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NUS-ISS, PCSC and PCORP Commemorate Strategic Partnership to Elevate Digital Leadership Capabilities among Civil Servants in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NUS-ISS, the Philippines Civil Service Commission (PCSC) and the Private Sector Jobs and Skills Corporation (PCORP) held a ceremonial event today to mark the formal sealing of a Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) signed on 12 February 2025. This symbolic occasion marks the next step in their partnership to enhance the digital leadership competencies of mid-to-senior-level civil servants in the Philippines.

 

From Left to Right - Mr Ramon Jocson, Proponent, PSAC; Attorney. Judith Dongallo-Chicano, Asst. Commissioner, PCSC; Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP; Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr; Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC; Mr Khoong Chan Meng, Chief Executive Officer of NUS-ISS and Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS
From Left to Right – Mr Ramon Jocson, Proponent, PSAC; Attorney. Judith Dongallo-Chicano, Asst. Commissioner, PCSC; Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP; Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr; Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC; Mr Khoong Chan Meng, Chief Executive Officer of NUS-ISS and Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS

Under this agreement, NUS-ISS will conduct the Philippines Civil Service’s Digital Leadership Programme (DLP) in partnership with PCORP and PCSC through the country’s Civil Service Institute (CSI). This initiative aims to support the Philippine government’s national innovation agenda and digital transformation goals.

The DLP started as a pilot initiative, supported by Temasek Foundation, the Ayala Group, and the SM Group, and was designed to upskill mid-level to senior-level public officials in digital leadership.

This collaboration also underscores the strength of the robust and multifaceted bilateral relationship between Singapore and the Philippines. In 2024, both countries commemorated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties and are actively exploring enhanced cooperation in emerging areas such as digitalisation and climate change, reflecting their shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and mutual progress.

The ceremonial event was held at the Malacañang Palace in Manila, Philippines, with the presence of Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS; Attorney. Judith Dongallo-Chicano, Asst. Commissioner, PCSC; and Mr Ramon Jocson, Proponent, PSAC.

The signed MOA was presented to the Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr by Mr Khoong Chan Meng, Chief Executive Officer of NUS-ISS; Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC; and Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP, to mark the formal sealing of the partnership.

Building a future-ready, digitally-enabled civil service

The Philippine Civil Service DLP will be implemented in two phases, with the first phase featuring two pilot sessions in Singapore. During these sessions, government and private sector participants will undergo intensive three-day training conducted by NUS-ISS. 

The pilot sessions will consist of three modules, namely, Digital leadership in the public sector, Leveraging citizen-centricity and design thinking for innovation, and Making better decisions with data.

The sessions aim to provide the participants with firsthand insights into successful digital transformation initiatives in Singapore’s public sector and showcase how digital governance can enhance public service delivery. Through exposure to Singapore’s best practices, the participants will acquire practical skills and actionable strategies to drive meaningful change within the Philippine government.

In the second phase, NUS-ISS will license the programme content to PCSC and conduct Train-the-trainer sessions in Manila, equipping trainers from PCSC, government agencies, and the private sector (Asia Pacific College and Mapua University) to deliver the curriculum nationwide.

A collaborative effort for sustainable impact

Recognising the vital role of digital leadership in public sector transformation and to enhance government service delivery, NUS-ISS, PCSC, and PCORP have committed to leverage their respective strengths and resources to design and implement the Philippine Civil Service DLP.

Established in 1981, NUS-ISS has a proven track record of developing future-ready digital leaders in Singapore and beyond through diverse pathways and programmes tailored to meet the needs of various industries, including the public sector. It will draw upon its deep expertise in digital talent development in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, digital strategy and digital innovation.

Mr Khoong Chan Meng, CEO of NUS-ISS, said, “NUS-ISS brings deep expertise and extensive experience in empowering civil servants with the digital capabilities essential for driving public sector transformation. Through this strategic partnership, we will support the Philippine government in cultivating a strong pipeline of digital-ready leaders. Our outcome-driven training programmes and hands-on workshops will provide civil service leaders with the critical knowledge, practical tools, and forward-thinking strategies needed to accelerate innovation and embed digital excellence across government agencies for lasting impact.”

PCSC, as the central human resource institution of the Philippine government, will oversee the training to ensure that the programme is aligned with the country’s public sector context and national governance priorities. PCORP, a non-profit organisation established by PSAC – Jobs Group, will ensure the programme’s long-term impact with its mandate to bridge public and private sector collaboration to close digital skills gaps. 

“It is an enduring commitment for the Philippine civil service as we build a future-ready, citizen-centric government,” said Attorney. Marilyn Barua-Yap, Chairperson of PCSC. “This strategic partnership with NUS-ISS and PCORP marks a pivotal step in equipping our civil servants with world-class digital leadership expertise. By continuously learning from Singapore’s best practices and adapting them to our local context, we are laying a strong foundation for a resilient and innovative public sector. Through sustained collaboration, we will empower generations of public sector leaders with the skills and vision to drive meaningful and lasting change in government service delivery.”

Mr Alfredo Ayala, Chairperson of PCORP, said, “A digitally empowered civil service is vital to enabling a thriving digital economy and delivering improved public services to citizens. At PCORP, we are deeply committed to our mission of contributing the private sector’s expertise to government initiatives to address critical skills gaps and drive job creation in key sectors. This mission is at the core of everything we do. By equipping public sector leaders with the right digital capabilities, we are not only enhancing government efficiency but also laying the groundwork for broader economic growth and opportunities for citizens in the Philippines.”

To deepen stakeholder engagement and chart the path forward, a National Digitalisation Forum will be convened on 25 April at the CSC Auditorium of Civil Service Commission Headquarters. This forum will serve as a platform for public and private sector leaders to share detailed strategies, exchange insights, and reaffirm their commitment to the initiative. This by-invitation forum will include key attendees from public agencies driving digital transformation, private sector partners aligned with the MOA, and potential trainers from both government institutions and academia who will be instrumental in scaling the programme nationally.

ABOUT NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE (NUS)

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is Singapore’s flagship university, which offers a global approach to education, research and entrepreneurship, with a focus on Asian perspectives and expertise. We have 16 colleges, faculties and schools across three campuses in Singapore, with more than 40,000 students from 100 countries enriching our vibrant and diverse campus community. We have also established more than 20 NUS Overseas Colleges entrepreneurial hubs around the world.

Our multidisciplinary and real-world approach to education, research and entrepreneurship enables us to work closely with industry, governments and academia to address crucial and complex issues relevant to Asia and the world. Researchers in our faculties, research centres of excellence, corporate labs and more than 30 university-level research institutes focus on themes that include energy; environmental and urban sustainability; treatment and prevention of diseases; active ageing; advanced materials; risk management and resilience of financial systems; Asian studies; and Smart Nation capabilities such as artificial intelligence, data science, operations research and cybersecurity.

For more information on NUS, please visit nus.edu.sg.

ABOUT NUS-ISS

Established in 1981, NUS-ISS nurtures digital talent for the industry through graduate education, executive education programmes, consultancy, applied research, and career services. NUS-ISS guides individuals and organisations to bridge future opportunities through a unique portfolio of multiple learning pathways such as blended learning and stackable programmes, leading the way in shaping the next curve of digital excellence. It offers a wide spectrum of programmes in critical industry disciplines, such as digital leadership, software development, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, product management, smart health and digital innovation.

To date, over 200,000 digital leaders and professionals from across 9,647 corporate client organisations, and 8,277 graduate programmes alumni have benefitted from NUS-ISS’ suite of services. Its programmes are delivered by NUS-ISS staff with an average of more than 20 years of industry experience and supported by a strong network of partners. NUS-ISS also works with industry partners and associations locally and globally to co-create a digital learning ecosystem that inspires and shapes solutions for the digital economy.

For more information visit, www.iss.nus.edu.sg

ABOUT PHILIPPINES CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION (PCSC)

The PCSC is the constitutionally mandated central human resource institution of the Philippine government. Established in 1900 and reaffirmed under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the CSC is responsible for promoting meritocracy, integrity, and professionalism within the public sector. It serves as the lead agency in implementing policies, programs, and standards that ensure an efficient, effective, and accountable civil service workforce.

With jurisdiction over more than two million civil servants across national government agencies, local government units, and government-owned and controlled corporations, the PCSC plays a pivotal role in shaping public administration in the Philippines. Through its programs and reforms, the Commission upholds excellence in public service and promotes professionalism, accountability, and good governance across all levels of government.

ABOUT PRIVATE SECTOR JOBS AND SKILLS CORPORATION (PCORP)

A non-profit organisation established by the Private Sector Advisory Council–Education and Jobs Sector Group to facilitate collaboration between the public and private sectors in addressing skills gaps and promoting job creation.

Himel Celebrates Resounding Success at 2025 Global Distributor Conference in Bangkok

BANGKOK, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Himel, a globally acclaimed manufacturer and supplier of electric products, hosted its 2025 Global Distributor Conference at the Millennium Hilton in Bangkok, Thailand. With the theme “Powering Infinity”, this landmark conference not only solidified Himel’s leadership in the electrical market but also reflected Himel’s ambitious vision for the future.

The conference welcomed Himel’s leadership team and valued partners from over 40+ countries. Koon San ANG, Himel’s International Sales Leader, shared Himel’s recent achievement & outlined long-term strategic vision, stating, “Our long-term strategic vision encompasses digital transformation, expansion into new territories, localization initiatives, and collaboration with partners to diversify product offerings. By prioritizing customer needs and fostering trust and loyalty, we aim to build mutual success with our ecosystem.”

Danny WANG, Himel’s Chief Marketing Officer, launched the “Powering Infinity” global campaign, an evolution of the erstwhile Powering Ambitions. “This campaign aims to empower all stakeholders to unlock infinite potential. By uniting partners, customers, and communities, we’ll drive global impact and create boundless opportunities.”

From left: WenJie QI, Himel‘s Overseas Marketing & Service Director, Koon San ANG, Himel's International Sales Leader and Danny WANG, Himel’s Chief Marketing Officer, delivered speeches at the conference.
From left: WenJie QI, Himel‘s Overseas Marketing & Service Director, Koon San ANG, Himel’s International Sales Leader and Danny WANG, Himel’s Chief Marketing Officer, delivered speeches at the conference.

The conference facilitated success case sharing among partners from various business sectors and regions who praised Himel’s marketing efforts for building brand visibility and competitiveness. The event also included a special commendation ceremony, where trophies were awarded to honor the unwavering support of Himel’s distributor community.

Over 150 new product SKUs were displayed, and 6 new series were officially launched during the conference. WenJie QI, Himel’s Overseas Marketing & Service Director,emphasized the company’s customer-centric strategy, stating “HIMEL’s strategy is centred around putting the customer first. We specialize in low-voltage solutions and cater to the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. By prioritizing customer feedback and adapting to local demands, we ensure that our offerings are tailored to meet their and market needs.”

2025 Himel New Product Launch Ceremony
2025 Himel New Product Launch Ceremony

During Gala Cruise dinner by the Chao Phraya River,Koon San ANG thanked again to all distributors and emphasized the vital role of a robust distributor network. “Deep connections with distributors are the bedrock for sustained growth and success in a competitive marketplace. Let’s aim for an exponential growth together.”

The 2025 Global Distributor Conference was a triumph, reaffirming Himel’s commitment to its global network and a future of innovation and growth.

Akeso Announces FDA Approval for Penpulimab-kcqx in Two BLA Indications for Comprehensive Treatment of Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

HONG KONG, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK) (“Akeso” or the “Company”) is excited to announce that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its differentiated PD-1 monoclonal antibody, penpulimab-kcqx, in combination with cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine for the first-line treatment of adult recurrent or metastatic non-keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). FDA also approved penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent for adults with metastatic non-keratinizing NPC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy and with least one other prior line of therapy. Penpulimab-kcqx was developed independently by Akeso, with further development and commercialization managed through a joint venture with Chia Tai-Tianqing Pharmaceutical Group.

This milestone marks penpulimab-kcqx as Akeso’s first internally developed innovative biologic to receive FDA approval. The approval underscores the robust clinical research behind penpulimab-kcqx and marks Akeso’s successful entry into the United States regulatory system for the first time. This achievement highlights the company’s innovative drug development capabilities and its commitment to adhering to the highest international standards in pharmaceutical quality management.

The FDA’s approval of penpulimab-kcqx validates Akeso’s international drug development strategy and expansion capabilities. This approval lays a strong foundation for Akeso’s continued clinical development efforts in the global therapeutics markets.

Penpulimab-kcqx has been approved in China for two indications: 1. first-line treatment of advanced NPC, and 2. second or later line treatment of advanced NPC. The recent FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx offers a new, immunotherapy option for advanced NPC patients in the US.

The FDA approval is based on the international Phase III clinical trial AK105-304 and the pivotal AK105-202 study, which supported the two Biologics License Application (BLA) for penpulimab-kcqx. These studies demonstrated the drug’s clinical benefits and favorable safety profile across  two stages of treatment for metastatic NPC.  AK105-304 is a randomized, double-blind, international Phase III trial that enrolled NPC patients of diverse ethnicities. The data will be presented at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting. Previously, the FDA granted penpulimab-kcqx Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD), Orphan Drug Designation (ODD), and Fast Track Designation (FTD) for NPC treatment, highlighting the critical unmet need for this therapy.

According to the WHO 2020 Global Cancer Statistics, over 133,000 new NPC cases are diagnosed annually worldwide, with more than 70% of the patients presented with locally advanced disease. Recurrent or metastatic NPC has a poor prognosis and limited survival. Penpulimab-kcqx’s FDA approval will expand the number of NPC patients that can benefit from its treatment.

Prof. Chaosu Hu, Principal Investigator of penpulimab-kcqx from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, commented: “This milestone enhances international treatment guidelines for advanced NPC and extends the benefits of China’s innovations to global patients, ultimately reshaping the treatment landscape for metastatic NPC worldwide.”

Prof. Xiaozhong Chen, Investigator of penpulimab-kcqx from Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, added: “The FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx confirms its high efficacy and low toxicity, positioning China’s innovative drug development in alignment with international standards.”

Dr. Yu Xia, Founder, Chairwoman, President & CEO of Akeso, expressed: “We are very excited by the approval of penpulimab-kcqx’s approval in the US FDA for first line and later line NPC.  Beyond reaching our first international regulatory milestone, this approval also provides an important immunotherapy treatment option for patients with NPC in the United States. The FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx not only highlights the quality of our innovation but also underscores Akeso’s focus on delivering treatments for difficult to treat cancers for patients around the world. We are deeply grateful to all the researchers, participants, and patients who have contributed to this success. Akeso will continue to advance first and best in class therapies, including bispecific antibodies and CD47 inhibitors, challenge global standards of care and unlocking the full potential of our pipeline for cancer patients everywhere.”

Forward-Looking Statement of Akeso, Inc.

This announcement by Akeso, Inc. ( 9926. HK) contains “forward-looking statements”. These statements reflect the current beliefs and expectations of Akeso’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that penpulimab-kcqx or other pipeline candidates will obtain the required regulatory approvals or achieve commercial success. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

Akeso does not undertake any obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

Please see Prescribing Information for penpulimab-kcqx at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm when it is posted.

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 24 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 15 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs. Additionally, 7 new drugs are commercially available, and 4 new drugs with 4 new indications are under regulatory review for approval. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin.

A Visionary Breakthrough: VISTA Eye Specialist and EssilorLuxottica Join Forces to Combat Childhood Myopia in Malaysia

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a landmark move to safeguard the vision of Malaysia’s future generation, VISTA Eye Specialist (‘VISTA’), the nation’s trusted eye care brand, announced a strategic collaboration Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EssilorLuxottica, the global leader in Medtech for vision care.

VISTA Eye Specialist signs MoU with EssilorLuxottica Malaysia to strengthen efforts against childhood myopia.
VISTA Eye Specialist signs MoU with EssilorLuxottica Malaysia to strengthen efforts against childhood myopia.

This partnership heralds a nationwide initiative to tackle the silent epidemic of childhood myopia, combining clinical excellence, global innovation, and a deep commitment to community health.

Myopia: More Than Just Blurry Vision

Myopia (short-sightedness) is emerging as a significant public health concern. Left unmanaged, it doesn’t just require glasses with higher prescriptions. It opens the door to a lifetime of serious vision-threatening complications[1&2], therefore myopia management from an early age is critical[3].

“The world sees myopia as a childhood inconvenience. But unchecked, it becomes a lifetime disability,” said Lim Boon Siong, Director of VISTA Eye Specialist. “Our children deserve better—and we’re stepping up.”

The Hidden Dangers of High Myopia[1]:

  • Retinal Detachment – Eye elongation can stretch and thin the retina, leading to tears or detachment that may cause sudden, irreversible blindness.
  • Myopic Macular Degeneration (MMD) – A leading cause of permanent central vision loss, especially in adults who were highly myopic as children.
  • Glaucoma – Myopic eyes are more vulnerable to this “silent thief of sight”, which causes progressive, irreversible damage to the optic nerve.
  • Early Cataracts – High myopia increases the risk of early-onset cataracts, which often require surgery earlier in life.

By 2050, it’s projected that 1 in 2 people globally will be myopic[2]. In parts of Asia, including Malaysia, up to 80–90% of schoolchildren already show signs of myopia. The time to act is now.

VISTA & EssilorLuxottica: A United Vision

Through this MoU, VISTA and EssilorLuxottica commit to an ambitious, multi-pronged strategy:

EssilorLuxottica Malaysia will:

  • Lead nationwide myopia management educational and awareness campaigns—including webinars, digital content, and parent workshops—to empower families with crucial knowledge about myopia prevention myopia management and control.

VISTA Eye Specialist will:

  • Deliver comprehensive myopia screenings through its extensive network of centers
  • Establish a referral program to connect diagnosed children with tailored myopia management solutions
  • Launch a CSR campaign starting with a free eye clinic for 200 underprivileged children, supported by volunteers from the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation
  • Expand outreach to include adults and seniors, fostering lifelong eye health for all

“This is about safeguarding vision and reduce the risk of severe eye conditions linked to high myopia,” said Denis Chng, Country Manager of EssilorLuxottica Malaysia. “We have to act now—healthy eyes today ensure clear sight for a lifetime!”

Looking Ahead: Hope in Sight

This collaboration marks just the beginning. Both organizations aim to scale this initiative across Malaysia—from cities to underserved rural communities. Their shared goal is to drastically reduce the incidence and impact of myopia by prioritizing early intervention, education on myopia management, and access to vision care.

About VISTA Eye Specialist

Established in 1999, VISTA Eye Specialist is Malaysia’s most trusted name in eye care. VISTA was recently honored with Newsweek’s Asia’s Top Private Hospital Awards 2025, recognizing its dedication to clinical excellence, innovation, and patient satisfaction. With a strong presence across the country and more than 460,000 satisfied patients, VISTA is renowned for its excellence in LASIK, cataract, and myopia control services. VISTA’s commitment goes beyond treatment—it is about transforming lives through vision.

About EssilorLuxottica

EssilorLuxottica is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames and sunglasses. With over 200,000 employees across 150 countries, 650 operations facilities and 18,000 stores, in 2023 the Company generated consolidated revenue of Euro 25.4 billion. Its mission is to help people around the world to see more and be more by addressing their evolving vision needs and personal style aspirations. EssilorLuxottica is home to the most advanced lens technologies including Varilux, Stellest and Transitions, the most iconic eyewear brands including Ray-Ban and Oakley, the most desired luxury licensed brands and world-class retailers including LensCrafters and Sunglass Hut. The Company’s OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation has given access to sustainable vision care to more than 760 million people in underserved communities. 

Reference

  1. Haarman AEG, Enthoven CA, Tideman JWL, Tedja MS, Verhoeven VJM, Klaver CCW. The Complications of         Myopia: A Review and Meta-Analysis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis          Sci. 2020;61(4):49. doi:10.1167/iovs.61.4.49
  2. Holden BA,      Fricke TR, Wilson DA, et al. Global Prevalence of Myopia and High           Myopia and Temporal Trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology.             2016;123(5):1036-1042. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2016.01.006
  3. K. Zadnik, G.L. Mitchell, L.A. Jones, D.O. Mutti; Factors Associated with    Rapid Myopia Progression in School–aged Children . Invest.       Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 2004;45(13):2306.

 

Global Media Witnesses Chery Super Hybrid (CSH)’s Breakthrough as ‘Endless Horizon Worry-Free Voyage’ Endurance Challenge Completes First Stage

SHANGHAI, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 23, coinciding with the opening day of 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, the first stage of Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) “Endless Horizon Worry-Free Voyage” endurance challenge successfully concluded. This four-day challenge featured Chery’s hybrid duo – TIGGO9 CSH and ARRIZO8 CSH – leading an international media convoy from Malaysia, Poland, the Czech Republic and other countries. The journey started from Sanxia and traversed Wuhan and Wuzhen, covering over 1,400 kilometers before concluding in Shanghai. This rigorous test strengthened global users’ recognition and approval of Chery’s hybrid vehicles.

International Media Guests Completed CSH "Endless Horizon Worry-Free Voyage" Endurance Challenge
International Media Guests Completed CSH “Endless Horizon Worry-Free Voyage” Endurance Challenge

Spanning 1,400+ kilometers, the challenge covered every driving scenario—urban traffic jams, mountain switchbacks and high-speed cruising. CSH’s advantages translate into real-world benefits, thanks to breakthroughs in fundamental architecture. The fifth-generation 1.5TGDI dedicated hybrid engine sets a new benchmark with 44.5% thermal efficiency. Paired with the stepless electric hybrid DHT system featuring 98.5% transmission efficiency, it balances power and efficiency perfectly. These innovations drive comprehensive performance leadership in both TIGGO9 CSH and ARRIZO8 CSH.

The “Endless Horizon Worry-Free Voyage” endurance challenge focused on vehicle range, with both models exceeding 1,400 kilometers — eliminating range anxiety. ARRIZO8 CSH recorded a fuel consumption of just 4.2L/100km in battery-depleted mode, while TIGGO9 CSH, equipped with a dedicated hybrid battery, achieved a fast charge (30%-80%) in only 20 minutes. Additionally, it features a 6.6kW V2L function, perfect for powering outdoor equipment during camping trips. Both models maintained 120 km/h throughout a 600-kilometer highspeed test, showcasing robust power performance. With nearly 20 ADAS features, APA, and a quiet cabin noise level of 60 dBA at 120 km/h, they deliver an intelligent, safe, and comfortable driving experience.

The event not only showcased the brand’s technological capabilities but also embodied its philosophy of “technology equality.” After the China stage, the challenge will commence its Malaysian part next. Moving forward, the event will include over 40 real-world tests across more than 20 countries and regions with the participation of more models from the CSH lineup, demonstrating the system’s “all-scenario, worry-free” adaptability in diverse environments.

Disney’s 20th Anniversary: HKDL Ambassadors Prepare to Pass the Torch

Seeking the Next Ambassador to Continue the Mission of Spreading Magic and Helping Others

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 April 2025 – Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has been a cornerstone of joy and magical memories for 20 years, delighting guests and fans while also dedicating itself to community service. The 2024-2025 Disney Ambassadors Gisele Abejero and Beyan Tse represent the resort, working alongside Disney VoluntEARS to bring Disney magic to those in need, including young patients, underprivileged families, people with disabilities, and minority groups.

Cover Photo (Gisele and Beyan)
Cover Photo (Gisele and Beyan)

As HKDL celebrates its 20th anniversary, the pair and all cast members invite everyone to join the grand celebration starting from June 28. With their term coming to an end, they are also on the search for the next ambassador(s) to continue spreading Disney’s legacy of joy and magic.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Unlocking New Skills
Gisele, who hails from the Philippines, and Beyan, a native Hongkonger, come from vastly different backgrounds and life experiences. They have shown incredible courage in stepping out of their comfort zones to pursue their dreams, shaping who they are today.
Gisele, who has been working at HKDL for 17 years, is the first Disney Ambassador of Filipino descent at HKDL. She began her career at the Entertainment team and showcasing her extensive stage experience in different shows including “The Golden Mickeys”, “Mickey and the Wondrous Book” and “Festival of the Lion King.” She shared, “As a dancer, I rarely speak or interact directly with guests on stage. As Disney Ambassador, I have to frequently engage with different people and even host events. I keep learning and growing. I unlock new skills along the way and discovering a different side of myself.”
Beyan has been a lifelong Disney fan. Previously working behind the scenes in Sourcing, she made the bold decision to step into the spotlight. She recalled, “becoming a Disney Ambassador is the bravest decision I have ever made in my life. Over the past year, I have visited various operational teams, including food & beverage, housekeeping and horticulture, taking on different roles and participating in daily tasks. These experiences have boosted my confidence, and very proud of every professional and passionate cast member.”
Reaching Every Corner of the Community: Spreading Disney Magic
Gisele and Beyan have actively participated in various community service initiatives, supporting Disney VoluntEARS and bringing Disney magic to life through their work. Last year, HKDL collaborated with Heep Hong Society to launch a first-ever and largest pilot program offering real-life social adaptation training for children with special educational needs (SEN). Gisele and Beyan, along with Disney VoluntEARS, engaging in activities such as ordering food at park restaurants and queuing for shopping. This program provides unique training experience for children with SEN, giving them more opportunities to practice and integrate into the community.
As the mother of three children including a daughter with SEN, Gisele shared her experience: “As a mother of an SEN child, I deeply understand the challenges of taking children out. As Disney Ambassador, I aim to raise awareness and support for SEN children through my participation in events, helping them feel more love and care.” Gisele affirmed her commitment to continue participating in related activities even after her term ends. She believes that being a Disney Ambassador is not just a two-year role but a lifelong commitment to supporting both the resort and the community.
Gisele and Beyan also joined Mickey and Minnie Mouse in visiting children at the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital and took part in HKDL’s Christmas toy donation campaign. Additionally, they worked closely with the Make-A-Wish®, creating unique park experiences for wish children. Since 2008, HKDL has made over 340 wishes come true.
Beyan recalled several heartwarming stories from the wish kids: “One little girl, dressed as a princess, met her favorite Elsa, and it felt like the whole world stood still. Her pure smile was truly touching.” Another memorable moment involved a boy with illness who was using a wheelchair. Despite his frail condition, when he saw the beloved Mickey Mouse, he mustered all his strength to lift his hand and give him a high-five, leaving even his parents in awe. “Seeing him completely immersed in the happiness of that moment made me realize the true mission of Disney Ambassadors — to create hope with Disney magic,” Beyan said.
Bridging Connections Through Media: Sharing Disney Fun Facts
Beyond their community service, Gisele and Beyan have been actively sharing park updates and behind-the-scenes moments from their daily live through the official HKDL Ambassador social media accounts. They’ve also produced a series of engaging interactive videos, such as “Ambassador’s Vlog” and “Trivia Game On”. These fun-filled videos highlight little-known Disney trivia, bridging the gap between cast members and guests. The duo happily shared, “Many fans who spot us filming in the park often seize the opportunity to get on camera!”
Speaking of trivia, here’s a question for you: What gift did the Beast give Belle to express his love? You can find the answer on the HKDL Ambassador Instagram and Facebook pages!

Embark on an Extraordinary Journey – Become the Next Disney Ambassador
Gisele and Beyan’s stories showcase how Disney magic transforms live and inspires everyone to believe in the power of dreams and happiness. Their journey as Disney Ambassadors is profoundly meaningful and enriched with unique experiences. Becoming a Disney Ambassador is a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with invaluable experiences, such as participating in professional training and exchanges with global Disney Ambassadors and having the opportunity to attend the D23 Expo in California, interacting with and inspiring countless dreamers.
This year, as HKDL celebrates its 20th anniversary, Gisele and Beyan have the honor of commemorating this significant milestone with everyone. With their two-year term coming to an end this year, they are actively searching for the next ambassador(s). “Passion, positive attitude, and a willingness to embrace new challenges are keys to success!” they shared. The 2026-2027 HKDL Ambassador Program is now open for applications until May 19. All eligible full-time cast members and imagineers with at least two years of work experience at HKDL and fluency in Cantonese or English are invited to apply and embark on this one-of-a-kind journey!

Hashtag: #HongKongDisneylandResort

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

ZERO BREEZE Partners with NASCAR Driver Patrick Emerling to Bring Cooling Innovation to the Track

LINCOLN, Ala., April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZERO BREEZE, a leader in portable air conditioning technology, is thrilled to announce its official partnership with Patrick Emerling, the accomplished NASCAR Xfinity Series driver. Both ZERO BREEZE and Emerling share a relentless pursuit of excellence in their respective fields—Emerling’s commitment to speed and precision on the racetrack and ZERO BREEZE’s dedication to pioneering innovative outdoor cooling solutions. Together, they represent a dynamic collaboration driven by a shared passion for high performance.

ZERO BREEZE Collaborates with NASCAR Driver Patrick Emerling
ZERO BREEZE Collaborates with NASCAR Driver Patrick Emerling

Unmatched Cooling Performance on and off the Track

Throughout this partnership, Emerling will utilize the Mark 3 Portable Air Conditioner (‘Mark 3’) in his racing operations, offering a firsthand look at its advanced cooling capabilities in the demanding world of motorsports. Whether on the racetrack, in the pit crew’s workspace, or in Emerling’s motorhome, the Mark 3 ensures drivers, teams, and crew members stay comfortable and focused during grueling race days. Its rapid cooling performance helps maintain peak efficiency and focus on race day, keeping everyone cool under pressure.

Patrick Emerling: A Champion of Speed and Precision

Patrick Emerling has earned numerous awards throughout his racing career, including multiple victories in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and a recent win at the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at New Smyrna Speedway in 2025. Known for his consistency, strategic approach, and unwavering drive, Emerling’s passion for precision mirrors the ethos of ZERO BREEZE.

Emerling’s love for machinery and cutting-edge equipment goes beyond racing, making him the perfect partner for ZERO BREEZE—a brand that thrives on innovation. Just as Emerling pushes the limits of speed and concentration on the track, the Mark 3 pushes the boundaries of cooling performance, offering quick and powerful temperature reductions. With the ability to drop temperatures by 20°F within just 5 minutes, the Mark 3 is engineered to handle the scorching heat of tracks. On April 26 at the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Talladega Superspeedway, the Mark 3 will play a crucial role in helping Emerling and his team stay cool and focused, ensuring their peak performance.

ZERO BREEZE: The Future of Trackside Portable Cooling

While this marks ZERO BREEZE’s first official partnership with a NASCAR driver, the brand has already made its mark in motorsports. Previously, the Mark 2 Portable Air Conditioner was seen at summer race weekends, providing effective cooling for drivers and teams. Whether cooling a driver in the cockpit before the race or offering a refreshing break to the team after a long race, the Mark 2’s portability and battery-powered design made it a go-to solution for racing teams in need of quick, efficient cooling.

This year, the Mark 3 has been recognized as “Most Portable AC” by T3, a leading technology media outlet, thanks to its enhanced performance, portability, and ease of use. With a 5280 BTU cooling capacity—more than double that of its predecessor—the Mark 3 is set to elevate cooling efficiency to new heights. Emerling will now experience the Mark 3’s superior capabilities, ensuring that he remains comfortable and focused during race days.

Off the track, Emerling will also use the Mark 3 in his motorhome, ensuring that he stays cool and sharp throughout the weekend. His team will benefit from the Mark 3 in the pit and garage, ensuring a comfortable and productive environment where focus is key.

A Partnership That Bridges Speed and Comfort

Max Ma, the founder of ZERO BREEZE, states, “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Patrick Emerling to the ZERO BREEZE family. This partnership is not only a testament to our shared commitment to excellence but also an exciting opportunity to bring the power of cooling technology to the racetrack. Imagine the driver using the Mark 3 on the track, while fans in the camping areas are also using the Mark 3 in their tents, RVs, or vans for cooling, sharing in the speed, passion, and comfort.”

With an audience of 40,000-120,000 campers at every NASCAR race weekend, ZERO BREEZE is perfectly positioned to meet the needs of race fans looking for comfort and convenience while enjoying the race day excitement. Talladega’s legendary race weekend, attracting thousands of camping fans, will serve as the ideal debut for this collaboration, combining the thrill of racing with the cooling power of the Mark 3.

Join the Cool Revolution at the Track

With summer racing season heating up, there’s no better time to discover the cooling power of the ZERO BREEZE Mark 3. Whether you’re trackside, on the road in your motorhome, or venturing into the wild, the Mark 3 delivers portable comfort wherever your journey takes you.

As part of its ongoing partnership with NASCAR driver Patrick Emerling, ZERO BREEZE is offering an exclusive $50 discount for new subscribers. Don’t miss this limited-time offer—available through April 30. Learn more and claim your discount at ZERO BREEZE online store.

About ZERO BREEZE

ZERO BREEZE is a leading provider of portable air conditioning solutions designed to handle extreme outdoor conditions. The Mark 3 is the most advanced portable air conditioner, offering high-efficiency cooling for outdoor enthusiasts, racers, campers, and professionals in demanding environments. Known for its portability, performance, and battery-powered feature, ZERO BREEZE continues to revolutionize the way people stay cool under pressure.

Theo Raises $20M to Democratize Access to Institutional-Grade Trading Infrastructure

Founded by ex-Optiver and IMC quants, the platform is backed by angels from Citadel, Jane Street, and JPMorgan

NEW YORK, April 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Theo, a novel network connecting onchain capital to global markets via institutional-grade trading infrastructure, today announced it has raised $20 million in funding. The round was jointly led by Hack VC and Anthos Capital, with participation from numerous other venture capital firms, including Manifold Trading, Mirana Ventures, Metalayer Ventures, Flowdesk, SCB, MEXC, Amber Group, and Selini Capital, as well as angels from a range of leading TradFi trading firms including Citadel, Jane Street, HRT, Optiver, IMC, 5 Rings, and JPMorgan. 

Founded by former quant traders; Abhi Pingle, Arijit Pingle, and TK Kwon who honed their expertise at elite trading firms Optiver and IMC Trading, Theo was born from a recognition: while onchain capital is growing exponentially, access to traditional and institutional-grade strategies remain out of reach for everyday users. Theo aims to bridge this gap – delivering the sophistication of Wall Street to the retail investor.

Theo’s platform provides access to institutional-grade trading infrastructure that supports a wide range of strategies traditionally reserved for hedge funds and proprietary trading firms. At its core, Theo operates a custom low-latency validator set that ensures custodial guarantees for users, while enforcing rule-based access for institutional counterparties like market makers and trading firms.

These validators facilitate real-time execution across centralized exchanges (CEXes) and decentralized protocols (DeFi), while enforcing margin requirements and maintaining system-wide overcollateralization. Retail users can access these strategies via a simple deposit into strategy-specific vaults—without the complexity of multiple exchange accounts or algorithmic trading knowledge.

“Today’s crypto markets are fragmented and inefficient, preventing institutions and everyday users alike from accessing the full promise of global, permissionless finance,” says Abhi Pingle, co-founder of Theo. “Theo solves this by delivering robust, scalable infrastructure that seamlessly connects large traditional players and retail participants on-chain—unlocking new levels of capital efficiency.”

Theo strategies allow anyone to passively access professional trading strategies by simply depositing assets, with the platform handling execution, risk, and dynamic capital allocation across approaches like high-frequency arbitrage, cross-chain funding rate optimization, and advanced hedging.

As market conditions shift, Theo’s infrastructure dynamically reallocates capital to maintain performance, where single-strategy platforms often see returns diminish. This flexibility ensures greater stability and performance for retail participants.

For trading firms, Theo enables superior capital efficiency. By leveraging user capital through vault participation, firms can cross-margin strategy positions against their proprietary trades—unlocking alpha while users share in the upside. This creates a mutually beneficial ecosystem: institutional-grade strategies, retail accessibility, and shared value creation.

Theo’s architecture is uniquely positioned to connect traditional and crypto-native financial venues. As the industry evolves, Theo’s role as an infrastructure layer will be instrumental in bridging legacy markets and the onchain economy—democratizing access to advanced financial tools worldwide.

About Theo

Theo is an institutional-grade trading infrastructure platform founded by former quant traders from IMC Trading and Optiver. The platform enables retail users to access sophisticated high-frequency trading and market-making strategies previously available only to Wall Street firms, while providing trading firms with new opportunities to capture alpha through their market expertise with superior capital efficiency. Learn more at theo.xyz