Monthly Archives

January 2026

Lifestyle, News

Pru Life UK supports DOF reforms to increase life insurance availability

(From left to right) Princess Balingit, Pru Life UK Chief Investment Officer; Francis Ortega, Pru Life UK Financial Consultant; Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer; Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Frederick Go; Beth Villahermosa, Pru Life UK Chief Actuary; DOF Assistant Secretary Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston; and Atty. Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal and Government Relations Officer

Pru Life UK met with the Department of Finance (DOF) to help advance policy debates that enable a more robust, inclusive, and sustainable life insurance business as more Filipino families seek more financial security in the face of a rapidly changing economic scenario.

Pru Life UK executives, led by President and CEO Sanjay Chakrabarty, held a courtesy meeting with DOF Secretary Frederick Go and Assistant Secretary Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston to discuss specific regulatory reforms that can improve access and customer experience for Filipino consumers while strengthening the industry.

The dialogue reflects shared priorities around financial inclusion and economic resilience. It reinforces Pru Life UK’s role as a committed public-private partner in supporting national development goals and long-term household security.

During the meeting, key policy areas discussed included:

  • Making it easier for banks to offer life insurance and related products, improving customer experience and widening access
  • Reviewing life insurance tax rules to help keep protection affordable and support long-term financial security
  • Updating investment rules under the Insurance Code to strengthen industry stability and support sustainable long-term returns

These reforms can help broaden insurance reach, strengthen consumer protection, and enable the life insurance sector to contribute more meaningfully to inclusive economic growth, supporting families, communities, and national development.

“Our engagement with the Department of Finance reflects our shared goal of making long-term financial protection more accessible to more Filipinos, while ensuring the life insurance sector remains strong, stable, and sustainable,” said Chakrabarty. “We look forward to continued collaboration and policy dialogue that supports responsible growth, strengthens consumer outcomes, and advances a more resilient and inclusive insurance landscape for the Philippines.”

Pru Life UK is still dedicated to working with the government and regulators to advance reforms that Filipinos can rely on to enhance the experience, fortify the industry’s foundations, and assist larger initiatives to create a more resilient and financially secure Philippines.

Notes:

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year 

 

 

 

January 30, 2026 by
Entertainment

In Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album, SB19 transforms a historic event into an unforgettable memory

Recorded across the two-day concert in Philippine arena, the 19-track live album captures a defining moment in P-Pop history

Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album, a live recording of songs from SB19’s two-day performance at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan on May 31 and June 1, 2025, has been released. The group’s unquestionable world-class performance further elevates the record, which redefines a new age of boldness and ambition in SB19’s music.

The 19-track CD, which was mixed and mastered by Radkidz with live arrangements by Jem Florendo, includes live performances of songs from Simula At Wakas (2025), Pagtatag! (2023), and Pagsibol (2021), accompanying the concert version of the fan-favorite track “Moonlight.”

Originally featuring US-based producer/DJ Ian Asher and Chinese electronic producer Terry Zhong, “Moonlight” takes a more restrained, but more soulful direction in its live iteration. For this version, the subdued arrangement places SB19’s vocals front and center, offering a more intimate take on the track.

“The live version of Moonlight is absolutely one of our favorites from the new record,” SB19 shares. “By keeping the production minimal and letting our voices lead, we found something more honest and human. Sometimes, less is more.”

Recorded during the opening stops of their Simula At Wakas world tour, the concert album reflects the Filipino group’s evolution on an artistic and emotional level. The two-night spectacle set the tone for a 21-show tour spanning cities and territories across the United States, Canada, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Australia, and more.

“These versions reveal who we are now,” the P-Pop powerhouse adds. “Everything was done with intention, but also with openness, allowing the moment to shape the performance. This album represents years of hard work, discipline, and belief, and we wanted it to feel alive and heartfelt.

Check out the track list:

  1. WHAT? (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  2. MANA (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  3. GENTO (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  4. MOONLIGHT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  5. I WANT YOU (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  6. WYAT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  7. DUNGKA! (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  8. BAZINGA (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  9. 8TONBALL (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  10. CRIMZONE (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  11. NYEBE (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  12. TIME (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  13. ILAW (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  14. QUIT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  15. MAPA (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  16. SHOOTING FOR THE STARS (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  17. FREEDOM (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  18. SLMT (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)
  19. DAM (Simula At Wakas Tour Kickoff)

Along with the record release, SB19 announced that their historic global tour would officially end on April 18 at the SMDC Festival Grounds with “Wakas At Simula: The Trilogy Concert Finale.” In February 2026, tickets are expected to go on sale.

The Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album by SB19 is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow SB19 on their socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SB19Official/

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

 

January 30, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

Manila Water maintains the growth of its water delivery network and strengthens the consistency of its supply around-the-clock

Manila Water sustains massive expansion of water service connections. From January to November 2025, the company installed 19,421 new water service connections, bringing the total to 1,213,213 across the East Zone concession area since 1997. Supporting this growth is a water supply network that extended by 92.59 kilometers from January to November 2025.

Manila Water maintains a significant increase in the number of water service connections. The company’s dedication to satisfying the rising demand for dependable and clean water is demonstrated by the 19,421 new water service connections it established between January and November 2025, bringing the total to 1,213,213 throughout the East Zone concession area since 1997.

A strong water supply network, which expanded by 92.59 kilometers between January and November 2025 to reach a total length of 5,656.23 kilometers, supports this expansion.

This substantial infrastructure, combined with a non-revenue water level averaging below 15%, comparable to benchmarks in developed nations, enables Manila Water to continuously supply round-the-clock water service to its customers.

Non-revenue water refers to water lost through system leaks and illegal connections. Keeping this figure low is critical to sustaining reliable supply and operational efficiency.

“Our sustained expansion and operational efficiency reflect Manila Water’s commitment to delivering safe, reliable water service to every customer. Maintaining low non-revenue water levels and investing in a strong pipeline network allow us to ensure 24/7 water availability while supporting the growing needs of our communities,” said Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director.

Looking ahead, Manila Water remains dedicated to significantly expanding its water delivery network and boosting operational efficiency through continued investments in infrastructure and new technology. The corporation, which serves over 7.8 million consumers in the East Zone and is still expanding, wants to guarantee a sustainable water supply and meet the growing demands of the communities in its concession area in Metro Manila and Rizal.

 

 

January 30, 2026 by
Entertainment

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta closes whimsical folk era with self-produced anti-Valentine’s show

Apart from her upcoming music gig, dwta also recently dropped a cover of “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito,” her first official release of 2026

Filipino singer-songwriter dwta will be headlining her self-produced music gig, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta, on February 13, 2026, at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City.

Billed as an anti-Valentine’s show, Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta will feature a special extended set from the Bicol-born artist, whose body of work has redefined romantic and anti-romantic storytelling with sharp wit, offbeat visuals, and emotional sincerity. The evening will also bring together a stellar lineup of guest performers, including shirebound, Janine Teñoso, Jan Roberts, Kenaniah, and LEYO.

Beyond the live music component, the event will put a spotlight on local merchants and creatives such as Hunghang Flashbacks, Amoy Scents and Candles, and Tattoo Studio PH. Hosting duties will be handled by Conyo Bicolano.

The show, according to dwta, is dedicated to ‘single’ listeners seeking meaningful, organic encounters. “This show is perfect for them. Since I’ve written more broken songs than love songs, this felt like the right chance to highlight them, especially with my new single. I’ll be playing a long set featuring my original songs, both old and new, along with the cover I recently released. I’ll also be teasing a song we’ve been working on that reflects this new dwta sound.”

The acclaimed songstress reveals that this gig will mark a pivotal moment in her journey as an artist, as it provides a fitting closure to the whimsical folk leanings of her previous era.

“After this, I’ll be stepping into a new era with a more mature sound and writing,” dwta adds. “It’s not just the music that’s changing, but also my appearance and overall vibe. I really hope people get to experience this show and see how I started back when I was just Jhasmine Villanueva. This isn’t just an ordinary gig; it’s a moment to show how my music has really evolved.”

Earlier this year, dwta released a cover of “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito,” originally performed by Lea Navarro and written by Carlos Agawa and Ernie Dela Pena. The track, which serves as her first official release in 2026, conveys enduring love and devotion despite odd circumstances in life.

“For my version, I wanted to focus more on the feeling,” dwta reflects. “I wanted the listener to imagine being inside the song. Like it’s late at night, you’re alone in your room, lying in bed, hearing the sound of crickets outside, crying quietly, and hoping that tomorrow will be better. That soft moment of vulnerability and hope is what I really wanted to convey in this song.”

Produced by Brian Lotho, dwta’s version underwent several iterations but eventually settled into a quieter, more somber arrangement that aligns with song’s emotional weight. The “Padaba Taka” songstress explains, “After talking it through with my team, we decided to follow what feels true to dwta. We ended up going for a more raw and intimate arrangement with acoustic guitar, slower pacing, and more strings.”

Dwta’s “Ang Pag-ibig Kong Ito” is available now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Tickets to Where Do Broken Hearts Go? Sa Gig ni dwta are now available here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 29, 2026 by
Automotive

Discover SUV Pride with the ADV160

Smarter features, improved design, and high-performance technology for confident riding

In life, the trip is often just as important as the destination. Life’s many pleasures and lessons come from how you get there. The top motorbike manufacturer in the nation, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), genuinely gets this. Because of this, the ADV160 is a vehicle that emphasizes the journey.

The ADV160 has upgraded technology, more sophisticated functions, and a distinctive appearance. This improved iteration, which carries the lifestyle-driven concept “The SUV Pride,” is designed for riders who fluidly transition between daily commuting and recreation, offering confidence, control, and distinction on every trip.

To mark its grand arrival, HPI hosted a dynamic launch event on January 19, attended by the media and content creators. The event kicked off with the unveiling of the model’s latest performance capabilities, signaling a new era for the unique automatic category in the Philippines.

Unmatched control and confidence on any road

As an adventure-style automatic scooter, The ADV160 is meticulously designed for those who seek excitement and a unique new colors. This model makes riding effortless with its Automatic transmission, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the ride without manual shifting or clutch operation.

Confidence is reinforced through advanced safety technologies. The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with wavy disc brakes helps maintain stability during sudden braking, while Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) supports traction on varying road conditions. Visibility and rider awareness are further enhanced by the All LED Lighting System, Emergency Stop Signal, and Hazard Lamp, helping ensure you are clearly seen and prepared for unexpected situations on the road. These features ensures safety whether navigating busy city streets or exploring new paths during weekend escapes.

A bold fusion of rugged design and high-performance power

The latest design styling captures the spirit of an explorer, featuring a rugged yet premium aesthetic. With a 780 mm seat height and 165 mm ground clearance, it provides a commanding view of the road and the ability to clear obstacles with ease.

Beneath its premium exterior lies a high-performance 157cc, 4-valve, liquid-cooled, eSP+ engine. This powerhouse delivers a maximum power of 11.8 kW @ 8,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 14.7 Nm @ 6,500 rpm, providing the punchy acceleration needed to stay ahead of traffic. Despite its robust output, it remains remarkably efficient with a fuel consumption of 45.0 km/L (WMTC). Combined with an 8.1 L fuel tank, this efficiency allows riders to explore more, making it a reliable partner for long-distance touring and daily use alike. Ride comfort is also elevated through the

Adjustable Windscreen, which helps reduce wind fatigue, and the Subtank Rear Suspension, designed to absorb road imperfections and provide a smoother ride across longer journeys.

Redefining convenience with smart technology and the smart top box

Everyday riding becomes more intuitive with the ADV160’s new 5-inch TFT meter panel, offering clear and modern visual access to essential riding information. Exclusive to the RoadSync type, Honda RoadSync brings smartphone connectivity to the ride—allowing access to navigation, calls, and notifications—while the new multi-function switch and passing light switch keep controls easily within reach.

Daily convenience is further supported by thoughtful features such as the New USB Type-C Charger for on-the-go device charging, the Idling Stop System for improved efficiency during traffic stops, and the Honda Smart Key System for keyless operation. Storage needs are well covered with a spacious 30L luggage box, ideal for daily essentials and leisure gear, while compatibility with a Smart Top Box, which can be operated by the Smart Key System, adds secure, weather-protected storage for longer rides and adventures.

Today, we mark another important event, as we officially launch the latest version of ADV160, a model that has become a symbol of strength, confidence, and adventure on the road. Known for its bold design and commanding presence, the ADV160 embodies what we proudly call “The SUV Pride.” Says Mr. Takeshi Kobayashi, President of Honda Philippines, Inc.

Express your identity through premium style and color

Carry your ride with pride as The ADV160 is available in variants designed to suit your personal style. The ABS Type comes in three sophisticated shades: Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, Pearl Fadeless White, and Matte Sabre Green Metallic

For those prioritizing advanced connectivity, the RoadSync Type is offered in more premium colors: Matte Pearl Crater White and Quartz Brown Metallic. Every detail is crafted to ensure you stand out with a modern appearance and maximum visibility.

Your new and improved adventure awaits

Starting February 2, 2026, The ADV160 will be available at all Honda 3S Shops and authorized dealers nationwide. The ABS Type is offered at a suggested retail price of Php 167,400, while the RoadSync Type is available for Php 174,900. Meanwhile, the Smart Top Box will be available beginning May 2026.

Honda encourages you to embrace riding’s future and feel the unmatched pride of possessing a vehicle designed for the city and the road ahead. Choosing The New ADV160 gives you the freedom, high-performance technology, and ability to take control of your life with “The SUV Pride.”

Go to www.hondaph.com for additional details. Follow Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook at facebook.com/hondaph, Instagram at @hondaph_mc, YouTube at Honda Philippines_Motorcycle, and TikTok at @hondaphilippines to stay up to speed on Honda’s latest offerings. For questions, call 0917-884-6632 or (02)-8581-6700 to 6799.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 26, 2026 by
Lifestyle, Travel

Sulit Vietnam Getaway: Vietjet offers 30% off Deluxe tickets for Vietnam trip in 2026

Hopon hopoff bus in HCMC

Your calendars need to be synchronized! Vietjet is assisting Filipinos in making their travel plans a reality as a new round of holidays approaches. From January 27 to 29, 2026, Vietjet is giving up to 30% off Deluxe tickets, enticing tourists to begin making holiday plans for Vietnam in 2026.

Travelers purchasing Deluxe tickets and using the special code DLXVJ through www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile application will receive a 30% discount on base rates (excluding taxes and fees) from 00:00 on January 27 to the end of January 29, 2026 (GMT+8). All Vietjet domestic and international routes, including the Manila-Ho Chi Minh City route with travel dates from February 1 to December 31, 2026 (*), are eligible for the deal.

Whether you’re eyeing a quick three-day food crawl in Ho Chi Minh City or a grand family vacation across Hanoi and Da Nang, this 71-hour flash sale is the sign you’ve been waiting for to book that 2026 escape. The airline operates daily direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City from Manila, offering extensive connections across Vietnam and the wider Asia-Pacific region through its broad flight network.

Vietjet understands Filipinos don’t travel light, especially when there’s world-class coffee and affordable shopping involved. Vietjet’s Deluxe fare is designed for a stress-free barkada or family trip.

Vietjet_cabin crew

Vietjet’s Deluxe fare is designed to provide passengers with a comfortable and flexible travel experience, including 20kg of baggage allowance, complimentary seat selection, free flight schedule changes, and additional included benefits (**).

Spring is one of the most appealing times to visit Vietnam with pleasant weather and a festive atmosphere across the country. From cultural celebrations during the Lunar New Year month to exploring Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, rich heritage, and renowned cuisine, the season provides an ideal setting for memorable travel experiences.

Vietjet provides simple flight alternatives to help tourists make the most of every trip to Vietnam, from extended holidays to cultural excursions and spring escapes.

Vietjet aircraft

On Vietjet’s contemporary, fuel-efficient aircraft, travelers may savor a variety of hot meals, including Vietnamese specialties and international cuisine, provided by skilled staff. Additionally, over 250 partner brands in travel, dining, shopping, and lifestyle services allow members of the SkyJoy loyalty program to accrue and redeem points.

(*) Travel periods may vary by route, blackout dates apply, and public holidays are excluded

(**) Terms and conditions apply

Further information at www.vietjetair.com

 

 

January 26, 2026 by
Automotive

New Toyota Dealership in Antipolo, Rizal Coming Soon!

The new facility offers added convenience and support for Toyota customers in Rizal, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to accessible mobility nationwide

Photo shows from left: TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Ryo Yokoyama, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Sherwin Chua-Lim, TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Division Jose Maria Atienza, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, Antipolo City Mayor Hon. Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III, Toyota Antipolo, Rizal President Zellyn Lim Diaz, Toyota Antipolo, Rizal Vice Chairman Liberty Manuel, and Toyota Antipolo, Rizal Director Lesley Lim

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), in cooperation with Toyota Taytay, Rizal Inc., has recently commenced the development of a new dealership, marking a significant milestone in Toyota’s expansion to continue providing convenience and excellent quality service to its growing customers.

The soon-to-be built facility, located along L. Sumulong Memorial Circle in Barangay San Jose, is built to offer reliable, high-quality automotive services, supporting Toyota’s commitment of worry-free ownership and an enhanced guest experience.

Once completed, the Toyota Antipolo, Rizal Dealership will span a total floor area of 12,160 square meters across three floors and a mezzanine, with a complete range of services including Express Maintenance, Periodic Maintenance, Body & Paint Services, and General Repairs. Additionally, a modern showroom with space for 7 car displays and 37 well-equipped service bays is allocated to better serve customers in the province.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto

Expanding Access to Mobility

“I have always hoped that a Toyota dealership will be part of Antipolo,” shared TMP President Masando Hashimoto. “I can’t wait for the grand opening at the earliest possible timing, not just because Toyota Antipolo is set to strengthen our network, but because it helps us serve customers with greater convenience,” he expressed.

Toyota Antipolo, Rizal President Zellyn Lim Diaz

Looking forward to the future

“As we establish Toyota Antipolo, we are proud to contribute to the local economy,” shared Toyota Antipolo President Zellyn Lim Diaz. “This project will generate employment — from jobs during construction to long-term careers once operations begin. More importantly, it will provide opportunities for learning, development, and stability for many families. Because progress is most meaningful when it uplifts others,” she added.

Antipolo is a rapidly growing city whose economy is driven by retail, real estate development, tourism, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), supported by its role as the capital of Rizal province and its proximity to Metro Manila. Commercial centers, housing projects, and tourism generate employment and steady local revenue. Its transportation sector is closely tied to Metro Manila, relying mainly on road networks such as Marcos Highway and Ortigas Avenue Extension, that carries commuters to and from the city daily.

Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos. 

 

January 26, 2026 by
Automotive

Pit Señor! Coco Martin and Toyota Motor Philippines Celebrate Sinulog

Toyota Tamaraw Ambassador pays homage to Sinulog

Coco Martin brings the vibrant Sinulog spirit to life at his mall show in SM City Cebu

Coco Martin shines during his Sinulog Grand Parade appearance

By inviting Coco Martin to Cebu City for the festival weekend, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) added even more excitement to this year’s Sinulog celebration. By doing this, TMP demonstrated its dedication to interacting with communities throughout the Philippines and its support for regional customs.

Seeing Coco Martin up close as he joined the celebrations and added energy and star power to the lively celebration gave festival attendees an unforgettable experience.

In addition to being a fiesta, Coco Martin sees the Sinulog as a chance for people to put aside their differences and come together in prayer.

“Ramdam mo dito yung tibay ng loob at pananampalataya ng mga Cebuano,” he said during his visit to Cebu City on Sinulog weekend. (You feel the Cebuanos’ inner strength and faith.)

TMP’s initiative not only amplified the spirit of Sinulog but also created meaningful connections with the people of Cebu.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) and Coco Martin timed his Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw Roadshow with the Sinulog celebration, held every third weekend of January in Cebu, to be one with the Cebuano devotees. He proudly carries his badge as the Tamaraw Next Generation ambassador, enthusiastically going from one city to another to engage with the Tamaraw customers and his fans.

Cebu City was his fourth stop after Cagayan de Oro City, Tacloban City, and Marilao, Batangas. He has more cities to visit in the months ahead.

He likens the strong and persevering faith of the people of Cebu to the durability and reliability of the Tamaraw Next Generation. A devout Catholic, the actor/filmmaker who is behind the TV hit series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” and “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo”, has a strong devotion to the Black Nazarene.

 

Coco Martin meets with the customers of Toyota Mabolo and fields questions about the Tamaraw from the Cebu media.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) brought Coco Martin closer to Cebuano fans during the Sinulog weekend, starting with a meet-and-greet at the Toyota Mabolo showroom with Toyota Tamaraw customers. He then entertained mallgoers with lively performances, trivia games, and photo opportunities, even trying the steps of the traditional Sinulog dance. The weekend culminated with Coco joining the Grand Parade aboard a “Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw” float organized by Toyota Team Cebu, braving intermittent weather to experience the Sinulog beat and delight the street crowd.

Coco Martin aboard the float of Toyota Team Cebu joins the Grand Parade, to the delight of the street crowd.

The Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw utility van, launched in 2024, has quickly become a popular choice among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), start-ups, and those familiar with the early Tamaraw FX. With its design customizability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Tamaraw is now increasingly seen on roads nationwide, supporting nation-building by enabling better mobility and empowering MSMEs to grow their businesses.

Eric Ong (leftmost) and his family receive the ceremonial key to their Tamaraw FX from Tamaraw Ambassador Coco Martin (in brown jacket) at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on Sinulog weekend.

Cebu businessman Eric Ong has just bought his second Tamaraw, the 2.4 GL Utility Van DSL AT. He already has the Dropside DSL A/T variant that he uses for his construction business, Worldwide Builders.

He said he had waited for the 2.4 GL Utility Van DSL AT automatic transmission because it is more efficient to drive than a vehicle with manual transmission. Also, when he needs to load purchases of auto parts needed for his EGO Taxi fleet, the FX provides security for his cargo. And, he added, human passengers can safely ride in the Tamaraw FX.

Christine and Marc Lin (first and second from left) and their son (fourth from left) receive the ceremonial key to their Tamaraw FX from Tamaraw Ambassador Coco Martin (center) at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on Sinulog weekend. With them is their agent Jinggoy Olvido.

Marc and Christine Lin just bought a Tamaraw FX DSL A/T, intending it for their restaurant business especially for delivery. They said they find the Tamaraw “sturdy and reliable.”

The Ongs and the Lins received the ceremonial keys to their Tamaraw FX from Coco Martin at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on January 17.

The FX is the first and only utility van with automatic transmission across all brands in the Philippine market today, according to Toyota Mabolo.

Lester Alferez (left) bought a Tamaraw because he wanted a more efficient delivery of his coffee beans and other supplies for his business. With him is his agent Jay Naparate.

Lester Alferez, who is in the coffee industry, found the Tamaraw “a reliable vehicle that can handle daily work in the shop.”

“It’s strong, practical, and perfect for our coffee business needs,” he said.

Toyota has introduced two new colors for the Tamaraw utility van: super red for the Tamaraw Dropside DSL AT and greyish blue metallic for the Tamaraw FX DSL MT.

Visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/tamaraw or ask at your local Toyota dealership for additional information about the Next Generation Tamaraw.

To receive the most recent information on goods, services, and promotions, join the ToyotaPH community on Viber and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 23, 2026 by
Entertainment

Ben&Ben releases the music video for “Duyan,” which features Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos

The song completes the ‘Mahiwaga trilogy,’ which includes hit songs “Pagtingin” and “Araw-Araw”

In 2025, Ben&Ben maintained their position as one of OPM’s most significant voices. As the year came to an end, Ben&Ben’s music became entwined with national consciousness when “Kapangyarihan,” their collaboration with SB19, emerged as a modern anthem in protest spaces, echoing public anger amid allegations of corruption surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects. The band also won major awards at the 28th Awit Awards, including Album of the Year for their third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, and Best Performance by a Group Recording Artist for “Triumph”.

With the release of their new single “Duyan”  which is currently available on all digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment, the multi-awarded nine-piece collective urges listeners to begin the year on a more personal yet hopeful note.

Written and composed by frontman Miguel Benjamin and produced by longtime collaborator Ziv alongside Ben&Ben, “Duyan” represents a profound, romantic bond that defies distance, time, and obstacles. The rousing pop-rock ballad encapsulates what true love really means: deep affection, unwavering loyalty, and the choice to remain committed even when faced with challenges and adversities.

According to Miguel, he wrote the song three days before his wedding, while sitting alone in his car. The song contains everything he wanted to tell his then-future wife.

“There are songs where artists write themselves in the music, and this is one of them,” Miguel explains. “That day, the idea of fully offering oneself to another person stayed with me. It’s a love inspired by lifelong commitment, shared journeys, and selflessness. More than anything, I realized that I was ready to make the promise before God. I felt it in the deepest part of my heart.”

Musically, the band worked closely with their good friend and constant collaborator Ziv to honor the song’s emotional core, while “maximizing the soul and expanse of the band’s instruments to take it to the fullest version it was meant to become.”

The song is part of the Mahiwaga Trilogy, Ben&Ben’s thematic arc on romantic relationships. The series began with “Pagtingin,” a groovy meditation on love at first spark and infatuation, and continued with “Araw-Araw,” a folk-pop ode to choosing your partner every single day. “Duyan” closes the chapter with finality, speaking of lifelong commitment and assurance.

“Two years after I wrote the song Duyan and kept it as a very personal part of my life, it made sense for it to be put out there,” shares Miguel. “It also made sense for it to be the conclusion of the trilogy of songs/videos Pagtingin and Araw-Araw.”

Music Video

The song will be accompanied by the release of a music video starring real-life couple and actors Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos, who also appeared in the previous installments of the Mahiwaga Trilogy. For Khalil, returning to the project was a full-circle moment for both Gabbi and him.

“Thematically, it’s beautiful to see how the story progressed since Pagtingin,” shares the Filipino actor, singer, and filmmaker. “I vividly remember how we shot those two videos, and the film LSS. Gab and I grew alongside these songs. At every stage of the trilogy, we could deeply relate to it, because it reflected the different phases of our own relationships through the years.”

Miguel praised both actors in the music video for their enduring role in the band’s visual storytelling. “It was so good to be able to work with our longtime friends Gabbi and Khalil once more in this music video. You could say we’ve both grown so much in life and in our careers ever since the last project we did together. It was great catching up and telling stories of the past and making new memories.”

Directed by Lunchbox Studios under the helm of Daniel Aguilar, the wedding-themed music video brings the trilogy to a close through rosy, introspective visuals.

“We’ve been working with (Lunchbox Studios) for a while now, and for this video, we wanted to do a very intimate but expansive conclusion to the videos we’ve done before,” Ben&Ben stated, adding that fans can anticipate a fantastic fusion of magic and ordinary life in the music video. We worked together to develop an idea for a magical realism depiction of the stages of commitment.

Sony Music Entertainment has released Ben&Ben’s “Duyan” on all digital music platforms globally. Keep an eye out for the “Duyan” music video on Ben&Ben’s official official YouTube channel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 22, 2026 by
Automotive

The Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P sets two Guinness World Records: 293 kilometers for pure electric range and 1,813 kilometers for hybrid range

Lynk & Co. has achieved a major worldwide milestone with the Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P, earning two Guinness World Records. The Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P is now the world’s first high-end plug-in hybrid car to hold Guinness World Records for both the longest pure electric driving range and the longest hybrid driving range, both of which were attained without the need for refueling or recharging.

The first record, officially named “Longest Journey Attempted by a Plug-in Hybrid Powered Production SUV Without Refueling or Recharging,” was set in Hami, China on April 18–20, 2024, over challenging road conditions and harsh environmental conditions. In hybrid mode, the Lynk & Co EM-P achieved a total driving range of 1,813 kilometers, greatly surpassing its official maximum CLTC total range of 1,400 kilometers.

The second record, “Longest Journey Attempted by a Plug-in Hybrid Powered Production SUV on Electric Mode,” was achieved in Toluca, Mexico on December 22, 2025, demonstrating the vehicle’s ability to function as a true electric daily driver. In pure electric mode, it achieved a total driving range of 293 kilometers, surpassing its official maximum CLTC pure electric range of 245 kilometers, and covering far more than what most users need for everyday commutes and short trips.

These achievements are made possible by Lynk & Co EM-P’s “Super Hybrid” System, which is designed around intelligent energy use rather than simply relying on larger batteries or fuel tanks. The vehicle is also designed with CMO Evo architecture which adopts a seven-layer design, delivering a longer wheelbase, improved pure-electric performance, a stronger chassis, and smarter systems that enhance driving, safety, and connectivity.

While the records themselves are global milestones, their real significance lies in what they mean for everyday driving. These achievements show that long range is no longer reserved for test tracks or ideal conditions, but something drivers can rely on in real life, allowing them to depend more on electric driving during the week, while still having the flexibility to take longer trips when needed.

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P makes energy replenishment voluntary rather than required, saving drivers from having to continuously schedule charging or refueling stops. This results in more freedom and fewer disruptions for longer drives. For everyday use, it means being able to drive without worrying about range all the time.

The Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P, which has two Guinness World Records in both hybrid and pure electric range, shows how smart hybrid technology can provide useful, real-world advantages by fusing performance, efficiency, and convenience in one car.

 

 

 

January 22, 2026 by