Thursday, June 5, 2025

Asuene APAC and Pacific International Lines finalise MoU to Drive Global Decarbonization

 

Asuene APAC Pte Ltd, the Singapore-based subsidiary of Asuene Inc. has finalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore’s Pacific International Lines Ltd (PIL), Southeast Asia’s largest carrier with extensive networks in Asia, Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Oceania. Currently, PIL is an adopter of 'ASUENE,' a cloud-based platform for measuring, reducing, and reporting GHG emissions, across its approximately 60 offices worldwide.

Under the MoU signed during Singapore Maritime Week on 25 March, the two companies aim to expand the initiative to include PIL’s broader supply chain, accelerating decarbonization on a global scale.

Background of the MoU

As climate action becomes an increasingly urgent global priority, the maritime industry—responsible for approximately 3% of global CO2 emissions—faces mounting pressure to decarbonize. In response, PIL is advancing its transformation with a dual focus on decarbonization and digital innovation. As the largest shipping company from Southeast Asia, PIL operates a fleet of approximately 100 container vessels and manages a global network spanning over 500 locations in 90 countries. In addition to its core shipping operations, PIL is strengthening its commitment to sustainability by working to reduce environmental impact across its entire supply chain.

To support this effort, PIL has chosen to implement “ASUENE,” a cloud-based platform for measuring, reducing, and reporting CO2 emissions. The platform’s intuitive user interface, AI-powered data entry via OCR, and ability to visualize emissions across complex supply chains were key factors in the decision. This solution empowers PIL’s sustainability officers around the world to efficiently collect, manage, and analyze emissions data.

Given the complexity of the maritime industry—which encompasses a diverse range of stakeholders including ports, warehouse operators, and inland logistics providers—PIL is prioritizing the development of a robust system for centralized data management and effective emissions reduction.

Details of the MoU

Under this MoU, PIL will leverage Asuene’s expertise in GHG measurement, reporting, and verification to enhance the sustainability of its maritime transportation value chain. This initiative will begin with PIL’s own suppliers and service providers, and will include capacity building, sharing of best practices and affordable access to Asuene’s GHG measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) solution.

About Pacific International Lines Ltd (PIL)

Pacific International Lines (PIL) is among the top 12 container shipping lines in the world. Established in Singapore in 1967, PIL is the largest home-grown carrier in Southeast Asia.

PIL serves customers in over 500 locations, with a focus on Asia, China, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Oceania and the Pacific Islands. Operating a fleet of around 100 container vessels, provide shipping services and solutions to customers in more than 90 countries worldwide.

PIL provides shipping services across a variety of products, including dry, refrigerated, breakbulk or special cargo. PIL harnesses our network of agencies and intermodal services, to bring value to customers with end-to-end transportation solutions.

At PIL, a people-centric approach puts customers first, by leveraging expertise and technology to provide efficient and sustainable solutions. Guided by a future-focused vision, committed to sustainability and making a positive impact on communities. For more information, visit www.pilship.com

Asuene Company Profile

Asuene Inc. is a leading Climate Tech company in Japan with the mission of ”Changing the world for the next generation”. We provide "ASUENE", a carbon accounting platform to measure, report and reduce carbon emissions of companies and we contribute to the net zero society.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

VRITIMES Forms Strategic Partnership with 10 International Media Platforms to Expand Content Distribution

VRITIMES, a leading media technology platform in the country providing integrated press release creation and distribution services, has officially established a partnership with 10 selected international media platforms: 

asiajournaux.comasianicinsights.comapacvision.compacificposts.comorientpresswire.comseadaily.bizseareporthub.comseasiaonline.comsundalandstar.com, and asiadailies.biz.  

Through this collaboration, news content and press releases created via VRITIMES will be widely distributed to readers across Southeast Asia and the Pacific region, enhancing the visibility of quality information from the country to international markets.

This partnership aims to increase the reach and visibility of content covering various sectors such as business, technology, lifestyle, and current affairs, while supporting VRITIMES’ mission to facilitate the dissemination of accurate and reliable information in the digital era.

By joining forces with these 10 international media partners, VRITIMES strengthens its position as a trusted information distribution infrastructure, providing added value for businesses and organizations seeking to reach a global audience.

About VRITIMES Inc.

VRITIMES is a technology-driven platform that simplifies press release distribution, helping businesses and organizations maximize their reach and impact. Through its intuitive system, users can create, distribute, and analyze press releases with ease.
 
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

Crypto News! $BLUM Will Launch Soon with Snapshot and Blum Airdrop Details Amid Market Uncertainty

Blum reveals $BLUM token snapshot and airdrop criteria ahead of June 7, 2025, launch. Amid founder scandal and falling volume, can this Telegram DEX regain momentum?

After more than a year of development, Blum, the Telegram-based mini app that once boasted 42 million monthly users, has finally revealed critical details about its upcoming airdrop and token launch.

The team confirmed that the long-awaited snapshot to determine Blum airdrop eligibility will occur on June 7, 2025, at 00:00 UTC, marking a pivotal moment in the project’s evolution from a "tap-to-earn" gimmick to a more utility-focused decentralized exchange (DEX) on the TON ecosystem.

Snapshot and Airdrop Criteria: What Users Need to Know

The June 7 snapshot will lock in user balances and platform activity, forming the basis for $BLUM airdrop allocations. To qualify, users must meet at least one of the following three criteria:

1. Hold over 100,000 Blum Points (BP)

2. Earn 750 or more Meme Points (MP) or provide proof of meaningful engagement

3. Refer at least two new users and pass a Sybil check to prevent fraud

These conditions have sparked debate within the community. Some long-time users who consistently engaged with the app but failed to meet technical thresholds have voiced frustration.

For example, one user shared on X that they were disqualified despite maintaining a 67-day login streak.

Others have criticized the Meme Points requirement as particularly unfair to early supporters.

In response, the Blum team has reiterated the importance of anti-Sybil mechanisms to ensure fair distribution and avoid manipulation. These measures include:

1. Bot and script detection

2. Behavior-based activity screening

3. Detection of multi-account setups

4. Cross-referencing known Sybil wallets

The Blum Airdrop Checker is now live, giving users a final chance to validate their eligibility before the June 7 snapshot.

Tokenomics and Trading Potential: What We Know So Far

Although the snapshot date and eligibility criteria are clear, Blum has yet to release full tokenomics, including details like the circulating supply, vesting periods, or ecosystem incentives. What is known:

1. Maximum supply: 100 billion $BLUM tokens

2. Pre-market price: Currently around $0.0015, down 90% from its early 2025 high

3. Current trading volume: Oscillating between $0.0014 and $0.0020, showing mild activity ahead of the airdrop

Blum’s trading volume has declined sharply, dropping from over $700,000 daily in February to just $6,000 in June, according to Dune Analytics.

This stagnation raises concerns about the project's ability to attract meaningful liquidity and trader interest in the DEX space, where competition is already fierce.

A Rocky Road: Leadership Scandal and Declining Metrics

The announcement of the airdrop comes amid turbulence for the Blum team. In mid-May, co-founder Vladimir Smerkis was arrested on fraud-related charges, casting a shadow over the project’s credibility. In a public statement, the team acknowledged the challenge:

“Despite recent challenges following Vladimir Smerkis’ departure, we remain incredibly confident in Blum’s proposition and ability to deliver outstanding value and returns.”

Community trust has undeniably taken a hit. Rebuilding this confidence will likely depend on how smoothly the token launch proceeds and whether the team follows through on promised exchange listings and technical milestones.

Blum Listing Expectations and Price Forecast

While no official listing date has been confirmed, analysts tracking the project suggest a Token Generation Event (TGE) and exchange debut between June 24–28, 2025. The project's Telegram-centric approach, combined with its TON ecosystem integration, suggests that both DEX and CEX listings are likely.

If listed on these major platforms, $BLUM could open trading between $0.050 and $0.50, depending on investor sentiment and market dynamics at launch.

In a bullish scenario with high engagement and effective marketing, some optimistic analysts suggest $BLUM could climb as high as $10 later in the year, though this should be treated as speculative.

In the short term, if the price holds near $0.0015 and excitement around the airdrop continues, it could rally to between $0.0025–$0.0030 post-snapshot.

Conclusion: The Final Countdown to June 7

With the snapshot deadline fast approaching, users have only a limited window to boost their engagement, refer new users, or increase their point totals to secure eligibility for the $BLUM airdrop.

While the long-term viability of Blum remains in question due to leadership challenges and dwindling trading volume, the upcoming token launch presents a major inflection point.

What happens next, including tokenomics clarity, exchange listings, and user response, will determine whether Blum can recapture some of the hype that once made it a breakout star on Telegram.

Key Dates:

1. Snapshot: June 7, 2025 (00:00 UTC)

2. Estimated Listing: June 24–28, 2025

3. Current Price Range: $0.0014–$0.0020

4. Potential Launch Price: $0.050–$0.50 (speculative)

For now, all eyes are on the snapshot and airdrop, but the real test will come after $BLUM begins trading.

To stay updated on Blum airdrop update information and other rising crypto stars by reading expert insights and the latest market news on the Bitrue Blog.

About Bitrue

Bitrue is a leading cryptocurrency exchange, offering a wide range of digital assets, innovative features, and user-focused services. Founded with the mission to empower the world’s crypto enthusiasts, Bitrue continues to expand its platform with new products, events, and opportunities for users worldwide.
 
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

In Full Bloom: The 6th VP Choice Awards’ Red Carpet and Awards Night Celebrates Remarkable Success

 

An Evening of Recognition, Glamour, and Impact

Held at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan, Bridgetowne, Quezon City, on May 29, 2025, the evening bloomed into a vibrant celebration of talent, innovation, and purpose—uniting stars, creators, and changemakers for a night of well-deserved recognition.

The red carpet dazzled with appearances by some of the most celebrated personalities in showbiz, digital media, business, and music. Among the notable attendees were Marian Rivera who received her Headliner of the Year for Movies, Glenda Dela Cruz and Anna Magkawas who are known for their respective businesses, and Kapamilya and Kapuso artists, who turned heads with their standout looks and show-stopping ensembles. The event was a visual feast of fashion, creativity, and self-expression.

Favorites of the Pipol

Covering a wide range of categories including Business, Lifestyle, Travel, Technology, and Entertainment, the 6th VPCA spotlighted this year’s most influential and groundbreaking individuals and brands. These honorees have not only captivated the hearts and minds of the Pipol but have also driven innovation and positive change within their industries.

The night’s major awardees included:

TV Series (Primetime) - Linlang (ABS-CBN)

TV Actor (Primetime) - Paulo Avelino

TV Actress (Primetime) - Kim Chiu

TV Actress (Daytime) - Kyline Alcantara

TV Actor (Daytime) - Micheal Sager

Breakthrough Star of the Year - Annalyn Baro

Movie of the Year - And the Bread Winner Is...

Movie Actor of the Year - Vice Ganda (And the Bread Winner Is...)

Movie Actress of the Year - Judy Ann Santos - Agoncillo (Espantaho)

Promising Male Star of the Year - Andres Muhlach

Promising Female Star of the Year - Fyang Smith

Love Team of the Year - JMFYANG (JM Ibarra & Fyang Smith)

Solo Performer of the Year - Darren Espanto (D10)

Group Performer of the Year - BGYO

P-Pop Group of the Year - BINI

OPM Song of the Year - Palagi (TJ Monterde & KZ Tandingan)

P-Pop Song of the Year - Salamin Salamin (BINI)

Breakthrough Social Media Star - Aiah Arceta

Viral Tiktok Video - JarLette Dance Craze (Jarren Garcia & Kolette Madelo)

Content Creator of the Year - Steven Bansil

Beauty Influencer of the Year - Lenie Aycardo

Fashion Influencer of the Year - Jarren Garcia

Entrepreneur of the Year - Anna Magkawas (Luxe Beauty & Wellness Group)

Breakthrough Brand of the Year - Brilliant Skin Essentials Inc.

Pipol of the Year - Pia Wurtzbach - Jauncey

Headliner of the Year for Music - Maki

Headliner of the Year for TV - Daniel Padilla

Headliner of the Year for Movie - Marian Rivera

SPECIAL AWARDS

Female Star of the Night - Therese Villamor

Female Star of the Night - Christian Martinez

Best Dressed of the Night - Dani Baretto

The winners were selected through a comprehensive process that combined the votes of the Pipol with the expert judgment of a panel of industry professionals. This approach ensured that each accolade reflected both popular appeal and exceptional quality. For the full list of winners, visit www.villagepipol.com and www.vpchoiceawards.com

A Night To Remember

The 6th VP Choice Awards truly lived up to its promise of an unforgettable evening. Guests were treated to show-stopping performances by special guests ONEVERSE, AJAA, and Zephanie. Each act brought a different flavor—rousing the crowd and showcasing the artistry of rising and established talents alike.

Beyond the music, the night was filled with inspirational speeches and genuine, heartfelt moments that moved both the audience and the awardees. From proud first-time winners to beloved veterans taking the stage once again, every acceptance speech carried powerful messages of gratitude, resilience, and purpose.

It wasn’t just an awards night—it was a full-circle celebration of talent, influence, and the Pipol who continue to support and elevate these changemakers. Every moment, from grand stage highlights to quiet backstage triumphs, added to the narrative of a night that will long be remembered.

Behind The Success

The 6th VPCA is produced by Village Pipol Magazine and Red Entertainment Inc. Moreover, it owes its success to its generous partners, Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group as co-presenter, alongside major sponsors, Variahealth, Puregold, Fleek Beauty, and Hyaloo. Contributing to the event’s success are valued partners such as LA Chicks, Tooth Studio by John Crespo, Novel Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgicenter. Collaborators; Joey Peria Event and Floristry, Philgifts, Getmarqed Photography, Horizon Digital Management, J Layson, and Philgifts, as well as the official voting app partner, Choicely. 8 Century Events and Catering and Design Therapy Experience by MJ Mendoza as Events design and catering partner —all of whom help bring this floral affair to life.

To amplify the reach of this highly anticipated event, the organizers are also thankful for the support of the media partners: ABS-CBN News, Philstar Global, The Manila Times, Pilipino Mirror, BusinessWeek National, Mindanao Daily News, Blogapalooza, TNC, Klik.PH, CETV, Plus 63, TAP Mag, Vritimes, Light TV, PIPOL, and A2Z. Their dedication to sharing the excitement with our community means the world.

LoveYourself, Inc. as 6th VP Choice Awards official beneficiary.

This year’s beneficiary is LoveYourself Inc., with proceeds from the Facebook Reel Stars initiative going toward HIV awareness, mental health support, and self-care programs.

Relive the magic of the 6th VP Choice Awards through the official VPCA App—featuring full red carpet coverage, exclusive photos, and event highlights. Stay connected and be the first to know what’s next by following Village Pipol and VP Choice Awards on Facebook and Instagram.

As this year’s blossoms fall, seeds of anticipation are already being sown. Until next year—when we celebrate again, in full bloom.

Words by: Regene Narciso

About VP Choice Awards

VP Choice Awards is an annual award-giving body in the Philippines operated and produced by Village Pipol Magazine and Red Entertainment, Inc.
 
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

Moments of Need to Meaningful Progress: How Cebuana Lhuillier Loans Walk With Filipinos

   According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), one in three Filipinos now takes out loans to cover basic needs such as food, educati...