Life ‘n Arts Festival 2024 Returns for its Second Edition

Life ‘n Arts Festival 2024 is set to enchant art enthusiasts from February 2 to 4, 2024, at the Activity Park, Ayala Malls Solenad, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. This eagerly awaited event, previously known as the “Laguna Art Festival,” returns for its second edition, aligning with Art Month’s festivities. Dedicated to supporting local artists, promoting Filipino arts, fostering a thriving artistic community, and connecting with diverse audiences, the festival brings a myriad of dimensions to art appreciation.

The festival unfolds as an exploration of art as pedagogy, featuring interactive activities like art workshops and art demos led by master artists in pastels, watercolor, clay sculpting, and more. It seamlessly transitions into a dance with nature through the captivating art of bonsai, showcasing the skilled cultivation of miniature natural landscapes. Further enriching the experience, art talks delve into the transformation of arts into digital forms and distinguish between modern art and contemporary art.

As the three-day event unfolds, galleries and artists from the nearby Metro exhibit their latest collections, promising artistic creations that captivate the senses. Performances by talented artists from local schools, expressing kinesthetic art through dance and singing, contribute to the lively celebration. The festival embraces the philosophy that art is a living entity with a body, mind, heart, and soul, offering a unique fusion of artistic expressions.

Hosted by Life ‘n Arts, a longstanding community-based art center in Santa Rosa, Laguna, the festival builds on a legacy dating back to 2002. Committed to providing the finest art products and services, Life ‘n Arts engages attendees through selling art materials, frames, paintings, and sculptures, as well as offering art, music, and dance workshops to cultivate the talents of aspiring artists.

Co-presented by Ayala Malls Solenad, in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Art Association of the Philippines, and Brgy. Santo Domingo City of Santa Rosa Laguna, Sangguniang Kabataan Brgy. Sto. Domigno, and the festival proudly partners with esteemed institutions like Caritas Don Bosco School, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna, Miriam College – Nuvali, De La Salle University – Integrated School, Xavier School Nuvali, St. Scholastica’s College Westgrove, ACTS Manila, and Fashion Institute of the Philippines – Sta. Rosa. Sponsorships from Elood Aesthetic Bar, Winsor & Newton, Liquitex, Abstrak Canvas, East Asia Innovations Incorporated, Pebeo, I Heart Art, Franchise Manila, Ash Tec, and Union Bank contribute to the grandeur of this cultural celebration.

#LifenArtsFestival2024 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Art as Food for the Soul

For veteran stage managers Renz Sevilla, Ching Danseco, Roldan Espino, and Richard Eusebio, working on the stage management of Pasinaya: The CCP Open House Festival does not only bring joy to their lives, but it satisfies their soul and sustains it as well.

“Through time, magiging panata ‘yan. You have to be here because you have to pay back for all the good things na binigay [sa amin] ng Sentro,” said seasoned stage manager and designer Sevilla, who works as a carpenter and farmer when he’s not doing production work.

Eusebio, who was also a former folk dancer, currently works in a cruise ship but always makes sure to volunteer in Pasinaya every time he comes home.

Espino, meanwhile, finds joy in working in Pasinaya. A full-time fireman, he started his Pasinaya journey in 2017 and never stopped since then. He also does stage work in various CCP events through the years. “Basta bukal sa puso mo at masaya ka sa ginagawa mo, ipagpatuloy mo lang.”

Danseco reminisced of how they volunteered to do Pasinaya, with just shirts as payment. “Walang bayad noon, T-shirt lang. Ngayon, kahit kaunti meron na kaming natatanggap. Pero hindi pera ‘yung naging driving force para sumali kami sa Pasinaya. Kasi it’s food for the soul of the stage manager,” enthused Danseco who is a former folk dancer.

Stage manager Ching Danseco overseeing the Bukaneg performances.

As Sevilla and his fellow veteran stage managers saw this as a stepping stone for their credentials to flourish, they did not mind the lack of monetary compensation.

“Sa simula, pumasok kami ng Pasinaya for the experience, for the feel kung ano bang nangyayari sa Pasinaya. As years go by, gaya ng pag dumating ka na sa ganitong edad, having served years working in Pasinaya, magkakaroon ka na ng sense of devotion,” said Sevilla.

As stage managers, they handle more or less everything. May it be in the creative or technical department, they oversee sets, props, lights, and sound; while calling all technical cues during performances. With the many hats they wear, the challenges they face as stage managers only serve to keep their passion for their work burning.

“Hindi mo mararamdaman ‘yung pagod, talagang mag-eenjoy ka kahit na kulang ka sa tulog at pagod,” said Espino.

Danseco sees this as an eye-opener for the young volunteers. “It’s an experience, yes, but it is also a huge challenge and a huge responsibility, lalo na dahil marami kang hawak na performing groups,” he said.

In 2023, there was a grand total of 150 shows which featured more than 3,000 artists from different art fields. As an open house festival, Pasinaya welcomes people from all walks of life to foster art appreciation not only through countless performances, screenings, and other art activities, but also through 30-minute workshops in various art disciplines conducted by leading artists, resource persons, and teachers.

Since 2005, the Pasinaya has become a safe space for artists and cultural groups to showcase their talents while being a nurturing platform for art education and appreciation for the audiences through interactions and performances.

Pasinaya boasts of over a hundred free shows, workshops, and other activities in music, theater, dance, visual arts, film, and literature to choose from. It is also widely known to pool hundreds of volunteer artists, stagehands, technical crew, and other cultural workers to make the entire festival possible.

This year, for the first time ever, the country’s biggest multi-arts festival will go beyond the capital city and spread its wings to Visayas and Mindanao on February 3 and 4, 2024.

Eusebio hopes for more young volunteers to try stage management since the vocation also champions the Philippines and its cultures.

Following the theme “Sulong,” the country’s largest multi-arts festival returns on a grander scale with more artistic and cultural offerings in its 20th year. Pasinaya will simultaneously happen at the CCP Complex and its partner museums, the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Arts in Iloilo City, and Tagum City, Davao del Norte on February 3 and 4, 2024, moving forward to promote art as food for everyone’s soul.

#Pasinaya #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Elevate Your Hair this 2024

For many of us, the new year represents a time of reinvention and bidding farewell to things that no longer bring you joy – such as traditional hair tools that may leave your hair feeling dry, damaged, and lifeless. To help elevate your hair this 2024, L’Oréal Professionnel has a revolutionary flat iron and styling tool for all your styling needs – the SteamPod 3.0.

Using patented steam technology, the SteamPod 3.0 helps you achieve the perfect hair for you – natural and soft straight, bouncy and curly, or naturally wavy. This technology boosts the performance of the heating plates to effortlessly glide through hair without tugging or dragging, helping to reduce split ends for a shiny, healthy looking finish. Say goodbye to frizz and hello to flawless locks with this professional-level device!

LP SteamPod 3.0

The SteamPod 3.0 also boasts 78% less hair damage* compared to regular irons, making it a healthier option for your hair. Plus, it’s 2x faster and smoother** when it comes to styling, so you can achieve your desired look in half the time.

Don’t settle for lackluster hair in 2024 — upgrade your styling game with L’Oréal Professionnel’s SteamPod 3.0 and achieve flawless, healthy locks whether you’re a salon professional or looking to improve your at-home styling routine.

Visit L’Oréal Professionnel’s partner salons to experience the magic firsthand, or purchase the tool on its official Lazada Flagship Store to get that amazing transformation from the comfort of your own home.

*After 15 uses with steam and integrated comb vs Steampod heating plates alone
**Compared to Steampod without steam and comb (heating plates only)

More information on https://www.loreal.com/en/mediaroom

 

#LOréalProfessionnelSteamPod3.0 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

The Marc Jacobs: A Striking Fusion of Masculine Tailoring and Feminine Elegance

The Marc Jacobs show captivated audiences with its innovative approach to blending menswear-inspired tailing with feminine aesthetics. The collection showcased impeccably tailored suits designed exclusively for women, accompanied by flat shoes, black tights, and stunning altered gowns. The predominantly black and white palette created a striking visual impact, emphasizing the timeless elegance and versatility of monochrome fashion.

Men Suiting for Women

Marc Jacobs defied traditional gender norms by presenting a collection that celebrated the power of women in exquisitely tailored suits. The meticulously crafted ensembles exuded confidence and strength, while still embracing the feminine form. The designer played with structure, proportion, and detailing, resulting in suits that were both commanding and elegant. By reimagining menswear for women, Marc Jacobs challenged conventions and showcased the inherent beauty of tailored garments across genders.

Flat Shoes and Black Tights

Complementing the tailored suits, the models gracefully strutted down the runway in flat shoes paired with black tights. This deliberate choice elevated the collection’s overall aesthetic, balancing comfort and style. The flat shoes emphasized practicality without compromising on sophistication, while the black tights added a touch of refinement and cohesiveness. Together, they formed a harmonious blend that accentuated the strong yet graceful demeanor of the modern woman.

Altered Gowns in Black and White

In addition to the tailored suits, the Marc Jacobs fashion show presented a breathtaking series of altered gowns. These gowns showcased intricate alterations transforming classic silhouettes into avant-garde masterpieces. The skillful craftsmanship was evident in the intricate drapery, asymmetrical hemlines, and unexpected details. Marc Jacobs created a visual feast that highlighted the interplay of light and shadow, elegance and edginess.

The Power of Monochrome

The dominant black and white palette throughout the collection served as a powerful canvas, allowing the exquisite tailoring and innovative design elements to take center stage. The monochrome aesthetic conveyed a sense of timelessness, sophistication, and versatility. It showcased the beauty of simplicity while providing a platform for the intricate details and precise craftsmanship to shine. Marc Jacobs proved that black and white are far from basic; they are the epitome of style and sophistication.

The Marc Jacobs fashion show mesmerized its audience with an awe-inspiring fusion of masculine tailoring and feminine elegance. The tailoring suits designed exclusively for women challenged traditional gender boundaries while pairing flat shoes and black tights added comfort and refinement. The altered gowns, predominantly in black and white, demonstrated the designer’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining beauty.

This captivating collection showcases the transformative power of fashion and Marc Jacobs’ mastery in creating striking ensembles that celebrate individuality and timeless style.

About Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs celebrates eclecticism, variety, and personal style. It is an ongoing collection of the high and low, the everyday and the extraordinary. While both exploring the past and looking forward, THE constantly collaborates, reinterprets, rethinks and reimagines.

In the Philippines, Marc Jacobs is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists, Inc., and is located at Greenbelt 5, Rustan’s Makati, and online at Trunc.ph and Rustans.com. Visit www.ssilife.com.ph, subscribe to our SSI LIFE YouTube Channel, and follow @ssilifeph on Instagram and Facebook for more information.

#MarcJacobs #StoresSpecialistsInc. #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Federal Land sets the tone for 2024, Blending Nature and Urban Lifestyle in Riverpark

In an era where the hustle and bustle of modern life often leaves people yearning for tranquility, premier real estate developer Federal Land, Inc. steps forward with a community development that goes beyond brick and mortar, but weaves a narrative of harmonious living with nature at its core.

This vision has led to the meticulous development of Riverpark, a master-planned new city that not only fulfills the desire for a unique urban lifestyle but also stands as a testament to Federal Land’s commitment to shaping dynamic communities for generations to enjoy.

New Township Amenities

Together with the General Trias, Cavite local government, Federal Land unveiled its distinctive entry signage facing the Open Canal Interchange. The new entry signage serves as a gateway to a community that prioritizes a life immersed in the beauty of nature. As the Riverpark landscape takes shape, it becomes a powerful force propelling Cavite into a future of vibrancy and prosperity.

Federal Land also opened its first community attraction. The 1.8km bike trail serves as a tangible proof of concept, designed to bring residents and guests alike together as they explore the potential of the community through its activated spaces in the heart of nature. Riverpark Trails, highly accessible via major thoroughfares, promises families the joy of cycling and the great outdoors, all within 40 minutes from Metro Manila via SLEX, MCX, or CAVITEX.

Hon. Congressman Antonio Ferrer of the 6th District of Cavite, Francisco H. Suarez (GT Capital Holdings Executive Vice President & Chief Finance Officer), Yusuke Hirano (Federal Land NRE Global Inc. Vice Chairman), Thomas F. Mirasol (Federal Land President and Chief Operating Officer), Hon. Mayor Luis ‘Jon-Jon’ Ferrer IV of General Trias, Councilor Martin Ferrer, and Hon. Vice Mayor Jonas Glyn P. Labuguen of General Trias.

The bike trail is part of a larger network of open spaces in Riverpark. The 600-ha township is set to dedicate 70-ha to parks and greenways. A Central Park serves as a green highway that seamlessly connects the north and south end of the development, as well as provide residents with plenty of space to unwind, congregate, and cultivate lasting connections. The park is planned to feature various trekking and jogging paths, lush Japanese gardens, and a bamboo forest reminiscent of the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan.

Riverpark: A Blend of Nature and Urban Living

Among the developments, Yume at Riverpark stands out as the embodiment of Japanese-inspired living within this visionary community. Developed by Federal Land NRE Global Inc. (FNG), Yume seamlessly integrates into Riverpark, offering 296 lots that fuse Filipino creativity with Japanese expertise. As FNG’s inaugural project in Cavite, Yume at Riverpark introduces a unique residential experience, complementing the master-planned vision of Riverpark.

Riverpark – Artist Perspective.

Looking ahead, Riverpark’s roadmap for the next 5-10 years includes the completion of the CALAX Cavite Segment in 2024*, establishing the estate as a highly accessible next-gen city. The anticipation continues with the construction of SM City General Trias, promising convenience, and retail excellence. However, these are just the initial steps, as Riverpark envisions the future introduction of an Adventure Park, a partner school, and a church, solidifying its commitment to a vibrant, purposeful living experience.

For more information, visit Riverpark PH on Facebook.

#Riverpark #FederalLandCommunities #FederalLand #RiverparkTrails #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

*based on https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/PPP/projs/cala

 

DATAI, Most Innovative AI Award, arrives in Asia, from Morocco, Dubai

Most Innovative Woman of the Year by Gawad Pilipino Awards, Amira Mawloud, from the nobility of Marrakesh, Morocco, joins forces with Dubai-based businessman Aasish Pai to bring Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the heart of marketing. Their new software system is a welcome development in the art, hospitality and technology sectors. The tech duo was hosted by AsiaTV studios for a series of business and philanthropy meetings, in collaboration with Philippine Blockchain Council.

Amira’s contributions to the field of Artificial Intelligence did not go unnoticed as a young woman in the highly competitive tech world. With her post-graduate academic background and international work experiences in marketing, she learned to program by herself, in order to create a new product that services specific clientele’s needs.

She was recently honored as the Most Outstanding Woman in AI by Gawad Pilipino, a recognition that attests to her achievements as a strong co-founder of DATAI, alongside Aasish Pai’s decades of experience in the tech hub of Dubai. Pai is a distinguished entrepreneur and serves as the Director of Pai Group of Companies based in Dubai. With an illustrious career, he has assumed key roles as the Director of New Generation Imaging, Altech International FZCO, and PrintX. He has also contributed to the growth of various enterprises under his guidance. Both of them share a commitment to corporate social responsibility through pledging support for the Asia Africa Art Academy.

From servicing the marketing needs of hotels, and other like-minded companies, to the global education of artists, DATAI stands at the forefront of innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technology to redefine marketing dynamics. The company’s focus on harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence sets the stage for groundbreaking solutions that transcend traditional marketing. At the heart of DATAI’s philosophy is a relentless pursuit of results. By analyzing data, adapting content, and enhancing customer experiences, DATAI maximizes conversions, creating robust and lasting connections between brands and audiences. DATAI doesn’t merely provide services; it forges enduring partnerships.

In a dynamic series of engagements and strategic encounters, the DATAI team, managed by Regine Guevara, embarked on a  partnerships and media tour around the country from January 15 to 21. Potential partners have included top players in the hospitality as well as Philippine Blockchain Council members Chezka Gonzales and Bryan Poe Llamanzares. The art foundation also featured the works of Gallery 38 artists from Marrakesh, among others, which explored tech-powered art residencies with the likes of Benilde School of Arts, Bonifacio Arts Center, Ikebana Manila, and Leon Gallery.

This year, the Philippines celebrates the golden anniversary of diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Morocco, an exhibition is underway to promote environmental sustainability.

Amira Mawloud and Aasish Pai’s journey is a testament to their multifaceted talents, from excelling in the corporate world to making meaningful contributions in technology and philanthropy. As a trailblazers in their field, Amira and Aasish continue to inspire others through their  commitment to global citizenship.

For more information about DATAI, contact manager reginebguevara@gmail.com or info@asiaafricaart.com.

#DATAI #AmiraMawloud #AasishPai #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Thai leading budget chain, Hop Inn Hotel, celebrates launch of first 4 hotels in Japan

Tokyo, Japan — HOP INN Hotel, a renowned budget hotel operator in Thailand and the Philippines, has officially launched its first four hotels in top tourist destinations in Japan.

The 58- strong budget hotel chain owned by Erawan Hop Inn Co. Ltd, subsidiary of The Erawan Group PCL, has opened its first-ever Hop Inn hotel in Kyoto in December, followed by the January launch of two hotels in Tokyo, and one to open in Ueno, Tokyo in early April.

Part of the company’s strategic investment plan of 10 billion baht to expand in Asia Pacific, this milestone is a blazing start to its mission to achieve over 150 hotels and 14,000 keys operating across the region with 4 times expected revenue growth by 2030.

Ms Pichanun Boonpromgul, President of Erawan Hop Inn said, “We foresee the significant growth of Japan tourism and believe in strong domestic demand. This is the right timing to put our footprint in Japan. Our first 4 hotels are in prime locations which will stimulate brand awareness of Hop Inn in Japan market. Hop Inn can serve all guest’s needs with consistency of service and value for money product. In the next five years, we aim to expand our Japan portfolio to cover all major cities. The successful expansion to Japan is our first step in achieving our Hop Inn 2030 vision “to be the leading budget hotel in APAC.” We foresee potential growth in this segment in various countries, leveraging our strong customer base and expertise to step in the new market.”

Established in 2014, the Hop Inn brand is known for its consistent quality accommodations and central locations in key business districts, and offers standardized facilities and professional service across all properties. Guests can be confident of a comfortable and convenient stay whichever Hop Inn they choose.

Twin Room at Hop Inn Kyoto
Facade

Located in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital, the 136-room Hop Inn Kyoto Shijo Omiya offers a uniquely Japanese accommodation experience with interiors inspired by Japan’s rich culture, traditional tatami rooms, and a public bath or sento. Only 200 meters from Shijo Omiya station, the hotel provides easy access to scenic attractions and UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Kinkaku-ji Temple.

Fans of international music artists will delight in Hop Inn Tokyo Iidabashi, located steps away from Tokyo Dome, the most famous concert venue in Tokyo. The 50-room hotel is only 3-minutes from Iidabashi station and a short walk from “Tokyo’s Little Paris,” Kagurazaka, a chic neighborhood with Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurants and the scenic Canal Cafe.

Semi Double Room Hop Inn Tokyo lidabashi
Facade of Hop Inn Tokyo lidabashi

Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa is strategically located right next to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Conveniently accessible, the hotel is a 2-minute walk from Asakusa Station and close to Sumida Park, one of the most popular “hanami” spots during the Cherry Blossom Festival. Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa offers 115 clean and comfortable rooms for guests of all sizes, with connecting rooms and family rooms available for group travelers, and rooms with scenic views of Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree.

Double Room at Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa

 

Facade of Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa

Opening in early April, Hop Inn Tokyo Ueno is located just 150 meters from Ueno station with direct train access from Narita Airport. The hotel is surrounded by local izakaya restaurants next to bustling Ameyoko Shopping Street and a short walk from top tourist attractions Ueno Park and Zoo, Tokyo National Museum, and National Museum of Nature and Science.

To celebrate the official launch of Hop Inn Hotel in Japan, guests are treated to an opening promotion of up to 40% off room rates starting from PHP 1,800 (JPY 4,950). Offer is valid for bookings from now until 31 January for stays until 31 March 2024.

For more information about Hop Inn Hotel Japan, visit www.hopinnhotel.com and follow their social media pages at facebook.com/hopinnhoteljapan and @hopinnhoteljapan on Instagram, LINE, and TikTok.

 About ERAWAN HOP INN

ERAWAN HOP INN Company Limited (“ERAWAN HOP INN”), a subsidiary of The Erawan Group Public Company Limited, currently operates 51 HOP INN hotels spread across 40 prime locations in Thailand, 7 HOP INN hotels in the Philippines, and 4 HOP INN hotels in Japan. ERAWAN HOP INN continues to expand HOP INN hotels in Asia Pacific, maintains its competitive advantage and strengthens leading position as the most consistent budget hotel network in Asia Pacific.

 About The ERAWAN Group

The Erawan Group Public Company (Limited) (SET: ERW) or “ERAWAN”, an investor and operator with significant investment and business development in the hospitality industry in Thailand and the Philippines. ERAWAN engages in hospitality business at all levels, ranging from 5-star hotels to budget hotels. By the end of the year 2022, ERAWAN has a total of 76 hotels in Thailand the Philippines and is expanding our investments in the Asia-Pacific region. For further details, please visit our website www.theerawan.com.

#HopInn #Japan #ErawanHopInn #ErawanGroup #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

The Toughest Phone HONOR X9b 5G arrives

Leading smart devices provider in the country, HONOR Philippines officially launched the toughest phone, HONOR X9b 5G, in the market for only Php 16,999! The latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up was seen to have combined exceptional display quality, expansive photography capabilities and enhanced battery and hardware performance, the HONOR X9b 5G sets a new benchmark for mid-range smartphones in the industry.

“We are very excited to finally introduce the HONOR X9b 5G, the toughest phone that embodies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering an exceptional user experience,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. “From the exceptional display and powerful camera system to the impressive durability and outstanding hardware performance, the HONOR X9b 5G truly represents our dedication to creating a new intelligent world for everyone.”

Industry-leading Durability Powered by Ultra-bounce Anti-drop Display

Showcasing an industry-leading drop resistance and durability, the HONOR X9b 5G’s display incorporates the HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop technology. Certified by SGS’s Five Star Overall Drop Resistance, the HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display utilizes advanced cushioning technology using newly developed materials, which increases the shock absorption capacity by up to 1.2 times, ensuring utmost durability even when subject to drops from a height of 1.5 meters and all angles.

Human-centric Visual Excellence

Equipped with a remarkable 6.78-inch AMOLED Curved Display, the HONOR X9b 5G supports 1.5K ultra-clear resolution, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and up to 1.07 billion colors, offering ultra-clear visuals with sharp details and vibrant colors.  As a testament to HONOR’s commitment to human-centric technology, the HONOR X9b 5G offers an array of eye protection features, including 1920Hz PWM Dimming, Low Blue Light, Dynamic Dimming, and Circadian Night Display, cater to the needs of today’s always-on generation who spend long hours in front of screens.

Triple Camera System for Captivating Photography

The HONOR X9b 5G boasts a triple camera system consisting of a 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera, a 5MP Ultra-Wide Camera, and a 2MP Macro Camera. The 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera comes with a large 1/1.67-inch sensor and a large f/1.75 aperture, allowing it to capture more light and produce images with vivid clarity. The camera also offers high optical quality with 3X zoom and an outstanding motion capture engine, ensuring the HONOR X9b 5G produces clear snapshots with fascinating detail.

Flagship Performance for Unmatched Productivity

The HONOR X9b 5G comes with a durable and long-lasting 5800mAh battery that can power the device for 3 days on a single charge, providing users with reliable performance and a worry-free experience. Additionally, the battery exhibits superb durability, maintaining 80% of its capacity after undergoing 1,000 charge cycles, making it one of the most robust device batteries in the market.

Design, Pricing, and Availability

The HONOR X9b 5G boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic design with meticulous craftsmanship and exquisite detail and is available for only Php 16,999 in three colorways – Sunrise Orange, Emerald Green, and Midnight Black.

Pre-order starts from January 12 to 19, 2024 where you can get a FREE HONOR Gift Box and HONOR Choice X5 Earbuds worth Php 4,000 at select HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9b_PressRelease), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9b_PressRelease), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9b_PressRelease).

Good news for HONOR Fans! You can get your own HONOR X9b 5G with Home Credit and Skyro for 0% interest! Also for Globe Postpaid Subscribers, you can apply or upgrade with GPlan 1299 to enjoy an Unli All-net Calls and Text and 8GB All-access Data for a one-time cash out of Php 3,300 only! Get it online or head over now to any Globe physical store!

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

#HONORX9b5G #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Cinemalaya 2024 Calls for Short Film Entries

After two decades of celebrating Philippine independent filmmaking, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2024.

The deadline for submissions is on or before 6 pm on March 8, 2024.

The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.

Submitted entries must have been produced from March 3, 2023 to March 8, 2024. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya. However, if an entry is submitted and is selected as a finalist in both the Cinemalaya and Gawad Alternatibo, the said entry will automatically be removed from the Gawad Alternatibo lineup, in favor of Cinemalaya.

Entries may be submitted ONLINE or OFFLINE. For online application, submit all requirements through  https://forms.gle/gb4csK1rcDqFwnhs7 . Requirements include a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format, with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, running time which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits.

For OFFLINE submission, send entries to the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St., Pasay City.

For OFFLINE submission, film entry must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB), with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details.

The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2024 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 2 to 11, and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.

Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2024 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers.

For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.

#Cinemalaya #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Okada Manila Reopens a More Expansive Medley Buffet 

Medley Buffet, Okada Manila’s renowned signature buffet restaurant, recently reopened its doors at its original location on the Upper Ground Floor of the Pearl Wing, offering an even more exciting dining experience.

The restaurant has undergone a magnificent transformation, now boasting a more expansive space and grander culinary offerings. Beyond the spacious dining area, Medley now features 4 private dining rooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes from 8 to 12 persons, as well as 2 rooms that are good for 18 diners each or a total of 36 if combined — a perfect venue for family celebrations or an intimate corporate gathering. The new set-up is adorned with warm lighting from large floral-shaped chandeliers and elegant accents, harmonizing with the restaurant’s green and brown color palette.

A centerpiece of the newly reopened Medley is the Cheese Room, which showcases a well-curated selection of artisanal cheeses sourced from around the world. Aside from cheeses, there is an array of cold cut choices, as well as various nuts, fruits, and jams.

Dining at Medley is a gastronomic journey, featuring a wide range of local and international cuisines, and offering a world of flavors including classic dishes from Korea, Japan, China, and India. Guests will be spoilt for choices with a variety of diverse offerings from each culinary landmark.  Additionally, there is also a seafood station where chefs can cook guests’ selections based on their preferences; a pho and laksa section; meat carving and roasting stations; and a dessert station with a spread of delectable cakes, local delicacies, fruits, and ice cream.  The buffet comes with free-flowing fruit juices, soda, beer, and wine, as well as post-meal coffee and tea. For an indulgent experience, unlimited lobsters are available on weekends as part of the  bubbly lunch and dinner buffet.

For  inquiries and reservations, please send an email to RestaurantReservation@okadamanila.com or call 0917 813 6523.

About Okada Manila

Established in December 2016, Okada Manila is the biggest  integrated resort in the Philippines to date and touted as “Manila’s Grand Icon.” The resort is renowned for its world-class facilities and stellar service, combining the best of Japanese hospitality with the warmth of Filipino culture. For four consecutive years, Okada Manila has been honored with the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award, underscoring its exceptional service.

Spanning an impressive expanse, Okada Manila has 993 luxurious rooms and the country’s largest gaming floor, featuring over 3,000 electronic gaming machines. Providing an integrated experience, guests can shop at the Retail Boulevard, dine at the various outlets under The Restaurants at Okada Manila, go for a relaxing treatment at Forbes 5-star rated The Retreat Spa, watch The Fountain show – one of the world’s most spectacular multicolor dancing water fountains, and see Cove Manila, Southeast Asia’s biggest indoor beach club.    All these facets converge to solidify Okada Manila’s status as one of the Philippines’ premier destinations.

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