Tag: event

  • Could Zyxel’s new system finally end cybercrime as we know it?

    Could Zyxel’s new system finally end cybercrime as we know it?

    Zyxel Networks has introduced a new suite of cybersecurity features, including passwordless logins and AI-powered threat detection, designed to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and managed service providers (MSPs) strengthen defenses without increasing complexity.

    The company’s latest update adds Passkey login, an industry-first option that allows users to access Zyxel accounts using biometric authentication or device PINs instead of traditional passwords.

    This eliminates the risk of stolen or phished credentials while improving ease of access across Zyxel services, including Nebula, SecuReporter, and myZyxel. Support for WiFi and remote VPN authentication through Nebula Cloud is also expected soon.

    Zyxel’s move follows a surge in global cyberattacks, including a massive data leak earlier this year that exposed over 16 billion login credentials.

    Despite most SMBs recognizing cybersecurity as essential, many still lack the tools and expertise to combat increasingly sophisticated threats.

    The company is also enhancing its AI-driven protection suite. The AI-Protect system for USG FLEX H firewalls leverages machine learning to block zero-day and AI-based threats, while AI-Monitor and AI-Assist features in SecuReporter track abnormal device activity and generate automated reports.

    Zyxel said the innovations aim to simplify security management and help organizations focus on business growth while staying protected.

    Fediverse reactions
  • Pacquiao Launches App to Rival GCash

    Pacquiao Launches App to Rival GCash

    Former senator and boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has entered the fintech arena with the launch of Manny Pay, a new digital payment platform under 7th Pillar Integration Systems Corp., designed to offer Filipinos a secure and low-cost alternative for cashless transactions.

    Initially operating as a payment gateway, Manny Pay aims to evolve into a full-fledged e-wallet and remittance service, 7th Pillar president and CEO Marc Bundalian said during the launch event Thursday night.

    The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has granted the platform a temporary license, giving the company 30 days to meet all compliance requirements before a permanent license is issued.

    Pacquiao, who chairs 7th Pillar, said the idea for Manny Pay came from a casual dinner conversation. “Someone asked, ‘Who’s gonna pay?’ and they said, ‘Manny Pay,’” he recalled, laughing.

    The platform, powered by Amazon Web Services, prioritizes data protection and reliability, with Bundalian emphasizing a “slow but steady” rollout to avoid security lapses common among e-wallets.

    Manny Pay users will soon be able to pay for utilities, tolls, and other services, with lower transaction fees than competitors.

    Once fully licensed, the company plans to expand into fund transfers and remittances for overseas Filipino workers.

    Fediverse reactions
  • Travelers Losing Trust in Rewards Programs

    Travelers Losing Trust in Rewards Programs

    Rocket Travel by Agoda has unveiled a new industry report that redefines how travel brands approach customer loyalty amid shifting consumer expectations.

    The report, titled “The Loyalty Value Playbook: Redemption Experience and Cash Spend as the New Benchmarks for Customer Growth,” was developed with travel intelligence firm Skift.

    It warns of a growing “loyalty value gap” between what travelers want and what loyalty programs deliver, as 77% of consumers now say they are more likely to abandon a program than they were three years ago.

    The playbook outlines six key strategies for improving loyalty effectiveness, emphasizing personalization, redemption clarity, and integrated customer experiences.

    It recommends brands use AI-driven data tools, transparent pricing, and exclusive perks such as flexible check-in and late checkout to strengthen engagement and repeat bookings.

    Rocket Travel by Agoda said the guide aims to help companies adapt to evolving traveler needs and minimize point breakage, noting that about half of all earned loyalty points go unredeemed.

    The report combines original research, case studies, and expert insights to show how seamless, personalized reward systems can build trust and drive revenue growth across airlines, hotels, and other travel sectors.

    Fediverse reactions
  • They Laughed at Filipino Streetball — Until This Happened.

    They Laughed at Filipino Streetball — Until This Happened.

    Celebration of Taho Story team holding their boarding pass for the Red Bull World Final in Dubai, featuring four male players in blue jerseys.

    The Red Bull Half Court National Finals concluded with a high-energy showcase of skill, speed, and streetball culture as Taho Story and Uratex Dream captured the men’s and women’s national crowns, respectively.

    The tournament took place on Oct. 25 at Parqal in Aseana City, where top 3-on-3 basketball teams from Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Wild Card entries battled in a winner-take-all format.

    Each match followed Red Bull’s fast-paced rules, featuring a 12-second shot clock and games capped at 10 minutes or the first team to reach 21 points.

    Every possession demanded precision and teamwork, pushing players to their physical and mental limits under the intense competition.

    The event doubled as a streetball festival, blending sports with music, dance, and car culture to create a uniquely vibrant atmosphere.

    MC Pao Avila hosted the finals, while the Philippine All Stars energized the crowd with a live dance performance.

    Stance Philippines showcased a street car lineup, and HoopJeep added a mobile court setup that drew fans closer to the action.

    Side events included a Dunk Competition and a Two-Point Shootout, where participants displayed creativity, accuracy, and flair.

    Taho Story emerged victorious in the men’s division, defeating Fit’ N’ Grind in a tight 9–5 battle marked by relentless defense and disciplined teamwork.

    The team credited its win to focus, communication, and resilience throughout the high-pressure tournament.

    Uratex Dream dominated the women’s division, outclassing Uratex Tibay with a commanding 22–8 finish in the final matchup.

    Their preparation and chemistry translated seamlessly into their performance, helping them reclaim their spot among the country’s elite teams.

    Both Taho Story and Uratex Dream will represent the Philippines in the Red Bull Half Court World Finals in Dubai from Nov. 27 to 29.

    The squads are set to compete against top teams from 19 other nations, bringing Filipino grit and determination to the global stage.

    Red Bull said the event continues to highlight basketball’s unifying power by merging sport, creativity, and community under one roof.

    Fans can follow the teams’ journey to Dubai through the official Red Bull website and Red Bull Philippines’ social media pages.

  • This Global Brand Just Hijacked Your Favorite UAAP Teams

    This Global Brand Just Hijacked Your Favorite UAAP Teams

    Four basketball players in PUMA Hoops Squad jerseys, showcasing their athleticism and teamwork against a distorted background.

    PUMA is making its biggest play yet in Philippine collegiate basketball as it kicks off UAAP Season 88 with powerhouse partnerships and a roster packed with rising stars.

    The global sportswear giant has inked official outfitter deals with the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons and the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, reinforcing its growing influence on and off the court.

    The PUMA Hoops Squad for this season features a dynamic mix of athletes from top UAAP teams, including UP’s Chicco Briones and Gani Stevens, FEU’s Kirby Mongcopa and Mo Konateh, and Ateneo’s Michael Asoro and Divine Adili.

    The lineup also includes Adamson twins Austin and Cade Ronzone, UST’s Ice Danting and Michael Mara, UE’s Precious Momowei, and NU’s Lenard Santiago and Jolo Manansala.

    PUMA said its Hoops Squad program goes beyond sportswear, aiming to connect athletic excellence with fan culture through performance gear and upcoming fanwear collections for UP and FEU supporters.

    The brand’s continued push in UAAP signals its commitment to shaping the next generation of Filipino basketball while keeping school spirit alive on and off the court.

  • Maxim Driver-Partners Provide Food Supplies and Blood Donations for Earthquake Victims

    Maxim Driver-Partners Provide Food Supplies and Blood Donations for Earthquake Victims

    A group of Maxim driver-partners wearing yellow shirts are gathered for a meeting, with some taking notes and others looking on. In another scene, the same group is actively distributing food supplies, including bags of rice, in a community aid effort.

    In the first days of October, driver-partners of Maxim Cebu extended humanitarian aid to communities affected by the recent natural disaster, delivering water and rice to the damaged area and donating blood at the local hospital.

    The assistance reached about a hundred families in Bogo City, who had taken refuge in temporary shelters set up at Cebu Provincial Hospital Bogo City and Bogo Gymnasium. The supplies were transported in Maxim’s trucks, but since the road leading to the shelters had been destroyed, the task of delivering the goods was taken on by driver-partners using more mobile vehicles – motos.

    A total of 62 Maxim driver-partners took part in distributing relief goods to those in need. Together, they delivered more than 500 kilograms of rice, 200 packs of biscuits, and around 100 bottles of water. The campaign was jointly sponsored by the company and its partners, who were eager to help the affected residents during this difficult time.

    The following day, a group of driver-partners visited Vicente Sotto Hospital to donate blood. More than 60 victims of the earthquake had been admitted to the hospital, which, subsequently, left the medical facility with critically low blood supplies. Seventy-two driver-partners donated approximately 35 liters of blood, while their colleagues in Lapu-Lapu City followed with 30 more donors, contributing nearly 15 liters. All donations will be used to treat the patients injured by the earthquake.

    To further support recovery efforts, Maxim Cebu also organized a street cleanup to help mitigate the disaster’s aftermath. From 5 to 8 a.m., the company’s team cleared debris and helped restore order in the affected zone. This initiative not only improved the local environment but also reinforced Maxim’s commitment to supporting local communities in times of crisis.

    Building on these humanitarian efforts, Maxim–Angeles Pampanga will also hold a blood donation activity at the Mabalacat LGU this coming October 30, continuing the company’s advocacy of helping communities in need and promoting volunteerism among its driver-partners.

    “This earthquake has become a grave challenge for our communities, and it is at a time like this when we must stand together,“ said Poliran Christopher Landong, Head of Maxim Cebu. “Maxim and our driver-partners are doing everything we can to support the people, be it street cleanups, blood donations, or whatever else that is needed. We are a team, and only by staying united can we overcome major difficulties.” 

    This effort is one of the many social initiatives launched by Maxim Rides & Food Delivery and its driver-partners. It marks another important step in community support, showing that Maxim’s partners are always ready to come together when lives are at stake.

  • Manulife Philippines Wins Most Creative Marketing Campaign at InsuranceAsia News Awards for Excellence

    Manulife Philippines Wins Most Creative Marketing Campaign at InsuranceAsia News Awards for Excellence

    Group of six professionals posing together, dressed in business casual attire, smiling at the camera in a well-lit indoor setting with light-colored background.

    Manulife Philippines, the local arm of leading international financial services provider Manulife, won the Most Creative Marketing Campaign in the Philippines at the InsuranceAsia News Country Awards for Excellence 2025. 

    Manulife Philippines received the award for its Manulife Stories campaign, which showcased inspiring real-life stories from customers whose lives were positively impacted by the insurer’s comprehensive suite of products and solutions.  These stories reflected how Manulife effectively addressed evolving health and financial needs through meaningful support and tailored coverage.

    The featured stories are:

    • Marielle, who was able to finish her medical school because of the insurance benefit received when her mother passed away; 
    • Yvonne, who used her husband’s death benefit to send her child to nursing school; 
    • KL, a mother who used her policy’s living benefits to be able to afford an IVF procedure;
    • Peach, an HIV+ transgender woman, who was able to save up for her family’s needs through her insurance; and
    • Mark, a father of a child with special needs, who was able to obtain health coverage for his son.

    “Our mission to make decisions easier and lives better for our customers in the Philippines comes to life through the Manulife Stories campaign,” said Sonali Verma, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. “The experiences shared by our customers remind us that our interactions go beyond business transactions. We take pride in representing our commitment to being Filipino customers’ trusted partner towards a better, more financially secure future.” 

  • Cherie DeVille Unleashes Mortal Kombat Cosplay Parody on OnlyFans

    Cherie DeVille Unleashes Mortal Kombat Cosplay Parody on OnlyFans

    A side-by-side image featuring a digital illustration of the character Sonya Blade from Mortal Kombat on the left, showcasing her in a dynamic pose with a glowing weapon, and a real-life portrayal of the same character by Cherie DeVille on the right, dressed in a green costume and striking a confident pose.

    Cherie DeVille is stepping into a whole new arena with her latest OnlyFans sceneHortal Kombat, where she transforms into the iconic Sonya Blade opposite Nathan Bronson as Johnny Cage.

    The playful cosplay scene opens with three cheeky rounds of hand-to-hand action before things heat up in a way only Cherie can deliver. It’s the newest addition to her ever-growing library of themed content, fusing fun, fantasy and raw sexual energy in one knockout performance.

    “I’ve wanted to do a Mortal Kombat parody for ages, and this was just too much fun,” said DeVille. “Nathan was the perfect Johnny Cage, and we went all in on the playful chaos of it. Fans who love a little fight before the fun are going to eat this up.”

    Watch the full scene exclusively on DeVille’s official OnlyFans.

    Brazzers exclusive contact star and Lovgun Equity Partner/Brand Ambassador Cherie DeVille is available for booking through OC Modeling, and fans can learn more at CherieDeVille.com.

  • Leaked?! Kpop Demon Hunters Live Action Set Photos Trends on Social Media

    Leaked?! Kpop Demon Hunters Live Action Set Photos Trends on Social Media

    A group of young performers on a film set, each showcasing unique fashion styles and poses, with vibrant hair colors and engaging expressions.

    No, it’s not happening.

    Netflix’s animated blockbuster KPop Demon Hunters has become the streaming giant’s biggest hit of the year, but its creators are pushing back hard against the idea of turning it into a live-action franchise.

    Following the movie’s massive success, reports surfaced that Netflix was already exploring sequels and even a live-action adaptation. But co-director Maggie Kang, who created the hit film, told the BBC she’s not on board. “There are so many elements of the tone and comedy that are so suited for animation,” she said, adding that a live-action version would “feel too grounded” and lose its charm.

    Her co-director, Chris Appelhans, agreed, saying that what makes KPop Demon Hunters special is the exaggerated, impossible energy that only animation can capture. “In animation, you can have a character be a comedian one moment, then pull off a spinning back-kick the next,” he said.

    Despite Hollywood’s obsession with adapting animated classics like The Lion King and Lilo & Stitch for live-action audiences, the creators argue that such projects miss the point. For them, the magic of KPop Demon Hunters exists only in its original animated form—just as you can stream it now on Netflix.

  • Everyone’s Talking About PUMA’s Chic New Speedcat Ballet

    Everyone’s Talking About PUMA’s Chic New Speedcat Ballet

    Three stylish women showcased in a sun-drenched café setting, wearing PUMA Speedcat Ballet sneakers. The first woman poses with a playful gesture in a crop top and wide jeans. The second woman sits elegantly, holding a drink while wearing a layered outfit. The third woman is seated, wearing a sporty outfit with a flared skirt, highlighting the sneakers.

    PUMA has brought back one of its most viral lifestyle sneakers, the Speedcat Ballet, now reimagined in two cozy, autumn-ready hues: Prairie Tan and Dark Chocolate.

    Following its strong debut earlier this year, the new release blends motorsport heritage with everyday comfort. The updated colorways embrace warm, earthy tones designed for effortless styling — pairing perfectly with the minimalist, ballet-inspired silhouette that has captivated trendsetters worldwide.

    The launch campaign, set in a sun-drenched café, channels the relaxed charm of a girls’ day out, featuring personalities Gab Pangilinan, Andy Arguelles, and Holy Ghail. Their carefree energy mirrors the understated sophistication of the Speedcat Ballet’s design, emphasizing how seamlessly it transitions from casual afternoons to elevated street looks.

    Retailing for PHP 5,200, the PUMA Speedcat Ballet SD Café collection is available at select PUMA stores, PUMA.com, JD Sports, Foot Locker, and atmos.

    With this drop, PUMA continues to blur the line between sport and lifestyle fashion — proving once again why the brand remains at the forefront of sneaker culture after 75 years of innovation.