfect for sharing straight to verticallyoriented social media channels.

The GoPro HERO12 Black the brand’s newest flagship camera was built on the groundbreaking performance of its of its predecessor. It now has up to 2x longer runtimes thanks to a redesigned power management system, stunning high dynamic range (HDR) video in marketleading 5.3K and 4K resolution video, support for Bluetooth audio devices, including Apple AirPods and improved HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization, along with a host of powerful new camera features designed to serve new users and professionals alike. WEBSITE HERO12 Black + Explorer Bundle

LAZADA

SHOPEE

HERO12 Black + Snorkel Bundle

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GoPro Authorized Partners nationwide: Abenson, Camerahaus, Colours Foto, Electroworld, Henry’s Cameras, iBook, Inbox, Infomax, SM Gadgets, TechPro Unlimited, The Vault, Timeline, Urbangiz, and more

HERO12 Black + Dive Bundle

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Gift Guide

The HATASU ebike Gift Guide for this Christmas T

is’ the season to be jolly! What better way to reward yourself by getting an ebike for your daily travel needs? And here’s three (3) reasons why you should! Budget Friendly Vehicle Alternative - Compared to cars or motorcycles, the HATASU ebikes cost less than P70k but deliver the same functions as a traditional vehicle making it more affordable and will save you a lot of money especially if you are a frequent short distance traveler. There are multiple installment options available as well.

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No gas needed - With the rising gas prices, more and more are finding alternative ways to go around and since ebikes are powered by electricity with no gas needed! You’re therefore able to save whilst still meeting your riding needs. Lower maintenance cost - Ebike batteries usually last for up to 2-3 years before they need to be replaced. This is relatively cheaper than the monthly maintenance cost of owning a traditional gas powered vehicle. With all the available options out there, picking the right ebike can be a challenge but no worries! Because we found an ebike brand that has a variety of models that you can pick from depending on your lifestyle. HATASU ebike is a mobility solution brand that’s been establishing its influence in the local market. Their aim is to provide safe, value-for-money, and sustainable products that address the pain points of every Filipino. Whether you need a vehicle for school, work, business, family and or community use, they got it all for you! To help you pick which HATASU ebike best fits your needs and budget, we’ve come up with a comprehensive list below.

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Gift Guide

P20,000-P25,000 Budget HATASU KUMI 2023, best for students and young professionals always on the go!

Are you a student or young professional who’s tired of commuting everyday but at the same need to save costs? We recommend the KUMI 2023, a twowheeler ebike that’ll help you go to school and/or your workplace hassle-free. It’s a basic ebike that’s easy to use but has all the features you need. In terms of specifications, it’s equipped with a Lead-Acid Battery, has a speed of 25 kph Max and can go up to 40-50 kms Range. This makes it also perfect for people who need a vehicle for short-range travel so they can run their errands just within their vicinity. Plus it’s easier to maintain and you wouldn’t have a hard time looking for parking! If you’re not privy with the specs, the KUMI 2023 comes with a Front Basket where you can store your bags and other items and it has a 110kgs Load Capacity. The KUMI 2023 comes in two colorways: All Black and Black/Red.

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Maybe you already own a motorcycle or bike but you need to cut maintenance and gas costs or you’re just exhausted having to pedal all the way to places. If you can relate to this, then it’s time for an ebike upgrade with the NERO!

P26,000-P30,000 Budget HATASU NERO, the two-wheeler upgrade you need!

With features like a Park Button that keeps the ebike securely motionless when parked even when on a hill or a steep road, a Speed Selector so you can control over the speed of the ebike and a durable Digital Display where you can see panel information like battery status, speed & mileage clearly even in broad daylight. The NERO also comes with an Underseat Compartment and additional backseat with backrest so another passenger can ride with you or it can be transformed to hold delivery boxes, making NERO a suitable and cost-efficient alternative for delivery riders. The NERO comes in three color options: Red, White and Grey.

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Gift Guide

P35,000-P40,000 Budget HATASU HARU, the compact three-wheeler for everyJuan!

Now here’s an interesting one! Usually when you think of a 3-wheeler ebike, it’s the tricycle type usually meant for 3-4 persons. But what if you just need an ebike for yourself? And you don’t know how to balance a bike? Well even in this very specific situation, HATASU has got the solution for you with its HARU ebike. The HARU is a compact three-wheeler that seats one person with an additional backseat. Equipped with beginner friendly features, even someone with no prior experience of driving an ebike can easily hop on and use it! It has a 180 kgs Load Capacity, a powerful 500W Differential Motor, Wider Footboard, Cushioned Saddle-Seat and a Front Basket too. The HARU comes in Red/Black colorway.

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P50,000-P60,000 Budget HATASU MAKO 2, best cost-saving vehicle for families!

While the two-wheeler ebikes are for singles always on the go, the MAKO 2 is best for families. Packed family friendly features such a Motorcycle Suspension Fork which compensates for bumps and uneven road, a Stainless Front Fender for corrosion resistance and Larger Front Wheel for better grip on the road, making it safe to use for families; plus it can seat up to 3 persons at a time. Parents can use it to fetch their kids from school or to run errands to the supermarket, laundry store, bank and more. Families are also sure to enjoy their weekend because the MAKO 2 can bring them anywhere, anytime! May it be the mall, restaurant and/or the park. The MAKO 2 comes in two colorways: All Black and Black/Grey.

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Gift Guide

P60,000-P65,000 Budget

even in broad daylight, a Front Splash Guard (ABS Plastic Cover), and a durable Patented Leather Roof and Back Cover that’ll protect you from heat, rain and even pollutions, the HERO surely saves the day!

HATASU HERO, the multi-use, easy go ebike for everyone!

True to its Multi-Ride, Easy Use, tagline, the HERO comes with multiple storage options from an Underseat Compartment that can load up to 150kgs to a Back Compartment that can hold up to 20 kgs. It also has a 12V Converter that’s responsible for lower power usage of the wiper, signal lights and tail light without affecting overall performance. Another key selling point here is that it has a USB Port where you can charge your devices; best part, it has minimal effect on the battery life of the ebike.

The recently launched HERO ebike is the brand’s latest 3-wheeler designed to answer every Filipinos riding needs. The HERO aims to become the most practical solution and alternative mobility tool for all, whether it be for household use, service, business, errands and even community.

The HERO comes in two colorways: All Black and Black/Grey.

With its unique Dual Eagle-Eye Headlight that is 3X brighter compared to ordinary ones and is visible

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And because it’s the season to be jolly, the brand recently launched its HATASU Holiwheels Christmas Campaign which is filled with activities and offers you can enjoy! Be one of the 44 winners of their hatasurprize pool of 300k+ when you join the HATASU HOLIWHEELS RAFFLE PROMO! Hop on a holiday adventure with HATASU ebike and earn multiple chances to win when you purchase your dream HATASU ebike from November 15 to December 31, 2023 at all their participating stores and authorized dealers nationwide. Be sure to check @HATASUPH on Facebook to find out how to join. Double the fun with the HATASU HOLIWHEELS FREEBIE PROMO! For every purchase of any HATASU ebikes starting November 15 (until supplies last) you can get the added FREEBIES + additional raffle entries! Find out more at the HATASU Facebook page. Even the newly launched HERO comes with a HATASU Gift Box worth P1,790! Get the HATASU experience during the HATASU CHRISTMAS CARAVAN! True to their mission of becoming a driving force in the electric mobility landscape whilst ensuring accessibility to everyone, the brand is bringing the HATASU experience nationwide wherein fans can test drive the ebikes of their dreams and enjoy booth activities with freebies.

The first stop of the caravan happened last November 18-19 at Panglao, Public Market, Bohol. The brand recently revealed that the next stop will be at Freedom Park, Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija this November 25-26. So be sure to check them out there!

and other In-House Financing from some of the biggest dealer stores in the country: EMCOR, Home Along, K-Servico and more!

HATASU ebike becomes even more HATASULIT with its installment offers!

Interested in getting your very own HATASU ebike? You can inquire at any HATASU Authorized Dealer Stores nationwide or visit the Official HATASU LazMall Store at https:// www.lazada.com.ph/shop/hatasuebike

For HATASU ebike, investing on a sustainable vehicle doesn’t have to mean you have to spend a lot. The brand also has installment offers available for their customers via Home Credit, AEON Credit Financing

For more info and other brand updates, be sure to follow HATASU Philippines on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/HATASUPH and on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@ hatasuph. Hop On, HATASU Na!

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Gift Guide

HONOR Gift Guide If there’s a brand that’s on a roll lately, it’s HONOR. 2023 was HONOR’s year, the brand started the year with a bang with the launch of its HONOR X9a, then followed through by launching the rest of its X-series smartphones. They didn’t stop there, they also brought their two most sought-after smartphones with the flagship HONOR Magic5 Pro and the photography master mid-ranger the HONOR 90 5G. Finally, they capped off the year by launching the HONOR 90 Lite 5G and the HONOR Pad X9 the brand’s newest tablet. Beyond Tablets, HONOR has also launched two laptops earlier this year. The HONOR MagicBook X14 and HONOR MagicBook X15 laptops have taken the stage as productivity machines at a great price. Truly HONOR has created a device fit for whatever you need. If you’re looking for a great smartphone or productivity device, HONOR has your back.

For The Shutterbugs

HONOR Magic5 Pro PHP 59,990 HONOR has cemented itself as one of the best camera smartphones in the market. The HONOR Magic series has constantly placed highly on DXOMark’s best smartphone camera list and their newest flagship the HONOR Magic5 Pro is no exception. This award-winning smartphone has a triple-camera setup that is the most powerful in the HONOR lineup. For the main camera, it has a 50-megapixel shooter with an f/1.6 aperture and OIS. The secondary camera is a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera with a f/2.0 aperture. Finally, the Magic5 Pro has a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with an f/3.5 aperture, 3.5x optical zoom, 100x digital zoom, and OIS to keep the image sharp even when you’re maxing out the zoom. At the front is a dual camera setup with a main 12-megapixel selfie camera and a 3D Depth camera which allows for a faster yet more secure facial recognition on the device.

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Beyond the camera, the HONOR Magic5 Pro exudes premium-ness, after all, it is HONOR’s flagship. It has the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor mated to several of HONOR’s chipsets namely, the HONOR C1 RF to improve communication, a discrete display chip for a smoother and more stable image, and a discrete secure chipset for a more comprehensive secure in your device. It has 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. As for the battery it’s powered by a 5100 mAh battery that supports HONOR’s 66W SuperCharge and 50W Wireless SuperCharge. The HONOR Magic5 Pro has a 6.81-inch OLED display with a 2848 x 1312 resolution. It has a bit of a curved design which helps not only for more screen real estate but also for gripping the phone securely. Running the Magic5 Pro is HONOR’s MagicOS 7.1 which is based on Android 13.

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HONOR 90 5G Another notable phone for you shutterbugs is the HONOR 90 5G. This smartphone features a massive 200-megapixel Ultra-Clear main camera which with the added HONOR Image Engine enables you to capture stunning images no matter what the situation is. The HONOR 90 5G was also made for those who are constantly browsing on their phones. The HONOR 90 5G’s 6.7-inch display is fitting with the world’s 3840 Hz PWM Dimming screen. What this innovative technology does is almost eliminate the flicker on your display. Flickers are one of the main causes of eye strain from mobile devices, making the HONOR 90 5G one of the best smartphones to protect your eyes in the long run. Beyond the phone’s features, the HONOR 90 5G is a powerful device. It’s powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor with 12 GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. It’s powered by a 5000 mAh battery capable of HONOR’s 66W SuperCharge.

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HONOR 90 Lite 5G and HONOR X8a For those looking for a more budget option, there’s the HONOR 90 Lite 5G and HONOR X8a. The HONOR 90 Lite 5G has a smaller, still big 100-megapixel main camera. It’s not the same level as the HONOR 90 5G, but it can produce great and stunning images. The phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor with 5G connectivity. It has 8GB of RAM and 256GB of Internal storage. Finally, it has a 4500mAh battery with up to 22.5W fast charging. Lastly, the HONOR X8a is a great option for those who do want to spend a lot on a great camera. The HONOR X8a has a 100-megapixel main camera which captures great images. While the camera is one of the best in its segment, the X8a is no slouch either with its MediaTek Helios G88 processor. The phone has 8GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage which for most is more than enough. Battery-wise it has a 4500mAh battery capable of 22.5W fast charging.

PHP 9,990 HONOR X8a

PHP 12,990 HONOR 90 Lite

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Double Yet Elegant

HONOR X9a 5G The HONOR X9a 5G set the tone for HONOR in 2023. It was the brand’s first smartphone launched in 2023 and was an immediate success thanks to its great design and durable display. The HONOR X9a 5G is the brand’s durability king. How durable is the phone? To prove it, HONOR allowed us to throw the phone around and not a scratch. You can smash some walnuts with it and it wouldn’t even scratch. Even during the launch, even HONOR was so confident that they had the phone run over by a car and not a single damage was in sight. You might think that for a phone to be that durable it must be quite bulky, and you would be wrong. The HONOR

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X9a 5G is a looker in person. It comes in at just 7.9mm thin with a curved display. Speaking of display it has a 6.67–inch curved OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate. The display’s 0.65mm super-reinforced glass is what makes the phone durable and able to withstand accidental drops and bumps with no problem. A budget-premium smartphone, the HONOR X9a balances great design and performance for its price. It’s powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of Internal storage. It has a reasonably good 64-megapixel main camera and a 16-megapixel selfie camera. For battery, it has a 5100 mAh battery with 40W HONOR SuperCharge.

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Battery and Value Kings

HONOR X7a Battery life remains a defining feature for most smartphones. While flagships tend to offset battery life with ultra-fast charging, you’ll need to find the nearest outlet in case your phone runs out of juice. Lucky for you HONOR has the phone to beat just that. The HONOR X7a is HONOR’s battery king. It has a rated 3-day battery life with its massive 6000 mAh battery. The battery will last you for days on the HONOR X7a, best of all if you do end up on

the red, there is a 22.5W HONOR SuperCharge to recharge the device in a jiffy. The HONOR X7a is powered by a MediaTek G37 processor with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of Internal storage expandable via microSD card. The X7a has a quad camera setup with a 50-megapixel main camera, a 2-megapixel ultrawide lens, a 2-megapixel macro camera, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. For the front camera, it has an 8-megapixel shooter.

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PHP 5,490 HONOR X5 Plus

PHP 6,990 HONOR X6a

Battery and Value Kings

HONOR X6a and HONOR X5 Plus Other notable value-for-money HONOR phones are the HONOR X6a and HONOR X5 Plus. The HONOR X6a comes in at just PHP 6,990 and is powered by a MediaTek Helios G36 processor with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage expandable via microSD. It has a 6.56-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a 720 x 1612 resolution. It also has a quad-camera setup at the back with the main shooter being a 50-megapixel wide lens while the selfie camera is a 5-megapixel shooter.

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The HONOR X5 Plus will set you back PHP 5,490; which is not a lot to pay for a great phone. It’s powered by a MediaTek Helio G36 processor with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage also expandable via microSD. It has a 6.5-inch LCD display with a 90 Hz refresh rate. Unlike the X6a the X5 Plus only has a dual-camera setup at the back with the main shooter still a 50-megapixel wide camera, the selfie is a similar 5-megapixel shooter.

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Boundless Connectivity and Productivity

HONOR Pad X9 As for tablets, the brand recently launched its newest tablet, the HONOR Pad X9. The HONOR Pad X9 is an 11.5-inch tablet with a 120Hz display with a 2K HONOR Fullview display. It’s powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 Processor with 128GB of internal storage. The HONOR Pad X9 was made for media streaming and binge-watching. Not only is its display excellent but the 6 stereo speakers is one of the best in the market. Additionally, the 7250 mAh battery will last you days on end so you can be sure you can continue watching that drama without worrying about battery life.

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Gift Guide

Boundless Connectivity and Productivity

HONOR MagicBook X14 and X15 HONOR is more than a phone brand. Earlier this year the brand launched their laptops with the HONOR MagicBook X14 and MagicBook X15. The HONOR MagicBook X-series are sleek laptops that have either a 14-inch display (MagicBook X14) or a 15.6-inch display (MagicBook X15). Both laptops are powered with 11th gen Intel processors with the smaller X14 having an Intel Core i3 with Intel UHD graphics with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. This small laptop only weighs 1.38kg and comes in at just 15.9mm thin making it one of the most portable devices in the market. The X15 on the other hand has a more powerful Intel Core i5 processor mated to an Intel Iris Xe graphics. It has 8GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. It weighs 1.56kg which is pretty light for a 15-inch device, and comes at just 16.9mm thick. Both laptops are equipped with HONOR Magic-link which allows you to connect your HONOR phone wirelessly to transfer files seamlessly to enable maximum productivity.

PHP 37,990 MagicBook X 15

PHP 29,990 MagicBook X 14

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Infinix Zero 30 5G Capture your own Story

The Infinix Zero 30 5G was made for those who want to capture their own story. This smartphone was made for those who want to enter content creation or simply want to preserve your precious memories, the Infinix Zero 30 5G is the perfect companion for you. The Infinix Zero 30 5G is a vlogging powerhouse thanks to its 4K 60FPS Ultra Clear 50-megapixel front camera and 108-megapixel Ultra Clear rear camera with optical image stabilizers (OIS). Beyond its camera, the Infinix Zero 30 5G is also quite the beauty, with its Golden Hour Design. The Zero 5G’s three beautiful hues (Golden Hour, Rome Green, and Fantasy Purple) take inspiration from one of nature’s most beautiful scenes, the alluring sunset. The gradient colors and glistening textures look to capture the magical moment. The Infinix Zero 30 5G is powered by the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8020 processor and paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. This combo and Infinix’s 9GB extended RAM feature make the Zero 30 5G one of the most powerful devices in the market. You won’t also worry about losing juice thanks to the 5000 mAh battery. The Infinix Zero 30 5G’s battery is sure to keep up with your day no matter how long it may be. If you do find yourself needing to recharge it won’t take long thanks to the 68W Super Charge about to top your device from 0% to 80% in just 30 minutes. With its bang for the buck pricing, the Infinix Zero 30 5G is a must-have for those looking to upgrade their smartphone this holiday season.

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Infinix NOTE 30 5G 5G Ultra Fast Gameplay

The Infinix NOTE 5G was made for gamers and aspiring streamers. It is fitted with a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor and paired with 8GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage. You can access even more RAM (up to 16GB) with the phone’s expandable RAM feature allowing you to use the unused storage as additional RAM. It also has some quality-of-life features for games including the fast 120 Hz refresh rate display with 240 Hz touch sampling, and bypass charging to not only keep you in the game but also save your phone’s battery in the long run. It also has Infinix’s 45W All-Round FastCharge. Beyond gaming, the Infinix NOTE 30 5G is a great all-around device. For starters, it’s a great video streaming companion with its stunning display and amazing speakers tuned by JBL. It also has a great camera system with a 108-megapixel camera setup at the rear and a 16-megapixel selfie camera. The Infinix NOTE 30 5G stands as the baseline for the NOTE 30 series. For those who do not need the 5G, there’s the base NOTE 30 which is powered by a MediaTek Helios G99 processor. For those who want a bit more power and a few more features, there’s the NOTE 30 VIP and the NOTE 30 VIP BMW edition. The VIP edition has a Dimensity 8050 and also features wireless charging for those who want it.

PHP 9,499 8GB+128GB

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Infinix HOT 30 PHP 6,099

More than what you pay for

The Infinix HOT 30 is the value gaming phone you’ll want. This sub-PHP 7K smartphone is powered by a MediaTek Helios G88 processor with 4GB of RAM (expandable up to 8GB) and 128 GB of internal storage. The HOT 30 features a 6.78-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate with up to 270Hz touch sampling. This means the phone can quickly detect where you’re pressing so won’t miss that crucial gamewinning play. You can also play longer with its 5000 mAh battery which lasts you a whole day. If you do lose that juice there’s you can easily recharge the phone with its 33W fast charging capability able to top up from 0% to 55% in just 30 minutes.

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PHP 3,199

Infinix SMART 8 See More See power

The Infinix SMART 8 is the brand’s newest budget smartphone. It comes at just PHP 3,199 and features a UNISOC T606 processor with 3GB base RAM and 64GB internal storage expandable via microSD. While you might think 3GB is not enough in 2023, Infinix has got your back with its expandable RAM feature allowing you to convert unused storage to extra RAM. This feature gives you an extra 3GB of RAM totaling to 6GB of usable memory. As an entry-level smartphone, Infinix didn’t skimp on some key features such as the Magic Ring which shows you important phone notifications through the phone’s punch-hole screen display. It also has a 13-megapixel rear camera paired with a ring for that perfect “Gen-Z selfie” look. Finally, there’s the 200% volume with DTS Processing to allow you to maximize the phone’s speakers.

Air 1 Pro The Infinix Air1 Pro is the brand’s first True Wireless Earbuds. The Air1 Pro has 13mm Dynamic Drivers. Infinix has rated the earbuds for 4 hours of playing time for the buds themselves and 20 hours total playing time including the charging case. The Air1 Pro connects via Bluetooth 5.2 which can connect up to 10m away. It also has a low latency coming in at 88ms.

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INBOOK X2 Infinix’s ultraportable laptop The Infinix INBOOK X2 is the newest generation of Infinix laptop now better than ever.

PHP27,999 X2 i3

PHP31,999 X2 i5

PHP33,999 X2 i7

The new INBOOK X2 has an ultra-portable design coming in at just 1.24 kg and 14.8mm thin. It’s even lighter than a Macbook Air (coming in at 1.3kg). This makes the laptop the perfect companion for those who need a powerful device while on the go. The Infinix INBOOK X2 has a sleek all-metal (aluminum) design which gives it a more premium look and feel. This laptop is sure to be an eye-catcher in your next class or meeting with its various color choices.

Ready for the new normal, the Infinix INBOOK X2 is also the first and only laptop with a Dual-star light camera. The Dual-star light adds dual LED fill lights in the camera to guarantee that you’ll look your absolute best even in the dark for your virtual meetings.

Despite its small stature, the INBOOK X2 is no slouch. It’s powered by up to an Intel Core i7 processor which blazes through everyday tasks without breaking a sweat. You can even use it for some casual gaming and light video and photo editing. Pre-loaded with the latest Windows 11 OS, you can be sure you’re secured with the latest Windows security updates and software compatibility.

Its 50Whr Super Battery will also last till the end of the day rated to last up to 9 hours in regular working conditions and even up to 11 hours for just regular web browsing. You can also kiss those bulky chargers goodbye with the laptop’s 45W Type-C flash charge, you can use your Infinix Phone charger to top up the device. You can have up to 60% in just an hour of charging giving you just enough juice to end a busy day.

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Gift Guide LENOVO has been at the forefront of creating great laptops and computers. The brand’s massive lineup of laptops is the perfect companion for any type of person. Here are some Lenovo devices perfect for your loved own this holiday season.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i was made to be your reliable travel partner. This laptop weighs just 1.62kg and comes in at just 17.9mm thin, fitting easily in most laptop bags. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i has a 13th-Gen Intel Core i3-1350U processor with integrated Intel UHD graphics. It has 8GB of RAM and includes 512GB of SSD storage. You can also upgrade the internal storage up to 1TB via the dedicated PCI.e Gen 4 M.2 slot. The USB-C port also supports Power Delivery, which allows the laptop to be charged via USB-C or with a PD-supported power bank. This means you can use your 65W phone charger to power the device instead of its included charger allowing you to charge your devices with just a single charger.

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Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i is a versatile laptop thanks to its 360-degree hinges that allow the laptop to switch to tent mode, stand mode, and even tablet model to suit whatever task you need it to do. The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i has a 14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) touchscreen display. It has a 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U processor with integrated Intel UHD graphics or a Ryzen 3 5300U processor with integrated AMD Radeon graphics. Depending on the model, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5/5i can have 8GB or 16 of RAM. Both models will have 512GB of NVMe storage.

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Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 As a convertible laptop, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 also includes the Lenovo Digital Pen stylus which adds to its versatility. The laptop has a 52.5Wh battery which will last you during your busiest days. If you do lose juice, it can be charged with your phone’s 65W via the USB-C’s Power Delivery feature.

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Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i The Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i is a versatile 2-in-1 PC, made for those who want the portability of a tablet and the power of a Windows PC. The Yoga Duet 7i has a detachable Bluetooth keyboard and the z. You can use the device as a tablet, a laptop, and whatever way you like thanks to the versatile kickstand attached to the back of the device itself.

The Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i has a 13inch 2K (2160x1350) IPS display. The Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i has an 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor with Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics. It has 8GB of DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD storage.

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Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Carbon The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Carbon is the perfect on-the-go companion for those looking for an ultra-powerful device with a great design, and a durable body. It is built with aerospace-grade magnesium alloy reinforced with multi-layer carbon Web-Core 2.0 for an incredibly thin, rugged chassis with the laptop coming in at just 14.8mm thin and an amazing 0.97kg light.

The laptop also has Lenovo’s AI Engine+ that helps intuit your needs as you move from place to place, scenario to scenario. Adaptive Performance adjusts for performance or battery life based on usage. Intelligent Sense provides zero-touch log-in, flip to start, and adaptive keyboard light and screen brightness.

The Yoga Slim 7i Carbon 13.3-inch 2.5K 90Hz PureSight display that features a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, an anti-glare screen. The Yoga Slim 7i Carbon ensures you’re at your peak potential anywhere with Intel Evo and features a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1240P processor with Intel Iris Xe Graphics. It has an 8GB LPDDR5 memory and 512GB PCIE SSD storage.

PHP 77,995

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Gift Guide

55-inch PHP 53,995

65-inch PHP 67,995

75-inch PHP 99,995

98-inch PHP 249,995

TCL C755 QD-Mini LED 4K TV For die-hard gamers, the struggle between great image quality and optimal gaming performance has always been a difficult balance, especially for consoles. Gamers often need to choose between getting a TV with stunning images and resolution but compromise with the standard 60Hz refresh rate and lack of anti-aliasing features; or they get a gaming monitor but lose the massive display, amazing audio, and gorgeous image output.

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screen size, and an extended lifespan. With over 1,344 zones, the full array of local dimming corrects backlight and image balance, revealing more light and shadow details. Utilizing Quantum Dot technology, the C755 showcases over a billion hues, expanding color volume by up to 96% per the DCI-P3 standard. Thanks to HDR 1600 nits, peak brightness ensures vivid visuals in various lighting conditions, even in daylight.

Fortunately, now there’s a no-compromise solution with TCL’s TCL C755 TV. Made for the ultimate gamer in your life, this TV provides amazing visuals and audio, while retaining some of the most important gaming features you can only find on gaming monitors. The TCL C755 takes your gaming experience to extraordinary heights, breaking barriers with its astonishingly vivid visuals, lifelike colors, and ultra-high contrast ratio. Aptly named the Ultra Game Master MiniLED Gaming TV, this exceptional TV boasts of precise light control and dimming zones across the screen, ensuring superior picture quality, color precision, and gaming features.

Gaming reaches new heights with Game Master 2.0 technology. AMD FreeSync Premium Pro eliminates choppy gameplay, guaranteeing fluid, artifact-free performance, while HDMI 2.1*4 supports higher resolutions and frame rates. Features like Aiming Aid, variable refresh rate @144Hz, and advanced display/audio tech elevate the gaming experience to meet speed demands. ONKYO’s 2.0 CH 50W Hi-Fi adds another layer to the experience, delivering captivating stereo sound and thunderous bass. Dolby Atmos provides unprecedented depth and clarity, while DTS VIRTUAL:X enhances sound immersion and realism.

The QD-Mini LED in the C755 introduces higher peak brightness, a wider color gamut, a larger WEBSITE

The AiPQ Processor 3.0 is the visual powerhouse behind the C755, reproducing vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and crystal clarity akin to the natural world, ensuring more detailed images.

TCL C755 is available in all authorized TCL dealers nationwide. Prices may vary per dealer.

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Cyberzone, the largest chain of IT retail stores in the Philippines, sums up its own version of Christmas Gift Guide for this year with tech to bring a smile to kids, tech for a cozier home, and tech for the eco-conscious.

Gift ideas that would bring a smile to kids With technology constantly evolving, a whole new range of tech toys is always available for kids to enjoy and take advantage of for better learning and to make their lives easier. If you are trying to look for the perfect tech toys to give your mini-me’s this Christmas, here are some great ideas from Cyberzone:

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Animal Crossing

Overcooked! + Overcooked 2

Video Games

Video games have a bad rep for some reason, but the truth is that they have amazing benefits for kids. They can speed up their response times, stimulate creativity, improve critical thinking, and encourage teamwork. You just need to make sure to choose games that are suitable for your kids’ age. Some fun yet beneficial video games you might want to consider to give kids this Christmas include Overcooked, Animal Crossing, and Mario Kart.

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Oculus Rift

Virtual Reality Headsets

If you want to level up your kid’s gaming experience and really see that smile on their face, consider getting them a virtual reality headset like the Oculus Rift or Gear VR. This will allow them to experience a world of their own creation in a whole new way, and we guarantee they will definitely enjoy them.

Samsung Gear VR

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Tablets

If you are looking for a tech toy that your child can use for school and other educational purposes, a tablet is a great choice as it can be used for both learning and entertainment. There are various useful tablets for students out there, each with their own features. Some of the most affordable ones include the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8, the Huawei MatePad T10, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

Huawei MatePad T10

Samsung Galaxy Tab A8

Bose SoundLink Color

Harman Infinity One

Smart Speakers

A smart speaker is a great way to interact with technology in a hands-free way. Kids can use smart speakers to listen to music and audiobooks but also to ask burning questions they have on their mind. If you have an inquisitive kid who likes to ask you informative questions, this is a great way to get them the answers they need while working as a form of entertainment at the same time. Some popular smart speakers include the Bose SoundLink Color and the Harman Infinity One.

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Instant Cameras

One tech toy that would be a fun purchase for your kid this Christmas is an instant camera. Not only will it teach your kids the value of preserving memories, but they are sure to have a blast releasing their inner creativity with one too. They can also use their shots for scrapbooks, as gifts, or to decorate their lockers and rooms. You can never go wrong with a Fujifilm Instax Mini when it comes to this as it comes with so many different and quirky film options that your kids are sure to love.

Fujifilm Instax Mini

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Gift ideas for a cozier home With the Christmas holidays just around the corner, you’ve probably already started to get your home ready for all of the festivities. Whether you have plans of hosting a party or simply want to make sure your house is in pristine condition for the comfiest holidays ever here are Cyberzone’s gift idea that can make your life easier and more convenient.

Mi Robot Vacuum Mop 2

If there’s one thing to look forward to during the holidays, it’s to get some much-needed rest. In fact, the last thing you’ll probably want to do is think about cleaning the house. Fortunately, there are smart home devices that can help with this chore nowadays. The Mi Robot Vacuum Mop 2 can keep your floors clean on days when you’re just not feeling like mopping. It has a powerful 2700Pa suction fan blower and improved pressurized mopping to ensure that it takes care of any mess effectively and efficiently. With a battery life of up to 110 minutes, it can definitely get the job done every day, so you can just sit back, relax, and get that well-deserved rest.

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Xiaomi Air Purifier Max Pro

It’s not just the floors that need to stay clean during the holidays, though. The air in your home should be kept clean too. With the Xiaomi Air Purifier Max Pro, you can rest easy knowing that the air that your family and guests breathe is always truly clean. This smart home device is said to eliminate 99.97% of particles as tiny as 0.3 microns for areas up to 84 sq. m. Its PM 2.5 laser sensor even automatically sets the fan speed, so you literally don’t have to think about a thing. (That’s why it’s called a smart home device, after all.) You won’t have to worry about noise either because the Xiaomi Air Purifier Max Pro uses advanced noise reduction technology to ensure it doesn’t bother you even when you sleep. In fact, you may even forget that it’s there doing its magic for your home altogether.

Philips Hue White and Color Ambience Bulb Set

For an extra special holiday vibe, consider changing your light bulbs at home to the Philips Hue White and Color Ambience Bulb Set. With it, you can light up your home in different colors, whether you’re having a party or simply want to get into the holiday spirit. Of course, you can choose to just use regular white light when needed as well. What makes this smart home device ultra-festive is the fact that you can also sync it to your music, games, and TV for a truly immersive experience. Plus, you can control it from practically anywhere and even set automated schedules for it, like dimming it at night so you can relax more, or turning on a different color as you work out for those gym-party vibes.

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Sonos One Smart Speaker What’s a party without a speaker? Or what’s a shower session without a speaker, for that matter? Whatever use you might have for it, a smart speaker is one of the best smart home devices to have for any occasion. The best kind, however, is the kind that you bring anywhere – outdoors, indoors, on trips, in the shower. Yes, the shower is important for this.

The Sonos One is our current smart speaker of choice because it isn’t just the ideal size for portability, but it also looks sleek and classy. Despite its portability, you can actually look forward to rich and powerful sound from this speaker, so you can truly enjoy every listening experience. What’s more, you can control it via voice assistant, so you can conveniently change songs and turn up the volume while in the shower. Yes, we’re still in the shower.

Google Chromecast 2

If bingeing your favorite TV shows and catching up on movies is on your holiday checklist, then you need to get a Google Chromecast 2. This handy smart home device can easily connect anyone’s device to your TV, so you can watch whatever you usually watch on your mobile device on a bigger screen. It’s convenient for families to share what they’re watching; and if you have guests over for the holidays, they can easily connect to it too. All you have to do is plug the Google Chromecast 2 into your TV’s HDMI port, tap to connect to your phone, and you can instantly start streaming the content of your choice. It works with basically any streaming app you might have, and you can even use your voice to control it. It’s definitely one of the best smart home devices out there.

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Gift Guide

Gift Ideas for the Eco-conscious Technology is a big part of our lives, but it can also have a negative impact on the environment. From the mining of raw materials to the manufacturing and disposal of electronic devices, the tech industry produces a significant amount of waste and pollution. However, there is a growing movement towards developing more sustainable tech gadgets and accessories. These sustainable choices are designed to minimize their environmental impact while still offering the same features and functionality as traditional tech products.

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Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs LED light bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Plus, they last much longer. This means that even though they might be a bit pricier upfront, you’ll actually save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact in the long run.

As such, you might want to consider changing your light bulbs to the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Bulb Set. Not only does this set include smart energy-efficient LED bulbs, but they are also a fun addition to any home as you can change the colors of your lights as you please depending on your mood and the vibe you are going for on different days and events. They also all work together to make your home life more convenient.

Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Bulb Set

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Accessories Made of Recycled Materials

There are various brands that use recycled materials in their manufacturing process for a smaller environmental impact. Incase has laptop sleeves made with recycled twill, for instance, and they are available in different sizes and colors to fit your laptop and suit your personal preferences. The Marshall Middleton, for instance, is a bluetooth speaker built with 55% post-consumer recycled plastic from used electronics, water bottles and automotive light covers, and is 100% PVC-free.

Marshall Middleton

Acer Aspire Vero

These are just a few examples of the many tech gadgets and accessories that are available today at SM Cyberzone. Make sure to get your #TechAssured products from SM Cyberzone to ensure authenticity, reliability, and durability.

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Gift Guide

MSI Gift Guide If there is a brand synonymous with gaming, it’s MSI. MSI has been making great gaming laptops for years now. They have produced gaming laptops catering to any type of individual, be it a gamer on a budget, a discrete gamer, or a hard-core gamer. Whatever type of gamer you are MSI has a laptop made for you.

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Gift Guide

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MSI Stealth 15 A13VF-073PH

With a sharp appearance and excellent performance, the all-new Stealth 15 A13V is the ultimate work-and-play laptop. With its sleek and elegant design, it does not feel out of place in a board room, yet its specs are a nocompromise gaming behemoth setting you up for an easy victory. The Stealth 15 packs a punch with its Intel Core i7-13620H CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU. Immerse yourself with its 15.6-inch OLED QHD display with 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 rating for those graphic-sensitive work. Succeed at gaming and work, no matter where you go with the MSI Stealth 15.

PHP89,995 PHP146,995

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Gift Guide

MSI Cyborg 15

PHP69,995 PHP76,995

A12VF-499PH/083PH The next phase of evolution is here: dive into the world of games in cyberpunk style, flex your sci-fi fashion, and outplay your opponent with its revolutionary hardware. Incorporating a futuristic mechanized exterior design, the Cyborg 15 A13V is built to be the most ground-breaking, avant-garde gaming laptop. The MSI Cyborg 15 has a 15.6-inch FHD (1920*1080) IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate. It’s powered by an Intel Core i7-12650H CPU paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU, enough power to back up its awesome design. Standout and embrace the future with the MSI Cyborg 15.

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MSIC7UCX-243PH/248PH Bravo 15 PHP38,995 PHP43,995

The MSI Bravo is the brand’s latest product, offering a unique combination of the AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPU and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card. This new standard of gaming gives you the power to tackle any game and workflow in the digital world. The MSI Bravo 15 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 75335HS CPU with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 Laptop GPU. It has a 15.6inch FHD IPS display with 144Hz refresh rate.

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Gift Guide

MSI GF63 Thin 11SC-1468PH

The MSI GF63 has become the brand’s most popular laptop, thanks to its multiple configuration and great value. This laptop has become a great choice for student looking to maximize their budget, thanks to its great performance at a reasonable price. The MSI GF63 Thin is has a 15.6inch FHD IPS display. It’s powered by an Intel Core i5-11260H processor with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Laptop GPU. This combination is more than enough for student’s school work and still has more power to spare for some after-school gaming sessions.

PHP35,995 PHP42,995

WEBSITE November-December 2023

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Feature

YOUR SHOPPING GUIDE FOR CHRISTMAS JEWELRY

November - December 2023

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hat better way to show your friends and family that you love them than by getting them new pieces of jewelry this Yuletide? Not only does quality jewelry help make occasions more memorable, but they’re also amazing investments that can further appreciate the value of your 13th-month pay or your year-end bonus. However, actually looking for the perfect pieces may end up feeling like a chore due to the exponentially worse traffic around malls and other hotspots during this Christmas season. Good thing you can scope out the perfect pieces remotely before deciding to brave the holiday rush or having your chosen item shipped right to your doorstep! If you’re intimidated by taking this route or you’re worried about being scammed out of your hardearned money, here are some tips you can keep in mind to make sure your newly bought diamonds don’t wind up being just coal.

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Feature

Knowing what jewelry is worth Jewelry can be made from various types and combinations of materials. These may include more walletfriendly hardware such as brass, sterling silver, or stainless steel, and precious ores such as platinum, silver, and gold in various amounts of purity. Ornaments such as gemstones, depending on the amount, type, color, clarity, cut, and size, will likewise play a factor in affecting an item’s price tag. There is also the matter of durability. More expensive materials generally last longer and tarnish slower than their more economical counterparts. Lastly, you have to factor in their symbolism, with higher-value materials typically having more special and grand connotations.

always abide by the saying that if it’s too good to be true, then it most likely is. For example, a high-quality, high-purity, and intricately designed gold bracelet will almost never be less than five digits in price. That’s why it’s good practice to know the usual ranges for certain materials and pieces by comparing various sellers. If the price of one seems unusually low versus others, don’t be afraid to walk away. It’s not a steal if you’re the one getting stiffed. Ensuring the seller is trustworthy

While jewelry can be more affordable via online inquiry than just going straight to brick-and-mortar shops,

Once you’ve verified that the jewelry piece you are eyeing is as standardly priced as possible, you would also want to verify if the seller is as legitimate as their goods. One way to know this is by looking for reviews and feedback from their past clients either via social media or search engines. Another way is through having a landline number, which

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indicates that they are being serviced by a telecommunications company and are less likely to be a fly-by-night business. Having a physical store location is also a good sign that you are dealing with a reliable jewelry seller. Pay only via safe means This tip applies specifically if you are buying jewelry online. The safest payment methods for online transactions are via a secure payment

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gateway where you enter your debit, credit, or mobile wallet details in a site marked by a URL prefix such as https://; or via bank transfer. Cash on delivery or cash on pickup transactions are also good, though these mean you would have to have the cold hard cash on you, which may not be the most secure feeling for some people. Sellers who only transact via a mobile wallet should be verified first as trustworthy before you send money as it’s harder to get your cash back this way if they turn out to be a scammer. Of course, the safest way to buy jewelry anywhere is by going to an established, reputable name such as ML Jewellers. M Lhuillier Jewellers makes buying jewelry as easy as can be As an industry leader in pawning and jewelry, ML Jewellers continues to

innovate to bring the highest quality pieces closer to its customers. Those who prefer transacting in a physical store can head on over to their nearest M Lhuillier Jewellers showroom to check out exquisite items and designs such as necklaces, chokers, bracelets, rings, wedding rings, earrings, pendants, diamond sets, gemstones, and pearls. With over 40 stores in major locations nationwide, M Lhuillier Jewellers makes sure that your next awe-inspiring Christmas gift is always within reach. Meanwhile, those who want the convenience of online transactions and delivery can go to the ML Shop website available via the ML Wallet app or via https://shop.mlhuillier. com/. Select items available in M Lhuillier’s physical store, including rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, bangles, earrings, pendants, brooches, and fine watches, are also available via the ML Shop for the ultimate jewelry shopping experience 9

without going through the struggle of the holiday rush. Items from M Lhuillier Jewelers are handcrafted by the brand itself using only the highest quality materials available locally and from countries such as India, Belgium, and Hong Kong (for diamonds); Italy, Spain, and Japan (for gold stocks); Tahiti, Australia, Japan, and China (for pearls); and Thailand, Burma, and South America (for gemstones). Each jewelry piece is guaranteed real and of good quality, making them ideal for the most discerning eyes. Better yet, the ML Shop often features discounts reaching up to 50% for select items! How’s that for value? Make this Christmas one to remember by getting your next jewelry piece from M Lhuillier! Visit https://mlhuillier.com/jewelry/ and https://shop.mlhuillier.com/ for more details. November - December 2023

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REVIEWED BY REN ALCANTARA

SAMSUNG GALAXY FLIP 5 MOBILE PHONE

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say I miss the days when it seemed like mobile phone manufacturers weren’t afraid to try designs for the sake of it. Now, I understand that content consumption and available technology shape the way phones look now, but roughly since the first iPhone in 2007, things have looked basically the same. Fortunately, technology marches ever forward, and now flip phones are well and truly back. At the front of the pack is Samsung’s Flip 5, which we now have the pleasure of reviewing. So are folding screens ready for primetime? We get to find out. November - December 2023

DESIGN The Samsung Flip 5 is the quintessential flip phone, and a further refinement of the flip concept. It folds neatly into about an even square, and everything you touch is either glass or metal, so it feels every bit a premium device. The main display is a flexy 6.6-inch panel that’s a little narrower than most phone displays, and the outside screen packs a massive and very crisp 3.3-inch panel under Gorilla Glass Victus. Aside front he cover screen, there are also two cameras that protrude significantly from the rest of the flat plane of the outside, and a single camera flash that sits

HARDWARE

ingress. Powering all of this is a 3,300 mAh battery. Something that should be mentioned is that while the Flip 5 is a dual-SIM phone, it only has one physical SIM slot, so keep that in mind should you have multiple lines you need to use consecutively.

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The phone packs an octa-core processor that runs at a max clock speed of 3.36GHz, and 8GB of RAM. The main screen runs at a refresh rate of 120Hz, at 2640 x 1080 pixels, while the cover screen runs a sharp 720 x 740 pixels. The main cameras both have 12 MP sensors, and can record videos at 4K, 60 FPS. The Flip 5 can also record slow motion footage at an impressive 960 FPS in full HD. The phone is also IPX8 rated, so it can take being submerged in about 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes, though given the hinge, it doesn’t have a rating against dust

Acer Nitro 5 (AN51741)

perfectly flat, and as such produces an extremely satisfying clap when closed, just like the clamshell phones of old.

USER EXPERIENCE The Flip 5 has been my daily driver since I got the phone, and the first thing that I feel I have to say is how slippery the thing is. I am firmly a part of team no case, and while the phone does feel amazing, it can be as slippery as a bar of soap. I haven’t dropped it yet, but there have been some close calls. The metal sides and extremely flat back really want to slide out of your hands–consider yourself warned.

with the always-on display, so you can stay on top of any notifications that might pop up without the use of a stand. It’s a small thing, but half-open and on my desk is the default mode when I’m at home now. The hinge has been redesigned to close

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The next most important thing to cover is the hinge. It’s very solid, and keeps the phone at essentially any angle you open the device to. This is very convenient when setting the phone on a table and paired

It’s easy to dismiss the Flip 5 as a fancy gimmick, and while there are some things that are still there from earlier versions, such as the crease in the middle of the main screen, it’s clearly much more refined, though this feels as much due to the software as the hardware.

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The external screen for one, brings so much more functionality than before. While it’s limited in functionality out of the box, some extra software from the Samsung app store unlocks the cover screen for any app. It’s not perfect, but for quick tasks such as short replies, a quick

search, or maps, you won’t even need to flip the phone open. This is all the better for battery life too, as with regular use, it just barely makes it to the end of the day for me, and that’s without constantly having to power up the main screen. The camera is acceptable by 2023 standards. It’s capable of taking decent snaps, but it’s easily outclassed by the current lineup of flagship devices, though those tend to break irreparably when you try to fold them in half, so it’s all pros and cons. In my opinion though, the main feature isn’t even a feature at all. It’s the fact that the cover screen lets you choose when to open the device up and commit

to the full-screen time sink. Checking a notification on a regular phone can quickly spiral into doomscrolling, so being able to check notifs, dismiss or see to them as needed, and put the phone away is a great way to stay focused on other things.

VALUE The Flip 5 isn’t for everyone particularly given the PHP65,000 price tag, but if you’re looking for a device that’s handier than most in terms of both function and size, and you’re not afraid to still be an early adopter, it’s really a great device, and my favorite phone in a seriously long time.

SPECIFICATIONS Display: 6.7-inch primary display with 1080 x 2640 pixels resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, 3.4-inch cover display with 748 x 720 pixels resolution and 60Hz refresh rate Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, octa-core with up to 2.84GHz clock speed Camera: 10MP front camera with f/2.4 aperture, 12MP + 12MP rear camera with f/1.8 and f/2.2 aperture, 10MP telephoto camera with f/2.4 aperture RAM: 8GB Storage: 256GB or 512GB, no SD card slot Battery: 3700mAh with 25W fast charging and 15W wireless charging OS: Android 13, One UI 5.1.112

 Great form factor  Large, highly usable outside screen  Solid build quality

WHAT'S NOT  Price  Cameras are just ok by 2023 standards  Middling battery life

BOTTOMLINE

While it might not be for everyone, it’s THE flip phone for good reason.

November - December 2023

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WHAT'S HOT

REVIEWED BY GABRIEL PE

REALME BUDS AIR 5

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WIRELESS EARBUDS

The True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds market has grown rapidly in recent years. They’re a great audio companion for those who want decent sound in their daily commute. Great value TWS earbuds have flooded the market, and among the brands that quickly established themselves is realme with their Buds and Buds Air series. We look at their newest TWS earbud offering, the realme Buds Air 5, and see whether or not the hype is real for these sub-4K earbuds. November-December 2023

DESIGN The realme Buds Air 5 comes in two unique colors, Deep Sea Blue and Artic White. Our review unit came in Deep Sea Blue, which looks really good. It also makes the earbuds unique, considering that most TWS earbuds are either black or white. Taking the realme Buds Air 5 out of the box, you’ll be immediately greeted, of course, by the charging case with the buds within them. Also included are two extra pairs of ear tips (small and large) and the USB-C cable.

Moving on to the earbuds, the realme Buds Air 5 has a stemmed in-ear design similar to its predecessor, the realme Buds Air 3. It was a perfect fit for my ears and was comfortable to wear even in long transits. There was no audio leak whatsoever — great for privacy-conscious commuters on the train. To be honest, I prefer this type of design to the basic AirPods, which struggle to fit in my ears and leak audio all around.

HARDWARE The realme Buds Air 5 has 12.4mm audio drivers with dynamic bass

technology. What makes the realme Buds Air 5 standout is its 50db Active Noise Cancellation, which so far is the strongest in its price segment. It also has one of the lowest latencies in the market, with 45ms low latency, which is excellent for gaming. The realme Bud Air 5 also uses Bluetooth 5.3, making it much smoother, more stable, and more reliable than older TWS earbuds. For the mics, it has six (3 for each ear), which it uses for the smart adaptive noise cancellation feature. There’s also a smart wear detection that automatically plays or pauses your playing media if you remove or replace your earbuds.

Other noteworthy hardware specs of the realme Buds Air 5 are its Google Fast Pair feature, which, for Android users, automatically connects it to your smartphone (if your Bluetooth is open). An IPX5 water resistance protects it from sweat. For batteries, it has 460 mAh within the charging case and 43 mAh for the earbuds. The earbuds will last around 38 hours when used with the case, while about 7 hours for each earbud with reasonable listening settings. Charge time takes about 2 hours for a complete charge, but realme claims you can have the full 7 hours of playback by charging the earbuds for just 10 minutes, though I have not tried this out.

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Moving to the case, it’s portable, coming in at just 30.4mm long, 20mm wide, and 24mm tall. The whole case with the box included weighs just 40g with the buds included in them. The buds themselves weigh just 4.2g.

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realme Buds Air 5

USER EXPERIENCE I have to be honest; the realme Buds Air 5 are a great pair of true wireless earbuds, but I personally didn’t like the way they sounded out of the box. Usually, that’s a massive issue for me. Still, fortunately, these earbuds have a companion app with the realme Link app, which allowed me to customize their equalizer to fit my listening style.

masked the rumbling of the LRT well. The transparency mode is also great, allowing me to stay aware of the surrounding area. The earbuds also had its quirks. While I loved the earbuds’ various features, the realme Link app needs a little more work. For some odd reason, even though the earbuds are already connected to my phone, the app still can’t detect them. You’ll need to reconnect them again to fix

There are also great touch controls. The realme Buds Air 5 has some of the most responsive touch controls in earbuds I’ve tried. While they are limited to taps and holds, their simplicity is the best part, as I have not encountered any misinputs from them. You can also customize the controls on the app, which includes changing the noise control, enabling game mode (low latency mode), and the usual next track and play/pause. I also found that the Active Noise Cancellation does its job very well. I’ve been using the realme Buds Air 5 for my daily commute, and it completely

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the issue, which can be a bit of a hassle, especially when you’re in transit.

VALUE Coming at PHP3,499, the realme Buds Air 5 offers a ton of features for not a lot of bucks. While it’s not the perfect earbuds, it more than makes up for its performance, tech, and best of all price.

SPECIFICATIONS

WHAT'S HOT  Customizable listening profiles  Feature Packed  Price

WHAT'S NOT  AptX support would have further elevated App bugs still need some work

BOTTOMLINE A great pair of earbuds for with an even greater value.

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Drivers: 12.4mm Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20KHz Noise Reduction Function: Active Noise Cancellation + Environmental Noise Cancellation, 50db Active Noise Cancellation 2.0, 4000 Hz Ultra-wide Band Noise Cancellation, Smart Adaptive Noise Cancellation. Mic: 3pcs per side Bluetooth: 5.3 Wireless range: 10m Supported Audio Formats: AAC, SBC Control: Double Tap, Triple Tap, Touch and Hold Battery: Charging case: 460mAh, Earbud: 43mAh; Playback Earbuds only: 7H Earbuds + Case: 38H (50% Volume, AAC, Normal Mode) Dimension: Charging case: 30.4 x 20 x 24mm Weight: Charging case: 36.7g, Earbuds: 4.4g.

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REVIEWED BY GABRIEL PE

HONOR X6A SMARTPHONE

HONOR Philippines is ramping up its presence in the country with three new phone launches, bringing in the mid-range powerhouse HONOR 90 Lite 5G, and the entry-level HONOR X5 Plus and the HONOR X6a. Here with us is the HONOR X6a, a sort of middle child at the recent launch and the newest member of the HONOR X-a series introduced earlier this year. November-December 2023

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DESIGN The HONOR X6a’s design bears similarities to its X-series sibling, particularly the HONOR X8a. It has a similar boxy shape with a similar camera layout. Our review unit was the Midnight Black color, but there’s also a Silver Sky color for those who are not fond of black. The HONOR X6a has a 6.56-inch TFT LCD Panel with a 720 x 1612 resolution and up to 90Hz refresh rate. Also on the display is the 5-megapixel selfie camera. At the back is the familiar camera setup with a 50-megapixel shooter, a 2-megapixel macro camera, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. Finally, on the bottom is the USB-C charging port, the downward firing

speaker, a mic hole, and the 3.5mm headphone jack. On the right are the volume and power buttons. On top is the sim-card tray with the micro-SD slot and another mic hole.

In terms of gaming, I tried Genshin Impact and League of Legends: Wild Rift. Unfortunately, Genshin Impact was a nogo. Wild Rift was able to run but achieved only 40-45fps at the lowest setting.

HARDWARE

The camera is where the HONOR X6a distinguishes itself from the pack. 50-megapixels may not sound like a lot compared to its bigger siblings, but definitely a highlight for a phone at this price point. Daylight shots are decent and social media-worthy. Low-light and nighttime photos can be hit or miss, as expected.

Powering the HONOR X6a is a Helio G36 processor with a PowerVR GE8320 GPU. The phone has 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage but is expandable via microSD. Right off the bat, let me tell you, this phone is not meant for gaming or any hardware-intensive tasks. It scored 150823 in Antutu V10, and 153 pts for single-core performance and 727 pts for multiscore performance for Geekbench 6. Finally, it scored 5171 for PCMark for Android.

Finally, it has a 5200mAh battery that lasted me around a day and a half, just about the advertised (2-day) battery life. For straight usage, you’re expected to last around 19 hours, based on PCMark’s battery test — pretty good, if you ask me.

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HONOR X6a

USER EXPERIENCE The HONOR X6a is an entry-level smartphone and is pretty basic. Nevertheless, it can handle most daily browsing chores as well as video streaming on Netflix or YouTube. Speaking of streaming, the audio quality of the speakers is also fine. It’s loud when you punch it to full volume and able to fill a small room easily. There’s some noticeable lack of lows and bass, but this can be easily solved by using your own headset or an external speaker. The HONOR X6a isn’t the fastest phone, nor does it aim to be. Using the phone you’ll notice some slowdowns here and there, but that’s due to hardware limitations. The Helio G36 is not a fast processor, and the limited 4GB of RAM hinders any chance of multi-tasking. Is that a bad thing? It depends on what you want from a phone. If you’re just looking for a simple phone, then the 4GB RAM would be enough to run a single game or

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2 smaller apps. If you’re a power user who wants to stream while playing a game, then the HONOR X6a is not made for you.

VALUE Coming in at PHP6,990, the HONOR X6a is a simple smartphone that delivers on all the essential stuff. If you’re looking for a simple phone or a secondary phone, the HONOR X6a should be good enough. But for anyone looking to game, multi-task, or any other power use, then you might consider its more powerful siblings.

SPECIFICATIONS

WHAT'S HOT  Affordable price Good battery life

The HD Camera captures details in both distant and close shots.

WHAT'S NOT  4GB is too small for 2023  Not made for power users

BOTTOMLINE The Honor X6a is not a standout, but is nonetheless a great device.

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Display: 6.56-inches LFT LCD, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 720 x 1612 resolution, Dynamic Dimming Processor: MediaTek Helio G36 Graphics: PowerVR GE8320 Memory: 4GB Storage: 128GB expandable via MicroSD OS: MagicOS 7.1, based on Android 13 Camera: Rear: 50-megapixel (f/1.8) Main Camera, 2-megapixel (f/2.4) Depth Camera, 2-megapixel(f/2.4) Macro Camera, Front: 5-megapixel Camera (f/2.2) Battery: 5200mAh with 22.5W HONOR SuperCharge Connectivity: Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C 2.0, 3.5mm headphone jack Other features: Side-mounted Fingerprint Dimension: 163.3 x 75.1 x 8.4mm Weight: 188g Colors: Midnight Black, Sky Silver

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REVIEWED BY ALYSSA SILVA

HONOR X5 PLUS SMARTPHONE

HONOR X5 Plus is a budget-friendly smartphone with a decent camera system, a large and vibrant display, and a long-lasting battery. But is it powerful enough to handle demanding games and tasks?

November-December 2023

DESIGN The HONOR X5 Plus got my attention due to its design and weight. To start off, my test unit was a simple black in plastic-matte finish that depicts the Midnight Sky which, for me, is the epitome of minimalistic design. Some gradient or shimmer effect would have been a nice touch to truly reflect the Midnight Sky. It is also available in Cyan. The HONOR X5 Plus is lightweight and comfortable to hold. At just 188g, it’s significantly lighter and easy to carry it around in my hand or pocket for long periods of time. The back camera housing design is also well-designed with a circular shape, blending in perfectly with the overall look of the smartphone. In addition to its sleek and modern appearance, the HONOR X5 Plus is easy to grip, being just 8.35mm thin, and having rounded edges. gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

The HONOR X5 Plus has a single SIM card tray and a hybrid slot that can hold another SIM card or a memory-expanding microSD card. This is placed at the top part of the smartphone, beside the microphone. The bottom is where the earphone jack, loudspeakers, microphone, and USB Type-C port for charging are located. On the right side are the power button that doubles as a fingerprint scanner and the volume buttons. Inside the box, aside from the smartphone, are the TPU protective case, the 5200mAh battery with its USB Type-C cable, the eject pin, quick start guide, and the warranty card.

HARDWARE With a commendable 5200mAh battery, the HONOR X5 Plus has power for at least 2 days, which legitimately captures the meaning of long-lasting in using this smartphone. I used it for photography and gaming for two days, and the battery life stayed at over 30%. How about performance? Its Geekbench 6 single-core score came to 186, while the multi-core score was 837 — not stellar figures, but well within expectations from a budget-friendly smartphone. Powered by a Mediatek Helio G36 processor, the HONOR X5 Plus has an octa-core chipset that is designed for casual gaming. It has a clock speed of up to 2.2GHz and comes with 4GB RAM and 64GB of storage.

Do note that the processor of HONOR X5 Plus is not able to achieve high-quality graphics when playing Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Honkai: Star Rail. The games suggest low graphics settings for a lag-free experience. On the plus side, the operating system of HONOR X5 Plus runs on MagicOS version 7.1 based on Android 13, which means that the smartphone will benefit from all of the latest features and security improvements that Android 13 offers.

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HONOR X5 Plus

USER EXPERIENCE The 50MP f/1.8 main camera with 2MP f/2.4 depth sensor on the HONOR X5 Plus is able to capture clear and detailed photos in most lighting conditions. However, the photos can sometimes lack brightness and saturation, especially in low-light conditions. I also found that the camera can sometimes be difficult to focus. As for its front camera, 5MP with an F/2.2 aperture is also enough to capture clear photos, although sharpness and detail are not as good as the main camera. Videos recorded with the main camera are clear at 1080p resolution, but the lower 30fps frame rate can result in a lack of smoothness, especially when recording fast-moving subjects. The HONOR X5 Plus has a wide 6.56inch Water Drop display screen, perfect for watching movies and videos, playing games, and doing some productivity tasks such as video editing and typing on Google Docs. The phone comes preinstalled with the full suite of Google apps such as Play Store, Gmail, Maps, Drive,

November-December 2023

Google TV, Meet, and Google Photos, so if you are a longtime user of Google apps, then you’ll feel right at home on the HONOR X5 Plus. With a resolution of 1612×720 and 90Hz refresh rate, the visuals are good enough to look smooth. However, pixels can still be noticed in videos, a common trade-off on budget smartphones. Audio from its loudspeakers is crisp and clear, great for watching action films or series on this smartphone. The HONOR Share feature makes it convenient to share files with other HONOR devices. Sharing files to other Android phones is similarly seamless with no complications. As for gaming, I tried to play Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and, although I was able to play with the game, I experienced quite a bit of lagging. I also tried to play Honkai: Star Rail, but downloading the gaming assets took very long, and the graphics were of poor quality. I was able to play some casual games such as Angry Birds 2 and Penguin Diner with graphics that are their highest quality, for a truly fun experience.

VALUE Overall, the HONOR X5 Plus is a great phone for students and working professionals looking for an affordable and reliable device with a good display, long-lasting battery life, and a decent main camera system. The HONOR X5 Plus is priced at a very affordable PHP5,490.

SPECIFICATIONS

WHAT'S HOT

The HD Camera captures details in both distant and close shots.

 Long battery life

WHAT'S NOT  Processor Photos lack brightness and saturation

BOTTOMLINE An affordable smartphone for students and working professionals.

November-December 2023

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Colors: Cyan Lake, Midnight Black Dimensions: 163.32 x 75.07 x 8.35 mm Weight: 188g Display: 6.5inches, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 720 x 1612 resolution Processor: Mediatek Helio G36 CPU Type: Octa-core GPU: IMG GE8320 Storage: MicroSD OS: MagicOS 7.1 (Based on Android 13) Memory: 4GB+64GB Camera: Dual Rear: 50 MP camera (f/1.8)+depth camera (f/2.4), Front: 5 MP Camera (f/2.2 aperture) Battery: 5200 mAh Connectivity: Type-C, USB 2.0, 3.5mm headphone jack

MOBILITY

THE NEW

HYUNDAI CUSTIN EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL

November - December 2023

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he newest nameplate introduced by Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. is the new Custin, a large MPV positioned to elevate the level of standards of a modern family carrier. Those who value the “luxuries of life” will experience exceptional comfort, safety, and technology.

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

The exterior embraces the brand’s Sensuous Sportiness design concept. Fronted by the parametric diamond design grille with hidden daytime running lights, this carries over to the sides into the turn signal lamps, door handles, and sill trims. Behind are aircraft wing-like taillights. The usual Hyundai emblem has been switched up to spell out the letters. Special 18inch dynamic blade aluminum alloy wheels complete the look.

most particularly in tight parking spaces. The top-of-the-line variant of the Custin comes with a 7-seat configuration that boasts of 2nd row captain chairs with a relaxation mode, which can be activated using the infotainment screen or the one-

touch buttons on the armrest. These have a 10-way power seat adjustment, for the ideal “zero gravity” position, as well as ventilating and heating functions for an even more relaxed ride. Completing these interior comfort features are the dual sunroof, rear curtains, and backseat tables with tablet stand.

The interior is inspired by one of the best forms of luxury, the private jet. It has a slimmer cockpit and flatter floor for maximum comfort. With an overall length of 4,950mm and a 3,055mm wheelbase, the Custin leads in space. Its 170mm ground clearance allows easier access for young children and elderly passengers. Additionally, it has Smart Power Sliding doors for safer entry and exit of passengers, November - December 2023

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As for comfort and convenience, the Custin is equipped with a 10.4inch large Infotainment System, that doubles as the surround and rearview monitor. Apple Car Play and Android Auto come as standard. Wireless chargers in the 1st and 2nd rows are also available to ensure on-the-go connectivity.

The New Custin is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo-charged Smartstream engine. Mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission, its maximum power output is 170ps, while maximum torque is 253nm. It employs a Continuous Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology that better controls the valve opening and closing time, as well as an Integrated Thermal Management System (ITMS), which improves the warm-up and flow of coolant in each state of use. These result in more optimal engine performance and improved fuel efficiency.

Cross-traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, and Rear Occupant Alert. Apart from these ADAS features, there are 4 drive modes — Comfort, which is the default; Sport, for a more spirited vehicle performance; Eco, for energy saving; and Smart, which automatically adjusts to either of the first three based on driving habits and conditions. It also operates with a button-type shift-by-wire transmission alongside an Electronic Parking Brake and Drive Mode selector.

Hyundai SmartSense in the Custin includes Forward-Collision Avoidance (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Blindspot Collision Avoidance (BCA), Safe Exit Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Rear

The New Custin is offered in 2 variants — GLS that comes with a black interior, and Premium with a gray interior. Starting price is PHP1,770,000. Color options are Aurora Pearl Blue, Polar White, and Military Gray Metallic. It comes with a 5-Year or 200,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

MITSUBISHI TRITON GO BEYOND LIMITS itsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) has officially started pre-booking for the All-New Triton, following the announcement of its upcoming launch in January 2024 during MMPC’s 60th Anniversary Expo. Bearing a new name, the highly anticipated new pick-up model represents a significant transformation in MMPC’s pick-up lineup. It also reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering vehicles that exceed expectations. The transition from the “Strada” to the “Triton” nameplate signifies a profound evolution in the brand’s approach to pick-up trucks. The Triton name projects the image of a more advanced and refined pick-up truck that goes beyond limits, indicating that this vehicle is not merely an upgrade but an entirely new experience to enhance the journey of life. Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology where Triton was the powerful god of the sea, the All-New

November - December 2023

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November - December 2023

MOBILITY

Mitsubishi Triton pick-up also symbolizes a powerful figure with its powerful performance and elegant features. Crafted to endure challenging weather and road conditions, the Triton embodies ruggedness, reliability, and trustworthiness. The All-New Mitsubishi Triton promises secure and comfortable off-road family expeditions, transforming each journey into a remarkable exploration. All-New Design with Bolder and Tougher Look The all-new exterior design features a more aggressive front fascia with cunning headlights combined with a massive square-shaped grille. It also sports Mitsubishi’s iconic Dynamic Shield Design to complete the overall look. The new model also possesses a tougher design, longer overall length, and a wider stance, which exudes a dominating presence on the road. The Triton is available in 7 color variants, including the new colors Yamabuki Orange and Blade Silver. All-New High Power Engine The Mitsubishi Triton houses a newly developed 2.4-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine with a ‘two-stage’ turbo capable of producing 204PS of power with 470Nm of maximum torque. It is now more responsive and more powerful than ever. November - December 2023

All-New Chassis & Suspension Rigorously tested to provide increased strength and reduced overall weight, the improved suspension design with a new shock-absorption system ensures excellent comfort even in the harshest terrain. Bigger Cargo Space Built for superb practicality, the All-New Triton now has larger cargo bed space with dimensions of 2340 (L) x 1580 (W) x 515mm (H) which can fit a Euro palette (120 x 80cm) crosswise even with bed-liner. It also has a lower bed floor height of 821mm, making loading and unloading easier and more convenient. Reimagined Interior with New Audio System With the driver and passengers in mind, the interior design has been improved to provide a more comfortable and spacious cabin with all important amenities within your reach. With the roomier interior paired with enhanced connectivity options through its new 9-inch display audio system, the Mitsubishi Triton is built to elevate your adventures to a whole new level.

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Enhanced Safety Features Equipped with Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with pedestrian detection and object detection, the Triton offers improved safety for driver and passengers. The Triton Athlete variant also has a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) that notifies the driver via visual and audible warnings if an approaching vehicle is detected while reversing. As added safety, it is also equipped with Multi-Around View Monitor offering safer and more confident maneuvering in tight spaces. Exclusive promos and prices are offered to early birds who will reserve before January 25, 2024. Prices for the different variants are listed below.

VARIANT

SRP

All-New Triton GL 2WD MT All-New Triton GLX 2WD MT All-New Triton GLX 2WD AT All-New Triton GLS 2WD AT All-New Triton GL 4WD MT All-New Triton GLX 4WD MT All-New Triton Athlete 4WD AT

PHP1,134,000 PHP1,311,000 PHP1,383,000 PHP1,582,000 PHP1,157,000 PHP1,561,000 PHP1,915,000

This all-new pickup truck showcases the culmination of Mitsubishi Motors’ dedication to innovation, performance, and design, all while staying true to the legacy of Triton, the god of the sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to be among the first to experience the Triton’s power, versatility, durability, and unmatched adventure. Live tough, drive strong with the All-New Mitsubishi Triton. Follow Mitsubishi Motors Philippines’ official Facebook page for updates and visit https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com.ph/ all-new-triton to secure your reservation and be part of this exciting new era of pickup trucks.

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

YAMAHA FEEL LIFE

November - December 2023

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amaha Motor Co., Ltd. participated in the Japan Mobility Show 2023 organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc., with its booth titled “Feel Life.” The booth will had motorcycles, electric commuter vehicles, electrically power-assisted bicycles, and more on display, including six world premiere models. Additionally, the booth also introduced audio technologies, products, and more from Yamaha Corporation—which shares the Yamaha brand with Yamaha Motor—and featured stage demonstrations and other events showcasing the latest technologies from the two Yamahas.

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

MOTOROiD2 What will human–machine interfaces actually be like in the future? This experimental model melds mobility with intelligent technologies in order to study that question. Yamaha Motor hypothesized that achieving a closer relationship between rider and machine in which they resonate harmoniously with each other like partners would lead to new forms of Jin-Ki Kanno, and since unveiling the MOTOROiD in 2017, the Company has since continued its R&D into technologies, designs, and more based on that concept. As a further evolution of the original MOTOROiD, MOTOROiD2 is also a vehicle for personal mobility that can recognize its owner, get up off its kickstand, and move alongside its rider, but also has a distinctly lifelike feel when somebody is riding on its back and has a presence more like a lifetime companion. The Active Mass Center Control System (AMCES) for attitude sensing and self-balancing as well as the image recognition AI system for recognizing and reacting to the owner’s face and gestures have both been further refined. Additionally, MOTOROiD2 features a new Leaf structure unlike any motorcycle before, giving the model a chassis specialized for lifelike and complementary reactions to the rider.

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TRICERA This three-wheel open-top electric autocycle pursues the unfiltered joy derived from operating a highly responsive vehicle. Its development concept is “Exciting Urban Mobility: When one’s body and mind and the machine become an organic whole.” This vehicle for personal mobility not only delivers the unparalleled feeling of freedom of an open-top car but also a new Kando-filled driving experience with its three-wheel steering. The TRICERA’s humancentric packaging was derived from the level of controllability felt when changing the center point of the vehicle’s turning circle via the in-phase and counter-phase of the rear wheel. Additionally, enabling the user to select a manual mode for rear-wheel steering allows for the sense of accomplishment that comes when acquiring and developing new driving skills. Modern mobility is shifting toward automated driving, but that is precisely why Yamaha Motor is going back to basics and exploring the Kando that is created when a person is at the controls.

ELOVE The technologies acquired through the R&D that produced MOTOBOT— an autonomous motorcycle-riding humanoid robot unveiled in 2015—and MOTOROiD became the foundation for developing the Advanced Motorcycle Stabilization Assist System (AMSAS), which frees users from the worry and fatigue that accompanies riding at very slow, walking speeds in particular and helps make motorcycling safer and more enjoyable. The ELOVE was created with “Game changing!” as its concept and is an electric scooter equipped with AMSAS. The standard model pictured will be on display alongside a version with styling co-conceived by a high school student from a remote island in Okinawa, who commutes to campus via a 50cc scooter, and a professional wheelchair tennis player.

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MOBILITY

E-FV This electric minibike for family recreation was developed by a volunteer team of young engineers as a fun side project aimed at exploring the kind of enjoyment possible with electric mobility. Mounting the same power unit as the TY-E electric trials bike, it requires no gear shifting and is a vehicle for purely focusing on and enjoying riding. In addition to its quiet operation unique to EVs, it mounts Yamaha Corporation’s Active Sound Control technology, allowing the rider to enjoy exhaust notes and the like from conventional gasolinepowered vehicles when starting it up or turning it off.

Y-00Z MTB

Y-01W AWD

Developed based on a “Yamaha Motor Off-Road DNA” concept, this is a technical showcase of what is possible with eMTB technologies. It combines a split arrangement for the drive unit with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system employing a magnetostrictive torque sensor proven on our PAS line of electrically power-assisted bicycles. The result is both excellent handling and stability in off-road riding.

This adventure eBike combines a center-mounted electric motor and a hub motor at the front for two-wheel drive. Coordinated electronic control of the two motors, twin batteries enabling long-distance rides, wide tires, and more give the Y-01W AWD excellent off-road performance and it is a concept model that points to the many potential spheres of riding open to e-Bikes.

November - December 2023

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YXZ1000R (Hydrogen-Engine) This recreational off-highway vehicle is equipped with a direct injection 100% hydrogenburning engine and emits zero CO2. Hydrogen engines house the potential to move decarbonization efforts forward while still using internal combustion engines. Yamaha Motor is exploring that potential in order to keep the unique appeal of these engines alive, such as their sound and feel when on the go, well into the future.

TMW Conceived by volunteer project members from the Motorcycle Testing Division, the TMW is Yamaha Motor’s first off-road adventure Leaning Multi-Wheeler (LMW). LMW is Yamaha’s designation for vehicles with three or more wheels that can lean like a motorcycle through turns. The front two wheels move independently and feature excellent adaptability for various surface conditions, and the LMW linkage enables the mounting of a large front carrier rack that stays level with the ground even when in a lean or on an incline. This ample luggage capacity further entices users to venture out for a ride. The TMW is also a hybrid; electric hub motors drive the two front wheels, while the rear wheel is driven by the engine.

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MOBILITY

FORD PHILIPPINES CELEBRATES GLOBAL CARING MONTH ord Philippines successfully celebrated Global Caring Month last September with 6 community activities participated by over 150 Ford and dealer employees that generated over 1,260 volun-teer hours.

families in GK villages in Metro Manila and Lambunao in Iloilo received baskets of fresh vegetables that boost their nutrition and overall well-being.

Ford, in partnership with Gawad Kalinga (GK) Foundation, conducted farm produce packing and donation activities participated by Ford Philippines employees and Ford Iloilo dealer employees in September 8 and September 15, respectively. Over 800

Over 50 employees from Ford Philippines and various Ford dealers participated in a tree planting activity on September 15 in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), which generated a total of 1,875 seedlings of native and fruit-bearing trees in Antipolo City. The initiative also provided an additional

November - December 2023

source of income for farmers and members of the Malayang Samahan ng mga Katutubo ng Antipolo City (MASAKA) Inc. and Dulhogan Peoples Association as beneficiary and partner in monitoring and maintenance of the reforestation sites. Complementing this activity was another tree-planting initiative in Cebu also in partnership with PBSP participated by over 30 Ford Philippines, Ford Cebu, and Ford Talisay dealer employees on September gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

16, where over 5,000 seedlings of native and fruit-bearing trees were planted in Buhisan Watershed Forest Reserve in Cebu. Both tree-planting activities were part of Ford’s commitment to plant 20,000 trees in 2023 which will cover 12 hectares of reforestation sites in Marikina Watershed in Rizal and Buhisan Watershed in Cebu. Ford Philippines is a staunch partner of

PBSP in its environment program. In recent years, Ford has partnered with Motolite and PBSP for the Balik-Baterya Program, where proceeds of the battery recycling project will be donated to support PBSP’s watershed rehabilitation program.

visits to the Anawim Lay Missions Foundation and Mother of Mercy Home of Elderly & Abandoned where the volunteers also donated basic needs and supplies to the elderly beneficiaries. This initiative was in partnership with the AMCHAM Foundation.

To culminate Ford’s celebration of Global Caring Month, close to 30 Ford Philippines and Ford Cainta dealer employees participated in back-to-back

“We thank all our Ford employee and dealer employee volunteers as well as NGO partners for dedicating their time and talent that led to the successful implementation of our community pro-grams for this year’s Ford Global Caring Month in the Philippines,” shares Josie Gonzalez, direc-tor for government and corporate affairs, Ford Philippines. “This is one of our biggest Global Car-ing Month celebrations to date and we are committed to continuing our efforts to uplift and trans-form the lives of our beneficiaries and communities we serve with our programs centered around environment protection, health and nutrition, sustainable community development, and educa-tion.”

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

TOYOTA COMMUNITY SHUTTLE

Toyota partners with Santa Rosa and Pasay cities for free community shuttle, eases commuting with an app oyota Motor Philippines Corporation has partnered with the City Government of Santa Rosa and the City Government of Pasay for the Toyota Community Shuttle (TCS) – a free on-demand, shared transportation service, which will be delivered via a digital interface. Under separate agreements, TMP is providing each city government with a fleet of five brand-new and airconditioned Toyota Lite Ace units that will run on flexible routes within city boundaries. The TCS is set to provide free rides for a year starting December 1, 2023, in Santa Rosa City and December 2, 2023, in Pasay City. “TMP is offering the TCS as part of the Company’s corporate social responsibility and in commemoration of TMP’s 35th anniversary. Through TCS, TMP aims to contribute to improving the quality of life in these communities by providing free, easier, smarter, and safer mobility,” TMP president Atsuhiro Okamoto said. The booking service for TCS will be delivered through the myToyota Shuttle PH application — one of the flagship November - December 2023

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mobility solutions of TMP’s mobility service arm, Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines, Inc. (TMSPH). The myTOYOTA Shuttle PH app allows efficient on-demand shuttle management that optimizes route planning and seat booking. Through this downloadable mobile application, commuters can easily book their rides using a personal device, monitor the real-time location, and check the arrival time of the TCS unit.

creating a hassle-free ride experience for commuters. It also complements the current efforts of our project beneficiaries towards becoming a smart city and ‘sustainable eco-city’ through increased connectivity and mobility, among others,” Okamoto added.

“We want to create positive social value in our beneficiary communities through the provision of free mobility. However the TCS is not only helpful in

Santa Rosa City is identified as a “Next Wave City” and has strong initiatives to transform into a “High-level Smart City.” Pasay City, also known as the “Travel City” is leading initiatives to transform into a “Sustainable Eco City.” Both cities are embracing innovation and digitalization to improve the quality of life in their communities in all areas, including transportation. This aligns with TMP’s vision of providing easier, smarter, and safer mobility for people. TMP celebrated its 35th year of incorporation in August 2023 with a reaffirmed commitment to economic and societal development through its automotive manufacturing and distribution business and mobilityrelated services. Globally, Toyota envisions diversified and innovative solutions focusing on “Connected, Autonomous/Automated, Shared, and Electrified” or “CASE” concepts of future mobility.

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

PETRON TREATS UNVEILS FRESH LOOK AND FRESHER DELIGHTS November - December 2023

ndustry leader Petron Corporation is sprucing up its Treats Stores to offer motorists a new era of convenience. Kicking off the rollout of the refreshed Petron Treats outlets, major stops will be opening their renovated stores. These include Treats Tagaytay (Petron Tagaytay Kaybagal), Treats PEC 1 (Petron NLEX NB Marilao), Treats PEC 2 (Petron NLEX SB Bocaue), and Treats PEC3 (Petron SLEX San Pedro) The new Petron Treats stores are expected to delight customers from all walks of life, with their fresh and vibrant vibe. For tired and weary travelers looking for a welcome break, these new stores are sure to boost everyone’s spirits with more exciting offerings, including fresh-baked bread and aromatic coffee. gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

atmosphere. Inside, you’ll be treated to Petron’s exclusive Spotify playlist of happy pop tunes guaranteed to elevate everyone’s overall pleasure index. Feel like shaking off those cramped muscles? Stretch out and jive to the happy tunes! Freshly-Baked Bread: A New Sensation

A Bright and Clean Transformation The first thing you’ll notice when stepping into the new and improved Petron Treats is the transformation of the store’s ambiance. It now radiates a welcoming brightness that uplifts your spirits from the moment you enter. A brightly lit haven with clean lines, well-organized shelves, and a modern interior, the store offers an inviting space for the whole family to enjoy.

The best part about Petron Treats is its range of breads, all freshly baked in-store. You don’t have to settle for pre-packaged snacks. You can relish the aroma of freshly baked bread as you explore your options, from warm and fluffy pan de sal, to filling hotdog rolls to yummy cheesy ensaymada, and other baked goodies. For sure, the Petron Treats bakery section will be a hot spot for customers seeking a quick and delicious snack.

coffee corner can help you unwind and recharge in a cozy environment. A Sense of Community Petron Treats isn’t just your ordinary service station convenience store or pit stop. With its relaunch, it is also focused on building a sense of community, especially for loyal Petron customers. Watch out for games, special treats, and promotional offers with the opening of the new Petron Treats outlets.

To complement the freshly baked bread selection, Petron Treats is also introducing its Signature Coffee Blends so can enjoy a steaming cup of your favorite brew. Whether it’s Cafe Americano, a frothy cappuccino, a velvety latte, or a hot chocolate, the

Having served the needs of Filipino motorists for 90 years, industry leader Petron Corporation is keenly attuned to their changing needs and is constantly innovating and improving its products and services to offer its customers a world-class experience. Upgrading the Petron Treats Store transforms it into a place that goes beyond convenience. With a bright and clean look, a fun vibe, freshly baked bread, and quality coffee, it’s set to become a place where people go not just for necessities but for moments of joy and connection. Experience this exciting transformation for yourself by visiting the new Petron Treats store on your next road trip!

November - December 2023

Coffee Corner: Brewing Happiness

The Fun Vibe of Petron Treats The fun vibe at Petron Treats isn’t just a concept; it’s a real and tangible experience for customers. The store’s new look is complemented by vibrant signage, eye-catching displays, and splashes of color that enliven the

MOBILITY

SUZUKI ANSWERS FOR AN EXCITING FUTURE THROUGHOUT THE WORLD AT JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023 November - December 2023

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uzuki’s passion and excitement to create new answers for a better world are shown at the Japan Mobility Show held at Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo Waterfront City, Japan on October 6 to November 5, 2023. Suzuki displayed its extensive line-up of vehicles along with the message of presenting to the customers diverse initiatives toward a carbon neutral future.

November - December 2023

MOBILITY

The Brightest Booth The brightest booth with the most fun and warm atmosphere, Suzuki introduced various options for mobility and services that are unique to the brand which stay close to people’s daily lives. Suzuki brings together technologies as a general mobility maker answering the needs of everyone, starting with concept models of automobiles and motorcycles, as well as next-generation mobility and outboard motors alongside introduction of multi-pathway initiatives toward carbon neutrality.

Suzuki’s Two Wheels of the Future For two-wheels, Suzuki presented concept and test models which can be expected to be introduced for selling worldwide in the coming years. These two-wheels are also base models November - December 2023

for research in developing future motorcycle technologies.

Suzuki Burgman e-Scooter A 125cc equivalent electric scooter (of the Burgman Street EX), the Suzuki Burgman e- Scooter started as a demonstration project from April 2023 utilizing the exchangeable battery sharing service provided by Gachaco. This demonstration project will collect data of motorcycles used as daily transportation such as commuting and shopping and make use of the results it for future development of electric motorcycles.

Suzuki Hydrogen Engine Burgman Suzuki is conducting research and development of hydrogen engines as one of the multi- pathway initiatives for realizing carbon neutrality. This unit is

a cutaway of the test model based on commercially available BURGMAN 400 ABS fitted with a 70MPa hydrogen tank and engine. This also highlights Suzuki’s initiatives for hydrogen powered engines.

Suzuki e-PO Suzuki introduced the Suzuki e-PO, a foldable electric moped with a 50cc engine co- developed with Panasonic Cycle Technology utilizing battery and powertrain units of e- bikes. It has a stronger assist function than ordinary e-bikes and is able to ride comfortably on automotive roads. The bike has three ride modes: fully electric, assisted, and pedal.

Suzuki e-Choinori The Suzuki e-Choinori is a 50cc equivalent electric scooter and like the e-PO, is utilizing the battery and gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

powertrain units of Panasonic Cycle Technology e-bikes. It is based on the 50cc scooter “Choinori” introduced in 2003, and is proposed as a mobility form which anyone can use as close distance transportation, with simple and lightweight body and battery. Also on display are the latest Suzuki motorcycles which are available in the Philippines the V-STROM 250SX (shown beside the equally popular Jimny 3-door model), the Hayabusa and the GSX-8S.

A General Mobility Maker Suzuki has established itself as a mobility maker creating extensive line-up of vehicles that aids in improving people’s way of life. The brand showcased various automobile units at the show including the eVX, an electronically controlled 4x4 Suzuki SUV; the mini-wagon eWX; the

EVERY CONCEPT which is a minicommercial BEV van jointly developed with Daihatsu and Toyota; the Spacia Concept and the Spacia Custom Concept as well as the Swift Concept. Suzuki also introduced the Suzuki Senior Car which is a motorized wheelchair. The brand displayed its Electric Compact Mobility models too - the MOQBA, a next-generation four- leg mobility which can move smoothly with wheels on flat roads, and seamlessly move on steps with legs; the electric personal/multi-use mobilitySUZU-Ride and SUZU-Cargo and the Suzuki GO! for middle senior age target who continue to be active and younghearted. Suzuki also displayed its LM-A, last mile delivery robot developed with LOMBY Inc. For Marine, Suzuki Small e-outboard concept, electric outboard motor was presented a compact electric model

with Micro Plastic-Collecting Device that is easy to carry around with less maintenance, making it hassle-free and eco-friendly. Another exciting development is Suzuki’s flying car in collaboration with SkyDrive Inc. In the future, Suzuki will start the manufacturing of “flying cars”. A 1/5 size scale model is displayed at the show. Suzuki’s extensive presence at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 clearly highlights the brand’s passion to create an exciting future for everyone worldwide including the Philippines. This will be evident in the new models that the brand will be introducing to the country in the years to come. For more information about Suzuki’s global innovations, please visit: https://www.globalsuzuki.com/ globalnews/2023/1003.html November - December 2023

Gaming

Words by Jose Alvarez

DEVELOPER

Gemdrops

PUBLISHER

PLATFORM

PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch

Square Enix

emakes, remasters, reboots—those are (usually) the orders of the day when it comes to various forms of media. Video games are no exception. When it came to my attention that Star Ocean: The Second Story would get a remaster (or, in this case, a 2DHD remake), my eyes immediately lit up as the memories of a painstakingly difficult yet very enjoyable JRPG came flooding back. As with all remakes, remasters, or reboots, the main question is—does Star Ocean: The Second Story R do justice to the original? How does it keep itself relevant in 2023, a year with numerous contenders for Game of the Year consideration?

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November - December 2023

Gaming

First off, the graphics are nothing short of amazing for a 2DHD remake. The second I opened the game (and, of course, turned up the settings), the visuals popped out at me. We’ve come a long way since 1999, after all, so this is expected. You can play as Claude C. Kenny, an ensign in the Earth Federation, or Rena Lanford, a mysterious girl from the Expelian village of Arlia. Claude ends up on Expel due to an intergalactic mission gone wrong. The mayor of Arlia then sends Claude and Rena to investigate the Sorcery Globe, which is thought to be the reason why Expel is undergoing chaos, and uncover a plot that threatens the very existence of the entire universe itself. Choosing to play as Claude or Rena also affects the events you see in the game, as the story is told from either of their perspectives. There are slight variations November - December 2023

during certain events. Playing as Claude or Rena also means you get access to certain characters. There are also side quests that allow you to recruit other characters for a maximum of eight characters. However, recruiting certain characters blocks off access to others, so you might want to choose who to recruit depending on your playstyle. You can choose a particular character as your leader and control them while setting up the other characters to do certain actions, such as unloading all their MP on the enemy, healing allies, or even just avoiding enemies. Certain tactics allow you to either boost attack, defense, avoidance, or even increase experience and currency (FOL) after each battle. I usually stuck with increasing experience and FOL until I reached the final dungeon and the optional dungeon. These areas contain

some of the hardest enemies in the game (and probably JRPGs in general). You can even summon characters from other Star Ocean games to assist you in battle. I personally chose to control Claude despite choosing Rena’s story, but depending on what you like to do, you can control any party member. Combat takes place in real time, which means there is no fixed position for your party or predictable patterns for enemies. Physical fighters utilize Killer Moves, while casters use either healing spells or offensive spells to wreak havoc on the battlefield. You can stun enemies after hitting them enough, allowing you to kill them a lot faster. In some fights, you might come across enemy leaders. Leaders either buff their party or debuff your party, and killing them stuns every enemy on the battlefield. You can even play on harder gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

“ The insane level of customization is what drew my interest to the game as a kid, and it is no less true now, as Gemdrops has kept many of the original skills and even added a few new ones to boot.”

difficulties in battles: Earth (default), Galaxy, or Universe. As someone who played the original game, Universe is very unforgiving, and the slightest mistake could mean a Game Over. The insane level of customization is what drew my interest to the game as a kid, and it is no less true now, as Gemdrops has kept many of the original skills and even added a few new ones to boot. You can learn a variety of skills that increase

your combat stats, or professions that allow for item creation that are too numerous to list in this article. One of my favorites is Pickpocketing, which allows you to steal from NPCs and even your own party members if you enter into Private Actions (PAs) for some of the most rare and powerful items in the game. Just like in real life, stealing comes at a cost—your relationships with other characters will decrease, which may affect the ending(s) of the game. PAs

also allow you to increase (or decrease) your friendships with other members of your party and thus also influence the game’s endings. You can even get more backstory about your party members in PA mode.

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While challenging if you play on the higher difficulties, Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a valuable addition to any gamer’s library, as the numerous side quests and party customization open up numerous avenues for players to do what they want during the game. It also helps that the game looks great as well. If you want something to sink hundreds of hours into and still feel like there’s more to do, or just enjoy remastered JRPGs from the PlayStation era, I recommend highly that you buy this game, as it was the first JRPG that truly tested my knowledge and skill in the genre.

Gaming

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 PLATFORM

PlayStation 5

PUBLISHER

November - December 2023

DEVELOPER

Insomniac Games

Sony Interactive Entertainment

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omic books have long dominated pop culture. No other genre has captured the imagination more than superhero comics, particularly Marvel and DC comics. There’s no question that superhero comics are among the most adapted media for television, movies, and even video games. A reason superhero comics have so many game adaptations is the allure of superpowers and how people would like to experience them in one form or another. One of the most popular heroes to hit our consoles is Spiderman. As early as the 1980s, game adaptations of the iconic web-slinger have been available. Despite the number of game adaptations of the web crawler, none have gotten the most acclaim and praise than Insomniac Game’s 2018 Marvel’s Spider-Man. Gamers praised its adaptation, including how it was written and how it differentiated itself from most superhero games with its open-world setting and fantastic storytelling. Fast forward five years, and we now have its highly anticipated sequel, Marvel’s SpiderMan 2, and boy, is it fun.

November - December 2023

Gaming

Double the Spidermen, double the story Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is technically not the sequel to the original. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, released in 2020, is the direct sequel to the original game and follows the story of the titular Miles Morales, the second Spiderman. The only reason it wasn’t the direct sequel is that it focuses more on Miles Morales, with Peter Parker, the series’ protagonist, taking more of a side character. Going back to Spider-Man 2, the story follows both Peter Parker and Miles Morales. Unlike the previous titles in the series, the sequel actually lets you play both heroes. Each character has his own story with unique side-missions only available to him. While the majority of the story still revolves around Peter, Miles’ struggles as a Spiderman and development also play a crucial role in the story. The whole (main) story would set you back around 25 hours (without doing side-quests), and for 100% completion around 40 hours. There’s a lot to do around New York City, or even when you’re not on a mission simply exploring and swinging around the tall buildings, you’ll be glued to the game. Webslinging in style If you’ve played the first two games in the series, you’ll be very familiar with the gameplay of this sequel. As much as the first November - December 2023

two games were great, the latest installment just carried over most of the previous game’s mechanics and controls and then some. Even though that’s the case, it does not take away from the fact that these are enjoyable mechanics, and hey if it isn’t broken don’t fix it. For those getting into the series for the first time, Marvel’s Spider-Man is an open-world beat-em-up game. The goal of the game is simply to hit every enemy and try to build up a combo. Once you reach enough hits you fill up your focus bar which can be used to either heal or perform a finisher to instantly take out one enemy. The gameplay is satisfying and with the added feedback from the PS5 controller, it makes the game even more compelling. What sets this game apart from its predecessor is the number of different playstyles you can approach it. While main missions are stuck on a specific Spiderman, other missions allow you to choose between the two. Both spidermen have distinct abilities which while almost similar, do provide a bit of advantage in certain situations. Another unique mechanic introduced in this game is the web wings, which allow the two to glide in the air, seemingly flying across the city. Finally, the last unique mechanic introduced is the web-line, which allows Spiderman to create tight-ropes which expands the stealth mechanic introduced in the first two games.

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I found myself preferring to play stealth than the standard beat-em-up whenever it was available. The game is not a stealth game by any means, but somehow, Insomniac has managed to make it a bit more rewarding than the standard “Leeroy Jenkins” charge approach. The superhero game conundrum Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is a great game, by all means. It has a great story which was wrapped up nicely and satisfactorily. The developers have made room for future titles by previewing future villains and characters, making me want the latest installment to come soon. Unfortunately, I feel most superhero games suffer this same fate.

One thing I found after playing the game up to 100% completion is that the game lacks any meaningful replayability. You can complete around 98% of the game before the final two main story quests, and by then, you’ll be fully decked out. After beating the big bad boss, I found myself not able to do anything meaningful. Sure, the occasional minor crimes needed to be stopped, but after grinding that throughout the whole game, it just became too repetitive towards the end. For me, this game felt like watching a superhero movie. You came for the hype, and the movie delivered, but you’re not compelled to watch it again afterward. Even when it comes out on streaming platforms, you do necessarily rewatch it immediately (except when you’re a diehard fan); since you generally know the outcome and how the heroes get there, there’s no twist left to hook you in. I love that you can still swing around New York after beating the game, but after a while, the allure loses its luster. That said, the more than 45 hours I’ve spent in the game were worthwhile and, honestly, some of the best in recent games I’ve played. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 reminded me of what it was like to play games again when I was a kid —mindlessly swinging around New York City, exploring every nook and cranny without any expectation, and best of all, becoming Spiderman for at least a couple of days. Honestly, I couldn’t ask for more.

November - December 2023

Gaming

Fun Web3 Games Web3 is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sectors in gaming, as it boasts unique features such as true scarcity of in-game assets, provable fairness, and the ability for players to take ownership of their hard-won reputation and achievements. While many early web3 games focused on play-to-earn, there are increasingly more games that focus on fun and immersive gameplay. Spanning various genres from fast-paced battle royales to strategic card-based gameplay reminiscent of Magic: The Gathering, these games invite blockchain enthusiasts and curious gamers alike to discover the future of gaming. Curious as to what gaming might look like in the future? Yield Guild Games (YGG) suggests checking out these exciting, new web3 games.

November - December 2023

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RAGNAROK LANDVERSE

MIGHTY ACTION HEROES

Ragnarok Landverse is inspired by the classic MMORPG, Ragnarok Online, retaining its iconic guild wars and community building features. Veterans and new players alike will enjoy the new Adamantine enchantment system and NFT marketplace. With the introduction of Land NFTs, players have the opportunity to construct and lease houses, earning token rewards and gaining access to other quality of life features, including increased stamina, extra storage, and quick travel. As a secure and transparent blockchain MMORPG, Ragnarok Landverse believes in a community-driven economy and provides a safe space for healthy transactions within the marketplace.

Unleash mayhem in this fast-paced battle royale inspired by action movie archetypes, and use your tactical skills to be the last person standing on the battlefield. Players can collect and power up thousands of collectible heroes, equip them with Gadgets, and unlock stronger Perks by collecting Blueprints and P.A.R.T.S. (Pretty Awesome Repair Type Stuff). Mighty Action Heroes boasts simple mechanics and high-intensity gameplay, playable on both browser and on mobile. The game is currently in open beta, where players can embark on more new quests, new rewards and new hero collectibles.

Genre: MMORPG, Available on: PC

Genre: Battle Royale, Available on: Google Play and Browser

November - December 2023

Gaming

ANITO LEGENDS

Genre: Action RPG, Available on: PC, Mac, iOS, Android Anito Legends is a strategic auto-battler that features characters inspired by creatures from Filipino folklore. Players are equipped with their own set of “Anitos” or spirits to go on quests to conquer towers or battle it out with other players. With game mechanics similar to Axie Infinity v2, Anito Legends is much loved by competitive players in the Philippines. The Anito Survivors game mode was released in September, which is accessible as early as Level 1 for all players. Unlike the regular modes, the Survivors game mode only needs one Anito NFT to play.

November - December 2023

AXIE INFINITY: ORIGINS

Genre: Card-based strategy, Available on: PC, iOS (in select markets), Android With over 1.5 million global installs, Axie Infinity: Origins is a card-based strategy game where players collect, own, and battle creatures called Axies. Players can take down evil Chimeras in the Adventure mode or challenge other players in the Arena. The game introduces a real-time combat system, free starter Axies, and vertical progression through Rune & Charm crafting. Axie Experience Points (AXP) Utility, a system where players earn points in the Origins arena and Ascend their axies to higher levels, was introduced in July.

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PROJECT XENO

Genre: PvP, Available on: iOS, Android

PIXELMON

Genre: Monster Collecting + RPG, Available on: PC Enter the mythical world of Nova Thera, where, as a Trainer, you must lead your team of Pixelmon to victory. Hinging on strong community interactions and meticulous execution of its rich lore, Pixelmon further incentivizes players with NFTs that have Right of Game benefits — simply put, holders of these NFTs have ownership rights over a portion of an item’s or a character’s IP. Currently under development, Pixelmon’s Battle Arena and Hunting Grounds are not due to launch until 2024 and 2025 respectively. In the meantime, their first hypercasual game, Kevin the Adventurer, launched on Base on October 24.

PROJECT XENO is one of the top web3 games in Japan that launched in May this year. Players control XENOs, powerful characters with innate abilities and action cards they can use to gain an edge over their opponents. Choose from six different XENO classes and combine their strengths to win battles. XENOs can also improve their abilities and earning capabilities through variants, weapons, and charms. Players need not purchase anything to start playing, though more powerful XENOs are available to buy as NFTs.

November - December 2023

Gaming

November - December 2023

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PARALLEL

Genre: Sci-fi trading card game, Available on: PC Five Parallel factions are at war over ownership of Earth, and you are called to join the fight. As one of the game’s Parallels, your goal is to use your deck of Characters, Relics, and Effects to defeat your opponent. Each turn, you build energy and unleash more powerful allies, items, and spells. Players can take full ownership of their cards and in-game items in this sci-fi trading card game. Parallel is currently in development, and the YGG community was recently given early access.

METACENE

Genre: Adventure MMORPG, Available on: PC Set in the cyberpunk-inspired post-apocalyptic world of MetaCene, where a fatal superstorm has frozen most of humanity, players must engage in combat with other players and guilds in a series of challenges for a chance to win huge rewards. The game, incubated by Binance Labs, is playable now during scheduled Alpha Tests, with the next in November. MetaCene promises to build a “next-gen blockchain MMORPG homeland for mass players,” where players can receive in-game assets through a series of challenges and use them across all MetaCene realms.

November - December 2023

Cyber Security You’ve interacted with scammers or visited a phishing site. What steps should you take to avoid being hacked? We often write about how to prevent cybersecurity hazards and have given advice on more than one occasion about what to do if your account is hacked or your mobile phone is stolen. Today, let’s tackle a more complex situation: someone is trying to hack or deceive you, but you’re unsure about the extent of the problem. For example: • You clicked a website link in an email or ad, but then had second thoughts and became suspicious about said link. • Someone claiming to be from Microsoft called to remove a virus from your computer. • You received an erroneous bill, called customer support, and they sent you a helpful link to solve the problem and avoid overpayment.

What should you do to prevent hacking?

and money and regain control of your account,” he said.

“We’ve seen it happen time and again how hacking can cause havoc in real life. It’s utterly stressful and costly for the victim. Hackers are tenacious---they use a variety of techniques just to get access to your data or devices all for monetary gain,” said Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.

Don’t give any more information

“If you suspect becoming a victim yourself, the key is to set aside your emotions and respond with the goal of minimizing the damage as quickly as possible. The following tips below will help you be able to recover your data

If you’re talking to someone on the phone — even if they claim to be from your bank or tech support — and the conversation seems even just a little strange, hang up immediately and don’t answer if they call back. Scammers often employ elaborate schemes; they might call from a different number or contact you through an instant messenger — perhaps pretending to be someone else or from a different organization. Ignore them.

This is the first and most fundamental rule that you can apply without hesitation. If you get bad vibes from a website asking for your name, email, phone… or bank card information — close it immediately.

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE TRIES TO HACK YOU November - December 2023

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If you’re communicating through video conferencing tools like Zoom, end the meeting and close the application. Disconnect your device from the internet This is an essential point if you’ve installed any applications at someone’s request, or someone’s done something on your computer using remote control tools — including Zoom, Skype, MS Teams, or Google Meet. If this is the case, there’s a high probability that malware has been installed on your computer or smartphone. To prevent the criminals from controlling your device remotely, immediately disconnect your computer/phone from the internet by turning off Wi-Fi and cellular data. The simplest and fastest way to do this is to activate Airplane Mode on your phone, or unplug the Ethernet cable if your computer is connected to the net via one.

Think about what the hackers might have learned If you’ve visited a suspicious website or talked on the phone, try to remember any information you entered on the site or shared with the caller. Address and name? Phone number? Bank card number? Password?

potentially infected one. Don’t hesitate to ask your neighbors or co-workers for help if you don’t have another device. Time is of the essence here — every minute counts. When accessing any services, enter the site address manually or open it through your browser bookmarks rather than clicking on links in recent emails.

If you only shared your name, address, and phone number, no further action is required, but stay on your guard — most likely the scammers will try to attack again based on your data, possibly using a different scam.

If the password you entered was for an online banking platform, a payment system, or any account containing money, simply changing the password is not enough — take the following steps to save your funds.

The situation is worse if you’ve shared more sensitive information, such as passwords, photos of personal documents, or banking information: in this case, follow the advice in the next two sections.

Contact your bank, credit bureau, or service provider

Change your passwords Quickly log in to all services where the compromised password was used and change it to a new one — unique for each service. If you disconnected your device from the internet, use another device rather than plugging in the

If you provided bank card numbers or other financial information, contact the bank immediately. You can usually block cards through a dedicated hotline, as well as through the mobile application and your personal account on the website. For other types of data, such as bank account details, consult with specialists from the bank or online service about protective measures to take. Don’t wait for a call from the bank – they could be scammers; call the number listed on the bank’s website or mobile application yourself.

November - December 2023

Cyber Security

If you’ve shared extensive personal information or photographs of documents, malicious actors may use this data fraudulently, such as to apply for loans. To prevent this from happening, contact the credit bureau and inquire about available protective measures you can take. These measures vary from country to country — see these examples for the U.S.A., Germany, and Russia — but typically include setting up notifications for any inquiries about your credit history (checking your credit history is the first step in applying for a loan), blocking new inquiries, or self-banning credit issuance — making it impossible to obtain a loan in your name. Check your computer If you followed our advice and disconnected your computer from the internet due to potential infection, thoroughly check it for malware or potentially unsafe software before reconnecting to the network. If you already have a comprehensive protection system installed, such as Kaspersky Premium, ensure that the protection databases have been updated recently and all protection and scanning technologies are enabled, and then run a full scan. It’s crucial to run the deepest possible scan, applying settings that can detect not only malware but also potentially dangerous software such as remote control tools. Remove any detected malware according to the instructions of the security application. What should you do if your computer lacks protection or if the protection databases are outdated? Use another computer November - December 2023

to download protection from the manufacturer’s official website, then transfer the installation files across using a USB flash drive. Check for any suspicious activity After taking all the steps described above, make sure that the attackers haven’t managed to do anything harmful with the potentially compromised accounts. If these are online stores or bank accounts, check your recent purchases. If you see any purchases you didn’t make, try to cancel them by contacting the online store/bank. On social networks, check recent posts, new friends, photo album content, and so on. In messaging apps, check your recent chats to make sure no fraudulent messages were sent from your account. For all accounts, verify your contact information, name, profile picture, address, and payment information. If you notice any changes, it means the account has been compromised; change your password and, if possible, secure the account with two-factor authentication. Be sure to check the information about which devices are linked to your accounts with online services, social networks, and messaging apps. Having hacked an account, attackers try to maintain access to it — for example, by linking their device to it. Depending on the service, this

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connection might persist even after you change your password. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that you recognize all devices and active sessions listed in the “Security” section (this section might be called “Devices”, “Connected devices”, “Recent sessions”, and so on, depending on the specific service). Next to the name of the connected device, there’s usually a button to “Disconnect device” or “End session”, allowing you to kick out any strangers. If you cannot identify any devices and/or sessions listed, disconnect them after making sure you remember your updated password. You’ll have to re-log-in to your accounts with the new password (you changed the password, didn’t you?) — but now the attackers won’t have access. The hardest thing to deal with is the consequences of an email hack. Firstly, besides all the above, you’ll have to check the mail forwarding rules. Make sure that neither your mailbox settings nor your message processing rules have forwarding of your emails to third-party addresses enabled. Secondly, if any other service accounts are linked to your email, attackers can

hack into most of them. If you find any signs that your email has been tampered with, you’ll need to check for suspicious activity and change the password on all services linked to that email address. Prevention is better than cure Following the advice above requires a significant amount of time, effort, and patience. To minimize the risks of fraud as much as possible, it’s best to take precautionary measures in advance. • Protect your smartphone from potential theft or loss. • Use unique passwords and two-factor authentication for every account. A password manager with a built-in authenticator will help you create new unique passwords and store both the passwords and the authentication tokens. • Install a comprehensive security system on all your computers and smartphones. This will prevent most phishing and fraud attempts through malicious emails and links.

“Following the advice above requires a significant amount of time, effort, and patience. To minimize the risks of fraud as much as possible, it’s best to take precautionary measures in advance.”

November - December 2023

Cyber Security

IS YOUR COMPUTER GETTING SLOW? HACKERS MAY BE USING IT TO MINE CRYPTO November - December 2023

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Criminals mine crypto using their victims’ resources Mining cryptocurrency requires a lot of computer power to solve complex mathematical puzzles, adding new blocks of transactions to the blockchain. Once all the problems in a block are solved, the miners get their rewards in cryptocurrency. However, the problem is that the process is very slow and requires an incredible amount of processing power. In fact, the electricity a computer generates would probably cost more than the cryptocurrency it could mine. That is why cybercriminals look for ways to mine cryptocurrency using other people’s devices. By infecting a network of computers with malware , hackers can mine crypto while using their victims’ electricity, devices, and computing power to increase their profits. Victims might not even notice that their device is mining crypto. The only sign may be slower performance and overheated devices. Some of the ways to detect malware — check if your computer gets hot or slow “Detecting crypto malware on your device can be very difficult. It’s designed to be as stealthy as possible. However, certain signs can help you determine that your device may have been infected,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN. The first sign that your device may be mining some criminal crypto in the background is that the device gets significantly slower. Another sign is an overheated device with the fan always on. Lastly, the CPU (central processing unit) usage will be very high if your device gets infected.

ybersecurity experts warn users about crypto malware — a new way criminals use their victim’s devices to earn money. A survey by NordVPN showed that every third user is afraid of losing access to the files on their computer due to a cyberattack. Experts notice that even though the scenario of losing a piece of private information is scary for many people, there are other ways cybercriminals can profit from hacking someone’s device.

If you want to prevent your device from being infected, here are several actions you can take: • Keep all devices and applications up to date. Crypto malware often uses unpatched flaws in systems. The faster you update your software and operating system, the harder it is for malware to infect your device. • Use antivirus software. Antivirus software, such as NordVPN’s Threat Protection, will scan files you download for malware, making it difficult for cybercriminals to install it on your device. It will also block your access to malicious websites, minimizing the threat of phishing.

“The new type of malware we see spreading is crypto malware. The biggest problem is that it is difficult to detect for an average computer user because no data is lost,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN. “You may think you don’t need to worry because you don’t own or have never used cryptocurrency. But crypto mining malware doesn’t typically include hackers stealing funds from the victim’s cryptocurrency wallet, just using their device to mine. And as a result — making the victim’s device very slow.”

• Practice good internet behavior. Don’t click on suspicious links, don’t download suspicious documents, and try not to visit untrusted websites. There are many ways in which cryptojacking malware could be delivered.

November - December 2023

Employment

Docquity Jobs The first regional job portal dedicated to healthcare professionals in Southeast Asia

ocquity, Southeast Asia’s largest professional network of more than 400,000 healthcare professionals (HCPs), connecting two out of every three in the region, has launched Docquity Jobs, the first regional job portal dedicated to HCPs in Southeast Asia. Since launching in Malaysia in 2022, Docquity Jobs has expanded to the Philippines and Indonesia, and is now piloting in Singapore. It now has around 400 employers on board and sees a 30% month-on-month growth, with over 6,000 HCPs visiting organically on average every month. November - December 2023

“Docquity was founded with a vision to connect and empower HCPs to improve healthcare outcomes at scale. Through the years, we have continued to evolve our products and services based on our deep insights into HCP needs and challenges,” Indranil Roychowdhury, Docquity CEO and co-founder, said. “Responding to the career progression requirements of HCPs on our platform, we launched Docquity Jobs as a critical extension of our purpose and business, offering HCPs a dedicated space to connect with potential employers seamlessly.”

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Docquity studies have found that 88% of HCPs in the region are open to exploring new job opportunities. As traditional job platforms are not optimized for Southeast Asia’s medical professionals, Docquity created a regional portal advertising only the most relevant healthcare jobs from top employers within the industry. HCPs can utilize Docquity Jobs to conveniently search for openings according to their desired location, job title, and company type. Through Docquity Jobs, HCPs can also access resources to aid them in preparation for any potential regional transfers. Furthermore, healthcare organizations, such as hospitals, clinics and pharmaceutical companies, can leverage the platform’s insights to target candidates from the region’s largest network of healthcare professionals or improve efficiencies by outsourcing their recruitment requirements to Docquity Jobs’ in-house talent acquisition team. For example, Juan Medical, a homebased healthcare service provider in the Philippines, partnered with Docquity Jobs to help expand its team in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Cebu as demand for its offerings surged.

customized touch enabled us to secure top HCPs for both Cebu and the NCR,” Tanya Marie Cabais-Liscano M.D., medical director of Juan Medical, said.

Docquity Jobs launched a bespoke marketing campaign for Juan Medical, leveraging its wide network of HCPs to quickly reach over 23,300 potential candidates. The partnership enabled Juan Medical to successfully onboard 24 HCPs, for roles such as on-call specialists and nurses, in just 21 weeks. “Attracting HCP applicants had been a considerable challenge as our legacy recruitment processes were not yielding the desired results fast enough. Docquity Jobs made finding and hiring the right talent more efficient, demanding minimal effort from us. Its comprehensive approach and

Meanwhile, Speedoc, a virtual clinic based in Malaysia and Singapore that allows users to seek medical care from home, worked with Docquity Jobs to communicate its employer value proposition and find healthcare talent that met its unique working requirements. Docquity Jobs offered Speedoc specialized healthcare headhunting services and comprehensive management of the entire recruitment process. Speedoc’s campaign reached over 11,000 doctors, with 285 being interviewed one-on-one by Docquity. “Docquity Jobs has demonstrated proficiency and professionalism in candidate management. Their established candidate management process has provided us with candidates that have added tremendous value to our business,” Kenneth Toh, Director of People & Culture of Speedoc, said. Healthcare professionals in the Philippines looking for new job opportunities can visit Docquity Jobs (https://doctorjobs.today/ph/) today. November - December 2023

Employment

TrueProfile.io Filipino healthcare workers discover credible overseas jobs through online portal

ave you ever dreamt of living and working abroad? You’re not the only one. The Philippines, renowned for its exceptional educational institutions and medical colleges, consistently produces top-tier healthcare professionals. Every year, hundreds of thousands of licensed Filipino healthcare workers pursue overseas employment, motivated by the prospect of career growth, higher pay, and the opportunity to work with the latest technologies in healthcare. In 2021, the Department of Health (DOH) estimated that 316,000 licensed Filipino nurses migrated overseas, marking a trend that continues to surge as more countries recognize the exceptional skills and qualities November - December 2023

of Filipino healthcare workers. Just this year, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported that by May 2023, 4,000 nurses had already been deployed abroad, surpassing half of the country’s maximum annual allocation of 7,000. This highlights the increasing global demand for Filipino medical professionals. However, countless others are deprived of the same opportunities. Some fall victim to fake job advertisements, while others struggle to meet the job requirements, have unverified credentials, or limited finances. Fortunately, TrueProfile.io, an internationally recognized online healthcare career hub with over one

million members, is expanding its presence in the Philippines to help bridge this gap and empower Filipino healthcare workers to prepare, apply, and secure medical jobs with credible international employers. Not Your Typical Job Site Considered the leading marketplace for healthcare professionals worldwide, TrueProfile.io is already a trusted choice for over 61,000 Filipino professionals pursuing overseas careers. The platform’s commitment to supporting the success of healthcare professionals is evident through its strategic partnerships with global healthcare organizations, gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

recruitment agencies, and government regulators. Together, they streamline the job application and hiring process, providing a comprehensive support system for applicants from the initial application through to deployment. Unlike traditional job portals that burden job seekers with placement fees, TrueProfile.io operates free of charge, removing financial barriers and giving healthcare professionals control of their careers. Empowering Filipino professionals In the past, Filipino job seekers often relied on private agencies, limiting their choices. Today, TrueProfile.io offers access to over 3,500 international jobs, allowing members to shortlist posts matching their experience and preferred employer, role, and location, and apply directly. Applicants are also encouraged to create a Digital CV and save their credentials and licenses within a Digital Wallet. This convenient feature allows candidates to manage and have full control of their information through blockchain technology, making it easier to access and share with potential employers. TrueProfile.io goes beyond job listings, providing a range of career development services and resources. These include credential verification, licensing services, access to English language preparation, and concierge services. Members also benefit from expert career guidance to choose destinations aligned with their career aspirations. Additionally, they gain exclusive access to a dedicated virtual local community on Facebook, specifically tailored to the Filipino healthcare network. Within this community, they can exchange insights and address any concerns related to working abroad. “TrueProfile.io serves as a unique online career hub, dedicated to supporting the professional growth of healthcare specialists. We recognize the invaluable contributions made by healthcare

professionals worldwide and remain committed to empowering them by providing access to a wide range of growth opportunities. Our platform functions as a marketplace offering personalized services, including the creation of Digital CVs, Digital Wallets, verification, and concierge services. These services help professionals to secure rewarding employment opportunities that unlock their full potential. Ultimately, our mission is to enhance their quality of life and that of their loved ones.” said Sunil Mudgal, head of TrueProfile.io. TrueProfile.io’s credential verification service confirms the authenticity of educational and professional credentials, including college degrees, professional licenses, employment records, and good standing certifications. This verification is mandatory for many overseas positions, granting verified candidates the trust of employers, often resulting in priority status, expedited application processing, and enhanced salary offers.

“Filipino healthcare workers have also been widely recognized worldwide for their outstanding contributions to the field. TrueProfile.io has opened the doors of opportunity wider for Filipino healthcare workers. Since the platform is free and accessible to all, more professionals in varying stages of their careers have a chance to discover and chart their career paths. Our global presence, particularly with healthcare leaders in the UK, Ireland, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, offers limitless employment opportunities,” said Michelle Ibarra, director of DataFlow Group, the principal of TrueProfile.io. Aside from career growth, Filipino healthcare professionals gain exposure to new cultures, languages, and diverse healthcare systems, enhancing their skills and resilience. TrueProfile.io offers a clear path to a brighter international future in the healthcare sector. Professionals can unlock their full potential by signing up at TrueProfile.io for a clear path to a brighter future abroad.

Mudgal further explained the significance of the Digital CV, a streamlined resume designed to enable nurses, doctors, medical technicians, and other specialists to showcase and preserve their verified credentials and skills within a Digital Wallet. This feature significantly boosts applicants’ appeal to employers. They can also make their Digital CV visible to international employers and headhunters with a simple click, increasing their chances of being headhunted by recruiters and healthcare partners on the platform.

About TrueProfile.io

The Benefits of a Career Abroad

As part of the DataFlow Group leading providers of verification services, immigration compliance and background screening since 2007 TrueProfile.io is best placed to enable ambitious healthcare staff to reach their professional goals and secure a rewarding career abroad.

While pursuing a career abroad may not be for everyone, the thousands who embrace this journey often find the experience personally, financially, and professionally rewarding. Tales of hardworking nurses or medical technicians who improved their families’ financial standing or settled their debts by working in other countries are not uncommon.

TrueProfile.io is a career hub for healthcare professionals which empowers its members with the tools they need to build a successful, international career. A free TrueProfile.io membership gives medical staff access to their ‘Career Toolkit’ which comprises world-class verification services, assistance with licensing, CE and training, recruiting services, career resources, as well as free digital CV which can be viewed by potential employers.

For more information, visit: https://www. trueprofile.io/. November - December 2023

Innovation

Six startups were chosen for the annual accelerator program. From left to right are Mikey To-lentino of Kintab; Jaysen Malabanan of Kintab; Antonio Lucero of kazam.ph; Butch Meily, Presi-dent of IdeaSpace Foundation; Ron Castro and Cris Azaña of kazam.ph; Dino Panlilio of Kintab; Alwyn Rosel of QBO Innovation Hub; Ben Alderson of IdeaSpace Investments; Paula Garcia of Molinos de la Especia; Therese Sandoval of Kippap Learning; Casey Driscoll of Molinos de la Es-pecia; Ina Flores of Hey Roomie; Jules Veloso of ITOOH Homestyle; Emmanuel Perez of Kippap Learning; Victor Villafuerte of Kippap Learning; Andrew Bercasio of ITOOH Homestyle; and Jay Fajardo of Hey Roomie.

11th IdeaSpace Accelerator Program

s it continues to foster innovation and empower technology-based startups, IdeaSpace Foun-dation, an MVPbacked accelerator, recently unveiled the six startups selected out of over a hundred applicants to join the next cohort of the flagship IdeaSpace Accelerator Program. This milestone marked the 11th iteration of the IdeaSpace Accelerator Program, underscoring its commitment to nurturing the growth of the startup ecosystem in the Philippines. The primary goal of the IdeaSpace Accelerator Program is to facilitate November - December 2023

the swift expansion of promising technology-rooted startups. Functioning as a foundational support structure for emerging entrepreneurs, it operates on a hybrid model, providing participating startups a dis-tinct opportunity to engage with investors, formulate business strategies, and glean insights from seasoned mentors and entrepreneurs.

committed to being your partner on this exciting path.” said Alwyn Rosel, the Head of Startup Development, as she welcomed the startups.

“We are thrilled to welcome our startups to Cohort 11 of the IdeaSpace Accelerator Program. We are optimistic that the program will play a crucial role in your business’s growth journey. The IdeaSpace team is fully

The six startups headlining Cohort 11 are:

With the theme of “PROPE11ING Filipino startups” this year, IdeaSpace stayed committed to expediting the growth of high-potential technologybased startups in the Philippines.

Hey Roomie, a unique virtual community hub equipped with digital tools to empower anyone gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

to supercharge the growth of their community. TOOH Homestyle, a digital platform that aggregates the finest local furniture and art, bringing frictionless experience to online home shopping. kazam.ph, a platform revolutionizing the connection between Kasambahays and home-owners, presenting a safer and smarter online avenue for direct interactions. Kintab, a mobile car care platform designed to provide busy car owners with instant ac-cess to carwash and service center facilities, eliminating lines and saving valuable time. Kippap Education, an edtech startup focused on empowering civil engineering graduates preparing for their board exams, with a vision to cover all standardized exams in the Philip-pines.

part of the IdeaSpace program. Lastly, IdeaSpace Founda-tion invested in us, which was very significant for our startup. Thank you so much, IdeaSpace! “, said OJ Lopez, CEO and founder of Revastaff and an alumnus of the 10th cohort of the pro-gram, as he weighed in on how the accelerator program had helped amplify the startup.

Foundation plays in the country’s startup landscape.

“Ideaspace plays a crucial role in the Philippine startup ecosystem. We are, as someone said, “a bringer of new things.” We incubate startups and then launch them into the global space. We are a funnel for the entire ecosystem, and we are proud of all of our graduates. We have high hopes for your group as well.” said Butch Meily, the IdeaSpace and QBO President, as he emphasized the role the IdeaSpace

The Philippines continues to establish its position as a notable destination for startups within the ASEAN region, witnessing substantial growth in its share of venture capital funding. Beyond enabling individual startups, IdeaSpace, through its programmatic arm, QBO Innovation Hub, is poised to further its commitment to foster synergies and propelling the Philippine startup ecosystem forward, spearheading the Philippine Startup Week 2023 (PHSW23) along-side the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Science and Technology, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

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Molinos de la Especia, a CPG provider revolutionizing the industry through a tech-driven marketplace for premium spices sourced globally. “There are many opportunities that the program will give you. This year, we’re on the course of doubling our revenue, and it’s because of the program alone. This year, I also represented the Philippines in Washington, D.C., as

Money

GCash Card powered by Visa

Gives millions of unbanked Filipinos access to benefits of having a payment card November - December 2023

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he Philippines’ leading finance super app, GCash, teams up with global payments leader Visa to introduce the new GCash Card – giving millions of unbanked Filipinos access to the benefits of owning a payment card. “GCash is giving every Filipino, whoever or wherever they are, the benefits of owning a card, especially those with no bank accounts or documents typically required to apply for a card. These include Filipinos with informal sources of incomes like freelancers and independent professionals as well as micro and small enterprises,” said Ren-Ren Reyes, president and CEO of G-Xchange, the mobile wallet operator of GCash. With the new GCash Card, more Filipinos, especially those busy with the daily hustle, can have access to another cashless payment option, which they can use for their everyday expenses like groceries, restaurants, and transportation. The GCash Card can be used by customers to shop securely online on their favorite websites and apps. They can also use the card in physical retail stores simply by tapping or inserting the card in terminals.

at over 100 million merchants. This gives traveling GCash Card users and overseas Filipinos another secure and convenient way of paying abroad – whether it be in restaurants, hotels, retail shops, convenience stores, ride-hailing apps and other transport services, as well as other merchants who accept Visa as payment. Jeff Navarro, Visa’s country manager for the Philippines and Guam, said, “We are very happy to partner with GCash to provide the GCash Card to Filipinos, which paves the way to better financial inclusion. With the card’s contactless capability, it enables Filipino shoppers, especially those who don’t usually pay with cards, to shop conveniently and securely, joining millions around the

world who have been tapping to shop, dine, and travel.” Users who have availed of the GCash Card will also have access to GInsure, where they can get free insurance of up to PHP20,000 coverage for unauthorized transactions for the first 30 days after activation. This also includes the PHP185 price for card replacement in the event of accidental loss or damage to the card, as well as the shipping fee of up to PHP225. To order, users can open their GCash app, go to ”View all”, and find the “Manage” section. Click on “Cards” and tap “Order a GCash Card”. To know more, visit GCash at https://www.gcash. com.

“The new card powered by Visa unlocks more payment options for GCash users as they can use it at over 100 million merchants in the Philippines and across the world,” noted Reyes. Any fully verified user can now order their own GCash Card powered by Visa through the app, without additional documents or approvals. The launch of GCash Card’s aim is “Dahil Kaya All with the Card for All”, providing Filipinos with numerous benefits similar to those enjoyed by those with bank accounts, such as quick ATM withdrawals locally and abroad. Powered by Visa’s global reach, the card can also be used for payments overseas in over 200 countries and territories,

November - December 2023

Money

INSURANCE FOR GAMERS T

he Philippines is one of the fastest-growing markets for gaming, with over 43 million gamers active online. According to a 2021 YCP Solidiance study, this number has grown steadily at 13% per year, making the country one of the most active markets in Southeast Asia. The Filipino workforce dominates the Philippine esports community, with Gen Zs and millennials aged 25-34 making up the majority of gamers. There’s also a significant number of gamers aged 55 and above. Esports in the country has become so popular, with games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) leading the category with over 5.4 million daily users as of August 2023.

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However, with the growing popularity of gaming, there is also an increase in health-related concerns. Repetitive stress injuries, poor sleeping patterns, and even chronic mental problems are just some of the health issues that come with the gamer’s lifestyle. Your Expert Wingman: FWD The One for gamers Now in its 12th season, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League - Philippines (MPL-PH) is one of the most prestigious and most anticipated gaming tournaments, where teams compete for a chance to go against international representatives in the MLBB Southeast Asia Cup (MSC) and M World Series.

As the official insurer of MPL-PH season 12, FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) supports the passion of players to turn challenges into victories and offers a new and exclusive policy: The One for gamers. Like how most gamers would avail items for their heroes as part of their strategy to win the game, FWD The One for gamers is a fully customizable insurance plan that can help customers tackle life’s challenges and turn them into victories. It is also exclusive for this season of MPL-PH. “As the insurer of the next generation, we’re committed to supporting the passions of young Filipinos, including the esports and gaming community,”

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says Roche Vandenberghe, FWD Philippines chief marketing and digital business officer. “Gamers recognize the importance of having great support, and this is the role we’re taking in real life — we act as the expert wingman who has your back, enabling you to focus on transforming any challenge into a triumph.”

“Like how most gamers would avail items for their heroes as part of their strategy to win the game, FWD The One for gamers is a fully customizable insurance plan that can help customers tackle life’s challenges and turn them into victories.”

FWD The One for gamers offers flexible coverage for your life adventure for whatever stage you’re in. In just a matter of minutes, you can easily avail of the policy at the FWD Online Shop with no medical exams required. The policy also provides exclusive Mobile Legends: Bang Bang in-game rewards that help players get

better gameplay, when received within 20 days after purchase of The One.

every five years if you continually renew your plan on time.

Starting at PHP330 for a year of coverage, gamers can build their plan by adding critical illness benefit, accidental death coverage, or even both. You can also enjoy the unique benefit of no premium increase after

Celebrate your victories with The One for gamers, from FWD, your expert wingman! For more information about the policy and how to avail it, please visit fwd.com.ph/life-protection/theone-for-gamers

November - December 2023

Education

FEU Tech: Education with real-world results FEU Tech shines as a top university for real impact in 3rd consecutive year of WURI rankings

eal-world impact and contributions to society are the best measures of education. It stands as the most valid indicator of effective learning. The World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) has revolutionized the way we measure academic success, putting emphasis on tangible outcomes that shape communities and drive progress. Leading the charge among Philippine universities, FEU Tech (Far Eastern University Institute of Technology) has risen through the ranks of this prestigious award for three consecutive years, showcasing its unwavering commitment to modern education. With groundbreaking research, cutting-edge methodologies, and a transformative approach to learning, FEU Tech is not just creating graduates but shaping future Filipino trailblazers who can thrive in workplaces and create substantial impact in different industries.

WURI aims to effectively measure such impact by highlighting creative and innovative approaches universities have in their research and educational programs through six categories:

It goes without saying that true learning starts after graduation and beyond classroom walls. WURI recognizes the top universities worldwide that have contributed to societal welfare and economic growth through technology transfer, startup support, and collaborative partnerships.

1. Industrial Application, rather than the traditional ways of counting research papers and lecture-type teaching; 2. Value-Creating startups and entrepreneurship, rather than a traditional focus on the number of jobs filled; 3. Social Responsibility, Ethics, and Integrity, rather than a focus on knowledge and skills just for material success; 4. Student Mobility and Openness for exchange and collaboration between schools and across national borders, rather than an independent yet closed system;

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Education with real-world results How do we truly measure education with real-world results?

5. Crisis Management in the midst of climate change, COVID-19 pandemic, and other global and local crises; 6. Progress during the Fourth Industrial Revolution through digital technology, artificial intelligence, big data, cloud services, blockchain, and so on. FEU Tech, which has always been on the lookout for opportunities to innovate its educational programs, was the only university in the Philippines to join the WURI Rankings back in 2020. After ranking Top 19 for Ethical Values on their first try, the institution was poised to garner more awards in succeeding years. In 2021, FEU Tech ranked Top 24 for Entrepreneurial Spirit. In 2022, they ranked Top 98 overall globally, and in 2023, ranked Top 77 overall in a very competitive pool of top-performing universities and institutions both in the Philippines and around the globe. gadgetsmagazine.com.ph

FEU’s invaluable contribution towards the internationalization of Philippine higher education also garnered recognition from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) during the Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards 2023 last October 6. The award was received by Dr. Florante D. Poso, Jr., Director of Quality Assurance. This feat, however, was not without its challenges, especially for the institution. Educators must consistently think outside the box and execute actual use case programs for students that fit the six categories and achieve real-world outcomes. The future of education with MILES FEU Tech’s commitment to revolutionizing education goes beyond rankings. Amidst the pandemic crisis, the university has unveiled its innovative Mastery-based Individualized Learning Enhancement System (MILES), which aims to create an adaptive, immersive, and personalized learning experience. MILES empowers students with the flexibility to explore and master their subjects at their own pace, fostering critical thinking, problemsolving, and creativity. At the heart of MILES lies a cutting-edge virtual learning environment where students can immerse themselves in interactive simulations, collaborate with peers, and engage in hands-on learning

experiences, transcending the limitations imposed by physical classrooms. But what differentiates MILES from the traditional learning system is that students embark on a transformative learning journey tailored to their individual strengths, needs, and interests. By implementing a mastery learning strategy, students need to first master prerequisite topics before moving to succeeding topics to build solid foundations in the course they’re learning. Educators also provide personalized mentoring and tutoring support to maximize every student’s potential. This personalized approach to education promotes a deeper understanding of concepts, enhances engagement, and cultivates a lifelong love for learning–all necessary in thriving in a volatile and fast-developing world. Adaptability in challenging times Like any other institution, FEU Tech faced unprecedented challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. It compelled the university to adapt swiftly and launch its MILES program, testing the university’s resilience and unwavering commitment to providing quality education regardless of circumstances. Through MILES, FEU Tech was able to deliver an uninterrupted and engaging learning experience, where students can thrive academically and personally even from a distance.

development arm dedicated to building technology-driven tools for supporting teaching and learning experiences both in-person and remote. Both innovative learning methodologies not only ensured academic continuity but also enhanced the overall learning experience for students, positioning FEU Tech as an institution equipped to navigate any future uncertainties. Forging ahead for real impact FEU Tech’s groundbreaking strides in innovation, coupled with the transformative MILES program, have cemented the institution as a trailblazer in the world of higher education. The university’s enhanced WURI ranking is just the beginning when it comes to its pivotal role in shaping innovation ecosystems, creating significant contributions to society, and becoming a recognized global leader in transformative education. As they continue to participate in the WURI ranking for years to come, FEU Tech aims to attract bright minds, engage with industry leaders, and collaborate with forward-thinking partners for education with real-world impact.

Apart from that, FEU Tech also has its Educational Innovation and Technology Hub (EdITH), a research and

More than anything, FEU Tech advocates for transformative education that produces students equipped with 21st-century skills, ready to face the challenges of the evolving global landscape, and can drive positive change in their respective fields.

November - December 2023

Apps

MemoApp

A free paperless document management system

n a move to make efficient workflow and document management more accessible, MemoApp, 917Ventures’ newest startup, has launched a Basic subscription plan that provides a paperless document management system absolutely free, aligned to MemoApp’s vision of supporting businesses in their digital journey.

and affordable solution for creating, approving, signing, and tracking memos. Recognized for its fast, reliable, and template-based memo system,

This initiative is designed to give clients a firsthand experience of the robust capabilities this fully automated document management tool brings to the table.

The free Basic subscription plan offers features tailored for optimal office document management. Users can create up to five documents monthly, benefit from a rapid approval workflow, and access basic file templates such as General Forms, Request for Payments, and Leave Forms. The ability to download files in PDF format and receive email notifications further enhances the user experience. “With MemoApp’s free basic subscription plan, we have a gamechanger that empowers businesses and individuals to easily go paperless

With thousands of users, MemoApp has been a game-changer for teams and businesses seeking a comprehensive

November - December 2023

MemoApp stands out in the crowded market of approval workflows.

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today, no barriers, no friction. Features such as fast approval workflows, basic templates, and document creation make it the ideal tool to boost productivity and organization in any workplace,” said Carla Bianca YapSy Su, entrepreneur-in-residence at 917Ventures. For those who find the Basic subscription plan aligning with their needs and are keen on exploring more advanced features, MemoApp’s flexible subscription model offers the option to upgrade to its Standard plan, which offers the use of e-signatures and an unlimited number of documents, on top of the use of basic templates, PDF downloads, and an approval workflow. The highest tier, Enterprise, offers all these features plus the use of customized templates, reports, and domain listing.

“Whether you’re a small business owner or an individual looking to manage documents more efficiently, MemoApp provides the essential tools you need.” Myles Salud, venture builder for MemoApp at 917Ventures, said, “Whether you’re a small business owner or an individual looking to manage documents more efficiently, MemoApp provides the essential tools you need. We hope users grab this opportunity to elevate their workflow by signing up for MemoApp’s free Basic Account.”

company can register for a maximum of three free accounts. For those interested, simply sign up at www.memoapp.ph/#contact-us, fill out the required details, and the MemoApp team will reach out to them.

MemoApp’s Basic Subscription Plan is an invitation to experience a smoother, more organized work journey. A

MemoApp is one of the ventures under 917Ventures, a wholly-owned corporate venture subsidiary of Globe. Learn more about 917Ventures and its startups by visiting https://917ventures.com/.

November - December 2023

Apps

VIBER PLUS

PREMIUM SERVICE A new messaging experience with zero ads, invisible mode, unlimited stickers, and more exciting features iber, the global leader in private and secure messaging and voicebased communication, is launching Viber Plus, a monthly subscription service offering premium features. All of Viber’s standard features remain free to use for all users worldwide.

Viber currently provides a full suite of features protecting users with extensive controls and preferences. The Viber Plus subscription service will further enhance the Viber experience by giving subscribers the option to opt out of ads.

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For just PHP99 a month, Viber Plus subscribers will see no ads in Viber’s

messaging platform and enjoy exclusive features such as multiple icon styles, personalized 1-on-1 support, and unlimited stickers with many more enhancements coming soon. To further enhance privacy and ease of communication on Viber, the ability to read voice messages and ‘Invisible

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Mode’ were recently added to the subscription offering. Viber Plus subscribers will now be able to read voice messages instead of listening to them whenever they are in a loud location or want to keep their correspondence discrete. The ‘Invisible Mode’ adds a layer of privacy, giving the user the ability to read messages without the sender knowing that it’s been read, or reveal their online status, while still being able to see the status of others. Viber Plus features currently available: • No ads: Use the Viber app without seeing any ads • Read Voice Messages: Transcribe received voice messages into text • Unlimited stickers: Download paid sticker packs for free • Unique app icons: Change the mobile or desktop Viber app icon to a unique icon such as unicorn, night, or sparkle-themed • Live support: Initiate live support chats with just one click at any time of day • Verification Badge: Verification badge exclusive to subscribers

• Invisible Mode: Browse privately reading messages and seeing who’s online without them knowing To try out the new service, users who have access can opt-in by clicking ‘More’ in the bottom right corner of the app. All features available prior to this update, including text messaging and calling, remain completely free-to-use. “We are always brainstorming new features to make our users’ experience simpler and more fun,” says Ofir Eyal,

CEO of Rakuten Viber. “Viber Plus will allow Viber to provide a superior user experience and give our members an early look at exciting new features. This is just the start for Viber Plus.” The premium service is currently available in the Philippines and other territories such as Czech Republic, Montenegro, Switzerland, Kuwait, Australia, Sweden, Austria, India, Italy, United States, United Kingdom, Belgium, and France with additional regions added on a rolling basis.

November - December 2023

Visual Space

Words by Alyssa Silva

Christmas Memes Words by Alyssa Silva

very Christmas, we send holiday greetings to our friends and loved ones through social media to reconnect and wish them a happy and fruitful holiday season. Some greetings may take the form of family portraits, graphic art calligraphy, or videos. But, among the younger set, a popular form of sending holiday greetings are memes which, according to Google, are “videos or other graphic presentations that are typically humorous in nature, and are copied and spread rapidly by internet users, often with slight variations.”

Memes vary according to diverse cultural themes. Some are work related, while others are simply random lifestyle activities or events. With Christmas fast approaching, holiday memes are popping up, keeping the Christmas cheer alive with your friends and loved ones. Among the more notable and familiar Christmas memes are those of Jose Mari Chan and Mariah Carey. If you are in the Philippines, we start the countdown for Christmas when September hits. The most famous one is where both of November - December 2023

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these famous singers are peeking and defrosting, getting ready to sing their most popular Christmas songs, Whenever I See Boys and Girls and All I Want For Christmas Is You. A famous Filipino comic artist named Sskait even made a twist wherein Jose Mari Chan and Mariah Carey are looking for the ninongs (godfathers) and ninangs (godmothers). Reflecting the Filipino Christmas tradition, the inaanak or godchildren are greeted with warm smiles, hugs, and kisses as they are being showered with gifts, ranging from toys and clothes to monetary tokens called “pamasko.”

Another set of Christmas memes are relatable to students, with teachers giving out project assignments and activities for the Christmas break. These memes remind me of my high school and college days when I had to cram to complete the tasks before Christmas break ends. I have now learned the art of finishing assignments before the deadline, thanks to my handy to-do list. While it’s important to take some time for yourself to relax and enjoy the holiday season, this is a good meme to send out to remind friends about pending tasks.

Pets are always a source of joy and laughter, and making them a meme at Christmas is no exception. This meme is the such an adorable Christmas greeting that I automatically saved it to my phone gallery. There is also another meme about dogs just doing naughty stuff whenever the owner is away or in the house. For cat owners, there are cats planning mischievous things on your Christmas decorations. There are other cute memes, such as a cat wearing a reindeer costume with the caption “what do you mean Santa’s got enough reindeer.” These memes, whether they are about Jose Mari Chan and Mariah Carey, in anticipation of the Christmas season, the inaanak’s eagerness to visit their ninongs and ninangs, students’ struggles with assignments during Christmas break, or the adorable antics of our furry friends, are a testament to the power of humor to connect us during the holidays. They remind us that even amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, there is always time for a laugh. So share some of your Christmas memes with your loved ones and spread some Christmas cheer!

The “ber” months also signal godparents to get ready with the gift-giving. Some memes highlight funny situations showing the godparents sleeping, on vacation, or not at home when children come to collect their gifts. This is accurate to some extent, as many Filipino children do visit during the Christmas season. However, it is not always the case that godparents are caught off guard. In many families, godparents are well aware of their godchildren’s plans and are prepared to welcome them with open arms.

November - December 2023

Travel

TRAVEREEL

REVOLUTIONIZING TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

ravereel, a groundbreaking and revolutionary travel mobile application, promises to transform how people explore and experience the world. This mobile app by Selcouth is set to change the way you plan and enjoy your travel experiences, providing a seamless, one-stop solution for all your travel needs. This game-changing travel app lets you book your stay or destination seamlessly by just clicking and watching the reels shared by fellow travelers. Travel offers you an incredible variety of options, whether you wish to stay in a stylish metropolitan apartment, an opulent beach resort, or a cozy B&B in the countryside. “Travereel was born out of a passion for exploring the world and the belief that travel should be accessible,

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(L-R): Paymonggo head of growth and sales Deepak Kumar, Billease head of merchant products Kurt Molina, Lizard global CEO of Asia Terence Ridder, Travereel chairman and investor Ricky Sy, Travereel CEO Debbie Nebaya, Travereel COO Vicky Rada, Travereel digital marketing manager Mark Dela Cruz, and Travereel influencers Paige Ranola and Jewel Mesina.

personalized, and unforgettable for everyone,” said Debbie Nebaya, Travereel CEO. “Our team has poured their hearts into creating this app, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to life and empower travelers to embark on journeys that leave a lasting imprint on their hearts.”

Enjoy a fun, engaging, reliable display of hotel properties through short vertical videos from the travel community, and imagine what your next day’s vacation will look like. Travereel is more than just a travel app; it’s your personalized travel concierge,

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offering a wide range of features to enhance your journeys. Here are some notable key features of the app: Discover Hidden Gems: Find offthe-beaten-path attractions, local eateries, and cultural experiences with our curated recommendations and user-generated content. Get a taste of authentic travel with Travereel. Travel Social Network: Connect with fellow travelers, share your experiences, and get real-time advice from the Travereel community. Discover travel buddies and create lasting memories through your own travel experiences.

Earn Commission: Be a content creator and post your own travel experiences. Post videos and receive an affiliate commission for bookings from your shared travel reels and vlogs.

Travereel is now available for both iOS and Android, ensuring that no matter your device, you can experience the world at your fingertips.

Safety Features: Stay informed about travel advisories and emergency contact information, and receive safety tips to ensure your well-being while exploring new destinations.

For more information, visit Traveleers’ website www.traveleer.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook. com/TRAVEREEL2022), (Instagram. com/travereel.app), TikTok (TikTok. com/@travereel), and YouTube (YouTube.com/@Travereel).

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Seamless booking: Book your preferred hotel in just click and tap. Travereel gives you seamless booking experience by clicking the ‘Book’ button on the reel. Flexible payment terms: Payment convenience via different payment options from Paymonggo: Debit and Credit Card, GCash, Maya, and Billease. Users can also opt for the Buy Now, Pay Later payment terms.

Newsbytes

DITO CONTINUES WINNING STREAK AT OPENSIGNAL MOBILE NETWORK EXPERIENCE AWARDS The fastest-growing telco provider in the country, DITO Telecommunity once again proved its exceptional services as independent mobile analytics company Opensignal awarded DITO with four awardsGames Experience, Upload Speed Experience, Availability and Consistent Quality - October 2023

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Philippines Mobile Network Experience Awards* showed. DITO was declared superior in Games Experience. This award measures how mobile users experience real-time multiplayer mobile gaming on an operator’s network. It also analyzes how mobile network conditions such

as latency, packet loss, and jitter affect users’ multiplayer mobile gaming. On this note, DITO scored 63.1 points, dominating the two major telco providers, with Smart scoring 61.7 points and Globe scoring 60.7 points. DITO also maintained its superior positions on Upload Speed Experience,

Availability, and Consistent Quality. On Upload Speed, DITO’s score skyrocketed to 6.3Mbps, beating its previous score of 5.2Mbps. For the Consistent Quality Award, DITO again ranked first with a rating of 57.9%, beating Smart’s and Globe’s scores by 4.1 and 8.2 percentage points, respectively. This award measures how subscribers enjoy seam-less standarddefinition video streaming, web browsing, email use, and photo-sharing.

These accolades attest to the company’s continuous efforts in ramping up its 5G infrastructures. Despite being a newcomer in the telco industry, DITO’s presence is indeed highly felt and recognized globally. The company stays committed to uplifting telecommunities through its affordable, reliable, and high-speed connectivity. Opensignal is the leading global provider of independent insights and data integrating network experience and market performance across converged, wireless, and broadband operators. To learn more about DITO, visit https://dito.ph/.

In terms of Availability, DITO remained outstanding with 98.6%, providing the most available network connection in various places where people commonly go, thus al-lowing users to access DITO’s network and stay connected more of the time.

November - December 2023

Newsbytes

ASUS SOLIDIFIES COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINING AN INCREDIBLE FUTURE, COLLECTS OVER ONE TON OF TRASH WITH CORA ASUS solidifies its commitment toward an incredible, sustainable future and its thrust toward a circular economy and collected a landmark 1.67 tons of plastic and other recyclable wastes through a series of activations in partnership with nonprofit organization Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA). The ASUS x CORA sustainability campaign spanned three phases, each focusing on and involving various stakeholders for a holistic approach toward promoting eco-friendly products, reducing waste, intensifying awareness about circular economy and climate action, and educating people on how to lead an eco-conscious lifestyle. “At ASUS, we believe that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. As we continue innovating our products,

November - December 2023

we strive to be more sustainable. We are immensely thankful for everyone, including our partner CORA, the ASUS Philippines employees, our partners, dealers, and all the Filipinos who helped us in this meaningful mission to protect and save our

environment through recycling plastic and other everyday waste, giving them a second life, and promoting a sustainable and incredible future for the people and the planet,” ASUS Philippines country manager George Su said.

In 2007, ASUS launched its first sustainable notebook, the ASUS Bamboo Series. It received numerous environmental certifications and accolades for its revolutionary engineering and design. Early this year, ASUS launched the most sustainable Zenbook ever, the Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304), underscoring the company’s 2025 Sustainability Goals and its commitment to environmental stewardship. Taking a significant step toward circular product design, the Zenbook S 13 OLED is an EPEAT Gold registered product with a positive environmental impact across the entire product lifecycle, from material use and manufacturing to assembly, use, and end-of-life. ASUS x CORA Mall Caravan For the second phase, ASUS installed CORA Eco-Ikot Center pop-ups in three ASUS Exclusive Stores, making it accessible for Filipinos to recycle and reduce plastic waste. Filipinos got to take home ASUS and CORA merchandise in exchange for clean and dry plastic bottles. The CCWCs educated them and other mallgoers what is circular economy and the benefits of recycling common plastic waste. Mallgoers were also able to experience the Zenbook S 13 OLED and learned the importance of supporting and

using eco-friendly products, further cementing ASUS’ sustainability thrust. The ASUS x CORA Mall Caravan collected over 1,100 plastic bottles, equivalent to 28.5 kg. It was held at SM Cyberzone in Megamall, North EDSA, and Mall of Asia. Celebrating International Coastal Cleanup Day For the final leg, ASUS celebrated 2023 International Coastal Cleanup Day by combing the shore of Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) of trash and debris led by Zenbook S 13 OLED Ambassador and CORA Founder Antoinette Taus, together with volunteers from

ASUS employees, media, influencers, partners, and dealers. This joint effort of 75 volunteers collected 646.2 kg. of plastic waste, Styrofoam, rubber materials, and stuffed toys. The trash accumulated was segregated to send the recyclable materials to CORA’s recycling partner. The data collected during the event will help CORA and government agencies address the dire waste problem in Manila Bay. The LPPWP is part of the Manila Bay coast and was reported to carry an estimated 9.46 billion pieces of plastic waste. United Nations Goodwill Ambassador and CORA founder Antoinette Taus also shared, “We need to reduce our waste overall and make sure that the waste we do produce ends up in the right places, to the circular economy.” The collective efforts of ASUS Global and its local markets contributed to the significant strides in sustainability focus areas. In the recently announced ASUS 2022 Sustainability Report, the global technology leader detailed that it exceeded ENERGY STAR standards by 34%. Its eco-friendly products also accounted for 87% of total product revenue. These and more led ASUS to bag multiple 2023 Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards and receive international recognition. ASUS will continue to create local and global initiatives toward being a net-zero enterprise in 2050.

November - December 2023

Newsbytes

EPSON LAUNCHES APP TO COMBAT FAKE INKS IN THE PHILIPPINES Epson, the global leader in printing technology, has officially launched the Epson Genuine Ink PH mobile app, which aims to help customers verify the authenticity of their ink products. Available for free download on iOS and Android devices, the Epson Genuine Ink PH app is designed to protect customers from counterfeit inks that can damage printers and void warranties. Fake inks have long been a problem in the printer industry, posing risks to both consumers and manufacturers. These inks can lead to poor print quality, printer malfunctions, and voided warranties. The Epson Genuine Ink PH app offers a convenient and reliable solution for customers to ensure they are using authentic Epson inks. Epson has implemented a comprehensive two-step approach for Genuine Ink verification. November - December 2023

Before purchasing inks at Epson’s official stores or authorized dealers, Epson advises customers to check the hologram sticker placed on the side of its Genuine Inks boxes. This allows customers to confirm the authenticity of the product in three ways before buying the product First is the temperature-sensitive element: rubbing the blue “genuine” section several times will cause it to lighten in color as a reaction to friction and heat. Second is the light-sensitive aspect: shining a light directly onto the plain silver portions of the top and bottom hologram stickers will reveal the hidden word “Epson.” Third is the color-shifting label on the ink box changes colors when tilted, further confirming the product’s authenticity.

authenticity of their ink products by scanning the QR code or inputting the Random Number (RN) found on the upper hologram sticker of the ink box. The app will then display whether the QR code or RN is registered as genuine. Users can also create a report if they suspect they have purchased counterfeit ink, providing valuable information to Epson and helping combat the proliferation of fake inks in the market.

After purchasing, customers can use the new Epson Genuine Ink PH app for verification as an added security measure. It allows users to verify the

For more information about the Epson Genuine Ink PH and how to download it, visit Google Play or the App Store.

Epson encourages customers to purchase Genuine Inks only from authorized dealers and official online stores. By doing so, customers can enjoy the benefits of genuine Epson inks, including high-quality prints, reliable performance, and protection under Epson’s warranty.

Relic

SMARTERCHILD Words by Jose Alvarez

here is no shortage of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots today. It seems like everyone has them or is developing one. You can ask ChatGPT and other AI chatbots (almost) anything, drastically cutting the time it takes to do homework, or even just wanting to ask them silly questions when you’re bored. Many companies’ websites also utilize them for do-ityourself (DIY) customer service before you talk to a live person. AI chatbots are a lot older than one thinks, and while I was using ChatGPT recently, I remembered the AOL/MSN chatbot known as SmarterChild.

already playing chess against humans (with mixed results) and movies already had good (and bad) portrayals of AI. After all, this was the early 2000s, and people wanted to see something new and exciting, and were optimistic about technology influencing the future. But where does SmarterChild come in as part of a new, exciting, optimistic future?

SmarterChild burst onto the AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) scene in 2001. At this point in history, supercomputers were

Robert Hoffer and Timothy Kay founded ActiveBuddy in 2000, bringing advertising executive Peter Levitan on as another co-founder (and CEO). ActiveBuddy’s intent was to create a natural language comprehension function on the then-popular messaging service AIM. Using the Perl programming language, it was intended to look up stock symbols,

November - December 2023

play games, and answer a variety of questions through AIM. While some of the functions never saw the light of day, they were eventually combined together to form SmarterChild, which Kay used for testing purposes. Stephen Klein (who came on as COO and eventually became CEO) said that while SmarterChild generated no revenue, but used it to demonstrate the power of what he called “conversational computing.” ActiveBuddy used SmarterChild as a launching point for its Automated Service Agents, which delivered immediate answers to customer service inquiries. While common today, it was unheard of in the early 2000s, but big enough to attract the attention of

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Comcast, Time Warner Cable, and other large corporations. SmarterChild even inspired targeted marketing-oriented bots for the band Radiohead, the Austin Powers movie series, Intel, and Keebler, which showed SmarterChild’s flexibility and exploration into the unknown when it came to these early AI chatbots. Former ActiveBuddy CEO Peter Levitan spoke about SmarterChild in depth in a 2016 interview with Vice. While there were surely positive interactions with SmarterChild, the darker side of the Internet also found out about SmarterChild. “We were certainly aware that people cursed at it,” Levitan said. “Many conversations seemed to be a 16-year-old boy trying to push our envelope. Many of the conversations

saved on the Internet, are those kind of conversations...we were very conscious about things that were misogynist.”

which meant it had promise. However, Microsoft acquired ActiveBuddy and SmarterChild only to shelve it.

In a time where Google and Yahoo! were the main search engines, SmarterChild offered something they didn’t—instantaneous access to information. In the early 2000s, this was seen as innovative because I remember often having to dig through pages of search results to find what I wanted at the time. In fact, ActiveBuddy did get US$14 million in venture capital funding,

Today, you can easily ask ChatGPT or the AI of your choice complex questions, and search engines are always evolving on what makes it to the first page of their search results. But the most important thing is that SmarterChild had a personality—something AI chatbots don’t have today—and that might be the clue into making AI something closer to human.

“In a time where Google and Yahoo! were the main search engines, SmarterChild offered something they didn’t—instantaneous access to information.”

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Volume XXIV Issue IV

November-December 2023

MEET THE TEAM

You want more? We recommend you check out our other issues

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief MARIBELLE ALBA Editors-at-Large PRESY ALBA REN ALCANTARA Mobility Consultant ARNEL DORIA Editor GABRIEL PE Writers/Contributors JOSE ALVAREZ CHRIS NOEL HIDALGO ALYSSA SILVA CREATIVES Creative Consultant RAYMUND RAVANERA Creative Lead JERICO LUTRANIA Creative Staff CHINI YU SORIANO ADMINSTRATION President & CEO MARIBELLE ALBA Senior Managers MARITESS MAULION AMY CHRISTINE GIRAY MARISA CONSUELO Coordinators CAROL AGABIN LORIE BERNARDO Administration Staff RAMIL ALMOJANO Legal Counsel ALBA LAW OFFICE

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