by | Feb 24, 2025 | Business
The Philippine music scene is witnessing the meteoric rise of Jan Francis, the Karaoke World Championships (KWC) PH Champion, whose debut single, “You Are The One” (YATO), and follow-up release, “Come Back To Me”, are rapidly gaining popularity on Spotify and capturing the hearts of listeners. This success marks an incredible feat for a newcomer, solidifying Jan Francis’s position as a rising star in the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) landscape.
Released on the 24th of January 2025, “You Are The One” immediately generated buzz and excitement. This vibrant track, a collaboration with Thai pop sensation Yayee, is more than just a song; it’s a powerful anthem for dreamers everywhere. With its catchy hooks, inspiring lyrics, and a unique fusion of Filipino and Thai pop influences, “You Are The One” resonates with listeners across cultures.
The song’s message, embodying the spirit of hope and aspiration, speaks to anyone who has dared to dream big, encouraging them to relentlessly pursue their passions. This universal theme, combined with the infectious melody, has contributed significantly to its widespread appeal.
The release of YATO was accompanied by a visually stunning music video, further enhancing the song’s impact. The video, released in the same week, complements the song’s uplifting message with beautiful visuals, creating a complete sensory experience for the audience.
The impact of “You Are The One” was immediately evident as it quickly climbed the Spotify charts. Within hours of its release, the song garnered thousands of streams and landed on at least 10 Spotify editorial playlists.
One of the most significant achievements for “You Are The One” was its inclusion in the “It’s a Hit!” playlist, a curated selection of the top 50 songs on Spotify. This placement exposed Jan Francis’s music to a wider audience, contributing to its continued growth in popularity. Furthermore, “You Are The One” has been trending on the “It’s a Hit!” playlist for three consecutive weeks.
Catch new things from Jan Francis on his IG account — https://www.instagram.com/janfrancis_official/
The KWC PH management team expressed their excitement upon learning that “You Are The One” had landed on multiple Spotify editorials on its release day. Apple Esplana-Manansala, a partner at KWC PH management, shared that the song placed 9th on Fresh Finds Philippines and received more than 3,000 streams within hours, calling it an amazing news for all of them who work tirelessly on Jan Francis’ music debut. In less than a month, YATO has received more than 100,000 streams on Spotify, almost 100k views of Youtube and almost 300k views of Facebook. “What an amazing accomplishment for Jan Francis, Yayee and the team,” she added.
Watch You Are The One’s Music Video on Facebook here
Following the acceptance of “You Are The One,” Jan Francis released his second single, “Come Back To Me,” on Valentine’s Day 2025. This heartfelt ballad showcases a different side of Jan Francis’s artistry, delving into themes of heartbreak and longing.
Watch the music video on Youtube
And follow Jan Francis on Spotify here
While specific chart information for “Come Back To Me” is not available in the provided search results, the release of a second single so soon after a successful debut indicates the momentum and demand for Jan Francis’s music.
The rapid rise of “You Are The One” and the subsequent release of “Come Back To Me” represent an incredible feat for a newcomer in the music industry. Achieving significant streaming numbers, landing on prominent Spotify playlists, and generating positive buzz within a short period is a testament to Jan Francis’s talent, hard work, and the support of his team.
David Soderholm of Up! Hit Music, the international label handling the song releases of Jan Francis shared how special this first collab for them with a Filipino artist. “The release of two songs so quickly one after the other, especially when the first, “You Are the One,” is still featured on major playlists is remarkable. It reminds me of the incredible amount of work that goes into this process. Jan Francis excels in both powerhouse and pop/R&B genres, and I’m excited to see how far his talent can go. What a fantastic journey it has been with Jan Francis, and his management team in the Philippines, “ he exclaims.
These accomplishments are particularly noteworthy given the competitive nature of the OPM scene. Jan Francis’s ability to break through the noise and connect with listeners on a personal level demonstrates his potential for long-term success.
Jan Francis’s success story highlights the importance of supporting local talent and original Filipino music. Streaming platforms provide crucial avenues for artists to reach audiences and build their careers. By engaging with Jan Francis’s music on Spotify, fans are not only enjoying great music but also contributing to the growth and sustainability of the OPM industry.
[Photo is c/o Fusion Music Festival IG Account ]
Sharing thoughts and engaging with fellow fans on social media using hashtags like #YouAreTheOne #JanFrancis #YATO helps create a sense of community around Jan Francis’s music and encourages others to join in on the excitement.
[Photo is c/o Billboard Philippines IG Account ]
The future looks bright for Jan Francis as he continues his musical journey. He will be participating in Fusion Manila, one of the Philippines’ premier music festivals, on March 15, 2025 together with other KWC PH artists. This festival, which celebrates OPM by uniting artists across genres and generations, provides a perfect platform for Jan Francis to showcase his talent alongside other great Filipino artists.
Fans can also look forward to more original songs from Jan Francis throughout 2025. KWC Philippines management has committed to releasing at least three new tracks within the year, indicating a promising trajectory for his career.
Jan Francis’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere. His dedication, talent, and the support of his community have propelled him to success in a short amount of time. As he continues to create and share his music, he is sure to make a lasting impact on the OPM landscape and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates on Jan Francis’s musical journey by following him on his social media accounts: IG @janfrancis_official | TikTok @janfrancis_official | FB Jan Francis.
For inquiries, email KW***@***********el.com. For more info about KWC PH and the 2025 auditions, click www.kwcph.com
This story also came out on www.thenewchannel.com/highlights. Browse for more NEW Stories on TNC’s official website www.thenewchannel.com.
by | Feb 24, 2025 | Business
Global mining services provider Thiess has partnered with The University of Queensland (UQ) to co-design three new post-graduate qualifications to provide specialised training in mining disciplines and elevate the standard of mining education.
With two graduate certificates and a graduate diploma in resource development on offer, the program is tailored to engineers who want to gain formal qualifications in mining through real world, on the job learning.
Thiess Operations Director – Australia East Peter Rule said: “This partnership brings together Thiess as a leading mining services provider and UQ as a world class tertiary educator to deliver academically recognised qualifications for engineering professionals wanting to convert across from non-mining disciplines to the mining industry.
“Our inhouse learning and development centre, Thiess Institute, and our experience Technical Services professionals, have worked with UQ to shape and influence course content along with developing a flexible learning model to allow students to continue to work in the industry full-time while advancing their formal mining qualifications.”
Participants will gain advanced technical knowledge and practical skills directly applicable to the mining industry, learning from industry experts in a blended approach of remote and on-the-job learning, and on-campus intensive training.
As stated by Professor Ross McAree, Head of UQ’s School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering: “This collaborative initiative with Thiess represents a transformative approach to mining education, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry expertise. By co-designing these specialised post-graduate qualifications, we’re not just teaching mining disciplines – we’re developing the next generation of industry leaders who can drive innovation, safety, and sustainability in resource development.”
by | Feb 24, 2025 | Business
Explore XRP price predictions for 2025, the impact of SEC regulations, market trends, and Ripple’s growth opportunities. Will XRP surge or struggle? Find out now.
Few digital assets spark as much debate as XRP. Some see it as the future backbone of cross-border payments due to its efficiency, while others question its long-term viability.
The uncertainty surrounding XRP’s regulatory status and its close association with Ripple only adds to the intrigue.
Yet, beyond the controversies, one undeniable reality remains: XRP is among the largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, and any potential shift in its utility can significantly impact its price.
This article explores XRP’s current state, its market dynamics, and the factors that will shape XRP’s trajectory through 2025.
SEC Appeal and Regulatory Uncertainty
On February 23, uncertainty loomed over the SEC’s decision on whether to pursue an appeal against the ruling on Programmatic Sales of XRP in the Ripple case.
This speculation grew after the SEC dismissed its case against Coinbase (COIN), hinting at a possible withdrawal from the Ripple appeal. However, the complexity of court rulings in the Ripple case adds an additional layer of uncertainty.
The situation is further complicated by an ongoing investigation by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) into potential conflicts of interest within the SEC. Reports suggest that former SEC Chair Gary Gensler withheld these findings before stepping down on January 15.
Acting Chair Mark Uyeda and Commissioner Hester Peirce have since remained silent, leading to speculation that the findings could impact the SEC’s legal strategy against Ripple.
A withdrawal of the SEC’s appeal could propel XRP beyond its all-time high of $3.5505, whereas continued litigation might suppress prices below $1.50.
The Role of XRP in Cross-Border Payments
Ripple, the fintech company behind XRP, provides blockchain-based solutions for cross-border transactions. Through RippleNet, financial institutions can facilitate faster and cheaper global transfers.
XRP serves as a bridge asset within this ecosystem, enabling liquidity on demand and reducing reliance on pre-funded accounts.
Despite these advantages, XRP’s adoption remains uncertain. Some of Ripple’s partners use its software without utilizing XRP, raising concerns about whether the token is essential for Ripple’s vision.
Additionally, competition from stablecoins and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) threatens XRP’s long-term utility.
OIG Investigation and Its Potential Impact
A key development in the Ripple case is the investigation into former SEC Director Bill Hinman. In 2018, Hinman stated that Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) were not securities while allegedly maintaining financial ties with law firm Simpson Thacher, a proponent of Ethereum.
Court documents indicate that Hinman continued meeting with Simpson Thacher despite SEC ethics warnings. The SEC’s failure to protect related documents under attorney-client privilege further fuels allegations of bias.
If the OIG findings confirm conflicts of interest, the SEC may face pressure to withdraw its appeal, further strengthening Ripple’s position and potentially boosting XRP’s price.
XRP Price Trends and Market Outlook
On February 24, XRP traded at $2.4759. While it remains below its January 16 high of $0.9399, key regulatory and market developments will determine its near-term trajectory.
1. SEC Appeal Outcome: A favorable outcome could drive XRP toward new highs, while continued legal battles may suppress investor confidence.
2. ETF Developments: Approval of an XRP-spot ETF could attract institutional inflows, potentially pushing prices toward $5.
3. Broader Market Trends: Economic indicators, Federal Reserve policies, and Bitcoin ETF trends will also influence XRP’s performance.
Institutional Adoption and Competitive Pressures
For XRP to sustain long-term growth, it must secure institutional adoption. Banks, fintech firms, and payment processors must integrate XRP into their liquidity solutions.
While Ripple has forged partnerships with financial institutions, the rising prominence of stablecoins and CBDCs presents a challenge.
Regulatory clarity will also play a crucial role. A decisive legal victory affirming that XRP is not a security could lead to its relisting on major U.S. exchanges, opening the door for new retail and institutional investors.
Technical Innovations and Market Trends
XRP’s competitive edge lies in its speed and low transaction costs. However, the blockchain landscape is evolving rapidly, with emerging Layer-2 solutions and new digital assets vying for market dominance.
Ripple must enhance its protocol, improve scalability, and build interoperability with other blockchain networks to maintain relevance.
Macroeconomic conditions also play a role. Interest rates, inflation, and investor sentiment influence capital inflows into cryptocurrencies. A bullish market environment could amplify positive developments for XRP, while economic downturns may limit its growth potential.
Analyst Predictions for 2025
Crypto analysts remain divided on XRP’s future, with bullish and bearish scenarios emerging.
1. Bullish Scenarios
- Increased institutional adoption by banks and remittance providers.
- Positive legal outcomes boosting investor confidence.
- Expansion into CBDCs, positioning XRP as a bridge currency.
2. Bearish Scenarios
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Regulatory setbacks limiting XRP’s market accessibility.
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Rising competition from stablecoins and next-generation blockchains.
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Investor skepticism due to slow adoption of XRP-based solutions.
Opportunities for XRP Growth in 2025
Ripple’s ongoing engagement with central banks and its push into stablecoin initiatives could be a game-changer for XRP. If CBDCs and private-sector stablecoins integrate XRP for liquidity and cross-border settlements, the token’s utility could expand significantly.
However, regulatory uncertainty and competition from national digital currencies pose significant hurdles. Governments may opt for closed-loop systems, reducing the need for an external bridging asset like XRP.
Ripple must demonstrate that XRP’s speed, cost-efficiency, and interoperability offer a distinct advantage over fiat-backed alternatives.
Will XRP’s Price Rise or Fall in 2025?
XRP’s price trajectory will depend on regulatory clarity, institutional adoption, and macroeconomic trends. While its potential remains strong, skepticism is justified.
If Ripple secures major partnerships and regulatory victories, XRP could witness a sustained rally. However, continued legal uncertainties and competition from stablecoins and CBDCs may limit its upside.
Crypto analyst Dom recently noted that XRP’s 43% drop from its $0.9399 yearly peak might signal a major buying opportunity. Historically, XRP has rebounded sharply after deep corrections, as seen in the SEC lawsuit-induced plunge of 2020 and the COVID-driven crash.
Market expert Amonyx shares an optimistic outlook, predicting a major price surge based on historical trends. He highlights the Total 3 market cap metric (excluding BTC and ETH), which previously surged to $360 billion after a similar accumulation phase.
Conclusion
XRP’s journey remains uncertain, shaped by legal battles, market trends, and technological advancements. While regulatory clarity and institutional adoption could propel XRP to new heights, competition and skepticism persist.
Investors should closely monitor developments in the SEC case, ETF approvals, and Ripple’s partnerships to gauge XRP’s potential for 2025 and beyond.
by | Feb 21, 2025 | Business
PasaJob, a leading Philippine job platform with 2.3 million users on its GCash-integrated GJobs mini-program, has appointed seasoned HR tech entrepreneur Eddie Ybañez as CEO. This strategic move aims to capitalize on GJobs’ explosive growth and connect even more Filipino job seekers with employers in 2025. Learn how Ybañez plans to revolutionize the talent marketplace and tackle high unemployment. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/public-187" alt="EDDIE YBANEZ Image source: Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub Facebook Page” />
Since its founding in 2020, PasaJob has been established under the leadership of Founder and CEO, Kristen Mariano, to become one of the leading job platforms in the Philippines. To strengthen PasaJob’s leadership team, the company has brought on serial entrepreneur Eddie Ybañez to serve as CEO. Mariano will remain as COO and Chairman of the board.
The transition to Ybañez could not have come at a more opportune time. In September 2023, PasaJob launched GJobs, a mini-program it developed in collaboration with GCash as part of the latter’s “finance for all” mandate. GJobs offers a diverse selection of legitimate job opportunities for all Filipinos with different qualifications, allowing users to conveniently apply right from their phones. GJobs is also the nation’s first job platform that connects employers and job seekers through referrals; users also have the opportunity to earn by referring jobs to peers on the platform.
In less than 17 months since its launch, GJobs has onboarded 2.3 million users, who have applied for 400,000 jobs and made 1 million job referrals. Ybanez now takes the lead in accelerating PasaJob’s next wave of growth in 2025, which aims to onboard more employers and post thousands of new jobs to lead to more hired Filipinos.
Ybañez is no stranger to HR technology: He co-founded Payruler, a human resource management system and payroll system, where he served as Chief Technology Officer. Ybañez understands how to leverage technology to help Filipino talent.
Reimagining the Filipino talent marketplace
To this end, Ybañez has already added several features to the product roadmap of GJobs that will simplify recruiting. At the top of the funnel, employers will have the ability to search for candidates that best meet their criteria from the database. When building a pipeline, the platform will also automatically find candidates who may be qualified that did not already apply. Finally, the platform will enable jobseekers to conduct asynchronous interviews.
All of these features will be powered by artificial intelligence.
“The talent marketplace is generally inefficient and fragmented. Jobseekers know how difficult it is to find a good job; employers share similar frustrations in finding the best talent. With AI, we can streamline the hiring process so that hiring companies and the right talent can connect with one another with the efficiency we’ve been accustomed to online and through the help of referral networks,” said Ybañez.
While there are many ways to source talent, PasaJob focuses heavily on referrals. The reason for this focus is that referrals shorten the hiring period from 42 days to 29 days on average, and referred employees have 70% longer tenures than other employees. Finally, recruiting in some industries is driven entirely by referrals: 55% of BPO hires are referrals, for example.
Because of these benefits, PasaJob will be able to help all companies, especially those with high-volume hiring needs, like BPO or manpower agencies. Ybañez elaborated more on their ideal enterprise partner.
“We are eager to work with companies in fast-growing industries that have significant hiring requirements. With our job platform built around smarter referrals, these enterprises can quickly find the talent they need and at scale. These hires will be a better culture-fit for the organization, so they can create impact while enhancing team dynamics,” said Ybañez.
Jobseekers looking for a role are encouraged to sign into GCash to use GJobs powered by PasaJob. Enterprises who want to hire via GJobs are encouraged to reach out to the PasaJob team through its website or email te**@*****ob.com. In addition to GJobs, PasaJob also operates Recruiters Circle, a recruitment service for highly specialized and technical roles, and Employee Referral Platform, a company-specific, white-labeled version of PasaJob.
by | Feb 20, 2025 | Business
The Executive Centre (TEC), Asia’s leading premium flexible workspace provider, is delighted to announce the launch of its new centre at Grosvenor Place, located on Level 15, 225 George Street, Sydney. This newest addition adds to TEC’s current portfolio of 4 centres in Sydney, reinforcing its dedication to delivering sophisticated workspace solutions in one of Australia’s most prestigious commercial addresses.
Grosvenor Place, a landmark 44-storey Premium Grade office building designed by the acclaimed architect Harry Seidler, is situated moments from Circular Quay. The TEC centre occupies a full floor, spanning close to 2,000 square meters and accommodating over 260 workstations, ensuring ample space for dynamic collaboration and productivity.
The centre boasts a welcoming concierge area, private offices, and a vibrant café serving expertly crafted barista coffee. Members will benefit from a range of premium amenities, including height-adjustable workstations, expansive collaborative spaces, advanced meeting facilities, private phone booths, digital pods and a podcasting studio, along with stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
Robert How, Country Director of Australia at The Executive Centre, expressed his enthusiasm for this significant milestone: “The opening of The Executive Centre at Grosvenor Place underscores our commitment to providing market-leading premium flexible workspace solutions in Australia’s most sought-after CBD locations. We are excited to foster a thriving community in this iconic setting.” This year also commemorates Robert’s 10th anniversary with TEC, during which he has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s growth and innovation.
As the flexible workspace industry continues to gain traction, the outlook for Sydney’s office market remains optimistic. With increasing demand for adaptable work environments, The Executive Centre is poised to lead the charge in meeting the evolving needs of professionals and organisations.
The Executive Centre at Grosvenor Place is designed for discerning professionals and organisations seeking an inspiring and productive work environment, further solidifying TEC’s reputation for excellence in the flexible workspace sector.
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