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Vic Vic Bautista

Lifestyle

Alsons Dev, DoubleDragon Break Ground on Mindanao’s First CentralHub

The groundbreaking ceremony for CentralHub Davao was led by (L-R) Lorenzo Ang Bue Te, Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel A. Dominguez, DoubleDragon Vice Chairman Ferdinand J. Sia, Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo S. Duterte II, DoubleDragon President Atty. Rodolfo Ponferrada, and MinDA Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro.

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), in partnership with DoubleDragon Properties Corporation (DoubleDragon) through its industrial leasing subsidiary, CentralHub Industrial Centers Inc., broke ground on CentralHub Davao on March 5, 2026 in Barangay Lasang, Davao City. This milestone marks the start of construction of the first CentralHub in Mindanao, a 6.2-hectare industrial warehouse complex that will support the region’s growing logistics and distribution needs.

Once completed, CentralHub Davao will feature a projected leasable space of 40,392 sqm, designed to support a range of uses including warehousing, cold storage, commissaries, light manufacturing, and other related services. Strategically located along the Pan-Philippine Highway near the Lasang Public Market, the site provides convenient access to key logistics gateways such as Sasa Port, Davao International Container Terminal Inc., and Francisco Bangoy International Airport, enabling faster and more efficient movement of goods across Mindanao.

Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel A. Dominguez highlighted that CentralHub Davao reflects the shared commitment of Alsons Dev and DoubleDragon to delivering infrastructure that supports economic growth in Mindanao. The project builds on the companies’ previous collaboration on CityMall Northtown within Alsons Dev’s Northtown township in Cabantian.

With an estimated total project value of ₱1.2 billion, CentralHub Davao is expected to meet the increasing demand for modern industrial facilities across Mindanao, supporting the region’s manufacturing, export, and distribution sectors. Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo S. Duterte II highlighted its potential to create jobs, improve business efficiency, and reinforce the city’s role as a regional economic hub.

CentralHub Davao underscores Alsons Dev’s commitment to driving Mindanao’s growth through strategic developments that support businesses and strengthen the region’s investment profile. Through projects like this, the company is reinforcing its vision of building communities and opportunities across Davao City and Mindanao.

For more information on Alsons Dev’s partnerships and projects, visit www.alsonsdev.com.

 

March 11, 2026 by
Entertainment

‘Songs For Selina’ tackles the exploitative nature of the record label industry

The film’s arrival coincides with the growing debate in the local music industry about exploitation, unfair treatment, and sexism

Songs For Selina, an independent music-themed drama about two musical soulmates whose friendship was tested by the cutthroat music industry, will officially premiere in select cinemas across Ayala Malls starting March 18, 2026.

The timing of the release proved strikingly timely after a young female artist’s revelation about the exploitative practices and unfair treatment of the record label industry went viral.

[WATCH THE TRAILER HERE]

Jay R, who serves as the film’s executive producer, describes Songs For Selina as both a love letter and a critique of the industry that he loves, advocating for reforms that ensure artists receive respect, fairness, and rightful compensation for their work.

“We hope Filipino audiences take away the importance of discernment—being mindful of what you wish for and why,” the king of R&B adds. “Not everything that glitters are gold, and every opportunity comes with a cost. At its core, the film is a reminder to stay anchored in your values and moral compass, especially when navigating ambition and success. Knowing what you’re entering a career for—and holding on to who you are—matters deeply in staying whole and intact through the inevitable highs and lows of the journey.”

The film stars Mica Javier and Rachel Coates, as Selina and Maya, alongside a powerhouse ensemble from stage, music, and television: Rachel Alejandro, Audie Gemora, Nicole Laurel, Leanne Mamonong, Gian Magdangal, Gabby Padilla, and Jay R.

Having spent much of her life pursuing music and entertainment, lead star and co-producer Mica Javier notes that the story of Songs For Selina holds a special place for her, as it mirrors aspects of her journey as an artist.

“The film explores the highs and lows artists experience while chasing their dreams, and the sacrifices that often come with that pursuit,” Mica explains. “I joined this venture because I believe these stories deserve to be told with honesty and heart. It was also important to me to help create a platform that showcases Filipino creatives to a global audience.”

Prior to its Philippine release this month, Songs For Selina first made waves in the US, after it got picked up last year by Amazon Prime US and Tubi, two of the biggest streaming platforms for movies and serialized content.

Songs For Selina is brought to you by Homeworkz Entertainment and is distributed in the Philippines by Black Cap Pictures.

 

 

 

March 10, 2026 by
Automotive

Introducing the Lynk & Co 06 Origin SE Sport Limited Edition

An upgrade of the well-loved 06 Origin SE, introducing bold orange accents, blacked-out details, and a sharper visual identity.

Certain cars just transport you from one place to another. Others make a statement with each arrival. Lynk & Co Philippines makes that claim true with the launch of the Lynk & Co 06 Origin SE Sport, a limited-edition improvement of the popular SUV. This new version, which is specifically made for people who appreciate uniqueness as much as performance, gives the car’s existing unique features a sharper visual identity and incorporates styling influences from around the world into a package that is suited to the local market.

An eye-catching dynamic contrast is created by a striking orange accent that lines the window line and frames the front grille. The vehicle’s overall athletic and elegant appearance is further enhanced with blacked-out side mirror caps and shiny black powder-coated 18-inch alloy wheels.

Beyond its visual enhancements, the 06 Origin SE Sport continues to deliver the confident drive the model is known for. It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 181Ps and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that ensures responsive acceleration and smooth gear transitions. Whether navigating daily city traffic or heading out for a weekend drive, the powertrain offers a balance of energy and control suited to modern lifestyles.

Inside, the cabin remains thoughtfully designed for comfort and connectivity. A 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple Carplay and Android Auto provides seamless access to entertainment and vehicle settings, while leather-style semi-bucket seats offer supportive seating for both driver and passengers, complementing the clean, contemporary layout of the interior.

Safety and convenience features that define the 06 lineup are retained with features like 360° panoramic camera with 180° transparent chassis view; blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning, allowing drivers to enjoy advanced technology and driver-assist systems alongside its refreshed exterior character.

The Lynk & Co. 06 Origin SE Sport offers a chance to acquire a more upscale version of the 06 at a competitive price of Php1,134,000. It’s a version designed for people who value tiny differences, where a purposeful use of color and striking details can elevate an ordinary drive into something more intimate.

Visit the Lynk & Co. dealerships in Alabang, Angeles, Iloilo, North EDSA, and Quezon Avenue to learn more about the Lynk & Co. 06 Origin SE Sport version. Additionally, you may reach Lynk & Co Philippines by phone at 0917 175 LYNK (5965) or follow them on social media: FB: LynkCoPhilippines | IG: lynkco_philippines | YT: Lynk & Co Auto Philippines. To schedule a test drive, get a quote, and discover more about Lynk & Co.’s fascinating product portfolio, visit LynkCo.ph.

 

March 9, 2026 by
Entertainment

RAMONA fires back at gossip culture with explosive debut single “GAGA”

RAMONA makes a splashing debut as a pop star provocateur, a rebellious troublemaker, and a fearless outsider. As a daring new voice in modern OPM, she comes off as a refreshing anomaly in an industry that often rewards conformity over disruption. From here, the world she builds only gets louder, more vivid, and unmistakably punk.

Just in time for Women’s Month, RAMONA unleashes “GAGA,” a sharp-witted commentary on celebrity gossip and fake news culture. Her explosive debut single exposes how misinformation distorts truth in the digital age. Rather than retreat from the noise, RAMONA confronts it head-on, transforming public scrutiny into a weapon of her own.

Instead of debunking public accusations, RAMONA reclaims the narrative with biting wit and defiant sassiness. Labels often thrown at outspoken and strong women such as “pa-victim,” “malandi,” and “toxic” are reframed as hollow buzzwords, stripped of their intended sting through repetition and satire. The result is a rallying anthem that challenges the machinery of gossip and the digital mob mentality that fuels it.

“People talk, people guess, people decide what’s true before they even know anything,” RAMONA explains. “GAGA just throws it all back.”

Produced by Tim and Sam Marquez of One Click Straight, the track proves that RAMONA is here for the long haul. Driven by grungy guitars, sing-along chants, and manic, driving rhythms, “GAGA” blends abrasive textures with irresistible pop instincts. But beneath the distortion and defiance lies something more important: RAMONA, reclaiming her voice, turns rumor into resistance and accusation into empowerment. As RAMONA describes her debut work, “GAGA” is “bold, emotional, a little rebellious, a little messy, and not pretending to be perfect.”

With the release of her debut single, RAMONA makes it clear that in an era obsessed by gossip cycles and fake news narratives, she refuses to be spoken for. She would rather speak back.

RAMONA”s “GAGA” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

 

March 9, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric Philippines and Digital Edge build SEA’s first dual-certified facility with NARRA1 amid the growth of AI data centers

  • Rapid AI adoption in the Philippines is driving the need for globally competitive data center standards in performance, resilience, and sustainability.
  • Schneider Electric and Digital Edge responded by developing NARRA1, Southeast Asia’s first dual-certified data center, setting a new benchmark for sustainable operations.
  • Through partnerships with businesses, operators, and developers, Schneider Electric is helping position the Philippines as an emerging hub for resilient, energy-efficient, and sustainable data centers—ready for the next wave of AI-driven growth in Southeast Asia.

NARRA1, Southeast Asia’s first data center to earn dual global certifications located in Laguna Technopark, Biñan, was modernized by Digital Edge and Schneider Electric with resilient, energy-efficient systems to ensure stable operations amid rising AI and cloud workloads.

The Philippines’ data center market is expanding quickly as Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption drives the need for faster, more resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. To meet this rising demand, Schneider Electric, a global technology leader, and Digital Edge, a leading data center platform, accelerates the rollout of next-generation facilities, with NARRA1 emerging as Southeast Asia’s first data center to earn dual global certifications—setting a new benchmark for performance and sustainability in the region.

The Philippines’ data center sector is expanding quickly due to the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which is pushing the need for quicker, more resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. As the first data center in Southeast Asia to receive twin worldwide certifications, NARRA1 has raised the bar for sustainability and performance in the region. To address this increasing demand, Schneider Electric, a prominent global technology corporation, and Digital Edge, a premier data center platform, are speeding up the implementation of next-generation facilities.

“At Schneider Electric, we equip operators with advanced energy management and infrastructure solutions, helping make the Philippines a competitive destination for data center investment and enabling facilities like NARRA1 to meet the high standards of enterprises and hyperscale customers,” said Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines.

Positioned within Laguna Technopark in Biñan, Laguna, NARRA1 was modernized and scaled by Schneider Electric in partnership with Digital Edge, using efficient systems. Leveraging its global expertise in mission-critical environments, Schneider Electric integrated automatic transfer switches (ATS), uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and transformers to ensure stable power, built-in redundancy, and reliable operations. These solutions gave operators greater visibility, control, and predictability over energy use, enabling them to optimize efficiency, maintain uptime, and confidently scale operations to support growing AI and cloud workloads.

Aside from operational resilience and efficiency, sustainability is built into NARRA1’s design, which runs on 100% renewable energy and Schneider Electric-enabled high-efficiency electrical systems. With a market-leading annualized design Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.19, far below the global average of 1.6, the facility cuts electricity use by 16 million kilowatt-hours annually, lowering operational costs and carbon emissions. Water efficiency measures further cut usage by 44 million gallons per year, equivalent to nearly 80 Olympic-size swimming pools, allowing to conserve local resources while helping customers meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments without compromising performance.

As a result, NARRA1 became the first facility in Southeast Asia to secure two globally recognized certifications:

  • ANSI/TIA-942-C Rated 3 Certification, recognizing world-class resilience, security, and operational quality; and
  • EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), awarded to facilities achieving more than 20% efficiency in energy, water, and embodied carbon.

NARRA1 also earned LEED Gold certification, an internationally recognized standard by the U.S. Green Building Council, making it the Philippines’ first triple-green-certified data center with EDGE, LEED, and BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence).

“Five years ago, we were building in the middle of a global pandemic amid uncertainty, supply-chain disruptions, and lockdowns,” said Vic Barrios, President of Digital Edge DC Philippines. “We needed partners who could deliver on time, uphold quality, and adapt with us in an environmentally complex market—one that embeds sustainability in their operations and that we could rely on end-to-end to build future-ready facilities.”

NARRA1 is the country’s only true carrier-neutral regional data center, hosting all major telecommunications providers and internet service providers.

NARRA1’s globally benchmarked architecture shows the nation’s capacity to offer dependable data center solutions that satisfy the demands of businesses and hyperscale operators. The Philippines is well-positioned to develop as a regional center for digital infrastructure thanks to its digital population, rising data demand, and advantageous location in Southeast Asia.

Schneider Electric positions the Philippines to spearhead the next wave of AI-driven growth in Southeast Asia by collaborating with companies, operators, and developers to construct sustainable and energy-efficient data centers.

 

 

 

 

 

March 9, 2026 by
Entertainment

Harry Styles releases highly anticipated new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY.

GRAMMY Award®-winning global superstar Harry Styles has released his highly anticipated new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. via Erskine/Columbia Records. Accompanying the album is the music video for “American Girls,” directed by the GRAMMY Award®-winning James Mackel.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. is the fourth studio album from Harry Styles and first music release since 2022’s record breaking album Harry’s House, which took home the top prize for Album of the Year at the 2023 Grammy Awards. The new 12-track album was written by Harry and executive produced by Kid Harpoon, and includes the #1 single “Aperture”, see full tracklist below.

To celebrate the album release, Netflix is bringing fans the very first live performance of the new album on Sunday March 8th at 7pm GMT, tune in to watch the show he performed Friday March 6th in Manchester, England in full globally.

Harry has also launched KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. pop-up shops around the world in partnership with American Express with 16 locations in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Berlin, Chicago, Houston,  London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Paris, Phoenix, Rome, Seattle, Sydney, Tokyo, and Toronto. The pop-up gives fans a chance to experience and celebrate Harry’s new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY.  together with special activations and unique merchandise designs, additional information HERE.

Next Saturday, Harry will return to NBC’s Saturday Night Live as host and musical guest for the second time on March 14th. He will make his long awaited return to the global stage with a seven city residency in 2026. Promoted by Live Nation, Together, Together will include 67 stops in Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney from May through December. Highlights on the run include 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and a six night run at Wembley Stadium. Special guests include Robyn, Shania Twain, Fcukers, Jorja Smith, Jamie xx, Fousheé, and Skye Newman across select dates.  Please visit hstyles.co.uk/tour for a full list of dates and more information.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. TRACKLIST

  1. Aperture

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon

Produced by: Kid Harpoon

  1. American Girls

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

  1. Ready, Steady, Go!

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon, Additional Production By: Tyler Johnson

  1. Are You Listening Yet?

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

  1. Taste Back

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon, Additional: Tyler Johnson

  1. The Waiting Game

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

  1. Season 2 Weight Loss

Music & Lyrics by Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon

  1. Coming Up Roses

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles

Produced by: Kid Harpoon

  1. Pop

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

  1. Dance No More

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon

Produced By: Kid Harpoon

  1. Paint By Numbers

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson

Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson

  1. Carla’s Song

Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon

Produced By: Kid Harpoon

Listen to the album here

March 9, 2026 by
Automotive

Toyota Motor Philippines Honors Top Dealers and Individuals at 2026 Dealer Conference and TOPS Awards

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently honored its top-performing dealers and outstanding individual achievers for their 2025 results at the Toyota Dealer Conference and Toyota Outstanding Performers in Sales and Service (TOPS) Awards. The event brought together dealer heads nationwide to recognize their efforts made in sales, service, customer satisfaction, and overall operations.

The annual event reviews Toyota’s 2025 year in performance while recognizing the teams who keep showrooms running, service bays full, and customers coming back. TOPS Awards, on the other hand, upholds high standards across the dealer network, with benchmarks spanning sales results, service quality, customer experience, and operational discipline, making it one of the network’s most anticipated programs.

TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty shared, “Let us continue to create happiness and mobility for all. As one Toyota, let us continue to be the number one in the hearts, minds, and homes of every Filipino.”

The Major Awards went to the following winners:

 

President’s Award of Excellence

This award showcases the dealers that achieved overall excellence in all aspects of dealer operations and has the highest rating among all dealers in their respective business sizes.

 
Champion 1st Runner-up 2nd Runner-up
Large Business Division Toyota Marilao, Bulacan Inc. Toyota San Fernando, Pampanga Inc. Toyota Otis Inc.
Medium Business Division Toyota Nueva Ecija, Inc. Toyota Isabela Inc. Toyota Dagupan City Inc.
Small Business Division Toyota Subic, Inc. Toyota Plaridel, Bulacan Toyota Tarlac City

 

President’s Customer Satisfaction (CS) Cup of Excellence Award

This award recognizes the dealership that achieved the highest levels of customer satisfaction by providing exceptional care, trust, and service throughout their entire Toyota journey.

 President’s Value Chain Award

This award honors the dealership that provided exceptional value for customers by integrating products and services into one seamless Toyota ownership experience.
Toyota Batangas City Inc. Toyota Tarlac City

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, TMP Chairman Mr. Alfred Ty, TMR Chairman Atty. Reginaldo Oben, TMR General Manager Ms. Gina Loo & TMR President Mr. Don Juan Miguel Oben

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, TMP Chairman Mr. Alfred Ty, TNI General Manager Mr. Christian Lawrence Dizon, TNI President Ms. Katherine Ivy Tan & TNI Chairman Mr. Jose B. Tan Jr.

IN PHOTO (L-R) TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, TMP Chairman Mr. Alfred Ty, TSB General Manager Mr. Ivan Castro, TSB President Ms. Mary Evangeline Tan, TSB Dealer Franchise Owner Mr. Jose B. Tan Jr. & GT Capital Holdings President Mr. Carmelo Maria Luza Bautista

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, TMP Chairman Mr. Alfred Ty, TBC Customer Relations Manager Ms. Abigail Milagrosa Llanto, TBC President Mr. Francis Laurel & TBC General Manager Ms. Brenda Mary Raule

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, TMP Chairman Mr. Alfred Ty, TTA President Mr. Jose B. Tan Jr., TTA Executive Vice President Ms. Mary Evangeline Tan, TTA General Manager Mr. Emilton Sampang & TTA Value Chain Head Mr. Mark Vistan

TMP also recognized Team Toyota Philippines’ Marketing Professionals (MPs) and Service Advisors (SAs) under the Toyota Outstanding Performers in Sales and Service (TOPS) program for their contributions to the company’s 2025 performance in sales and after-sales.

“Creating ever better cars is our DNA,” said TMP President Masando Hashimoto. “But our mission goes beyond that: to evolve Toyota’s role in the lives of our customers. As Global Chairman Akio shared at the recent Japan Mobility Show, creating ever better cars, we are evolving—from providing Mobility for All to enabling Mobility for each unique customer.” He added.

The following Marketing Professionals and Service Advisors were recognized during the Toyota Outstanding Performers in Sales and Service (TOPS) awards:

TOPS Finest Marketing Professional of the Year

Joan R. Barcia of Toyota North EDSA

 

TOPS Finest General Job Service Advisor of the Year
Arnold R. Agbay of Toyota Shaw Inc.

 

TOPS Finest Body and Paint Service Advisor of the Year
Gemibert E. Dimaunahan of Toyota Batangas City Inc.

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Mr. Ryo Yokoyama, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Mr. Sherwin Chua Lim, TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, 2025 Marketing Professional of the Year Ms. Joan R. Barcia of Toyota North EDSA, TNE President Mr. Don Juan Miguel Oben, TNE Executive Vice President Ms. Ana Maria Teresa Reyes, TNE General Manager Mr. Mario Rosario Miguel, TNE Vehicle Sales Manager Mr. Manuel Anthony Kerwin Quimpo & TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go.

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Mr. Ryo Yokoyama, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Mr. Sherwin Chua Lim, TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, 2025 General Job Service Advisor of the Year Mr. Arnold R. Agbay of Toyota Shaw, Inc., TSI President Ms. Jonalyn Lim & TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go.

IN PHOTO (L-R): TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Mr. Ryo Yokoyama, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Mr. Sherwin Chua Lim, TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Mr. Jose Maria Atienza, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, 2025 Body and Paint Service Advisor of the Year Mr. Gemibert E. Dimaunahan of Toyota Batangas City, Inc., TBC President Mr. Francis C. Laurel, TBC Executive Vice President Mr. Jose Martin Laurel VI, TBC General Manager Ms. Brenda Mary Raule, TBC Service Manager Ms. Riza Rabago, and TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go.

Amid the evolving landscape, Toyota Motor Philippines continues to work closely with its dealer network to deliver quality vehicles and exceptional customer experiences nationwide.

“We are in a long-distance race,” shared Toyota Dealers Association of the Philippines (TDAP) President Mr. Jimmy Yaokasin. “One marked by market shifts, digital disruption, economic cycles, EV transitions, supply chain challenges, and ever-rising customer expectations. Let us run our race with confidence, with conviction, with integrity. And may future generations of Toyota leaders look back at us as part of that great cloud of witnesses,” he added.

Carrying this shared commitment forward, TMP reinforces its shared goal with dealers: to continuously raise standards, strengthen partnerships, and bring mobility and happiness to more Filipino customers nationwide.

Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos. 

 

March 7, 2026 by
Entertainment, Lifestyle

Fans of BTS can discover secret rewards on Google Search before the new album Arirang is released

If you’ve been counting down the days until March 20, you’re definitely not the only one. The comeback era of BTS for their album ARIRANG is now in full swing, and while fans eagerly await the new lead single Swimming, Google has turned that excitement into an interactive game.

The BTS Scavenger Hunt has returned on Google Search, serving as a fun digital tribute to the ARMY fandom. For those who remember the famous purple balloon Easter egg from years ago, this version is like a 2026 upgrade. It’s an interactive experience that allows fans to unlock exclusive content and rewards for each member simply by doing what they already do—searching for the group online.

Joining the quest is really simpler than learning the choreography for “Dynamite.” Just type “BTS” into the Google Search bar. You’ll notice a small bottle (looking very much like a message across the sea) on the bottom right of your screen. Click it, and you’re in.

The hunt is a series of trivia questions and puzzles that test your knowledge of the group’s decade-long journey. It’s everything from their first Billboard No. 1 to lyric-based emoji puzzles that might leave you feeling a bit like a “Hooligan” if you get them wrong.

Every quest solved brings you closer to the highly anticipated ARIRANG album. As you navigate the scavenger hunt, you’ll unlock 14 collectible cards—exclusive tracklist art featuring the actual handwriting of the members.

Get your first look at the tracklist through the members’ own pens—from the bold steady lines of Jungkook’s “SWIM” to the personal touch of Jin’s “Merry Go Round.” These aren’t just rewards; they are the first pieces of the ARIRANG puzzle. Start your hunt before they’re gone.

Don’t run through it all at once! While the hunt is ongoing now, Google is staggering the excitement. Right now, you can start your initial quest to find all 14 Rewards tagged as “Your love songs”. On March 9 & March 16, new “sealed” quests will unlock, giving you more to find as we get closer to the big day. Then on March 20 comes the final payoff as the album officially drops.

Whether you’re a student taking a break from the “blood, sweat, and tears” of studying or a professional secretly fangirling during a meeting, this quest is a fun way to pass the time while waiting for BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE on Netflix.

Want to discover the hidden melody? Simply search for BTS on Google Search and start the scavenger hunt yourself!

 

 

March 6, 2026 by
Entertainment

Shakira and Beéle release new single ALGO TÚ

GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Shakira and rising Colombian star Beéle have released their new track ALGO TÚ. Produced by A.C., Flambo, Shakira, and Beéle, the track is out now via Sony Music Latin/5020 Records.

Shakira and Beéle debuted the track live this past weekend at Mexico City’s Zócalo, marking the largest event held there in history. Performing “ALGO TÚ” for over 400,000 fans, Shakira and Beéle electrified the city square and built incredible hype for the song’s release. Their range of styles blend perfectly on the track, delivering an incredible Latin & Afro-fusion hit with a nod to autochthonous instruments and sounds such as the Colombian gaita (pan flute), evoking the city of Barranquilla where both Shakira and Beéle were born. This is the second collaboration between Shakira and Beéle, who previously worked together on a 2025 version of her global hit, “Hips Don’t Lie,” which featured Ed Sheeran and Beéle for the Spotify Anniversary celebration of her 2005 album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2.

This concert has only built more excitement for Shakira’s upcoming return to Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, where she will take the stage for this year’s Todo Mundo No Rio concert on May 2nd. This free show will be a vibrant spectacle featuring Shakira playing her greatest hits across her entire career, continuing her epic world tour throughout 2026.

The release of “ALGO TÚ” comes on the heels of Shakira being crowned by Billboard as having the “highest-grossing Hispanic tour of all time” with her recent Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, achieving a gross revenue of $421.6 million, inclusive of 82 stadium shows all across the US and Latin America with over 3.3 million people in attendance.

Building on this exciting year, Shakira has just been announced as a 2026 nominee for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This exciting honor will be voted upon and then announced during the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

 

March 6, 2026 by
Entertainment

James Reid hits the road with “Traffic” music video

Directed by Jonathan Tal Placido, with creative direction by Issa Pressman, the visual narrative captures the frustration of driving around the city while stuck in heavy traffic

James Reid turns urban frustration into inspiration in the music video of “Traffic,” his latest single under Careless Philippines and Sony Music Entertainment. Caught in the gridlock of Metro Manila, the video finds James driving around the standstill roads, visibly stressed and tired, yet holding on to the thought that the moment, like traffic itself, will soon pass.

The music video was helmed by Jonathan Tal Placido of Philippine-based production house Toothless, with creative direction by Issa Pressman. The concept revolves around the reality of being stuck in traffic, while also capturing the horrors that Filipino commuters and drivers had to endure on a daily basis while navigating the capital’s fast-paced grind.

“Traffic” marks the first official 2026 single of James Reid, following last year’s release of “You Deserve It,” which was featured on Penshoppe’s All Together Now campaign. The catchy pop tune was written by James Reid, along with Luke April and Nhiko Sabiano.

“At the time, I wanted to write a song that’s relatable to Filipinos in terms of concept and sound,” James reveals. “It just so happened that we all experienced traffic that day, and it felt like the song wrote itself after we locked in on that idea.”

The track also reflects James’ evolving artistic direction, molded by his ongoing exploration of his Western and Filipino roots. With the help of his collaborators, Luke April and Nhiko Sabiano, “Traffic” gives listeners a taste of James Reid’s more accessible, homebound sound, without sacrificing his globe-trotting influences.

The award-winning multi-hyphenate adds, “We aimed to create a classic upbeat OPM track with a fresh twist—nostalgic at its core, but layered with unique sounds and ear candy to give it a distinct edge.”

James Reid’s “Traffic” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The official music video drops on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. on James Reid’s official YouTube page.

 

March 6, 2026 by