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KodeGo bridges digital skills gap among Filipinos, prepares future-proof workforce

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KodeGo bridges digital skills gap among Filipinos, prepares future-proof workforce

The Philippines is on track towards becoming a US$35 billion economy by 2025.[1] But even with the promising outlook, the country’s workforce remains challenged by a digital skills gap that hampers its transformation into a truly digital nation.

According to the 2023 World Digital Competitiveness Ranking by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), the Philippines ranked 59th out of 64 countries in overall digital competitiveness[2], showing low rankings on knowledge and talent (63rd), technology (51st), and future readiness (59th). This underscores an urgent need to prioritize digital skills development to ensure the country’s digital competitiveness and sustainable growth.

“In an era defined by digitalization, the importance of digital skills across industries has become undeniable. KodeGo was developed to create more accessible and affordable opportunities for Filipinos to upskill themselves and strengthen their employability with advanced to intermediate digital skills,” said Ina Gervasio, KodeGo Chief Executive Officer.

Launched in 2020, KodeGo is a study now, pay later edutech platform that provides accessible, comprehensive digital skills training programs, including the following:

  • Full-stack web development
  • Virtual Assistance
  • Virtual Bookkeeping
  • Basic transcription

“As the Philippine tech industry gears up to expand to 2.5 million full-time employees and generate US$59 billion in revenues by 2028.[3] It’s crucial to ensure our courses align with industry standards. Our mission at KodeGo goes beyond imparting new skills; we’re committed to ensuring our students are not just equipped for the job market but are also highly employable,” Gervasio said.

In line with this, KodeGo introduced a flexible payment scheme that includes a study-now-pay-later format while providing end-to-end career assistance and support for its students post-training. Each curriculum takes between two and 22 weeks to complete.

To date, the platform has over 2,000 graduates, many of whom achieved meaningful employment opportunities with industry heavyweights including GCash and Accenture.

Kwentong KodeGo (KodeGo Stories)

At the forefront of KodeGo’s mission is the commitment to empower women and break barriers in the tech industry. To date, out of the almost 2,000 KodeGo graduates, 20% are women looking to learn and make a name for themselves in the tech industry, a number that is constantly growing.

Among Filipinas who took KodeGo’s courses is Lorie Pascual, a former music teacher whose career ground to a halt during the pandemic. While considering what to do to continue providing for her family, one of her churchmates encouraged her to join KodeGo’s full-stack web development boot camp.

“I thought I should try studying a tech course since I had a laptop and internet, I had enough to start with what I had, so I enrolled in KodeGo,” Lorie said.

After 12 weeks of full-time classes, Lorie completed the course and is now a web developer at Aemorph, an internet marketing service company based in Singapore.

Another successful KodeGo graduate is Lorraine Ostan, who had to drop out of her first year in college due to financial difficulties after her father lost his job as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in the United Arab Emirates.

She decided that she needed to find a job to help her family and raise her young child, which led her to take KodeGo’s full-stack web development program. Two weeks after completing the course, she landed a job in a Japanese offshore company as a web designer and eventually moved on as a software engineer.

“Stories like Lorie’s and Lorraine’s are why we are deeply passionate about what we do. Their journeys highlight the power of education and the opportunities that arise when individuals are equipped with the right skills and support,” Gervasio said.

How to enroll at KodeGo

Those interested in enrolling at KodeGo should go visit kodego.ph, apply on the website, and take a short assessment test.

Upon successful application, students will receive their KodeGo contracts and an invitation to an onboarding session to familiarize themselves with the curriculum and how to use the KodeGo platform. All that’s left to do is complete the training.

Learn more about KodeGo and its courses by visiting kodego.ph

SPOTTED: Anne Curtis takes groufie using latest vivo V30 Pro

Just hours before the vivo V30 Series Grand Launch on March 20, ABS-CBN News posted a photo of vivo ambassador Anne Curtis capturing a groufie with her It’s Showtime co-hosts.

Anne took a selfie using the latest vivo V30 Pro, the first-ever V Series smartphone co-engineered with ZEISS.

The ZEISS partnership has brought cutting-edge imaging technologies to the fingertips of users, making the V30 Pro a standout choice for someone like Anne who loves taking photos.

Meanwhile, netizens were quick to notice that Anne was using the vivo V30 Pro.

Let’s explore what makes the vivo V30 Pro a standout in the smartphone landscape:

The V30 Pro introduces the ZEISS Triple Main Camera, a feature that elevates portrait photography to new heights. Each rear camera is meticulously crafted to meet ZEISS Optics standards, ensuring professional-grade imaging quality and a seamless portrait photography experience.

Moreover, the ZEISS Co-Engineered Imaging System integrated into the V30 Pro is designed to address common photography challenges such as color accuracy and detailed portrait captures. This system brings a new level of precision and finesse to mobile photography, setting a benchmark for quality and innovation.

Complementing its imaging capabilities, the V30 Pro features Aura Light 3.0 for enhanced visual appeal, rapid 80W fast charging for convenience, a slim 5000mAh battery for extended usage, and the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 processor for smooth performance in various tasks, including gaming and everyday use.

Available in the sophisticated Petals White color variant, the V30 Pro offers ample memory with 12GB RAM and generous storage of 512GB, making it a compelling choice for smartphone users seeking both style and functionality.

Experience a new level of creative freedom with the vivo ZEISS Co-Engineered imaging system on the newly launched vivo V30 Pro.

Get yours for only Php 34,999 from vivo concept stores and kiosks or online platforms like vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada. It is also available through Home Credit at 0% interest up to 18 months of installment period.

PLDT, Smart, ATRIEV hold digital training for persons with disabilities in Cebu

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PLDT, Smart, ATRIEV hold digital training for persons with disabilities in Cebu

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) conducted an eight-day Digital Business Basics Training (DBBT) for persons with disabilities in Mandaue City, Cebu. The training was done in collaboration with non-profit organization ATRIEV, Voice Philippines, and the Mandaue City Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO).

Under their Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology (IDEATe) program, PLDT and Smart partnered with ATRIEV, or Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation Integration and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired, to expand the reach of this digital training across the country and upskill more entrepreneurs with disabilities, enabling them to participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

“In a world full of judgment, it may be challenging for persons with disabilities to establish their own businesses, but I salute our DBBT graduates’ willingness to learn and improve their livelihood. Through IDEATe, PLDT and Smart ensure to support persons with disabilities in navigating through the world of business enabled by technology,” said Lailane H. Go, Senior Manager, Regional Customer Development at Smart.

Helen Ortega, a tuberculosis survivor, expressed her gratitude for being part of this initiative. “As someone who is unfamiliar with online selling and digital tools, this training undoubtedly equipped me with skills to improve my small business. This is a great opportunity for us, and I thank ATRIEV and its partners for making this happen,” she said.

A total of 27 participants, who included individuals with physical and psychosocial impairments, learned about various digital tools and applications that they can use in growing their businesses online. Additionally, the training also covered e-commerce platforms, social media marketing, content creation, internet safety, and an introduction to the Maya Business App, helping them fully embrace digitalization in their businesses.

“LGU Mandaue City values the welfare of its people, especially those from vulnerable groups. We thank our partners for helping us reach our goal of capacitating persons with disabilities in our city and helping them become productive individuals,” said Dr. Michael Allan O. Pielago, Mandaue City PDAO Head.

This initiative under PLDT Group’s pioneering inclusion program, IDEATe, aligns with its commitment to helping the country achieve UNSDG No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and UNSDG No. 10: Reduced Inequalities by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities. IDEATe was a finalist at the 2024 Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards, the connectivity industry’s most prestigious accolade, judged by the telco sector’s most prominent experts.

Mang Inasal Is Open this Holy Week

Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, is ready to serve its customers nationwide this Lent.

The public can simply access https://www.manginasal.ph/locations to know the operating hours of their nearby stores. Also, customers can contact the branches as the website does not just share the full addresses but also their mobile numbers.

For those who plan to go on out-of-town trips with their families and friends, Mang Inasal is ready assist everyone with their takeout and delivery needs.

Family Fiesta, Buddy Fiesta, Palabok Party Size, and Extra Creamy Halo-Halo are among the perfect treats on any group’s weekend getaway.

During the Holy Week, customers can enjoy the free delivery offer with a minimum purchase of ₱600 for orders placed via the Mang Inasal Delivery App or https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph. The promo is valid until March 31 only.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Good-for-sharing menus at foodpanda for your Easter feast

In the Philippines, Easter Sunday isn’t just about religious activities and egg hunts; it’s a joyous occasion for families to celebrate and feast. After Lent’s fasting, everyone’s craving those savory meals and hearty treats. But let’s face it, preparing all that food can be a hassle, especially when Easter’s supposed to be relaxing. Thankfully, foodpanda’s got your back, making Easter feasting hassle-free!

With just a few taps, you can dive into a wide selection of restaurants and have your favorite dishes delivered right to your doorstep, leaving you free to enjoy your time with your loved ones.

Here are some restaurants that may help you decide, offering a range of delicious options to make your Easter celebration one to remember.

Manam

Photo credit: Manam

Must-order: House Crispy Sisig Super Benta Box

Are you a die-hard sisig fan? Look no further than Manam, the home of the best sisig in Manila.

If you’re a family of six to eight people, their House Crispy Sisig Super Benta Box is a game-changer! They’ve also got different Manam favorites to choose from, covering all your needs from appetizers, beef, pork, chicken, vegetables, and even rice.

Ready to order? These #SulitSarap Super Benta Boxes are exclusively available for take-out from Manam stores. But, guess what? You can also order through foodpanda for hassle-free delivery.

Bistro Ibarra

Photo credit: Bistro Ibarra

Must-order: Pritson Belly

You can’t have a Filipino feast without lechon, right?

Bistro Ibarra certainly understood the assignment, offering a modern take on the beloved lechon with their mouth watering Priston Belly. It’s perfect for sharing and guaranteed to take your Easter feast to the next level. Trust us, once your guests taste its delicious flavors and crispy goodness, they’ll be begging for more!

Oh, and here’s a friendly tip: Make sure to order Mang Tomas all-around sarsa from pandamart to go with it. We can’t risk running out of sauce, can we?

Ineng’s Special BBQ

Photo credit:Ineng’s Special BBQ

Must-order: Salo-Salo 3 – Large

Looking for the ultimate salo-salo experience? Ineng’s Special BBQ has got you all covered! Their Salo-Salo With Ineng’s food bundles have everything you need. With several Salo-Salo bundles available, you’re spoilt for choice.

But, for the ultimate salo-salo feast, go for their Salo-Salo 3 Large bundle. Packed with a large bilao of your choice, 20 pieces of their  Special Pork BBQ on 10-inch sticks, and a kilo of Chicken Wings, this bundle is perfect for sharing and sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Hungry yet? Order now with foodpanda and make your salo-salo truly unforgettable with Ineng’s!

Chowking

Photo credit: Chowking

Must-order: Family Lauriat for 6 pax

Looking to enjoy an amazing feast without emptying your wallet? Chowking is the place to go!

Their Family Lauriat for 6 Pax is a surefire crowd-pleaser, featuring a delightful spread of their 6 best-selling dishes. From their Chinese-Style Fried Chicken, Pancit and  Egg Fried Rice to Siomai, Buchi, and Chicharap, this feast surely has something for everyone.

But hey, if you’re like us and can’t get enough of those golden-fried Buchi balls, you might find yourself wanting more! That’s where their new Pre-Assorted Buchi Platter comes in handy. Add it to your foodpanda order to ensure no one goes feeling #bitin after your Easter feast!

But wait, there’s more…

Aside from the fantastic array of restaurants and menus on offer through foodpanda, here’s the real gem: we’ve got some amazing deals and vouchers just waiting for you, especially when it comes to those big, hearty platter meals and group orders.

Hunt no further for these vouchers! Here are some egg-cellent vouchers from foodpanda to make this Easter season even more delightful:

MONDAY500: Start every week with a flavorful bang! Enjoy a ₱500 discount on orders up to ₱1499 every Monday in April.

MONDAYBACK: Mondays just got better! Get 50% cashback, up to ₱200, on your Monday orders.

WEEKENDER: Make your weekends sweeter with cashback! From Friday to Sunday, enjoy ₱300 cashback on orders over ₱599.

EATNA: Treat yourself all month long! Get ₱100 off orders up to ₱499 throughout April.

So this Easter, sit back, relax, and let foodpanda take care of the rest. Cheers to good food, great company, and unforgettable celebrations!

Kemans Booth and MMD Draw Crowd at BeautyCon2024

Kemans Booth and MMD Draw Crowd at BeautyCon2024

Kemans basks in the afterglow of the success of the recently-concluded BeautyCon 2024, held at SMX Manila from March 20 to 23, 2024. With BeautyCon 2024’s tagline “Journey into Beauty,” Kemans, one of the Philippines’ most-trusted beauty and wellness brands, aspires to accompany every man and woman on their journey of self-awareness and transformation.

Kemans surprised beauty afficionados, who dropped by their booth, to a free skin analysis, with their skin analyzer. This is the first step in determining which products are best-suited for one’s skin type. Con-goers had a blast playing Plinko, and getting freebies, and loot bags filled with the hottest Kemans products during the event, where all types of Kemans serums were at 50% off, while sunscreens were Buy 1 Take 1.

One of the event’s highlights was Kemans’ brand segment with Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, where she talked about participating in pageants, her own journey of transformation and self-discovery, and her first encounter with Kemans, and how she considers Kemans products as her secret weapon even when she competed in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador.

“Might I just say, though, that El Salvador was very hot when I was there so I really have to thank Kemans for helping me look fresh all day, because I love their Pit Solution line, so ‘pag kinakabahan ako, hindi halata,” says the beauty queen and Kemans endorser.

She went on to say that she first got to use Kemans products during the Miss Universe Philippines pageant in 2023, where Kemans was one of the sponsors. “That was when I realized, especially after winning, that their products were really, really effective. They were light. Hindi nags-stick sa skin mo. Hindi siya malagkit.”

Although Michelle, or MMD, as her fans call her, was never into skin care before her pageant days, her showbiz career made her think twice about being more diligent when it comes to taking better care of her skin. “I didn’t really grow up knowing skin care. My mom also didn’t really advocate about it. It was more, ‘Get out there and get dirty.’ Until I entered the life of show business. Every day na ako nagme-make up. Every day I have to be in front of harsh lights and uncertain conditions. So, I realized the value of choosing the right skin care routine.”

Other Kemans products Michelle swears by are the Kemans Retinol Skin Renew and the Kemans Vitamin C Brightening and Regenerating Serum.

Kemans products are available in store and online at Watsons, and on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. To get the latest updates about Kemans, visit @KemansOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Discover the Philippines’ Breathtaking Shores with 7-Eleven’s Summer EsCUPades

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In the midst of the summer heat and longing for a refreshing escape, 7-Eleven is treating the country to another round of drinks and exciting getaway trips. This time, customers are invited to rediscover the beauty of the local scenery through the Summer EsCUPades Raffle Promo.

As part of its 40th anniversary celebration with over 3,800 stores nationwide, this year’s adventure will be all about exploring the wonders that lie within the islands of the Philippines. With Summer EsCUPades, drinks and destinations go hand in hand as 7-Eleven gives customers a chance to travel to the top luxury destinations in the country: Siargao, Palawan, Boracay, Bohol, and Cebu.

All it takes is a large cup of GULP or CITY PRIMA or a medium City Cafe to secure a raffle entry. Customers just need to drop by any 7-Eleven store from March 27 to May 21, 2024 and choose a cup designed for their desired destination. Once decided, all that’s left to do is scan the QR code and fill out the form with their complete details. 7-Eleven also has exciting news for participating CLIQQ users, because one (1) drink promises them two (2) raffle entries in the promo.

One winner will be chosen per location and will be awarded with a round-trip airfare for four (4). 7-Eleven sweetens the deal even more because luxury accommodation is also in store for the lucky winners and their travel companions.

For adventure-seeking customers, 7-Eleven introduces another option through the Mystery Cup. A purchase of City Cafe Iced Coffee will be their passport to a randomly picked destination among the five luxury destinations lined up this year, perfect for those who are up for anything exciting.

This 2024, all roads lead to the pristine destinations waiting to be explored in the Philippines. As one of 7-Eleven’s biggest promotions this year, customers are encouraged to pack up and drink up with Summer EsCUPades.

Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok, and visit our website www.7-eleven.com.ph for more information

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket Philippines continues #CareForEducation alongside Teach for the Philippines (TFP) for Year 2.

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Bosch Mobility Aftermarket (MA) Philippines kicked-off the renewal of its #CareForEducation campaign with a Student Learning Trip at The Mind Museum last March 16, 2024. Student participants are from one of the partner public schools of Teach for the Philippines (TFP).

This year, Bosch MA Philippines were able to raise Php1,000,000 donation from the announced promo – proceeds from the Bosch Europa Horns sold last 2023 will be donated to TFP as successfully contributed by our supportive customers.

The campaign will continue to support the foundational skills development among public school students through the following programs – 1) Functional Literacy Program (FLP) aims to develop reading and math skills of students and 2) Batang Bayani Program (BBP) encourages students to practice positive behavior towards learning at home.

In the first year of deployment, the programs exceeded the overall targets of the campaign with 154% students reached for FLP and 100% students reached for BBP. These results inspire Bosch MA to renew the support with a target to reach 850 students and 650 parents this 2024.

“We are deeply grateful for the support we have received all throughout this initiative, we also owe it to our customers – without their participation, this would not have been made possible, ” said Paulo Duarte, Managing Director of Bosch Philippines. “even if we have surpassed our targets, we shall continue to pursue more, knowing that more children and families will benefit”, he added.

“Bosch MA enable our organization to positively impact the lives of hundreds of public school students across the country. We greatly appreciate Bosch MA’s continued partnership that supports much-needed programs focused on improving the academic and life outcomes of our students,” Mavie Almeda Ungco, Chief Executive Officer of Teach for the Philippines said. 

This #CareForEducation initiative is part of Bosch MA’s Care For Life campaign, which contributes to vulnerable children’s communities in ASEAN, supported by Bosch Primavera, a charitable organization founded by Bosch associates.

The launch of #CareForEducation in the Philippines marks the third country to activate Bosch MA’s ASEAN-wide Care For Life campaign. The Campaign are also extended to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam with initiatives focusing on happiness, road safety, clean air, eye sight and children’s health respectively.

To support the #CareForEducation initiative, please head over to https://teachforthephilippines.com/donate/ to make a contribution.

Go Hotels Mandaluyong now Go Hotels Plus Mandaluyong

The iconic Go Hotels Mandaluyong along Edsa turns a vibrant shade of orange to symbolize its energetic transformation filled with pluses for that unique high-quality and high-value experience!

Opened in May 2010, Go Hotels Mandaluyong is the pioneering property of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts in the value essential category that challenged the hospitality landscape in the country.

As the first-of-its-kind no-frills hotel, it offered travelers safe, comfortable, and affordable stays in Metro Manila across its 222 deluxe and PWD rooms with choices of queen-size or twin beds. Its success brought about the growth of the Go Hotels chain across the country from Luzon to Mindanao.

In 2022, as the economy was recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Robinsons Hotels and Resorts re-introduced the brand with a refreshed look, upgraded amenities and spaces, while maintaining its affordable – the Go Hotels Plus!

Marking RHR’s expansion in the north, the first Go Hotels Plus was opened in Tuguegarao and shortly followed after by the opening of the second Go Hotels Plus in South Luzon, Go Hotels Naga.

The total portfolio of Go Hotels and Go Hotels Plus combined grew into a wide network of 17 hotels nationwide, including four (4) franchised hotels under the Roxaco group.

Now, in 2024, as the travel demand in Metro Manila continues to grow, Robinsons Hotels and Resorts responds with the times by going back to its roots and transforming the first property, Go Hotels Mandaluyong into a Go Hotels Plus.

UPGRADED EXPERIENCE

With its brand upgrade, guests may now look forward to an enhanced stay experienced characterized by a lot of pluses.

Rooms now have a more modern and sleek design with amenities such as a hair dryer and dental and hygiene kits readily available.

A new room category with a bunk bed for sharing is now offered for groups on a budget. This is in addition to its existing deluxe twin and queen rooms.

By the lobby, a recreational area where guests can interact and leisurely lounge provides a warm homey vibe – with high WIFI connection. More so, with its new breakfast and a la carte food supplier ready to serve hot meals, quick snacks and cold beverages.

Further into the lobby, a co-working space is open for digital nomads that requires a comfortable place to work in. Plus, a self-service station for Go Hotels Plus’ signature coffee is available with choices of brewed for only Php45.00, and for only Php55.00 for cappuccino, café latte, and hot chocolate.

“Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, staying inside a Go Hotels Plus provides you enough amenities and accessibility to make it very convenient, comfortable and valuable,” said Mr. Barun Jolly, SVP-BUGM of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts.

Go Hotels Plus Mandaluyong is located in Robinsons Cybergate Plaza EDSA, corner Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong, that is 30-45 minutes away from the airport and within walking distance to the MRT Boni Station and EDSA carousel.

Go Hotels Plus Mandaluyong is set to redefine the concept of elevated experience while still maintaining its affordable price points.

Discover the Art of Ease:Hitachi Home Appliances relaunched in the Philippines

Beko Philippines is excited to announce that it will now oversee the distribution and after-sales services for Hitachi branded home appliances in the Philippine market. Beko Philippines will directly coordinate with Arçelik Hitachi Home Appliances, a joint venture between Arçelik and Hitachi Global Life Solutions, Inc., established in July 2021, responsible for manufacturing, selling, and servicing Hitachi branded home appliances worldwide (excluding Japan). This transition aims to ensure uninterrupted supply and enhanced services of Hitachi branded Home Appliances products for customers in the Philippines.

“We are thrilled to announce that our company has been selected as the new distributor for Hitachi branded home appliances in the Philippines. Our team is committed to upholding the high standards for our premium range, and to further enhancing the availability and accessibility of products to customers,” said Gurhan Gunal, Beko Philippines Country Director.

Delivering High-Quality Life solutions for Filipino Consumers

With a renewed focus on enhancing the lives of Filipino consumers through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled convenience, Hitachi invites households across the nation to discover the “Art of Ease”. This philosophy brings together comfort, convenience, and quality, where each product is a piece in the mosaic of a comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable lifestyle.

The relaunch of Hitachi Home Appliances in the Philippines marks a significant milestone in the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional quality and performance to its customers. Each Hitachi Home appliance is a result of blending traditional Japanese attention to detail and unwavering commitment to excellence. By blending technology and lifestyle seamlessly, Hitachi offers products tailored to meet diverse needs and bring practicality and harmony to every Filipino home.

Currently, Hitachi Refrigerators are already available in the Philippines and set to release new home appliance lineups in the coming months, all to carry the same prowess, innovation, and excellence that the brand is known for to meet the diverse needs of the consumers.

For more information about Hitachi Home Appliances, visit www.hitachi-homeappliances.com/ph and follow @hitachihomeappliancesphilippines on Facebook and Instagram.

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