Igloo on Driving Insurance Growth in the Philippines Through End-to-End Digitalization

Igloo on Driving Insurance Growth in the Philippines Through End-to-End Digitalization

Thursday, October 17, 2024

End-to-end digitalization of insurance is becoming a crucial strategy to boost insurance penetration in the Philippines, especially as recent data indicates a decline in coverage across the country. In 2023, insurance penetration in the Philippines sank to 1.6%, lower than the 1.73% recorded in 2022. This decline highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to make insurance more accessible and appealing to a broader population.

Igloo, a regional insurtech, addresses low insurance penetration by leveraging technology and partnerships to streamline operations across the entire insurance value chain–from insurance and intermediaries to consumers. By digitalizing processes throughout the ecosystem, Igloo enables faster, more efficient services, seamlessly integrating insurance into everyday digital interactions such as e-commerce and travel bookings.

Empowering Intermediaries with a Digital Platform

One key aspect of this digital transformation is the creation of digital platforms for intermediaries. Traditionally, insurance intermediaries rely on manual processes from onboard customers to settling claims, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Digital tools allow intermediaries to streamline the entire process from customer onboarding to claim settlement. These tools help manage customer information, assess needs, and complete transactions faster and more accurately. As a result, intermediaries can focus more on building relationships with current and potential clients, rather than being burdened by administrative tasks.

Ignite introduced Igloo, a digital platform that helps insurance intermediaries sell more efficiently. Key features include a user-friendly interface for faster browsing, a quick quote system for instant premium calculations, secure payment processing, and tools for team and data management to simplify reporting. It also tracks referral fees in real time, depositing them directly into bank accounts. Launched in Vietnam in 2022, Indonesia in 2023, and now in the Philippines, Igloo offers 42 products across 9 categories, including Travel, Pet, and Motor protection. It was awarded Mobile App of the Year - Vietnam at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024.

Facilitating a Seamless Digital Experience through Embedded Insurance

Igloo is transforming the insurance landscape by providing a seamless, end-to-end digital experience through embedded insurance. As an insurtech platform, it enables businesses to integrate insurance products into their platforms, facilitating seamless policy applications, purchase, and claims management. This reduces friction for both insurance providers and distributors, streamlining complex tasks such as underwriting, policy issuance, and claims processing, making the entire system more efficient and user-friendly.

Igloo partners with online platforms like Lazada and Shopee, as well as payment services like DANA in Indonesia and GCash in the Philippines, and retail chains like Circle K in Vietnam, to develop customized and embedded insurance products that integrate smoothly into digital experiences. In addition, telecom companies like Smart, consumer finance platforms such as Skyro and Salmon, and B2B MSME enabler Growsari also collaborate with Igloo in the Philippines to expand access to insurance across different sectors. This enables customers to purchase insurance directly through these platforms with minimal hassle. As a result, consumers can easily discover, evaluate, and buy insurance products in just a few clicks, making insurance a natural part of their everyday transactions. Consequently, securing coverage for travel, electronics, or e-commerce purchases becomes nearly invisible yet highly convenient.

This frictionless approach allows customers to opt-in with just a few clicks, which improves conversion rates. It also appeals to those who might not have initially considered insurance but recognize its value when offered conveniently.

Bringing Insurance Closer to Consumers, Digitally

Building on its success in embedded insurance and business-to-agent models, Igloo has soft-launched a direct-to-consumer platform in Indonesia, igloo.co.id, where users can explore insurance products like motorcycle, car, pet, and travel coverage from top insurers.

Introducing these platforms is essential for improving insurance accessibility and expanding market penetration. Igloo’s direct-to-consumer platform streamlines the insurance process, enabling users to easily compare products, understand coverage, and manage policies in one place. This approach not only resolves common transparency issues but also empowers consumers to make informed decisions. Digitalization, in this case, increases accessibility, boosts efficiency, and builds trust, ultimately driving higher adoption rates and fostering a more inclusive insurance ecosystem.

As the Philippines experiences a decline in insurance penetration, digitalization offers a clear solution to reverse this trend. By simplifying processes for intermediaries and customers alike, insurers can eliminate barriers to entry. The growing prevalence of embedded insurance and direct-to-consumer platforms also exposes consumers to more coverage options, increasing the likelihood of purchasing insurance and improving overall financial security.

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Bangkok-based alt-pop trio KIKI, Drag superstar M1ss Jade So, AXEAN alums Munimuni and CRWN to headline The Rest Is Noise PH’s “Halloween Special”

Bangkok-based alt-pop trio KIKI, Drag superstar M1ss Jade So, AXEAN alums Munimuni and CRWN to headline The Rest Is Noise PH’s “Halloween Special”

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

 The event will take place on October 27, 2024 at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City

The Rest Is Noise PH, an independent production outfit that champions the best of Asian music and strengthens regional and global connections, onstage or in the digital space, will be throwing a Halloween party to cap off a fantastic year in music.

Acclaimed Thai alternative pop trio KIKI will be headlining the Halloween soiree and will be performing in the Philippines for the very first time. Known for their immediately catchy songs that blend pop and funk elements with groovy basslines, colorful synths, hip-hop and lo-fi elements, and soulful vocals, the Bangkok-based band has charmed music festivals all around the world with their showstopping performances. They are also preparing to embark on an Asian tour, which will include multiple stops in Tokyo, Nagoya, Nagano, Singapore, Jakarta, and Manila.

Other acts on the bill include Filipino drag superstar M1ss Jade So, whose incredible run on the second season of Drag Race Philippines captivated fans all over the world—thanks to her distinct antics, charisma, and talent.

AXEAN Festival alums Munimuni and CRWN will also be performing at The Rest Is Noise PH’s Halloween special, along with Davao-based hip-hop collective Playertwo and Chain Messages, who will be dropping a special DJ set to culminate the fun and exciting event.

The Rest Is Noise Halloween Special will take place at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City on October 27, 2024, from 7 p.m. onward. Early bird tickets are available in limited quantity via bit.ly/kikimanila.

The event also encourages attendees to dress up in their Halloween costumes for a special care package from The Rest Is Noise PH. The top three with the best costumes will also win a special prize.

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Phum Viphurit Goes Deeper into the World of Paul Vibhavadi in “Balter Baby”

Phum Viphurit Goes Deeper into the World of Paul Vibhavadi in “Balter Baby”

After surprising fans with his story-driven conceptual single “The Other Side”, Bangkok-born singer-songwriter Phum Viphurit goes even deeper into the world of his alter ego Paul Vibhavadi on “Balter Baby”, the second single from his upcoming EP PAUL VIBHAVADI VOL. 1. Released to streaming platforms on October 9, 2024, this dance-oriented piece is Phum’s first instrumental-only track that showcases another side of his musical tastes and capabilities. An animated music video for “Balter Baby” by Shea Oracheski and James Bedggood based on Phum’s concept will also debut on the official Phum Viphurit YouTube channel.

In terms of narrative, “Balter Baby” picks up just before where “The Other Side” left off, in which the lovable sloth Paul Vibhavadi is grappling with his newfound adulation amongst a sloth-worshipping tribe he stumbled upon during his journey in search of the magical forest of Himmapan. “I wanted to expand on a part of the previous music video when it shows the tribe worshipping him, almost like an Ari Aster, Midsommer-type dance,” says Phum. “So it’s showing Paul in the trance of that, what he was feeling in that dance sequence.”

Intriguingly, Phum opted to convey this chapter of Paul’s story via an instrumental track with no vocals, once again pushing the boundaries of his music in the process. “I’ve done instrumental-heavy music, but always with glimpses of my voice. This one’s purely for people to dance to,” says Phum. “Honestly, if you go through the last fifty of my liked Spotify songs, I would say 45 of them are instrumental music. When I’m looking for inspiration, I try to write lyrics over pre-existing instrumentals, and I wanted to deconstruct that method by, ‘Hey, what if I can capture someone’s attention or move their head along to this three-minute house track that’s guitar-based with some synths?’ It was an interesting challenge, but also fits within the theme of the story.”

Regarding the specific influences for “Balter Baby”, Phum says, “I listened to a lot of Modjo, a dance group from the 2000s. I also listened to a lot of Seventies Motown, funk and disco. But most of it was led by the visual, because I directed the ‘The Other Side’ music video and was pretty heavily involved in the animation process for the ‘Balter Baby’ video. So I was thinking of Paul’s story and what particular soundtrack would suit this scene.” Indeed, the music of “Balter Baby” perfectly complements the video that takes us into Paul’s mind as his immersion into this new world that has embraced him sees him grooving along like a retro dance video game character.

The choice of “Balter Baby” as a single also further emphasizes the boldness of Phum Viphurit’s exploration on the PAUL VIBHAVADI VOL. 1 EP, while still making sense within the context of the project. “I felt like it was going to introduce a new house-inspired song like ‘The Other Side’, I needed a bit of a continuation before I break from that tempo and texture, so ‘Balter Baby’ was the most natural selection to me,” he says. “It’s like, ‘Hey, it’s not just a one-off thing.’ I’m playing with the idea of trance, movement and motifs throughout the whole EP.”

The end of the “Balter Baby” video sees Paul Vibhavadi enclosed in a glowing orb as he floats away from that tribe, and the audience is free to draw their own conclusions – or look for more answers when the PAUL VIBHAVADI VOL. 1 drops on October 17. “I know it’s quite a conceptual piece of work, and there’ll be many different interpretations of it,” says Phum. “But I’m so excited to show my creativity and make people feel something again with this next piece of work.”

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Araneta City blooms in pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Araneta City blooms in pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Breast cancer continues to be a pressing health issue in the Philippines. According to the Department of Health, 38,000 Filipinas lost their lives in the fight against breast cancer between 2018 and 2021, a heartbreaking reminder of the impact this disease has on countless women and their families.

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Araneta City is taking a prominent stand in raising awareness for this vital cause. With the theme "Bloom in Pink," the City of Firsts is transforming into a symbol of hope, shining a light on the strength of women battling breast cancer while providing unwavering support to survivors.

“At the City of Firsts, we believe in the power of community and awareness,” Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing, said. “This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re not only raising awareness about breast cancer, but also fostering a sense of solidarity and hope for those affected by this disease.”

“At the City of Firsts, we believe in the power of community and awareness,” said Marjorie Go, VP for Marketing of Araneta City. 

Education talks and survivor stories

The festivities kicked off on October 1 at Gateway Mall with an launch event in collaboration with the Kasuso Foundation, a volunteer organization dedicated to helping indigent breast cancer patients through early detection and awareness. The event featured free blood pressure and breast check-ups from Keralty Clinic and an inspiring art exhibit by breast cancer patients and survivors.

Continuing the momentum, Gateway Mall 2 will host a series of talks on October 7 aimed at promoting breast cancer awareness. Survivors Lorna Fabian and Loida Almirol will share their empowering stories in “Susuportahan Kita: Survivor Stories,” while Dr. Karen Gemma See will present “What’s up Doc?”, a discussion on breast health and the importance of early detection. Special support messages from Binibining Pilipinas 2024 queens Myrna Esguerra and Trisha Martinez will add an extra touch of inspiration. Fun and interactive booths will also be available, where visitors can create their own bouquets at the Bloom Bar and enjoy complimentary treats from the Ice Cream Bar.

Musical celebrations and entrepreneurial ventures

On October 21, the festivities continue at Farmers Plaza with the Pink Power Concert, featuring performances by local artists and Kasuso Foundation talents, all advocating for breast cancer awareness. Attendees can also indulge in some well-deserved pampering with a free skin consultation courtesy of Vanity First.

At Ali Mall, October 28 will spotlight inspiring breast cancer survivors who have turned their challenges into entrepreneurial success stories. The Kasuso Negosyo event will showcase their businesses, offering a platform for these remarkable women to share their products and stories of resilience. A special performance by buskers will serenade the event, creating a heartwarming atmosphere of support and celebration.

Citywide events and exciting rewards

As part of its commitment to raise awareness, Araneta City has turned its iconic landmarks pink. On October 1, the Smart Araneta Coliseum was illuminated in pink, serving as a vibrant symbol of unity in the fight against breast cancer.

In addition, Araneta City is turning its pedestrian lanes along Gen. Malvar and Gen. Aguinaldo streets into pink pathways for the Walk for Pink campaign. Visitors are encouraged to walk these lanes, take photos, and post them on social media for a chance to win exciting prizes. By using the hashtag #WalkForPink, participants can enter a raffle for an overnight stay at either ibis Styles Manila Araneta City or Novotel Manila Araneta City. The promotion runs until October 6.

Lastly, Araneta City shoppers who make a single-receipt purchase of ₱2,000 on October 18 can redeem a special Pink Awareness Kit. The first 100 customers will receive a pink umbrella, pink tote bag, and pink ribbon enamel pin as part of this exclusive promotion.

“By lighting up our spaces in pink and organizing these impactful events, we hope to drive people into action and remind every woman of the importance of early detection. Together, we can make a difference,” Go said.

To know more about the latest promos, activities, and happenings at Araneta City, please visit www.aranetacity.com. You may also like and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok.

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Henry Moodie releases debut EP, good old days

Henry Moodie releases debut EP, good old days

Sunday, October 6, 2024

Future global pop superstar Henry Moodie releases his highly anticipated new EP, good old days, released via Robots & Humans (UK) and Columbia Records (US). The release of the EP follows the single releases of two incredible tracks, ‘beat up car’ and ‘bad emotions’. good old days is available to stream here.

Also released today is the focus single from the EP, ‘still dancing’. On ‘still dancing’, Henry delivers yet another epic ballad - his exquisite vocals flourish as the crux of the new single, accompanied by sublime production. It is beautiful and charming in equal measures, holding a deep relatability that fans and new listeners will no doubt resonate with.

Speaking about his new EP good old days, Henry said: 

“‘good old days’ is an EP about navigating growing up. from songs about mental health, friendship, childhood, first love & first heartbreak. this EP captures what my late teens felt like”

At just 20-years-old, Henry Moodie has already achieved more than 572 million streams worldwide, landed in the Top 10 most viewed UK artists on TikTok in 2022 and been named amongst Amazon Music's Artists To Watch in 2023. Following the completion of a songwriting diploma at music school BIMM, Henry found his voice as a solo musician and songwriter, oozing a level of emotional vulnerability, and sweeping, timeless lyrics. Henry released his debut EP, ‘in all of my lonely nights’, in the winter of 2023. With a combined 450m streams across tracks including self penned and produced ‘you were there for me’, global top 100 hit 'drunk text' and the heartfelt ‘pick up the phone’, a track which received 350k streams in it’s first day alone. Henry’s debut headline UK and European tour sold out in days - including an incredible show at London’s KOKO - and he recently performed throughout the summer at festivals across the UK, 

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Shanne Dandan announces the release of her debut album, Kung Iyong Mamarapatin

Shanne Dandan announces the release of her debut album, Kung Iyong Mamarapatin

The indie-folk singer-songwriter will be launching her album with a special live set on Friday, October 25, 2024 at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City

Filipino singer-songwriter Shanne Dandan has announced the release of her highly anticipated debut album, Kung Iyong Mamarapatin—officially due out on October 25, 2024 via Viva Records.

The 10-track album serves as both an elegy for the unrealized self and a hopeful anthem for what is yet to come. Shanne penned and recorded the upcoming release after experiencing profound sadness and struggling to give herself the grace and acceptance she deserves.

“Growing up, I’ve always sung what my mother and grandmother listened to,” says the indie-folk act. The way a singer uses their voice to tell a story has always resonated with me. Kung Iyong Mamarapatin is about saying goodbye to my broken dreams in hopes of creating new, brighter ones.”

To celebrate the release of her debut album, the "Iyakin" recording artist will perform the new songs for the first time, with some live sonic surprises and a bigger backing band. The album launch will take place at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City on October 25, 2024, starting at 7 p.m. Joining Shanne Dandan are some of her music peers in the local music scene, including syd hartha, Coeli, jikamarie, and ALYSON.

“I think there will be a lot of crying to expect from my album launch,” Shanne adds. Be it happy tears or not, I want to make people feel however they want to feel through my music and just let all their emotions flow. For that night, I will be performing with a bigger band than usual. I’ll be playing all the songs from the album with the people I recorded the album with.”

Shanne Dandan: Kung Iyong Mamarapatin Album Launch is presented by NYOU. Early bird tickets are available at PHP500 via bit.ly/shannedandanalbumlaunch.

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KAIA gets confidently poppy with catchy new single “Walang Biruan”

KAIA gets confidently poppy with catchy new single “Walang Biruan”

Thursday, October 3, 2024

KAIA continues to cement their status as one of the most sonically adventurous pop groups in the Philippines with the release of their new single, "Walang Biruan," out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The iridescent, bubblegum-pop track boldly reassures one's feelings without fear of judgment, channeling the playful side of young love. As KAIA explains it, “The song is about telling someone how much you like them in a sweet and honest way. It has a catchy tune and lighthearted vibe, making it easy to relate to and enjoy.”

Giving listeners a taste of summer with a fun, lightweight take, “Walang Biruan” embraces an effortlessly flawless sound with Y2K pop, Jersey club, and UKG influences. KINDRED’s Luis Montales and Kenneth Amores co-produced and co-wrote the track with the members of KAIA, motivating the Dalawa act to tap into their full potential as songwriters.

According to the five-member group, the initial stages of recording “Walang Biruan” entailed so much spontaneity that it enabled them to take charge of their creative pursuits and get more involved in the process.

“We spent a while on how we can arrange the song and make it more palatable to our audience,” shares KAIA. “Alexa took part in writing the rap verse, and the four of us, Charlotte, Sophia, Charice, and Angela, exchanged ideas on how we can make the song longer and more beautiful.”

The song will be released soon with a music video directed by Jonathan Tal Placido of Toothless. The MV conveys the material’s effervescent vibe while taking a tour of what happens inside a person’s mind during a pivotal moment of reawakening. It’s also shot entirely on an iPhone—a first among the P-Pop music scene.

KAIA reveals, “There are playful scenes showing how your imagination runs wild when you're nervous, but once you finally confess, it's like a huge weight is lifted. Suddenly, you feel free, at peace, and everything just feels brighter and more colorful.”

KAIA’s “Walang Biruan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

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The Dominance of Master Planned Developments in North and Central Luzon: An Outlook on Tourism, Growth, and Infrastructure by Vista Land

The Dominance of Master Planned Developments in North and Central Luzon: An Outlook on Tourism, Growth, and Infrastructure by Vista Land

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

North and Central Luzon are undergoing a significant transformation due to the emergence of urban hubs, which are becoming key regions for the Philippines due to the synergy of cultural preservation, economic advancement, and infrastructure enhancement. This evolution is driven by collaboration between the public and private sectors, positioning these regions as major contributors not only within the country but also in the broader Southeast Asian landscape and beyond.

Vista Land, the Philippines' leading integrated property developer, has aligned itself at the forefront of this change. The company has laid a strategic plan focusing on master planned developments and condominium projects, resonating with the regional shift towards self-sustaining communities that flourish amidst rapid urbanization, cultural conservation, and economic growth.

Tourism: Merging Heritage and Modernity

Vista Land is developing a master-planned community called Querencia in Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ilocos Sur.

Vista Land master planned developments in North and Central Luzon tap into the rich cultural heritage and diverse tourist attractions of the regions. For instance, Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ilocos Sur, is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. As infrastructure projects like the Luzon Spine Expressway Network improve accessibility, Querencia, a Vista Land master planned development, aims to offer contemporary living while honoring the historical essence of the area. 

In Alaminos, Pangasinan, the Ylana estate aims to enhance the region's eco-tourism appeal while promoting sustainable practices.

In Alaminos, Pangasinan, the renowned destination of Hundred Islands National Park is complemented by Ylana, which aims to enhance local eco-tourism efforts while promoting environmentally friendly practices. Similarly, in Subic, Zambales, a major tourism and economic hub in Central Luzon, Montessa will combine the natural beauty of the location with state-of-the-art amenities, making it an attractive getaway for tourists and residents.

Montessa in Subic, Zambales, will seamlessly blend natural allure with thoughtfully designed amenities

Growth Centers: Emerging Economic Powerhouses 

In addition to tourism, the company is focusing on the economic potential of North and Central Luzon. These regions are becoming economic powerhouses due to their strategic locations, availability of land, and expanding industrial sectors. Vista Land master planned communities are being developed in provinces such as Bulacan, Pampanga, and Bataan to support the growing local economy.

One example is Verida in Balanga, Bataan, a sustainable and technologically oriented estate attracting residents from business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, tech companies, and educational institutions bolstered by the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge project. Similarly, Amistelle in San Fernando, Pampanga, caters to the growing residential demand in this regional commercial hub, strategically located near key infrastructure like the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Clark International Airport.

The Crescent in Santa Maria, Bulacan, features residential nodes designed to cater to professionals and expanding families who wish to take advantage of the increasing job opportunities in the area.

The development of the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan is a game-changer, enhancing connectivity for local and international markets and spurring the growth of adjacent areas into industrial and commercial zones. In Santa Maria, The Crescent is designed for professionals and families who are drawn to the job opportunities in the area and proximity to Metro Manila.

Provence is Vista Land’s 350-hectare master planned development in Malolos, Bulacan, designed in the French-Mediterranean style.

The capital of Bulacan, Malolos, is also experiencing significant progress, driven by modernization initiatives and the rise of new business districts and residential enclaves like Provence, a 350-hectare French-Mediterranean estate. Baliwag, another fast-growing town, is capitalizing on its heritage and status as a gateway to North Luzon, with integrated estates like Castellana benefiting from improved road networks.

Infralink Projects: Paving the Way for the Future

Vista Land master planned developments in North and Central Luzon are intricately linked with the regions' ongoing expansion of expressways, railways, and airports. These projects enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic growth, making the areas more attractive to investors, tourists, and residents.

For instance, upgrades to Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte and road development projects like the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) are enhancing access to areas like Bramasole in Laoag, which combines modern amenities with cultural charm. Similarly, Tuguegarao in Cagayan Valley is set to benefit from the expansion of Cagayan North International Airport and highway improvements, with Rosevale offering a mix of residential and commercial options to accommodate the growing population.

Rosevale in Tuguegarao City,  is a 100-hectare estate, poised to benefit from the expansion of the Cagayan North International Airport and improved highways.

Urdaneta, Pangasinan, is poised to become a key commercial hub in North Luzon, owing to its strategic location along TPLEX. Giardana capitalizes on the improved accessibility, positioning the city as a prime location for businesses and residents. In Bulakan, Bulacan, the anticipated completion of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) will further enhance connectivity to Metro Manila and Clark, with Silaya providing new housing solutions for the growing population.

Vista Land: Leading the Charge in North and Central Luzon, Shaping Developments for Tomorrow

Vista Land is committed to creating master planned developments that will flourish in the changing landscape of North and Central Luzon. As these regions continue to transform into economic powerhouses, the company is poised to lay the groundwork for innovative urban developments that promote regional growth while honoring the unique cultural and natural heritage of the area.

For more information on Vista Land master planned developments, visit www.vistaestates.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

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Iconic dream pop band Sugar Hiccup to headline 4-city tour in the Philippines and Singapore next month

Iconic dream pop band Sugar Hiccup to headline 4-city tour in the Philippines and Singapore next month

Friday, September 27, 2024

The award-winning quartet will be reuniting in time for their post-30th anniversary

Pioneering Filipino dream-pop outfit Sugar Hiccup will embark on a Philippine tour next month to commemorate more than 30 years as a band. The award-winning indie quartet has announced their four-show run with stops in Manila, Singapore, Baguio, and Cebu.

The Manila leg, which is produced by GNN Entertainment Productions and The Flying Lugaw, will feature long sets by the four-piece band, and will be supported by guest acts such as Aunt Robert, The Purest Blue, Taken By Cars, and Barbie Almalbis. The tour also partnered with Not Very Noise and John Bottles Events to bring Sugar Hiccup to Baguio and Cebu, respectively.

Fans of Sugar Hiccup are in for a treat as the current lineup, composed of Melody del Mundo (vocals, lead guitars), Czandro Pollack (rhythm guitars), Iman Leonardo (bass), and Mervin Panganiban (drums), will be performing some of the cult favorites from their hit albums, Oracle and Womb, as well as some rarities and new recordings.

Tickets to Sugar Hiccup 30: Reunion Tour will be available on September 19, 2024. Check out the tour schedule:

October 19: 123 Block, Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City

(Produced by GNN Entertainment Productions and The Flying Lugaw)

Feat. Aunt Robert, The Purest Blue, Taken By Cars, and Barbie Almalbis

October 20: Cuba Libre, Clark Quay, Singapore

(Produced by TAF Productions)

October 25: Canto Bogchi Joint, Baguio City

(Produced by Not Very Noise)

Feat. Kahel, Medyo Maybe, Turncoats, Monochrome, and Transmission Division

October 26: TBA, Cebu City

(Produced by John Bottles Events)

Feat. Sheila and the Insects, KRNA, Folding Bed, Bedtime Television, and Coney Reyes On Camera

Sugar Hiccup is one of the most iconic bands of the ‘90s alternative rock boom. Their ethereal sound, driven by shoegaze influences, dynamic drums, and high-pitched vocal stylings, opened the doors for female-fronted indie artists to embrace non-conventional forms of pop/rock music and deep-dive into the dreamier end of songwriting and production.

Their debut album, Oracle sold more than 20,000 copies and won the Best Alternative Recording at the Awit Awards (the Philippines' version of the Grammys), while its banner single “Five Years” earned two KATHA awards for Best Alternative Song and Best Alternative Performance by the songwriters' organization KATHA. In 1998, the band released their sophomore album, Womb to critical acclaim.

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Puerto Princesa businesses boost MSMEs, tourism resilience efforts with help of PLDT and Smart

Puerto Princesa businesses boost MSMEs, tourism resilience efforts with help of PLDT and Smart

Tourism in Palawan is on the path to recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic and onslaught of Typhoon "Odette" in 2021. In 2023, tourist arrivals in Puerto Princesa City climbed to 556,608—a significant increase from 2021's 32,170, and nearly half of 2019's 1.18 million.

PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. are supporting tourism resilience efforts in the province by enhancing business opportunities with the help of technology. PLDT Enterprise, the corporate unit of PLDT, in collaboration with the Puerto Princesa Tourism Council, recently organized a forum at Costa Palawan Resort attended by hotel and resort owners, travel operators, hospitality business workers, students, and other tourism stakeholders in the city.

The event themed, “#FurtherTogether: Rebuilding Tourism in Puerto Princesa,” featured learning sessions on tourism destination resilience led by former Cebu Tourism Head Boboi Costas and lectures on the use of e-commerce platforms for micro, small, medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to widen their reach. The session also highlighted the significance of the Smart Messaging Suite as a go-to market strategy to reach customers for MSMEs in the region.

“Tourism brings employment opportunities, creates revenue for the local government, and stimulates economic growth for the region. Our goal is to bring our products and solutions to SMEs here in Puerto Princesa. At PLDT Enterprise, we are committed to driving the success of our partners nationwide by helping them expand their business and boost their profitability,” said Rafael P. Davila, SMBiz Regional Luzon Business Head, PLDT Enterprise.

According to Costas, sustainable tourism can be achieved by being resilient. He added that this could be done by identifying risks, engaging stakeholders, and drawing strategies, such as instilling preparedness and investing in early warning systems.

During the activity, the participants also learned about how they could maximize e-commerce platforms, such as TikTok Shop, to increase their income and reach.

“Through our eBizNovation program, we empower MSMEs, which include small-scale tourism-oriented enterprises, with digital skills to market their products online. We collaborated with TikTok Shop to train entrepreneurs on using e-commerce to enhance the competitiveness of their businesses,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, Stakeholder Management Head, PLDT and Smart.

During the event, Cyril Negosa, City Tourism Office's Training and Information Section Chief, emphasized that some of the biggest challenges for residents happened at the start of the pandemic and during Typhoon Odette. Most of the residents relied on tourism for their livelihood, and as tourism later reopened, technology also played a big role in the rebuilding efforts. “How can we promote our products and destinations without technology? Connectivity is really helpful to us, especially because Palawan is an island,” Negosa added.

PLDT and Smart have been supporting the tourism sector by championing digital innovations that promote local destinations, and resilience among communities where tourism is a primary livelihood.

The group's programs designed to uplift farmers and MSMEs through technology signify its commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty; and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. These efforts also highlight PLDT Group's support to the Go Digital Pilipinas Movement, as a founding member of the Digital Infrastructure pillar of the Private Sector Advisory Council.

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