Monthly Archives

September 2025

Lifestyle, News

Visit the 19th Padday na Lima Regional Trade Fair to discover the vibrant and colorful culture and commerce of the Cagayan Valley!

The Padday na Lima Regional Trade Fair is returning to the Metro for its 19th year! The Upper Ground Floor, Carousel Court and East Hall, Festival Mall Alabang, Muntinlupa City, will host this annual display of the finest of the greatest in the Cagayan Valley from September 19–25, 2025. A vast, eye-catching display of goods showcasing the best of tradition, culture, and inventiveness in the center of the city awaits visitors to the trade expo.

The products of over 100 MSMEs from Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya will be on display. These include processed foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, fisheries and aquatic products, native specialties (kakanin), rice and corn-based products, plants, furniture, and furnishings, as well as creative new products.

Aside from promoting products, the trade fair will also offer unique opportunities and experiences highlighting tourism and investment opportunities in the region. Featuring the Provincial Pavilions of Batanes and Isabela, mall-goers can explore the one-of-a-kind culture of Batanes, and the abundance of agricultural products of Isabela. Buyers from Manila can also look forward to a special pavilion by the City of Ilagan, showcasing the heart and pride of Isabela’s capital city.

Padday na Lima will bring fresh energy this year with their festival passport where buyers can collect stamps after every purchase or booth interaction to unlock access to games, activities, and a chance to win exciting prizes. Fun activities will also include food and wine tasting, a captivating fashion show, and a creative crafts demonstration.

But the fun won’t stop at the fair! Buyers from the Metro can now easily get their hands on the finest products of Cagayan Valley with just a few clicks through PaddayNaLima.ph. In partnership with Shopee and Mayani.ph, these sought-after good are now made accessible to the buyers more than ever!

Products at the Padday na Lima Trade Fair will also be available at the PaddayNaLima.ph and Mayani.ph

The largest market in the area and a venue for showcasing Region 2’s excellent goods is Padday na Lima, which translates to “made by hands” in Ybanag. Through business matching initiatives and engaging partnerships with the public and private sectors, it has served as a fertile environment for expansion and advancement, assisting Region 2’s MSMEs in realizing their full potential for social and economic development.

Enjoy the breathtaking wealth of the Cagayan Valley’s distinctive customs and heritage this September at the Padday na Lima Regional Trade Fair. Padday na Lima is waiting for you, so come and take in everything that is in store!

See you there!

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

The Manual for a Waste-Free Future is released by SM Prime

Limited number of copies have been printed in support of SM Prime’s sustainability efforts. A digital copy of the manual will be made available for download.

Manila. Making segregation straightforward, quick, and actionable is the goal of the SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) campaign for a Waste-Free Future and its Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable, or RDC model.

The SM Waste Free Future Manual, a playbook that helps people and communities to learn about RDC and develop better segregation behaviors, was introduced by SM Prime at the most recent Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025).

Small steps, big impact

In the Philippines, the country generates up to 61,000 tons of waste daily and an annual 2.7 million tons of plastic waste. A figure that will rise with urbanization and poor waste disposal practices.

Inspired by the SM Green Movement’s strong call to action to make sustainability part of everyday life, SM Waste Free Future invites everyone to become part of the solution.

The three categories, RDC, make sorting waste an empowering exercise by focusing on the word β€œable” meaning having the power, skill, or the opportunity β€œto do”. Β The manual’s easy, practical, and inspiring read hopes to encourage readers to do just that –championing segregation systems and proper waste disposal.

It also features innovative reuse programs of SM Prime’s business unitsΒ that keep materials in circulation and out of landfills.Β When done at scale, each contribution can inspire others to follow, creating a ripple effect.

Learn, practice, champion

Done with great reflection during its incubation stages, SM Waste Free Future presented a rethink of waste segregation habits and systems built over time.

β€œWe have to be open to new ways of doing things and of putting into action every little step that’s crucial for advancing waste management solutions,” said SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans β€œChico” Sy, during the 2024 World Environment Day program launch.

Today, the campaign is deeply encouraged by institutions and agencies that strongly advocate developmental goals.

In his message of support, Dr. Selva Ramachandran, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), lauded the RDC bin labeling system. β€œProper waste segregation is an entry point toward a circular economy – one that goes beyond waste management to design out waste, keep materials in circulation, and regenerate natural systems.”

Together for a waste-free future, SM Prime sustainability champions at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025.

All together now

Together, we are stronger than we realize.Β β€œThis project is not specific to one organization, but one that belongs to an entire society. We welcome everyone to practice this in their everyday lives,” Sy said.

In order to overcome a mounting problem, everyone must work together. SM Prime is adamant that we can build a waste-free, sustainable future by working together.

β€œA waste-free future requires shared action from government, business, and communities. May this manual be a catalyst for deeper collaboration, innovation, and circular solutions that support national priorities and the global Sustainable Development Agenda – building systems across sectors that prevent waste, recover valuable resources, and protect our environment for generations to come,” said Dr. Ramachandran. Β 

 

 

 

 

Automotive, Lifestyle

Encouraging Filipinos to Drive, Ride, and Live Their Dreams during BPI MyFiesta 2025

The BPI MyFiesta traveled nationwideβ€”from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanaoβ€”to offer Filipino families exclusive bundled offers to take the first step toward home, car, or motorcycle ownership.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is pleased to present MyFiesta 2025, a retail lending event that aims to provide quick, simple, and reasonably priced loan options to Filipinos so they can fulfill their life goals.

MyFiesta is still working to empower Filipino communities this year. The campaign, which began with monthly rollouts in strategic Visayas and Mindanao regions, is now making its way to Metro Manila with a three-day event at SM Megamall between September 5–7, 2025, where families can take advantage of special packaged offers.

As MyFiesta 2025 continues to travel across the country, it remains focused on one goal: to celebrate and support the dreams of every Filipino.

β€œThis year’s theme, β€˜Turning Dreams Into Action,’ reflects our commitmentΒ to making life-changing goals more achievable for every Filipino,” said Dexter Cuajotor, Head of Retail Loans and Bancassurance. β€œWhether it’s owning a home, driving your first car, or getting a motorcycle for your livelihood, MyFiesta is here to support that journey.”

With each stop, BPI MyFiesta brings together BPI’s trusted financial services and partners to create a one-stop-shop for aspiring homeowners and vehicle buyers. The event features on-site loan consultations, pre-approval opportunities, and special promosβ€”making it easier than ever to take the first step toward ownership.

BPI MyFiesta gathered BPI’s trusted financial services and partners to create a one-stop-shop for aspiring homeowners and vehicle buyers. In the photo are representatives from partner merchants.

During the 3-day BPI MyFiesta event at SM Megamall, Filipinos can take advantage of the following bundled offers if they apply on-site during the event:

  • Exclusive Vouchers up to β‚±30,000 for Housing Loan
  • P20,000 for Auto Loan
  • P1,000 for Motorcycle Loan.

These come on top of the promotional offers below, with application period of: Sept. 1 to 30, 2025:

BPI Auto Loans

  • Discounted interest rates
  • Free bank fees up to β‚±50,000
  • Free motor insuranceΒ up toΒ β‚±50,000
  • Plus a chance to win up to β‚±1M loan payoff on the Grand Dream on Us Raffle

BPI Housing Loans

  • 50% fixed interest rate for 5 years
  • Free bank fees up to β‚±80,000*
  • Free Globe At Home GFiber Plan 500Mbps for 1 year, worth up to β‚±30,888 *Subject to serviceability. Globe At Home 5G Wifi if unavailable.
  • *β‚±8,000 waived for every β‚±1M loan amount capped at P80,000
  • Plus a chance to win up to P3M loan payoff on the Grand Dream on Us Raffle

BPI Motorcycle Loans

  • Prompt Payment DiscountΒ up toΒ β‚±25,200
  • Plus a chance to win up to P100K loan payoff on the Grand Dream on Us Raffle

BPI is helping more Filipinos take the next step with MyFiesta 2025, whether that means obtaining a home, getting a car, or being more independent on two wheels. Supported by a strong history of retail lending and a customer-focused philosophy, BPI keeps improving the Philippines, one family and one community at a time.

Apply online at https://loansmarketplace.bpi.com.ph, at any BPI branch nationwide, at the BPI MyFiesta event, or through any of BPI’s authorized partners nationwide.

 

 

Food

Goodday Friz Introduces Paraprobiotics to the Carbonation Industry

Everyday moments are becoming extraordinary thanks to the nation’s first-ever paraprobiotic beverage.

There is a new zing in town that is already generating a lot of buzz. Goodday Friz is finally here after a successful debut that made people take notice and pop cans. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a completely new way to enjoy soda.

Goodday, a well-known brand in cultured milk drinks, is making waves with the country’s first paraprobiotic soda, the NEW Goodday Friz. This novel soda, which uses Japanese technology, is a strong, bubbly combination of soda and cultured milk that is enhanced with 2 billion Lac-ShieldTM paraprobiotics per can. It’s fun yet practical, creamy yet crisp, and designed for a generation that values both flavor and health.

It’s sodaβ€”but reimagined. Lighter. Smarter. Crazy good.

A Fresh Sip for a New Generation

Whether you’re tackling a long day, taking a break, or looking for something fun to pair with your favorite snack, Goodday Friz fits effortlessly into your daily vibe. It’s the feel-good fizz your fridge has been missing.

Every can of Goodday Friz, which comes in two intriguing varietiesβ€”Original and Orangeβ€”offers a new twist. This unique flavor combination, which is low in calories but high in enjoyment, combines the zesty pop of soda with the creamy tang of cultured milk.

Friz is currently available at grocery stores, convenience stores, and supermarkets all over the country. Its distinctive flavor and colorful packaging make it simple to recognizeβ€”and even simpler to fall in love with.

Now go ahead and open it. Let it cool down. To better days, frizz your way. Visit Goodday’s accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @gooddayfrizph.

To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

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Lifestyle, News

New Estudyantipid episodes are released by the BPI Foundation to equip Filipino youth with financial literacy

In photo (L-R): Marwin Galvez, BPI Central Metro Manila Division Head; Joy Ureta, BPI Ortigas Area Business Director; Richard Santos, Rizal High School Principal IV; Hon. Simon Romulo Tantoco, Pasig City 1st District Councilor; Carmina Marquez, BPI Foundation (BPIF) Executive Director; Rina Lopez, Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. (KCFI) President & Executive Director; Hon. Robert β€œDodot” Jaworski, Jr., Pasig City Vice Mayor; Asec. Jerome Buenviaje, Department of Education (DepEd) Assistant Secretary for Learning Systems Strand; Dir. Ebenezer Beloy, DepEd Director for Bureau of Curriculum Development Learning Systems Strand; Ma. Lotuslie Dimagiba, DOST-STII Supervising Science Research Specialist; Sheryll Gayola, Pasig City Schools Division Superintendent; Manolo Nava, BPIF Senior Program Manager; and Edric Calma, KCFI Vice President.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands’ (BPI) social development arm, the BPI Foundation, is promoting financial education by releasing two new episodes ofΒ Estudyantipid, an entertaining instructional series that aims to teach young Filipinos the fundamentals of money management.

At Pasig City’s Rizal High School, hundreds of junior and senior high school students attended an interactive financial literacy program for the on-ground debut. In addition to engaging in interactive exercises and lively conversations, attendees received an advance preview of the upcoming episodes, which address current issues including scam and fraud awareness and the distinction between gross and net profit in the corporate world.

Carmina Marquez, Executive Director of BPI Foundation, highlighted the organization’s ongoing mission to make financial education more accessible and relevant: β€œAt BPI Foundation, we believe that financial education is a cornerstone of empowerment. By equipping young people with practical money skills early on, we’re building a generation that is responsible, resilient, and ready to face the future.Β EstudyantipidΒ reflects our commitment to making learning both relevant and transformative for Filipino students.”

Educators also praised the initiative, recognizing the value of integrating financial literacy into the school curriculumβ€”a subject often overlooked in traditional education. Through the Knowledge Channel’s Portable Media Library, schools now have access not only to the newΒ EstudyantipidΒ episodes but also to a broad range of educational content designed to enrich student learning.

Hundreds of Rizal High School students in Pasig City took part in an interactive financial literacy session.

The latest episodes ofΒ EstudyantipidΒ address topics that resonate strongly with today’s youth. One episode demystifies the concepts of gross profit versus net profit, while the other provides practical tips to help students identify and avoid scams. Presented through relatable storytelling, the series bridges classroom concepts with real-life financial decision-making.

This launch is a component of the largerΒ FinEd UnboxedΒ program by the BPI Foundation, which intends to provide financial education to businesses, communities, and schools nationwide. EstudyantipidΒ airs on the Kapamilya Channel every Sunday at 8:15 AM, on Kapamilya Online Live every Saturday at 7:40 AM, and on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 1:40 PM during the Araling Panlipunan timeslot.

Visit www.bpifoundation.orgΒ to find out more about BPIF’s financial education initiatives, or follow the BPI Foundation on Instagram (@bpifoundationinc) and Facebook (@BPIFoundation).

 

 

Entertainment

The Revolution Starts at Godolkin: September 17 is the premiere date of Gen V Season 2

On September 17, 2025, Prime Video’s popular series Gen V, the explosive spin-off from The Boys, will return for its eagerly awaited second season. The first three episodes will be released weekly after that.

Season 2, which is set in the ethically complex world of Godolkin University, begins while the university is still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating conclusion of Season 1. As Homelander’s hold on America becomes stronger, the students must contend with fresh dangers, an enigmatic new Dean, and an undercover mission that has the potential to alter everything.

Returning to her role as Marie Moreau,Β Jaz SinclairΒ shares her excitement. β€œWe left off Season 1 having discovered a whole new level of Marie’s abilities, and I was thrilled to see where the writers were going to go from there with that. Everything felt a bit foreboding and grim, which gave me a lot to play with.”

Sinclair adds, β€œI like that Marie is just figuring it out as she goes, I definitely can relate to the moments of hers that are awkward and fumble-y. I like that she makes mistakes. But maybe, people also relate to feeling guilty or out of place and wanting to turn that into something good?”

Also returning isΒ Lizze BroadwayΒ as Emma Meyer, whose transformation in Season 2 is both emotional and empowering. β€œEmma’s deep into her post-shrink-show, post-apocalypse era and I am so here for it. She’s still got that awkward charm, but now there’s grit, bite, and a growing refusal to be the emotional dumping ground for everyone else.”

Broadway reflects on the season’s deeper themes, β€œGrief changes people, trust me, it changed Emma, and it changed me too. Through all of that, Emma finds this fierce, unapologetic strength. She finally starts speaking up for herself and owning her space.”

In Season 2, Hamish LinklaterΒ playsΒ Cipher, the mysterious new Dean of Godolkin University, who arrives and sets the stage for a more dangerous, darker semester.

Gen V Season 2 is expected to be even more insane, moving, and exciting than its debut thanks to its intense action, emotional depth, and sharp satire. Beginning on September 17, 2025, Gen V Season 2 will be available on Prime Video worldwide.

For more info visit https://www.primevideo.com/

 

SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES:

Instagram: @genv

X: @genv

TikTok: @genv

Threads: @genv

Hashtag: #GenV

Automotive

LYNK & CO. 08 EM-P GETS A 5-STAR EURO NCAP RATING, IMPROVED AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY LEADERSHIP

Lynk & Co proudly announces that the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P has received a 5-star rating in the 2025 Euro NCAP safety tests. The 08 EM-P received stellar results per safety category, namely 90% for Adult Occupant protection; 87% for Child Occupant protection; 78% for Vulnerable Road Users protection; and 81% for Safety Assist via its comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems. With this latest commendation, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P demonstrates the brand’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of automotive safety, innovation, and protection.

Safety Beyond Standards

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P is designed with protection that goes beyond premium car standards. At its front, it uses aerospace-grade aluminum and a reinforced collision beam to absorb impact. For side collisions, it features a boron steel car frame with honeycomb filling and steel door beams for extra strength. The structure is also built to manage crash energy effectively: in a frontal collision, special bolts allow the subframe, suspension, and powertrain to drop, helping absorb impact and prevent them from pushing into the passenger cabin.

Unparallaleled Cabin Protection

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P intelligently cares for every passenger. Its Door Opening Warning (DOW) system prevents doors from opening if another vehicle is approaching, while exterior lights alert both passengers and other drivers. An extended air curtain runs almost two meters along the side of the cabin, and side airbags can stay inflated for six seconds to provide extra protection in side impacts or rollovers. Furthermore, the passenger airbag, with a 120L capacity, uses a clean hydrogen-oxygen generator that is safe for the environment.Β 

Smart Safety Support for Drivers

The vehicle is equipped with advanced systems, steering wheel release detection, and driver status monitoringβ€”features which help detect risks early, keep the car under control, and remind the driver to stay alert.

Battery Safety You Can Trust

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P’s battery pack has passed over 100 rigorous safety tests, including crush, collision, fire, and puncture tests. Its reinforced frame with honeycomb filling disperses impact force, while submarine-grade beams and multiple mounting points integrate the battery securely with the body. In a crash, the car redirects impact away from the battery and automatically cuts off high-voltage power within 50 milliseconds to prevent fire. A high-strength steel guard plate underneath further protects the battery from scrapes or damage.

Cleaner Cabin Environment

The 08 EM-P also prioritizes a healthier interior. It uses eco-friendly materials that reduce harmful emissions during production, and features an active cabin cleaning system that ventilates the car automatically when parked. The result is a β€œthree-zero” environment: zero harmful solvents, zero waste cotton, and zero asphalt inside the cabin.

Power Without Range Anxiety

The Lynk & Co 08’s EM-P hybrid system provides performance and efficiency in addition to safety. With a range of up to 1,400 km (WLTP) and 205 km of pure electric driving, it combines long-distance driving with strong, smooth performance and a driving experience that is entirely electric.

Please visitΒ Euro NCAP Lynk & Co 08Β to view the complete report on the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P and to find out more about Euro NCAP.

Here’s the crash safety test video: https://www.euroncap.com/en/results/lynk+%26+co/08/56198

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Food, Lifestyle, News

The iSTAR Program of Coca-Cola Philippines Fuels the Growth of Family-Owned Carinderias in Cebu

Juniel and Salome Lucero of Nicolai’s Cuisine transformed their home-based food business into a thriving family enterprise with the help of Coca-Cola’s iSTAR Program.

Through its entrepreneurship training programs, Coca-Cola Philippines continues to assist Filipino micro-entrepreneurs, giving small firms the resources, know-how, and self-assurance they need to expand and maintain their operations.

One of the motivational tales is that of Juniel and Salome Lucero, a couple from Pinamungahan, Cebu, who transformed a little food business into a long-lasting family business. Their entrepreneurial journey was fueled by drive, perseverance, and the proper instruction from the iSTAR (Innovative Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resource) Program, a collaborative effort between TESDA and Coca-Cola Philippines, where they acquired critical competencies in inventory control, financial literacy, and fundamental operations.

From online orders to a growing enterprise

Juniel, a former overseas Filipino worker (OFW), made a bold leap into the food business in hopes of turning his vision for success and Salome’s love for cooking into a reliable source of income for their family. Together, the Luceros opened Nicolai’s Cuisine in 2018.

When the pandemic hit, Juniel returned to the Philippines, and the couple found themselves seeking new ways to support their family. They changed their business approach and started selling packed lunches online, where they built a network of loyal customers. Today, Nicolai’s Cuisine has expanded to three staff members, offers catering services, sells lechon belly packages, and even runs a small trading sideline for plastic and paper packaging. Their clients now come from different parts of Cebu, far beyond their barangay.

Training that turned challenges into opportunities

Their journey to success is not without its challenges. It was riddled with difficulties, especially during the first year of running Nicolai’s Cuisine. Sales were unpredictable, their location had little foot traffic, and they lacked a system for managing operations.

Mahina, matumal β€˜yong business, β€˜di mo masabi. Madaming losses. Hindi maganda β€˜yong pwesto. Sa sobrang daming problema, [kaunti] na lang β€˜yong dishes,” the couple said.

(Business was weak, slow, you just can’t tell. There were a lot of losses. The location wasn’t ideal. With so many problems, we could only offer a few dishes.)

Their turning point came in 2019 when Juniel completed the STAR Program (Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources). As the foundation of what would later become the digital iSTAR Program, STAR helped them gain essential skills in financial literacy, inventory management, and basic operations.

In July 2024, they took their learning further by joining the iSTAR Training Program via Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative. There, they learned product costing, digital payments, online marketing, and customer engagementβ€”skills they immediately applied by setting up online group chats with nearby schools and cooperatives for streamlined orders and mobile payments.

β€œNapakalakas ng benta ng online talaga. Nasa bukid kami, so ginamit β€˜yon (online channels) to reach more customers,” Juniel and Salome said. β€œNung nasimulan namin β€˜yong online, napaisip kami, β€˜Bakit ngayon lang?’ [Pero hindi] pa huli ang lahat.”

(Online sales are really strong. We live on a farm, so we used that (online channels) to reach more customers. When we started selling online, we thought β€˜Why just now?’ But it’s not too late.)

The Luceros introduced creative promotions such as raffles for lechon belly, free delivery services, and new menu items such as kakanin and merienda bilao orders to boost customer engagement and sales

With their improved business strategy, the Luceros grew their monthly income from β‚±30,000 to β‚±50,000, allowing them to provide better opportunities for their children. Their business is now registered with the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS), giving them access to orders from local government units.

Their efforts also earned them recognition, receiving the Top One Most Impactful and Inspiring Award under the iSTAR: HERStories programβ€”an iSTAR initiative that highlights inspiring entrepreneurs who applied their training to grow their businesses.

Empowering more entrepreneurs

The Luceros’ success story highlights how Coca-Cola Philippines’ entrepreneurship programs help small business owners build sustainable livelihoods. Their journey reflects the potential of countless Filipino micro-entrepreneurs when given the right tools, support systems, and mindset.

β€œ[Kapag] willing kang matuto, libre naman [at] worth it naman. Grab the opportunities na darating sa’yo,” the Luceros said, encouraging others to have confidence and pursue their dreams of building a business.

(If you’re willing to learn, it’s free and it’s worth it. Grab the opportunities that will come your way.)

Juniel added that completing the courses on iSTAR provided a major boost in growing their business, β€œAng kagandahan [dito ay] iSTAR na talaga ang lumapit sa pamamagitan ng LMPC. Kaya sobrang nagpapasalamat kami sa mga opportunity na ino-offer ng iSTAR dito sa amin.””

(The good thing here is that iSTAR approached us through LMPC. That’s why we are thankful for the opportunities that iSTAR continues to provide.)

iSTAR continues the legacy of the STAR Program, which was introduced in 2012 as part of Coca-Cola’s worldwide 5by20 program and provided business training and support to around 250,000 MSMEs. In order to continue giving entrepreneurs the knowledge and resources they need to launch and expand their companies in the current digital economy, the program changed its name to iSTAR in 2020. The establishment of Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven strategic regions in 2024 further reinforced it by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and training to boost the growth of small enterprises. More than 300,000 graduates have come from iSTAR to date.

Visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub at https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainabilityΒ for additional details about the iSTAR Program.

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

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe offers hassle-free yearly device upgrades with Flagship Forever

Globe launches Flagship Forever, a new initiative under its Platinum and Postpaid Plans that enables eligible customers to effortlessly and worry-free switch to the newest flagship smartphone annually.

Flagship Forever tackles typical issues with device ownership, like protracted contract lock-ups, high cashout rates, and protection uncertainty. Consumers are looking into other options for obtaining a gadget that offers flexibility, access to innovation, and a smooth upgrading process without the emotional and financial strain of traditional ownership.

It offers a simpler and more rewarding way for customers to stay updated with the latest technology through the following features:

  • Early Upgrade Eligibility– Upgrade to the latest flagship device as early as the 12th month of an existing plan, with no need to complete a 24-month contract.
  • Ease in Payment, Greater Value– Payment is limited to monthly installments and is charged to bill. No need to pay upfront.
  • Built-In Protection– Each plan includes Gadget Xchange or Device Protection, covering the device against loss, damage, or theft for added peace of mind.
  • Priority Access to New Devices– Receive early access to the latest flagship releases without the stress of trade-ins or long-term commitments.

β€œThis program is built for those who do not settle for less. Β It frees our customers from the worry of being tied down by contracts and timings, ensuring they enjoy continuous access to the latest devices,” said Mark Gil Pasaylo, Head of Globe Mobile Platinum.

Flagship Forever is available without charge under the All-New Platinum GPlan 4999 and 7999, along with premium features such as true unlimited data, unlimited all-network calls and texts, landline access, and a complimentary DragonPass voucher for international airport lounge access.

The subscription program may also be added to SIM-only Postpaid Plans 1299 to 3799 and Device Plans 1799 to 3799 for Php 999 per month.

Customers must be out of contract and due for recontracting in order to be eligible. When upgrading under a renewed plan, consumers can currently select between the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 and Fold7.

Please visit https://www.globe.com.ph/platinum/galaxy-forever-form#grefΒ to apply.

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Entertainment, Lifestyle, News

Jack Daniel’s On Stage promotes cooperation and community through Road to Indiefest

The second phase of the music program celebrates the strength of Filipino indie music with 20 standout acts and the partners who keep the scene alive.

The second part of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey’s multi-year music program, Jack Daniel’s On Stage, has officially begun, with the overarching theme being Road to Indiefest. This chapter continues to highlight Filipino independent musicians, bringing together fans, producers, and musicians to celebrate the local indie music scene’s collaboration and liveliness.

Me at the event

I love how Jack Daniel’s On Stage continues to uplift the Filipino indie scene. It’s more than just music β€” it’s about uniting artists, producers, and fans in celebrating creativity, passion, and collaboration. Excited to see the journey towards Indiefest 2026!

Through carefully selected Jack Daniel’s On StageΒ experiences, fans may interact with their favorite performers as they await the third Jack Daniel’s Indiefest in 2026. Jack Daniel’s continued support of the indie spirit is highlighted, and the local indie music scene is celebrated.

As Gabriel Fajardo, Brand Marketing Manager of Jack Daniel’s, Emerging Asia, puts it, β€œThis second chapter of Jack Daniel’s On Stage is about deepening the connection with the local indie music scene while opening its doors to the wider community of independent creatives. It celebrates collaboration between indie artists, indie production groups, and the broader indie creative community, bringing together diverse voices that embody the true spirit of independence and authenticity.”

For this chapter, the current lineup was handpicked from the 35 indie acts nominated by the program’s production group partners during last year’s Jack Daniel’s On Stage: Playlist Live. A distinguished panel of music industry experts and partners, previous β€œChosen One” artists, and the Jack Daniel’s team selected 20 acts to advance. This curated pool showcases the distinct voices, creativity, and diversityΒ of today’s Filipino indie music.

This year’s roster of 20 standout indie artists includes Alyson, Ang Bagong Luto Ni Enriquez, August Wahh, Cheeky Things, Dayaw, Fables, Halina, K+, Mi Mi, Minaw, NaΓ―v, Nanay Mo, Novocrane, Peej, Pinkmen, Spacedog Spacecat, The Revisors, Ultraviolet, Uncle Bob’s Funky Seven Club, and YsanygoΒ β€” each bringing a fresh perspective and energy that defines the indie music scene.

β€œWhat truly guided our choices was the quality and energy of the artists’ live performances. The passion and authenticity they bring on stage, as well as the originality of their music,” Fajardo shares. β€œEqually important was their willingness to move forward with the program, showing openness to growth and collaboration. It’s this raw connection and genuine spirit that sets them apart.”

Jack Daniel’s On StageΒ will unfold through quality pocket shows, offering artists and audiences opportunities to engage with grassroots communities and the broader indie music scene. Highlights include PROD NIGHTS, running from September 2025 to March 2026, featuring 23 sponsored shows from the program’s indie production partners, whose efforts are recognized and supported by Jack Daniel’s On StageΒ as essential to keeping the indie scene thriving.

Fans can also experience MIXTAPE, happening on November 15 and December 13, 2025, where the 20 championed indie artists are paired up to perform reimagined full-set collaborations of each other’s songs, highlighting the sense of community and creative versatility within the indie music scene.

Another key initiative, SOUNDCHECK, will feature three interactive voting events from January to March 2026, giving audiences a meaningful voice in shaping which artists advance. SESSIONS,Β also set for January to March 2026, allows the 20 acts to showcase their music live online via the official radio partner, Jam 88.3.

The Jack Daniel’s On Stage Media & Trade Mix event was hosted at Monarch Manila, the official venue partner, with Jam 88.3Β as the official radio partner and Billboard PhilippinesΒ as the official music media partner.

Doc Def Productions, Funky Beat Entertainment, GNN, Locked Down Entertainment, Otelik Presents, SYQL, The Flying Lugaw, and Red Ninja Productions are the proud indie production partnersΒ of Jack Daniel’s On Stage – Road to Indiefest.

Music is there wherever Jack is.

Visit Jack Daniel’sΒ Facebook pageΒ for additional details about On Stage: Road to Indiefest.Β And for more information visit www.jackdaniels.com.

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