Review: Amusement Arcade Toaplan: A Pocket-Sized Retro Paradise for iOS Gamers

Amusement Arcade Toaplan is a nostalgic treasure trove for retro gaming enthusiasts, bringing a collection of classic arcade titles from the renowned developer Toaplan to iOS devices. This app serves as a portal to the past, offering a diverse range of games that defined an era.

A Nostalgic Journey Through Classic Titles

Upon launching the app, players like me are greeted with "Truxton" (also known as "Tatsujin" in Japan) available for free. This iconic vertical shooter sets the tone for the quality and challenge that Toaplan games are known for. Beyond "Truxton," the app offers an additional 24 titles for purchase, including gems like "Twin Cobra," "Batsugun," and "Snow Bros." Each game is meticulously emulated to preserve the original arcade experience, complete with authentic graphics and sound.​

Customization and Authenticity

One of the standout features of Amusement Arcade Toaplan is the ability to design and expand a personalized virtual arcade. Players can arrange cabinets and decorate their space, creating a unique environment that mirrors the ambiance of classic arcades. The app also offers various display filters and game settings, allowing players to adjust difficulty levels, and lives, and even enable invincibility. These options cater to both purists seeking an authentic experience and newcomers looking for a more accessible introduction to these challenging titles.

Controls and Performance

The transition of these arcade classics to a touchscreen interface is handled with care. The app provides customizable on-screen controls that are responsive and intuitive. For those seeking a more tactile experience, Amusement Arcade Toaplan supports external controllers, which is a welcome addition for serious gamers. Performance-wise, the app runs smoothly on devices running iOS 13.7 or later, ensuring a seamless gaming experience.​

Final Thoughts

Amusement Arcade Toaplan is a lovingly crafted homage to a bygone era of gaming. It successfully captures the essence of arcade culture and delivers it to the palm of your hand. While the pricing structure may not appeal to everyone, the quality of the emulation, the breadth of titles available, and the customization options make it a standout app for enthusiasts of classic arcade games.

Mylo Speech Buddy Unveils 'Ausome World' Digital Series and 'Speak Clinic' Teleconsultation Platform on World Autism Awareness Day

Manila, Philippines — To commemorate World Autism Awareness Day, Mylo Speech Buddy, an app designed to support individuals with speech delays and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), has introduced the ‘Ausome World’ digital series and the 'Speak Clinic' teleconsultation platform. These initiatives aim to amplify the voices of individuals with ASD and enhance access to speech therapy services.

Vincent Rocha, Founder and CEO of Mylo Speech Buddy stated, “The launch of these initiatives represents a significant milestone in raising awareness about autism and supporting families seeking quality care for children with developmental challenges, especially as we observe World Autism Awareness Day.”

'Ausome World' Digital Series

The 'Ausome World' video series features compelling narratives from parents and children navigating the challenges of ASD, providing viewers with authentic insights into their experiences. Plans are underway to expand the initiative by filming content in multiple countries including the United Arab Emirates, Japan, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States of America. By capturing diverse narratives from around the world, the series seeks to break barriers and foster a more connected and informed community.

"With 'Ausome World,' we are bringing real stories to a global stage, ensuring that individuals with autism and their families feel seen, heard, and supported," said Rocha.

'Speak Clinic' Teleconsultation Platform

In addition to the digital series, Mylo Speech Buddy has launched the Speak Clinic, an innovative teleconsultation platform designed to streamline therapy access for children with developmental challenges. It offers features such as smart appointment scheduling, high-quality telemedicine capabilities, real-time chat for seamless communication between specialists and families, comprehensive patient management tools, and an integrated payment gateway for ease of use. Healthcare professionals interested in joining the platform can register through the official website at SpeakClinic.com.

Launch on World Autism Awareness Day

The launch event was attended by experts and advocates, including Dr. Bernadette C. Benitez, President of the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics; Teacher Katherine Tiuseco, a registered Speech Language Pathologist and an online educational content creator; and ‘Ausome’ parents Kristyn Chua-Dela Cruz and Marissa Torres. Gigi Daza, wife of Congressman Paul Daza, also participated, underscoring the importance of inclusive education and support systems.

Mylo Speech Buddy continues to bridge the gap in autism awareness and support, fostering a more inclusive society through innovation and storytelling. For more information about Mylo Speech Buddy and its initiatives, please visit www.mylo.ph

Shifts in Global Migration Trends Open Doors to Rising Global Destinations for Work and Study Abroad— British Council IELTS

Manila, Philippines – Recent shifts in the global economy are leading popular Filipino migration destinations—US, UK, Canada, and Australia—to update their visa and international student policies, opening opportunities in emerging destinations. The British Council, a globally trusted and recognized provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), provides personalized support to help Filipinos gain internationally recognized qualifications and explore fresh avenues for work, study, and living abroad in 2025.

Historically drawn to the "big four" destinations—the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—Filipino emigrants now face a shifting terrain. In the US, immigration restrictions have put residency papers on hold, while Australia moves to cap international student enrolments. Meanwhile, Canada is scaling back temporary foreign worker programs and the UK is tightening student visa rules.

To help Filipinos navigate the changing migration landscape, the British Council, the organization that co-jointly runs the IELTS, provides internationally recognized credentials that open doors to a wide range of opportunities worldwide. Accepted by over 12,500 organisations across 140 countries, the British Council provides essential resources and personalized support needed to help Filipinos succeed in the IELTS exam, preparing them for success not only in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, but also in emerging destinations across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Where Filipinos are Headed in 2025
Several countries are now eager to attract global talent, creating new opportunities for Filipino students and professionals. Here are some of the rising destinations for 2025:

New Zealand

New Zealand, known for its thriving agriculture, healthcare, construction, and engineering sectors, is also becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Filipino workers. The country recently overhauled its Accredited Employer Work Visa regulations to make it easier for skilled foreign workers to migrate. These changes include removing restrictions on middle-income jobs, reducing experience requirements from three to two years, and introducing new seasonal worker visas. 

Germany

Germany, well-renowned for its expertise in engineering, healthcare, and technology, has become a top destination for Filipino students and professionals. To strengthen its workforce, the country introduced major immigration reforms through the Skilled Labor Immigration Act, a new points-based system that evaluates applicants based on salary, educational level, and German language proficiency, making it easier to enter the country even without a job offer. The country also supports foreign students with a one-year opportunity visa, allowing them to gain work experience and improve their chances of securing long-term employment.

“Moving here was a big step, but its world-class education, strong job market, and vibrant culture made it all worth it,” recounts Jay Paul Ely Tena, the 2023 IELTS Prize Winner, who recently pursued his graduate studies at the University of Erfurt. “Adjusting to the language and lifestyle had its challenges, but my IELTS preparation with the British Council gave me the confidence to communicate effectively, both in my studies and daily life,” he adds.

Spain

Spain, a global hub for education and business, is strengthening its immigration policies to boost its workforce. Foreign students pursuing higher education can receive automatic work authorization and can remain in Spain for up to 24 months post-graduation to seek employment or start a business. The country has also removed the three-year residency requirement for switching from a student to a work visa, making it easier for graduates to enter the workforce. Additionally, Spain plans to legalize 300,000 undocumented immigrants annually, granting them work and residence permits.

"Living in Spain has been an incredible experience—the welcoming culture, the balance between work and personal life, and the accessibility of everything made it feel like home," shares Jessica Badua, the 2022 IELTS Prize winner, who earned her master's degree at the Universidad de Cádiz. "The British Council IELTS was instrumental in my journey, not only helping me gain admission to my master's program but also opening doors for scholarships and opportunities that made my transition as an international student smoother and much more rewarding."

Singapore

Singapore remains a top choice for Filipino professionals. The country’s Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass, part of the city-state’s broader strategy to attract top global talent, allows skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to live and work there for five years without employer restrictions. The country has also simplified pathways for international students to obtain permanent residency, allowing graduates to transition smoothly into the workforce. 

"Many Filipinos may feel uncertain about their options due to the changing migration landscape," says Zoe Zhang, Regional Director for Exams at the British Council. "But the British Council ensures that our candidates have the tools and qualifications they need to prepare for the IELTS and help them succeed on the global stage, even outside the ‘Big 4.’"

While migration trends continue to evolve, the British Council IELTS remains committed to equipping Filipino students and professionals with the right resources and support to pursue their work, study, and living abroad dreams—empowering them to build a bright future anywhere in the world. 

To book your IELTS exam, secure your slot here: https://bit.ly/4jJrHud. For more information about the British Council visit the IELTS British Council Facebook page or website.

PLDT Global, Commission on Filipinos Overseas Join Forces to Combat Human Trafficking

In a significant move to bolster the fight against human trafficking, PLDT Global Corporation (PLDT Global) has partnered with the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) to launch a new initiative aimed at protecting Filipinos abroad. This collaboration will make the 1343 Actionline, a 24/7 hotline dedicated to assisting victims of human trafficking, more accessible to Filipinos overseas through zero-rated calls via the Tindahan ni Bossing (TinBo) app.

Under this partnership, PLDT Global will provide zero-rated calls to the 1343 Actionline using the Smart Virtual Number via the TinBo app. This initiative ensures that Filipinos overseas can report human trafficking cases without worrying about call charges. The TinBo app, available on Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, offers a seamless way for users to access essential digital products, bill payment portals, and government services. This service also builds on PLDT Global’s existing support for the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s helpline 1348.

"Our collaboration with the CFO aligns with TinBo’s promise of care and a testament of our commitment in uplifting the lives of Filipinos wherever they are in the world. By leveraging technology, we aim to create a safer environment for our fellow Filipinos abroad," said Albert V. Villa-Real, President and CEO at PLDT Global.

CFO is a government agency dedicated to promoting and upholding the interests, rights, and welfare of overseas Filipinos. Its clients include Filipino permanent residents abroad, immigrants, marriage migrants, Au Pairs bound for Europe, and US Exchange Visitor Program participants.

Under the leadership of Secretary Dante Francis Ang II, the CFO has been at the forefront of combating human trafficking. "Human trafficking remains a pressing issue among overseas Filipinos. Making the 1343 Actionline accessible for free via TinBo is a crucial step in our continuing efforts to protect and support our fellow Filipinos and enable them to report human trafficking cases and connect with crucial resources available to protect their welfare," said Secretary Ang.

In addition to the zero-rated calls, PLDT Global and CFO will also work together to rollout reintegration programs designed to support Filipinos Living Overseas (FLOs) affected by in-country challenges and offering re-skilling and upskilling opportunities through training and seminars.

Filipinos based overseas can access the free calls to the 1343 Actionline by following these steps:

1. Download and register to the TinBo app on Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

2. Subscribe and register to a Smart Virtual Number, a SIM-less Philippine mobile number for overseas use.

3. Open the Smart Virtual Number and access the Actionline 1343 to make free calls.

Powered by PLDT Global -- PLDT's international unit -- TinBo is a one-stop online marketplace that enables Filipinos overseas with relevant and value-packed products and services catered to address their connectivity, bills payment, digital banking, entertainment, and gifting needs. This is aligned with the much broader goal of PLDT to serve Filipinos in every corner of the world.

Enchanted Kingdom Hypes up 30th Anniversary With New Ride; CEO, First Filipino to Receive Prestigious International Award

Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, officially welcomed its newest family thrill ride, EKlipse, with an enchanting and immersive launch event this March 30.

As one of EK’s inaugural gifts for its 30th anniversary this 2025, EKlipse offers an exciting new adventure for Filipinos, marking the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. Guests will enjoy the heart-pounding thrill aboard this ride with its unpredictable rotating movement and the visual illusion it creates every time its arms pass each other.

Catering even to pre-teens and teenagers, this newest attraction is sure to foster even more shared experiences and create enchanting memories for EK’s multi-generational guests with their loved ones.

EKlipse Grand Launch

The EKlipse Grand Launch featured spectacular performances from rising P-pop group GAT, The Clash Season 6 grand champion Naya Ambi, and up-and-coming Filipino boy group AJAA.

EK’s very own P-pop group, SMS, also captivated the audience with their newly released single, Meant 2 Shine, along with their latest music, the theme song of EKlipse. This song supplements the overall experience of the new ride, as it plays throughout its entire cycle.

The enchanting celebration was graced by Santa Rosa City Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas who joined in the symbolic unveiling of the ride marquee, together with EK President and Chairman Cesar Mario Mamon; Chief Operating Officer Cynthia Mamon; Head of Integrated Marketing, and Organization Development and Corporate Planning Nico Mamon; Eldar the Wizard; and twin princesses Victoria and Madeline.

When the marquee was revealed, EKlipse suddenly came to life, setting off a dazzling display of dancing lights that highlighted the ride’s visual appeal, especially at night.

Adding a magical twist to EK’s classic tradition, the night was topped off by the Sky Wizardry Fireworks Display featuring the vibrant colors of EKlipse.

As a special treat, Eldar the Wizard also extended the park’s operating hours on Sunday to give the guests more chances to try the family thrill ride as well as EK’s other attractions.

The introduction of EKlipse exemplifies the theme park’s continuous pursuit in bringing new world-class and enchanting experiences for all Filipinos.

The Inspirational Man Behind EK’s Magic

EK also announced that its president and chairman, Cesar Mario Mamon, won the highly-coveted Inspiration Award in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region, as revealed by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) last March 25.

He is notably the first Filipino to ever receive this recognition from the premier global attractions trade association.

Through this prestigious award, IAAPA honors the visionary individuals who championed innovation in the amusement parks and attractions industry in their respective areas.

Currently in his third decade in the integrated attractions industry, Mr. Mamon has made a long-lasting mark not only in the country but also in Asia.

Aside from being the founder of the leading theme park in the Philippines, he served as the chairman of IAAPA in 2013, making him the first Asian to be elected for this esteemed role. Later, he became the founding head of the Philippine Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (PhilAAPA).

Mr. Mamon is set to receive the Inspiration Award at the IAAPA Honors 2025 which will be held in Germany from April 28 to 30.

For more information and updates regarding these and EK’s other upcoming events and offers, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.