PLDT Home: Free Calls to Filipinos in Middle East

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In times of uncertainty, the sound of a loved one’s voice gives more than comfort. As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, PLDT Home is committed to ensuring that families remain connected when it matters most.

To help Filipino families navigate these uncertain times, PLDT Home has activated free International Direct Dial (IDD) calls for subscribers in the Philippines who need to reach loved ones in affected regions.

From March 1 to 7, PLDT Home subscribers can make free international calls from their landlines to the countries with the following area codes:

• Bahrain: +973
• Kuwait: +965
• Iraq: +964
• Oman: +968
• Qatar: +974
• Saudi Arabia: +966
• United Arab Emirates: +971
• Israel: +972
• Iran: +98

To make an IDD call, subscribers must dial "00" (exit code) + country code + area/mobile code + phone number when placing the call. There’s no limit to the number of calls a subscriber can make per day and each call may last up to 30 minutes.

By waiving these international charges, PLDT Home ensures that families in the Philippines can connect, reassure, and update their loved ones abroad without the burden of cost.

PLDT Chairman, President and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan announced the support through an X post saying, "The marching order is to make it easy for our countrymen to reach their loved ones and vice versa.”

The PLDT Group has also activated its 24/7 Smart crisis hotline for those who need to connect with their loved ones at home at +63288457799 or call the DMW-OWWA 1348 hotline for free through PLDT Global’s TinBo app for overseas Filipinos.

Revived by true love’s kiss: Ballet Manila opens PRIMA Performance Season with beloved fairy tale classic Sleeping Beauty

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A kingdom waits, a princess sleeps, and a curse lingers until love breaks through. This March, Ballet Manila opens its PRIMA Performance Season with Sleeping Beauty, the final offering of the Princess Trilogy Series. Audiences can experience Aurora’s journey from enchantment to awakening on March 13 at 8:00 p.m., and on March 14 and 15 at 5:00 p.m. at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City. All performances will feature the Manila Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Alexander Vikulov,

The stories of fairy-tale princesses have been told across generations, and with Ballet Manila’s adaptation, they are brought to life through dance. With every leap and turn, the company has embodied the grace, innocence and gentleness of the beloved princesses. Making this season’s Sleeping Beauty special is the fact that it will be directed and choreographed by no less than Ballet Manila’s Artistic Director and CEO, Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

For Lisa, the finale is a moment of delight: “What excites me in this production is how Sleeping Beauty finally completes our Princess Trilogy. It feels like all the stories we’ve been telling are coming together in one magical universe.”

She also enthused on special appearances of the other princesses in Sleeping Beauty , “In this iteration of Sleeping Beauty, Aurora will be joined by Cinderella and Snow White on stage, so it’s really fun to think about having them together in the stage”.

The conclusion of the Princess Trilogy also comes at a meaningful time. The Manila Symphony Orchestra quietly marks its centennial year, a reminder of how music and dance have stood together in shaping Philippine culture.” It is such a delight that we are performing with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, playing the original music of Tchaikovsky makes it even more special and I look forward to sharing this with everyone.” said Lisa.

Manila Symphony Orchestra president Maan Hontiveros reflects on the collaboration, noting this milestone reminds us that music feeds the soul, and when joined with ballet, it creates a legacy that endures.

“Lisa has been a steadfast supporter of the orchestra, and her vision has helped bring this partnership to life in ways that honor both tradition and innovation.” said Hontiveros.

While Ballet Manila has been collaborating with Manila Symphony Orchestra since 2011, their support for each other never waned: “Lisa has always been in the life of Manila Symphony Orchestra. While there was a hiatus during the pandemic, it was very timely that we’re back doing a joint performance once again as we celebrate our 100th year. We’re grateful to Lisa and Fred (Elizalde) who are ever-present in our performances.”

The Princess Trilogy’s finale with Sleeping Beauty marks not only the completion of Ballet Manila’s ambitious storytelling arc but also a celebration of collaboration between dance and live music. As the curtain falls, audiences are invited to witness how ballet and orchestra together continue to shape the cultural stage of the Philippines with artistry that endures.

Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting Ballet Manila’s website www.balletmanila.com.ph or Ticketworld page www.ticketworld.com.ph

Pre-order vivo V70, get Php 2k off and more

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Filipinos can now experience flagship-level imaging and next-generation AI features as the new vivo V70 officially arrives in the country with a starting price of Php 31,999.

Available for pre-order from February 28 to March 13, 2026 in vivo stores nationwide, customers who secure their unit early can enjoy a Php 2,000 discount plus limited-edition freebies including a vivo VIP Card with 6-month extended warranty and 6-month broken screen insurance, along with vivo Buds Air3.

For those purchasing through Home Credit, an additional Php 500 discount is available until April 30. Buyers can bring home the vivo V70 for as low as Php 42 per day for up to 18 months at 0 percent interest, making premium smartphone photography more accessible than ever.

Here are four compelling reasons to upgrade to the vivo V70:

1. Bringing the stage closer with a pro-grade telephoto camera co-engineered with ZEISS

The vivo V70 elevates mobile photography with an advanced imaging system co-engineered with ZEISS. It features a powerful 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera equipped with a 1/1.95-inch ultra-sensing sensor and OIS for sharper low-light shots. Its periscope design enables higher zoom levels without adding bulk.

The rear camera system also includes a 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera with a 1/1.56-inch flagship sensor and an 8MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera for versatile shooting. On the front, a 50MP ZEISS Group Selfie Camera with autofocus ensures clear, detailed selfies and group shots.

V70 introduces a dedicated AI Stage Mode, optimized for capturing performers even from a distance. Enhanced by AI Image Enhancement Algorithm and AI Style Portrait Technology, it achieves up to 10x zoom for crisp stage photography.

ZEISS Multifocal Portrait offers creative options such as 85 mm Portrait with ZEISS Sonnar Style Bokeh and 100 mm Close-Up Portrait with ZEISS Planar Style Bokeh.

For video creators, V70 brings 4K 60 fps recording for cinematic footage, alongside AI Audio Noise Eraser that intelligently removes unwanted background sounds during post-editing.

2. AI tools that transform everyday photography

Creativity continues beyond the shutter with AI-powered editing tools built directly into the device. AI Magic Weather enhances skies and lighting conditions, corrects tilted compositions, and removes unwanted passersby. AI Magic Landscape allows users to switch between diverse scenic themes for travel portraits.

AI Retouch offers one-tap enhancements such as AI Erase, AI Magic Move, AI Image Expander, and AI Color Adjustment, simplifying post-editing without the need for third-party apps.

3. Strength meets premium design

The vivo V70 combines durability and elegance in a refined build. It features an Aerospace-Grade Aluminum Alloy Frame, ultra-thin bezels, and a flat display for a sleek profile. The 6.59-inch 1.5K Ultra Clear OLED Display runs at 120 Hz with 459 PPI for sharp and fluid visuals.

OriginOS Flip Cards add personality to the lock screen by changing wallpapers based on device tilt using the gyroscope. A 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanning 2.0 system ensures faster and more secure unlocking, even with wet fingers.

The back panel uses etched AG glass for fingerprint and scratch resistance. V70 is available in Golden Hour with a Sunset Glow Design and Alpine Gray.

Built to endure daily use, V70 offers IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance and 10-Facet Drop Resistance that withstands accidental drops from up to 1.5 meters.

4. Smarter OriginOS 6 with powerful performance

Powered by OriginOS 6, V70 delivers a smoother, more intuitive user experience with deep AI integration. Features such as Origin Island surface real-time information, while Copy & Go and Drag & Go simplify everyday tasks.

AI productivity tools include AI Search, AI Creation, AI Captions for real-time transcription and translation, and Gemini Assistant with Google for personalized assistance.

Cross-device features such as One-Tap Transfer and vivo Office Kit streamline file sharing between devices, including supported iPhone models and computers. OriginOS 6 is backed by four generations of OS upgrades and six years of security updates, ensuring long-term reliability.

Under the hood, V70 runs on LPDDR5X memory and UFS 4.1 storage for faster performance. A 4200 mm² ultra-large vapor chamber supports thermal management, while a 6500mAh BlueVolt Battery delivers all-day power. With 90W FlashCharge, users can power up in minutes.

Upgrade today

With its powerful ZEISS imaging system, advanced AI tools, premium design, and accessible financing options, the vivo V70 sets a new standard for smartphone innovation in its class.

Visit vivo stores nationwide to pre-order from February 28 to March 13, 2026, and enjoy exclusive discounts and limited-edition freebies.

GoTyme Bank and Maxicare partner to enhance doctors’ professional fee disbursement

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GoTyme Bank has officially partnered with Maxicare Healthcare Corporation as its banking partner for the distribution of professional fees to Maxicare-affiliated doctors. This milestone agreement positions GoTyme Bank as a key player in modernizing and enhancing financial services within the healthcare sector.

This collaboration is a significant step in GoTyme Bank's commitment to strengthening the financial infrastructure of the healthcare industry. By leveraging GoTyme Bank’s secure, fast, and reliable platform, Maxicare now offers its network of doctors an additional efficient way to receive their professional fees, allowing them to focus more intently on patient care.

Further supporting this initiative, GoTyme Bank and Maxicare have launched roadshows at key hospitals, making it easier for doctors to open accounts and receive their Visa debit cards. GoTyme Bank kiosks have also been deployed to major Maxicare-affiliated hospitals, including St. Luke’s Medical Center (Quezon City and BGC), Makati Medical Center, VRP Medical Center, and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.

These on-site activations provide doctors with hands-on assistance and immediate access to GoTyme Bank services. To date, around 2,000 doctors have been onboarded, with GoTyme Bank aiming to reach an additional 20,000 doctors in the next couple of months.

This partnership underscores Maxicare’s commitment to supporting the financial well-being of its medical network by expanding its range of banking solutions with the help of GoTyme Bank.

The official signing ceremony, held at GoTyme Bank’s headquarters, was attended by key executives from both organizations and marked a significant step toward GoTyme Bank empowering medical practitioners nationwide.

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About GoTyme Bank

GoTyme Bank, a regulated bank by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, is a collaboration between the Gokongwei group of companies and the multi-country digital banking group Tyme. Powered by the extensive ecosystem of the Gokongwei Group, customers can bank where they shop, eat and relax. Through its award-winning mobile app, kiosk, and debit card, the bank offers products and services built around security, simplicity, and beauty that open up new ways of saving, spending, investing and managing its customers’ money. GoTyme Bank is banking made beautiful. Find out more at gotyme.com.ph

Canon Philippines Launches MegaTank Promo with Free Inks & Rewards

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Canon Philippines officially enters a bold new chapter in creative expression with the launch of “CTRL + N: New-Gen Era of Print & Visual Storytelling.” The campaign spotlights Canon’s latest MegaTank printers - designed for a generation that creates, hustles, and shares without limits.

The Canon PIXMA G4770 MegaTank printer is featured in Canon’s Q1 2026 promotion, offering print, scan, copy, and fax functions with up to 2,000 Delightful Points per purchase.

Built for speed, efficiency, and versatility, Canon’s next-generation MegaTank printers empower creators, students, professionals, and families to turn everyday ideas into standout visual stories. From school projects and small business materials to passion prints and side-hustle outputs, users can expect high-quality results that scale, without breaking the budget.

Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. launches its Q1 2026 printer promo under the “CTRL + N” campaign, offering Delightful Points on select PIXMA MegaTank printers redeemable via the Canon PH Delightful App.

Leading the lineup are Canon MegaTank models PIXMA G4770, PIXMA G3780, and PIXMA G4780, engineered for high-volume printing with low running costs and consistent performance. To help users get more from every print, select models now come with free GI-71 inks worth up to Php1,365, enabling more creativity straight out of the box.

Customers who purchase participating Canon PIXMA MegaTank printers, including the G4770, G3780, and G4780, receive a free additional set of GI-71 inks worth Php1,365.

Canon is also leveling up the ownership experience through the Canon PH Delightful App. Customers can earn up to 2,000 reward points for every purchase of participating MegaTank printers and redeem them at over 400 partner merchants, including GCash, Grab, and ShopeePay via e-gift credits, making every print count beyond the page.

With intuitive features, efficient ink systems, and Canon’s trusted imaging expertise, the brand continues to redefine what’s possible in print. When paired with Canon’s powerful cameras, this new-gen ecosystem brings visual storytelling to life, seamlessly bridging digital creativity and physical output for 2026 and beyond.

For the latest Canon promotions, MegaTank printers, and imaging solutions, visit https://ph.canon or download the Canon PH Delightful App today.

About Canon in the Philippines

Canon is a multibillion-dollar company with one of the most extensive product lines of digital imaging devices. 2020 marks the company’s 35th consecutive year it has been ranked among the top five U.S. patent holders and the 16th consecutive year it has been ranked first among Japanese companies for the number of U.S. patents granted. It continues to enrich lives through technological innovation.

Guided by its commitment to its Kyosei philosophy of living and working together for the common good, Canon provides total imaging solutions to improve personal and professional lives. The brand ranks as one of the top 20 brands in the region according to a 2018 study conducted by Campaign Asia-Pacific and Nielsen thanks to its strong reputation on performance and good corporate citizenship.

Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. has offices spread across the Philippine archipelago supported by its vast network of authorized service centers. Recognitions and awards received include the Corporate Award and Gold Bagwis Seal of Excellence for providing distinctive service to customers.

Canon Marketing Philippines reaffirms its dedication to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices across all its operations and product lifecycle, striving for a greener future for generations to come.

More information and images are available at the Press Center section at https://ph.canon/en/consumer/press. For any queries about products and services, you may call our customer care hotline at 63-2-884 9000.