by | Jun 25, 2025 | Business
Bookshelf PH launched Sari-sari Stories: Book of Pride on June 11, 2025, featuring eight original stories by Filipino authors that celebrate LGBTQIA+ love, identity, and courage. Released for Pride Month, the anthology continues the publisher’s mission to amplify diverse voices in Philippine literature.
Independent publisher Bookshelf PH officially launched the latest installment of the Sari Sari Stories Collection: Book of Pride, at the SM Podium Book Nook last June 11, 2025.
The new anthology features eight original stories from Filipino authors that explore themes of love, identity, and courage within the LGBTQIA+ community. Weaving together a multi-genre experience, spanning from gripping mysteries to heart-wrenching dramas, the collection highlights individual journeys amid a collective advocacy for equality.
During the launch, the attending authors reflected on the inspiration behind their work. They underscored that the stories primarily centering on queer narratives also hold a broader message of self-acceptance and belonging.
“As we continuously tell diverse stories, this book not only aims to educate but also resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to be seen, heard, or loved for who they truly are,” Michelle Dulinayan, Managing Editor of Bookshelf PH.
The Book of Pride is the third entry of Bookshelf PH’s Sari-Sari Stories Collection, a diverse compendium of Filipino culture told only from the lens of Filipino authors. This new selection is written by eight local authors emerging in the Philippine writing scene: Lucky Charles N. Historia, Shanelle B. Recheta, Kae Espejo, JsslAwra, Evan Orias, Zerodegreescelsius, Dhan Duringo, and Jastine Beatrice Yap. Released as an homage for Pride Month this June, Bookshelf PH and its authors continue to tackle their mission of inclusive storytelling.
“We want this to be a warm embrace for all of the stories that we keep hidden—a message that there exists no light we must step away from but only one that shines within each of us if we allow it to,” Monette Quioge, Managing Partner of Bookshelf PH, says.
Sari-sari Stories: Book of Pride is now available on Bookshelf PH’s website (bookshelf.com.ph) and major e-commerce platforms.
by | Jun 25, 2025 | Business
Watsons turned up the excitement last June 24 with the official launch of its Shop Now for EXTRA-mazing Surprises Campaign at the Watsons Mall of Asia store, treating shoppers, fans, and guests to a high-energy experience complete with brand showcases, exclusive product perks, and limited-time surprises that lived up to the campaign’s name.
The event was packed with music, exclusive perks and activities, and a preview of the new offers lined up for the quarter. Headlining the program were two of today’s fast-rising OPM acts—1st.One and Amiel Sol.
“Today’s event isn’t just about new promos or exciting performances—it’s a celebration of our continued commitment to creating experiences that go the extra mile for our customers. Our goal at Watsons has always been to go beyond just offering a wide range of products. We want to give our customers an experience that’s EXTRA —from the way they shop, to the rewards they receive,” said Joweeh Liao, Health Business Unit, Finance, Property, and Store Development Director of Watsons.
As part of the rollout, Watsons introduced its two EXTRA-mazing promos to reward loyal Watsons Club members:
1 Million Watsons Club Points to be given away:
Until August 20, Watsons Club Members who spend a minimum of P1,000 in a single receipt are eligible to join the e-raffle for a chance to win Watsons Club points—with a total of 1 million points up for grabs on Watsons’ biggest e-raffle to date.
Get Instant Viu Rewards and a chance to Win a Year-Long Subscription:
Members can also earn a raffle entry for a chance to win a one-year Viu subscription with every P1,000 purchase that includes participating health and beauty products. Meanwhile, those who shop online with a minimum spend of P1,500 will receive a one-month Viu subscription instantly.
“These promos are more than just incentives—they’re an invitation to experience the Watsons’ difference, and to feel valued every step of the way,” added Liao. “We want to make every visit to Watsons feel like a celebration—and with these promos, we’re making that happen.”
Beyond the promotions, the event underscored Watsons’ commitment to helping Filipinos look good, do good, and feel great. With over 1,100 stores nationwide, an extensive range of health, wellness and beauty products, and services like Express Delivery and Click & Collect via the Watsons App, the brand continues to make it easier for Filipinos to stay healthy and confident.
Going EXTRA, Watsons also reinforced its mission of creating a positive impact through accessible healthcare, sustainability efforts, and programs that uplift communities and support the planet.
“Because our customers deserve more than just great deals, they also deserve moments that are rewarding, delightful, and truly memorable,” said Liao. “That’s why we also invite everyone to sign up as Watsons Club members to enjoy even more exclusive benefits.”
To learn more about Watsons’ EXTRA-mazing promos and updates, follow @WatsonsPH on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, or download the Watsons App.
by | Jun 25, 2025 | Business
The Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau (based in Chuo Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture. Chairman: Hiroshi Mizohata) and KDDI Corporation (based in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. President and CEO: Hiromichi Matsuda) have announced the addition of new options for “Osaka eSIM” starting June 25, 2025, and will launch new data add-ons for long-term visitors, including 30 GB (30 Days) and 15 GB (15 Days) options.
■ “Osaka eSIM” toppings
[For foreign visitors]
[NEW] 30 GB (30 Days)
Price: JPY 2,780
Duration: June 25, 2025 – End date undetermined
[NEW] 15 GB (15 Days)
Price: JPY 1,670
Duration: June 25, 2025 – End date undetermined
Unlimited Data (3 Days) (Note 1)
Price: JPY 790
Duration: April 13, 2025 – End date undetermined
Unlimited Data (24 Hours) (Note 1)
Price: JPY 330
Duration: April 13, 2025 – End date undetermined
Unlimited Data (6 Hours) (Note 1)
Price: JPY 250
Duration: April 13, 2025 – End date undetermined
Unlimited Data (2 Hours) (Note 1)
Price: JPY 180
Duration: April 13, 2025 – End date undetermined
(Notes)
■About Osaka eSIM
Osaka eSIM is a mobile communications service offered by the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau in collaboration with the KDDI Group. They utilize “povo SDK,” which allows the company to incorporate povo’s communication services into their own, allowing consumers to use the quality and safety of au’s network.
Customers purchase plans online and customize them via “toppings” to suit their needs in terms of data usage and length of stay, in as little as three minutes. (note 2)
■”Osaka eSIM” first-time user special
Osaka eSIM is offering a “first-time user special” in which customers can receive “Unlimited Data (24 Hours)” (note 1) to commemorate the start of service.
Eligibility: Foreign visitors
Special details: Input a promo code after registration to receive “Unlimited Data (24 Hours)” (note 1)
Duration: April 13, 2025 – End date undetermined
■How to use “Osaka eSIM”
■About communication services for foreign travelers offered by the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau
In January 2014, the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau began offering free public Wi-Fi (Osaka Free Wi-Fi, or OFW) for people visiting Osaka, especially tourists from overseas.
In addition, the Bureau worked with Wire and Wireless Co., Ltd. to offer “Osaka Free Wi-Fi OpenRoaming” from October 2024, which is compatible with “OpenRoaming” (note 3), an international standard of authentication which is being increasingly adopted in Europe, the United States, and Japan, with the goal of expanding OFW and making it more comfortable to use.
In addition to OFW, which can only be used in specific places, the Bureau also offers “Osaka eSIM,” which covers a wide area and can be used easily during transit. A large number of tourists are expected to visit Osaka for Expo 2025, and the Bureau is striving to provide a comfortable and seamless communications environment and increase the satisfaction of visitors.
■About povo SDK
Povo SDK is an open communications service that allows companies to incorporate povo’s communication service and offer their own plans. Music and video subscription services, e-tickets, and smart phone payments have become increasingly more widespread, amplifying the need for an internet connection in people’s daily lives.
This allows companies to offer unlimited data for specific services or original toppings that other companies don’t carry. The duration and data amount can also be customized, allowing the company to provide appropriate toppings to suit the customer’s needs.
povo SDK site: https://povo.jp/open-telecom-sdk/
(note 1) Network speed may be limited during network congestion.(note 2) Time until the user begins using the service as calculated by KDDI. This may differ based on the customer’s situation.
(note 3) An international wireless LAN roaming infrastructure developed by the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) and their group companies, a global association of telecommunication carriers and public wireless LAN providers. Wire and Wireless is working with Cityroam, a member of the WBA that operates the roaming infrastructure in Japan, to provide services compatible with OpenRoaming.
*Prices displayed include tax unless stated otherwise.
For Media Inquiries
KDDI Digital Life Corporation
PR: pr***********@***********fe.com
by | Jun 24, 2025 | Business
Over 70 Australian artists, producers and composers will undertake career-defining activities around the world, backed by investment through Music Australia’s Export Development Fund.
The fifth round of the Export Development Fund sees $997,787.95 invested in 78 projects, involving a range of artists; from solo acts to bands, producers, composers and songwriters to support headline tours, debut showcase performances, artist residencies, publicity campaigns and more.
The Export Development Fund is a matched funding initiative, designed to elevate emerging, breakthrough, and established acts into the international market, whilst fostering sustainable and thriving careers. The program focuses on three key pathways: Performance and Touring, Professional and Artistic Development and Market and Audience Development.
This announcement follows the launch of The Bass Line, Music Australia’s landmark study into the economic contribution of Australia’s music industry. The analysis revealed strong international demand for Australian music, with music export contributing an estimated $975 million to the total Australian music industry revenue.
Since its launch, the Export Development Fund has successfully supported over 400 projects to date highlighting the importance of a dedicated contemporary music export program in Australia.
Among the highlights of the 78 supported projects:
- Lutruwita/Tasmania-based artist, activist, author and proud Warnindhi lyagwa woman Emily Wurrumara will be bringing her ARIA-award winning albumNarato international audiences on her Canadian Folk Festival run.
- Fast rising hip-hop artist LEE. will travel to Los Angeles to strengthen his creative development, expand his professional network and enhance his commercial prospects.
- African Australian producer Chandler Jewelswill travel to Toronto, Canada to work with multi-platinum GRAMMY-award nominated producer WondaGurl, following his participation in the inaugural ARIA Collab program.
- Not-for-profit record label Music in Exilewill undertake a global press campaign to support the release ofJutna, a full-length album with an accompanying short film created by musicians with lived experience of migration and displacement working in the Australian music industry.
- R&B neo-soul artist Anieszkawill engage in extensive co-writing sessions with producers and artists in the UK and Germany to diversify her personal sound.
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Harpist and composer Paul Nicolaouwill undertake an intensive weeklong workshop, “Writing and Recording for Video Games” in Vienna, mentored by 3x GRAMMY-nominated and BAFTA-winning composer Austin Wintory.
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DJ-producer DAWSwill undertake production and co-writing sessions with international producers across Europe.
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Female-fronted heavy band Full Flower Moon Bandwill return to Europe and UK for their headline tour and a debut showcase at Reeperbahn Festival.
Applications for the next round of the Export Development Fund close on Tuesday 8 July.
by | Jun 24, 2025 | Business
Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has entered a three-year partnership with UNICEF Luxembourg to advance digital skills and blockchain literacy among young people .
The partnership enrolls Bitget into the Game Changers Coalition (GCC) led by UNICEF Office of Innovation (OOI). Support from Bitget will help reach 300,000 people – including adolescent girls, parents, mentors and teachers with blockchain skills- across eight countries; Armenia, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Morocco, and South Africa.
Through the partnership, Bitget Academy, the educational arm of Bitget, will help develop UNICEF’s first interactive, online and in-person blockchain training module based on video games creation skills development for teachers and young people. This is a welcome inclusion to a curriculum already reaching hundreds of thousands of people. Support from Bitget will also help expand the Coalition’s reach to a ninth country.
“This partnership reflects our shared belief that digital skills are a powerful driver of opportunity and inclusion,” said Sandra Visscher, Executive Director of UNICEF Luxembourg.“By collaborating with Bitget, we want to provide adolescents and young people with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to shape their own futures. Innovation should be a force for inclusion, opening doors, broadening horizons, and ensuring that technology works for everyone, everywhere.”
In a move to extend the ecosystem’s reach, Bitget will also aim to introduce UNICEF to leading blockchain protocols and developers from across the Web3 landscape to participate in the educational initiative. These contributors could serve as mentors and partners, offering diverse perspectives and possibilities for blockchain technologies.
“Emerging technologies should not be reserved for the privileged few—they must be introduced early and equitably. Blockchain, with its real-world use case and potential for social good, is one of the most powerful tools we can give to our younger generation to build products that change the way we look at modern society. With Blockchain4Her, what began as a mission to empower hundreds of women has scaled into a global movement to educate thousands of girls. This is the kind of scale and impact blockchain was built for,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.
Every year, adolescent girls and young women in low and middle-income countries miss out on USD 15 billion in economic opportunities due to a gap in internet access and digital skills relative to their male peers. With 90 per cent of jobs today requiring digital competencies, the Game Changers Coalition responds to the urgency of closing the gender digital skills gap.
Together, Bitget and UNICEF are working to build a scalable, inclusive model that equips young women with the tools to navigate and shape the digital economy of tomorrow.
As part of the Game Changers Coalition, Bitget joins the Global Video Game Coalition, Micron Foundation and ecosystem builders – Women in Games in a shared ambition to reach 1.1 million girls by 2027, with learning and skills-building opportunities.
With the help of Bitget Academy, and support from the $10M initiative Blockchain4Her, Bitget plans to enhance digital literacy and financial independence among women taught to them at a young age.
Bitget’s Blockchain4Her initiative has previously supported women through mentorship programs, funding opportunities, and educational resources.
Together, Bitget and UNICEF Luxembourg aim to empower a new generation of girls with the knowledge and skills they need to participate actively in the evolving crypto economy.
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