LANDSCAPES SOX 2024: A Photography Journey Through SOCCSKSARGEN

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



After an exhilarating four-day journey, from October 25 to 28, across SOCCSKSARGEN, the first-ever Landscapes SOX 2024 concluded with resounding success.


Organized by Jay Jallorina Photography, this unique adventure took photographers, vloggers, and nature enthusiasts through South Cotabato’s lush landscapes, vibrant communities, and inspiring culture. From sunrises over mist-covered mountains to intimate cultural encounters with the Tboli community, Landscapes SOX 2024 was more than a photography tour—it was an unforgettable immersion into the soul of Mindanao.

This event wouldn't have been possible without the support of our valued sponsors: Fujifilm Philippines , Summit Creative PH , Radiant Photo PH , and ASUS ProArt. Their generous contributions allowed us to share this rich experience with photographers who could capture the beauty of SOX from behind the lens, crafting images that inspire and connect us all.


Day 1 (October 25): Welcoming SOX’s Landscapes

The adventure kicked off with a welcome at 3G Garden Hotel located in General Santos City where we went off to our first destination were oriented by Jay Jallorina about the Landscapes SOX 2024 Photography Tour, then after a few minutes of checking in at our respective shared rooms, we had our first lunch at Daniella's located at Tiongsons Arcade - a local favorite food place especially at night when it gets crowded.

We then went off to our first adventure of a sunset shoot at the mangroves of Asuncion Beache located in Sarangani. Everyone took with them their tripods to capture and take advantage of the slowly setting sunset light.

We then had our first dinner at Ranchero, another local favorite but this time it's air-conditioned. I was telling Jay that normally, we would pick the air-conditioned one during the day when it's hot, and the Al fresco during the cooler night. But no matter since it's understandable being the first run of the Landscapes SOX 2024.

After our dinner, we went back to the 3G Garden Hotel to sleep overnight, and start the following day with an early morning trip for a sunrise shoot at Koronadal City.


Day 2 (October 26): An attempt to capture Mount Matutum

With a drink of coffee or not, participants gathered to prepare for the visual feast that awaited at the DOLE pineapple plantation. We set out early going there, catching sunrise from the area's viewpoints. Each click of the camera shutter and drone remote captured the awakening landscapes, punctuated by bursts of color as the first light hit the plantation and nearby surrounding mountains even though Mount Matutum was not kind enough to show it's full glory.

The day was filled with landscape photography, where participants honed their skills in framing the land’s natural contours. The vibrant greens, interspersed with silhouettes of other notable elements, added a distinctive depth to the photos—a beautiful merging of signs of humanity (a factory nearby and several passing vehicles, even cyclists, amidst the wonders of nature.

We then had breakfast at the Jollibee Koronadal branch after getting disappointed at our first breakfast destination attempt. With access to fast food restaurants being more convenient even in Mindanao, there is no surprise that even these farflung areas have already been conquered by the biggest iconic pabida when it comes to fastfood.

With our stomachs full of either corned beef, tocino, or beef tapa, plus the side egg that comes with it, our next destination was at a resort in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.


Exploring Lake Sebu’s Cultural Heartbeat

Continuing the second day, we ventured to Punta Isla Lake Resort located in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, a destination known for its enchanting lakes, waterfalls, and, most importantly, the warmth of the Tboli people.

At the Punta Isla Lake Resort, we had our sumptuous lunch onboard their Lake Cruise boat while listening to the stories narrated, and got entertained by the short performances as we traversed the lake admiring the views as well.

We were welcomed earlier by some local T'boli community members where our group had the privilege of photographing traditionally dressed Tboli models. Their stunning hand-woven costumes and intricate jewelry gave participants a glimpse into the cultural richness of this indigenous group.

We then proceeded to the location of Lake Sebu's falls called 7 Falls where we firstly encountered mischievous monkeys having gumamela flowers for breakfast. Yes, these flowers are indeed edible, even for humans. The first of the 7 Falls was of course majestic as it was our first time to witness it.

Later in the afternoon we went to Gono S'bong where our group gained a deeper understanding of Tboli customs through their stories and performances, further enhancing the cultural authenticity of the portraits we took of of the T'boli family especially of 12 year old girl Yuri.

The day ended with a dinner of grilled tilapia, adobong baboy and Tinolang manok, then went back to the resort to sleep after saying our goodbyes and thanks.


Day 3 (October 27): Aerials and Bird Watching Adventures

Day three offered a different perspective— further taking photography to the skies. With drones, participants continue to capture stunning aerial views of SOX’s landscapes, from undulating hills to vast stretches of pristine lakes. One unexpected highlight was photographing the elusive Flowerpecker, a rare and vibrant bird species native to the region. For avid bird-watchers and photographers alike, this was a thrill, with the added challenge of capturing these colorful creatures in flight.

Day 3 included a trip to visit more closely the second of the 7 Falls. The rest of the falls were not conveniently accessible but one from our group was able to take a glimpse of the third using her drone that patiently took a video from first to third.

After our short time at the second waterfall location, of course, the day wouldn’t have been complete without tasting Lake Sebu’s renowned native chicken inasal. The resounding verdict? Never hesitate to order seconds or additional dishes even if Jay says to pick one, since the native chicken inasals are undeniably too small for an unlirice meal!

We then head off to a refreshing treat—a buko bowl of halo-halo, probably marking the beginning of a bonding tradition among participants. It was the birthday of one of our fellow participants so she generously paid for all the halo-halo orders. Belated birthday, sis!

Then back to our GenSan hotel, 3G Garden Hotel, where everything started, but only for a few minutes in our rooms because we had to proceed to our dinner destination. Then back to the hotel for our last nap.


Day 4: Lasting Impressions and Shared Memories

The final day started early in the morning with a visit at the General Santos Fishport Complex where we had to rent to wear white boots as a requirement before we are allowed entry. This is where we witnessed how the catch are processed from weighing, to cleaning, and then to temporarily storing them in iced water for a few hours before they are wrapped and packed for delivery. It was then back to the hotel after a few shots and purchase of some pasalubong from.the OTOP Store Outlet at the same fishport. It's at the hotel where we had breakfast that came complimentary from our stay. After which we had to say our goodbyes already to some of members of our group.  The rest of the time was just wait mode for our flights back home. Those who came from Davao by road, already went back home that morning, another one had an earlier flight so she was taken to the airport ahead, while the rest of our group looked for a restaurant where we can have lunch before going to the airport for the later afternoon flights.

This Photography Tour was not just to satisfy our cravings for the best shots but is also all about making memories. From candid moments to creative shots, participants freely explored their photographic styles, whether by camera or drone shots, capturing SOX’s landscapes, residents, other living creatures and each other’s laughter. Whether it was a shared story over lunch or the humorous misadventures of ordering “just one more” native chicken inasal, the group had truly become a family.

We owe a huge thank you to Ms. Hydz Newtemple (on Facebook) aka Heidi Templonuevo of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato for helping us bring this journey to life. Her local knowledge and connections provided us access to SOX’s most captivating landscapes, local stories, and a truly unforgettable photography experience.

Our van service, expertly handled by the hunky Lemuel through coordination with Peter, brought us from GenSan to South Cotabato and back, through narrow mountain paths and unfamiliar backroads, ensuring we reached even the most remote yet breathtaking locations. A special thank you also goes to Brix for his invaluable support—handling logistics, guiding us through routes, and ensuring that everyone was comfortable, safe, and engaged throughout the experience.


The Participants: The Heart of the Journey

Finally, a heartfelt shout-out to our fellow participants—Jonathan, Kari, Dell, Denise, Paolo, Gino, Larry, Tom, and Lauren (aka Ms. Everywhere). You each brought your unique perspectives, energy, and passion to Landscapes SOX 2024. The way you connected with each other and captured the world around you made this experience not just a tour but a shared celebration of art, nature, and culture. And of course, big thanks to the brains, Jay, who creatively organized everything with Brix and Hydz. He was even the one who booked my flight to Cebu several days earlier before the actual days of the event.


Looking Forward: T’nalak SOX Adventure 2025

As we close the chapter on Landscapes SOX 2024, we're already looking ahead! Keep an eye out for the T’nalak SOX Adventure 2025. We’re excited to continue exploring the unparalleled beauty of SOCCSKSARGEN and welcoming new participants to join this journey. Follow Jay Jallorina for updates on upcoming tours and more opportunities to create and connect.

To our next adventure, may the memories, landscapes, and moments we captured together always remind us of SOX’s boundless beauty!

Solana Futures Trading: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Confused about Solana futures and leverage? This guide breaks down the concept of Solana futures trading in simple terms. Learn how to profit from both rising and falling Solana prices, understand the risks involved, and explore Solana's potential to rival Ethereum.

Are you interested in starting crypto trading but feel confused by terms such as futures and leverage? This article will be a complete guide for those of you who want to understand the concept of trading Solana futures.

In this article, we will explain in simple and detailed terms what Solana futures are, how they work, and the associated benefits and risks.

What are Solana Futures?

Solana futures are contracts that provide the right and obligation to buy or sell a specified amount of Solana (SOL) at a predetermined price in the future. The Solana futures market offers two main features for cryptocurrency traders:

1. Leverage: Purchasing Solana futures allows traders to control more Solana tokens using leverage (usually 10x to 50x).

2. Profit from price reduction: Selling Solana futures allows traders to profit from downturns in SOL price.

Solana futures traded on most cryptocurrency exchanges today do not have an expiration date, so they are also referred to as Solana perpetual futures or Solana perpetual swaps.

Solana vs. Ethereum

Solana is starting to attract attention as a serious competitor to Ethereum, even though its market capitalization is about four times smaller than that of the leading smart contract platform.

On October 23, the SOL/ETH trading pair reached a new record high of around 0.0692 ETH. The move is part of a bullish trend that has risen 600% since 2023.

Solana's rise against Ethereum has sparked discussions about its potential to surpass Ethereum's market capitalization in the not-too-distant future.

At the center of Solana's bullish outlook is increased network usage and an upcoming update that could potentially reduce Ethereum's dominance in blockchain.

Can SOL Defeat ETH?

The possibility of Solana surpassing Ethereum in terms of technical capabilities and market valuation may increase as Solana meme-coins have been a key driver of Solana's recent growth.

Historically, meme-coins have thrived in bull market conditions when speculation runs high, but they have faced severe corrections during market downturns.

Currently, Solana needs to grow 3.5 times its current market cap to reach Ethereum's $304 billion valuation. However, analysts at VanEck speculate that Solana could reach 50% of ETH's value in the next few years if it continues to outperform Ethereum in terms of daily active users and transaction volume.

Meanwhile, Bitfinex analysts suggest that Solana's success depends on expanding its user base beyond speculative traders. To achieve sustainable long-term growth, Solana needs to attract DeFi enthusiasts, traditional financial institutions, and enterprises.

They noted that a Firedancer update in 2025, which aims to increase Solana's capacity to handle up to 1 million transactions per second, could potentially make its network more attractive to larger investors and institutions.

Solana Continues Uptrend with 13.58% Monthly Gain

2024 has been a fantastic year for Solana investors as this premier altcoin has risen 481% since November 2023. Although Solana's growth has slowed, it is still amid a bullish trend with Solana currently trading at US$181,072 with growth of 3.02% in the last 24 hours.

It can be seen from the Solana futures price chart above. The RSI, MACD, and Bollinger Bands indicators show the positive side. Solana's RSI is at 67.11, which means the buying trend is greater than the selling trend in the sense that it is positive, not overbought. The MACD line is also above the boundary line so the bullish signal is very strong at the moment.

Conclusion: Buying Solana Futures

You buy Solana futures if you want to profit from Solana price increases in the future. This trading strategy is also known as opening a long Solana futures position.

With 10x leverage, buying a $100 Solana futures contract would allow you to 'own' $1,000 worth of Solana. However, please note that if the price of SOL falls by more than 10%, you will lose your entire $1,000 investment as your position will be liquidated.

Simple example:

Suppose SOL is trading at 10 USDT per token. A trader futures Solana bullish and decides to open a long Solana futures position at that price by purchasing 1,000 Solana futures contracts with 10x leverage.

With each contract having a contract size of 1 SOL, the initial margin required to open this position is 1,000 x $10 / 10 = $1,000. Depending on the price performance of SOL, traders can make a lot of money or lose their entire investment.

However, the most important thing is that before deciding to invest in Solana futures, you must also carry out in-depth research on this investment instrument. Moreover, crypto is an investment instrument with prices that are so volatile that price changes are common. Checking prices regularly will help you assess how stable a token will be in the future.

Conduct detailed research by utilizing various Bitrue features, starting from the price feature, and price conversion from SOL to USD, to reading articles on the Bitrue blog to find out about the projects being carried out by the token network you are looking for.

About Bitrue

Bitrue is a leading cryptocurrency exchange, offering a wide range of digital assets, innovative features, and user-focused services. Founded with the mission to empower the world’s crypto enthusiasts, Bitrue continues to expand its platform with new products, events, and opportunities for users worldwide.

 

Inspiring Young Leaders: Best Speakers for Students

 

In a time when it’s very important to inspire young leaders, having role models who can motivate, guide, and teach students is crucial. The impact of a well-timed speech can plant seeds of ambition and determination in young minds, creating a generation of future leaders driven by purpose, resilience, and vision. This article looks at some of the most influential speakers who have made a big difference in students’ lives around the world (sharing their stories, achievements, and reasons they connect so deeply with young audiences). Why Inspirational Speakers Matter for Students: Speakers who connect with student audiences have a vital role in motivating future leaders and empowering youth to tackle life’s challenges. These speakers offer unique viewpoints, often telling personal stories of overcoming difficulties, embracing change, and showing ethical leadership. However, because of this, students gain valuable insights into navigating their own lives with purpose and confidence. In a world that is always changing, these speakers help young people discover their voices (guiding them to reach their true potential). Characteristics of the Best Speakers for Students are essential, although they can vary.

Before we dive into the standout speakers, it’s really important to understand the qualities that make these leaders special. Authenticity (students truly connect with speakers who are honest and share their struggles and successes) is essential. Relevance matters too; the best speakers discuss topics that resonate with students, such as mental health and career development. Engagement is another key element. By using interactive techniques, humor, or compelling storytelling, effective speakers capture the attention of young audiences. Expertise is also a factor: leaders with a strong background in their field gain respect and credibility from students. Keeping these traits in mind, let’s examine some of the top speakers who inspire young minds around the world. However, one standout is Simon Sinek—who advocates for purpose and leadership.

Simon Sinek is a well-known figure in motivational speaking and leadership development. His books, like Start With Why, have changed the way people think about leadership, purpose, and success. Sinek's approach, especially his Golden Circle theory, resonates strongly with young audiences. He highlights the importance of understanding one’s "why" (this) which encourages students to think critically about their motivations and the impact they want to make. Sinek's talks focus on building a foundation of values-driven leadership, something that is essential for future leaders. However, it’s not only about knowing your "why," because it also requires taking action. 

Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Prize winner (and education advocate), stands out as one of the most powerful voices for female empowerment and access to education. Her journey of strength in the face of challenges has motivated millions (especially young learners). Although she encountered threats and even survived a deadly attack, Malala's commitment to promoting education for girls has only become stronger. Her speeches emphasize the importance of fighting for what is right and they highlight how education can serve as a means for personal and social transformation. For students, Malala exemplifies the strength of courage and determination. However, her influence reaches beyond mere words; it proves that anyone can create change. 

Organizational psychologist and best-selling author Adam Grant presents unique views on creativity, resilience, and mental health for young audiences. His work challenges the common ideas about productivity and success (this is important) because it encourages students to think beyond traditional limits. In his talks, Grant emphasizes the importance of resilience, curiosity, and being open to new ideas. His insights help students understand that failure is not an endpoint (however, it is a stepping stone to growth). As a professor, his friendly approach makes him a relatable figure for students who are navigating their academic and personal journeys. 

Mel Robbins, a motivational speaker and the author of The 5 Second Rule, is well-known for her clear method of helping people tackle procrastination and fear. Robbins' straightforward yet impactful technique—the 5-second rule—has assisted millions in pushing through hesitation and taking action. Her speeches concentrate on common issues students encounter, like self-doubt and lack of motivation. They also offer practical strategies for change. Robbins' approach encourages young people to harness the power of small steps to achieve large goals, making her quite popular with student audiences.

Dr. Brené Brown is a research professor and best-selling author whose work on vulnerability, courage, and empathy has influenced audiences worldwide. Her insights, based on years of research, inspire students to view vulnerability as a strength, but, not a weakness. Although Brown’s discussions on self-worth and bravery are particularly relevant, they also highlight the significance of connection. Students often feel pressured to maintain a perfect image, but by advocating for authenticity, Brown motivates young people to be genuine. This creates a healthier and more compassionate approach to personal growth.

Jay Shetty – Lessons from Mindfulness and Purpose Jay Shetty (who used to be a monk and is now a motivational speaker) shares a unique perspective on mindfulness, self-discipline, and personal growth. His ability to break down complex concepts into simple, relatable ideas makes his lessons easy for students to grasp. Shetty's speeches combine spiritual insights with practical tips, which help students manage the pressures of modern life. With an emphasis on mindfulness, Shetty encourages young people to find their purpose and live with intention. This is why he has become a sought-after speaker for students looking to cultivate inner peace and resilience. 

As a former First Lady, author, and advocate, Michelle Obama has inspired millions (1) with her dedication to youth empowerment, education, and health. Her memoir, Becoming, shares the story of her journey and the difficulties she encountered, offering important lessons in resilience, self-confidence, and leadership. Obama’s speeches are filled with personal stories and advice for young people—especially young women—on embracing their uniqueness and pursuing their dreams. Her impact has led to many youth initiatives and motivates students to seek a life of purpose.

However, Gary Vaynerchuk’s focus on hustle and entrepreneurship also plays an important role in this discussion. Although both figures have different approaches, their messages are intertwined because they both encourage young people to strive for success. This combination of influences is powerful and it shapes the aspirations of the next generation.

Gary Vaynerchuk, commonly known as Gary Vee, is a famous entrepreneur and motivational speaker. He connects with students who are curious about entrepreneurship and digital innovation. Vaynerchuk's clear advice on hard work, adaptability, and perseverance is especially important for students facing a competitive (and always changing) job market. His talks and social media presence urge young people to be proactive in building their careers. They should make the most of the resources available and embrace the hustle. Vaynerchuk's energy and authenticity make him a captivating speaker; he inspires students to take control of their futures. However, this is not just about motivation. Although Priya Parker wrote "The Art of Gathering and Connection," Vaynerchuk emphasizes a different approach. 

Priya Parker, the author of *The Art of Gathering*, highlights the importance of community, connection, and meaningful interactions. Her talent for organizing transformative gatherings has made her a prominent speaker, especially in a post-pandemic world where social connections are increasingly valued. Parker's insights are particularly helpful for students, many of whom face social and academic pressures. Her advice on creating genuine connections helps students build supportive networks, which boosts their emotional and mental well-being. 

Angelo “Boost Gio” Bañaga is a motivational speaker in the Philippines dedicated to empowering young professionals and young professionals. He has a knack for teaching his co-millennials and the younger generation personal finances, branding, and stepping out of their comfort zones.

Aside from his commitment to public speaking, he is also co-founder of Kwento Co and is busy in community outreach to help the underserved in society because he believes that everyone should contribute to the greater good. Given all these attributes, his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the potential of youth make him an ideal mentor for those ready to chase their dreams and live a life full of purpose and passion.

Inspiring the Leaders of Tomorrow. Bringing inspirational speakers into students' lives is more than just motivational; it’s about giving them the tools, insights, and perspectives that shape their growth. These speakers (each with unique backgrounds and messages) help students develop resilience, face challenges, and pursue meaningful goals. Their influence has sparked change on both individual and global levels, reminding students that they, too, can make a difference. However, the journey to becoming effective leaders begins with these crucial connections.