TECNO Partners Exclusively with Laptop Factory to Launch MEGABOOK K Series Dual Models in the Philippines

Manila, February 7, 2026 —TECNO Philippines officially announced on Feb 07 the establishment of an exclusive channel partnership with Laptop Factory, a fast-growing local laptop distributor in the Philippines. On the same day, TECNO launched two key laptop models of its MEGABOOK K Series — MEGABOOK K16s 13th and MEGABOOK K15s — which will be exclusively available at all offline stores of Laptop Factory starting from February 7, bringing new productivity solutions to Filipino professionals, students and digital consumers.

Dual Model Highlights: Balancing Professional Needs and Daily Use

As an upgraded benchmark in TECNO’s laptop lineup, the MEGABOOK K16s 13th focuses on "MEGA SPEED, MEGA POWER", equipped with the 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i9-13420H processor, paired with up to 32GB DDR4 memory and 1TB SSD, which can easily handle high-intensity scenarios such as multitasking office work, graphic design and data analysis. Its 16-inch 16:10 Full HD display covers 100% sRGB color gamut, combined with 2.5W four speakers, creating an immersive audio-visual experience. Weighing only 1.5kg, it has a built-in 70Wh large battery with a battery life of up to 12 hours, and also supports TECNO PC Manager cross-device collaboration and Microsoft Copilot AI key to further improve work efficiency.

Focusing on daily office and study needs, the MEGABOOK K15s takes cost-effectiveness as its core advantage: its slim and light body is easy to carry for commuting, and its stable basic configuration (suitable for daily software operation) and long battery life accurately match the usage scenarios of student groups and new professionals, making it the preferred choice for "entry-level high-performance" laptops.

Exclusive Sales Policy: Buy a TECNO Laptop, Get a Free Phone in Laptop Factory

To celebrate the launch of the partnership, TECNO and Laptop Factory have launched a limited-time heavyweight benefit, with the activity period from February 7 to February 15:

Purchase the MEGABOOK K15s (official price: ₱44,999) and enjoy the "buy one get one free" offer to receive a TECNO POVA 7 8GB RAM+256GB ROM;

Purchase the MEGABOOK K16s 13th (official price: ₱46,999) and also enjoy the "buy one get one free" offer, with the gift upgraded to a TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G 8GB RAM+256GB ROM.

It should be noted that on 

• February 7 & 8: The Buy One Get One Free promo will be effective only at Laptop Factory QC Main Branch

• Starting February 9 onwards: The promo will apply to all offline Laptop Factory stores nationwide

The number of free gifts is limited, available on a first-come, first-served basis until February 15.

Cooperation Significance: Complementary Resources to Jointly Expand the Philippine Laptop Market

Laptop Factory, the core partner of this cooperation, is a "growth benchmark" in the Philippine laptop retail industry — with a rich product line of global brands, stable inventory supply capacity, and a deep understanding of local user needs. It is recognized by leading global laptop brands as one of the fastest-growing distributors in the Philippines, and is well-known for providing highly competitive pricing and value-driven deals to customers across the country. 

Through this exclusive partnership, TECNO will rely on Laptop Factory’s mature local offline channel network and user resources to quickly penetrate the Philippine laptop market and enhance the brand’s market influence; while Laptop Factory will enrich its product matrix with TECNO’s high-quality laptop products, further strengthening its competitive advantage in the local retail market. The two parties will leverage their respective strengths to complement each other’s resources, jointly meet the diverse productivity needs of Filipino consumers, and achieve win-win development in the booming Philippine digital product market.

Experience Taiwan at the Pavilion – Now at SMX Convention Center

Taiwan Tourism brings culture, creativity, and interactive travel experiences closer to Filipino travelers at the Taiwan Pavilion during the PTAA Travel Expo at SMX Convention Center.

Beyond destination displays, the Taiwan Pavilion is designed as an experiential zone where visitors can actively engage with Taiwan’s vibrant culture and tourism offerings. Guests can enjoy interactive games, hands-on DIY activities, and cultural showcases that reflect Taiwan’s unique blend of tradition and modern creativity. These activities highlight how Taiwan transforms travel into meaningful, memorable experiences—perfect for today’s experience-driven travelers.

Visitors can explore travel planning zones, connect directly with airline and travel partners, and discover curated travel packages tailored for Filipino travelers—from city lifestyle escapes and food adventures to nature, wellness, and multi-city Taiwan itineraries.

The pavilion also showcases Taiwan’s evolving tourism storytelling—where culture, creativity, and participation are central to how travelers discover destinations today. Whether you’re planning your next vacation, looking for new travel inspiration, or simply exploring new cultures, the Taiwan Pavilion offers something engaging for every visitor.

Visit the Taiwan Pavilion at the PTAA Travel Expo, SMX Convention Center.

Booth no 499 - 508, 521-530

✨ Join fun cultural games and activities

✨ Experience hands-on Taiwan DIY workshops

✨ Discover exclusive travel deals and packages

✨ Connect with trusted travel partners

Step in, explore, and start planning your next Taiwan journey today.

Sun Life Philippines Incoming CEO Meets with Insurance Commissioner to Advance Financial Literacy, Market Expansion, and Regulatory Modernization

MANILA, PH – February 2026 – JJ Moreno, President of Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and incoming CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, met with Insurance Commissioner Atty. Reynaldo Regalado to discuss their shared priorities aimed at strengthening the country’s insurance landscape. 

 

The discussion highlighted the critical need to elevate financial literacy across all sectors of the Philippine society, and recognized education as a key driver of long-term financial resilience. Both leaders emphasized the role of digital platforms in delivering relevant, accessible, and scalable financial education to Filipinos nationwide. 

 

A key part of the conversation centered on broadening the reach of life insurance, particularly for Overseas Filipino Workers and underserved communities through affordable insurance options. By expanding coverage and awareness, both sides underscored the opportunity to bring essential financial protection products to more households. 

 

Moreno and Commissioner Regalado also exchanged insights on the ongoing industry transition to International Financial Reporting Standard 17 (IFRS 17). They noted the standard’s role in ensuring greater transparency, consistency, and Client trust in the insurance industry. 

 

The meeting additionally tackled the importance of updating the Insurance Code of the Philippines to ensure that regulatory frameworks keep pace with emerging risks and digital innovation. 

 

“We share a firm belief that strengthening the insurance sector begins with empowering Filipinos through accessible financial education, relevant products, and a regulatory environment that supports innovation,” said Moreno. “We look forward to deeper collaboration with Commissioner Regalado and the Insurance Commission as we work towards a more resilient insurance ecosystem in the Philippines.” 

 

The dialogue between Moreno and Commissioner Regalado reflects a unified vision for a more inclusive and modernized insurance industry that equips Filipinos with the tools and knowledge to secure their financial future. 

 

To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

HOPE Builds 25 Classrooms in 2025

Since its founding in 2012, HOPE has built a total of 167 classrooms, providing safe and conducive learning environments for over 53,000 Filipino children nationwide, and will continue to benefit future generations of students. This underscores HOPE’s long-term commitment to improving access to quality education for Filipino youth. 

As a way to help the future of our country, HOPE recognizes the need for investments in the Philippine education sector, specifically public school classrooms, and giving attention to the “last mile schools” or those located in the remote areas in the country. 

“I am deeply grateful to be rooted in the work of HOPE at a time when the world continues to ask so much of the human spirit. The past year was shaped by people who chose HOPE and translated that choice into action through partnerships, communities, and everyday decisions that moved our work forward,” said Nanette Medved-Po, HOPE Chairperson and Founder. 

One of HOPE’s highlights of 2025 is the launch of Generation HOPE, a partnership with the country’s most beloved brands to help address the urgent need of building more public-school classrooms nationwide. Together with BDO, Carmen’s Best, Sunnies, Grab, SM Supermalls, The Aivee Clinic, and Penshoppe, different initiatives were kick-started to invite every Filipino to join the wave of building public-school classrooms. 

“To every individual who chooses to support, share, and participate, this is your impact. Your belief fuels this work and allows hope to reach more communities, classrooms, and futures across the Philippines,” she added. 

To know more about HOPE’s 2025 Impact Report, please visit https://generationhope.ph/hope-impact. Please follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or @generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates.

A New Reno Rises: OPPO Reno15 Series 5G Is Set to Redefine Travel Storytelling in the Philippines

Travel today isn’t about rushing from one destination to the next. It’s about lingering a little longer, noticing more, and letting moments unfold. As Filipinos embrace slower, more intentional ways of exploring, the way we capture travel has evolved too straight from the palm of our hands.

Designed for this new rhythm, the OPPO Reno Series invites travelers to truly Make Your Moment with the introduction of the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G. Built to move with you, it helps transform everyday experiences into beautifully told stories, capturing emotion, atmosphere, and connection as they naturally unfold.

The OPPO Reno15 Series 5G travels the country, to capture more reasons why people should #LoveThePhilippines, through the lens of its 4K HDR Ultra-Steady Video, 50MP Ultra Wide Selfie Camera, AI Motion Photo Popout, and 3.5x Telephoto Vibe portrait. The first leg of this journey begins in Bukidnon’s misty highlands to the country’s crystal-clear seas—helping travelers stay present and turn fleeting moments into lasting memories.

Steady Scenes, Even on the Move

Travel rarely happens standing still. It unfolds while walking through unfamiliar streets, riding along winding roads, or moving with the rhythm of a place. With 4K Ultra-Steady Video, the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G is built to keep up with that motion, able to capture smooth, stable footage even when you’re constantly on the go. This makes the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G a natural companion for quick vlogs, scenic cutaways, and everyday travel updates that feel immediate and authentic.

Wider Selfies, Better Group Shots

From barkada trips to multigenerational family getaways, the best travel moments are shared and no one should be left out. With the 50MP Ultra Wide Selfie Camera, the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G captures everyone in one shot, scenery included, for a more natural way to document every face, laugh, and moment together.

Turning Moments into Shareable Motion

Travel photos don’t always tell the full story, and that’s where AI Motion Photo Popout of the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G comes in. With this feature, still images can take on a more dynamic feel, letting subjects stand out and move beyond the frame. It’s a subtle but playful way to turn everyday travel shots into eye-catching content. Designed for easy sharing, it adds energy to memories without needing extra editing apps.

Smart Tools for Creative Travel Content

The OPPO Reno15 Series 5G also hints at a more creative side of mobile storytelling. Features like AI Motion Photo and 3.5x Telephoto Vibe Portrait allow users to add motion, depth, and focus to their photos. These features are useful for capturing details, portraits, or standout travel moments worth sharing.

A Design That Fits the Journey

Finished with OPPO’s Dancing Aurora Design, the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G brings a look that feels modern and expressive without trying too hard. It’s designed to move easily from travel days to everyday use, fitting naturally into a lifestyle that’s always on the go. 

Coming Soon in the Philippines on February 13

The OPPO Reno15 Series 5G is shaping up to be a device made for discovery, helping Filipinos Make Your Moment as they explore more places, capture more stories, and share experiences in a way that feels simple, personal, and current.

Stay tuned for more information about the OPPO Reno15 Series 5G, including its specs, price, and promos. Visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Beyond The Rhythm: How Coca-Cola Reimagined the Dinagyang Experience through Flavor, Music, and Community

Nearly two weeks after the last drumbeats faded, the energy of Dinagyang 2026 is still being felt across Iloilo. For Coca-Cola Philippines, this year was more than a festival appearance; it was a celebration of deep-rooted connection with the province that dates back to the late 1940s.

By focusing on community and culture, Coca-Cola acted as a true local partner embedded in the streets, celebrating the Ilonggo spirit it has served for nearly 80 years.

A Legacy of ‘Lasang Lokal’

At the heart of Dinagyang is the food. The Coca-Cola Food Fest at Delgado Street and Megaworld Mandurriao turned street-side dining into a cultural highlight. By pairing ice-cold Coca-Cola™ with local favorites, the brand celebrated the ‘Lasang Lokal’ (local taste) that defines the city’s famous food scene.

This connection is long-standing. Since the company established its Iloilo operations in the 1940s, Coca-Cola has been a staple at family mealtimes and in the sari-sari stores found in every corner of the community.

A Stage for Local Pride

Since the Dinagyang Festival officially began in 1968, Coca-Cola has been an active participant in this 50-year-old tradition. This year, Coke Studio™ honored this shared history by spotlighting homegrown talent. Iloilo’s very own Mary Anjolie and Your X Boyfriends shared the stage with popular national acts like Ena Mori and Over October – a high-energy celebration of Filipino music, 

Fun Live Experiences for the Next Generation

To match the festival’s high energy, Coca-Cola created interactive spaces for Gen Zs, the country’s new culture creators.

The Royal™ Booth at Megaworld Boulevard offered ‘Mwah-sarap’ fun moments where festivalgoers engaged in Snap N’ Slay photo challenges. Meanwhile, the Lift® Zone, dedicated to the new drink that fits your every mode, hosted fast-paced games for those with a competitive streak.

A Cleaner Way to Celebrate

True partnership means taking a fair share in keeping communities clean. Through the Coca-Cola Tapon to Ipon program – a nationwide collection initiative for PET bottles – Coca-Cola set up collection points across Iloilo City to ensure recyclable plastic (PET) bottles were recovered instead of becoming litter.

Festivalgoers were encouraged to exchange empty plastic bottles for Coca-Cola products. The goal is to divert these collected PET bottles to PETValue Philippines*, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility. PETValue then turns post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging. The initiative proves that Filipinos can – and should – enjoy grand traditions while actively participating in keeping their communities clean.

Rooted Locally

“Dinagyang is all about people coming together, and that’s what makes it special,” said Frenissa Lagman, Frontline Sr. Marketing Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “Our history with Iloilo goes back to the late 1940s. Being part of the local celebrations for over 50 years means adding real value to the experience, whether through music, food, or supporting the community’s goals of keeping festivals clean.”

As Iloilo returns to its daily routine, the presence of Coca-Cola at Dinagyang 2026 stands as a reminder that brands can be more than just a name on a sign – it can be a local partner and a meaningful part of the city’s story.

To learn the latest about Coca-Cola Philippines, follow the official pages on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.coca-cola.com.

Swoon-Worthy Eats for Valentine’s Day at SM

This Valentine’s Day, show your love the tastiest way you can—through food. SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan have pulled together a bunch of Cupid-approved treats, from limited-edition cakes to meals made for two. Whether you’re planning a date or just want to spoil your favorite people, these picks are ready to make your day a little sweeter.

V-Day Treats

Nothing says “I care” quite like a handful of pastries from Brownies Unlimited, Goldilocks, and Dunkin. They’re not just a cute treat—they’re a simple way to make someone smile. Grab a box for your partner, your friends, or family, and share the love, one bite at a time.

Heart-Shaped Cakes

Go big on sweetness this year with a limited-edition Valentine’s Day cake from Mary Grace and Red Ribbon. It’s rich, festive, and almost too pretty to eat. Perfect for making your celebration feel extra special.         

Wines and Chocolates

Set hearts ablaze with the perfect chocolate gift from SM Snack Exchange at the SM Store, and find great wine bottles at every price and for every preference at SM Market.         

Better Two-gether Combo 

Spread love with the Valentine’s Day Just for Two promo of Max’s Restaurant consists of 2 Chicken Combo Meals of your choice that come with a drink or soup. Remember, a happy tummy makes a happy heart. 

As the home of everyday celebrations, SM makes Valentine’s Day extra special. Visit SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan, and celebrate with great food, great company, and unforgettable sweet moments.

EAT YOUR WAY TO GOOD FORTUNE AT SM

As the Lunar New Year gallops into 2026, the Year of the Horse ushers in a spirit of energy, ambition, and forward motion. Beyond the vibrant reds, lanterns, and fireworks, Chinese New Year celebrations are deeply rooted in what is served at the table, where every dish carries a wish for prosperity, health, unity, and abundance.

This season, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela curate a flavorful journey through auspicious Chinese New Year favorites that blend time honored tradition with modern, accessible dining experiences.

Longevity Noodles for a Strong and Healthy Year

Noodles symbolize long life and good health in Chinese tradition. The long, uncut strands represent longevity, making them a must have dish during Lunar New Year celebrations. The belief is simple: the longer the noodles, the longer and healthier the life. Shoppers can enjoy Panda Express’ Chow Mein, a savory stir fried noodle dish mixed with fresh vegetables and seasoned with a soy based sauce. Panda Express is located at the second level of SM City Grand Central.

Dumplings That Symbolize Wealth and Prosperity

Dumplings are among the most popular lucky foods during Chinese New Year. Their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold and silver ingots, symbolizing wealth, success, and financial prosperity. Serving dumplings during the festivities is believed to invite good fortune for the year ahead. Welcome abundance in the Year of the Horse with Wangfu Chinese Café’s lucky dumplings, available at the fifth level of SM City Grand Central.

Spring Rolls for Golden Beginnings

Spring rolls are named after the Spring Festival and are associated with renewal and fresh starts. Their golden, crispy exterior represents gold bars, symbolizing wealth and success. Eating spring rolls also signifies letting go of the old and welcoming new opportunities, perfectly aligned with the energetic spirit of the Year of the Horse. Enjoy a modern take on this symbolic dish with Kuya J’s Lumpiang Quesadilla, available at SM City Valenzuela.

Whole Steamed Fish for Abundance and Unity

In Chinese culture, the word for “fish” sounds like the word for “abundance”. This makes fish an essential dish during Lunar New Year celebrations. Serving the fish whole, with head and tail intact, represents completeness, family unity, and prosperity from beginning to end. Families can share this meaningful dish with Mandarin Sky’s steamed lapu lapu, available at SM City Grand Central, making it an ideal centerpiece for New Year gatherings.

Tikoy for Growth, Harmony, and Sweet Success

Commonly known as nian gao, tikoy symbolizes growth in prosperity and success. Its sticky texture represents strong family bonds and the idea that good fortune stays throughout the year. Traditionally enjoyed as a sweet dessert, tikoy promises a sweet and harmonious year ahead. Find the perfect tikoy at SM Supermarket in SM Center Sangandaan, and explore other Chinese New Year favorites such as hopia and kiat kiat at SM Hypermarket in SM City Valenzuela.

As the Year of the Horse brings renewed energy and optimism in 2026, let meaningful food traditions guide your celebrations. Welcome the Lunar New Year with symbolic flavors, shared moments, and festive dining experiences at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela, the Home of Everyday Celebrations. 

Grab PH’s “Santipid” Bets on ‘Stacked’ Savings for Unbeatable Value

Manila, Philippines — If you’ve spotted Santa Claus hanging around your local sari-sari store, joining a morning zumba session, or even grabbing the mic at a videoke spot long after the holidays have ended — you’re not just seeing things. 

These sightings of the Christmas icon living his best “tipid life” have been making waves on social media, as thousands of budget-conscious Filipinos relate to the post-holiday reset, lying low and spending smarter after a high-spend season.

The stunt has been revealed to be part of Grab Philippines’ newest campaign, “Santipid.” While he is usually known for holiday gifting, Santa has stayed behind this quarter to champion an easy, budget-friendly daily living. He’s showing Filipinos that even after a big holiday splurge, you can still enjoy your favorite daily comforts by finding more value for your hard-earned money.

Bringing these "Santipid" moments to life are the Grab Saver Deals, which prove that pagtitipid is not about pagtitiis, but about making smarter choices that still leave room for the moments that matter.

Santa Says Low Low Lowest Fares:  More Savings with GrabCar Saver

Recognizing that transport is a major part of the daily budget, Grab continues to offer its most value-forward service yet: GrabCar Saver. With a slightly longer pick-up wait time, commuters can unlock lower fares, making the trip to everyday routines like the gym, the office, or school easier on the wallet.

Grab has also rolled out what may be the ultimate Santipid hack: promo stacking for its mobility services, a feature it says is currently exclusive to Grab among ride-hailing apps in the Philippines. Passengers can layer multiple promos and vouchers on top of GrabCar Saver’s already-low fares, including the daily 8% discount for GrabUnlimited subscribers. Combined with other Santipid hacks, these stackable deals can unlock up to 50% in savings, keeping reliable, everyday transport within reach and helping every peso go further.

Merry Meals for Less: GrabFood Saver Starts at Zero Delivery Fees

With GrabFood Saver, your daily cravings don't have to take a backseat. "Santipid" extends the holiday spirit to food delivery, ensuring that enjoying your favorite meals remains affordable even after the festivities. Santa is bringing the "low-low-low" energy to the table with as low as zero delivery fee with partner restaurants. 

With more Random Santa Sightings scheduled throughout the quarter, the "Santipid" campaign serves as a bridge to a more manageable post-holiday season.

By offering these budget-friendly options, Grab continues to champion its mission of being the everyday partner for every Filipino. Through "Santipid," Grab ensures that the transition into the new year remains stress-free, keeping the spirit of the season merry and bright for every budget.

Sun Life Grepa Expands its Presence in Cebu with New Office

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the country’s leading insurers, recently marked the relocation of its Cebu branch with a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony.

The event was attended by key company leaders led by Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim, together with Agency Channel Head Sandy J. Bustos, Cebu Regional Manager Claudette Labendia, Cluster Heat Kat Tan Pho, and Senior Agency Manager Robert Tiu.

The newly relocated Cebu brand features a refreshed, modern space designed to provide a more comfortable and welcoming environment for both existing and prospective clients. Its more accessible location further reinforces Sun Life Grepa’s commitment to delivering financial solutions that address the evolving needs of its clients.

The relocation forms part of the company’s broader efforts to strengthen its presence nationwide. In recent months, Sun Life Grepa has also inaugurated new offices in Davao, Zamboanga, Cabanatuan, and Laguna.

Clients may visit the new Sun Life Grepa Cebu branch at JEG Tower, Acacia Street, Cebu City.

Ministry of Social Services and Development-BARMM Partners with GCash to Expand Cashless Disbursement Under FAST Project, Roll Out Bangsamoro Cards

 

The Ministry of Social Services and Development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MSSD-BARMM) has partnered with GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, to expand its cashless disbursement system under the Financial Assistance System Transformation (FAST) Project, an initiative designed to make the distribution of social assistance faster, more efficient, and more transparent for beneficiaries across the region.

 

While MSSD-BARMM has already begun transitioning to digital payouts, the partnership with GCash expands the reach of the FAST Project, ensuring that financial assistance is more accessible and convenient for beneficiaries, including those in remote and underserved communities.

 

“This partnership strengthens our FAST Project by expanding our cashless distribution channels and ensuring timely assistance for our beneficiaries,” said Atty. Raissa H. Jajurie, minister of the Ministry of Social Services and Development. “Through this collaboration, we aim to make social support programs more inclusive, reliable, and efficient, reaching every Bangsamoro family and community who need it most.”

 

The GCash engagement with the FAST Project also aligns with the company’s strategic focus on promoting financial inclusion among underserved communities, particularly within the Islamic population and the BARMM region. By prioritizing these areas, GCash seeks to support equitable access to financial services while empowering local communities with tools for everyday transactions and long-term financial health.

 

Under the partnership, beneficiaries will receive Bangsamoro Cards powered by GCash, which serve as both identification and a cashless payment tool. The cards allow users to withdraw funds, make purchases, and access essential financial services even without a smartphone, helping ensure that no one is left behind in the region’s digital financial ecosystem. This expansion will directly benefit key MSSD-BARMM programs under the FAST Project, including educational assistance through Angat Bangsamoro: Kabataan Tungo sa Karunungan (ABaKa), livelihood support through Bangsamoro Sagip Kabuhayan (BSK), and emergency relief through the Bangsamoro Critical Assistance to Indigents in Response to Emergency Situations (BCARES).

 

“For GCash, BARMM and Islamic communities are among our priority sectors,” said Cleo Celeste Santos, Head for Public Sector at GCash. “Digital finance penetration in these areas has historically lagged, which is why we are doubling down on our efforts. By working closely with MSSD-BARMM, we are providing accessible and culturally responsive solutions that help ensure the success of the FAST Project and other government programs.”

 

By expanding the FAST Project through GCash’s digital Funds Disbursement Service (FDS), MSSD-BARMM reinforces its commitment to modern governance, accountability, and inclusive development. Beneficiaries can now access assistance through a more convenient, secure, and widely available platform, ensuring that social aid reaches those who need it most. Through this partnership, GCash aims to strengthen financial access in BARMM, delivering solutions tailored to the unique needs of Muslim communities and supporting sustainable local growth.

 

GCash continues to collaborate with national agencies, local governments, and ministries to advance digital transformation, helping ensure that social aid, livelihood support, and emergency assistance are delivered efficiently to Filipinos, particularly in priority and underserved sectors.

Security Bank Wins Platinum at the 61st Anvil Awards

Manila, Philippines — Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) emerged as one of the top winners at the 61st Anvil Awards: Gabi ng Parangal, presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), earning the Platinum Anvil—the highest award for PR Tools, given to the top-rated entry among all Gold Anvil winners.

The recognition was conferred on the Bank’s 2024 Integrated Report, “At the heart of everything we do, is you,” which stood out among  622 entries from 178 companies nationwide, underscoring the scale and competitiveness of the country’s premier public relations recognition program.

Judges cited the report for its clarity, transparency, and ability to translate complex corporate information into a clear, credible, and engaging narrative—strengthening stakeholder understanding while demonstrating strong strategic thinking and measurable communication effectiveness.

“This report was never just about publishing numbers. It was about telling the story of how we serve people and create value—grounded in stronger sustainability reporting and regulatory alignment. It reflects our commitment to BetterBanking: working to make things easier and clearer for customers, delivering sustainable growth and strong governance for investors, fostering a culture of purpose for our people, and creating positive impact in the communities we serve,” said Tanya Ansaldo-Deakin, FVP and Corporate Communications Head, Security Bank.

Schneider Electric Cavite Smart Factory: First Luzon Government Ecozone Site on 100% Renewable Energy

CAVITE, PHILIPPINES – Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, recently switched its Smart Factory in Rosario, Cavite to 100% renewable energy, setting a new benchmark for industrial sustainability in the Philippines.

The Cavite Smart Factory is the first manufacturing site within a government-operated economic zone in Luzon to fully transition to renewable energy, and the first Schneider Electric factory in East Asia to operate entirely on clean power. The switch, completed on December 26, 2025, capped Schneider Electric’s 30th year in the Philippines and was formally marked during the company’s 190th global foundation year on January 14, 2026. 

The milestone was achieved through collaboration with partners including the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Meralco Ecozone Power (MEP), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), and ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), underscoring the role of cross-sector partnerships in accelerating the country’s energy transition.

“By moving our Cavite Smart Factory to 100% renewable energy, we are demonstrating that sustainability and industrial competitiveness can go hand in hand,” said Antonio Cheng, Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director. “This facility shows what can be achieved when innovation and collaboration come together and we hope it serves as a model for more Philippine manufacturers to follow.”

The transition to 100% renewable energy was made possible through the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), which allows eligible customers to choose renewable power suppliers. With the program relying on multiple stakeholders, ACEN, PEZA, CEZ, and MEP emphasized that partnerships between companies and institutions are critical to accelerating the country’s energy transition. “We commend Schneider Electric for collaborating with partners and embracing innovations that align with our shared vision of a more sustainable and inclusive energy future,” said Arjon Valencia, Corporate Planning and Communications Manager of IEMOP, the central registration body for the GEOP.

The move is also part of Schneider Electric’s broader effort to decarbonize its operations and value chain in line with its net-zero targets. Since 2018, the company has helped customers save and avoid 729 million tonnes of CO₂, reduced emissions across its top 1,000 suppliers by 53% since 2020, and expanded access to green electricity to more than 60 million people since 2009. Over the same period, Schneider Electric has trained more than 1 million people in energy management, underpinning the company’s long-running sustainability program and contribution to its repeated global recognitions–including from TIME Magazine and Statista, and from Corporate Knights, as the World’s Most Sustainable Company, in 2025.

With over 1,300 employees, the Cavite Smart Factory now serves as a strategic hub within Schneider Electric’s East Asia supply chain network. Established in 1996 and integrated into Schneider Electric in 2007 through the acquisition of American Power Conversion (APC), the site supports global markets across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa through the production of secure power and industrial automation solutions.

“We will continue to provide solutions that help industries reduce carbon emissions while maintaining efficiency and resilience in the way we operate,” shared Antonio Cheng, Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director of Schneider Electric Philippines

The Cavite Smart Factory’s switch positions Schneider Electric as a leader in clean energy adoption, showing how innovation turns sustainability commitments into real-world impact.

Celebrate Flavor and Fortune at The Manila Hotel’s Red Jade

This Chinese New Year, Red Jade at The Manila Hotel welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse with a dining experience that blends bold flavors, heritage, and modern culinary flair. From refined à la carte favorites to festive specialties crafted for the season, every meal unfolds as a celebration worth savoring.

Red Jade’s à la carte menu is a feast for the senses. Must-try dishes include Imperial Peking Duck, Lapu Lapu in Truffle Sauce, Scallops with Duck Liver in Foie Gras Sauce, and Shrimps with Almond Flakes. Dim Sum lovers can savor beloved classics such as Har Gao, Ham Sui Kok, Xiao Long Bao, and Pork and Shrimp Sio Mai. Just in time for the Lunar New Year, Red Jade also unveils new creations, including Sea Bass Dumpling, Deep Fried Suahe Beijing Style, Braised Sea Bass and Turnip Cake with Morel Mushroom in Black Truffle Sauce, and Glutinous Rice Roll with Red Bean Paste, among others.

 

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without tikoy. Red Jade’s tikoy offerings, available in Red Bean and Almond flavors and priced at Php 1,288 per box, are perfect for gifting, sharing, or indulging in a sweet moment of tradition. Each bite symbolizes prosperity, harmony, and good fortune for the year ahead.

Vegetarian diners are equally well catered to with Red Jade’s Vegetarian Set Menu. Highlights include Vegetarian Peking Duck, Dong Pao Tofu, Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup, Mushroom Fortune Bao, and Chilled Coconut Jelly with Avocado, ensuring a refined and inclusive dining experience for all.

For intimate gatherings, Red Jade offers private dining rooms designed to provide an elegant yet welcoming ambiance. Accommodating groups of up to 30 guests, each room is ideal for festive get-togethers, business gatherings, and family milestones.

For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph