Thursday, September 12, 2024

Edtech Experts Call on Philippine Universities to Prioritize Lifelong Learning and AI Literacy

September 2024, Manila Philippines – Lifelong learning is crucial for preparing the Philippine workforce for the future, experts underscored during CanvasCon Philippines 2024, an annual event for the education community organized by Instructure, the leading learning ecosystem and maker of Canvas Learning Management System (LMS).

Martin Bean CBE, professor at the University of New South Wales and CEO of The Bean Centre, highlighted the global challenges of skills mismatch, deficit, and redundancy during his keynote speech. Bean stressed that advances in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), render many job roles obsolete and institutions must provide lifelong learning opportunities to ensure both students and workers are equipped to navigate the ever-evolving job market.

“Across the globe, including in the Philippines, the value of traditional university degrees is being questioned as technological innovation outpaces the relevance of existing qualifications,” said Professor Bean. “Embracing lifelong learning is essential to ensure individuals remain employable and competitive in this evolving landscape.”

The need for lifelong learning is made evident by significant job market shifts, with over 55% of roles expected to be impacted by AI in the coming years, according to Bean. “In a world where machines are automating many tasks, enduring human capabilities like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence will stand out.”

Meanwhile, Ryan Lufkin, Vice President of Global Academic Strategy at Instructure, spoke about best practices and challenges in generative AI and the role of data and analytics in educational technology or edtech during his presentation.

According to Lufkin, while technology-enhanced learning is increasingly the norm, a sound pedagogical foundation is crucial for driving students' learning outcomes and ensuring success. He also highlighted the importance of AI literacy among students.

"The more we help overcome the fear of AI, the more empowered we become to embrace these tools,” said Lufkin. “This helps develop a key skill in AI literacy, the ability to critically evaluate AI tools and understand which ones are appropriate for student needs.”

Lufkin also showed data from the Digital Education Council Global AI Student Survey 2024 that 58% of students feel they lack sufficient AI knowledge and skills. Furthermore, 72% agree that universities should offer more courses on AI literacy, indicating a growing need for AI education in academic curricula.

The conference also featured speakers from local universities that use Canvas LMS, including the University of Santo Tomas, De La Salle University, Ateneo de Manila University, University of the East, Holy Angel University, and CIIT College of Arts and Technology. They shared how they use Canvas LMS to enhance faculty development and tailor learning strategies to address the diverse needs of their students.

Harrison Kelly, Managing Director for APAC at Instructure, concluded the conference by highlighting the vital role of edtech in providing educators with data-driven insights and ensuring students are aligned with the evolving global landscape.

PUBG Mobile Launches Play for Green, Inviting Millions to Take Positive Climate Action

LONDON – September 2024 – PUBG MOBILEone of the world’s most popular mobile games, has today launched a new campaign called ‘Play For Green’. The campaign launches as part of Green Game Jam organised by Playing For The Planet, an initiative supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to support the planet in real action through games and raise awareness of environmental protection.

Featuring a new official map series, a new in-game event, multiple new challenges for players and exclusive themed rewards for them to earn, Play For Green aims to empower and mobilise the global PUBG MOBILE playerbase, facilitate the support of key real world conservation projects and showcase how we can come together to create a greener future. The campaign follows a recent global survey of PUBG MOBILE players which revealed that 88% of players polled are concerned about climate change and the effect this will have on their futures and 91% have already experienced the effects of climate change in their own country.* 

The Ruins of Erangel

Created in collaboration with UCL professor Mark Maslin, PUBG MOBILE integrated climate related themes into the game, building a new official map series ‘The Ruins of Erangel’ in World of Wonder, reimagining the iconic heart of Erangel after 100 years of climate change.The Ruins of Erangel takes into account the current rate of climate change, according to relevant geographical data, and imagines the famous ‘Ruins’ area of Erangels. The research found that in 100 years, without intervention, our planet could suffer the same fate as The Ruins of Erangel, plagued by rampant sandstorms, drought, and a devastating depletion of tree and plant life.


The Ruins of Erangel: Sandstorm challenges players to gather essential medical packs and face off against one another in a high-stakes challenge of survival. As the impending sandstorm looms, players must carefully manage the timings of their healing to withstand the damage dealt by the storm. 


The second map, the Ruins Of Erangel: Exploration offers a unique, narrative-driven experience designed to immerse players in a powerful story about the impact of climate change. This map takes players on a journey through a series of checkpoints, each unveiling a new chapter in the tale of Erangel's transformation. As PUBG MOBILE players advance through the map, text prompts appear at each checkpoint, guiding them through the landscape and deepening their understanding of the environmental challenges depicted.


Read the exclusive white paper of Prof. Mark Maslin’s research which informed the ‘Ruins of Erangel’ and provides 10 key ways individuals can also help support the planet here


Run for Green

Through a special in-game event ‘Run for Green’, running from September 11th to September 24th, players will be able to help real-world environmental projects protect a total of equivalent to over 350,000 sq metres of ecologically vital land across Indonesia, Pakistan and Brazil. During the event, the sprint distance of players across PUBG MOBILE’s Classic modes will contribute towards server-wide milestones aiding projects across the world in protecting vital habitats and supporting Earth’s precious ecosystem. 

  • The Cerrado Biome Project in Brazil works to preserve one of the world’s most biodiverse savannahs by incentivizing landowners to conserve native vegetation, which plays a crucial role in carbon storage.

  • In Indonesia, the Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Project protects one of the last wild populations of orangutans and involves local communities in sustainable practices to reduce human-wildlife conflict. 

  • Finally, in Pakistan, the Delta Blue Carbon – 1 Project focuses on regenerating mangroves in the Indus River Delta, enhancing community resilience against climate change while preventing biodiversity loss. 


Through the ‘Run for Green’ in-game challenge, players will also unlock a series of items and in-game experiences including the special ‘Preservation Garden’ in Home mode featuring a series of beautiful plants and trees which are currently endangered. The ‘Preservation Garden’ aims to raise awareness of the importance of the world’s endangered flora and give them a digital home in PUBG MOBILE for players to learn more about them through interactive signs and enjoy their natural wonder.


World Of Wonder Green Creative Contest


To encourage players to envision a brighter future and engage with climate positive activities, several additional themed items including the majestic yet endangered California Redwood and Giant Baobab trees are also being added to World of Wonder mode. PUBG MOBILE is inviting its creators to continue the conversation around climate change by using the newly released ‘Ruins of Erangel’ template in World of Wonder mode, alongside these new items, to raise awareness of current or future issues, and to imagine a better tomorrow. The winning maps, judged by the PUBG MOBILE team, will be highlighted in World of Wonder and win their share of the $12,500 prize pool. Creators will be able to submit their entries from September 12th to September 25th. What’s more, if players collectively play the official Play for Green maps in World of Wonder and/or any creator map submitted in the World Of Wonder Green Creative Contest a total of over 10 Million times, PUBG MOBILE has pledged to double their real world action for the supported projects.


Global Action Challenge

Another exciting competition is being held on PUBG MOBILE’s official social channels. Running from September 17th until 30th, the PUBG MOBILE Global Action Challenge invites players to share photos or stories of local environmental initiatives they have either taken part in since the Play For Green Campaign launch or have signed up to, for a chance to win exclusive in-game items. To enter, players need to tag PUBG MOBILE’s official channel and include #PUBGMPlayforGreen, alongside details of the project and how their support will help the planet! 

Vincent Wang, Head of PUBG MOBILE Publishing at Tencent Games said: “Through the ‘Play For Green’ campaign, we’re using the power of gaming to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change. With initiatives like the ‘Ruins of Erangel’ maps and the ‘Run for Green’ event, we’re not just creating immersive content for our players—we’re inspiring a global community to take real-world action. This is gaming with purpose, and PUBG MOBILE is proud to be at the forefront of this movement.”

Prof. Mark Maslin, Climatologist and professor at UCL said: “Climate change is not just a distant threat—it’s a reality that will impact every corner of our world. The ‘Play for Green’ campaign in PUBG MOBILE is a powerful tool for raising awareness, offering players a glimpse into a possible future shaped by climate change. By merging science with interactive storytelling, we’re helping to educate and engage a global audience in the fight to protect our planet.”

Sam Barrett, Co-founder Playing for the Planet and the United Nations Environment Programme’s Chief Youth, Education & Advocacy said: “The Green Game Jam 2024 is all about harnessing the unique power of gaming to inspire and encourage players to get their sleeves rolled up and take action themselves. Whether it is making a different choice of what to eat, how to travel or power your home or using our voice to speak out, people power has always played a role in making the world one we all want it to be. The Green Game Jam has been built as a sandbox for all studios to get players to consider how small actions can make a real difference. We look forward to seeing how PUBG MOBILE’s ‘Play for Green’ campaign inspires even more people to act.”


Players can show their support for PUBG MOBILE and the Play for Green campaign in the Green Game Jam’s Player's Choice Awards here

Download and play PUBG MOBILE for free on the App Store and Google Play Store to try the new content. Stay tuned to PUBG MOBILE’s social channels on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube for more details! 

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Ready for Epic Shots? Vivo V40 Brings Three 50MP Zeiss Cameras to Your Fingertips

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Vivo made waves on Facebook, revealing its partnership with ZEISS for the V40 camera system. Translation? Say hello to a mobile photography experience that’s about to blow your mind!

The Vivo V40, set to launch on September 18, 2024, is gearing up to be the most exciting one yet, especially for those who love capturing memories through their smartphone. 

It promises to take portrait photography to a new level, thanks to its impressive 50MP camera system that meets the renowned ZEISS Optics standards.

Here's what to expect on Vivo V40's ZEISS All Main Camera:

Capture every detail with a 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera.

At the heart of the V40 is a 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera that promises clarity and detail in every shot. It delivers pro-level photography so you can capture stunning portraits and breathtaking landscapes that are perfect for your Insta feed.

Wider is better with a 50MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera.

The Vivo V40 has a 50MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera for those who love group shots and scenic views. This bad boy doesn’t just capture the whole squad, it also makes sure that every face in the frame shines. 

With the AI Group Portrait feature, up to 30 faces can be enhanced, making sure that everyone looks their best.

Flawless selfies with 50MP ZEISS Group Selfie Camera

Of course, let’s not forget the front camera. The Vivo V40 comes with a 50MP ZEISS Group Selfie Camera, which is all about high resolution and making sure everyone gets in the shot. 

The 92° wide field of view ensures no one’s left out, and with AI Facial Contouring Technology, you’ll never have to worry about distorted selfies again. Every selfie is detailed, vibrant, and most importantly, real.

The upcoming Vivo V40 is the perfect phone for content creators, photography enthusiasts, or someone who just loves snapping pics with friends. Its ZEISS All Main Camera is set to deliver outstanding performance in any condition.

Get ready, because the Vivo V40 launches on September 18, 2024. Stay tuned to the Vivo website, Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for more updates.

The Vivo V40's ZEISS All Main Camera is about to change how you capture the world around you!

PLDT Global and Infobip Partner to Enhance Customer Experience for Filipinos Overseas With Intelligent Solutions

PLDT Global Corporation (PLDT Global), the international arm of PLDT Inc. (PLDT), has partnered with Infobip, a global cloud communications platform, to utilize conversational solutions to boost customer experience on the TinBo (Tindahan ni Bossing) platform.

PLDT Global is the international unit of the Philippines’ leading integrated telco network PLDT, Inc., and its TinBo platform is a one-stop online marketplace that enables Filipinos living overseas to buy load, pay bills, send vouchers, and other digital products for their families in the Philippines.

Present at the ceremonial partnership launch held at the sidelines of the 20th Asian Carriers Conference (ACC) in Mactan, Cebu were PLDT Global President and CEO Albert V. Villa-Real, PLDT Global Chief Operating Officer Edith Gomez-Cudiamat, Infobip Sales Director Cecile Perez Tizon, and Infobip Regional Telecom Growth Lead Johan Jensen.

“We at PLDT Global are continuously evolving to level up our quality of service to global Filipinos, that is why we are delighted to partner with a technology leader who shares the same passion and vision in utilizing artificial intelligence and omnichannel solutions to improve our business operations and customer experience,” said Villa-Real.

Under this partnership, TinBo will be able to engage with customers in their preferred social media channels and purchase products via TinBo’s over-the-top (OTT) digital channel such as WhatsApp and Messenger. It also enables TinBo to cater to customer inquiries or concerns via automated, always-on communication support and live agents, manage, analyze, and create meaningful and personalize customer interactions through a cloud contact center solution, and design an intelligent chatbot that can respond to concerns in real-time and human-like conversations. 

“Through this partnership, Infobip will enable PLDT Global to provide an enhanced customer experience using state-of-the-art conversational solutions, delivering always-on communication to overseas Filipino workers through the channels they use daily. We are committed to ensuring that they have easy access to services and support that enhance their quality of life and keep them connected to their loved ones,” said Tizon.

Through TinBo, Filipinos living overseas can acquire a Smart Virtual Number (SVN), enabling them to have secure digital identities for their Philippine transactions. Filipinos can also receive important OTPs from their e-wallets and e-banks in the Philippines via SVN, providing access to relevant financial services to help them manage their funds.

This partnership between PLDT Global and Infobip is aligned with the PLDT Group’s broader goal of elevating the quality of life of Filipinos wherever they may be.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Lenovo Introduces New Wave of Yoga and Ideapad Devices at Lenovo Innovation World 2024

Lenovo made a splash at Lenovo Innovation World 2024 in Berlin, revealing exciting new additions to its Lenovo Yoga and IdeaPad portfolios, with a focus on AI-powered advancements. Held on September 5, this event introduced devices designed to enhance productivity and creativity through intelligent tech solutions.

Key highlights include the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (15", 9), a premium Intel® Evo™ Edition laptop powered by Intel Core™ Ultra processors, a result of years of collaboration between Lenovo and Intel. The Aura Edition offers Smart Modes that adapt to user needs, featuring "Attention Mode" to block distractions, eye wellness features, and privacy-focused "Shield Mode." It also boasts Smart Share for seamless image transfers between smartphones and laptops, making it ideal for creators and professionals.

Other models unveiled include the Lenovo Yoga Pro 7 (14", 9), which leverages AMD Ryzen™ processors and AI-powered multitasking. It’s built to handle heavy creative workflows with features like X Power Software Accelerate for faster rendering and exports. Additionally, the 14.5" PureSight Pro OLED display offers stunning visuals, ensuring precise color accuracy for designers and editors.

The IdeaPad Slim 5x (14", 9) and IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1 (14", 9), powered by Snapdragon® X Plus processors, offer versatility and portability with enhanced AI-driven performance. These devices cater to users seeking both creativity and mobility, equipped with touch displays and MIL-STD-810H durability for everyday use.

Finally, Lenovo introduced its new Lenovo Creator Zone, a powerful AI-based software suite that allows users to generate images from text descriptions, sketches, and references. This tool accelerates the creative process, making it easier for designers to bring their ideas to life.

Lenovo's latest offerings reflect its commitment to smarter technology for all, blending cutting-edge hardware with innovative AI-driven features to enhance both professional and personal digital experiences.