This message took center stage during the Advocacy Hour: Usapang Puso sa Puso, held as part of the 56th Philippine Heart Association–Philippine College of Cardiology (PHA-PCC) Annual Convention and Scientific Meeting at the Edsa Shangri-La Manila.

Carrying the theme “Mental Health & The Heart,” the session gathered cardiologists, psychiatrists, mental health advocates, faith leaders, media personalities, and members of the public to discuss how stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, and emotional overload significantly impact cardiovascular health.

The event underscored growing medical evidence showing that chronic emotional stress can elevate cortisol and adrenaline levels, increase inflammation, damage arteries, and contribute to hypertension and long-term heart disease.

Leading the discussion was PHA Director III and Advocacy Hour Committee Chair Dr. Iris M. Garcia, joined by Philippine Psychiatric Association President Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal, actress and mental health advocate Hershey Neri, and spiritual leader Ed Lapiz.

Dr. Iris M. Garcia | Photo by: George Buid

“Mental health is part of our overall health. It affects how we think, feel, act, relate with others, and make decisions every day,” said Dr. Garcia.

She emphasized that emotional struggles do not only affect the mind, but also the body and the heart. “When a person goes through depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, lack of sleep, or emotional overload, not only the mind and emotions are affected. The body is affected too, including the heart,” Garcia explained.

Dr. Garcia also stressed the importance of creating compassionate and judgment-free spaces where people can openly discuss emotional struggles and seek professional support.

“As we continue promoting heart health, may we also create safe spaces where mental health can be discussed with compassion and without judgment. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is a step toward healing,” she added.

Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal | Photo by: George Buid

Meanwhile, Dr. Perez-Rifareal highlighted the deep connection between emotional and physical well-being, emphasizing that mental health should no longer be treated separately from overall healthcare.

“Physical and mental health are deeply interconnected. We cannot separate one from the other,” she said.

She also reminded the public that while stress is a natural part of life, unmanaged and chronic stress may lead to anxiety, burnout, depression, unhealthy coping behaviors, and increased health risks.

“Do not be afraid of the word stress. It is part of life,” Perez-Rifareal noted.

The psychiatrist encouraged individuals to protect their mental well-being through proper sleep, healthy nutrition, exercise, hobbies, emotional outlets, and strong support systems.

Hershey Neri | Photo by: George Buid

Adding a deeply personal perspective to the conversation, Hershey Neri shared her own experience with trauma and healing, revealing how therapy transformed her life after surviving physical trauma at the age of 19.

“The therapy really changed my life,” Neri shared.

She encouraged the public to seek professional help without shame and reminded audiences that healing is often uncomfortable but necessary.

“Healing or going to therapy is like peeling off a band-aid. It hurts because you are healing,” she said.

Neri also highlighted the importance of compassion and emotional support, particularly for people silently struggling with mental health challenges.

“Sometimes people do not need advice right away. Sometimes they just want someone to ask, ‘How can I help?’” she added.

The actress also spoke about the value of focusing on meaningful relationships and supportive communities amid online negativity and criticism.

“I have more than a thousand bashers, but I have five best friends and my parents. I have seven people who love and support me and they are my safe place,” Neri said.

She further explained how comedy and humor became part of her healing journey.

“Because laughter is medicine, I want to share my life, a beautiful life of laughter, to others,” she concluded.

Pastor Ed Lapiz | Photo by: George Buid

For his part, Pastor Ed Lapiz warned against the growing emotional burden caused by social media pressure, negativity, and information overload.

“There is a difference between being informed and being invaded by information,” Lapiz said.

Quoting the biblical verse “Let not your heart be troubled,” he urged audiences to guard their peace while remaining compassionate toward others.

“Guard the heart, but do not harden it,” he emphasized.

Throughout the discussion, panelists reinforced the importance of “whole-person heart care,” explaining that effective cardiovascular prevention and recovery should extend beyond medicines, exercise, and diet to include emotional wellness, rest, stress management, healthy relationships, and professional mental health support.

Experts also reminded the public not to wait until emotional struggles become overwhelming before seeking help, emphasizing that protecting the mind is equally important in protecting the heart.

Healthcare leaders at the event noted that addressing the psychological roots of patient well-being—including depression, anxiety, and burnout—can significantly improve long-term cardiovascular outcomes and help reduce the global burden of heart disease.

As awareness around mental health continues to grow, the PHA-PCC Advocacy Hour served as a powerful reminder that emotional resilience, compassion, and mental wellness are no longer optional discussions in healthcare, but essential components of lasting heart health.

The post Protect the Mind, Protect the Heart: Experts Push for Mental Health Integration in Cardiac Care appeared first on HTalk Asia.

As cancer remains the country’s second leading cause of death, health authorities are accelerating efforts aligned with the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act and the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA)—two landmark policies designed to improve access to affordable and quality cancer care across the Philippines.

The initiative supports the administration’s broader healthcare agenda of decentralizing medical services and strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery systems.

Community-Level Healthcare Takes Center Stage

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve equitable healthcare access nationwide, government agencies are prioritizing early cancer detection and preventive care through local government-led programs and expanded rural health services.

During the recent Kapihan sa PIA forum held at SM City Butuan on April 30, health officials highlighted ongoing interventions focused on bringing cancer screening and awareness programs closer to communities through strengthened primary healthcare networks.

Romelyn Esther Torralba-Santos, Nurse V of the Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, emphasized the importance of accessible primary care services in lowering cancer-related mortality rates, particularly through cervical and breast cancer screening programs.

“Cancer control begins with early screening. We encourage everyone to avail of the free and accessible services in your local health facilities,” Santos said.

Nationwide Screening Expansion Underway

The government’s cervical cancer screening initiative, launched nationwide in 2024, is now being implemented across local government units (LGUs), significantly expanding access to preventive healthcare services through rural health units (RHUs) and community-based facilities.

Health authorities say the expansion is especially critical in regions facing shortages of cancer specialists, where preventive care and early detection serve as the most effective frontline defense against cancer-related complications.

Santos noted that decentralizing healthcare services remains vital in ensuring broader public participation in preventive health programs.

“We should not wait until cancer symptoms become severe before seeking treatment. Early consultation and screening can make a significant difference in outcomes,” she added.

Caraga Emerges as National Leader in Cancer Screening Coverage

The Caraga region has reportedly achieved the highest cancer screening coverage rates in the Philippines from 2024 to 2025, reflecting strong collaboration among local governments, healthcare agencies, and media organizations in promoting public awareness campaigns.

Preventive services—including cancer screening—are now increasingly accessible in barangays and geographically isolated communities, helping improve healthcare reach beyond major urban centers.

Health officials continue to encourage Filipinos to maximize free screening services available through public healthcare facilities, stressing that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Prevention, Awareness, and Lifestyle Interventions

Beyond screening initiatives, the Department of Health is also intensifying public education campaigns centered on:

• Healthy lifestyle practices
• Cancer prevention awareness
• Regular medical consultations

Santos emphasized that primary prevention and health education remain essential components of the country’s long-term cancer control strategy.

She also encouraged individuals experiencing possible cancer symptoms to seek immediate medical consultation, underscoring the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention.

Cancer Assistance Fund Supports Financial Accessibility

To further strengthen healthcare accessibility, the government has also expanded financial assistance mechanisms for cancer patients.

In the Caraga region, the Cancer Assistance Fund is now accessible through D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital, offering financial support for eligible patients undergoing cancer treatment and diagnostic procedures.

The initiative forms part of the national government’s broader commitment to improving healthcare affordability and reducing barriers to treatment for Filipino patients.

Healthcare Outlook: Preventive Care as Long-Term Investment

The government’s intensified focus on preventive healthcare and community-level screening reflects a growing recognition that early detection programs are not only critical public health interventions but also long-term investments in national productivity and healthcare sustainability.

With cancer cases continuing to rise globally, Philippine health authorities are positioning community-based healthcare systems as a central pillar of the country’s long-term health resilience strategy.

Via: Healthandfitnessph

The post Philippine Government Expands Community-Based Cancer Screening Programs Under Universal Health Care Push appeared first on HTalk Asia.

Known for his roles as Reinhardt in Overwatch®, N’Zoth in World of Warcraft®, and many other iconic characters, De Paul brings a powerful presence and deep connection to the Blizzard universe as Community Night’s master of ceremonies. 

With just over one week left to enter the Community Night contests, Blizzard is also revealing the judges who will help select this year’s standout artists and performers. This year’s Cosplay Contest will be judged by an international panel of acclaimed creators recognised for their craftsmanship, creativity, and stage presence:

Tiffany Gordon Cosplay – Winner of BlizzCon 2023 Community Night’s Best in Show Cosplay for her cosplay of Lilith, Tiffany Gordon Cosplay fabricates costumes and props out of leather, foam, fabric, and more, and teaches others how to create their own cosplays from scratch.

SameerTikkaMasala – A pioneering cosplayer from India, SameerTikkaMasala has won over 40 cosplay awards and judged some of the biggest cosplay competitions around the world. Since 2016, he has worked in the film and television industry, using his extensive cosplay knowledge and craftsmanship to design and build costumes, props, and sets.

Kamui Cosplay – As some of the world’s most successful cosplayers, crafting, and gaming influencers, Kamui Cosplay are known for their elaborate costumes and DIY content on social media. 

Cinderys – Professional cosplayer and concept/3D artist, Cinderys won BlizzCon 2019’s Community Night Grand Prize and Outstanding Creation awards for her cosplay of Prime Evil Leah. She shares her passion and crafting skills through social media, at conventions, and on Twitch streams. 

Cestlasara – Specialising in the sewn aspect of armour crafting, Cestlasara has been cosplaying since 2002. She was a Community Night finalist in both 2018 and 2019 before joining Blizzard Entertainment as an IT Support Engineer. She also represents Blizzard as a BlizzCon Ambassador at this year’s show.

As in years past, the remaining Community Night contests for Art, Short Film, and Talent will be judged by Blizzard’s own creative experts in those respective categories. 

Time is running out for creators hoping to showcase their work on Blizzard’s biggest stage—and to compete for top honours in their categories. Submissions for the Cosplay, Art, Short Film, and Talent contests close on 15 May 2026 PDT, with just over one week remaining to enter. 

For more information on Community Night contests, judging, and BlizzCon 2026, visit BlizzCon.com. 

Via: Healthandfitnessph

The post Darin De Paul, voice of Reinhardt, to host BlizzCon® 2026 Community Night! appeared first on HTalk Asia.

At the center of these advancements are two major innovations: Automated Outage Response and Intelligent Traffic Management. These technologies are designed to strengthen network reliability, reduce service interruptions, and improve the overall digital experience for millions of Filipinos.

Automated Outage Response allows Globe’s network to instantly detect outages and automatically optimize nearby cell sites to support affected areas. Whether disruptions are caused by technical failures or severe weather conditions, the system helps preserve connectivity and maintain critical communication services when customers need them most.

The impact has already been significant. Globe said the technology can preserve up to 50% of data connectivity during outages, compared to below 10% without automated intervention. This helps customers continue accessing essential services such as calls, SMS, and app-based messaging during emergencies or unstable network conditions.

Complementing this is Intelligent Traffic Management, a system built to proactively manage network congestion during high-demand situations such as concerts, holidays, heavy traffic, and emergencies. By dynamically redirecting users to less congested cell sites with available capacity, the technology improves call quality, streaming performance, and browsing speeds even during peak usage periods.

According to Globe, this initiative can enhance user experience by up to 20%, delivering more stable and reliable 4G and 5G connectivity in densely populated or high-traffic environments.

After successful validation across Metro Manila, Globe is now preparing for nationwide deployment, with full implementation targeted within 2026. The initiative also supports the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) “Oplan Bantay Signal” campaign, which aims to improve connectivity quality, service responsiveness, and network accessibility across the Philippines, particularly in underserved and geographically isolated communities.

“Our vision is to build a network that thinks and acts in real time, adapting instantly to customer needs. With automation and intelligence at the core, we are not just improving overall experience, we are redefining reliability and resilience for the digital age,” said Joel Agustin, Senior Vice President for Service Planning and Engineering at Globe.

By embedding intelligent automation into its infrastructure, Globe continues to strengthen its role as a reliable digital connectivity partner for Filipinos nationwide. Beyond enhancing speeds and coverage, these innovations reflect Globe’s broader push toward a smarter, more resilient network capable of supporting customers anytime and anywhere.

For more information, visit Globe Telecom

Via: Healthandfitnessph

The post Globe Improves Connectivity Experience with Smarter Real-Time Network Technology appeared first on HTalk Asia.

These insights come from the PURPLE Report, a recent study commissioned by EastWest Ageas in partnership with global consumer intelligence leader NielsenIQ. The study highlights how rising costs are steadily eroding Filipinos’ financial buffers, leaving many more exposed to unexpected expenses.

As more Filipinos grapple with the effects of inflation, EastWest Ageas is expanding its nationwide footprint to help more policyholders balance everyday expenses with long-term savings. This mission came to life during its Manila and Cebu trade shows, where it reiterated its commitment to helping more Filipinos reach their goals amid major setbacks.

Understanding Filipinos’ Most Pressing Needs 

During the Manila and Cebu Trade Shows, EastWest Ageas executives presented The PURPLE Report’s key findings and their implications about Filipinos’ most pressing financial concerns. The study found Filipinos value preparing for health emergencies in particular, with 8 out of 10 people using up their personal savings to pay for medical bills. However, only 20% of Filipinos have enough emergency funds to last over three months. This makes them just one hospitalization away from bankruptcy. 

Luckily, 9 out of 10 Filipinos recognize life insurance as a critical safeguard for medical crises. This figure, however, has not translated into an increase in policyholders, as the country’s insurance penetration rate has stalled at 1.79%. The PURPLE Report attributes the insurance coverage gap to Filipinos prioritizing daily expenses over long-term savings, with the population allocating only 7% to their financial plans. 

Where EastWest Ageas Comes Into the Picture 

EastWest Ageas shared during the trade shows that Filipino policyholders often factor in the following in picking their insurance partners: value for money, number of years of payment, and expansive critical illness coverage. 

To encourage more Filipinos to begin their financial planning journeys, the insurer has designed its Purple Solutions for different concerns and simplified the overall application process. Here are a few of the plans policyholders can consider: 

• Young adults who want to invest in their first life insurance plan can opt for Sure Start, thanks to its fuss-free application process and affordable premiums. 
• Future-oriented policyholders can try out the Dream Builder plan and maximize its guaranteed cash payouts. 
• Households with massive medical expenses can secure protection from the Life Essentials plan, which covers 48 critical illnesses and conditions.
• Future Assure helps Filipinos build their health by providing access to local and global funds.

Over the years, EastWest Ageas has also expanded its network to ensure more Filipinos can enjoy the benefits of its coverage plans. At present, the insurer has set up four agency houses across Luzon. It also has onboarded more than 1,300 financial agents who are available for consultation online and onsite at any EastWest bank location. 

Reflecting on EastWest Ageas’ continued nationwide expansion, President and CEO Sjoerd Smeets said that the insurer wants to help more Filipinos purposefully build on their savings to better the lives of their loved ones amid tough times. “Over the years, EastWest Ageas has made it its mission to help Filipinos balance spending on their daily needs and building their savings. By keeping our PURPLE solutions accessible and straightforward, we hope to help more policyholders reach their financial goals, whatever they may be.”

Via: Healthandfitnessph

The post As Inflation Eats Into Savings, EastWest Ageas Helps Filipinos Stay Financially Prepared appeared first on HTalk Asia.

The program allows patients to access financing for hospital bills, procedures, and treatment-related expenses, offering loan amounts ranging from PhP 30,000 up to PhP 3 million, payable in installments of 12 to 36 months with interest rates starting at 1.6%.  

By providing installment-based payment options, the facility enables patients to proceed with treatment without the need for full upfront payment, an ongoing challenge for many Filipino households facing unplanned medical expenses. 

The Patient Access Program also supports planned and elective medical procedures, allowing patients to arrange financing even before hospitalization or treatment. This includes maternity packages, cancer treatment, open heart surgery, kidney transplant, chemotherapy, and other high-value procedures. Through affordable monthly amortization, patients can move forward with care while reducing the immediate financial burden on themselves and their families. 

Under the program’s structure, loan proceeds are directly credited to the partner hospital’s Security Bank account, ensuring that funds are used specifically for medical needs. 

Patients benefit from a streamlined application process, which includes application submission, document verification, and scheduled loan signing prior to disbursement. Repayment is facilitated through multiple channels, including auto-debit arrangements, Security Bank branches, partner payment centers, and online platforms, with no post-dated checks required. 

“Healthcare financing is no longer just a financial product. It is becoming part of how access to care is delivered,” said SB Finance Head of Personal Loan Sales and Distribution Ron Romo. “When patients delay treatment due to cost, long-term health outcomes often become more complex and more expensive. SB Finance’s Patient Access Program helps patients make timely decisions by providing clarity in payment and supporting both patients and healthcare providers.” 

Designed to be accessible to a broad range of borrowers, including patients, as well as their family members, friends, or sponsors, eligible applicants must be Filipino citizens aged 21 to 65, with minimum income requirements varying by employment type.    

Borrowers may also apply for multiple Patient Access Program loans for a single patient, subject to credit evaluation and approval. This gives families more flexibility in managing larger or ongoing medical expense, especially when treatment costs exceed the limit of a single loan. 

This initiative reflects SB Finance’s broader transition toward embedded healthcare financing, integrating financial support directly into the healthcare journey. By doing so, SB Finance aims to balance affordability with timely access, critical at a time when out-of-pocket medical spending continues to burden Filipino households. 

For the list of accredited hospitals, visit www.sbfinance.com.ph/patient-loan/. 

About SB Finance 

SB Finance, Inc. is a Security Bank and Krungsri partnership regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and supervised by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Classified as a non-bank financial institution (NBFI), it aims to enrich lives as it envisions to be the Philippines’ preferred financial service provider. 

The post SB Finance expands to financing healthcare needs, partners with 66 hospitals appeared first on HTalk Asia.

The milestone event marks the final leg of the ZamBaSulTa expansion—completing the organization’s presence across the region and extending access to cardiovascular care to communities across Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

PHA President Dr. Walid Amil said: “Making heart care accessible is one of our core priorities. While we have made significant progress over the years, there are still communities that remain underserved, especially those without specialists.”

Meanwhile, Jolo Mayor Edsir Tan gives his full support for this “very important activity where people gather for something that truly matters; something that can help save lives.”

Attendees, mostly nursing students from Sulu, gather at the gymnasium to attend the PHA event, despite the scorching heat of April 25

In a message read by Coun. Tan, the mayor, said: “Many of us think that saving lives is only for doctors or nurses. But the truth ís, any one of us can help; as long as we know what to do. That’s why this CPR training is so important. It’s simple, but it can make a real difference in an emergency.”

Mass Hands-Only CPR training 

The hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training – – a first in Sulu – – was participated by community members, including barangay health workers, police officers, firefighters, nurses, students, the Sulu Red Cross team, and other frontliners.

Supnet explained that cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping effectively, cutting off blood supply to vital organs such as the brain. She stressed that brain cells begin to suffer irreversible damage within four to six minutes without oxygen. 

She also noted that for heart attack cases, life-saving procedures like angioplasty are ideally performed within 60 minutes, although such interventions may not always be immediately available in remote areas. In these situations, early response through CPR becomes critical. 

“Time is muscle, muscle is time,” she emphasized, noting that survival chances drop by about 10 percent for every minute without CPR. Immediate and proper intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent cardiac death. 

Programs and health education initiatives 

Ulanghutan discussed hypertension, noting that approximately 90 percent of cases fall under essential hypertension, where no single cause is identified. Instead, factors such as diet, lifestyle, age, and genetics contribute to its development. 

She added that the remaining 10 percent are classified as secondary hypertension, which stems from underlying conditions like kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, or medication effects, often requiring further diagnostic testing. 

Hypertension and diabetes remain among the most common conditions observed in patients in the region, underscoring the need for continuous education and preventive care. 

Lukman also provided insights on angina, describing it as chest discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart—often triggered by physical exertion or stress and relieved by rest. She emphasized that such symptoms should not be ignored, as they may signal underlying coronary artery disease. 

“Dati kayang umakyat ng hagdan nang hindi hinihingal, pero ngayon pagod na agad—kapag may ganitong pagbabago, huwag nang ipagwalang-bahala. Magpatingin agad upang maiwasan ang mas malalang kondisyon,” she said. 

Meanwhile, Ismael highlighted the “PHA PUSO MUNA” advocacy (Pagkain na malusog, Huwag manigarilyo, Aktibong pamumuhay, Presyon ay kontrolin, Uminom ng maintenance,Sugar ay kontrolin, Obesity ay iwasan, Matulog nangn kumpleto, Umiwas sa stress, No to alcohol, and Ayawan ang cholesterol).  

She noted that both insufficient sleep (less than seven hours) and excessive sleep (more than nine hours) may increase cardiovascular risks. She also clarified that no level of alcohol consumption can be considered completely safe for heart health, encouraging total avoidance instead. 

Through the Jolo, Sulu sub-chapter, the PHA continues to build a stronger, more inclusive healthcare network—bringing life-saving knowledge, preventive care, and hope closer to communities that need it most.

The post PHA Sulu Subchapter launched with mass hands-only CPR training appeared first on HTalk Asia.

Under the theme “Innovation, Forward Together,” LG InnoFest 2026 APAC offers a comprehensive look at LG’s latest products and solutions designed around Asian consumers’ lifestyles. Drawing on cultural elements that resonate widely across the region, the exhibition demonstrates how LG applies its K-Tech innovation to deliver practical, locally relevant home solutions for diverse Asian markets.

A New Generation of Clothing Care Solutions

LG is expanding its laundry portfolio with a full WashTower lineup, including a new 25-inch model tailored for Asian homes, alongside existing 24-inch and 27-inch versions. Designed for space efficiency and everyday convenience, the lineup reflects LG’s deep understanding of diverse housing environments across Asia.

New top-load washer models further enhance fabric care and performance, powered by Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive (AI DD) technology that optimizes wash motions based on fabric type and soil level, while TurboWash 3D completes a full cycle in under 30 minutes. In addition, an automatic dispenser measures and dispenses detergent for each load, reducing the need for frequent refills.

The new LG WashCombo further strengthens LG’s drying solutions as an all-in-one model, delivering stable and effective drying through LG’s Inverter HeatPump technology. The improved energy efficiency reflects the strong focus on electricity costs among Asian consumers, while an expanded standalone dryer lineup offers a broader range of high-efficiency options.

LG also offers commercial laundry solutions engineered for high-frequency, long-hour operation. Building on more than a decade of semi-commercial experience, the portfolio features professional-grade capabilities such as customizable wash programs, open API connectivity, and a service-friendly front-access design. Leveraging this expertise, LG will introduce a new commercial washer-dryer HeatPump Combo that integrates washing and drying in a single unit, enhancing convenience and space efficiency. Global expansion is planned following strong demand in Korea.

Smarter Kitchen Solutions for Every Lifestyle

LG is unveiling refrigerator solutions designed to reflect diverse lifestyles and housing conditions across Asia. The new Fit & Max design features a Zero Clearance Hinge, enabling a seamless built-in appearance without wasted space against the wall, while maximizing storage capacity in compact kitchens. LG’s advanced Ice Solution addresses the high ice consumption common among Asian consumers, offering four ice options — Craft Ice, Crushed, Cubed and Mini Craft — suited for everyday use and entertaining.

For faster, more effective dish care, LG’s latest dishwasher features an exclusive one-hour wash-and-dry cycle. QuadWash Pro uses four spray arms with high pressure water jets and microbubbles to clean dishes from multiple angles. Dynamic Heat Dry+ enhances drying performance with a moisture-absorbing material to remove humidity and efficiently produce warm, dry air. Notably, A-grade energy efficiency is achieved across key models spanning both premium and volume segments.

For Southeast Asian markets, LG will also introduce a tailored built-in kitchen collection that includes ovens, cooktops and hoods, targeting both B2B and B2C segments. A highlight is the advanced Camera Oven, which uses an internal camera to identify ingredients inside and recommend optimal cooking mode, while monitoring surface color to check when dishes are ideally cooked.

An Immersive Exhibition Experience

For the first time at InnoFest, LG will host live commerce sessions for partners in selected markets, creating a dynamic, interactive sales environment directly from the event floor.

Moreover, attendees can explore three distinct exhibition zones, each representing different home environments across Asia. While the lifestyles showcased reflect diverse regional needs, the spatial designs are inspired by Korean dramas that have gained strong resonance across the region, creating an engaging and familiar experience for partners.

Within these zones, LG brings its AI Home vision to life, demonstrating how intelligent technologies can enhance everyday living with greater convenience. Powered by the AI Home Hub, ThinQ ON, LG’s AI-enabled appliances and IoT devices are seamlessly connected and coordinated to deliver intuitive, integrated home experiences. ThinQ ON has already launched in its initial market and is scheduled for a phased introduction across Asia, starting with Australia and Thailand.

As part of its long-term growth strategy in Asia, LG is extending its innovation beyond products through the global expansion of LG Subscribe, a flexible subscription service for home appliances. The company is actively developing this business in key urbanized Asian markets, including Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore and Vietnam, offering customers both access to appliances and comprehensive product care.

“Asia is one of our most dynamic and important markets, and InnoFest 2026 gives us a valuable opportunity to connect with our partners and share our vision for the future,” said Jaeseung Kim, Regional CEO of LG Electronics Asia Pacific. “Building on our technology innovation, we are advancing AI-powered home solutions that reflect local lifestyles.”

Via: Healthandfitnessph

The post LG ELECTRONICS SHOWCASES INNOVATION AND GROWTH STRATEGY FOR ASIA AT LG INNOFEST 2026 APAC appeared first on HTalk Asia.

The platform addresses a critical bottleneck: the AI stall. Studies show up to 95 percent of AI efforts underdeliver because they are fed with stale and fragmented data from legacy batch systems. To bridge this gap, Globe Business is providing the data-in-motion foundation that activates stagnant information into a high-velocity stream of actionable, context-rich intelligence. 

“In the race for AI leadership, success will depend not only on model quality, but on the ability to continuously capture and act on fresh, real-time data.,” said KD Dizon, Vice President and Head of Globe Business. “By making real-time data an operational reality, we are giving businesses the high-velocity fuel they need to achieve true intelligent transformation”

Built by the original creators of open source Apache Kafka® — trusted by over 80% of the Fortune 100 — Confluent offers a complete data streaming platform that allows enterprises to stream, connect, process, and govern data as it flows throughout their business in real time. Confluent’s proven, enterprise-grade technology is now hosted on Globe’s local Virtual Private Cloud enabling Philippine businesses to transform raw data into reusable AI-ready data products that fuel the next generation of intelligent applications.

This managed approach significantly lowers the total cost of ownership compared to self-managed systems, allowing enterprises to bypass the steep expenses of specialized talent and complex infrastructure. By removing these financial and technical hurdles, companies across the banking, retail, logistics, manufacturing, and service sectors can build AI-powered applications faster while ensuring full support for local data residency compliance.

“AI is only as powerful as the data behind it,” said Kamal Brar, Senior Vice President of Partners and Technology Group at Confluent. “Through this collaboration with Globe Business, enterprises in the Philippines can tap into real-time data streams that are secure, reliable, and ready for scale.”

Early adopters have seen measurable gains. Retailers using real-time data streaming have raised inventory accuracy to 95 percent. Customer service teams supported by AI agents have automated up to 80 percent of inbound requests, cutting resolution time from hours to minutes. Companies like Notion report saving hundreds of thousands of dollars annually after switching to managed data streaming.

Globe Business is also applying these lessons internally. With 80 percent of its workforce now using AI tools, the company has improved efficiency across operations, from hiring to service delivery.

By positioning real-time data as the essential infrastructure for the AI era, Globe Business is enabling modern organizations to achieve sustained business excellence through intelligent transformation.

Visit Globe Business website to learn more: www.globe.com.ph/business/cloud/data-streaming 

Via: Healthandfitnessph

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The story is told by Silviya, a lady from the noble House Nebula who married its young head, Hans, as part of a deal. The game begins with his murder by an unknown monster shortly after the wedding party. She calls for a detective to investigate the crime. But one question remains: who is the real monster?

“The central theme of STARCULT. Night: Twisted Age is how human emotions influence relationships—how people express them, how they interpret them, and how they use them (whether accidentally or intentionally).

We decided to present this in an interactive way by adding an Emotion Palette, which players will use as a unique tool for interacting with the game world,” says Liliia Sitailo, the artist and CEO of Not A Cat Studios.

At the center of the experience is the Emotion Palette, a gameplay system that allows players to read the true emotions and intentions of others and shape how interactions unfold. The system offers a wide range of choices that influence relationships, outcomes, and the direction of the story. The game also features an Emotion Frenzy system, where choosing not to spend emotion leads to Silviya going insane, unlocking an alternative story route.

Key Features

• Make meaningful choices that lead to a variety of unique endings, including Detective, Hedonist, Mystic, Nihilist, Ascended, and secret paths
• Choose a character to form a relationship with: spicy, romantic, toxic, sadistic, codependent, casual, open, or platonic
• Read the true emotions and intentions of your friends and enemies using the emotion palette, and influence how they respond
• Create your own cult and choose its purpose

STARCULT. Night: Twisted Age is planned for release on Steam for PC, with additional platforms to be announced. 

Join STARCULT on Discord and follow the studio on X and TikTok.

Via: Healthandfitnessph

The post STARCULT Announced, A Dark Fantasy Visual Novel Where Emotions Shape Every Choice appeared first on HTalk Asia.