Mama Mary and Her Children Book 7 on CNN Philippines

Thank you @rowiejuanmatti for sharing this moment on @cnnphilippines with me! Our book Mama Mary and Her Children Book 7 tells stories of miracles, personal transformations, and faith during the time of the pandemic and beyond! It is available here. 📖 And you can watch our interview here. 📖 Special thanks to @askmigslopez for the PC and headset which I used during the interview 🥹 God bless us all!💙 #authorlife #MamaMary #havefaith #catholic #virginmary #blessedmother

#ImmaculateConception #miracleshappen #truestories #catholiclife #mothermary #iReadAnvil #MamaMaryAndHerChildren

Mama Mary and Her Children Book 7 on CNN!

@rowiejuanmatti and I had an amazing time during our guesting on @cnnphilippines’ The Final Word. We talked to @rico.hizon about Mama Mary and Her Children Book 7, which features my essay and was co-edited by Rowie. It is available here. 📖 You may watch our interview here. 📖 Hope you can buy our book and be inspired by real-life stories of faith and hope during the pandemic and beyond!💙 #authorlife @anvilpublishing

The Final World

Join us later! My good friend Rowie and I will be guesting on CNN Philippines TONIGHT 9PM!

“Mama Mary and her Children: True Stories of Real People” continues a legacy of enriching young readers’ relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Author Samantha Lucas and co-editor Rowena Juan Matti will tell us more on #TheFinalWord with Rico Hizon.

💻 Facebook

📱 Live stream bit.ly/3uxucI4

📺 Free TV ch. 9, Cignal ch. 10, Sky Cable ch. 14

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines gives back this holiday season with ‘season of giving’ campaign

Funding will support the charity Reach Out and Feed Philippines in acquiring mobile kitchens and strengthening food programs for the community

Filipino band NOBITA performed their favourite hits for the charity at a special live performance 

Manila, PHILIPPINES – Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and popular band NOBITA have partnered with Reach Out and Feed Philippines to support local communities impacted by hunger this holiday season. 

This comes as part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are giving back to every local community in which Sony Music Group (SMG) operates. Across the world, SMG is supporting global organizations dedicated to providing aid for those facing food insecurity, homelessness and refugee support, as well as music industry relief and educational programs for communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This also follows the support provided through the Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund, to move the needle in broadening opportunities for underserved communities worldwide. In October, the company partnered with SPARK! Philippines to champion young women’s rights through music and film. 

Beginning in the month of November, the Season of Giving program saw SMG committing sizeable amounts in each geography where the Company conducts business: Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, United Kingdom, and the United States. 

In the Philippines, non-profit organization Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc., which provides food aid to children who have little or no access to nutritious food, had its outreach efforts hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic and the typhoons that struck the Philippines over the past two years. With this funding, Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc. will be acquiring mobile kitchens that can provide meals to vulnerable communities where needed, reaching more children and their families through the organization’s ongoing feeding and nourishment programs.   

Anna Pauline Castro, Executive Director of Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc., said, “The funding from Sony Music Group will be a great help in pushing forward with our school and community outreach programs. We expect these mobile kitchens to reach 1,000 children and their households on ongoing feeding programs, as well as families affected by the pandemic and recent typhoons, to provide them with nutritious meals.” 

“Ultimately, we hope that this will bring us closer to realizing our vision of seeing every Filipino child healthy, nourished, and empowered to reach their maximum potential for growth and learning.”

As a band that actively gives back to society, NOBITA also partnered with Reach Out and Feed Philippines Inc. to support outreach efforts and put on an intimate concert for some of the children who are beneficiaries of the organization. 

NOBITA said, “It means a lot to be part of a label that strives to make a positive impact on society by reaching out to underserved communities. We are truly glad to have had the chance to spend time volunteering with Reach Out and Feed Philippines – seeing smiles from children and families whilst connecting with them through music was an unforgettable experience for us.”

In speaking of the seasonal initiative, Towalame Austin, Executive Vice President, Philanthropy and Social Impact, Sony Music Group, said, “Globally, SMG is committed to supporting local communities throughout the year. For the holiday season, we wanted to bring extra support and relief aid to those in need and dedicate our efforts to more than three million people worldwide. We’re grateful to our artists and international partner organizations who work on-the-ground to provide direct assistance to their neighbors.”   

In addition to NOBITA, notable artists and songwriters who volunteered with partner organizations in their communities during a series of in-person events include India Shawn (Epic Records), Tyler Shaw (SME Canada), Kobie Dee (SMP Australia), Tom Wilson (SMP Canada) – who volunteered with partner organizations in their own communities during a series of in-person events. 

This campaign represents the Company’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to forge partnerships and support communities that need it most, inside and outside the music industry. For ‘Season of Giving’, every global organization selected to receive funding was determined by a group of global stakeholders including the Company’s internal task forces, legal and public policy teams. Learn more about SMG’s giving approach here.

 Source: Nyou

ADB, Tiger Infrastructure Sign $40 Million Loan to Support Rural Connectivity in Southern Philippines

MANILA, PHILIPPINES (7 December 2022) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $40 million loan with Tiger Infrastructure Philippines, Inc. (Tiger Infrastructure) to build 380 telecommunications towers in the Mindanao and Visayas regions of the Philippines. This infrastructure will enable mobile network operators to provide a full range of mobile and data services to consumers.

The financing comprises $25 million from ADB’s ordinary capital resources and a $15 million loan from the Leading Asia’s Private Infrastructure Fund administered by ADB.

Telecommunication towers support one or more wireless telecommunication antennae. The project will support common tower sharing, which will allow multiple mobile network operators to lease the same location while Tiger Infrastructure will be responsible for construction, land leasing, operation, and maintenance. All telecommunication equipment installed on the towers will belong to the tenants.

“Digital connectivity’s impact in helping to achieve Sustainable Development Goals cannot be understated, especially in areas like education, health care, financing, and payments,” said ADB's Private Sector Operations Department Director General Suzanne Gaboury. “This project will improve access to the digital economy in the underserved regions of Visayas and Mindanao and have a tangible impact on the quality of life for local communities.”

The Philippines has only 164 towers per 1 million people or about 27,000 telecom towers as of 2021, one of the lowest coverage rates in the region. The Government of the Philippines estimates that an additional 60,000 towers are needed by 2031 in unserved and underserved areas.

"We are honored to receive this support and endorsement from ADB. Together, we share a vision of supporting Philippines' development through mobile network connectivity and digital transformation,” said Tiger Infrastructure Group Executive Chairman Simon Skouboe. “We are confident that by working with ADB, Tiger can strengthen our digital infrastructure portfolio as we continue to respond to demand for reliable mobile network connectivity in Asia."

Tiger Infrastructure is jointly owned by Cell Tower Services Pte. Ltd (CTSP) and Daily Life Renewable Energy Pte. Ltd (DLRE), both incorporated in Singapore. CTSP is well established in the telecommunications towers business with projects around the world, while DLRE is involved in customized design, engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning services for renewable energy systems across Asia and the Pacific.

LEAP is an ADB-managed fund capitalized with a $1.5 billion commitment by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Established in 2016, LEAP is focused on the delivery of high-quality and sustainable private sector infrastructure projects that reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and offer accessible and affordable health care, education, and communication services to ADB’s developing members.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

Source: ADB

Mama Mary and Her Children: Book 7

My essay is part of this book! Buy Mama Mary and Her Children: Book 7 here. 📖 Watch our virtual book launch on Thursday, December 8, 12 NN on Anvil Publishing’s official Facebook page!💙 #authorlife #booksam #MamaMary #havefaith #catholic #virginmary #blessedmother

#ImmaculateConception #miracleshappen #truestories #catholiclife #mothermary #iReadAnvil #MamaMaryAndHerChildren @rowiejuanmatti @anvilpublishing

ADB, Hayat Kimya to Support Sanitation Products for Women and Children in Viet Nam, Thailand, and Malaysia

HA NOI, VIET NAM (5 December 2022) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a €20 million (around $ 21 million) loan with Hayat Kimya Vietnam Company Limited (Hayat Kimya) to support the ongoing construction of a manufacturing facility for baby diapers, wet wipes, and women’s hygiene pads in Viet Nam.

The project aims to expand consumer choices and improve the affordability of these products, which will also be exported to Malaysia and Thailand. An additional loan of €15 million was issued by Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH.

“Proper menstrual health management and childcare sanitation is crucial for women, and yet they not only lack access to hygiene products but also face stigma often linked to menstruation,” said ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations Department Suzanne Gaboury. “Our support will help Hayat Kimya to continue empowering women and improving their health and education, leaving them in a better position to share in the country’s rising prosperity.”

In Viet Nam, it is estimated that only 43% of women have access to sanitary pads while only 52% of mothers use diapers for their infants. At the same time, Viet Nam has one of the highest female labor force participation rates in the world. Even so, most working women still have primary responsibility for house, child, and elderly care duties.

ADB will also help Hayat Kimya to develop a gender-inclusive action plan which includes promoting gender equality in their branding and marketing, implementation of an awareness campaign about the benefits of hygiene products, and development of a gender-inclusive corporate framework including anti-sexual harassment policies and career development programs for female professionals. The company also aims to open an internship program for female graduates of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

This project has qualified for a 2x gender financing rating, a challenge launched at the G7 summit in 2018 to encourage gender lens investing among development finance institutions.

“We believe that everyone has the right to access quality sanitation products and we work for this vision. Especially in a region like Southeast Asia and particularly in Viet Nam, where women are extremely active in both home and business life. It inspires us to know that we add comfort to their lives,” said Hayat Vice-President of Finance Hüseyin Okur.

Hayat Kimya is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hayat Kimya Sanayi, the world’s fourth-largest branded baby diaper manufacturer, and was established over 50 years ago in Türkiye. The company owns 16 brands across multiple consumer product categories. It operates 21 manufacturing facilities, has 9,000 employees globally, and is among Türkiye’s top 50 industrial entities.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

Source: ADB; photo by ADB

ADB, ABIS Sign Sustainability-Linked Debt Facility to Support Climate-Resilient Fish Farming

NEW DELHI, INDIA (2 December 2022) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and ABIS Exports India Private Limited (ABIS) entered into an agreement to subscribe to non-convertible debentures for $16 million (in equivalent Indian rupee), to enhance food security in India by supporting the construction of a micro fish feed plant and by training up to 6,000 farmers in climate-resilient fish farming practices as well as financial literacy.

Specialized micro fish feed is a new product in the Indian market and is smaller in size than standard feed, making it suitable for more species of fish. It also floats on the water surface for longer, enabling the feed to be completely consumed by the fish rather than sink and be wasted while also increasing feed efficiency and reducing water pollution.

“Fisheries are crucial to India’s nutrition and food security and provide income and jobs for more than 28 million fish farmers across the country’s aquaculture value chain,“ said ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department Senior Investment Specialist Tushna Dora. “Our assistance to ABIS delivers much-needed innovation and efficiencies in feed inputs, which will support increased production while improving rural livelihoods through training of farmers and targeted investments in local manufacturing.”

As a sustainability-linked and blue-debt facility, this financing signifies ADB’s and ABIS’s commitment to climate change mitigation and adaptation, water conservation, ocean health, and the promotion of farmers’ capacity building. This is ADB’s first private sector sustainability-linked financing, with adjustments in pricing when pre-defined sustainability targets are met. Targets include emissions reductions, water conservation, and farmer training. The sustainability-linked financing received an independent second-party opinion, consistent with industry principles.

Training in climate-smart fish farming practices and financial literacy through a $500,000 technical assistance (TA) grant will enhance the climate resilience of fish farmers. The TA will also address gaps in access faced by women farmers to aquacultural information and training.

“We are delighted to start this partnership with ADB. ADB’s support is a vote of confidence for ABIS and validates our commitment to reduce carbon emissions, improve water conservation, and provide increased farmer extension services,” said ABIS Export Managing Director Bahadur Ali. “At the core of our mission are the farmers and their livelihoods coupled with achieving our highly ambitious environmental, social, and governance targets.”

Food security is a priority for ADB, which recently announced plans to provide at least $14 billion over 2022–2025 to ease a worsening food crisis in Asia and the Pacific, while improving long-term food security by strengthening food systems against the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss. Direct support to farmers and agribusinesses in the region is key to this initiative, with an expected $3.5 billion from ADB and $5 billion in cofinancing to be provided to the private sector. The debt facility to ABIS is part of this direct support to the private sector.

ABIS is the flagship operating company of the Indian Broiler group, which also has operations in poultry, poultry-feed, dairy, edible oil, and hospitality. All the group’s products are sold under the ABIS brand name, with the company active in 26 states in India. Together with its affiliates, it has over 8,000 employees. ABIS is committed to reducing carbon emissions, improving water conservation, and providing increased farmer extension services.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

Source: ADB; photo by ADB

Mama Mary Book 7

Hi everyone! My essay is part of this book. Buy a copy here. 💙

The book "Mama Mary and Her Children" has been telling the true experiences of real people ever since it was published in 2008. Book Seven continues sharing real stories, some of which take place during the pandemic.

Book launch on Dec 8, 2022 💙📿

watch the virtual book launch on the official Facebook of Anvil Publishing.

#MamaMary #havefaith #catholic #virginmary #blessedmother

#ImmaculateConception #miracleshappen #truestories #catholiclife #mothermary #iReadAnvil #MamaMaryAndHerChildren

Filipino singer-songwriter Jason Marvin releases worship anthem “Gain”

WATERWALK RECORDS, a label under Sony Music, is committed to bringing Christian music to a new, streaming generation. Crossing genre and denominational lines with songs that promote spiritual maturity and journey, the Christian record label welcomes singer-songwriter Jason Marvin as one of the latest additions to their roster, which includes faith-based acts from the Philippines and across the region.

His new single “Gain” asserts that it’s easier to weather the storms in life when your faith is intact and strong. According to Jason, “Gain” was given to him when he specifically asked for a song that directly speaks about his current situation.

“He led me to Matthew 16:24-28 to remind me that nothing in this world will ever compare to being with Him,” the 30-year-old musician explains. “And that even if I lose all earthly treasures, but I still have God, then I have everything.”

Brimming with subtle instrumentation and feathery, acoustic guitar, “Gain” finds itself flowing in captivating calm, where everything sounds warm and at peace, but progressing into a beautiful finish. Despite its understated flourishes, the track maintains a level of intimacy that is both brittle and soft on the edges, but sturdy in how it wants to convey optimism and faith in its messaging.

“I made sure it would sound like a worship session among a small group of believers rather than a super clean studio,” he shares.

The song is produced and arranged by Jason himself and Victor Noora, mixed by Shadiel Chan, and mastered by Jan Fuertez. As for the backing band, Jason is joined by his friends and colleagues in faith, namely: EJ de Perio on keyboards, Victor Noora on bass and electric guitars, and Luke Sigua on drums.

“I approached them individually and instructed them on how to go about the song exactly how I envisioned it so it would still sound like they were all in one room,” the talented multihyphenate adds.

Listen to “Gain” here.

Source: Nyou

Zelijah’s “Show U” music video captures the messiness and fun of an ‘actual’ party

The Filipino rapper-producer maintains his appetite for culture-defining sounds, Caribbean-infused beats, and hypnotic lyrics on this new bop under Sony Music Entertainment

Filipino rapper-producer Zelijah hits a sweet spot between peak-club trendiness and experimentation on his new single “Show U”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The release of the song comes with a music videohelmed by Leo Malli. According to the director, the MV explores the perspective of different people in a party, capturing both the messiness, the fun, and the quirks that go behind it.

“I made sure we took real pieces of what Zelijah has seen throughout his life,” Malli says. “Just that it’s all happening in one night. The night we shot the MV, we were also holding his birthday and listening party, so this was a real party happening. It’s more organic that way.”

Punctuated by tropical house beats, Jamaican rhythms and exotic flavors, Zelijah’s latest bop pivots to the sound of summer while maintaining an extensive appetite for the next big thing. While the track maintains a slick, modern production and hypnotic sonic motif that puts multiculturalism on display, the songwriting complements the material with a youthful appeal. This was in contrast to his previous releases, which were inspired by extreme emotions such as anger and hatred.

"Show U is an attempt of combining hip hop with nostalgic genres from the 2000s like Y2K Pop, Dancehall, Reggaton, and a bit of rumba,” shares the young multi-hyphenate. “It's also spiced with a bit of Tiktok-ishelements by pitching up the formants of vocals and topping it with a classic drum n’ bass rhythm. And yes, I did produce the whole thing.”

According to Zelijah, the song was particularly written about a mysterious, strong woman that he met in the club. He points out, “Here I expressed how tired she must be with everything she's been through life especially with her past relationships yet she still appears to be strong and confident. Despite the odds, I still tried to shoot my shot.”

Zelijah also emphasized that “Show U” marks his transition as an artist comfortable with getting in touch to his emotional and soft side, yet balancing it with mystery and spice. His recent breakup enabled him to rebuild himself and try a different path, lyrically and sonically speaking.

“I've been going outside more often too so most of the songs I'll be putting out starting from Show U would most likely be experiences from the outside world,” says the eclectic multi-genre act. “And I also thought hey maybe I could turn those moments into songs and that made me come up with my upcoming album.”

Zelijah’s “Show U” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

Source: Nyou

Philippine Book Fair Baguio

Hello! My books #speakbloglive and #speakplanlive under @centralbooksph @publishondemand are currently sold at the Philippine Book Fair Baguio until tomorrow! Buy your copies now, Baguio friends! ⛰️ #authorlife

M1LDL1FE, Kindred, Munimuni, Lola Amour and more to perform at this year’s GNN Year End Party

After bringing Indonesian folk-pop superstar Pamungkas to Manila and staging a sold-out concert at Solaire featuring some of the most iconic women in Pinoy rock, GNN Entertainment ends the year on a festive note with their annual year-end festival happening at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City, on December 17, 2022 (Saturday), from 3 p.m. onwards.

A mix of established and emerging acts are set to perform at this year’s edition. These include Singapore-based post-punk outfit M1LDL1FE, who are making a highly anticipated return to the country following their well-received set at 2019’s ALL OF THE NOISE, and Filipino-Singaporean pop vixen YSA YANEZA, whose eponymous debut EP recently won accolades from music critics.

Filipino indie and alternative pop/rock bands like Cheats, Ang Bandang Shirley, Oh, Flamingo!, Munimuni, Lola Amour, One Click Straight, and Any Name's Okay are playing this year's open-air festival, along with post-rock band GABBA, alt-R&B/hip-hop/electronic boyband KINDRED, and veteran indie outfit Narda.

Firmly rooted in the culture of fostering community and inclusivity through live music, the GNN Year-End Party aims to restore the public’s faith in going to shows and festivals. With support by co-presenter Jack Daniel’s, GNN promises to help open up new possibilities in honing the landscape of the live music scene by producing top-notch and memorable shows that champion both local and international acts.

GNN also teams up with homegrown merchants to diversify its offering, including Everything’s Fine PH, an indie publishing company that has released some of the most exciting titles in recent memory; Backspacer Records, home to carefully curated vinyl records; and Makes No Sense, a startup clothing line.

Early bird tickets go on sale today at PHP 700 for a limited time only. Get it here.

Source: GNN

I Befriended Myself: Now on Amazon

I Befriended Myself out now for $2.99 on Amazon 💫 #authorlife #ibefriendedmyself @ukiyotopublishinghouse

P-Pop star Mona Gonzales shows global potential with debut single “Always Remember”

The breakthrough act drops a banger about “bravely facing the world” and valuing self-worth

Sony Music Entertainment and ShowBT PhilippinesCorp., the entertainment company responsible for the breakthrough of award-winning boyband SB19, are set to launch another P-Pop star with immense global potential.

With more than 17 million followers on TikTok alone and an impressive portfolio of anime soundtracks that went viral, breakthrough artist Mona Gonzales ranks among the industry’s newest batch of megastar hopefuls.

The promising solo act marks her debut as a recording artist with “Always Remember,” an effervescent cut that champions the value of self-worth and preservation in an attempt to bravely face the world and conquer everything. Capturing the unabashedly colorful spirit of K-Pop and J-Pop with commanding confidence, Mona Gonzales aims to uplift listeners with her anthemic and captivating delivery—doing it like a seasoned pro.

“The way I personally describe it is something like a soft pop rock for me,” says the promising TikTok sensation turned P-Pop star. “The sound of electric guitar with a pop style beat is dominating through the whole song. The style is not really new, but the sound is unique in its own way. It’s a little different from the OPM that we’re used to. I think that makes it interesting.”

Produced by Oh Won Lee, an industry veteran who has helmed tracks by K-Pop icons Stray Kids, SHINee's Taemin, and Wanna One, and the country’s very own SB19, “Always Remember” is an inspirational track that pushes the envelope of modern pop production with breezy, summer hooks and a minimalist instrumentation. The end product is a mesmerizing take on P-Pop, one that is creatively boundless and flows with so much effortlessness.

As Mona Gonzales puts it, “Pinoy Pop Music doesn’t really have a certain and specific style and sound. Most of us new artists want to be unique. That’s true for me, but I want to add a new flavor and variety along with the existing Pinoy pop music right now. And with every Pinoy music artists, we will prove that P-POP can expand. And then people will talk about how the Pinoy pop music has evolved, its potential and where it can go.”

The release of the song comes with a vibrant music video that metaphorically follows Mona Gonzales’ journey as an artist with so much to explore and grow on. Shot in multiple locations that showcase the beautiful scenery of the Philippines, Mona Gonzales dances, sings, hops, and walks with the excitement of someone ready to navigate the world on her own terms.

Mona Gonzales’ “Always Remember” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and ShowBT Philippines Corp. Watch the music video here.

Source: Nyou

ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022 stuns audience with rich musical traditions and cross-cultural showcases

The second edition of the music festival returns with incredible performances from iconic artists across India and the Southeast Asian region

Heralded as a game-changer that aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote cultural exchanges, ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022 delivered an astounding comeback that not only presented resilience during the time of the pandemic, but also championed shared histories and traditions among the participating partner-nations.

The three-day festival, which was organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and Seher—India’s premier cultural organization that works closely with the Indian government, showcased an exquisite merging of artistic heritage and cutting-edge modernity as headliners brought a slice of their culture on stage through music.

The second edition of the music festival featured an eclectic lineup from 11 countries, including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and India. The event took place in Purana Qila, one of the most prominent and oldest forts in Delhi, India from November 20 to 22, and promoted rich musical traditions that connected the present and the past to a crowd of thousands.

Some of the most notable performances include Singapore’s Linying Band, whose compelling songwriting style and folk-pop sensibilities proved to be a hit during the festival run.  The acclaimed hitmaker, who takes pride in being the first Southeast Asian act to get signed under Canadian Record Company Nettwerk Music Group in 2016, considers the experience of performing in India and representing Singapore a career milestone.

“It feels great,” says the Good Behaviour songstress. “And I think I didn't expect for this venue to be so breathtaking and so amazing. And I think that's something that's so unique. It’s cherry on top already, such an interesting opportunity to play, [this city is] already one of my favorites.”

The Philippines’ very own Bayang Barrios at Ang Nilayagan also brought the house down with anthems that tackle socio-political issues in the Philippines, particularly the vast destruction of the forests in the countryside due to ongoing urban developments. Singing soulful but powerful hymns against a backdrop of tribal-infused beats and ethnic instrumentation and delivering spiels in both English and Filipino, the eclectic singer-songwriter drew loud cheers from the audience who seemed captivated by her undeniable charisma and talent.

“Music is universal,” Barrios reiterates. “Despite the difference in language, people will always be connected in rhythm and pulse. What matters is that you are able to communicate your message through distinct but universal expressions—be it body movements or a smile.”

Host country India proved that they’re a powerhouse in terms of global music influence with artists such as Jonita Gandhi and Sukhbir elevating the art of performing in a uniquely compelling way. The latter in particular, performed with a percussion ensemble that masterfully blended Bhangra and Bollywood influences with modern pop, dance, and hip-hop music.

During his backstage interview with select Southeast Asian lifestyle and music press, Seher Founder/Director Sanjeev Bhargava emphasized that the success of ASEAN-India Music Festival lies on strengthening cultural ties among participating countries and fostering a global community that transcends beyond boundaries.

“Let’s bring the people of the world closer together,” Bhargava said. “And over here, my mandate is very clear. People in India have always been drawn towards the West. They want us to go to university in London or Canada or the U.S. Nobody tells us to go to Vietnam. Nobody tells me that there’s a beautiful culture in Cambodia.”

ASEAN-India Music Festival 2022 celebrates 30 years of India and Southeast Asia’s diplomatic relations. With its utmost goal of increasing awareness of the ASEAN identity amongst creative intellectuals and the public at large, the cultural festival has also done showcases in Shillong Meghalaya in Northeast India, as part of its plan to bolster its ‘Act East’ policy.

For more information about the ASEAN India Music Festival, visit the official website.

Source: Nyou

Bookshop.org

Some of my books are now available on @bookshop_org 📖 Please continue buying my books on Amazon, Google Play, and via this link. 📕 NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!📚 #amazonauthor #authorlife @ukiyotopublishinghouse

Folk-pop artist syd hartha links up with hip-hop sensation kiyo on new single “3:15”

Acclaimed singer-songwriter syd hartha puts her eclecticism on full display with the release of her new single "3:15"—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The song finds the young, multi-talented artist collaborating for the first time with hip-hop star kiyo while expressing her complicated feelings towards someone who isn't perfect by any means but is certainly important in her life.

"3:15 is about how someone feels wrong but feels so good at the same time," explains the folk-pop artist. "I always try to convince myself that someone or something won’t always be good to me, but for some reason, I end up giving in."

The title of the track was derived from the coincidental reflections that happen during the dark, witching hours of the morning when one gets stirred from slumber and wakes up searching profusely for answers and signs.

The ayaw act adds, "It was supposed to just be temporary, until I realized that the title shares a connection with the lyrics: that specific time can also symbolize trying to make the most out of the dark."

For his part, Filipino rapper/producer kiyo drops some smooth, delicate verses that complement the track’s honest depiction of fallibility, which to some extent, mirrors the moments when a narrative becomes looser and moodier as it reaches the lateness of the hour. As kiyo puts it, "anino sa paligid, may gustong sabihin / dami ng mga mata, bakit ‘di marinig" is a line that keeps one awake, with complicated feelings of desire and danger crawling in the same sentence.

The release of "3:15" also comes with a music videohelmed by Raliug of Lunchbox Productions, with a concept by Pau Tiu. According to the filmmaker, the visual material encapsulates the perfect visualization of what the song is about: basking in the comforts of one’s safe space, which is considered a place where "emotions, including fear and shame, are present and always welcome."

"3:15" will be part of syd hartha’s upcoming new EP, which will be produced by Brian Lotho. Combining folk and stripped-down elements with contemporary flair, syd wants to assert her creative agency by exploring specific moods per song, and offering a more introspective, personal approach to songwriting.

syd hartha’s "3:15" is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.Watch the music video here.

Source: Nyou

ADB, Wabag Sign $25 Million Debt Facility to Support Sanitation and Water Security in India

NEW DELHI, INDIA (25 November 2022) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $25 million debt facility with VA Tech Wabag Limited (Wabag) to support sanitation and water security through the development of new sewage treatment plants in India.

The financing will be used for long-term capital requirements for engineering, procurement, and construction, and the subsequent operation and maintenance of the sewage treatment plants. ADB will also provide technical assistance of up to $35,000 to enhance Wabag’s capacity to assess and mitigate environmental and social risks for future projects.

“The disposal of wastewater without proper treatment has put significant pressure on India’s already scarce water resources and the quality of those resources,” said ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department Director General Suzanne Gaboury. “This project is ADB’s first private sector financing in India’s water sector and will help to crowd in urgently needed international and domestic financing for the sector to ease water stress as demand increases.”

India is facing severe water stress, with demand expected to reach double the available water supply by 2030. Less than 30% of the water released back into rivers is treated, rendering about one-third of river water unfit for human consumption. Private water companies face difficulties in raising long-term working capital financing due to perceived high risks and low interest among domestic financing institutions, as the sector presents limited opportunities for profit.

“This is a proud moment for Wabag as we add another feather to our cap with this strategic funding from ADB that validates our mission and focus on clean, green, and sustainable water technologies,” said Wabag’s Managing Director and Group CEO Rajiv Mittal. “We are fully aligned with ADB on the need to increase interventions in India’s water sector.”

Wabag is a leading player in India's water industry, with expertise spanning almost a century. Wabag offers a complete range of technologies and services for total water solutions in both municipal and industrial sectors. It has over 1,600 water professionals spread over 25 countries on 4 continents, as well as research and development centers in Austria, India, and Switzerland.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

Source: ADB

BREAKOUT STAR NICKY YOURE SHARES INFECTIOUS NEW SONG👀 “EYES ON YOU” 👀

WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO HERE

Today, 23-year-old singer/songwriter Nicky Youre has released his new song “Eyes On You.” The infectious track finds Nicky describing what it feels like to be completely infatuated with someone at first glance. Listen HERE.

“Eyes On You” arrives alongside a camp-style official video that follows an apprehensive Nicky as he cat-sits for a neighbor and, in the end, wins the hearts of the kitten and its owner. Directed by Vision Kid, the visual made its broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop and on the Paramount Times Square billboards. Watch HERE.

In speaking about “Eyes On You,” Nicky says: "I wrote this song after a special person in my life moved to California. We were finally in the same state, and it felt so good to be close to them. The weekend before I wrote it, I had gone to a country concert and was inspired by how fun and energetic country songs can be, as well as how full they feel live. I wanted to try to capture those feelings with this song. The combination of those two events was enough for me to write a fun love song you can sing in your car or scream along with all of your friends at a concert."

“Eyes On You” follows Nicky’s summer smash hit “Sunroof.” Tallying over 650M streams to date, the track spent 11 consecutive weeks in the Top 10 on Billboard’s Hot 100 (peaked at #4). The success of “Sunroof” also earned Nicky his first nomination at the 2022 MTV VMA’s for ‘Song of the Summer’ and saw the star make his television debut on The TODAY Show. With multiple weeks spent atop Pop and Hot AC radio, Nicky Youre will join the Jingle Ball circuit starting November 29 in Fort Worth, TX with performances in New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and more.

Stay tuned for more from Nicky Youre coming soon!

About Nicky Youre:

Harnessing the infectious energy of sticky melodies and relatable lyrics, rising star Nicky Youre, is putting smiles on fans' faces one song at a time. The Indie pop, southern California native, is creating a body of work that is sure to be a staple on people’s playlists, as its inherent feel-good vibes uplift fans and stick with them throughout their day.

Taking inspiration from Dominic Fike, Tai Verdes, Jeremy Zucker, Alexander 23, blackbear and more, Youre’s tracks start with the most powerful aspect of his music, the undoubtedly catchy melodies. “My best songs come from humming melodies that pop into my head out of the blue, often without a beat. I try to fill the melody with words and visualize the energy or the type of beat that would go well with it. From there I work with a producer to help bring the vision to life and the rest just comes together naturally.”

Signed to Columbia Records in partnership with Thirty Knots Records, the young up-and-coming star has made quite the splash and is looking to leave his mark as he gears up to release “Eyes On You” on November 18.

Source: Sony Music Philippines