JHI, STATS run it back with UPMBT, extend support to other Fighting Maroons

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Januarius Holdings Inc. (JHI) and subsidiary STATS Technical Sportswear again threw their support behind the UP Men’s Basketball Team (UPMBT) for UAAP Season 87, ensuring that they will continue to sponsor the team’s overseas training camps like the ones they have had in Serbia, Korea, the US and Japan.

It will also stay as the team’s official outfitter, a role it has played since UAAP Season 80.

JHI chairman and CEO JJ Atencio signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development (UP OASD) Director Bo Perasol, nowheretogobutUP chairman Jed Eva, and UPMBT manager Atty. Agaton Uvero on August 16, at the Executive House in UP Diliman.

As part of the renewed partnership, the UPMBT will also get to use JHI and STATS’ Vald performance equipment that will accurately assess the athletes’ progress and performance that will lead to accurate, data-informed decisions.

“It has been gratifying to see how the players are preparing for Season 87 with their recent training camp in Korea where they faced the top ball clubs there. We want to keep them battle-ready physically, mentally, and emotionally. That’s why we decided to also provide them with a state-of-the-art equipment that will help manage and improve their performance and well-being,” Atencio said.

At the event, Atencio also announced that they will partner with the UP OASD to provide training and official game jerseys to other UP varsity teams.

“First of all, we want to thank JJ for continuing to believe in our basketball program and for supporting the Fighting Maroons all these years. Now, he has even extended his support to other UP varsity teams,” Perasol said.

“We have seen how big the impact is on our players and teams to have the backing of sponsors like JJ and the support of the community. Our teams will be so proud to wear those uniforms and represent the university in the UAAP and other tournaments. We are all grateful to JHI and STATS for the help they extend to our athletes,” the OASD Director added.

“JJ Atencio has long been a believer and a partner of the Fighting Maroons. He’s been supporting the team’s overseas camps since 2017 and we appreciate him very much. He is not just a supporter, he is a treasured friend,” said UPMBT manager Atty. Uvero

Your skincare products may be making your sensitive skin worse. Now what?

(From left to right): 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser, 2% Salicylic + Niacinamide Toner, Brightening + Calming Moisturizer + Amino Acid Gentle Cleanser, 0.2% Retinol + Peptide, Licorice.

Careless skincare manufacturers focus on hot new ingredients that may harm your skin. Don't fall for the marketing hype when you see those untested chemicals.

Over 60 percent of all women report having sensitive skin. That's an absolutely shocking number -- but many skincare brands don't seem to care.

The next time you're out shopping for a lotion, salve or balm, take a look at what's being advertised. To many people, if they see an extract named after a flower, leaf or tree, it gives the impression that the product must be "natural" -- and natural means healthy, right?

In reality, those extracts and isolates are just chemicals -- and they're totally untested. Skincare brands don't have to prove that anything actually works, or even that it's from the source that they say it is.

The problem is particularly pressing in the Philippines, where rampant air pollution and powerful sunlight are constantly assaulting exposed skin. The ultrafine particles (UFPs) produced by our endless traffic gridlocks have been shown to cause skin inflammation and other issues.

In an environment that's already so challenging, can your skin take yet another hit from harsh skincare products?

A problem with many layers

Skincare products all include several types of ingredients, such as surfactants, preservatives and humectants. Each of these ingredients can potentially cause issues.

Take sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) for example. The surfactant, which can be made from natural coconut oil, makes cleansers foam up nicely in a way that makes users say: "Ahh! Fresh, clean skin!" That's why a huge number of skincare brands use SLS in their products.

But SLS causes skin irritation in many people, which may only appear hours or days after usage. Worse, SLS has been found to be frequently contaminated with carcinogens, which can damage skin and even cause cancer.

And SLS isn't even the active ingredient -- it's just part of the supporting cast.

But most consumers aren't familiar enough with what's on their skincare product's label to know what to avoid. And so many skincare brands feel free to continue using problematic ingredients.

A new trend toward sensitive-friendly products

However, many people -- and their dermatologists -- have now caught on to the idea that a seemingly meticulous skincare routine can cause more harm than good.

That's why some leading-edge brands have started focusing on sensitive skin friendly products. After all, with over half of all people reporting sensitive skin, it's clearly a large market.

One recently launched brand, Croia, has worked with Philippines-based laboratory to assemble ingredient lists that are scientifically proven to work well with sensitive skin conditions.

"I've personally struggled with sensitive skin, and eczema, my whole life," says Erika Castro-Morrison, Croia's co-founder. "My whole family has. I got really tired of having to second guess my skincare routine."

Both eczema and acne are widespread among Filipinas. Croia's before-and-after testers have shared images with the company of their progress after using the milder topicals that the company offers.

For now, Croia is offering a collection of 5 products, ranging from the mild retinol, acne cleansers, toner, and moisturizer.

Croia is also trying to solve problems specific to the Filipino market, like that ever-present air pollution. Methionine, one of the ingredients in the Amino Acid Cleanser, is an amino acid already found in your body, and has been proven to help prevent damage from pollutants.

With any luck, the future of healthy, safe skincare will be bright -- and so will your skin.

Croia products can be found at: Croia-Aoife.com, TikTok Shop, Lazada, and Shopee. 

About Aoife Skin Project / Croia

Croia is a skincare brand using evidence-based formulation made for sensitive skin. Croia’s goal is to counteract misinformation about skincare which leads to people damaging their own skin — and raise awareness and self-care in proper and gentle approach. All Croia products are designed for even the most sensitive skin.

Japan Embassy and Fujifilm Philippines Supports TB Eradication with FDR Xair Donation to Olongapo

Turnover of Portable Chest X-Ray Machine for Olongapo City from the Embassy of Japan's Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP) held in Olongapo City. (L-R) Fujifilm Philippines Inc. Vice President Mr. Takashi Miyako, City Health Officer Dr. Rodrick Bustamante, Embassy of Japan Second Secretary Ms. Tokiko Nishimura, Mayor Atty. Rolen C. Paulino Jr., CHSI Philippines Inc. Managing Director Dr. Carmina Aquino. and Ms. Louie Teng.

Olongapo City - FUJIFILM Philippines, a global leader in imaging and healthcare technology, in partnership with the Japan Embassy in the Philippines and CHSI Philippines, formulated a collective effort in providing an FDR Xair to the local government of Olongapo in a turn over ceremony held today. This initiative is in support of the government’s continuing efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) in the country.

The donation, facilitated by CHSI Philippines, aims to bolster screening, early detection, and eradication of TB. The FDR Xair, a state-of-the-art portable X-ray system, is instrumental in early TB detection. Its portability and high image quality allow healthcare professionals to perform rapid and accurate screenings in various settings, particularly in remote and underserved communities. By deploying these devices nationwide, FUJIFILM is closing healthcare access gaps and enhancing diagnostic accuracy.

According to 2022 data from the Department of Health (DOH), TB claims the lives of approximately 106 Filipinos daily. FUJIFILM’s innovative solutions, such as the FDR Xair, align with global efforts to reach, cure, and prevent TB in the Philippines. This portable device revolutionizes TB screening with its reliable performance, ease of use, and advanced imaging technology, making it particularly effective in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.

In March 2023, FUJIFILM Philippines conducted its first Medical Mission and TB screening in Majayjay, Laguna, using their FDR nano and FDR Go Plus systems. The company plans to make this an annual program, continuing to utilize the FDR Xair to provide equitable and sustainable TB interventions. This year, FUJIFILM will make TB screening using FDR Xair available for free at the regular Makati Lingkod Bayan Caravan.

FUJIFILM recognizes the importance of a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to tackle the global challenge of TB. By partnering with governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector, FUJIFILM aims to build a healthier, TB-free future.

With over 600,000 TB cases reported by the DOH as of December 31, 2023, the urgency for enhanced detection capabilities and coordinated efforts has never been greater. Despite the severity of TB, it remains curable with free medication available at TB DOTS clinics nationwide.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

SSS branch offices in Sulu Archipelago get Starlink satellite internet services

Wazzup Pilipinas!?


The Social Security System (SSS) today announced that its three service offices in Basilan, Jolo, and Tawi-Tawi can now better serve members by equipping it with a more efficient and faster satellite internet connectivity, particularly Starlink.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Rolando Ledesma Macasaet sealed a partnership with iOne Resources, Inc., Starlink’s local distributor, to provide high-speed internet connectivity to SSS service offices in remote areas.

Macasaet said that SSS initially procured Starlink satellite internet services initially to be implemented in 10 sites with iOne Resources, Inc. during a ceremonial turnover held at CityMall Tetuan in Zamboanga City.

“We purchased a three-year subscription for 10 sites to provide internet access to our services offices in areas with no available internet service providers or those with internet connectivity challenges,” Macasaet said.

Macasaet explained that three of the 10 identified sites have been deployed with the Starlink, namely: Basilan, Jolo, and Tawi-Tawi because internet connectivity is difficult in the islands.

He added that seven other sites will be installed with Starlink across the country in the upcoming days.

“Satellite internet technology is ideal for remote locations with a clear line of sight. It can deliver high internet speed from 100 to 200 Mbps with low latency of 25 to 60, ensuring swift data transfers in branch operations,” Macasaet added.

Moreover, Macasaet said that SSS plans to partner with other internet service providers in the country to help its branch and services offices overcome the challenges of internet connectivity, saying, “Internet access has become a necessity since most of SSS services are already available online.”

“With this project, SSS is looking forward to improving its IT infrastructure to boost its system’s uptime and provide more reliable online services to our members, employers, and pensioners,” Macasaet concluded.

Elon Musk’s Starlink introduced satellite internet technology in the Philippines last year and was first rolled out in Metro Manila.

BAN Toxics urges caution in use of mosquito coils, household insecticides, and fogging amid rising dengue cases due to potential health risks

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



With DOH data showing 33% increase in dengue cases from January 1 to August 3 compared to the same period last year, environmental NGO BAN Toxics is cautioning the public and urging regulatory agencies to address the hazards posed by harmful chemicals and pollutants of concern in mosquito insecticides.

“Protecting oneself from mosquito bites as part of the anti-dengue strategies should not come at the cost of introducing another health hazard.” This was the statement of Thony Dizon, advocacy and campaign officer of the group. “While mosquito coils are an affordable and effective way to reduce mosquito bites, the burning of these coils and industry malpractices raise public health concerns due to their adverse environmental and health impacts.”

Mosquito coils are insecticide products made from a blend of synthetic chemicals, such as pyrethroids, including esbiothrin, and plant-based materials that deter mosquito bites, hold the coil together, and enable it to burn slowly for approximately 8 hours. Once it starts to burn, the insecticides evaporate with the smoke to help repel or kill mosquitoes and particulate matter (PM) are released. Swallowing of aerosol spray containing pyrethrins may cause breathing difficulty, coughing, tremors, seizures, upset stomach, and vomiting among others.

 
“Burning a single mosquito coil releases the same amount of particulate matter as smoking 75-137 cigarettes. It emits formaldehyde as high as that released from burning 51 cigarettes,” Dizon said, referring to previous scientific studies.

“Exposure to coil smoke may lead to acute and chronic health risks. Prolonged indoor environmental exposure has also been linked to adverse health effects, including asthma, persistent wheeze in children, and lung cancer, neurodevelopmental impairments, reproductive health interference, increased risk of major chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease. In Taiwan, it has been associated with 50% of lung cancer cases,” Dizon said.

“A growing number of evidence suggests that long-term low level exposure to the chemicals used in fogging produces lasting damage to neurological and cognitive functions. Fogging with pesticides has also negative environmental impacts as it kills all insects, including beneficial insects and not just mosquitoes.”

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health (DOH) have regularly issued public health warnings against the purchase and use of unregistered household/urban pesticides (HUPs), including a number of mosquito coil brands such as Wawang High Quality mosquito coil, Jinma Katol Mosquito Coils Lengen Micro-Smoke, and BaoMa Black Mosquito Repellent Incense Anti-Mosquitoes. The FDA is responsible for regulating the import and export of mosquito coils.

“The FDA has warned against unregistered mosquito coils and other household insecticides, which may be toxic when inhaled or ingested by toddler or children. The greater risk lies in manufacturers misdeclaring the actual content of active ingredients on the packaging. There have been documented cases of misdeclarations violating FDA regulations in the past,” according to Dizon.

Potential hazards of unverified and unregistered HUPs may arise from harmful, toxic, and banned active ingredients that pose imminent dangers to human and animal health, according to the FDA. The use of substandard or possibly adulterated household and urban pesticide products can lead to adverse reactions, including skin irritation, itchiness, anaphylactic shock, respiratory disorders, endocrine complications, brain damage, and organ failure.

BAN Toxics encouraged the public to verify if a pesticide product is registered with the FDA. “Switch to organic mosquito coils and bioinsecticides to reduce exposure to toxic synthetic chemicals. Consider using plant-derived alternative products such as neem, citronella, papaya leaves, garlic, and lemongrass as well as other natural insecticides,” Dizon advised.

“We urge the FDA to promptly conduct post-market surveillance and increase public awareness to help protect public health and safety. We also call on local government units to recall violative products that have entered the market and prevent the continued sale of these banned products.”

The public is urged to implement mosquito control measures on their premises to prevent breeding and spread. These measures include removing standing water from gutters and other areas where it can accumulate, maintaining cleanliness, and eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites in homes and communities.

"The Greatest Duets: Special Screening" featuring Lara Maigue and Gian Magdangal will be on August 30 at Cinema 11, Cineplex 18, Araneta City

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



"The Greatest Duets: Special Screening" media conference with Lara Maigue and Gian Magdangal

After a successful concert in 2023 entitled "The Greatest Duets: Goes Broadway", Lara and Gian announced that they will be holding this special event which is the second installment of the series to be directed by Paulo Bustamante on August 30, 2024 at the Cinema 11, Cineplex 18, Araneta City, Cubao Quezon City. Tickets available at Ticketnet or at ATeam (09276561261).

What makes this interesting is that it will be held at a movie theater giving the audience a dose of live movie songs in an actual movie house.

The movie songs will be from movie musicals like Moulin Rogue, West Side Story and Les Miserables) as well as popular soundtrack tunes from movies (Evergreen, Despicable Me, Dirty Dancing), and probably a few more surprise songs.

The big bonus is that they will have as special guests the OPM Royal couple Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid.

 

Yes! You read it right. It will be held at a movie theater. I believe it's a newly opened movie house at Gateway 2 to be exact. Uniquely different, right?! Makes you wonder what else they will add to the mix. I am genuinely intrigued on what to expect on August 30.

Tickets are available at Ticketnet and at ATeam (09276561261). Prices is from 2k to 5k, but they said all seats are comfortable viewing. Naturally, the more expensive ones are the one upfront.

The recent intimate gathering with a few select members of the media on August 15, 2024 at FIVE Private Dining revealed a lot about the couple who both have powerful and distinctive voices, the adorable looks, and the striking confidence, plus the accolades, that makes them very pleasing and worthy-to-watch-and-listen seasoned performers.

The intimate gathering with a few select media was held on August 15, 2024 at FIVE Private Dining (Culinary Creations by Paulo Bustamante) located at the 3rd floor of BLK 113 Building (Former Fox Square) 53 Connecticut St. Greenhills San Juan.

#WazzupPilipinas
#LaraMaigue
#GianMagdangal
#TheGreatestDuets
#SpecialScreening
#FivePrivateDining
#ATEAM

Disruptive Doctors Helping Doctors Impact Healthcare Differently at the Healthcare Revolution Conference 2024

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Kuala Lumpur, 12th August 2024 – Over the weekend of 10th and 11th August, the Sime Darby Convention Centre buzzed with energy as more than 500 doctors and delegates gathered for the highly anticipated Healthcare Revolution Conference, hosted by Disruptive Doctors®. The event featured 20 booth exhibitors and was supported by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) Sdn Bhd as a supporting partner, along with Silver Sponsors Novartis and KPJ Healthcare Berhad.

The conference, themed "Doctors Impacting Healthcare Differently," was not just any ordinary gathering. It was a vibrant assembly of like-minded, forward-thinking doctors, united by a shared vision of transforming healthcare. The event kicked off with a compelling launch video by Disruptive Doctors® that powerfully showcased what the platform is fighting against—lack of opportunity, stagnancy, and outdated systems in healthcare. This set the tone for the entire conference, emphasizing the urgent need for change.

The event showcased diverse career options beyond traditional sick care, with doctors sharing their personal journeys, insights on how they transitioned into new roles and advanced in their careers, and practical advice for younger doctors aspiring to follow in their footsteps.

In her inspiring keynote speech, Dr. Selina Chew, Co-founder & CEO of Disruptive Doctors®, shared her personal story of how a back injury altered her career trajectory from anaesthesia and ICU to new opportunities in healthcare. She emphasized that this conference was for every doctor who is at a crossroads, seeking new ways to make an impact in healthcare.

Dr. Selina highlighted that the goal is not about leaving medicine but rather stepping into the broader possibilities that healthcare offers. She also unveiled her vision for Disruptive Doctors® to go global, creating a platform where doctors can connect, collaborate, and share knowledge and experiences across borders.

The conference effectively captured how doctors can impact healthcare differently.

Day 1

Day 1 focused on diverse career opportunities, with sessions featuring experienced doctors who shared their stories on how they transitioned into roles in healthcare management, pharmaceuticals, and clinical research.

Day 2

Day 2 explored the future of healthcare, including discussions on AI, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in healthcare.

Notable speakers included Dr. Kamal Amzan, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital Johor and IHH Malaysia’s Regional CEO, Southern & Eastern Hospitals, and Dr. Tan Hui Ling, Managing Director of Bagan Specialist Centre. Top venture capitalists like Bikesh Lakhmichand from 1337 Ventures and Kevin Brockland from Indelible Ventures also shared their insights, alongside industry leaders such as Dr. Balraj Sethi from Novartis, and Dr. Nadira Azmi, from AstraZeneca.

A standout moment was the H-Innovators Challenge Showdown, a month-long incubator challenge that culminated in a thrilling final during the conference. Medical students and doctors presented their innovative healthcare solutions, adding a dynamic element to the event.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their gratitude for finding Disruptive Doctors® and attending the conference, sharing that it helped them see beyond the confines of traditional medical practice. They appreciated the platform for providing a space where doctors can explore new opportunities, gain insights, and connect with a community that understands the challenges of modern healthcare.

One attendee remarked, "I'm so glad I found Disruptive Doctors and this conference. Before this, I felt lost and stuck, not knowing what else I could do as a doctor. This event has opened my eyes to new possibilities." Another attendee highlighted, "This conference really helps doctors to see what's beyond sick care," while a third added, "I would recommend all doctors to check out Disruptive Doctors because everything you need, you can find it here."

Join the Movement

Disruptive Doctors® is more than just a platform; it’s a movement for doctors who are ready to impact healthcare differently.

About Disruptive Doctors

Disruptive Doctors® was founded by two entrepreneurial doctors, Dr. Selina Chew and Dr. Vivek Subramaniam to bridge the gap in fragmented resources and opportunities for doctors. It serves as a comprehensive platform where doctors can access all the information they need while enabling healthcare companies to connect seamlessly with the medical community.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Impressive Growth of Cat Food Sales in Indonesia’s E-commerce

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Pet ownership and the demand for premium pet products have surged in Indonesia, driving significant growth in the pet food market. Shopee dominates the market with Royal Canin leading the cat food category, reflecting consumer preferences for both quality and convenience.

In Indonesia, the pet ownership rate has been growing steadily as the country’s economy is advancing rapidly, driven by the increase of urbanization and industrialization.  As a result, the pet population in Indonesia grew by a remarkable 75.7% between 2017 and 2022.

The rising trend of pet humanization has led to greater demand for premium pet products, particularly in the pet food category. This can be seen as the Indonesian pet food market grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2021 to 2026.

Pet Food Market Overview

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/5751735e-c737-498d-a245-f0d917c81300/public" alt="Picture: E-commerce market growth of Pet Food category” />

According to research by Magpie E-commerce Intelligence, the cat food market in Indonesia reached IDR 470.1 billion, with 30.7 million products sold between January and May 2024. Wilhendra, CEO of Magpie, noted, “The highest increase in the Pet Food category occurred in May 2024, with the GMV increasing by 33.56% from the previous month.”

Market Share by E-commerce

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/a0564bb4-0c02-43c6-547a-02fb249f3300/public" alt="Picture: E-commerce market share of Pet Food category” />

In the pet food market, Shopee dominates with a 74.1% share, followed by Tokopedia (18.7%) and Lazada (6.87%). Shopee significantly increased its market share by 47% in May, while Tokopedia saw a 12% increase during the same period. “Compared to other e-commerce platforms, it shows that Shopee is preferred as the one-stop-platform for people to buy pet products,” said Wilhendra.

Cat Food Market Share by Brand

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/a399173e-9b0e-4769-8469-b8c1693acf00/public" alt="Picture: Brand market share of Cat Food” />

The top five brands account for over half of the sales, with Royal Canin leading the cat food category with a 17.2% market share. Cat Choize follows with 12.5%, and Me-O holds 9.6%.

Cat Food Market Share Overtime

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/76c3b310-3884-4d51-9118-68a033b3b200/public" alt="Picture: Brand market share overtime of Cat Food” />

From January to May 2024, the cat food market was primarily dominated by Royal Canin and Cat Choize. Cat Choize saw a significant increase in February and March, surpassing Royal Canin but they regained the lead in subsequent months. Kitchen Flavor has shown steady growth, indicating promising potential despite its smaller market share.

Cat Food Top Brand on E-commerces

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/a56bada3-10d6-4a3e-46b3-d4172ee20200/public" alt="Picture: Top Brand of Cat Food in Shopee” />

On Shopee, Royal Canin leads with a 15.86% share, generating IDR 55.28 billion in revenue. Cat Choize and Me-O follow closely behind in this competitive market.

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/b5750fc1-bd69-4368-c95f-cfde35b7e300/public" alt="Picture: Top Brand of Cat Food in Tokopedia” />

On Tokopedia, Royal Canin is also the market leader with a 26.37% share. Cat Choize holds second place with a 15.94% share, while Me-O and Life Cat are in close competition, separated by only 0.32%.

Top-Selling Cat Food Products

<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/6d85e73b-999d-444b-fd19-eec7a6f84e00/public" alt="Picture: Product market share of Cat Food” />

Me-O’s top product is the Me-O Canned Cat Food Seafood Platter, which generated IDR 31.75 billion and sold nearly 2.24 million units. The Cat Choize Cat Salmon 800g is in second place, followed by the Royal Canin FCN Hair & Skin 2kg in third. “Consumers tend to purchase Me-O and Cat Choize products in smaller quantities but more frequently, whereas Royal Canin buyers prefer larger package sizes,” stated Wilhendra.

Thumbnail picture source: Freepik

About Magpie Ecommerce Intelligence

Magpie helps businesses discover the market potential in e-commerce, compare performance against competitors, and provide detailed market share breakdowns by sellers, location, and specific segments. With data and insights from Magpie, your business can make better decisions for the future.

Cloudsine Partners with Magnolia DXP to Enhance Web Security

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Cloudsine is excited to announce that the WebOrion Monitor is now part of Magnolia’s advanced security solutions for its managed DXP offering in the cloud. The WebOrion® Monitor provides 24/7 proactive monitoring to detect website defacements and hacks, ensuring businesses are the first to notice any changes, preventing reputational damage and loss of customer trust. 

“At Cloudsine, we understand the importance of maintaining a secure and trustworthy online presence,” said Matthias Chin, CEO and Founder of Cloudsine. “The WebOrion® Monitor is designed to provide continuous surveillance of public-facing websites, offering timely alerts and allowing swift corrective action. Partnering with Magnolia allows us to extend these capabilities to a broader audience, ensuring more businesses can safeguard their digital assets.” 

Commenting on the new extension, Tim Brown, CEO at Magnolia said, “Partnering with Cloudsine makes it easier for customers to benefit from the combined solution that we offer and to safeguard their web presence and reputation.” 

Magnolia’s advanced security package is built on the principle that website security is a fundamental necessity, not an afterthought. The package offers a comprehensive suite of features, including CDN security, DDoS mitigation, and web defacement protection, making it a one-stop solution for robust website security. 

This partnership reflects Cloudsine and Magnolia’s commitment to delivering top-tier security solutions, enabling businesses to maintain a secure online presence. 

For more information about Cloudsine and the WebOrion Monitor, visit www.cloudsine.tech. For more information about Magnolia’s advanced security package, visit this blog. 

About Magnolia

With over 450 enterprise customers, thousands of Community Edition deployments, and more than 200 certified Magnolia Partners around the world, Magnolia is the business-ready composable Digital Experience Platform of choice for leading companies around the world, including American Express, JetBlue, The New York Times, CNN, Sanofi, Sainsbury’s, Generali, and Ping An.

About Cloudsine

Founded 12 years ago, Cloudsine is a trusted provider of web security solutions and serves customers across eight different countries. Our flagship product, the WebOrion® security stack, includes an industry-leading web application firewall, a 24/7 proactive defacement monitor, and a one-click web restoration solution. It is designed to meet the security needs of large enterprises from various industries, including the public sector, healthcare, banking, and finance. 

At Cloudsine, we’re on a mission to revolutionize the way organizations defend their web, cloud, and data assets. Through continuous innovation and dedication, we strive to empower businesses to stay ahead of emerging threats and protect what matters most. 

Is Ethereum a Good Investment?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

As distributed ledger technology strives to transform industries, decentralize authority, and foster greater transparency, Ethereum has quickly established itself as one of the most promising digital assets driving this transformation. For those looking to diversify their crypto holdings, the option to swap BTC to ETH offers a strategic way to participate in Ethereum's growth potential.

However, like any speculative venture, significant risks coexist with substantial opportunities.

Assessing Ethereum's long-term investment viability requires a comprehensive analysis of the enduring value derived from its core utility and practical applications.

Ethereum's Distinctive Features

n contrast to Bitcoin's singular focus on digital payments and value preservation, Ethereum serves as a multifaceted asset powering an ecosystem of decentralized software. Ether tokens fuel a platform for creating and operating decentralized applications (dapps). Developers leverage Ethereum's programming language to construct smart contracts that deploy on its blockchain, enabling dapp functionality to execute as intended without the risk of censorship or manipulation.

These decentralized applications span diverse sectors, reimagining incentive structures and innovation potential across critical industries. Both global corporations and startups are taking note of these possibilities.

Ethereum's Potential Future

Upcoming enhancements such as sharding, proof-of-stake consensus, layer 2 scaling solutions, and more aim to enable Ethereum's blockchain to process upwards of 100,000 transactions per second at minimal cost. This positions the network to support billions of users and facilitate trillions in value transfer across decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, non-fungible token (NFT) marketplaces, metaverse realms, and Web 3.0 applications.

As more enterprise and consumer-focused dapps are developed and adopted, this will provide intrinsic value to Ether itself. The long-term investment outlook appears promising for those who believe in the future of decentralized applications.

Key Growth Catalysts

Several critical factors suggest that Ethereum adoption will continue to accelerate rapidly:

1. Dominant Developer Mindshare: Ethereum leads in developer activity among blockchains, with over four times more monthly active developers than any other project, according to Electric Capital. The pace of innovation on Ethereum continues to intensify.

2. Mainstream Enterprise Adoption: Major institutions including JPMorgan, Mastercard, UBS, Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, and others are launching Ethereum-based projects and platforms to serve their clientele.

3. Accessibility of Consumer Applications: Between metaverse worlds, NFT digital collectibles, and DeFi protocols allowing users to earn yield, everyday users now have more accessible entrypoints for engaging with Web 3.0 Ethereum dapps in their daily lives.

4. Large-Scale Institutional Investment: Major crypto investment vehicles like the Grayscale Ethereum Trust, Canadian ETH ETFs, and CME Ether futures offer exposure to accredited investors, channeling billions of dollars into Ethereum's ecosystem annually.

5. Systematic Technology Improvements: While scalability limitations currently hinder Ethereum, foundational upgrades like sharding and Proof-of-Stake consensus aim to dramatically improve transaction speeds and costs. These upgrades are ongoing, coordinated by leading cryptographers and programmers worldwide.

As core protocol development and dapp innovation systematically address current platform limitations while broadening access for developers and consumers to build and use Ethereum apps, the network appears well-positioned to capture escalating value.

Managing Volatility and Uncertainty

Naturally, prudent crypto investors must consider the short-term volatility and longer-term uncertainty inherent to an early-stage asset like Ether. Monitoring potential shifts in crypto policies, regulations, and taxation warrants attention as the technology matures.

Further delays or complications could impede the rollout of upgrades like the transition to proof-of-stake, necessitating caution around projected timelines. Yet Ethereum now boasts a

substantial track record of resilience, security, and antifragility compared to earlier blockchain iterations. The global grassroots community of builders and users continues gaining momentum and sophistication in tandem with the technological evolution.

Competitive Threats From Alternative Cryptocurrencies

While Ethereum currently leads decentralized app platforms, competitive threats remain.

Alternative Layer 1 blockchains like Solana (SOL) aim to capture Ethereum's market share given their significant transaction speed advantages over Ethereum at present.

Solana prioritizes scalability and rapid innovation cycles to maintain its edge in raw throughput over ETH - already demonstrating the capacity to handle over 50,000 transactions per second (TPS) compared to Ethereum's 15 TPS currently.

If you’re considering adding Solana to your portfolio and wondering how to swap SOL to ETH, understanding these differences and the potential risks and rewards of each blockchain is essential.

However, Solana's extreme focus on speed comes at the expense of much lower security

thresholds presently and higher network instability risks. It also has far fewer live applications or

active users compared to Ethereum at this time.

This competition showcases contrasting philosophies—Solana's appetite for rapid composability

against Ethereum's emphasis on security and measured upgrades.

For investors bullish on Solana maintaining raw speed advantages over Ethereum long-term, the

substantial upside from its still nascent $35 billion market cap compared to ETH's formidable

$250 billion+ valuation may warrant including some Solana exposure alongside core Ethereum

holdings, if managed judiciously.

Ethereum Price Projections

Based on its growth trajectory, prominent crypto thought leaders and institutional analysts across

firms like Ark Invest, Bloomberg, Invesco, and Galaxy Digital share an overwhelmingly

optimistic outlook on Ethereum's price appreciation potential over 5-10 year horizons.

Mike Novogratz of Galaxy Digital believes Ether could surpass $7,500 per token by 2025 as

financialization accelerates and DeFi platforms built on Ethereum gain escape velocity.

A Bloomberg analyst projected Ethereum reaching a total market cap between $20-30 trillionneventually, which would translate to $14,000 - $20,000 per ETH token.

ARK Invest analysts forecast Ethereum hitting $20,000+ ultimately based on expected massive innovation and growth in DeFi, NFTs, decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), stablecoins, and Web 3.0 built largely on Ethereum over the coming decade.

Clearly, experts envision 10-100x or greater upside from current prices over the next decade, requiring the total crypto market cap to exceed $100 trillion. Such lofty predictions may seem far-fetched, but they underscore the potential for transformative technologies to reshape entire industries and generate immense value.

Final Verdict: Opportunity Outweighs The Risks

Despite the volatility, early-stage cryptocurrencies like Ethereum have monumental wealth creation potential comparable to historical paradigm shifts like the Internet over decades. Investors with sufficient due diligence and conviction around decentralized networks disrupting entrenched business models stand to generate substantial returns over long time horizons.

Based on accelerating real-world traction and infrastructure maturation, Ethereum appears

well-positioned to emerge as the definitive blockchain settlement layer and decentralized

application ecosystem over the next decade—with highly favorable odds of delivering generational wealth creation for believers in its paradigm shift.

Of course, risks ranging from delays in key upgrades to unforeseen protocol vulnerabilities to competitive displacement threats could severely impair returns. Hence, assessing individual risk tolerance and managing crypto allocations prudently remains vital.

Yet for those willing to endure the stomach-churning fluctuations, Ethereum represents a rare opportunity to potentially achieve extraordinary rewards over a sufficiently long time horizon.

As with any transformative technology, the journey will be tumultuous, but the potential payoffs could be life-altering for those who invest wisely and maintain conviction through the turbulence.

A Discovery Moment of Timeless Flavors, and Timeless Watches celebrating the first Independent Watch Maker from the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Sheraton Manila Bay is proud to present "Timeless Flavors," an extraordinary event celebrating the artistry of independent watchmaking in the Philippines in parternship with Nico Moreno Watch Studio, ARGOS Philippines, and Ibarra Manila. Sheraton Manila Bay has prepared a five-course dinner and expertly crafted cocktails to pair. This exclusive event will feature a captivating exhibit by the partner brands who are celebrating their 10th anniversary as a group of brands.
The evening promises a unique blend of culinary excellence and horological craftsmanship, with a meticulously curated menu that pays homage to the global influences in watchmaking. Each dish has been thoughtfully paired with a cocktail to enhance the dining experience. Some of our menu items are listed below:

Menu:Course II: Lumpia 3 WaysPaired with: After Glow with Lambanog
This trio of lumpia—Maki Lumpia, Gruyere Cheese Lumpia, and Laing Lumpia—symbolizes the diverse components of watchmaking.

Ingredients sourced from Switzerland and China and techniques learned from Japan are brought together, celebrating the success of Filipino watchmakers in the global arena.

Course III: Chicken Gaston Gérard pPaired with: Nightfall Chocolate Negroni

A rich and flavorful dish inspired by the culinary traditions of Switzerland, home to some of the finest watchmaking techniques.

Course IV: Japanese Soy Miso GindaraPaired with: Midnight Pomelo Highball

A delicate and savory cod dish that reflects the precision and elegance of Japanese craftsmanship.The rest of the dishes are for you to discover at the event. The exhibit will showcase the innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication that have propelled these brands to prominence in the watchmaking industry. Nico Moreno, marking a decade of excellence, will share insights into his journey and the evolution of his brands. This milestone celebrates not only his achievements but also the growing recognition of Filipino watchmakers on the global stage.

More on the journey of Filipino artistry in watchmaking

In the world of horology, few stories are as compelling as that of Nico Moreno, a
watchmaker whose journey from Manila to Tokyo tells a tale of passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of continuous learning and commitment to excellence.

Beginnings in Manila
Born in 1990 in Manila, Philippines, Francisco "Nico" Moreno Jr. developed his fascination with timepieces during his college years, particularly while studying “springs” in his Classical Mechanics Physics classes. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Physics with a specialization in Materials Science from De La Salle University in 2013. As he embarked on his career as a manufacturing specialist, he recalled conversations with his father about the beauty and significance of owning a good watch. These formative experiences sparked his passion for vintage timepieces and watch servicing, ultimately leading to the founding of Ibarra Watches in 2014.

Inspired by the rich history and aesthetics of vintage watches, Nico created Ibarra to blend classic designs with modern manufacturing technologies. The brand quickly
gained recognition, achieving significant milestones such as being endorsed by then-President Rodrigo Duterte and being commissioned to create timepieces for world leaders during the ASEAN50 Special Celebration in 2017.


The Rise of Ibarra Watches
Ibarra’s journey from a budding microbrand to a respected name in Filipino watches is marked by several key achievements. In 2019, the brand introduced the Sucesos, a modern recreation of a timepiece owned by Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal. This model was a testament to Ibarra's dedication to preserving history by bringing the aesthetics of the past to life, a chance for every Filipino to wear a piece of history. That same year, Ibarra was chosen as the Official Commemorative Timepiece of the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, further solidifying its reputation for quality and craftsmanship.

The Tokyo Chapter: Immersion and Growth

In 2021, Nico made a pivotal decision to relocate to Tokyo, Japan, to further his
education and immerse himself in the Japanese watchmaking ecosystem. At
Hitotsubashi University, he pursued graduate studies in business while honing his craft through interactions with Japanese watchmakers and industry professionals. During this time, he met and sought advice even from his watchmaking role model, the renowned Japanese independent watchmaker Masahiro Kikuno. This period of personal evolution enriched his skills and expanded his vision for the future, leading him to embark on the deep waters of horology.

The Moreno Watch Studio and Handmade Craftsmanship
2024 marked the establishment of Moreno Watch Studio in Tokyo, a venture reflecting Nico’s commitment to learning and practicing traditional watchmaking techniques. The studio’s philosophy is deeply rooted in craftsmanship, with a focus on artisanal techniques. His first project timepiece, Kaminari, embodies this ethos.

Featuring intricate decorative techniques, the Kaminari is the result of Nico’s passion and dedication to the art of watchmaking. Nico's journey has come full circle as he returns to the roots of handmade craftsmanship, with his dedication seen in the details of his work.

 

Launch in the Philippines

Nico will officially launch the Moreno Watch Studio along with the Kaminari on August 29, 2024. This historic event is made possible by the brand’s partnership with Sheraton Manila Bay. The exhibit of the Kaminari and the celebration of Ibarra Watches’ 10th anniversary will be held at the hotel’s Energy zone from August 29 until September 5, 2024.

Sheraton Manila Bay is a renowned hotel located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and state-of-the art facilities. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable moments, Sheraton Manila Bay is the perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers. To reserve or book your room accommodations go to www.sheratonmanilabay.com. Sheraton Manila Bay is conveniently located at M. Adriatico corner Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. Like us on Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay and follow us on Twitter at@sheratonmnlbay