Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, a fund managed by Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. (SLAMCI), was recognized by the CFA Society Philippines (CFAP) as the 2023 Best Managed Fund of the Year in the Equity Fund, Dollar category.
The honor was bestowed based on the Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund’s strong and consistent performance versus other funds in its category.
Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund provides access to global equities, navigating through various geographic markets without being constrained by the performance of specific types of indices. This allows investors to seize the best opportunities across the globe so they can grow and diversify their US Dollar investments
One of the most prestigious financial organizations in the country, CFAP is known for its stringent standards in identifying winners in its annual awards.
“As we do with all our funds, SLAMCI exerts all efforts to manage the Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund well. Our sincerest thanks to CFAP for affirming that we are in the right direction as this is SLAMCI’s second award following the recognition of the Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund as the 2021 Best Managed Balanced Fund, Dollar category.” SLAMCI President Gerald Bau]sta said. “We dedicate this to our clients, whose trust and support bring out the best in us.”
Those eager to invest in the Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund only need USD 500 to open an account and USD 100 to make an additional investment. It is ideal for those who have a high-risk profile and a long-term investment horizon.
To know more about the Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund and other funds managed by SLAMCI, connect with a Sun Life financial advisor today via www.sunlife.co/InvestmentsAdvisor.
Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (Mapúa MCM) establishes its mastery in health through its College of Health Sciences. Its programs include BS Biology, BS Psychology, BS Pharmacy, and BS Physical Therapy. Harmonizing its knowledge in healthcare and its strong reputation in tech and engineering, MAPÚA MCM provides various opportunities to students through global learning, advanced research, and digital technology.
Davao City, Philippines – The Bureau of Labor and Statistics states that employment in the healthcare field is projected to grow by 13% from 2021 to 2031. This increase indicates the creation of 2 million jobs over a span of 10 years, much higher than the average for all occupations. With this, students who wish to pursue a career in the medical field have a plethora of options waiting for them locally and abroad.
There are many routes one can take to pursue a career in the medical field. One of them is health sciences, which prepares them to take on a great variety of roles in both clinical and non-clinical settings.
Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (Mapúa MCM) establishes its mastery in health through its College of Health Sciences. Its programs include BS Biology, BS Psychology, BS Pharmacy, and BS Physical Therapy. Harmonizing its knowledge in healthcare and its strong reputation in tech and engineering, MAPÚA MCM provides various opportunities to students through global learning, advanced research, and digital technology.
Mapúa MCM’s College of Health Sciences has collaborated with Arizona State University (ASU) to prime the quality of education it offers. Through this collaboration, Mapúa MCM pre-med students are honed to be globally ready, proficient with advanced and immersive facilities and digital mastery.
Arizona State University (ASU) is ranked #1 in the U.S. innovation ahead of MIT and Stanford for 8 consecutive years by U.S.News and World Report. ASU is also among the top 1% of universities worldwide, ranked by the Center for World University Ranking 2022-2023, and among the top 150 universities worldwide by the Shanghai Ranking, 2022. The groundbreaking collaboration between Mapúa schools and Arizona State University focused on Business and Health Sciences programs.
MAPÚA MCM College of Health Sciences is one of the few schools in the region that boasts of immersive simulation rooms where students can work on 3D anatomical models, virtual dissection tables, and human body projections via AI. These technologies allow them to have a significant advantage in the field of health sciences and knowledge in tune with the modern world.
But above and beyond technological innovations, MAPÚA MCM College of Health Sciences ensures that their students are anchored on solid ethics and human values through hands-on experience and real-world exposure. Its students all undergo internships in hospitals, clinics, and community centers where they learn about promotion, prevention, treatment, and intervention as they get to interact with real patients.
The medical track is one of the most competitive fields to be in. But by choosing a program and institution that align with one’s personal goals, students can have a huge leg-up that will benefit them in the future.
“The medical field is an ever-evolving industry, and the demand for healthcare workers is stronger now than ever. We build our capacity to address this gap through a collaboration with the Healthway network, wherein we streamline the career path of our students — from school to internships and hands-on clinical rotations, straight to career opportunities,” said Dr. Adorico M. Aya-ay, Dean of the MAPÚA MCM College of Health Sciences.
MAPÚA MCM also substantiates that its faculty members stay updated with the latest advancements and industry trends by sending them to training and seminars abroad to learn from experts worldwide.
The medical track is one of the most competitive fields to be in. But by choosing a program and institution that align with one’s personal goals, students can have a huge leg-up that will benefit them in the future.
Read more about Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao – College of Health Sciences on the school’s website.
MORE JOBS ON THE HORIZON. Residents of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan and nearby towns can look forward to more career opportunities following the signing of an MOU, which marks the beginning of a lasting partnership between Foundever™ and San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. In the photo are the Talent Acquisition Director Rowel Villalobos from Foundever and University and Community Partnerships Manager Anthony Fernandez with San Jose Del Monte’s Mayor Arthur Robes, Public Employment Service Office Manager Perfecto Jaime Tagalog and Public Employment Service Office Labor and Employment Officer II John Andrew Flores.
Foundever™, a global leader in the customer experience (CX) industry, continues its commitment to collaboration and community empowerment through a new partnership with the University of Community Partnership (UCP), a program under the Language Academy at Foundever and the city government of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
The partnership, which was recently signed by virtue of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Foundever and the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, will focus on key areas of talent acquisition, as well as learning and development.
The MOU signifies a one-year renewable agreement, establishing a collaborative effort to source and select qualified candidates for potential employment opportunities within Foundever.
PESO San Jose Del Monte will play a crucial role in identifying talented individuals, ensuring a strong talent pool for various job vacancies. Moreover, the local employment office will facilitate exclusive recruitment and job placement activities, providing accessible opportunities for the residents of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
With the aim of streamlining the hiring process, both parties will work together in the selection and processing of qualified candidates. Foundever, through its renowned Language Academy, will conduct career readiness training and lectures, equipping the candidates with essential skills for professional growth.
“We are thrilled to embark on this exciting partnership with PESO San Jose Del Monte,” said Rowel Villalobos, Talent Acquisition Director at Foundever. “By collaborating in talent acquisition and learning initiatives, we are confident that this alliance will not only benefit the local community but also strengthen the region’s economic prospects.”
To support these learning initiatives, PESO San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, will actively contribute by providing trainees and facilitating access to quality training programs. The collaboration seeks to empower individuals, paving the way for personal and professional development.
“This partnership not only bridges the gaps in applying (in the) BPO but also paves the way for a brighter future, where innovation and opportunity converge to uplift our community,” shared Mayor Arturo B. Robes of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
Anthony Fernandez, University and Community Partnerships Manager at Foundever™, added, “This collaboration underscores the commitment of Foundever to making a positive impact on the community. We believe that through this alliance, we can contribute to the region’s growth and prosperity.”
By providing employment opportunities, enhancing skills through training programs, and increasing brand visibility, this partnership will leave a significant mark on the growth and development of the region.
Enrichme Tutorial Center, a leading provider of academic enrichment and tutoring services is pleased to announce the opening of its newest branch in Quezon City.
The new branch is located at 172, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue, Brgy. Bagumbayan, Quezon City (Enrichme Tutorial Center is located across Eastwood Police Station and Eastwood Fire Station).
The opening of the new branch is part of Enrichme’s commitment to providing quality academic enrichment and tutoring services to students in Quezon City and the surrounding areas.
Sharabethrey Caballero together with the media and bloggers who attended the blessing and formal opening of Enrichme Tutorial Center in Quezon City. The new branch will be staffed by experienced and qualified teachers as well as doctors (Doctor Czarina Yrastorza – OB Gyne Dr. Marizar Pelayo – Pediatrician And in-house DevPed) whose expertise are special education for children. All the staff and team members of Enrichme Tutorial Center are passionate about helping students learn and succeed. All teachers will use a variety of teaching methods to engage students and help them learn in a fun and challenging way.
“Enrichme Tutorial Center takes our inspiration in the positive feedback and trust bestowed upon us by students and parents. Our goal is to continue implementing the Power of Personalized Learning because we believe that the key to successful education lies in personalized learning. Our small class sizes and passionate educators ensure that each student receives individualized attention, enabling them to flourish academically and personally” said Sharabethrey Caballero, owner and teacher at Enrichme Tutorial Center.
In just a few months, EnrichMe Tutorial Center has emerged as a beacon of quality education, winning the hearts of its students and their families. “We take pride in celebrating the successes of our students, whether it’s a newfound love for learning, improved grades, or a boost in confidence. These achievements motivate us to continue our mission of providing exceptional education” added Caballero.
The opening of the new branch is a great opportunity for students in Quezon City and the surrounding areas to get the academic support they need to succeed. If you are looking for an academic enrichment or tutoring center in Quezon City, Enrichme Tutorial Center is the perfect choice. Contact Enrichme today to learn more about their programs and services.
Discover the joy of learning, the power of personalized education, and the promise of a brighter future. With EnrichMe Tutorial Center, the possibilities are limitless. For enrollment, program details, and inquiries, please visit https://www.facebook.com/EnrichMeTutorialCenter or contact us at contact enrichmetutorialcenter@gmail.com.
SM Supermalls hosts the biggest gaming activation in 60 malls nationwide.
Looking for the best deals on everything tech? Ready to play at the largest nationwide sports area? Now is the best time to visit SM Supermalls and unleash the gamer within as it celebrates the latest tech innovations and gadget trends, with exclusive deals and promos this Cyber Month!
From August 1 to 31, a celebration of e-sports and all things tech that make our lives easier and more convenient will take place at SM Supermalls. Essential gadgets, thrilling activities, and new discoveries are waiting to be made will welcome every individual with various needs.
Get ready as SM transforms its malls into a larger-than-life e-sports arena. Gamers and e-sports fans are in for a treat at the CyberMonth celebration, at over 60 malls nationwide, as community tournaments and an immersive gaming environment take center stage. Tag along with your friends and watch some intense and epic battles as players try to outplay each other at the community matches.
Gaming that never goes out of style. If you are a gamer who loves your classic video games, the Retroverse is for you. Select malls every Saturday will be setting up Retro Gaming Stations featuring classic consoles and games from the past. Relive the magic of iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Tetris, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
Venture into different worlds with AweSM Kids. Kids and kids at heart can have some fun at the Kids Zone–-an interactive area featuring popular games like SM Kids Roblox and Minecraft every weekend for the whole month of August.
The GeekCon is on! SM celebrates all things geek this Cyber Month including a Cosplay Competition. Every Sunday, bring your favorite anime, manga, games, TV, series, and comic book characters to life through elaborate costumes and performances that will wow the crowd. The GeekCon will also feature activities that geeks will love such as collectible toy displays, visual arts masterclasses, meet-and-greets with popular streamers, and Collectible Card Game Tournament.
Techtopia for all your tech needs. SM malls nationwide will have multiple activity areas bringing together a wide range of gadgets, interactive installations, and displays at Techtopia. Get your hands on the newest and trendiest gadgets, devices, and even smart home appliances at SM. Plus, at the Techtopia zone, you can check, test, and ensure the product’s quality before making that big purchase.
Discover the hottest tech deals. Gear up and get your baskets ready for SM Supermalls’ month-long nationwide tech and gadget sale. Whether you shop at your favorite SM mall or scroll through your go-to SM Online and SM Deals apps, there are a lot of great gadget deals all for you. Avail of these special promos, special offerings, and bundles on select items with up to 50% off in participating stores this August.
Mark your calendars! August is geek-out month with these fun-filled activities and deals in store for you this Cyber Month at an SM mall near you. Game on and shop #TechAssured gadgets and get exciting deals when you #CheckCyberzone.
For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com/cyberzone or follow @SMSupermalls and @smcyberzone on social media.
Sun Life Philippines cemented its position as one of the region’s best life insurance brands, after it achieved a double win in two industry recognition programs held recently in Singapore.
In the Asia Trusted Life Agents and Advisers Awards (ATLAA) held last July 26 at PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay, Sun Life Philippines CEO & Country Head Benedict Sison was honored with the Executive Champion of the Year Award for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the industry.
“I am humbled to be recognized by my peers, who are not only experts in the field but are also passionate advocates of our industry’s purpose,” Sison said, as he accepted the award. “I share this honor with our clients, advisors, and employees. It will always be my privilege to champion our company, our industry, and, most especially, our purpose.”
Also recognized as finalists in ATLAA were Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. in the Life Insurance Company of the Year category and Phoenix Palm Branch Manager Jayvee Badile in the Insurance Agency Leader of the Year category.
Meanwhile, Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (SLGFI), Sun Life’s bancassurance arm, was recognized in the Insurance Asia Awards held last July 27 at the Marina Bay Sands. For the second year in a row, the company was bestowed the MSME Insurance Initiative of the Year Award for Sun Life Grepa Healthcare, its holistic group insurance ecosystem which covers wellness, protection, and recovery.
The award was accepted by SLGFI Vice President for Group Business Peter Miranda and SLGFI Head of Group Sales and Strategies Justine Daguman.
“SLGFI considers itself not just a provider but a partner to Filipino entrepreneurs, as they pursue their goals for their businesses and their people. Sun Life Grepa Healthcare is a testament to this vision,” Miranda said. “We are grateful to be recognized in the Insurance Asia Awards once again. We look forward to continuously enhancing this program so we can help more micro, small, and medium enterprises.”
These recognitions emphasize Sun Life’s commitment to helping Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. “In every business that we have and every initiative we launch, we strive to bring our clients the best that we can offer,” Sison said. “We couldn’t have won these prestigious awards without the inspiration and support they give. And as a way of thanking them, we can only promise that we will always be here to help them build a brighter future.”
For practical and discerning buyers, after sales services play a crucial role in the decision for which smartphone to buy. It is after all, an essential investment that should be maximized for many years of use.
Understanding how valuable smartphones are to Filipinos’ daily lives, OPPO, leading global smart device brand, offers holistic services to care for your smartphone and shares helpful tips to give your device the well-deserved care it deserves.
Use a screen protector for your phone
You want to keep your phone’s display in the best condition possible, because this is arguably the most important part of the device. Without screen protection, it may suffer from fingerprint smudges, cracks, and scratches. A trusty screen protector is an added layer of security you should consider.
OPPO Care Plus offers free Screen Protector Service when you visit any OPPO store and an extended warranty so you can enjoy a pristine screen for a long time. This service offers a one-time free screen replacement so you can carry your OPPO smartphone worry-free.
Keep your device in tip-top shape, inside and out
Maintaining your OPPO smartphone’s cleanliness is good for your health and the health of your device. Smartphones can house up to ten times more bacteria than an average toilet seat. You risk exposing yourself to so many germs if you don’t clean your device regularly. To clean your phone, unplug and turn it off first. You can use a disinfectant wipe with 70% isopropyl alcohol or disinfectant spray. You should spray cleaners onto a soft cloth, which you’ll then wipe your device with.
OPPO Care offers free phone check ups, software upgrade, 10% discount on LCD and motherboard change for all OPPO models, among others, which are readily available when you visit during the Monthly OPPO Service Day every 10th to 12th day of the month at OPPO Service Centers nationwide.
Manage your storage and file usage
Remember, your phones have their limits too, so make sure you properly manage its storage and memory. If you’re near storage capacity, you should delete unused apps, photos, and videos. If you want to speed up your device’s performance, you should install an external SD card to increase your phone storage.
OPPO devices have expanded RAM technology, allowing you to expand your phone’s storage capacity and optimize its performance for faster and smoother multitasking.
Look after the battery health
Maintaining your mobile device’s battery health is key to extending its lifespan. If you want to prolong your phone’s battery life, you should turn on battery-saver mode and lower your screen brightness for when you’re running low on power.. When not needed, you can also turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Fortunately, OPPO is renowned for its exceptional battery life and charging speed thanks to its industry leading innovations, SUPERVOOC™ fast-chraging and Battery Health Engine. OPPO supports quick charging, so you can juice up your device in much less time and enjoy longer-lasting battery almost twice as long as other smartphones.
Avoid dropping it and always handle it with care
If you want to keep your OPPO device in excellent condition, you should avoid dropping it as much as possible. Investing in a sturdy case can help minimize the possible damages from accidental drops. Although sometimes, a phone case isn’t enough.
With OPPO Care+, you can still enjoy your OPPO smartphone after unfortunate accidents. This special protection plan provides services for accidental damage and an extended warranty.
OPPO Care and OPPO Care+ are available at the OPPO Service Center after purchasing your OPPO device. These special care plans provide superior phone maintenance services so you can give your device the best care. You can also visit OPPO Service Centers during the Monthly OPPO Service Days and have your OPPO smartphone checked periodically.
If you participate in OPPO Service Survey after your visit, you have the chance to win amazing OPPO signature gifts, such as IoT products, OPPO freebies, and gift certificates. Until January 12, 2023, OPPO will be drawing one monthly winner via e-raffle. The monthly winners will be announced on OPPO Care-PH’s Facebook page.
To learn more about OPPO smart devices, visit the OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or its official Facebook page at OPPO Philippines. For more update about OPPO Care-PH follow them on their official Facebook account.
To formally open the academic year 2023-2024, NU Baliwag once again held the symbolic Nationalian Prosperity Walk to welcome incoming freshmen students.
Participated in by at least 2,600 students, with the majority being freshmen, NU Baliwag marks the start of the class with a symbolic walk on the campus and areas around SM City Baliwag, where NU is located.
On the same occasion, students, faculty, guests, and shoppers had the chance to witness the a-list performance of the 2022 UAAP Season 85 Cheerdance Competition Champion, NU Pep Squad, who delighted the crowd with their impressive routine and signature stunts at the Mall Atrium of SM City Baliwag. To cap the festivity, a series of presentations were delivered by the skilled members of the NU Percussion Department and Squadron, as well as the NU Baliwag Center for Performing Arts.
Anchored on Tatag Bulldogs, the National University’s annual campaign every school opening, the Nationalian Prosperity Walk signals a momentous beginning for freshmen students as they embark on their new journey as Nationalians. Moreover, Nationalian Prosperity Walk embodies another year of success for the institution as well as abundance.
The momentous event wouldn’t be complete without the traditional signing on the ‘Katatagan’ Freedom Wall, where students are given the opportunity to express their thoughts and ideas, symbolizing their resilience as Nationalians.
In preparation for the opening of classes, NU Baliwag held an orientation for students to familiarize them with the university’s policies, academic guidelines, and health and safety protocols. A separate orientation was also set up for parents and guardians.
Providing high standards of educational services to the Central and Northern Luzon areas surrounding Bulacan, NU Baliwag gears towards excellence this academic year 2023-2024. The campus showcases NU’s highly credible background as a provider of quality education in the country. Apart from being a Microsoft showcase school, the campus takes pride in its state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation rooms with up-to-date equipment for specific courses and modern computer laboratories. The campus is equipped with competent and well-trained faculty members from top-performing schools to ensure the highest quality of classroom instruction.
NU Baliwag offers courses in the fields of Accountancy, Business and Management, Art and Sciences, Computer Studies, Engineering and Technology, and Senior High School.
Sharp Philippines has officially launched its new Aquos XLED TV, unleashing true experience with its amazing features, providing new standard for entertainment experience.
Sharp has leveled up its game again by providing a game changer entertainment for the Philippine market with its launch of the Sharp Aquos XLED TV. From its standard DK1X Series providing unbeatable experience, followed by its gaming TV, DL1X Series bringing real experience, Sharp has once again leveraged its technology producing the all new XLED TV that offers True to Life Experience.
Offering 65” (4T-C65FV1X) and 75” (4T-C75FV1X) model, this new product sets a new standard as it combines the best part of LCD and OLED TVs. This model is set to define a new generation flagship TV with artistic design, as well as excellent innovations, bringing users a “True to Life” viewing experience reaching new heights. The Aquos XLED 4K TV has proven to be the best TV Sharp has produced in the 4K segment over the years as it delivers exceptional picture and audio quality with its unique True Brightness, True Color, and Immersive Sound. Also, this product has won the 2023 IF Design Award.
“At Sharp, we are committed to make effort to deliver high-quality, value-added products, and excellent after-sales service to Filipino families. We believe that every home deserves the best in entertainment, and our Aquos XLED TV represent this vision.”, said Mr. Kazuo Kito, President and General Manager of Sharp Philippines.
True Brightness
The SHARP AQUOS XLED 4K TV features Xtreme mini-LED technology, presenting the highest dimming zone in its class for true brightness. With over 2,000 backlight dimming zones, it offers unrivalled dynamic colour contrast that sets it apart from other brands in the market. Moreover, the dramatically increased 88x* backlight LEDs bring 6x* peak brightness compared to conventional displays, creating a dazzling display.
True Colour
Designed with Deep Chroma Quantum Dot technology, the SHARP AQUOS XLED 4K TV displays the highest colour coverage in the history of the AQUOS TVs, with over 20% more colour gamut coverage area compared to conventional displays. This allows the 2023 AQUOS XLED 4K TV to deliver realistic object colours and a true-to-life visual experience.
Immersive Sound
To provide an unparalleled audio experience, the cutting-edge Sharp Aquos XLED boasts Dolby Atmos technology. This innovative feature is enhanced by the inclusion of advanced ARSS+ surround speaker system, featuring a total of 11 speakers perfectly positioned to create a 3D sound field and clear. These speakers excel in delivering exceptional sound quality across all frequencies including high, mid, and low ranges. With the Aquos XLED, be prepared to be fully immersed in a truly captivating audio performance.
Google TV
In addition to elevating the visual and audio experience, the SHARP AQUOS XLED 4K TV is seamlessly integrated with Google TV. Through this, users can say goodbye to the hassle of switching between multiple apps, effortlessly explore a vast library of over 400,000* movies, TV episodes, and live TV channels, conveniently organized according to user’s preferred genres and interests.
Latest Dolby Technology
The new model has also the Dolby Vision IQ, which intelligently optimizes your TV for a perfect picture in your room at every moment. Dolby Atmos immerses you in your favorite entertainment with sound that moves all around you with breathtaking realism.
Unleash True Experience Event
Along with Sharp’s Aquos XLED Launching Event is its ‘Unleash True Experience’ event, which was held last August 1 – 6, 2023 at Festival Mall, Alabang. Sharp Tekken Tournament and Cosplay Fest were held on the exhibit area which showcased multiple talents from the gaming community and to cosplayers all over the South and nearby cities. All the events portrayed Sharp’s Japan Technology wherein it shows Sharp’s commitment to providing Japan quality products for every Filipino household.
For more updates and information regarding this new product, please visit Sharp Official Website at https://ph.sharp/ and Sharp Facebook Official Page at https://www.facebook.com/SharpPhilippines. You may also visit the leading appliance stores near you to check our introductory price.
The 14-track album serves as a love letter to the beauty and grime of his hometown in the time of socio-political uncertainty and conflict
Known for his critically acclaimed work as an experimental hip-hop producer and a drummer for iconic Filipino bands Kjwan and Kapatid, Hong Kong-based beatsmith and rapper J-Hoon stages a comeback with the release of his sophomore album, Noodles II.
In his 14-track release, J-Hoon documents a decade of witnessing social instability, chaos, and fear in his hometown, Hong Kong—a city that has struggled to retain its degree of independence up until now. The eclectic, hip-hop-driven album also sees the multi-hyphenate share his personal observations on life and culture in general with no filter, as he goes back and forth between Hong Kong and several places/cities miles away from his home.
“Lyrically, it’s a collection of stories, commentaries, and musings about my experiences living in Hong Kong,” said J-Hoon. “You could say that it’s my love letter to the bustling city, a poetic unravelling of its beautiful and ugly side amidst the crumbling terror of political conflict. It’s also diarist in tone and very much contemplative; I didn’t know that I would be this brave to open up about my encounters in life, where stories and emotions sometimes get the best of me. Writing, for the most part, is cleansing and healing, and I really had a great time doing this exercise in my convenient time.”
Noodles II shows J-Hoon’s more collected take on hip-hop, boom bap, jazz, trap, neo-soul, IDM, and electronic music. There’s a looser feel to his musicality, and the songs are palpably more unhinged as compared to his debut offering. But what makes Noodles II a compelling record is its knack for intimacy and free-spirited energy, exploring music across genres, eras, and places with a more playful direction.
“This time around, I moved on to Ableton and MPD from AKAI,” shares the multi-cultural hip-hop head. “The approach is very much different from my debut as I’m more inclined to embrace less complex structures, and more of that classic hip-hop format. Also, I am playing real keys in some songs in this album, so that’s new. The overall vibe is reminiscent of the kind of analog and lo-fi hip-hop that I grew up with. But instead of making something more polished, I’ve tried to retain that raw, carefree attitude in this album.”
Noodles II follows the format of Noodles I, J-Hoon’s debut album released more than a decade ago. His sophomore outing features collaborations with several Asian producers, including Manila’s very own Chi Capulong and Justin De Guzman (JDG), Guangzhou’s Pete Chen, and Seoul’s Noden and Chillingcat. J-Hoon also collaborated with rappers and MCs from different parts of the region, like Guangzhou’s Rebelman, Kuala Lumpur’s Noyz134 and Hour Tan, Tokyo’s So Wada, Hong Kong’s Mattforce, YoungQueenz, and MouseFx from SensiLion.
As J-Hoon describes the collaborative nature of Noodles II, “in a way, all these experiences and characters constitute a bowl of Noodles where you have the broth and noodles, but it also has various ingredients, cultures, and sauces coming together to bring in a new but familiar flavor.”
Last month, J-Hoon released the soulful jam “Lei Ho Leng,” where he raps about chasing perfection at the expense of tarnishing the light in one’s heart or what is known as “real” beauty. Over soulful keys and dusty, vintage grooves, the Hong Kong-based rapper-producer delivers a bop of sumptuous subtlety and class. Other highlights in the album include “Paradise,” a song written during a tumultuous period in his life living in a troubled city while moving places; the Yehaiyahan-featured track “Reality,” which serves as a reflection of our realities across different places and continents; and the jazzy “Modern Li Bai,” which is a homage to the legendary poet of the same name.
“Noodles II” track list
1. Lei Ho Leng 妳好靓 feat. Rebelman
2. War feat Noyz 134/ Hour Tan
3. Modern Li Bai (remix) feat MattForce & YoungQueenz
4. Reality feat Yeheiyahan
5. Genie
6. Do the right thing
7. Education feat MouseFx Sensil
8. Paradise
9. Flower
10. First Day
11. Take It Back feat So Wada
12. Lifeline feat Pete Chen
Bonus:
13. Reality ( Sogoloo 松果龍 remix)
14. Reality (Delf remix)
J-Hoon’s Noodles II will be out on August 9, 2023 on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.