Manila Water Sustains Expansion of Water Service Network, Reinforces 24/7 Supply Reliability

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, reflecting the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for safe and reliable water.

Supporting this expansion is a robust water supply network that grew by 92.59 kilometers from January to November 2025, bringing the total length to 5,656.23 kilometers. 

This extensive infrastructure, combined with a non-revenue water level averaging below 15%, comparable to benchmarks in developed countries, enables Manila Water to consistently provide 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 committed to further expanding its water service network and enhancing operational efficiency through continued investments in infrastructure and innovative technologies. Serving more than 7.8 million customers in the East Zone and continuing to grow, the company aims to ensure sustainable water supply and support the increasing needs of communities within in its concession area in Metro Manila and Rizal.

Everyday Italian Flavors Reimagined at Solaire Resort North’s Finestra

Your cravings for Italian flavors are ready to be satiated in the best way with Finestra’s refreshed selections at Solaire Resort North. Offering up Italian classics made better with a balance of warmth and sophistication, Finestra’s redesigned menu is crafted for comforting and versatile meals perfect for everyday dining with a finessed approach.

Whether for lunch or dinner, familiar and beloved Italian dishes are served renewed at Finestra for all to enjoy no matter the occasion. Friends and loved ones can share plates of pastas and succulent steaks over intimate dinners, while indulgent feasts await families with a wide selection of dishes for appetizers all the way to desserts perfect for each person at the table.

Elevated Italian meals bring out a newfound zeal for Finestra signatures like the Lasagna made with USDA beef ragout and bechamel, the mushroom soup for a lighter alternative, or even a hearty Australian Wagyu Carrara M9 rib eye. Finestra’s culinary team led by Chef De Cuisine Joel Manchia also serve up rich additions to the menu perfect for solo or group dining such as an all-new artisanal orecchiette topped with king prawns and broccoli, and even a savory aubergine parmigiana with confit garlic and semi-dried tomatoes.

Evenings can be extended with an expanded bar menu offering light bites and refreshing platters to have alongside a beverage of your choice. A delectable blend of signature and modern cocktails reintroduces the bar selection with fresh options as the Spritz al Cacao for a light drink, while classics such as the Il Bianco and Garibaldi al Pompelmo offer a more balanced or spirit-forward taste to accompany the surrounding view of the enduring beauty of the Sierra Madre mountain ranges amidst the Quezon City horizon.

Reimagined Italian favorites and bar bites take on a new meaning for the new year. Visit the heart of Quezon City and indulge in a new retelling of timeless dishes only at Finestra at Solaire Resort North.

Be one of the firsts to discover a new side to Italian dining at Finestra.  For reservations and inquiries, visit sn.solaireresort.com/dining/finestra, call +632 8888 8888 or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com to book your table today.

Nurturing Dreams, Serving Purpose:How Two Filipino Entrepreneurs Grew Their Businesses with Sun Life by Their Side

MANILA, PH – Behind every beloved Filipino food brand is a story of courage, creativity, and resilience. For Chef Czarina Sevilla, owner of Avocadoria, and Wendy Villanueva, owner of Wilmar’s Taho, building a brand meant transforming vibrant local flavors into thriving enterprises.

 

These women prove that success in entrepreneurship is built on passion, purpose, and planning for the future. Despite their different origins, both entrepreneurs share a common partner in their journey towards business growth: Sun Life.

 

Avocadoria: From a Simple Idea to a National Craze

 

For Chef Czarina Sevilla, Avocadoria was born from a desire to elevate the familiar. “We wanted to turn something familiar into something healthier, more meaningful, and proudly local,” she shared. What began as a simple idea has blossomed into a brand recognized locally for its creamy, avocado-based delights.

 

Avocadoria’s rise was fast, but its growth was intentional. Guided by the values of quality, consistency, and care, Chef Czarina made sure every product they served reflected the team’s dedication. However, the rapid growth of the business also brought hurdles. “Our biggest challenge was scaling while maintaining quality,” said Chef Czarina. “But we addressed this by strengthening our systems, training people well, and planning ahead especially in managing costs and risks.”

 

As the business grew, Chef Czarina realized the importance of protecting everything she has built, including her people, her operations, and her future. This motivated her to engage with Sun Life for their business protection and financial planning solutions. “Knowing we had proper coverage from Sun Life gave us the confidence to expand and invest in growth because risks were already planned for,” Chef Czarina explained.

 

Today, Avocadoria proudly operates multiple local and international branches. With Sun Life, Chef Czarina can enjoy peace of mind as she continues to serve her customers and grow her business.

 

Wilmar’s Taho: A Legacy Reimagined

 

Wendy Villanueva, owner of Wilmar’s Taho, was focused on keeping a thirty-year legacy moving forward. She runs the business guided by the values of integrity, consistency, and care. Started by her parents in 1990, the business faced its greatest test during the pandemic.

 

“I decided to sell taho online so that the business could continue and reach more customers,” Wendy recalls. Navigating local government regulations to ensure her vendors were classified as “essential” was a challenging task, but her commitment to her employees and her family’s heritage kept her driven. Supported by her husband and her family, Wendy transitioned the traditional street-side staple into a modern, digitally accessible brand.

 

For Wendy, partnering with Sun Life was about community and credibility. Beyond financial security, her relationship with Sun Life opened doors for the brand to reach new heights. “Being a Sun Life Client gave me opportunities like being invited to sell at the One Sun Life Congress,” she said. “It helped promote Wilmar’s Taho and build our brand’s credibility. This was our second time to serve Sun Lifers, and it’s always a pleasure to be a part of this community.”

 

With her personal and business finances secured, Wendy can focus on the future of Wilmar’s Taho, knowing that the legacy her parents started decades ago is strengthened for the next generation.

 

Future-Proof Your Business Today

 

The stories of Chef Czarina and Wendy highlight an important lesson for every Filipino entrepreneur: the best time to protect your business is while it is thriving. By choosing Sun Life, these two leaders have ensured that their dreams are shielded from the unexpected, allowing them to focus on what they do best – serving the flavors that Filipinos love.

 

To know more about Sun Life’s products and services for business owners, visit sunlife.co/entrepfinancialplan or talk to a Sun Life Financial Advisor today.

Today’s Young Urban Professionals Lean to Smart Technologies to Power Their First Home Purchase

Millennials have grown to be upwardly mobile, young urban professionals learning to assert their independence and excitedly looking into buying homes. But gone are the days when location and design were the only considerations of choosing a home. Today’s yuppies are more particular to factor convenience and modernity into home life, preferring spaces that are powered by smart technologies that seamlessly integrate into their routines.  

 

In addition to these newly minted young professionals, established Filipino homeowners are also looking to upgrade their homes with solutions that quickly and seamlessly respond to their fast-paced lifestyle. 

 

In today’s vast array of choices in home equipment, these smart technologies are not limited to traditional, small kitchen appliances. Companies such as Philips have introduced smart home appliances that blend style, convenience, and efficiency to keep up with the demands of a modern life. 

 

Modern products for modern homes 

 

With the rise of cybercrime, safety and security have become a top priority for both young professionals and established homeowners. Philips launched a series of smart door locks and smart safes to address this essential need. 

 

Philips Smart Locks include the top-of-the-line Series 9000 fitted three smart cameras, palm vein recognition unlock, 3D face unlock and a magnetic charging port. Meanwhile, the IP65-certified 8000 series of push-pull smart lock smart locks has remote unlocking, mute, indoor quick-open switch capabilities that work with the Philips gateway and app for remote operation and monitoring. The 7000 series features either a palm vein or facial recognition door unlock for touch-free convenience, radar motion detection, and a 4-inch LCD display to remotely start a two-way audio conversation with guests outside the door. 

 

Meanwhile, the Philips Smart Safe offers secure storage solutions that combine advanced security features with a stylish design. The 6000 and 5000 series feature convenient and highly secure biometric operations that unlock your unique fingerprint. The electronic telescopic handle, Wi-Fi connectivity, and two-factor authentication adds extra layers of safety that protect your valuable assets in a seamless process. 

 

To add a delightful touch to the contemporary home, Philips offers compact Bluetooth speakers that integrate aesthetics with a quality sound experience. The TAS2307 Philips Bluetooth speaker with its three multicolored light modes will both captivate and set a relaxing mood for homeowners at the end of a tiring day. Its passive radiator emits a rich and punchy bass sound that clearly fills in any room in the house.  

 

On the other hand, the Philips TAS5819 Wireless Speaker can bring a fun karaoke session to concert-level performance heights, delivering a rich audio experience in a True Wireless Stereo (TWS) stereo, deep 65Hz bass, and 30W output. For added dramatic effect, a red, green, and blue light show emanates from the speaker’s visually striking design. 

 

Committed partner to all homeowners 

 

As more young professionals enter the workforce and alongside that, the homeowner market, they can look forward to innovative Philips Smart Home products that offer convenience, efficiency, and safety while lending flair to their spaces. 

 

With these smart technologies at the heart of its continuous innovation, Philips is committed to its role as a long-term partner in today’s modern homes and evolving lifestyles. 

All the Lucky Feels at SM Supermalls

This February, SM Supermalls brings together two of the most joyful occasions of the season—Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day—for a month-long celebration that’s all about love, luck, and unforgettable experiences. Welcome the Year of the Horse with festive finds, romantic moments, and prosperity-filled activities designed to make every visit extra meaningful!

Discover love and luck at the Lucky Feels Bazaar (February 1–28)

Step into the heart of the celebration at the Lucky Feels Bazaar, a unified Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day pop-up bazaar that blends romance and prosperity in one exciting space. 

Whether you are looking for giftables perfect for expressing love or just exploring lucky charms, trinkets, and prosperity-themed finds to attract good fortune for the year ahead, this is where heartfelt gestures meet auspicious beginnings—all in one stroll!

Step into festive photo-worthy Lucky Feels installations (February 1-28)

Get into the celebration the moment you arrive as SM Supermalls transforms with vibrant Lucky Feels installations. Enjoy romantic Valentine’s spots (February 1–15) early in the month, then watch the mall shift into bold and joyful Chinese New Year themes (February 16–28) as the celebration continues. Walk through eye-catching entrance arches, spot playful entrance stickers, admire festive hanging decorations, and strike a pose at curated photo spots.

Shop, snack, and play at Bites and Buys (February 1–28)

Experience a marketplace that’s anything but ordinary at Bites and Buys. This lively space brings together artisanal crafts, cutesy collectibles, and yummy treats loved by Gen Zs and trend hunters alike. Join the fun by trying the claw machines and score a chance to win your zodiac bestie—because luck should always come with a little play.

Capture and Snap the Lucky Feels (February 1–28)

Don’t miss the Snap the Lucky Feels photo spot, featuring a vibrant money tree adorned with ang paos, beautifully paired with a Valentine’s Day-inspired setup! It’s the perfect backdrop to capture moments of love, luck, and festive joy—ready for sharing with friends and family.

Taste and trend with #CNYMustTry (February 16–28)

From tikoy to TikTok, celebrate Chinese New Year the modern way with #CNYMustTry. Indulge in classics such as dumplings, tanghulu, milktea, and more. It’s your go-to guide for celebrating traditions—on your table and on your feed!

Experience even more festive fun at select SM malls

At select SM malls, the celebration doesn’t stop at shopping and photo moments—it comes alive through a series of exciting activities designed to spark joy, luck, and shared experiences. Feel the festive energy as dragon and lion dance performances, led by a charming dragon and lion, bring movement and music to the mall on Feb 17 / 20-22.

Extend the fun online by trying the Fortune Filter on TikTok from February 1–28 and discover what kind of luck awaits you this season. Back at the mall, test your skills and your fortune at the Unlock Lock games happening on February 17–22, where exciting prizes await lucky winners.

For family-friendly moments and photo-worthy encounters, don’t miss the Chinese mascot meet and greet, perfect for creating cheerful memories with loved ones. Cap off the celebration with a spectacular finale as the sky lights up during the CNY 2026 fireworks, ending the season on a high and lucky note.

Feel the love.Chase the luck. Celebrate it all at SM Supermalls.

Make this season extra special by celebrating where love, luck, and community come together. Visit your most loved SM Mall, experience the Lucky Feels, and create maxed out memories worth sharing.

Leap into lucky vibes this Year of the Horse—only at SM Supermalls!

For the full schedule of activities and participating malls, visit www.smsupermalls.com. Or, you can follow @SMSupermalls on social media for the latest updates, must-try finds, and festive surprises.

Welcome the Year of the Horse with Big Deals in OPPO’s 2.2 Chinese New Year Sale

Charge into the Year of the Horse with speed, strength, and smart upgrades. This Chinese New Year, OPPO invites you to celebrate new beginnings, fresh momentum, and good fortune with its 2.2 Sale, packed with lucky deals, exclusive vouchers, and generous freebies.

From February 1 to 6, 2026, enjoy big savings on your favorite OPPO devices, from everyday essentials to premium flagships, available on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and OPPO’s official online store.

Auspicious Savings with OPPO’s All-Day Vouchers 

Bring in good fortune with these exciting deals with OPPO’s All-Day Vouchers via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop—all applicable without minimum spend for the following devices:

PHP 100 off on all variants of OPPO A3

PHP 200 off on OPPO A5i

PHP 500 off on OPPO A6 Pro

PHP 500 off on OPPO Enco X3s

PHP 500 off on OPPO Reno12 F 4G/5G

PHP 800 off on OPPO A6x

PHP 1,000 off on OPPO A5

PHP 1,000 off on OPPO Pad SE WiFi/LTE

PHP 1,000 off on OPPO Reno14 Series 5G

PHP 1,500 off on OPPO A5i Pro

PHP 2,000 off on all variants of OPPO A5 Pro

PHP 2,000 off on OPPO Find X9

PHP 2,000 off on OPPO Reno12 5G & OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G

PHP 3,000 off on OPPO Reno13 Series

You can also get PHP 1,000 off the OPPO A6x through OPPO’s Livestream-Exclusive Vouchers, with no minimum spend.

More discounts await with PHP 500 off on the OPPO A5x with a minimum spend of PHP 3,999, and PHP 3,000 off on the OPPO Find X8 with a minimum spend of PHP 19,999.

Enjoy exclusive deals on Lazada and TikTok Shop

Make your shopping spree even sweeter with the following platform-exclusive perks on Lazada and TikTok Shop:

Lazada

PHP 2,500 off on all variants of OPPO A5 Pro

TikTok Shop

PHP 1,000 off on all variants of OPPO A5x

Enjoy freebies with every purchase

Top off these 2.2 deals with freebies with every purchase of the following:

Free OPPO Enco Buds3 with every OPPO Reno14 Series 5G purchase

Free OPPO Pad SE Case with every OPPO Pad SE WiFi/LTE purchase

Free Keyboard & Case (Black) with every OPPO Pad Neo WiFi/LTE purchase

Free OPPO Enco Buds3 Pro with every OPPO Find X9 purchase

Flexible payment terms for guilt-free shopping

Purchase your OPPO device without strain on your budget with these flexible payment terms:

On Lazada - up to 0% interest installment for 3 months via LazPayLater

On Shopee - 0% interest for 3 months via SPayLater

On TikTok Shop - 12 months installment via TikTok PayLater

Even More Fortune at the OPPO Online Store

Get more exclusive benefits in the official OPPO online store—with vouchers redeemable using OPPOints via the My OPPO App, plus free shipping and freebies with every purchase.

OPPO Earbuds

PHP 200 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

OPPO Tablets

PHP 300 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

PHP 1,000 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty

OPPO Smartphones Below PHP 10,000 (excluding OPPO A3x, OPPO A5i, OPPO A5x and OPPO A3)

PHP 100 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 200 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

PHP 500 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty

OPPO A Pro Devices

PHP 300 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

PHP 700 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty

OPPO Reno Series Devices

PHP 1,000 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 1,500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

PHP 2,000 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty

OPPO Find Series Devices

PHP 1,500 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 2,000 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

PHP 2,800 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 Pro + One Free Movie Ticket (to claim within three months, valid exclusively at Bonifacio High Street Central Square Mall Cinema – Standard Cinema)

Celebrate the Year of the Horse Right with OPPO

OPPO’s 2.2 Sale is your lucky chance to welcome the Year of the Horse with powerful devices, meaningful savings, and festive freebies. Shop from February 1 to 6 on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and OPPO’s official online store.

To know more about OPPO’s 2.2 Chinese New Year Sale, check out OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ and Facebook page.

To get the best care for OPPO devices, visit the nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.

Vena Energy Turns Over 1,000 “Seats for Sustainability” to Talim Island Schools, Improving the Learning Environment for Students While Creating Livelihood for Locals

[Philippines, 27 January 2026] Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions company in the Asia-Pacific region, has successfully turned over 1,000 handcrafted armchairs to elementary schools in the municipalities of Binangonan and Cardona on Talim Island.

The initiative, titled, “Seats for Sustainability,” was led by Vena Energy’s subsidiary, Island Wind Energy Corp. (IWEC). It marks a significant milestone in the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, delivering a dual impact: improving the learning environment for thousands of students while providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for the island’s residents. 

Empowering Education in Remote Communities

The turnover ceremonies were held on 22 January 2026 at Kasile Covered Court (Binangonan) and 23 January 2026 at Lambac Covered Court (Cardona). The donation benefits multiple schools, including Kasile Elementary School, Bombong Elementary School, Kinagatan Elementary School, and Lambac Elementary School. 

For remote areas like Talim Island, logistical challenges often hinder the delivery of school facilities. This donation addresses a critical infrastructure gap, ensuring that students have access to comfortable, DepEd-standard furniture that fosters a better learning environment. 

From Skills to Livelihood

What sets the “Seats for Sustainability” project apart is its commitment to the local circular economy. Rather than sourcing furniture from external suppliers, Vena Energy partnered with local communities to manufacture the chairs.

Residents were trained by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in carpentry and craftsmanship. Following their training, these local community members were hired by Vena Energy to build the 1,000 chairs. This not only ensured the furniture met quality standards but also injected income directly into local households, turning a charitable donation into a driver for economic empowerment.

A Commitment to Host Communities

“Seats for Sustainability” aligns with Vena Energy’s broader CSR strategy, which prioritizes Education, Infrastructure Development, and Community Well-being. By engaging the community in the solution, the company reinforces its core value of enabling sustainable social and economic development within its host communities.

“We believe that  a community means giving them thempoweringe necessary tools to build their own future,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of The Philippines at Vena Energy. “This project is special because the fathers and neighbors of these students built the very chairs their children will sit on. It is a story of pride, resilience, and sustainability.” 

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from IWEC, local government officials from Binangonan and Cardona, school officials, and residents of Talim Island.

Your New Comfort Food Era Starts at Frankie’s & Bloom & Baker at SM City Marilao

Hungry? SM City Marilao just got a whole lot tastier. Frankie’s and Bloom & Baker have landed, and honestly, food lovers in Bulacan should be celebrating. These two spots take comfort food up a notch—think big, bold flavors and desserts that just feel good.

Frankie’s pulls you in right away. Their wings are the kind you dream about, and the mains? Hearty, generous, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Whether you’re wrapping up a shopping spree or just looking for a laid-back meal, Frankie’s nails that balance between familiar and new. The kind of place you find yourself craving again and again.  

Then there’s Bloom & Baker, just around the corner, and the vibe totally shifts. It’s calm, cozy, and smells like fresh pastries. If you love soft breads, cakes, or a good cup of coffee, this is your stop. You can hang out and soak it all in, or grab a box of treats to bring a little bit of sweetness home.  

Frankie’s and Bloom & Baker together? They turn a regular mall trip into something special. Suddenly, SM City Marilao feels warmer, friendlier, and a whole lot more delicious.

HONOR X9d 5G Smashes First-Day Sales, Up 160% Over HONOR X9c 5G

Manila, Philippines, January 29, 2026 – Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines had a fantastic start to the year with the launch of its newest smartphone, the HONOR X9d 5G. The brand kicked things off on January 1 with its viral drop tests, followed by the star-studded HONOR X9d 5G vs. Tesla Cybertruck experiential event, culminating in its grand launch at the Grand Hyatt. On January 24, the HONOR X9d 5G officially hit stores nationwide with a record-breaking first-day sales performance, posting a 160% increase compared to its predecessor, the HONOR X9c 5G. 

"On behalf of HONOR Philippines, I thank our loyal HONOR fans, partners, and media friends for the overwhelming support for the HONOR X9d 5G. This success would not have been possible without your trust and belief in us. We are truly grateful, and we promise to continue bringing you tougher, smarter, and more exciting innovations,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. 

 

Celebrating HONOR X9d 5G 

Positioned as the most durable smartphone in the market, the latest HONOR X9d 5G showcases all-around drop, water, and dust resistance, ensuring it can withstand drops from heights of up to 2.5 meters onto certain surfaces. Reinforced by HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Technology, Non-Newtonian fluid, and new ultra-tough deep-tempered glass, the device is safeguarded against 10 more types of stone-ground impact and even air-gun shooting. 

  

On January 24, a grand fan fest was held at SM Megamall Fashion Hall, bringing together OPM icons Sponge Cola, HORI7ON, Fitterkarma, Shanne Dandan, Figvres, and Pommelo. To the delight of pre-order buyers, HONOR gave away exclusive collaboration shirts with Linya-Linya, along with other exciting prizes throughout the day. 

HONOR X9d 5G is now available nationwide! 

Coming in three exciting colors, Reddish Brown, Midnight Black, and Sunrise Gold, HONOR X9d 5G if priced at Php 18,999 with FREE HONOR Gift Box and Jisulife Life Fan5. Head to any HONOR Experience or Partner Store, or shop online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9d_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9d_Media), or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9d_Media). 

  

With Home Credit, you can get the HONOR X9d 5G for as low as Php 24 per day with an additional Php 1,000 discount, payable for up to 18 months. The promo runs until February 15, 2026. Apply here: https://bit.ly/HomeCredit_X9d_FB. 

 

For more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

UMak Launches First-of-Its-Kind ‘Barter Boutique’ for Students

MAKATI CITY, Philippines (January 26, 2026) — The University of Makati (UMak), through its Center for Community Extension and Development (CCED), is redefining campus welfare with the official launch of the Pop-Up Corporate Boutique and Community Pantry.

"At UMak, we believe that a student's financial background should never be a barrier to their professional success," said UMak President Elyxzur Ramos. "This boutique is more than just a clothing drive; it is a lesson in solidarity. By trading a simple snack or a canned good for a corporate blazer, our students aren't just dressing for the job they want— sila ay nagtutulungan para sa kinabukasan ng bawat isa (they are helping each other for everyone's future)."

Breaking away from traditional donation models, this dual-purpose initiative allows students to "purchase" professional attire—essential for internships, job interviews, and academic presentations—not with money, but with basic food items for the community pantry. This innovative barter system ensures that students from less privileged backgrounds can meet professional requirements with dignity while simultaneously contributing to the university’s food security net.

The pop-up “Barter Boutique” located at the Lobby of the 4th Floor, Administration Building will be open once a month.

The boutique features pre-loved yet presentable corporate clothing, jewelry, and accessories donated by university employees and partner institutions. By promoting the reuse of quality apparel, the project also champions sustainable consumption and waste reduction within the Makati community.

The CCED will spearhead the long-term sustainability of the project, facilitating continuous resource mobilization from institutional stakeholders to ensure the boutique remains stocked for every graduating batch.

For more information about the initiative visit https://www.umak.edu.ph/newsroom/ and https://www.facebook.com/UMakPH.

OPPO and Google Cloud Deepen Strategic Synergy: Redefining the Next-Gen AIOS Through “Memory Symbiosis” and “Privacy Protection”

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform smartphones from tools into personal intelligent assistants, OPPO has unveiled its vision for next generation AI Operating System (AIOS). At the recent Google Cloud Export Summit in Beijing, OPPO outlined its strategic roadmap, made possible through its collaboration with Google Cloud, focusing on “Memory Symbiosis” and “Privacy Protection,” to guide the industry toward a native and fully intelligent future. 

“The essence of AI is understanding the user. Together with Google Cloud, we are shaping OPPO AI into a truly personalized intelligent companion, one that understands, anticipates, and serves users in a powerful yet intuitive way,” said Haonan Lu, Head of Large Model Algorithms at OPPO. He emphasized that a meaningful AIOS goes beyond features to fundamentally adapt to individual needs, as a reliable and deeply personalized intelligent companion.

Tackling Key Pain Points with System-Level AI for a Cohesive Service Experience

Despite the growing range of AI features on mobile devices, users still face three core challenges: retaining, locating, and anticipating information. OPPO addresses these with the next-generation AIOS, integrating memory as a foundational layer. 

To enhance information retention, OPPO has introduced AI Mind Space globally, acting as the system’s “second brain” that organizes information from text, images, and voice interactions. 

Built with Google Gemini, AI Mind Space aims to provide personalized answers from memories stored on OPPO devices. To improve information retrieval, OPPO and Google Cloud have also enhanced AI Search with improved natural language understanding, allowing users to search across apps seamlessly using everyday language.

To anticipate user needs, AI Suggest combines real-time, on-device context with memory data to create a dynamic user profile, enabling proactive and timely recommendations.

These three functions are interconnected through comprehensive privacy measures and the memory storage of AI Mind Space. AI Search utilizes stored data for personalized local memory searches, while AI Suggest generates precise recommendations based on user behavior and memory characteristics, ensuring the security and privacy of user data.

Fortifying Privacy in AIOS and Fostering an Open Ecosystem

As AI becomes integral to daily life, data privacy remains crucial for user trust. To deliver cloud computing power with privacy, OPPO introduced Private Computing Cloud (PCC) architecture, a secure cloud extension of the AIOS. The PCC is a globally distributed, end-to-cloud collaborative system that deeply leverages Confidential Computing by Google Cloud, enabling data usability without visibility.

Technology realizes its true value through widespread adoption. OPPO’s AI strategy is built on New Computing, New Perception, and New Ecosystem, supported by three technical pillars: on-device compute, the PersonaX memory symbiosis engine, and the Agent Matrix framework. Through open collaboration, OPPO is promoting Agent-to-Agent interoperability across ecosystems. Its work with Google Cloud exemplifies this commitment, uniting developers worldwide to break down app barriers and build a seamless, cross scenario intelligent service network. 

Together, OPPO and Google Cloud are committed to building a privacy centric infrastructure rooted in user trust and nurturing an open ecosystem, with the goal of advancing a deeply personalized AIOS.

Mansmith Awards 2026 Recognizes 1Life, Inc. President for Long-term, Tech-Driven Healthcare Impact Beyond Leadership

27 January 2026, Makati, Philippines – Niño Namoco, President of 1Life, Inc., has been honored as a recipient of the 5th Mansmith Innovation Awards, joining a roster of business leaders recognized for transformative leadership and innovative contributions across emerging and evolving sectors, including healthcare, health technology, retail, digital commerce, culinary arts, and media.

 

The award, founded by award-winning entrepreneur Josiah Go, was formally presented during the 2026 Mansmith Awards at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati City on  January 21. The program honors 12 industry leaders for creativity, vision, and long-term impact, with four executives specifically recognized for innovation, having introduced groundbreaking concepts that transform industries and foster a culture of enduring growth.

 

Past Mansmith Innovation Awards recipients have included Jean Henri Lhuillier of Cebuana Lhuillier, Martha Sazon of GCash (Mynt), and Dennis A. Uy of Converge ICT Solutions.

 

This year’s awards highlight how these leaders are moving beyond short-term gains. Spanning digital innovation, customer-focused entrepreneurship, and sustained institutional contributions, the honorees underscore that meaningful development is anchored in lasting value and not profit margins alone.

 

Reflecting on the award and 1Life’s work, Namoco shared, “The achievements of 1Life are the result of collective effort. Every milestone was built on the sacrifices, commitment, and hearts of my co-founders. United by a shared purpose, we asked ourselves: ‘What is the value of innovation if it does not reach the people who need it most?’ That question became our mission. That mission became 1Life.”

 

At 1Life, Namoco has spearheaded a technology-enabled approach to healthcare delivery, leveraging artificial intelligence to improve access to early detection and preventive care nationwide. Under his leadership, the healthcare tech company has served over one million patients in just two years across all 81 provinces and 1,335 cities/municipalities, reaching 18,181 localities nationwide, while conducting daily medical runs with multidisciplinary teams through field deployments.

 

Central to 1Life’s model is the integration of community-based care, advanced diagnostics, and AI-driven workflows. Innovations such as the 1Life Digital Community Healthcare System, portable diagnostic devices, DocMate AI, and the 1Life Health app have streamlined the care system, reducing traditional multi-day care journeys into a single, efficient visit.

 

In addition to technology, 1Life has strategic partnerships with PhilHealth, DepEd caravans, local government units, and other national agencies, integrating services with various cities/municipalities and provinces to complement local barangay health systems. With healthcare in the Philippines facing rising needs, workforce shortages, and growing reliance on digital solutions, 1Life’s model exemplifies how technology and community-focused strategies can address systemic challenges while improving patient outcomes.

 

"At 1Life, our innovation is simple: healthcare should not be a privilege. It shouldn’t depend on your zip code, your income, or who you know. We innovate for the last mile, for the overlooked, and for the underserved communities that rarely show up in business plans because they’re not always “profitable.”" Namoco said in his speech.

 

Namoco’s vision emphasizes patient-centered care and innovation for social impact. His approach demonstrates how technology and data, grounded in human-centered care, can expand access to quality preventive healthcare in rural and remote communities.

 

The 2026 Mansmith Awards, presented by Mansmith and Fielders, Inc., honor innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term impact. This year, the program expands its recognition with two new distinctions alongside the Mansmith Innovation Awards: the Mansmith Entrepreneur Awards and the Mansmith CEO Lifetime Achievement Awards, celebrating leaders who exemplify sustainable growth and visionary leadership.

 

For more information on 1Life’s technology-enabled healthcare services and community programs, visit https://about.1life.ph/.

Charting New Horizons: Sun Life to Turn Dreams into Destinations this 2026

MANILA, PH – January 2026 – As the new year unfolds, dreams of adventure and exploration are coming true for three lucky Sun Life Philippines Clients who each bagged the grand prize travel voucher worth PHP 100,000 from Sun Life’s Client promos. These winners – Mayyi Daquila, Isadelle De Guzman, and Marvin Abrigo – prove that making bright choices can lead to unforgettable experiences.

 

A Conversation Away from your Dream Destination

In 2025, Sun Life held the Client Connect promo, which aimed to encourage Clients to talk to their advisor and schedule a financial needs analysis session. The prizes included VIP concert tickets at the Sun Life Premier Suite in the Mall of Asia Arena, and the grand prize of a PHP 100,000 travel voucher to any local or Asian destination. Mayyi Daquila, an IT business analyst and a Sun Life Client, was the grand prize winner of the Client Connect promo.

 

For Mayyi, this win became a reassuring sign that there will always be brighter days on the horizon. Months before this win, Mayyi’s mother had a stroke and her father was diagnosed with dementia. As they focused on taking care of Mayyi’s parents, plans of travel had to be put on hold. When she found out that she won the grand prize travel voucher, she invited her parents to join the trip, but they encouraged her to use it with her husband, Henry, and their daughter. “I took this win as a sign that I am allowed to rest and recharge,” said Mayyi. “Even though there are dark days, there will still be brighter days ahead.”

 

 

Brighter Possibilities with the Bright Quiz

Each month, Sun Life sends Clients a trivia question on insurance and investments through its email newsletter. By answering, participants automatically enter the Bright Quiz raffle for a chance to win Giftaway e-vouchers and the grand prize, a PHP 100,000 travel voucher to any local or Asian destination of their choice. Isadelle De Guzman, a senior Java developer and Sun Life Client, won the grand prize of the Bright Quiz promo for 2025.

 

After the pandemic, Isadelle had a desire to travel solo around the world. During this time, she also decided to move out of her family home and embrace her independence. “Now that I’m fully independent, I thought to myself: what else can I do?” Isadelle said. When she found out that she won the grand prize, she initially thought it was too good to be true. However, once it was confirmed that she would be receiving the PHP 100,000 travel voucher, she realized that she was given a fresh opportunity to further explore her independence and the possibilities it brings.

 

New Adventures and Travels for the New Year

 

Last holiday season, Sun Life launched the 12 Days of Christmas Promo to give Clients a chance to win Giftaway e-vouchers, VIP tickets to the Sun Life Premier Suite at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, and the PHP 100,000 travel voucher as the grand prize. All they had to do to join the promo was talk to their advisor and schedule a financial needs analysis session. Marvin Abrigo, a virtual assistant and Sun Life Client, was the grand prize winner of Sun Life’s 12 Days of Christmas promo.

 

Marvin has always had a passion for adventure, travel, and the outdoors. He loves the adrenaline rush of climbing a mountain or a discovering a new place. However, he also knows the value of being secure and having peace of mind. When his mother got sick, he struggled with medical bills and realized the importance of having insurance. “There will be things that happen in our lives that we don’t expect, and we’ll realize how important it is to be secure,” Marvin said. When he became the lucky grand winner of the 12 Days of Christmas promo, he also realized that being secure has its rewards. With this prize, he plans to travel to China and seek out new adventures along with his partner, Anthony.

 

Sun Life champions the importance of financial wellness, recognizing that smart choices can open doors to incredible possibilities. The stories of these three grand winners are a testament to this, showing that with thoughtful planning and a bit of luck, one’s dreams may turn into new destinations. These wins are a reminder that you can enjoy the perks of being a Sun Life Client, even without tapping into your policy.

 

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

Your Next Long Weekend Belongs by the Sea at DIscovery Samal

With multiple long weekends spread across the Philippine calendar in 2026, Discovery Samal invites travelers to plan ahead and make the most of their holiday breaks with its Island Escape offer, designed for restful stays by the sea and unhurried moments in a tropical setting.

Timed with the country’s long weekends throughout the year, the Island Escape promotion allows you to turn short holidays into meaningful island getaways. Whether planned months in advance or reserved for spontaneous breaks, the offer allows guests to experience Discovery Samal’s signature hospitality in a setting defined by calm shores and open spaces.

Where the Weekend Slows Down

The Island Escape offer centers on a comfortable stay in Discovery Samal’s well-appointed suites and villas, designed to complement the natural surroundings of Samal Island. Each stay encourages guests to ease into the day, wake up to coastal views, and enjoy the resort at a measured pace, making it an ideal choice for long weekends meant for rest rather than rush. 

For those seeking light indulgence, a 10 percent discount on spa treatments at Samal Escape Spa opens the door to restorative experiences such as signature hilot massages rooted in Filipino healing traditions, tension-releasing Swedish and deep tissue therapies, and calming body rituals to ease the body into stillness.

Surrounded by lush landscapes and the gentle waters of the Davao Gulf, the resort creates an environment where guests can step away from routine and settle into island living, even within the span of a few days. 

Flavors That Complete the Escape

Long weekend stays at Discovery Samal are paired with dining experiences that bring warmth and familiarity to each visit. Within the Island Escape offer, guests enjoy a welcome drink upon arrival and access to culinary outlets with a 10 percent discount on food and beverage.  

Breakfast unfolds at Shoreline with comforting morning favorites and all-day classics, followed by leisurely afternoons at Morning Catch, where freshly caught seafood and island-inspired dishes take center stage. As the day winds down, Haribar Lounge offers a relaxed setting for signature cocktails and light bites by the sea, while The Bistro offers an intimate dining experience with thoughtfully prepared specialties for unhurried nights.

Framed by the resort’s easy pace and coastal setting, dining experiences become part of the stay, inviting guests to linger without rush and enjoy the calm of island living.

An Island Escape for Every Kind of Holiday

With long weekends appearing across different months in 2026, the Island Escape offer suits a range of travelers, from families planning shared time away to couples seeking intimate breaks and small groups looking for an easy island retreat. As travelers look ahead to the year’s extended weekends, Discovery Samal offers a reason to mark dates early and return to Samal Island whenever time allows.

The Island Escape offer is available at rates starting at Php 30,000 net per room with a minimum two-night stay, inclusive of daily breakfast for two, welcome drinks upon arrival, round-trip land transfers from Davao International Airport, and round-trip boat transfers from the Davao Welcome Center, along with resort access and select dining and spa privileges. More information is available at www.discoverysamal.com/offers/island-escape. For inquiries and reservations, email reservations@discoverysamal.com or call +63 84 308 2998.

Tough Times Call for the OPPO A6 Pro's Tough Tech

When urgent demands collide with unforeseen circumstances, you need a phone built to keep up with everything—from weather changes, accidental bumps, and battery anxiety. The OPPO A6 Pro has you covered, designed to handle spills and drops, and comes with a high battery capacity to keep your hustle moving even in tough times.

Take on the elements, shrug off hard knocks

The OPPO A6 Pro boasts an IP69-rated sealing that locks out dust and stands up to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets, so ports and seams stay intact even after accidental liquid spills or sudden downpours. 

Adding to this is its military-grade shock resistance, built with a reinforced frame, toughened glass, and targeted impact cushions around key components of the device to disperse impact from edge and corner drops. Its structure is stressed across multiple angles and surfaces to curb deformation and micro-fractures, keeping the display, radios, and haptics operating within spec long after each bump. 

Run longer, refuel faster

Large batteries have long been a priority for mobile users who rely on their phones throughout the day. Equipped with a 7,000mAh battery for the OPPO A6 Pro and a 6,500mAh battery for its 5G variant, the device is designed to balance strong performance with efficient power management during heavy usage. It also has reverse wired charging functionality so you can use your OPPO A6 Pro as a handy powerbank when you need to refuel your other devices on the go. 

When battery levels dip between classes and meetings, the 80W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge tops up the battery in just minutes, supported by real-time thermal monitoring, cell protection, and adaptive current control to reduce charging time without placing unnecessary stress on the battery. By managing voltage and heat, the system keeps charging fast while bringing the phone back to a reliable level in no time.

Get the OPPO A6 Pro, tough tech for every day

The OPPO A6 Pro is sealed against the elements, built to take a hit, and made to last through long days. Get it at OPPO stores nationwide or online via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and the official OPPO online store.

OPPO A6 Pro Pricing

OPPO A6 Pro 4G (Coral Pink and Lunar Titanium)

8GB + 256GB - PHP 15,999

OPPO A6 Pro 5G (Coral Pink and Stellar Blue)

6GB + 128GB - PHP 13,999

8GB + 256GB - PHP 18,999

Online Exclusive perks on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok

PHP 500 off OPPO voucher

3 months 0% interest installment via SPayLater

Up to 0% interest installment via LazPayLater

Up to 12 months installment via TikTok PayLater

OPPO Online Store Benefits

The OPPO online store is offering exciting benefits when you purchase the OPPO A6 Pro, with redeemable vouchers using OPPOints via the My OPPO App until February 28, 2026.

PHP 300 voucher – 500 OPPOints

PHP 500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints

PHP 700 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints

Free Shipping

Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty

Postpaid Plans 

Globe GPlan1499 with ZERO Cashout - OPPO A6 Pro 5G (8GB + 256GB)

Smart Signature Plan+999 - OPPO A6 Pro 5G (6GB + 128GB)

Flexible Payment Options

Home Credit - Pay in 6, 9, 12, 15, or 18 months at 0% interest + PHP 500 discount from November 1 to 30 (only for OPPO A6 Pro 4G and OPPO A6 Pro 5G 8GB + 256GB)

Credit Cards - 0% interest for 6 or 12 months on select banks

Know more about the OPPO A6 Pro by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website.

GLoan Makes Borrowing Worry-Free with Free Health and Loan Insurance, Giving Borrowers Extra Protection

Fuse Financing Inc. (Fuse), the lending arm of GCash, is now giving free insurance coverage to GLoan borrowers with GLoan Protect. Available for a limited time, this newest feature provides borrowers with free loan and health insurance for every GLoan disbursement worth a minimum of P500, underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation. This free insurance will waive pending loan balance in case of sudden customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, and provide resources to recover from medical emergencies.

Life and health emergencies can strike unexpectedly. For many Filipinos, sudden medical expenses or unexpected urgent costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Hospitalization and medical costs often result in heavy debt, while the lack of insurance leaves families with limited options to recover financially. 

“Oftentimes, Filipinos don’t think of insurance until it’s too late,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash. “With the free insurance, we’re making sure that every time someone gets a GLoan, they also get a safety net. It’s our way of helping users feel more secure and protected without them having to spend extra.”

By integrating protection into GLoan, GCash—through Fuse and GInsure, the digital insurance platform of GCash with inclusive insurance products across 11 categories including health, life, accident, travel, vehicle, and more —offers borrowers added peace of mind and a safety net against life’s uncertainties.

Under GLoan Protect, the free health insurance covers a hospitalization allowance given to all eligible users who avail of a GLoan worth a minimum amount of P500 moving forward. Users can claim a minimum of P500 or up to 10% of the total loan value when they get confined in the hospital for a minimum stay of 3 days. 

The loan insurance benefit is automatically activated once a customer receives their loan proceeds from GLoan, and coverage remains constant and valid until the end of the loan term even when the customer fully pays off their loan earlier than the loan’s due date. In case of customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, beneficiaries will receive the remaining loan value, and the remaining balance will be waived and settled. 

The policy will automatically appear in the GInsure dashboard, making the process simple and familiar for borrowers. Claims can be filed through the same steps used for other GInsure products. 

“We see this synergy between Fuse and GInsure as part of our mission to reimagine what finance can do for every Filipino,” said Winsley Bangit, group head of new businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “By combining credit and insurance on a single service, we’re pushing the boundaries of digital innovation to give Filipinos not just access to funding, but also the protection they deserve. It’s another step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”

GCash made this initiative possible in partnership with Oona Insurance Corporation, a wholly-owned company by Oona Philippines Holdings Corporation (OPHC), actively expanding into health and digital-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Through this partnership, GCash is bringing essential protection to more Filipinos by integrating coverage directly into its widely used digital services. 

"Our mission at Oona is to make protection part of everyday life, not something out of reach. Partnering with Fuse and GCash shows how insurance can be embedded seamlessly into the financial services people already use, from borrowing to everyday transactions. By making coverage automatic and effortless, we take an important step toward closing the protection gap and ensuring more Filipinos have the security to move forward with confidence.” said Abhishek Bhatia, founder and CEO of Oona Insurance.

This added benefit strengthens GLoan’s role as more than just a lending option. It becomes a tool that provides quick access to funds and supports Filipinos in building resilience against emergencies. 

“This is about giving our users peace of mind,” Isidro said. “When someone takes out a loan, they’re usually thinking about solving an immediate need. By adding free insurance, we’re also helping them prepare for the unexpected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting families from unforeseen circumstances,” Isidro concluded. 

Through this enhanced offering, GCash continues to push its mission of financial inclusion — ensuring more Filipinos have access to services that can improve their financial security in both the short and long term.

GLoan Protect is now available to new GLoan transactions for a limited time starting on January 16 until March 31, 2026. Borrowers should be Filipino citizens, aged 21-65, fully-verified GCash users with a minimum loan approved and disbursed amount of PHP 500, and at least one month loan tenor. 

For more information about GLoan and its free insurance benefit, please visit https://help.gcash.com.