AI-Powered Sound, K-Pop Energy: Manila Dances All Night with LG XBOOM

LG officially unveiled its next-generation xboom speaker lineup - featuring AI Smart Sound and creative direction by global icon will.i.am in a high-energy launch party at Xylo in BGC 

Bianca Yao, a.k.a. Biancake, adventure and gaming enthusiast and founder of Gamers' Run Club, with the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers

LG Electronics turned up the volume on innovation as it unleashed its latest breakthrough in sound with the LG xboom by will.i.am: Pop Goes Boom Launch during a high-energy celebration at Xylo at the Palace. The venue pulsed with K-pop-powered energy, transforming into an immersive dance floor where electrifying performances by Zephanie and NEW:ID brought the crowd, and the speakers to life. Guests also experienced firsthand the features of the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers through interactive product demonstrations that showcased the lineup’s sleek design and intelligent features.

Mr. Yongwoo Park, Product Director for Media Solutions at LG Philippines, kicks off the event with an upbeat welcome to the audience

"Welcome to Pop Goes Boom!, the ultimate party night as we launch the latest LG xboom by will.i.am collection!" announced Mr. Yongwoo Park, LG Philippines’ Product Director for Media Solutions, as he kicked off the party. He warmly welcomed guests and performers, igniting the energy for an evening filled with powerful beats and immersive sound. Mr. Park emphasized LG’s bold approach to audio innovation: "Tonight, the bass doesn’t just play, it pops. And here at Xylo, everything pop will go boom. Let the sound take over. Performances are just getting started. Let’s go big, let’s go loud, let’s go xboom!"

Ms. Mildred Bugay, Product Manager for Audio at LG Philippines, unveils the latest lineup of the next generation of LG xboom by will.i.am Speakers

Bringing sound to the centerstage, Ms. Mildred Bugay, LG Philippines Product Manager for Audio, walked everyone through the features that make the new xboom lineup the ultimate companion for those who live for music and love to move. “We are thrilled to introduce a 2025 lineup meticulously tuned by LG xboom’s Experiential Architect, will.i.am, to deliver richer, warmer tones and an unparalleled immersive listening experience. His innovative blend of cutting-edge technology and vibrant pop culture elevates the entire audio journey.”

The new lineup of LG xboom AI speakers by will.i.am

LG xboom Stage 301

LG xboom Bounce

LG xboom Grab

LG xboom Buds

LG xboom Stage 301 and LG xboom Bounce

LG XBOOM XL Series

LG XBOOM XL9T

LG XBOOM XL5T

LG XBOOM Go

LG XBOOM RN Series

LG XBOOM XL Series and RN Series with the xboom AI Speakers

LG XBOOM XL Series and RN Series Speakers

The new LG xboom by will.i.am lineup, Stage 301, Bounce, Grab, and Buds, brings bold sound and smart style to every kind of listener. The LG xboom Stage 301 delivers room-filling audio with its 6.5” woofer and dual 2.5” midrange drivers, plus mic controls for easy karaoke fun. The LG xboom Bounce may be compact, but it unleashes a bold sound with dual passive radiators and twin dome tweeters that bring every beat to life. Built for on-the-go playlists, the LG xboom Grab features a 16mm tweeter for crisp sound and a tube-shaped design that’s easy to carry or hang. For those who prefer solo listening, the LG xboom Buds offer detailed, high-clarity audio with graphene-coated drivers, advanced noise cancellation, and three microphones to keep calls clear wherever you are. Leveraging advanced technology, Auracast allows you to easily link multiple xboom AI speakers, creating an expansive and immersive soundstage with just a tap. The LG XBOOM XL Series, XBOOM Go, and XBOOM RN Series speakers also stood proudly on display. 

Candy Gamos hosts the event with a vibrant and engaging energy

Candy Gamos lit up the night with unstoppable energy and infectious excitement, keeping the celebration in full swing and the crowd fully charged. 

Cy Estapia from Philippine KPOP Convention Inc. takes the stage to introduce the KPOP challenge performers

All eyes turned to the stage as Philippine KPOP Convention Inc., introduced the night’s featured performers, each bringing their own flair to the KPOP Dance Battle stage. 

DazZ Official

As the first act to hit the stage, DazZ Official had the crowd hyped and moving along with their charisma and explosive energy. 

Excrementum

Excrementum delivered a performance that highlighted their fluid dance style and bold vision of a genderless concept in the dance community. 

Kairos

Kairos, an all-girl powerhouse formed by Na’Be and Meraki, owned the stage with fierce, synchronized choreography, serving unstoppable girl power and proving just how perfectly in sync they are. 

Principtium

Principtium, known for their sharp moves and self-produced K-pop covers, amped the crowd with precision and power. 

Psycho

Finally, Psycho stormed the stage with wild energy and an all-out performance that got the crowd roaring.

Psycho - KPOP Dance Battle 3rd Place

Kairos - KPOP Dance Battle 2nd Place

Principtium - KPOP Dance Battle Champion

The high-energy KPOP Dance Battle was evaluated by a dynamic trio: Mildred Bugay, LG Philippines Product Manager for Audio; AG Constantino, Marketing Communications Manager; and Wilson, member of the country’s rising pop male group, NEW:ID. After an electrifying night filled with jaw-dropping choreography, powerful stage presence, and non-stop crowd-cheering moments, the panel hailed Principtium as the Champion for their standout performance that stole the show. Kairos wowed the judges with their energy and precision to claim 2nd place, while Psycho brought passion to secure 3rd place. To celebrate the creativity, talent, and heart of all the performers, the remaining teams were also awarded an LG xboom Bounce as a special consolation prize.

LG xboom AI Dance Challenge Winners

Jaja Sagmayao, LG xboom AI Dance Challenge choreographer, demonstrates the Gnarly by KATSEYE dance with high energy

The crowd got louder as audience members were invited to join the fun and step into the spotlight to show off their moves and bring the xboom energy to life. With guidance from the dance choreographer, they grooved to the catchy rhythm of “Gnarly” by KATSEYE, confidently following each step while bringing their own personality, charm, and playful energy to the stage. Winners were determined by the loudest cheers from a crowd that was genuinely engaged and full of support. They also took home LG xboom by will.i.am products as prizes.

NEW:ID fired up the stage with dynamic moves that captivated the crowd

The crowd went into a frenzy as NEW:ID, the rising pop phenomenon, fired up the crowd with their synchronized moves, and powerful stage presence. Performing fan-favorite tracks like “Ghost,” “Killing It Girl,” and “Deja Vu,” turning the venue into a dance floor, with fans waving their light sticks and singing along. “As performers, sound is everything when we're performing, and bass is a big deal for us. It gets us more in the zone and brings our full energy to the stage. And what better speaker to bring that to life than the LG xboom AI? It's loud, powerful, and every beat just hits hard.”

Zephanie delivers a standout singing performance with her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence

Just when the energy peaked, Zephanie, Idol Philippines 2019 Grand Champion, electrified the crowd with her show-stopping performance. Her clear, commanding vocals, amplified by LG xboom AI’s precision tuning and deep, balanced sound, cut through the crowd and pulled everyone in. Performing powerful renditions of and “Problem,” and “Bang Bang” Zephanie showed why she’s one of today’s most promising vocalists. 

With LG xboom by will.i.am’s advanced audio tech, every note hit harder, turning a great performance into an unforgettable moment. "On stage or in my daily routine, LG is always by my side. It really helps to have a speaker you can rely on, and the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers are always there when I need them like playing my rehearsal playlists one minute, then helping me relax with chill music the next. Being able to perform with confidence, knowing LG’s got my back, feels like a dream." 

DJ Dara kept the night grooving with her infectious beats

The night ended on a feel-good finale as DJ Dara took over the rhythm, keeping the energy alive with her signature mix of upbeat K-pop tracks and party dance music.

Sandra Jung, a Philippine-based Korean influencer, poses with the LG XBOOM XL Series Speakers

Kristy Cho, a Philippine-based Korean influencer, also made a special appearance, adding her distinctive touch to the evening

Kristy Cho and Sandra Jung, Philippine-based Korean influencers, posing together, enjoying the night’s atmosphere

Mika Reyes, professional Philippine volleyball player, also graced the event with her presence

Bianca Yao, a.k.a. Biancake, alongside her Gamers' Run Club team

Special appearances by Sandra Jung, Kristy Cho, Mika Reyes, and Bianca Yao with the Gamers' Run Club brought an extra spark to the celebration, adding a lively and unforgettable touch to the day’s celebration.

Members of the media posed with the LG xboom by will.i.am speakers, taking a closer look and engaging with the latest audio innovation

This is the future of music. LG made sure everyone felt it, reminding the crowd that Life’s Good when powered by music, technology, and real connection. In collaboration with will.i.am’s forward-thinking creative vision, the LG xboom by will.i.am isn’t just a speaker,  it’s a statement. Smart, adaptive, and bold, these speakers fuse cutting-edge technology with deep, immersive sound, designed to move with you and move you. Whether you're at home, on the go, or in the zone, the LG xboom delivers the sound you need, exactly when and where you need it.

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology, it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at https://www.lg.com/ph/audio/xboom and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines. 

TCL and Abenson Unveil the Philippines’ Largest 115-Inch C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV

 TCL Electronics and Abenson bring you the largest and most advanced TV in the Philippines — the 115-inch TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV. Experience breathtaking visuals, immersive audio, and next-level entertainment right in your living room.

Following the success of bigger screens comes another massive TV innovation set to conquer your home entertainment.  As the Triple Global Top 1 TV Brand, the No.1 Panel TV in the Philippines and trusted leader in home appliances, TCL Electronics in partnership with Abenson, the No. 1 Appliance Store in the Philippines, officially launches the largest and most advanced display to date. Say hello to the 115-inch TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV delivering an exceptional home entertainment experience with stunning video and audio quality.

The launch event, recently held at Abenson, Greenhills Madison, San Juan, offered guests a luxurious cinematic showcase of the newest 115” TCL C7K QD-Mini LED TV. This impressive TV promises a true cinema-at-home experience right in your living room, combining ultra-large screen immersion, stunning picture clarity, and cutting-edge QD-Mini LED technology.

TCL's launch event was headlined by ‘Experience Cinema Viewing at Home’ theme. Imagine stepping into your own private mini-theater, where plush, comfortable recliner chairs invite you to sink in. The lights dim to a subdued glow, and you've got your favorite popcorn and a refreshing slushie right at your fingertips. All that's left is to settle in and enjoy your favorite movie on the massive TCL C7K Mini LED TV.

(L-R) Abenson executives: Brand Head James Valdez,  District Manager Therry Magbuo, District Manager MM Madz Guzman,  Marketing Lead for Entertainment Category Lyndon Nagar, Retail Marketing Head  Apple Ma with TCL executives: Deputy Director of Sale Cyd Montebon,  Deputy Marketing Director Shae Yu Xialong , Mr. Charlie Huang - Deputy Product Director of Brownline, Assistant Product Manager of Brownline Oriana Jiang and Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez

 

Kicking off the main program, Ms. Cyd Montebon, TCL’s Deputy Director of Sales, warmly greeted guests, saying, “As we have reached another milestone for TCL being the No. 1 spot in the Panel TV Brand category, we wanna introduce to you our newest offering, the massive 115” TCL C7K QD-Mini LED TV giving an ultra-clear and immersive cinematic experience. For sure, movie buffs will love this!”

 

Ms. Apple Ma, Retail Marketing Head of Abenson, then delivered the good news to the guests, unveiling the season's hottest partnership and promotion. "At Abenson, our mission is to bring the good life to every Filipino household. Through our partnership with TCL—renowned for its technological leadership and innovation—we are proud to introduce a product that raises the bar in home entertainment. Together, we are committed to delivering premium experiences that blend innovation, performance, and luxury.”

 

Giving a quick presentation and product talk of what to expect for the newest 115” TCL C7K QD-Mini LED TV is Mr. Charlie Huang, Deputy Product Director of Brownline, TCL Philippines. 

 

Ms. Cyd Montebon, TCL’s Deputy Director of Sales

 

"Aside from giving a supersized TV experience, these TVs represent a significant leap forward in clarity and brightness, combining Quantum Dot technology with Mini LED backlighting to deliver ultra-precise contrast, vibrant colors, and deeper blacks, even in well-lit rooms. We engineered this to redefine true clarity—not just sharper visuals, but a picture that feels more alive, more real, and more responsive to everything you love to watch. See it for yourself and immerse in an ultra clarity experience," Mr. Charlie explained.

The excitement just didn't stop there. TCL Brand Partners and lifestyle content creators namely: comedienne and content creator Ashley a.k.a. Petra Mahalimuyak Rivera, art connoisseur Big Boy Cheng and the Cariaso family — TV personality and yoga instructor Erika Padilla and Blackwater Bossing Head Coach Jeff Cariaso took center stage, enthusiastically sharing their personal experiences with TCL products.

Comedienne Ashley Rivera, clearly impressed by the new 115” TCL C7K QD-Mini LED TV, exclaimed, "I would say that the TCL 115” C7K QD-Mini LED TV is absolutely breathtaking! It's not just big; it's an incredibly immersive experience. The clarity and vibrant HDR quality delivered by the QD-Mini LED technology are stunning, making every scene feel more alive and bringing a genuine cinematic feel right into your living room. It truly redefines what 'watching TV' means.”

For Bigboy Cheng, it’s the massiveness that took him by surprise. “TCL has truly delivered on their promise of bringing the cinema home. The 115” C7K QD-Mini LED TV is magnificent – the size alone is commanding, but it's the combination of that grand scale with the ultra-precise contrast and brilliant colors from the QD-Mini LED that makes it so impressive. It’s an instant upgrade to a premium home theater experience.”

Even the husband and wife tandem of Jeffrey and Erika Cariaso are amazed with the new 115” TCL C7K QD-Mini LED TV. She enthused, “The sheer scale of the 115” C7K immediately transforms the room into a private cinema. The QD-Mini LED picture quality is unbelievably crisp, with colors that just pop and incredible depth. It's truly a game-changer for home entertainment.” 

Mr. Charlie Huang, Deputy Product Director of Brownline, TCL Philippines

 

Ms. Apple Ma, Retail Marketing Head of Abenson

TCL Brand Partners Bigboy Cheng, Ashley Rivera, Erika Padilla-Cariaso and Coach Jeffrey Cariaso

Also the same reaction as Jeff’s, “I'm genuinely astonished by the sheer scale of this TV screen! The TCL 115” C7K QD-Mini LED TV is absolutely perfect for anyone who dreams of bringing the full cinema experience right into their home. The ability to immerse yourself in entertainment of this magnitude, all from the comfort of your own living room, is truly amazing.”

And the most enthusiastic moment everyone was waiting for has arrived! TCL is rolling out an exclusive C7K Launch Promo only at Abenson’s! From August 1-10, you can get the impressive TCL 115” C7K for a special price of ₱590,999. What's more, you'll receive premium freebies valued at ₱63,990, including a 2HP Inverter Air Conditioner (TAC-19CSD/P7) and a Top Loading Water Dispenser (TY-LWYR87).

 

Wrapping up the program is TCL Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez. He says as a closing remark, ""This launch is more than just the unveiling of a new product—it reflects TCL’s ongoing mission to elevate how Filipinos experience home entertainment,” said Joseph Cernitchez, Brand Manager of TCL Philippines.

 

“We’re especially grateful to our partners at Abenson for helping bring this innovation closer to Filipino homes. The TCL 115” C7K QD-Mini LED TV represents the next level in immersive viewing, and we’re proud to make this milestone available through a strong and trusted retail partnership. We look forward to continuing to push boundaries and deliver exceptional value to our customers.”"

 

For more information about the TCL 115” C7K QD-Mini LED TV, go to  https://www.tcl.com/ph/en. 

 

 

 

 

Metrobank Kicks Off the Season with #EarlyGIFT Challenge and Happy Holideals

 For a lot of Filipinos, owning or upgrading their home and car count among their biggest life goals and the best holiday gift they can give to themselves and their loved ones. This August, Metrobank begins the celebration of the holiday season early with a call to jumpstart Filipinos’ journey to financial mindfulness, as well as great deals to help them finally make these dreams a reality, and achieve it even earlier.

A month before the –ber months, one of the world’s longest holiday season, the bank launched its early holiday season advocacy and offers at a media event on August 8 at One Ayala Malls. The event was made more meaningful and underscored the pre-holiday call to act early, as Jose Mari Chan, the country’s holiday season icon, serenaded the audience with the earliest carols of the year, to help spread the message of early planning and joyful, purposeful spending.

Your guide to turning your dreams into reality

Last year, Metrobank introduced G.I.F.T., a pre-holiday tradition that encourages Filipinos to plan ahead of the holidays using four practical financial principles: Get guided by goals, Invest your bonus wisely, Follow a budget plan, and Take advantage of deals --- all before the holiday season rolls in. With international studies showing that 8 out of 10 people are not able to achieve their new year resolutions made in January, taking up Metrobank’s challenge to start planning their financial goals in August gives them the clearer headspace before the biggest spending or saving season of the year, and increases their chances of fulfilling their goals. The bank aims to make more Filipinos be more financially mindful and help them avoid the so-called financial hangover often experienced post-holidays.

This year, Metrobank is taking the next step with the introduction of the #EarlyGIFT Challenge – encouraging Filipinos to take concrete action towards their dreams. This is an invitation for every Filipino to jumpstart their journey to financial mindfulness this August.

The challenge is simple: participants only need to write down one goal they truly want to achieve in the next 12 months. Ensure that this goal is meaningful, specific enough to track, and realistic enough to reach within a year. Then, share it on social media with the hashtag #EarlyGIFT, and invite their family and friends to do the same. 

Chief Marketing Officer Digs Dimagiba said the #EarlyGIFT Challenge will help start a change in mindset for individuals to be more financially purposeful which then creates a ripple effect towards better decision making.

“We encourage all Filipinos to become more financially mindful and resilient by redefining our usual holiday traditions when it comes to financial planning. Let us all start making our resolutions early in August – take the time to reflect, make just 1 specific and realistic goal that you can publicly commit to doing for the next 12 months, and inspire others to join you so you have a support system and this time, you as well as your family and friends can all finally accomplish your resolutions and grow together,” he added.

Your partner to achieving the car and home of your dreams 

To help Filipinos get started early in achieving their biggest life dreams in August, Metrobank also announced the bank’s Happy Holideals promo. 

Metrobank Consumer Lending Group Head Peaches Cuenco shared “Metrobank believes that your dreams of moving into a new home or driving a new car should not wait until the holiday season. With our Happy Holideals promo that offers low rates, waived fees, and more, you can start working on your goals today and we will be your financial growth partner every step of the way.”

The Happy Holideals promo lets borrowers who will apply and have their car or home loan approved before October 15, 2025, and booked by October 31, 2025 will enjoy exclusive rewards, competitive loan rates, and so much more: 

• Waived fees of up to PHP100,000 on both home and car loan applications. This includes mortgage registration fees, documentary stamp tax, and notarial fees. 
• Low interest rates, starting at 8.70% interest rate per annum (p.a.) for car loans and 6.50% interest rate p.a. for home loans with a minimum term of three years. 
• Free car insurance from AXA Philippines for the first year on car loans.  
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Clients can conveniently apply online through Metrobank's website or visit the nearest Metrobank branch.  

By rolling out these offers ahead of the traditional holiday rush, Metrobank brings the joy of the season earlier than expected. 

To learn more about the Happy Holideals promo or how to join the #EarlyGIFT Challenge, visit www.metrobank.com.ph or follow Metrobank on its official social media channels. 

 

Chowking Serves Up Sulit Deals for National Siopao Day 2025

 

Mark your calendars, because Chowking is bringing back a beloved promo for National Siopao Day!

On August 17, 2025, everyone can enjoy Chowking’s best-tasting Siopao with their Buy 2, Get 1 FREE promo, available throughout the day!

Craving for a classic? Get the Chunky Asado Siopao – made with authentic slow-roasted, Hong Kong-style Asado-Sarap meat chunks freshly steamed in a soft, fluffy bun. It’s packed with a rich and oh-so-tasty flavor – and it’s also available in Bola-Bola! It’s no surprise that Chowking serves the Philippines’ best-tasting Siopao.

Ready for a different kind of delicious? Have Chowking’s new Fried Siopao and enjoy its lightly crisp and fluffy bun, complementing the meaty-sarap filling that’s also available in Bola-bola and Asado. Chowking’s Fried Siopao is not just a snack; it’s going to be your next PAO-borito.

Enjoy the promo on solo orders or get the Paos to Go box that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking and PAO-salubong this National Siopao Day! Head to the nearest Chowking branch or order online at chowkingdelivery.com to treat yourself and your loved ones to this sulit siopao deal. Celebrate National Siopao Day the best-tasting way with Chowking!

 

Stay updated on sulit favorites and new product launches—follow Chowking on Facebook and Instagram.

Beko Philippines Hits Sustainability Milestone: 100% Plastic Waste Recovered and Diverted in 2024 with PCX Markets

 

Convenience often comes at an environmental cost, with plastic waste posing as a pressing global issue. Every choice we make, from the products we buy to the packaging they come in, affects our planet's overall health.

Beko, from Europe’s No. 1 Large Home Appliance company, goes beyond the products it creates. The drive for sustainability is ever consistent to help the community live a healthier and greener life. In fact, Beko Philippines is well on its way to creating a sustainable future through its partnership with PCX Markets, a global plastic responsibility platform that provides solutions to help companies achieve their sustainability goals.

The partnership, which began in 2023, has already yielded impressive results. In 2024, Beko Philippines achieved 100% recovery and diversion of its plastic footprint, going beyond the requirements of the country's Extended Producer Responsibility law. This landmark achievement involved the diversion of over 39,000 kg of plastic waste from nature—the equivalent of 13 million 3-gram plastic sachets.

Beko Philippines has actively supported a lineup of projects with PCX Markets’ vetted partners that not only address plastic waste but also empower local communities:

Top Lun Project: Giving Plastics a Second Life

Through the Top Lun partnership, 33,000 kg of rigid HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastics, commonly found in plastic bottle caps sourced from junk shops and informal waste pickers, were successfully recycled into flakes and then sold to companies for use in various products.

 

Holcim-Geocycle Project: Fueling Up Energy

Beko also backed the Holcim-Geocycle initiative, fostering collaborations with local government units and waste aggregators. This project facilitated the sourcing of post-consumer plastic waste, which was then transported to Holcim's cement facilities and served as an alternative fuel source.

 

The initiative supports Holcim’s efforts to cut dependence on imported fossil fuels and raw materials, while promoting sustainable waste management. The project successfully diverted 4,000 kg of flexible plastics from the environment.

 

Aling Tindera Project: Building a Sustainable Community

The Aling Tindera waste-to-cash initiative empowers women micro-entrepreneurs to drive grassroots sustainability. These entrepreneurs collect or purchase flexible plastics from their local communities to be purchased by the partners and delivered to a co-processing facility, where it is used as alternative fuel in a licensed waste-to-energy plant.

 

More than helping the sustainability efforts, this initiative also helped the women provide for their families. This program gave around ₱7,500 in incremental income to these women and their communities. There was an increase of 37% in average monthly income compared to the initial project baseline last year.

 

"At Beko, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Our products are designed to deliver comfort and convenience to every Filipino home, while also caring for the planet,” said Mr. Alper Yildirim, Country Director of Beko Philippines. “We are proud of our recent collaboration with PCX Markets, turning plastic waste into valuable opportunities for the environment and the community. We are committed to magnifying our efforts, and we hope this inspires our customers to take pride in choosing Beko as well as for other organizations to be inspired with their own sustainability initiatives," he added.

With Beko, each thoughtful action and appliance paves the way towards a more sustainable world.

For more updates on Beko's sustainability efforts, follow Beko Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @bekoph and visit www.beko.com/ph-en.

Kaspersky’s eSIM Store Takes APAC Travel to New Heights

 Global cybersecurity company spots e-SIM-related phishing and scams mimicking top telco companies in the region

 

Asia Pacific’s (APAC) travel sector is bouncing back. After the impact of the pandemic more than six years ago, this industry is accelerating towards full recovery, and so is the need for smart, secure connectivity. With this, global cybersecurity and digital privacy company, Kaspersky, is stepping in with an innovation that makes international travel even smoother.

 

In 2024, the region welcomed over 316 million international visitors, narrowing the gap with pre-pandemic levels to just 13%, compared to a steep 74% drop in 2022. APAC’s international arrival volume is also projected to climb from 619 million in 2024 to 762 million by 2026, signaling a full return to pre-pandemic demand while outbound travel from APAC is expected to surge by 20–25% this year.

 

To provide secure connectivity on the go, Kaspersky unveils the Kaspersky eSIM Store, a convenient new solution that lets travelers install digital SIMs on their mobile devices instantly. With just a few taps, users can select not only country-specific plan but also region-specific and global plans, and go online without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards. It’s a fast, secure, and borderless way to stay connected, especially for today’s mobile-first, on-the-move generation.

 

The rise of travel eSIMs is especially pronounced in APAC, which now represents over 56% of the global market and generated around USD 11.5 million in revenue in 2024. Industry forecasts show continued momentum, with annual growth rates between 11% and 21% expected in the coming years.

 

Riding on the travel wave are cybercriminals who are piggybacking on the eSIM growth in the region. Researchers from Kaspersky spotted phishing pages and scams mimicking top telecommunication companies in the region including – Singtel, Smart, and Telstra.

 

An example of an eSIM scam in Japan

 

Entering sensitive data like phone number on a phishing site can expose user to serious security and financial risks. Cybercriminals can use the information user provides to access their financial accounts or crypto wallets, especially if they also obtain login credentials or security questions.

“As travel booms across the region, digital connectivity must evolve just as fast,” said Chee Choon Hong, Head of Consumer Channel for APAC at Kaspersky. “The Kaspersky eSIM Store is our response to that. With eSIM adoption accelerating and more travelers demanding instant, reliable data access wherever they go, our solution empowers them with a secure and stress-free experience. It’s exactly what APAC’s vibrant travel economy needs.”

Benefits of Kaspersky e-SIM store

The Kaspersky eSIM Store isn’t just a digital convenience, it’s a smarter way to stay connected while traveling. Designed for ease, speed, and flexibility, it solves common travel pain points and empowers users to manage mobile connectivity on their terms.

 

· Value: Travelers can access affordable internet plans without worrying about roaming fees or hidden charges. With coverage in over 150 countries and regions, the service provides access to eSIM data plans from local telecom operators all over the world, no matter where your journey takes you, from urban cities to remote destinations.

· Security and flexibility: Installation is seamless. Users simply purchase a plan, follow intuitive on-screen steps, and activate the eSIM in minutes. No physical SIM card, no waiting in lines, and in many cases, no need to present an ID or passport, making it ideal for international trips and spontaneous getaways.

· Eco-friendly: Sustainability is also built in. By eliminating plastic SIM cards and packaging, the Kaspersky eSIM Store supports eco-friendly travel. And with top-up options available anytime, travelers can extend their data on the go, without changing SIMs or losing connectivity.

 

Kaspersky eSIM Store is now available on the official website https://kasperskyesimstore.com/, and as a mobile app in App Store and Google Play.

What Wednesday Addams Teaches Us About True Friendship

 Expect more twists and turns (and life lessons!) with hit mystery-thriller Wednesday Season 2 now on Netflix, best streamed with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599!

Photo credit: Jonathan Hession/ Netflix

 

Have you ever noticed how the shows we stream often reflect the way we live? Whether you're deep into a solo binge-watch or sharing gasp-worthy moments with family on the couch, the best stories stick with us. And with the seamless connection of PLDT Home Fiber, these cinematic worlds come to life without interruption, making it even easier to find powerful life lessons from our favorite shows. It shouldn’t be surprising then that Netflix’s hit series Wednesday offers more than thrills and mystery – it’s packed with insights that resonate with both ourselves and the people around us.

 

You see, Nevermore Academy might be full of monsters and mayhem, but it also gave us one of the most unexpected – and heartwarming – friendships on TV: Wednesday Addams and werewolf Enid Sinclair. While one is a macabre mystery-solver and the other a colorful, social butterfly, their dynamic throughout the first season revealed a surprising amount about what it truly means to be a friend. Here are the five most important friendship lessons you can pick up from Wednesday and Enid:

 

1. Opposites attract – and make the best duo

You don't have to be two peas in a pod or birds of a feather to be best friends. Sometimes, it’s the differences that make a bond even stronger.

 

Wednesday's cynicism was often balanced by Enid's unwavering optimism, and Enid's social skills occasionally dragged Wednesday into situations that (begrudgingly) would help her grow. Their contrasting personalities, perfectly showcased in their dorm room, proved that embracing each other’s uniqueness can lead into a deeper, more vibrant connection.

 

2. Patience pays off (especially with a Wednesday-type friend)

Not all friendships spark instantly – some take time, effort, and a whole lot of patience. 

 

Enid faced numerous eyerolls, sarcastic remarks, and flat-out rejections from Wednesday, yet she never gave up. Her steady kindness and genuine desire to connect eventually chipped away at Wednesday's notoriously thick walls, proving that true friendship is often a marathon, not a sprint.

 

 

Photo credit: Helen Sloan/ Netflix

 

3. Great besties challenge each other to grow

The best friends aren't just "yes-men." They're also the ones who aren't afraid to call you out when needed and push you to become a better version of yourself.

 

Enid wasn't afraid to tell Wednesday when she was being selfish or manipulative. In turn, Wednesday's independent spirit subtly pushed Enid to stand up for herself, especially when dealing with her mother's expectations. Growth happens when someone genuinely cares enough to challenge you – and sticks around to see you through it.

 

4. Loyalty trumps (almost) everything

When push comes to shove, true friends show up. While Wednesday might express her affection in unconventional ways (like, you know, not smiling), she fiercely protected Enid (and Eugene!). 

Enid, for her part, stood by Wednesday through monster hunts, murder mysteries, and near-death experiences. Their unwavering support for each other, even in the face of danger, is a testament to the power of loyalty in any lasting friendship.

 

5. Just one hug can speak volumes (especially from a friend like Wednesday)

Sometimes, the simplest gestures are the most powerful, especially if they’re from someone you least expect.

 

After an entire (first) season of Wednesday avoiding physical contact and emotional expression – specifically, Enid’s attempts at hugging – Wednesday’s final, unprompted hug with Enid was a monumental moment. It symbolized the depth of their bond, the trust they had built, and how even the most emotionally reserved person can find comfort and connection with the right friend. It was a moment that made fans everywhere collectively swoon – and cry!

 

The best part about Enid and Wednesday’s friendship? There’s definitely more to come, with Wednesday Season 2 now on Netflix. If you’re not yet subscribed to Netflix, the best way to get it is with PLDT Home’s Fiber Netflix Plans. Enjoy high-speed fiber internet with speeds of up to 150 Mbps, bundled with a complimentary Netflix subscription. It’s the best way to enjoy unli-entertainment just in time for the new season of Wednesday, so sign up or upgrade your plan now!

 

Stream Wednesday Season 2 on Netflix and enjoy more unli-entertainment only with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix – the most value-packed internet & entertainment plan with a complimentary Netflix Basic subscription. To learn more and apply for a PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan, visit pldthome.com/fiber-netflix.