by | Jul 3, 2025 | Business
Khriz Zaragoza, the voice behind Khrizclusive.com, has officially been named one of the Philippines’ top SEO specialists, recognized for his sharp expertise in on-page SEO, his growing influence in digital PR, and his pioneering work in Pinterest as a search-driven traffic source.
Through his blog Khrizclusive, Khriz has become a trusted resource not only for clients but also for freelancers and marketers looking to cut through the noise and understand what actually works in SEO today. His trademark? Telling the truth about algorithms, productivity, and life online, equal parts tactical and brutally honest.
On-Page SEO That Moves the Needle
For over a decade, Khriz has specialized in on-page SEO, optimizing websites so they rank higher, load faster, and convert better. His method blends smart keyword mapping, topical authority building, and content strategies that align with what users want to find (not what SEO checklists tell you to do).
Over the years, he has helped brands across North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia increase organic visibility without relying on gimmicks or empty metrics.
“SEO isn’t about hacking the system anymore,” he says. “It’s about understanding what the system and the people using it.”
Putting Pinterest on the Map (Literally)
Khriz was one of the first in the Philippine SEO space to push Pinterest beyond its stereotype as just a “visual mood board” platform. He’s proven that Pinterest behaves like a search engine, not social media and that it can drive long-tail, evergreen traffic when integrated with SEO.
Through tutorials and case studies on Khrizclusive, he continues to teach marketers and business owners how to use Pinterest SEO as a complement to Google, diversifying their traffic sources and future-proofing against algorithm updates.
Khrizclusive: The Blog Where SEO Meets Chaos (and Productivity)
Beyond client work, Khriz documents his observations, tactics, and hard-won lessons on his blog, Khrizclusive. Part SEO tips archive, part Pinterest playbook, part personal journal about staying sane(ish) in a fast-paced industry, the site has become a favorite among freelancers who appreciate honesty with a side of dark humor.
“Too much of the productivity space is either unrealistic or unbearably serious,” Khriz explains. “I write about what it feels like to juggle SEO, clients, and mental health. Because if you can’t laugh at the chaos, you’re probably crying.”
Who is Khriz Zaragoza?
10+ years of experience in on-page SEO, content strategy, and digital PR
Founder of Khrizclusive.com, a blog blending SEO insights, Pinterest strategies, and real-life productivity confessions
Advocate for Pinterest SEO as an untapped traffic source
Mentor and writer helping Filipino freelancers cut through industry noise
Advocate for ethical, algorithm-resilient digital strategies
Either he’s optimizing your site’s structure, mapping keywords that convert, or showing you how to make Pinterest work like Google, Khriz brings both strategy and soul to the ever-changing world of digital marketing.
by | Jul 3, 2025 | Business
As global energy demands surge, the question remains: Can we drive progress without harming the planet? Alsons Power Group believes the answer is clear — it is possible to power with care.
At Alsons Power, growth is never pursued at the expense of the environment. For the Group, sustainability means protecting nature while empowering communities to thrive.
“More than safeguarding the last remaining forests, we at Alsons Power are committed to bringing our forests back to life,” says Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara, CEO of Alsons Power.
Through its Maasim-based subsidiaries —Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) and Siguil Hydro Power Corporation (SHPC) — Alsons Power is leading the Watershed Enhancement Project (WEP) in partnership with the Conrado & Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI).
Restoring the Siguil River Watershed
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Alsons Power launched the WEP in 2018, further strengthening its environmental efforts in Maasim, Sarangani. Focused on revitalizing the Siguil River watershed, WEP is more than an environmental initiative; it is a model of inclusive development. By integrating reforestation, water resource conservation, and biodiversity protection, the program seeks to transform the Siguil River Watershed into a self-sustaining ecosystem.
In celebration of Philippine Environment Month this June, Alsons Power reaffirms its dedication to environmental stewardship. The Group joins the nation in highlighting the importance of protecting the country’s natural resources, especially critical ecosystems like the Siguil River Watershed.
The Siguil River is one of the major river systems in Sarangani Province, playing a vital role in the region’s ecological balance and livelihood. It runs along the boundary between Sarangani and South Cotabato Provinces. It is a key natural resource, supporting agriculture, biodiversity, and livelihood.
Alsons Power’s WEP integrates assisted natural regeneration (ANR) and enrichment planting while promoting agroforestry and Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT). This not only strengthens the environment but also bolsters the local economy.
Beyond environmental preservation, WEP has also improved the lives of local communities, particularly farmers and Indigenous People (IPs). By empowering them as stewards of the land, the program supports sustainable livelihoods and paves the way for more resilient and inclusive growth.
As of the first quarter of 2025, WEP recorded the planting of 71,523 trees, including 36,337 agroforestry and 35,186 reforestation species, with an impressive 99% survival rate. Partner farmers not only met targets but exceeded them by cultivating and planting seedlings from their own farms, reinforcing community ownership and sustainability.
“Each tree we plant is a step toward a greener future; a testament to Alsons Power’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and stewardship,” says Alcantara.
Empowering Communities, One Seedling at a Time
WEP’s impact goes beyond planting trees; it’s about cultivating knowledge. Since 2018, the program has provided hands-on training to local farmers, improving their coffee farming techniques. From seedling propagation to harvesting, processing, and post-harvest care, the program has equipped farmers with the skills needed to enhance the sustainability and market value of their crops.
“In the past, we planted coffee but didn’t know how to care for it. Most of it would die,” recalls IP farmer Manasan Galante. “Now, our farms are thriving. Alsons Power and CLAFI gave us the knowledge and support we needed. God has truly used your efforts to uplift us here in the mountains.”
This transformation was celebrated at the Coffee Harvest Festival, where 17 partner farms in Sitio Datal Basak yielded 754 kilograms of coffee cherries. Farmers have now mastered advanced techniques, such as drying, dehulling, and sorting green coffee beans (GCBs), producing 241 kilograms of premium ripe coffee cherries in a single season.
A Future Rooted in Care
Alsons Power’s environmental efforts in Maasim is a story of growth not just in trees and harvests, but in hope, resilience, and shared responsibility. From reforestation to sustainable farming, the Group continues to prove that environmental stewardship and progress can move forward together.
“Powering with Care means taking action, restoring the environment and supporting communities, so we can make a lasting impact today and build a better future for generations to come,” said Alcantara.
Rooted in its brand promise, “We Power with Care,” Alsons Power envisions a future where people, nature, and industry grow in harmony, ensuring a better tomorrow for all.
by | Jul 2, 2025 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 2 July 2025 – VRITIMES, a leading press release distribution platform, is proud to announce its participation in the 5th Hospitality Malaysia Conference (HMC2025) held today at the Connexion Conference & Event Centre in Kuala Lumpur. As an exhibitor, VRITIMES presented its cutting-edge media technology solutions to over 400 delegates from more than 10 countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Japan, China, India, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States .
The conference, organized by Hospitality Asia Media Pte. Ltd., serves as a premier platform for industry leaders to explore emerging trends and innovations in the hospitality sector. This year’s event featured three concurrent summits focusing on hotel investment, design, and revenue management, addressing the evolving demands of modern travelers and the integration of technology in hospitality services.
At its booth, VRITIMES engaged with professionals from various sectors, including hotel owners, designers, fintech innovators, and wellness consultants. The company’s team demonstrated how its platform enables businesses to create, distribute, and analyze press releases efficiently, enhancing media outreach and brand visibility.
“We are excited to be part of HMC2025 and to showcase how VRITIMES can empower businesses in the hospitality industry to communicate effectively and reach their target audiences,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO of VRITIMES. “This conference provides an excellent opportunity to connect with industry professionals and discuss the future of media relations in the hospitality sector.”
by | Jul 2, 2025 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 2 July 2025 – VRITIMES, a leading media technology platform, has entered into an exciting partnership with Paparazzi 360, your ultimate guide to the lifestyle and vibrant heart of Kuala Lumpur. With this collaboration, VRITIMES will publish press releases directly on Paparazzi 360’s dynamic platform, sharing the latest buzz, coolest spots, and hidden gems in the city with a global audience.
Paparazzi 360, known for curating the best of Kuala Lumpur’s lifestyle, brings insider access to the city’s most exclusive events, fashion trends, food spots, and urban experiences. From the latest hotspots to behind-the-scenes events, they offer a vibrant view of the city, helping both locals and visitors explore, discover, and indulge in the best experiences Kuala Lumpur has to offer.
Through this partnership, VRITIMES aims to enhance its media distribution capabilities by leveraging Paparazzi 360’s engaging lifestyle platform. The collaboration will ensure that brands’ press releases not only reach the right media outlets but also connect with the latest urban trends and exclusive content from the heart of Malaysia’s capital.
This exciting partnership represents a new way to amplify press releases, blending innovation with urban exploration, ensuring that both businesses and the city of Kuala Lumpur are presented in the best possible light.
by | Jul 2, 2025 | Business
PARIS—The Paris Court of Appeal will on 7 July weigh what may be the final bid by heirs of the Sultan of Sulu to enforce a controversial US$15 billion arbitration over Malaysia’s Sabah, after courts across Europe tossed out the claim.
Paris – On July 7, the Paris Court of Appeal will hear what is expected to be the final legal challenge in a dispute involving a nearly US$15 billion arbitration award tied to historical claims over Sabah, a Malaysian state on the island of Borneo.
The hearing follows multiple rulings across Europe rejecting attempts by individuals claiming to be heirs of the former Sultan of Sulu to enforce the award issued by Spanish arbitrator Gonzalo Stampa in 2022. Stampa was later convicted by a Spanish court for contempt and banned from acting as an arbitrator for one year.
At the heart of the case is an 1878 agreement between the Sultan of Sulu and European traders, which remains the subject of legal and historical debate.
Efforts to enforce the arbitration award have been dismissed in Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, with courts citing procedural irregularities, jurisdictional overreach, and the annulment of Stampa’s mandate by Spanish authorities.
With the upcoming Paris ruling, legal experts anticipate closure in a case that has tested the boundaries of international arbitration and sovereign immunity. Malaysian officials have expressed confidence that the Court of Appeal will reaffirm the inapplicability of arbitration to the 1878 agreement.
Despite legal setbacks, representatives of the claimants have signaled intentions to continue pursuing their case through alternative channels, although the path forward remains uncertain.
Full article here: https://knowsulu.ph/unforeseen-consequences/how-did-we-get-here-a-timeline-of-the-sabah-dispute
by | Jul 2, 2025 | Business
By overwhelming demand, Swan Lake returns to Singapore on 16 October 2025 for an encore tour, inviting audiences to relive the timeless magic of the world’s most iconic ballet. Presented by Crescendo Asia and performed by the Saint Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, the production stars former Mariinsky Ballet soloists, bringing the elegance of Russian classical ballet to Southeast Asia.
After a sold-out Southeast Asia tour in 2024, featuring Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, Crescendo Asia returns with a production praised for its emotional depth, breathtaking storytelling, and Tchaikovsky’s haunting score. This encore is a gift for both loyal fans and first-time viewers.
Singapore, 2 July 2025 – By overwhelming popular demand, the legendary Swan Lake returns this October for a spectacular encore tour—inviting audiences to once again immerse themselves in the enchantment, drama, and poetic beauty of the world’s most iconic ballet.
Presented by Crescendo Asia and performed by Saint Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, this majestic production features former soloists from the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet, delivering the essence and tradition of Russian classical ballet to Southeast Asian stages.
Renowned as one of the most beautiful and magical ballets ever created, Swan Lake continues to mesmerize with its haunting Tchaikovsky score, emotional intensity, and breathtaking storytelling. The show is a celebration of grace, love, and mystery—a timeless masterpiece that stirs the soul and captures the imagination.
A Proven Triumph Last year
In 2024, Crescendo’s Southeast Asia ballet tour featuring Swan Lake and The Nutcracker were nothing short of phenomenal—selling out every venue and earning glowing reviews, standing ovations, and endless admiration from audiences across the region. “The first tour exceeded every expectation—sold-out venues, thunderous applause, and fans who demanded for more,” says Dimitri Montalto, Director of Crescendo Asia. “This encore is for everyone who loved the magic the first time — and for those about to fall in love with it for the very first time.”
Whether you’re a lifelong ballet lover or stepping into the theatre for the very first time, Swan Lake offers an unforgettable evening of elegance, emotion, and ethereal beauty—the kind of experience that lives on in the heart long after the curtain falls. Check the closest show from your home below:
Encore Tour Dates
• 11 October 2025 – KLCC Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur
• 16 October 2025 – The Star Theatre, Singapore
• 18 October 2025 – JIEXPO Theatre, Jakarta
The magic begins — public ticket sales go live on Friday, 4 July at 3PM (GMT+8). Don’t miss your chance to witness the world’s most iconic ballet. Follow us on Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes moments and tour updates: @crescendo_asia
by | Jul 2, 2025 | Business
The world-renowned Swan Lake ballet returns to Southeast Asia in October 2025 by overwhelming popular demand. Presented by Crescendo Asia and performed by the Saint Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, this encore tour features former Mariinsky Ballet soloists and brings the timeless magic of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece to new and returning audiences. Following a sold-out tour in 2024, this production promises an unforgettable experience of grace, emotion, and classical Russian ballet excellence.
Kuala Lumpur, 2 July 2025 – By overwhelming popular demand, the legendary Swan Lake returns this October for a spectacular encore tour—inviting audiences to once again immerse themselves in the enchantment, drama, and poetic beauty of the world’s most iconic ballet.
Presented by Crescendo Asia and performed by Saint Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, this majestic production features former soloists from the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet, delivering the essence and tradition of Russian classical ballet to Southeast Asian stages.
Renowned as one of the most beautiful and magical ballets ever created, Swan Lake continues to mesmerize with its haunting Tchaikovsky score, emotional intensity, and breathtaking storytelling. The show is a celebration of grace, love, and mystery—a timeless masterpiece that stirs the soul and captures the imagination.
A Proven Triumph Last year
In 2024, Crescendo’s Southeast Asia ballet tour featuring Swan Lake and The Nutcracker were nothing short of phenomenal—selling out every venue and earning glowing reviews, standing ovations, and endless admiration from audiences across the region. “The first tour exceeded every expectation—sold-out venues, thunderous applause, and fans who demanded for more,” says Dimitri Montalto, Director of Crescendo Asia. “This encore is for everyone who loved the magic the first time — and for those about to fall in love with it for the very first time.”
Whether you’re a lifelong ballet lover or stepping into the theatre for the very first time, Swan Lake offers an unforgettable evening of elegance, emotion, and ethereal beauty—the kind of experience that lives on in the heart long after the curtain falls. Check the closest show from your home below:
Encore Tour Dates
• 11 October 2025 – KLCC Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur
• 16 October 2025 – The Star Theatre, Singapore
• 18 October 2025 – JIEXPO Theatre, Jakarta
The magic begins — public ticket sales go live on Friday, 4 July at 3PM (GMT+8). Don’t miss your chance to witness the world’s most iconic ballet. Follow us on Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes moments and tour updates: @crescendoasia
by | Jul 2, 2025 | Business
Karaoke Manekineko Malaysia was proud to join the vibrant Japanese cultural celebration at UCSI Lantern Matsuri 2025 as a Platinum Sponsor. From fireworks to festive vibes, here’s a look back at the unforgettable evening filled with culture, community, and karaoke joy!
Karaoke
Manekineko Malaysia proudly took
part as a Platinum Sponsor in the Lantern Matsuri 2025,
held on 28 June at UCSI Campsite. Organized by the UCSI
Japanese Cultural Society (JCS) with support from UCSI University and
Student Affairs & Alumni, the event was a vibrant celebration of
Japanese tradition, creativity, and community spirit.
From 4:00
PM to 10:00 PM, the festival welcomed visitors with exciting cultural
performances, yukata-clad guests, colourful booths, and a festive fireworks
finale. As a brand
deeply rooted in Japanese entertainment, Karaoke
Manekineko was honored to be
part of such a meaningful cultural gathering.
During the
event, we connected with many passionate fans of Japanese culture and karaoke.
Our team enjoyed interacting with attendees, including families and young
children, who brought a lively energy to the venue. It was truly heartwarming
to witness the shared joy and laughter that filled the evening.
Our
participation at Lantern Matsuri reflected our ongoing commitment to one of our
core mottos: “To revitalize local community and the world.” We
believe in using entertainment to bring people together—and this event was a
perfect reminder of the power of shared culture and celebration.
We extend our
sincere appreciation to the UCSI JCS committee for the smooth organization and
warm hospitality. Karaoke
Manekineko looks forward to more
opportunities to collaborate and bring joy to the community through future
cultural and student-led initiatives.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 2, 2025 | Stories
On May 20, 2025, I created an account on Letterlux, but I was still undecided about whether I should dip my toes into writing fiction. So, I pondered … for a couple of weeks. I kept stopping to think: Do I have a story in my head that’s worth writing?
In case you didn’t know, I’m a reader, editor, and reviewer—so you can just imagine how self-critical I must be.
At first, I tried other apps like Goodnovel and Dreame, but neither panned out. With one, a confusing conversation with a company rep left me frustrated (I won’t get into the details), while the other said my story wasn’t a good fit for the platform. That one, I actually understood—because I knew going in that the story didn’t follow any of the established tropes.
Then on June 11, 2025, I woke up with a brand-new story doing its best to burst out of my head. It was relentless, like a puppy trying its darnedest to get my attention. It forced me to sit up, open Word, and start typing—a YA/Teen story blending shifter romance and tech/gaming. Within a few hours, I had eight or ten chapters written. The words just kept coming!
That made me wonder: Where would be the best place to publish this?
I asked around. Friends who’ve published on reading platforms—and even on Kindle and paperback—shared their insights. Some of what they said, I’d already seen echoed on social media by other authors.
In the end, I narrowed it down to two platforms: Inkitt and Letterlux.
Inkitt is user-friendly and accepted my story quickly. However, it’s subscription-based (like Ream Stories), so unless I already have a solid following, it’s hard to know what to charge. On the upside, if my story performs well, it might end up on Galatea.
Letterlux, meanwhile, is an umbrella company that distributes to several reading apps. Self-promotion might be trickier once I sign a contract, but the good news is that I won’t have to apply to each app individually.
Even though Letterlux seems a bit more complex, I’m feeling optimistic. I applied for a contract on June 11, once I hit the 5,000-word minimum. On June 16, I received an encouraging message after their initial review. The next milestone is at 30,000 words.
On June 30, I received this system notification:
Good job on writing a longer story! We’ll review your story as soon as possible, and you’ll be notified when the result comes out. If your story passes our review, we’re more than happy to sign a contract with you! Please stay tuned!
I’ll be honest—I had already reached 30k+ words a few days earlier, but I didn’t want to stress myself out. So, I scheduled daily chapter releases. I guess you could say I “banked” chapters, just in case my creative well runs dry in the future.
To date, I’ve written 34 chapters for Call Me Alpha! on Letterlux. Here’s hoping the book gets signed soon, because that would be just the push I need to keep the momentum going. ✨
If you’re curious about the story or have tips on your own publishing journey, I’d love to hear from you!
by | Jul 1, 2025 | Business
Independent label led by Seoul-based entrepreneur Paul “Pooh” Lunt aims to develop the next generation of Filipino pop stars
Popolo Music Group (PMG), a rising independent music label founded by Seoul-based American entrepreneur Paul “Pooh” Lunt, has officially launched the first full-scale P-Pop trainee program in the Philippines, a move set to revolutionize how Filipino artists are trained and developed for the global stage.
Drawing inspiration from the proven Korean K-Pop training model, PMG’s program blends intense performance development with personal growth and professionalism. The six-month training system will cover vocals, dance, language, stage presence, image development, and media training, designed to mold raw talent into world-class performers.
“This isn’t just about launching new artists—it’s about building a platform for long-term global success,” said Paul Lunt, PMG Founder and CEO. “We believe the Philippines is ready to take center stage in the Asian pop music wave, and we’re committed to discovering and developing the artists who will lead it.”
Popolo Music Group is now actively auditioning the next generation of P-Pop stars. Filipino singers and dancers aged 14 to 25 are encouraged to apply. To be considered, interested applicants must submit a 2-minute performance video—vocals, dance, or both—along with their full name, age, location, and contact information via email to De***@*********ic.asia.
Only the most promising applicants will be selected for a second-round live audition and an in-depth interview process, after which a final group will be chosen to enter the trainee program.
Founded with a mission to elevate Filipino talent to international recognition, PMG already manages a roster of over 50 artists across recording, management, booking, and promotion. With operations connected to Seoul, Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Manila, and a team of global producers and trainers from the U.S., U.K., South Korea, France, and the Netherlands, PMG is fast emerging as a leader in Asian music innovation.
As part of its broader vision, PMG aims to position the Philippines as Asia’s next pop music powerhouse by combining cutting-edge promotional strategies with authentic artistry and rigorous training.
For more details, visit www.popolomusic.asia or email in**@*********ic.asia.
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