Anak Ng Bayani

02/08/2024

PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) scales up Filipinos’ tech and esports experience as it supports the three-day long kickoff of the SM Cyber Month 2024 celebration on August 2 to 4 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

“Through our strong partnership with SM and in keeping with our commitment to uplift the lives of Filipinos with technology and innovation, we are glad to be part of this year’s SM Cyber Month celebration as we continue to roll out innovative and relevant products, services, and solutions that enrich their digital lifestyle, particularly their mobile gaming experience,” said Chito M. Franco, Consumer Sales Vice President and Head of Key Accounts at PLDT and Smart.

From August 2 to 4, customers can visit the Smart booth at the exhibit area and get to know the latest Smart 5G devices, SIMs, value-packed offers, and relevant promos that can give them the best mobile experience. Mobile users can also get a free Smart or TNT SIM when they load PhP100 and get an exclusive limited-time offer of 9GB for 15 days when they register to All Access 99. They can also get PhP300 off then they purchase a Smart Bro Pocket WiFi LTE-Advanced to boost their back-to-school survival kit. Cyber Month goers can also get a chance to win a smartphone when they avail themselves of these offers or buy Smart Load PhP500 through a raffle on the last day.

Smart-backed women’s professional esports team Smart Omega Empress, the reigning world champions of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Women’s Invitationals 2024 at the Esports World Cup will also be present on the second day. Fans and gamers of all levels will be able to meet Team Captain Mery Christine “Meraaay” Vivero, Rica Fatima “Amoreee” Amores, Sheen “Shinoa” Perez, Kaye Maerylle “Keishi” Alpuerto, and Gwyneth “Not Ayanami” Diagon during the Mobile Legends event.

“We are delighted to have the support of Smart once again as we stage our annual SM Cyber Month. This year, we hope to elevate and empower the participants’ skills and engagement in the dynamic world of tech and esports across generations. Shoppers will get to experience interactive exhibits, exciting activities, and competitive challenges that cater to gamers of all levels,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls.

Supporting this continuous increase in data usage among esports and tech enthusiasts is Smart’s mobile network, which was recently recognized for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience, according to the latest report by independent analytics firm Opensignal. Smart’s mobile network covers 97% of the population, supported by the PLDT Group’s unparalleled and most extensive fiber footprint.

Smart’s initiatives to deliver enhanced mobile products and services are aligned with the PLDT Group’s endeavors to narrow the digital divide and provide connectivity to all, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) particularly on SDG No. 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) scales up Filipinos’ tech and esports experience as it supports the three-day long k...

02/08/2024

Through its blossoming partnership with The Japan Foundation, Manila, and the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC), the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is all set to go beyond its borders and conquer cultural barriers with Visions of Asia film screenings.

Exploring the depths of identities encompassing Asia are SOLIDS BY THE SEASHORE by Patiparn Boontarig and DitO by Takashi Yuki.

Set in a Southern Thai town, SOLIDS BY THE SEASHORE is a q***r love story challenging Islamic traditions. The film revolves around two women of varying backgrounds. Strange otherworldly occurrences gradually start to happen, instilling fear and doubt in the characters. Ultimately, a pivotal moment pushes them to forge a path for themselves and wholeheartedly accept their identities.

Solids by the Seashore is Boontarig’s first feature film inspired by his shorts and documentaries on the construction of seawalls. On his trip to South Thailand, he learns of the struggles that his Muslim friends in same-sex relationships currently face. Boontarig combines his passion for defending LGBTQIA+ rights and spreading awareness on coastal erosion.

Solids by the Seashore will be screened for free on August 6, 2:30 p.m., at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinema 9.

Brought by The Japan Foundation Manila, DitO centers on a man who placed his fate on his fists. He abandons his family and friends to chase his dream of boxing around the world. Upon realizing his career is ending, he reunites with his daughter in a foreign country, the Philippines. DitO showcases the intimacy of an awkward growing bond between father and daughter who haven’t been in each other’s lives for years.

Aiming for authenticity, Yuki stars and directs in DitO. He took up the sport for a role six years ago, resulting in actual sparring instead of delicate fighting sequences. DitO’s handheld camerawork and oversaturated color palette convey the realities of an aging boxer. In Filipino, the word “dito” directly translates to “here” but is often rendered as “ibasho (somewhere one belongs)” in Japanese. Yuki keeps this in mind as he steps into the shoes of the protagonist.

Set in the vast world of Philippine boxing, Yuki’s directorial debut film will be screened for free on August 7, 2 p.m., at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinema 2.

For the past years, Cinemalaya and The Japan Foundation Manila partner to celebrate the shared culture and storied past between the Philippines and Japan. While honoring its commitment to showcasing the Filipino identity through cinema, the esteemed film festival harbors cherished bonds with neighboring countries amid language and cultural barriers.

Speaking through the universal language of passion and creativity, Cinemalaya’s partnership with NETPAC and Japan Foundation Manila is expected to expand every nation’s love for culture and the arts.

Through its blossoming partnership with The Japan Foundation, Manila, and the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC), the Cinema...

01/08/2024

There is approximately 1108 kilometers between Kidapawan and Manila. And Julius Cervancia, a Media Arts teacher from Kidapawan National High School, would cover the long distance, riding the bus and taking the RoRo for more than a day, just to be part of Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival and watch the featured films.

The long journey for Cervancia is nothing compared to his love for Cinemalaya and his dedication to teach his students about filmmaking and arts education to push him to cross the distance every year.

“Naging panata ko na ang pagpunta sa Cinemalaya,” began Cervancia. “Mula 2016, taon-taon ako lumuluwas para lang maging parte nito.”

The high school teacher’s commitment to Cinemalaya started when his students won at the short film competition of the National Festival of Talents, then held every year by the Department of Education. The short film competition, entitled Sineliksik, involved two students per region, given four hours to shoot and four hours to edit a two-minute film. The Cultural Center of the Philippines’ (CCP’s) Arts Education Department upgraded the mechanics of this competition in order to nurture the next generation of film artists.

CCP’s Arts Ed would recommend the NFOT winning entries for screening in the Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, the longest-running independent film competition of its kind in Asia. It is often considered as a breeding ground for student filmmakers, with its finalists mostly consisting of young students from various local and regional schools.

“Dalawang beses kami nag-back-to-back champion kaya dalawang beses ako nakapuntang Cinemalaya with my students,” he added. “Nung third year, sad to say na natalo kami, pero pumunta pa rin ako sa Cinemalaya. Kaya naging panata ko na siya after that year na hindi kami nanalo.”

For Cervancia, his commitment not only serves his own love for film, but his love for his students. As someone hailing from the far regions, he acknowledged the infrequency of artists, directors, and film production teams who would visit them, thus the lack of exposure for his students.

The Cinemalaya Campus, a component of the Cinemalaya Festival, was a vital part of Cervancio’s first two Cinemalaya experiences with his students. This component provides a venue for interaction and dialogue between filmmakers and audience members.

“Ang nagtutulak talaga sa akin na ipagpatuloy ‘to taon-taon ay ‘yung experience na pwede kong i-share sa mga students ko. Kapag bumabalik ako sa Kidapawan, talagang kinukwento ko ‘yung mga napanood ko, kung ano ‘yung nasa industriya. I have students na na-push ko talaga na kumuha ng film sa college kasi nakita nila ‘yung passion ko na every year pumupunta ng Cinemalaya.”

When asked about the film that struck him the most for his first Cinemalaya, Cervancia mentioned ‘Bagahe’ by director Zig Dulay. The social drama film won Best Screenplay at the 13th Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

“Dalawang beses kami nagkita dati sa Cinemalaya. Fan talaga ako ni direk Zig,” he enthused. “Tumatak kasi sa akin ‘yung sinabi niya na kahit walang masyadong pera sa pagpepelikula, ‘yung experience, ‘yung saya sa paggawa ng pelikula, dun talaga yumayaman ang tao.”

As a new Cinemalaya season looms, Cervancia looks forward to yet another rewarding experience of being a part of the country’s biggest independent film festival – an experience he will bring home to Kidapawan, to his students.

For its 20th year, Cinemalaya opens on August 2, with a red carpet, opening program and screening of Sheron Dayoc’s Gospel of the Beast. It will run until August 11, at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay and other selected Ayala Malls Cinemas.

For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.

There is approximately 1108 kilometers between Kidapawan and Manila. And Julius Cervancia, a Media Arts teacher from Kidapawan National High...

01/08/2024

When you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you. From acclaimed writer/director/producer Todd Phillips comes “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the much-anticipated follow-up to 2019’s Academy Award-winning “Joker,” which earned more than $1 billion at the global box office and remains the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. The new film stars Joaquin Phoenix once again in his Oscar-winning dual role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, opposite Oscar winner Lady Gaga (“A Star Is Born”). “Joker: Folie à Deux” opens only in cinemas October 2.

Official synopsis:

“Joker: Folie à Deux” finds Arthur Fleck institutionalized at Arkham awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also finds the music that’s always been inside him.

About “Joker: Folie à Deux”

Todd Phillips, who was nominated for Oscars for directing, writing and producing “Joker,” directed “Joker: Folie À Deux” from a screenplay by fellow Oscar nominee Scott Silver & Phillips, based on characters from DC. The film was produced by Phillips, Oscar nominee Emma Tillinger Koskoff and Joseph Garner. Lady Gaga served as music consultant. The film’s executive producers are Michael E. Uslan, Georgia Kacandes, Silver, Mark Friedberg and Jason Ruder.

The film stars Oscar winners Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck/Joker and Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, as well as Oscar nominees Brendan Gleeson (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) and Catherine Keener (“Get Out,” “Capote”), alongside Zazie Beetz, reprising her role from “Joker.”

In cinemas October 2, “Joker: Folie À Deux” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

When you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you. From acclaimed writer/director/producer Todd Phillips comes “Joker: Folie à Deux,” the...

31/07/2024

On its 36th edition, the Gawad Alternatibo Para sa Pelikula at Video presents an array of Filipino films showcasing the best in alternative storytelling this 2024.

Established in 1987, Gawad Alternatibo is the longest film competition in the country and Asia, harvesting the best of Philippine films competing in various categories Narrative, Experimental, Documentation, and Animation.

In the Narrative Category, competing films including: ALIEN by Drexler Jaramel and Dexter Paul De Jesus; ANG ALAMAT KUNG BAKIT KALABAW LANG ANG TUMATANDA by Ronnie Ramos; ANG HULING LIHAM by Miguel R. Potestades; ANG PAMILYA MAGUOL by Jermaine Tulbo; by Sharon Lester Cristal Paraico; BEEP BEEP by Iane Patacsil and Raya Martinez; DESYNC by Minerva Navasca; LOLA. PSD by Coby Mercado; ONE DAY, THREE AUTUMNS by Bridget Rabo Ng-Ting; RUMBLES OF EARTH by Carl Joseph C. Lara; TO DROWN A FISH by Hanns Winald P. Scheewe; DAYANG by Savannah Georgia Concepcion Malumbres; DOLOR by Christian Joshua D. Lomahan; ETAKU I-BOGWA by Jessica Namujhe; GELO by Hendrix U. Sanchez; IKAW ANG LIWANAG KO by Gina Tobias; KASAMA KANG TUMANDA by Bianca Maxine Villanueva; LOS MANDAYAS by Jhayzen U. Parañal; LUNOD by Mads Miraflor; MY BOY SUPERMAN by Jonathan Jurilla; SINGOY (Diwata ng Sitio Kalangitan) by Shaira Mari A. Guiyab; and SINO’T SAAN by Ma Alyanna Cassandra Saulong Molera.

Participating films for the Animation category are: ALL THE TIME by Anya Zulueta and Dominic Zulueta; ANG TANIM AY ‘DI BIRO by Ivan Hil Año, Sylvia Mae Feliciano, Micah Ella Gubatina, and Sophia Louise Sumera; ASTRA LUMINA by Jeremiah Cuyas; BIRINGAN: HANAPAN NG NAWAWALA by Mercy C. De Felix; BLINDING LIGHTS by Daniza Sy and Angelo Lubao; CONNECT by Albene Q. Igrubay; DAISY by Pepot Atienza, Aditi Dixit, and Shecid Aguilera; HAIDI by Jericho Jesus R. Peria; ILI-ILI by John Clister D. Santos; NGAYON AT KAHAPON by Mitzi Ann P. Delima; PRESENT by Matthew Elijah Baga Rañada; WETSITALES: MENGAL KAPITAN TERCERO by Jade Dandan Evangelista; and WET WILLIE by Constantine Theo Remular.

Films in contention for the Experimental category are: APAPATIKANSIMANSIM by Andreia Leigh P. Bernardo; A TINY INFERNO by Paul Vincent Caringal; BALIGHO (ABSURD) by Bob Macabenta; DALUYONG NG INGAY by Demie Dangla; DOMINION by Bea Mariano; LITRASO by Clarisse Olalia Tagayun; MONOCHROMATIC RAINBOW by Ja Turla; ROD by Ulap Chua; SALANG by “T” – Tristan Marco D. Ortega; SOMEDAY, I WILL BLOW UP AND DIE! by Aaron Alsol; THERE’S A MOUNTAIN NEARBY AND I DON’T LIKE IT by Grant Frondozo; and WAITING SHEDS THE LIFE OFF A MOTH by Minnesota S. Flores.

This year, GMA 7’s multi-awarded documentary program, I-Witness, marked its special debut in the 36th edition of the Gawad Alternatibo, presenting some of the best Philippine investigative documentaries that delve into subjects of public interest and thought-provoking stories.

Featured i-Witness investigative documentaries in the 36th Gawad Alternatibo Special Programming are: SISID SA PUTIK by Mav Gonzales; BOAT TO SCHOOL by Howie Severino; BAWAT BARYA by Atom Araullo; and Peabody Award recipient AMBULANSIYANG DE PAA by Kara David.

These documentaries explore important and often overlooked topics, provide an in-depth look at various issues, and uncover hidden truths that are not easily seen by the public eye.

The Gawad Alternatibo finalists will be screened simultaneously with Cinemalaya 2024, on August 3 to 9, at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay. The awarding ceremony is on August 10, 2024. All screenings are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit the website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph and the Gawad Alternatibo’s website at https://gawadalt.com.

Stay updated on latest Cinemalaya and Gawad Alternatibo screenings in the official CCP, Cinemalaya and Gawad Alternatibo social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube.

On its 36th edition, the Gawad Alternatibo Para sa Pelikula at Video presents an array of Filipino films showcasing the best in alternative ...

31/07/2024

HANOI, Vietnam, July 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, Phenikaa-X Joint Stock Company – a leading provider of intelligent automation robot solutions (IA) “Made in Vietnam” – officially provided smart automation robot products for Samsung Electronics Thai Nguyen Factory (SEVT). As a result, SEVT becomes the first Samsung Electronics factory worldwide to implement the AMR Pallet Mover robot in its operations, assisting in pulling, carrying, lifting, and arranging heavy loads, optimizing costs, and enhancing production efficiency.

Specially designed for factories/enterprises in electronics, garment, and automotive parts manufacturing, Phenikaa-X’s AMR Pallet Mover offers a heavy load capacity of up to 1,000 kg. Applying the VDA5050 API standard, robot seamlessly integrates with existing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and automation devices. Additionally, the product is equipped with the PNKX MMG management software (currently in practical use at SEVT), ensuring effective communication between humans and robots. Notably, the AMR Pallet Mover is Vietnam’s first robot designed according to the ISO 3691-4 safety standard with three layers of protection: AI camera for human and object detection, LiDAR safety sensor at PL-d level, and collision sensor.

Mr. Lê Anh Sơn, General Director of Phenikaa-X, shared: “By mastering core technology, Phenikaa-X’s robots can be customized to meet different requirements and highly integrated with previously existing systems. This is one of the company’s unique competitive advantages in the domestic market. Additionally, with the advantage of being headquartered in Vietnam, Phenikaa-X ensures continuous and effective operation of automated robot systems in factories, minimizing downtime for maintenance/issues – a key factor helping businesses optimize costs, enhance productivity, and achieve sustainable development goals.”

About Phenikaa-X

Phenikaa-X Joint Stock Company (a member of the Phenikaa Group) was established in October 2020, inheriting the research and development achievements of the research team at the Group.

Phenikaa-X primarily operates in the field of research and development of autonomous vehicle technology, manufacturing, and commercializing robots and drones. During its development, the company has achieved impressive milestones, including successful registration of several patents related to robots and autonomous buses in 2020, successful implementation of unmanned vehicle technology, high-resolution maps, various intelligent automation robots, affirming its pioneering position in the field of autonomous technology and robots in Vietnam. Additionally, Phenikaa-X has become a reliable partner in developing autonomous technology with some leading domestic and international corporations.

Website: phenikaa-x.com

0242 123 8660

31/07/2024

Five distinguished individuals take on the challenging task of selecting the films that will bring home the coveted Balanghai trophies at this year’s Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.

For its 20th year, the Cinemalaya Main Competition jury includes: critic, creative writer, and academic Nicanor Tiongson, renowned actress Dolly de Leon, Berlinale film curator Nicola Marzano, multi – awarded director/editor / composer/writer Jerrold Tarog, and Founder / Festival Director of the Dhaka International Film Festival Ahmed Muztaba Zamal. Each juror brings a wealth of experience and insight into the realm of cinema, contributing to a comprehensive assessment of the films presented at the country’s biggest independent film festival.

Nicanor Tiongson is professor emeritus at the UP Film Institute of the College of Mass Communication (CMC), University of the Philippines Diliman. He also served as vice president and artistic director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 1986-1994, and initiated / implemented the policies on Filipinization, democratization, and decentralization. He also served briefly as chair of the MTRCB in 2001. He is a founding member and former chair of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino. He co-founded the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival and served as its congress director for eight years. He has received a great deal of awards, grants, fellowships, and honors for his extensive contributions in the fields of film, theater, literature, and academia.

Renowned Filipina actress Dolly de Leon is widely recognized for her outstanding performances in theater, television, and films. She has received several nominations and awards for her outstanding performances. She won Best Supporting Actress at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), FAMAS Awards, and Gawad Urian Awards for her performance in the 2022 movie “Triangle of Sadness.” She also won the North Dakota Film Society’s Best Supporting Actress award and the Los Angeles Film Critics Association’s (LAFCA) Best Supporting Performer award. She was also nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Swedish Guldbagge Awards for her performance. Dolly De Leon’s global fame grew even further when she was nominated for two major awards: the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) and the Golden Awards for Best Supporting Actress.

Film curator, film lecturer and film producer, Nico Marzano has been head of the film department of the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London for ten years. Currently collaborating with the Rome Film Fest and Berlinale, he has served on the juries of prestigious festivals such as Sundance, Venice Film Festival, London Film Festival and Cinema du Reel. He has held workshops in Cannes and at important institutional venues worldwide. Nico has advised and collaborated in various capacities on numerous indie film productions including films directed by Gianfranco Rosi and Pietro Marcello.

Jerrold Tarog is a multi-awarded director, editor, composer, and writer. His critically acclaimed works span various genres, including the political mockumentary “Confessional,” the indie romance “Sana Dati,” and the psychological thriller “Bliss.” He has also contributed to different kinds of horror in the “Shake, Rattle & Roll” anthologies and directed historical biopics such as the cultural phenomenon “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

Ahmed Muztaba Zamal is a noted film society activist in Bangladesh. Presently he is the President of Rainbow Film Society (a leading film society of the country). He is the founder, festival director of the Dhaka International Film Festival, the first ever private sector full length feature film festival in Bangladesh since 1992. In 1994, he founded the Bangladesh Chapter of FIPRESCI and was elected Secretary General of International Film Critics Association of Bangladesh-IFCAB. He had the opportunity to participate in many important film festivals as international, Fipresci and Netpac jury like Cannes, Berlinale, and Venice, etc. He runs a quarterly cine-magazine Celluloid.

Meanwhile, the juries for the NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award are: producer Nina Kochelyaeva, producer and filmmaker Monster Jimenez, and filmmaker Jay Abello.

Nina Kochelyaeva has a Ph.D. in History and a Laureate of the Russian Federation Governmental Award in the field of education. She is the Head of Department for the Development and Approbation of Film Education Methods and teacher at The Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography, a.k.a. VGIK, director of the Non-Governmental Organisation for development of projects and research in culture and the arts “New Institute for Cultural Research”, Teacher on film history at Nikita Mikhalkovs’ Academy for Cinematography and Theatre Arts, expert and teacher at the Russian Academy for National Economy and Public Administration under the President of the Russian Federation. She is a member of selection committee of Moscow International Film Festival responsible for Asia-Pacific and MENA regions, program director of Kazan International Festival for Muslim Cinema and other several international film festivals in Russia. She is also a producer and programmer of Dhaka International Film Festival. She is an author of more than 150 articles dedicated to cultural policy, art and film history, published in Russian, English, Kazakh and Korean languages. She is a NETPAC member since 2021.

Monster Jimenez is a producer, filmmaker, mentor and documentary advocate. She is the managing director of This Side Up, a media company based in Manila. She is a co-founder of the Filipino Documentary Society, which organized the biggest documentary fest in the Philippines. She directed a documentary entitled Kano: An American and His Harem which won in International Documentary Film Festival, Gawad Urian and Cinemanila. Her producing credits include the Sundance-winning Leonor Will Never Die, Respeto and Apocalypse Child. Monster’s film in development with director Martika Ramirez Escobar, “Daughters of the Sea,” took part in the 16th edition of La Fabrique Cinema, a tailored program at the Cannes Film Festival. She is currently in pre-production for another collaboration with Mario Cornejo for the film, My Neighbor the Gangster.

Born in Silay City in Negros island, Jay Abello is an industry disciple working in over 10 TV soap operas and 25 films in the last 25 years. Apprenticed under Ms. Lee Briones in 2004-2006, went to Rockport, Maine for a summer program in feature film lighting in 2006, and launched his career as a cinematographer-director in 2007. He has been part of the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival as a filmmaker in 8 entry films, a lecturer and instructor for the Cinemalaya workshops, and member of the selection committee for short films. He has also directed 7 feature length films but among all his roles in the industry, he most cherishes his experiences lensing and lighting for some of the most talented storytellers in the country like Coreen Jimenez, Carlitos Siguion Reyna, Isabel Sandoval, Mark Meily and Laurice Guillen He is a member of Lupon ng Pilipinong Sinematograpo (LPS), currently works as a DP for television but never stops writing screenplays for his own pleasure.

Cinemalaya 20 opens on August 2, with a red carpet, opening program and screening of Sheron Dayoc’s Gospel of the Beast. It will run until August 11, at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay and other selected Ayala Malls Cinemas.

For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.

30/07/2024

Manila, Philippines (July 29, 2024) – Dubbed the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu is a central economic hub in the Philippines, hosting a variety of industries from information technology and business process outsourcing to shipping and furniture manufacturing. This economic vitality, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, ensures that business travelers have access to a wide range of professional opportunities and resources.

lyf Cebu, Ascott Limited’s property in Visayas, makes a fine addition to the city and has quickly emerged as every traveler’s go-to destination for any occasion. Designed to create and foster a vibrant and connected community, lyf Cebu successfully redefines urban living with its experience-led social approach.

Situated in the bustling region of Cebu, lyf Cebu is more than just a place to stay; it’s a hub where like-minded individuals with different goals and aspirations come together to immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic culture while enjoying each other’s company.

Known for its rich historical heritage, beautiful beaches, and thriving business district, Cebu has become a strategic location for both local and international visitors. As a property under the Ascott name, lyf Cebu upholds the high standards and commitment to excellence for which the brand is often recognized and expected to provide. Ascott’s reputation for delivering exceptional service and innovative living spaces is evident in every aspect of lyf Cebu—the property’s unique ability to enhance the overall city experience by offering a vibrant, community-centric environment truly sets it apart from other residences and living spaces open in the area.

At lyf Cebu, there is an evident commitment to creating a harmonious community space where travelers from all walks of life are invited to share experiences and explore the Philippines together. Its location is strategically situated to offer easy access to the city’s must-see attractions while providing a welcoming and dynamic environment that encourages interaction and personal discovery. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a solo traveler, or visiting with friends, lyf offers a unique blend of comfort and community spirit.

While regular tourists only catch a glimpse of what the city may offer, residents of lyf Cebu dive deeper into the local culture and experiences. They engage in authentic interactions, uncover hidden gems, and participate in unique activities beyond the typical tourist itinerary. Whether it’s joining a local festival, learning traditional crafts from artisans, or exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, lyf Cebu ensures that its guests experience the city’s true essence. Through its vibrant social living concept, lyf Cebu transforms each stay into a journey of discovery and connection, encouraging guests to explore Cebu like never before.

From its modern design to its interactive spaces, lyf Cebu is tailored to encourage social connections and cultural exchanges. Guests are invited to enjoy various unique amenities and features that make it easy to connect, relax, and explore the city. Upon arrival, guests are greeted at the Say Hi check-in counter, where a friendly lyf crew ensures a smooth and personalized check-in process. The coworking spaces provide the perfect setting for productivity, blending comfort with functionality. For those looking to socialize and cook, Bond – the property’s social kitchen – offers a communal space to prepare and share meals.

“The social aspect of lyf Cebu is integral to the overall guest experience. By fostering a vibrant, connected community, we ensure that guests not only enjoy their stay but also build meaningful connections and memories that last a lifetime.” Said Joycelyn Agsaway, the Director of Operational Excellence for the lyf brand.

Unwinding after a day of exploring or working is accessible at the Hangout (Mezzanine), where guests can share stories and experiences with fellow travelers. For fitness enthusiasts, Burn (social gym) is fully equipped to help maintain workout routines, while Dip (swimming pool) offers a refreshing escape from the city heat.

lyf Cebu, like all its sister properties, is true to its name and champions the term “Live Your Freedom,” celebrating openness, unique individuality, and creativity, empowering guests who stay true to the life they wish to lead.

lyf Cebu City is currently open and ready to welcome guests looking for both a culturally immersive and productive experience. Guests can now book their stay via this website.

About The Ascott Limited

Since pioneering Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced residence with the opening of The Ascott Singapore in 1984, Ascott has grown to be a trusted hospitality company with more than 930 properties globally. Headquartered in Singapore, Ascott’s presence extends across more than 220 cities in over 40 countries in Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA.

Ascott’s diversified accommodation offerings span serviced residences, coliving properties, hotels and independent senior living apartments, as well as student accommodation and rental housing. Its award-winning hospitality brands include Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Quest, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Preference, Fox, Harris, POP!, Vertu and Yello; and it has a brand partnership with Domitys. Through Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott’s loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and offers at participating properties.

A wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott is a leading vertically-integrated lodging operator. Harnessing its extensive network of third-party owners and in-market expertise, Ascott grows fee-related earnings through its hospitality management and investment management capabilities. Ascott also expands its funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.

For more information on Ascott’s industry record of close to 40 years and its sustainability programme, please visit www.discoverasr.com/the-ascott-limited. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About CapitaLand Investment Limited (www.capitalandinvest.com)

Headquartered and listed in Singapore, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real estate investment manager (REIM) with a strong Asia foothold. As at 30 June 2023, CLI had S$134 billion of real estate assets under management, and S$89 billion of real estate funds under management (FUM) held via six listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts, and more than 30 private vehicles across Asia Pacific, Europe and USA. Its diversified real estate asset classes cover retail, office, lodging, business parks, industrial, logistics and data centres.

CLI aims to scale its FUM and fee-related earnings through fund management, lodging management and its full stack of operating capabilities, and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand’s development arm.

As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero emissions for scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.

Manila, Philippines (July 29, 2024) – Dubbed the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu is a central economic hub in the Philippines, hosting a v...