by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 7, 2024 | Book Reviews
A few weeks ago, I was searching Goodnovel for a new story to read. It’s always Alpha this, Alpha that. Then, I encountered a couple of stories that piqued my interest.
The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story
The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story
The Luna Choosing Game by Jane Above Story is a story about Piper, a woman who was working as a waitress to raise her twin sister’s daughter. Unbeknownst to her, her friend entered her into a contest by the royal family for all unmated women of eligible age. Whoever wins will become the Luna for one of the three Princes, meaning there will be three winners … one for each Prince. She discovers that one of the Princes is her ex, Nicholas. At the time they were dating, she had no idea of his identity.
She gets chosen as a candidate, and as the story progresses, the candidates go through different challenges where one or more will be eliminated. She brings her niece, who everyone thinks is her daughter, with her. Things are more difficult for her as she has the added challenge of being wolfless and not being high-born. However, she does not really let that stop her. She knows she will get eliminated early, but while she competes, her niece gets the medical care she needs.
Most of the other candidates hate her, some of the servants hate her, some of the guards hate her, and the King and Queen hate her. It seems like only Princes Nicholas and Julian like her. What will her fate be in The Luna Choosing Game?
How she lost her wolf when Nicholas was sure she had one before is part of the mystery of this story. Why are more and more people losing their wolves? Where is Piper’s sister? Why did she leave her daughter with Piper?
Luna Battle: The Game by Billiejo Priestley
Luna Battle: The Game by Billiejo Priestley
Luna Battle: The Game by Billiejo Priestley is about Elara, a slave to Alpha Draven’s pack who secretly entered The Luna Battle in hopes of escaping the torture of her everyday life. She lost her wolf at four years old, has lived her life as a servant, and when she was old enough, she became a sex slave and was made to service Alpha Draven, his betas, and his guests. She was bitten and claimed by Alpha Draven when she was twelve years old and had no mate.
The Luna Battle is a competition to select the Luna Queen for King Darius and the Luna Princess for Prince Kellan. Each candidate will be asked to perform various challenges. At the end of each challenge, one or more of the candidates will be eliminated and sent home.
Magic selected her as a candidate, and when she arrived at the Palace, most of the other contestants hated her and called her “mutt,” but that didn’t stop Elara from being the bigger person and reminding them of how a Luna is supposed to behave. After all, she didn’t really expect to stay in the competition for long. But what happens when Prince Kellan starts to show her favor, and the King seems to do so, too?
The Luna stories go head-to-head.
I started reading The Luna Choosing Game first and then paused at Chapter 102 because I, quite honestly, got bored with the minutiae. More than a hundred chapters in, and it feels like only a little has happened. Some scenes could have been removed, and chapters could have been compressed. You know those telenovelas that seem to go on forever? That’s what it felt like when I was reading this book. It was interesting, but it was taking forever to get to the point.
In addition, as of this posting, The Luna Choosing Game has 460 chapters and counting! For crying out loud! Know when to stop! If you must, then serialize it, book one and book two, etc.
At the point I was getting fed up with it, I encountered Luna Battle: The Game, and the first thing I noticed was the parallels:
- wolfless
- no family
- forced into a life of servitude
Even the challenges were similar, but then, you know what they say, there really is little that is original as we all build off what other people have done in the past. There’s a big difference, though. Luna Battle is fast-paced and engaging and, more importantly … ONLY 151 CHAPTERS!
YES! The author was able to tell THE WHOLE STORY (COMPLETE!) in just 151 chapters. Value for money? Check!
Will I go back to finish The Luna Choosing Game? I am unsure. At this point, as I see the chapter count climbing higher and higher, it doesn’t seem very certain. Maybe I will wait until the book makes its way to Amazon, hopefully, KU, and then read it there. I’ve already spent way too much on it, as it is.
Head to head … Luna Battle Wins!
by Ferry Bayu | May 7, 2024 | Business
Manila, May 6, 2024 – VRITIMES, a media technology innovator based in Tokyo, has partnered with Fintech News PH, a leading Filipino news and information hub, to improve the distribution of press releases in the Philippines. This collaboration aims to provide wider coverage and greater visibility for businesses and organizations across the country.
VRITIMES, founded in Tokyo in 2022, specializes in press releases. It serves as both a media platform and a distributor to its media partners, offering a comprehensive solution for creating, distributing, and analyzing press releases. By simplifying press release distribution and making it more affordable, VRITIMES ensures that news reaches both the media and consumers effectively.
Fintech News PH is the #1 source of Philippine fintech news, aiming to make fintech less intimidating for Filipinos by providing timely, understandable, and precise news articles, stories, and blogs. The platform was created to bridge the information gap and uplift more Filipinos out of poverty by providing life-changing information. With a strong online presence and dedicated readership, Fintech News PH plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information across various sectors.
Ferry Bayu, VRITIMES Co-Founder and CEO
Mr. Ferry Bayu, co-founder and CEO of VRITIMES, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We believe that by teaming up with Fintech News PH, we can offer unparalleled value to our clients. Together, we will redefine how press releases are distributed and consumed in the Philippines.”
Through this collaboration, VRITIMES will utilize Fintech News PH’s extensive network to expand the reach of press releases, targeting decision-makers, industry professionals, and the general public. By tapping into this audience, VRITIMES aims to enhance the visibility of its clients’ news and announcements. Both companies share a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and relevant information, aligning with the goal of promoting transparency and informed decision-making.
For more information, visit VRITIMES and Fintech News PH.
by Ferry Bayu | May 6, 2024 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 6 May 2024 – VRITIMES, a groundbreaking media technology startup based in Tokyo, proudly announces a strategic partnership with WorldsDoor.com, a leading online platform renowned for its expansive coverage of global news and events. This collaboration is set to revolutionize content distribution and expand our reach to a wider audience through synergistic media efforts.
WorldsDoor.com has solidified its position as a reputable source for comprehensive and insightful global news, making it the perfect partner for VRITIMES. Together, our companies will harness our technological and editorial strengths to revolutionize news delivery and bring greater value to our respective audiences.
“This partnership with WorldsDoor.com marks a significant leap forward in our mission to redefine how news is delivered and consumed,” stated Ferry, CEO of VRITIMES. “Through this collaboration, we are well-positioned to engage more viewers and offer a more diverse range of content that meets the ever-growing demand for reliable and dynamic news media.”
This partnership is committed to delivering comprehensive and multi-dimensional perspectives to a global audience.
by Ferry Bayu | May 2, 2024 | Business
Electronic Transfer & Advance Processing, Inc. (eTap), the leading self-service payment kiosk provider in the country, achieved remarkable growth last year, surpassing industry expectations and setting new benchmarks in key areas. eTap, a Filipino-owned company, proudly relies on Filipino-developed technology created entirely by its in-house team.
Percy Hernandez, eTap CEO
eTap CEO Percy Hernandez stated that the company experienced a 101% increase in revenue, showcasing its robust market presence and effective business strategies. This demonstrates eTap’s commitment to operational excellence and financial strength, reflecting its resilience and adaptability in a dynamic business environment.
Hernandez expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory: “Our commitment to innovation is unwavering, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead this year. As we continue developing cutting-edge technologies, we anticipate further growth in revenue, market share, and overall impact. The innovations are poised to revolutionize how businesses and consumers engage with electronic payment solutions.”
eTap COO Marlon Portugal added, “Innovation is at the core of eTap’s success. Our dedicated research and development team remains focused on creating innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed our client’s expectations and set new standards in the fintech industry.”
Portugal said eTap has partnered with key players in various sectors such as Globe Telecom, GCash, Maya, BTI Payments, ECPay, Cebuana Lhuillier, Easytrip, Autosweep, PrimeWater, Paynamics, Beep, and TripKo to deliver integrated and comprehensive electronic payment solutions. These strategic partnerships are instrumental in expanding eTap’s ecosystem and providing a seamless experience for users across diverse industries.
In addition to its expansive online presence, eTap has strategically positioned its user-friendly kiosks in high-traffic locations, including malls nationwide. Users can conveniently access eTap’s electronic payment services at various kiosks located in prominent malls such as Lots for Less, City Mall, Novo, Primark, Home Along, iMart, Budgetwise, and JS Gaisano, among others.
eTap offers a comprehensive platform for various financial transactions, including eMoney services (GCash, Maya, Shopee Pay, and Diskartech), banking (BPI and AUB), loans (Home Credit, Aeon Credit Service, and Dragonloans), mobile and internet (Globe, Smart, Sun Cellular, PLDT, Dito Telecoms, and Converge), gaming (Genshin Impact and Mobile Legends), and rider services (Grab).
For more information about eTap, visit etapmo.com.
by Ferry Bayu | May 2, 2024 | Business
EmergeLocal Inc. (Emerge) empowered businesses and individuals to leverage content and influencer marketing strategies at its second “Unwrap Your Potential” masterclass event, held with JG Worldwide on April 19, 2024. The event, titled “From Blah to Bam! Content and Influencer Marketing Workshop,” provided attendees with hands-on experience in crafting impactful content and influencer marketing campaigns.
Sharing Insights and Expertise
The workshop featured presentations from JG Worldwide co-founders Vinze Montero and Gian Eduard. Mr. Montero’s “Brand Pop: Cultural Impact on Content Creation” session explored leveraging cultural trends for content strategy. Mr. Eduard followed with “Adsthetic: The Art of Creating Content,” focusing on the visual aspects of impactful content.
From left to right, Mr. Vinze Montero of JG Worldwide, Mr. Gian Eduard of JG Worldwide, and Director Jim Merino of EmergeLocal
Emerge’s Director of Marketing and Client Services, Jim Merino, concluded the workshop with “The Ten Commandments of Content and Influencer Marketing,” outlining a framework for successful content marketing campaigns.
“Part of the omnichannel marketing approach is getting to your customers’ heads wherever they are on the internet,” said Director Merino. “Leveraging and elevating content with different aspects like the aesthetic, the core message, and use of influential personalities can all contribute to achieving your business goals,” he added.
Putting Knowledge into Action
Participants actively engaged in the workshop, creating content based on the experts’ insights. Each group presented their work, and participants received valuable feedback and advice for improvement.
Attendees of From Blah to Bam! Content and Influencer Marketing Workshop
Director Jim Merino added, “We hope the participants will go home, sleep on it, go to work, and finally think, “Oh, so this is why I joined that masterclass.” Because it was something they needed.”
Expanding the Reach of Unwrap Your Potential
This workshop marks the second event in Emerge’s ongoing “Unwrap Your Potential” campaign, designed to empower businesses and individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital landscape.
“Building on the impactful results of the initial Unwrap Your Potential Masterclass series, Emerge is expanding the program to reach businesses across the country,” said Emerge Co-Founder Carissa Noromor. “This national expansion reflects our dedication to empowering a wider audience and fostering digital growth.”
For more information about Emerge and its award-winning digital marketing solutions, you may reach their Revenue Operations team at sa***@*********al.com. Discover how Emerge can elevate your business’s digital presence.
by Ferry Bayu | May 2, 2024 | Business
Pebble.by, a revolutionary video commerce platform, empowers businesses to drive more sales from their e-commerce websites with interactive, shoppable experiences made easy. Pebble platform allows users to customize and deliver video assets to their website easily without coding.
Pebble.by, a revolutionary video
commerce platform, empowers businesses to drive more sales from their
e-commerce websites with interactive, shoppable experiences made easy.
Pebble allows businesses to leverage
the power of short video, the most engaging content format, to revolutionise
the shopping experience, boost engagement and drive greater revenue on their
online storefronts.
Utilized by dozens of leading
homegrown e-commerce brands including Hegen and Tocco Toscano, Pebble videos
have helped increase time on page by up to 8x, leading to increased engagement
and conversion uplifts by up to 40%.
Convenient and easy to use, users can
easily add short videos to any product page in popular formats (stories,
carousels, widgets) with near zero impact on site speed and see immediate
results via the platform’s built-in video analytics to track what converts
best.
Pebble
videos are also optimized for fast delivery to any device, with interactive and
shoppable features available for seamless in-video shopping and convenience.
The platform is betting big that short
videos will soon outpace content consumption of traditional images and text on
e-commerce storefronts as more brands are producing short videos to keep
customers engaged, entertained, and primed to buy.
“Whether its user generated content
(UGC), product demos, best performing ads, or popular social media clips, we
believe every e-commerce website should have short videos on their product
pages to help customers see more of what they want to purchase and drive
conversions.” says Toh Xue Zun, CEO and Co-Founder of Pebble. “Our
user-friendly platform enables businesses of all sizes to easily create short,
shoppable video experiences in minutes in various popular formats, fully
customizable, without any technical expertise required. Everything you need to
turn your site into a binge-worthy experience.”
Pebble.by offers a suite of features
designed to make video commerce accessible and effective:
Utilize Existing Video Content: Easily repurpose existing videos
from TikTok and Instagram to create interactive video content you can use
anywhere with no impact on site speed.Seamless Shopping Integration: Turn any video into a shoppable
masterpiece by adding clickable product tags or links, creating a seamless
in-video shopping experience.Frictionless User Experience: Allow customers to discover and
purchase products directly within the video, see your latest UGC, or view
latest trending videos all within your product pages with fast delivery
and easy customization.Boost Engagement and Sales: Captivate your audience with
dynamic video content, leading to increased engagement and higher sales
conversions.
The platform also has direct
integrations with popular e-commerce store solutions like Shopify, WiX, and WordPress.
Learn more at https://www.pebble.by
Contact:
he***@****le.by
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 26, 2024 | Business
KUALA LUMPUR, 26 April 2024 – Last chance to enjoy EMTOP’s Mega deals until 30 April 2024. EMTOP, the international hardware brand, is offering two mega deals: a ‘Mega Sale’ with 50% off on hardware tools and equipment and a ‘Mega Combo’ offering four hardware tools for RM599 [Normal Price: RM1,450].
EMTOP’s ‘Mega Sale’ includes 50% off on over 100 hardware tools. Customers can find power tools such as lithium-ion impact wrenches now priced at RM415 (Normal Price: RM830), impact drills at RM105 (Normal Price: RM210), lithium-ion blowers at RM230 (Normal Price: RM460), and heat guns at RM85 (Normal Price: RM170). Additionally, customers can enjoy four hardware tools: lithium-ion angle grinders, cordless drills, work lamps, and abrasive metal cut disc sets, all for RM599 (Normal Price: RM1,450). Discover the full list of discounted items at https://www.emtop.com/my/more-info.
In April 2023, MR D.I.Y. Group introduced Malaysia’s first EMTOP store in the Klang Valley. A globally recognized brand in 80 countries, EMTOP offers over 1,000 quality hardware products, including power tools and accessories. A standout feature is its standard battery, which is used across 100+ tools, providing convenience and efficiency for users.
To learn more about EMTOP, visit its website, emtop.com/my, and its social media channels, Facebook and Instagram. For more information about MR D.I.Y., visit MR D.I.Y.’s website, mrdiy.com, e-commerce platform, mrdiy.com.my, and its social media channels, Facebook and Instagram.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 25, 2024 | Business
SAFC, through its CSR arm SAFC Heroes’ Life Hero, participated in “Yellow Room Night: A Fundraising Gig” to support Magic 89.9’s DJ CJ Rivera in his battle against cancer. The event featured performances by top Filipino bands like Hale, Mayonnaise, and Hilera, along with Maropok led by Pasig City Councilor Maro Martires. Councilor Martires emphasized the unity of community support, while SAFC President Joel C. Cruz reiterated the company’s commitment to health and wellness. The event showcased broad support for DJ CJ Rivera, emphasizing collective efforts to raise awareness and funds for cancer treatment.
(L-R: SAFC Senior Executive Vice President Raul Paul U. Mendoza, Pasig City Councilor Maro Martires, and SAFC President & Managing Director Joel C. Cruz)
In an inspiring display of community support and corporate responsibility, SAFC, through its CSR arm, SAFC Heroes’ Life Hero, proudly participated in the “Yellow Room Night: A Fundraising Gig” held at 12 Monkeys, Estancia. The event, organized to aid Magic 89.9’s beloved DJ CJ Rivera in his fight against cancer, showcased leading Filipino bands and was a vibrant testament to the power of collective goodwill.
The night featured exhilarating performances from renowned local bands such as Hale, Mayonnaise, Hilera, and Kuatro Kantos. Additionally, the event was uplifted by the tunes of Maropok, the band led by Pasig City Councilor Maro Martires, whose participation underscored the community’s united support for DJ CJ Rivera.
Councilor Maro Martires shared, “It’s a profound honor to blend music and service to help a friend in need. Events like these not only bring us together but highlight the strength in our unity. My band, Maropok, is all about championing OPM, and tonight, we played from our hearts for CJ.”
SAFC President and Managing Director, Joel C. Cruz, stated, “At SAFC, we believe in nurturing a community that supports each other. Participating in tonight’s event underscores our commitment to health and wellness under SAFC Heroes’ Life Hero. We stand with CJ Rivera and are hopeful that our combined efforts will aid in his speedy recovery.”
The event was also attended by SAFC leaders and famous personalities including DJ Toni Toni, highlighting the wide-reaching support for DJ CJ Rivera’s fight against cancer. SAFC’s involvement in this event is part of a broader commitment to health and wellness, emphasizing the company’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of individuals.
In addition to musical performances, the “Yellow Room Night” served as a platform for raising awareness and funds for cancer treatment, demonstrating the powerful impact of collective community efforts.
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 25, 2024 | Business
Japan Media Arts Inc., the operator of the upcoming idle blockchain game “ELYSIUM’S EDGE,” announced the participation of manga artist Kamui Fujiwara and the issuance of “Meat NFTs,” which will offer exclusive dining benefits at Shibuya Niku Yokocho in Tokyo, Japan.
Elysium’s Edge, commonly known as “Erikuri,” is a collaborative project planned and operated by Japan Media Arts Inc., with illustration production by Frontier Works Inc., publishing by KINGSYSTEM PTE. LTD, and development cooperation by Vanguard CO., LTD.
Manga Artist Kamui Fujiwara Joins ELYSIUM'S EDGE (a.k.a. Erikuri)
Kamui Fujiwara, known for creations like Emblem of Roto, has officially joined Erikuri, which aims to involve a diverse range of creators and authors through a shared world model.
Fujiwara has agreed to support Erikuri’s social initiative, the Erikuri Asia Social Action project, by creating illustrations for NFTs. The NFTs will serve as a funding source for the project.
They will also include practical functions within the game, and with each transaction, a predetermined donation amount will be allocated to the social support project. The visuals for these NFTs are scheduled to be unveiled during the second sale event in the summer.
Issuance of "Meat NFTs" for Dining Benefits at Shibuya Niku Yokocho
An agreement has been reached with Shibuya Niku Yokocho, one of Tokyo’s largest meat entertainment platforms, to realize the issuance and implementation of a new type of Web3-linked initiative utilizing NFTs, termed “Meat NFTs.”
The Meat NFT concept involves the utilization of NFTs that can be acquired or purchased within the Erikuri game or at shops and used at various restaurants within Shibuya Niku Yokocho, offering dining benefits. The service is aimed to start with the official game release scheduled for December 2024.
Game users will be able to obtain coupons as they play the game. This may lead to increased patronage at participating establishments.
Simultaneously, the initiative aims to increase the circulation and holdings of ELYGT (ELY Governance Token, issued by KINGSYSTEM PTE. LTD. in Singapore), utilized in the project, to enhance the value of the token.
With the start of the first sale, Erikuri aims to stabilize the circulation and enhance the value of its proprietary token through the aforementioned external collaboration facilitated by ELYGT. Its goal is to maintain long-term trust in token management among customers.
The first sale will commence at 11:00 AM (GMT) on April 26th (Friday). NFTs can be used within the game, and the governance token, ELYGT, will also have predetermined use cases outside the game.
- Allow list for firm purchase rights: April 26 (Fri) 11:00 AM (GMT) – April 27 (Sat) 10:59 AM (GMT)
- Pre-sale allow list: April 27 (Sat) 11:00 AM (GMT) – April 28 (Sun) 10:59 AM (GMT)
- Public sale: April 28 (Sun) 11:00 AM (GMT) – April 30 (Tue) 10:59 AM (GMT)
by Ferry Bayu | Apr 25, 2024 | Business
Say hello to Wendy’s New Crispy Chicken Sandwich! Imagine biting into a tender, breaded chicken patty, perfectly complemented by crisp lettuce and creamy mayo – all crafted with the signature Wendy’s touch. It’s a flavor that’s guaranteed to leave you craving more.
Why is Wendy’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Perfectly Irresistible?
Affordable? Check! – Everyone deserves to indulge in delicious
food without breaking your allowance. That’s why Wendy’s Crispy Chicken
Sandwich does not just satisfy your craving, but is also easy on the wallet.
Easy to Eat? Double Check! – Convenience is important, especially when
you’re on the go. That’s why Wendy’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich is meant to be
enjoyed anytime, anywhere, without the hassle. Whether you’re grabbing a quick
bite during your lunch break or satisfying those late-night cravings, this
sandwich is the perfect choice.
But the real deal? It’s Surprisingly
Delicious! – While
affordability and convenience are important, nothing beats the sheer delight of
biting into something truly delicious. Wendy’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich delivers
simply irresistible experience with every bite.
Try Wendy’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich
today! Price starts as low as P79 and combo meal goes for only P169. Drop by
your nearest Wendy’s branch nationwide for dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru.
You can also have it delivered via GrabFood, foodpanda, Pick-a-Roo, Wendy’s
website, or contact us at hotline 8-533-3333.
eTap offers a comprehensive platform for various financial transactions, including eMoney services (GCash, Maya, Shopee Pay, and Diskartech), banking (BPI and AUB), loans (Home Credit, Aeon Credit Service, and Dragonloans), mobile and internet (Globe, Smart, Sun Cellular, PLDT, Dito Telecoms, and Converge), gaming (Genshin Impact and Mobile Legends), and rider services (Grab).
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