Automotive

Toyota PH will be holding first-ever Toyota Legacy Experience on July 31 to August 2

Celebrate the Toyota brand love at the biggest Toyota community gathering of the year

Toyota Motor Philippines is inviting the public to the Toyota Legacy Experience happening from July 31 to August 2 at the Eton City Square Village Walk in Santa Rosa, Laguna. Swing by the Eton City Square Village Walk to participate in different activities celebrating Toyota’s legacy and heritage!

Have the chance to test drive the all-new Land Cruiser FJ and Hilux on both the asphalt and the off-road to experience the proven performance of Toyota’s new models. Guests will have the chance to see and experience the heritage of Toyota through special displays from car clubs and aftermarket shops. Event-exclusive giveaways are also up for grabs through fun activities hosted by both Toyota, local car communities, and aftermarket shops. Lastly, guests can grab a bite at the Tamaraw Food Park and relax with their family and friends!

Drive with Your Tribe with Local Toyota Car Clubs!

See and meet the following local Toyota car clubs at the Toyota Legacy Experience:

  • Land Cruiser Club of the Philippines
  • FJ Cruiser Owners Philippines  
  • Grupo Toyota
  • Aesthetics Toyota
  • Hilux Club PH
  • GR Supra PH
  • GR Yaris PH
  • 86 Club PH
  • GR Corolla
  • TMP Car Club
  • Car Friends
  • JDMUnderground Philippines
  • Hardcore Outdoor
  • Slapsoil Car Club

Shop Until you Drop at the Aftermarket Booths

Check out the Aftermarket offerings and displays at the Toyota Legacy Experience:

  • Overland Kings
  • Gears Banawe
  • TJM
  • Concept One
  • PIAA
  • SONAX
  • Premium Overland
  • Atoy Customs
  • Atoy 4X4
  • Parts Pro
  • Vinyl Frog
  • Aguila Glass
  • GT Radial 

See the 3-day program below:

Public Program Day 1 (July 31, 2026)

Time

Activity

10:30 AM

Start of Registration

10:40 AM

Car Club Introductions

1:00 PM

Car Club Program

1:30 PM

Aftermarket Program

2:00 PM

Test Drive Start for Public Guests

3:30 PM

Aftersales Program

6:00 PM

End of Test Drives

7:00 PM

Day 1 End

 

Public Program Day 2 (August 1, 2026)

Time

Activity

9:00 AM

Start of Registration

11:00 AM

Car Club Program

1:45 PM

Aftermarket Program

3:45 PM

Aftersales Program

6:00 PM

End of Test Drives

7:00 PM

Day 2 End

 

Public Program Day 3 (August 2, 2026)

Time

Activity

9:00 AM

Start of Registration

11:00 AM

Token Awarding

11:20 AM

Car Club Program

1:45 PM

Aftermarket Program

4:00 PM

Aftersales Program

6:00 PM

End of Test Drives

7:00 PM

Day 3 End

For more information about the Toyota Legacy Experience, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber!

 

July 29, 2026 by
Entertainment

WAIIAN and Rjay Ty Unite for Highly Anticipated Collaboration “2RARE”

Blending sharp lyricism, fearless energy, and a dream collaboration with Rjay Ty, the new single shows an artist reaching for even greater heights

Following the success of his breakout album, BACKSHOTS, Filipino rapper WAIIAN kicks off a new chapter in his career with the release of  “2RARE,”  a collaboration with fellow hip-hop artist Rjay Ty. The track serves as the lead single from his upcoming album, set to arrive later this year, signaling the return of one of the country’s most influential young rappers with renewed confidence and a clear vision for what’s ahead.

Driven by hard-hitting production and incisive lyricism, “2RARE” highlights WAIIAN’s artistic growth and evolving ambitions. More than simply marking his return, the single reflects his determination to keep raising the bar. Once recognized as a promising talent, WAIIAN now steps fully into the spotlight, ready to expand his reach, embrace new challenges, and continue elevating Philippine hip-hop.

“I chose ‘2RARE’ because it’s one of the loudest songs on the project, and I felt like it had been a while since I put out a straight-up rap track,” says the urban hitmaker. “It represents a side of me that fans have been waiting to hear again. At the same time, it gives a glimpse of what’s coming with the new album—the energy and the direction I’m taking in this next chapter.”

The release also fulfills a collaboration that fans have been hoping for since the start of his career. Although WAIIAN and Rjay Ty had shared several writing sessions over time, the opportunity to create a record that truly reflected both artists only arrived when the timing—and the chemistry—finally aligned. Rather than simply exchanging verses, the pair painstakingly crafted every element of the song alongside producers from Kashira, helming its structure, dynamics, and overall energy into a record that feels both effortless and intentional.

WAIIAN explains, “I’ve wanted to collaborate with Rjay for a long time, but I never really felt ‘ready.’ Maybe because of the expectations, or maybe because it’s a little intimidating working with someone you’ve looked up to for so long. Now that I have the new studio, I was running out of excuses not to finally make it happen. We put a lot of thought into the entire song, not just laying down our verses and calling it a day. Every decision was made with one goal in mind: to make a song we’d all love to listen to ourselves. We figured if we loved it first, there’s a good chance the listeners would feel the same.”

Sonically speaking, “2RARE” emerged through experimentation rather than imitation. Created without relying on specific musical references, the track evolved organically as WAIIAN, Rjay Ty, and the Kashira production team pushed one another creatively, refining ideas until they landed a jab that felt unmistakably their own. The willingness to explore and experiment mirrors the artistic direction of the forthcoming album, which promises to venture across limitless sonic landscapes while remaining grounded in WAIIAN’s lyrical craft.

WAIIAN shared that he hopes listeners will embrace their individuality and recognize that there’s value in being different—whether in the way they think, create, or express themselves. He said his goal is for the project to inspire people to celebrate what makes them unique instead of feeling pressured to conform. Through every song he creates, he aims to encourage self-confidence and authentic self-expression. If listeners come away from “2RARE” and the upcoming album feeling more secure in their identity and empowered to be themselves without fear of judgment, he considers that a success.

“2RARE” by WAIIAN and Rjay Ty is now available for streaming on major digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 29, 2026 by
Automotive

Jetour GAIA Makes History as the First Chinese Brand to Participate in the Annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah

Jetour GAIA has reached a landmark achievement in global automotive engineering by becoming the first Chinese brand to take part in the prestigious 60th Annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. Competing alongside some of the world’s most respected off-road vehicle manufacturers, the Jetour GAIA G700 proved it belongs among the industry’s best, delivering an impressive performance that surpassed expectations on one of the world’s most demanding off-road proving grounds.

For generations, Moab, Utah, has been recognized as one of the world’s premier destinations for off-road enthusiasts. Known for its legendary trail network, the region’s rugged red rock landscape puts every aspect of a vehicle’s durability, engineering, and off-road capability to the ultimate test. Only vehicles built to withstand the harshest conditions can conquer its demanding terrain. Rising to the challenge, the Jetour GAIA G700 and the G700 Whistling Arrow premium SUVs confidently tackled Moab’s iconic vertical climbs, loose sand, and slickrock trails, demonstrating exceptional capability and composure throughout the course.

Marking 60 years of history, the Easter Jeep Safari serves as the ultimate global proving ground for testing vehicle limits under extreme duress. Beyond rigorous competition, the landmark anniversary event functioned as a vibrant international platform for cross-cultural exchange within the global off-road community. To highlight this crossover appeal, Jetour GAIA invited Off Road Motorsports Hall of Fame driver Robby Gordon and renowned adventurer Hazen Audel to experience the vehicles firsthand during core driving sessions across Moab’s most challenging trails.

“This is very technical driving, you really need [a car] with good traction, which is really important. And the car has to be agile and be able to transition over mountains and the Red Rock stones,” says Gordon.

Meeting the high standards of icons like Gordon and Audel underscores the engineering prowess poured into the G700 platform. The vehicles’ balanced weight distribution, precise steering responsiveness, and advanced suspension systems allowed them to glide effortlessly across complex obstacles that routinely break lesser builds. The successful deployment at Moab validates Jetour GAIA’s long-term vision of bringing world-class adventure engineering to a global audience.

With its groundbreaking participation in the 60th Annual Easter Jeep Safari, Jetour GAIA has set a new milestone for Chinese automotive engineering in the global off-road scene. The G700 continues to redefine expectations, demonstrating that it can compete alongside the world’s leading off-road vehicles while confidently taking on some of the toughest terrains with performance, capability, and distinctive style.

To experience Jetour GAIA firsthand, visit the Jetour GAIA Space at 931 EDSA, Brgy. Philam, Quezon City, conveniently located across from Trinoma and Solaire North. Additional Jetour GAIA Spaces are set to open soon in Alabang and Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Stay updated by following jetourgaia on Facebook and Instagram.

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 29, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Take your multiplayer gaming to the next level with the Galaxy A27 5G’s immersive edge-to-edge display and enhanced processor

For many Filipino barkadas, mobile gaming has become more than just a way to pass the time. It is where friends team up, put their strategies to the test, and compete for ultimate bragging rights. With the Galaxy A27 5G, players can elevate every match through a powerful combination of speed, fluid performance, and intelligent features that help them stay ahead of the competition.

Gain the Competitive Edge in Every Multiplayer Match

When every second counts, performance can determine whether a team secures the win or falls short. Equipped with the upgraded Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, the Galaxy A27 5G delivers fast responsiveness, seamless multitasking, and reliable performance, allowing players to stay focused and perform at their best even during the most demanding multiplayer battles.

Visual immersion gets a massive upgrade through the stunning Infinity-O display and slimmer bezels for a true edge-to-edge viewing experience. Whether you are spotting enemies in the brush or navigating complex skill menus, the ultra-smooth 120Hz refresh rate guarantees every swipe, tap, and movement feels instantaneous and fluid.

On Top with Awesome Intelligence

Beyond dominating leaderboards, the Galaxy A27 5G diversifies the Galaxy A series profile by making premium AI capabilities accessible. It brings Awesome Intelligence features to a value-seeking audience, making daily tasks smarter and more intuitive.

The improved Circle to Search with Google lets you look up an entire OOTD pegs instantly without switching apps. For young professionals and students juggling hectic schedules, Voice Transcription effortlessly turns recorded meetings or group brainstorms into clean, organized text. When it is time to post-process your victory photos or lifestyle shots, advanced photo editing tools like the Object Eraser let you wipe out background distractions and photobombers with a single tap.

The Ultimate Galaxy Advantage: Built to Last

Value-driven consumers know that a great smartphone is an investment that should withstand the test of time. Samsung continues its commitment to secure innovation by packing the Galaxy A27 5G with Samsung Knox Vault. This hardware-backed security system keeps your private data, passwords, and financial information isolated and protected from malicious attacks.

To ensure the device remains fast, secure, and compatible with the latest apps for years to come, the Galaxy A27 5G comes backed by 6 generations of Android OS upgrades and 6 years of security updates. This ensures your phone performs as good as the day you unboxed it.

Step Up Your A-Game with the Galaxy A27 5G

Offered in Light Pink, Blue, and Black, the Galaxy A27 5G combines style with performance, making every squad gaming session more seamless, immersive, and enjoyable. The 6GB + 128GB model retails for Php18,990, while the 8GB + 256GB variant is priced at Php21,990. Customers who purchase the device on or before September 15, 2026, can enjoy savings of up to Php3,639, which includes a Php1,500 discount, a free Travel Adapter, and a complimentary Jisu Life Fan.

For gamers seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Galaxy A07 5G is also available starting at just Php8,490, delivering reliable performance to help users stay on top of their game.

To learn more about the Galaxy A27 5G and Samsung’s latest mobile innovations, visit samsung.com.ph or the Samsung Philippines Newsroom at https://news.samsung.com/ph/step-up-your-multiplayer-a-game-with-the-galaxy-a27-5gs-immersive-edge-to-edge-display-and-upgraded-processor.

Terms and conditions apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-258063 Series of 2026

 

July 29, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Eastern Communications Wraps Up Launchpad Series, Spotlights Digital Transformation Priorities Across Philippine Industries

Eastern Communications’ Launchpad session with Colliers and Huawei last May 2026

Eastern Communications has successfully completed its seven-part Launchpad series, convening business executives, industry specialists, technology partners, and key decision-makers to examine the digital transformation priorities and opportunities shaping seven major sectors of the Philippine economy. Through a series of industry-focused discussions, Launchpad provided a venue for organizations to exchange valuable insights, address emerging challenges, share best practices, and discover practical technology solutions that enhance business resilience and drive sustainable growth.

Organized in partnership with Colliers, Cisco, HPE, Sophos, Nexusguard, and Huawei, the series highlighted the importance of collaboration across industries in helping organizations strengthen operations, adapt to changing market demands, and prepare for long-term growth amid accelerating technological innovation and evolving customer expectations.

Spanning seven dedicated sessions, the series focused on key sectors that play vital roles in the Philippine economy: IT-BPM, Supply Chain, Hospitality & Tourism, Public Sector, Banking & Finance, Healthcare, and Academe. Each session provided a platform for participants to exchange insights, examine industry-specific pain points, and explore practical approaches to addressing business and technology gaps.

While each industry brought its own priorities to the discussions, several themes consistently emerged throughout the Launchpad series, reflecting the shared challenges organizations face as they continue to evolve in an increasingly digital landscape.

Cybersecurity continues to be a growing concern as organizations expand their digital footprint and face increasingly sophisticated threats. Operational resilience remains a top priority as businesses seek to ensure continuity amid economic uncertainties and changing customer expectations. Meanwhile, digital transformation efforts are becoming more focused on achieving measurable business outcomes, with organizations looking for practical and scalable solutions rather than technology for technology’s sake.

“Organizations today face increasingly complex challenges that require more than technology alone,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue & Innovation Officer at Eastern Communications. “They need trusted partners who understand their industries, listen to their evolving needs, and help them build solutions that support long-term growth and resilience. Launchpad was created to foster those conversations.”

Emerging Industry-Themed Insights from the Launchpad

While these priorities resonated across all sectors, each industry also highlighted distinct opportunities and challenges that require tailored approaches to digital transformation.

For the IT-BPM industry, participants highlighted the importance of resilient digital infrastructure and secure hybrid work environments in helping Philippine organizations remain globally competitive amid evolving client demands.

Hospitality & Tourism organizations explored how digital solutions can help modernize operations, enhance guest experiences, and improve service delivery to meet the changing expectations of today’s travelers.

The Banking & Finance sector underscored the importance of strengthening cybersecurity, enhancing customer trust, and ensuring regulatory compliance as digital financial services continue to evolve.

Healthcare organizations discussed the need for secure and reliable infrastructure, capable of supporting connected care and digital health initiatives. Meanwhile, institutions within the Academe sector examined how technology can help create more engaging, secure, and future-ready learning environments.

Beyond knowledge-sharing, Launchpad created opportunities for organizations to exchange experiences, discuss common business challenges, and explore practical approaches to digital transformation with peers and technology experts.

Driving Meaningful Collaboration

The series also reinforced Eastern Communications’ commitment to developing industry-relevant connectivity and ICT solutions that address evolving customer needs across different sectors.

“Every industry has its own challenges, but what we consistently heard throughout the series was the need for solutions that are practical, scalable, and aligned with business objectives,” added Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Eastern Communications. “These conversations help us better understand the evolving needs of our customers and allow us to continue developing solutions that create meaningful impact.”

As the Launchpad series comes to a close, Eastern Communications extends its appreciation to its partners, speakers, and participating organizations for sharing their expertise and insights throughout the program. The knowledge and perspectives gathered from the discussions will help guide the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting Philippine businesses in building secure, resilient, and future-ready digital operations.

For more information about Eastern Communications’ digital solutions and industry initiatives, visit www.eastern.com.ph.

 

 

July 28, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev, Khan Academy Expand Personalized Digital Learning in Davao Public Schools

Alsons Dev, Khan Academy Philippines, and the Department of Education (DepEd) Region XI formalize their partnership under the Adopt-a-School Program through the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement and Deed of Donation at T. Awad Echevarria Elementary School, one of three beneficiary schools in Davao City. In attendance are [L-R] DepEd Senior Education Program Specialist Braian B. Mahinay, DepEd Education Program Supervisor (Mathematics) Jeson J. Reyes, DepEd Education Program Supervisor (Science) Faye Pasamonte, Alsons Dev Vice President and General Manager Jolla A. Soriaga, Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, Davao City 2nd District Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, Khan Academy President and CEO Atty. Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine, Khan Academy Trustee and COO Atty. Myrish C. Antonio, DepEd Chief Education Supervisor Alma C. Cifra, T. Awad Echevarria Elementary School Principal Marife Maynabay, Public Schools District Supervisor (Buhangin West District) Melinda A. Roma, and Khan Academy Engagement and Implementation Officer Melissa Yap.

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) is strengthening technology-enabled education through its partnership with Khan Academy Philippines under the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Adopt-a-School Program. The collaboration equips public elementary schools in Davao City with digital learning resources, internet connectivity, and teacher support to improve classroom instruction.

The program was formally launched through the signing of Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) and Deeds of Donation at Tugbok Central Elementary School on July 14, 2026, followed by similar ceremonies at T. Awad Echevarria Elementary School and Paradise Embac Elementary School on July 15, 2026. Representatives from Alsons Dev, the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc., Khan Academy Philippines, DepEd Region XI, local government units, and participating schools attended the events. During the turnover, 128 tablets were donated to the three beneficiary schools, along with demonstrations showcasing the Khan Academy learning platform.

Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez delivers his message during the launch of the Adopt-a-School partnership at Tugbok Central Elementary School. The school received 51 tablets under the program to support technology-enabled learning.

More than providing devices, Alsons Dev is also funding three years of internet connectivity, teacher training, and implementation support, ensuring partner schools have the resources and guidance needed to effectively integrate the Khan Academy platform into classroom instruction.

Khan Academy Philippines President and CEO, Atty. Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine, emphasized the importance of partnerships in expanding access to quality education, “At Khan Academy Philippines, we believe every learner deserves access to quality education, regardless of circumstance. While we provide free learning resources, support from private organizations like Alsons Dev plays a vital role in helping schools overcome barriers to implementation and create more opportunities for students to reach their full potential.”

A student from Paradise Embac Elementary School uses one of the 31 tablets donated by Alsons Dev. As a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) school, Paradise Embac was included in the Khan Academy program to help bring digital learning opportunities to underserved communities.

Through Khan Academy’s personalized online learning platform, students gain free access to instructional videos and practice exercises in Math, Science, and English, with lessons aligned to the DepEd curriculum. Teachers and school administrators can also monitor student progress through a built-in dashboard.

“We believe education creates opportunities that shape a young person’s future. Through this partnership, we hope to strengthen learning in our public schools by giving students access to the tools and resources they need to learn, grow, and pursue their aspirations. By investing in young learners today, we are helping build stronger communities for generations to come,” said Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez.

The three-year program marks the start of a sustained effort to expand access to digital learning and create more engaging educational experiences in public schools. It underscores Alsons Dev’s commitment to enriching lives by opening more opportunities for individuals and communities to grow and succeed.

For more information about Alsons Dev’s community initiatives, visit www.alsonsdev.co

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 27, 2026 by
Entertainment

Singapore-based Filipino artist, bloo!, releases debut EP, in moments of stillness

The five-track EP delves into grief, rage, and finding your way back to yourself

PHOTOS / Credit: Titus Madrideo

bloo!, the recording project of Singapore-based Filipino artist Thea Madrideo, has released her debut EP “in moments of stillness” on all major streaming platforms worldwide.

“in moments of stillness” is a five-track collection written entirely by Madrideo over two years in the quiet, disorienting aftermath of a life that changed overnight and in the slow, uneven work of returning to herself. The EP does not perform healing. It documents the act, honestly and in the order it actually happened.

Deeply entrenched in singer-songwriter intimacy and pop rock energy, bloo!’s sound carries the emotional directness of early 2000s lyricism, drawing from artists like Kitchie Nadal, Alanis Morissette, and Michelle Branch. Her lyrics move between English and Filipino, reflecting the natural texture of how she thinks and feels.

The five tracks move through a complete emotional arc. “soup” opens the EP in a state of sabaw, the Filipino slang for a mind running on autopilot, surviving but not processing, until the weight compounds and overflows. “back2me” is the anger that finally gets permission to exist: petty on the surface, cathartic underneath, ending in the realization that running back to yourself is more freeing than running back to the source of pain. “that’s why” is the record’s turning point: a vulnerable admission of self-blame and the courage it takes to finally place it somewhere real. “blue’s clues” is the reminder that healing is not linear, the song for the 3am moment when stillness creeps back in and you appeal to choose yourself again. “dramatic” closes the EP not with romance, but with gratitude, written for every friend and family member who stayed patient and didn’t think she was too much while she found her way back.

“They’re not perfect. Some of them are messy and petty and unresolved, in the way that real feelings tend to be. But they’re honest. And I think that’s the thing that matters most when you’re making music for the moments that are hard to name,” says Madrideo.

bloo! is named after the safe space where Madrideo wrote the EP’s first song and the ones that followed. The project is produced in collaboration with a close circle of Manila-based musicians and producers.

TRACKLIST

  1.  soup
  2.  back2me
  3.  that’s why
  4.  blue’s clues
  5.  dramatic

July 27, 2026 by
Entertainment

JENNIE captivates with ethereal new single “Less than a Lover”

Watch the music video here

Set to headline Lollapalooza Chicago

Global superstar JENNIE releases her ethereal new single and music video “Less than a Lover,” available now via ODDATELIER/Columbia Records.

The single is JENNIE’s ode to summer, capturing the excitement and lingering emotions of a relationship that exists somewhere between friendship and romance. Written by JENNIE, the song explores the space with someone who is more than a friend but “Less than a Lover,” JENNIE embraces the confusion and exhilaration of an undefined connection. Expanding her sonic palette with a softer alternative-pop sound, the track pairs lo-fi guitar textures and vintage electric keyboards, JENNIE’s vocals and lyricism, naturally expressing the subtle feelings that arise in a relationship that is neither friendship nor love. The accompanying music video, based on a story by JENNIE, sees her slip into another world, another character, another version of herself while shooting a short film with friends, where a faux love story shapes a new dynamic between them that was absent before.

JENNIE first teased “Less than a Lover” to a massive crowd during her historic headlining set at Governors Ball in June. Since then, she has dominated the festival stages at Mad Cool, Open’er and Roskilde. She will continue her summer festival run as a headliner at Lollapalooza in Chicago, before making her first-ever appearance at Summer Sonic Festival in Japan.

As one of the most influential global artists of her generation, JENNIE continues to redefine modern pop through her fearless artistry and creative vision. From record-breaking releases and sold-out performances to fashion partnerships, she has established herself as a singular force across music, fashion and culture, continuing to shape the entertainment landscape.

FOLLOW JENNIE
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July 24, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Philippine Manufacturing Week 2026 Launches with a Dual Focus on Auto Parts Innovation and Die & Mould Excellence

Philippine Manufacturing Week officially kicks off today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, serving as the country’s largest showcase of manufacturing technologies and innovations. Running for three days, the event brings together the 3rd Auto Parts and Vehicles Expo (APVE) 2026 Philippines and the 12th Philippine Die and Mould Machinery and Equipment Exhibition (PDMEX), positioning itself as the leading hub for advancements in manufacturing, automotive components, and industrial innovation.

As the Philippines’ premier B2B platform for the manufacturing sector, Philippine Manufacturing Week covers the entire manufacturing ecosystem—from automotive aftermarket solutions to precision die and mould machinery. The event provides industry stakeholders with valuable opportunities to discover emerging technologies, build strategic partnerships, and explore innovations that will help shape the future of Philippine manufacturing.

Seeing how Philippine Manufacturing Week brings together the entire manufacturing value chain reminds me that innovation grows faster when industries collaborate. It’s encouraging to see a platform where technology, partnerships, and shared expertise come together to help shape the future of Philippine manufacturing.

Government Leaders Emphasize Strategic Importance

The opening ceremony is graced by distinguished government officials who underscored the critical role of manufacturing in the nation’s economic development. Ms. Vivian Santos, Deputy Director General for Operations representing the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), emphasized PEZA’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the manufacturing sector through strategic incentives, infrastructure development, and policy support that positions the Philippines as a competitive manufacturing hub in the ASEAN region.

Mr. Ferdinand Jesus Ortega, Chairperson of the Cooperative Development Authority has highlighted the agency’s dedication to empowering transport cooperatives and automotive enterprises through capacity-building programs and financial mechanisms. His remarks has reinforced the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where both large-scale manufacturers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can thrive in the auto parts and manufacturing sectors.

The third edition of the Auto Parts and Vehicles Expo demonstrates remarkable growth, reflecting the surging market demand for automotive aftermarket solutions in the Philippines. This year’s exhibition features a significantly expanded show portfolio with exhibitors from multiple countries, including prominent international pavilions from China, Taiwan, and Thailand. The diverse participation underscores the Philippines’ growing importance as a strategic market for automotive components and aftermarket services in Southeast Asia.

Making its 12th edition, the Philippine Die and Mould Machinery and Equipment Exhibition (PDMEX) is co-organized with the esteemed Philippine Die and Mold Association (PDMA) and Informa Markets, bringing together the nation’s leading experts and solution providers in precision tooling. Die and mould machinery represents the backbone of the Philippine manufacturing sector, enabling the production of everything from automotive components to consumer electronics. PDMEX addresses the critical need for advanced tooling technology, precision engineering solutions, and knowledge transfer that will elevate the competitiveness of Philippine manufacturers on the global stage.

Strategic Co-Location Drives Industry Synergy

“The co-location of APVE and PDMEX under Philippine Manufacturing Week represents a strategic milestone in our commitment to advancing the Philippine manufacturing ecosystem,” said Ms. Rungphech Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines. “By bringing together the automotive aftermarket and die and mould industries, we’re creating powerful synergies that showcase the interconnected nature of modern manufacturing. This integrated approach enables our exhibitors and visitors to explore the complete value chain, from precision tooling and component manufacturing to aftermarket distribution and service, all under one roof. We’re proud to facilitate the connections and knowledge exchange that will drive innovation and growth across these vital sectors.”

The Philippine Manufacturing Week 2026 features its most comprehensive conference program to date, with expert-led sessions addressing the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

APVE conference highlights include:

  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology and Infrastructure Development
  • MSME Loan Programs by Small Business Corporation tailored for transport cooperatives
  • Automotive Trends and Aftermarket Opportunities
  • Trucking Industry Modernization and Fleet Management
  • Auto Components Driving Philippine Manufacturing (featuring insights from PEZA)

PDMEX sessions focus on:

  • Die and Mould Industry Trends and Future Outlook
  • Robotics Integration in Manufacturing * Advanced Welding Technologies and Applications
  • Precision Engineering and Quality Control
  • Digital Transformation in Tooling and Manufacturing

It is projected to attract approximately 8,000 industry professionals, including manufacturers, distributors, procurement specialists, engineers, and government representatives. This significant attendance reflects the event’s growing reputation as an essential platform for business development, technology sourcing, and industry networking.

Philippine Manufacturing Week is made possible through strong collaboration with key government agencies and industry organizations dedicated to strengthening the country’s manufacturing sector. Among its government partners are the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), whose continued support helps advance policies, programs, and initiatives that promote the competitiveness, innovation, and long-term sustainability of Philippine manufacturing.

The Auto Parts and Vehicles Expo (APVE) and the Philippine Die and Mould Machinery and Equipment Exhibition (PDMEX) will take place from July 23 to 25, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City. Open to industry professionals, the co-located events provide a platform to explore cutting-edge technologies, engage with global suppliers, and gain valuable insights that support business growth and innovation across the automotive and manufacturing sectors.

 

 

 

July 23, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Metrobank observes a growing number of young Filipinos choosing digital platforms to build their savings

For many young Filipinos, money management has become a digital-first habit. From settling bills and transferring funds to monitoring their spending, smartphones have become their primary banking tool. This shift toward digital convenience is now extending to how they build their savings.

Metrobank has seen a growing demand for online savings accounts among younger customers, with Gen Z and millennials making up more than 87% of all Metrobank eSavings accounts opened since the beginning of the year. The trend reflects how more Filipinos are embracing digital banking, choosing convenient and accessible platforms to help them grow their savings anytime, anywhere.

The trend reflects changing expectations around banking. Rather than viewing savings as a separate financial task that requires visiting a branch, many younger customers are integrating it into their daily digital lives, they are choosing to open and manage their savings accounts through mobile platforms like the Metrobank App, making it easier to begin saving whenever they’re ready, or for their other daily finances like fund transfers and bills payment.

Metrobank’s data also shows a snapshot of where this adoption is strongest. Nearly half of eSavings users come from Metro Manila and Region IV, areas with high concentrations of young professionals, while majority of accountholders are female, reflecting strong adoption among digitally connected, working-age Filipinos.

The figures suggest that convenience is only part of the appeal. As more young adults begin building careers, supporting their families, or planning for major life milestones, the importance of developing healthy financial habits has become more apparent. A savings account often serves as the starting point, not only for managing day-to-day finances but also for preparing for bigger financial goals.

Recognizing this evolving customer journey, Metrobank continues to expand the capabilities of its online banking platforms beyond basic transactions. Through the Metrobank App and Metrobank Online, customers can conveniently access a wider range of financial solutions designed to help their money work harder.

Beyond opening an eSavings account digitally, customers can also place funds in Online Time Deposit, allowing them to earn potentially higher returns while enjoying the convenience of managing their account online. Those looking to begin investing can also access UITF Online through Metrobank Online site, making it easier to explore professionally managed investment funds based on their financial goals and risk appetite.

By bringing savings and investment solutions together in its online banking channels, Metrobank aims to support customers at every stage of their financial journey, from building their first emergency fund to growing their wealth over the long term.

Saving doesn’t always begin with a large amount. More often, it starts with having the right tools that make the habit simple and accessible. By making these products available through its online banking channels, Metrobank aims to support customers throughout their financial journey, from developing the habit of saving, to growing their wealth over time.

To encourage more Filipinos to start their savings journey, Metrobank is running its eSavings Promo until September 30, 2026. New clients who open a Metrobank eSavings account through the Metrobank App and successfully register for the promo will receive a PHP100 Lazada Gift Card, subject to the promo’s terms and conditions.

As banking becomes more digital, the role of a savings account is also changing. For many young Filipinos, saving is no longer viewed as just another financial responsibility but as a daily habit supported by the convenience of digital banking, helping them steadily work toward a more secure financial future.

Metrobank is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (https://www.bsp.gov.ph/). Deposits are insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) for up to P1 million per depositor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

July 23, 2026 by