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Enchanted Kingdom marks the return of its iconic Wheel of Fate, bringing back a sense of magic and nostalgia

Enchanted Kingdom’s legendary Wheel of Fate officially shines again after its grand relaunching last March 21, Saturday

Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ first and only world-class theme park, proudly marked the official comeback of its iconic ride, the Wheel of Fate, as the centerpiece of The Legend Shines Again campaign last March 21.

After the park’s successful 30th anniversary celebration last October, the signature ferris wheel underwent a four-month pause for upgrades, including a refreshed theme, a smoother ride experience, and improved ride system technology.

This is part of EK’s ongoing revitalization of its existing facilities and iconic rides to ensure that their longevity and legacy can be sustained for the years to come.

Regarded as one of longstanding rides of its kind in the country, the Wheel of Fate has been bringing magical experiences to countless Filipinos since EK opened its gates in 1995. It eventually grew into a crowd favorite among its multigenerational guests, especially with families and friends.

6 Lion City Youth Inc. launched its Hello Santa Rosa teaser at EK’s The Legend Shines Again! Wheel of Fate Relaunch

This towering ride lifts guests 130 feet above the ground, showcasing the breathtaking view of its home city, Santa Rosa. Aside from this, it also elevates the EK experience by illuminating the whole park, especially during nighttime.

The Legend Shines Again! Wheel of Fate Relaunch

Enchanted Kingdom’s SMS launched their new song, The Legend Shines Again

The official relaunch of the Wheel of Fate on March 21 featured spectacular performances, with EK’s very own P-pop girl group SMS launching their new song, The Legend Shines Again; and OPM band The Bloomfields serenading the crowd with timeless hits.

The cast of Viva One_s My Husband is a Mafia Boss unveiled their photobooth installation at EK’s The Legend Shines Again! Wheel of Fate Relaunch

The cast of Viva One’s My Husband is a Mafia Boss also made a special appearance to unveil the show’s photobooth installation. Meanwhile, the youth-led organization Lion City Youth Inc. surprised parkgoers with a teaser for Hello Santa Rosa, their flagship tourism program launching this year in collaboration with EK.

Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas, EK COO Cynthia Mamon, and Integrated Marketing Head Nico Mamon led the relaunching ceremony of the Wheel of Fate 

The ride’s relaunching ceremony was graced by Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas, along with EK Chief Operating Officer Cynthia R. Mamon, Ph.D., and Head of Integrated Marketing Nico R. Mamon.

Serving as the festivities’ enchanting finale were the Sky Wizardry Fireworks Display and a flash mob led by the EK Storyverse characters.

The Wheel of Fate is now open for guests to enjoy during the park’s operating hours from 12 PM to 8 PM, along with EK’s other rides and attractions.

For more details and updates on the Wheel of Fate and other events and offerings, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph or check EK’s official social media pages: @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram.

March 25, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Sari-Sari, Sama-Sama: Ajinomoto Drives Two Years of Community-Led Impact Through SariCycle

From Left to Right: Jonalyn Penas, BEST Sustainability Programs Officer, BEST Sustainability Executive Ayn Latorre, Top 1 SariCycler for 2024 & 2025, Carmen Ladisla, APC Chief Sustainability Officer Ernie Carlos, QC CCESD Programs Officer, Virgie Bangalan

In many Filipino communities, meaningful change often begins in the most familiar settings and starts with small actions—a sari-sari store counter neatly organizing sachets, or a mindful neighbor dropping off recyclables on the way home. When these simple efforts are multiplied across hundreds of people, they grow into more than just a community—they become a movement.

This everyday spirit of bayanihan was highlighted as Ajinomoto Philippine Corporation (APC) marked the second anniversary of SariCycle®, an innovative and adaptable plastic waste collection program that empowers local micro-entrepreneurs, particularly sari-sari store owners, to take an active role in reducing plastic waste and pollution in their communities.

In two years, SariCycle® has grown from a promising pilot into a working model of circularity  at the grassroots level. The program recovered over 27 metric tons or 27,000 kilograms of  single-use plastics (SUPs) in 2025. Overall, that’s equivalent to approximately 54 million  sachets, three times more of what was collected in 2024.

Behind the solid achievement are the more than 1000 SariCyclers across 30 barangays,  supported by APC’s significant collaboration with Basic Environmental Systems and  Technologies Inc. (BEST) and Quezon City’s Climate Change and Environmental  Sustainability Department.

At its heart, SariCycle® is a lifestyle program, as much as it is a sustainability initiative. Turning sari-sari stores into accessible eco-hubs encourages responsible waste behavior  that is convenient and rewarding. When recycling is simpler and incentivized, more  community members are likely to participate, and the continued collective effort is key to  moving communities closer to a sustainable circular economy.

During the celebration, APC honored the best SariCycling Barangays and SariCyclers,  whose consistent efforts essentially formed the backbone of this transformative program.

The top 5 SariCycling Barangays are: Barangay Pasong Tamo, Barangay Baesa, Barangay  Talayan, Barangay Bagong Silangan, and Lunas HOA Litex in Barangay Commonwealth.

Hon. Stephanie Tricia Pilar, Barangay Captain of Pasong Tamo, shared her delight as their  community took the first place, “Maraming salamat po sa Ajinomoto at sa QC government sa  napakagandang programa na ito. Dahil hindi lang po ito nakakatulong sa kalikasan, kundi  pati na rin sa bawat residente at komunidad.”

In addition, the program also recognized Carmen Ladisla as the Top SariCycler with her  consistent dedication and outstanding collection efforts. Completing the Top 3 SariCyclers  were Patria Uchi and Alicia Obedencia.

“Konting sipag lang at kayang kaya natin mag ipon (ng sachet at basura) para iwas baha at  iwas polusyon. Para sa mas ligtas at mas maayos na buhay ng ating pamilya,” Ladisla shared.

As part of the initiative’s success, a new award category was also introduced: the Aji  Packaging Champions. This award recognizes the top collectors of Ajinomoto packaging,  reinforcing the importance of shared responsibility across the value chain. Alicia Obedencia  was recognized as the top Ajinomoto Packaging Champion, followed by Josephine Valdez and Naly Ramos, respectively.

For APC, addressing plastic pollution isn’t a solo effort. The company recognizes it as a  system built through partnerships to come up with innovations that are practical, scalable,  and rooted in real-life behavior.

This collaborative approach strengthens APC’s broader sustainability strategy and supports  its 2030 Roadmap goal of reducing environmental impact by 50%.

“I believe we are on track, based on our numerical records. From our plastic collection,  plastic reduction, even innovation in our packaging. In terms of greenhouse gas, our two  factories, one in Bulacan and one in Cebu are now operating under 100% renewable  energy,” stated Ernie Carlos, Chief Sustainability Officer of APC.

As SariCycle® enters its third year, APC remains committed to expanding its network of  SariCyclers, empowering more store owners, engaging more households, and designing  smarter and accessible ways for Filipinos to keep on recycling.

“For year three, we are very excited to announce that we will be expanding to several cities.  We are hoping to have the same engagement in other communities as well, by applying the  same strategies,” said Ayn Latorre, Sustainability Executive of Basic Environmental Systems  and Technologies Inc.

Sometimes, the most impactful environmental solutions don’t begin in boardrooms or factories—they start at the neighborhood store, among neighbors united by a shared purpose, all working sama-sama (all together) toward a cleaner, more circular Philippines.

 To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

 

 

March 24, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Your Connection is Your Miles: Globe Platinum Reimagines Travel with the All-New GPlan featuring Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles

Modern explorers embrace travel as a fundamental way of life. They thrive on the thrill of morning coffee in a different time zone, the pursuit of a sunset on a new horizon, and the seamless transition from a high-stakes meeting to a quiet coastal retreat. Recognizing that the world serves as the ultimate destination for its members, Globe has officially signaled a new era of loyalty with the launch of the all-new Platinum GPlan featuring Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles.

This first-to-market innovation transforms the traditional mobile subscription into a continuous “passport for premium experiences,” allowing customers to earn airline Miles automatically as part of their monthly plan.

Powering Your Perspective

Globe is shifting its focus from hardware to high-flying experiences, acknowledging that Platinum members prioritize elevated perks that match their sophisticated pace. While airport lounge access remains a staple benefit, the integration of Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles offers a value proposition that grows over time. This ensures that even during months spent at home, members steadily draw closer to their next getaway.

The new portfolio acknowledges the personal nature of value, offering three distinct paths to match a member’s specific expression of their lifestyle. Options include the latest technology delivered seamlessly through curated flagship Devices, or boundless Connectivity featuring access to premium data and priority service. Those who view the world as their office and playground can instead turn their plan into an engine for Global Exploration by earning Miles.

“We are taking our commitment to the Platinum lifestyle to new heights,” said Globe Platinum Director and Head of Strategy, Experience, and Transformation Leonard Grape. “What if your connection could actually be the reason you get to travel in the first place? With the Platinum GPlan with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, we are ensuring that your loyalty is rewarded with the ultimate luxury: the freedom to explore.”

Seamless Experience, Continuous Rewards

In a life defined by constant movement, Globe aims to eliminate friction. This partnership with Philippine Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, ensures a seamless experience where Miles are credited directly to Mabuhay Miles accounts. These Miles can be redeemed with ease for flights, extra luggage allowance, seat upgrades, and inflight meals.

The new Platinum GPlan provides a structured path to travel through tiered monthly rewards designed for diverse journeys. Subscribers of the Platinum GPlan 3799 receive 800 Mabuhay Miles per month, while those on the Platinum GPlan 4999 earn 1,000 Mabuhay Miles. For the ultimate travel experience, the Platinum GPlan 7999 awards members 1,600 Mabuhay Miles monthly, allowing rewards to accumulate steadily toward a chosen destination.

A Gateway to the World

The Miles-enabled Platinum GPlan offers long-term value for the affluent customer who prioritizes experiences over frequent hardware upgrades. It ensures that every month of the subscription remains consistently relevant and rewarding.

“Platinum rewards your lifestyle, not just your phone,” Globe Head of Platinum Mark Pasaylo said. “Whether you are flying for a high-stakes meeting or a quiet sunset in a new city, we want you to feel that your partnership with us is truly taking you places.”

This initiative reinforces Globe Platinum’s position as a lifestyle partner, combining signature perks like airport lounge access, digital lifestyle concierge, and priority store handling with a tangible, premium path to global exploration.

For more information on the all-new Platinum GPlan with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, visit [https://www.globe.com.ph/help/postpaid/mabuhay-miles].

 

March 19, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Samsung brings together its ecosystem partners to deliver innovative Smart Wash business solutions

Samsung Electronics Philippines is making it easier for Filipino entrepreneurs to start their own businesses with the introduction of its Commercial Laundry Washer and Dryer. This launch also connects a wide network of industry partners aimed at helping build more organized and efficient commercial laundry operations in the Philippines.

The initiative will be officially presented during the “Smart Wash Business Solutions” event on March 25, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center. During the event, Samsung and its partners will showcase how collaborative support systems can help establish modern commercial laundry businesses.

Authorized dealers, connectivity providers, utilities partners, consultation services, and other industry participants involved in deploying Samsung’s commercial laundry system will be present. Leading the deployment is CYA Industries, a veteran in premium appliance distribution since 2001. CYA oversees the critical phases of installation, system configuration, and operational onboarding, ensuring every facility is optimized for peak performance from day one.

From installation and system configuration to connectivity and operational onboarding, Samsung’s service partners provide a turnkey solution where experts handle the infrastructure, allowing owners to simply “turn the key”. This collaborative environment ensures that business owners can focus on growth while Samsung’s partners support the operational needs of commercial laundry facilities.

Samsung’s commercial laundry system, powered by the SmartThings app, integrates connected machines with operational monitoring capabilities, allowing operators to track machine activity, manage cycles, and monitor system performance.

By combining this intelligent technology with a partner-supported framework, Samsung also hopes to encourage entrepreneurs, property developers, and facility managers to consider opportunities in the commercial laundry sector. By bringing together equipment, connectivity, infrastructure support, and operational guidance within a coordinated framework, the initiative helps simplify what has traditionally been a complex process of setting up and managing commercial laundry operations.

This initiative reflects the vision of Roman Han, President of Samsung Electronics Philippines, who emphasized that the company aims to support different sectors through innovations that help people work more efficiently, improve business productivity, and create more connected environments.

To learn more about Samsung’s Commercial Laundry Washer and Dryer, you may visit: https://www.samsung.com/ph/washers-and-dryers/commercial-laundry/

For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

Website: https://www.samsung.com/ph/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamsungPH

 

March 18, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Tech

TM Turns 25 with Bigger Value, Rewards, and Togetherness for Ka-TMs Nationwide

SB19 leads TM’s 25th anniversary in Davao City, where Ka-TMs enjoyed music, bigger value offers, rewards, and community activities.

TM celebrates 25 years of making prepaid life more rewarding for millions of Ka-TMs across the Philippines. More than just a milestone, this anniversary honors the shared journey with subscribers and highlights how TM continues to deliver value, experiences, and everyday uplift that help thriving Pinoys stay connected, entertained, and empowered.

Launched during the Q1 Blueprint of Globe, “Iba ’Pag 2GEDER 5EVER” positions TM as the go-to value brand that goes beyond presyo-sulit. The campaign emphasizes rewards, experiences, and reliable connectivity that turn everyday prepaid interactions into meaningful moments for Ka-TMs nationwide.

In September 2001, TM was introduced (then known as Touch Mobile) to expand Globe’s prepaid offerings and provide affordable, flexible mobile services to Filipino users, especially those in the value‑seeking segment. Over time, TM evolved into one of the Philippines’ most trusted prepaid brands. By the end of 2025, TM’s cumulative subscriber base reached 29.2 million, reflecting continued growth and robust engagement from the prepaid market.

TM’s 25th year looks even brighter, promising subscribers with more tuwa and tatag moments wherever they are. Through “Iba ’Pag 2GEDER 5EVER,” Ka-TMs can expect fresh offers, exclusive rewards, and engaging experiences throughout the year, making prepaid life both practical and meaningful.

  • KAKAIBANG Sulit Value. Surprise flash deals and exclusive offers every 25th of the month give Ka-TMs more for their money, keeping connectivity and daily needs within reach. Subscribers also earn 2.5 rewards points for every Php99 promo and up via GlobeOne, unlocking more ways to redeem perks and enjoy everyday digital essentials.
  • KAKAIBANG Rewards. Subscriber-only perks and exclusive gifts make every Ka-TM feel recognized and proud to be part of the TeaM. Offers include streaming vouchers from iWantTV and Dashflix redeemable for 2.5 rewards points, alongside gaming, music, and lifestyle perks rolled out across the year.
  • KAKAIBANG Pagsasama. Togetherness remains at the heart of TM, with community events, retailer programs, digital challenges, and on-ground activations that turn everyday moments into shared joy while delivering practical benefits to subscribers.

The 25th anniversary officially kicked off with a grand concert last March 7 at Davao Crocodile Park in Davao City, featuring homegrown OPM and P-pop acts. The event marks TM’s return to large-scale subscriber celebrations, emphasizing that this milestone belongs to the entire Ka-TM community.

Bea Lacson, Senior Director for TM, speaks about TM’s commitment to giving Ka-TMs more sulit value, exclusive rewards, and meaningful moments as the brand celebrates its 25th anniversary.

“TM’s 25th anniversary is really about celebrating our Ka-TMs who have been with us through the years. With ‘Iba ’Pag 2GEDER 5EVER,’ we are giving them even more value, more rewards, and more shared experiences that make everyday connectivity meaningful. As their needs evolve, TM evolves with them, delivering not just affordability, but consistent uplift in their daily lives,” said Bea Lacson, Senior Director for TM.

As the celebration continues, Ka-TMs are encouraged to watch out for upcoming offers, rewards, and experiences that they can only enjoy with TM , because truly, “Iba ’Pag 2GEDER 5EVER.”

Discover more about TM and its offers at tmtambayan.ph.

 

 

March 17, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Coca-Cola Philippines’ Barangay Tapon to Ipon Initiative is won by Barangay Tejeros

Barangay Tejeros is recognized as the top-performing barangay at the Tapon to Ipon Fiesta awarding ceremony, honoring collective effort and barangay-led action toward proper waste segregation.

Makati City’s Barangay Tejeros has demonstrated how common objectives can transform routine recycling into a long-lasting community activity. barrio Tejeros, which was named the best-performing barrio in Coca-Cola Philippines’ Barangay Tapon to Ipon program, showed how cooperation enhanced waste segregation, promoted inclusive recycling, and increased community ties.

A community fiesta with sports and activities followed the awarding ceremony, which took place at the Barangay Tejeros basketball court. Barangay Tejeros, which had finished second the year before, took first place in the most recent iteration of the program, demonstrating the community’s continued involvement and dedication.

The event brings the community together through interactive games, prizes, and shared merienda, celebrating the winning barangay’s achievement while reinforcing recycling as a fun, inclusive, and owned community practice.

Recognizing grassroots recycling efforts

Barangay Tapon to Ipon is a yearly, nationwide community recycling initiative powered by Coca-Cola Philippines in partnership with barangays, local leaders, and sari-sari store owners. The program engaged barangays, residents, and sari-sari stores across Metro Manila to collect and properly segregate PET bottles. It supports barangays in implementing Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, while helping build sustainable recycling habits at the grassroots level.

This year, 20 barangays around Metro Manila joined the friendly competition, collecting PET bottles while strengthening waste segregation and recycling practices. The awarding ceremony recognized the barangay’s collective effort, highlighting the role of residents, youth volunteers, and sari-sari stores in driving impact at the local level.

Barangay Tejeros collected nearly 40,000 PET bottles, equivalent to 698 kilograms, followed by Barangay 114 in Caloocan City in second place with a collection of about 21,000 (375 KG), and Barangay Moonwalk in Parañaque City for third place with 17,000 (310 KG).

Barangay Chairman Wilfredo S. Leonardo said visible results motivated their community to stay engaged and take pride in their efforts. “Noong nakaraang taon po, second place lang kami. Siyempre, gusto na naming maging number one. Kaya nang dumating ang pagkakataong ito, sinabi ko talaga sa mga kasamahan ko na gagawin namin ang lahat para makuha ang number one,” Leonardo said. “Pinasasalamatan po namin ang Coca-Cola sa patuloy na pagpili sa’ming barangay upang maging bahagi ng programang ito. Kaya inalagaan at sinuportahan namin nang husto ang aming pagsali dito.”

(“Last year, we were only in second place. Of course, we wanted to be number one. That’s why when this opportunity came around, I encouraged everyone to do our best so we can be number one.” Leonardo said. “We are grateful for Coca-Cola for consistently inviting us to join their program. We will continue supporting and joining this cause.”)

Barangay Tejeros receives tools to help sustain recycling and cleanliness initiatives, supporting the community’s efforts to keep participation strong beyond the campaign.

Along with their recognition, Barangay Tejeros was given 10 Coca-Cola stools made from recycled plastic, a Barangay Tapon to Ipon tent, Coca-Cola beverages for community events, and a Premium Linis Barangay Kit with cleaning and safety supplies. The barangay plans to integrate these into existing programs and continue encouraging participation from households and sari-sari stores.

Sustaining momentum beyond the campaign

For Coca-Cola Philippines, the nationwide recycling initiative forms part of a broader collection initiative, which includes over 6,000 collection points nationwide. The aim is to bring the collected bottles to PETValue Philippines, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility located in General Trias, Cavite. PETValue Philippines processes used PET bottles and transforms them into recycled PET (rPET), which can be used to produce new food-grade beverage bottles.

“Programs like Barangay Tapon to Ipon foster the spirit of bayanihan, bringing communities together to achieve a shared goal,” said Tony Del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Vice President for Franchise Operations East of Coca‑Cola Far East Limited (CCFEL). “By making recycling fun and engaging, we help barangays build a culture of sustainability, where collective action at the grassroots creates ripple effects that can help strengthen recycling practices in communities across the country.”

By collaborating with barangays and local partners to transform local action into long-term recycling habits and appropriate waste management, Coca-Cola Philippines continues its dedication to collection and sustainability.

Visit Coca-Cola Philippines’ Sustainability Hub at www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/sustainability to find out more about the company’s sustainability efforts.

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

March 12, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Sports

Pickleball’s Development as PH’s New Community Sport: From Weekend Rallies to National Play

More than a game, pickleball isn’t just being played by Filipinos—it’s being built, and the whole country is all in. (From L-R; Michael Johnson – Co-Founder and Chairman, Gigi Maceda – Trustee and Head of Officiating, Shery Cu – President, Suzette Pasustento – Country Manager of Skechers Philippines, Coni Ybañez – Treasurer, Red Dumuk – Secretary General, Jeffrey Kho – Co-Founder and Trustee)

People with well-coordinated athletic fits, well-worn sneakers, and colorful paddles all set and waiting at the baseline are some of the telltale markers you’ll see if you go past any court these days. And the game for which everyone is waiting in line? Pickleball.

What started out as a lighthearted weekend demonstration has swiftly grown into a major movement. Pickleball is becoming increasingly popular across the nation, and it’s not by coincidence. The sport is evolving from unstructured play to a national framework that unites players, organizers, and communities under the direction of the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF). Growing the game sustainably and correctly is the ambitiously basic goal.

So, who’s drawing up the game plan, if you’ll ask? PPF. This organization is recognized by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, and a Founding Member of the Global Pickleball Federation. PPF means serious business, as they’re doing much more than just handing out paddles.

Raising the bar even higher, PPF launched the Philippine Pickleball Participant (PPP) Registry, a national database for players, coaches, and officials. Leveling up the experience, PPF also implemented the Official National Ranking System last January 1, 2026.

“In just a few years, we have seen tremendous organic growth (in Pickleball), and that’s something we celebrate. But now, it’s time to support that enthusiasm with systems that ensure fairness, credibility, and long-term development,” said Shery Anne Cu, President, Philippine Pickleball Federation.

Behind the scenes, the federation is creating and setting down standardized pathways for tournaments, officiating, and coaching. This brings clarity and consistency to every level of play, ensuring that everyone, from energetic first-timers to seasoned senior players, can step onto the court knowing that they’re part of an inclusive, safe, and well-organized ecosystem.

Building on that commitment, Skechers embraced pickleball at its grassroots stage and advocated for PPF since the rise of the sport. Going beyond traditional support, Skechers developed a dedicated pickleball footwear that’s engineered specifically for the court.

At the same time, Skechers has demonstrated its wholehearted involvement to the sport by supporting key events, with highlights like the Street Pickleball exhibition, which took place in late November 2025 at the GPF Global Pickleball Congress, as well as the first-ever Philippine Pickleball National Championship held last May 30 to June 1, 2025. The brand also welcomed professional pickleball champions like Sarah Jane Lim-Narvasa and Leander Lazaro as official Skechers Pickleball Athletes. For Skechers, it’s clear that this isn’t just a partnership. It’s a shared journey, from start to finish.

If there’s another defining moment that shows how far the sport has come, it’s this: the inaugural Skechers Pickleball 1st Philippine Pickleball Amateur Nationals, set to take place from March 28 to March 30 at Tela Park Pickleball Center, Las Piñas City. Co-presented by Skechers, the Nationals are more than just another tournament—they’re a statement. In addition, the scheduled competitions will be the second tournament in contribution to the official national rankings. It’s a defining milestone for the federation’s long-term development plan. The said event brings together amateur players from across the country to compete under standards that champion safety, fairness, and excellence.

Learn more about the mechanics here. 

“For us, the Nationals mark a turning point for pickleball in the country. It’s inspiring to see Filipinos step onto the court and into a more connected community with Skechers every step of the way,” said Sue Pasustento, Country Manager, Skechers Philippines.

And pickleball’s impact? It doesn’t stop at the baseline. Beyond the competition, the sport promotes active lifestyles, strengthens community bonds, and contributes to sports tourism and local economies through organized events and competitions. Because of this, Filipino players are no longer limited to local courts, with clear pathways now in place, they’re beginning to set their sights not only on regional stages, but also on international ones.

Away from the spotlight, PPF continues to do the essential groundwork: collaborating with tournament organizers, aligning best practices, and building a credible national calendar through structured sanctioning frameworks. There are also media briefings and planning sessions that further reinforce the federation’s 2026 priorities. It also spotlights partners and contributors who share a common vision—not just to grow the sport fast, but to grow it responsibly.

“What we are building is not just tournaments. We are building a credible pathway for athletes, a coordinated environment for organizers, a transparent ranking system, and a sustainable future for the sport in the country,” Cu shared.

Cu went on to say that the federation, organizers, players, and partners must continue to work together for pickleball to be a huge success in the nation.

With all of these combined efforts, pickleball is becoming more than just a fad in the Philippines. It’s a burgeoning community sport propelled by players who are just getting started, inspired by passion, and supported by a robust national framework. One thing is evident from events like the Nationals on March 28–30: Filipino pickleball’s future is not only bright but already underway.

***

Think you’ve got the game, grit, and heart for pickleball? Make it official, be part of the country’s fastest-growing sport and step onto the court by signing up at registry.pickleball.ph

 

 

March 12, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

As the official bank partner of Theatre Group Asia’s “Season of Power,” BPI increases access to top-notch theater

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is collaborating with Theatre Group Asia for their 2026–2027 “Season of Power,” which will feature three significant foreign and Philippine performances centered on themes of love, life, and art in an effort to provide more Filipinos with access to global creative experiences.

Through this partnership, BPI and Robinsons Bank cardholders can purchase tickets through TicketWorld and take advantage of special benefits, such as 10% off select merchandise, restaurants, and concessions inside the theater during show runs, enabling patrons to fully enjoy the theater outside of the stage.

“The arts play an important role in shaping who we are as a people—reflecting our stories, our creativity, and our shared aspirations,” said Alma Aldip, Group Head of Unsecured Lending and Cards at BPI. “Through our partnership with Theatre Group Asia, BPI is proud to help make world-class theater more accessible to Filipinos, while supporting platforms that showcase Filipino talent and strengthen our cultural identity on the global stage.”

The season opens with a return to one of musical theater’s most enduring stories about ambition, identity, and the pursuit of artistic dreams.

This March, Filipino audiences can experience Broadway in Manila with James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante’s A Chorus Line, running March 12 to 29, 2026 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. The production will be directed and choreographed by award-winning Filipino creative Karla Puno Garcia, featuring Philippine-based performers alongside international artists of Filipino heritage—reflecting the global footprint of Filipino talent and storytelling.

The broader “Season of Power” continues this narrative of human resilience, love, identity, and artistic expression through a lineup of globally recognized productions staged for local audiences:

  • The Notebook: The Musical— International premiere, September 2026
    A story of enduring love, memory, and devotion across time, adapted from the beloved novel and film.
  • Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba— Philippine premiere, February 2027
    A powerful retelling of Federico García Lorca’s classic, exploring repression, family dynamics, and female agency within a traditional household.
  • Stephen Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George— Philippine premiere, June 2027
    A meditation on art, legacy, and creative obsession, inspired by the life of painter Georges Seurat.

BPI and Robinsons Bank cardholders will have exclusive pre-sale access to these shows.

Tickets may be purchased via www.ticketworld.com.ph using BPI or Robinsons Bank credit or debit cards, while supplies last.

By supporting productions like these, BPI continues to stand behind platforms where creativity flourishes, helping bring global stories to local audiences while celebrating the artistry and passion of Filipino performers and creatives.

Download the Oh My Deals app to discover exclusive perks and offers for your next theater experience.

Visit Oh My Deals or https://www.bpi.com.ph/personal/cards/credit-cards to learn more about BPI card promotions and to benefit from special offers! app

 

 

March 12, 2026 by
Entertainment, Lifestyle

Movement, Memory, and Migration: Exploring the Wider Impact of Paglalakbay

Migration has long been an important part of the Filipino experience. As an archipelagic country shaped by a long history of maritime travel, crossing the seas—for exploration, trade, work, or survival—has greatly influenced Filipino identity through the generations. Within this broader cultural background, Paglalakbay, an upcoming ballet by Ballet Philippines, explores themes of journey, displacement, and the search for belonging.

Although the production is inspired by the early seafaring traditions of island communities, its concept reflects a continuing story that reaches into the present. Today, the Philippines remains one of the world’s leading sources of overseas workers, with millions of Filipinos living and working abroad. This widespread migration has created a large diaspora, forming strong connections of family, labor, and cultural exchange across different parts of the world.

With the dancers during the press launch

Migration has deeply shaped the Filipino identity, from the early seafaring journeys of island communities to the present-day movement of Filipinos working abroad. This long history of crossing seas reflects the resilience and determination of Filipinos in search of better opportunities and a sense of belonging. Paglalakbay by Ballet Philippines highlights this continuing story, showing how migration has connected Filipino families, cultures, and communities across the world, while still keeping strong ties to the Philippines.

In this sense, migration is not merely a historical phenomenon but an ongoing social reality. The emotional and cultural dimensions of leaving home—separation from family, adaptation to unfamiliar environments, and the preservation of identity across distance—have become deeply embedded in the national consciousness.

Paglalakbay approaches these themes through the language of dance rather than direct narrative. The libretto is intentionally structured as a poetic framework rather than a linear historical account, allowing movement to articulate experiences that are often difficult to express through words alone. Through choreography, gesture, and spatial composition, the ballet reflects on the physical and emotional dynamics of departure, endurance, and return.

Choreographer Mikhail Martynyuk interprets these ideas through shifting ensemble formations and fluid patterns of movement that suggest both collective journeys and individual experiences. Composer Vincenzo de Leon’s score creates an atmospheric sonic environment that evokes the vastness of the sea—a recurring symbol in both the historical and contemporary narratives of migration. Visual artist Leeroy New contributes a stage design that gestures toward landscapes shaped by wind, stone, and horizon, reinforcing the sense of movement across space and time.

Within this framework, Paglalakbay can be understood not only as an artistic production but also as a cultural reflection. The ballet gestures toward the continuity between ancient patterns of mobility and modern forms of transnational movement, highlighting how the idea of journey remains central to Filipino life.

The work also carries a more personal dimension. The production’s co-producer notes that the project was partly inspired by reflections on family and intergenerational memory, particularly the ways in which heritage and identity are transmitted through lived experience. In this regard, the ballet’s exploration of migration becomes both collective and intimate, acknowledging the many ways individuals carry their sense of home across distance.

Ultimately, Paglalakbay proposes that movement—whether across oceans, cultures, or generations—is fundamental to the human story. By engaging with migration as both historical legacy and contemporary reality, the ballet invites audiences to reflect on the enduring relationship between place, memory, and identity within the Filipino experience.

“PAGLALAKBAY: The Journey of the Sea People” runs from April 10 to 12, 2026, at the Theatre at Solaire. Tickets are available via www.ticketworld.com.ph, www.ballet.ph, and the Solaire Box Office.

Ballet Philippines (BP) is the Philippines’ premier professional company for classical and contemporary dance and the first resident company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). It was established in 1969 together with the CCP during a significant period in the nation’s cultural development. For more than five decades, BP has helped shape modern Filipino identity through creative productions that combine classical technique with uniquely Filipino movement and storytelling.

With a repertoire of over 400 works, Ballet Philippines continues to showcase Filipino stories on the international stage. As a cultural representative of the Philippines, BP lives out its 56th season theme, Our Stage, The World, promoting local artistry while connecting with audiences around the globe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 11, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

PHILIPPINE BOOK FESTIVAL 2026 STRENGTHENS ITS COMMITMENT TO THE GROWTH OF LOCAL PUBLISHING

THE National Book Development Board (NBDB) is all set for the 4th Philippine Book Festival (PBF)— the country’s only marketplace dedicated exclusively to all-Filipino books and published works, and a shared third place for publishers, writers, illustrators, readers, educators, and industry stakeholders. The festival runs from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the Megatrade Hall, 5th Floor, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

“With the continued interest we saw in the last few years, we are encouraged by the growing appreciation for Filipino stories and content,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade. “The strong public response affirms that there is a meaningful demand for books that reflect our own culture, languages, and lived experiences.”

Building on that momentum, the NBDB sees PBF 2026 as an opportunity not only to expand visitor turnout and exhibitor participation but also to strengthen access to locally produced books and learning materials. In a milestone for the festival, Day 1 (March 12) will be open to the general public for the first time, welcoming all readers alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) and its book evaluators from across the country.

Four Realms, One Rainforest

PBF 2026 reimagines its four signature realms within a rainforest-inspired setting. Aral Aklat highlights books as tools for learning and discovery, featuring textbooks and teaching guides. Booktopia invites visitors to explore the breadth of Filipino fiction and nonfiction. Kid Lit nurtures early readers through interactive, child-friendly experiences. Komiks celebrates the visual richness of Filipino comics and graphic storytelling.

This year’s lineup brings together the full spectrum of Philippine literary life. National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and prominent historian Ambeth Ocampo will be on hand for book signings alongside trade-book superstars Jonaxx and Ron Canimo, kidlit masters Eugene Evasco and Luis Gatmaitan, and komiks legends Manix Abrera and Pol Medina. GMA Network, together with PaperKat Books, will also launch “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre” at PBF 2026.

Beyond the realms, the festival offers a range of spaces for connection: Lugar Lagdaan for book signings and reader-author meetups; Bahay Ilustrador for a look into the world of visual storytellers; Gubat ng Karunungan for workshops, talks, and masterclasses; the Fiesta Stage for major programming and performances; and Umpukan for informal community conversations.

The NBDB, in cooperation with the National Library of the Philippines, will also feature facsimiles of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Doctrina Christiana, and Fr. Manuel Blanco’s Flora de Filipinas—rare works that anchor the festival in the Philippines’ deep literary heritage.

A highlight of the four-day run is the 43rd National Book Awards (NBA), to be held on March 14 at the Fiesta Stage. The NBA acknowledges the works of authors, illustrators, editors, translators, and publishers whose books have helped shape the country’s literary landscape.

Into the Gubat ng Karunungan

This year’s festival takes its theme from the richness underfoot and overhead: Gubat ng Karunungan, or Rainforest of Knowledge. The key visual, crafted by returning artist and designer Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, follows two characters, Yaz and Ye-ey, as they journey through a teeming rainforest, taking in its flora, fauna, and falls.

Drawing on his daily life at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, Atienza wove recycled paper into the artwork as a deliberate gesture: the same trees that give us paper carry the stories we tell. “Our stories, our books, and our karunungan all start here—in the biodiversity we need to protect,” he said.

A Festival Dedicated to Philippine Literature

“The Philippine Book Festival is positioned not only as a literary event but also as a third place that connects key players in the publishing and education sectors,” Aquino-Tugade said. “By convening publishers, institutional buyers, educators, and readers in a single venue, the festival supports broader efforts to improve access to quality Philippine books and sustain the local publishing industry.”

“Let’s make the Philippines not just a nation of readers, but a global powerhouse of authors and creators,” Aquino-Tugade concluded. #

Follow @nbdbphilippines (Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok) or visit books.gov.ph to learn more.

March 11, 2026 by