Lifestyle, Travel

Discover Fukui’s History and Wonders

Japan is not a nation that disregards beauty. For high-rise city enterprises, many people know to travel to Tokyo and Osaka. But when you follow your curiosity and delve a little farther, you’ll find more beauty, much like fossils and riches.

Fukui, a prefecture west of Tokyo, offers a wealth of attractions that are all easily accessible by car, making it the ideal destination for a quick getaway. A three-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo Station to Fukui Station makes exploring Fukui simple. For convenient access to all of the prefecture’s landmarks, book a hotel close to Fukui’s core.

Fukui is home to one of Japan’s legendary blade villages, a tranquil temple, and a world-renowned dinosaur museum with displays that will leave you in awe. Join us as we take you through some of the spectacles Fukui has in store for your next vacation!

Photo courtesy of Enjoy Fukui

Takefu Knife Village

Visit a one-of-a-kind interactive tour through history at the Takefu Knife Village. When swordsmith Chiyozuru Kuniyasu set out to forge blades, he started his smithy in what is now Echizen, with hopes that his swords would be used as symbols of samurai culture. Today, the smithies forge knives using traditional Japanese methods, preserving centuries of craftsmanship with every blade.

To get to Takefu Knife Village, take a car 30 minutes south from Fukui Station.

Photo courtesy of Enjoy Fukui

Megane Museum

Dive deeper into Japan’s unmatched craftsmanship at the Megane Museum of Glasses. Fukui’s Sabae City is well-known for producing most of the country’s glasses frames, associated with expertise and artisanship. Given their history with the craft, the museum is populated with displays of the old machines used to make eyewear. Be sure to visit the gift shop for souvenirs, or try your hand at making your own pair of glasses to take home through the museum’s workshop.

Take the 15-minute train to Sabae Station, where the museum is a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, you may take a 30-minute car from Fukui Station to get there.

Photo courtesy of Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum

For a more child-friendly option, the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum boasts large displays of dinosaur skeletons tightly packed in each room. Housing 80% of Japan’s fossils, Fukui was instrumental in advancing the country’s study of paleontology. See one of the world’s largest and most famous collection of fossils, it’s fun for the whole family.

The easiest route to the museum is via car, 40 minutes east of Fukui Station.

Photo courtesy of Fuku-e

Echizen Ono “Castle in the Sky”

From October to late April, given the right weather conditions, jump at the opportunity to witness this rare phenomenon with your own eyes. When the stars align, few sights rival Echizen Ono, appropriately dubbed “Castle in the Sky”, a castle on a mountain seemingly floating atop a sea of clouds. This breathtaking spectacle draws photographers and sightseers alike, eager to capture its ethereal beauty.

With Fukui Station as the starting point, take a 15-minute ride via JR Etsumi Hokusen or Kyofuku Bus to Echizen-Ono Station. From there, take a 30-minute walk or 15-minute bus ride to the castle.

Photo courtesy of Fuku-e

Yokokan Garden

With every piece of flora seemingly chosen by an artist for its perfection, the Yokokan Garden blankets itself in an aura of serenity–a picture-perfect garden that expels all stress. The centerpiece is a traditional Japanese villa, built to replicate houses from the Edo period. The villa’s rooms are open to visitors, so take the opportunity to admire the minimalist craftsmanship set against the still ponds.

The garden is just a quick car or train ride from Fukui Station, or a 10-minute walk north if you’re looking to get some steps in.

Because its sites are so close to one another, Fukui is a veritable gold mine of discoveries. Every new location in the prefecture satisfies uncontrolled curiosity and astonishment, thanks to its exclusive and thrilling excursions and abundance of museums.

Take the less-traveled route and explore further to discover the wonders that history has left behind for your upcoming trip. It’s time to explore Fukui.

Entertainment

Peaceful Gemini’s new single, “Piece of Gem,” conveys a message of fortitude, heavenly insight, and advancement

With the new track, the Filipina rapper/songwriter continues to prove herself as one of the most promising new voices in modern hip-hop

The well-known Filipina rapper and songwriter Peaceful Gemini is back with her new track,  “Piece of Gem,” which is out now through Sony Music Entertainment. The multi-talented artist’s new song marks another milestone in her musical journey as she sheds deceptive energies that no longer serve her purpose and embraces the development, resilience, and clarity she’s acquired along the way.

Peaceful Gemini, who is well-known for her genuine storytelling style, grounds her success in hardship and tenacity in her most recent song, which examines her development as a person and an artist.

“It’s all about making moves—making a commitment to progression and growth,” shares the Warrior Princess herself. “This song allowed me to acknowledge the strength and resilience that was shaped by my origins, environment, and the challenges I’ve faced. It’s a reminder that wellness comes from a holistic perspective: tapping into ancestral guidance, trusting God’s divine timing, and embracing life’s natural cycle as we rise with the sun.”

The acclaimed Filipino emcee also reveals that fame and external validation don’t define her at all. With this song, she leans into the lightness and warmth of love, offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse into her artistry and philosophy.

What matters to me is sharing my message to listeners who can resonate with it or feel recognized or represented by the music,” she adds.

Peaceful Gemini is the writer of “Piece of Gem,” which was produced by Mesklun, whose music blends modern hip-hop components with the vigor of boombap. Mesklun’s production approach, which is distinguished by a distinct bounce and sophisticated taste, blends well with Peaceful Gemini’s easygoing flow to create a sound that feels both sultry and grounded.

“This track stands out because it diverges from the classic PG boom bap sound and flow,” says the acclaimed hip-hop artist. “It’s more refined, modern, and polished — an evolution of my artistry — and I absolutely love it.”

Piece of Gem by Peaceful Gemini is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment.

Automotive

This January, we need a new Toyota to start the new year!

 Drive Home the Yaris Cross V CVT in Scarlet Red and Enjoy Up to PHP 75,000 Worth of Benefits—Plus Deals on Other Models! 

With intriguing offers and promotions on its well-liked portfolio of automobiles, Motor Philippines (TMP) is getting off to a great start in 2025.

Financing Options That Are Appealing

With a brand-new Yaris Cross, start the year off right! The Yaris Cross 1.5 V CVT in Scarlet Red is available under the Pay Low option for as little as PHP 195,300 per month. With no chattel mortgage and 60-month payment terms, this option gives clients free insurance for the first year, free LTO registration for three years, and down payments as little as 15%.

Those that decide to purchase this Yaris Cross variant in straight cash will get as much as PHP 75,000 worth of benefits on their new unit. 

The Yaris Cross 1.5 G CVT variant is also available at a downpayment of PHP 13,220 under the Pay Light option, offering customers with low monthly plans with 50% downpayment at 60 months amortization. 

For those wanting to start the new year in style, customers that opt for the Veloz 1.5 V CVT can get a PHP 30,000 discount when they pay in straight cash or pay PHP 13,139 monthly under the Pay Light option. 

Customers seeking an electrified daily driver can consider the Corolla Cross 1.8 G HEV CVT variant for a downpayment of PHP 15,796 under the pay light option.  

Free Periodic Maintenance for Toyota Models 

As the holiday season comes to an end and regular routines resume, keeping vehicles in optimal condition is essential to ensure safety on the road. 

As part of Toyota’s commitment to road safety, Toyota is offering a FREE periodic maintenance service (PMS) until the 20,000 KM check-up for all brand-new Raize, Veloz, Rush, and select variants of the Vios, Avanza, Innova, Fortuner and Hilux.  

The free PMS may be availed within 36 months from the release date of the vehicle as long as customers don’t miss any maintenance from 1,000 to 20,000 KM. 

Trade-in Rebate, Insurance and a Discounted Service for Tamaraw Owners 

Looking to elevate your new year’s resolutions?  Get a PHP 25,000 rebate when you trade in your old Vios, Innova, Fortuner, or Hilux for a brand-new Wigo, Yaris Cross, or Zenix V CVT. Alternatively, get a PHP 15,000 rebate when you trade in your old Vios, Innova, Fortuner, or Hilux for a brand-new Rush, Raize, Avanza, Veloz, Fortuner, or Hilux. 

A PHP 15,000 rebate is also available for those who will trade in their old Wigo, Rush, Raize, Veloz or Avanza for a brand-new Wigo or Vios, or PHP 10,000 rebate when you trade in your old Wigo, Rush, Raize, Veloz or Avanza for a brand-new Rush, Raize, Avanza, Veloz, Fortuner and Hilux. 

Hold on—there’s even more! Trade in your old Lite Ace or Hilux and score an incredible PHP 20,000 rebate toward your brand-new, next-generation Tamaraw! This is your chance to upgrade in style and save big! 

This rebate can be used as a cash discount for the purchase of the brand-new unit. It may also be used to purchase Toyota Genuine Accessories. 

All brand-new Wigo, Veloz, and select variants of the Vios, Avanza, Innova, Fortuner and Hilux are also entitled to a free one-year comprehensive insurance provided by Toyota Insure when purchased during the promo period. 

The free one-year insurance covers 24/7 personal accident, passenger auto personal accident, three-year CPTL, own damage (OD), loss/theft, excess bodily injury (EBI), property damage (PD), acts of nature (AON), and includes emergency roadside assistance. 

A P1,200 Service Discount Voucher is available to owners who purchased the Tamaraw between December 2024 and January 31, 2025, for nine periodic maintenance services. services (PMS) with a 1,000–40,000 km range. This coupon guarantees lower maintenance expenses, which makes it simpler for Owners of Tamaraw automobiles should maintain them in a roadworthy state. This promotion is available at all Toyota dealerships across the country for 48 months following the vehicle’s debut date.

Promo is only available from January 14 to January 31, 2025. See the whole details, deals, and vehicles that are taking part here: https://toyota.com.ph/promos/ToyotaHolidrives 

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-211583 Series of 2025 

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

Lifestyle, Tech

This Lunar New Year, enjoy hassle-free and reasonably priced connectivity with Globe

GoRoam- Chinese New Year

Globe encourages visitors to transform long weekends into hassle-free, unforgettable international trips as the eagerly awaited Lunar New Year draws near.

With amazing deals like GoRoam, the brand-new Roam Surf Global Packs, and Roam Surf4All, Globe Roaming guarantees a smooth, economical, and easy travel experience, making them the ideal companion for all of your explorations.

With roaming deals tailored to their trip budget and data requirements, Globe customers traveling to popular Asian locations like China, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau are in for a treat.

GoRoam: Key to convenient and budget-friendly getaway

GoRoam enables budget-conscious travelers to roam at close-to-local rates, without switching SIMs, with the following deals:

  • GoRoam Taiwan: 3GB for 5 days at only Php 600  
  • GoRoam Hong Kong: 5GB for 10 days at only Php 800
  • GoRoam Singapore: 20GB for 30 days at only Php 1,500  

GoRoam is also available in other destinations in Asia, Middle East and North America.

Roam Surf Global Packs: Perfect for cross-country adventures  

Roam Surf global data packs provide extensive coverage across over 120 destinations, offering more GBs and longer validity at a cost-effective daily rate of Php 107 compared to the previous offer of Php 200/day. With a single data promo, travelers can enjoy seamless connectivity without switching to an eSIM, making it an affordable and flexible choice for cross-country coverage.

For those traveling to China and other nearby countries, Globe customers can choose from the following offers:

  • Roam Surf 999: 3GB for 5 days at Php 999 (or Php 200/day)
  • Roam Surf 1599: 5GB for 10 days at Php 1599  (or Php 160/day)
  • Roam Surf 2199: 7GB for 15 days at Php 2199 (or Php 147/ day)
  • Roam Surf 3199: 10GB for 30 days at Php 3199  (or Php 107/day)
  • Roam Surf 4299: 15GB for 30 days at Php 4299  (or Php 143/day)

Roam Surf4All: Shareable data packs for group travels

Going abroad with friends or family? Roam Surf4All makes it easy to share data with up to four group members, ensuring that everyone stays connected without renting a pocket WiFi.

Whether you’re taking a short weekend trip or a longer adventure, these shareable packs keep you connected without sacrificing your group’s flexibility:

  • Roam Surf4All 2599: Shareable 5GB for 5 days at Php 2599 (Php 103/pax/day)  
  • Roam Surf4All 5499: Shareable 10GB for 15 days at Php 5499 (Php 74/pax/day)  
  • Roam Surf4All 7499: Shareable 12GB for 30 days at Php 7499 (Php 50/pax/day)  

“This Chinese New Year, we’re here to elevate your travel experience so you can maximize special occasions like this, no matter what kind of traveler you are. With Globe Roaming’s suite of affordable promos, you’ll benefit from convenience, affordability, and security, ensuring a smooth and stress-free vacation,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, Globe’s Head of International Business.

Don’t let the excitement of vacations get in the way. With GlobeOne for GoRoam and Roam Surf global data packs or GCash for Globe Prepaid and TM, you may reserve your preferred roaming promotion in advance and have immediate access to fast, secure internet as soon as you get there.

Go to glbe.co/roam to find out more about Globe roaming promotions.

Automotive

Toyota Motor Philippines announces the 11th season of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup

Toyota Motor Philippines announced the 11th season of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup.Gear up for another year of pushing the limits for better as Toyota Motor Philippines unveils the dates of 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup:

  • Race Weekend 1: Match 20 – 22
  • Race Weekend 2: May 16 -18
  • Race Weekend 3: August 7 – 9

To learn more about TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines, visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/tgrphilippines

For the latest updates on Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippines, follow on Facebook, Instagram, X and Youtube.

Entertainment

Zedd Returns to the &FRIENDS Festival in Manila

Get ready for a memorable pop culture and music festival when the world’s best musicians and creative come together in Parañaque for the first-ever &FRIENDS Festival in Manila from May 30 to June 1, 2025.

Zedd, a Grammy Award winner, is the first of its illustrious guest list. Fans in the Philippines will never forget Zedd’s eagerly awaited return to the archipelago, which is known for chart-topping tunes like “Clarity,” “Stay,” and “The Middle.”

On the evening of May 30, the event begins with &FRIENDS Music Night – Day 1, which features a night of live EDM performances with Zedd as the main act. The night after, on May 31, &FRIENDS Music Night-Day 2 will take place. It will feature a range of pop, rap, and EDM performers, with its own headlining artist to be announced shortly.

Throughout the daytime of May 31 and June 1, the spotlight shifts to fan favorite creators, packed with events such as meet-and-greets, exclusive stage activities, interactive panels, and pop-up merchandise booths. The complete festival lineup will be announced in the coming weeks, promising even more surprises leading up to the festival.

“&FRIENDS as a brand is a celebration of modern pop culture as a whole – gaming, music, lifestyle…  and the creators and communities surrounding them,” says Justin Banusing, CEO of Clout Kitchen, the organizers of &FRIENDS Festival. “The Philippines is one of the epicentres of fandom in the world, and it just made sense to kick-off the brand here in the country where we started.”

Early February 2025 marks the start of ticket sales. For news and updates, go to andfriends.live  

Automotive

Toyota Motor Philippines introduces the Next Generation Tamaraw to consumers and provides them with amazing discounts

Customers may drive home the latest versatile vehicle from Toyota for as low as 10% downpayment

Some of the first owners of the Next Generation Tamaraw from Toyota Shaw

Earlier this month, authorized dealerships of the top mobility business Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) started delivering the first Next Generation Tamaraw vehicles to consumers, beginning the Filipino people’s nationwide “Abante, Posible” adventure.

TMP’s response to the ever changing demands of Filipino families and companies is the Next Generation Tamaraw, which was introduced in December. In particular, its standard variants—the Dropside, Utility Van, and Aluminum Cargo—provide MSMEs with the workhorse they require to progress toward new opportunities.

The Tamaraw, which is based on Toyota’s global IMV platform, is now offered in diesel versions. The 2.4 Dropside DSL M/T starts at P937,000. Gas versions will be offered later.

Now with the Tamaraw in the hands of customers, TMP is elevating the ownership experience with exclusive value chain offerings: 

  1. Service Discount Voucher for Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) up to the 40,000KM check-up 

Customers who purchase the Tamaraw between December 2024 to January 31, 2025 are entitled to a P1,200 Service Discount Voucher, which can be applied to up to nine PMS between the 1,000 KM and 40,000 KM check-up. 

The voucher ensures discounted maintenance costs, making it easier for Tamaraw owners to keep their vehicles in optimal condition. 

This offer is valid at all authorized Toyota dealerships nationwide within a 48-month period from the date of release.

  • Trade-in Promo  

Customers can trade in their old vehicle for a brand-new Tamaraw and enjoy rebates of up to P20,000. The rebate may be used as a cash discount or for purchasing Toyota Genuine Accessories, adding even more value for Tamaraw buyers.  

  • Special Financing Offer 

TMP makes Tamaraw ownership even more accessible with a special financing offer of 10% downpayment and the option to choose between weekly or monthly payments. 

Customers interested in the Tamaraw Dropside, for example, can get the vehicle for a downpayment of only P93,700 with a weekly payment of P4,629.75. 

  • Variant: Tamaraw 2.4 Dropside DSL M/T 
  • SRP: P937,000 
  • Downpayment: P93,700 
  • Weekly Payment (based on 10% DP): P4,629.75 

These offers promise maximum value for Tamaraw owners, cementing Toyota’s continued commitment to helping Filipino families and businesses access reliable and versatile mobility solutions. 

During the nationwide kick-off launch in December, the diesel variants, as well as various conversions, were displayed to highlight the customizability of the Tamaraw. More than 100,000 visitors came to see the displays, which were spread across eight locations nationwide, from San Fernando City, Pampanga in North Luzon, to Quezon City and Makati City in Metro Manila, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna in South Luzon, Cebu City in Visayas, and Davao City and Cagayan De Oro City in Davao. 

The Food Truck, Camper RV, and Mobile Van were among the conversions on exhibit; these vehicles can be bought straight from approved Toyota dealerships.

Customers can visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/next-generation-tamaraw or contact their local Toyota dealership to find out more information on the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw.

Join the ToyotaPH community on  Viber  and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the most recent information on Toyota events, promotions, and products.

Food, Lifestyle

Take Control of 2025 with No Excuses and Win Fantastic Coke Zero Prizes!

Coca-Cola Philippines’ #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo is encouraging everyone to own their goals for the new year.

With Zero Excuses, take control of your 2025 financial, vacation, and self-care objectives! With the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo, Coca-Cola Philippines is here to help you get started on the path to success. Simply participating in the promotion gives you the chance to win PHP 100,000 in GCash Credits, a trip to Boracay, a one-year gym membership, and many other fantastic prizes!

Coke Zero is your partner in transforming dreams into reality, whether you’re rekindling old ones or creating new ones. And there’s no better way to start the new year than with a promotion that offers fantastic prizes!

Enjoying the delicious flavor of Coke Zero is the only way to participate in the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo. To participate in the promotion and publish a public post, simply have an active Instagram account. From January 12, 2025, to March 8, 2025, the promotion is in effect.

Own the New Year with Exciting Prizes to be Won!

Winners of the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo will be determined weekly via an electronic raffle draw, so be sure to make as many entries until the promo ends!

Minor Prizes:

  • PHP 5,000 GCash Credits
  • Smart Watch
  •  Luggage

Major Prizes:

  • 1 Grand Prize Winner of PHP 100,000 GCash Credits
  • 2 Winners of PHP 50,000 GCash Credits
  • 2 Winners  of a 1-year Anytime Fitness Membership
  • 2 winners of a 3D/2N Trip to Boracay

Own your 2025 goals with these awesome prizes from the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo! Check this link to see the full promo mechanics and terms and conditions: https://cokeurl.com/ph-coke-zero-excuses-25.

How to Join the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo

To participate in the online UGC (User-Generated Content) Raffle, participants must post on Instagram either a 10-second minimum video or a photo of themselves with a Coke Zero product to qualify for an entry:

  • Choose from the three (3) OWN YOUR 2025 ADD YOURS TEMPLATE on Instagram Story (Finance, Self-Care, or Travel) from @cocacolaph’s Instagram account.
  • In the video or photo share what you want to own this 2025 based on the template you chose. (Ex: I am owning my financial goals by saving more this 2025!)
  • Make sure that you are holding or drinking a Coca-Cola Zero Sugar participating product (Coca‑Cola Zero Sugar 190ml, 500mL, 1.5L, 2L PET bottle, 320ml Can, or Coke Zero Sugar Vanilla 320ML)
  • Using the official hashtag #CokeZeroExcuses2025 on the content and caption and tagging @cocacolaph on Instagram is a must.
  • Post your entries as Public on your Instagram Story.

Participants may only use one (1) Instagram Account to join this promo and make as many entries (either photo or video) on Instagram Story during the entire promo duration, but may only win one (1) Minor Prize or one (1) Major Prize per Instagram account.

Come grab your chance to win exciting prizes and start your 2025 goals with zero excuses! Stay tuned for updates and activities for the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 promo.

Join the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo On-Ground at BGC!

Coca-Cola Philippines is bringing the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 experience closer to you! Visit Papa Bear at 9th Avenue, Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City, for exciting activities, amazing prizes, and performances by your favorite Coke Zero ambassadors.

Catch hitmaker Darren Espanto this January 25 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM as he shares how he’s owning his goals for 2025 and serenades us with an uplifting tune to start the year!

Coke Zero Ambassadors Catriona Gray and David Guison, Host Baileys Acot, and the Coca-Cola Philippines Team at the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 BGC event last January 18, 2025.
 

Last January 18, Saturday, Catriona Gray shared inspiring tips on how she is owning her self-care goals for 2025. Sometimes the new year can be a bit overwhelming at first when setting new goals and resolutions, so that’s where self-care comes into the picture. Me, I love my alone time and doing things with the people that I love. When I feel a little burned out, I fill my cup by doing the things that I love. That can be a bit of painting, reading, spending time with my loved ones, and now, I’m attempting to do pickleball,” Catriona says.

More than self-care, travel goals are also at the top of most people’s yearly resolutions. Social media personality David Guison is aiming for more travels this year as they inspire him to create more content. David has positive tips about owning one’s goals for the new year, advising that “As early as January, write your goals in a planner or even just your notes app to manifest them. I did this last year and I achieved those goals! But remember that those goals won’t work if you don’t do the work [to achieve them].”

Come seize the opportunity to gain thrilling rewards and begin achieving your 2025 objectives without any justifications! Keep checking back for news and events related to the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 promotion.

For what reason are you waiting? In 2025, take control of the new year with Coke Zero! To be the first to learn about any updates about the #CokeZeroExcuses2025 Promo, be sure to follow the official Coca-Cola sites on Facebook and Instagram.

For more information about Coca-Cola Philippines, go to https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en.

Tech

Globe will debut the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, offering customers over PHP24,000 in savings and benefits as they experience strong AI that mimics a human to make daily life easier

When Globe formally introduces the Samsung Galaxy S25 on February 14, 2025, with its powerful Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven features intended to simplify daily tasks, the future of mobile ease is about to arrive.

Building on this breakthrough, the flagship device presents a more human-like AI companion that can comprehend intricate instructions and pick up on emotional cues, making it an intuitive companion in daily life.

Important features like contextual search, which enables users to look up information, images, and settings through natural conversations, and live call translation with real-time support for 20 languages further enhance this improved AI experience.

The Galaxy S25 also offers multi-device integration, enabling smooth connectivity with other Samsung devices such as smartwatches and tablets. Automated routines further elevate the user experience by predicting behaviors and automatically adjusting device settings to suit daily habits.

“With the Samsung Galaxy S25, we’re offering a more intelligent, more personalized mobile experience. Our customers can look forward to an AI-powered device that simplifies daily tasks and empowers them to do more with less effort,” said Jo Anne Illescas, Globe Consumer Mobile Postpaid Brand Head.

To make it even easier for Filipinos to access this next-generation technology, Globe provides flexible financing schemes, such as 0% interest installment plans for up to 36 months via select credit cards, and GGives via GCash.

Customers can also save with Globe’s Trade-In Program, where old Samsung and select other devices can be exchanged for credits towards the purchase of a new Galaxy S25.  Additional trade-in top-up credits await those who will pre-order from January 23 to February 13, 2025.

Those who avail of the devices during the pre-order period may also enjoy twice the storage capacity, receiving a 512GB model for the price of a 256GB, along with a free protective case and 50% off discount on 1 year plan of Samsung Care+ for worry-free usage, amounting to savings of over Php 24,000.

For pre-order, Globe offers different postpaid plans with discounted prices:

  • All-new GPlan Plus: Save as much as 30% off on Samsung Galaxy S25. Choose among multiple financing options, with up to 36 months in select credit cards, or payment via GGives on GCash. Existing customers may also charge to bill on an installment basis.

The plan also offers higher GBs, with data swappable for content subscriptions, lifestyle vouchers, and roaming offers. Enjoy the all-new GPlan Plus with a network unlocked device and no lockup period.

  • All-new Platinum GPlan: This is the premium option for those seeking the best benefits, including true unlimited calls, texts and data, built-in 2-year Gadget Xchange subscription (worth P11,976) for device protection coverage, access to Globe’s priority mobile service and device delivery, exclusive perks and privileges by just showing their Platinum signal, and round-the-clock assistance through Thea, 24/7 Platinum Digital Concierge via Facebook Messenger for Globe account or any lifestyle assistance.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 512GB is available with the All-new Platinum GPlan 4999 for a Php 32,000 cashout or Php 1,333.33/month for 24 months, charged to bill for eligible recontracting customers.

Customers who purchase the Samsung Galaxy S25 mobile can also receive the Galaxy Watch7, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Galaxy Buds3 at a 30% discount and 0% payment via various credit cards, completing the Galaxy ecosystem. Customers can use Globe Stores or Globe’s website, new.globe.com.ph, to take advantage of this.

To get the new Samsung Galaxy S25 and apply for a postpaid plan, go to shop.globe.com.ph or any Globe Store in the country.

Entertainment

At the SM Mall of Asia Arena, more than 230,000 families take part in Disney On Ice

Over 230,000 families attended the successful run of Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero from December 21 to January 5 at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena. It was a feast of vibrant costumes, memorabilia, unadulterated enjoyment, and lifelong memories made.

The enchanting characters of Encanto bring magic to life during Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Tangled protagonists captivate the crowd with their charm.

A magical performance of Beauty and the Beast characters during Disney on Ice at SM Mall of Asia Arena, bringing the beloved tale to life on the ice

Celebrities spotted at Disney On Ice

A dozen well-known personalities, celebrities, and influencers showed their support for this beloved Filipino holiday tradition, including notable celebrity kids who joined the much-anticipated family event.

Anne Curtis (second from left), Erwan Heussaff, daughter Dahlia, and Solenn Heussaff

BINI members Maloi and Jhoanna

Toni Gonzaga (right) with husband Paul Soriano and children Seve (2nd from right) and Polly

Jennylyn Mercado (right) with her husband, Dennis Trillo, and their daughter, Dylan.

Luis Manzano, Jessy Mendiola, and daughter Rosie (left)

Iya Villania (left), Drew Arellano (right), and their kids

Carlos Yulo (right) and Chloe San Jose

Pauleen Luna-Sotto (center) with her daughters, Mochi and Tali.

Belle Mariano (second from right) and her family.

Disney On Ice returns with Magic in the Stars

The SM MOA Arena is excited to announce the arrival of Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars! This show will be packed with your favorite classic and modern Disney tales, so don’t miss it!

See the return of the iconic aerial maneuvers performed by Jasmine and Aladdin. Take a delightful adventure with Maui and Moana. Join the Madrigal family from Encanto in singing and dancing. See brand-new ice performances of Cars, The Princess and the Frog, and Frozen 2 for the first time in Manila!

This December 2025, you’re skating toward all of this and more! As the hunt for the stars’ magic begins at your premier location, stay tuned for further information. See a preview of the forthcoming performance!

Link:

<iframe src=”https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmoaarena%2Fvideos%2F1146161243514862%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0″ width=”560″ height=”314″ style=”border:none;overflow:hidden” scrolling=”no” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen=”true” allow=”autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share” allowFullScreen=”true”></iframe>