Nature Meets Wellness: PH to Showcase Healthy Products at Indusfood 2026

The Philippines will aim to deliver a strong performance in Indusfood 2026, presenting four capable enterprises with healthy, premium-quality products to the Indian market.

With support from the Department of Trade and Industry-Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM), the Philippine exhibitors for this edition will showcase dried vegetable leaves, tropical snacks, crackers, and processed fruits. These offerings are produced through responsible farming and processing systems, with global certifications affirming their manufacturers’ compliance with food safety and quality standards. The producers draw from the country’s natural strengths—fertile soil, favorable climate, and established agricultural practices—to supply the global market with distinctly Filipino food products.

This participation is part of DTI-CITEM's efforts to create pathways for Philippine products in India, where demand for healthy and natural food continues to rise. 

This year’s exhibitors will be presented at the India Exposition Mart’s International Hall (Hall 1) under the FOODPhilippines banner, a CITEM-led industry branding initiative that promotes the Philippines as a dependable sourcing destination for food and ingredients. 

Innovative enterprises ready for global market

The lineup of Filipino exhibitors includes Dry Tech Manufacturing Corp., which will highlight ready-to-cook dried taro, moringa, lemongrass, and pandan leaves under its Sheentaro brand. The company uses eco-friendly drying technologies and responsible agricultural practices to produce natural, hygienic, pesticide-free ingredients suited to India’s plant-based market.

Also in the group is Monde M.Y. San Corporation, an accomplished Filipino biscuit and cracker manufacturer known for brands such as Skyflakes, Fita, and M.Y. San Grahams. The company uses advanced baking technology to maintain the quality of its goods and to ensure their production processes are sustainable. With over 90 years of experience, Monde M.Y. San will present its Skyflakes Snack Pack, Garlic Snack Pack, and Onion and Chives Snack Pack.

One Vizcaya Export Corporation will highlight sustainably sourced ube powder, calamansi, saba bananas, and fruit bars. Established in 2020, the company aims to supply high-value products that meet India’s growing interest in healthy fruit-based goods.

See’s International Food Manufacturing Corp., maker of Gold Chips banana chips, will feature snacks produced from freshly harvested Philippine bananas. The company highlights its products for India’s growing demand for premium tropical snacks.

Launched in 2017, Indusfood is one of Asia’s prominent food and beverage trade shows, providing a platform for exporters to connect with global buyers and widen their reach. Indusfood 2026 will run from January 8 to 10, 2026 at the India Exposition Mart in Greater Noida.

In addition to supporting enterprises in overseas trade fairs, DTI-CITEM organizes the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines, the Philippines’ largest business-to-business and export-oriented trade show for food, beverage, and ingredients. As the longest-running food sourcing event in the Philippines, IFEX Philippines spotlights premium products from across the regions and positions the country as a dependable supplier in the global market. Co-located within IFEX Philippines is the Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Exhibition and Conference, a platform that showcases innovations, facilitates knowledge exchange, and fosters collaborative solutions that support the country’s development of a circular economy. 

The 19th edition of IFEX Philippines will run from May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

Register as an IFEXConnect exhibitor: https://citem.ph/p/6d5e50

Register as an IFEXConnect trade buyer: https://citem.ph/p/b426fb

 

Catch FOODPhilippines in the following trade fairs: 

 

· Anuga

· China-ASEAN Expo under PARTNERPhilippines

· China International Import Expo

· FOODEX JAPAN

· Gulfood

· Private Label Middle East

· SEOUL FOOD

· SIAL Paris

 

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). CITEM advances the country’s image as a premier sourcing destination for quality export products and services.  

CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export promotion in partnership with other government and private entities

Jobstreet by SEEK Empowers Entrepreneurs at the MSME Summit

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) remain the backbone of the economy, comprising 99.5% of all registered businesses in the Philippines and creating 6 out of every 10 jobs*. While MSMEs offer vital contributions and express readiness to grow, many of them still face barriers, with talent crisis emerging as one of their biggest growth challenges.

In a survey conducted by Boston Consulting Group and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in 2024, 72% of MSME respondents said they want to expand their workforce; 82% want to upskill their current employees. However, the same survey revealed that 46% are experiencing a talent crisis—high demand, but hard to find quality candidates. 

In line with its commitment to equipping not just Filipino jobseekers but also business owners, Jobstreet by SEEK rolled out its MSME Summit, an initiative aimed at empowering them to grow, compete, and thrive in a dynamic business landscape.

In partnership with SM for MSMEs, the event at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall brought together MSME owners and industry leaders to discuss key challenges, opportunities, and strategies to growing your business, and make the hiring process easier and safer in finding the right candidates for their businesses. 

The MSME Summit was organized to equip MSME owners with the knowledge and tools to strengthen their business operations through workshops and learning sessions about marketing, logistics, digital platforms, and finance from different business and marketing thought leaders.

“Jobstreet by SEEK believes that every thriving economy is built on the shoulders of its resilient and growing MSMEs. By empowering them through events like the MSME Summit, we’re not only helping their businesses grow and connecting them with the right talent but also fueling job creation and strengthening the local employment,” said Dannah Majarocon, Jobstreet by SEEK’s Managing Director in the Philippines.

Free job posting on a legitimate job platform

To help minimize talent crisis among MSMEs, Jobstreet by SEEK urged business owners to utilize legitimate job platforms, as hiring scams continue to rise on social media platforms. Hiring platforms not only protect your business and reputation but also ensure that you reach the right and active jobseekers seeking opportunities.

To start with, MSME owners may take the first step in looking for candidates through its “SMEasy sa Jobstreet” initiative. This highlights its free and user-friendly job posting feature, making it easier for MSME owners to post a job ad on the job platform, with the potential of reaching thousands of talents from its nearly 14-million candidate user base nationwide.

For more information about Jobstreet by SEEK’s efforts for MSMEs, visit jobstreet.com.ph or their official Facebook page @JobstreetPH.

GCash Connects Filipino Values to Global Relevance at BrandCon PH 2025

As Filipino brands embrace culture both as an identity and a bridge to global relevance, industry leaders are calling for innovation rooted in authenticity and purpose.

 

This was the key message at the inaugural BrandCon PH 2025, organized by The Business Manual (One Mega Group). With the theme “Building Brands that Move the Nation Forward,” the event emphasized how cultural insight, brand longevity, and innovation can collectively drive sustainable growth and nation-building.

 

Among the leading voices at the event was GCash, the country’s leading finance app, with chief marketing officer Neil Trinidad sharing how the brand’s deep understanding of the Filipino culture has shaped its identity, guided innovation, and strengthened its global resonance.

 

“Money is a sensitive topic in the Philippines,” Neil shared. “But values like belongingness, progress, and bayanihan helped shape our identity. These became the lens through which GCash built its brand—guiding our rise as the country’s first $5-billion unicorn.”

 

He added, “For tech brands, you're always looking for a problem to solve. What friction or problem do our consumers have that no one else is addressing today? If you're able to understand that problem, you're able to create a solution, test it right away, improve on it, and then you're actually adding value to their lives. And therefore, you become indispensable in their everyday lives.”

 

This perspective led to innovations like GLoan Sakto—a micro-loan service allowing users to borrow as little as ₱100, payable within 14 days and with zero interest. By designing products that answer real, everyday needs, the idea of borrowing money is reframed  —from a source of shame into an act of diskarte, empowering users to take control of their finances without stigma.

 

Beyond product innovation, Neil emphasized how culture provides the foundation for sustainable brand growth. By aligning solutions with values that matter to Filipinos, GCash has been able to scale quickly while maintaining deep local resonance.

 

“When you root your brand in culture and purpose, you don’t just speak to local audiences—you create something the world wants to be part of. That’s how Filipino brands can thrive on the global stage,” Neil concluded.

 

The first-ever BrandCon PH brought together brand builders, marketers, advertisers, agency leads, creatives, and founders to explore how businesses can stay relevant, resilient, purposeful, and ready to lead—while helping shape Filipino culture and identity in today’s fast-paced and competitive market.

 

Joining the conversation were industry leaders from Unilever, the global consumer goods powerhouse behind some of the world’s most trusted brands; GIGIL, the multi-awarded independent creative agency renowned for its daring, culture-shaping campaigns; Pickup Coffee, the fast-rising homegrown brand making quality coffee more accessible to Filipinos; and Baken, the innovative local food brand gaining a loyal following for its playful take on an everyday favorite.

 

By keeping cultural insight at the heart of its strategy, GCash continues to design solutions that reflect Filipino values—helping people move forward and allowing local identity to resonate on the global stage.

 

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

 

Anko Celebrates One Year of Home, Joy, and Brighter Living in the Philippines

7 November 2025, Manila, Philippines —  A year ago, Australia's beloved home and lifestyle brand, Anko, opened its first door in the Philippines, promising to blend Australian creativity with Filipino warmth. Fast forward to today, and the brand is not just a newcomer but a vibrant part of countless Filipino homes, recently celebrating its first anniversary with a weekend of festivities that underscored its growing connection with the community.

The celebration kicked off on November 7, 2025, at the Palm Drive Activity Center in Ayala Malls Glorietta 2, transforming the space into a hub of birthday and holiday cheer. Shoppers who signed up for the Anko Club were treated to a fun-filled day of immersive experiences, including festive photo spots, interactive gifting zones, and a special bonding moment with brand ambassador and actress Anne Curtis.

The festivities continued throughout the weekend with engaging creative workshops across Anko stores in Ayala Malls TriNoma, Alabang Town Center, and Manila Bay. These sessions—featuring gift wrapping, calligraphy, and more—inspired shoppers to craft personal and meaningful holiday gifts, aligning with Anko's spirit of thoughtfulness and its appreciation for the warm support from the Filipino community over the year.

A Brighter First Year

Since its arrival, Anko has stayed true to its promise to make everyday living brighter with well-designed, affordable products across key categories such as home, kitchen, toys, beauty, and pet essentials. To keep the shopping experience fresh and inspiring, the brand ensures new items arrive every week, allowing shoppers to constantly discover the trendiest finds with irresistible prices. This year also saw an exciting expansion into the small appliances category, offering even more ways for Filipinos to elevate their daily routines.

The response has fueled rapid expansion, growing from one to four thriving stores in Ayala Malls Glorietta, TriNoma, Alabang Town Center, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay, with a fifth branch soon to open at Ayala Malls Feliz.

“It’s been such an exciting and fulfilling first year. We launched Anko with the goal of offering quality, design, and affordability all in one place, and the response from Filipino shoppers has been incredible, which inspired us to move forward,” shares Rachel Turner, Country Manager of Anko Philippines.

Throughout the year, Anko focused on building a deep connection with its growing community, celebrating love, family, and togetherness through thoughtfully curated campaigns and in-store experiences. From intimate events to creative workshops, the brand ensures every moment resonates with the goal of creating bright, thoughtful, and functional spaces that bring people together.

To offer constant inspiration, Anko unveils its Christmas lookbook (www.anko.com/ph/lookbook/), providing Filipinos with beautifully styled visual guides for incorporating the brand’s affordable, on-trend pieces into their homes and fresh gifting ideas to loved ones this holiday season.

Beyond its physical stores, Anko nurtures a vibrant digital community. The Anko Club has rapidly grown to over 34,000 members, where they enjoy exclusive perks, early access to collections, and everyday design inspiration through the dedicated app.

Anko also continues to champion creativity and authenticity through its Ko-Creator Program, partnering with local content creators who share the brand’s passion for design and storytelling. This program also serves as a platform for creators to showcase their talent, grow their craft, and build their own success stories.

An Even Brighter Future

As Anko enters its second year, the brand remains steadfast in its mission to make everyday living brighter for Filipino families. The warm reception and positive feedback from customers over the past year have shaped the brand’s journey, fueling its growth from one store to a growing community of Filipinos who share a love for home, style, and everyday living.

“For us, growth is about more than opening new stores — it’s about enriching the experience,” Turner shares. “We want every Anko store to feel like a place where Filipinos can find inspiration, comfort, and joy,” she added.

With more store openings, creative collaborations, and family-centered campaigns ahead, Anko is committed to continuing its journey of bringing Australian design and Filipino heart together.

Be part of Anko’s next chapter by joining the Anko Club at www.anko.com/anko-club, or by downloading the app for first access to new collections, exclusive perks, and the brand’s upcoming events and collaborations. Stay inspired by following @anko_philippines on Instagram and TikTok.

SM BULACAN MALLS ILLUMINATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH GRAND CHRISTMAS CENTERPIECES

SM Bulacan malls celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with the grand unveiling of their captivating Christmas centerpieces, officially ushering in the holiday season in the province.

Mallgoers are treated to a classic festive journey as SM Bulacan malls transform their atriums into a majestic Christmas attraction, embellished with the iconic Holiday Grand Red Ribbon, symbolizing joy, unity, and the true spirit of the Yuletide season.

SM City Marilao unwraps a 36-ft Christmas tree inspired by the ‘Holiday Symphony.’ Showcasing an enchanted forest of stylized rotating Christmas trees, the centerpiece shines bright with a modern sparkle—glistering lights and classic ornaments ascend in graceful harmony, together with the hanging trees with branches dressed in shimmering ornaments and cascading curtain lights.

Meanwhile, SM City Baliwag reveals the ‘Holiday Tale,’ a mystical Christmas centerpiece that exudes whimsical wonders. Built with a marvelous 30-ft Christmas tree, the attraction is surrounded by gnomes, reindeer, gift boxes, and magical candles.

SM Center Pulilan, on the other hand, unveils the ‘Wrapped Christmas Wonders.’ This year’s theme captures the concept of holiday festivities and gift-giving, highlighted by a classic 30-ft Christmas tree. Shoppers will feel every inch of the Yuletide season as the centerpiece showcases marvelous stacks of giant gift boxes, mini trees, and reindeer.

In line with the launch of the holiday centerpieces, SM malls in Marilao and Baliwag introduce the SM Besties of Joy. For every two pieces of bear purchased, one will be given to a community charity, spreading warmth and comfort this holiday season.

SM is making the holidays extra meaningful as the malls celebrate “100 Days of Kindness”—a nationwide campaign that brings cheer, joy, and generosity to millions of Filipinos.

Until December 25, SM will feature daily videos on its digital platforms featuring touching and inspiring acts of kindness through the “100 Days of Kindness” campaign, where shoppers may experience random acts of kindness such as surprise treats, warm greetings, and delightful gifts.

The coming days will be merrier as SM Bulacan malls celebrate Christmas in full swing with festivities, Christmas markets, and entertainment the malls have in store all throughout the holiday season.

For updates, visit the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag.

Innovative Filipino Minds Drive Digital Progress During the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo

Manila, Philippines — The Byte Forward Hackathon 2025 concluded with an inspiring showcase of innovation and collaboration as young Filipino students competed in the Grand Finals held during the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) at the SMX Convention Center.

Organized by Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and Rev21 Labs, under the auspices of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the nationwide hackathon brought together  Filipino tech talent from across the country to develop digital solutions that address real-world business challenges. From 200 participants across 5 regional rounds, 15 finalists advanced to the national stage to showcase how Filipino creativity and technology can shape a smarter, more connected future.

“In launching the Hackathon, we wanted to partner with the largest economic force in the country — our SMEs. They drive so much of our economy and we believe that once we connect these businesses to strong digital infrastructure, they’ll have the power to ideate, build, and innovate. Over the last six months, through our partnership with PCCI, we’ve seen this play out. We took real business challenges from SMEs across the country and gave them to students — and the ideas that came back were nothing short of inspiring,” shared Rev 21 CEO Ron Puno.

After intensive rounds of pitching and live demos,  Team TECHMEHOW2DOUGIE from De La Salle University Manila emerged as the Grand Winner for their project  Caya, an AI-powered inventory assistant that helps small business owners make smarter restocking decisions. When an item runs out of stock, Caya automatically evaluates its profitability, negotiates with suppliers and initiates restocking, or recommends reducing or discontinuing purchases -- turning complex business data into clear, actionable insights for entrepreneurs.

“I would really encourage aspiring developers to join hackathons because you learn so much from the experience,” said Christina Sijera, one of the members of the winning team. “There’s no major risk if you don’t win, but there’s so much to gain—opportunities, growth, and learning. Byte Forward stood out for its strong support system, access to tools, and valuable mentoring and networking opportunities.”

“Don’t let fear get in the way," added teammate Brendan Castillo. “Anyone can think of a great idea, but it’s easy to doubt if it’s really doable or achievable in a short time. You’ll never know until you try.”

Second place went to Team  K-MAS from the University of the Philippines – Mindanao, while Team CABUYAO from the University of Cabuyao placed third. Each team presented forward-thinking projects that demonstrated the vast potential of Filipino tech talent to create real impact through technology.

Beyond the competition, the hackathon featured workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities designed to sharpen participants’ skills and connect them with industry professionals. It also served as a platform for collaboration between students, tech experts, and business leaders to turn innovative ideas into impactful solutions.

“The Byte Forward Hackathon reflects our belief that Filipino innovators have the creativity and drive to transform communities through technology. By supporting programs like this,  we’re helping bridge digital gaps and empowering the next generation to lead in the country’s digital transformation,” said Converge CEO and 51st PBC&E Chairman, Mr. Dennis Anthony Uy.

The event was supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, further solidifying the collaborative ecosystem driving digital innovation in the Philippines.

Empowering young developers to build real solutions not only strengthens local businesses but also supports our shared goal of inclusive, technology-driven growth. This kind of collaboration is what truly moves the nation forward,” added Consul Enunina V. Mangio, PCCI President.

The Byte Forward Hackathon is part of Converge SME Solutions’ initiatives to strengthen the country’s tech ecosystem by providing platforms that inspire innovation, encourage collaboration, and develop digital solutions aligned with the government’s digitalization goals.

E-wallet Use Jumps 75% in Sari-Sari Stores, Fueling Digital Transformation - Packworks Report

24 October 2025 Manila, Philippines — Sari-sari stores are rapidly digitalizing their operations, driven by a significant increase in e-wallet use, according to a new report from Filipino tech startup Packworks.

The report used their internal transaction records as the starting point to conduct a direct survey of more than 2,000 sari-sari store owners within Packworks' nationwide network of 300,000+ stores from January to August 2025.

According to the data, half of the store owners surveyed reported a 75% increase in e-wallet usage in their store operations between January and August. The remaining respondents also saw substantial growth: 20% experienced a 100% increase in usage, another 20% saw a 50% increase, and 10% reported a 10% rise.

Store owners largely attribute this growing adoption to increased consumer demand, as their customers are also turning to e-wallets to buy goods, access funds, and settle bills at their local stores. 

“Maraming nang nagpapa-cash-in at cash-out at bumibili gamit ang mga e-wallet. Dahil dumarami, gusto namin masabayan ang pangangailangan nila. Nakakatulong din naman ito sa amin para magkaroon kami ng dagdag kita,” (A lot of our customers are making cash-in and cash-out transactions aside from buying products with e-wallets. Since more customers are using them, we want to keep up with their needs. It also helps us earn a little extra), said Marijane Rea, a sari-sari store owner from Laguna.

Store owners are using e-wallets for a variety of business operations. About 40% use the platforms for in-store payments, 30% for bill payments, and the remaining 30% for cash-in and cash-out transactions.

This digital shift is quickly becoming a critical source of revenue. Around 13% of store owners say their e-wallet earnings equal their revenue from physical goods. Among the rest of the respondents, e-wallets still contribute significantly: 66% say that about 20% of their revenues come from e-wallet use, and the remaining 21% say their e-wallet earnings account for 10% of their total revenue.

GCash and Maya are the widely used e-wallets, with 85% of store owners reporting using GCash for their business transactions and 15% using Maya.

“Bukod sa kita namin sa tindahan, nagkaroon kami ng dagdag kita sa paggamit sa mga e-wallet kasi meron kaming tubo na PHP 10 hanggang PHP 20 sa pag-cash-in at cash-out, o di kaya tuwing nagbabayad ng kuryente, tubig, o internet ang mga customer,” (Besides the income we earn from the store, we also get extra earnings from using e-wallets because we earn a profit of PHP 10 to PHP 20 from cash-in and cash-out transactions, or whenever customers pay for electricity, water, or internet bills), said Rachel Miguel, a store owner from Bacolod. 

To increase their transaction capacity and meet surging customer demand, sari-sari stores are strategically using up to five e-wallet accounts. According to the report, with each account having a monthly limit of PHP 100,000 to PHP 500,000, the combined monthly transaction capacity is up to PHP 3.5 million.

This trend supports the 30% of store owners’ interest in upgrading their e-wallets to business accounts to maintain a higher monthly limit of PHP 1 million.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas indicated that approximately 57% of total retail transactions were cashless in 2024, highlighting the increasing use of digital payments for everyday purchases and financial transactions.

Packworks Chief Platform Officer Hubert Yap highlights that sari-sari stores are rapidly embracing digital tools such as e-wallets to diversify their services and grow their businesses.

“The surge in e-wallet use proves that sari-sari stores are rapidly evolving into vital digital hubs for their communities. Aside from simply selling 'tingi' physical items, they are now diversifying their product range, offering high-margin, value-added financial services and integrating digital tools such as our app to fundamentally improve their operations and function as near-frictionless nano-banks for the neighborhoods they serve. These findings show that sari-sari stores have been at the forefront leading this digital transformation at the grassroots level,” cited Yap, “And there's an urgent need to support these micro-entrepreneurs with the right fintech to ensure they can fully capitalize on this opportunity, as they often say in sari-stores, a peso saved is a peso earned!” 

For more studies and data trends insights in sari-sari stores, you may visit http://packworks.io/ or Packworks’ Facebook page to learn more.

2GO Opens New NAIA Road Store Ahead of the Holiday Travel and Shipping Rush

MANILA, Philippines, 22 October 2025 – 2GO, the Philippines’ leading logistics and travel solutions provider, has opened a new store along NAIA Road to serve travelers, senders, and nearby businesses with greater convenience.

 

Located at the CAEMC Commercial Building near Park and Fly, the 2GO NAIA Road Store offers a full range of retail logistics services, including parcel and document express delivery, extra baggage and cargo shipping within the Philippines or abroad, as well as 2GO Travel booking and ticket purchases.

 

“We’re thrilled to bring 2GO closer to our customers who are always on the go,” said Blessie Cruz, Vice President and Business Unit Head for 2GO Retail. “This new location makes it easier for travelers and residents to access our shipping and travel services right before heading to the airport.”

 

To mark the opening, 2GO is offering 10% off on all domestic and international shipments until October 31, 2025.

 

As the holiday season approaches, 2GO has expanded its store network and optimized its air, land, and sea logistics to meet the expected surge in travel and delivery demand.

 

“Every Christmas season, our goal is to keep families connected and businesses moving,” added Cruz. “Whether you’re sending gifts, shipping goods, or traveling to your favorite destinations like the newly-launched Manila-Siargao weekly services, 2GO is ready to deliver care and convenience.”

 

Customers can visit the new store by searching CAEMC Commercial Bldg., NAIA Road (near Park and Fly) on navigation apps.

 

For updates and promotions, follow facebook.com/2GOExpressInc.

UNISOL x NICKY RICE: Workwear Meets Culture in New Capsule Debuting at Manila FAME 2025

Cebu, Philippines – October 17, 2025 – UNISOL, a Cebu-based workwear outfitter known for its people-first ethos and proudly local production, is unveiling a special capsule in collaboration with Nicky Rice, a rising name in contemporary Cebuano design.

Debuting at Manila FAME 2025 (Oct 16–18, World Trade Center Metro Manila), the UNISOL x NICKY RICE capsule reimagines uniforms as modern statements of culture, identity, and everyday strength.

“It’s not about being loud—it’s about being rooted,” says Nicky Rice, whose design philosophy quietly honors place, texture, and narrative. “This collection is for people who show up, do the work, and carry their story in what they wear.”

The capsule blends contemporary silhouettes with subtle nods to Cebuano heritage—think textural weaves, custom trims, regionally inspired palettes, and storytelling in the small details. Built in Cebu, the pieces are durable, adaptable, and refined—workwear that feels as confident off the clock as it does on.

“This collab proves that uniforms aren’t just functional—they can be expressive, proudly Filipino, and emotionally resonant,” says UNISOL founder and CEO Jonas Kee Quilantang. “It’s our answer to global brands with local soul.”

The collaboration aligns with UNISOL’s broader vision: creating purpose-driven clothing that supports Filipino craftsmanship while giving teams—from hospitality to government—a sense of pride and cohesion.

Limited runs will be available for co-creation—with customizable options for trims, brand marks, and regional cues. Visitors to Manila FAME can explore the collection, meet the creators, and discuss how their teams can wear workwear that tells their story.

Immerse into Evening Thrillers and the Black Swan Soirée this Halloween at Solaire Resort North

Step into a world of the unknown this Halloween where a bounty of the dark, thrilling side of life anticipates your arrival at Solaire Resort North. Revel in the nightly elegance of the Black Swan Halloween Soirée atop Quezon City this October 31st where the moon-lit horizon surrounds you for an electrifying evening of mystery and spirits ready to be unleashed with each sip.

The spirits beckon

Heed the Black Swan’s call this Halloween at Solaire Resort North where a night of sophisticated mystery awaits partygoers. Spirits are unleashed this October 31 as Skybar partners with Bacardí Philippines to create exclusive and exciting new cocktails just for everyone this Halloween.

Let the revelry begin for Php 1,000++ per person, with unlimited servings of boldly delicious cocktails and delicately curated luxury bottle packages made for a night of exhilaration. Immerse yourself in a darkly glamorous atmosphere on a rooftop by the stars where you can toast, mingle, and dance at this one-night-only event.

Unleash the darkness this Halloween

Let loose at Skybar and dance along to the exhilarating beats of DJ Eva Smalls ready to guide you through an evening of otherworldly energy. Sway and move to the beat of each rhythm and unleash your spirit this Halloween. Slip into your best Black Swan-inspired outfit for the night and indulge in the dark.

For more of a thriller, visit Quezon Club in your best costume, where the evening lines up a tantalizing set of acts to spice up your Friday festivities. From a beguiling performance on the harp by French-Vietnamese harpist and singer Heloise La Harpe, an energetic dance routine by Quezon Club’s own in-house performers the Quezon Collective, high-octane beats by DJ Brenda Muñoz and DJ Earl Austin, all the way to a special performance by renowned impersonator, Daryl “MJ” Jackson to take you back to the past this Halloween.

For reservations and inquiries, visit sn.solaireresort.com/offers/dining/skybar-spirits-unleashed, call +632 8888 8888 or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com to book your table and give into the call of the night full of thrillers and mysteries this Halloween.

UNISOL Shines at Manila FAME: Revolutionizing Uniforms with Filipino Heritage and Sustainability

​UNISOL is not your typical uniform company. The Cebu-based, tech-driven apparel company is on a mission to bring much-needed innovation to a "very backwards" industry. Making a strong appearance at Manila FAME 2025, UNISOL (short for Uniform Solutions) introduced their vision for workwear that is stylish, sustainable, and deeply rooted in Filipino culture.

​

Weaving Culture into the Fabric

​The brand's exciting new line, the "Chameleon" collection, is designed for companies and organizations looking for uniforms for 2026. The collection is more than just clothes—it's a conscious effort to preserve local culture by embodying designs and inspirations from different regions of the Philippines. As part of this initiative, they unveiled their Lapu-Lapu heritage collection, inspired by Cebu, the home province of the legendary hero.

​Sustainable and Proudly Local

​UNISOL anchors its product line on sustainability and Filipino pride. Their collection prominently features local fabrics like piña (pineapple fiber), ensuring compliance with the Philippine Tropical Fabric (PTF) Law. This commitment supports the local textile economy and encourages government offices, LGUs, and companies to choose locally sourced materials. They are also actively developing products using other Filipino fibers, including abaca, banana, and cotton.

​

A Brand with a Social Mission

​Beyond fashion and sustainability, UNISOL has a powerful social component. The company was founded to address a labor problem in Cebu, a hub for international contract manufacturing. When international brand contracts expire, many highly skilled seamsters are let go. UNISOL stepped in to provide a second employment opportunity to these skilled, unemployed workers, ensuring the local ecosystem remains alive and thriving.

​Their ultimate vision is simple yet ambitious: to become the go-to brand for workwear. By collaborating with contemporary designers like Nick Rice, they ensure their products are not just functional but are also "truly Filipino," high-quality, and versatile enough for workers to wear outside of their jobs.

​UNISOL is actively seeking collaborations and partnerships for 2026 uniform requirements. You can reach them through their website at unisol.ph or their social media pages.

​The video can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnGxS7jxeGA

Globe Strengthens Bacolod’s 5G Network as the City of Smiles Celebrates MassKara Festival 2025

BACOLOD CITY, October 2025 – As Bacolod celebrates the MassKara Festival, Globe powers the celebration with reliable, high-speed 5G connectivity, underscoring its strong support for the City of Smiles.

More than a celebration of music and masks, MassKara represents the Bacolodnon spirit of resilience and optimism. This same spirit drives Globe to keep building stronger, faster, and more meaningful connections that enable progress and empower communities.

“MassKara is all about joy, connection, and resilience, the same values that define Globe,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe. “We’re proud to bring world-class connectivity, including Globe 5G, to Bacolod, so everyone can share their stories, celebrate, and go forward together.”

This year, Globe is ensuring that every smile and every story from MassKara can be shared in real time through expanded 5G coverage across Bacolod City. To support the surge of festival-goers, the company has boosted network capacity through additional broadband lines in major activity zones, including Lacson Street, SM Bacolod, Robinsons, Paglaum Sports Complex, and the Public Plaza. These enhancements guarantee smooth livestreams, quick uploads, and seamless connectivity throughout the celebrations.

Bacolod and Negros Occidental now have more than 300 Globe cell sites, including 5G, providing fast and dependable coverage across the province. In 2025, Globe is expanding further with more than 30 5G improved sites, reinforcing Bacolod’s position as a 5G-powered digital hub in the Visayas.

Across Negros Oriental, Globe operates over 100 sites, bringing the total to nearly 600 Globe cell sites across the island. This makes Negros one of the most connected provinces in the country, supporting both everyday life and large-scale events like MassKara.

To complement its network upgrades, Globe is enhancing the festival experience through the GlobeOne app, which serves as an all-in-one digital companion for visitors. From October 17 to 19, festival-goers can drop by the Globe Festival Experiential Platform along Lacson Street to spin the “Wheel You Win,” redeem Globe Rewards for personalized MassKara merchandise, join the GFiber’Oke and enjoy fun games and raffles.

Arriving passengers at the Bacolod-Silay Airport from October 13 to 17 are also welcomed by Globe SIM booths, helping them stay connected from the moment they land. The celebration peaks on October 17 with the G Music Fest at Capitol Lagoon, featuring performances by The Dukes, Earl Agustin, and Infinite Ridge, bringing together locals and visitors for a night of music, smiles, and connection.

Globe’s partners GCash, Jollibee and Pettr add more excitement through on-ground activities, prizes, and exclusive experiences that make MassKara brighter and more connected than ever.

As the festivities conclude, Globe’s network continues to drive Bacolod’s growth in tourism, education, retail, and logistics. With each new 5G build, Globe helps ensure that the city’s smiles stay connected, strong, and future-ready.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Security Bank Economic Forum 2025: Navigating Tariffs, trade, and ASEAN’s Next Moves

Makati, Philippines, October 16, 2025—Now in its 15th year, the Security Bank Economic Forum continues to be a premier platform for business and investors to understand trends driving growth and opportunity across ASEAN. This year’s theme, “Trump, trade, and the impact on ASEAN,” zeroes in on how shifting US trade and tariff policies are reshaping the region’s economic outlook and influencing strategies for resilience and growth.

“Global shifts—from US trade policies to geopolitical tensions—continue to reshape the flow of goods, capital, and talent. For Philippine businesses, these translate into real challenges such as supply chain disruptions and investment uncertainties,” said Cirilo P. Noel, Security Bank Chairman.  “At Security Bank, our BetterBanking promise means going beyond financial services to empower clients with insights that help them navigate complexity, adapt with resilience, and seize opportunities,” he added.

The forum featured thought leaders offering timely perspectives on the evolving global landscape. 

Curtis S. Chin, former U.S. Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank and Senior Advisor for Global Markets at the Milken Institute, explored how US trade and tariff policies under President Donald Trump are influencing ASEAN economies, and redefining partnerships.

“As geopolitical tensions rise, businesses must understand both the risks and opportunities of this new era. Tariffs and trade are not just economic issues—they shape the future of cooperation and competition in the region,” said Chin. “However, we should never forget that progress in any nation is ultimately up to its own leaders, its own citizens, its own businesses, its own communities, its civil society. Whoever is president of the United States or any other outside nation should be no excuse for not moving forward.”

Dr. Cielito F. Habito, former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, unpacked the implications of shifting global policies on the Philippine economy—emphasizing strategies for resilience and inclusive growth.

“Many see opportunities for the Philippines along with the clear threats from tectonic shifts in the global financial and economic landscape, but in the end, we could well be our own worst enemy in navigating through all the changes happening,” Dr. Habito said. “We need fundamental policy and institutional reforms to avoid the real threats to the nation’s future arising from self-inflicted weaknesses, especially in our most basic assets: our people and our land.”

“Uncertainty is not an excuse to stand still. It’s a call for clarity, agility, and purpose.,” said Sanjiv Vohra, Security Bank President and CEO. “Forums like this embody our BetterBanking promise—bringing together ideas, connections, and strategies that help clients thrive amid change.”

The 15th Security Bank Economic Forum reaffirms the Bank’s commitment to fostering dialogue that drives informed decision-making. By convening global and local experts, the Bank continues to provide actionable insights that equip businesses to navigate volatility with confidence and purpose.

BetterBanking means being ready for what’s next. Learn more at www.securitybank.com.

The Truth About Retirement: What You Need to Know

Retirement is a chapter in life that many look forward to, yet few are truly prepared for. 

An online survey by Sun Life Asia across the Philippines, mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia Singapore, and Vietnam conducted in July 2024 revealed that 21% of retirees in the Philippines had not planned their retirement expenses and close to half express regret over past financial decisions, with 73% saying they have not saved enough for retirement.

Today, many Filipinos live well into their seventies, and many may outlive their retirement savings, as the cost of living doubles approximately every eight to 10 years, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Additionally, major illnesses that come with age can deplete years of hard-earned savings.

These realities highlight the urgent need to plan early. To guide Filipinos on this journey, Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (SLGFI) recently hosted a webinar, “Pamana, Property, and Peace of Mind: Retirement and Asset Planning for Every Filipino.”

The session addressed common misconceptions that often prevent Filipinos from prioritizing retirement and estate planning:

1. “I’m too young to start.” 

One is never too young to start preparing for retirement. The key is time – starting early allows your savings and investments to grow through compounding, where earnings generate more earnings. Waiting too long could also lead to higher costs, as insurance premiums tend to increase with age.

2. “I don’t have assets to protect.”

Some believe estate planning is only for the rich. In truth, even modest savings, pensions, life insurance, or a small family home, are worth safeguarding. Retirement planning is about protecting what you’ve worked hard for to ensure your family’s security in the future.

3. “My children will take care of me in the future.”

It’s common for Filipino parents to assume their children will support them in their old age. However, by the time one retires, children often have families and responsibilities of their own. Depending solely on them can create financial and emotional burdens, which can lead to strained relationships in the family.

4. “I’ll plan later when I have more money.”

Accidents and emergencies can happen anytime. Planning for the future now gives families protection and peace of mind early on. Plus, one does not need a significant amount of money to start planning for retirement. Small steps such as creating an emergency fund, writing a will, or designating beneficiaries can already make a difference.

5. “Planning is too complicated and only for experts.”

While legal and financial terms may sound overwhelming, the first steps are simple: organize financial and legal documents, grow your savings, secure basic insurance, and communicate openly with family members to avoid disputes in the future. These actions provide ample protection for the retiree and their family without requiring expert knowledge.

Sun Life Grepa’s Commitment

Life insurance plays a vital role in retirement and estate planning because it provides instant liquidity that helps families handle estate taxes and legal fees without added financial strain. 

Recognizing this need, Sun Life Grepa offers these solutions that help Filipinos prepare for retirement and protect what matters most—their family and legacy:

Sun Grepa Secure Income: A life insurance product that offers guaranteed yearly payouts, offering a stable income stream during one's retirement years plus scheduled lump sum bonuses at advanced ages to support other needs.  

Sun Grepa Legacy: A protection and savings plan that helps preserve wealth and ensures a smooth transfer to loved ones through guaranteed benefits. It provides lifetime insurance coverage and annual cash benefits that can serve as extra income during retirement, while also securing funds to help heirs settle estate taxes.  

Sun Grepa Power Builder 1: A one-time payment plan that combines guaranteed life insurance protection with flexible investment options. It allows funds to grow faster with no upfront charges and comes with guaranteed acceptance. 

Retirement and asset planning may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, every Filipino can enjoy their golden years with independence, dignity, and comfort. 

For more information on retirement and estate planning solutions, talk to a Sun Life Grepa advisor or visit www.sunlifegrepa.com.