Gaming has become a global spectator sport. Collecting has evolved into a thriving hobby culture. Content creation is now a career, while cosplay, trading card games, and pop culture fandoms continue to bring people together both online and offline.

Recognizing this shift, your most loved SM Supermalls launches Tech & Play Month, a month-long nationwide celebration from August 1 to 31, transforming malls into vibrant destinations where technology, gaming, creativity, and fandom converge through immersive maxed-out experiences designed for today’s generation.

During the Tech & Play Month launch at SM North EDSA’s Northern Playcon: Tech Expo, which will run from August 1 to 16, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin L. San Agustin said that the month-long celebration will allow shoppers to enjoy exclusive product launches, exciting promotions, gadget deals, and flexible payment offers throughout the month.

More than a seasonal campaign, Tech & Play Month reflects SM Supermalls’ continued evolution into a destination where communities gather, passions are celebrated, and shared interests come to life.

Players Collective: Where every game begins

Gaming comes to life at Tech & Play Month as players compete, connect, and celebrate their shared passion through exciting tournaments and interactive experiences at SM Supermalls. 

Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for your next favorite title or a seasoned competitor chasing your next win, Players Collective brings the excitement of gaming beyond the screen.

Throughout Tech & Play Month, visitors can join esports tournaments, watch thrilling competitions, connect with fellow players, and experience interactive gaming activations that celebrate one of today’s fastest-growing communities.

Every great gaming journey starts with the right gear. At Game One Tech Store, players can explore the latest consoles, accessories, and titles before diving into the exciting experiences of Tech & Play Month.

Looking to level up your setup? Explore the latest consoles, games, accessories, and gaming gear at Gaming Grounds, where enthusiasts can discover new releases, try the latest hardware, and find everything they need for their next adventure. Wi

Builders Society: Build your perfect setup

From custom PC builds to high-performance gaming rigs, Builders Society empowers tech enthusiasts to create their ideal setup with the latest innovations at SM Supermalls. 

For tech enthusiasts, every upgrade is an opportunity to create something better.

Whether you’re assembling your first gaming rig, upgrading your workstation, or discovering smart innovations for everyday living, Builders Society showcases the latest technology designed to power work, play, and everything in between.

At the heart of the experience is Cyberzone, SM City Laoag’s premier destination for technology, where shoppers can compare products, receive expert advice, and enjoy the confidence of Tech-Assured Shopping through authentic products from authorized retailers.

A great setup goes beyond your desk. Dreame’s smart home innovations help create cleaner, more efficient spaces, giving you more time to focus on work, play, and creativity.

Visitors can also discover SM Home at the SM Store for smart cleaning innovations that make everyday life easier, along with exclusive product launches, immersive brand activations, nationwide gadget deals, and flexible payment options throughout Tech & Play Month.

Creators United: Turn ideas into reality

From capturing cinematic moments to creating inspiring content, Creators United empowers storytellers with the latest imaging technology and creative tools from brands like Sony and DJI.

Every creator starts with an idea—and the right tools can help bring it to life.

Whether you’re capturing cinematic moments, producing content for social media, launching a livestream, or exploring photography for the first time, Creators United is designed to inspire creativity through hands-on experiences and the latest innovations.

Discover Sony’s cutting-edge imaging technology for stunning photos and videos, explore DJI’s industry-leading drones and creative imaging solutions, or experience smarter wellness through Oura Ring, designed to help creators stay energized and perform at their best.

From creator showcases and live demonstrations to interactive experiences with the latest creative technology, Tech & Play Month celebrates the growing community of storytellers, photographers, filmmakers, and digital creators shaping today’s culture.

Collectors Club: Find your next great discovery

Collectors Club celebrates the passion behind every fandom, bringing together cosplay, collectibles, trading card games, and fan communities in one exciting destination at SM Supermalls.

For collectors and fans, the thrill isn’t just about owning something rare—it’s about sharing the experience with a community that understands your passion.

Throughout August, Collectors Club transforms participating SM malls into gathering places for hobbyists and enthusiasts through trading card game battles, cosplay showcases, collectible marketplaces, and fandom events that celebrate today’s biggest pop culture communities.

Whether you’re searching for exclusive merchandise, expanding your collection, meeting fellow fans, or simply discovering a new hobby, every visit offers something unexpected to take home—and memories to share long after the event ends.

More than a mall destination

As technology continues to shape the way people live, learn, create, and connect, SM Supermalls is redefining what the modern mall experience can be.

Through Tech & Play Month, malls become more than places to shop—they become spaces where gamers compete, creators find inspiration, tech enthusiasts discover the latest innovations, and collectors connect over shared passions.

This August, whether you’re upgrading your gear, discovering your next favorite hobby, or simply looking for a fun day out with family and friends, there’s always something new to experience at SM Supermalls.

Experience Tech & Play Month from August 1 to 31 at participating SM Supermalls nationwide and discover the latest in technology, gaming, creativity, collectibles, and entertainment—all in one destination.

###

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through “My SM,” SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

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Escape from Violet Hold is now live with 135 new collectible cards. This jailbreak-themed Hearthstone expansion features new Legendary Rulebreaker minions, the new Prepare keyword, and sneaky new Disguise and Bribe cards.

Rulebreakers: Vanessa VanCleef is orchestrating a daring breakout from Azeroth’s maximum security prison, the Violet Hold, with a crew of infamous inmates. Meet the Rulebreakers! Each class gets its own Legendary Rulebreaker minion that defies a core concept of Hearthstone. After all, rules are made to be broken.

New Keyword – Prepare: Pulling off the perfect heist takes careful planning. The new Prepare keyword lets you set up explosive plays in advance. By dragging a Prepare card into your deck, you spend all your remaining mana to Prepare it, discounting the card by that amount, plus one. Then you can unleash it on a later turn for a big surprise play out of nowhere. 

Disguised Minions: For the first time in Hearthstone history, you can play minions onto your opponent’s board. Disguised minions give you flexible options: play them on your side to utilise their ability for yourself or send them to your opponent’s side to unleash effects that can disrupt their game plan.

Bribes: Breaking out of the Hold takes more than brute force. Playing a Bribe card gives you a powerful effect, but in exchange your opponent gets a little something too.

It’s time to fly the coop! Log in now to play Escape from Violet Hold, visit the 36.0 Patch Notes to learn more about everything in this patch, and check out all the rewards you can earn now that the expansion is out.

The full Escape from Violet Hold intel is available on the Hearthstone blog. For more assets, please visit the press site.

Via: technologynewsph

The post Make a Break for It! Hearthstone’s Latest Expansion Escape From Violet Hold, Is Now Live appeared first on Planaria.

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention, and continued innovation.

Commenting on the certification, Lois Dalida, Chief People and Culture Officer, shares, “We are humbled and grateful to receive the certification once more. At EastWest Ageas, we value fostering a workplace culture that ensures our people thrive both in their professional and personal lives. This milestone only pushes us to continue pursuing this purpose and explore more ways to live up to our status as a Great Place to Work.”

People-First culture at EastWest Ageas 

EastWest Ageas has achieved this certification through programs that focus on employee well-being, workplace engagement, and career advancement. The company’s WFH 2.0 program, which requires staff to report on-site twice a week, has also enabled employees to balance their work with their personal responsibilities. 

EastWest Ageas also values empowering its people through training seminars that develop their skills. It also remains open to fresh ideas, allowing employees to take the lead in their respective departments. 

These efforts are reflected in the company’s own numbers: 94% of the employees report feeling welcomed when they first joined EastWest Ageas. The company likewise saw its time-to-fill rate grow from 50% to 69% within the past year. 

These internal results mirror broader patterns Great Place To Work has observed across certified companies. According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers value working at organizations with this certification, as they are 4.5 times more likely to find a supportive boss. Staff at these companies are 93% more likely to look forward to reporting to work. They are also twice as likely to be paid fairly, to earn a share of the company’s profits, and to have equal opportunities for a promotion. 

For people planning to advance their careers in a company that puts them first, EastWest Ageas is currently hiring new talent. Check out its careers page at www.ewageas.com.ph. 

Via: technologynewsph

The post EastWest Ageas Certified Great Place To Work for Second Year In A Row appeared first on Planaria.

Keeping pace with these evolving digital habits, Globe continues to strengthen its mobile business through sustained investments in network quality, customer experience, and next-generation technologies, enabling the company to maintain healthy mobile leadership in an increasingly connected world.

During the first quarter, Globe rolled out 408 new 5G sites, bringing outdoor 5G population coverage to more than 98% in Metro Manila and key cities across the Visayas and Mindanao. 

Powering today’s digital lifestyles

The way Filipinos use mobile services has changed dramatically over the years, with data becoming the primary driver of customer engagement.

Today, mobile data accounts for 89% of Globe’s total mobile service revenues, up from 85% a year ago, reflecting the growing preference for digital services over traditional voice and SMS. During the first quarter of 2026, Globe’s mobile business generated Php30.0 billion in revenues, up 6% year-on-year, while its subscriber base expanded to around 67 million customers.

Customers are also spending more time online than ever before. Mobile data revenues increased 11% year-on-year, driven by higher usage of video streaming, social media, gaming, digital payments, and other online services. Mobile data traffic rose 18%, while average monthly data consumption reached approximately 16 GB per subscriber.

More than 39 million Globe customers now actively use mobile data services, underscoring the increasingly central role of connectivity in everyday life. The GlobeOne app has also seen significant growth, now reaching an average of 8 million monthly users.

Keeping pace with a connected nation

As digital lifestyles continue to evolve, Globe is investing to ensure its network is able to serve customer demand.

“Our priority is to execute on our plans  well. We will  deliver better customer experience through our digital platforms, and serve products that are relevant through hyperpersonalization. While we continue to expand our 5G network, we intend to deepen our fiber footprint, and differentiate more using  digital technologies,” said Darius Delgado, Globe Chief Commercial Officer.

As more aspects of everyday life become digital, Globe remains committed to delivering reliable mobile connectivity that empowers individuals, enables businesses, and helps communities thrive in an increasingly connected Philippines.

For more information, visit www.globe.com.ph. 

Via: technologynewsph

The post Globe sustains mobile leadership, leads growth in data and hyperpersonalization appeared first on Planaria.

Blizzard Classic Cup

Across both days of BlizzCon, legendary competitors will return to the stage under Classic Cup captains Nick “Tasteless” Plott and Dan “Artosis” Stemkoski, competing for pride, legacy, and points toward the Classic Cup trophy.

The newly revealed Legacy Matches include:

StarCraft: Remastered – BoxeR vs. Nal_rA
Two icons of Brood War history step back into the spotlight: BoxeR, one of esports’ most influential competitors, and Nal_rA, one of StarCraft’s most decorated Protoss players.

StarCraft II – IdrA vs. MC
A classic Wings of Liberty-era showdown returns as IdrA and MC rekindle one of StarCraft II’s most heated rivalries.

Heroes of the Storm – Dignitas vs. Gen.G
Heroes of the Storm makes its BlizzCon return with a tribute to the 2018 Heroes of the Storm Global Championship Finals, as Dignitas and Gen.G bring stacked lineups of BlizzCon veterans back together for a rematch years in the making.

Warcraft III – ToD vs. TeD
Two decorated Warcraft III champions face off in a Legacy Match celebrating years of competitive history, championship pedigrees, and a storied rivalry.

This is only the beginning for the Blizzard Classic Cup with more details on the Entertainment Matches to be shared as BlizzCon gets closer.

The Road to BlizzCon Heats Up

Across the broader BlizzCon 2026 esports slate, the best players from around the world are claiming their spots for the Overwatch World Cup, Hearthstone Masters Tour, and World of Warcraft Arena World Championship and Mythic Dungeon International. Catch up on all the latest updates as we prepare for high-stakes competition on the BlizzCon stage.

BlizzCon 2026 takes place 12-13 September PDT at the Anaheim Convention Center. For those who can’t attend in person, be sure to watch the action live on the official BlizzCon livestream.

See you at BlizzCon!

Via: technologynewsph

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As the Philippines experiences rapid urban development and continued growth in commercial and industrial infrastructure, fire protection has become far more than a regulatory obligation. It is now recognized as a vital investment that safeguards lives, protects valuable assets, ensures business continuity, and strengthens the resilience of critical infrastructure.

Whether in high-rise office buildings, manufacturing facilities, hospitals, hotels, airports, data centers, warehouses, or logistics complexes, modern establishments rely on advanced fire protection systems that go well beyond conventional alarms. These integrated solutions combine fire detection, suppression, monitoring, and emergency response technologies to help minimize damage, protect occupants, and prevent small incidents from escalating into major disasters.

As buildings become more sophisticated and operational demands continue to evolve, organizations are placing greater emphasis on comprehensive fire safety strategies rather than simply meeting minimum regulatory requirements. Today, decision-makers seek fire protection systems that are engineered for reliability, supported by international standards, easy to maintain, and capable of delivering dependable performance in the most critical moments. With the country’s continuing urbanization and infrastructure expansion, industry experts view modern fire protection as an essential component of sustainable development and long-term operational resilience.

Fire Protection Is More Than Fire Extinguishers

Many people still associate fire safety with portable fire extinguishers. While these remain an essential first line of defense, modern fire protection involves an interconnected ecosystem of technologies designed to safeguard both lives and assets.

A comprehensive fire protection system typically includes:

• Automatic fire sprinkler systems
• Fire detection and alarm systems (FDAS)
• Fire hydrant and fire pump systems
• Clean agent fire suppression systems
• Foam and deluge systems
• Smoke control systems
• Emergency communication systems
• Preventive maintenance and testing programs

These systems work together to detect potential hazards early, notify occupants, suppress fires before they spread, and provide emergency responders with critical operational support.

The Rising Importance of Fire Protection Engineering

As Philippine buildings become taller, smarter, and more technologically advanced, fire protection engineering has become increasingly specialized.

Hospitals require uninterrupted protection for life-saving equipment. Data centers demand clean agent suppression systems that extinguish fires without damaging sensitive electronics. Warehouses need extensive sprinkler coverage to protect inventory, while manufacturing facilities often require customized suppression systems tailored to operational risks.

Each facility presents unique challenges that require careful planning, engineering design, hydraulic calculations, and compliance with both the Fire Code of the Philippines and internationally recognized standards such as those issued by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Companies with strong engineering capabilities are better positioned to design systems that meet both regulatory requirements and the operational realities of modern facilities.

Compliance Is Becoming More Critical

Fire safety regulations continue to evolve alongside advances in construction technology and building design.

Property developers, facility managers, industrial operators, and government agencies increasingly recognize that compliance extends well beyond obtaining permits or passing inspections.

Proper fire protection today includes:

• System design according to applicable standards
• Professional installation
• Commissioning and testing
• Scheduled preventive maintenance
• Periodic inspection and certification
• Lifecycle management

Organizations that prioritize preventive maintenance often reduce operational risks while extending the service life of critical fire protection equipment.

International Standards Are Raising Expectations

Businesses are becoming more selective when evaluating fire protection partners.

Increasingly, procurement decisions consider whether products and systems carry internationally recognized certifications such as:

• UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
• FM (Factory Mutual)
• ISO-certified quality systems
• NFPA-compliant engineering

These certifications provide greater confidence that products have undergone rigorous testing for safety, reliability, and performance under demanding conditions.

For mission-critical facilities such as airports, hospitals, manufacturing plants, and energy facilities, internationally certified fire systems have become an important component of overall risk management.

Technology Is Transforming Fire Safety

The fire protection industry has undergone significant technological transformation over the past decade.

Traditional standalone alarm systems are gradually giving way to intelligent, networked platforms capable of real-time monitoring and faster emergency response.

Modern fire protection solutions now include:

• Addressable fire alarm systems
• Smart fire detection technologies
• Intelligent smoke control
• Integrated building management systems
• Remote monitoring
• Advanced clean agent suppression technologies
• Digital preventive maintenance reporting

These innovations improve response times, reduce false alarms, and help organizations maintain operational continuity.

Palmer Asia’s Three-Decade Journey in Fire Protection

Among the companies contributing to the evolution of the Philippine fire protection industry is Palmer Asia, which has spent more than three decades supplying, engineering, installing, and maintaining fire protection, safety, and security solutions across the country.

Established in 1995, the company initially focused on fire extinguishers before expanding into complete fire protection systems, fire detection technologies, marine safety, emergency response equipment, and integrated security solutions. Over the years, Palmer Asia has supported commercial, industrial, institutional, and government projects throughout the Philippines while building expertise across multiple areas of fire safety.

The company has also expanded into marine safety, fire rescue equipment, and auxiliary security systems, reflecting the growing convergence of life safety, emergency preparedness, and infrastructure protection. Its longstanding presence in the industry has been highlighted in several business publications discussing the importance of consistency, compliance, and engineering excellence in Philippine fire protection.

Its Fire & Security Systems Division designs and maintains a wide range of solutions, including automatic sprinkler systems, fire hydrant networks, fire detection and alarm systems, clean agent suppression technologies such as FM-200, Inergen, Argonite, CO₂, and FK-5-1-12 systems, as well as foam and deluge systems. These solutions are engineered in accordance with NFPA standards and the Fire Code of the Philippines, while incorporating internationally recognized UL-listed and FM-approved technologies through global partnerships.

Reinforcing its commitment to quality, Palmer-Asia maintains ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management systems covering the manufacturing and refilling of fire extinguishers, as well as the manufacturing, sales, and servicing of fire trucks, ambulances, rescue vehicles, and marine life-saving and fire safety equipment. The company also holds ISO 45001:2018 certification for Occupational Health and Safety Management, with its systems independently audited by TÜV Rheinland, one of the world’s leading certification bodies. In the marine sector, Palmer-Asia is a ClassNK Approved Service Supplier, authorized to inspect and service life-saving appliances aboard ships and marine vessels. 

Its locally manufactured fire protection products are likewise approved by the Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Product Standards (DTI-BPS), underscoring the company’s adherence to stringent national quality and safety requirements. These globally recognized certifications, combined with decades of engineering expertise and field experience, have positioned Palmer-Asia as a trusted partner for organizations seeking reliable, compliant, and future-ready fire protection and emergency response solutions.

Investing in Fire Protection Is Investing in Business Continuity

For businesses, fire protection is no longer simply an operational expense—it is an investment in resilience.

A well-designed fire protection system helps:

• Protect employees and occupants
• Minimize property damage
• Reduce operational downtime
• Preserve business continuity
• Meet insurance and regulatory requirements
• Strengthen stakeholder confidence

As the Philippines continues to invest in new infrastructure, smart cities, logistics networks, and industrial development, the demand for dependable fire protection systems is expected to grow.

In an increasingly complex built environment, organizations are looking beyond compliance toward long-term reliability, engineering expertise, and lifecycle performance. Companies that combine technical capability with internationally recognized standards and decades of field experience are helping shape a future where fire protection is not merely about responding to emergencies—but preventing them from becoming disasters in the first place.

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PHILIPPINES – After a hugely successful first outing in 2025, Disney+ today announced that all 2026 LoL KeSPA CUP matches – Korea’s only short-format League of Legends esports tournament – will be livestreamed for global audiences exclusively on Disney+.

Set to kick off on July 20, the LoL KeSPA CUP will see ten teams from League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK) compete against each other for a total prize pool of KRW 52 Million. With matches set to be livestreamed every Monday and Tuesday from the qualifying stages all the way through to the Grand Final on August 18 at Daejeon e-Sports Arena in Daejeon, South Korea, this exclusive livestream will give global audiences the chance to enjoy every minute of the action wherever they are.

In addition to livestreams of the matches on Disney+, LoL KeSPA CUP fans will also be able to find additional tournament information, including greeting videos from participating teams, and a variety of pre-event and on-site content on Disney+ Korea’s social channels.

Today’s announcement comes as part of an expanded collaboration between Disney+ and the Korea eSports Association that was first announced in April this year and that aims to bring additional livestreams of major e-sports competitions to audiences around the world.

Fans of eSports can sign up to Disney+ today to enjoy round by round replays of the 2025 LoL KeSPA CUP, featuring 10 LCK teams facing off against All-Star Squads from Vietnam and Japan as well as two teams from the North American League Championship Series. Fans can also  sign up to Disney+ to access round-by-round replays of the Esports Championships Asia Jinju 2026 where teams from South Korea, China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines and Mongolia competed against each other on Street Fighter 6, The King of Fighters XV, TEKKEN 8, and the eFootball series (PC/Mobile).

Livestream the 2026 LoL KeSPA CUP from July 20 through to the Grand Final on August 18 exclusively on Disney+.

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Held over three days under the theme Decoded: Deployed, the fourth edition marked a turning point in the country’s digital transformation. Rather than explaining what blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital assets can do, PBW 2026 demonstrated how these technologies are already being deployed across government, finance, business, and everyday life.

The event featured over 150 speakers from around the world, with more than half representing international markets, sharing insights on blockchain, AI, cybersecurity, governance, and entrepreneurship. 

PBW opened with Future of Trust: A Leaders Forum on Technology and Governance, bringing together senior government officials, regulators, business leaders, and technology pioneers to discuss how emerging technologies can strengthen transparency, governance, and public trust. The forum reinforced a central message: innovation succeeds not only through technology, but through the institutions and partnerships that enable its responsible deployment.

From Vision to Movement

For PBW Co-Founder Chezka Gonzales, the event reflected a vision that began five years ago.

“My personal goal has always been simple: to put Filipinos on the world stage and the Philippines on the global blockchain map—to showcase Filipino talent, innovation, and resilience to the world,” she said. 

“Philippine Blockchain Week is more than a conference. It’s a platform where conversations become partnerships, partnerships become companies, and companies create opportunities for Filipinos,” she added.

That vision came alive as startups met investors, enterprises connected with innovators, regulators exchanged ideas with industry leaders, and communities explored new opportunities in the digital economy. 

Upper Left: Chezka Gonzales, Co-Founder of Philippine Blockchain Week, inaugurates PBW 2026 with a welcome address.

Upper Right: Smash Pay Fight Night caps off Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 with an action-packed finale on June 20. 

Lower Left: P-pop girl group KAIA takes the Viral Stage with a live performance at Philippine Blockchain Week 2026.

Lower Right: Rise In and Stellar Philippines host the “Build on Stellar” workshop, bringing together developers and Web3 builders at Philippine Blockchain Week 2026. 

A Global Platform

The event welcomed speakers and delegates from across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America to contribute insights on emerging technologies and digital transformation.

Among the most anticipated speakers was Michael Terpin, widely known as the “Godfather of Crypto.” 

“The Philippines has been a leader in innovation for many years. Social media has played a major role in incubating new platforms here, and Axie Infinity became a global phenomenon because of the Philippines,” he said, further proving that the Philippines is no longer simply participating in the global technology conversation—it is increasingly helping shape it. 

PBW 2026 also highlighted the convergence of technology, culture, and community. The launch of Viral PH spotlighted the creator economy, while the ALT+TAB Gaming and Music Festival brought together gaming, esports, music, creators, and live entertainment. Attendees also joined hackathons, startup showcases, esports tournaments, networking sessions, and the Founders Arena, where startups connected with investors and ecosystem partners.

From Conversation to Deployment

The conference theme came to life through discussions on tokenized real-world assets and practical blockchain applications. Varun Chugh, External Financial Advisor of BiGod Token, explained how tokenization is modernizing traditional assets.

“Gold has served as a store of value for centuries, yet it remains one of the most difficult assets to transact. At BiGod, we aim to make that asset simple, accessible, and cross-border. We have already demonstrated this by using our token to facilitate payments here at Philippine Blockchain Week,” he said. 

His remarks captured the essence of Decoded: Deployed: emerging technologies are no longer future concepts but practical solutions addressing real-world challenges today.

Upper: Moderator Benjamin Fletcher leads a panel discussion with (from left) Raj Nandwani, Global Head of BD and IMA at Binance; Alice Truong, Vice President at Nuvei; and Chengyi Ong, Director of APAC Policy at Circle, on Scaling the Future of Finance: Payments, Stablecoins & Global Adoption at Philippine Blockchain Week 2026. 

Lower: Moderator Vit Jedlička, President of Liberland, facilitates a candid exchange with (from left) Varun Chugh, External Financial Advisor at Bingold Inc.; Rebecah Dausen, PH Country Lead at XDC Network; Jessica Wu, Head of APAC at Bitpanda Enterprise; and Kritesh Tripathi, Co-Founder of XPHERE, during the From Physical to Digital: Bringing Real-World Assets On-Chain panel at PBW 2026.

Building the Future Together

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 was made possible through the support of its sponsors, exhibitors and ecosystem partners, including BiGod Token, Binance by Blockshoals, Vaulnox International, Smashpay Inc., Predict Protocol, Creatachain, Coins.PH, KMC Solutions, MEXC Ventures, O2 Ramp, Orca, Universe Pro, Meteon Run, NSpire, The Executive Centre, Comm&Sense PR, DvCode Technologies, Inc., Naheal, Lumina Events, Wendy’s, McDonald’s, and San Miguel Beer.

With more than 12,000 attendees, over 150 speakers, and countless collaborations formed, PBW 2026 demonstrated that the Philippines has evolved from an emerging participant into a growing force in the global digital economy. 

Decoded: Deployed was more than a theme. It reflected where the industry stands today.

The future is no longer being imagined. It is already being built.

The post Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 Marks the Shift from Decoding to Deployment appeared first on Planaria.

This was the central message at Future of Trust: A Leaders Forum on Technology and Governance, the opening event of Philippine Blockchain Week 2026, where government leaders, legislators, regulators, and private sector executives explored how blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital governance can shape the country’s digital future.

Among the strongest signals of support came from Senator Bam Aquino, who reaffirmed the importance of enabling legislation that allows emerging technologies to flourish responsibly.

“When we leverage technologies like blockchain and AI, we have a rare opportunity to leapfrog our nation’s progress and development,” Senator Aquino said. 

He also thanked the Blockchain Council of the Philippines for its support on the proposed Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, which seeks to institutionalize blockchain-based budget transparency, expressing hope that government and industry can continue working together to advance the measure.

Panel discussions also demonstrated how government agencies were beginning to explore practical applications of emerging technologies.

For Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre, technology adoption must ultimately serve the public. “We’re studying whether blockchain has applications within MMDA’s operations,” he said. 

While noting that the agency already relies heavily on artificial intelligence to improve traffic monitoring and frontline services, Torre said emerging technologies continue to be evaluated based on how they can strengthen operational efficiency while protecting data privacy.

LEFT photo: MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III (center) speaks with (L-R) Bilyonaryo’s Atty. Karen Jimeno, with Assistant Secretary Lia Badilla of the DILG and BYC Ventures’ Paul Soliman

RIGHT photo: Dr. Kamal Anand, CEO of Bigod Group with PDAX CEO Nichel Gaba 

The forum gathered leaders from the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Budget and Management, MMDA, and major private sector organizations to discuss the future of digital identity, AI governance, blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity, and trusted digital services.

Offering a global perspective, Dr. Kamal Anand, Founder and CEO of Bigod Group, said “the Philippines is far ahead on the blockchain adoption curve.”

“We work with many countries around the world, and I believe the level of adoption here is remarkable, especially in Southeast Asia,” he said. “The key now is trust. When trust is supported by clear regulations and strong collaboration between government and industry, innovation can move forward much faster. The market is already growing, blockchain adoption is booming, and I believe the Philippines is well positioned to lead in this space.”

Discussions on trust also extended into traditional industries where blockchain and AI are beginning to unlock new opportunities. During a panel on the future of real estate, valuation, and emerging technologies, Josemari Cuervo, President & Managing Director of Cuervo Appraisers, highlighted the potential of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization to broaden access to investment opportunities while underscoring the importance of trusted information as the foundation of any digital asset ecosystem.

“Tokenization could open real estate investment to more Filipinos across different income levels. But before we can unlock that opportunity, we need trusted data and trusted valuations. That’s the foundation that allows investors to participate with confidence,” he said. 

Media personality James Deakin leads the discussion on the Future of Real Estate with Josemari Cuervo, President & Managing Director of Cuervo Appraisers (center) and Vincent Leoh, CEO and Founder of WPH Digital (far right)

The discussion reflected a recurring theme throughout the forum: whether in government services, financial systems, artificial intelligence, or real estate markets, technology can only scale when trust exists in the data, institutions, and frameworks that support it.

As the opening event of Philippine Blockchain Week 2026, Future of Trust underscored a common realization among both public and private sector leaders: the next phase of digital transformation will not be defined by technology alone, but by the ability to build trusted systems that are transparent, secure, and accountable—laying the foundation for sustainable innovation and economic growth.

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 is made possible through the strategic support of our sponsors and partners: Bigod Token, Binance by Blockshoals, Vaulnox, Smashpay, Predict Protocol, Creatachain, and many more.

The post Future of Trust forum highlights growing government support for trusted digital innovation appeared first on Planaria.

Check out the Season 04 Reloaded Summer of Action trailer here. 

Here’s what players can expect in Season 04 Reloaded: 

Multiplayer 

Multiplayer Maps: Breach a luxurious cliffside compound in the new Zenith, following a bloody handprint to the running water hidden below, then prepare for takeoff on the remastered Launch, returning from the original Call of Duty: Black Ops. 

Multiplayer Modes: Adapt on the fly in Team Blueprint Sharpshooter as Weapon Blueprints rotate throughout the match, earning bonuses for elimination streaks. For a close-quarters challenge, drop the ranged weapons and brawl it out in Knife Fight. 

Black Ops Classic: The popular throwback mode becomes a permanent addition to Black Ops 7, with four more iconic maps joining the rotation: Launch, Fringe, Hacienda, and Gridlock. 

Zombies 

New Round-Based Zombies Map – Kowakujō: To save the material world and free the last Shadowsmith, the crew makes a harrowing journey to a feudal Japanese castle in the Dark Aether, surrounded by volcanoes and drowning in fire. This is Kowakujō, the next Round-Based Zombies map arriving with Season 04 Reloaded. 

New Enemies and Wonder Weapon: Battle the supernatural Oni, wielding a kanabō war club and the power of electricity, while evading fire-drenched Hellhounds and Scorched Zombies eager to immolate the crew. Enlist the help of a mystical new Wonder Weapon, plus an additional legacy weapon in the Mystery Box. 

New Features: Add firepower to your squad with the Legendary Hellping Hound GobbleGum, summoning a friendly Hellhound against the horde. Take on the Main Quest for XP and rewards, push the challenge in Cursed to unlock new Pack-a-Punch Camos, and call on the castle’s long-dead riflemen with the Ghostly Rifleman Trap. 

Call of Duty: Warzone 

New Limited-Time Modes: Gun Game goes bigger than ever in Squad Gun Game, challenging squads of three to be the first to cycle through every weapon across Resurgence maps. Later in the season, Buy Back Quads returns as a Weekend LTM. 

The Champion’s Quest Returns: For elite squads only, the ultimate test of ability is back. Qualify, then take on a difficult multi-step mission culminating in an explosive ending that finishes the match and secures your standing among the best of the best. 

Rebirth Island Heats Up: With the arrival of summer, brighter weather returns to Rebirth Island. The winter elements melt away, while POIs like Turbine, introduced in Season 02, remain in a sunnier setting. 

Endgame 

Operation King Killer: The Guild’s defences are down as JSOC breaches the company firewall. Pinpoint the location of the Central Command Node and destroy it in Operation King Killer, delivering ten escalating challenges in Zone III and higher. Complete the Operation with either Samuels, Wei Lin, or Emma Kagan to earn a new Weapon Camo, and with all three to access a new Animated Weapon Camo. 

New Skill Track, New Skills and Minor Ability: Stand up to the most punishing encounters with the new Guardian Skill Track, transforming your Operator into a frontline anchor. Unlock a new Exotic Skill and Nightmare Skill, and brain-rot your foes with the hallucinogenic effects of the new Psych Grenade Minor Ability. 

Free to Play Continues: Play Endgame for free through the end of Season 05. Invite your friends to join the squad, level up, and earn rewards through the co-operative mode’s multiple Operations. 

Across all modes 

New Weapons, Attachments: Rush into battle, an axe in each hand, with the new Executioner’s Duet Melee Weapon, or pick off foes at range as the iconic AN-94 Assault Rifle returns with its signature quick-burst firing mechanism. Plus, enhance your arsenal with new Attachments including the XR-3 Ion Vulcan Minigun, DS20 Mirage Dual Fire Kit, and Velox 5.7 Carbine Chassis. 

New Events: Nick Cage leads the action this summer in a brand-new Event Pass, joined by the Summer of Action Daily Login Event, new Multiplayer and Resurgence Ranked Series Events, and the Kowakujō Event, all bringing fresh rewards including Loadout items, Weapon Camos, Double XP Tokens, and more. 

New Store Offerings: Access new Ultra, Reactive, and Mastercraft Skins across new Bundles arriving in the Store throughout the Mid-Season, including the Tracer Pack: Ironclad Mastercraft Bundle featuring the “Chronovox” Mastercraft Weapon Blueprint for the new AN-94 Assault Rifle. 

Free Trial: For a limited time, play Black Ops 7 Multiplayer and Zombies for free, including the new Zenith and Launch maps and the Kowakujō Round-Based Zombies map. Stay tuned for more details, coming soon. 

Additionally, congratulations to British Army Esports, who took home the Call of Duty Endowment (C.O.D.E.) Bowl VII trophy at San Diego Race Weekend. Gibbo took home the Monster Energy MVP ring, and TeeP also dominated the lobby, bringing home USAA’s Solo Yolo for the second time. For more details, head to the C.O.D.E. Bowl blog. 

Full Season 04 Reloaded intel is available on the Call of Duty Blog. 

VIa: technologynewsph

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