JACK IT is thrilled to host the worldwide mobile MOBA community competition, "TOURNAMENTS of TOURNAMENT in South East Asia," in April 2024. Registration is now open for all Mobile MOBA communities.

TOT is a series of exciting tournaments for game community leaders and managers, focusing on Mobile MOBA title communities for the upcoming season. JACK IT aims to provide benefits to community leaders who are dedicated to expanding their communities. This initiative aims to foster future talents, support continuous growth, and contribute to the expansion of the eSports industry as a whole.

■Grade system and total rewards for TOT

The grade will be based on community growth, scale, number of participants, and tournament frequency, using JACK IT's unique valuation basis. The top team in each region will receive a total compensation budget of $40,000 USD, which can be used for future community development activities.

■『TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT』 SouthEast Asia

Total Rewards：8,000USD＊Out of the total prize pool of 40,000 USD for all tournaments, the prize allocation for the Southeast Asia tournament will be 8,000 dollars.

■HOW TO REGISTER FOR TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT

Please register using the link below and ensure to complete all fields. By completing this form, you consent to us contacting you via the email you provide.

<a href="https://forms.gle/pc8ns1y8HW5KDQgMA">https://forms.gle/pc8ns1y8HW5KDQgMA</a>

For additional/ more TOT information and the benefits of participation for your game communities, please visit our website or join the Discord channel. Register today to be part of this exciting competition!

JACK IT, the Japan-based eSports community support project, is excited to announce the opening of registrations for the SouthEast Asia regional competition of the "TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT."

Forty selected communities in the SouthEast Asia region will battle for the title of the best mobile MOBA community, with a total prize pool of $40,000 USD.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/230ff587cbd64c62188af7c23f40a22c0ddff90a7af3c7a07b577596fcf30ad2/TOT_KV.png" alt="Image" />JACK IT is thrilled to host the worldwide mobile MOBA community competition, "TOURNAMENTS of TOURNAMENT in South East Asia," in April 2024. Registration is now open for all Mobile MOBA communities.TOT is a series of exciting tournaments for game community leaders and managers, focusing on Mobile MOBA title communities for the upcoming season. JACK IT aims to provide benefits to community leaders who are dedicated to expanding their communities. This initiative aims to foster future talents, support continuous growth, and contribute to the expansion of the eSports industry as a whole.<h2>■Grade system and total rewards for TOT</h2>The grade will be based on community growth, scale, number of participants, and tournament frequency, using JACK IT's unique valuation basis. The top team in each region will receive a total compensation budget of $40,000 USD, which can be used for future community development activities.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/96b8096fb7ecb3ad5822320b958cf04a7a23d412aca74b7265e69f2f91f60fa4/TOT%20English%2020P..png" alt="Image" /><h2>■『TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT』 SouthEast Asia</h2>Date: April 1st 2024〜​Entry Fee：FreeTotal Rewards：8,000USD＊Out of the total prize pool of 40,000 USD for all tournaments, the prize allocation for the Southeast Asia tournament will be 8,000 dollars.<h2>■HOW TO REGISTER FOR TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT</h2>Please register using the link below and ensure to complete all fields. By completing this form, you consent to us contacting you via the email you provide.Registration Deadline: March 31,2024<a href="https://forms.gle/pc8ns1y8HW5KDQgMA">https://forms.gle/pc8ns1y8HW5KDQgMA</a><h2>■Featured Mobile MOBA titles</h2><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/32877b72fdb6bd796b48638d9b158bc25ffedf41ebdaa54f4f2429ce0e431d39/Featured%20MOBA%20TITLES.png" alt="Image" />Arena of Valor&nbsp;League of Legends: Wild RiftMobile LegendsPokémon UNITEHONOR OF KINGS（王者栄耀）FORTNITEFor additional/ more TOT information and the benefits of participation for your game communities, please visit our website or join the Discord channel. Register today to be part of this exciting competition!

Manga / Anime

Mobile games

Consumer Games

Blockchain / Web3

JACK IT, the Japan-based eSports community support project, is excited to announce the opening of registrations for the SouthEast Asia regional competition of the "TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT."

Forty selected communities in the SouthEast Asia region will battle for the title of the best mobile MOBA community, with a total prize pool of $40,000 USD.

Attention SouthEast Asia Game Communities: JACK IT Presents the "TOURNAMENTS OF TOURNAMENT" Competition with a $40,000 prize

Manila, 28 February 2024 – On the back of the successful launch of its dedicated Fan App, United City Football Club is thrilled to get its strategic partnership with Blocksport, a pioneering Swiss-based company founded in 2019, started. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for United City FC, as it embraces the power of Web3 and blockchain technologies to enhance fan engagement and unlock new revenue streams.
 
About Blocksport: Unlocking Limitless Revenue Streams with Web3
 
Blocksport, a trailblazer in the sports technology arena, has successfully partnered with leading sports clubs across Europe and Africa, including the likes of Empoli FC, Partizan BC, Kaizer Chiefs FC, Salford Red Devils Rugby Club, Belgium Cycling, OH Leuven, to name a few. The company specializes in helping professional sports entities build digital infrastructure which in return creates efficient community hubs while leveraging Web3 and blockchain technologies for revenue generation and deeper fan engagement.
 
"At Blocksport, we are committed to empowering sports clubs with innovative solutions that transcend traditional boundaries. Our collaboration with United City FC signifies a bold step towards the future of fan engagement. Furthermore, my trip to Manila a few months ago to participate in the Business of Football conference confirmed to us that the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region, including Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, are markets with huge potential; hence this partnership marks the start of the Blocksport footprint in this part of the world. By combining the power of Web3 and blockchain, we aim to create a digital ecosystem that meets and exceeds the expectations of the modern fan. Together with United City FC, we are paving the way for a new era in sports technology not just in the Philippines but beyond." - Samir Ceric, COO of Blocksport.
 
The partnership between United City FC and Blocksport opens the door to various fan engagement activities, including but not limited to:
- NFT Games, Fan Points Booster, Digital Memberships, Premium Content, online ticketing, Exclusive Club content, Digital Collectibles, E-commerce, community chats, news updates, predictor games, live streaming, and much more.
 
Why Web3?
Gen Z Engagement: The next generation of fans, Gen Z, demands high digital and Web3 engagement levels from their favorite clubs. Embracing these technologies is crucial in attracting and retaining this tech-savvy audience.
 
Absolute Ownership: In Web3, fans have the exclusive ability to own, trade, and monetize their digital assets, fostering a sense of absolute ownership and connection with the club.
 
Transparency: Web3 technology ensures transparency in all transactions and relationships between clubs and fans. This transparency is essential for building trust and accountability within the fan community.
 
Security: Recognizing the value of fan data, Blocksport employs blockchain technology to uphold the highest security standards. This approach safeguards the privacy and integrity of fan data, treating it as the club's most valuable asset.
 
"We are excited about the endless possibilities our partnership with Blocksport brings. As we step into Web3 and blockchain, we are not just transforming the fan experience; we are revolutionizing how clubs interact with their supporters. This is a game-changer not only for United City FC but also for Philippine Football, and we are proud to lead the way in embracing the future of sports technology." - Eric Gottschalk, President of United City Football Club
 
United City FC and Blocksport are excited about the transformative potential of this partnership, as we work together to create a cutting-edge fan experience and position the club at the forefront of the evolving sports and technology landscape.
 <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/c33ed06de8f57d4bb9a0fbe07c0e2f4612280956b10afecb2b25e6d32a3c31af/BS%20Web.png" alt="Blocksport - Web3 Strategic Partner of United City Football Club" />

Sports

Manila, 28 February 2024 – On the back of the successful launch of its dedicated Fan App, United City Football Club is thrilled to get its strategic partnership with Blocksport, a pioneering Swiss-based company founded in 2019, started. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for United City FC, as it embraces the power of Web3 and blockchain technologies to enhance fan engagement and unlock new revenue streams.
 
About Blocksport: Unlocking Limitless Revenue Streams with Web3
 
Blocksport, a trailblazer in the sports technology arena, has successfully partnered with leading sports clubs across Europe and Africa, including the likes of Empoli FC, Partizan BC, Kaizer Chiefs FC, Salford Red Devils Rugby Club, Belgium Cycling, OH Leuven, to name a few. The company specializes in helping professional sports entities build digital infrastructure which in return creates efficient community hubs while leveraging Web3 and blockchain technologies for revenue generation and deeper fan engagement.
 
"At Blocksport, we are committed to empowering sports clubs with innovative solutions that transcend traditional boundaries. Our collaboration with United City FC signifies a bold step towards the future of fan engagement. Furthermore, my trip to Manila a few months ago to participate in the Business of Football conference confirmed to us that the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region, including Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, are markets with huge potential; hence this partnership marks the start of the Blocksport footprint in this part of the world. By combining the power of Web3 and blockchain, we aim to create a digital ecosystem that meets and exceeds the expectations of the modern fan. Together with United City FC, we are paving the way for a new era in sports technology not just in the Philippines but beyond." - Samir Ceric, COO of Blocksport.
 
The partnership between United City FC and Blocksport opens the door to various fan engagement activities, including but not limited to:
- NFT Games, Fan Points Booster, Digital Memberships, Premium Content, online ticketing, Exclusive Club content, Digital Collectibles, E-commerce, community chats, news updates, predictor games, live streaming, and much more.
 
Why Web3?
Gen Z Engagement: The next generation of fans, Gen Z, demands high digital and Web3 engagement levels from their favorite clubs. Embracing these technologies is crucial in attracting and retaining this tech-savvy audience.
 
Absolute Ownership: In Web3, fans have the exclusive ability to own, trade, and monetize their digital assets, fostering a sense of absolute ownership and connection with the club.
 
Transparency: Web3 technology ensures transparency in all transactions and relationships between clubs and fans. This transparency is essential for building trust and accountability within the fan community.
 
Security: Recognizing the value of fan data, Blocksport employs blockchain technology to uphold the highest security standards. This approach safeguards the privacy and integrity of fan data, treating it as the club's most valuable asset.
 
"We are excited about the endless possibilities our partnership with Blocksport brings. As we step into Web3 and blockchain, we are not just transforming the fan experience; we are revolutionizing how clubs interact with their supporters. This is a game-changer not only for United City FC but also for Philippine Football, and we are proud to lead the way in embracing the future of sports technology." - Eric Gottschalk, President of United City Football Club
 
United City FC and Blocksport are excited about the transformative potential of this partnership, as we work together to create a cutting-edge fan experience and position the club at the forefront of the evolving sports and technology landscape.
 

United City Football Club And Blocksport Join Forces To Revolutionize Club Experience Through Web3 Technology

Manila, Philippines - The 2nd edition of The Business of Football Conference, organized by MMC Sportz and sanctioned by the Philippine Football Federation, concluded successfully on 10 November 2023, at Raffles Makati. The one-day conference brought together key stakeholders from the Southeast Asian football community, fostering dialogue on critical topics shaping the future of the sport. The event aimed to address Asian Football Sponsorship and Investment Trends, the Future of Philippines Football and AFC Participation, and the Impact of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup on Southeast Asian Football, among other vital discussions.
The conference featured a lineup of 20+ regional and international speakers, including experts from governing bodies and rights holders, who shared insights and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in the football industry. The agenda covered a wide range of topics, including the use of blockchain for fan engagement, the role of social media, AI, big data in professional sports, and lessons learned from FIBA World Cup hosting experiences in the Philippines.

Asia Trends in Sponsorship and Investment in Football

According to Asia Sponsorship News, football is unequivocally the most valuable platform in Asia, constituting nearly 31% of all sports sponsorship sales in 2022. The platform's value was almost 2.5 times that of its closest competitor, the 'Olympics,' with a remarkable +21% increase over the four-year football average. Football, topping the charts at $1.6 billion, dwarfed the Olympics at only one-third of that, with $639 million, and Cricket trailing at $529 million. This data underscores the unparalleled dominance of football over other sports sponsorship platforms in the region.

The Role of Sport in Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships 

In a poignant exploration of the transformative power of sports as a catalyst for unity and reconciliation, the panel on 'The Role of Sport in Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships' brought together distinguished figures to share their perspectives. 

"Sports (football), in my view, is something that should unite people; that should unite countries. It should serve as a tool for reconciliation. Global sports should bring people together regardless of the color of their skin, regardless of age, even regardless of sex, so everybody can play football." - HE Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke, German Ambassador to the Philippines

"Sport is a fantastic platform for building connections between not only governments, countries, societies, and communities." - HE Peter Kell, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines

 Their insights capture the essence of this enlightening discussion, reflecting the shared vision of using sports (football) as a dynamic force for building bridges between nations and communities.

Addressing the Urgency for Adequate Sports Facilities Funding

During an insightful interview, Mr. Richard Bachmann, the esteemed Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, articulated a pressing concern regarding the funding of sports facilities. He emphasized that the deficiency in funding is not exclusive to football but extends across all sports. He also acknowledged that the country is currently lagging in providing the necessary financial support for sports infrastructure. His commitment to rectifying this shortfall was evident as he outlined his proactive approach by expressing his intent to collaborate with National Sports Associations (NSAs) to expedite the process of securing funding. Looking forward, he disclosed his ambitious plans for the upcoming year, having requested a substantial budget allocation. This allocation, Mr. Bachmann asserted, aims to address the critical need for facility improvements across various sports, underlining the commission's dedication to fostering the development of sports at all levels at every local government unit.

Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain & Web3

During a riveting presentation titled 'Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain & Web3,' Mr. Samir Ceric, Chief Operating Officer of Blocksport, unveiled an innovative and holistic solution to bridge the gap from Web2 to Web3 in the world of sports. Providing a glimpse into the transformative potential of this cutting-edge technology, he emphasized the importance of a solid foundation and community-building exercise. As he delved into the intricacies of their approach, he shed light on how Web3 technology enables the connection, deepening of fan engagement, and the creation of revenues for sporting properties globally. 

Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club & League Football
In a thought-provoking panel discussion titled 'Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club & League Football,' industry leaders provided profound insights into the challenges faced on both the buy and sell sides with brands and clubs. One of the key contributors, Mr. Paul Poole, Founder & Managing Director of Paul Poole (South-East Asia) Co., Ltd., renowned as The Sponsorship Experts, explored the intricate dynamics surrounding the commercial rights of football clubs and the struggles faced by local clubs in presenting and packaging these rights to sponsors. Mr. Poole, drawing from his wealth of experience, illuminated the complexities from both the brand's perspective, dealing with clutter and multiple agents, and the club/rights holder's viewpoint, navigating the challenges of articulating the value of their rights. The panel provided valuable insights into the hurdles encountered in sustaining professional football clubs and leagues.

Awards and Recognitions:
The conference also honored individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the football community. Notable awardees include:
•	Token of Appreciation: His Excellency Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke for his support and contribution to The Business of Football 2023 Conference.
•	Token of Appreciation: LALIGA for its continuous support and contribution to the success of The Business of Football 2024 Conference.
•	Token of Appreciation: Mr. Jefferson G Cheng, Team Manager of the Philippines Women's National Football Team, for his dedication and contributions to the development of Women’s Football in the Philippines & Asia.
•	Token of Congratulations: Philippine Football Federation for its inaugural participation in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023.
•	Token of Congratulations: New Zealand Football & Football Australia for the successful hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
•	Token of Congratulations: Malaysia Football League for the successful implementation of its digital transformation process.

“The Business of Football” conference brought together key stakeholders of the Southeast Asian football community. The Philippines was represented through officials of government entities such as the German, New Zealand, Spanish, and British embassies, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, Games and Amusements Board, and The Philippine Football Federation.

MMC Sportz extends its appreciation to the sponsors – LALIGA, BLOCKSPORT, Capital Block, ASN, and Raffles Makati – for their invaluable support in making the conference a resounding success. The event's official hashtag, #BOFPH2023, continues to be a platform for sharing insights and engaging discussions on social media.

Stay tuned for updates on future events and initiatives from MMC Sportz. 
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/07908a1a5a94225d8615ed8fadf60d94321896d23c63b93909e61b9559067cda/BOF%201.jpg" alt="Ms. Able Wanamakok for Asia Sponsorship News presentation on Asia Trends in Sponsorship and Investment in Football&nbsp;" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/391fba10699826154c2e763ec1f7245b6380faed2fd996b3a55085be17ec1ac5/BOF%202.png" alt="L-R : Panel of The Role of Sport Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships with Paolo Del Rosario - Moderator, Mr. Alistair White - Deputy Head of Mission, British Embassy; Mr. Peter Kell - New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines; HE Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, German Ambassador to the Philippines" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/72411c3111e90bc448964a2d30552ffe7fd458a396601478648069933ecb20b9/BOF%203.jpg" alt="Interview with Mr. Richard Bachmann, Philippine Sports Commission Commissioner" /> <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/536bf6a0502cabf3872592b4995a0940a7d1700f708ddfecb42fdd207e5874b7/BOF%204.jpg" alt="Presentation by Mr. Samir Ceric -&nbsp;Chief Operating Officer, Blocksport on Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain &amp; Web 3" /><img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/17ad657e08291ce1ba6dff58eec14289ed687c411206d5c220e007bb4e5bc4d6/BOF%205.jpg" alt="L-R For the panel on Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club &amp; League Football | Moderated by Mr. Richard Harcus - &nbsp;Founder, Harcus Consultancy Group; Mrs. Esti Lestari - President EMC Indonesia ; Mr. Paul Poole - Founder, Paul Poole (Southeast Aisa) Co., Ltd. Sponsorship Experts" />

Manila, Philippines - The 2nd edition of The Business of Football Conference, organized by MMC Sportz and sanctioned by the Philippine Football Federation, concluded successfully on 10 November 2023, at Raffles Makati. The one-day conference brought together key stakeholders from the Southeast Asian football community, fostering dialogue on critical topics shaping the future of the sport. The event aimed to address Asian Football Sponsorship and Investment Trends, the Future of Philippines Football and AFC Participation, and the Impact of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup on Southeast Asian Football, among other vital discussions.
The conference featured a lineup of 20+ regional and international speakers, including experts from governing bodies and rights holders, who shared insights and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in the football industry. The agenda covered a wide range of topics, including the use of blockchain for fan engagement, the role of social media, AI, big data in professional sports, and lessons learned from FIBA World Cup hosting experiences in the Philippines.

Asia Trends in Sponsorship and Investment in Football

According to Asia Sponsorship News, football is unequivocally the most valuable platform in Asia, constituting nearly 31% of all sports sponsorship sales in 2022. The platform's value was almost 2.5 times that of its closest competitor, the 'Olympics,' with a remarkable +21% increase over the four-year football average. Football, topping the charts at $1.6 billion, dwarfed the Olympics at only one-third of that, with $639 million, and Cricket trailing at $529 million. This data underscores the unparalleled dominance of football over other sports sponsorship platforms in the region.

The Role of Sport in Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships 

In a poignant exploration of the transformative power of sports as a catalyst for unity and reconciliation, the panel on 'The Role of Sport in Building Bridges in Governmental Relationships' brought together distinguished figures to share their perspectives. 

"Sports (football), in my view, is something that should unite people; that should unite countries. It should serve as a tool for reconciliation. Global sports should bring people together regardless of the color of their skin, regardless of age, even regardless of sex, so everybody can play football." - HE Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke, German Ambassador to the Philippines

"Sport is a fantastic platform for building connections between not only governments, countries, societies, and communities." - HE Peter Kell, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines

 Their insights capture the essence of this enlightening discussion, reflecting the shared vision of using sports (football) as a dynamic force for building bridges between nations and communities.

Addressing the Urgency for Adequate Sports Facilities Funding

During an insightful interview, Mr. Richard Bachmann, the esteemed Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, articulated a pressing concern regarding the funding of sports facilities. He emphasized that the deficiency in funding is not exclusive to football but extends across all sports. He also acknowledged that the country is currently lagging in providing the necessary financial support for sports infrastructure. His commitment to rectifying this shortfall was evident as he outlined his proactive approach by expressing his intent to collaborate with National Sports Associations (NSAs) to expedite the process of securing funding. Looking forward, he disclosed his ambitious plans for the upcoming year, having requested a substantial budget allocation. This allocation, Mr. Bachmann asserted, aims to address the critical need for facility improvements across various sports, underlining the commission's dedication to fostering the development of sports at all levels at every local government unit.

Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain & Web3

During a riveting presentation titled 'Monetizing the Fan Experience through the Power of Blockchain & Web3,' Mr. Samir Ceric, Chief Operating Officer of Blocksport, unveiled an innovative and holistic solution to bridge the gap from Web2 to Web3 in the world of sports. Providing a glimpse into the transformative potential of this cutting-edge technology, he emphasized the importance of a solid foundation and community-building exercise. As he delved into the intricacies of their approach, he shed light on how Web3 technology enables the connection, deepening of fan engagement, and the creation of revenues for sporting properties globally. 

Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club & League Football
In a thought-provoking panel discussion titled 'Obstacles in Sustainability in Professional Club & League Football,' industry leaders provided profound insights into the challenges faced on both the buy and sell sides with brands and clubs. One of the key contributors, Mr. Paul Poole, Founder & Managing Director of Paul Poole (South-East Asia) Co., Ltd., renowned as The Sponsorship Experts, explored the intricate dynamics surrounding the commercial rights of football clubs and the struggles faced by local clubs in presenting and packaging these rights to sponsors. Mr. Poole, drawing from his wealth of experience, illuminated the complexities from both the brand's perspective, dealing with clutter and multiple agents, and the club/rights holder's viewpoint, navigating the challenges of articulating the value of their rights. The panel provided valuable insights into the hurdles encountered in sustaining professional football clubs and leagues.

Awards and Recognitions:
The conference also honored individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the football community. Notable awardees include:
•	Token of Appreciation: His Excellency Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke for his support and contribution to The Business of Football 2023 Conference.
•	Token of Appreciation: LALIGA for its continuous support and contribution to the success of The Business of Football 2024 Conference.
•	Token of Appreciation: Mr. Jefferson G Cheng, Team Manager of the Philippines Women's National Football Team, for his dedication and contributions to the development of Women’s Football in the Philippines & Asia.
•	Token of Congratulations: Philippine Football Federation for its inaugural participation in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023.
•	Token of Congratulations: New Zealand Football & Football Australia for the successful hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
•	Token of Congratulations: Malaysia Football League for the successful implementation of its digital transformation process.

“The Business of Football” conference brought together key stakeholders of the Southeast Asian football community. The Philippines was represented through officials of government entities such as the German, New Zealand, Spanish, and British embassies, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, Games and Amusements Board, and The Philippine Football Federation.

MMC Sportz extends its appreciation to the sponsors – LALIGA, BLOCKSPORT, Capital Block, ASN, and Raffles Makati – for their invaluable support in making the conference a resounding success. The event's official hashtag, #BOFPH2023, continues to be a platform for sharing insights and engaging discussions on social media.

Stay tuned for updates on future events and initiatives from MMC Sportz. 


Asia Sponsorship News Reports That Football Sponsorships Are Valued 3x 

<h1>Getty Images Launches Commercially Safe Generative AI Offering</h1>Trained on Getty Images’ world-class creative content, Generative AI by Getty Images allows customers to explore the power of generative AI with full protection and usage rights<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/02cab4bf9cf2fa5c9bdfa912e5beef328a1550695d44e86364205350e9296f12/image.png" alt="Image"/><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDle-HsJgwE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/55e1763df3c5a830c908df18c400db6c8e85e323b8152d76b6188ef2c58e1065/image.png" alt="Image"/>Getty Images (NYSE: GETY) is a preeminent global visual content creator and marketplace that offers a full range of content solutions to meet the needs of any customer around the globe, no matter their size. Through its Getty Images, iStock and Unsplash brands, websites and APIs, Getty Images serves customers in almost every country in the world and is the first-place people turn to discover, purchase and share powerful visual content from the world’s best photographers and videographers. Getty Images works with over 541,000 contributors and more than 310 content partners to deliver this powerful and comprehensive content. Each year Getty Images covers more than 160,000 news, sport and entertainment events providing depth and breadth of coverage that is unmatched. Getty Images maintains one of the largest and best privately-owned photographic archives in the world with millions of images dating back to the beginning of photography.

For company news and announcements, visit our Newsroom.Ilse Noguez
ilse.noguez@gettyimages.com

Marketing / Research

STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)

Listed companies

Trained on Getty Images’ world-class creative content, Generative AI by Getty Images allows customers to explore the power of generative AI with full protection and usage rights

Getty Images Launches Commercially Safe Generative AI Offering

Singapore, July 13, 2023 - <a href="https://metaschool.so/">Metaschool</a>, a Singapore-based web3 ed-tech,<a href="https://metaschool.so/"> </a>has selected 20 Leads for Season 1 of its Nodes Ambassador Program across Asia and Africa. These Node Leads are selected from the 1000 applications received from 10 different countries as the result of a rigorous and highly competitive selection process.&nbsp;

With an acceptance rate of merely 2%, the leads are the cream of the young and burgeoning web3 developer community. These individuals will serve as the spokespersons of Metaschool in their respective citywide developers’ communities and work to promote accessibility to<a href="https://metaschool.so/courses"> web3 learning</a>.

With the Nodes Program, Metaschool aims to create the world's biggest decentralized, self-sustainable, eco-friendly community of developers taking the web3 ecosystem forward. The web3 ecosystem is in the early stage; there are 30M developers worldwide, but only 22K developers are actively contributing to the ecosystem. The Nodes Program will serve as an entry point for Devs to actively engage, learn and build in web3 by participating in programs and networking activities organized by Node Leads.

Inspired by the node structure in the blockchain ecosystem, each one of the 20 selected individuals is known as a Node Lead. As representatives of their respective cities, these individuals will serve as the ambassadors of Metaschool. Thus, the startup is poised to establish a borderless connection with the Nodes program via the Node Leads.

The cities that the talented Leads belong to are; Delhi, Bangalore, Islamabad, Agra, Jaipur, Chennai, Karachi, Pune, Kolkata, Faisalabad, Ahmedabad, Lahore, Rahim Yar Khan, Enugu, Hyderabad, and Gurugram.

The Node Leads will get access to a number of perks including but not limited to frequent networking and travel opportunities, exceptional mentorship, the chance to actively and closely partake in the future projects of Metaschool, and getting to earn exclusive NFTs and Meta tokens. Metaschool Nodes Program Season 2 applications are now open. If the opportunity interests you, consider applying<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScTTSkwLtNrXadVhOT0Z3zJfuEtj5g7SeKbecPLeS2VPNeC7A/viewform"> here</a>.

<h1>Metaschool unveils 20 Node Leads for its ambassador program </h1>Singapore-based web3 edtech, Metaschool, has selected 20 leads for its Nodes Ambassador Program across Asia and Africa. These individuals will serve as the spokespersons of Metaschool in their respective citywide developers’ communities and work to promote accessibility to web3 education. Singapore, July 13, 2023 - <a href="https://metaschool.so/">Metaschool</a>, a Singapore-based web3 ed-tech,<a href="https://metaschool.so/"> </a>has selected 20 Leads for Season 1 of its Nodes Ambassador Program across Asia and Africa. These Node Leads are selected from the 1000 applications received from 10 different countries as the result of a rigorous and highly competitive selection process.&nbsp;With an acceptance rate of merely 2%, the leads are the cream of the young and burgeoning web3 developer community. These individuals will serve as the spokespersons of Metaschool in their respective citywide developers’ communities and work to promote accessibility to<a href="https://metaschool.so/courses"> web3 learning</a>.With the Nodes Program, Metaschool aims to create the world's biggest decentralized, self-sustainable, eco-friendly community of developers taking the web3 ecosystem forward. The web3 ecosystem is in the early stage; there are 30M developers worldwide, but only 22K developers are actively contributing to the ecosystem. The Nodes Program will serve as an entry point for Devs to actively engage, learn and build in web3 by participating in programs and networking activities organized by Node Leads.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/fc227f215b0f5f4b77b127a32e7628cb9643b4c9cad21ccbbb40c32e920235be/Node%20leads%20press%20release%20banner.png" alt="Inner image"/>Inspired by the node structure in the blockchain ecosystem, each one of the 20 selected individuals is known as a Node Lead. As representatives of their respective cities, these individuals will serve as the ambassadors of Metaschool. Thus, the startup is poised to establish a borderless connection with the Nodes program via the Node Leads.The cities that the talented Leads belong to are; Delhi, Bangalore, Islamabad, Agra, Jaipur, Chennai, Karachi, Pune, Kolkata, Faisalabad, Ahmedabad, Lahore, Rahim Yar Khan, Enugu, Hyderabad, and Gurugram.The Node Leads will get access to a number of perks including but not limited to frequent networking and travel opportunities, exceptional mentorship, the chance to actively and closely partake in the future projects of Metaschool, and getting to earn exclusive NFTs and Meta tokens. Metaschool Nodes Program Season 2 applications are now open. If the opportunity interests you, consider applying<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScTTSkwLtNrXadVhOT0Z3zJfuEtj5g7SeKbecPLeS2VPNeC7A/viewform"> here</a>.Metaschool is an ed-tech that makes it easy for devs to learn, build and ship in web3 and prepare for opportunities in the space. The platform has over 130,000 developers. It offers a range of online courses and resources for developers to learn and improve their skills in web3 technologies. For more information, visit metaschool.soSinwan Zahid
sinwan@metaschool.so

Internet service

Cram school / Preparatory school / Online education

Startups

Singapore-based web3 edtech, Metaschool, has selected 20 leads for its Nodes Ambassador Program across Asia and Africa. These individuals will serve as the spokespersons of Metaschool in their respective citywide developers’ communities and work to promote accessibility to web3 education. 

Metaschool unveils 20 Node Leads for its ambassador program 

The decentralized vision of cryptocurrency was one of the most appealing aspects of the technology when it first emerged. The idea that people could own and control their own money, without the need for a central authority, was revolutionary. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend toward centralization in the cryptocurrency industry. This has led some to question whether the decentralized vision of crypto is fading away.

There are several reasons for the trend toward centralization in the cryptocurrency industry, the biggest one being customer protection. Like any financial entity, the crypto industry too has been subject to cyber frauds and illicit activity. This is especially true for exchanges and trading platforms where millions of dollars are traded per day and a complete absence of regulations or checks can make it an easy breeding ground for criminal activities.

Governments around the world have slowly started to regulate this industry and most companies based on their geographical location of operations must follow these rules to legally conduct their business. These regulations often require businesses to collect personal information from users and to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements.

This is especially relevant for crypto financial providers which once started out as anonymous and allowed users to use their services without any checks but have now turned a corner and introduced some form of regulation to comply with local authorities.

In fact, there are very few services still left that follow the decentralized and anonymous vision of blockchain and allow users to be private.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.blockonomics.co/">Blockonomics</a>, a bitcoin payment gateway, allows customers to use their product without the need to undergo KYC. Another example includes Bisq, a decentralized exchange, which operates on a P2P model with no need for ID checks.

The trend toward centralization has a few implications for the future of cryptocurrency. One implication is that it could make it more difficult to achieve the original goal of decentralization. If the majority of cryptocurrency transactions are processed through centralized exchanges, then these exchanges will have a great deal of control over the cryptocurrency market. This could lead to problems such as censorship and manipulation.

Coinbase and Binance, the two biggest names in the crypto ecosystem, are currently under hot waters with the legal authorities for conducting alleged manipulation of the market and illegal use of customer funds.

Another implication of the trend toward centralization is that it could make it more difficult for new businesses to enter the market. Centralized exchanges and other businesses that have already established themselves in the market will have a significant advantage over new businesses. This could lead to a less competitive market, which could stifle innovation.

Despite the challenges, there are still reasons to be optimistic about the future of decentralized cryptocurrency. There is a growing community of developers and users who are committed to the decentralized vision of crypto. These individuals are working on new technologies and solutions that will make it easier to achieve decentralization. Additionally, there is a growing awareness of the importance of decentralization among governments and regulators. This awareness could lead to regulations that are designed to promote decentralization, rather than hinder it.

The future of decentralized cryptocurrency is uncertain. However, there are still reasons to be optimistic. The decentralized vision of crypto is still alive, and there are several people and organizations working to make it a reality.

Some opportunities for decentralized crypto include:

Financial Inclusion: Decentralized crypto could help to provide financial inclusion to people who are currently excluded from the traditional financial system. It could be used by people in developing countries who do not have access to traditional banks.

Lower Fees: Blockchain could help to lower fees for financial transactions, making them an ideal choice for global payments.

Increased Transparency: It could help to increase transparency in the financial system. Blockchain transactions are recorded on a public blockchain, which makes them transparent to anyone who wants to see them.

While some of the challenges it faces are:

Regulation: Governments around the world are still trying to figure out how to regulate blockchain and cryptocurrency. This uncertainty could make it difficult for businesses to adopt it.

Security: Blockchain is still a relatively new technology, and while it is one of the safest technologies, the companies using them are not so much. There have been quite a few high-profile hacks of decentralized exchanges and other crypto platforms.

<a href="https://insights.blockonomics.co/do-crypto-regulations-help-with-its-adoption/">Mass Adoption</a>: Blockchain is still not widely adopted by the general public. Making it difficult for it to achieve its full potential.

Overall, the future of decentralized crypto is uncertain. However, there are both challenges and opportunities for this technology. It remains to be seen whether decentralized crypto will be able to overcome the challenges and achieve its full potential.

<h1>Is the Decentralized Vision of Crypto Fading Away?</h1>The decentralized vision of cryptocurrency was one of the most appealing aspects of the technology when it first emerged. The idea that people could own and control their own money, without the need for a central authority, was revolutionary. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend toward centralization in the cryptocurrency industry. This has led some to question whether the decentralized vision of crypto is fading away.There are several reasons for the trend toward centralization in the cryptocurrency industry, the biggest one being customer protection. Like any financial entity, the crypto industry too has been subject to cyber frauds and illicit activity. This is especially true for exchanges and trading platforms where millions of dollars are traded per day and a complete absence of regulations or checks can make it an easy breeding ground for criminal activities.Governments around the world have slowly started to regulate this industry and most companies based on their geographical location of operations must follow these rules to legally conduct their business. These regulations often require businesses to collect personal information from users and to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements.This is especially relevant for crypto financial providers which once started out as anonymous and allowed users to use their services without any checks but have now turned a corner and introduced some form of regulation to comply with local authorities.In fact, there are very few services still left that follow the decentralized and anonymous vision of blockchain and allow users to be private.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.blockonomics.co/">Blockonomics</a>, a bitcoin payment gateway, allows customers to use their product without the need to undergo KYC. Another example includes Bisq, a decentralized exchange, which operates on a P2P model with no need for ID checks.The trend toward centralization has a few implications for the future of cryptocurrency. One implication is that it could make it more difficult to achieve the original goal of decentralization. If the majority of cryptocurrency transactions are processed through centralized exchanges, then these exchanges will have a great deal of control over the cryptocurrency market. This could lead to problems such as censorship and manipulation.Coinbase and Binance, the two biggest names in the crypto ecosystem, are currently under hot waters with the legal authorities for conducting alleged manipulation of the market and illegal use of customer funds.Another implication of the trend toward centralization is that it could make it more difficult for new businesses to enter the market. Centralized exchanges and other businesses that have already established themselves in the market will have a significant advantage over new businesses. This could lead to a less competitive market, which could stifle innovation.Despite the challenges, there are still reasons to be optimistic about the future of decentralized cryptocurrency. There is a growing community of developers and users who are committed to the decentralized vision of crypto. These individuals are working on new technologies and solutions that will make it easier to achieve decentralization. Additionally, there is a growing awareness of the importance of decentralization among governments and regulators. This awareness could lead to regulations that are designed to promote decentralization, rather than hinder it.The future of decentralized cryptocurrency is uncertain. However, there are still reasons to be optimistic. The decentralized vision of crypto is still alive, and there are several people and organizations working to make it a reality.Some opportunities for decentralized crypto include:Financial Inclusion: Decentralized crypto could help to provide financial inclusion to people who are currently excluded from the traditional financial system. It could be used by people in developing countries who do not have access to traditional banks.Lower Fees: Blockchain could help to lower fees for financial transactions, making them an ideal choice for global payments.Increased Transparency: It could help to increase transparency in the financial system. Blockchain transactions are recorded on a public blockchain, which makes them transparent to anyone who wants to see them.While some of the challenges it faces are:Regulation: Governments around the world are still trying to figure out how to regulate blockchain and cryptocurrency. This uncertainty could make it difficult for businesses to adopt it.Security: Blockchain is still a relatively new technology, and while it is one of the safest technologies, the companies using them are not so much. There have been quite a few high-profile hacks of decentralized exchanges and other crypto platforms.<a href="https://insights.blockonomics.co/do-crypto-regulations-help-with-its-adoption/">Mass Adoption</a>: Blockchain is still not widely adopted by the general public. Making it difficult for it to achieve its full potential.Overall, the future of decentralized crypto is uncertain. However, there are both challenges and opportunities for this technology. It remains to be seen whether decentralized crypto will be able to overcome the challenges and achieve its full potential.Blockonomics is a leading provider of Bitcoin payment services. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in Singapore and serves a global customer base who use them to accept Bitcoin payments online. Blockonomics offers a variety of Bitcoin payment services, including dedicated payment plugins, widgets, invoicing, and block explorer. Arpit Agarwal
arpit@blockonomics.co

Cryptocurrency

Is the Decentralized Vision of Crypto Fading Away?

[Manila, 25 April] Twala, a blockchain-powered digital identity, and digital signature platform, recently collaborated with the Philippine Supreme Court to provide inputs in their ongoing work to draft rules to allow electronic notarization in the country. The consultation meeting, which took place on April 12, is part of the Supreme Court's efforts to establish a legal framework for e-notarization.

As digital technology continues to advance, electronic notarization has become increasingly important in providing a secure and efficient way of verifying and authenticating digital documents. Twala's blockchain technology offers a tamper-proof way of verifying digital signatures, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) awarded Twala a P4.6M grant in 2022 through the DOST Startup Grant Fund program to help it advance its research and development in distributed ledger technology or blockchain with applications in secure esignatures, digital signatures, and digital identity.

The consultation with tech startups like Twala is a significant step towards the adoption of electronic notarization in the country. By leveraging blockchain technology, Twala can provide a more secure and efficient way of notarizing documents, benefiting individuals and businesses.

With the use of modern technology, including blockchain, electronic notarization can provide a more efficient and secure way of verifying and authenticating digital documents, unlocking billions in value for both the private and public sector.

<h1>Twala and Philippine Supreme Court Collaborate to Establish Legal Framework for Electronic Notarization</h1>Twala, a blockchain-powered digital identity, and digital signature platform, recently collaborated with the Philippine Supreme Court to provide inputs in their ongoing work to draft rules to allow electronic notarization in the country.[Manila, 25 April] Twala, a blockchain-powered digital identity, and digital signature platform, recently collaborated with the Philippine Supreme Court to provide inputs in their ongoing work to draft rules to allow electronic notarization in the country. The consultation meeting, which took place on April 12, is part of the Supreme Court's efforts to establish a legal framework for e-notarization.As digital technology continues to advance, electronic notarization has become increasingly important in providing a secure and efficient way of verifying and authenticating digital documents. Twala's blockchain technology offers a tamper-proof way of verifying digital signatures, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) awarded Twala a P4.6M grant in 2022 through the DOST Startup Grant Fund program to help it advance its research and development in distributed ledger technology or blockchain with applications in secure esignatures, digital signatures, and digital identity.The consultation with tech startups like Twala is a significant step towards the adoption of electronic notarization in the country. By leveraging blockchain technology, Twala can provide a more secure and efficient way of notarizing documents, benefiting individuals and businesses.With the use of modern technology, including blockchain, electronic notarization can provide a more efficient and secure way of verifying and authenticating digital documents, unlocking billions in value for both the private and public sector.

Electronic components / Semiconductors / Electrical equipment

Software

Twala, a blockchain-powered digital identity, and digital signature platform, recently collaborated with the Philippine Supreme Court to provide inputs in their ongoing work to draft rules to allow electronic notarization in the country.