Monthly Archives

May 2025

Lifestyle, News

Manila Water Upgrades Olandes STP with Advanced Nutrient Removal Technology


IN PHOTO: The elevated flood-proof Olandes STP control room located in Marikina City The enhancements at Manila Water’s Olandes STP, which include upgrading the Biological Nutrient Removal system, demonstrates the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and adherence to government standards on effluents, ensuring cleaner and safer waterways

Manila Water has completed major upgrades at the Olandes Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Marikina City, converting its previously unused capacity to support Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) treatment. This development reflects the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship and adherence to more stringent effluent quality standards.

The P129.31-million BNR enhancement project, finalized in November 2024, aimed to boost the STP’s efficiency in eliminating harmful nutrients such as ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates—pollutants that can severely impact ecosystems if not properly treated. Through this improved BNR process, Manila Water is actively reducing the environmental footprint of wastewater discharge into surrounding waterways.

Key enhancements implemented as part of the operational modification include replacing the existing Conventional Activated Sludge (CAS) process with a more advanced Modified Ludzack-Ettinger (MLE) configuration. This upgrade involved several critical components such as structural modification and repair of tanks, construction of a chemical house for the chemical dosing system, installation of submersible pumps and mixers for improved distribution of treatment chemicals, and installation of a control panel and instrumentation for better monitoring and management of treatment processes.

With a current capacity of 10,360 MLD and a daily average inflow of 5,000 MLD, the Olandes STP serves over 40,000 residents across Barangays Cinco Hermanos, Industrial Valley, Sitio Olandes, Blue Ridge, and Libis in Marikina and Quezon City.

“The completion of the Olandes STP enhancements marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to protect the environment and ensure compliance with stringent effluent standards. By adopting advanced nutrient removal technology, we are not only improving the quality of wastewater treatment but also safeguarding the health of our waterways and communities,” Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla said.

Moreover, upgrading the Olandes STP to improve its current BNR processes helps meet the stringent regulations of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for Class C wastewater, which supports marine life. This initiative is intended to ensure that wastewater treatment facilities follow BNR process standards, ultimately leading to cleaner and safer bodies of water.

 

 

 

 

May 30, 2025 by
Entertainment

Miley Cyrus drops her new album Something Beautiful

Miley Cyrus has released her ninth studio album, Something Beautiful, now available on all major streaming platforms through Columbia Records. Listen HERE.

The 13-track project pairs heartfelt lyricism with sweeping, cinematic production. It includes the brand-new single “Easy Lover,” along with earlier releases like “More to Lose” and “End of the World,” and standout new tracks such as “Walk of Fame.”

A full-length visual film accompanying the album will debut on June 6 at the Tribeca Festival. Co-directed by Miley Cyrus, Brendan Walter, Jacob Bixenman, and acclaimed filmmaker Panos Cosmatos, the film vividly brings Something Beautiful to life. Naomi Campbell also makes an appearance in the visual for “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved.”

Co-produced by Miley Cyrus and Shawn Everett, and featuring contributions from Brittany Howard, Maxx Morando, and Michael Pollack, Something Beautiful is a deeply introspective, sonically bold, and emotionally rich project.

The visual album will premiere in theaters across the U.S. and Canada for one night only on June 12, with international showings starting June 27. Tickets are available at: www.MileyCyrusSomethingBeautiful.com.

 

 

May 30, 2025 by
Entertainment

Offshore Music honors Eraserheads’ Cutterpillow with an all-star tribute compilation

The Eraserheads’ iconic third album gets a genre-bending makeover from some of the most exciting homegrown music acts

Offshore Music, a prominent independent label in the Philippines, celebrates the enduring legacy of The Eraserheads’ Cutterpillow with a tribute album showcasing a dynamic mix of rising and well-established local artists.

Commemorating the 30th anniversary of the iconic alternative rock record, the compilation breathes new life into its classic tracks. Artists from Offshore’s diverse lineup offer unique reinterpretations—some boldly experimenting with genre-blending styles, while others remain faithful to the originals, adding their personal touch to the beloved songs.

“We didn’t set any parameters,” explains Ely Buendia, CEO of Offshore Music. “We just told the artists that it was a tribute album, and they can interpret it as they see fit. Some totally changed the feel, genre, and energy of the song, and some stayed faithful to the material but added some sprinkles of their own musicality in it. The balance just came naturally. The decision is left to the artists, and we trust that they have the taste and wisdom to determine whether they are enhancing the original song or giving it some sort of a sonic makeover that appeals to a specific generation of listeners.”

Audry Dionisio, the General Manager of Offshore Music, emphasizes the label’s commitment to artistic freedom and integrity. She notes that Offshore Music has always empowered its artists to push boundaries, whether by challenging conventions or breathing new life into timeless material.

“Each artist was given complete creative freedom,” Dionisio explains. “Some producers collaborated directly with the band, but Ely and Pat Sarabia oversaw the entire project. We’re fortunate to have one-fourth of the Eraserheads guiding the process and lending his seal of approval. All the artists decided on what they were going to do, and we were just here to guide them. Even Rayms, Buddy, and Marcus gave their input on some tracks.”

Cutterpillow: Tribute Album art

Cutterpillow: Tribute Album brings together a diverse array of standout performances, including Diego’s Scenes and Ligaya Escueta’s emo-charged take on “Back2Me,” Elton Clark’s synth-pop spin on “Torpedo,” Carousel Casualties’ knockout rendition of “Walang Nagbago,” Pinkmen’s harmony-rich version of “Ang Huling El Bimbo,” Pixie Labrador’s Lilith Fair-flavored style “Fill Her,” ALYSON’s slick city pop render of “Huwag Mo Nang Itanong,” ena mori’s theatrical reworking of the title track, and Amateurish and Stef Aranas’ dynamic redo of “Superproxy,” which serves as the album’s focus track.

The year-long campaign of the tribute album launched earlier this year with limited-edition merchandise designed by award-winning artist Tarantadong Kalbo (Kevin Eric Raymundo). The t-shirts and tote bags, which featured his signature illustrations, quickly sold out in a matter of days.

In addition to the album’s digital release, Offshore Music is set to premiere a companion docuseries on June 6, 2025, with new episodes dropping every Friday through August. The online series will showcase behind-the-scenes footage from the recording sessions, as well as interviews with the artists and producers involved.

“Additionally, in this documentary, you’ll witness the highs and lows of their journey as part of the tribute album—from their first reactions to joining the project to brainstorming, recording take after take, and their spontaneous bursts of creativity,” shares Offshore Music in a press statement. “The documentary is more than just a recording of the process; it’s a celebration of passion, creativity, and the timeless impact of Cutterpillow.

Check out the tracklist of Cutterpillow: Tribute Album:

  1. “Superproxy” – Amateurish feat. Stef Aranas
  2. “Back2Me” – Diego’s Scenes and Ligaya Escueta
  3. ‘Waiting for the Bus” – MI MI and Eliza Marie
  4. “Fine Time” – Sansette
  5. “Kama Supra” – Seedy and the Years
  6. “Overdrive” – JUICEBOX
  7. “Slo Mo” – GundamFunk
  8. “Torpedo” – Elton Clark
  9. “Huwag Mo Nang Itanong” – ALYSON
  10. “Paru-Parong Ningning” – Her Name is Noelle
  11. “Walang Nagbago” – Carousel Casualties
  12. “Poorman’s Grave” – Grave Aviators
  13. “Yoko’ – neytan
  14. “Fill Her” – Pixie Labrador
  15. “Ang Huling El Bimbo” – Pinkmen
  16. “Cutterpillow” – ena mori
  17. “Overdrive (Reprise)” – OFFSHORE MUSIC

Cutterpillow: Tribute Album is now available globally on all digital music platforms, released through Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment.

 

 

 

 

 

May 30, 2025 by
Automotive

Small Laude’s Major Auto Glow-Up: The Lynk & Co 06 Origin SE SUV

There’s a fun contrast in Small Laude’s name—what sounds “small” is anything but when it comes to her bold personality and massive online following. That contrast is echoed in her latest move: stepping into the driver’s seat in a big way with the Lynk & Co 06, a crossover SUV that perfectly matches her vibrant and dynamic persona.

A standout in the Philippine social media scene, Small Laude is known for blending sophistication with humor and authenticity, all wrapped in her signature unfiltered style. She’s effortlessly glamorous and down-to-earth—qualities that are mirrored in the Lynk & Co 06, a vehicle that boasts striking looks, a luxurious interior, and refined Swedish design and engineering throughout.

“This partnership with Lynk & Co feels so aligned with who I am and what I love,” Small Laude shares. “When I first saw the 06 in Pastel Lilac, I was like, ‘Okay, this is me.’ It’s chic, spacious, and super techie… but not intimidating! Which is why I got my own unit! And after spending more time with it, I love the comfortable seats and all these smart features that make life easier. As someone who gets really busy with managing my business, while doing vlogs on the side, it’s my happy little bubble on wheels.”

“Distinctly Dynamic” in both form and function, the Lynk & Co 06 pairs bold design with top notch driving and safety features. It is equipped with a 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission that delivers 181Ps and 290Nm of torque, balancing performance and efficiency. Inside, the car’s 12.3” HD touchscreen infotainment system is ergonomically designed for easy operation, while wireless charging ditches the cable chaos.

Safety also takes the front seat with features like a 360° panoramic camera with 180° transparent chassis view; blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning, among the 06’s standout ADAS features.

And now, the 06 just became more accessible with a new 06 Origin SE, which is now available for as low as Php 1,099,000. The same upscale distinction and premium quality now comes at a more attainable price point, making this Swedish-designed ride more accessible to the Filipino market.

“When Small Laude shows up, there’s nothing ‘small’ about it. She’s unapologetically herself; she’s sophisticated yet playful, accessible yet aspirational, and that’s exactly the kind of energy we generate at Lynk & Co,” says Lynk & Co Philippines Brand Head Franz Decloedt. “With Small Laude behind the wheel of the 06 SUV, we are primed to enter an exciting new chapter for Lynk & Co Philippines as we continue to connect and collaborate with more Filipinos.”

Decloedt continues: “We invite everyone to get linked and connected with us. Watch the Lynk & Co space closely, because we’re cooking up even more things to get you excited. More unexpected moments are coming, and with Small Laude stepping into the Lynk & Co world, the road just got a lot more fabulous.”

To learn more, drop by any Lynk & Co dealership located in Alabang, Angeles, BGC, Bulacan, North EDSA, or Quezon Avenue. Stay updated by following Lynk & Co Philippines on social media: Facebook at LynkCoPhilippines and Instagram at @lynkco_philippines. For inquiries, you can reach their hotline at 0917 175 LYNK (5965). You can also visit LynkCo.ph to schedule a test drive, request a quote, or explore their full range of exciting vehicles.

 

May 28, 2025 by
Lifestyle, Sports

Rapidly Expanding, Dynamic, and Boundless: The Philippine Pickleball Federation Announces Skechers as Its Official Footwear Partner for 2025

Supporting grassroots, tournaments, and champions

The Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) is excited to unveil its partnership with Skechers, the world-renowned comfort technology brand, as the official footwear sponsor for 2025. This significant collaboration supports PPF’s ongoing mission to expand the reach of pickleball across the nation — from community-based initiatives to elite-level play — by teaming up with Skechers Philippines, a brand known for promoting performance, inclusivity, and active lifestyles for everyone.

“We at PPF have always put a high value in the sport of pickleball by making it accessible, healthily competitive, and fueled by the community’s passion,” says Mike Johnson, PPF Founder. “As we partner with Skechers, we are optimistic that pickleball players both seasoned and new are up for a whole new level of experience with footwear that supports athletic performance and comfort on the court.”

Kicking off this exciting partnership is the highly anticipated 1st Philippine Pickleball National Championship 2025, co-presented by Skechers Pickleball, taking place from May 30 to June 1 at Dink & Shot in Marikina City. Open to participants nationwide, the tournament will highlight the rising talent and enthusiasm for pickleball across the Philippines. Players can now register at: www.pickleball.ph/2025-ppf-championship.html

Skechers, known for its cutting-edge performance footwear — including its specialized Skechers Pickleball shoes — proudly joins the Federation in supporting athletes of all skill levels, from newcomers to experienced pros. This July, Skechers will further enhance its presence in the sport with the launch of the Skechers Viper Court Rally™ in the Philippines, offering players a blend of comfort and performance with a breathable mesh and leather upper and lightweight Move Foam™ insole.

For elite level performance, the updated Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0 features new colorways, a redesigned upper with innovative mesh technology for increased durability, advanced support with its Arch Fit® EVA insole, and responsive ULTRA GO® Foam midsole.

Both shoe styles include Goodyear® Gold compound outsoles for controlled slides on the pickleball court. These innovative products showcase Skechers’ continued dedication to pickleball. Tried and tested by pros, with award-winning styles, and the official footwear of major leagues worldwide, Skechers has been a trusted name in the sport. That’s why we are very much excited about our new partnership. We aim to elevate the sport further and bring pickleball to more communities nationwide.

To learn more about our partner, Skechers Pickleball, you may visit their website. You may also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

For more information and updates about PPF and our upcoming events, visit our website at www.pickleball.ph.

Join us in celebrating this exciting partnership and the growth of pickleball in the Philippines!

 

 

 

 

May 28, 2025 by
Automotive

Street racing thrills at the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup draw over 12,000 spectators

The weekend event highlighted circuit races, GR driving exhibitions,
Tamaraw Racing Concept debut, car community meetups, musical entertainment, and more

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has wrapped up the second of three Race Weekends for the 2025 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup (TGR Philippine Cup). This top motorsports event attracted over 12,000 attendees who enjoyed exciting racing and driving activities on the streets from May 23 to 25 in Villar City, located just south of Manila.

Racers competed head-to-head across four categories — Novice, Sporting, Super Sporting, and Legacy — in three circuit races held over the weekend on a 2.4km temporary street track. The course featured 14 corners, including two hairpin turns and six chicanes, delivering thrilling action for the fans.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto, who races for the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team, shook the crowd in the last laps of the Novice Class circuit race when he hit the barriers and overturned. He was able to evacuate his Vios one-make-race (OMR) car promptly and came out of the incident without any injuries.

“My car flipped upside down and became immobilized. While the tires and engine sustained significant damage from the impact, the cabin remained intact and completely clear, allowing me to escape without even a scratch. I lost my beloved Vios #4, but it saved my life. We racers experience crashes all the time, many times, which is part of racing, but I have seen first-hand the wonderful fact that Toyota cars are safe, robust and keep the drivers protected,” President Hashimoto shared.

TMP has been utilizing the Vios OMR especially converted for the TGR Philippine Cup (previously Vios Cup) for 11 years now, where it has been subjected to various racing conditions both in permanent and street circuits. It has been modified to fit racing standards, which includes the installation of a roll cage and racing seat with 5-point seat belts to ensure the safety of the racer. Racers are also equipped with fireproof racing suits, gloves and helmets with Head and Neck Support (HANS) devices.

Toyota also applies the same safety standards to its road cars with safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense, airbags and various control systems.

TGR, TMP’s motorsports arm, has been committed to ‘pushing the limits for better’ through vehicle development in controlled environments. The TGR Philippine Cup, moreover, is conducted under the supervision of the Automobile Association Philippines to ensure the racetrack is compliant with safety standards.

President Hashimoto continues, “Toyota Global Chairman Akio Toyoda always emphasizes the importance of ‘driving, breaking, and fixing’ in vehicle development. By repeatedly driving and breaking cars in the race environment, he discovers further areas for improvement and strengthens the cars as a master driver. Based on this corporate mantra, Toyota will continue to pursue safer vehicle manufacturing and accessible racing in the future.”

The Tamaraw Racing Concept, a modified Tamaraw Dropside, also made its debut during the race weekend as the showcase vehicle during the Drag Race Exhibition. The concept vehicle underlines Toyota’s dedication to creating exciting cars through continuous testing on the track.

Eventgoers were also treated to free musical performances by OPM rock stars Rico Blanco and Parokya ni Edgar on May 24, and Ely Buendia and Bamboo on May 25.

Below is the full list of official winners of Race Weekend 2:

 

Novice Class Winners

Sporting Class Winners

Super Sporting Class Winners

Super Sporting Class Winners

RACE 1: SPRINT RACE 3

NOVICE CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Pablo Salapantan TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team
2 Ian Magbanua TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team
3 John Rey San Diego TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team

 

SPORTING CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Russel Reyes TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines
2 Jesse Garcia Obengers Racing – Toyota Balintawak
3 Bernardus Corpino Jordan Racing

 

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Joaquin Garrido Obengers Racing – Toyota Balintawak
2 Russel Cabrera Toyota Team Cebu
3 Red Diwa Toyota Isabela

 

LEGACY CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Oliver Aquino Oyi Racing: A Tech 7 Project
2 Paolo Ang Madkart – R Racing
3 Julian Colvin TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines

 

RACE 2: SPRINT RACE 4

NOVICE CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Reph Bangsil TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team
2 Luis Moreno TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team
3 Masando Hashimoto TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team

 

SPORTING CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Raymond Cudala R Racing Team
2 Bernardus Corpino Jordan Racing
3 Mike Santos R Racing Team

 

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Jarond Mesina Dash Racing x Era Autosport
2 Alain Gabriel Alzona Toyota General Santos – Smart Communications Racing
3 Michael Brayan Co R Garage/Toyota Dagupan Group

 

LEGACY CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Luigi Agustin Co Gel Napat Racing – R Racing
2 JV Ejercito Obengers Racing – Toyota Balintawak
3 Andre Rodrigues Oyi Racing

 

RACE 3: SPRINT RACE 5

NOVICE CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Pablo Salapantan TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team
2 Ian Magbanua TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team
3 Masando Hashimoto TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Novice Team

 

SPORTING CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Jesse Garcia Obengers Racing – Toyota Balintawak
2 Bernardus Corpino Jordan Racing
3 Miguel Hernandez Abano DrQ.Motorsports/Era Autosport

 

SUPER SPORTING CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Russel Cabrera Toyota Team Cebu
2 Joaquin Garrido Obengers Racing – Toyota Balintawak
3 Michael Brayan Co R Garage/Toyota Dagupan Group

 

LEGACY CLASS
Rank Name Team
1 Oliver Aquino Oyi Racing: A Tech 7 Project
2 Julian Colvin TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines
3 Paolo Ang Madkart – R Racing

The mobility company also showcased its lineup of vehicles through the Toyota Drive Fest with test drives; vehicle displays of its GR and GR-S, Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), Tamaraw, and Lexus F SPORT lineups; and event-exclusive promos on new vehicles. Customers were able to get discount coupons, which they used to purchase new vehicles.

T-SURE, Toyota’s pre-owned vehicles program, also displayed certified pre-owned cars for sale for those considering secondhand vehicles.

Fans can look forward to Race Weekend 3 of the 2025 TGR Philippine Cup in August at the Clark International Speedway. Tune in to TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and TikTok for updates.

The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup is officially sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines and is presented with support from Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner Petron and Official Tire Partner GT Radial, alongside Official Venue Partners Villar City and Brittany.

Additional support comes from Official Timekeeper Seiko, Toyota Financial Services Philippines, Tuason Racing, AVT, 3M, Denso, ROTA, PIAA, Autoplus, OMP, Bebang Halo-Halo, AutoQuix, and Kinto One.

For more details about the TGR Philippine Cup and other TGR events, visit https://toyota.com.ph/tgrphilippines. Stay updated by following TMP’s official accounts—ToyotaMotorPH on Facebook, Instagram, and X, and join the Viber community at Toyota PH.

 

 

 

 

May 28, 2025 by
Beauty, Lifestyle, Travel

Dermorepubliq takes its sun care experience to Boracay through a beachside activation and company retreat

TikTok Shop Philippines’ leading skincare brand, Dermorepubliq, brought its summer sun care campaign to Boracay with a two-day beachfront event spotlighting its DermoSun Mattifying Sunscreen — a summer must-have specially designed for Filipino skin. Along with the activation, the brand also hosted a company retreat on the island, showcasing its dedication to both sun protection awareness and employee wellness.

The event took place from May 17 to 18, 2025, in front of Epic Boracay at Station 2, where beachgoers were invited to experience DermoSun at the interactive “Glow Bar” and receive full-sized products for free. Photo spots and hands-on demos allowed visitors to explore the sunscreen’s matte, lightweight formula, known for its fast-absorbing, non-greasy finish.

“We developed DermoSun in direct response to what our community asked for — a sunscreen that’s lightweight, effective, and fits into real Filipino routines,” said Keith Sta. Barbara, Founder and President of Dermorepubliq. “Bringing it to Boracay, where the sun is both beautiful and intense, gave us a fitting setting to demonstrate how sun care can be simple, effective, and part of everyday life.”

The activation coincided with Dermorepubliq’s three-day company retreat, allowing 131 employees to pause, connect, and reflect — reinforcing the company’s holistic approach to care for its community and its people.

“As we grow, it’s important that we stay grounded, not just in product innovation but in purpose,” said Sta. Barbara. “This trip wasn’t only about bringing our sunscreen to the beach; it was also a chance to reconnect with the team behind it. And just as we’re committed to showing up for our community, it was equally important to show up for our team. Boracay gave us the space to do both.”

The activation event and company retreat are part of the brand’s Dermo 2-Finger Challenge—a TikTok campaign that encourages the dermatologist-recommended two-finger method for applying sunscreen. Participants have until May 30 to join, with one lucky winner receiving an all-expense-paid trip for two to Boracay, to be announced on June 10.

DermoSun Mattifying Sunscreen features key ingredients like Centella Asiatica, Jeju Aloe, and Niacinamide, providing SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection that seamlessly suits oily and combination skin. It’s available on TikTok Shop, Shopee, Lazada, the official website (www.dermorepubliq.com), and at Dermorepubliq kiosks in SM Fairview, SM Masinag, SM Tanza, SM Sta. Mesa, and Riverbanks Center.

You can find Dermorepubliq’s kiosks stores at the following locations:

SM Fairview: Lower Ground Level, Parkway

Riverbanks Center: KF-08, Palm Lane
SM City Masinag: Lower Ground Floor, SM City Masinag, Antipolo, Rizal

SM City Tanza: 2nd Floor, Tanza, Cavite

SM City Sta. Mesa: 2nd Floor, R. Magsaysay, Cor. G. Araneta Ave., Brgy. Dona Imelda, Quezon City

You may also visit their online platforms through the following links:

Website: https://dermorepubliq.com/

Shopee: https://shopee.ph/dermorepubliq

Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/dermorepubliq

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dermorepubliq

 

 

 

May 28, 2025 by
Lifestyle, Sports

“A Powerful Four in Year 4”: Vermosa Green Run 2025 Highlights Wellness, Sustainability, Youth Sports, and Animal Advocacy

Green Run 2025

Returning for its fourth year this June, the Vermosa Green Run continues its mission to promote health and wellness, environmental care, youth athletic development, and animal welfare.

Dubbed Vermosa Green Run 2025: A Force of Four in Year 4, the event kicks off on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the Vermosa Estate in Imus, Cavite. This year, Ayala Land’s premier multi-category race introduces a Plastic Donation and Collection Drive, complementing its 3K, 5K, 10K, and 21K running events.

All participants are encouraged to bring used plastics that will be recycled and repurposed by Ayala Land Estates Inc. and Makati Development Corporation (MDC). The plastic waste will be transformed into sustainable construction materials, concrete aggregates and other tools to build sidewalks and fences that will contribute to Ayala Land’s green development initiatives. Those who donate get a discounted rate on their Green Run registration.

Coming back for the third time is the popular 1K Dog Run that promotes Ayala Land’s advocacy for animal welfare. This special feature of the Green Run was introduced in 2023 to provide people a fun and meaningful way to engage in physical activity while bonding with their furry companions and to raise awareness on animal welfare.

Takbo Kabitenyo, one of the Green Run 2025 beneficiaries

The young athletes of Takbo Kabitenyo, a 200-member-strong group that runs for health reasons and competes in marathons around the country, will join the Green Run. The young runners from this group receive training, mentorship and the use of Vermosa’s sports facilities as part of Ayala Land’s championing of young athletes.

Dogs and Fur Parents join the 1K Dog Run at Green Run 2024

Event proceeds will benefit key advocacy partners, including Pawssion Project, which champions animal welfare, Haribon Foundation, a leader in reforestation efforts, and Takbo Kabitenyo, a local program supporting young athletes through training and mentorship opportunities.

“Each step you take at the Vermosa Green Run supports a bigger cause; combining fitness, sustainability, and community support into one meaningful event,” said Chrissy Roa, Ayala Land Estates’ Marketing and Communications group head.

Thousands of runners participated in Green Run 2024

Now an established benchmark for purpose-driven lifestyle events, the Vermosa Green Run continues to reinforce Ayala Land’s long-term vision for sustainability—demonstrating how fitness can be a powerful catalyst for both environmental and social impact.

To register or learn more about the Vermosa Green Run 2025, visit https://ayalaland.myruntime.com.

 

May 27, 2025 by
Lifestyle, Sports

Skechers Football Unveils First Harry Kane Signature Boot

The Exclusive Skechers SKX_1.5 Design Celebrates Kane’s Career and Golden Boot-Winning Mentality

England men’s soccer captain and Bayern Munich striker, Harry Kane MBE, with the Harry Kane Player Edition SKX_1.5 Elite boot from Skechers Football.

Skechers pays tribute to one of today’s top football strikers with the launch of Harry Kane’s first Player Edition boot. The SKX_1.5 signature model comes after an outstanding year in which Kane secured the 2024 European Golden Boot as the continent’s leading scorer and became the first English player to net 10 goals in a single Champions League season. The Bayern Munich forward first wore the boots on April 4th during a match against FC Augsburg.

“It’s been my dream since childhood to have my own signature boot,” said Harry Kane. “I worked with the team at Skechers to make it personal, to make it a piece of my story. Every detail reflects what motivates me as a player—always wanting to improve and working hard to gain those plusses, those small percentages every day. I’m excited to share these boots. I hope people love them, feel confident when wearing them and appreciate the features that make these boots truly mine. Skechers Football has really delivered on comfort, too.”

“Harry Kane was the first elite player to wear Skecher Football boots and helped launch our football business, so it was always clear that our first Player Editiondesign would feature his signature,” added Greg Smith, VP of Product Development and Merchandising for Skechers Performance. “More than just a celebration of Harry’s athleticism and performance on the pitch, we’re recognizing his ability to inspire the next generation of athletes around the globe. Anyone at any age can lace up in this boot and work hard to make their dreams a reality all with the amazing comfort that only Skechers offers.”

Featuring Harry Kane’s signature, the red and white color scheme pays tribute to his current teams—England and Bayern Munich—while gold accents highlight his Golden Boot-winning spirit. The plus symbols across the upper represent the extra effort Harry puts in daily to elevate his game, with 36 gold plus signs symbolizing the 36 goals he scored in his debut season with Bayern Munich to claim the Bundesliga Top Scorer award.

Having worn various colorways of the Skechers SKX_1.5 Elite since joining the brand, it was a natural progression to create his first signature boot. The Harry Kane Player Edition is available in Academy and Youth versions of the SKX_1.5 in the Philippines, allowing players of all ages to channel their football hero. Engineered for powerful strikes, the boot features a custom last designed for optimal comfort and a precise fit to enhance ball control on the field.

Skechers Academy x Harry Kane Signature SKX1.5 FG & TF

The Skechers Football collection, including the Harry Kane Player Edition, is available at Bootcamp stores and select Skechers stores. Football fans can get behind-the-scenes access to Skechers Football product launches and more by following Skechers Philippines on Instagram and Facebook.

 

May 27, 2025 by
Food

A BOND ACROSS GENERATIONS IN EVERY FILIPINO HOME: AJI-NO-MOTO UNVEILS A NEW GLOBAL LOGO AND PACKAGING DESIGN THAT SYMBOLIZES A TIMELESS LEGACY AND A HOPEFUL FUTURE

AJI-NO-MOTO® UMAMI SEASONING GETS A NEW PACK! Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) held an internal launch at its Head Office in Makati City with (L-R) AJI-NO-MOTO® Brand Manager Mr. Mayo Recto, Sr. Brand Specialist Ms. Lois Viray, APC’s Director of Sales, Marketing, and PR Ms. Mika Makino, and celebrity endorser Iya Villania-Arellano.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) proudly introduced the new global logo and updated packaging design for its flagship product, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, during a launch event held at its Makati Head Office.

This milestone is part of the AJI-NO-MOTO® Rebranding Project—a worldwide initiative by the Ajinomoto Group aimed at refreshing the brand’s image for future generations. The new packaging showcases a sleek, contemporary look while preserving the brand’s iconic red bowl symbol, representing warmth and delicious flavor, and staying true to its mission of enhancing every meal.

In the Philippines, the refreshed design also celebrates local brand elements that resonate with Filipino consumers, such as the iconic “Tak-Tak-Tak®” catch phrase and the endearing AjiPanda® character, revitalizing the brand’s connection with younger audiences.

The event was joined by APC’s leaders in the Philippines, including, Ms. Mika Makino, Director for Sales, Marketing, and PR, along with  AJI-NO-MOTO® Brand Manager Mr. Mayo Recto, and Ms. Lois Viray.

Celebrity endorser Ms. Iya Villania-Arellano also graced the event, representing the  personal connection of AJI-NO-MOTO® and  its role  among Filipino  family meals. The event is sure to inspire APC’s Field Sales Team and the  rest of APC  to bring the revitalized AJI-NO-MOTO® closer to Filipino households, reinforcing the brand’s mission to make everyday meals more delicious and enjoyable as the importance of evolving with consumers while staying true to the brand’s roots shared insights into the design transformation was emphasized, highlighting the balance between global direction and local appeal.

As AJI-NO-MOTO® embraces a fresh new look, one thing stays the same — their mission to add more flavor, joy, and heart to every Filipino household. More than just a kitchen essential,AJI-NO-MOTO® has long been a cherished part of home-cooked meals, family traditions, and shared moments around the table. This new chapter reflects their commitment to growing alongside you — offering the same reliable taste, now in a design that speaks to today’s generation and the next.

 

May 27, 2025 by