by | May 21, 2025 | Business
Global mining services provider Thiess has expanded its service portfolio with the launch of Thiess Asset Services – leveraging over 90 years of proven expertise in managing, operating and maintaining one of the world’s largest and most diverse mining fleets.
With Thiess’ footprint spanning seven countries and over 50 projects, Thiess Asset Services will bring the operational know-how with a flexible, location-first mindset to deliver proven results. For clients, this means solutions that help to optimise equipment availability and efficiency, reduce downtime and increase productivity.
Thiess Group Executive Chair & CEO Michael Wright said: “We know firsthand the asset challenges our clients are facing, with pressure on reducing capital investment, increasing equipment lifecycles, a reduction in industry capability, and ongoing challenges in getting the right technical expertise. When overlayed with a broader expectation of reducing emissions and decarbonisation, the asset strategy and execution is absolutely critical to any mining company.”
“Within our own business, we’ve done the hard yards laying the foundation for safer, smarter and more sustainable asset services – while driving down the total cost of ownership. And we’re excited that we can now offer this expertise to our clients as a standalone service.”
Thiess Asset Services will provide whole-of-life asset solutions, including preventative maintenance, machine and component rebuilds, composite carbon fibre repairs and reinforcement, fleet management, equipment hire and energy transition services.
Thiess Group Executive Assets & Autonomy Ryan Kirkwood said: “We’re bringing a unique offering to market, backed by decades of expertise and strategic partnerships, that enables us to deliver innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and lower costs, drive decarbonisation, and therefore create value for our clients.
“This includes our partnership with Mechatronix, which uses a lightweight carbon-fibre reinforcement to strengthen rebuilds, helping to boost asset lifespan and reduce downtime, and our partnership with EACON to trial OEM-agnostic autonomous solutions, with a view to reducing capital expenditure barriers to autonomous haulage by providing a cost-efficient conversion of conventional fleet to full autonomy.”
Thiess’ Asset Services will provide tailored solutions to suit every client, budget and location, allowing asset owners to scale capabilities up or down as needed.
Thiess will leverage its global network of machine and component rebuild centres to provide comprehensive machine rebuild solutions and proven alternatives to extend machine life and reliability; and it is working to bring fleet decarbonisation options to the market, including retrofittable agnostic mining technology and hybrid and dual fuel solutions.
Thiess will officially launch Thiess Asset Services at GRX25, the Global Resources Innovation Expo, in Brisbane on 22 May 2025
by | May 21, 2025 | Business
While many still confuse Pinterest with a mood board for cupcakes and wedding dresses, Khriz Zaragoza, known in the digital space as The Pinterest Aficionado, knows better. He’s one of the first Filipino SEO professionals to treat Pinterest like what it truly is: a visual search engine, not just social media.
With a background in traditional SEO and a growing reputation in visual search strategy, Khriz is on a mission to help Filipino businesses, bloggers, and brands unlock long-term organic traffic from Pinterest, an often overlooked but powerful platform.
“Pinterest isn’t about going viral. It’s about getting discovered, again and again,” Khriz explains. “Think of Google Images.”
From SEO Roots to Pinterest Pro
Khriz kicked off his SEO journey in 2015, fine-tuning content strategies and navigating the ups and downs of Google updates. But it was in 2020, while working with travel blog The Travel Scribes, that he had his Pinterest “aha” moment.
“We were chasing traffic through Google, but I saw Pinterest quietly outperforming in certain posts,” he says. “That’s when I dove deep into Pinterest SEO, and never looked back.”
Since then, Khriz has carved a niche as the Philippines’ go-to expert for Pinterest SEO, from keyword research, content strategy, and visual SEO, especially for blogs, online businesses, and passion-driven websites.
Founder of Khrizclusive and Bruvato Marketing
Today, Khriz runs two digital ventures:
• <a href="https://www.khrizclusive.com/">Khrizclusive.com</a> – His personal brand where he shares Pinterest tutorials, productivity tips, and brutally honest insights from the SEO frontlines.
• <a href="https://www.bruvato.com/">Bruvato.com</a> – A full-service SEO agency helping global clients grow through organic search, content strategy, and technical audits.
From helping solopreneurs pin their way to passive traffic, to training teams on how to make content evergreen, Khriz combines big-picture thinking with real-world execution.
Why Pinterest SEO Matters (Especially in 2025)
With Google’s algorithm changes getting more chaotic and social media becoming increasingly pay-to-play, Pinterest offers creators and brands a unique sweet spot: search-based visibility that compounds over time.
“It’s not about trends. It’s about timeless content that solves a problem or sparks inspiration,” says Khriz. “Pinterest is where quiet experts win.”
And as one of the few specialists in the Philippines blending traditional SEO with Pinterest strategy, Khriz is leading the charge for a smarter, search-first approach to content marketing.
Work with the Pinterest Aficionado
Whether you’re a blogger tired of chasing TikTok trends, or a business owner looking for sustainable traffic, Khriz Zaragoza offers Pinterest SEO strategy that delivers real results, no fluff, no guesswork.
Portfolio: www.khrizclusive.com
SEO Agency: www.bruvato.com
by | May 21, 2025 | Business
Stay updated with the latest XRP news! Discover how Xrpturbo’s new Governance & Launchpad DApp aims to revolutionize the XRPL ecosystem amid ongoing legal challenges, ETF speculation, and Ripple IPO buzz.
Further driving excitement is the upcoming launch of Xrpturbo’s Governance & Launchpad DApp, which is preparing to go live on the XRPL Testnet.
The DApp will also offer exclusive early access to new projects launching on XRPL, bringing Ethereum-style launchpad utility to the ledger for the first time.
XRP Market Volatility Continues Amid Legal Setbacks
XRP itself remains under pressure from ongoing legal uncertainty. On May 16, U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres rejected a joint motion from Ripple and the SEC seeking to modify injunctions and reduce Ripple’s $125 million penalty.
This ruling dented investor sentiment, with XRP dropping as low as $2.2994 before stabilizing around $2.39.
The market has responded with caution. According to data from Coinglass, open interest in XRP derivatives has declined, and trading volumes are down over 29%, signaling a retreat by leveraged traders.
XRP is currently hovering near its volume-weighted average price (VWAP) of $2.34, with bearish indicators suggesting potential downside risk if the $2.31 support level is breached.
ETF Prospects: Still Alive Despite Setbacks
Despite legal challenges, optimism about a potential XRP spot ETF remains. Data from Polymarket shows approval odds for an ETF by December 2025 sit at 83%, only slightly down from earlier highs.
Market analysts emphasize that for an ETF to materialize, the SEC will need to resolve its legal posture regarding XRP.
A favorable court ruling or settlement could revive institutional interest and unlock significant upside potential. Until then, XRP is likely to remain volatile.
Ripple IPO Buzz Adds Fuel to Speculation
Contributing to market excitement is renewed speculation about a Ripple IPO. Though CEO Brad Garlinghouse has downplayed immediate plans, estimates from notice.co place Ripple’s pre-IPO valuation at $10.88 billion.
According to a speculative analysis using xAI’s Grok, if Ripple were to eventually match the market caps of tech giants like Google, Apple, or Microsoft, XRP’s price could theoretically soar to $440–$735.
However, these projections assume perfect correlation between Ripple’s corporate growth and XRP’s market value—an assumption many experts caution against.
Conclusion
Even as Ripple’s legal battles overshadow XRP’s short-term trajectory, Xrpturbo is injecting fresh momentum into the XRPL ecosystem.
The upcoming Governance & Launchpad DApp represents a major step toward community ownership and innovation acceleration on XRPL.
by | May 21, 2025 | Business
Makati City,
April 10, 2025 — P.A. Properties, through
its affiliate P.A. Residences, has
officially finalized the sale of a property to Onzal Development Corporation, marking a significant milestone in
the continued development of The North
Grove in Caloocan City. The deal was sealed during a ceremonial signing at the F&M Building in Makati
City.
The acquired lot is set to become the site of the very
first McDonald’s franchise within The North Grove community—bringing
world-renowned food service and greater convenience to residents and
neighboring communities.
This acquisition aligns with P.A. Properties’
strategic vision to enhance its residential developments by integrating
commercial establishments within its communities. By doing so, the company aims
to create vibrant, self-sustaining neighborhoods where everyday needs are
within easy reach.
“This initiative reflects our strong commitment to
providing not just homes, but thriving environments where families can live,
work, and enjoy,” said Florlita Tabuzo, SVP for Commercial Business Unit
The integration of McDonald’s into The North Grove
signals continued progress in building holistic and livable communities,
underscoring P.A. Properties’ mission of enriching the Filipino lifestyle.
####
by | May 20, 2025 | Business
Climate scientists are overall less trusted than other types of scientists, according to a new study led by the UNSW Institute for Climate Risk & Response (ICRR).
Dr Omid Ghasemi and colleagues compared responses from a survey of nearly 70,000 people across 68 countries on the trustworthiness of climate scientists with a broad range of other ideological and demographic factors.
“We don’t exist in a vacuum, and this research allows a new lens to view different factors that may influence how people view climate scientists – and the forces undermining public confidence in their work,” Dr Ghasemi says.
The results, rated on a 5-point scale from 1 (not at all), to 5 (very strongly), revealed an overall average trust rating of 3.5 for climate scientists worldwide compared to 3.62 for scientists in general.
However, six countries, and China in particular, bucked the trend entirely, indicating significantly higher trust in climate scientists.
Political polarisation putting ice caps at risk
The research showed people with right-leaning political views tended to trust climate scientists less overall, including in the US, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and much of Europe.
“It’s arguably not a surprise that you see significant increases in the trust gap between climate scientists and other scientists in these countries,” Dr Ghasemi says.
“They have had decades of coordinated efforts by conservative political actors and fossil fuel interests to politicise climate science and undermine its credibility.”
Interesting too, says Dr Ghasemi, are those countries which showed the opposite relationship, or no significant association between ideology and trust in climate scientists.
“In some Eastern European, Southeast Asian, and African countries, right-leaning individuals tended to trust scientists and climate scientists more,” Dr Ghasemi says.
“This might suggest that political leadership attitudes, rather than peoples’ political views, better explain these differences in trust.”
Demographic differences behind doubts
The survey data, collected as part of the collaborative Trust in Science and Science-Related Populism (TISP) project, covered a total 111 variables.
Dr Ghasemi’s analysis of the data collected reveals some non-political factors may also be linked to higher trust in climate scientists, such as living in cities, having stronger religious beliefs, valuing science or the scientific method, or being a younger rather than older adult.
Meanwhile, people who support social hierarchies and those who believe common sense is better than scientific expertise are less likely to trust climate scientists.
Interactive maps are available:
The difference in trust between climate scientists and scientists in general
Average trust in climate scientists versus scientists in general
The relationship between political orientation and trust in climate scientists
by | May 20, 2025 | Business
The 6th Village Pipol Choice Awards (VPCA) is set to shine a spotlight on the brightest stars and standout brands that have blossomed in excellence. This prestigious event will honor individuals and companies that have captured the hearts of the Pipol and made significant strides in their respective industries. The much-anticipated Red Carpet and Awarding Ceremony will take place on May 29, 2025, at Blueleaf Cosmopolitan, Quezon City.
With May 29th fast approaching, the 6th Village Pipol Choice Awards (VPCA) is set to shine a spotlight on the stars and brands that have truly blossomed with excellence. This prestigious event will celebrate those who have captured the hearts of the Pipol and risen to the top of their respective industries.
Building on the momentum of last year’s record-breaking engagement, the VPCA continues to set the standard as the most followed and engaged award-giving body. This year, fresh platforms have been introduced, providing fans—our Pipol—with more opportunities to voice their choices and engage with their favorite brands and personalities. Through their votes, the audience will nourish the seeds of talent, enabling them to bloom into the stars of tomorrow.
In keeping with the theme “Blossom: A Floral Affair,” this year’s ceremony promises to be an unforgettable night where the red carpet transforms into a garden of glitz and glamour. Well-loved personalities, content creators, artists, and award-winning brands will step into the spotlight, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration. The event will honor outstanding achievements with 102 awards across a wide range of industries.
Continuing the tradition of fairness and credibility established in previous VP Choice Awards, this year’s winners are chosen through a dual scoring system. The final results are based on the combined power of Pipol’s online votes—giving the general public a chance to support their favorites—and the critical input of industry experts who bring their professional insight into the decision-making process.
Where Stars Blossom: A Preview of the 6th VPCA
The grand event will unfold in full bloom at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Bridgetown, Quezon City, where the stage will come alive with stunning performances. Leading the celebration will be this year’s resident host, Joy Barcoma, together with Wize Estabillo.
Guests can look forward to an evening of surprise performances that promise to keep everyone entertained. This year’s performances will reflect the blossoming talent that each artist brings to the table, filling the venue with energy and life.
The VPCA will also honor this year’s Hall of Fame awardees—those whose contributions have consistently flourished over the years. These distinguished individuals have excelled in their categories for three consecutive years, earning a well-deserved place in the Hall of Fame. Among the honorees this year are Belle Marianio, Donny Pangilinan, and Pablo of SB19.
Rooted in Support: The Names Behind the Celebration
The 6th VPCA owes its success to its generous partners, including Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group as co-presenter, alongside major sponsors, Variahealth, Fleek Beauty, and Hyaloo. Contributing to the event’s success are valued partners such as LA Chicks, Tooth Studio by John Crespo, Novel Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgicenter, Joey Peria Event and Floristry, Philgifts, Getmarqed Photography, Horizon Digital Management, and J Layson, as well as the official voting app partner, Choicely—all of whom help bring this floral affair to life.
To amplify the reach of this highly anticipated event, we are also thankful for the support of our media partners: ABS-CBN News, Philstar Global, The Manila Times, Pilipino Mirror, BusinessWeek National, Mindanao Daily News, Blogapalooza, TNC, Klik.PH, CETV, Plus 63, TAP Mag, Vritimes, Light TV, and A2Z. Their dedication to sharing the excitement with our community means the world.
In the spirit of giving back, VPCA continues its tradition of advocacy. This year, Love Yourself Inc. has been named as the official beneficiary, with a portion of proceeds from Facebook Reel Stars during the voting season supporting HIV awareness, mental health, and self-care initiatives.
To ensure this grand celebration reaches fans nationwide, the event will be live-streamed via the official VP Choice Awards App, beginning at 6:00 PM on May 29. For more details, visit www.vpchoiceawards.com.
As the petals of talent unfold, the 6th VPCA reminds us that growth is a journey—rooted in passion, nurtured by support, and celebrated in full bloom. Join us as we witness excellence take center stage and honor the individuals and brands that continue to inspire, influence, and thrive.
Words by: Regene Narciso
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