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Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Stream your next favorite Korean variety shows on Viu

The Hallyu wave brought a diverse range of Korean entertainment to our shores, including fun and exciting variety shows and it just keeps getting better. Since the early 2000s, Korean variety shows have seen a boom in popularity around Asia due to their unique challenges, dynamic guests, and interesting topics that many viewers resonate with. 

What’s great about Korean variety shows is that they come in different genres and formats, from idol survival shows to travel shows with a fun twist. They often give a fresh take on reality TV with their creative and innovative challenges, which many fans always appreciate whenever they’re looking for something new to watch. These variety shows also showcase different sides of Korean culture and the never-before-seen personalities of popular celebrities.

 

Whatever you’re looking for, there’s definitely a series for you.

 


Idol Survival Shows For Music Lovers

K-pop has long dominated the world, with many fans becoming invested in every detail about their favorite groups. This is also why idol survival shows are so successful —  they showcase the tedious process of choosing the right members for new groups while highlighting each potential member’s individual personality.

 

Project 7 is an interactive audition program where viewers vote on participants to create ideal groups and take part in challenges. It features 99 contestants competing for a spot in an upcoming seven-member South Korean boy group. Also, a must-watch is Universe League, which aims to form a new boy band under the guidance of K-pop legends like Ten, Yangyang, Lee Chang-sub, and more.

 


Real Lives, Authentic Experiences

Many people are obsessed with reality shows because of the relatable and entertaining experiences of real people on the show. Viewers also love living vicariously through the personalities when they go on adventures and try new things.

 

If you’re looking for a heartwarming show, the second season of Whenever Possible puts the spotlight on more ordinary Korean citizens, while also highlighting the camaraderie between Yoo Jae-suk and Yoo Yeon-seok. Rented In Finland takes viewers on an adventure as four Korean stars move to rural Finland to experience the self-sufficient lifestyle of the locals. Viewers will enjoy the funny moments from the stars’ adventures, as well as learn about life in Finland.


Nail-Biting Challenges 

Variety shows with challenging premises engage viewers to root for contestants to do well and hopefully win the grand prize at the end. One such series that viewers should tune in to is Paik's Les Misérables, a challenging cooking show hosted by renowned chef Baek Jong-won, also known as Chef Paik. It features Spartan-style missions designed by Paik himself to test the skills and resilience of the contestants for a chance to change their lives for the better. The show also highlights the heartwarming stories of the contestants, creating an emotional connection for the viewers.

 

These are just some of the new Korean variety shows that fans can stream on Viu right now. Viu features a good selection of such shows, some of them tackling lighthearted topics, exciting challenges, and immersive stories that teach viewers about Korean culture and so much more.

 

Experience the diverse world of Korean variety shows and other entertainment offerings on Viu.

BingoPlus Foundation Spreads Christmas Cheer to 37 Cities

 DigiPlus Interactive and its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation, donned the mantle of Santa Claus to bring joy and hope to Filipinos nationwide through their heartwarming Make-a-Wish program. With the support of BingoPlus Studio’s “Sagot ng Bingo Ang Regalo Mo” program, and local community engagement of the brand’s different stores, the initiative’s annual Christmas program expanded from 7 cities in 2023 to 37 cities in 2024, reaching over 20 provinces across the country. 


Wishes for loved ones, community members and non-profit organizations were gathered from BingoPlus and PeryaGame players and employees, resulting in 45 exceptional wishes after meticulous screening. Through the efforts of “Digibuddy” volunteers, these fulfilled wishes painted a vivid picture of compassion and generosity.


“The Make-a-Wish program is our way of embodying the true spirit of Christmas,” shared Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation. “Every wish granted represents not just a gift, but a beacon of hope, love, and community. The greatest reward is seeing the smiles and the transformative impact on our beneficiaries.”

 

In celebration of the inspiring stories from the Make-a-Wish program, DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation have created "ChristPLUS Stories," a docu-series that highlights tales of love, sacrifice, and the true spirit of Christmas. These heartwarming stories of the beneficiaries can be viewed on the official social media pages of BingoPlus Foundation.

 

 

Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz are back in Back in Action!

BACK IN ACTION premiers on January 17 only on Netflix.



Watch the main trailer HERE



Logline: Years after giving up life as CIA spies to start a family, Emily and Matt find themselves dragged back into the world of espionage when their cover is blown.

Director: Seth Gordon

Writers: Seth Gordon and Brendan O’Brien

Producers: Jenno Topping, Peter Chernin and Sharla Sumpter Bridgett for Chernin Entertainment; Beau Bauman for Good One Productions; Seth Gordon for Exhibit A

Executive Producers: Jamie Foxx, Datari Turner, Brendan O’Brien, Tim Lewis

Cast: Jamie Foxx, Cameron Diaz, Kyle Chandler, Andrew Scott, Jamie Demetriou, McKenna Roberts, Rylan Jackson and Glenn Close

 www.netflix.com/backinaction


Read everything you need to know about BACK IN ACTION on TUDUM.

Tiong Bahru Bakery Opens First International Location in Manila at BGC

I’ve heard so much about Tiong Bahru and all the rave reviews about its amazing food, and I used to wish someone would bring it to Manila. Then I spotted a branch opening in Gateway, but since I’ve been craving pastries, I found out that their first full bakery is launching in BGC! 

The first thing that I ordered in their menu is their bestseller Brie and Roasted Mushroom croissant! It was the best partnered with their signature drinks. 

Tiong Bahru Bakery (TBB), Singapore's renowned artisanal French bakery, makes its debut in Manila with its first international location at Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Known for setting the standard in croissants and viennoiseries, TBB has been a pioneer in the French bakery scene since 2012, with 21 outlets and counting in Singapore.

 


The new BGC space is designed as a community hub, offering indoor and al fresco seating where guests can savor the finest French bakes while watching the bakers at work through a glass window.

 



Baked Goods and Fresh Brews

 

Tiong Bahru Bakery stays true to its philosophy of paying homage to classic French baking techniques using only premium French ingredients and traditional practices. 

 

At the heart of its menu is the classic Croissant—golden and flaky on the outside, with rich buttery aroma and mouthfeel, guaranteeingindulgence in every bite. Each batch is baked every 2 hours to ensure utmost freshness.

 



Another highlight is the Kouign Amann, sure to wow with its caramelized layers of buttery richness. 

 

For chocolate lovers, the Pain Au Chocolat offers buttery layers and a generous dark chocolate filling, making it perfect for any time of day.

 

Meanwhile, those craving a refreshing pastry can enjoy the Lemon Tart. It has the perfect balance of tangy and sweet in every bite, with a delicate sugar dough crust, velvety lemon curd filling, and a hint of fresh lemon zest.



Pair these treats with freshly brewed coffee made from sustainably sourced beans, produced by Common Man Coffee Roasters. Tiong Bahru Bakery’s signature blend features notes of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and cherries, ideal for espresso drinks. For a twist, try the nutty Hojicha Latte.

 

In addition to its bestsellers, the menu also features artisanal breads, savory dishes, and pastries to satisfy all-day cravings.










Where Neighborhoods Come Alive

 

Tiong Bahru Bakery is more than just exceptional bakes and coffee—it’s a place where communities come together. Whether you’re meeting friends, enjoying a quiet moment, or catching up with colleagues, TBB offers the perfect setting for every occasion.

 

Join us at the grand opening of our first store at Verve Residences in BGC, Taguig, and be part of a neighborhood hub where everyone is welcome.

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

LG Partners with Xbox to Bring Hundreds of Games to LG Smart TVs via Gaming Portal

 

Brings Xbox Cloud Gaming Experience to its Newly Launching Gaming Portal



LG Electronics (LG) has announced a partnership with Xbox, providing players access to hundreds of games with the Xbox app on LG Smart TVs. Owners of LG’s latest Smart TVs1 will be able to effortlessly discover and play a wide selection of PC and console games from industry-leading partners, and soon Xbox, through the new Gaming Portal.2

This versatile, gaming-centric hub is designed as an all-in-one solution for seamless navigation and personalized gaming, both for the latest AAA games and casual webOS app games.

For gaming enthusiasts, LG Smart TV users can soon explore the Gaming Portal for direct access to hundreds of games with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, including popular titles like Call of Duty®: BlackOps 6, and highly anticipated releases like Avowed. With Game Pass Ultimate, players will also be able to stream a catalog of select Xbox games they own such as NBA 2K25 or Hogwarts Legacy.

“We are thrilled to announce the partnership with Xbox, which aims to enrich the gaming experience on LG Smart TVs with a broader selection of popular games,” said Chris Jo, senior vice president of platform business at the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company. “The Gaming Portal will provide users with a seamless, convenient and exciting way to enhance the gaming experience on LG Smart TVs.”

“Our partnership with LG will help players easily discover and play games through the new Gaming Portal on LG Smart TVs,” said Lori Wright, Corporate Vice President of Xbox. “We’re fortunate to have a great partner in LG who will bring Xbox Cloud Gaming to more players, letting new and longtime Xbox'ers find their favorite games and play with friends across screens.”

Powered by webOS and easily accessible from the Home Screen, the Gaming Portal’s intuitive interface ensures that users can effortlessly discover and enjoy their favorite games with ease. LG’s Gaming Portal provides a comprehensive overview with an app list that includes cloud gaming apps, webOS app games playable with the remote controller, recently played titles, the top 10 most popular games, editor’s picks, and other tailored, user-friendly gaming experiences.

Sun Life responds to help typhoon victims in the Philippines

Sun Life, with its long-standing commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts, responds to the typhoons that recently hit the Philippines with a donation of CAD 100,000 to United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

The donation will be used to provide immediate assistance to communities affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon. A total of 3,000 water and hygiene kits, along with more than 15,000 education supplies, have been distributed to affected families as well as students and teachers. These relief goods will provide typhoon victims with access to clean water and health essentials and ensure that the children’s education continues amidst these trying times.

"We are here to support our fellow Filipinos during these challenging times," says Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. "Through this donation, our goal is to positively impact the lives of those in need and reassure them that life will always be brighter under the sun, despite the trials that come their way."

With headquarters in Toronto, Sun Life operate in key markets worldwide including Canada, the the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Bermuda.

Meanwhile, the Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation), Sun Life Philippines’ philanthropic arm, distributed 900 food packs as part of its mobilization for relief efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon Kristine. Moreover, an addition of 1,174 families in Catanduanes likewise benefitted from the relief efforts to alleviate the effects of super typhoon Pepito. The relief goods included five (5) kilograms of rice and eight (8) pieces of canned goods.

 

As a purpose-driven company, Sun Life takes great pride in helping people around the world achieve lifetime financial security and lead healthier lives. The company believes in directing its efforts towards creating brighter lives for its clients, stakeholders, and the wider community.

 

Monday, January 13, 2025

HONOR X9C 5G: KID PROOF, TANTRUM TESTED AND BUILT FOR THE EVERYDAY CHAOS


As a mom, running a household can sometimes feel like a circus, especially when you have younger kids. Between tantrums, spills, and endless to-do lists, keeping everything under control isn’t easy. Let’s face it—there are moments when you just need to hand your phone over to your kids just to keep them occupied. 

Whether it’s watching videos on YouTube during a long car ride or a game to calm them down at the grocery store, like it or not, sometimes your smartphone is your only bargaining chip. 



But here’s the catch: kids and phones aren’t the safest combination. A dropped phone during a tantrum, sticky fingers covered in juice, or a dunk in the sink while “helping” with chores—these are just some of the accidents that can leave you holding a broken, useless device.

If you’ve “buried” several phones because of this, then you definitely have to check out the new HONOR X9c 5G comes in. This phone is built tough—as in mom-level tough. Whether it’s surviving toddler meltdowns, clumsy hands, or the chaos of everyday life, the HONOR X9c offers durability and peace of mind.



THE TOUGHEST PHONE

The HONOR X9c 5G is not just tough—it’s practically indestructible. HONOR even proved it on a global stage, setting a Guinness World Record for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” During this event, 264 participants dropped their X9c phones at the same time, and every single device survived and that’s after being dropped 500ft in the air from a helicopter. 

Inspired by this, I decided to see if the HONOR X9c could handle my own chaotic household. I gave the phone to my grandkids to test it in real-life conditions. They dropped it on the floor, tossed it onto the couch, and even knocked it off the dining table onto the tile floor. The result? Not a scratch.

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS6VrSkYK/

Then, I decided to up the ante. I dropped it on our tile floor, used it for a game of “tumbang preso” and “sipa,” while my partner took it for a selfie on the pool, used it for pellet gun practice, and then cleaned it using a pressure washer.  And after everything, it came out unscathed.

That’s because the HONOR X9c is equipped with 360° Drop Resistance technology, which means it can survive falls of up to 2 meters, a step up from its predecessor, the X9b, which could only handle 1.5 meters.

And yes, we even tested the boiling water claim (don’t try this at home!). I dunked the phone in hot water for a few seconds, holding my breath the whole time. To my amazement, the phone powered on without any problems. The IP65M water resistance rating means it’s protected against splashes, spills, and brief submersion—perfect for households with kids and unpredictable moments.

Whether it’s juice spills, accidental drops, or the occasional temper tantrum, the HONOR X9c is built to survive the household chaos.

Stylish, Lightweight, and Mom-Friendly Design

But here’s a pleasant surprise: the HONOR X9c isn’t just tough—it’s also beautiful. Rugged phones usually look bulky and industrial, but this one is sleek, modern, and lightweight. It comes in three eye-catching colors: Titanium Purple, Jade Cyan, and Titanium Black. We have the Jade Cyan colorway, and it’s absolutely stunning. It feels premium and sophisticated, making it a phone you’ll be proud to pull out anywhere—whether at a PTA meeting, a coffee shop, or on a family outing.

Despite its durability, the phone is surprisingly light at just 189g and slim at 7.98mm. It doesn’t feel bulky in my hand or my pocket, which is great when I’m already juggling groceries, keys, and a wiggly toddler. The curved edges make it comfortable to hold, and the premium materials give it a polished look that’s far from your typical rugged phone.

A Display Perfect For Your Entertainment

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display on the HONOR X9c is an absolute gem. It delivers sharp, vibrant visuals with a resolution of 1.5K (2,700 x 1,224 pixels). Whether I’m catching up on my favorite shows, reading recipes, or letting the kids watch cartoons, the screen provides an immersive experience that makes everything more enjoyable.

Compared to last years HONOR X9b this display has a peak brightness of 4,000 nits, which means I can easily use it outdoors without struggling to see the screen. This has been a lifesaver on sunny days at the park or when running errands in bright daylight.

The 3,840Hz PWM dimming is another feature I appreciate. It reduces screen flicker, making it easier on the eyes, especially during long periods of use. As a mom who spends hours scrolling through Pinterest for dinner ideas or answering emails late at night, this is a thoughtful touch that doesn’t go unnoticed.

The curved edges of the screen not only add to the phone’s stylish look but also make it easier to navigate and swipe, especially when multitasking.






CAPTURING EVERYDAY MOMENTS 

Kids grow up in the blink of an eye, and every moment feels like a memory worth capturing. With the HONOR X9c’s 108MP main camera, those moments look better than ever. The photos are sharp, vibrant, and full of detail, whether it’s a close-up of my toddler’s spaghetti-covered face or a wide shot of the family playing at the park.

What really impressed me is the new Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This feature keeps photos steady even if my hands are shaky or I’m snapping pictures on the go. It’s a game-changer for moms like me who are constantly in motion.

The phone also comes with AI Motion Sensing, which automatically detects and captures moving subjects, like my kids running around the backyard. Another favorite feature is AI Eraser, which lets me remove unwanted objects or distractions from photos. It’s perfect for cleaning up shots that have toys, clutter, or a sibling photo-bombing in the background.

For selfies and video calls, the 16MP front camera delivers clear and natural results. Whether I’m taking a quick selfie with the kids or hopping on a Zoom call, the camera performs reliably.

The only area where the camera falls slightly short is the 5MP ultra-wide lens, which struggles in low-light conditions. However, it works well enough for group shots and landscapes during the day.

MOM LEVEL PERFORMANCE 

As a mom we were made for multitasking and I’m happy to say that the HONOR X9c 5G could actually keep up with all our daily chores. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, is paired with 12GB of physical RAM and 12GB of virtual RAM. Now, I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but I can tell you this: the phone is fast. Apps open quickly, switching between tasks is seamless, and I haven’t experienced any frustrating lag, even when shifting multiple apps at once, you know, comparing products when online shopping and doing research for our next online purchase.

For casual gaming, the HONOR X9c handles everything like a champ. I let my grandkids try it out on their games like Mobile Legends and Call of Duty and they say it was quite good with minimal lag or slowdown.  

BATTERY LIFE THAT KEEPS UP WITH YOUR DAY

Besides being able to multitask moms are also expected to be ready almost 24/7, and the last thing I  need is a dead phone in the middle of the day. The HONOR X9c has a 6,600mAh silicon-carbon battery—which I learned is one of the longest lasting--offering up to three days of moderate use. Even with heavy use—like video calls, GPS navigation, and hours of YouTube for the kids—it comfortably lasts through the day.

And when the battery does get low, the 66W SuperCharge technology is a life saver. It charges the phone to 50% in just 15 minutes, which is perfect for those moments when I realize I forgot to charge it overnight but need it ready before heading out.

CONCLUSION: FOR THE TOUGH MAMA 

The HONOR X9c 5G feels like it was built with moms in mind. It’s tough enough to survive the chaos of family life—whether it’s accidental drops, messy fingers, or unexpected tantrums—and stylish enough to carry with pride. With its vibrant display, long-lasting battery, and reliable performance, it’s more than just a rugged phone; it’s a well-rounded companion that keeps up with the demands of everyday life.

But the HONOR X9c isn’t just for moms. It’s also a great fit for anyone with an active or hands-on lifestyle—whether you’re a courier, messenger, or someone who works outdoors. It’s a phone designed to thrive in real life, no matter how unpredictable it gets.

If you’re looking for a phone that’s as tough and reliable just like moms, the HONOR X9c 5G might just be your perfect match.

PRE-ORDER AND GET THE CHANCE TO WIN A ROLEX

As if the HONOR X9c 5G’s toughness wasn’t enough, HONOR Philippines is making its pre-order promotion even more irresistible. From January 10 to January 24, 2025, customers who pre-order the HONOR X9c 5G will get the chance to win a brand-new Rolex Datejust, valued at approximately PHP 600,000.

This iconic luxury watch, offered in partnership with Gentry Timepieces, adds a touch of sophistication to an already impressive device. Whether you’re upgrading to the X9c for its durability or its performance, this promotion also gives you a shot at owning one of the world’s most coveted timepieces.

Additionally, all pre-order customers will receive a FREE HONOR Gift Box, which includes a handheld fan, an umbrella, and a tote bag.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to own the toughest phone on the market—and possibly walk away with a Rolex on your wrist.


A 10-Year Journey: Redmi Note's Legacy in Mobile Photography Innovation

 Last year, the Redmi Note Series celebrated a decade of accessible excellence. All the way back in March 2014, the Redmi Note Series entered the smartphone scene and quickly established itself as an affordable yet adequately powerful contender for users looking for a reasonable option. 

Of course, 10 years ago, high-quality mobile photography was not yet as accessible and widespread as it is today, where even entry-level models provide crisp and clear visuals. It takes many little steps and iterations to get to today’s advanced technology. Here’s a quick look back at the past decade:

  • Early 2010s: While early models may not have had the advanced features of later versions, they were instrumental in making mobile photography more accessible to a much broader audience. From here, each year the technology progressed and Android phones saw significant improvements with the integration of higher-resolution main cameras. 
  • 2019: The first truly game-changing innovation in the Redmi Note series came with the Redmi Note 7 series, launched in 2019. The Redmi Note 7 series introduced AI scene recognition, which enabled the camera to intelligently analyze the scene and automatically adjust settings to optimize image quality. Whether it was a landscape, portrait, or a close-up, the AI ensured that the captured image was as accurate and vibrant as possible.
  • 2021: Two years later, the Redmi Note 10 series brought a new perspective to mobile photography with the inclusion of ultra-wide lenses. This allowed users to capture expansive scenes, fitting more of the surroundings into a single frame.
  • 2023: Fast-forward another couple of years with the launch of the Redmi Note 12 series. This elevated low-light photography with enhanced night mode capabilities. 
  • 2024: Last year, the Redmi Note 13 seriesintroduced an improved portrait mode with depth sensors. This allowed users to capture more professional-looking portrait photos with a more pronounced background blur, also known as the much-desired bokeh effect. 

With a rich and storied history of innovations in its mobile photography technology, it’s safe to say that Redmi fans should prepare to be amazed by what’s coming soon.

Tune in to the official reveal of the next entry in the series, the Redmi Note 14 series, at the official FB Livestream Link — and see how it’s going to take their mobile photography to a whole new level!

Follow Xiaomi’s official channels to learn more about the Redmi Note 14 Series, launching January 15, 2025 at 5PM.

foodpanda Rolls Out ‘PRO Weeks’—Enjoy Up to 50% Off on Your Favorite Brands

  foodpanda   just  announced the launch of ‘PRO Weeks,’ a limited-time savings event from September 1 to 15, offering exclusive deals and u...