Vic-Vic Bautista – Manila Lifestyle Blogger

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) announces ₱13.03 million in royalties for producers and performers

Distribution scheduled for November 2026 combines greater emphasis on actual music usage with the collective management organization’s first use of SoundSys by BMAT for Producer royalty processing

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) is preparing to distribute ₱13,033,983.29 in royalties to producers and performers for its 2025 distribution cycle, marking a milestone in its efforts to deliver timely, accurate and transparent remuneration to rights holders.

Scheduled for November 2026, the distribution will be Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc.’s first royalty distribution to meet its scheduled timeline. During its initial years of operation, the CMO relied on manual processes to consolidate licensed music usage reports, verify rights information and calculate royalty allocations. These steps took time to complete and contributed to longer processing periods.

This cycle marks Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc.’s first use of SoundSys by BMAT (Barcelona Music and Audio Technologies) to support Producer royalty processing, helping streamline the work previously handled manually. Alongside this system improvement, the updated allocation approach gives greater weight to music actually played in licensed establishments.

The distribution covers royalties collected in 2025, including payments received for earlier licensing periods. Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. is completing its final review of music usage records, ownership details and royalty calculations before releasing payments.

“This November 2026 distribution marks a defining moment for Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. We are preparing to distribute royalties on schedule and, for the first time, use SoundSys by BMAT to support Producer royalty processing. These improvements reflect our commitment to accuracy, transparency and reliable service. Most importantly, they support our work to ensure that performers and producers receive the remuneration they have earned,” said Ace Acosta, General Manager of Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc.

Giving greater weight to music actually played

For the 2025 distribution cycle, Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. has increased the weight assigned to music usage reports submitted by licensed establishments, including hotels, restaurants, gyms and other businesses. Compared with the previous 2023–2024 distribution, the weighting has increased from 70% to 84.23% for Producers and from 70% to 77% for Performers.

The approach links royalty allocation more closely to documented music use, giving greater recognition to recordings regularly played in businesses, including those that may not feature prominently on popularity charts. The Official Philippines Chart by the IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) and radio data from BMAT continue to serve as supplementary reference information.

SoundSys supports PRM in matching reported music usage with registered recordings, checking ownership information, flagging conflicting claims and calculating Producer royalty shares. It also supports clearer reporting, helping trace royalty allocations to individual recordings and usage records.

For this cycle, SoundSys supports Producer royalty processing, while Performer royalties are calculated separately by Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. All results remain subject to PRM’s review and verification before payment.

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. is coordinating with 14 record labels and music rights partners for the distribution. Performer categories covered include featured artists and non-featured artists such as session musicians. Individual Performer recipients and the final recipient count remain subject to completion of Performer royalty calculations and verification.

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. will present the distribution developments at its Distribution Press Conference and Showcase on November 12 at Backspacer Records in Pasig City. The event will bring together media, members, artists and industry stakeholders, with performances by LEYO and Jarlo Bâse of Sony Music Philippines.

Through timely distribution, stronger verification processes and continued investment in its systems, Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. aims to give rights holders greater confidence in how their royalties are calculated and accounted for, while supporting the growth of the Philippines recorded music industry.

ORGANIZATION FACT SHEET

WHO PRM IS

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) manages rights relating to the use of recorded music on behalf of producers and performers. Through licensing, royalty collection, and distribution, the organization works to ensure that rights holders receive remuneration for the use of their recordings and recorded performances.

WHO PRM REPRESENTS

RIGHTS HOLDERS	CONTRIBUTION
Producers	Record labels and other rights holders that own or control rights in sound recordings
Performers	Featured artist(s) and non-featured artist(s) in sound recordings

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. also coordinates with music rights partners to administer royalties for the repertoire they represent.

WHAT PRM DOES

Licensed recorded music use within the rights and repertoire it administers, including use in hotels, restaurants, gyms and other businesses.
Collects licensing fees that generate royalties for eligible producers and performers.
Reviews reported music use, recording information and ownership details.
Calculates royalty shares and verifies claims before releasing payments.

MUSIC LICENSING AND ROYALTIES EXPLAINED

A music license gives businesses permission to use music within the rights and repertoire it covers. Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. handles rights in sound recordings for producers and performers. FILSCAP, or the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Inc., handles rights in the musical compositions for composers, lyricists and music publishers. These cover different rights, so businesses may need licenses from both organizations.

Royalties are payments to rights holders for the use of their music. Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. collects licensing fees and distributes royalties to eligible producers and performers.

The music played in licensed establishments helps determine each recording’s royalty share, subject to verified rights information and the distribution methodology.

WHY IT MATTERS

Music contributes to the experience businesses create for customers. Licensing recognizes the work behind that music, while royalty distribution enables producers and performers to receive remuneration for its use.

DISTRIBUTION FACT SHEET

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM) is coordinating with its member record labels and local and international music rights partners. Performer categories include featured artists and non-featured artists. Individual Performer recipients and the final recipient count will be confirmed once royalty calculations and verification are complete.

PERIOD COVERED

Royalties collected in 2025, including payments received for earlier licensing periods.

PAYMENT STATUS

Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. is completing its final review of music usage records, ownership details and royalty calculations before releasing payments. Distribution is scheduled for November 2026.

WHAT IS DIFFERENT THIS CYCLE

November 2026 is scheduled to mark Philippines Recorded Music Rights Inc. (PRM)’s first on-schedule royalty distribution and first use of SoundSys by BMAT for Producer royalty processing.

PRM has increased the weight given to music usage reports from licensed establishments.

CATEGORY	2023–2024 DISTRIBUTION	2025 CYCLE
Producers	70%	84.23%
Performers	70%	77%

These percentages describe the weighting assigned to licensed music usage reports in the methodology. They are not payout rates.

The Official Philippines Chart managed by the IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) and radio monitoring data from BMAT (Barcelona Music and Audio Technologies) continue to provide supplementary reference information, including where establishment reports are unavailable.

HOW PLAY BASED ALLOCATION WORKS

Within a particular royalty fund, a recording’s documented plays help determine its share. More reported plays generally mean a larger share of that fund, subject to the applicable methodology and verified ownership rights. This gives greater recognition to recordings regularly played in licensed establishments, including music that may not feature prominently on popularity charts.

WHAT SOUNDSYS DOES

SoundSys, provided through BMAT, supports PRM in matching reported music use with registered recordings, including likely matches where titles or artist names differ in spelling. It helps check ownership information, flag conflicting claims, calculate Producer royalty shares, and produce reports that trace allocations to recordings and usage records.

For this cycle, SoundSys supports Producer royalty processing. PRM reviews and verifies results before payments are released.

PHILIPPINES RECORDED MUSIC RIGHTS INC. COMMITMENT

PRM is and will continue to strengthen its systems, verification processes and member services to support timely, accurate and transparent royalty distribution for producers and performers.

November 13, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

From Everyday Habits to Dating Talks: usmile Makes Oral Hygiene More Relatable

usmile continues to empower Filipinos’ oral care habits with innovative and functional products that help them achieve their everyday dental needs.

Whether it’s a first date, a quick coffee catch-up, an unexpected meetup, or a casual everyday conversation, feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin always matters. While much of the focus is often placed on finding the perfect outfit or creating a great first impression, one important aspect of personal care should not be overlooked—a healthy and well-cared-for smile.

With Filipinos balancing early mornings, lengthy commutes, and demanding work or school routines, oral hygiene can sometimes become just another item on an already packed daily to-do list. However, just like skincare and other self-care habits, taking care of your teeth is a simple yet meaningful way to support overall well-being and maintain confidence in everyday social interactions.

With this in mind, professional oral care brand usmile is making dental hygiene more approachable through innovative products and relatable lifestyle conversations. Guided by its philosophy, “Prevention Over Treatment,” the brand develops products with purposeful designs that go beyond aesthetics, with features curated to serve specific functions and address everyday oral care needs. It encourages Filipinos to build consistent oral care habits that fit naturally into their routines, helping them take better care of their smiles before dental concerns arise.

Beyond First Impressions: Why Oral Hygiene Matters in Dating

usmile recently joined the Bare It All Podcast to spark conversations on the importance of good dental care in self-care, dating, and relationships.

Taking the conversation beyond everyday routines, usmile recently collaborated with the Bare It All Podcast, alongside licensed dentist Joli Alferez, for an episode exploring dating non-negotiables, personal preferences, and the role of good hygiene in relationships.

From fresh breath to personal hygiene habits, the discussion explored how oral care can influence first impressions, personal comfort, and confidence in relationships. It also brought attention to the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, showing that good oral hygiene goes beyond achieving an attractive smile.

After all, feeling confident about one’s oral hygiene can make everyday interactions more comfortable, from meeting someone for the first time to enjoying a meal with a partner. Through this collaboration, usmile encourages Filipinos to view oral care as an essential part of self-care and personal well-being.

Making Everyday Oral Care a Simple Act of Self-Care

A good oral care routine doesn’t have to be complicated. From brushing before heading out for the day to freshening up before an evening out, small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Encouraging preventive oral care is especially important in the Philippines. Data from the Department of Health (DOH) indicate that 92.4% of the population experiences tooth decay, while 78% have gum disease. These numbers highlight the need for greater awareness and more consistent hygiene practices among Filipinos.

Recognizing this, usmile offers technology-driven oral care solutions that help address different consumer needs, combining practical functionality with innovations that make everyday hygiene more accessible and appealing.

Designed with advanced color-correction technology and all-natural colorants, usmile’s Optical White 2.0 delivers brighter-looking smiles and fresher breath.

For those looking to maintain a brighter-looking smile, usmile Optical White 2.0 features purple color-correction technology that helps neutralize the appearance of yellow tones for a brighter-looking smile. The upgraded formulation now also incorporates all-natural colorants, reflecting the brand’s focus on improving its products for everyday use.

Focusing on advanced whitening, anti-cavity protection, and enamel care, usmile’s Strength White helps Filipinos fortify and whiten their teeth in just 10 days.

Meanwhile, usmile Strength White offers another approach to daily oral care, focusing on whitening and enamel care for consumers who want to maintain their smiles while being mindful of their teeth’s overall condition.

usmile’s oral care innovations have also gained traction among Filipino consumers, with Optical White 2.0 gaining traction among consumers on TikTok Shop Philippines in October 2026, while Strength White continues to build visibility among consumers interested in incorporating more purposeful products into their routines.

By offering solutions that address different oral care preferences, usmile makes it easier for consumers to find products that complement their lifestyles and personal hygiene habits.

Confidence Starts with Consistent Habits

Make every smile brighter with consistent oral care, regular dentist visits, and usmile!

A brighter-looking smile may boost confidence, but good oral health starts with consistent care. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth, and visiting a dentist regularly remain essential habits for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Through its range of innovative products and engaging lifestyle discussions, usmile remains committed to helping Filipinos better understand and take care of their oral health. By promoting informed decisions and the practice of consistent oral care routines, the brand aims to raise awareness about dental health concerns in the Philippines while emphasizing that prevention starts with simple everyday habits, one routine and one smile at a time.

To learn more, visit usmile’s official stores on TikTok Shop and Shopee, and follow its social media accounts on(TikTok | Facebook).

November 13, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Entertainment

SHEAN announces first solo concert, ‘Pag-ibig Sa Sama Ng Panahon’ next month

The announcement follows the success of “ako ang bagyo,” which has amassed nearly 30 million Spotify streams

Fresh off the breakthrough success of his hit single “ako ang bagyo,” rising Filipino singer-songwriter SHEAN has announced his first headline concert, Pag-ibig Sa Sama Ng Panahon, happening on December 18, 2026, at the Music Museum.

The show will give audiences the opportunity to experience SHEAN’s original compositions in a concert setting, featuring a full band, expanded arrangements, and more elaborate production. The performance will serve as a launchpad for debuting his new songs live from an upcoming body of work, which the young artist is preparing to release in the coming months.

“It’s going to be a special experience for me because, for the first time, I’ll get to perform the songs I’ve written with a full band for the first time, alongside a bigger setup and more elaborate production. More than anything, I want to thank everyone who has believed in me and supported me since day one. This concert is my way of giving back and celebrating with all of you,” SHEAN shares.

Preparations for Pag-ibig Sa Sama Ng Panahon are already underway, with the artist and his team working on a production that reflects the creative direction and binding theme of his music releases. SHEAN is particularly looking forward to bringing the show to life and sharing more details with his growing audience in the coming weeks.

“I can’t wait to share more details with everyone, especially a collaboration with one of my favorite artists. I’m really looking forward to bringing this all to life,” he shares.

The concert announcement comes at an important time, as “ako ang bagyo” takes the spotlight as one of the year’s notable Filipino music breakthroughs. The debut single held the No. 1 position on the Spotify Philippines charts for 10 consecutive days and counting, accumulated nearly 30 million streams, and reached a new peak of No. 59 on the Spotify Global chart dated November 7, 2026. The track also peaked at No. 1 on YouTube Philippines’ Trending Music Videos chart.

SHEAN’s “ako ang bagyo” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.

November 12, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Entertainment

AXEAN Festival and KEXP bring Southeast Asian music to the global stage in historic collaboration

The first Asia-based edition of KEXP’s celebrated Live on KEXP series features 12 independent artists from across Southeast Asia

motifs, Live on KEXP. Photo credits: Carlos Cruz

AXEAN Festival has joined forces with KEXP, the internationally renowned Seattle-based public radio station and music discovery platform, to introduce the region’s eclectic, diverse music landscape to a global audience. The collaboration marks the first time that KEXP’s celebrated Live on KEXP series has traveled to Asia for an on-location recording project.

Filmed in August in Bali, Indonesia, during AXEAN Festival, the historic project features 12 exclusive live sessions from independent artists across Southeast Asia, challenging conventions of Asian music through uniquely compelling performances and a strong sense of individuality. Curated by Diana Ratsamee, host of KEXP’s Eastern Echoes, the sessions began rolling out on October 20 through the platform’s official Live on KEXP YouTube channel. Selected artists from the region include Indonesia’s Numeron, The Panturas, Çudamani, and Basajan; Singapore’s motifs and sub:shaman; Thailand’s TONTRAKUL, Yellow Fang, Hariguem Zaboy, Inspirative, and Slowwves; and Malaysia’s Commemorate.

Shared Ambition

For AXEAN Festival co-founders Piyapong Muenprasertdee (Py) and David Siow, the partnership represents the realization of a shared ambition to place Southeast Asian music firmly within the international music conversation. Having followed KEXP’s work for years, the AXEAN team found a natural point of connection through Eastern Echoes, which has consistently championed music from Asia and its diaspora.

“Being chosen as KEXP’s partner is an honor,” Py reveals. “KEXP has run these sessions with festivals like Trans Musicales in Rennes, France; Iceland Airwaves in Reykjavik; and BIME in Bilbao, Spain. Being added to that list tells us our work is being taken seriously and that KEXP sees Southeast Asia as a scene worth documenting, not a novelty, as we hope the rest of the world will too.”

For David, the collaboration reflects AXEAN Festival and KEXP’s shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for participating artists to be heard globally. “It means so much more to the 12 Southeast Asian artists featured! I remember seeing the drummer of Basajan in tears after recording his set. That was truly such a beautiful moment to witness.”

TONTRAKUL, Live on KEXP. Photo credits: Carlos Cruz

Right Partnership

The decision to bring Live on KEXP to Asia had long been an aspiration waiting for the right partnership. KEXP’s Chief Programming Officer Chris Kellogg explains that AXEAN’s commitment to showcasing the region’s finest independent music and bringing communities together made it an ideal collaborator. “Our mission knows no bounds. Sometimes, it takes the right partnership at the right time to drive our work forward, and that’s exactly what happened with AXEAN,” he shares. “Just like so much of the world, the music scene across Southeast Asia is deep and rich, and AXEAN was the best partner to help us bring some of that music to the global KEXP audience. Their commitment to the music was clear from the outset.”

In the new Live on KEXP series, there’s a deliberate effort to represent Southeast Asia beyond familiar regional stereotypes and genre classifications, considering it a hotbed of underrated finds and exemplary talent. Diana Ratsamee, whose work on Eastern Echoes has helped introduce Asian artists to KEXP’s international listenership, approached the curation with an emphasis on musical individuality, cultural identity, and creative expression.

“We wanted to challenge the idea that Southeast Asian music can be defined by any single sound and introduce KEXP audiences to the incredible creativity coming out of the region,” Diana says. Featuring 12 artists from Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, the sessions traverse an expansive musical spectrum, from post-rock, shoegaze, and metal to traditional folk and culturally rooted contemporary expressions.

Yellow Fang, Live on KEXP. Photo credits: Carlos Cruz

Going Global

The collaboration also highlights the importance of creating more equitable pathways for independent artists to go global and find their footing in music communities outside of their turf. By bringing its production team directly to Southeast Asia, KEXP addresses geographical and logistical barriers that have traditionally limited opportunities for regional musicians to record at its Seattle studios.

While the immediate spotlight is on the 12 participating acts, both organizations envision a more visible impact for the music industry in the region in a lot of ways, including encouraging international listeners to explore the region’s independent music ecosystems, expanding opportunities for touring, distribution, and licensing, and strengthening connections between Southeast Asian artists and the global music industry.

Positive response

The response to the sessions has been unanimously positive so far, with audiences across KEXP’s international listenership and the Southeast Asian music community embracing the performances and discovering artists they may not have encountered otherwise. YouTube comments and social media conversations show an improving appreciation for the region’s musical diversity, with listeners expressing excitement about new discoveries from the globally respected platform. Chris Kellogg adds, “Just as we had hoped, the sessions are helping create connections and spreading the joy of music across borders.”

Diana Ratsamee likewise sees the audience response as an encouraging indication of the appetite for more music from the region. “One of the most exciting things about this project has been seeing audiences discover artists they may have never encountered otherwise,” she shares. “There’s no shortage of talent in Southeast Asia, but there is a need for more platforms to share it with the world.”

As the sessions continue to reach listeners worldwide, AXEAN Festival and KEXP are helping ensure that Southeast Asia’s musical voices are not simply discovered, but heard, recognized, and celebrated on a global stage.

Catch the ongoing Live on KEXP x AXEAN Festival collaboration here.

November 12, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK Introduces New App for Easier and More Convenient Policy Management

Pru Life UK is enhancing the way customers access and manage their insurance policies with the launch of its new mobile app, offering a more convenient digital platform that brings essential policy services in one place.

Designed to provide easy access anytime and anywhere, the Pru Life UK app enables users to check their policy details, settle premium payments, view and download policy documents, and update their contact information straight from their mobile devices. Expanding on the self-service features previously available through the PRUServices website, the new app gives customers a simpler and more accessible way to stay on top of their insurance needs while on the go.

“As our customers increasingly embrace digital in their everyday lives, we continue to find ways to make their experience with us simpler and more convenient. The new app is an important step in that journey, giving customers easier access to the services they need.” said Kristine De Monteverde, Chief Operations Officer.

Following the launch, Pru Life UK is looking to promote greater use of the app as part of its commitment to providing customers with a more seamless and convenient digital experience. Through its website and mobile platform, the company aims to make essential policy services more accessible, allowing customers to handle and monitor their insurance policies with greater convenience.

The Pru Life UK app is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Customers may also access its services through the Customer Portal | Reliable Insurance Online Services Philippines – Pru Life UK.

November 11, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Entertainment

The global hit is back. One last time. Prime Video releases the official trailer for the final season of Maxton Hall – The World Between Us

“How much can a heart take before it breaks forever?” – Ruby Bell

Maxton Hall S3 Information and Assets Available HERE

Prime Video has unveiled the official trailer for the highly anticipated third season of Maxton Hall – The World Between Us. Premiering on December 9, the final chapter will bring viewers around the world back to Maxton Hall College for one last time. As the global hit series reaches its conclusion, fans can expect an emotional roller coaster filled with heartbreaking betrayals, unexpected twists, and intense moments as Ruby and James fight to hold on to their love and friendships. The season will also deliver a heartfelt ending to their much-loved love story.

The six-episode final season will premiere exclusively on Prime Video, with its first two episodes dropping on December 9, 2026. Two new episodes will follow each week, leading up to the highly anticipated series finale on December 23.

Watch the trailer here.

Maxton Hall – The World Between Us is available exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and regions. Prime Video is included with Amazon Prime membership and is available to members in the Philippines for just PHP 249/month or PHP 1,669/year.

Here’s what’s next for Maxton Hall – The World Between Us:

Ruby has been suspended from Maxton Hall College. Her dream of going to Oxford is slipping away, but she refuses to give up. Together with James, they fight to prove her innocence. The closer they get to the truth, the more it threatens to tear everything apart. Friendships are tested and secrets they never expected come to light. In the end, they must decide – is love enough?

The third season of the series, produced by UFA Fiction, is based on Save Us, the third installment of the bestselling trilogy by author Mona Kasten, published by LYX.

Alongside returning lead stars Harriet Herbig-Matten and Damian Hardung, the third season will also feature familiar faces, including Sonja Weißer as Lydia, Eidin Jalali as Graham, Ben Felipe as Cyril, Fedja van Huêt as Mortimer, Runa Greiner as Ember, Esmael Agostinho as Wren, Justus Riesner as Alistair, Govinda Gabriel as Kesh, Andrea Guo as Lin, Frederic Balonier as Kieran, Eli Riccardi as Elaine, and Dagny Dewath as Ophelia.

Martin Schreier is back in the director’s chair, while Ceylan Yildirim, Markus Brunnemann, and Eike Adler return as executive producers. Sandra Stöckmann and Ceylan Yildirim lead the writing team for the final season, joined by additional writers Catharina Junk, Marlene Melchior, and Aylin Kockler. Valentin Debler serves as the producer, with the series receiving support from the German Motion Picture Fund (GMPF).

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

November 10, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Automotive

Toyota Motor Asia Celebrates Global Team Toyota Athletes and Unveils ‘New Day Rising’ at One Team Asia Event in Nagoya

From sporting triumphs to a shared regional rhythm, Toyota Motor Asia brings together the diverse expressions of movement that connect Asia

From left to right: Daisuke Hori, Executive Vice President, Toyota Motor Asia; Hao Quoc Tien, President, Toyota Motor Asia (SG); Malaysian para-athlete Muhammad Ammar Aiman Nor Azmi; Vietnamese para powerlifter Lê Văn Công; Preston Tan, Vice President, Toyota Motor Asia; and Jaja Ishibashi, General Manager, Toyota Motor Asia.

With the conclusion of Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games and Asian Para Games, Toyota Motor Asia celebrates the record-breaking performances and sporting milestones achieved by its seven Global Team Toyota Athletes (GTTA) from six different Asia countries, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam

Toyota Motor Asia also hosted its One Team Asia event in Nagoya, bringing together athletes and artists to celebrate the region’s diverse talents while reinforcing Toyota’s longstanding commitment to sport. For Toyota, sport represents more than competition; it is a platform that challenges perceptions of what is possible, champions the freedom to move and creates opportunities for people of different abilities and backgrounds to participate. This belief continues to guide Toyota’s support for athletes and its efforts to foster more inclusive communities.

From left to right: Six of seven collaborating musicians at Toyota’s One Team Asia event, namely Pakistan’s musician and ethnomusicologist Natasha Noorani, Singaporean indie singer-songwriter and producer Shye, Malaysia’s multi-instrumentalist and DJ Belle Sisoski, the Philippines’ Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin from indie folk pop band Ben&Ben, and Thai-Italian singer-songwriter Valentina Ploy.

A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of ‘New Day Rising,’ the regional collaborative track from Toyota’s Move Your World Beat initiative. Building on original compositions created using sounds sampled from Toyota vehicles, the song brought together the distinct musical influences of participating artists from across Asia. The resulting track marks the culmination of a regional creative journey, bringing the individual compositions of the seven artists into a shared musical piece that reflects both their distinct identities and the collective spirit of Asia.

The event also marked the launch of ‘Move Your World Beat: Volume 1,’ featuring their individual tracks.

By bringing sport and music together at One Team Asia, Toyota demonstrated how both can transcend individual achievements and creative expression to inspire people and connect communities. While athletes move people through their sporting journeys, artists do so through music and culture — two different expressions, one common belief in the power of movement: Move Your World.

Celebrating Milestones across Asia

From left to right: Malaysian para-athlete Muhammad Ammar Aiman Nor Azmi and Vietnamese para powerlifter Lê Văn Công, two of Toyota’s seven Global Team Toyota Athletes, at Toyota’s One Team Asia event.

At the Asian Games, Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo claimed two gold medals in the men’s floor exercise and vault, earning the Philippines its first two gold medals of the Games. Thai badminton player Kunlavut Vitidsarn also made history by winning the men’s singles gold, securing Thailand’s first-ever Asian Games gold in the discipline.

At the Asian Para Games, Indonesian para cyclist Muhammad Fadli Imamuddin clinched gold in the men’s C4 4,000m individual pursuit, setting a Games record of 4:50.169. Filipino para swimmer Ernie Gawilan defended his men’s 400m freestyle S7 title, claiming his third consecutive gold in the event, along with a silver in the men’s 200m individual medley SM7.

Singaporean para swimmer Toh Wei Soong secured five medals: silver in the men’s 100m backstroke S7 and 50m freestyle S7, and bronze in the 400m freestyle S7, 100m freestyle S7 and 50m butterfly S7. Malaysian para-athlete Muhammad Ammar Aiman Nor Azmi earned silver in the men’s 400m T20, clocking 48.34 seconds. Meanwhile, Vietnamese para powerlifter Lê Văn Công won silver in the men’s 49kg category with a best lift of 171kg, winning Vietnam’s first medal of the Games.

Reflecting on Toyota’s longstanding involvement in sport and its commitment to supporting people and communities in moving forward, Preston Tan, Vice President of Toyota Motor Asia, said:

“At Aichi-Nagoya 2026, we witnessed remarkable achievements from our athletes, each driven by their own ambitions and determination to push beyond their limits. Their journeys remind us that progress is personal, and every achievement has the power to inspire others.

Move Your World Beat carries this same belief into music, bringing together artists from across Asia to create something that reflects both their individual identities and a shared regional spirit. For Toyota, these experiences reinforce why we continue to invest in people and their potential — not only to recognize what they can achieve, but to create opportunities for them to inspire others and make a difference beyond the Games.”

November 9, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev’s Poblacion Market Central Welcomes Mindanao’s First Indigenous Peoples Trade Expo

The inaugural Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Trade Expo (MIPTEX 2026) brings together key stakeholders in advancing Indigenous enterprise, cultural preservation, and sustainable economic opportunities across Mindanao.

The inaugural Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Trade Expo (MIPTEX 2026) gathered over 80 Indigenous creatives, entrepreneurs, community leaders, government representatives, and development partners at Poblacion Market Central from October 26 to 30. The event aimed to promote Indigenous businesses, preserve cultural heritage, and create sustainable economic opportunities throughout Mindanao.

Guided by the theme “Gawang Mindanao IP, Gawang Pinoy,” the five-day expo showcased the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Indigenous communities, encouraged conversations on Indigenous wealth management, and opened new avenues for sustainable, community-driven economic development.

Co-led by the New Zealand Embassy Manila, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), MIPTEX is supported by local and international partners, including the New Zealand Embassy, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and private sector organizations such as Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) and its corporate foundation, Alcantara Foundation.

Messages of solidarity during the MIPTEX 2026 opening program reflect the support of key government, diplomatic, development, and private partners. Pictured (L-R) are New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Catherine McIntosh, NCIP Secretary Nancy Catamco, MinDA Executive Director and Undersecretary Janet Lopoz, Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene Dominguez, UNDP Resident Representative Christophe Bahuet, and CAMP Asia Country Director Buyoung Cho.

Beyond providing a marketplace for Indigenous products, MIPTEX focused on strengthening entrepreneurs’ business capabilities, promoting responsible trade, and highlighting the importance of protecting traditional designs and cultural expressions from unauthorized use. Activities included brand development and investment sessions, business mentoring, financial education, and discussions on Indigenous-to-Indigenous trade and community wealth management.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte joins the opening of MIPTEX 2026, recognizing the expo’s role in uniting Indigenous artisans, entrepreneurs, and partners together.

The expo also showcased Mindanao’s living cultural traditions through live weaving demonstrations, a youth painting competition featuring natural pigments, and the Hulagway Fashion Gala, which featured traditional and contemporary Indigenous apparel and textiles such as Inabal, T’nalak, Yakan, and Dagmay.

Sessions on sustainable enterprise and community wealth management with BPI Foundation, BangKo, GCash, and Grab explored how Indigenous businesses can create lasting benefits for their communities, including support for education, healthcare, and ancestral domain protection.

MIPTEX 2026 features learning sessions, the Hulagway Fashion Gala, and booths showcasing Indigenous creations from across Mindanao, highlighting the craftsmanship, creativity, and rich traditions of the region’s communities.

Miguel A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev, emphasized the importance of private sector partnerships in supporting Indigenous communities and expanding economic opportunities.

“As private sector partners, our role is not to lead or dictate, but to listen, support, and build bridges. We are committed to fostering commercial environments where Indigenous identity is honored, intellectual property is safeguarded, and economic returns directly uplift families and communities,” Dominguez said.

Alsons Dev’s support for MIPTEX 2026 reflects its continued dedication to celebrating and preserving Mindanao’s diverse culture, arts, and heritage. Through its efforts to create opportunities for Indigenous creativity and entrepreneurship, the company aims to highlight the region’s cultural richness while helping ensure that these traditions are valued, sustained, and passed on to future generations.

November 9, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe Brings Christmas Cheer to Millions of Filipinos with Free AI Fiesta and Groundbreaking Innovation

Globe has consistently led the way in making digital innovation more accessible to Filipinos. From becoming the country’s first digital network to driving mobile data adoption through Free Facebook, the company has continued to introduce groundbreaking innovations, including customizable plans that once seemed impossible. Its milestones in connectivity have since expanded to include 4G LTE, 5G, and Southeast Asia’s first Starlink satellite-to-mobile service. Today, Globe is once again pushing boundaries by embracing the next major technological breakthrough of this millennium: artificial intelligence (AI), a transformative force that is reshaping how people live and businesses operate in the post-internet era.

This Christmas, Globe is taking another bold step forward by announcing an exciting new offer that gives millions of its customers FREE access to the world of AI.

What stands out about Globe’s latest initiative is how it continues to make emerging technologies more accessible to everyday Filipinos. From improving connectivity to introducing AI, the company shows that digital innovation should go beyond technological advancements and create opportunities for people to experience and benefit from them. Offering free access to AI this Christmas is a meaningful step toward making this technology more familiar, useful, and accessible to more Filipinos, especially as AI becomes an increasingly important part of everyday life.

All Globe mobile and broadband customers can work, play, and create using their free access to AI Fiesta. Any Globe customer can now use some of the world’s most powerful AI tools to empower themselves and do innovations seamlessly.

For Globe Circle and Globe Platinum customers, complimentary AI Fiesta access starts from November 15, 2026, to January 16, 2027.

For Globe Prepaid, Postpaid, Broadband, and TM customers, AI Fiesta is free from December 1 to 31, 2026. This gives more Filipinos the opportunity to discover the benefits of AI during the holiday season.

“Technology makes the greatest impact when people know how to use it for their inherent benefits and advantages,” said Carl Cruz, President and CEO of Globe. “We saw how greater internet access transformed the way Filipinos connect, learn, and innovate to pursue opportunities. We want to bring AI in the hands of all our customers, to give Filipinos a stronger tool for progress and development. AI is the future and every Filipino should be onboard so they can shape our collective future.”

Unveiled at the Holiday Edition of The Blueprint by Globe, the free AI Fiesta offer takes center stage in the company’s Christmas campaign, Make Your Magic Happen. The platform brings together leading AI models such as Claude, Gemini, and ByteDance, alongside tools for creating images, videos, presentations, and websites.

AI Fiesta makes exploring artificial intelligence simpler by bringing different capabilities together in one platform. Its Super Fiesta feature automatically identifies a suitable AI model for each question, while its Consensus feature draws on responses from multiple models to give users a broader perspective. Instead of figuring out which AI tool to use, customers can focus on what they want to accomplish.

Darius Delgado, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the importance of making AI accessible, user-friendly, and relevant to people’s daily needs. He shared that by bringing various powerful AI tools together and offering them at no cost, Globe hopes to encourage more Filipinos to explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence. Through AI Fiesta, the company aims to help customers simplify everyday tasks and spend more quality time creating meaningful memories with their loved ones this Christmas.

For more information about Globe’s holiday offers, visit www.globe.com.ph⁠.

November 9, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

Lifestyle, News

Why Atty. Noreen San Luis Has Strong Credentials to Lead the LT

Atty. Noreen Bernadette San Luis-Lutey with Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and Naga Mayor Leni Robredo.

As the Land Transportation Office (LTO) faces continuing demands for greater efficiency, transparency, and accountability, the professional record of Atty. Noreen S. San Luis has drawn attention amid discussions about the agency’s leadership.

A lawyer, registered nurse, and Career Executive Service Officer (CESO) Rank V, Atty. San Luis brings more than 12 years of experience in land transportation governance, with a record spanning frontline service reforms, digital transformation, modernized traffic enforcement, and road safety advocacy.

Atty. San Luis previously served as LTO Regional Director in Bicol and CALABARZON. She also held a national-level position as Director of the LTO’s Traffic Adjudication Service, giving her experience in both regional operations and central-office policymaking.

Her background includes public administration, regulatory enforcement, technology-driven reforms, and private-sector transportation management—areas directly relevant to the LTO’s responsibilities.

A Track Record of Improving Public Services

During her leadership of LTO Bicol, Atty. San Luis introduced measures to make government services more accessible, efficient, and responsive to motorists.

According to the Career Executive Service Board (CESB), she helped establish five LTO district offices that received Excellent ratings in the Civil Service Commission’s Anti-Red Tape Report Card Survey in 2015.

She also helped establish additional LTO offices in Irosin, Sorsogon; Tigaon, Camarines Sur; and Pamplona, Camarines Sur, bringing services closer to communities and easing congestion in existing offices.

Under her leadership, the LTO E-Patrol mobile office program, dormant for nearly a decade, was revived to provide government services to motorists in remote communities.

She also pursued improvements in LTO facilities, including using a ₱39-million allocation to upgrade waiting areas and improve accommodations for clients, particularly persons with physical limitations.

These initiatives reflected an approach to public service that emphasized accessibility, operational efficiency, and addressing motorists’ everyday concerns.

Helping Modernize Traffic Enforcement and Digital Systems

Beyond regional administration, Atty. San Luis has supported major initiatives to modernize traffic enforcement and strengthen coordination between the LTO and local government units.

She chaired the technical working group that developed Metro Manila’s Single Ticketing System, which sought to standardize common traffic violations, harmonize penalties, and simplify fine settlement across local jurisdictions.

Pursued in coordination with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Metro Manila local governments, the initiative addressed longstanding differences in traffic enforcement procedures and helped advance a unified traffic management framework.

Atty. San Luis also worked on the LTO-LGU Interconnectivity Project, which sought to connect local government traffic enforcement records with the LTO’s Land Transportation Management System (LTMS).

The integration supports a centralized database of traffic violations, more consistent enforcement, and improved monitoring of drivers’ records.

Her involvement extended beyond Metro Manila. In May 2024, she presented the interconnectivity initiative before the Baguio City Council, explaining how electronic recording of traffic violations could support more coordinated enforcement without relying on the camera-based No Contact Apprehension Program.

Her experience in these initiatives demonstrates familiarity with the operational, legal, and technological requirements of nationwide traffic enforcement modernization.

Reducing Bureaucracy Through Practical Reforms

Atty. San Luis’ record also includes efforts to simplify administrative procedures within the LTO.

In December 2024, while serving as Director of the Traffic Adjudication Service, she recommended removing the requirement for motorists to submit an affidavit of loss and police blotter when settling traffic violations involving lost or damaged Temporary Operator’s Permits.

The LTO subsequently adopted her recommendation through LTO Memorandum Circular No. VDM-2024-3100.

The reform recognized that traffic violation records were already being encoded in the LTMS, eliminating the need for motorists to produce additional documentation that duplicated information available in the agency’s database.

It was a practical example of how digitalization could reduce paperwork, lower transaction costs, and make the experience more convenient for the public.

Atty. San Luis also served on the LTO’s Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC) Accreditation Committee, participating in regulatory processes related to vehicle inspection facilities.

These assignments gave her experience in regulatory oversight, technical compliance, and the administrative processes supporting the LTO’s modernization initiatives.

A Pioneer in Road Safety Education

Beyond administrative reforms, Atty. San Luis is recognized for developing Students Today, Road Users Tomorrow (STRUT), a school-based road safety education initiative introduced in 2014.

Developed in partnership with the Department of Education, STRUT sought to instill road safety awareness among young Filipinos before they became licensed drivers.

The initiative reached a major milestone in November 2017, when road safety education was formally integrated into the K-12 curriculum in Bicol.

The Department of Education reported developing 12 learning modules covering road safety concepts across subjects such as Araling Panlipunan, Edukasyon sa Pagpapahalaga, English, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.

For Atty. San Luis, the advocacy also has a personal foundation. Her father, a former mayor of Pili, Camarines Sur, died in a road accident—an experience that helped inspire her commitment to educating young road users and preventing traffic-related deaths.

Her work received international attention when the STRUT initiative was featured during the Philippines’ observance of the Fifth United Nations Global Road Safety Week in 2019, documented by the World Health Organization.

Atty. San Luis was also among those involved in developing and advocating for the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.

Leadership Experience Beyond the LTO

Atty. San Luis’ professional background extends to the private transportation sector.

She previously served as Vice President for Road Traffic Safety and Quality, Environment, Safety, and Health at NLEX Corporation under Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation.

According to her professional biography, her responsibilities included the Anti-Overloading Vehicle Program and road safety strategies involving operational compliance, data-driven enforcement, and safety management.

Her private-sector experience complemented her government service by exposing her to the operational requirements of expressway management and transportation safety systems.

Her contributions to public service have also earned institutional recognition, including a Civil Service Commission regional award in 2017 and recognition as one of the Ten Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security in 2019.

She graduated with honors from the Development Academy of the Philippines with a Diploma in Development Management. Her professional biography also lists international road safety training, including participation in the Bloomberg Initiative for Global Road Safety and the Global Road Safety Leadership Course.

In August 2026, Atty. San Luis assumed the position of City Administrator of Naga City under Mayor Leni Robredo, further expanding her responsibilities in local governance, institutional coordination, and public service delivery.

Experience Relevant to the LTO’s Continuing Challenges

The LTO’s responsibilities go beyond driver’s licensing and vehicle registration. The agency also faces demands to improve transaction efficiency, strengthen regulatory compliance, modernize enforcement, and address public concerns about service quality.

Atty. San Luis’ career reflects involvement in these areas, from improving district office operations and bringing services to underserved communities to helping develop digital enforcement systems and reducing:

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Her experience also spans different levels of administration, including regional management, national policy implementation, regulatory oversight, private-sector transportation safety, and local government operations.

Although no official appointment to the LTO’s top post has been announced, her professional background and documented contributions provide a substantive basis for examining her qualifications in discussions about the agency’s future leadership.

For an institution facing continued pressure to deliver faster, more transparent, and more reliable services, her record shows how administrative experience, technical expertise, and practical reforms can strengthen transportation governance.

November 7, 2026 by Vic Vic Bautista

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