Philippines' Best Esports Teams Aim for Victories vs. Asia Pacific’s Best in Dota 2 and VALORANT at the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals

It is all systems go for the highly anticipated Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on January 13 and 14. Twenty-six (26) teams from across the Asia Pacific region will compete in Dota 2 and VALORANT for the coveted Predator Shield and their share of the $200,000 prize pool.

The question is: How will Filipino teams fare in the tournament?

For Dota 2, iconic teams Blacklist International, Execration, and defending Asia Pacific Predator League champions Polaris Esports will be joined by the winners of the Philippine qualifiers, Made in Philippines.

For VALORANT, Team Secret, one of the most renowned teams in the VCT Pacific League, will be alongside Oasis Gaming and ZOL Esports, who both qualified during the Philippine Finals. 

“It will be anybody’s game. Predator League is the stomping ground of the region’s up-and- coming esports talents. We are excited to see who is hungry enough for the victory to overcome the competition and win the Predator Shield,” said Sue Ong Lim, General Manager at Acer Philippines.

The two-day event will be filled with action-packed gaming, meet-and-greet sessions with Predator ambassadors, and performances by top Filipino artists, including Acer ambassadors Sarah Geronimo and SB19.

“January 13 and 14 will be an esports and entertainment spectacle like no other. We have prepared so many exciting activities and awesome surprises that everyone will surely enjoy,” said Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines.

Tickets are now available through SM Ticket booths or online at https://www.smtickets.com/tickets/AsiaPacificPredatorLeague.

For more information and updates about Predator League, visit www.facebookcom/PredatorGamingPhilippines or the official website www.predator- league.com.

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Can the Toughest Phone HONOR X9b 5G Survive A 100FT Drop Test? Witness on January 12

HONOR Philippines, a renowned player in the global technology arena, has commenced the new year with a resounding announcement of the HONOR X9b 5G, aptly touted as the toughest phone in their lineup. The revelation comes on the heels of an enticing teaser campaign, showcasing the phone's remarkable durability from every conceivable angle.

In a statement, HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It may come as a shock to our HONOR fans, but we really stayed true to our promise of giving the best to them. Don’t we all love surprises, especially when we least expect it? This upcoming grand launch will be very exciting not just for us but also for the whole Filipinos. We’re introducing what we’re confident to be a smashing hit!"

The HONOR X9b 5G addresses a universal concern - durability - suitable for users of all ages. Meticulously designed to provide a luxurious experience with the advanced amenities of smartphones, the HONOR X9b 5G is poised to captivate tech enthusiasts and the general public alike.

Moreover, HONOR X9b 5G is a marvel of modern design and technology. With the triple camera system crafted with the precision of light luxury watch craftsmanship, while the body encased in vegan leather, the HONOR X9b 5G provides a delicate and skin-friendly touch, perfect for people who want the luxury to feel and amenities of advanced smartphones without a hefty price tag.

The hero color, Sunrise Orange, adds vibrancy to the HONOR X9b 5G's aesthetic, complementing the Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display that boasts SGS Five-star Overall Drop Resistance Certification.

With the triple camera system crafted with the precision of light luxury watch craftsmanship, while the body encased in vegan leather, the HONOR X9b 5G provides a delicate and skin-friendly touch, perfect for people who want the luxury feel and amenities of advanced smartphone.

The device is fortified with a substantial 5800mAh Battery, supported by a 35W SuperCharge11 feature, ensuring a remarkable battery life of up to three days. Further enhancing its resilience, the HONOR X9b 5G is bestowed with IP53 Water and Dust Protection.

In comparison to its predecessor, the HONOR X9a, this latest iteration showcases an enhanced storage capacity of 12GB + 256GB, a 108MP Lossless Camera that allows users to reduce image size without compromising quality, and a 4nm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, elevating the phone's gaming and entertainment capabilities.

The highly anticipated launch is slated for the Grand Launch scheduled on January 12, 2024, at 7:00 PM. HONOR enthusiasts, tech aficionados, and the wider public can expect a groundbreaking addition to the smartphone landscape with the arrival of the HONOR X9b 5G. Watch the live event here: https://bit.ly/FB_X9b_Pressrelease.

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/.

In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

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Blockbuster Film "Anyone But You" Opens in Philippine Cinemas on January 17

Anyone But You, director Will Gluck’s new edgy romantic comedy starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, has charmed its way to the global box office.

The film, which opened in the United States just before Christmas, opened in several overseas markets over the weekend, including in the United Kingdom and Australia, where the film is primarily set. Anyone But You has earned a total of $33.5 million dollars, with a few markets still lined up for the film’s opening, including Spain, France, Italy and the Philippines, where it opens in cinemas January 17, 2024.

“I think audiences want to see movies that are relevant, authentic, and cinematic – but most of all, fun,” says Gluck, a fan favorite in the genre, thanks to previous works including Easy A and Friends With Benefits.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/XE4i96P8eTc?si=90YmOK5TSOjDI3Zh

In Anyone But You, Sweeney (Euphoria) and Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) play romantic enemies who have to put aside their personal vendettas and pretend to be a head-over-heels couple in order to keep the peace at a wedding they’re both attending. The film also stars Alexandra Shipp, Darren Barnet, Hadley Robinson, Dermot Mulroney, Rachel Griffiths, Michelle Hurd, Bryan Brown and GaTa.

About Anyone But You

In the edgy comedy Anyone But You, Bea (Sydney Sweeney) and Ben (Glen Powell) look like the perfect couple, but after an amazing first date something happens that turns their fiery hot attraction ice cold – until they find themselves unexpectedly thrust together at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.

Directed by Will Gluck, co-written by Gluck and Ilana Wolpert. Produced by Gluck, Jeff Kirschenbaum and Joe Roth, and executive-produced by Sweeney.

Cast includes Sweeney, Powell, Alexandra Shipp, Darren Barnet, Hadley Robinson, Dermot Mulroney, Rachel Griffiths, Michelle Hurd, Bryan Brown and GaTa.

Opening in Philippine cinemas January 17, Anyone But You is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

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Keeping it Light: A Peek into Sandara Park's Self-Care Secret

Fans of Sandara Park would agree that the global superstar looks as fresh as ever. Since her memorable Star Circle Quest win in 2004, it seems as if time has stood still for the 39-year-old sensation. With her fit physique and youthful glow, it’s natural to ask: what's her self-care secret?

Light Diet

Despite her love for food, Sandara keeps it light with small, enjoyable portions. Sharing her food adventures on social media, she highlights her small appetite, allowing her to relish diverse dishes without fretting about weight gain.

For a guilt-free night out, Sandara wisely opts for low-calorie beer, ensuring a good time without the excess calories.

Active Lifestyle

Staying fit is crucial for Sandara. During her 2NE1 days, dance practices were central to their routine, focusing on cardio and boxing under YG Entertainment's trainers. In solo pursuits, she continues to embrace dance.

Her dedication extends to daily cardio, a morning routine of an hour on an empty stomach, guided by a personal trainer. She caps it off with an impressive 400 sit-ups before bedtime.

Skincare Routine

Sandara is also often praised for her radiant skin. And it’s no secret that the singer maintains good skincare with a focus on hydration. Skin hydration helps promote skin elasticity, diminishing the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

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With It's Sulit Sarap Options and Wallet-Friendly Meal, Masarap Pumili sa Jollibee Mix Match Combos

While customers often seek for things that offer the best value for their money, they sometimes feel that they need to settle for less.

No compromise is needed with Jollibee’s Mix Match Combos, kasi ang saya pumili!

Here, each option combines value and deliciousness, making it truly sulit sarap!

These combos offer a variety of Jollibee Jollibee’s best-tasting products, promising customers an enjoyable, filling, and wallet-friendly meal. For only P75, they can select a main and a side enjoying savings of up to P45!

“Jollibee’s Mix Match Combos empower customers to craft their own sulit-sarap experience. This offering stands out for its superior blend of value, taste, substantial portions, convenience, affordability, and variety,” said Mari Aldecoa, Assistant Vice President for Jollibee Masterbrand.

The experience comes in two simple steps:

Step 1: Choose 1 main - Yumburger, Jolly Spaghetti, 1 pc. Burger Steak, Tuna Pie

Step 2: Choose 1 side - Peach Mango Pie, Coke Float Jolly Crispy Fries, Choco Sundae, Pineapple Juice

Experience the joy of exploring delicious and affordable combinations with every spin, just like Juancho in this hilarious “Roleta” commercial:

Jollibee’s Mix Match Combos are available nationwide for only P75 so be sure to drop by your nearest branch and create your perfect combination via dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru.

For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Felip (SB19) and Ylona Garcia's Special Collaboration Highlights the Day 1 of Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals on January 13 at MOA Arena

The two days of the anticipated Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals will not just be filled with Dota 2 and VALORANT action as 26 teams vie for the coveted Predator Shield and the combined prize pool of $200,000. Gaming fans at the SM Mall of Asia Arena will be treated to amazing performances by some of the Philippines’ top artists, including Acer ambassadors Sarah Geronimo and SB19.

Get ready for the special collaboration stage of singer, songwriter, and rapper Felip and Paradise Rising artist Ylona Garcia. Felip, known as Ken, is the main dancer, lead rapper, and vocalist of the phenomenal group SB19. He released his solo debut EP called COM • PLEX early this year. Ylona Garcia is a singer and songwriter under Paradise Rising, a label under 88rising and Globe. One of her songs, titled “Entertain Me,” was released in partnership with VALORANT.

Aside from the Felip-Ylona special collaboration stage, Acer ambassadors Sarah Geronimo and SB19 will lead the roster of talents on Day 1, along with Urbandub, Al James, and UPeepz. 

Day 2 will feature KZ Tandingan, Sandwich, Franco, Spongecola, Manila Symphony Orchestra, Daloy Dance Company, Josh Cullen, and Pablo.

For both days, there will also be meet-and-greet sessions with Predator ambassadors Cong TV and the Team Payaman boys, burg, KuyaNic, Chibiby, Maggiekarp, amaratv, Een Mercado, Kang Dupet, and Alodia Gosiengfiao.

“The Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals will be a showcase of world-class gaming, music, entertainment, and community. For those who will be at the SM MOA Arena on January 13 and 14, it will have a festival-like atmosphere, with many exciting activities and awesome surprises,” said Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines. Tickets are now available through SM Ticket booths or online at https://www.smtickets.com/tickets/AsiaPacificPredatorLeague.

For more information and updates about Predator League, visit www.facebookcom/PredatorGamingPhilippines.

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GOMBURZA Ignites Praises and Rave Reviews at its Star-studded Grand Red Carpet Premiere Night

As the countdown to the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival draws near, the historical biopic GOMBURZA receives an electrifying wave of enthusiasm during the star-studded red carpet premiere night at the Gateway Cineplex Cinema 5 on December 23.

Heralded as the biggest historical film of the decade, GOMBURZA’s narrative has ignited conversations across the nation about how the three martyred priests’ death planted the seeds of revolution in the hearts of Filipinos. The highly anticipated premiere night was graced by the powerhouse ensemble, led by main actors Enchong Dee, Cedrick Juan, Dante Rivero, alongside Elijah Canlas, Khalil Ramos, Tommy Alejandrino, Jaime Fabregas, Ketchup Eusebio, Epy Quizon, Nanding Josef, Neil Sese, Arnold Reyes, Brian Sy, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Ronnie Lazaro, Peewee O’Hara, whose roles completed the puzzle pieces of this epic cinematic masterpiece.

Under the visionary direction of internationally-acclaimed director Pepe Diokno, GOMBURZA unfolds a gripping account of the lives of Fathers Mariano Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora whose courage and sacrifices led to a series of events that shaped the nation after their lamentable public execution.

Enchong Dee, known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, delivered a compelling performance that uncovered the depth of his acting mettle. Cedrick Juan's magnetic on-screen presence solidified his status as a promising breakthrough artist, while Dante Rivero's seasoned portrayal added layers of gravitas and authenticity to the storyline.

The GOMBURZA grand red carpet premiere was indeed a memorable gathering, with the film’s cast, crew and guests raving in awe and renewed patriotism. Celebrities, fans, industry insiders,film enthusiasts, historians, and Church leaders were all captivated by the film's powerful storytelling and standout portrayals.

Produced by JesCom Films and MQuest Ventures of MediaQuest, in cooperation with CMB Film Services, GOMBURZA is poised to become a cinematic masterpiece that not only evokes emotions but also inspires change while preserving the legacy of the nation. A film about heroic Filipinos, by Filipinos, for Filipinos. This is the MMFF film that Filipinos must watch during the film festival.

Make sure to include GOMBURZA to your watchlist for this year’s MMFF as the film hits theaters nationwide on December 25, 2023. For more updates about the film, follow their official social media pages: @GomBurZaFilm on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok.

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Erik Santos Revives Well-Known Holiday Tunes in the Deluxe Version of His Album “All I Want This Christmas.”

The repackaged Christmas album includes a collection of original songs and covers such as “Paskong Kayakap Ka (Ballad Version),” “All I Want This Christmas,” “Silent Night/Oh Holy Night,” “Christmas Is,” and many more.

Its key track “Ngayong Pasko 20th Anniversary Version” reminisces a past love amid the holiday celebration. The track was composed and produced by ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo.

Erik rose to prominence after being hailed as the grand champion of “Star in a Million” season 1 in 2003. Since then, he has released several platinum-selling albums such as “This Is The Moment,” and “Loving You Now,” which spawned the hit singles “Pagbigyan Muli” and “I’ll Never Go” respectively. He also earned various accolades from Awit Awards, FAMAS Awards, and PMPC Star Awards for Music.

Recently, the Kapamilya artist celebrated his 20th anniversary in the industry with a sold-out concert titled “Milestone” held last October at SM Mall of Asia Arena. He was awarded Best Major Concert (Male) for the event in the 36th Aliw Awards held last Monday (Dec. 11).

Check out Erik’s performance video for “Paskong Kayakap Ka” and stream his album “All I Want This Christmas” available on various streaming platforms. For more details, follow Star Music on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

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Promo: Elevate Your Sentosa Experience with EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard

Dive into an all-new travel experience with EastWest's exclusive Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard promo. In collaboration with Sentosa and the Singapore Tourism Board, EastWest is offering cardholders a chance to indulge in the wonders of Sentosa at an unmatched value.

Experience Sentosa Like Never Before

From today until March 31, 2024, cardholders can enjoy a 15% discount on all Sentosa Fun Pass products, unlocking a world of leisure at Singapore's leading island resort. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping theme park adventures, serene spa days, or just a tranquil beach escape, the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard makes every moment count.

Maximize Your Miles & More with EastWest

Earn KrisFlyer miles on purchases in Singapore, from sumptuous hawker fare to elite shopping sprees on Orchard Road.

The perks don't stop there. With the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard, enjoy:

• A competitive spend-to-miles conversion rate
• Up to 15,000 anniversary bonus miles annually
• One of the industry's lowest foreign currency conversion rates at 1.7%
• Four complimentary lounge accesses each year
• Free comprehensive travel insurance worth up to Php20 million for you and your family

Hear What The Experts Are Saying

Mia P. Tamayo, SVP and Credit Cards Business Head at EastWest, expressed, "Our EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard epitomizes our pledge to offer unmatched value to our esteemed cardholders to discover the globe and amplify their travel adventures. Sentosa isn't just an island – it's an experience. With themed attractions, award-winning spas, pristine beaches, and world-class amenities, we're excited for our cardholders to immerse themselves in everything this iconic destination offers".

How to Avail of The Promo

• Visit Sentosa Fun Pass Offer Page at https://www.sentosa.com.sg/en/deals/promos/sentosa-fun-pass/.
• Choose your preferred Fun Pass product
• Enter the promo code “EWS15OFF” at checkout
• Complete the purchase with your EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard.

Don’t have an EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard? Apply now to experience a world of unparalleled travel benefits and more! Plus, receive up to 6,000 welcome bonus miles upon reaching the minimum accumulative retail spend requirement* within 3 months from card activation.

Simply apply via ESTA, the EastWest System Tech Assistant chatbot, at www.ewlend.com/cardSQ today.

Terms and conditions apply. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-172822, Series of 2023.

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JONAS BROTHERS' Manila Concert "The Tour" Arrives in the Philippines February 22, 2024

Fresh off the heels of their final North American shows and three-night hometown run, Jonas Brothers have announced that THE TOUR will also journey to the Philippines on February 22, 2024, to perform at the Mall of Asia Arena.

‘The Tour’ is their most ambitious outing to date with 98 shows across 26 countries. Every night is a celebration of five albums and features their best hits throughout the years including a variety of career-spanning deep cuts and fan-favorite hits.

Their monumentally successful North American run, which hit legendary venues including Toronto’s Rogers Centre, Chicago’s Wrigley Field and Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium, concluded this month at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. In 2024, the tour will continue its trek around the globe starting in The Philippines, Indonesia, and New Zealand in February. They will also perform for the first time ever in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, Hamburg, Lyon, Munich and Norway.

The Jonas Brothers reaffirmed their status as global icons and left a lasting imprint on the hearts of their Filipino fans. Their upcoming concert in the Philippines is promoted by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as the official media partner. General on sale will be on 6 January 2024, at 12 noon through smtickets.com.

For more details and updates about the concert please check the official website and Facebook Page of Ovation Productions at https://ovationproductionsmanila.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductions/.

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