Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Get ready to kick off 2024 with an exhilarating burst of excitement! Forget about those New Year's resolutions and gear up for the spectacle of ARTBOX AVENUE, Singapore's largest indoor all-day night festival. As visitors step into the Singapore Expo Hall 2, they will be treated to a vibrant and bustling city, with each corner filled with different zones and experiential activities to guarantee a memorable time.
With tickets starting at $6 per person and featuring more than 300 retail and F&B vendors, the excitement unfolds over two consecutive weekends from January 26th to 28th and February 2nd to 4th, this year’s instalment is set to dazzle visitors from all ages and around the world.
ARTBOX AVENUE is not just an event; it's an immersive celebration of global culture, a feast for the senses, and an experience that will leave a lasting imprint on every visitor. It boasts a tantalising array of international delicacies and not only that, transforms into a global shopping experience featuring artisanal boutiques and retailers from across borders. Moreover, captivating performances by both local and international artists will set the stage for an immersive celebration of global culture at ARTBOX AVENUE. This showcases ARTBOX's pioneering role in shaping a unique lifestyle and cultural experience within Singapore's festivals and events industry.
Expressing his excitement about ARTBOX AVENUE, Kent Teo, Founder and CEO of Invade shared “We envisioned this year's instalment to be an immersive journey into the heart of global culture, where vibrant experiences and limitless creativity converge. Our commitment to providing a platform for businesses and artists to shine is unwavering. ARTBOX AVENUE 2024 will feature a diverse range of vendors that reflect the global celebration of culture, diversity, and the universal language of the arts.”
Attracting over 60,000 visitors last year, ARTBOX is now geared up to elevate and make it even more memorable for all. Partnering up once again with SGAG as the co-organiser, the event ensures an integration of vibrant creativity and engaging experiences. With an emphasis on curated experiences in the realms of F&B, retail, and performing arts, this year's instalment promises an unforgettable journey for all visitors.
At the SGAG stage, stand a chance to win $888 in cash as visitors will be treated to a riot of fun and pain with the all-new electrifying Hopscotch of Pain challenge. Participants have to hop on one leg and cross a beam covered in acupuncture mats, channelling the classic hopscotch game but with a hilarious, painful twist.
But that's not all – brace for the adrenaline rush with two fresh competitions: the National Piak Cockroach Championship in week 1 and the National Water Bottle Tornado Championship in week 2, where the best contenders will pocket $888 in cash prizes in each thrilling event.
In anticipation of the opening of ARTBOX AVENUE, Adrian Ang, HEPMIL Media Group Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer said “We are thrilled to be back again for ARTBOX AVENUE, adding a whacky and humorous twist to the event we all know and love today. Visitors can expect much more challenging competitions at our SGAG stage and walk away with cold hard cash!”
Transforming Spaces Through Art
Renowned graffiti artist and Illustrator hailing from Malaysia, Cloakwork (@cloakwork on Instagram) will be stepping into the spotlight at ARTBOX AVENUE. With his distinctive style that seamlessly blends street art with storytelling, Cloakwork is set to transform a dedicated space into an immersive showcase of his vibrant and captivating artwork.
Another distinguished Malaysian artist, MonKiddo (@itsmonkiddo on Instagram), is poised to captivate visitors through the creation of captivating artwork at the Central Avenue of ARTBOX. From intricate detailing to vibrant compositions, MonKiddo's contribution to ARTBOX AVENUE is set to be a focal point, inviting visitors to witness the intersection of imagination and artistic brilliance within the dynamic landscape of this year's festival.
Retail Revelry: From Trendsetting Fashion to Artisanal Finds
Some participating brands from Thailand, from left to right: Loma.Whale, Outerouter and rust brand (Photos courtesy of Instagram)
ARTBOX AVENUE will turn into a bustling marketplace and retail haven, where international and local artisans from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and South Korea will showcase their wares to offer a truly unique retail experience. From trendsetting fashion to traditional crafts, the festival will be a treasure trove of eclectic finds.
In addition to satisfying your international retail cravings, ARTBOX AVENUE proudly showcases a diverse array of homegrown talents, including beloved brands like Talking Toes (@talkingtoesofficial on Instagram), renowned for their iconic funky socks, and Maverick Made (@maverick_made on Instagram), offering an exquisite selection of handcrafted leather goods. These local gems add a touch of homegrown flair to the eclectic shopping experience that awaits.
International Flavours Take Center Stage
Some participating brands from Singapore, from left to right: The Swag Social, The FAB FIVE and K Ō B A S H Ī (Photos courtesy of Instagram)
Indulge your taste buds as popular F&B vendors from around the region come to create a global feast for ARTBOX AVENUE. Whether you enjoy the savoury aromas of Thai cuisine, an eclectic mix of South Korean street food or local delights with a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours, there is surely something for everyone.
For visitors with a sweet tooth and who like to get their hands ‘dirty’, the renowned chocolatier Janice Wong will be hosting an indulgent painting workshop, where you can transform sweet canvases into edible masterpieces. During this immersive experience, participants will have the chance to delve into the artistry of chocolate-making under the expert guidance of Janice Wong’s team, discovering the secrets behind their signature confections.
Harmony Across Borders: International Performing Arts and Entertainment Showcase
From left to right: Jocelyn Ng, Singaporean Violinist, Spruce Teo, Singaporean Saxophonist and The Parkinson, a pop band hailing Thailand (Photos courtesy of Instagram)
Be captivated, moved and entertained by the enchanting performances from local talents such as the mesmerising Jocelyn Ng, a virtuoso violinist, and the soulful Spruce Teo, a talented saxophonist.
Thailand's own musical maestros, The Parkinson, will also mark its presence as they take the stage on the first Saturday of ARTBOX AVENUE, proudly presented by ARTBOX’s Official Lager Beer, Chang Beer.
Visitors are also in for a treat with other onstage live performances by our local music bands Reverie, The Passerby, The Mad Trio and many more! On top of bringing delightful music to the enthused crowd, Chang Beer will also be giving out merchandise and free beer to kick off a perfect year with ARTBOX.
The fun does not stop there - whether you're a karaoke enthusiast or a first-time crooner, sing your hearts out to your favourite tunes at Teo Heng’s Karaoke-in-a-Container where visitors get a chance to unleash their inner rockstar. This is an excellent opportunity to embrace the spotlight and make memories that resonate long after the music fades.
Not only that, visitors are invited to indulge in a unique chess experience by Aliwal Chess Club, where they can try their hands at creative chess activities that blend intellect with imagination. Beyond the game, explore and take home exclusive merchandise that reflects the artistry of chess. Engage in a hands-on session where you can build your own customised tote bags and as an exciting bonus, participants have the chance to enter the Snap & Win contest, with the grand prize being a custom-made chess table valued at over $800.
Level Up Your Experience with Classic and Virtual Games
Step into the ultimate Gamestop Arena at Open Plaza – home to ARTBOX’s Switch and VR Games. The space invites visitors to play while sinking into comfy seats and immersing themselves into the gaming world– the perfect blend of comfort and playfulness.
In addition, The Arcade People (TAP) takes over the Arcade Alley at ARTBOX AVENUE where visitors get to immerse in a world of classic and modern arcade games that will keep the fun going all day and night. But that's not all – TAP is bringing the heat with daily challenges throughout the two weekends of ARTBOX that allow daily top scorers to walk away with prizes.
Ticket Prices (inclusive of booking fee):
Pre-Event (from now until 25 January 2024)
General single-admission tickets are from $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends per person
Event (26 January to 4 February 2024)
General single-admission tickets are from $7 on weekdays and $8 on weekends per person
Early Risers 4-pax Bundle (For entries on Fridays, 12 PM slots) are available at $16 (U.P. $23)
For more information, please visit https://www.artbox.sg/
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
HOPE Hero of the year winner Cynthia Caridad Abdon-Tellez
‘Not all heroes wear capes’ and this is especially true for the everyday heroes who selflessly and consistently go the extra mile to improve the daily lives of others or help those who are in need.
HOPE, an impact organization that invests 100% of its profits for the building of public school classrooms and environmental interventions, recently paid tribute to everyday heroes by recognizing three Filipino heroes through the recent virtual HOPE Hero Awarding Ceremony.
“Our Hero Awards
was inspired by the many stories we have heard over the years at
HOPE. Whether it is a farmer who has so little and yet decides
to donate part of his parcel of land so that a school may be
constructed for the village children, or a teacher that walks 4 hours
each way to accompany her students who live in a remote area to
school - we are constantly blown away by the selfless actions that
guarantee - HOPE for others.,” said Nanette Medved Po, HOPE
founder and chairwoman.
Leading the roster of inspiring
awardees is Cynthia
Caridad Abdon-Tellez, who
won Hope Hero of the Year, the top award of the recognition
program, for establishing the Mission For Migrant Workers in (MFMW)
in 1981. The organization provides essential services to
approximately 30,000 domestic workers in Hong Kong, many of whom are
women from underdeveloped countries. Her work extends to addressing
issues of underpayment, overwork, debt, discrimination, and even
physical and sexual abuse.
HOPE Hero of the year runner up Anton Mari Lim (rightmost)
“The recognition means a lot to my organization. It is giving light to the plight of migrant workers, which is not a bed of roses,” exclaimed Abdon-Tellez.
But her work doesn’t stop there. In order to keep her advocacy going, she also admitted that she needs the support of others. “We need more people to help us raise funds or connect us to people and organizations who can financially support our work. Support services for migrant domestic workers is one of the least-funded sectors in Hong Kong.”
Another HOPE Hero is runner-up Anton Mari Lim, co-founder, president and CEO of the Yellow Boat of HOPE Foundation. Through this project, he was able to donate safe transportation in the form of 5,000 yellow boats, ensuring that children in remote areas can access education which has led to increased school attendance in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
With this recognition from HOPE Hero Awards, Lim hopes to raise more awareness about their work, drawing more attention to the challenges faced by children in remote communities in the Philippines. “Getting involved in our advocacy is open to everyone who believe in the power of education and community empowerment. People can contribute by volunteering their time and skills, donating to our cause, or simply spreading the word about our mission,” he concluded.
Like Lim, HOPE Hero runner-up Zacarias Mansing is also focusing on education of children. A wheelchair-bound PWD, Mansing embodies the spirit of a socio-civic volunteer and motivational speaker. Despite being paralyzed from the chest down, he continues to inspire others through his initiative “Books for Kids” that aims to be a catalyst for children to develop a love of reading and elevate literacy levels in public schools, especially in the remote areas of Negros Oriental.
 |
“Being the only finalist and runner-up with physical disability is a huge honor because I was able to prove that community service is not exclusively meant for the physically abled,” said Mansing, adding that the award will help him gain the attention and respect, especially among school children because they can easily relate and connect the lesson they have learned in class about being a hero.
HOPE Hero Awards is a
recognition program that shines a spotlight on those who have
dedicated time, resources, and creativity towards uplifting the lives
of others, earning them well-deserved recognition for inspiring
others to follow their footsteps to create meaningful and lasting
change.
To
know more or if you are interested to volunteer for their advocacies,
contact the following:
Mission
for Migrant Workers: Call / WhatsApp 95290387
Yellow
Boat Project: Email chief.hopepaddler@yellowboat.org
Books
for Kids: Email zmansingjr@yahoo.com
To
know more about HOPE, visit https://www.generationhope.ph/
SACRA MUSIC has released a new single from esteemed composer HIROYUKI SAWANO’s vocal project SawanoHiroyuki[nZk] featuring global K-pop superstars TOMORROW X TOGETHER entitled “LEveL.”
Featured as the opening theme to the newly debuted TV animation SOLO LEVELING, the track includes a distinctive rhythm and addictive sound composed by Sawano and complemented by guest vocals from TOMORROW x TOGETHER, who perfectly match the series’ powerful, high-speed storyline.
Known for his musical contributions to numerous anime series, TV dramas and films including Attack on Titan, Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash and Promare, Sawano was tasked with both Solo Leveling’s opening theme as well as the series’ original score music. The hugely anticipated series made its worldwide debut last weekend, and is based on the Korean novel and comic of the same name (Original Work: DUBU (REDICE STUDIO), Chugong, h-goon [D&C Webtoon Biz.]), which has become an international hit.
Of the song, HIROYUKI SAWANO says, “I feel very honored to produce the music for Solo Leveling and also the main theme as SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]. I am thankful for this opportunity to work with TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Their diverse vocal styles enhanced the track’s groove and the edge of the sound, and I was able to work feeling their talents on hand. It is a work that I look forward to seeing as a TV viewer myself, so I really hope people will enjoy the anime along with my music.”
TOMORROW X TOGETHER add, “LEveL expresses the main character’s strength with its dark and heavy feeling. Its distinctive and addictive rhythm really sticks to your head once you hear it, so please enjoy our song over and over along with the anime.”
Monday, January 8, 2024
Flip phones are sometimes referred to as “cutesy phones,” but people enjoy them for a variety of reasons! One major attraction is the nostalgia they evoke—something is endearing about that gratifying snap when you close them. They’re also quite pocket-friendly when folded, making them extremely portable.
Beyond nostalgia, flip phones provide a distinctive and elegant alternative to the typical candy bar-style smartphones. They can also be more durable; the folding design protects the screen like a hidden weapon against scratches and cracks.
OPPO‘s second-generation flip phone, the OPPO Find N3 Flip, blends elegance and functionality. While it boasts various upgrades, one of the main highlights is the camera advancements.
Here’s all you need to know about the OPPO Find N3 Flip’s added features for enhancing the style and quality of your photos.
Pioneering Camera Features in a Flip Phone
The camera system in the OPPO Find N3 Flip pioneers several groundbreaking firsts, including the premier flagship triple-camera setup on a flip phone, the flagship telephoto camera lens on a foldable device, and the title of being the first flip phone to have expansive camera sensors.
With the phone’s remarkable choice of camera lenses designed to enhance your photography experience, you may enter a world of photography delights. The 50MP primary camera on the OPPO Find N3 Flip is accompanied by a 48MP ultrawide-angle lens and a 32MP portrait camera with a telephoto sensor.
First Flip Phone with Telephoto Portrait Camera Capability
OPPO takes pride in being the first flip phone to embrace optical zoom magic, grabbing subjects with a focal length that defines perfection with its camera system’s telephoto portrait lens.
The OPPO Find N3 Flip includes a 32MP RGBW IMX709 sensor with an aperture of f/2. It is a watershed moment for adaptable camera systems in flip phones, enabling almost lossless hybrid zooming up to five times.
When used in portrait mode, its focal length brilliantly immortalizes subjects, giving them a natural, charming appeal. It skillfully tames noise in night portraits, maintaining a balance in every fine detail.
More to Love in the Camera Setup and Modes
The ability to make taking photos easier is one camera feature that entices users. The OPPO Find N3 Flip introduces the FlexForm Capture feature, which allows you to capture a selfie with the primary camera and utilize the outer display as a viewfinder.
When taking the perfect selfie, users can now easily preview it on the cover screen while holding the OPPO Find N3 Flip. Fold the flip phone halfway to enable FlexForm Mode and easily switch to the main display.
This mode shifts the preview to the top half of the screen and the camera controls to the bottom, making it perfect for stable tripod-assisted pictures.
Keeping the features from its predecessor, such as waist-level capture and FlexForm time-lapse.
Experience Flagship Photography and ProXDR Screen
If you prefer taking landscape shots or capturing photos with fine details, you’ll appreciate these new OPPO Find N3 Flip camera features. With OPPO Computational Photography, photos can now be captured with detailed highlights and shadows and shown flawlessly on the ProXDR Screen.
Due to restrictions in the HDR process, classic HDR fusion photographs have an artificial feel, such as subjects that seem overly bright against the backdrop or obvious halos around objects, and photos lack depth and vitality.
Through OPPO’s cutting-edge technology, the initial brightness remains captured in the moment. The precise pixel-level modifications rigorously fine-tune HDR photographs, resulting in stunningly appealing photos with rich contrasts in highlights and shadows. The result? A more natural and captivating image experience.
Photos dazzle with the ProXDR innovative screen in place, offering up to eight times more dynamic range than displays without ProXDR.
Enjoying photos results in the richest display experience, whether you’re reliving selfies, capturing lively parties, cherishing your pets, revisiting holiday memories, or embracing any treasured moments that fill your gallery.
Level Up Your Flip Phone Photography Experience with the OPPO Find N3 Flip
Ready to take your best shot? Get your own OPPO Find N3 Flip at its retail price of Php 64,999 today.
Exclusive benefits from partners like as Philippine Airlines (Mabuhay Miles), PAGSS Premium Lounge, Estée Lauder, Origins, or Clinique, The Spa, Cul De Sac, and Akimbo are available to new OPPO Find N3 Flip customers via the MyOPPO app.
Stay updated for more information about the OPPO Find N3 Flip by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or its official Facebook page at OPPO Philippines.
Friday, January 5, 2024
FOR HOPE AND HEALING: Foundever™ in Tarlac, Philippines holds a donation drive for cancer patients at the pediatric ward of the Tarlac Provincial Hospital. Pictured are the Foundever associates decked in costumes during the party organized for the young patients and the turnover of donations.
Foundever™, a leading global customer experience (CX) provider, has continued to hoist their commitment to making a positive impact on the communities they serve by holding a donation drive for cancer patients at the pediatric ward of the Tarlac Provincial Hospital.
Associates from the Foundever office in Tarlac eagerly embraced the opportunity to contribute to the cause, showcasing the company’s strong sense of community and compassion. The goal was simple yet profound: to bring comfort and cheer to the young patients battling cancer and their families facing challenging times.
“At Foundever, we believe in the power of collective kindness,” said Foundever Account Engagement Manager, Kenneth Esperame. “This is not just a donation drive for us; it’s an opportunity to bring smiles to the faces of young patients and provide support to their families during challenging times.”
The donation drive, which spanned about a month, engaged Foundever associates in a collective effort to contribute donations for the young patients at the pediatric ward. The response from the employees was overwhelming, demonstrating the company’s commitment to social responsibility. The donation drive gathered more than 800 toys that were given to about 400 kids in the pediatric ward.
The monetary donations gathered were used to purchase essential supplies for the hospital playroom as well as to organize a memorable party for the patients of the pediatric ward. “Our commitment goes beyond material contributions; it’s about creating lasting memories and positive experiences for these brave children,” stated Esperame.
Upon presenting the donations to the pediatric ward at the Tarlac Provincial Hospital, Foundever HR Generalist, Miggy Dela Torre, emphasized the importance of community collaboration saying “Our relationship with the local community goes beyond business transactions. This initiative reflects our shared responsibility to uplift those who need it most.”
He added, “Knowing that our collective efforts can make a positive difference in the lives of these children and their families fills us with a profound sense of purpose.”
This donation drive further testifies the unwavering commitment of Foundever to being a force for good, dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. As the global CX leader looks forward to future initiatives, it remains firm in its belief that by working together, businesses and communities can create a harmonious and compassionate world for all.
Thursday, January 4, 2024
“Role Play Town” is a great spot where kids may explore their dream careers. Go bring your kids and have fun at their branches in SM City Baliwag and SM City Marilao.There’s no greater joy than to see kids have fun and socialize with other kids. Much more, parents having the time of their lives while playing with their little ones is beyond priceless. The good news is, Bulakenyos need not go far to experience all of these thrills, as SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan are home to Kidzoona and Ambika Kid’z Fun Box, the best playhouses there are in the province.
Known as a “unique edutainment center for children," Kidzoona in SM City Baliwag and SM City Marilao is more than just a playground. Here, children may naturally develop their communication skills while honing their creativity, development, and learning through different areas of the playhouse. There’s “Role Play Town,” where kids may explore with their dream careers at role play stations including hospital, pet world, beauty parlor, among others. While building blocks and toy corner improve motor skills, problem solving and hand-eye coordination. Moreover, kids develop strength, balance, coordination, agility and speed on the various at the various playground equipment such as the air track, cyber wheel, giant ball pit with slides, and a lot more.
Learn through play at various corners of SM City Baliwag’s Kidzoona.
Let kids do their own pizza and other fun stuff at Kidzoona in SM City Baliwag. You can also experience the same thrill at their other branch in SM City Marilao.
Kidzoona not only provides play for kids but also caters birthday parties and other kiddie events. To avail, simply inquire to the nearest Kidzoona branch at the ground level of SM City Baliwag and the 2nd level of SM City Marilao.
There’s a lot of options when it comes to fun, as Ambika Kid’z Fun Box offers the same level of learning through play at the second level of SM Center Pulilan and at the ground level of SM City Baliwag.
Fun toys that are tools for learning are some of the best offerings of Ambika Kid’z Funbox in SM Center Pulilan. Also, visit their other branch at SM City Baliwag.
Playground equipment designed not just for fun but for development and learning are some of the best features at Ambika Kid’z Funbox. These and more are found at their branches in SM Center Pulilan and SM City Baliwag.
Go spend time with your kids and plan your next family day only at the best playhouses there are at SM Bulacan malls. Follow the social media pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan for updates.
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and the world's top two TV brand, today announced its presence at the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES), taking place in Las Vegas in January 2024. The company will showcase over a hundred cutting-edge products, demonstrating its leading technology portfolio spanning 15 product categories, including QD-Mini LED TVs, TCL FreshIN air conditioners, TCL Free Built-in Series refrigerators, washing machines, feature-rich mobile devices, AR glasses, commercial displays, one-stop smart energy solutions and more.
As a leading company in premium large-screen TVs and Mini LED technology, TCL is set to present its latest breakthroughs in display technology at CES 2024 and unveil one of the world’s largest QD-Mini LED TVs to audience in the North American region for the first time.
In addition to the award-winning home theater systems, the company will introduce one of the industry’s first smart connected mobile device entertainment solutions which combine smartphones, tablets, smart glasses, and other devices. Among these, the latest NXTPAPER display technology optimized for the human eyes and the RayNeo AR glasses with revolutionary full-color 3D head-up display and powerful AI capabilities will be revealed.
Together with its renowned partners worldwide, TCL continues to inspire greatness for global users through a variety of groundbreaking collaborations, including its role as the Official TV Partner of the National Football League (NFL) in the United States. In addition, TCL will demonstrate its commitment to a greater and more sustainable future through its latest environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.
TCL has witnessed consistent growth throughout the first three quarters of 2023. Notably, TCL TVs ranked first in overall shipment in the Philippines, Australia, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Shipment of TCL TVs in the North American region increased 11.4% YoY, placing the company third in terms of shipment in the United States. Elsewhere, TCL TVs were second in France and third in the Czech Republic and Sweden in terms of shipment. For mobile devices, TCL smartphones ranked top three in Android phone shipment in North America. Other TCL products including air conditioners and RayNeo’s AR and XR glasses are also leading global markets with their latest, innovative features.
For more details, please refer to the below:
TCL CES 2024 Press Conference
Date & Time: 8 PM (CET), January 8, 2024
Location: Mandalay Bay, Islander Ballroom in the North Convention Center
TCL CES Booth
Date: January 9-12, 2024
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall #18708
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Search