Browsing Category

Lifestyle

Fashion, Lifestyle

2026 Kicks Off Strong in Cebu at SM Supermalls

The New Year demands a more ambitious start and exciting new experiences. It’s heartbreaking to say goodbye to 2025 and start over, but it’s unquestionably exciting, and SM Supermalls is here to make sure you start the year as high and thrilling as possible.

With a spectacular tour of SM J Mall, the newest shopping gem in Cebu, let’s celebrate 2026 together. This carefully chosen selection of essentials is sure to please your daring, always changing taste, from eye-catching discoveries to lifestyle enhancements that create a stir. Together, let’s light up the New Year with eruptive possibilities and flaming new energy!

Trendy Finds and Explosive Surprises

With its vibrant interiors and shelves bursting with everything your heart desires, the newly opened KKV is not just a lifestyle hub—it’s a full-on treasure hunt waiting to happen. Bring your friends and wander through endless aisles of trendy must-haves, from makeup and skincare to delicious snacks and tech accessories. Who knows? You might just score the perfect little gem to kick off the New Year with a bang!

Megawatt Glam For The New Year

Step into the new year with an ultra-glamorous pair of shoes from Clube Melissa. Strut with newfound confidence and flair in jelly flats, heels, and sandals that combine cosmopolitan style with unmatched durability. With shoes this fierce and sturdy, you’re sure to treasure them for many years to come.

Full Charge Into The Year

Charge up the hype with WIWU! From power banks to cables, to hundreds of quirky, eye-catching mobile accessories—you can flex your own unique style while keeping your tech last longer than a New Year’s Eve party.

Cue The Sweet Explosion

Make every handaan boom-worthy with a mind-blowingly delicious cake from Conti’s. Featuring their signature Pistachio Crunch, Mango Bravo, and other irresistible pasalubong favorites, it’s no wonder Conti’s is every Filipino’s go-to for a show-stopping celebration centerpiece.

  • Carmen’s Best

Something sweet is finally here. Carmen’s Best is now open, bringing its signature handcrafted ice cream made with rich, high-quality ingredients. From timeless favorites to indulgent flavors, this new spot promises to add a delicious twist to your mall visits.

New Stores For Amped-up Fun

Aside from our all-time favorites, we’ve got even more in store for you this 2026! In just a few months, these much-awaited shops will open their doors to the public, giving you and your family even more jaw-droppingly fun spots to explore, shop, and enjoy.

  • UGreen

Juice up your 2026 with UGreen, your soon-to-open top tech spot designed to keep all your celebratory moments to all your gadgets fully powered. From fast chargers to hubs and power banks, their reliable accessories will make sure every device never falters all year long.

  • WATCHprofile

Countdown’s on! Unlock WATCHprofile in just a few months and customize watches and digital timepieces—because the moments don’t stop when New Year’s Eve ends.

  • Wilson

Serve up explosive gameplay at the soon-to-open Wilson. With high-performance tennis, basketball, and baseball gear, you’ll be setting serious sports standards with their must-have athletic essentials.

Let’s say it again: 2026 is YOUR year to succeed! Leave the past behind as your taste continues to change and enter a bolder, more optimistic “new you” age, driven by the carefully chosen items at SM Supermalls. We’re providing you with all the energy, flair, and spark you need to take over the year with SM as your guide.

Additionally, there are more reasons than ever to shop at SM J Mall now that even more eagerly awaited stores are opening. Have fun and let SM Supermalls light up your New Year and beyond!

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 7, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Beyond the Rhythm: How Coca-Cola Used Music, Flavor, and Community to Reimagine the Dinagyang Experience

Bold local flavors across Iloilo’s streets lead festivalgoers to reach for an ice-cold Coke, completing every delicious food find at the festival. Photo credit: Maiko Bryan Diesto (Drinking Nose on Facebook)

Almost two weeks after the final drum beats subsided, Iloilo is still buzzing with the excitement of Dinagyang 2026. This year was more than just a festival appearance for Coca-Cola Philippines; it was a celebration of the company’s long-standing ties to the province, which go back to the late 1940s.

Coca-Cola celebrated the Ilonggo spirit it has been serving for almost 80 years by putting a strong emphasis on community and culture, acting as a true local partner rooted in the streets.

A Legacy of ‘Lasang Lokal’

At the heart of Dinagyang is the food. The Coca-Cola Food Fest at Delgado Street and Megaworld Mandurriao turned street-side dining into a cultural highlight. By pairing ice-cold Coca-Cola™ with local favorites, the brand celebrated the ‘Lasang Lokal’ (local taste) that defines the city’s famous food scene.

This connection is long-standing. Since the company established its Iloilo operations in the 1940s, Coca-Cola has been a staple at family mealtimes and in the sari-sari stores found in every corner of the community.

A Stage for Local Pride

Since the Dinagyang Festival officially began in 1968, Coca-Cola has been an active participant in this 50-year-old tradition. This year, Coke Studio™ honored this shared history by spotlighting homegrown talent. Iloilo’s very own Mary Anjolie and Your X Boyfriends shared the stage with popular national acts like Ena Mori and Over October – a high-energy celebration of Filipino music, and a quiet nod to the Ilonggo soul.

Local and rising OPM artists lit up the Coke Studio concert, bringing high-energy performances and collaborations to the streets of Iloilo. Relive the moments here.

Fun Live Experiences for the Next Generation

To match the festival’s high energy, Coca-Cola created interactive spaces for Gen Zs, the country’s new culture creators.

Festivalgoers savor the delicious taste of Royal at the Royal Booth through playful games and shared moments.

The Royal™ Booth at Megaworld Boulevard offered ‘Mwah-sarap’ fun moments where festivalgoers engaged in Snap N’ Slay photo challenges. Meanwhile, the Lift® Zone, dedicated to the new drink that fits your every mode, hosted fast-paced games for those with a competitive streak.

LIFT brings its challenger spirit to Dinagyang as participants take on fast-paced challenges and push their limits.

A Cleaner Way to Celebrate

True partnership means taking a fair share in keeping communities clean. Through the Coca-Cola Tapon to Ipon program – a nationwide collection initiative for PET bottles – Coca-Cola set up collection points across Iloilo City to ensure recyclable plastic (PET) bottles were recovered instead of becoming litter.

Festivalgoers take part in Coca-Cola Philippines’ Tapon to Ipon initiative, encouraging proper PET bottle disposal and promoting responsible celebration during Dinagyang.

Festivalgoers were encouraged to exchange empty plastic bottles for Coca-Cola products. The goal is to divert these collected PET bottles to PETValue Philippines*, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility. PETValue then turns post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging. The initiative proves that Filipinos can – and should – enjoy grand traditions while actively participating in keeping their communities clean.

Rooted Locally

“Dinagyang is all about people coming together, and that’s what makes it special,” said Frenissa Lagman, Frontline Sr. Marketing Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “Our history with Iloilo goes back to the late 1940s. Being part of the local celebrations for over 50 years means adding real value to the experience, whether through music, food, or supporting the community’s goals of keeping festivals clean.”

Coca-Cola’s involvement at Dinagyang 2026 serves as a reminder that brands can be more than simply a name on a sign; they can be a local partner and an important part of the city’s story as Iloilo resumes its everyday routine.

Visit www.coca-cola.com or follow the official Coca-Cola Philippines sites on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.

NOTE:

*PETValue Philippines, a joint venture between Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP) and Indorama Ventures, turns post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging. It is located at General Trias, Cavite.

February 6, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Opening with Record Attendance, ProPak Philippines 2026 Promotes Consumer-Conscious Innovation for Leadership in the Global Market

Taken during the ProPak Philippines 2026 Opening (from left): MS. ANIDELLE JOY M. ALGUSO, Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority; HON. DANIEL ATAYDE, Assistant Secretary for Logistics of the Agricultural and Fisheries Logistics Office (AFLO), Department of Agriculture; HON. RENATO U. SOLIDUM, JR., Secretary of Department of Science and Technology; MS. RUNGPHECH CHITANUWAT, Country General Manager of Informa Markets in the Philippines; and MR. JEREMIAH C. REYES, Chief of Staff of Department of Trade and Industry-Office of Secretary.

With the theme “Consumer-Conscious Innovation: Driving Global Competitiveness and Sustainability,” the 6th ProPak Philippines officially opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, marking a significant year for the country’s top international processing and packaging trade show. Over 250 businesses from both domestic and foreign markets participated in the opening ceremony, which attracted unprecedented government support and industry involvement. Over 10,000 people were anticipated to attend the three-day event.

Industry Transformation Is Driven by Strong Government Leadership

Ms. Anidelle Joy Alguso, Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority; Mr. Jeremiah C. Reyes, Chief-of-Staff of the Department of Trade and Industry – Office of the Secretary; and Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) were among the distinguished government officials who graced the opening ceremony. They emphasized the strategic importance of the processing and packaging sector to national economic growth and food security.

Visiting the ProPak Philippines booth was a great learning experience for me. I was able to see firsthand how consumer-conscious innovation and sustainable practices are shaping the processing and packaging industry. Talking to exhibitors and exploring the booths helped me better understand the role of government and industry collaboration in driving global competitiveness and food security in the Philippines.

Industry Leader Highlights Market Opportunities and Growth Potential

Rose Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines, delivered compelling insights about the expanding processing and packaging landscape during the ceremony. “The processing and packaging industry in the Philippines is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by evolving consumer demands, e-commerce expansion, and sustainability imperatives,” Chitanuwat remarked. “This sector represents opportunities that extend beyond traditional manufacturing to encompass innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable development. The convergence of consumer consciousness and technological advancement is creating new market segments and business models that position the Philippines as a regional hub for sustainable packaging solutions.”

She further emphasized, “What we’re witnessing is not just industry growth, but industry transformation. Companies that embrace consumer-conscious innovation today will lead tomorrow’s markets, capturing both domestic opportunities and export potential in an increasingly sustainability-focused global economy.”

Government-Industry Collaboration Energizes Market Dynamics

The event showcases the powerful synergy between government partners and industry stakeholders, creating an ecosystem that accelerates innovation and market development. This collaboration brings

unprecedented energy to the processing and packaging market through coordinated policy support, research and development initiatives, and strategic investment facilitation.

Government partners, including Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, and Philippine Economic Zone Authority, are working alongside industry associations and private sector leaders to create enabling environments for sustainable technology adoption, skills development, and market access. This unified approach is generating momentum that extends beyond individual company capabilities, fostering industry-wide transformation and competitive advantage.

Comprehensive Exhibition Floor Addresses Critical Industry Themes

ProPak Philippines 2026 features expanded content areas addressing the most pressing industry challenges and opportunities. This year, it will be the first time for the event to host alongside with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority a seminar series to learn how sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity are shaping the future of industrial growth in PEZA Ecozones, HALAL Conference by the Department of Trade Industry – Export Marketing Bureau on the growing importance of halal-certified products in the global market and DrinkTech where insightful discussions on the latest advancements in beverage technology will be covered. Other content sessions and activities involved packaging training courses, and forum, sustainability forum, and packaging clinic for hands-on consultation where participants can receive expert advice on improving their packaging solutions.

Record Participation Reflects Industry Momentum

With more than 250 exhibiting companies representing both established market leaders and emerging innovators, ProPak Philippines 2026 demonstrates the sector’s robust growth trajectory. The expected 10,000 visitors include manufacturers, processors, packaging specialists, technology providers, of development opportunities.

International participation spans key markets across several countries, bringing global best practices and cutting-edge technologies directly to Philippine industry professionals. This international dimension enhances knowledge transfer and positions local companies for expanded market reach.

Driving National Competitiveness Through Innovation

ProPak Philippines 2026 strengthens the Philippines’ standing as Southeast Asia’s leading center for processing and packaging innovation. The event stimulates the change required to successfully compete in worldwide markets while satisfying changing customer expectations for sustainable, high-quality products by bringing together government leadership, industry knowledge, and international technology providers.

With specialized conferences, technical seminars, practical workshops, and business matching sessions aimed at converting insights into workable business plans and collaborations, the three-day event runs through February 6.

For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com.

 

February 4, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric Cavite Smart Factory: The First 100% Renewable Energy Ecozone Site in Luzon Government

  • Schneider Electric’s Cavite Smart Factory is the first manufacturing site in a Luzon economic zone and the first Schneider Electric factory in East Asia to operate on 100% renewable energy.
  • The transition was made possible through partnerships with Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Meralco Ecozone Power (MEP), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), and ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES).
  • The Cavite facility, a key hub in Schneider Electric’s East Asia supply chain supporting 1,300 employees, now serves as a model for sustainable, smart manufacturing

Marking 30 years in the Philippines, Schneider Electric transitions its Cavite Smart Factory to renewable energy–first in a Luzon government economic zone–reinforcing its commitment to clean power. Photo from Schneider Electric Philippines.

A new standard for industrial sustainability in the Philippines was set when Schneider Electric, a leader in worldwide energy technology, recently converted its Smart Factory in Rosario, Cavite, to 100% renewable energy.

The Cavite Smart Factory is the first Schneider Electric facility in East Asia to run totally on clean electricity and the first industrial facility in a government-run economic zone in Luzon to switch completely to renewable energy. The changeover, which was finished on December 26, 2025, marked the end of Schneider Electric’s 30th year in the Philippines. On January 14, 2026, the firm celebrated its 190th global foundation year.

Schneider Electric celebrates the 100% renewable energy milestone at its Cavite Smart Factory with partners PEZA, CEZ, MEP, IEMOP, and ACEN RES, highlighting the power of cross-sector collaboration in advancing the Philippines’ energy transition. [L-R: Engr. Alejo Macaraeg, Deputy Administrator, Cavite Economic Zone; Engr. Ronald Torres, General Manager, Meralco Ecozone Power; Antonio Cheng Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director, Schneider Electric Philippines, Tony Valdez, Senior Vice President for Market Transformation (Philippine Operations), ACEN RES; Ireen Catane, Country President, Schneider Electric Philippines; and Arjon Valencia, Corporate Planning and Communications Manager, IEMOP]

The milestone was achieved through collaboration with partners including the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Meralco Ecozone Power (MEP), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), and ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), underscoring the role of cross-sector partnerships in accelerating the country’s energy transition.

“By moving our Cavite Smart Factory to 100% renewable energy, we are demonstrating that sustainability and industrial competitiveness can go hand in hand,” said Antonio Cheng, Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director. “This facility shows what can be achieved when innovation and collaboration come together and we hope it serves as a model for more Philippine manufacturers to follow.”

The transition to 100% renewable energy was made possible through the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), which allows eligible customers to choose renewable power suppliers. With the program relying on multiple stakeholders, ACEN, PEZA, CEZ, and MEP emphasized that partnerships between companies and institutions are critical to accelerating the country’s energy transition. “We commend Schneider Electric for collaborating with partners and embracing innovations that align with our shared vision of a more sustainable and inclusive energy future,” said Arjon Valencia, Corporate Planning and Communications Manager of IEMOP, the central registration body for the GEOP.

The move is also part of Schneider Electric’s broader effort to decarbonize its operations and value chain in line with its net-zero targets. Since 2018, the company has helped customers save and avoid 729 million tonnes of CO₂, reduced emissions across its top 1,000 suppliers by 53% since 2020, and expanded access to green electricity to more than 60 million people since 2009. Over the same period, Schneider Electric has trained more than 1 million people in energy management, underpinning the company’s long-running sustainability program and contribution to its repeated global recognitions–including from TIME Magazine and Statista, and from Corporate Knights, as the World’s Most Sustainable Company, in 2025.

With over 1,300 employees, the Cavite Smart Factory now serves as a strategic hub within Schneider Electric’s East Asia supply chain network. Established in 1996 and integrated into Schneider Electric in 2007 through the acquisition of American Power Conversion (APC), the site supports global markets across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa through the production of secure power and industrial automation solutions.

“We will continue to provide solutions that help industries reduce carbon emissions while maintaining efficiency and resilience in the way we operate,” shared Antonio Cheng, Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director of Schneider Electric Philippines.

Schneider Electric is positioned as a leader in the deployment of sustainable energy thanks to the Cavite Smart Factory switch, demonstrating how innovation transforms sustainability pledges into practical effects.

 

 

 

 

February 3, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Travel

Vietjet reports impressive 2025 results, including a 47% increase in Q4 revenue and an expansion of its global network

*Launched Manila – Ho Chi Minh service in Q4/2025

Strong revenue and profit gains in the fourth quarter and the entire year of 2025 were announced by Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company (HOSE: VJC), highlighting the airline’s adaptable and efficient operational capabilities. These outcomes give Vietjet a strong base on which to build its ambitious worldwide expansion plans for 2026.

Effective operations sustain profit growth momentum

According to its financial documents, Vietjet achieved consolidated revenue of VND82.093 trillion (about. US$3.16 billion) for the full year, an increase of 14% YoY. Separate revenue increased 47% year over year to VND29.035 trillion (about US$1.11 billion) in Q4 of 2025.

The airline’s separate gross profit for 2025 stood at VND8.213 trillion (approx. US$316.2 million), driven by network expansion and lower fuel costs compared to the previous year.

The airline’s profitability increased in 2025. For the full year, consolidated post-tax profit reached VND2.123 trillion (approx. US$81.7 million), growing 51.2%, and exceeding 120% of the annual plan.

As of December 31, 2025, Vietjet’s total assets reached VND139.459 trillion (approx. US$5.37 billion). The net debt-to-equity ratio stood at 2.25, while the liquidity ratio reached 1.53, among the strongest in the aviation industry.

During the year, Vietjet successfully issued 50 million shares, increasing equity by VND5 trillion (approx. US$192.6 million), to support long-term growth.

Expanding flight network drives market leadership

In 2025, the airline carried 28.2 million passengers on 153,000 flights, representing YoY growth of 9% and 11.2%, respectively. In Q4/2025 alone, Vietjet transported more than 6.7 million passengers across 36,100 flights.

Vietjet continues to hold the leading market share in Vietnam by passenger volumes across both domestic and international markets.

The airline currently operates 254 routes, including 52 domestic and 202 international services, and launched 22 new routes last year, connecting Vietnam to key destinations, including Central Asia and China. Notably, this included the launch of weekly direct flights between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City in Q4/2025.

Strengthening international cooperation and long-term investment

Q4/2025 marked major milestones in the Vietjet’s long-term investment strategy, with the delivery of 22 new aircraft, representing the airline’s largest fleet expansion since its establishment.

During the year, Vietjet signed an agreement with Airbus to buy 100 A321neo aircraft, along with a separate contract with Rolls-Royce for 92 Trent 7000 engines and comprehensive maintenance services, valued at US$3.8 billion.

Strengthening customer experience through innovation, technology and global awards

Vietjet continued to expand its service offerings, including Business class tickets, the SkyJoy loyalty program, in-flight retail, multi-channel booking and payment platforms, and its AI virtual assistant, Amy. Operational upgrades included the adoption of biometric identification at check-in to improve service efficiency.

In 2025, Vietjet received several international recognitions, including:

  • World’s Safest Airlines and Best Ultra Low-Cost Airline (AirlineRatings)
  • Asia’s Leading Airline for Customer Service (World Travel Awards)
  • Most Valuable Airline Brands in ASEAN 2025 (Brand Finance)
  • Gold Award at ESG Transport Sustainability Awards (Taiwan)

Vietjet is well-positioned to pursue sustainable growth and global expansion in 2026 thanks to its solid financial performance, quickly growing fleet, strengthened operational capabilities, and increased international partnerships.

Further information at www.vietjetair.com

 

February 3, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

The Metrobank Travel Fair returns this February with travel discounts you can’t miss

If seeing more of the world is in your 2026 vision board, consider this your sign to schedule that vacation. Top airlines, hotels, luxury cruises, travel agencies, tourism boards, and other travel necessities will all be together under one roof at The Metrobank Travel Fair, which will take place in the Glorietta Activity Center from February 20–22, 2026.

Whether you’re planning a solo backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, a family cruise, or a long-awaited luxury retreat, the three-day event is aimed to help visitors get fantastic deals for their 2026 adventures.

The fair officially opens on February 20 (Friday) with an exclusive early morning access (10:00 AM to 12:00 NN) for Metrobank World Mastercard and Metrobank Travel Signature Visa credit cardholders, offering them first pick of the deals. Then from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM of February 20 and 10:00AM to 8:00 PM of February 21 to 22, the event welcomes all Metrobank credit, debit, and prepaid cardholders.

This year’s travel partners features the industry’s heavy hitters, including:

  • Airlines:Philippine Airlines, AirAsia | TravelOnline PH, All Nippon Airways, Cebu Pacific (bookings facilitated by select travel agencies at the fair) Gulf Air, Japan Airlines, Jeju Air, Korean Air, SAUDIA, STARLUX Airlines, Sunlight Air, Thai Airways, Qantas Airlines, and United Airlines
  • Hotels and Resorts:Accor Plus, Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts, Crimson Resort and Spa, Boracay, Discovery hotels and resorts, El Nido Resorts, Edsa Shangri-La, Manila, Makati Shangri-La, Manila, Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu, and The Ascott Limited
  • Travel Agencies: Ark Travel Express, Inc., AMKOR Travel and Tours, Constellation Travels Inc., D’World Specialists Travel & Tours, Island Resort Club Tour Services, Inc., Rakso Air Travel & Tours, Inc., Sharp Travel Service
  • Cruises:Executive Resources, Inc., Disney Cruise Line, Amawaterways, Swan Hellenic Expedition Cruises, Riverside Luxury Cruises, and Star Dream Cruises
  • Other Services: Enjoy discounts for your travel essentials from American Tourister, AXA, Big Sky Nation, Klook, Power Mac Center, and Samsonite.
  • Tourism Boards:Featured booths from the tourism boards of Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, and Thailand
  • Online Merchants: You may book via the self-service online merchant counters at the fair or through the online platform of Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Agoda, com, AirAsia MOVE, and Trip.com

And beyond discounted fares, Metrobank is layering on rewards to make your spend even sweeter:

  • Win a Dream Vacation to the Land of Hallyu:Spend at least PHP10,000 single-receipt at the fair for a chance to win a 5-day, 4-night trip to Seoul, South Korea for two (2 winners) or a get full cashback of your total spend, capped at PHP100,000 (five winners).
  • Metrobank Mastercard Exclusive:Get PHP1,000 Giftaway eGC for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP10,000 at any participating merchant.
  • Metrobank Visa Cashback:Enjoy up to PHP10,000 cashback when you purchase from participating airlines:
  • PHP2,500 cashback for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP25,000
  • PHP10,000 cashback for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP100,000
    • Online Booking Bonuses:Planning to book via Agoda or Booking.com? Get PHP5,000 OFF for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP30,000 (registration required).
    • On-the-Go Treats:Play the Travel Fair Game on-site! Choose the right suitcase and you could win 1 pc. Chicken McDo with Drink to keep you fueled while you shop.

Have you not yet obtained a Metrobank credit card? Prior to the Travel Fair, you can apply for a Metrobank credit card online at https://application.metrobank.com.ph/ or in person.

Are you prepared to make a reservation? Don’t let your travel ambitions stay on paper. Mark your calendars for February 20-22, 2026 and head to Glorietta Activity Center to convert your 2026 vacation dreams into reality, made even more rewarding when you pay with your Metrobank credit and debit card.

Visit https://www.metrobank.com.ph/promos/2026-the-metrobank-travel-fair to learn more about The Metrobank Travel Fair.

To know more and get the latest on Metrobank, visit our website, https://www.metrobank.com.ph/home and follow our official social media pages on Facebook, X, Instagram, and Tiktok.

 

February 2, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK supports DOF reforms to increase life insurance availability

(From left to right) Princess Balingit, Pru Life UK Chief Investment Officer; Francis Ortega, Pru Life UK Financial Consultant; Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer; Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Frederick Go; Beth Villahermosa, Pru Life UK Chief Actuary; DOF Assistant Secretary Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston; and Atty. Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal and Government Relations Officer

Pru Life UK met with the Department of Finance (DOF) to help advance policy debates that enable a more robust, inclusive, and sustainable life insurance business as more Filipino families seek more financial security in the face of a rapidly changing economic scenario.

Pru Life UK executives, led by President and CEO Sanjay Chakrabarty, held a courtesy meeting with DOF Secretary Frederick Go and Assistant Secretary Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston to discuss specific regulatory reforms that can improve access and customer experience for Filipino consumers while strengthening the industry.

The dialogue reflects shared priorities around financial inclusion and economic resilience. It reinforces Pru Life UK’s role as a committed public-private partner in supporting national development goals and long-term household security.

During the meeting, key policy areas discussed included:

  • Making it easier for banks to offer life insurance and related products, improving customer experience and widening access
  • Reviewing life insurance tax rules to help keep protection affordable and support long-term financial security
  • Updating investment rules under the Insurance Code to strengthen industry stability and support sustainable long-term returns

These reforms can help broaden insurance reach, strengthen consumer protection, and enable the life insurance sector to contribute more meaningfully to inclusive economic growth, supporting families, communities, and national development.

“Our engagement with the Department of Finance reflects our shared goal of making long-term financial protection more accessible to more Filipinos, while ensuring the life insurance sector remains strong, stable, and sustainable,” said Chakrabarty. “We look forward to continued collaboration and policy dialogue that supports responsible growth, strengthens consumer outcomes, and advances a more resilient and inclusive insurance landscape for the Philippines.”

Pru Life UK is still dedicated to working with the government and regulators to advance reforms that Filipinos can rely on to enhance the experience, fortify the industry’s foundations, and assist larger initiatives to create a more resilient and financially secure Philippines.

Notes:

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year 

 

 

 

January 30, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Manila Water maintains the growth of its water delivery network and strengthens the consistency of its supply around-the-clock

Manila Water sustains massive expansion of water service connections. From January to November 2025, the company installed 19,421 new water service connections, bringing the total to 1,213,213 across the East Zone concession area since 1997. Supporting this growth is a water supply network that extended by 92.59 kilometers from January to November 2025.

Manila Water maintains a significant increase in the number of water service connections. The company’s dedication to satisfying the rising demand for dependable and clean water is demonstrated by the 19,421 new water service connections it established between January and November 2025, bringing the total to 1,213,213 throughout the East Zone concession area since 1997.

A strong water supply network, which expanded by 92.59 kilometers between January and November 2025 to reach a total length of 5,656.23 kilometers, supports this expansion.

This substantial infrastructure, combined with a non-revenue water level averaging below 15%, comparable to benchmarks in developed nations, enables Manila Water to continuously supply round-the-clock water service to its customers.

Non-revenue water refers to water lost through system leaks and illegal connections. Keeping this figure low is critical to sustaining reliable supply and operational efficiency.

“Our sustained expansion and operational efficiency reflect Manila Water’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable water service to every customer. Maintaining low non-revenue water levels and investing in a strong pipeline network allow us to ensure 24/7 water availability while supporting the growing needs of our communities,” said Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director.

Looking ahead, Manila Water remains dedicated to significantly expanding its water delivery network and boosting operational efficiency through continued investments in infrastructure and new technology. The corporation, which serves over 7.8 million consumers in the East Zone and is still expanding, wants to guarantee a sustainable water supply and meet the growing demands of the communities in its concession area in Metro Manila and Rizal.

 

 

January 30, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Travel

Sulit Vietnam Getaway: Vietjet offers 30% off Deluxe tickets for Vietnam trip in 2026

Hopon hopoff bus in HCMC

Your calendars need to be synchronized! Vietjet is assisting Filipinos in making their travel plans a reality as a new round of holidays approaches. From January 27 to 29, 2026, Vietjet is giving up to 30% off Deluxe tickets, enticing tourists to begin making holiday plans for Vietnam in 2026.

Travelers purchasing Deluxe tickets and using the special code DLXVJ through www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile application will receive a 30% discount on base rates (excluding taxes and fees) from 00:00 on January 27 to the end of January 29, 2026 (GMT+8). All Vietjet domestic and international routes, including the Manila-Ho Chi Minh City route with travel dates from February 1 to December 31, 2026 (*), are eligible for the deal.

Whether you’re eyeing a quick three-day food crawl in Ho Chi Minh City or a grand family vacation across Hanoi and Da Nang, this 71-hour flash sale is the sign you’ve been waiting for to book that 2026 escape. The airline operates daily direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City from Manila, offering extensive connections across Vietnam and the wider Asia-Pacific region through its broad flight network.

Vietjet understands Filipinos don’t travel light, especially when there’s world-class coffee and affordable shopping involved. Vietjet’s Deluxe fare is designed for a stress-free barkada or family trip.

Vietjet_cabin crew

Vietjet’s Deluxe fare is designed to provide passengers with a comfortable and flexible travel experience, including 20kg of baggage allowance, complimentary seat selection, free flight schedule changes, and additional included benefits (**).

Spring is one of the most appealing times to visit Vietnam with pleasant weather and a festive atmosphere across the country. From cultural celebrations during the Lunar New Year month to exploring Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, rich heritage, and renowned cuisine, the season provides an ideal setting for memorable travel experiences.

Vietjet provides simple flight alternatives to help tourists make the most of every trip to Vietnam, from extended holidays to cultural excursions and spring escapes.

Vietjet aircraft

On Vietjet’s contemporary, fuel-efficient aircraft, travelers may savor a variety of hot meals, including Vietnamese specialties and international cuisine, provided by skilled staff. Additionally, over 250 partner brands in travel, dining, shopping, and lifestyle services allow members of the SkyJoy loyalty program to accrue and redeem points.

(*) Travel periods may vary by route, blackout dates apply, and public holidays are excluded

(**) Terms and conditions apply

Further information at www.vietjetair.com

 

 

January 26, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

As a Cisco Preferred Networking Partner under the Cisco 360 Partner Program Framework, Eastern Communications dominates the Philippine market

From L to R: Cisco PH Partner Account Manager Kate Apodaca Dayanghirang, Cisco PH Manager, Partner Operations Rommel Angeles, Cisco PH Managing Director Zaza Nicart, Eastern Communications (EC) Coordinator Aileen Regio, EC Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista, and EC Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan

Eastern Communications has been officially recognized by Cisco as a Cisco Preferred Networking Partner, placing the Philippines’ pioneer telecommunications and ICT solutions provider among the first in the Philippines to earn the designation ahead of the global rollout of the Cisco 360 Partner Program in January 2026. The designation is given to partners that demonstrate advanced technical capability, strong lifecycle practices, and deep customer engagement. This recognition marks a strategic milestone for Eastern Communications as it strengthens its role in the country’s rapidly evolving, AI-enabled digital economy.

The Cisco 360 Partner Program, considered the company’s most significant partner transformation in 25 years, introduces new specializations, incentives, and bonuses that place greater weight on value delivery and specialized expertise.

With the needs of customers evolving in the AI era, the program’s evolution connects partner success to how they meet customer needs and ambitions, rewarding partners for driving profitable growth through lifecycle value creation, managed services, software adoption, and renewals.  Cisco partners that have achieved advanced technical expertise, invested deeply in customer engagement, and built foundational practices are designated as Cisco Preferred Partners.

“On behalf of Eastern, we are incredibly proud of our entire team’s relentless drive for innovation. This recognition and new designation as Cisco’s Preferred Networking Partner signifies a validation of the quality and strategic relevance of our product roadmap, positioning us to deliver even more advanced, high-impact solutions to our customers,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Eastern Communications Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer.

By achieving this distinction ahead of the formal rollout, Eastern Communications signals that it is not only prepared for the next era of enterprise technology, it is already operating in it.

Strengthened capabilities, long-standing collaboration

Eastern Communications’ early elevation is an outcome of its continuous investment in its technical workforce, lifecycle service maturity, and innovation-led solutions across cybersecurity, cloud, networking, and managed connectivity. For customers, this means faster deployment, stronger security outcomes, and more consistent end-to-end service delivery supported by deeper access to Cisco expertise and AI-ready architectures. These efforts have also shaped its long-standing relationship with Cisco, which began in 2020 and has since yielded industry recognition such as Top Small Business Partner of the Year (2021) and Breakthrough Partner of the Year (2024).

Beyond commercial success, Eastern Communications, in its role as a Cisco Partner, has supported the local business community through Eastern Communications’ thought leadership program — Access Eastern — which equips organizations with insights to navigate digital transformation, AI integration, and security challenges.

Raising the bar as businesses adopt AI

As enterprises accelerate their shift toward AI-enabled operations, the Cisco 360 Partner Program emphasizes partners capable of delivering bundled, high-impact solutions that match emerging customer needs. Eastern Communications’ Preferred Networking Partner status affirms its ability to support organizations through these shifts, both with advanced technical skill and a service philosophy rooted in “High Tech” and “High Touch.”

The recognition directly supports Eastern Communications’ 2025 commitment to exceeding expectations, reinforcing its direction to offer secure, future-proof solutions while maintaining the personalized support that sets it apart in the industry.

With over 145 years of experience, the telecom provider keeps growing its position as a reliable technology partner for companies across the country by giving them the knowledge, resources, and direction they need to prosper in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

Visit www.eastern.com.ph or call 5300-7000 to find out more about Eastern Communications’ offerings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 22, 2026 by