Monthly Archives

October 2025

Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK strengthens agency force quality by achieving a 20% increase in MDRT membership

Pru Life UK is pleased to report a 20% rise in Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) qualifiers from 2024 to 2025, with 328 financial agents achieving the internationally renowned distinction, up from 273 in 2024. The company’s dedication to creating a top-tier agency force based on superior professionalism, ethics, and customer service is reaffirmed by this noteworthy expansion.

The company’s involvement in forming the future generation of elite financial agents in accordance with global best practices is demonstrated by the fact that Pru Life UK is currently ranked among the Top 100 Companies worldwide in terms of MDRT membership, according to the most recent data given by MDRT.

MDRT is widely regarded as the premier global association of leading life insurance and financial services professionals. With its rigorous qualification standards and emphasis on ethical, client-centric practices, MDRT membership remains one of the most prestigious accomplishments in the industry.

“Joining the MDRT ranks is not just a badge of honour. It’s a testament to the hard work, customer-centric approach, and pursuit of excellence of our agents and advisors,” said Maria Theresa Rivera, Pru Life UK Vice President & Head for PRUPremier & Industry Recognition. “This achievement affirms our long-term commitment to nurturing best-in-class talent and delivering meaningful financial solutions to more Filipino families.”

The surge in MDRT qualifiers follows a landmark move by Pru Life UK’s parent company, Prudential plc, which in February 2025 entered a three-year premier sponsorship with MDRT. This strategic alliance aims to accelerate business growth and professional development for agents across markets through bespoke learning programs and leadership opportunities.

Empowerment initiative

With support from Prudential plc, Pru Life UK has continued to scale its PRUMDRT programme—a proprietary recognition and empowerment initiative developed exclusively for Prudential agents. Co-designed with MDRT.org, PRUMDRT offers a holistic support ecosystem for a distinct tier of agents, combining curated learning resources, cross-market networking, and mentorship rooted in MDRT values.

To date, 100 Prudential advisors have undergone training through the MDRT Academy, equipping them with critical tools to qualify for MDRT. Meanwhile, more than 4,500 agents have benefited from Prudential’s robust mentorship initiative focused on skill-building, network expansion, and reputation growth.

Pru Life UK representatives joined over 1,300 Prudential attendees from 16 markets at the 2025 Prudential MDRT Annual Meeting held in Bangkok from 8-10 July. The conference featured mainstage speeches, dynamic breakout sessions, and motivational engagements from industry leaders and visionaries including MDRT President Carol Kheng and ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong.

Additionally, it was the first mid-year celebration for agents who qualified for MDRT, which boosted performance in the second half and motivated agency executives to reconsider their development plans.

In order to bring the momentum closer to home and empower more agents through localized learning and recognition, the Philippines held its own local MDRT Day on September 11. This program is a component of Prudential’s overarching goal to integrate MDRT culture across all of its Asian and African markets.

“Through continued investment in its people, strategic partnerships, and purpose-driven programmes, Pru Life UK remains steadfast in our mission to empower Filipino families with trusted financial protection delivered by some of the most respected and globally recognised agents in the industry today,” Rivera added.

 

 

Entertainment

Morissette Celebrates Her Fifteen Years with Ember: A Night of Tradition and Fresh Starts

Photo by Betzaida Ventura

On October 28, 2025, the lights of the Smart Araneta Coliseum will dim as the audience rises in anticipation of the return of one of this generation’s most powerful voices. Morissette, Asia’s Phoenix, marks her 15th year in music with Ember—a concert that not only highlights her unmatched vocal prowess but also reflects on a journey that has inspired countless fans.

Morissette during the presscon

This year has already been a milestone for her. She made her big-screen debut in Song of the Fireflies, where she displayed both her dramatic depth and signature vocals. Her rendition of “Golden”—featured in Netflix’s Kpop Demon Hunters—went viral, capturing worldwide attention and solidifying her impact on both local and international audiences. Beyond film and streaming, Morissette has continued to bring Filipino artistry to global stages, culminating in a legacy that comes full circle at the Araneta stage.

With Morissette

The concert highlighted her incredible journey—from her film debut in Song of the Fireflies to her viral performance of “Golden” in Netflix’s Kpop Demon Hunters. I’m glad I finally met Morissette in person, and hearing her live proved why she’s one of the most powerful and beautiful voices of her generation.

Ember will be her first major solo concert at Araneta since 2018, and it carries the promise of an unforgettable night. With Troy Laureta directing the music, the performance is set to combine powerful arrangements with deeply personal storytelling. Morissette has hinted at a setlist that spans her 15-year career—songs that, for the first time, will come together in one breathtaking show. Some may never be performed again in a major concert, making Ember a rare chance to experience her story in its fullest form. Fans can also expect surprises, with the possibility of special guests joining Morissette on stage to mark the milestone.

Adding to the excitement, indie-folk favorites The Ridleys will open the night, known for their heartfelt storytelling and devoted following. Their presence creates a rare moment where two generations of Filipino musicians share one stage in celebration of artistry and legacy.

Tickets, priced from ₱999 to ₱9,499, have been in high demand since their release on Ticketnet. A newly opened Patron A section now brings more fans closer to the stage, while VIP and SVIP tiers offer exclusive experiences including soundcheck access and signed memorabilia.

Ember is more than just a concert to Morissette; it’s a celebration and a guarantee that her flame will endure for many years to come.

Nyxys is powering the event, and Philippine Airlines is leading the way as the primary sponsor. El Calle Food and Music Hall, Southwestern Flaming Grill, Maruca Bistro Italia, Ming’s Pei Pa Koa, and Guevarra’s are further esteemed partners; additional sponsors will be revealed in the upcoming weeks.

Lifestyle, Tech

Everyone Can Play: Three Journeys, One Game-Changing Phone

Each of us plays for a different purpose. In order to decompress before the following lecture, some people start playing a game during the intermission between lectures. After a demanding workday, some grab their phones in hopes of relieving the tension with a fast match. While lifelong fans jump in to relive the thrill of every competition they’ve ever supported, parents pick it up to share battles and laughs with their children. Others are just inquisitive and are exploring new adventures one game at a time.

Although everyone’s definition of gaming is different, it unites us all. Whether you have ever held a prize, how long you have been playing, or how talented you are are not important factors. It’s about those tiny moments of happiness, camaraderie, and escape. Everyone can enjoy gaming, whether they are parents, students, seasoned enthusiasts, or first-time adventurers.

Furthermore, high-performance gaming is no longer exclusive to professionals thanks to the Infinix GT 30.

Take Ben Maglaque, better known as Benthings. Before esports, he was just like so many of us, juggling jobs, carrying responsibilities, and squeezing in play whenever life allowed. Gaming became his escape, and eventually his platform. “Minsan hindi lang basta paglalaro ang mahalaga, kundi ang pagbabahagi ng laro,” (“Sometimes it’s not just about playing, it’s about sharing the play,”) he says.

With the GT 30’s GT Trigger, Ben can finally keep up with the action. The built-in console-level control captures his highlights and keeps his streams as sharp as his gameplay, proof that the right tools make dreams more possible.

For Alma Enario, known to her followers as Nanay Gaming, it all began with something every parent can relate to: wanting to connect with her kids. What started as curiosity turned into late-night matches, endless laughter, and a livestreaming channel where families feel at home. “Walang pause button ang pagiging ina, pero ngayon nakakasabay na ako sa mga anak ko at sa mga nanonood,” (“There’s no pause button for motherhood, but now I can keep up with my children and with the crowd,”) she laughs.

Powered by the MediaTek D7400 chipset, Alma enjoys smooth, lag-free games and long broadcasts that don’t break the moment, because family playtime should never skip a beat.

And then there is Icey Arcangel, a fan who once cheered from the sidelines, now married to a pro player and immersed in the game she has always loved. For her, it’s not about titles or trophies but about feeling every moment. “Kapag sobrang mahal mo ang isang bagay, nakakainis kapag hindi nakakasabay ang gamit mo. Bawat galaw, bawat sandali, gusto kong maramdaman,” (“When you’re passionate, it’s frustrating when your gear can’t keep up. Every move, every moment, I need to feel it,”) she shares.

With the GT 30’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) 120 FPS certification, every frame is ultra-smooth and crystal-clear, bringing her right onto the battlefield.

Different stories, different reasons, one truth: gaming has no age, no single path, and no fixed role. Whether you’re chasing a championship, bonding with family, or simply playing for joy, the Infinix GT 30 makes it possible. With console-level GT Triggers, the powerhouse MediaTek D7400 chipset, and MLBB 120 FPS certification, the GT 30 proves that Everyone Can Play and Outplay the Rest.

Experience their inspiring stories in action and check out the full video now on the official Infinix Facebook page.

You have the opportunity to tell your story now, and you may win your very own Infinix GT 30. Players can reflect on their journey and commemorate the one triumph that meant the most by using the #MyMLBBStory. All you have to do is provide a screenshot of your MLBB victory, explain how you’ve improved as a player, and post it to your Facebook timeline. To finish your contribution, remember to tag @InfinixPhilippines, join the official community group, and use the hashtags #MyMLBBStory, #GTStory, #OutPlayTheRest, and #InfinixGT30. It’s more than simply a competition; it’s an opportunity to share your experience and demonstrate how gaming has influenced your life.

Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop are currently offering the Infinix GT 30 at a special promotional price of just P10,499 (up to 16GB RAM). Cyber Blue, Pulse Green, Shadow Ash, and Blade White are the hues that are available.

For more details, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com

Entertainment

Nateman, Baby Blood, and Yung Bawal team up for the stripped-down hip-hop track “PUSO AT ISIP”

The music video drops on October 1, 2025 at 10:00 pm, PH time

Together with renowned producer Yung Bawal, Filipino rappers Nateman and Baby Blood create the moody, minimalist track “PUSO AT ISIP,” which delves into the lovely confusion of love torn between passion and reason.

The song, which tells a tale of passion tempering by hesitation, is built around Yung Bawal’s beautiful yet groovy music and provides a captivating backdrop for Nateman and Baby Blood’s incisive lyricism.

The song boldly poses the ageless query: should we embrace the dangers of daring love or yield to the subdued allure of tranquility? “PUSO AT ISIP” is made to keep listeners feeling good long after the initial play thanks to its sensual melodies, smart and lighthearted words, and rhythms with a Caribbean influence.

This song really came out of nowhere, from pure feeling and soul, Nateman shares in a press statement.

His brother and collaborator Baby Blood also echoes this authenticity, channeling raw emotion into verses that resonate with both intimacy and wit.

Were proud of the outcome, Baby Blood adds. The chemistry is undeniable, but each one of us brought a different level of craftmanship and energy that made everything coherent without necessarily taking away our individuality.

Yung Bawal, who was responsible for helming the beat, revealed that the collaboration was born organically. I first worked with Nateman on a remix earlier this year and loved the energy. He brought Baby Blood into the session, who I only later found out was his younger brother. The track just flowed from there.

As for his production style for this particular bop, Yung Bawal ensures that he did his homework and talked to the artists about what vibe they feel like making or inspiration they are keen to capture in a creative partnership. I never have a library of beats for artists, as all my beats are made specifically for who I’m working with; hence, all of my releases sound different from each other depending on whom I’m working with.

Alongside the release of “PUSO AT ISIP,” there will be a music video that has a cinematic feel. According to Yung Bawal, the director created content that had a compelling plot and was akin to a telenovela. Nateman even made light of the fact that it made them feel like the main characters in their own drama series. He chuckles and says, “Ang guwapo-guwapo namin dun” (we look good). Christine Samson, a Filipina social media celebrity, also appears in the music video.

Sony Music Entertainment is currently releasing PUSO AT ISIP on all digital music platforms across the globe. Visit Nateman’s official YouTube page to view the music video release.

 

 

Lifestyle

Co-organizing Davao City’s First Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit with Alsons Dev: Creating Dynamic Communities

Over 300 artist-leaders, creatives, and cultural workers from 16 subsectors, including film, music, visual and performing arts, design, literature, architecture, gastronomy, research and education, and heritage conservation, gathered to discuss challenges, shape policy, and strengthen collaboration in advancing Davao’s cultural identity.

In collaboration with the Davao City Office for Culture and the Arts (OCA), the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc. (CLAFI), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) co-organized the inaugural Davao City Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit on September 26, 2025, at Holy Cross of Davao College.

A platform for cultural dialogue and collaboration

The summit served as a platform for stakeholders to exchange diverse perspectives that underscored the vital role of culture, arts, and heritage in building inclusive, sustainable, and livable communities.

Alsons Dev played a key role in shaping the summit, as President and CEO Miguel A. Dominguez delivered a keynote on the value of public-private partnerships in cultural development, citing his initiatives as Sarangani Governor from 2004 to 2013.

Discussions were anchored on research and sector realities. Davao Historical Society President Luz Ilagan reflected on the cultural significance of the Kadayawan Festival. La Herencia Creative Director Rob Tañedo tackled the challenges and opportunities in advancing multidisciplinary creative work in the regions, and University of the Philippines Mindanao Professor Aya Ragragio shared insights on cultural appropriation, appreciation, and artists’ rights.

Government voices also enriched the dialogue. DTI Creative Industries Development Office OIC Division Chief Engr. Kat Salvador underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and LGU–NGA support in protecting artists’ rights and welfare, while NCCA Deputy Director Marichu Tellano outlined the Philippine Development Plan for Culture and the Arts and a national vision for a thriving creative sector

Participants engaged in open forums and breakout sessions to address challenges and craft an action agenda for Davao’s future culture, arts, and heritage sector.

Notable attendees included Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, representing Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte; Councilor Petite Principe; Oscar Casaysay of the Davao City Office of Culture and Artsl Ryan Vidanes, Executive Director of CLAFI; Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Awardee Nestor Horfilla; Brother Noelvic Deloria, President of Holy Cross of Davao College; Romeo Castañaga, DTI XI Regional Director; Rommel F. Momo, Vice President for Operations and Chairperson of the Committee on Culture, Heritage, and Arts of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev); and singer-songwriter and Datu Bago Awardee Joey Ayala– showing strong support for Davao’s cultural landscape.

“The Davao City Culture, Arts, and Heritage Summit is an important milestone in creating alignment between the city, the creative community, and private organizations like Alsons Dev,” said Casaysay. “These outcomes will help ensure that culture and heritage remain at the heart of Davao’s development.”

The summit was part of the two-day Creative Industries Month, followed by the Creative Industry Exchange (CIEx) featuring a Creatives Fair, forums, workshops, and performances on the second day.

Anchoring development in cultural identity

Alsons Dev’s participation in the summit highlights its mission to shape communities where progress is deeply connected to cultural roots. Dominguez emphasized this vision, stating: “We believe livable communities are built not only through infrastructure and development, but also by honoring the cultural foundations that make Davao unique.Alsons Dev remains committed to supporting initiatives that preserve and promote culture, arts, and heritage as we work together toward the city’s future.”

Through the event, Alsons Dev reaffirmed its dedication to blending heritage with progress. It marked an important step in turning this vision into reality and underscored the company’s long-term commitment to nurturing inclusive and vibrant communities.

Learn more about Alsons Dev and its projects at https://alsonsdev.com/.

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

ONErpm strengthens its foothold in the Philippines through collaborations with Offshore Music and fresh artist signings

The music powerhouse is also set to introduce their growing roster with a special show happening in Sari-Sari bar on October 7, 2025

Through strategic alliances with up-and-coming artists and well-known independent labels, ONErpm, a global leader in music distribution, label services, and publishing, keeps expanding its footprint in the Philippines. Leading the way in these advancements is its recently revealed partnership with Offshore Music, which is home to innovative artists like M1ss Jade So, ena Mori, Alyson, and Ely Buendia, to mention a few.

Offshore Music’s chairman and CEO, Ely Buendia, describes the depth of the discussions that resulted in the partnership. Offshore Music’s choice was influenced in large part by ONErpm’s compatibility with the label’s principles, especially those related to sustainability, openness, and creating authentic musical communities.

For Audry Dionisio, General Manager of Offshore Music, joining ONErpm was a natural step in realizing the label’s vision. “We have worked with Alyssa Pe Benito, ONErpm’s Marketing Manager before and with our working experience with her and OneRPM’s commitment to nurturing artist growth, we saw an opportunity to expand the label’s vision on a global stage while continuing to honor the partnerships that brought us here.”

The partnership was introduced by Alyssa “Pebs” Pe Benito, ONErpm’s Marketing Manager, who has fostered a longstanding relationship with the record label. For Pebs, the partnership represents a union rooted in shared purpose and commitment, with the goal of nurturing a music community that values authenticity, creativity, and breakthroughs. “I am grateful for their trust in me that resulted in this partnership, enabling and providing support to artists through innovative, forward-thinking strategies that remain true to their craft, ensuring that music continues to thrive and evolve with integrity in a rapidly changing industry landscape.”

Apart from Offshore Music, ONErpm is welcoming a new wave of Filipino talents to its family. Among them is Manila-based alt-rock band Fitterkarma, whose breakout single, “Pag-ibig ay Kanibalismo II,” topped the Spotify Philippines Viral 50 and went viral on TikTok and other social media platforms. Their follow-up single “Sumpa,” is set for release this Friday, October 3 on all streaming platforms.

Also on the rise is SSUNN, a band inspired by contemporary Japanese and Korean rock music. Their current single, “Nasan Na Ba Ako?” debuted at No. 35 on Spotify Philippines Viral 50 and earned a coveted spot on the cover of the .ph editorial playlist.

Presh Ong, ONErpm’s A&R Representative, also shares, “We’re ready to help our artists reach new heights, We can’t wait for the world to see and hear what they’re truly capable of.”

Other breakthrough acts who will be part of ONErpm’s growing roster include UNO, fronted by Carlos De Guia and signed to WYL Music; and El Manu, the solo project of Jai Asuncion of Agsunta, whose heartfelt storytelling continues to resonate with the Filipino streaming audience.

“Our artists are at the heart of everything we do,” Pebs emphasized. “We are more than just a platform; we’re partners who strive to add value in an artist’s journey. We’re here to help them dream bigger and go further by combining innovative technology with tailored artist strategies.”

On October 7, 2025, at the Sari-Sari bar in Makati City, Fitterkarma, SSUNN, Diego’s Scenes, UNO, and El Manu will all be formally debuted for the inaugural ONErpm Night. Tickets will cost PHP 350 and be available at the door.

In the future, ONErpm is still dedicated to bolstering its Philippine operations by offering full-service labeling and distribution. “ONErpm will continue to expand our local offerings and services as we move into the new year, with the establishment of our local office and content studio,” says APAC Director Isaac Miranda.