Heart-breaking news for Filipino Taylor Swift fans!
The pop superstar’s highly anticipated “Eras Tour” failed to include dates in the Philippines.
Photo from Taylor Swift Facebook Page
On June 21, Taylor Swift announced the extensive schedule for her massive world tour, which is set to captivate audiences until September 2024.
As the news spread, Filipino fans eagerly searched for their country on the list of tour dates, only to be met with disappointment.
Despite their unwavering support and enthusiasm, Taylor Swift’s tour will not be gracing the stages of the Philippines.
For the past year, Filipino fans have passionately expressed their desire for Taylor Swift to visit their country once more.
Photo from Taylor Swift Facebook Page
The artist has a strong following in the Philippines, with Quezon City in Manila ranking among Taylor Swift’s top five Spotify listeners in 2017, as revealed by the streaming service itself, Spotify.
The absence of the Philippines from Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” has left fans feeling excluded and disheartened, especially since the reasons behind the exclusion of the Philippines from the “Eras Tour” remain undisclosed.
While the disappointment may be deeply felt, fans can continue to support Taylor Swift’s music and hope for future opportunities to experience her live performances.
The exclusion of the Philippines from Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” is undoubtedly disappointing, but it should not diminish the profound impact she has had on her Filipino fans.
Photo from Taylor Swift Facebook Page
The connection between Taylor Swift and her Filipino fans remains strong, and they will continue to support and appreciate her artistry, eagerly awaiting the day when she returns once again.
By just that onomatopeia (words that resemble sound), you might have an idea of what we will talk about.
Photo form EXO YouTube Channel
If you guessed firecrackers wrong, it’s noisier than that. We’re talking about the trending “Lato-Lato.” Lato-Lato became a trend, yet again, in the Philippines. There were even Lato-Lato competitions in different parts of the country.
But what exactly is a Lato-Lato? Where did it come from? Who in the world invented them? Let’s find out.
Photo form Maricris Marande
Popular to everyone’s belief, Lato-Lato did not originate in the Philippines. It is actually from the United States and is known as clackers or Newton’s Yoyo. The first design of Lato-Lato was made of tempered glass, which made it fairly dangerous because it could shatter. Because of safety issues, clackers were removed from the market.
However, the modern Lato-Lato is now made from plastics. Not only is Lato-Lato a toy, but it is also used for educational purposes, especially physics.
Photo form EXO YouTube Channel
Some enjoy playing Lato-late, while others aren’t big fans of the clacking sound. How about you? Will you give clackers a try? Or are you one of those people with thinning patience because of it? Let us know in the comments.
Have you watched Inside Out? It’s definitely one of the best-animated movies ever. But guess what? The co-director and co-writer of the film is Filipino!
Photo from Ronnie del Carmen on Instagram
Meet Ronnie del Carmen, a proud alumnus of the University of Sto. Tomas, who is now a US-based Filipino Animator. He started out in the advertising industry in the Philippines. He was hired as an art director because of his ability to draw.
How did he become a film animator? According to an interview with a local news website, Ronnie was always interested in storytelling; He loved watching movies, reading stories, and writing. However, he said he never dreamed of making films.
Photo from PixarPhoto from Pixar
Ronnie moved to the U.S.> in 1989 and began his career in animation as he worked as a storyboard artist for various animated TV series. He also worked as the story supervisor for the animated movie Prince of Egypt.
However, Ronnie learned animation from the get-go. He started learning animation because somebody hired him. He also expressed how he made mistakes, but he kept on getting better and better.
Ronnie del Carmen is making noise in the animation film industry yet again. He debuted as Disney and Pixar’s newest voice talent for the animated film, “Elemental.”
Ronnie voices the character of Bernie, the father of the movie’s lead character, Ember.
Pinoy pride in the world of international animated films, indeed. Let Ronnie be an inspiration that you always have to start somewhere before you can succeed.
Upgraded and Better— This is what MOVE IT swears by with its newly upgraded app!
The homegrown Filipino Motorcycle taxi service is elevating Cebu’s transportation system and is bridging the possibilities of professionalizing the local habal-habal sector. Safe, reliable, and cost-effective; that’s what MOVE IT has to offer to Cebuanos.
Here’s good news for motorcycle drivers; MOVE IT welcomes existing habal-habal riders to join them as official riders. This is a nudge to the government’s plans of formalizing and professionalizing Cebu’s local habal-habal rider communities. The motorcycle taxi service wants to promote a safer and more reliable motorcycle taxi sector for Cebu.
“The prevalence of the habal-habal industry in Cebu is indicative of the need for alternative transportation options. This reality strengthens our commitment to expanding our footprint in the Queen City of the South, improving the commuting experience of Cebuanos, and empowering the local community with viable and sustainable livelihood opportunities.,”
SAID MOVE IT’S GENERAL MANAGER, WAYNE JACINTO.
MOVE IT on Professionalizing the habal-habal System
In Cebu, many motorcycle drivers make a living through “habal-habal.” One could say that they have become an essential part of commuting. Moreover, the government urges all regulatory agencies and motorcycle taxi players to improve the country’s habal-habal system and solve concerns regarding safety and security.
Wayne Jacinto, MOVE IT’s General Manager
What makes MOVE IT even better is that it takes pride in its safety and security framework, which adheres to the government’s order to regulate and professionalize the habal-habal system. With this, MOVE IT urges Cebuano habal-habal drivers and other aspiring rider-partners to join its program.
The motorcycle taxi service commits to providing financial stability for all its rider-partners. There will be enough earning opportunities through low commission rates, competitive incentive schemes, comprehensive insurance packages, and rider-exclusive deals.
MOVE IT Elevates Motorcycle Taxi Experience
MOVE IT’s enhancements and upgrades do not stop. The app has upgraded with a 99.85 percent uptime guarantee. The app now has upgraded features to ensure safety commitment and convenience, such as:
In-app Internet Calling
If you are worried about leaking your phone number to others, MOVE IT has found a way to counter that. The app has an In-app Internet Calling where passengers and riders can communicate via the app. There will be no need for third-party platforms.
24/7 Safety Center
MOVE IT values safety which is why the app has a 24/7 Safety Center. This feature is for round-the-clock emergency assistance. The user of the app can easily contact and be in touch with emergency contacts or law enforcement.
Share-My-Ride
Let’s be honest; we have all been texting our ride information to our family members and friends, just in case. But don’t worry; MOVE IT’s feature includes a Share-My-Ride, where passengers can share their ride details.
MOVE IT uses GrabMaps and Navigation to provide accurate and efficient mapping.
Don’t have any cash? MOVE IT has now added cashless payment options through debit and credit. They are still adding more modes of payment by working with leading mobile wallets.
MOVE with MOVE IT
Using the app is fairly easy, and we are here to teach you.
Download the Move It Now app. You can download it through AppStore or PlayStore.
To register, you need to provide the following:
Phone number
Email address
Other basic personal information
Click register, and you are ready to book your first ride.
To book a ride, simply follow these steps:
Tap the Moto-taxi button and input your pick-up and drop-off address.
Ensure the pin where you want to be picked up and dropped off is correct.
Confirm your booking and tap “Move it Now.”
Wait for the rider to confirm, and you are good to go.
But of course, that’s not all. To celebrate the official launch of the upgraded app in Cebu, there is an exclusive promo for Cebuano passengers. MOVE IT is offering two free rides until June 30, 2023. Just apply the promo code MOVEITSUGBO when booking.
Our daily commute can be a hassle sometimes, if not most of the time, because of traffic. Some of us are already late, so we need a reliable ride to get us to where we need to be; MOVE IT is here. Choose safe, reliable, and cost-efficient. Choose MOVE IT.
Did you think your favorite noon-time shows were saying goodbye for real? Of course not. They just found their new home.
Photo from It’s Showtime on Twitter
Heads up, Madlang People! It’s Showtime will officially air on GMA’s GTV Channel this July 1.
On June 20, 2023, ABS-CBN announced that they are saying goodbye to their TV5 family. They also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the TV network’s chairman Manny V. Pangilinan for giving them the platform to an even bigger audience.
“ABS-CBN would like to extend its jeartfelt appreciation to TV5 chairman Manny Pangilinan for his support for ABS-CBN and for bringing It’s SHowtime to a wider audience through our content partnership.”
THE PROGRAM WROTE.
Photo form Eat Bulaga on TwitterPhoto form Eat Bulaga on Twitter
They also thanked their fans for the overwhelming support through the years.
It’s Showtime will begin airing on GTV on July 1, 2023. It’s schedule will be every Monday to Saturdays, at 12 noon.
Of course, we will not forget about the “Dabarkads.”
You’re favorite trio Tito, Vic, and Joey, and the rest of the original Eat Bulaga Host, are coming to TV5 this July 1 as well. The TV channel welcomed TVJ on the same day It’s Showtime bid adeu to the network. TVJ announced last June 8, 2023 that they will work with TV5.
You read that right, your favorite noon-time shows are here to stay!
The fashion industry is mourning the loss of one of the Philippines’ veteran fashion designers, Christian Espiritu.
Photo from Christian De Leon Espiritu on Facebook
Espiritu died on June 18, 2023, at the age of 89. His daughter, Talitha Espiritu, posted on Facebook and wrote, “My father passed away on Father’s Day. I love you, Dad. I will miss you forever.”
His body was cremated on June 19, 2023. His ashes are currently at the Narra Chapel of the La Funeraria Paz in Sucat, Parañaque City.
Photo from Christian De Leon Espiritu on Facebook
Who is Christian Espiritu
Christian Espiritu was born on the 4th of January in the year 1934 in Parañaque. He is Imelda Marcos’ favored designer. He was also a costume designer for various famous Filipino films. Not only was he a fashion designer, but he was also a producer for the film Alaga which is the debut film of Edu Manzano.
He then became the fashion consultant of Danny Zialcita, a Filipino director. He helped come up with the costumes for Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (1982), Nagalit ang Buwan sa Haba ng Gabi (19830, and To Love Again (1983).
Photo from Christian De Leon Espiritu on Facebook
Such a great loss for the Philippine Fashion Industry. Rest easy, Christian Espiritu. You will be missed.
Apple’s commitment to providing self-service repair options for iPhone and Mac owners continues to evolve.
Since the launch of its Self Service Repair program in 2022, Apple has been steadily expanding the range of devices supported and enhancing the overall repair experience.
Photo from Unsplash
In its latest update, Apple has introduced a post-repair software tool called System Configuration, which aims to streamline the process and eliminate the need for a call to Apple’s Self Service Repair support team upon completion of repairs.
In the past, users would have to contact Apple’s support team to verify the proper completion of repairs, calibrate and update firmware for replaced components, and pair Touch ID and Face ID sensors with the device’s Secure Enclave.
With the introduction of the System Configuration tool, these steps can now be performed independently, reducing the reliance on Apple’s support team.
However, Apple has emphasized that its support team will still be available to assist users who require help during the repair process.
Photo from Unsplash
Furthermore, Apple has expanded its Self Service Repair support list to include a new range of devices.
This includes all models of the iPhone 14, all M2-series MacBook Pro models, and the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air (excluding the recently released 15-inch model).
Starting from June 21, users will have access to the necessary parts for these devices, enabling them to perform self-service repairs.
Despite these advancements, Apple continues to encourage most users to seek professional authorized repair providers for their devices.
Photo from Unsplash
In terms of pricing, Apple’s commonly replaced components, such as iPhone batteries, offer a competitive option.
Replacing an iPhone 13 battery through Apple’s Self Service Repair program costs approximately $45 (around P2500) which includes a “battery bundle.”
This price is significantly lower than the $89 (around P5000) cost of having the component replaced by Apple or the $40 (around P2200) cost of an iFixit battery kit that may affect the Battery Health feature permanently.
Apple’s ongoing efforts to expand its Self Service Repair program and simplify the repair process are undoubtedly a positive development for tech-savvy individuals who prefer to take matters into their own hands.
Photo from Unsplash
By providing access to genuine parts, repair manuals, and now the System Configuration tool, Apple is empowering users to address certain repair needs independently.
If you are one of the people that heard it in that voice, then I have some good news for you.
Smosh is back! The beloved OG YouTube channel that captured the hearts of millions is making a triumphant return.
Photo from Smosh Facebook Page
After years of twists and turns, the iconic comedy duo, Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox, have reunited to bring back the magic that made Smosh a household name.
This exciting development comes with two major announcements that have sent waves of excitement throughout the internet.
The first piece of news is that Anthony Padilla, one of the original Smosh members and co-founders, has rejoined the team.
In 2017, Padilla departed from Smosh to pursue his own YouTube channel due to creative differences with the parent company at the time.
Photo from Smosh Facebook Page
His departure left fans heartbroken and uncertain about the future of the channel.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Padilla has now returned to the fold, much to the delight of fans worldwide.
The second announcement is equally thrilling: Padilla and Hecox have successfully purchased the ownership of their original channel from Mythical Entertainment.
In a heartfelt announcement video, the duo explained that they had reconnected over the past year and missed their roots in sketch comedy.
Their wild idea of buying back Smosh initially seemed like an impossible dream, but they were determined to reclaim their creation.
The journey was not an easy one, as the channel had changed hands multiple times over the years.
Fans can expect a brand new sketch video from Smosh, set to debut on June 30 on their YouTube channel.
As we eagerly await the debut of the first sketch video under the reunited Smosh, it’s clear that this iconic YouTube channel is back and better than ever.
The return of Anthony Padilla, the reclamation of their original channel, and the promise of new content all point to a bright future for Smosh, proving that even in the ever-changing landscape of digital media, the classics can find their way back into the spotlight.
With online platforms, entrepreneurship can be easily embraced – and we are taking an extra step to empower.
The digital revolution has paved the way for tremendous opportunities, empowering disabled individuals to pursue entrepreneurial ventures and thrive in the online business world.
The shift towards online platforms has proven to be particularly beneficial for individuals with disabilities, as it allows them to overcome physical limitations and leverage their unique talents, skills, and perspectives.
In this article, we will explore five online business ideas specifically tailored for disabled people highlighting how being online can unlock their entrepreneurial potential.
1. Virtual Consultancy and Coaching:
Disabled individuals can utilize their expertise and experience by offering virtual consultancy or coaching services.
Photo from Unsplash
Whether it’s providing business consulting, life coaching, career guidance, or specialized mentoring, virtual platforms such as video calls or webinars enable them to connect with clients globally and make a positive impact.
2. Online Retail and E-commerce:
Setting up an online retail store or diving into e-commerce can be a lucrative business idea for disabled entrepreneurs.
Photo from Unsplash
With numerous shopping platforms, individuals can showcase and sell products tailored to their interests and target markets.
Whether it’s handcrafted items, personalized gifts, or niche products, the online marketplace offers a level playing field for disabled business owners to succeed.
3. Content Creation and Freelancing:
The digital realm presents an array of opportunities for disabled individuals to showcase their creative talents.
Photo from Unsplash
Writing, graphic design, photography, video editing, or social media management are just a few examples of the countless freelance opportunities available.
Platforms can connect freelancers with clients globally, enabling disabled individuals to pursue their passions and generate income on their terms.
4. Online Tutoring and Education:
With the increasing demand for virtual learning, disabled individuals can tap into the online tutoring market.
Photo from Unsplash
Whether it’s teaching academic subjects, music, art, or specialized skills, their expertise and ability to connect with students can lead to a successful online tutoring business.
Social media sites can allow entrepreneurs to create and sell online courses, expanding their reach beyond geographical limitations.
5. Digital Marketing and Social Media Management:
Disabled individuals can leverage their creativity and strategic thinking by offering digital marketing and social media management services.
Photo from Unsplash
With businesses increasingly relying on digital platforms for brand visibility and customer engagement, their skills in content creation, social media strategy, and online advertising can be invaluable.
They can cater to small businesses or start-ups looking to establish a strong online presence.
The digital landscape has revolutionized the way businesses operate, creating a realm of possibilities for disabled individuals in the Philippines to embrace entrepreneurship.
From virtual consultancy and online retail to content creation, tutoring, and digital marketing, the online world offers inclusive platforms for disabled entrepreneurs to thrive.
It is time to embrace the limitless possibilities and rewrite the narrative of entrepreneurship for disabled individuals in the digital landscape.
Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) recently announced a significant reduction in their online bank transfer fee for InstaPay transactions.
The fee has been lowered from P25 to P15, effective from June 15, 2023. This move by LandBank aims to promote and enhance financial inclusion for individuals and businesses alike.
Photo from Unsplash
Lynette V. Ortiz, the President and CEO of LandBank, emphasized the institution’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable digital banking solutions.
Ortiz expressed that the fee reduction demonstrates LandBank’s dedication to expanding financial inclusion, ensuring that more people can benefit from the convenience and efficiency of their products and services.
By lowering the online bank transfer fee, LandBank aims to remove a potential barrier for customers who wish to utilize the InstaPay service. This means that regardless of the amount being transferred, customers will enjoy the reduced fee. This adjustment aligns with LandBank’s goal to meet the evolving needs of their customers while fully supporting the National Government’s financial inclusion agenda.
Photo from Unsplash
LandBank’s decision to lower the transfer fee is also in line with their expanded mandate of serving the nation. As a government-owned and controlled financial institution, LandBank plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and development in the Philippines. By providing more accessible and affordable digital banking solutions, LandBank aims to contribute to the overall financial well-being of individuals, businesses, and the country as a whole.
With this fee reduction, LandBank hopes to encourage more individuals and businesses to utilize the InstaPay service, further promoting the convenience, speed, and security of digital transactions.
