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MEDIAQUEST Holdings, Inc.’s media information literacy (MIL) initiative ThinkAMuna Pilipinas hopes to combat artificial intelligence (AI)-driven disinformation beyond the election period, aiming to promote critical thinking and media literacy year-round.

“The elections are going to be one period where the threat of disinformation will become much more elevated, but if you look at it, disinformation is there every day of the year,” Ramon “Mon” R. Isberto, communication consultant of Pangilinan-led MediaQuest, told BusinessWorld on Oct. 1.

Manila, Philippines, September 23, 2024 - Radyo5 True FM kicked off its university tour, Usapang Totoo, at the Bulacan State University (BulSU) last September 18. The event featured several speakers who gave presentations providing a deeper understanding of the Philippine radio landscape and helping students develop critical thinking skills, in line with media and information literacy (MIL) through MediaQuest’s corporate sustainability advocacy, Thinkamuna Pilipinas.

The event, held at BulSU’s main campus in Malolos, Bulacan, featured a series of informative lectures led by experts in the field of media and communication, including Mediaquest Holdings’ Charles Lejano and Radyo5 True FM personalities Cherry Bayle, Atom Yango, Arnold Rei, Laila Pangilinan, Chiqui Vergel, and Bro. Jun Banaag.

Aside from the lectures, the event gave over 1,000 students the chance to send their audition videos to apply to be student DJs and voice actors, learn about the radio and digital operations process and formats, and gain firsthand experience in creating audio content.

Audience members also learned about Thinkamuna Pilipinas, focused on the need for the youth, particularly future media practitioners, to navigate the digital age responsibly and critically evaluate information.

“We are thankful to Radyo5 TrueFM for sharing time with our students. The event truly opened their eyes to the current trends and opportunities in radio.”, said Dr. Maria S. Bulaong, Dean of the College of Arts and Letters of Bulacan State University.

On Thinkamuna Pilipinas, Dean Bulaong said, “Media and information literacy is essential for our students to thrive in today’s interconnected world. BulSU remains committed to promoting MIL and empowering our students to become informed and responsible digital citizens.”.

Fourteen Filipino journalists were chosen as grant recipients of the “Media for One Health Project” of Canal France International (CFI), the French Embassy in the Philippines and the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Included in the list are Cignal TV journalists Jove Francisco (Anchor and Senior Manager, Cignal TV), Yeddha Pascual (Mobile Journalist – Health) and Francis Orcio (Mobile Journalist – Environment). Journalists from other regions like Palawan News, Minda News, Sunstar and GMA complete the lineup 

The 14 grant recipients from the Philippines will soon interact with counterparts from Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia and produce reports funded by the project.

The “Media for One Health” launches in Southeast Asia with the aim to strengthen the knowledge and skills of media in select countries in the production and diffusion of information related to the “One Health” approach. The aim is to allow the fellows to understand, decipher and make intelligible to the general public the complexity of health and environmental issues and their impacts.

This project also aims to ensure that the media also develop a positive and unifying discourse by promoting adaptation solutions implemented at local, national and international levels. 

The grant announcement was held in New World Hotel and was attended by French Ambassador in the Philippines Marie Fontanel, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, DENR OIC Asec. Jacqueline Caancan and former health officials Manuel Dayrit and Vicente Belizario Jr.

In the first-ever UAAP Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Tournament, the University of the East reigned supreme after downing the University of Santo Tomas, 2-0, in the finals on Wednesday, August 21, at Hyundai Hall, Arete Ateneo, in Quezon City.

The UE Zenith Esports are composed of John Zel Bartolo, Arohn Cabigting, John Lawrence Chavez, Ariel Dolar, Ryan-Ver Federizo, and Elijah Vilaray.

THE PHILIPPINES delivered a stellar performance at the Olympic Games. Led by the nation’s “Golden Boy,” Carlos Yulo, Filipino athletes showcased exceptional talent and determination, making the Philippines one of the leading Asian countries in the recently concluded Olympics.

Mr. Yulo captured the hearts of millions with his remarkable achievements. Having secured two gold medals, his success has inspired countless Filipinos to pursue their athletic dreams.

Cignal TV, the country’s leading sports content provider, played a key role in enabling Filipinos worldwide to witness these historic moments. As the official broadcaster of the Olympic Games in the Philippines, Cignal brought the excitement and drama of the competition across the nation and beyond. Through its extensive reach and innovative technology, Cignal ensured that every passionate sports fan could cheer for their countrymen and experience the thrill of the competition.

Lean, green, winning machines are Aaron Sablay and DLSU’s Viridis Arcus behind a historic and flawless title conquest.

Worth the hype indeed.

De La Salle University’s Viridis Arcus lived up to its billing as the tournament’s top dog, pulling off 13-5, 13-7 win over UST’s Teletigers in the championship round to rule the inaugural UAAP Esports VALORANT tournament on August 16, Friday at the Hyundai Hall, Arete in Quezon City.

Paolo Medina of the Ateneo Blue Eagles reigned supreme in the first-ever UAAP esports NBA 2K tournament.

The first-ever UAAP esports NBA 2K tournament has officially come to a close.

Ateneo Blue Eagles' Paolo Medina emerged victorious, capturing the title after edging out his rival, DLSU Viridis Arcus Esports' Kegan Yap, in a thrilling best-of-three series at the Doreen Fernandez Black Box, Areté Ateneo in Quezon City.

The Philippines is embracing a new wave of support for its athletes through the “Fame Swap” campaign by Cignal TV and DDB Philippines. This exciting initiative is designed to highlight and uplift athletes from different sports as they compete at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

With the Paris Olympics going into the final stretch, Filipinos are able to continuously cheer for the Philippine delegation through Cignal TV’s sports coverage.

Several Filipino athletes are nearing the medal rounds in the Olympics.

In a statement, PLDT chairman Manny V. Pangilinan underscored just how sports unites people.

“Sports is a metaphor for life. When our athletes succeed, it shows our countrymen what is possible, and what they themselves can achieve. It inspires us, and unites us,” he said.

“Through our collective efforts led by Cignal, we are doing our part to empower our athletes to aim for greater success,” he added.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – MQ Artists Agency, the in-house talent management arm of MQuest Ventures, has secured its first marquee signing: award-winning actor, Cedrick Juan.

Cedrick Juan has signed an Exclusive Talent Management Agreement with MQAA. He won the best actor award in the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival for his portrayal of Fr. Jose Burgos in the film GomBurZa,

“I’m extremely excited to be part of the MQ family,” said Juan, who has long been involved in both theater and film productions. “I would like to thank Sir Jeff, Ma’am Jane, and Boss MVP for this great opportunity.”

“We’re delighted to have Cedrick onboard. He has proven himself as a star who can accomplish much in creating the impactful films that MediaQuest wants to produce,” said MQAA Head Jeff Remigio. “He will be joined by several others over the next few months. Our hunt for more exciting new talent continues.”, Remigio added.
 
“Now is the time to harness the talents of these gifted performers, said MQuest Ventures President and CEO, Jane J. Basas. “The entertainment industry has never been more vibrant. We’re happy to give these artists the platform from which they can work their magic.”

Cedrick Juan’s stellar acting career began when he joined Dulaang UP’s summer workshop in 2013. After joining several productions of Dulaang UP, he landed his first lead role and major theater award in 2017 for Sakuntala: Ang Singsing ng Kapalaran produced by Art Theater Manila.  For his performance, Juan was awarded the Aliw Awards Best Actor Award for a non-musical play.

In 2016, Juan starred in two films selected for the Metro Manila Film Festival: Oro and Die Beautiful. He was nominated for the Best Supporting Actor award for his portrayal of Bong in Oro. He has also appeared in several TV series such as Ilustrado on GMA, Til I Met You by ABS-CBN and Dreamscape, and Paano ang Pasko by TV5 and The Idea First Company. 

Juan’s recent projects include Mula sa Buwan produced by Barefoot Collaborations, as well as his first Cinemalaya film, Huling Palabas, directed by Ryan Machado.

MANILA, Philippines — It is no secret that Filipino fans have a passionate love for their South Korean idols. That’s why when Park Hyung-sik returned to the Philippines for his “SIKcret Time in Manila” fan meet on Feb. 17, his Pinoy fans showed their heartfelt joy through their energetic cheers until the end.

The South Korean star melted the hearts of his fans the moment he entered the Smart Araneta Coliseum stage and serenaded them with his song Monguri, an original soundtrack (OST) from his 2023 historical drama “Our Blooming Youth.”

“Kumusta na kayong lahat? It’s been a while,” Hyung-sik excitedly greeted the crowd after his performance. “Sobrang na-miss ko rin kayong lahat,” he further uttered in Filipino.

Presented by MQLIVE, the two-hour event was an intimate moment for the singer-actor to get closer to his Pinoy fans, four years since he last visited the country in 2019.

MANILA, Philippines — “I have prepared a lot to have a great time with my fans. So, I hope you, guys can expect to have a great time with me.”

That was K-superstar Park Hyungsik speaking about his Asia Tour Fan Meet dubbed “SIKcret Time in Manila” on Feb. 17, 7 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a recent virtual group chat. It’s the anticipated follow-up event to his successful visit in 2019.

MANILA, Philippines — MediaQuest Holdings (MQH), TV5 and Nine Media Corp. (NMC) launched RPTV, facilitated by Nine Media’s airtime agreement with RPN.

In a press release on Tuesday, TV5 said that the networks formalized an agreement for content distribution, sales and marketing services for RPTV.

GomBurZa, a historical drama about the three Filipino priests executed during the Spanish colonial period, won seven awards -- the biggest medal haul at the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal held at the New Frontier in Quezon City.

Co-produced by the Jesuit Communications Foundation and MQuest Ventures, the film secured the Second Best Picture award.  Multi-awarded filmmaker Pepe Diokno was named Best Director, while Cedrick Juan won the Best Actor award.  GomBurZa also won the awards for Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Sound, and the Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award.  
 
"This year's film festival was a landmark return of Philippine cinema," said MediaQuest Holdings Chairman Manuel V.  Pangilinan.  "With so many great films to choose from, I am pleased that the MMFF has given GomBurZa such shining recognition.  Hearty congratulations go to Jescom, and all the hard-working artists and crew who collaborated to produce this pathbreaking film – a tribute to Filipino patriotism and cinematic craft."

"GomBurZa highlights MediaQuest's vision for cinema," said MQuest Ventures President and CEO Jane Basas.  "We want to produce films that not only entertain but also contribute to nation-building by helping enrich people's appreciation of Philippine history and culture."

The execution of Fathers Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos and Jacinto Zamora by Spanish colonial authorities in 1872 is seen as a pivotal event that defined the Filipino identity and paved the way for the Philippine Revolution of 1896.

GomBurZa is screening in theaters nationwide. 

MANILA, Philippines – tvN has launched linear TV channels tvN Movies Pinoy and tvN Premium in partnership with Cignal TV.

tvN Movies Pinoy is a Tagalog-dubbed channel that brings the vibrant world of Korean films to Filipino audiences in their own language; this complements tvN Premium, a high definition (HD) channel that features the latest Korean dramas and shows.

For Cignal subscribers, tvN Movies Pinoy is now available on Channel 39, while tvN Premium replaces tvN Asia, now on Channel 237. tvN Movies Pinoy is also available on Video-on-Demand (VOD) through Cignal TV’s streaming platform, Cignal Play.

MANILA, Philippines – South Korean actor and singer Park Hyung-sik will be in the Philippine next year to grace a fan conference, his management agency PCStudio announced Monday.

The fan conference, titled “SIKcret Time”, is slated February 17, 2024 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Hyung-sik expressed enthusiasm to meet his Filipino fans in the event organized by MQLive in partnership with TONZ Entertainment.

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) formally conferred the “Newspaper of the Year” award on The Philippine STAR yesterday.

The STAR editor-in-chief Ana Marie Pamintuan was recognized as “Journalist of the Year.”

The MOPC said Pamintuan embodied the “best in Philippine journalism today – brainy, hardworking, fair and balanced, courageous, global in values, local in relevance and unyielding in the search for truth, freedom and justice.”

MANILA, Philippines – Following its successful broadcast of the FIBA World Cup 2023, the country’s leading pay television provider Cignal TV delivered world-class, innovative coverage of the recently concluded 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

From start to finish of the 16-day Asiad, Filipino sports fans were able to follow the competitions through Cignal platforms such as the free-to-air One Sports channel, Pay TV channel One Sports+, and its OTT service, Pilipinas Live.

MANILA, Philippines - Radyo5 TRUE FM has marked another important milestone by winning the “Best Radio Station” award at the recently concluded 11th Makatao Awards of  the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP).

This recognition highlights the big strides that Radyo 5 has made since it successfully rebranded its radio station in March of this year and transformed its programming to deliver truthful and impactful news and public services shows on the FM band.

According to NIELSEN ratings, the station holds the No. 7 position in the FM band and the No. 8 spot among all radio stations in the country, surpassing DZBB, which ranks No. 10. Meanwhile, based on KANTAR ratings, TRUE FM secured the Top 5 spot for the second quarter of 2023.

Moreover, Radyo5 TRUE FM has boosted its weekly listenership, which now stands at an impressive 23%.  The number of its Facebook followers has reached 5.2 million, making it the most followed radio station page in the country.

These metrics confirm the significant progress that the station has made in becoming the top choice of radio listeners for “real, relatable and reliable content” anchored on its battlecry, “Dito Tayo sa Totoo!”

TRUE FM’s leading programs include Mon Gualvez’s “Bangyon Bayan with Mon,” “Ted Failon & DJ Chacha,” the flagship news program “Radyo5: Balita Pilipinas,” Lourd De Veyra’s “Sana Lourd,” Danton Remoto’s “Pinoy Konek,” Bro. Jun Banaag’s “Dr. Love,” Senator Raffy Tulfo’s “Wanted sa Radyo,” Dr. Edinell Calvario’s “Healing Galing,” Cristy Fermin’s “Cristy Ferminute,” and more.

“With these achievements, Radyo5 TRUE FM reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accuracy, and fairness in journalism while continuing to provide quality content that resonates with its target audience,” said Raul M. Dela Cruz, Radyo5 TRUE FM General Manager.

“Tune in to the country’s real, relatable, and reliable radio station and find out why more and more listeners are getting hooked to Radyo5 TRUE FM’s engaging programs.” he added.

For more information and updates, check out Radyo5 TRUE FM’s social media pages on Facebook, the X app, and TikTok.

MANILA, Philippines – Cignal TV on Wednesday announced that the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament will be made available to sports enthusiasts in the Philippines and around the world through its OTT streaming platform Pilipinas Live.