Lifestyle, News, Tech

Globe’s m360 Earns Gold Stevie® Award for Most Innovative Tech Company of the Year at the 2026 International Business Awards

The 23rd Annual International Business Awards® are the world’s premier business awards competition, recognizing outstanding organizations, executives, entrepreneurs, and teams worldwide

Globe Telecom’s m360 has been recognized with a Gold Stevie® Award in the Most Innovative Tech Company of the Year category at the 23rd Annual International Business Awards® (IBAs).

As a Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) provider under Brave Connective Holdings, Inc., m360 earned global recognition for its innovative wallet-based, omnichannel Customer Engagement Platform. The award highlights the Filipino-built company’s growing presence among the world’s most innovative technology firms, just five years after its establishment in 2021.

The International Business Awards are recognized as one of the world’s leading business awards programs. The competition is open to individuals and organizations worldwide, including public and private entities, for-profit and nonprofit organizations, and businesses of all sizes. For its 2026 edition, the IBAs attracted entries from organizations across 82 countries and territories.

Winners will be celebrated during a gala event at the Pullman Paris Montparnasse on Wednesday, 28 October.

“This Gold win is a recognition of what our team has built – a platform designed to solve real problems for Filipino businesses. It’s proof that innovation doesn’t have to come from Silicon Valley to compete on the world stage. This belongs to every person at m360 who worked to get us here,” said m360 President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramon Hirang.

m360 also brought home a Silver award at the 2025 International Stevie Awards under the Achievement in Product Innovation category.

World class innovation, made in the Philippines

In 2025, m360 launched two market-first products that addressed an infrastructure gap on how Philippine businesses can automate and monitor engagement in digital marketing campaigns.

Flows enables businesses to design and execute multi-step, multi-channel outbound messaging sequences entirely within m360, with zero third-party integration required – a capability previously accessible only through enterprise marketing automation suites that cost multiples of what m360 offers, and that require months of implementation.

Click Tracking delivers recipient-level engagement intelligence natively within the m360 broadcast dashboard – giving businesses real-time visibility into CTR, unique clicks per campaign, peak click timing by hourly intervals, device type breakdown, and geographic engagement down to the city level. What was once a one-way broadcast channel is now a measurable performance tool.

“The CPaaS industry in the Philippines has historically been dominated by aggregators offering transmission – not intelligence. Businesses could send messages, but couldn’t measure engagement, automate follow-up, or optimize campaigns without layering on expensive external tools. m360’s 2024–2025 innovations directly address these gaps. Each product was built because the market needed it and no local provider had built it yet,” said Mr. Hirang.

With clients spanning clinics, cooperatives, government agencies, banks, and retailers, m360 is bringing digital communication intelligence to every corner of the Philippine economy.

The 2026 International Business Awards

More than 3,400 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories, including Company of the Year, Marketing Campaign of the Year, Best New Product or Service of the Year, Startup of the Year, Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year, and Executive of the Year, among others.

Stevie Award nominations were evaluated by more than 200 business professionals worldwide serving as judges on 9 specialized committees. Stevie Award winners were determined based on judges’ average scores during the independent judging process in June and July.

“The 2026 International Business Awards winners represent the very best in business achievement from organizations of all sizes and across virtually every industry,” said Stevie Awards President Maggie Miller.

“This year’s winners have demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, resilience, and results in a highly competitive global field. We congratulate every Stevie Award winner and look forward to celebrating their achievements together in Paris on October 28.”

More information about The International Business Awards, including the complete list of Stevie Award winners, can be found on the official IBA website, http://IBA.Stevieawards.com

For more information, please visit m360 official website: https://www.m360.com.ph/

 

 

September 4, 2026 by
Entertainment

BEYONCÉ MARKS HER BIRTHDAY WITH THE RELEASE OF A REMASTERED DELUXE “B’DAY” ALB

HER COMING-OF-AGE MASTERPIECE IS AMPLIFIED WITH UPGRADED VISUALS, SURPRISE NEW TRACKS, AND SPANISH LANGUAGE SONGS, INCLUDING COLLABORATIONS WITH MALUMA AND THE LATE SELENA

B’DAY (20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION) IS AVAILABLE NOW LISTEN HERE | ORDER THE CD & VINYL HERE

Today marks Beyoncé’s birthday and the release of a voluminous remastered B’DAY, her coming-of-age second album. When it was released on September 4, 2006, music fans around the world were introduced to a 25-year-old woman with a bold, new voice. Not just a powerful singing voice, but an artist determined to take over her career as a singer, songwriter, producer, and visual artist. She recorded the album in a two-week session, fully cemented at the helm, and knowing exactly what she wanted to create. She was pushing herself, revealing layers to her innovative approach to recording, writing, and producing. That fierce and urgent approach was extended to all her collaborators, with each one digging a little deeper to define the sound of her deeply personal album.

“I wanted the album to be big, percussive, hard, up-tempo, and energized, and it was important to me that we used live instrumentation,” she recalls. “Hip-hop was taking over at the time, but I was fighting to preserve the bridges, melodies, and harmonies that have always been at the heart of R&B. The goal was to blend those two worlds through the art of sampling. I loved the minimalism of a beautiful vocal arrangement over a simple drum loop or a classic guitar like ‘Irreplaceable’…but only if that 808 was banging underneath.”

B’DAY was essentially her first visual album, with short films that explored the making of a relationship in full, through every turn. It was a conceptual project, urgent and captivating. Its themes of finding one’s confidence, liberation, audacity and compatibility are as relevant today as they were two decades ago.

And in preparing for this milestone release, Beyoncé once again went back to the boards and worked on remastering songs. The videos, originally captured on 35mm are now remastered and re-colored and finished in 4k, including “Déjà Vu,” featuring JAY-Z, and directed by Sophie Muller, also out today.

Images, shot on location in New Orleans, and never seen before, are also included. New Orleans, where Beyoncé’s family has deep roots, was working on rebuilding following the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina. The Big Easy’s resilience and fortitude served as inspiration for Beyoncé who wanted to contribute in her own way to the city’s revitalization.

When news of the B’DAY (20th Anniversary Edition) broke last July 4th, it was ushered in by the song “MORNING DEW (DONK).” Astute fans quickly pointed to the history of the song, which leaked in 2023. A remix of the track, featuring JAY-Z, was delivered on August 4th, solidifying the song’s placement among the twenty-three-year plus history of collaborations between the Carters.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition is replete with a celebratory offering of Spanish language songs that speak to Beyoncé’s love and admiration for the culture and the incredible artists who contributed and continue to build on the genre. “Cuerpo Tumbao (Get Me Bodied) feat. Maluma” marks a first-time collaboration with the Colombian artist, one of the leading voices in Latin music. She has been a fan of his work and feels flattered to finally work with this multi-genre artist. A philanthropist in every way, Beyoncé applauds Maluma for the work he does in his country to help young people through the arts, and through humanitarian efforts following the recent earthquake. The song contains a sample of Afro-Cuban star, Celia Cruz’s “La Negra Tiene Tumbao.” Beyoncé has long admired Cruz’s pride in her African culture; her refusal to bend in the wake of racism, colorism and the narrow definition of beauty. In a time when society wanted her to be bitter and broken down, she boldly claimed her Blackness. The sample was the perfect fit for a song that pushes strength and confidence on the dancefloor and in life. The song was produced by Beyoncé, Edgar Barrera, CASTA and co-produced by Ali “Ali Ali” Alvarez.

“Irreemplazable (Como La Flor) featuring Selena” is a momentous inclusion. Selena was one of the most celebrated Mexican American entertainers and was known as the “Queen of Tejano Music.” Since her passing in 1995, her estate rarely grants use of her music. This resounding approval for Beyoncé from Selena Quintanilla’s estate made it possible for this timely and meaningful duet. Two women from Texas. Two unmistakable and irreplaceable voices that broke down and continues to break down barriers.

Beyoncé revered Selena and remembers listening to her on the radio in Houston. She credits her for inspiring the recording of Irreemplazable, her Spanish EP released in 2007.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition – Deluxe Vinyl – a 4LP edition pressed on 180G Bayou Blue Vinyl. It features “MORNING DEW (DONK),” Spanish recordings, and B-Sides. It comes with a 60-page commemorative booklet and two collectible double-sided art prints. The Deluxe Vinyl is jampacked with massive, new gems including “Can I Watch You”, produced by Beyoncé and Pharrell, and “My First Time,” which was originally recorded for Beyoncé’s debut solo album, DANGEROSUSLY IN LOVE, but was taken off the final track list. Also included here are “Lost Yo Mind,” “Creole” and “Back Up,” B-sides that were not included on B’DAY in 2006.

B’DAY (20th Anniversary Edition), is available in standard and deluxe volumes on vinyl and CD, as well as a deluxe digital offering.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition – Standard Vinyl is a limited edition 180G 2LP with new sequencing and new tracks/remixes. It features “MORNING DEW (DONK)” and a 16-page collectible booklet with never-before-seen imagery.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition Digital Deluxe – All tracks on the deluxe vinyl plus two digital-only bonus additions, “Cuerpo Tumbao (featuring Maluma)” and “Irreemplazable (Como La Flor) Featuring Selena.”

B/DAY 20th ANNIVERSARY EDITION -DIGITAL DELUXE (31 TRACKS)

  1. DÉJÀ VU (FEAT. JAŸ-Z)
  2. GET ME BODIED
  3. SUGA MAMA
  4. UPGRADE U (FEAT. JAŸ-Z)
  5. RING THE ALARM
  6. KITTY KAT
  7. FREAKUM DRESS
  8. GREEN LIGHT
  9. IRREPLACEABLE
  10. CHECK ON IT (FEAT. SLIM THUG)
  11. BEAUTIFUL LIAR (BEYONCÉ & SHAKIRA)
  12. FLAWS AND ALL
  13. RESENTMENT
  14. LISTEN
  15. MORNING DEW (DONK)
  16. MY FIRST TIME
  17. CAN I WATCH YOU (FEAT. PHARRELL)
  18. WELCOME TO HOLLYWOOD (FEAT. JAŸ-Z)6
  19. LOST YO MIND
  20. CREOLE
  21. BACK UP
  22. GET ME BODIED (EXTENDED MIX)
  23. CUERPO (TUMBAO) FEAT. MALUMA
  24. IRREEMPLAZABLE (COMO LA FLOR) FEAT. SELENA
  25. AMOR GITANO (BEYONCÉ & ALEJANDRO FERNÁNDEZ)
  26. LISTEN (OYE)
  27. BEAUTIFUL LIAR (BELLO EMBUSTERO)
  28. IRREPLACEABLE (IRREEMPLAZABLE)
  29. GET ME BODIED (TIMBALAND REMIX) [FEAT. VOLTIO]
  30. IRREPLACEABLE (IMPLAZABLE) [NORTEÑA REMIX]
  31. GET ME BODIED (MUEVE EL CUERPO)

ORDER THE VINYL HERE

 

 

 

September 4, 2026 by
Travel

2GO Travel Launches TraveLink for Seamless Sea-and-Land Travel Across the Philippines

12Go booking interface showing seamless multi-modal travel itineraries through TraveLink

2GO Travel has launched TraveLink, a multi-modal travel service that brings sea and land transportation together in a single, seamless itinerary, making travel across the Philippines more convenient and hassle-free. The service combines 2GO Travel’s sea fares with connecting bus or van transfers, allowing passengers to book their complete journey under one itinerary.

Whether traveling from major cities to island destinations or between provinces, TraveLink simplifies trip planning from departure to arrival. Instead of making separate bookings for buses, vans, and ferries, travelers can now arrange their entire route in one transaction, saving time and eliminating the need to coordinate with multiple transportation providers. Available TraveLink routes include Manila–El Nido, Manila–Caticlan (Boracay), Baguio–Cebu, Baguio–Bacolod, and Baguio–Siargao.

“Travel doesn’t begin at the port—it begins the moment you leave home,” said Francis John Chua, Head of 2GO Travel. “For years, travelers had to arrange different bookings for every leg of their journey. With TraveLink, we’re bringing those connections together, making it easier for our passengers to travel across the Philippines with greater convenience and confidence.”  

TraveLink is powered by 2GO’s partnership with 12Go Asia, one of Asia’s leading travel technology companies specializing in multimodal transportation. By combining 12Go Asia’s booking technology with 2GO Travel’s extensive domestic shipping network, passengers can now enjoy smoother connections between buses, vans, and sea travel through a single itinerary.

The new service is designed specifically for travelers heading to destinations beyond 2GO Travel’s port network, enabling them to reach their final destinations without the hassle of arranging and coordinating multiple transfers on their own.

TraveLink reinforces 2GO Travel’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the travel experience in the Philippines by creating more connected, accessible, and convenient journeys across the archipelago.

For bookings and more information, visit www.12go.asia or www.travel.2go.com.ph.

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

 

September 4, 2026 by
Entertainment

6cyclemind celebrates 25 years of staying power and OPM legacy with a massive anniversary show

Gigi de Lana, Bino of Sunkissed Lola, HEY JUNE!, and Jet Pangan join the veteran band for a free celebration at Eton Centris

After building a legacy of generation-defining anthems and a lasting connection with the Filipino audience, 6cyclemind will celebrate 25 years of making music with a special concert at Eton Centris in Quezon City on September 12, 2026.

The anniversary concert serves as a homecoming for OPM music fans who have watched the band grow and earn their rightful place in pop culture—thanks to their accessible yet heartfelt pop-rock tunes and earnest songwriting that reflect everyday Filipino life.

To make the event even more special, the free show will feature a cross-generational lineup of artists, including Gigi de Lana, Bino of Sunkissed Lola, HEY JUNE!, and The Dawn’s Jet Pangan. CLNO, the band formed by former 6cyclemind member Chuck Isidro, will open the concert.

According to 6cyclemind, reaching 25 years goes far beyond legacy. “We consider every anniversary a milestone,” says bassist Bobby Cañamo. “25 years is such a special milestone kasi mas ramdam namin yung era na natawid ng banda. Also, this time, may opportunity kami i-celebrate yung milestone nang mas grand.”

Since its formation in the early 2000s, 6cyclemind has released six studio albums and maintained a solid spot in OPM history. Songs such as “Sandalan,” “Sige,” “Upside Down,” and “Biglaan” have continued to find listeners decades after its peak, taking on new meanings as both the band and its audience have moved past it.

For drummer Vic Aquino, the longevity of the band’s music can partly be traced to its relatability and to the band’s decision to keep playing. Its songs, he notes, have become part of different listeners’ lives through gigs, videoke sessions, family playlists, and everyday listening.

Official poster

Live shows remain central to 6cyclemind’s identity: a place they call home, bringing comfort and familiarity. The band began its career playing bar gigs and small events, eventually performing across the Philippines in festivals as a headlining act. After decades onstage, the members still regard live performance as one of the most rewarding aspects of being in the band.

“A live show always seems like a reunion with our audience for us,” manager and 6th member
Darwin Hernandez says, reflecting on the band’s extensive touring history. “We were blessed that we were able to build a connection with our audience through our songs.”

The anniversary celebration arrives as the band steps into a new era. 6cyclemind is currently working on a new album with Isidro serving as producer.

As 6cyclemind enters its 26th year, the band remains grounded in the same commitment that has sustained it for a quarter-century: making music, performing, reaching new listeners, and growing alongside the Filipino music community.

“We just want to share our music and be an inspiration to others,” Aquino says. “Gaya nung lyrics, ‘di kami tumigil, itinuloy namin through ups and downs and lineup changes ng members ng banda.”

The 25th anniversary concert therefore stands not simply as a look back, but as a marker of continuity: celebrating where 6cyclemind has been while opening the door to whatever comes next.

 

 

 

 

September 4, 2026 by
Food

Angel’s Pizza Unveils New Mobile App and Blessings Loyalty Program

Angel’s Pizza is giving customers even more reasons to enjoy their favorite meals with the launch of its new mobile app on September 4. The app features a built-in loyalty program that lets customers earn and redeem points with every purchase.

Now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, the new Angel’s Pizza app replaces its previous version and introduces Blessings, the brand’s new loyalty rewards system created to give customers more value every time they order.

Under the Blessings program, customers earn one Blessing for every PHP 100 spent on transactions made through the app. Each Blessing is worth PHP 1 upon redemption, allowing customers to use their accumulated points for future Angel’s Pizza purchases.

New users will also receive 100 Welcome Blessings upon registration, giving them an immediate introduction to the app’s rewards program.

For Angel’s Pizza, the addition of a loyalty program goes beyond offering another digital way to order. It is part of the brand’s effort to recognize the customers who continue to choose Angel’s Pizza and make their experience with the brand more rewarding over time.

“Our community has always been an important part of Angel’s Pizza, and we wanted the new app to give us another way to serve them better,” said Murielle Lucas, Digital Marketing Manager of Angel’s Pizza. “With Blessings, every purchase made through the app can become part of something customers can enjoy on their next order. It is our way of rewarding loyalty while making their experience with Angel’s Pizza more convenient and worthwhile.”

The new application also continues to accommodate the use of the APC, allowing existing members to continue enjoying its benefits alongside the features introduced through the new platform.

With the launch of its new app and Blessings loyalty program, Angel’s Pizza continues to enhance its digital customer experience by providing customers with a convenient way to connect with the brand while earning rewards for their continued support.

The Angel’s Pizza mobile app can now be downloaded through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, offering customers a convenient platform for mobile ordering and access to the new Blessings loyalty program.

 

September 4, 2026 by
Entertainment

Ylona Garcia Celebrates a Decade of Music with Two-Part Anniversary Show

The Filipino-Australian artist brings her own versions of the songs that shaped her career to the Philippine stage

A decade after embarking on her professional music career, Ylona Garcia is coming home to the Philippines for two special shows that celebrate her journey while looking ahead to the next chapter of her career.

The two-part anniversary celebration will feature songs from her 10-year journey in the music industry, reimagined through her personal interpretations and the perspective she has gained as an artist.

The homecoming celebration kicks off on September 4 with Backyard Live: Ylona Garcia Spotlight, a Manila-exclusive show at Backyard Warehouse Studio in Baesa, Quezon City. By invitation only, the intimate and music-centered event will give a limited audience an exclusive first look at Ylona’s 10th anniversary celebration.

The following day, September 5, Ylona brings the celebration to a wider public audience with 10 Years of Ylona Garcia: Live at Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley Hill, beginning at 7 p.m.

“Celebrating 10 years in music is a reminder of how far I’ve come, but also of what really matters to me,” Ylona shares. “Personally, the first five years were a great challenge as I was learning more about my culture and how showbiz worked. However, the last five years have been some of the hardest years of my life. I lost someone very important to me, went through experiences where I allowed people to take advantage of me emotionally, and found myself alone in another country for the second time. Artistically, though, those experiences taught me a lot about the difference between being a singer and being an artist.”

The two live experiences will eventually be part of Ylona Garcia’s 10th Anniversary Live Album, a nine-track collection featuring her versions of the songs from the past decade. The project also serves as a bridge to her long-awaited second EP, with elements of her emerging new sounds and inspirations woven intricately into the anniversary performances.

Ylona’s journey in music has always been rocky but filled with delightful surprises. After establishing herself as a pop star with a loyal following in the Philippines, she signed with Paradise Rising, 88rising’s Filipino-focused imprint, and subsequently relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her music internationally. Her work has included a performance at 88rising’s Head in the Clouds festival and “Entertain Me,” released in partnership with Riot Games’ VALORANT. At the same time, her growing international profile has led to recognition from outlets such as V Magazine.

As Ylona Garcia returns to the Philippines to mark her 10th year in music, she is revisiting the songs, experiences, and lessons that have shaped her journey, while looking ahead to the future. For the project, the versatile artist is teaming up with Sony Music Entertainment to give her existing catalog a fresh take through exciting new interpretations.

“This is my third time working with a music label, and collaboration truly means a lot to me,” Ylona explains. “So, through this project, being able to figure out what collaboration looks like between Sony Music Entertainment and me has actually been a very healing experience. I’ve learned a lot about what it means to bring my vision into a room, listen to other people’s perspectives, and build something together without losing what I came there to say.” 

Catch Ylona Garcia as she celebrates her tenth anniversary as an artist:

Event 1: Backyard Live: Ylona Garcia Spotlight
Date: Sept. 4, 2026
Location: Backyard Warehouse Studio, Baesa, Quezon City

By invitation (registration link): http://ylonagarcia.lnk.to/Ylona_At_Backyard_Live

Event 2: 10 Years of Ylona Garcia: Live at Venice Grand Canal Mall, McKinley Hill
Date: Sept. 5, 2026
Location: Venice Grand Canal Mall, McKinley Hill
Event Time: 7:00 PM

Register to get free tickets: http://ylonagarcia.lnk.to/Ylona_at_Venice

 

 

 

September 3, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Travel

Negros Trade Fair marks 40 years of championing MSMEs with SM Supermalls

Unveiled during the media launch, the official BÚTLAK video sweeps across Negros—its landscapes, landmarks, fashion, and artistry—bringing the island’s creative spirit to life.

One afternoon at SM Aura was enough to show why generations of shoppers have made the Negros Trade Fair a much-awaited celebration. The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), together with SM Supermalls, officially launched BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair with a preview that brought together the flavors, fashion, craftsmanship, stories, and creative spirit of Negros. From September 22 to 27, 2026, the landmark anniversary edition will bring 178 brands from the Negros Island Region to the SMX Convention Center Aura.

A Journey to Negros—Without Booking a Flight!

One of the media launch’s most evocative moments was the unveiling of the official BÚTLAK video. Taking viewers through the places, flavors, craftsmanship, and stories of Negros, the film offered the kind of visual journey that could make anyone want to book a flight and experience the island for themselves.

But there is no need to pack a suitcase. This September, Negros is coming to Manila for six days of food, fashion, art, homeware, and handcrafted discoveries at SMX Aura.

ANP leaders, partners, and Negrense culinary personalities share a celebratory moment at the BÚTLAK media launch.

ANP President Christina Gaston opened the program, emphasizing the fair’s role in helping creativity become enterprise. “For ANP, MSME development is about giving people the opportunity to discover what they can create, what they can become, and where their creativity can take them. Over 40 years, we have seen small businesses grow into enterprises and local products reach markets once thought beyond their reach,” Gaston said.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan and style icon Tessa Prieto celebrate the color, craft, and unmistakable creative spirit of Negros.

Broadcast journalist Ces Drilon serves as host, guiding guests through an afternoon celebrating Negrense creativity, enterprise, and heritage.

This was followed by welcome remarks from SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, who underscored how platforms such as the Negros Trade Fair can connect Filipino culture with greater economic opportunity. “Our role is to help open doors. For us, the Negros Trade Fair is a wonderful example of how culture and enterprise can grow together,” Tan said. Through SM for MSMEs, SM Supermalls continues its collaboration with ANP by connecting homegrown businesses to a high-traffic marketplace, greater visibility, new customers, partners, and growth opportunities. 

A taste of Negros: Guests sample regional flavors and culinary favorites during the media launch—a delicious preview of what awaits at the fair.

That journey continued at the table as guests sampled a taste of what awaits at the fair, with Negrense culinary personalities JJ Yulo, Joel Torre, and Chef JP Anglo sharing the flavors and stories of the province. The tasting offered just a first bite of the experience—from comforting regional favorites and heirloom recipes to fresh interpretations by a new generation of food entrepreneurs.

For Joel Torre—actor, restaurateur, and owner of JT’s Manukan—the pride behind the food is just as important as its flavor. “I’m a proud Negrense. I’m very proud of Negros products,” Torre said.

Chef JP Anglo linked that same pride to the fair’s ability to keep evolving. “Life is always changing; it’s a constant evolution,” Anglo said. “And that’s why the Negros Trade Fair is thriving through the years—it’s because of that chase to perfection and love for craftsmanship.”

Food, fashion, crafts—and 178 brands to discover

That same spirit is carried by a new generation of brands. Stephanie and Cristina Claparols of Lakat Sustainables described the fair as a place where ideas are exchanged and makers support one another: “To us, this really feels like a family gathering, and there’s a lot of new brands to discover, especially coming from the new generation. I think that’s the most exciting part of it.

Food remains one of the fair’s biggest draws. Visitors can look forward to well-loved names such as Bob’s Café, 21 Restaurant, Chicken House, El Ideal, and Virgie’s Homemade Products, alongside newer food concepts, regional specialties, sweet treats, pantry staples, and pasalubong finds.

As Basti Escalante of the Antonio’s Group put it, “Negrense food goes beyond inasal—there’s a lot more to discover.”

The fair will feature 178 brands across food, fashion, furniture, homeware, art, and local crafts—bringing come for the names they already love and leave with a new favorite—or several.

Beyond the table, the fair offers plenty to wear and bring home. Arête creates handcrafted island-style accessories using indigenous Philippine materials, while Ellege Handcrafted Fashion brings Negros Occidental’s intricate hand-smocking tradition into contemporary clothing. Other fashion and lifestyle labels will showcase resort wear, jewelry, woven pieces, and modern designs rooted in local culture. Home and craft enthusiasts can explore pieces by Hacienda Crafts, Tumandok Crafts Industries, Artisana Island Crafts, NVC Foundation, and other makers transforming abaca, rattan, bamboo, capiz, ceramics, wild pandan, and repurposed materials into distinctive décor, houseware, art, and furniture. Many of these pieces also sustain artisan livelihoods and help keep community craft traditions alive.

Leaders and partners behind BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair come together during the media launch. From left: Royce Cabuñag, AVP and Head of SM Communities; Chef JJ Yulo; Mary Anne Colmenares, NTF Chairperson; Chef Tony Boy Escalante, owner of Antonio’s; Francis Esteban, owner of Breakfast at Antonio’s; Christina Gaston, ANP President; Antonio Sebastian Escalante of Antonio’s; Pats Lim Dy, SAVP for SM Communities; and Joaquin San Agustin, EVP for Marketing of SM Supermalls.

A 40-year legacy designed for the next 40

ANP Vice President Mary Anne Colmenares captured the meaning behind the anniversary theme: “Our roots are found in the traditions, skills, and stories handed down to us. Our blooms are the new ideas, new enterprises, and new generations emerging from those roots. After 40 years, Negros continues to bloom—and its brightest chapters are still ahead.” The milestone edition is therefore both a homecoming and a new beginning. “We’re celebrating 40 remarkable years—but we’re equally excited about the next 40,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.   More than shopping, this is a celebration of talent, heritage, and heart. Bring your family and friends, support local, and take home a piece of Negros! See you at BÚTLAK!

 

 

September 3, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Bridging Global Connections with Filipino Service: Eastern Communications at BATIC 2026

Eastern Communications’ delegates at the 2026 Bali Annual Telkom International Conference (BATIC) at The Westin, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia.

Eastern Communications showcased its commitment to world-class Filipino service on the international stage through its participation in the Bali Annual Telkom International Conference (BATIC), held from August 25 to 28, 2026, at the Bali International Convention Center (BICC) at The Westin Resort, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia. The pioneering Philippine telecommunications company joined global telecom leaders, digital innovators, and industry players in discussing the future of digital connectivity and the emerging technologies shaping an increasingly connected world.

For Eastern, connectivity goes beyond technology. It is about bringing the Filipino spirit of genuine service to the global community and building meaningful, lasting connections with organizations worldwide.

At the heart of its nearly 150-year legacy is a distinctly Filipino approach to service, one that is built on genuine hospitality, malasakit (care), and an unwavering commitment to go the extra mile for every customer and partner.

Taking the Filipino Heart of Service Beyond Borders

Eastern’s participation in BATIC 2026 marked an opportunity to represent not only the company’s connectivity expertise, but also the values that continue to define its approach to business.

As the Philippines strengthens its role in the global digital economy, Eastern brings to the world a distinctly Filipino way of connecting. Beyond reliable technology and digital infrastructure, Eastern believes that meaningful connectivity begins with understanding the people it serves. Its Heart of Service reflects a commitment to not simply connect businesses, but to build relationships that help them thrive. At BATIC 2026, Eastern proudly carries this Filipino spirit of service onto the international spotlight.

“Technology may connect the world, but it is people who make those connections meaningful,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications. “At Eastern, we take pride in bringing together trusted connectivity expertise with the warmth and dedication that Filipinos are known for. We are [also] proud to represent the Philippines and showcase how the Filipino heart of service can create exceptional experiences for businesses and partners.” 

This philosophy has long shaped Eastern Communications’ relationship with its customers. Beyond providing connectivity solutions, the company places importance on understanding the unique needs of the organizations it serves, building lasting partnerships, and ensuring that customers receive the same care and dedication that have become synonymous with Filipino hospitality.

Where Technology Meets the Human Touch

At BATIC 2026, Eastern showcased its enterprise capabilities and explored opportunities for collaboration with organizations and industry leaders from across the region.

The company’s participation also reflected its continued commitment to evolving alongside the changing needs of organizations. As enterprises navigate an increasingly digital landscape, Eastern continues to strengthen its portfolio of connectivity and digital solutions while remaining grounded in a simple belief: the best service begins with genuinely caring for the people behind every connection.

“At BATIC, we hope to bring together the best of both worlds. The strength of our technological expertise and the warmth of human-centered service. Just like our “High Tech, High Touch” philosophy, we believe that this balance is what makes connectivity truly meaningful, and it is also the distinctly Filipino perspective we are proud to bring to the global conversation,” said Mr. Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Bringing Filipinos, businesses, and communities closer together, Eastern takes its place on the global stage alongside leading industry players and innovators, carrying with it the values that have shaped the company through the years. As technology continues to advance, Eastern remains rooted in the timeless Filipino values of genuine care, dedicated service, and meaningful connection.

 

 

September 2, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

SM Job Fair marks 500th milestone, expands access to jobs and future-ready skills

OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN REACH. Across SM malls nationwide, jobseekers are finding new ways to connect with jobs, skills, and brighter possibilities.

For thousands of Filipinos, finding the right job begins with having the right opportunity within reach. SM Job Fair marked a major milestone while widening access to employment and skills development—from celebrating its 500th nationwide job fair and bringing SM Group employers directly to communities, to working with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to connect technical-vocational training with careers. Together, these initiatives reflect SM Supermalls’ continuing commitment to make the journey from preparing for work to finding meaningful employment more accessible to Filipinos.

500 JOB FAIRS—AND COUNTING!

500 JOB FAIRS, THOUSANDS OF NEW BEGINNINGS. At SM City Daet, a nationwide milestone became personal as another jobseeker walked away hired on the spot.

On August 12, SM City Daet hosted the 500th SM Job Fair, marking an important milestone in SM Supermalls’ nationwide jobs advocacy.  As of its 500th Job Fair, the program has connected around 330,000 jobseekers with thousands of employers nationwide, resulting in more than 42,000 applicants hired on the spot (HOTS). Behind those numbers are individual journeys—from fresh graduates looking for their first break and career shifters starting again to breadwinners and experienced professionals taking their next step.

Through partnerships with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), local Public Employment Service Offices (PESO), employers, and industry organizations, SM continues to use its nationwide mall network to bring jobs closer to communities.

FROM OPPORTUNITY TO EMPLOYMENT AT THE SM GROUP JOB FAIR

ONE STEP CLOSER TO A CAREER. Jobseekers meet SM Group recruiters face-to-face, turning applications and interviews into possibilities for a fresh start.

The momentum continued on August 18 at SM City Fairview, where the SM Group Job Fair connected jobseekers with career opportunities across the SM Group.

Applicants met recruiters face-to-face, explored vacancies, submitted applications, and underwent interviews in one accessible venue—simplifying the hiring journey while helping participating companies meet potential talent from the community.

For fresh graduate May Stephanie, the search for her first job ended with good news when she was hired by Savemore. “Masaya po kasi mahirap po maghanap ng work lalo po pag fresh grad ka po.” Her experience reflects the human impact behind every successful match: a chance to begin a career, earn a livelihood, and build toward a more secure future.

FROM SKILLS TO OPPORTUNITIES WITH TESDA

SKILLS IN ACTION. Hands-on training turns learning into practical skills that can open doors to the workplace.

As industries evolve, Filipinos need both access to jobs and the skills to succeed in them. Last August, SM Supermalls and TESDA brought the World Café of Opportunities (WCO) to SM malls nationwide in celebration of 2026 National Tech-Voc Day, connecting technical-vocational graduates and jobseekers with employers and industry partners.

READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT. From technology to creative skills, Filipino talent gets hands-on experience for an evolving world of work.

At the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on August 24, more than 1,000 jobseekers met 54 participating employers offering more than 4,000 job opportunities. Job matching was complemented by skills demonstrations in HVAC, autonomous robotics, driving, animation, and coffee barista—showing how practical training can translate into workplace readiness.

For Jeff Justine Geraga, a BS IT student at the University of Makati who took Computer Systems Servicing through TESDA, gaining additional skills has helped strengthen his confidence in a competitive job market.

“Definitely tumaas ang value ko dahil may added skills ako from TESDA, more opportunities for me. Requirement na po ang upskilling dahil competitive po ngayon.”

A key highlight was the launch of the TESDA Skills Compass, a career guidance and job-matching platform that helps Filipinos explore career pathways and connect their competencies with in-demand jobs. For some participants, the connection between skills and employment became immediate.

After traveling from Mindoro in search of work, Cristyl Faith Robles was hired on the spot as a barista at French Baker.

“Masaya po kasi last week pa po kami nag-aapply ng work kasi galing pa po kami sa Mindoro… Para po ito sa magulang ko at sa kapatid ko para matulungan ko po siya sa college.”

Employers also recognize the value of skills-based training. CJ Bajamunde, HR Assistant at SMC Repairs and Maintenance, shared that TESDA training and certifications are among the qualifications the company looks for when recruiting skilled workers.

 “Nakatulong po talaga ang TESDA hindi lang sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho, kundi sa aming mga employers din.”

Through the World Café of Opportunities, SM and TESDA are helping turn skills into employability—connecting training, talent, and industry needs in ways that can lead to meaningful careers.

LEARNING THAT MOVES PEOPLE FORWARD. Free upskilling brings future-ready knowledge closer to learners in SM communities.

MORE JOBS AND SKILLS THIS SEPTEMBER

The momentum continues this September as SM Job Fair brings another nationwide lineup of employment activities to SM malls, complemented by government career opportunities and upskilling sessions with partners.

SEPTEMBER JOB FAIR SCHEDULE

  • September 1 – SM City Sto. Tomas
  • September 3 – SM City Manila
  • September 4 – SM City Sta. Mesa
  • September 7–8 – SM City Butuan
  • September 8–9 – SM City Iloilo
  • September 8–9 – SM City Davao
  • September 9 – SM City Baguio
  • September 9–10 – SM City Cebu
  • September 9–10 – SM CDO Downtown Premier
  • September 10 – SM City Trece Martires
  • September 10 – SM Center Muntinlupa
  • September 10 – SM City Tuguegarao
  • September 10 – SM City North EDSA
  • September 10 – SM City Zamboanga
  • September 10 – SM Center Muntinlupa
  • September 12 – SM City La Union
  • September 12 – SM City San Pablo
  • September 14 – SM Center Antipolo
  • September 14 – SM CDO Downtown Premier
  • September 16–17 – SM Seaside City Cebu
  • September 22–23 – SM Seaside City Cebu
  • September 23 – SM City Calamba
  • September 24 – SM City Trece Martires
  • September 24 – SM Center Pulilan
  • September 24– SM City Bacoor

*Schedules, venues, and participating partners may be subject to change.

UPSKILLING SESSIONS

Jobseekers and learners can also take advantage of upskilling activities scheduled throughout the month:

  • September 10 – SM City Trece Martires
  • September 12 – SM Center Sangandaan
  • September 12 – SM City North EDSA
  • September 24 – SM City Trece Martires

MORE THAN JOBS

SM’s employment advocacy continues beyond recruitment. Through partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, and industry organizations, SM Supermalls has provided free upskilling opportunities to more than 1,600 learners, covering artificial intelligence, digital literacy, cybersecurity, and other emerging workplace competencies. In select malls, SM Government Service Express (GSE) also brings essential government services closer to communities, with selected locations serving as Upskilling Hubs.

From reaching the 500th SM Job Fair to helping a fresh graduate land a first job, and from gaining a technical skill to finding where it can lead, August demonstrated what can happen when employment, learning, services, and strong partnerships come together.

THE NEXT OPPORTUNITY STARTS HERE. Beyond the 500th milestone, SM Job Fair continues to connect more Filipinos with employers and possibilities closer to home.

And as SM Job Fair moves beyond its 500th milestone, the work continues—helping more Filipinos find jobs, build relevant skills, and move toward better futures closer to home. To learn more about upcoming SM Job Fairs and free upskilling opportunities, visit the SM Supermalls website or follow SM Supermalls’ official social media pages.

EVERY CONVERSATION CAN OPEN A DOOR. Jobseekers meet recruiters face-to-face at SM Job Fairs, taking another step toward their next career opportunity.

 

September 2, 2026 by
Lifestyle

Lampara Books Joins Call to Close Literacy Gaps at 2nd International Literacy Conference

Addressing literacy gaps requires a stronger connection between effective reading instruction and access to books that help children develop the skills and interest to read.

This was the focus of Lampara Books’ participation in the 2nd International Literacy Conference on the Science of Reading and Learning, held August 21 to 23 in the City of Naga, Camarines Sur, under the theme “Bridging Gaps in Literacy Education: Science of Reading and Learning for an Inclusive Future.”

Lampara Books was represented at the conference by Segundo D. Matias Jr., President of Lampara Books and Precious Pages Corporation, and author-educators Victor A. Villanueva, Daisy Jane Calado and Eugene Y. Evasco, who shared perspectives on literacy, reading instruction, children’s literature, and storytelling.

For Matias, strengthening literacy is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the classroom. While teachers play a critical role in developing children’s reading abilities, writers and publishers can also contribute by creating books that make reading meaningful and encourage children to keep reading.

“Literacy is a shared responsibility. Teachers are at the heart of helping children become readers, but writers and publishers also have a role in providing stories and books that can encourage children to read and continue learning,” Matias said.

He emphasized that access to stories can help children see reading not simply as a requirement, but as an opportunity to learn, imagine, and engage with the world around them.

“Reading gives children access to knowledge and imagination. When we give them the right support and meaningful stories, we give them more reasons to read and keep learning,” he added.

Matias also spoke about the importance of paying attention to what children need and avoiding assumptions about what they can understand or enjoy. Rather than limiting children’s books to particular subjects, he believes publishers should remain responsive to a changing world and trust young readers’ capabilities.

“Kung ano ang kailangan ng bata, iyon ang dapat na isulat. Maging mapagmatyag at huwag i-underestimate ang kakayahan ng bata,” he said.

His own experience as a young reader shaped this perspective. Matias recalled learning to read through comics, which were discouraged when he was growing up. Later, seeing the children’s books available at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair sparked what he described as a “hunger” to make more books available to children, a drive that continues to influence his work as a publisher.

Likewise, the importance of combining effective reading instruction with meaningful literature was reflected in the conference sessions led by the team. Calado discussed beginning reading strategies in “Small Groups, Big Reading Gains: Beginning Reading with Let’s Read and Magbasa Tayo!” while Villanueva explored reading remediation through “From Sounds to Stories: Reading Remediation through Phonics, Comprehension, and Children’s Literature.”

On the final day, Matias and Evasco joined the “Literacy Champions Panel: Creating Stories, Building Readers,” which examined the role of stories and children’s literature in developing readers and nurturing a lasting culture of reading.

The enthusiasm continued beyond the conference sessions, as participants gathered at the Lampara Books booth for a book signing with the authors. The excitement was especially evident whenever Matias spoke about Lampara Books’ roots in Precious Pages Corporation and the enduring popularity of Precious Hearts Romances, drawing spontaneous reactions from participants who grew up reading the titles. The response offered a glimpse into the lasting influence of Filipino reading culture and the personal connection readers form with stories and authors.

Through its participation, Lampara Books continues to support conversations and initiatives that place reading and children’s access to literature at the center of efforts to strengthen literacy.

Follow Lampara Books and Precious Pages Corporation on social media for updates.

Lampara Books

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

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

Precious Pages

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

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

 

September 2, 2026 by