Jan Francis’ “Come Back To Me”: A Story of Heartbreak, Hope, and the Power of Community

by | Feb 14, 2025 | Business

Jan Francis, 2024 Karaoke World Championships (KWC) PH Champion, has once again captured the hearts of listeners with his latest single, “Come Back To Me.” Released on valentine’s day, this poignant ballad, a stark departure from the upbeat anthem of “You Are The One,” delves into the raw emotions of heartbreak and longing, showcasing Jan Francis’ versatility as an artist. But beyond the evocative lyrics and soulful melody, “Come Back To Me” is a testament to the unwavering support of the KWC community, proving that dreams can indeed come true with dedication, talent, and a little help from friends.

The story behind “Come Back To Me” is as compelling as the song itself. Penned by the talented duo of Sanna Bernhus and Christine Ekeberg, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of yearning for a lost love. “Smellin’ your clothes and the tea fell out of my hands / Thinkin’ bout you and the pressure comes to my chest,” Jan Francis sings, his voice laced with a palpable vulnerability that draws listeners into his world. The song is a journey through memories, a desperate attempt to rewind time and relive moments that now exist only in photographs. Produced, mixed, and mastered by the skilled Are Sorknes, the song’s sonic landscape perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating an immersive listening experience.

“Come Back To Me” is more than just a collection of beautifully crafted lyrics and melodies; it’s a window into the universal experience of love, loss, and the enduring power of memories. Each verse speaks to the human desire to hold onto moments that slip through our fingers like sand, and the hope that maybe, just maybe, those moments can somehow find their way back to us. The metaphor of photographs as vessels of memory is particularly striking, as Jan sings, “I take a photograph, hoping you’ll come back to me / swimming in your sea of yellow and gold, / I wish we never had to grow up / So I take a photograph.” The act of taking a photograph becomes a symbol of clinging to the past, a way to preserve the essence of a relationship that has faded.

The song’s emotional depth is further amplified by Jan Francis’ heartfelt delivery. He imbues each word with a sense of longing and vulnerability, drawing listeners into the narrative and allowing them to connect with the raw emotions he conveys. It’s a performance that transcends mere singing; it’s a genuine expression of the human condition, capturing the complexities of love and loss in a way that is both relatable and deeply moving. “This beautifully written song is a definite hit, and Jan Francis’ soaring vocals and impeccable style takes it to a new level. It was a joy producing it.” Sorkes, the song producer has this statement to share. 

But the release of “Come Back To Me” is not just a celebration of Jan Francis’ artistry; it’s also a testament to the incredible support system he has found within the KWC community. As the Karaoke World Championships Philippines (KWC PH) 2024 grand winner, Jan Francis has been embraced by a network of talented individuals who have rallied behind him, providing invaluable guidance, resources, and encouragement. KWC PH has served as a launching pad for Jan Francis’ career, giving him a platform to showcase his talent and connect with industry professionals who believe in his potential. It’s a community that understands the challenges faced by independent artists and is committed to helping them succeed.

KWC PH’s support extends beyond mere mentorship and networking; it has also provided Jan Francis with tangible opportunities to collaborate with seasoned songwriters and producers, like Sanna Bernhus, Christine Ekeberg, and Are Sorknes, all of whom played a vital role in bringing “Come Back To Me” to life. This collaborative spirit is a hallmark of the KWC community, fostering an environment where artists can learn from each other, push their creative boundaries, and create music that is both authentic and commercially viable. In an industry often characterized by competition and cutthroat tactics, KWC stands out as a beacon of collaboration and mutual support.

Stream Come Back To Me on Spotify

For Jan Francis, KWC is more than just a competition or a management team; it’s a family. It’s a group of people who believe in his talent, share his passion for music, and are committed to helping him achieve his dreams. As “Come Back To Me” continues to resonate with listeners around the world, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, collaboration, and unwavering support in the pursuit of artistic excellence. The song’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity and when artists are empowered to share their stories with the world.

Jan Francis is currently signed as one of the KWC PH artists.. KWC PH is managed and operates through the collaboration of The New Channel (TNC) Media Corp., a digital alternative new media platform, and PraXis, a marketing experiential agency. Collectively, the partnership between KWC PH and Up! Hit Music, an independent Norwegian international music label which at the same time operates in Thailand paved the way to launch the international career of Jan Francis.  

*  *  *

Stay tuned for more updates on Jan Francis’s musical journey as he continues to inspire through his music. Follow Jan Francis through his socials: Instagram: @janfrancis_official | TikTok: @janfrancis_official | Facebook: Jan Francis

For more info about KWC PH and the 2025 auditions, click www.kwcph.com . For inquiries, email KW***@***********el.com. 

This story also came out on www.thenewchannel.com/highlights. Browse for more NEW Stories on TNC’s official website www.thenewchannel.com.

Asuene APAC and Testech, Inc, a provider of energy conservation services in the Philippines, form a business alliance

by | Feb 14, 2025 | Business

ASUENE forms first Philippine Partnership to aid APAC companies in CO2 reduction

Asuene APAC Pte. Ltd. has entered into a business alliance agreement with Testech, Inc, a semiconductor manufacturing support services and facility management company utilizing energy-saving technologies in the Philippines.  Both companies will provide ASUENE, a cloud service for measuring, reducing, and reporting CO2 emissions, and decarbonization solutions to their business partners to support decarbonization and sustainable management of companies in the Philippines.

Background of Business Alliance

In the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, companies are increasingly interested in decarbonization, and the need to measure and reduce CO2 emissions is rapidly increasing. In the Philippines, where Testech, Inc is based, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued guidelines on “Sustainability Reporting” for listed companies in 2019. The guidelines require companies to attach reports on sustainability and other non-financial information to their annual reports. In addition, there is a growing demand for corporate sustainability, as evidenced by the discussion within the SEC, on making Scope 1 and Scope 2 of CO2 emissions reporting mandatory.

Since English is widely spoken as an official language in the Philippines, the BPO industry with Western companies is flourishing.  Many companies now play a role in the supply chain as business partners of Western companies. Therefore, there is a circumstance in which they must answer the demand for sustainability in order to improve their global credibility and ensure their competitiveness in the European and U.S. markets.

Details of Business Alliance

“ASUENE” is a cloud service for companies to measure, reduce, and report CO2 emissions throughout the supply chain for Scope 1-3 in the GHG Protocol and SX consulting. Through one-stop solutions for decarbonization, which is one of our strengths, we provide comprehensive services to promote corporate decarbonization management.

Testech, Inc is a conglomerate based in the Philippines, that aims to realize a sustainable society by supporting companies in a wide range of fields, including the management of facilities related to energy conservation and environmental measures, the provision of technical solutions and services, and process support for semiconductor manufacturing.

Through this business alliance agreement, both companies will collaborate to provide companies with one-stop services ranging from the provision of energy-saving and environmental solutions to the measuring, reducing, and reporting of CO2 emissions. This will accelerate support for sustainability management that enhances the companies’ competitiveness in the Philippines and other APAC countries.

About Testech, Inc

Company name: Testech Incorporated

Representative: Chairman / CEO Alfonso S. Yuchengco III

Founded: May, 2000 

Location: 2F DPL Technology Bldg., Humble St, B2 L4 Calamba Premier International Park SEZ, Brgy. Batino, Calamba City, Laguna 4027, Philippines

WEB site: https://www.testech-group.com/

Asuene Company Profile

Asuene Inc. is a leading Climate Tech company in Japan with the mission of ”Changing the world for the next generation”. We provide “ASUENE”, a carbon accounting platform to measure, report and reduce carbon emissions of companies and we contribute to the net zero society.

XRP’s Price Long-Term Potential: Can It Reach $1,000?

by | Feb 12, 2025 | Business

Explore XRP’s long-term price potential—can it reach $1,000? Analysts weigh in on XRP’s growth, SEC battles, partnerships, and ETF prospects. Read more!

XRP has long been seen as a transformative force in the global remittance sector. Analyst Brienen believes the token has immense potential due to its ability to facilitate cross-border transactions in mere seconds and at a fraction of traditional costs.

Brienen projects that XRP could reach between $100 and $1,000 in the next decade, depending on how market cycles mature.

Given that XRP is currently trading at $2.4053 with a market cap of about $139 billion, achieving this valuation would require a staggering increase of 41,393%, pushing its market cap to between $5.7 trillion and $57 trillion.

Comparing XRP with Bitcoin and Ethereum

Brienen supports his prediction by drawing parallels with Bitcoin and Ethereum, both of which have seen exponential growth since their inception.

Ethereum, for instance, has surged 619,116% from its all-time low, while Bitcoin has witnessed a jaw-dropping 196,866,457% increase.

While XRP has also seen impressive growth—up 85,773% from its lowest price—it has yet to experience the same meteoric rise as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Nevertheless, analysts remain optimistic about its long-term potential.

Other Analysts’ Price Predictions for XRP

Brienen is not alone in his bullish stance. Many XRP community members foresee the asset reaching triple-digit prices, with some optimistic projections even suggesting that XRP could hit $100 within this year.

However, others remain cautious, with Telegaon predicting that XRP might not even reach $500 in the next 25 years.

Ripple’s Expansion and Regulatory Wins

Ripple has been making significant strides in expanding its presence and securing regulatory approvals. The company recently obtained Money Transmitter Licenses (MTLs) in key U.S. states like New York and Texas, paving the way for wider adoption of XRP in domestic financial transactions.

Additionally, Ripple has formed partnerships with financial institutions worldwide, including a new collaboration with Unicambio exchange to facilitate cross-border payments between Colombia and Portugal.

These developments could serve as catalysts for XRP’s future price growth.

XRP’s Volatile Price Movements and the $10 Debate

XRP has experienced significant price fluctuations recently. It dropped from $2.73 to $2.28 following Trump’s tariff policy announcements but quickly rebounded to $2.41. Analysts are closely monitoring whether XRP can break the $4.50 resistance level, potentially leading to a bullish surge.

Can XRP hit $10 in 2025? Predictions vary widely. Coin Price Forecast suggests a conservative target of $1.05 by year-end, while Margex believes XRP could reach $6.21 under favorable conditions. The $10 target depends largely on widespread adoption and a legal victory against the SEC.

The Impact of SEC Regulations on XRP’s Future

The ongoing SEC case against Ripple remains a critical factor influencing XRP’s price trajectory.

Recent delays in SEC proceedings, coupled with leadership changes and the formation of a Crypto Task Force, have fueled speculation that a favorable resolution may be on the horizon.

Pro-XRP lawyer James Murphy believes the agency might be waiting for a new SEC chairman before making major regulatory decisions.

Attorney Bill Morgan, however, remains skeptical, arguing that the current SEC commissioners already have the authority to dismiss cases. Despite the legal uncertainty, XRP continues to trade within a defined range, currently priced at $2.41.

Technical Analysis: XRP Price Trends and ETF Hopes

XRP recently hit a multi-year high of $3.39 but is now trading below its 20-day EMA of $2.60, indicating short-term bearish sentiment. However, a breakout above this resistance level could trigger a price reversal.

The RSI currently hovers below 40, suggesting weak momentum, but a rise above 42-45 could hint at a bullish reversal.

Additionally, XRP is awaiting approvals for multiple ETFs filed by major financial institutions, including Grayscale, Nasdaq, and CBOE. If the SEC grants approval, these ETFs could significantly boost XRP’s market liquidity and adoption.

According to prediction markets on Polymarket, there is an 81% chance that an XRP ETF will receive regulatory approval by 2025.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for XRP

XRP’s long-term prospects remain highly debated. While some analysts foresee a massive price surge driven by utility, partnerships, and legal clarity, others urge caution due to regulatory uncertainties and market volatility.

The token’s ability to break key resistance levels and secure widespread adoption will ultimately determine its trajectory.

For now, XRP remains one of the most closely watched cryptocurrencies in the market, with both investors and analysts eagerly anticipating its next major move.

Wacom Redesigns its Flagship Intuos Pro Pen Tablet to Deliver an Exceptional Workflow

by | Feb 12, 2025 | Business

The new Intuos Pro brings Wacom’s most accurate pen performance and all new levels of efficiency to the latest creative workflows.
Singapore [February 12, 2025] The premium digital tablet familiar to the desks of the world’s top illustrators, photo editors, videographers and 3D sculptors is now in perfect harmony with today’s high end creative applications thanks to its updated design featuring tactile controls and the industry defining Pro Pen 3.

Less Work, More Flow

Creative workflows are part work and part
flow. The work requires a combination of operating complex software controls
and processes. The flow is the act of creation. The new Intuos Pro is designed
to help artists accomplish their work as quickly and intuitively as possible so
they can immerse themselves in the creative flow. The newest Wacom Intuos Pro remains
true to its heritage as the preeminent tablet for anyone accustomed to professional
workflows. In fact, it has been the industry standard for so long, its
precursor, the Intuos 3, was sent to space to support astronauts on the space
station as they adjusted to microgravity.

The new Intuos Pro integrates Wacom’s exceptional
Pro Pen 3 technology, the same technology in the Cintiq Pro displays. Because
each artist’s workflow is as unique as their style, the Pro Pen 3 is designed
to be customizable to each artist’s preferences from the grip with programmable
buttons for shortcuts, and, because this is Wacom’s pro line of products, it
includes interchangeable grips and buttons that can be reconfigured depending
on the user’s ergonomic needs. Like all Wacom pens, the Pro Pen 3 needs no charging
or batteries. Featuring two different nibs, including a rubber nib which is
slip-resistant to optimize precision and, when combined with the on the
improved textured surface, decreases wear.

“As software evolves, the need for
precision increases. When we started to redesign our flagship product, we began
with the foundation of precision,” said Koji Yano, Senior Vice President, Wacom
Branded Business. A new chip set boosts performance while slimming down its
form factor. To satisfy the precision needs of 3D sculptors, photo and video
editors, and ensure accuracy in the work by minimizing the chance for
unintentional movements and input, Wacom moved the ExpressKeys and touch
buttons to the top of the tablet and added two dials to the medium and large
Intuos Pro, and one dial to the small size. These dials offer artists tactile
feedback and can be used by left-handed and right-handed people without
adjustment. The tablet’s dials and ExpressKeys come pre-configured and are
easily customized to the preferred shortcuts specific to the creative
applications in each artist’s workflow. This new form factor has been designed to
better facilitate flow while ensuring accuracy in the work.

Working Where the Creativity Leads

Because professional artists need flexibility,
the new Intuos Pro is designed to be portable and work seamlessly with the
software and operating system of individual artists. The Intuos Pro comes in
three sizes, all of which have a larger drawing area at a 16:9 ratio to match
today’s display sizes. Despite the increased active area, all three sizes are
smaller and slimmer than past generations of the Intuos Pro, making it easy to
bring along when traveling between remote work locations or offices, and taking
up less desk space while the thinner profile enables the most fluid hand and
wrist motions to date. The small size is perfect for the artist on-the-move, it
weighs approximately 240 g with a dimension of 215 mm x 163 mm and active area
of 187mm x 105 mm. The medium and large are designed for artists who enjoy a
larger canvas or who manage workflows across several monitors.

All models are Bluetooth enabled with a
wireless operating time of up to 16 hours. Artists can connect
up to three devices, one wired device using a USB, and two wireless devices,
and they can toggle between devices using a mechanical switch on the tablet. The
Intuos Pro works with both Windows and Mac operating systems and with nearly
all creative applications, so artists can both create their art, and navigate
through their daily tasks. For those who prefer a pencil-like feel or thicker
barrel, Wacom has partnered with several pen manufacturers, such as Staedtler,
Lamy and Dr. Grip, for a broad range of styluses that will work without
additional set up.

In addition to the Intuos Pro tablet and
Pro Pen 3, artists will receive free trials of Clip Studio Paint, MASV and Capture
One software. Wacom will also include access to Wacom’s own software Yuify,
which is designed to secure authorship for artists. Yuify works with popular
software, including Clip Studio Paint, Adobe Photoshop and Rebelle 7, and
allows artists to embed a micromark in their work. This micromark is persistent
through screenshotting or downloading, maintaining the link between the artist
and their art. The Intuos Pro, like all of Wacom’s pro products, also grants
access to Wacom Bridge, which facilitates pen and touch input between local and
remote machines for improved professional collaboration.

The Intuos Pro will be available in early 2025 at the Wacom eStore, Shopee, Lazada & Retails. The three sizes
will cost RM1,290 for the small, RM1,990 for the medium and RM2,690 for the
large.

For more information and the full technical
specifications, please visit
wacom.com.

Transforming Smiles with Dental Veneers and Smile Makeovers: A Complete Guide

by | Feb 12, 2025 | Business

This article explores two transformative dental procedures: dental veneers and smile makeovers.
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of teeth to address issues like discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignments. They offer a natural, polished look, are stain-resistant, and are perfect for individuals seeking a quick, minimally invasive solution for a better smile.

A smile makeover, on the other hand, takes a comprehensive approach, combining multiple treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, orthodontics, dental implants, and gum contouring to address a range of aesthetic and functional dental concerns. This personalized solution is ideal for those with complex dental issues or preparing for special occasions.

The article also outlines who can benefit from these procedures, the process involved, and maintenance tips for lasting results.

A confident smile can significantly impact how we present ourselves and feel about our appearance. For those dealing with dental imperfections like discolored, chipped, misaligned, or unevenly shaped teeth, modern dentistry offers solutions to help achieve a flawless smile. Two of the most effective options for transforming your smile are dental veneers and smile makeovers. These procedures not only enhance aesthetics but also boost self-esteem and overall dental health.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of dental veneers and smile makeovers, delve into who would benefit most from these procedures, and outline the process involved in achieving your dream smile.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from porcelain or composite materials. They are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are designed to mimic the natural translucence and color of real teeth, making them a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting and realistic solution to cosmetic dental concerns.

Common Issues Addressed by Veneers:

-Stained or discolored teeth that don’t respond to whitening treatments

-Chipped or cracked teeth

-Gaps between teeth

-Minor misalignments

-Unevenly shaped or worn-down teeth

The veneer procedure involves minimal tooth preparation, where a thin layer of enamel is removed to accommodate the veneer. Once bonded, veneers are durable, stain-resistant, and can last for over a decade with proper care.

Benefits of Dental Veneers:

-Provides a natural, polished look

-Enhances symmetry and uniformity

-Resistant to staining from food and beverages

-Requires minimal maintenance

Dental veneers are a versatile cosmetic solution, making them ideal for individuals seeking a significant improvement in their smile with minimal invasiveness.

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover takes dental aesthetics to the next level by combining multiple dental treatments to achieve a complete smile transformation. Unlike veneers as a single procedure, which focus on specific teeth, a smile makeover is a holistic approach tailored to the patient’s unique needs.

Key Components of a Smile Makeover:

-Teeth Whitening: Brightens the smile by removing stains and discoloration.

-Dental Veneers: Provides uniformity and hides imperfections.

-Orthodontics (e.g., Invisalign): Straightens misaligned teeth discreetly.

-Dental Implants: Replaces missing teeth for a complete smile.

-Gum Contouring or Laser Gum Treatments: Adjusts the gum line for balance and symmetry.

A smile makeover requires detailed consultations and assessments to create a treatment plan aligned with the patient’s goals. The result is a harmonious smile that looks natural and complements the patient’s facial features.

Who Should Consider These Procedures?

Understanding who can benefit most from dental veneers and smile makeovers is crucial in deciding the best course of action for your dental health and aesthetic goals.

Dental Veneers: Who Are They For?

Dental veneers are ideal for individuals with:

Stubborn Stains: If teeth whitening treatments have failed to remove deep stains caused by medications, smoking, or excessive coffee consumption.

Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Minor chips and cracks can be masked effectively, restoring the appearance of the tooth.

Gaps or Minor Misalignments: Veneers can close small gaps or create the illusion of straight teeth without orthodontic treatments.

Desire for a Quick Fix: Those seeking an immediate improvement in their smile without extensive dental work.

Veneers are particularly beneficial for professionals, public figures, or anyone in the public eye who relies on a confident and camera-ready smile.

Smile Makeover: Who Is It For?

Smile makeovers are perfect for individuals with broader aesthetic or functional concerns, such as:

Multiple Dental Issues: If you have a combination of stains, misaligned teeth, gaps, and missing teeth.

Desire for a Comprehensive Solution: Those looking for a personalized plan to address every aspect of their smile.

Gum Aesthetic Concerns: Individuals with a gummy smile or uneven gum line.

Special Occasions: Preparing for significant life events like weddings, milestone birthdays, or public appearances.

A smile makeover is particularly suitable for those who value attention to detail and are willing to undergo multiple procedures to achieve their dream smile.

The Dental Journey: What to Expect

Both dental veneers and smile makeovers begin with an initial consultation. The dentist evaluates the condition of your teeth, discusses your concerns, and designs a treatment plan to meet your aesthetic goals.

For Dental Veneers:

Initial Consultation: During this visit, the dentist will discuss your desired results and assess your teeth.

Tooth Preparation: A thin layer of enamel is removed to make space for the veneers.

Veneer Fabrication: Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental lab for custom veneer creation.

Bonding: Once ready, the veneers are bonded to your teeth, completing the transformation.

For a Smile Makeover:

Comprehensive Assessment: The dentist evaluates your teeth, gums, and facial structure to design a holistic plan.

Multi-Stage Treatment: Depending on your needs, treatments are scheduled over several appointments. For instance, teeth whitening may precede the placement of veneers, and it may only take a week or two, while orthodontic work might take months to complete.

Final Touches: Once all treatments are done, the dentist ensures the smile is balanced, natural-looking, and durable.

Maintenance Tips for Your New Smile

Whether you opt for veneers or a smile makeover, maintaining your results is essential:

-Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

-Avoid consuming excessive amounts of staining substances like coffee, wine, and tobacco.

-Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.

-Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, as it can damage veneers or other restorations.

–Avoid using abrasives such as baking soda to clean your dental veneers as it will damage them.

Final Thoughts on the Dental Veneers and Smile Makeovers

Dental veneers and smile makeovers offer transformative results for anyone looking to improve their smile’s aesthetics and functionality. Whether you’re dealing with discoloration, misalignment, or missing teeth, these procedures provide effective solutions tailored to your needs.

Investing in your smile is an investment in your confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

Cebuana Lhuillier Drives the Future of Mobility with Strategic Investment in Byahe

by | Feb 12, 2025 | Business

Manila, Philippines– Cebuana Lhuillier, the largest microfinancial institution in the Philippine , is making bold strides into the future of mobility with a strategic investment in Byahe, a modern transport company focused on electric and modern jeepneys. This follows the successful launch of its ridehailing app, Xpress, further strengthens the company’s mission to reshape mobility across the nation.

Byahe is currently operating seven routes with a fleet of over 100 modern and eJeepneys. As part of their expansion, Byahe is set to add more routes in 2025, helping accelerate the Philippines’ shift towards cleaner, more efficient urban transportation. Cebuana’s strategic partnership with Byahe introduces synergies between its Xpress ridesharing services and Byahe’s eco-friendly fleet, enhancing the accessibility and sustainability of mobility options for Filipinos.

Brian Cu, co-founder of Byahe and former Country Manager of Grab Philippines, brings essential expertise to the table. Cu, who was instrumental in expanding Grab’s presence in the country, is positioned to guide Byahe’s growth and further strengthen the partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier.

This move is also part of Cebuana Lhuillier’s larger strategy to offer a full suite of services to Filipinos. The company integrates financial solutions with mobility services, including vehicle financing, digital payments, and the Kanegosyo Center, which supports drivers of TNVS, 2W MC taxis, and jeepneys into being entrepreneurs. Cebuana’s expansive network of over 3,500 branches across the country ensures easy access to these services, improving mobility and financial inclusion.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, shared, “Our investment in Byahe reflects our commitment to innovation and sustainability in transport, empowering Filipinos with better mobility and financial inclusion.”

With its growing mobility portfolio, Cebuana Lhuillier, now including Xpress and Byahe, is shaping the future of transportation in the Philippines, making it greener, more efficient, and accessible for all Filipinos.

To learn more about Cebuana Lhuillier and its Xpress ride-hailing app, visit www.xpress.ph and www.cebuanalhuillier.com.

New Filipino Chocolate Startup Aims to Establish Chocolate Culture Among Youth and Yuppies

by | Feb 12, 2025 | Business

Founded by a Filipino social scientist-turned-chocolatier, chocolate startup Bombonería Dreisbach opened its online channels for orders on February 10th in time for Valentine’s Day 2025. It specializes in offering bonbons with the hopes of establishing a chocolate culture among Filipino youth and young professionals.

MANILA, The Philippines – Filipino chocolate startup Bombonería Dreisbach opened its online channels for orders on February 10th in time for Valentine’s Day 2025. The business specializes in offering bonbons or filled chocolate confectionery commonly known and sold in Europe.

La Bombonería’s founder Jeconiah Dreisbach aims to establish a Filipino chocolate culture starting with Manila’s college students and young professionals. Being an exclusively online and home-based business, this small-batch artisan chocolate studio utilizes social media to reach its customer base.  Strategically located in the cultural-commercial district of Malate and the University Belt, orders from their facility can be delivered throughout Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces with the use of online delivery apps.

The brand joins the region’s fledgling premium confectionery industry with the hopes of putting Filipino artisan confections on the map of chocolate lovers.

Their bonbon flavors complement the fruity notes of world-class Philippine cacao traced from Davao, the chocolate capital of the Philippines. From the familiar flavors of calamansi, ube macapuno, and mango, to eccentric ones like guyabano mangosteen, langka, and guava, their range of bonbon fillings has room for those with a sweet tooth and the health conscious. All of their ingredients, but one (mixed berries are sourced from Australia), are sourced from farms in Davao and South Cotabato, highlighting the founder’s Mindanao roots.

Despite the premium quality of their confectionery, the Filipino social scientist-turned-chocolatier made sure that his luxury chocolate is accessible through the brand’s Ballotin line. European chocolateries commonly package their chocolates in a ballotin (loosely translated as chocolate box) or a common cardboard food box packaging where the confections can easily be shared with friends, family, and loved ones. For a more special feel, customers may also avail of their Finestra line wherein chocolates are put in their own compartments.

Buying chocolates from Bombonería Dreisbach also helps other Philippine small businesses as they source their packaging from traditional box makers in Pakil, Laguna, and as mentioned earlier, their ingredients from farms in southern Mindanao.

To explore the range of La Bomboneria’s bonbons, potential patrons may visit their website at www.bomboneriadreisbach.com. They may also check out Bombonería Dreisbach at @dreisbachph on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).

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Hamster Kombat Announces Season 2: GameDev Heroes, A New Way to Play!

by | Feb 11, 2025 | Business

Hamster Kombat Season 2 is here! Experience the new HamsterVerse with GameDev Heroes, exciting challenges, and $HMSTR rewards. Join the Closed Beta, earn up to 1M Hamster Coins daily, and get ready for the 2025 airdrop. Don’t miss out on the next big Web3 gaming revolution!

Hamster Kombat has officially announced the launch of Season 2, introducing an innovative gaming experience known as the HamsterVerse. This Hamster Kombat new season will feature three interconnected games, with the $HMSTR token serving as a core element of gameplay.

Closed Beta Testing & Community Engagement

As part of the Season 2 rollout, Hamster Kombat’s developers are inviting players to participate in a Closed Beta Testing phase.

This initiative allows selected players to experience the new games before their official release while providing valuable feedback to refine the HamsterVerse.

To join the beta, players must:

1. Subscribe to Hamster Kombat’s official social media channels on Telegram and X (formerly Twitter).

2. Log into GLEAM, submit their Telegram ID, and secure their entry in the contest.

A total prize pool of $3,000 USDT has been allocated for this beta phase. Fifty winners will be chosen for each of the three games, receiving $20 USDT each as a reward for participation and social media engagement. The games included in this beta phase are:

1. Hamster Kombat: GameDev Heroes

2. Hamster Fight Club

3. Hamster King

Winners will be selected randomly after beta testing, independent of individual contributions.

GameDev Heroes: A New Way to Play

One of the most exciting additions in Season 2 is the GameDev Heroes feature, which enhances the way players collect Hamster Coins and complete daily challenges.

This feature introduces an interactive, strategic element to the game, making it more engaging.

Daily Cipher Challenge

Daily Cipher is a new challenge that requires players to decode Morse code. Here’s how it works:

1. Enable Cipher Mode: Enter Daily Cipher Mode within Hamster Kombat on Telegram.

2. Crack the Code: Use dots and dashes (tap quickly for a dot, hold for two seconds for a dash).

3. Submit & Win: Enter the translated code and claim your Hamster Coins if correct!

With practice, players can earn up to 1 million Hamster Coins per day from this challenge.

Daily Combo Challenge

Another new addition is the Daily Combo, which allows players to collect special cards and maximize their earnings.

1. Navigate to the Office Menu: Explore the Development & Marketing section.

2. Collect the Right Cards: Follow the instructions to strategically select cards.

3. Earn Big Rewards: Completing the combo sends Hamster Coins directly to your account.

Earning More Hamster Coins

Players have multiple ways to maximize their coin earnings, including:

1. Completing the Daily Cipher challenge.

2. Mastering the Daily Combo.

3. Participating in special in-game events.

4. Finishing daily missions.

Airdrop Plan for Season 2

Hamster Kombat has announced an additional 15% of the total $HMSTR token supply will be distributed via an airdrop in Season 2. Scheduled for Summer 2025, this airdrop aims to further develop the game’s ecosystem and attract new players.

The development team has also revealed plans to expand Hamster Kombat beyond Telegram, launching a web-based version and integrating desktop gameplay.

Hamster Kombat’s Journey: From Record-Breaking Growth to New Challenges

Previously, Hamster Kombat set a record with 300 million users in August 2024. However, the number of Monthly Active Users (MAU) has since declined to 30 million.

The development team acknowledges that such fluctuations are normal in seasonal projects and remains optimistic about reigniting player enthusiasm through new content and strategies.

Despite the decline, Hamster Kombat still boasts impressive numbers, including:

1. $1.3 billion in daily spot trading volume.

2. $4 billion in perpetual trading volume.

3. 11 million+ token holders, positioning it as a major player in the blockchain gaming space.

Competition Among Telegram Mini Apps

While Hamster Kombat prepares for its revival, competition within the Telegram Mini Apps ecosystem is heating up. Notable competitors include:

1. Paws: A mini-app with 40.7 million MAU, showing rapid growth.

2. Blum: A hybrid platform combining centralized and decentralized exchange features.

3. Major: An app where users complete tasks to earn cryptocurrency, boasting 34.9 million MAU.

Conclusion

With the launch of Season 2 and new interactive features, Hamster Kombat is positioning itself for a major comeback.

The development team’s focus on community engagement, strategic expansions, and Web3 integration suggests that the game is poised for long-term success in the blockchain gaming space.

Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, Season 2 of Hamster Kombat offers an exciting opportunity to dive into a new era of Web3 gaming.