by Ferry Bayu | Dec 8, 2023 | Business
Manila, Philippines – The 2nd edition of The Business of Football Conference, organized by MMC Sportz and sanctioned by the Philippine Football Federation, concluded successfully on 10 November 2023 at Raffles Makati. The one-day conference brought together key stakeholders from the Southeast Asian football community, fostering dialogue on critical topics shaping the future of the sport. The event aimed to address Asian Football Sponsorship and Investment Trends, the Future of Philippines Football and AFC Participation, and the Impact of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Southeast Asian Football, among other vital discussions.
The conference featured a lineup of 20+ regional and international speakers, including experts from governing bodies and rights holders, who shared insights and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in the football industry. The agenda covered a wide range of topics, including the use of blockchain for fan engagement, the role of social media, AI, big data in professional sports, and lessons learned from FIBA World Cup hosting experiences in the Philippines.
Asia Trends in Sponsorship and Investment in Football
According to Asia Sponsorship News, football is unequivocally the most valuable platform in Asia, constituting nearly 31% of all sports sponsorship sales in 2022. The platform’s value was almost 2.5 times that of its closest competitor, the ‘Olympics,’ with a remarkable +21% increase over the four-year football average. Football, topping the charts at $1.6 billion, dwarfed the Olympics at only one-third of that, with $639 million, and Cricket trailing at $529 million. This data underscores the unparalleled dominance of football over other sports sponsorship platforms in the region.
The Role of Sport in Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships
In a poignant exploration of the transformative power of sports as a catalyst for unity and reconciliation, the panel on ‘The Role of Sport in Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships’ brought together distinguished figures to share their perspectives.
“Sports (football), in my view, is something that should unite people; that should unite countries. It should serve as a tool for reconciliation. Global sports should bring people together regardless of the color of their skin, regardless of age, even regardless of sex, so everybody can play football.” – HE Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke, German Ambassador to the Philippines
“Sport is a fantastic platform for building connections between not only governments, countries, societies, and communities.” – HE Peter Kell, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines
Their insights capture the essence of this enlightening discussion, reflecting the shared vision of using sports (football) as a dynamic force for building bridges between nations and communities.
Addressing the Urgency for Adequate Sports Facilities Funding
During an insightful interview, Mr. Richard Bachmann, the esteemed Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, articulated a pressing concern regarding the funding of sports facilities. He emphasized that the deficiency in funding is not exclusive to football but extends across all sports. He also acknowledged that the country is currently lagging in providing the necessary financial support for sports infrastructure. His commitment to rectifying this shortfall was evident as he outlined his proactive approach by expressing his intent to collaborate with National Sports Associations (NSAs) to expedite the process of securing funding. Looking forward, he disclosed his ambitious plans for the upcoming year, having requested a substantial budget allocation. This allocation, Mr. Bachmann asserted, aims to address the critical need for facility improvements across various sports, underlining the commission’s dedication to fostering the development of sports at all levels at every local government unit.
Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain & Web3
During a riveting presentation titled ‘Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain & Web3,’ Mr. Samir Ceric, Chief Operating Officer of Blocksport, unveiled an innovative and holistic solution to bridge the gap from Web2 to Web3 in the world of sports. Providing a glimpse into the transformative potential of this cutting-edge technology, he emphasized the importance of a solid foundation and community-building exercise. As he delved into the intricacies of their approach, he shed light on how Web3 technology enables the connection, deepening of fan engagement, and the creation of revenues for sporting properties globally.
Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club & League Football
In a thought-provoking panel discussion titled ‘Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club & League Football,’ industry leaders provided profound insights into the challenges faced on both the buy and sell sides with brands and clubs. One of the key contributors, Mr. Paul Poole, Founder & Managing Director of Paul Poole (South-East Asia) Co., Ltd., renowned as The Sponsorship Experts, explored the intricate dynamics surrounding the commercial rights of football clubs and the struggles faced by local clubs in presenting and packaging these rights to sponsors. Mr. Poole, drawing from his wealth of experience, illuminated the complexities from both the brand’s perspective, dealing with clutter and multiple agents, and the club/rights holder’s viewpoint, navigating the challenges of articulating the value of their rights. The panel provided valuable insights into the hurdles encountered in sustaining professional football clubs and leagues.
Awards and Recognitions:
The conference also honored individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the football community. Notable awardees include:
- Token of Appreciation: His Excellency Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke for his support and contribution to The Business of Football 2023 Conference.
- Token of Appreciation: LALIGA for its continuous support and contribution to the success of The Business of Football 2024 Conference.
- Token of Appreciation: Mr. Jefferson G Cheng, Team Manager of the Philippines Women’s National Football Team, for his dedication and contributions to the development of Women’s Football in the Philippines & Asia.
- Token of Congratulations: Philippine Football Federation for its inaugural participation in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023.
- Token of Congratulations: New Zealand Football & Football Australia for the successful hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
- Token of Congratulations: Malaysia Football League for the successful implementation of its digital transformation process.
“The Business of Football” conference brought together key stakeholders of the Southeast Asian football community. The Philippines was represented through officials of government entities such as the German, New Zealand, Spanish, and British embassies, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, Games and Amusements Board, and The Philippine Football Federation.
MMC Sportz extends its appreciation to the sponsors – LALIGA, BLOCKSPORT, Capital Block, ASN, and Raffles Makati – for their invaluable support in making the conference a resounding success. The event’s official hashtag, #BOFPH2023, continues to be a platform for sharing insights and engaging discussions on social media.
Stay tuned for updates on future events and initiatives from MMC Sportz.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 5, 2023 | Business
Singapore, 05/Dec/2023 – VRITIMES Singapore, a pioneering media technology startup established in Tokyo, has officially become accessible on Google News. Users can now search for and follow VRITIMES Singapore’s dedicated page on the Google News App and news.google.com.
VRITIMES Singapore, launched in August 2022, proudly announces its availability on Google News, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance the flow of valuable information worldwide. This development is a part of VRITIMES’s commitment to expanding its reach and providing high-quality information to a broader audience.
“We are thrilled to be featured on Google News, as it represents a major step forward in our mission to facilitate a more valuable flow of information globally,” said Ferry Bayu, Co-Founder / CEO of VRITIMES. “This platform will enable us to reach a wider audience and provide them with easy access to our timely and reliable news content.”
VRITIMES operates both as a media platform and a distributor for its media partners. Users can create and distribute press releases through VRITIMES, and then leverage the platform’s analytics feature to evaluate their impact.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 1, 2023 | Business
Jakarta, December 1, 2023 – RevComm, a Japanese technology company, will showcase its innovation, MiiTel, at CES® 2024, one of the world’s largest and most prominent technology exhibition events that will be held on January 9-12, 2024 in Las Vegas, USA.
CES® has been a prominent global technology exhibition organized by The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® since 1967, featuring the latest technological innovations across various categories. CES® is predicted to be the center of attention with more than 130,000 visitors expected to attend. In January 2023, this event successfully attracted 117,000 visitors, marking the success of the event following the easing of international travel following the COVID-19 pandemic. This success reflects the growing enthusiasm and interest in advanced technological developments.
CES® 2024 will be an event that offers visitors the opportunity to experience various latest technologies, especially in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, startups, digital health, and the transportation and mobility categories.
RevComm will be participating at CES® 2024, in the Eureka Park area, after a rigorous selection process by JETRO (The Japan External Trade Organization) and CTA® as the organizer. Eureka Park is a special area that serves as a stage for more than 1000 companies that attract visitors every year. Since 2019, JETRO has established a Japanese pavilion (J-Startup) in the Eureka Park area to provide support for the expansion and promotion of Japanese startups in the international market.
At CES® 2024, RevComm will showcase its innovative AI-based technologies, namely MiiTel, MiiTel Meetings, and MiiTel RecPod. MiiTel, an artificial intelligence (AI)-based smart telephony system, has the ability to analyze the content of conversations in sales calls and contact center operations. MiiTel was created to solve the Black Box problem, where companies do not know “What” and “How” agents and customers communicate. MiiTel is also capable of optimizing voice transcription, thus helping companies work more effectively and focus on other strategic tasks that only humans can do. These innovations are also available for communication with more people through online meetings with ‘MiiTel Meetings’, as well as ‘RecPod’ that is able to visualize conversations in face-to-face business meetings, which has been launched in Japan.
The voice data collected by MiiTel from customers can serve various purposes, such as internal training, service development, and functionality improvement, contributing to the business growth of companies.
Through MiiTel’s innovations, RevComm has won numerous awards, including being the only Asian company on the Forbes AI 50 2023 list. Through CES® 2024, RevComm seeks to introduce MiiTel as an effective business communication solution to more companies in the world. MiiTel is now available in Japan, the United States and Indonesia. Try a free demo of MiiTel at miitel.id
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 1, 2023 | Business
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by giving the gift of sheer indulgence and tranquility? OGAWA Massage Chairs beckon you into a realm where luxury seamlessly melds with cutting-edge technology, introducing two mesmerizing additions to their lineup: the Master Drive AI Genuine Leather and the Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha.
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by giving the gift of sheer indulgence and tranquility? OGAWA Massage Chairs beckon you into a realm where luxury seamlessly melds with cutting-edge technology, introducing two mesmerizing additions to their lineup: the Master Drive AI Genuine Leather and the Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha.
Step into the world of unparalleled opulence with the Master Drive AI Genuine Leather, a massage chair that transcends the ordinary. Crafted with genuine leather that caresses your senses, this chair isn’t just furniture; it’s a work of art, a sanctuary that invites you to escape the chaos of the outside world.
At an initial SRP of Php 599,000, OGAWA’s Master Drive AI Genuine Leather is now gracing homes at a special holiday offer of Php 439,000. What’s more, you can make it yours with a 36-month installment plan of just Php 12,194.44 per month, making luxury more attainable than ever.
Picture this: the AI-driven massage system adapts to the unique contours of your body, orchestrating a symphony of relaxation tailored just for you. Multiple massage techniques, adjustable intensity levels, and a heated seat function elevate your experience, making every session a bespoke retreat for your tired muscles and stressed mind.
Film Director Sid Maderazo, an advocate for balancing work and family, shares his experience: “Master Drive AI 2.0 is tailored for you, this smart massage chair is a dad’s best ally after a long day of work. Recharge, unwind, and enjoy those precious family moments with renewed energy.”
Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha: Where Innovation Meets Warmth.
For those seeking innovation with a touch of warmth, the Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha is the embodiment of sophistication. Priced at Php 499,000, OGAWA is unwrapping a special holiday price of Php 339,000. Plus, indulge in the comfort of a 36-month installment plan at a mesmerizing Php 9,416.66 per month.
The Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha is not just a massage chair; it’s a technological marvel designed to cater to your every need. A kaleidoscope of massage programs and customizable settings empower you to tailor your relaxation journey. The inviting Mocha color adds a touch of warmth to any room, creating an ambiance that perfectly complements its advanced features.
What sets the Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha apart is its intuitive body scanning technology, a virtual masseuse that maps your body’s contours to deliver a massage experience as unique as you are. Whether you’re seeking relief from muscle tension or simply unwinding after a hectic day, this chair provides a holistic and rejuvenating experience.
GMA Kapuso star Julie San Jose, an enthusiast of relaxation, shares, “I love massages after a busy workday, and the OGAWA massage chair gives me just that. It makes my body more relaxed and helps release muscle tension.”
Why Choose OGAWA This Holiday Season?
In a world where stress is omnipresent, OGAWA stands as a beacon of tranquility, offering a gift beyond measure – the gift of well-being. Their unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction positions them as the undisputed leaders in the world of massage chairs.
Navigate the holiday shopping frenzy with purpose and choose OGAWA for an unparalleled massage chair experience. This holiday season, invest in your health and happiness with the Master Drive AI Genuine Leather and Master Drive Plus 2.0 Mocha. Elevate your daily routine, indulge in luxury, and make every day a holiday for your body and mind. After all, the gift of relaxation is truly priceless. Dive into the lap of luxury and innovation this season with OGAWA.
Marianne Rodillo, Marketing Head of OGAWA in the Philippines, emphasizes, “We, at OGAWA Philippines, would want our customers to feel the joy of having a relaxed life. And with an OGAWA massage chair, we are sure to give you just what you need topped with high-quality performance and service. Especially this Holiday season when everyone is busy, we’re sure OGAWA massage chairs are the best present you’d give yourself or your loved ones.”
Operating at full capacity and with over 30 stores nationwide, that include a branch in One Ayala Makati, OKADA Manila, Gateway Mall 2, Shangri-La Plaza, SM Megamall, Greenbelt 1 & 5, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Robinsons Manila, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Eastwood Mall, Glorietta 3, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Fairview, SM North EDSA The Block, TriNoma, UP Town Center, Promenade 3, Alabang Town Center, Evia Lifestyle Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, SM BF Paranaque, and Newport Mall. For stores outside Metro Manila, OGAWA is located in SM City Bacoor, Ayala Solenad 3, and SM Sta. Rosa in Laguna, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, SM Clark in Pampanga, and SM City Olongapo Central.
Achieve wellness at home with your own personal masseuse, worry-free. For more details, visit OGAWA’s official website and order online or you may also send inquiries to their Facebook page and Instagram page.
by Ferry Bayu | Nov 29, 2023 | Business
Survey reveals 60 percent believe artificial intelligence (AI) will revolutionise education
Singapore – November 29, 2023: Anthology,
a leading provider of education solutions that support the entire learner
lifecycle, announced the results of its 2023 research
study and resulting report AI in Higher Ed: Hype, Harm, or Help, Singapore
Edition, at Anthology’s Innovate & Educate Asia
in Singapore on 7 November. The event was a one-day conference where education
professionals around the region discovered modern solutions to support every
stage of the student learning journey.
The survey results reveal the
perceptions and realities of generative AI use among university leaders and
students in Singapore, and how they differ from their peers in other parts of
the world.
The findings are a subset of a study
of more than 5,000 current students and university leaders from eleven countries,
including Singapore, Philippines, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, United
States, Brazil, and the United Kingdom.
The report offers intriguing insights as to
the value, challenges and opportunities students and university leaders feel
generative AI tools like ChatGPT bring to higher education.
Among the findings shared at Innovate &
Educate Asia was the progressive attitude towards AI by university leaders at
Singapore institutions. The survey reveals they are much more positive about
the role of AI in higher education than their peers in other countries. They
are also least likely to believe that AI will create new challenges related to
plagiarism, with only 15% citing this as a concern.
“As a pioneer in applying advanced
technology in education, including AI, the enthusiastic endorsement from
students and university leadership in Singapore is highly encouraging,” said
Bruce Dahlgren, chief executive officer at Anthology. “It demonstrates a region
where universities are ready to adopt AI to enrich student experiences and
deliver better outcomes.”
Anthology recently announced a host of new
features facilitated by artificial intelligence, including AI Design Assistant,
a tool that helps instructors quickly create engaging learning experiences in Anthology’s
Learning Management System, Blackboard Learn Ultra. All product features that
leverage AI are developed following Anthology’s
Trustworthy AI program and commitment to responsible, lawful and ethical
use of AI.
Anthology showcased these new AI features
and other advancements in their portfolio of EdTech solutions at Anthology’s Innovate
& Educate Asia in Singapore, 7 November. The event was a must for
teaching and learning staff members, system administrators, academics, learning
designers, and education professionals.
In addition to focus groups and panel
discussions with industry experts from around the world, Natalie Hong, Senior
Project Officer at UNESCO Bangkok, discussed the transformation of the role of
teachers, moving from curriculum executors to reflexive practitioners and
knowledge producers.
The keynote session featured Anthea Indira
Ong, a changemaker, social entrepreneur, and impact investor. She shared her
insights on mental health and wellbeing, addressing the importance of going
beyond learning.
About Anthology
Anthology offers the largest EdTech
ecosystem on a global scale for education, supporting more than 150 million
users in 80 countries. With a mission to provide dynamic, data-informed
experiences to the global education community through Anthology Intelligent
Experiences™, we help learners, leaders and educators achieve their goals by
offering over 60 SaaS products and services designed to advance learning.
Discover more about how we are fulfilling our mission for education, business
and government institutions at www.anthology.com.
Jakarta, December 1, 2023 – RevComm, a Japanese technology company, will showcase its innovation, MiiTel, at 
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