SOCIAL MEDIA

SM Mall of Asia NYE Countdown 2026 With AHOF and Kapuso Stars

Monday, December 29, 2025


New Year’s Eve in the Philippines has always been about bigger celebrations, louder cheers, and unforgettable moments with people we love. And if there is one place that has truly mastered the art of ringing in the new year, it is SM Mall of Asia. As 2025 draws to a close, the country’s most iconic seaside destination is once again setting the stage for an epic welcome to 2026 with the NYE Kapuso Countdown, headlined by rising K-pop group AHOF and powered by a star-studded Kapuso lineup.

More than just a countdown, this year’s celebration promises a full-blown experience that blends global music, Filipino pride, and the kind of fireworks display that has become a New Year tradition for many families.

SM Mall of Asia’s New Year Countdown: A Filipino Year-End Tradition

For years now, SM Mall of Asia has been synonymous with unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebrations. From its open-air seaside views to its massive event spaces, MOA has evolved into a gathering place where families, friends, tourists, and first-time visitors all come together for one shared moment at midnight.

The NYE Kapuso Countdown to 2026 reinforces MOA’s status as the go-to destination for year-end festivities. With extended mall hours, dining spots staying open late, and entertainment spread across the complex, it is designed to be an all-in-one celebration where guests can eat, watch, sing along, and count down without ever feeling rushed.

AHOF Takes Center Stage With a Global Sound and a Filipino Connection

Leading this year’s countdown is AHOF, a fast-rising K-pop group that has been gaining attention across Asia since their debut. Formed through the SBS survival show Universe League, AHOF officially entered the music scene in July 2025 with their mini-album Who We Are. Known for their sharp choreography and dynamic stage presence, the group brings a distinctly global energy to the MOA stage.

What makes their appearance especially meaningful for local fans is the presence of JL Gaspar, a Filipino member who previously competed in the P-pop scene as part of PLUUS. His journey from local stages to an international K-pop group resonates deeply with Filipino audiences, proving that homegrown talent can thrive on the global stage.

For many fans, AHOF’s New Year’s Eve performance is more than just a concert highlight. It is a moment of representation, pride, and inspiration as the country welcomes 2026.

Kapuso Artists Bring the Countdown Energy Starting at 10 PM

Music lovers can expect the excitement to start early, with performances kicking off at 10 PM courtesy of GMA’s brightest stars. The Kapuso lineup includes Julie Anne San Jose, Christian Bautista, Kyline Alcantara, Rayver Cruz, Rocco Nacino, and more familiar faces who know how to command a live crowd.

Their back-to-back performances are designed to steadily build anticipation, turning the hours before midnight into a full concert experience. Whether you grew up listening to OPM classics or enjoy today’s chart-toppers, the lineup offers something for every generation, making it an ideal event for families celebrating together.

Late-Night Dining, Seaside Views, and Nonstop Fun at MOA

One of the reasons MOA’s New Year celebrations stand out is the experience beyond the stage. Mall of Asia Veranda tenants will remain open until 12 midnight, giving guests plenty of options for last-minute food trips, desserts, and celebratory drinks.

The seaside atmosphere adds to the magic. With cool evening breezes and open views of Manila Bay, the MOA complex offers a refreshing alternative to indoor celebrations. It is the kind of setting where you can enjoy the countdown, grab comfort food, and still have space to breathe even in a large crowd.

The MOA Grand Fireworks Display: A Midnight Moment to Remember

As the clock strikes 12 MN, all eyes turn to the sky for the MOA Grand Fireworks Display, the highlight that many Filipinos look forward to year after year. Known for its scale and musical synchronization, the fireworks show transforms the bay area into a canvas of color, sound, and light.

This is not just a fireworks display. It is a shared moment of excitement and hope as music, visuals, and collective cheers come together to mark the start of a new year. For first-time visitors and longtime MOA regulars alike, it is often the memory that stays long after the celebration ends.

New Year’s Eve is deeply rooted in Filipino culture. It is about fresh starts, gratitude for the year that was, and optimism for what lies ahead. Events like the MOA NYE Kapuso Countdown capture that spirit by bringing people together through music, shared experiences, and moments of joy.

The mix of international acts like AHOF and beloved local artists reflects how Filipino entertainment continues to evolve while staying grounded in community and connection. It is a reminder that global and local cultures can meet in one space and create something meaningful.

Tips for Enjoying the MOA NYE Kapuso Countdown

If you are planning to welcome 2026 at SM Mall of Asia, here are a few practical tips:
  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially near the main stage
  • Plan your meals ahead, but take advantage of the late-night dining options
  • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for long hours of standing and walking
  • Keep phones charged to capture fireworks and performances
  • Stay patient and enjoy the crowd energy, it is part of the experience

A New Year Worth Celebrating at MOA

With AHOF’s global sound, a powerful Kapuso lineup, late-night dining, and the iconic MOA fireworks lighting up the sky, the NYE Kapuso Countdown to 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting ways to start the new year. Whether you come for the music, the fireworks, or the tradition itself, SM Mall of Asia offers a celebration that feels both grand and deeply Filipino.
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Sexbomb Girls and IV of Spades Reunite in Sold-Out SM MOA Arena Concerts

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Just when fans thought 2026 was winding down quietly, the SM Mall of Asia Arena delivered a plot twist no one saw coming. In a powerful celebration of Original Pilipino Music, two iconic acts from different generations returned to the stage and sold out the country’s premier indoor venue back to back.

The long-awaited reunion of Sexbomb Girls and the highly anticipated comeback of IV of Spades turned the MOA Arena into a space filled with nostalgia, emotion, and pure Filipino musical pride. More than just concerts, these shows felt like cultural moments that reminded fans why OPM continues to thrive across eras.

Sexbomb Girls’ First-Ever MOA Arena Show Feels Like a Time Capsule


For many Filipinos, the Sexbomb Girls are not just performers. They are a core memory.

When the iconic all-female group finally took the SM MOA Arena stage for the first time, it felt like a homecoming years in the making. Their concert, aptly titled “Get, Get, Aw!”, drew a sold-out crowd made up of longtime fans who proudly call themselves “pinalaki ng Sexbomb.”

From the moment the music started, the energy inside the arena shifted. Familiar beats sparked instant reactions. Fans danced, sang, and cheered as if transported back to the early 2000s, when barangay dance contests, noontime shows, and pop anthems ruled daily life.

A Celebration of Confidence, Dance, and Filipino Pop Culture

Now composed of 17 members, the Sexbomb Girls filled the massive arena with synchronized choreography and timeless hits that defined an era. Their performance was more than a nostalgic throwback. It was a reminder of how their music championed self-expression and confidence at a time when Filipino pop culture was rapidly evolving.

By honoring the roots of grassroots dance culture and the joy of moving freely, the concert resonated not just with millennials, but also with younger fans experiencing Sexbomb’s music live for the first time. The message was clear. Music has the power to connect generations without losing its soul.

IV of Spades Reunite After Seven Years to a Sea of Devoted Fans


If Sexbomb’s return felt like a joyful reunion, IV of Spades’ comeback was deeply emotional.

The SM MOA Arena closed the year on a high with “IV of Spades Live at the MOA Arena,” a two-day concert held from December 12 to 13. After seven years apart, the band’s reunion drew a sold-out crowd on opening night, with fans eager to witness a chapter they once thought was over.

Familiar Songs, New Music, and an Intimate Atmosphere

Known for their creative visuals and genre-bending sound, IV of Spades transformed the arena into an immersive experience. Fans were treated to beloved tracks such as “Mundo,” “Sentimental,” “Konsensya,” “Aura,” and “Ilaw sa Daan,” alongside surprises that kept the energy unpredictable and exciting.

Despite the scale of the venue, the concert felt surprisingly personal. The band shared candid moments with the audience, including a lighthearted Tekken match and heartfelt exchanges that reflected how far they had come, both individually and as a group finding their way back together.

For many fans, it was not just about hearing the songs live again. It was about closure, growth, and the joy of seeing artists evolve without losing their identity.

These back-to-back sold-out shows highlighted something important about the local music scene. Filipino audiences are deeply loyal, emotionally invested, and eager to support artists who tell authentic stories.

Sexbomb Girls reminded fans of the joy and confidence that defined a generation. IV of Spades showed that even after time apart, creativity and connection can still flourish. Together, their concerts represented the full spectrum of OPM, from pop dance anthems to alternative rock storytelling.

For younger artists and fans, these reunions also served as proof that Filipino music has staying power. Trends may change, but songs that resonate emotionally continue to find their place on stage.

SM MOA Arena Continues to Be the Home of OPM Milestones

With 13 years as a premier large-scale venue, the SM Mall of Asia Arena has consistently been the stage where musical legacies are celebrated and new ones begin. From international superstars to homegrown icons, it remains a trusted space for unforgettable live experiences.

By hosting these landmark reunions, the arena reaffirmed its role in shaping the future of live entertainment in the Philippines. As a new year approaches, fans can expect more moments that bring people together through music, memory, and shared cultural pride.

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HOPE and SM Supermalls Launch HOPE in a Movie to Support Public Education

Friday, December 19, 2025


HOPE, the country’s first certified B Corp and leading impact organization, has partnered with SM Supermalls to launch HOPE in a Movie, a purpose-driven initiative that transforms every movie ticket purchase into meaningful support for public education.

Through this program, PHP5 from every ticket sold at SM Cinema branches will go directly to building public school classrooms under the Generation HOPE campaign. The campaign aims to construct at least 10 classrooms, scaling HOPE’s impact through strategic collaborations that unite entertainment and education.

“I would like to thank SM Supermalls for their support. They have shown an amazing commitment to education and to this mission. We invite everyone to enjoy every film at SM, because every time you buy a movie ticket at SM Cinema, you help educate a child,” said Nanette Medved-Po, Founder of HOPE.

A Cinematic Launch with Purpose


HOPE in a Movie was officially launched at SM Mall of Asia’s ScreenX, the country’s first 270-degree panoramic cinema, emphasizing how innovation and entertainment can support nation-building. The launch brought together HOPE and SM Supermalls executives, including Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, and showcased the potential for moviegoers to contribute to public education simply by enjoying a film.

“This is where ntertainment meets purpose. Every ticket purchased at SM Cinema becomes more than just a movie, it becomes an opportunity to give back. HOPE in a Movie offers a simple yet meaningful way for families, friends, and moviegoers to help build classrooms, one ticket at a time,” said Steven Tan.

How the Public Can Participate

Moviegoers can support HOPE in a Movie by purchasing tickets at:
  • SM Cinema branches nationwide
  • SM Cinema mobile app
  • Online at SM Cinema

With the Metro Manila Film Festival approaching, families and friends have an opportunity to enjoy films while making a tangible difference in the lives of Filipino students.

About Generation HOPE

The Generation HOPE campaign is a long-term initiative aimed at improving public school infrastructure across the Philippines. By collaborating with partners like SM Supermalls, HOPE ensures that moviegoing and other everyday activities can directly contribute to better learning environments.

For more information about Generation HOPE, visit generationhope.ph or follow HOPE on Facebook at facebook.com/generationhope.ph and Instagram at @generationhope.ph.
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Side A Reunites Past and Present Members for Now & Then Orchestral Concert at the MET


Few Filipino bands have soundtracked as many love stories, late-night drives, and quiet moments as Side A. This 2025, the iconic pop band is coming home both musically and emotionally with “Now & Then,” a special two-night concert that reunites the founding and current members of Side A on one stage.

Set at the historic Metropolitan Theater (MET) on February 21 and 22, 2025, the concert promises a rare, nostalgia-filled experience that bridges generations of fans, enhanced by lush orchestral arrangements that give Side A’s timeless songs a fresh emotional depth.

A Musical Homecoming at the Metropolitan Theater

Produced by Minsan Studio, Now & Then is described by the band as a big family reunion—one that reflects Side A’s enduring spirit of brotherhood, artistry, and shared history. Adding to the significance of the venue, the MET’s grand acoustics will host orchestral arrangements by acclaimed musical director Ria Villena-Osorio, featuring a 30-piece orchestra.

The band shared that bringing together both original and current members on one stage is a reflection of how Side A’s story has grown over the years while staying true to the same heart that fans fell in love with.

How “Now & Then” Came to Life

The idea for the concert began with a serendipitous moment. Joey Benin recalled attending his daughter Clara’s performance at the MET, where he was struck by the venue’s sound and production quality. After the show, Jason Conanan of Minsan Studio floated the idea of mounting a Side A project at the iconic theater.

From there, Joey reached out to manager Lito Fugoso, who pitched the concept to the band leading to what is now shaping up to be Side A’s most meaningful reunion yet.

Two Generations, One Stage: Side A Now and Then

What sets Now & Then apart is the union of two eras of Side A musicians, each carrying their own chapter of the band’s sound and story.

Side A Now
  • Naldy Gonzalez – Keyboards / Musical Director (the only remaining and active original member)
  • Ernie Severino – Drums
  • Leevon Cailao – Lead guitars and vocals
  • Ned Esguerra – Bass
  • Yubs Esperat – Lead vocals and acoustic guitar

Side A Then
  • Rodel Gonzalez – Lead vocals / guitars
  • Pido Lalimarmo – Guitars and vocals
  • Joey Benin – Bass and vocals

Seeing these musicians perform together again is a rare treat for longtime fans and a powerful introduction for a younger audience discovering Side A’s music for the first time.

Classic Side A Songs, Reimagined with an Orchestra

Fans can expect Side A’s beloved catalog to be reinterpreted with orchestral arrangements that add scale and emotion without losing familiarity.

The band shared that listeners will hear songs in a new way bigger, richer, and more cinematic while still retaining the melodies and feelings that made them classics. With the orchestra expanding the emotional landscape, both performers and audiences are in for a deeply moving experience.

A Celebration of Legacy and Gratitude

At its core, Now & Then is both a celebration and a thank-you. The band hopes concertgoers leave reminded of why they first fell in love with Side A’s music and perhaps fall in love all over again.

For Side A, the concert is an expression of gratitude: to God, to their fans, and to the families—wives, children, and even apos—who became part of the band’s journey. If audiences walk away with full hearts, cherished memories, and renewed hope, the reunion will have truly fulfilled its purpose.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets to Side A: Now & Then are available via minsan.studio. Given the limited two-night run and the intimate venue, early booking is highly recommended.
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Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film Premieres on YouTube

Thursday, December 18, 2025


One year after their sold-out 2025 concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Ben&Ben brings fans into the luminous universe of Liwanag with The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film. Premiering on YouTube on December 14, 2025, the full-length cinematic experience allows audiences worldwide to relive the magic of the band’s groundbreaking concert completely free of charge.

A Multiverse of Music and Emotion

Described by the band as a “multiverse of music and emotion,” the original TTAD concert blurred the lines between live performance, animation, and theater. Staged last year at the MOA Arena, the concert was lauded for its storytelling, technical execution, and emotional resonance, setting a new benchmark for multimedia concerts in the Philippines.

Now, the concert film offers both a retrospective and a revelation—allowing fans to catch every detail, subtle symbolism, and emotional arc that may have been missed in the live show.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Liwanag

“For us, this film is a way to give back to our fans, fondly called Liwanag,” shares Ben&Ben. “This year has been challenging for so many, but the love and support we’ve felt from our fans has been incredible. Releasing this concert film for free is our way of saying thank you.”

The film also emphasizes accessibility, reflecting the band’s commitment to bringing music closer to families and communities. Fans can enjoy the concert from the comfort of their homes, sharing the experience together during the holiday season.

Behind the Scenes of TTAD

The original concert represented many firsts for Ben&Ben:
  • Their first major show at the MOA Arena
  • Performing an extensive setlist across two acts
  • Recording a concert of this scale for cinematic release

The band collaborated with LunchBox Productions to capture the spectacle, ensuring the film does justice to the scale and emotion of the live show.

Recent Accolades

Leading up to the film’s premiere, Ben&Ben earned Album of the Year at the Awit Awards 2025, the Philippines’ version of the Grammys. Fans also got an early look at the concert trailer during The Traveller Across Dimensions: An Immersive Storytelling Experience, which premiered on social media on December 3, 2025.

Watch and Listen

Fans can watch The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film on YouTube and enjoy the full setlist on Spotify.

This holiday season, Ben&Ben invites everyone to relive the concert experience, feel every note, and join Liwanag in celebrating music, emotion, and togetherness.
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LBC Express at World Bazaar Festival 2025: Hassle-Free Holiday Shopping

Tuesday, December 16, 2025


Holiday shopping in the Philippines reaches its peak this December, and one of the season’s most anticipated events is once again bringing festive cheer to Metro Manila. LBC Express, Inc., the country’s leading logistics and courier service provider, is making holiday shopping more convenient as it joins World Bazaar Festival 2025 as its official courier partner.

Running from December 12 to 21, 2025, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, the World Bazaar Festival transforms the venue into a full-scale Christmas shopping wonderland. The event brings together local brands, small businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs offering thoughtfully curated gift ideas, handmade finds, and seasonal essentials—perfect for last-minute holiday shopping and meaningful gift-giving.

A more convenient way to shop and send gifts this Christmas

What makes this year’s World Bazaar Festival even more exciting is the presence of LBC Express’ festive on-site booth, designed to make shopping and gifting easier for everyone. Instead of worrying about bulky shopping bags or arranging deliveries later, shoppers can instantly send their purchases to loved ones anywhere in the Philippines—right from the bazaar.

With LBC Express’ trusted delivery services available on-site, shoppers can enjoy a truly seamless experience. Whether sending gifts to family in the province or delivering purchases straight to recipients in Metro Manila, LBC ensures packages arrive safely and on time, even during the busiest holiday season.

This added convenience allows shoppers to focus on enjoying the festive atmosphere, exploring unique finds, and supporting local businesses—without the stress of logistics.

Exclusive holiday deals and festive activities

To make the shopping experience even more rewarding, LBC Express is offering exclusive on-site promotions throughout the festival. Shoppers and exhibitors can enjoy:
  • Up to 60% off on delivery services
  • Special freebies for select transactions
  • Fun games, exciting prizes, and holiday giveaways

These holiday-exclusive deals are designed to help shoppers maximize their budget while enjoying reliable delivery solutions, making it easier to spread Christmas cheer near and far.

Supporting Filipino entrepreneurs and MSMEs

Beyond convenience and promotions, LBC Express’ participation reflects a deeper commitment to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The World Bazaar Festival has long been a platform that empowers local brands by giving them access to a wider audience during the most important retail season of the year.

By partnering with the festival, LBC Express helps ensure that sellers can efficiently ship their products to customers nationwide, strengthening business operations during the peak holiday rush. Reliable logistics play a critical role in helping small businesses grow, especially during high-demand seasons like Christmas.

A milestone year for LBC Express and World Bazaar Festival

This collaboration is especially meaningful as LBC Express celebrates its 75th anniversary, while the World Bazaar Festival marks its 25th year. Both institutions share a legacy of trust, service, and commitment to Filipinos—whether through connecting families across distances or creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs to thrive.

For decades, LBC Express has gone beyond moving parcels. It has played a key role in connecting communities, delivering important moments, and making celebrations possible no matter the distance. This holiday season, that mission continues at the World Bazaar Festival 2025.

Making holiday gifting easier and more joyful

With Christmas gatherings, reunions, and gift exchanges in full swing, convenience becomes just as important as thoughtful gift selection. Having a reliable courier partner on-site transforms the shopping experience, allowing shoppers to send gifts immediately and avoid the holiday delivery rush.

From beautifully wrapped presents to unique handmade items, every purchase made at the World Bazaar Festival can be delivered with ease—helping shoppers save time, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters during the holidays.

As the season of giving unfolds, LBC Express at World Bazaar Festival 2025 proves that holiday shopping does not have to be complicated. With seamless delivery services, festive promotions, and a shared commitment to supporting Filipino communities, this partnership makes Christmas shopping more joyful, convenient, and meaningful.
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Philippines to Host Red Bull Half Court 2026 World Finals

Sunday, December 14, 2025


The Philippines is set to take center stage in the global basketball scene as it prepares to host the Red Bull Half Court 2026 World Finals. The announcement was made following the conclusion of the Red Bull Half Court 2025 World Finals in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, marking a historic moment for Filipino basketball fans and the local streetball community.

This milestone makes the Philippines the next official host of the prestigious 3-on-3 tournament and the first major Red Bull Half Court World Finals staged outside FIBA, further cementing the country’s reputation as one of the most passionate basketball nations in the world.

Manila welcomes the world of streetball

As host of the 2026 World Finals, the Philippines invites players and fans from around the globe to experience streetball the Filipino way. Set in Manila, the event is expected to spotlight the heart, grit, and creativity that define local basketball culture. From packed barangay courts to organized leagues, streetball has long been part of everyday life for Filipinos, making the country a fitting stage for a tournament that celebrates raw talent and high-energy play.

Red Bull Half Court 2026 aims to showcase not just competition, but culture. International teams and spectators will get a front-row seat to the unique atmosphere Filipino fans bring, known for their intensity, noise, and unwavering support. For local players and supporters, hosting the World Finals is both a point of pride and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the best 3-on-3 teams compete on home soil.

A global spotlight on Filipino basketball passion

The announcement reflects Red Bull’s confidence in the Philippines as a destination for world-class sporting events. Basketball remains the country’s most beloved sport, cutting across age groups and communities. From urban street courts to provincial tournaments, the love for the game is deeply rooted in Filipino identity.

By bringing the Red Bull Half Court World Finals to Manila, the event places Philippine streetball culture on the global map. It also gives local athletes inspiration and motivation, showing that grassroots talent can connect with the international stage.

Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as the world’s top 3-on-3 teams converge in the country, competing not just for victory, but for bragging rights in one of the most demanding formats in basketball today.

The Red Bull Half Court format: fast, fierce, and unforgiving

At the heart of the tournament is Red Bull Half Court’s signature format, designed to push players to their limits. Games are played in a half-court 3-on-3 setup with a 12-second shot clock, forcing teams to think fast and act even faster. Each game runs for a maximum of 10 minutes, or ends once a team reaches 21 points, whichever comes first.

This structure rewards speed, creativity, and instinct. There is little room for hesitation, making every possession count. Players must rely on quick decision-making, sharp teamwork, and relentless hustle, qualities that resonate strongly with Filipino-style streetball.

The format has helped Red Bull Half Court build a reputation as one of the most exciting basketball competitions globally, attracting elite players who thrive under pressure and fans who crave nonstop action.

A landmark moment for Philippine sports culture

Hosting the Red Bull Half Court 2026 World Finals is more than a sporting event. It represents a broader recognition of the Philippines as a global basketball hub. The tournament is expected to draw international attention, boost local interest in 3-on-3 basketball, and strengthen the country’s position in the global sports landscape.

For Filipino fans, it is a rare chance to witness world-class streetball without leaving the country. For aspiring players, it serves as proof that dedication and love for the game can open doors to global opportunities.

As preparations begin, excitement is already building within the local basketball community. From casual fans to hardcore streetball enthusiasts, many are eager to follow the journey leading up to the World Finals and see how Manila transforms into a global basketball stage.

Following the road to the 2026 World Finals

In the months ahead, fans can expect updates on qualifiers, participating teams, and event details as Red Bull gears up for this landmark moment. The journey to the World Finals promises to be just as exciting as the main event itself, with stories of competition, culture, and community unfolding along the way.

Basketball lovers are encouraged to stay connected by visiting the official Red Bull website and following Red Bull Philippines on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. As the countdown begins, one thing is clear. The Philippines is ready to welcome the world and show why streetball thrives in the heart of Filipino culture.
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