Lifestyle, Tech

DITO’s exceptional network performance makes Filipinos’ digital dreams a reality

From left to right: Atty. Adel Tamano, Chief Revenue Officer; Miriam Choa, Head of Mobile Business; and Jasper Evangelista, Director of Brand Marketing

The telco’s most recent campaign, Kaya DITO, had a successful media debut at Manila House in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, where DITO Telecommunity demonstrated how better connectivity turns Filipino digital dreams into attainable reality. DITO’s ecosystem, which is based on True 5G standalone technology and has been verified by Opensignal, a global leader in mobile analytics and insights, as the Philippines’ Fastest Mobile Network, demonstrates that the Filipino telecommunity’s demands for seamless network connectivity, value-driven services, and a unified digital experience are not just hypothetical but rather fundamental expectations that challenge the long-standing norms of the telco industry.

“For too long, outages, dropped calls, and overpriced data have been treated as normal. Let us say it bluntly: It is not normal. Every Filipino has limitless potential when equipped with the right tools, and the game is now changing since DITO has joined the fray and taken up the cause to disrupt the status quo—to deliver inclusive, next-gen technology to the  Filipino people. “Kaya DITO!” is our battle cry to symbolically break that cycle, because we truly believe that Filipinos deserve better,” shared by DITO Telecommunity President Eric Alberto in the event.

The DITO Telecommunity’s Kaya DITO campaign launch is that it truly highlights how fast and reliable connectivity can empower Filipinos to turn their digital goals into reality. With the recognition as the Philippines’ Fastest Mobile Network and its strong 5G technology, DITO sets a new standard that goes beyond just providing service—it reshapes what we should expect from a telco. For me, it’s inspiring to see how innovation and commitment to better connectivity can create opportunities and make our digital experiences smoother, more accessible, and more meaningful.

The Telco that Truly Takes Care of its Users

DITO’s prepaid solutions eliminate the frustration of wasted data through Level-Up Packs with ViLTE technology, making DITO the primary telco offering unlimited DITO-to-DITO HD video calls and unli mobile calls. Combined with Viber and Prime Video inclusions and flexible data packages with longer validity periods, users can now maximize their every peso without worrying about abruptly expiring data allocations.

The Telco that Offers Value-Packed Postpaid Plans

DITOFlexPlan 888 redefines what postpaid should offer—comprehensive inclusions and generous data at prices that make sense for Filipino budgets. Whether you choose SIM-only or device bundles, these plans prove that premium network performance doesn’t have to break the bank, empowering users to pursue their goals without connectivity compromises.

The Telco that Brings True 5G Home Internet Convenience

DITO WoWFi Pro 365 makes home connectivity effortless with a year-long unlimited connection that works when you need it. Families enjoy the convenience of reliable internet for work, study, and entertainment without the inconvenience of data top-ups and complicated installations; just network performance that simplifies your digital life at home.  Just ask any of your relatives and friends who have already ditched ordinary WiFi and jumped onto WoWFi— they will tell you what you’ve been missing out on.

The Telco that Built Everything You Need in One App

The DITO App represents one of the industry’s most comprehensive digital platforms, built from the ground up to handle the entire customer journey. From SIM and load purchase to account management and a wide range of OTT apps, users enjoy complete digital control with custom special offers, DITO Rewards points, and 24/7 customer support—managing everything while earning exclusive benefits.

This comprehensive approach to next-gen technology reflects DITO’s overall commitment to delivering on its promises across all digital touch points. The fastest-growing telco in the country is serious about maintaining its digital advantage and continues to drive digital innovation in the Philippines.

Chief Revenue Officer Atty. Adel Tamano emphasized DITO’s track record: “Kinaya Namin. We delivered—and in some areas, exceeded our promises. Every milestone we achieve represents a digital aspiration realized for the ordinary Filipino. DITO has built leadership not through claims, but through comprehensive digital solutions built on proven network performance.” He also shared that instead of asking Filipinos to settle for what’s just available, “We’ve listened to the market and have taken on the challenge of delivering on their digital aspirations. Kaya Mo – we believe every Filipino has the potential to achieve more when equipped with the right tools and services that get them. Kaya Namin– because we have the capabilities, technology, and service excellence to make it happen. And ultimately, we want every Filipino to recognize that they have a superior choice to be part of our growing telecommunity, Kaya, DITO na tayo!”

Built Different from Day One

Capping off the program, Rodolfo “GenBoy” Santiago, DITO Telecommunity Officer, highlighted how the company’s future-ready infrastructure sets DITO apart in delivering on the promise of Kaya DITO.

“From day one, we made the deliberate choice to build a true 5G Standalone network, not just marginal upgrades to legacy systems,” Santiago said. “This decision is what allows us to provide Filipinos with the real 5G experience — faster speeds, lower latency, higher capacity, and maximum reliability.”

Superior service across all services is made possible by DITO’s TRUE 5G Standalone infrastructure, which is built without legacy constraints. DITO’s dedication to closing the digital divide is evident in its technological advantage, which is confirmed by OpenSignal’s ranking as the fastest network in the Philippines.

According to DITO’s Brand & Marketing Director, Jasper Evangelista, “This deeper purpose of inspiring ordinary Filipinos to reach out for more and effecting real change—this is what continues to motivate all of us DITO employees.” He said this was the key to building brand love in a tribe of over 15 million DITOZEN subscribers in such a short time frame. In other words, this all-encompassing and empowering DITO ecosystem has essentially opened the door for Filipinos, regardless of their status or situation in life, to boldly exclaim, “Kaya ko nga dito!” And one empowered subscriber at a time, DITO is demonstrating that amazing things happen when performance is driven by purpose as they continue to connect more Filipinos.

DITO Telecommunity Links:

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

Instagram: @ditophofficial 

X: @DITOphofficial 

TikTok: @ditophofficial 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Top Honors at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2025 Go to Alsons Dev

2nd from L-R: Asst. Gen. Manager for Sales & Marketing Jessa Mae Sisi and Asst. Vice President Jolla Soriaga, and Asst. Gen. Manager for Technical Operations Paul Francisco, receiving Narra Park Residences Avia’s second consecutive win for Best Housing Development (Mindanao)

At the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) was once again honored as a developer. The company’s numerous accolades highlight its proven track record of producing high-quality properties in Mindanao. The award ceremony, which was presented in collaboration with the international brand Kohler, took place at Shangri-La The Fort in Manila on August 15, 2025.

The PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, the nation’s premier real estate awards program, was founded in 2011 and honors the best developers and projects around the country. Alsons Dev won several awards in several important categories in this year’s festival, including Best Mixed Use Development for Avia Estate, Best Housing Development (Mindanao) for Narra Park Residences Avia, and a Highly Commended citation for Best Housing Development (Metro Davao) for Mahogany South.

These recognitions build on Alsons Dev’s award-winning streak that began in 2023, underscoring the company’s reputation as a decorated developer in Mindanao and solidifying its multi-year legacy of excellence.

This year’s honors also highlight the strength of Alsons Dev’s portfolio. The recognition of Narra Park Residences Avia, which secured its second consecutive win as Best Housing Development (Mindanao), demonstrates the company’s leadership in delivering high-quality, thoughtfully designed housing developments. Avia Estate’s win as Best Mixed Use Development underscores Alsons Dev’s capability to create integrated, purposeful developments that combine residential, commercial, and leisure spaces in one masterplanned environment. Additionally, Mahogany South made a strong debut at the awards, earning a commendation that affirms its potential as a promising new residential community in Metro Davao.

“We are grateful to PropertyGuru Philippines for recognizing our work in Mindanao. These awards affirm our ongoing efforts to create well-planned communities that not only meet the needs of families today but also add long-term value to the region. It is especially meaningful to see Mindanao developments highlighted on a national stage, and we remain committed to building places that drive growth and opportunity for generations to come,” said Ms. Jolla Soriaga, Vice President for Business Development and Management of Alsons Dev.

Alsons Dev representatives pose for a photo after accepting three prestigious awards at the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, including Best Mixed-Use Development and Highly Commended for Best Housing Development (Metro Davao).

These accolades reinforce the company’s long-term commitment to building people-first communities in Mindanao. Alsons Dev’s approach centers on creating developments that are both accessible and aspirational, blending affordability with elevated living experiences. This strategy ensures that the developer’s projects meet the needs of the market and contribute to the long-term progress of the communities they serve.

With a reputation for creating developments that are useful, affordable, and long-lasting, Alsons Dev is still a well-known brand in Mindanao real estate and will continue to be a partner in community development for many years to come.

Visit https://alsonsdev.com/ to find out more about Alsons Dev’s active projects and award-winning developments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

MedGrocer and Novo Nordisk collaborate to improve obesity treatment in the Philippines

Together, Novo Nordisk and MedGrocer have launched ForwardMG by MedGrocer, the first cardiometabolic-focused ePharmacy in the Philippines that supports individuals with obesity and other chronic illnesses. With MedGrocer’s experience in digital healthcare and Novo Nordisk’s scientific leadership, the partnership seeks to make high-quality care more patient-centered, approachable, and less frightening. Through a single, integrated platform, ForwardMG offers a comprehensive care ecosystem, including access to physicians, medications, dietitians, and mental health assistance. Over a million Filipinos are already served annually by MedGrocer’s digitally connected healthcare solutions, and this collaboration furthers the company’s goal of revolutionizing chronic illness treatment in the nation. This program is also a component of Novo Nordisk’s Truth About Weight (TAW) campaign, which aims to increase knowledge, fight stigma, and support evidence-based, well-informed ways to treating obesity. (L-R) Geraldine Perez, Novo Nordisk Philippines’ director of market access and business development; Wei Sun, Novo Nordisk Philippines’ general manager; Germaine Kaw, co-founder and co-CEO of MedGrocer; and Raphael Santos, MedGrocer’s wellness lead.

 

Lifestyle, Sports

Pickleball and Proud Alliances

PPF Successfully Hosts the First-Ever Philippine Pickleball National Championship 2025 with Skechers Philippines

Hero Image

In the Philippines, pickleball is more than simply a game. It is a celebration of community, movement, and strategy. The Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) and its partner Skechers Philippines, a world leader in comfort and performance footwear, are at the center of the action as the sport continues to attract players of all ages and skill levels, fostering the nation’s growing pickleball fervor.

At the historic, first-ever Philippine Pickleball National Championship 2025, which took place at Dink and Shot in Marikina from May 30 to June 1, the excitement reached new heights. Skechers gladly supported its athletes, such as SJ Lim and Leander Lazaro, who competed while wearing their high-performance, agility-, stability-, and unbelievably comfortable Skechers Pickleball shoes.

Leander Lazaro and SJ Lim

The championship featured Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles divisions, spanning age groups from 19 to 55 and above, bringing in a mix of seasoned athletes and up-and-coming talents from across the country, all playing with passion, grit, and true sportsmanship.

Adding to the celebration, the tournament’s gold medalists from each division took home their well-deserved prizes, a pair of Skechers Pickleball shoes. Additionally, it is from the elite group of gold medalists where the Philippine Pickleball Federation will select the official athletes for inclusion in the national pool of pickleball athletes. The winners received their Skechers pairs in a special ceremony, marking another milestone in our partnership’s unwavering commitment to the sport.

Awarding

“Here in the Philippines, Skechers is beyond excited and optimistic about how the Pickleball community will grow. After being part of a monumental first for the Pickleball community with the recently concluded National Championship, we’re ready to support athletes and individuals who aspire to join the Pickleball community,” shares Suzette Pasustento, Country Manager of Skechers Philippines.

Suzette Pasustento

As pickleball gains even more momentum in the Philippines, PPF and Skechers stand ready to support every serve, volley, and victory. With footwear built for performance and comfort, Skechers ensures players at every level can step onto the court with confidence.

Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0

The game is expanding. The neighborhood is flourishing. Additionally, PPF and Skechers will be there at all times.

By following Skechers Philippines on Instagram and Facebook, pickleball players and fans may receive the most recent information about Skechers Pickleball product launches and more.

Uncategorized

The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines eSports GT Championship qualifiers are scheduled through September 14

Toyota invites aspiring racers to take first step toward their motorsports dreams

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has announced the opening of their updated sim racing competition, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines eSports GT Championship 2025 (TGR PH eSports GT Championship), marking the beginning of its e-motorsports season.

TMP’s goal of holding the nation’s top virtual racing competition is being carried out via the TGR PH eSports GT Championship 2025. In sprint races, competitors compete against one another using the Gran Turismo 7 video game on the PlayStation.

Winners bring home cash prizes, original GR merchandise, and an invitation to the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy. The Top 3 also get the honor of representing the country at the Asia Finals in Thailand later in the year, where they will be up against some of the best sim racers in the region.

To be eligible for the competition, players must be a permanent resident or citizen of the Philippines and reside in the Philippines during the tournament schedule. Minors (17 years old and below) must secure the permission of their guardian before participating.

Participants may do their qualifiers online or offline at select Toyota GR Performance dealerships. Those who opt to do their qualifiers online must have a PlayStation 4 or 5 with active PSN account and PS PLUS subscription, and a copy of Gran Turismo 7.

For the offline qualifiers, participants may check the list of participating Toyota GR Performance dealerships on the official TGR PH eSports GT Championship Facebook Group. Offline participants only need to bring a valid government-issued ID for verification at the dealership.

Interested participants may register through https://forms.office.com/r/rqhiXM2Bef to schedule their qualifiers. The qualifiers will determine the Top 40 players who will advance to the quarterfinals.

The quarterfinals, which will narrow down the pool to the Top 20, will be held on-site at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Pasay City on October 11. This will be followed by the semifinals and national finals on October 12.

Since its launch in 2020, TGR Philippines’ e-motorsports program has been providing an avenue for aspiring racers to kick start their motorsport dreams. Winners are promoted to real-life racing through TMP’s premier racing series, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup, where they are given the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the Vios one-make-race (OMR) car. Previous e-motorsports champions Russel Reyes and Luis Moreno have even gone on to claim the championship in the TGR Philippine Cup Novice Class in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

“As we conclude one racing series this year, we are thrilled to begin another one – now for sim racers! Although the racing will be virtual, the action will surely be felt, especially at the finals at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay this October. We invite everyone to participate in this very exciting opportunity to live out their racing dreams,” shared Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services Andy Ty.

The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines eSports GT Championship 2025 is sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines and is brought to you by Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner Petron and Official Tire Partner GT Radial.

This event is also supported by Official Timekeeper Seiko, Toyota Financial Services Philippines, Tuason Racing, AVT, 3M, Denso, OMP, ROTA, Autoplus, PIAA, Vinyl Frog Premier Vehicle Wraps, AutoQuix, Sparco, myTOYOTA Wallet and Kinto One.

Follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and TikTok for additional details about the TGR PH eSports GT Championship and other TGR events. For competition updates, participants are also urged to join the official TGR PH eSports GT Championship Facebook Group.

For updates, follow ToyotaMotorPH’s official pages in Facebook, Instagram, and X. You can also join the Toyota PH Viber community.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Big Flavors, UNSTPPBL Energy: GOMO customers experience the First Scratch Session

GOMO is turning up the flavor in its mission to inspire subscribers to live an UNSTPPBL life by breaking limits, defying norms, and making every moment count. More than just connectivity, GOMO is about bringing fresh, bold experiences that fuel culture and creativity. That’s why the digital telco has partnered with Scratch Smashburgers as the Official Co-Presenter of the first-ever Scratch Session, a dining experience that fuses food, culture, and creativity.

On August 20, the debut Scratch Session will dish out a mash-up of flavors as Manila culinary heavyweights Stephen Duhesem (Automat, Metiz) and Mikko Reyes, Executive Chef of Scratch Smashburgers, join forces for an exclusive collab. Putting a fearless Filipino spin on the burger-and-fries classic, the duo brings to life GOMO’s vibe of breaking limits and turning the everyday into the extraordinary.

Headlining the menu is The Double MetCheeze, a double smash burger with mostaza, bagoong chili mayo, and fermented pineapple glaze. Also on offer is Twirly Spaghetti Fries, a playful spin on banana ketchup spaghetti served over fries with Malabon longganisa, samjang mayo, fermented red onions, and Gouda cheese.

GOMO subscribers can redeem these exclusives through the GOMO app using ‘Mo Creds. Get the Double MetCheeze for 15GB, Twirly Spaghetti Fries for 15GB, or both for 25GB.

“GOMO has always been about pushing boundaries and redefining what your telco can do for you.” said Dom Brucal, Head of GOMO PH. “Scratch Sessions is proof that our No Expiry Data doesn’t just connect people – it creates culture. With GOMO, you can turn your data into something tangible, memorable, and unique.

Scratch Sessions will continue as a series bringing together chefs, artists, and fashion creatives for fresh, surprising concepts.

“This menu was our playground for local ingredients and daring combinations,” added Chef Stephen Duhesem. “It’s a celebration of Filipino flavors in a way you’ve never experienced before.”“At Scratch Smashburgers, we thrive on pushing flavor boundaries, and this partnership with GOMO lets us take that creative freedom even further,” said Chef Mikko Reyes. “We wanted to create something fun, bold, and totally unexpected.”

GOMO is fueling the excitement for adventurous foodies and digital thrill-seekers, inviting everyone to share their bites with #ScratchSessions and #WeDontStop #WeGOMO.

Follow the action on GOMO’s Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for an all-access pass to behind-the-scenes moments and an up-close, mouth-watering look at dishes that make this food journey anything but ordinary.

Switch to GOMO by ordering a SIM at gomo.ph and unlock exclusive perks like Scratch Sessions and turn GBs into experiences with ‘Mo Creds.

 

Food, Lifestyle

Partnership between PCPPI and Plastic Bank creates shared value from plastic waste

13,000 metric tons of plastic recovered in 2024 alone

PCPPI Plant

In 2024, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) recovered 13,000 metric tons of plastic waste through its ongoing partnership with Plastic Bank, an international social fintech with a global bottle deposit program, setting a new standard for sustainability in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.

In addition to guaranteeing adherence to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, which mandates that businesses recover a portion of the amount of plastic they produce, the program educated local communities, empowered waste collectors, and established PCPPI as one of the nation’s most progressive businesses in terms of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) leadership practices.

“Plastic Bank partnered with us into thinking beyond compliance. We transformed sustainability into a company-wide mindset that involves every employee, partner, and community we touch,” said Atty. Carina Bayon, Chief ESG Officer of PCPPI. “This has created real, measurable value across our business and the communities we serve.”

Since launching the partnership in 2022, PCPPI has been funding the recovery of plastic equivalent to its entire annual footprint in the Philippines, covering key areas like Cebu, Pampanga, Davao, and Muntinlupa. This is after Plastic Bank gave PCPPI access to a scalable plastic recovery infrastructure aligned with the country’s evolving environmental policies.

But the effort goes beyond waste collection. It supports local recycling ecosystems, improves livelihoods of waste collectors, and strengthens grassroots partnerships with local government units (LGUs) through projects like Adopt-a-River and community-based material recovery initiatives.

“PCPPI’s corporate responsibility goes beyond compliance and leads by example in uplifting communities across the Philippines while preventing plastic from polluting the environment,” said David Katz, Founder and CEO of Plastic Bank. “Together, we’re proving that solving the plastic crisis is possible when companies lead with purpose and create prosperity for the people and the planet.”

From Bottling Beverages to Bottling Change

PCPPI’s sustainability model doesn’t end at recovery. “It aims to empower,” Atty. Carina Bayon added.

The company’s workforce has been mobilized as ESG champions through internal campaigns, bottle collection drives, and learning sessions with Plastic Bank.

With the appointment of its first Chief ESG Officer in 2023, PCPPI unified its sustainability, compliance, legal, and people strategies into one forward-thinking framework. This alignment has led to faster, more impactful decisions and solidified the company’s leadership in the ESG space.

Additionally, PCPPI’s dedication to sustainability is improving its reputation. The business gained recognition at international ESG events in Singapore and Jakarta, which increased it’s appeal to partners and investors who prioritize sustainability.

“The company’s transparency and consistency in passing EPR audits are also building consumer trust in a landscape where environmental credibility is increasingly non-negotiable,” said Atty. Carina Bayon. “By embedding ESG into our core strategy, PCPPI has proven that environmental responsibility is not just good business, it is good citizenship, for the common good.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Delaware Philippines and NutriAsia Collaborate on a Revolutionary SAP Migration Project

The manufacturer of the Philippines’ best condiments and sauces successfully achieved a high-impact digital transformation with delaware Philippines.

The leading producer of sauces and condiments in the Philippines, NutriAsia, has effectively moved its primary SAP system to the cloud using RISE with SAP, a thorough transformation process designed to assist businesses in moving to cloud ERP and using the capabilities of SAP Business Suite. This is a significant initiative in NutriAsia’s history, working with Delaware Philippines, an official SAP Partner in the Philippines and a worldwide supplier of cutting-edge ICT solutions.

NutriAsia, one of the fastest-growing FMCG companies in the Philippines, needed to upgrade its enterprise system to support its current and future growth, particularly as it adjusts to changing customer and consumer trends and expectations. The company has a complex sales and distribution operation across over 100 markets through a combination of direct operations and distributor partnerships. NutriAsia was able to modernize enterprise systems, improve its current infrastructure, and guarantee not only sustainability but also enterprise analytic scalability to meet future demands by moving its SAP ERP Central Component (SAP ECC) system to the cloud with RISE with SAP, as well as moving SAP Business Warehouse, SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence suite, and SAP Data Services to Microsoft Azure.

Providing leadership and critical support throughout the project, delaware Philippines served as system integration partner, ensuring minimal disruption and smooth transition through strategic planning, system architecture design, and seamless execution.

According to NutriAsia President and Chief Operating Officer, Angie Flaminiano, the migration project marked a significant step in the company’s digital transformation efforts.

“This project was a key step in our ongoing journey towards digital transformation and sustainable growth. By migrating our SAP ECC system to the cloud through RISE with SAP and leveraging Azure, we’ve established a more scalable and resilient infrastructure for NutriAsia’s operations. This investment positions us to improve operational reliability and better support our evolving business needs,” she said.

Meanwhile, NutrAsia Information Technology and Digital Transformation Group Head Vergel Villacorta shared how the project’s technical aspects have enabled the company to maintain its competitive edge.

“This migration was a cornerstone of our digital transformation, enhancing NutriAsia’s infrastructure with cloud capabilities. Through this transition, we improved system accessibility, maintained seamless reporting capabilities, and laid the foundation for scalability of our enterprise analytics to meet future business needs and support our digital roadmap. The solutions deployed in this project provide a flexible and reliable platform for continued growth and innovation,” he added.

To ensure the seamless integration of critical systems during the migration, delaware Philippines needed to safeguard the company’s existing processes and reporting functionalities, while implementing rigorous validation procedures to ensure system integrity. It also provided comprehensive training for the NutriAsia teams which facilitated the smooth transition to the upgraded platforms.

“This project is a showcase of the strength of our collaboration with NutriAsia. Our combined efforts have enabled a successful migration to a cloud-based infrastructure, laying the foundation for operational excellence and paving the way for future innovation. While underscoring NutriAsia’s commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology to drive operational efficiency and business agility, our partnership also sets a benchmark for transformative IT solutions in the FMCG industry,” said Rosette Carrao, Partner and Managing Director of delaware Philippines.

Senior Vice President for Customer Success of delaware Philippines Simone Pigason expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This partnership marked a significant milestone in NutriAsia’s digital transformation journey, and we are proud to have been chosen as their system integrator for this cloud migration. It reinforces our commitment to the Food and Beverage industry.”

Delaware Philippines, a reputable SAP partner with a particular emphasis on the food and beverage industry, is committed to providing solutions that tackle sector-specific issues and promote ongoing innovation and expansion. This partnership demonstrates the company’s dedication to providing companies like NutriAsia with the resources and know-how needed to prosper in a changing marketplace.

Visit Delaware Philippines’ website at https://www.delaware.pro/en-ph to find out more about their offerings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle

By 2026, Manila Water’s seismically resilient San Juan Reservoir will improve water security for expanding communities

Aerial view of the ongoing demolition of the old San Juan Reservoir and the construction of the new 56ML earthquake-resilient facility along N. Domingo Street in Quezon City. Scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2026, the reservoir will help secure reliable water supply for the growing populations of Quezon City, Mandaluyong, and San Juan in the years ahead.

Manila Water is developing an earthquake-resilient reservoir to strengthen water supply reliability for the fast increasing cities of Quezon City, San Juan, and Mandaluyong. The ₱932-million San Juan Reservoir project, located along N. Domingo Street in Quezon City is built to resist earthquakes up to magnitude 7.2 and hold up to 56 million liters (ML) of water, guaranteeing uninterrupted operation even during significant seismic activity.

Modern technical standards, including improved electrical, instrumentation, mechanical, and site development systems, are incorporated into the new facility, which replaces the original reservoir constructed in 1968. Its sturdy design shows Manila Water’s commitment to creating resilient infrastructure that can meet the region’s expanding demand for clean and reliable water.

“The San Juan Reservoir is more than just a new facility. It’s a forward-looking investment in resilience and reliability. As our cities continue to grow, we must ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace. This project reflects Manila Water’s commitment to safeguarding water supply for our communities, even in the face of natural disasters like major earthquakes,” Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla.

As of July 2025, the project has reached 26.90% completion and is on track for full completion by the third quarter of 2026. Upcoming construction milestones include continuous excavation and lean concreting, rebar fabrication for Phase 1 Mat Foundation, and installation of Mat Foundation Rebar. To minimize disruption to nearby communities, acoustic barriers have been installed to reduce noise and other construction-related disturbances.

This reservoir is a calculated investment in long-term preparedness for emergencies and water security. The San Juan Reservoir will be essential to Manila Water’s larger initiatives to develop and protect water delivery infrastructure throughout the East Zone as Metro Manila’s population grows.

 

 

 

Entertainment

The AXEAN Festival’s 2025 lineup is revealed

Featuring 45 acts across three stages, this year’s festival highlights collaboration with TuneCore and The Orchard in supporting Asian indie talents

The full roster for this year’s AXEAN Festival 2025 has been formally revealed.

On September 13 and 14, 2025, 43 musical acts will perform on three stages at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, marking the first intra-regional showcase festival in Asia.

Metal/hardcore quintet AVHATH, popular folk duo Banda Neira, rising indie act Gozal, alternative rock group Grizzly Cluive, genre-bending band Morbid Monke, indie rock powerhouse Sandstorm of Youth, melancholic indie group Sourmilk, multi-talented musician Xandega, and a special collaboration set between Bandung-based punk rock band Dongker and renowned singer-songwriter Jason Ranti round out the final round of performers.

The announcement also brings an exciting mix of Asian talents, such as trailblazing Malaysian R&B artist Alextbh, Laotian musician BIGPOM, Thai indie rock act LEMONY, Thai rock band Cvptain Morgans, Japanese singer-songwriter Kiwako Ashimine, J-indie artist Mettya Bizin (めっちゃ美人), Vietnamese indie/dream pop project Milkiwav, Vietnamese indie act Nghịch, and Filipino genre-fluid band Weejah.

These artists join an already diverse roster that includes Billyrrom., Blindfold, Capt’n Trips and the Kid, Confined White, DJ Love, DOOR PLANT, Fauxe, Feel Koplo x Toxicdev!, Jangar, Johnny Mafia, Kelompok Penerbang Roket, La Cima Cartel, L’Alphalpha, Lustbass, MANJA, Ministry Of, One Click Straight, Shanghai Quitian, Shye, SIMILE LAND, S.O.L.E., Su San, Terrer, Valentina Ploy, and XANDEGA.

TuneCore’s key role in curating the final batch of lineup

This year, TuneCore plays a pivotal role in shaping the final lineup, expanding its position as one of AXEAN Festival’s most important partners. Through a four-month, multi-stage submission and rigid selection process spanning five countries in Southeast Asia, TuneCore helped discover and elevate standout independent voices that have made a mark in their niche markets.

Cyrus Chen, Head of TuneCore Southeast Asia, recalls the selection process that they went through before picking the finest acts that show global potential. “It began with open biweekly submissions, attracting over 600 entries,” Cyrus explains. “Selected artists progressed to monthly live showcases at local venues, with each monthly winner advancing to country finals. Out of the 27 finalists, our local panels chose the six artists performing at AXEAN. The biggest surprise was probably the incredible depth of undiscovered talent. We found remarkable hidden gems across diverse and often genre-blending styles. What was particularly striking was how many of these artists hadn’t formally released music yet.”

When asked about the criteria in picking the artists who made it to TuneCore’s AXEAN stage, Cyrus emphasized the importance of authenticity and range, and how beyond raw talent, there’s a need to prioritize artists whose music authentically integrates local flair and cultural influences. “Showcasing a diverse spectrum of genres was also essential,” he adds.

For their part, the top global distribution and label services company, along with AXEAN Festival, promises to use their platform to foster real-world opportunities, apart from empowering artists digitally. “We actively nurture talent by providing platforms for exposure, facilitating live performance experience at scale (from local venues to major festivals), educational opportunities (workshops and masterclasses to upskill artists), and connecting artists directly with new audiences and industry stakeholders across borders. We go beyond distribution to open doors for market access and career growth that are often out of reach for independent artists.”

The Orchard-AXEAN Festival partnership

The Orchard, a prominent music distribution company operating in over 49 cities worldwide, has expressed its support for AXEAN Festival through a strategic partnership. Both music entities share a vision of empowering artists to broaden their horizons and access new music markets beyond their turfs. Together, both AXEAN and The Orchard are keen on dismantling barriers and enabling Southeast Asian creative communities to showcase their music on a global stage.

As Prahlad Prabhas, The Orchard’s Senior Director, Southeast Asia, explains it, “This [collaboration] aligns perfectly with The Orchard’s philosophy of helping artists grow outside their home markets. We’re thrilled to be part of that journey this year by sponsoring a stage. For us, it’s more than just about the music—it’s about celebrating the creativity and energy of this region and sharing it with the world.”

Tickets are now available via:

Indonesia: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025Indo

International: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025Inter

China: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025China

About AXEAN Festival

The AXEAN Festival is a prominent Southeast Asian music export platform, combining a music conference and showcase festival.

Launched in 2020 during the pandemic by music professionals across Southeast Asia, AXEAN Festival has successfully hosted both virtual (2020-2021) and in-person (2022-2024) events. Over five editions, it has featured 200 artists from 20 countries, attracted 240 delegates from 32 countries, and reached over 46,000 virtual viewers, along with close to 15,000 live attendees.

With its growing international reputation, AXEAN has firmly established itself as Southeast Asia’s leading music export platform. Its first venture into a new market beyond its original home base in Singapore and Bali garnered widespread acclaim among attendees, music industry professionals, and participating artists.

About TuneCore

TuneCore is the leading independent development partner for self-releasing artists to build audiences and careers – with technology and services across distribution, publishing administration, and a range of promotional services. TuneCore Music Distribution services help artists, labels, and managers get their music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, TikTok, YouTube Music, and more than 150 download and streaming stores and platforms worldwide, while retaining 100% of their sales revenue and rights for a low annual flat fee. TuneCore Music Publishing Administration assists songwriters by collecting royalties stemming from the use of their compositions – including mechanical royalties from download and streaming services, performance royalties from radio, TV and live performances, and synchronization royalties from film, TV and advertising – in over 200 countries globally. TuneCore is based in Brooklyn, NY, and is owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies.

About The Orchard

THE ORCHARD: DELIVERING INDEPENDENT MUSIC SINCE 1997

Through a strategic relationship, The Orchard, a well-known music distribution firm with operations in more than 49 cities globally, has shown its support for the AXEAN Festival. The goal of both music organizations is to enable musicians to expand their horizons and reach new music markets outside of their home regions. AXEAN and The Orchard have a common goal of breaking down boundaries and giving Southeast Asian creative groups the opportunity to perform their music internationally.