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Happy Walk 2026 brought together 10,500 advocates, setting a new record as Asia’s largest gathering for Down syndrome awareness

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With a record 10,500 participants nationwide, SM just wrapped up its most successful Happy Walk yet, marking the largest celebration of its kind in Asia. This milestone reflects SM’s long-standing “Mall for All” mission. For over two decades, SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) have partnered to create this powerful showcase of support, unity, and empowerment for the Down Syndrome community.

Participants of Happy Walk 2026 at SMX Convention Center – Manila come together in a joyful display of unity and support for individuals with Down syndrome, reinforcing the message that inclusion thrives when communities walk forward as one.

Happy Walk 2026 set a new milestone as Asia’s largest gathering of supporters for the Down syndrome community, bringing together 10,500 advocates nationwide in a powerful display of unity and empowerment.

Organized by SM Cares in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Inc., the event took place simultaneously on March 29 at SMX Manila, SM City Bacolod, and SM City Cebu. This year’s celebration highlighted that the movement’s true strength lies not just in its scale, but in SM’s continued commitment to fostering inclusive spaces where individuals with Down syndrome are recognized, celebrated, and given opportunities to thrive.

Big change through continued, united steps

Since the very first Happy Walk in 2003, the event serves as a joyful gathering for the Down syndrome community and its supporters. This year’s program highlighted self-expression, talent, and community participation through activities such as the Happy Walk parade, stage performances, activity booths, and DS Got Talent. All milestones were designed to promote the talents and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, foster inclusion and awareness, and provide a platform for self-expression beyond familiar stereotypes.

Smiles and shared moments define Happy Walk 2026, where individuals with Down syndrome are seen, celebrated, and empowered in a space built on dignity and belonging.

Members of the Down syndrome community present a token of appreciation to Mr. Hans Sy, symbolizing partnership and support for inclusive communities

It also reinforced a message that remains at the heart of the advocacy: that inclusion is not a one-day effort, but a continuing commitment to creating environments where every individual is embraced, empowered, and supported.

Through SM Cares, SM Supermalls remains committed to opening spaces for this advocacy year after year—helping build communities where dignity, opportunity, and belonging are not the exception, but the norm. SM’s deeper drive for inclusivity stems from its pursuit of becoming a true Mall for All—standing as the most-loved mall for its customers no matter what their needs may be.

Exceeding expectations

This year’s theme, “321 & Beyond – Raising Aspirations, Inclusion, Support & Empowerment for People with Down Syndrome,” centered on advancing opportunities as well as recognizing the potential and abilities of the Down Syndrome community.

Happy Walk 2026 brings the advocacy for inclusion to SM City Cebu, as families and supporters unite to celebrate the strengths and potential of individuals with Down syndrome.

Happy Walk 2026 at SM City Bacolod highlights the power of shared commitment, reminding communities that inclusion is built one meaningful step at a time

The celebration centered on four key pillars: raising aspirations, promoting inclusion, providing support, and fostering empowerment. It emphasized the need to help individuals with Down syndrome dream bigger, engage more actively in schools, workplaces, and communities, gain access to essential support, and have opportunities where their voices and talents can be acknowledged.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

SM strengthens public safety efforts through nationwide Fire Prevention Month initiatives

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SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month. Across its network of most-loved malls and through SM Cares, SM sought to empower Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety.

Participants from SM Supermalls, the Bureau of Fire Protection, partner agencies, and community volunteers come together for the Fire Prevention Month activities, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, preparedness, and building disaster-resilient communities.

Reinforcing its dedication to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), rolled out a series of meaningful nationwide initiatives for Fire Prevention Month. These efforts aimed to equip Filipinos with essential life-saving knowledge, strengthen preparedness, and promote shared responsibility for fire safety across its malls.

On March 1, the SM Mall of Asia Globe lights up in purple signaling the joint celebration of Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month 2026. The purple illumination and formation of the Venus symbol signifies dignity, justice, and empowerment for all women and girls, and marking the start of SM Cares’ month-long advocacy in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Organized through SM Cares, the CSR arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill gathered nearly 30,000 participants—including SM personnel, tenant staff, security and maintenance teams, students, shoppers, and nearby barangay residents—marking a 30% increase from the previous year. With the theme “Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!”, the activity enhanced emergency response coordination and provided communities with hands-on experience in proper evacuation procedures. Meanwhile, the Fire Square Road Show delivered interactive fire safety education across 16 SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through live demonstrations, equipment displays, and engaging, hands-on activities tailored for families, students, and local communities.

Women on Fire: Women firefighters take part in the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia, showcasing courage, skill, and leadership while advancing the role of women in safety, service, and community protection.

A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

The official launch of the TOFF 2026 on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with DILG Usec. Rolando C. Puno as GOHAS together with SM officers, TOFF 2025 judges and BFP Officer-in-Charge Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu

The Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 search was officially launched with leaders from SM, the BFP, and the DILG, led by Undersecretary Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). Now in its third year, TOFF continues to honor Filipino firefighters for their outstanding contributions to fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building efforts. The initiative also underscores the strong partnership between SM Prime and the BFP in advancing a safer and more resilient Philippines.

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

A Day in the Life of a Certified Gala Guru in Luzon — SM Supermalls Edition

Capturing your everyday life has its own kind of magic. Whether you’re filming quick snippets of quiet moments in a café or going all out with a full-on food vlog at a newly discovered restaurant, creating your own content turns ordinary experiences into something worth reliving.

It’s just another day, another vlog—but who would’ve guessed that documenting even the simplest parts of your routine could make daily life feel so much more lively and exciting?

Hey, hey, hey, it’s your favorite mall here! Welcome to a day in the life with your most-loved SM Supermalls. Come spend a day walking through all the best new discoveries here in Luzon, chosen All For You!

9:30 AM: Morning Treats & Cozy Vibes

Start your day right with an early morning drift. Sip on your favorite coffee, nibble on freshly made desserts, and soak in all the Instagrammable corners of these content-worthy hangout spots.

Start your day on a sweet note with the first J.CO Reserve in Bulacan at SM City Marilao, now open at the Lower Ground Level. Known for its elevated café concept, J.CO Reserve serves up its famously made donuts, paired with rich coffee blends in a sit-down setting that is perfect for easing into your day or catching up over a well-deserved break.

12:20 PM: Late Lunch Fixes
It’s right at that moment when hunger hits—time to eat! What’s the craving, fam? Chinese food? Japanese BBQ? From huge feasts to comforting bites, it’s never too late to fuel your midday adventures and make your feed as satisfying as your pleased appetite.

  • Yakiniku Like
    Craving a solo-style feast? Head over to the first Yakiniku Like in Cavite at SM City Bacoor, and take control of your own grill at their fast-casual Japanese yakiniku concept that lets you enjoy solo. Complete with customizable meat sets, individual grills, and quick service, this resto is certainly a great match for that sponty food stop in between errands.

  • Wangfu
    Get your well-deserved fill at Wangfu, now open at SM City Dasmariñas and soon arriving at SM City Bacoor. Loved for its modern take on Chinese cuisine, Wangfu offers a wide selection of dim sum, roasted meats, and hearty family-style dishes, which makes it a solid choice for a late lunch dining.

4:45 PM: Content Creator Must-Haves

This is where your influencer era goes to the next level. Lights, angles, aesthetics—capture it all. Every mall day can be turned into a scroll-stopping moment, where your creativity can have its work and play!

  • Insta360
    Make a stop at the soon to open Insta360store at 4th Level of Cyberzone, SM City Grand Central and explore a range of innovative 360 cameras, action cams, and creator-ready accessories built for capturing every angle. Whether you’re leveling up your vlogs, experimenting with immersive content, or upgrading your gear setup, it’s all about bringing next-level storytelling and creativity to every shot.

  • Blk Cosmetics
    Freshen up and do some retouching at Blk Cosmetics at SM City Calamba, a local beauty brand focused on uncomplicated, everyday makeup, offering a range of easy-to-use cosmetics from lip products and face tints to skincare and fragrances. Made with skin-friendly formulations for a low-effort, everyday look, Blk is designed for quick routines and on-the-go touch-ups perfect for your everyday vlog.

That’s a wrap! Thanks for joining a day made extra special at your favorite mall. From exciting new finds to can’t-miss food spots, SM Supermalls truly has everything you need. Until the next vlog—see you!

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com to stay updated on the latest happenings and events.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

From vision to action: LCF urges more strategic CSR as it marks its 30th anniversary

 

LCF marks 30 years by raising the bar, challenging Philippine businesses to move from well-intentioned programs to CSR that is authentic, strategic, and embedded in organizational identity. [L-R: Reginald “Rej” M. Andal, Executive Director of Manila Water Foundation; Edric Calma, Vice Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations and the Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc.; Roberta Lopez-Feliciano, Managing Director, ABS-CBN Foundation; Eleanor P. “Lingling” Lansang, Vice President of SM Foundation; Jeffrey “Jeff” Tarayao, President of One Meralco Foundation; Kana Manglapus, Deputy Executive Director of the JVR Foundation; Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of the Vivant Foundation and Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations; Melody M. Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments; Katherine Anne A. Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of the Ayala Foundation; Atty. Norman Roland E. Ocana III, Government Affairs Director and Territory Sustainability Leader of Schneider Electric Philippines; and Philip Francisco U. Dy, President of the Metrobank Foundation]

Marking three decades of promoting corporate citizenship, the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) urged businesses to view corporate social responsibility (CSR) not as a peripheral activity but as an integral part of their operations—ensuring shared value that is both proactive and responsive to today’s social and environmental challenges.

The call was made during a press launch on April 16, where LCF officially unveiled the theme of this year’s CSR Conference and Expo: “Adapt. Align. Accelerate.” The theme also celebrates the League’s 30th anniversary and its continued advocacy for responsible business and strategic philanthropy in the Philippines.

“Thirty years in, the question is no longer whether businesses should invest in communities. Rather, it is whether those investments are built to last and designed to solve,” said Shem Jose Garcia, Chairperson of LCF and Executive Director of Vivant Foundation, Inc. He also considered the league’s longevity not only as a milestone, but also as a call to the sector to “raise the bar that it established.”

At the same event, LCF unveiled a new logo — a multicolored pinwheel reflecting its belief that impact is never created alone, with each color representing the foundation’s diverse sectors and advocacies, and the gradient transitions symbolizing the convergence of perspectives and resources.

The 2026 CSR Conference will be held during the CSR Week on July 1-2, 2026 at Bayanihan Center, Pasig, Metro Manila, while the CSR Expo will be held on October 1-2, 2026 at the Glorietta Activity Center, Makati City, Metro Manila. The theme, as LCF frames it, aims to showcase the corporate sector’s capacity to adapt to a rapidly changing world, align their programs with genuine community needs, and accelerate impact through collective action, with the end goal of raising the overall standard of CSR in the Philippines.

Against this backdrop, the 2026 conference challenges the corporate sector to respond strategically, collaboratively, and with measurable outcomes. The call comes at a time when the Philippines is experiencing multiple crises—rising costs of living, energy shocks, climate-related disasters, and persistent poverty—that are demanding more from the private sector than one-off programs.

In his welcome remarks, Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of the Vivant Foundation and Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations, introduced this year’s conference theme—Adapt. Align. Accelerate.—underscoring that good corporate citizenship demands constant adaptation: rethinking models, reflecting company purpose, and aligning with standards to deliver outcomes that address real community needs.

“The world has been changing rapidly and CSR must change with it,” said Garcia. “What we need to evolve is to align our programs with real needs and accelerate our impact where it matters most.”

Still, Garcia pointed out that achieving that impact takes more than any single business or sector can do on its own.

Leaders of LCF emphasized in the panel discussion the shift in CSR from isolation to collaboration — aligning shared strengths, common metrics, and a unified purpose to drive lasting impact. [L-R: Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of the Vivant Foundation and Chairperson of the League of Corporate Foundations; Melody M. Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments; Katherine Anne A. Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of the Ayala Foundation]

Katherine Anne Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of Ayala Foundation, Inc., echoed this sentiment, as she looked forward to what this year’s conference could unlock for the sector. “I think [success would look like having] more collaboration. We often take for granted the fact that we are members of this network and that we’re all friends. But I feel like there’s so much more opportunity to actually do things together.”

This collaboration, as Melody Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, noted, should also reach beyond familiar circles and engage the expertise of those closest to the problems being solved. “For CSR to be relevant, you have to make sure that you have experts and scientists to back up most of your programs,” she said.

As part of its commitment to elevating CSR excellence, LCF will present the Guild Awards during in June 30.  The Awards will recognize outstanding initiatives by its members that have significantly impacted communities. The Medal of Recognition will be accorded to non-LCF members whose work has made a difference across seven thematic areas: Arts and Culture, Disaster Resilience, Education, Environment, Enterprise Development, Financial Inclusion, and Health.

Moreover, the Conference will provide a space for businesses, national government organizations, academe, youth groups, and government agencies to engage and collaborate around CSR innovations.

Members of LCF “raising the bar” in CSR together at the AIM Conference Center, Benavidez Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City, Metro Manila

LCF brings together 96 corporate members and foundations nationwide, positioning it as the Philippines’ leading network for responsible business and strategic philanthropy. As it celebrates its 30th anniversary, the organization is renewing its commitment to elevate the overall standard of corporate citizenship in the country.

“At 30, this is not just about celebrating past achievements—it’s about challenging what lies ahead. Beyond the legacy we’ve built, we must ask ourselves: what more can we do to create impact that is not only meaningful, but essential?” Garcia said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News, Travel

BPI and Disney team up in a multi-year partnership to transform the everyday banking experience

BPI will become the first bank in the Philippines to bring Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars-themed offerings to its customers across Disney’s regional businesses – Disney Consumer Products, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Entertainment and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

[L-R] Eric M. Luchangco, Executive Vice President, Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer, BPI; Maria Theresa “Tere” D. Marcial, President & Chief Executive Officer, BPI Wealth; Mariana Beatriz E. Zobel de Ayala, Director, BPI, and Senior Vice President, Ayala Land; Maria Cristina “Ginbee” L. Go, Executive Vice President, Head of Consumer Banking, BPI; Jose Teodoro “TG” K. Limcaoco, President and CEO, BPI; Disney’s Minnie Mouse; Mickey Mouse; Sarah Fox, Vice President & Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line; Simon Ho, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort; Geraldine Naidu, Director of Brand Commercialization and Market Lead, the Philippines, Disney Consumer Products; Ben Cox, Vice President, Partnerships, Direct-to-Consumer, Asia Pacific, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific; Ivan Lee, Vice President, Corporate Alliances, Asia Pacific, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific

As the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) celebrates 175 years of serving Filipino families, it embarks on a new milestone through a strategic partnership with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia and its affiliates.

Through this alliance, BPI becomes the first bank in the Philippines to unite four of Disney’s regional businesses, bringing Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars–themed offerings to its customers across Disney Consumer Products, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Entertainment, and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco said the collaboration reflects BPI’s continued commitment to evolving the banking experience while remaining anchored in its core purpose of serving Filipino families.

“By bringing together BPI’s legacy of trust and financial empowerment with Disney’s timeless storytelling and characters that continue to inspire people in the Philippines across generations, we are creating more meaningful and engaging ways for our customers to connect with us. This collaboration is about helping families plan, dream, and experience more—while staying true to our mission of building a better Philippines, one family and one community at a time,” said Limcaoco.

BPI customers may look forward to enjoying themed activations including:

  • Branded cards featuring designs inspired by fan-favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Warsstories, along with other themed premiums and offerings
  • Special privileges for BPI cardmembers when purchasing Disney Adventureholiday vacations and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort experiences
  • Special Disney+ promotions and rewards
  • Special offers and events that will accompany select Disney film releases

Said Alex Baillie, Vice President & General Manager, South Asia Pacific, Disney Consumer Products: “Great storytelling underpins everything we do at Disney, and we’re excited to bring Disney stories closer to home for fans and families in the Philippines. We look forward to collaborating with BPI to bring creative products to their customers, reaching people where they are and deepening Filipinos’ connection to Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars.”

Said Sarah Fox, Vice President & Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line: “The Disney Adventure is a gamechanger for cruising in Asia, introducing a uniquely Disney vacation experience where the ship itself is the destination. We look forward to creating more opportunities for guests in the Philippines to experience Disney Adventure cruises from Singapore, creating memories to last a lifetime for guests of all ages.”

Said Simon Ho, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: “The Philippines has long played a treasured role in the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s 20 years of history, with a passionate Disney fan base, millions of guests who have visited over the years, and our talented Filipino cast members who proudly represent their heritage. Through our collaboration with BPI and continued new offerings at the resort, we are excited to bring the magic closer to even more fans — whether visiting Hong Kong Disneyland Resort for the first time or returning as our dear friends and fans.”

“Disney has long been part of cherished moments for many Filipinos,” said Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, BPI Head of Consumer Banking. “We are excited to join hands with Disney to bring that magic into new and unexpected spaces, creating delightful experiences that families and fans can enjoy in their everyday lives.”

The partnership highlights BPI’s focus on innovation and customer-centricity, as it continues to reshape financial services to align seamlessly with the lifestyles and interests of its clients.

As BPI reinforces its role as a trusted financial partner for generations of Filipinos, its collaboration with Disney reflects a broader goal to make banking not just reliable and secure, but also more engaging, relevant, and rewarding.

Lifestyle, News

The TECNO CAMON 50 Series fueled the RUNRIO Earth Day Run 2026 in Davao, transforming every step into a more vividly captured moment

TECNO officially becomes part of the RUNRIO Earth Day Run 2026 as it kicks off its first leg in Davao on April 12 at SM Lanang, launching a multi-city celebration that unites movement, community engagement, and a collective commitment to a greener future.

Run for the Planet, Captured Like Never Before

More than simply showing up on race day, TECNO’s involvement highlights the purpose behind the CAMON 50 Series—enabling users to capture real-life moments as they unfold. From runners in motion and emotional finish-line scenes to wide community shots and long-distance action, the CAMON 50 Series showcases its Super Zoom FlashSnap capability in one of the most demanding real-world settings for mobile photography—sports in motion.

Whether it is a runner pushing toward the finish line, friends celebrating after a personal best, or families turning Earth Day into a meaningful weekend moment, TECNO is positioning the CAMON 50 Series as the phone that helps users keep the energy, emotion, and movement of the day in sharper focus.

New Wearables Join the Green Mission

The partnership also highlights TECNO’s growing smart lifestyle ecosystem through newly launched wearable products such as the Watch NEO and FreeHear 2. Together with the CAMON 50 Series, these devices support a more connected and expressive daily routine—whether users are training, running, listening on the go, or creating content from their day-to-day experiences.

Runnio Earth Day Run has long stood for more than fitness. It is a public reminder that collective action matters, and that everyday habits—showing up, moving together, protecting shared spaces, and advocating for better environmental choices—can create visible impact. By joining the run, TECNO is connecting its product story with a broader lifestyle message: technology should not only help people do more, but also help them engage more meaningfully with the world around them.

What’s Next: Manila Leg with Sarah Geronimo & CAMON 50 Street Party

Following Davao, the excitement continues in Manila on April 19 in SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds, where the next leg of the Earth Day Run will meet the launch momentum of the CAMON 50 Series in an even bigger way. TECNO will bring added visibility to the Manila stop as brand ambassador Sarah G is set to energize the event and help spotlight the spirit of movement, style, and better-captured moments. “We’re turning the Manila leg into a celebration of health, planet, and creativity,” added Ms. Phia, TECNO Marketing Manager. “Sarah G represents the energy and passion of every Filipino who stops at nothing — exactly what CAMON 50 stands for.”

Run and Win

As TECNO continues to build momentum for the CAMON 50 Series in the Philippines, its Earth Day Run partnership shows that the brand is not just launching a phone—it is entering the spaces where young Filipinos live, move, create, and connect.

After the successful Davao leg on April 12 at SM Lanang, runners can still sign up for the remaining events in Manila (April 19 at SM Mall of Asia) and Cebu (April 26 at SM Seaside Cebu) through https://earthdayrun.org/. Participants in all legs will get a chance to win CAMON 50 Series units and AIoT products. TECNO’s presence at the Earth Day Run highlights the CAMON 50 Series not just as a new smartphone launch, but as a device designed for action, self-expression, and capturing the everyday moments people want to keep and share.

Lifestyle, News

Precious Pages Corporation and Wattpad Renew Landmark Partnership to Bring More Filipino Stories to Life

Popular Wattpad authors akosiibarra, heartlessnostalgiamskindgirlmgncaraarrowheadscappuchienooomissyforevah, and more are set to attend ‘A Beautiful Day 2026’ to celebrate the renewed partnership between Precious Pages Corporation and Wattpad

In photo (L-R): Precious Pages Online Manager Marky Cabalteja, Precious Pages Brand Manager Toni Velasco, Precious Pages Corp. President Segundo Matias, Jr., Wattpad WEBTOON Studios Development Executive & Creator Manager International Operations & Strategy Ryan Benitez, Wattpad WEBTOON Studios Content Specialist for Philippines Michelle Angela Yabut, and Precious Pages Sales Manager John Charles Almoninia

Precious Pages Corporation (PPC), the Philippines’ leading publisher of Tagalog romance novels, and Wattpad, a leading global webnovel platform and storytelling community, are pleased to announce the renewal of their official partnership. This collaboration will be celebrated at “A Beautiful Day 2026” on April 19, 2026, at the PPC headquarters, where authors and readers will gather to commemorate the next chapter in Filipino storytelling.

Since the partnership’s inception in 2024, PPC and Wattpad have transformed the Philippine literary landscape by bridging the gap between digital fandom and physical bookshelves. Through PPC’s imprint, LIB (Life is Beautiful) Books, popular Wattpad stories have been curated into high-quality print editions, making them accessible to a broader nationwide audience and cementing the “from screen to page” movement in the local industry.

“Our mission has always been to bring compelling stories closer to the hearts of readers,” says Segundo Matias, founder of Precious Pages Corporation. “Renewing our bond with Wattpad allows us to continue championing local authors and delivering the stories that the community truly loves.”

Event Details: A Beautiful Day 2026

The celebration will bring together the Wattpad and PPC teams, and the authors who make these stories possible.

  • Date: April 19, 2026 (Sunday)
  • Time:2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Location:3rd Floor, The Center, JRich Building (PPC Office)
  • Theme/Dress Code:Attendees are requested to wear Blue and Orange, symbolizing the vibrant energy of the partnership.

Program Highlights: Hosted by the charismatic Kuya Abs, the afternoon will feature:

  • An official Partnership Renewal Announcement.
  • A fireside Q&A session with Ryan Benitez (Wattpad) and Segundo Matias (PPC).
  • Interactive games and activities designed for authors and readers.
  • An exclusive photo session and optional book signing.

Featured Authors

Several fan-favorite authors have already confirmed their attendance to celebrate this milestone, including:

For photos, please click here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1k_U7bLIYiCMJaYWGgTc7-XJFRwwhKNDU?usp=sharing

Follow Precious Pages and LIB Official on social media for updates.

Precious Pages

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preciouspagesbookstore/

LIB Official

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libofficial21/

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Samsung Introduces Smart Wash Business Solutions to Boost the Growth of the Commercial Laundry Industry in the Philippines

Ms. Stephanie Chua-Go, Head Of Division Home Appliances, Mr Roman Han, President of Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation, Franklin Chan President, CYA Industries Inc., Mark Chan Business Development Manager, CYA Industries Inc., Jonathan Nazareth Head Samsung Commercial Laundry, CYA Industries Inc., Joseph Lee, Business Manager, Home Appliances, Jayson Angeles Strategic Business Head, Home Appliances

As part of its effort to advance more efficient, scalable, and technology-driven commercial laundry operations in the Philippines, Samsung Electronics Philippines officially unveiled its Commercial Laundry Washer and Dryer through its Smart Wash Business Solutions on March 25 at the SMX Convention Center.

The launch brought together industry partners, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders, in collaboration with CYA Industries Inc., Samsung’s authorized distributor for commercial laundry solutions in the country. Covering everything from concept development and financing to installation and supply chain management, this partnership offers a comprehensive and streamlined solution for entrepreneurs looking to enter the commercial laundry business.

In his welcome remarks, Roman Han, President of Samsung Electronics Philippines, underscored Samsung’s continued leadership in innovation and its mission to enhance everyday life through intelligent and durable products.

“Our innovations’ core mission is to enhance daily life for everyone, whether at home or at work. We achieve this by designing technology that caters to the needs of the market while prioritizing customer experience and durability,” he said. He also highlighted the company’s focus on fostering strategic partnerships to help drive business opportunities in emerging sectors.

To further emphasize the power of Samsung’s new innovations, Samsung Electronics Philippines Strategic Business Head for Home Appliances Jayson Angeles detailed its capabilities in improving operational efficiency, reliability, and overall business performance. Powered by Samsung SmartThings, the system enables real-time monitoring, remote management, and performance tracking, allowing operators to optimize usage and streamline operations.

Designed to deliver consistent cleaning performance while optimizing water and energy consumption, Samsung’s Commercial Laundry Washer and Dryer are equipped with durable components and smart diagnostics, which helps minimize downtime, improve machine longevity, and support sustainable business operations.

Franklin Chan, President of CYA Industries Inc, emphasized the strength of the partnership with Samsung to the company’s capability to deliver end-to-end support.

With our 60 years of experience and our partnership with Samsung, we are here to offer you a full circle of solutions, from concept to financing and supply chain support,” he said, adding that this will enable entrepreneurs to start the laundry business with ease.

For more details about Samsung’s Commercial Laundry Washer and Dryer and its Smart Wash Business Solutions, you may visit the official website  https://www.samsung.com/ph/washers-and-dryers/commercial-laundry/ or get in touch with CYA Industries and other authorized partners across the country.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

NYMA’s Kat Bautista has been selected as a judge for the Hashtag Asia Awards 2026

Kat Bautista, Founder and Chief Operating Officer of NYMA Talent Management, has been appointed as one of the judges for the Hashtag Asia Awards 2026, a regional platform that honors outstanding achievements in social media and digital campaigns.

With over a decade of experience in digital strategy, talent management, and brand partnerships, Bautista has played a key role in shaping the industry. Under her leadership, NYMA Talent Management has evolved into a top agency, representing some of the Philippines’ most influential creators, artists, and personalities, and helping elevate Filipino talent on the global stage.

This year, Bautista also serves as a judge for the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards and the Webby Awards, further underscoring her recognition as a trusted industry voice across global award-giving bodies.

Her appointment comes at a time of strong momentum for NYMA, marked by the recent signings of artist-producer Ziv and creator-educator Bea Chu, alongside a growing and diverse talent portfolio.

Reflecting on her role as a judge, Bautista shared:

“I’m proud to be part of the judging panel for the Hashtag Awards 2026. With so much creativity, cleverness, and cultural insight already on display, I’m excited to see what the next wave of entrants will bring to the table. The bar is high, and I can’t wait to see how the region’s social media campaigns continue to surprise, inspire, and set new benchmarks.”

The Hashtag Asia Awards recognizes impactful and innovative social media work across the region, highlighting campaigns that break boundaries and influence digital culture.

Bautista’s inclusion on the judging panel further affirms her standing as a respected industry voice, where she will contribute her expertise in assessing the next wave of outstanding campaigns across Asia.

CONNECT WITH KAT BAUTISTA:
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To learn more about NYMA, visit nyma.ph

Lifestyle, News

DENR spearheads the Philippines’ coastal and blue carbon protection strategy

  • The National Blue Carbon Action Partnership (NBCAP) Roadmap was formally turned over by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Philippines to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) during the Philippine Mangrove Conference 2026 held last March 26, 2026.
  • According to the DENR, the immediate next step is to convene the Leadership Steering Committee and Technical Working Group in April, followed by formalization through a DENR Administrative Order or Executive Order.
  • By 2030, the Roadmap aims to expand livelihoods, strengthen protection, and secure financing for the blue carbon ecosystems that 42 million coastal Filipinos depend on — a goal that calls for action across all sectors.

The NBCAP Roadmap was formally handed over to the DENR during the Philippine Mangrove Conference 2026 held in Quezon City on March 26, 2026. This milestone underscores the country’s commitment to coordinated, science‑based, and accountable action for blue carbon ecosystems. Photo from NBCAP Philippines. [L-R, Germaine De Ruña, Project Manager, NBCAP, ZSL- Philippines; Criselda Castor, Section Chief, Coastal and Marine Division, Department of Environment and Natural Resources; Lloyd Cameron Economic and Climate Counsellor, British Embassy Manila; Edwina D. Garchitorena, Country Director, Zoological Society of London – Philippines]

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is leading the National Blue Carbon Action Partnership (NBCAP) Roadmap—a strategic framework jointly developed by government, academe, civil society, and the private sector, with Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Philippines serving as Secretariat, supported by the World Economic Forum, and funded by the UK COAST Programme under the Blue Planet Fund—to enhance the protection and sustainable management of the country’s blue carbon ecosystems, benefiting 42 million coastal residents and strengthening climate resilience.

Atty. Analiza Rebuelta-Teh, Undersecretary of DENR, welcomed the formal turnover of the NBCAP Roadmap from ZSL to DENR as a milestone for science, governance, finance, and community action. “Mangroves may be overlooked, but they are powerful pillars of resilience. This Roadmap reflects the Philippines’ strong commitment to advancing blue carbon accounting and delivering tangible impact for coastal communities,” she said.

“The NBCAP Roadmap will provide us with an evidence-based path forward for conserving the Philippines’ rich coastal ecosystems,” added Mariglo Laririt, Assistant Director, Biodiversity Management Bureau, DENR. “By working with our partners across various sectors, we can enhance coastal resilience, support communities, and contribute to national and global climate commitments.”

According to Laririt, the path forward begins with convening the Leadership Steering Committee (LSC) and Technical Working Group (TWG) in April. The  NBCAP Structure and Roadmap will then be formalized through a policy instrument, either a DENR Administrative Order or an Executive Order, while a workplan will be developed in parallel and early actions already underway to sustain momentum.

DENR Biodiversity Management Bureau Assistant Director Mariglo Laririt outlines the next steps for the NBCAP Roadmap during the Philippine Mangrove Conference 2026 held at Microtel by Wyndham, UP Technohub, Quezon City. Laririt expressed optimism toward 2030 goals, underscoring the shared responsibility of academe, organizations, and communities in protecting mangrove ecosystems and advancing blue carbon conservation. Photo from NBCAP Philippines.

“Blue carbon ecosystems are critical natural infrastructure underpinning the Philippines’ blue economy. By aligning governance, science, livelihoods, and investment, the NBCAP Roadmap sends a strong signal to global investors and partners that nature-based solutions are key to a climate-resilient economy,” shared Alfredo Giron, Head of Ocean, World Economic Forum.

The Philippines is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most ecologically significant blue carbon ecosystems with about 327,000 hectares of mangroves, alongside seagrass beds and tidal marshes. These protect coastlines, sustain livelihoods, and store vast amounts of carbon, but once degraded, they release stored greenhouse gases and threaten the biodiversity that depends on them.

“The handover of the NBCAP Roadmap to the DENR represents a turning point in advancing blue carbon action and strengthening the Philippines’ leadership in coastal conservation in the region,”  shared Edwina Garchitorena, Country Director of ZSL Philippines.

The NBCAP Roadmap is anchored on four pillars—science, technology, and innovation, policy governance, communications and community engagement, and finance and sustainable livelihoods—which guide conservation practices, strengthen laws, and empower local communities for long-term resilience.

The Roadmap places coastal communities at the heart of blue carbon action. Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon, Founder and Chairman of Kapunungan sa mga Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC), emphasized, “When we protect mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes, we also protect our fishing grounds—making sure our families and the next generations have an abundant, safe, and healthy future,” highlighting the link between ecosystem health and community well-being.

For Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon, the path to 2030 comes down to four priorities: Policies, People, Program, and Pondo. The Founder and Chairman of Kapunungan sa mga Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC) stressed that coastal communities have been the first line of defense in mangrove protection and that government and science must continue working side by side to sustain that progress.

Science and community collaboration are critical to effectively protecting and conserving mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes, according to Dr. Severino Salmo III, Professor and University Scientist at UP Diliman. “The NBCAP Roadmap provides a clear framework to translate knowledge into action for resilient coastal ecosystems and communities,” he added. Central to this scientific foundation is the Blue Carbon Quantification Protocol (BCQP) — developed by Philippine blue carbon scientists and practitioners — which the Roadmap seeks to establish as the national standard for carbon assessment, reducing costs and building nationwide capacity.

The Roadmap seeks to establish a policy and legislative agenda that aligns blue carbon with the emerging national carbon policy, advances local initiatives such as coastal greenbelts, and contributes to broader efforts under the proposed Blue Economy Bill to strengthen legal protections, guide restoration, and support carbon financing and community participation.

Representatives from government agencies, NGOs, academe, youth groups, and local communities gathered for the turnover of the NBCAP Roadmap to the DENR, held during the Philippine Mangrove Conference 2026 in Quezon City. The event closed with a unified commitment to 2030 pathways, reinforcing shared responsibility for the Philippines’ blue carbon future. Photo from NBCAP Philippines.

Looking toward 2030, the Roadmap seeks to broaden sustainable livelihood opportunities, strengthen the protection of blue carbon ecosystems, mobilize financing, and empower communities through coordinated conservation efforts.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) calls on all stakeholders—including national agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), along with local governments, academe, civil society, and the private sector—to work together in safeguarding these ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.