Lifestyle, Travel

Before We Sail: Five Ways 2GO Prepares for Passenger Safety

Ahead of the holiday travel season, 2GO Travel highlights the preparations behind every voyage, reinforcing its commitment as a reliable travel partner for safe and comfortable journeys. At 2GO Travel, every voyage begins with a continuous commitment to safety.

From training crew members and inspecting safety equipment to assessing vessel readiness and securing the necessary clearances, a series of measures takes place behind the scenes before every ship departs.

Through Before We Sail, 2GO Travel highlights five key practices that help support safe and dependable journeys for travelers across its passenger network.

  1. Building readiness through regular crew drills

Safety begins with a well-prepared crew. Regular drills give 2GO personnel opportunities to practice emergency response procedures, strengthen coordination, and reinforce their individual responsibilities onboard.

These exercises help foster a culture where safety is a shared responsibility, and readiness remains a priority every day.

  1. Inspecting safety facilities and equipment

Alongside crew preparedness, 2GO routinely inspects safety facilities and equipment onboard its vessels to help ensure their condition and operational readiness.

These inspections support emergency preparedness and help identify any items requiring attention before a vessel sets sail.

  1. Conducting vessel checks before every journey

Preparations continue even after a ship completes its voyage. Following arrival and ahead of departure, technical teams carry out routine deck, engine, and bearing inspections to assess the vessel’s condition and readiness for its next trip.

These assessments help keep vessels operating safely and efficiently for passengers and crew alike.

  1. Screening baggage and cargo brought onboard

Passenger safety also extends to everything carried aboard the vessel.

As part of standard operating procedures, baggage and cargo undergo screening before loading to help manage potential risks and contribute to a secure onboard environment.

  1. Securing the required departure clearances

Before leaving port, 2GO works closely with the Philippine Coast Guard to complete the required inspections and obtain the necessary departure clearances.

A vessel departs only after receiving the required approval, providing an additional layer of oversight before every sailing.

A Shared Commitment to Safe Travel

These five practices form part of 2GO Travel’s ongoing commitment to passenger safety. With 2GO Travel’s strict measures in place, the company works to ensure every voyage begins with safety at the forefront, giving passengers greater confidence every time they sail.

Passengers also play an important role in maintaining a safe onboard environment. Travelers are encouraged to pay attention to safety briefings, familiarize themselves with emergency exits and life jacket locations, and approach crew members for assistance.

As families prepare to reunite and travel home this holiday season, 2GO Travel continues the work behind every journey, preparing its people, maintaining its vessels, and carrying out the measures that help passengers sail with confidence.

For bookings, visit travel.2go.com.ph.

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

October 24, 2026 by
Entertainment

LISA’s highly anticipated EP “PRESS PLAY” out now

Drops music video for focus track “TARANTINO”

Photo Credit: Yeyoung Choi

World-renowned rapper, singer, dancer, and style icon, LISA releases her highly anticipated EP PRESS PLAY via LLOUD Co./RCA Records – Listen HERE. The six-track project is created with a movie in mind, so fans can sit down, and ‘press play.’

Alongside the EP, she releases the music video for focus track “Tarantino” – Watch HERE. The video follows LISA’s epic, action-packed journey through a hotel to deliver a note to her favorite director, Tarantino. In true Tarantino fashion, the video incorporates action sequences with LISA throwing punches at anyone who gets in her way.

PRESS PLAY includes the previously released single “SaWaDiKa.” “SaWaDiKa,” which is the Thai greeting for ‘hello’ and its accompanying music video shot in her native Bangkok, surpassed 70.8 Million YouTube views in its first 24 hours of release landing it among LISA’s biggest YouTube debuts and the #1 biggest YouTube debut of 2026 – Watch HERE. “SaWaDiKa” also debuted at #69 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her highest debut on the chart.

LISA returned to the MTV VMA’s to perform the television debut of “SaWaDiKa” – Watch HERE. She also took home the award for Best Pop for “Dream feat. Kenatro Sakaguchi” making history as the first solo K-pop artist to win the category.

Up next, LISA heads to Vegas, kicking off her VIVA LA LISA Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace for six nights in November. The first four nights sold out in under 10 minutes and she recently added two new dates. LISA is making history as the first k-pop artist to perform a Las Vegas residency.

Aside from music, LISA’s feature documentary Always Lalisa directed by Sue Kim recently released in cinemas worldwide following its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. The documentary chronicles LISA’s breakout year going solo around the release of Alter Ego, launching LLOUD and her solo Coachella debut.

PRESS PLAY  Track List

  1. SaWaDiKa
  2. V12
  3. Cobra
  4. Tarantino
  5. Cut U Off
  6. Sweat

Photo Credit: Yeyoung Choi

FOLLOW LISA: INSTAGRAM 

 

 

 

October 23, 2026 by
Entertainment

SHANNi finds her sound and sense of self on debut EP Cure For Loneliness

The 5-track release blends OPM, Manila Sound, soft rock, and indie pop into a confident statement of artistic identity, exploring love, longing, and human connection

Filipino singer-songwriter SHANNi establishes a more confident artistic identity with her latest EP, Cure For Loneliness—out today via Sony Music Entertainment. The 5-track release finds the young artist moving seamlessly between Manila Sound, soft rock, sunshine pop, jazz, and indie pop, bringing a more sophisticated touch to songwriting and arrangement while leaning into a warmer, more intimate sound.

Across five tracks, SHANNi explores the complexities of love and human connection with wisdom that goes beyond age, finding sophistication in the intricacies of everyday life while staying comfortable talking about her inner darkness and pain. Each song captures a different facet of affection and emotional connection. Still, the project’s overarching narrative reflects SHANNi’s growing understanding that healing can come from recognizing the love already present in one’s life.

“The songs are mostly about love and the different ways we experience it, whether through longing, connection, or simply feeling loved by the people around us,” shares SHANNi in a press statement. “As I was writing these songs, I also came to realize that I wasn’t as alone as I sometimes felt. The love and support I received from the people around me became a big part of my healing. In a way, the EP is a reminder that loneliness can be eased not only by finding love romantically, but also by recognizing the love that already exists in our lives.”

Co-produced by SHANNi and Max Cinco, the EP pairs light, inviting arrangements with an undercurrent of vulnerability, creating a sonic canvas that feels suited to solitary city walks, late-night drives, and moments of deep introspection. Cinco’s horn arrangements add character and texture to the EP’s nostalgic pop sensibilities, making “2 O’CLOCK,” “Pag-uwi Mo,” and “Sorry Na Please” an exciting listening experience. Recording engineer Marcus Mababangloob of Meadowlark Productions, digital mixing engineer Jet Francisco of Wild Grass Studio, and analog mastering engineer Marco de Leon of Mix Machine Analog help refine the record’s warm, cohesive sound, balancing eloquence and precision with SHANNi’s more nuanced, emotionally evocative storytelling.

“I didn’t really want to limit myself to one genre,” SHANNi explains. “Instead, I focused on what each song needed and what sound best expressed the story I wanted to tell. I think what ties everything together is the sincerity of the songwriting and the overall feeling of the EP. At the end of the day, I wanted the music to sound like me, like SHANNi, and to create a world that listeners could feel comfortable in. For me, finding my identity as an artist is about embracing the different things I love and making them my own.”

To celebrate the release, SHANNi will be staging her own EP launch party at Theodore Events Place in Marikina City on October 31, 2026 (6:00 p.m.). The event will also feature performances from The Itchyworms, ena mori, One Click Straight, Suyen, Planetena, and Uncle Jonny.

“Having all these amazing artists come together makes the night even more meaningful, and I think it’ll be a beautiful celebration of music and community,” SHANNi shares. “More than anything, this is my way of saying thank you to everyone who has supported me and believed in this journey.”

With Cure For Loneliness, SHANNi offers more than a personal introduction: she creates a space for listeners to find pieces of themselves in her stories and reassurance in the shared experience of being human.

SHANNi’s Cure For Loneliness is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

 

 

October 23, 2026 by
Entertainment

Park Min-young Discovers Unexpected Love in Nine to Six, Prime Video’s New Korean Romance Series

Also starring Yook Sung-jae and Go Soo, the heartwarming office romance premieres November 25 exclusively on Prime Video


Stills

She knows how to navigate the corporate world, but when it comes to love, things get a little more complicated. Prime Video has officially announced Nine to Six, a new Korean office romance starring Park Min-young, Yook Sung-jae, and Go Soo, premiering exclusively on November 25 in the Philippines and over 240 countries and territories worldwide. Combining office politics, unexpected encounters, and heart-fluttering romantic moments, the 12-episode series centers on a fiercely independent career woman whose well-organized life takes an unexpected turn when two very different men make her question everything she believes about love.

For Kang Yi-ji (Park Min-young), success has always been about hard work, ambition and staying in control. A sharp-witted legal professional who has built her career in a competitive corporate environment, Yi-ji has little patience for romance, dismissing love and marriage as nothing more than fleeting hormonal reactions. But when she crosses paths with Han Sun-woo (Yook Sung-jae), a kind-hearted legal intern who follows his heart, and Park Hyun-tae (Go Soo), a sophisticated executive who recognises her talent, her once predictable world begins to shift. As unexpected feelings develop and new possibilities emerge, Yi-ji finds herself confronting a question no amount of professional experience can prepare her for: can she make room for love without compromising the career she’s worked so hard to build?

Park Min-young (Siren’s Kiss, Marry My Husband, Confidence Queen) stars as Kang Yi-ji, a confident, rational and fiercely capable senior manager in the legal department at her company, Chronic Motors. Having established herself in a male-dominated corporate world, Yi-ji is someone who believes in giving her all, even when the rewards don’t always match the effort. Although she once dreamed of studying astronomy, she ultimately pursued law at her mother’s urging and has since devoted herself to building a successful career since. While marriage has never been high on her list of priorities, Yi-ji isn’t entirely closed to the idea. Beneath her composed and pragmatic exterior lies a woman who may soon discover that some of life’s most meaningful moments can’t be planned.

Yook Sung-jae (The Haunted Palace, The Golden Spoon, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) plays Han Sun-woo, a warm-hearted legal intern whose true passion lies in jewellery design. Sincere, thoughtful and quietly mature beyond his years, Sun-woo believes that kindness and staying true to oneself are never signs of weakness. Unlike Yi-ji, who approaches life with logic and practicality, Sun-woo is guided by his heart and an unwavering belief in doing what feels right. When Yi-ji finds herself in danger, he instinctively puts her safety before his own, revealing a protective and dependable side that may begin to change how she sees him. With his refreshing outlook and genuine warmth, Sun-woo brings an unexpected spark into Yi-ji’s carefully ordered world.

Go Soo (Missing: The Other Side, Colony, Parole Examiner Lee) takes on the role of Park Hyun-tae, a polished and accomplished executive director at Chronic Motors’ Seoul branch. Having risen through the corporate ranks at a young age, Hyun-tae returns from the company’s European headquarters with a sophisticated outlook and a strong appreciation for professional competence. Intelligent, composed and accustomed to independence, he has long believed that life is simpler without romantic complications. But his encounter with Yi-ji, whose confidence and professional abilities command his respect, begins to challenge his perspective. As two equally driven individuals find themselves drawn into each other’s worlds, Hyun-tae discovers that even the most self-sufficient person may have room for an unexpected connection.

Bringing together three distinct perspectives on love, ambition and relationships, Nine to Six explores the challenges of balancing professional success with personal happiness. From the warmth of a younger colleague who wears his heart on his sleeve to the quiet appeal of an accomplished executive who understands the demands of her career, Yi-ji’s journey promises a relatable and heartwarming look at finding love when it is least expected. With its blend of workplace humour, emotional moments and romantic tension, the series invites viewers to discover that sometimes, the most meaningful connections happen beyond office hours.

Penned by Choi Ji-oh, the 12-episode series is helmed by Lee Hyung-min, known for Strong Girl Bong-soon, Miss Night and Day, and I’m Sorry, I Love You, alongside Oh Song-hee, director of The Escape of the Seven.

Nine to Six joins Prime Video’s extensive library of thousands of movies and series, including Love in Disguise, A Love Other Than Yours, See You at Work Tomorrow!, Spring Fever, Surely Tomorrow, Head Over Heels, and GOOD BOY. The platform also features popular anime titles such as Nippon Sangoku: The Three Nations of the Crimson Sun and Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, as well as award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like Elle, Off Campus, Project Hail Mary, Masters of the Universe, Fallout, The Summer I Turned Pretty, Heads of State, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Reacher, and The Boys. Prime Video subscribers can stream their favorite movies and shows anytime and anywhere using thousands of compatible devices. Through the Prime Video app, members can also download episodes to their mobile phones and tablets, allowing them to enjoy content offline at no extra charge.

For more information on Prime Video, visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.

For more information, visit Amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

 

 

October 21, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Travel

2GO Showcases Career Opportunities to Develop Maritime Talent and Keep the Philippines Connected

Aside from transporting people and goods throughout the country, 2GO is also highlighting the wide range of career opportunities in the transportation and logistics sector through its recent participation in the JobStreet Virtual Job Fair.

As the Philippines’ largest integrated transportation and logistics solutions provider, 2GO offers diverse career paths across various business areas, including freight forwarding, warehousing, supply chain management, technology, and corporate services.

Through the event, 2GO highlights the people, capabilities and culture that enable an integrated business to serve communities, support enterprises, and connect markets across the country. “Behind every shipment delivered, every journey completed, and every business we help serve are people whose work keeps the country moving. At 2GO, we are committed to fostering a workplace where people feel valued, inspired, and empowered to move the nation forward,” said Edcel Francia, Senior Manager of 2GO HR Recruitment.

The initiative highlights the importance of talent in sustaining the transportation and logistics sector. As businesses depend on efficient supply chains and reliable connectivity to reach markets and customers, professionals across operations, technology, customer service, sales, and other functions play an essential role in keeping goods and services moving.

With approximately 1,800 employees across operational, technical, and corporate functions, 2GO’s workforce reflects the range of various expertise required to support an integrated transportation and logistics network. Roles in cross-docking, warehousing, operations, and vessel management help ensure the efficient movement of goods, while teams in software development, finance, business intelligence, and marketing support business performance and innovation.

The initiative also generated strong engagement among jobseekers interested in the transportation and logistics sector. Recruitment campaign data from JobStreet showed 597 completed applications during the promotional period, a 21% increase from the pre-promotion run rate, while job views rose by 12%.

The need to develop a skilled workforce extends beyond the requirements of individual organizations and reflects broader industry priorities. The World Bank’s 2026 report, Ports, Ships, and Fuels: Maritime Efficiency, Safety, and Sustainability in East Asia and the Pacific identifies maritime transport as a driver of employment and economic growth, emphasizing the need to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety, and equip workers with the skills needed for a changing industry.

For the Philippines, an archipelagic nation whose communities and businesses rely on maritime connectivity and logistics networks, these priorities underscore the importance of developing skilled professionals across vessel and port operations, supply chain management, and technology.

By raising awareness of the diverse roles that support transportation and logistics, 2GO contributes to broader conversations on workforce development in a sector that plays a vital role in trade, mobility, and economic growth. As the industry continues to evolve, building a skilled and resilient workforce remains essential to keeping communities, businesses, and opportunities connected across the Philippines.

Through initiatives like these, 2GO remains committed to helping Filipinos find meaningful employment while developing the skilled workforce needed to sustain the growth of the country’s transportation, maritime, and logistics industries. Each position plays a part in advancing the company’s goal of keeping the Philippines connected.

Those interested in joining the company can check out available positions on 2GO’s JobStreet employer page or visit its official website at 2GO.com.ph.

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

 

October 21, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Coca-Cola Philippines Wins Brand of the Year at SMARTIES™ Philippines 2026

The Coca-Cola Philippines team garnered eight awards at the MMA SMARTIES™ Philippines 2026 gala night on October 6, 2026, at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila.

Coca-Cola Philippines was awarded Brand of the Year at the SMARTIES™ Philippines 2026 Awards, taking home eight awards in categories such as omnichannel marketing, artificial intelligence (AI), personalization, commerce, and retail media. Organized by MMA Global, the SMARTIES™ Philippines Awards honors marketing campaigns that bring together creativity, technology, consumer insights, and measurable business outcomes.

The achievement highlights Coca-Cola Philippines’ ongoing efforts to deliver more relevant and personalized experiences to Filipino consumers. Two campaigns played a key role in its success: Coca-Cola Festive 2025, which combined data-driven audience targeting with storytelling to create more meaningful holiday connections, and Grab’s Year in Cravings, which turned consumers’ food-ordering preferences into personalized digital experiences.

For Coca-Cola Philippines, the Brand of the Year recognition is not simply an industry accolade. It reflects the company’s approach to turning consumer understanding into experiences that are meaningful for people while delivering measurable business impact.

Creating More Meaningful Holiday Connections

Among the recognized work was Coca-Cola Festive 2025, which earned Gold for Omnichannel Marketing and Silver for Innovative Use of AI in Advertising.

Built around Coca-Cola’s annual Christmas platform, the campaign brought the brand’s festive story to Filipinos through a connected ecosystem of television, outdoor, digital and retail experiences. It combined television and outdoor advertising with digital platforms including Meta, YouTube and TikTok, while Connected TV placements helped extend the campaign into family mealtime moments at home.

The campaign also brought its festive message to life through activations such as the Emoji Cup promotion with quick-service restaurant partners and Sound of Home, an initiative that helped connect Filipinos in the country with loved ones working overseas.

The Innovative Use of AI recognition highlighted Coca-Cola Philippines’ use of data and AI-enabled audience targeting to deliver more relevant festive communications and identify growth opportunities across regional markets. By combining audience insights and local market information, the campaign was able to connect with consumers at more relevant moments through the holiday season.

Making digital experiences more personal

Together with Grab, Coca-Cola Philippines also earned six awards for its partnership with Grab through the “Year in Cravings” report.

The campaign received Gold awards for Customer Growth & Conversion Strategy and Instant Impact/Promotion, Silver awards for Brand Experience and Personalization, and Bronze awards for Retail Media/O2O Excellence and Customer Growth & Conversion Strategy.

Inspired by year-end recap experiences, Year in Cravings gave users a personalized look at their food-ordering habits, including customized food personas and insights based on their favorite meals and cravings.

The experience also introduced personalized food and Coca-Cola beverage pairings within the Grab app, allowing consumers to revisit and reorder their favorite food-and-drink combinations. By combining personalization, commerce and consumer insights, the campaign transformed everyday ordering behavior into a more engaging digital brand experience.

The collaboration brough together Coca-Cola Philippines, Grab, agency partners and teams to turn consumer insights into experiences that connected digital engagement with commerce.

“These recognitions reinforce the importance of staying close to consumers and understanding what matters most to them,” said Frenissa Lagman, Marketing Head of Coca-Cola Philippines. “Whether through personalized digital experiences, data-informed marketing or festive campaigns that celebrate meaningful connections, our goal remains the same; to create experiences that feel relevant, memorable and rewarding for Filipinos. These awards encourage us to continue finding new ways to connect with people through creativity, technology and a deep understanding of what matters most in their everyday lives.”

The awards highlight Coca-Cola Philippines’ ability to create impactful campaigns that connect with consumers across various platforms, transforming creative concepts into engaging and meaningful brand experiences.

For more information about Coca-Cola Philippines and its latest initiatives, visit www.coca-cola.com/ph. 

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

 

 

October 21, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Research Shows How Family Meals Can Influence a Child’s Development

With school drop-offs, busy schedules, errands, and constant screen time, it can be challenging for families to find time to sit down and enjoy a meal together. However, some of the most meaningful moments parents share with their children can happen over something as simple as a meal at the dining table.

This is what Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day stands for, a national observance celebrated every last Monday of September to highlight the value of families eating together. It upholds the Filipino tradition of making mealtimes an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and encourage open communication. More than just satisfying hunger, sharing meals allows family members to reconnect, exchange stories, and learn valuable lessons through everyday conversations.

A 2023 systematic review of 14 articles found that more frequent family meals were associated with better diet quality and were linked to positive outcomes across children’s health, well-being, behavior, and academic life. The review also found that frequent family meals may help protect children and adolescents against poorer diets, obesity, risk behaviors, poorer mental health and well-being, and poorer academic outcomes.

While a shared meal is only one part of a child’s overall environment, the findings highlight how meaningful the simple act of eating together can be.

Of course, a family dinner does not have to be perfectly prepared or happen every single day. Sometimes, it is simply the conversation that counts.

The Family Table as a Learning Space

Mealtimes can be a place to share stories about their day, listen to others, and learn how to participate in conversations. These seemingly small interactions can help nurture communication and social skills while giving children a reassuring sense of routine and belonging.

The table can also be where children begin learning about food itself.

Parents can turn everyday questions into moments of discovery by teaching kids where vegetables come from, what ingredients of their food are, and how their meals are made.

Encouraging children to be curious about what they eat can help them develop a more mindful relationship with food and nutrition. It also gives parents an opportunity to model the habits and choices they hope their children will carry with them as they grow.

Even a familiar glass of milk can become part of that conversation.

Children can learn about the journey food takes before reaching their homes, from the farm and the ingredients used, to the processes involved in producing the products families consume.

Making More Informed Choices

Understanding ingredients and where products come from can help families make more informed choices. This is also where traceability becomes meaningful, not just as a technical process, but as a way of giving parents greater visibility into the journey behind the food they bring home.

For FEIHE, that journey begins with its approach to dairy production and traceability, from milk sourcing through production. Its Fresh Milk Formula starts with fresh milk as the first ingredient, giving parents another point of reference when looking more closely at what goes into the milk formula they choose for their children.

Ultimately, what makes a family meal meaningful goes beyond the food served or how smoothly everything goes at the table.

Its true value lies in the little things, such as a child telling a story, a parent showing interest by asking questions, everyone sharing a laugh, or having a simple conversation about the origins of their food.

 

 

 

 

 

October 20, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

BPI Capital receives major regional investment banking accolades

In photo (L-R): Siddiq Bazarwala, CEO & Publisher of Alpha Southeast Asia, and Pamela Louise Victoriano, Head of Equity Products at BPI Capital.

BPI Capital Corporation, the investment banking division of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), continues to establish itself as one of the Philippines’ top investment firms, earning several notable awards from regional financial publications and institutions. These honors highlight its strength in providing innovative fundraising and advisory services that contribute to the country’s economic development while promoting sustainable financing.

Among its major accomplishments are its wins at the FinanceAsia Annual Awards 2026, where BPI Capital was recognized as Best Investment Bank and Best ECM House in the Philippines, along with a Highly Commended distinction for Best DCM House. The awards reinforce its strong presence in both equity and debt capital markets, as well as its proven ability to deliver significant financial transactions for clients across various industries.

BPI Capital’s excellence in equity capital markets was likewise recognized at the Alpha Southeast Asia 20th Best Financial Institution Awards, where it was named Best Equity House in the Philippines, reflecting its continued success in advising and underwriting significant equity transactions that contribute to the development of the country’s capital markets.

BPI Capital also reinforced its leadership in sustainable and project finance. At the Asian Banking & Finance Wholesale Banking Awards, the bank was named Philippines Domestic Green Financing Bank of the Year for its role in Cebu Landmasters, Inc.’s Sustainability-Linked Debt Issuances, and Philippines Domestic Project Finance Bank of the Year for the Ahunan Power, Inc. and Olympia Violago Water and Power, Inc.’s Project Finance Term Loan Facilities. The firm’s capabilities in sustainable infrastructure finance were likewise recognized by The Asset Triple A Sustainable Infrastructure Finance Awards 2026, which honored landmark transactions in the infrastructure and sustainable finance space.

In photo (L-R): Juan Martin Syquia, Head of Corporate Finance at BPI Capital, and Nick Atkinson, Contributing Editor at Asian Banking & Finance

Further reinforcing its capabilities in structuring award-winning transactions, BPI Capital also received four distinctions at the Asian Banking & Finance Corporate & Investment Banking Awards 2026:

  • Equity Deal of the Year – Philippines for Maynilad Water Services, Inc.’s Initial Public Offering
  • Project Infrastructure Finance Deal of the Year – Philippines for Ahunan Power, Inc. and Olympia Violago Water and Power, Inc.
  • Social Bond of the Year – Philippines for BPI’s PHP40 billion SINAG Bonds
  • Sustainability-linked Bond of the Year – Philippines for Cebu Landmasters, Inc.’s Sustainability-Linked Issuances

In photo: Jennifer Ho, Head of Debt Products at BPI Capital, receives the awards from The Asset Sustainable Infrastructure Awards 2026.

The recognitions highlight BPI Capital’s expertise in advising and underwriting transactions that have set notable standards in the Philippine capital markets. They also demonstrate the firm’s ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive solutions in equity and debt capital markets, project finance, and sustainable finance. Through these services, BPI Capital helps businesses secure funding while supporting inclusive and sustainable economic development.

As BPI marks its 175th anniversary, BPI Capital continues to uphold its commitment to providing world-class investment banking services that deliver value to clients, strengthen the Philippine capital markets, and contribute to building a better Philippines.

“These recognitions reflect our commitment to helping our clients achieve their strategic ambitions through innovative and impactful financing solutions,” said Lester Ong, BPI Capital President. “As the Philippine economy continues to grow, we remain focused on consistently providing sound advice and meaningful investment banking solutions that enable businesses to scale, fortify, and create lasting value; in the process, solidifying the trust that we have built with our clients over many years. We are likewise committed to advancing sustainable finance by supporting projects that contribute to the country’s long-term development.”

 

 

 

October 19, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev Puts Community Perspectives at the Center of Davao Design Week 2026

Davao Design Week 2026 brought together participants from various sectors to explore how design can better respond to people’s needs and aspirations.

Davao Design Week 2026 gathered students, educators, artists, design experts, government officials, and community leaders at La Herencia Davao from October 8 to 10 to explore participatory design. This approach encourages people to take part in the design process to address local concerns, enhance everyday experiences, and develop places and systems that better respond to community needs.

With the theme “DESIGNDUMP: From The People,” the inaugural event was organized by Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), SKS Interiors, Inc., and La Herencia Davao in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s Design Week Philippines. The three-day event featured panel discussions with over 30 speakers, workshops, performances, and interactive activities that allowed participants to exchange ideas and engage in conversations about issues that affect their daily lives.

Hands-on workshops and interactive activities encouraged participants to learn, create, and connect, bringing Davao Design Week’s spirit of participation to life.

One of the ways the event put participatory design into practice was through the Puhon Visioning Workshop, organized by Placemaking Davao. It invited Dabawenyos of different ages and backgrounds, including children, to share their ideas, experiences, and aspirations for public spaces, infrastructure, and community life in Davao as the city approaches its 100th year.

For Alsons Dev, a Davao-based real estate developer with more than 60 years of experience in the industry, participatory design means putting people at the center of the development process. Vice President and General Manager Jolla A. Soriaga shared this perspective in her keynote address during Davao Design Week’s opening program.

Alsons Dev Vice President and General Manager Jolla A. Soriaga delivered a keynote address during the Davao Design Week 2026 opening program, sharing the company’s perspective on the role of design in real estate development and community building.

“As developers, we do more than create structures. We shape the places where people live, work, and interact, so good design must go beyond aesthetics and efficiency to respond to people’s needs. This calls for malasakit: understanding the people and places we serve and designing with genuine care for both. This community-centric approach guides our work at Alsons Dev,” Soriaga said.

Davao Design Week’s call to action, “Life is Better When We Design Together,” underscored that shaping better communities takes collective effort, combining professional expertise with the ideas, experiences, and aspirations of the people who live in them.

Alsons Dev’s exhibit at Davao Design Week 2026 featured a lush, immersive green space showcasing the company’s approach to sustainable design in its developments.

By taking part in Davao Design Week, Alsons Dev highlights its people-first approach to planning and development, reaffirming its dedication to creating sustainable communities that deliver lasting value and improve quality of life for generations to come.

 

 

October 19, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Meet the Culinary Team Bringing Grand Westside Manila Bay’s Dining Experiences to Life

This International Chefs Day, Grand Westside Manila Bay celebrates the culinary talents shaping its dining experiences through Filipino flavours, memorable celebrations, creative indulgences and thoughtful kitchen practices.

Long before Grand Westside Manila Bay opened its doors to guests, its kitchens were already busy preparing for the big launch. From creating menus and testing recipes to building a skilled culinary team, every detail was carefully planned for the opening of one of the country’s largest hotels.

Leading these efforts was Executive Chef Christopher “Chris” Lugtu, whose years of culinary experience and leadership played a key role in establishing the hotel’s kitchen operations from scratch. Today, alongside Executive Sous Chef Mary Ann “Meann” Senas and Pastry Chef Erwin Manes, he continues to bring the hotel’s dining experiences to life for its guests.

This International Chefs Day, Grand Westside Manila Bay celebrates three chefs whose stories reflect the creativity, dedication and teamwork behind the food served every day.

Chef Chris Lugtu: Leading with Passion and Purpose

For Executive Chef Christopher “Chris” Lugtu, a successful kitchen begins with its people.

With an extensive career spanning international hospitality brands and leading hotels and resorts in the Philippines, Chef Chris brings a wealth of culinary experience and leadership to Grand Westside Manila Bay.

He joined the hotel during its pre-opening preparations in 2023, taking on the challenge of establishing its culinary operations. From developing menus and setting kitchen standards to assembling and mentoring the team, he has played an important role in shaping the hotel’s food and beverage offerings.

His culinary approach draws inspiration from Filipino flavours and regional cooking traditions, bringing familiar dishes into a contemporary hotel dining setting. Creations such as Bukidnon Wagyu Adobo Ribs, Pork Belly Humba and Beef Sinigang Skewers reflect his appreciation for local ingredients and recipes that remind people of home.

“Some of the best meals are the ones that remind us of home. I enjoy working with familiar Filipino flavours and finding ways to present them differently, without losing what makes them special,” shares Chef Chris.

Beyond the menu, Chef Chris places equal importance on developing younger chefs, encouraging collaboration and building a kitchen culture where creativity and responsible practices go hand in hand.

Making Every Ingredient Count

For Chef Chris and his Culinary team, responsible cooking begins with thoughtful planning and making the most of every ingredient.

With the help of Winnow, a food waste monitoring system, the team continues to refine kitchen production, ingredient utilisation and portion planning while maintaining the quality and variety of the hotel’s dining experiences.

By August 2026, the hotel recorded approximately 15% less food waste per guest cover compared with its January–August average, reflecting improvements in kitchen efficiency and resource management.

These efforts support Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ MEGreen sustainability programme and the hotel’s commitment to responsible hospitality.

“Great dining experiences begin with the care and attention our people bring to their work. I’m proud of Chef Chris and our Culinary team for their creativity, dedication and thoughtful approach to making the most of our resources. It’s a wonderful example of how good hospitality and responsible practices can go hand in hand,” shares Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay.

Chef Meann Senas: The Heart Behind Celebrations

For Executive Sous Chef Mary Ann “Meann” Senas, every banquet comes with a story.

With a background in luxury hospitality and extensive experience in banquet operations, Chef Meann understands that food plays an important part in life’s celebrations, from weddings and family milestones to corporate gatherings.

She joined Grand Westside Manila Bay in 2024 as Sous Chef and has since progressed to Executive Sous Chef, taking on greater responsibilities in menu development, banquet operations and special events.

Her dedication and leadership earned her the hotel’s 2025 Leader of the Year recognition, an achievement she credits to the colleagues who work alongside her.

“Behind every successful event are so many people working together. We have our challenging days, but we look after one another. That’s what makes our team special,” shares Chef Meann.

For her, the greatest reward is seeing guests enjoy the celebrations that her team has worked so hard to prepare.

Chef Erwin Manes: The Joy of Little Indulgences

Not every memorable food experience calls for a special occasion.

Sometimes, it’s a freshly baked pastry with morning coffee, a favourite cake shared with colleagues or a sweet treat brought home for the family.

At Quick To Go, Pastry Chef Erwin Manes brings his creativity to the hotel’s selection of cakes, pastries and freshly prepared treats. His work calls for patience, consistency and an appreciation for the small details that make each creation special.

“I like knowing that something we’ve prepared can brighten someone’s day. It may be a simple pastry or a slice of cake, but when guests come back for their favourites, that’s a wonderful feeling,” shares Chef Erwin.

For him, those everyday moments of enjoyment are among the most satisfying parts of his work.

The People Behind Every Plate

From the international selections at Café by Westside and the pastries at Quick To Go to the carefully prepared menus for weddings and celebrations, each dining experience at Grand Westside Manila Bay reflects the efforts of a dedicated Culinary team.

This International Chefs Day, the hotel celebrates not only the skills and creativity of its chefs, but also their leadership, teamwork and commitment to making every ingredient count.

Behind every memorable meal are people who take pride in making it special.

Guests can explore the diverse dining options at Grand Westside Manila Bay, from all-day meals at Café by Westside and freshly made goodies at Quick To Go to specially curated menus for weddings, special occasions, and corporate gatherings.

For table reservations or banquet inquiries, guests may reach out to Grand Westside Manila Bay through its official reservation channels.

 

 

 

 

 

October 19, 2026 by