Filipino chef behind Dubai chocolate phenomenon teams up with Jollibee for Christmas

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Jollibee is partnering with Filipino pastry chef and culinary innovator Nouel Catis, whose work is associated with the global Dubai chocolate phenomenon, to introduce the Pistachio Choco Sundae, a limited-edition Christmas dessert that brings a globally popular flavor combination to a familiar Filipino favorite.

“Christmas is a time when people look forward to experiences that make the season more special. At Jollibee, we want to bring that joy through both the food our customers love and new flavors that surprise and delight them,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. "Partnering with Chef Nouel gives us a chance to offer something new this Christmas while celebrating Filipino culinary talent on the global stage."

Based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Catis is recognized for his work in the chocolate confectionery space, particularly the Dubai chocolate phenomenon that helped popularize the combination of chocolate and pistachio flavors among consumers worldwide.

His work has also received recognition, including being named an Emerging Global Filipino Icon by The Global Filipino Magazine and receiving a Service Excellence Award in Culinary Innovation in Dubai.

“We see Chef Nouel as a partner in our mission to bring joy to Filipinos and people around the world through food. By bringing his culinary expertise together with a Jollibee favorite, we hope to give our customers a new way to enjoy flavors they love and discover something different this Christmas,” Ching added.

For Catis, the collaboration is also a personal milestone, bringing him together with a brand he has loved since childhood.

“I was so happy when Jollibee reached out to me. I grew up loving Jollibee, so I never imagined that one day, I’d get to work with a brand that’s been part of my childhood. After the Dubai chocolate experience, it’s exciting to be doing something like this with Jollibee, especially for Christmas,” said Catis. “As a Filipino, it makes me proud to be part of something that can bring joy to people here at home and hopefully introduce more people around the world to the creativity and talent of Filipinos.”

The collaboration brings Catis’s culinary expertise to Jollibee’s annual Christmas sundae offering. The Pistachio Choco Sundae features creamy vanilla soft serve coated in a pistachio shell, topped with chocolate syrup and diced pistachios.

Priced at ₱79, the dessert will be available nationwide from October 16 to December 31 through Jollibee dine-in, takeout, drive-thru and delivery via GrabFood and foodpanda.

The partnership reflects Jollibee’s continuing effort to create new food experiences for customers during the holiday season, combining familiar favorites with fresh flavors while celebrating Filipino talent whose work has reached international audiences.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites via GrabFood and foodpanda, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises.

OriginOS 7 rollout for vivo phones set to begin in October

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vivo is preparing to roll out OriginOS 7 to 19 smartphone models in the Philippines, with the first batch scheduled for October 2026 and succeeding batches planned through February 2027.

The phased rollout will cover selected X and V Series devices, bringing the operating system’s updated interface, performance optimizations, productivity tools, and connectivity features to eligible users.

The rollout is organized into six batches, with the schedule varying by model. The first batch includes the vivo X300 Pro, X300, X300 FE, X300 Ultra, and X Fold5. The X200 Series follows in November, while selected V Series models are scheduled for subsequent months.

OriginOS 7 introduces changes designed to address everyday smartphone use, including smoother system interactions, improved resource management, AI-assisted work tools and expanded connections with compatible devices. Features such as AI-assisted audio transcription, multitasking tools, and cross-device file sharing are intended to help users move between work, communication, and entertainment with fewer interruptions.

“An operating system update matters most when users can feel the difference in their everyday routines, whether they are switching between apps, organizing information from a meeting or moving files between devices. With OriginOS 7, we want to make these common tasks more intuitive while giving eligible users a clearer view of what to expect from the rollout,” said vivo Philippines Brand Marketing Director Liu Lu.

The scheduled release months for the 19 models are listed below. Availability and timing may vary by device, and users should check official vivo Philippines announcements for confirmation of the update on their specific model.

Batch	vivo Model	Scheduled Release
1	X300 Pro, X300, X300 FE, and X Fold5	End of October 2026
2	X200 Pro, X200, and X200 FE	Mid-November 2026
3	V70, V70 FE, and V60	Mid-December 2026
4	V50	End of December 2026
5	V80 Lite, V60 Lite, V50 Lite, and V40	End of January 2027
6	V30 Pro, V30, and V30e	End of February 2027

The rollout schedule is planned and subject to confirmation. A model’s inclusion does not guarantee that the update will be available on the first day of its scheduled month. Users should follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit the vivo website for final availability announcements and device-specific instructions.

Richmonde Hotels Presents Frights, Fun, and Fantasy this Halloween

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This season of spooks and scares, Richmonde Hotels spreads spine-tingling delights over the long weekend with exciting revelries and relaxing escapes for the whole family to enjoy. Whether staying in the metro or planning a local getaway, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo offer splendid options to celebrate the most frightfully fun holiday of the year. 

An Enchanting Good Time for the Young and Young-at-Heart

The littles ones are in for a playful afternoon of tricks, treats, and thrills at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s Twisted Playroom Kiddie Halloween Party happening on October 31, 2026 from 1pm to 5pm at the 2^nd and 3^rd floors of the hotel. Inspired by popular creepy toy characters, the haunted playtime theme is filled with delightful inclusions to bring unadulterated enjoyment to everyone. Party tickets are priced at PhP 1,899 per child or adult and include entertainment, games and prizes, photobooth, game booths, crafting activities, access to the horror playroom, a costume parade and contest, loot bags, and a hearty snack buffet.

Families planning an overnight stay can also book the Halloween Room Package for October 30 or 31, starting at PhP 8,698 nett. The package includes breakfast for two, two Halloween party tickets, late check-out at 3 PM, discounts on food and beverage orders, and use of the gym and swimming pool.

Meanwhile, at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, magic meets mischief at the Enchanted Casita, a Halloween kiddie celebration on October 30, 2026, starting at 2pm at BizBar. With the mystical world of Encanto as background, the hotel brings traditional trick-or-treating, games and activities, entertainment, loot bags, and a tasty snack buffet to the kids. Admission is at PhP 750 per child aged 4 to 12 years old, and PhP 500 per accompanying adult, while children aged 3 and below may enter for free if accompanied by a paying adult.  

A Retro Gen X Pre-Halloween Night

For adults ready to welcome the long weekend with a spirited night out, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas presents The Vamps After Dark: A Pre-Halloween Retro Party scheduled on October 30, from 7 PM ‘til midnight at The Exchange. Blending gothic horror with ‘80s punk rock, the night’s theme provides the ultimate throwback of new wave and glam. Guests can dance to the hits of the decade performed live by Big Bash Band while enjoying bottomless drinks and a pica-pica buffet for only PhP 1,285 nett, with a chance to win hotel gift certificates in the raffle.

Extend the Fun with a City Staycation

Aside from remembering loved ones who have passed, the long All Souls’ Day weekend from October 30 to November 2 is also an opportunity for a mini vacation. Richmonde recommends taking the time to explore, unwind, and experience a change of scenery, whether somewhere near or on a local adventure, either with loved ones or solo. 

Providing a convenient address at the center of the metro and within walking distance from premier malls, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas offers best value with guaranteed comfort and rates starting at PhP 3,900 nett for room only stays, PhP 4,600 nett with breakfast for one, and PhP 5,100 nett, with of breakfast for two. Package includes discount perks for food & beverage orders, massage services, and Richie Bear purchases.

For township living where shopping, dining, recreation, wellness, and pet services are all within reach, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel has rates as low as PhP 4,700 nett for room only bookings and PhP 6,300 nett with breakfast buffet for two for the long weekend.

Take a trip to the City of Love and stay at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo as it welcomes Filipino travelers with a promo-coded special offer starting at only PhP 3,500nett. Guests must type in LOCALRES as promo code when booking online or they may contact Room Reservations direct.

For reservations and inquiries, guests may contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777, email stay@richmondehotelortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph. Eastwood Richmonde Hotel may be reached at (632) 8570 7777, stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph. For celebrations and staycations in the City of Love, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is available at (6333) 328 7888, stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

 

 

Toshiba Lifestyle's Journey to Japan: A Celebration of Craftsmanship, Culture, and Discovery

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For Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines, the art of living well is found in the details—from thoughtful design and meticulous craftsmanship to the experiences that make everyday life more meaningful. Bringing this philosophy beyond the home, Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines recently gave loyal consumers an exclusive opportunity to experience the brand’s Japanese heritage firsthand through the Journey to Japan experience.

Toshiba Lifestyle’s Journey to Japan promo winners

Lucky promo winners embarked on an all-expenses-paid six-day journey through Japan alongside celebrity Winwyn Marquez, getting an intimate look into the culture, craftsmanship, and design thinking that continue to shape Toshiba home appliances.

At the heart of the trip was an exclusive visit to the Toshiba Lifestyle Corporation Tokyo Design Center, offering the winners a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into where ideas are transformed into thoughtfully designed home solutions. Immersed in Toshiba’s approach to Takumi craftsmanship and human-centric design, the group discovered how precision, functionality, and attention to detail come together to create products designed around the way people truly live.

Promo winners with Winwyn Marquez at the Toshiba Lifestyle Corporation Tokyo Design Center

Beyond the design center, the six-day itinerary brought the winners closer to the many facets of Japanese living. The group explored Tokyo’s historic landmarks, took in serene natural landscapes, and experienced the refined leisure and cultural traditions that make Japan a destination where heritage and modernity exist seamlessly side by side.

Promo winners with Winwyn Marquez

Promo winners enjoy leisure and entertainment activities during the Journey to Japan

The journey ultimately became a celebration of more than Toshiba’s products—it was a celebration of the people who bring them into their homes. By rewarding its consumers with an experience that connected them directly to the brand’s roots, Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines transformed customer loyalty into a meaningful journey of discovery.

For more information on Toshiba Lifestyle’s newest product line-ups and campaigns, visit https://www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/ph, follow @toshiba_lifestyle_philippines on Instagram and @toshibalifestyleph on TikTok, subscribe to Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines on YouTube, and like @ToshibaLifestylePhilippines on Facebook.

LG Electronics Advances the LG Sound Suite Experience With New DTS:X Support, Greater Flexibility and Expanded Home Theater Capabilities

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New Enhancements Give Consumers More Ways To Enjoy Immersive Home Theater Experiences and Premium Audio Content

SEOUL — LG Electronics (LG) continues to expand the flexibility and immersive audio capabilities of LG Sound Suite, the world's first soundbar audio system powered by Dolby Atmos® FlexConnect™. Recent enhancements have expanded content compatibility, increased system flexibility and given consumers more ways to enjoy immersive home entertainment experiences1.

Introduced at CES 2026, LG Sound Suite redefined home audio by combining the simplicity of wireless setup with the flexibility to create a personalized Dolby Atmos experience. Since its debut, LG has continued expanding the capabilities of LG Sound Suite. The latest enhancements build on that foundation, expanding the ways consumers can configure, connect and enjoy LG Sound Suite in their homes.

"LG Sound Suite was created to make immersive audio more flexible, more accessible and easier to enjoy," said Lee Jeong-seok, head of the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company's Audio Business Division. "These latest enhancements reflect our ongoing commitment to expanding what LG Sound Suite can do, giving consumers more freedom to build the audio experience that best fits their home, their content and the way they listen."

More Ways to Enjoy Immersive Audio

As streaming, gaming and premium home entertainment continue to evolve, consumers are looking for audio experiences that match the stunning visuals delivered by today's televisions. To help expand those possibilities, LG has expanded LG Sound Suite with DTS:X support for the H7 soundbar, giving home theater enthusiasts additional ways to enjoy immersive, multi-dimensional audio from compatible content and source devices.

This enhancement reflects LG's ongoing commitment to listening to customers and expanding the capabilities of LG Sound Suite in response to enthusiast feedback seeking broader immersive audio compatibility.

By introducing DTS:X support today, LG is laying the foundation for even more immersive audio experiences across the LG Sound Suite ecosystem.

As part of this effort, LG is also developing the LG Media Connect Hub, designed to help customers enjoy DTS:X playback from compatible external source devices and further expand access to DTS:X content. Additional details will be shared through official channels at a later date2.

Expanding the Flexibility of Dolby Atmos FlexConnect

Flexibility has been central to LG Sound Suite from the very beginning.

Unlike traditional home theater systems that often require fixed speaker layouts and complex installation, LG Sound Suite allows users to build the system that works best for their space. LG has also expanded compatibility across home networking environments through support for Wi‑Fi 6 GHz networks and 5 GHz DFS channels. These enhancements allow more consumers to enjoy stereo and multi-speaker configurations while preserving the simplicity and flexibility that define the LG Sound Suite experience.

By making setup and connectivity more adaptable to real-world home environments, LG continues to strengthen one of the system's key advantages: immersive audio that fits naturally into the way people live.

More Freedom to Build the System You Want

LG has expanded system customization options through support for connecting two W7 subwoofers within compatible LG Sound Suite configurations.

While designed to provide greater flexibility for larger listening spaces, the dual-subwoofer capability is about more than increased output. By enabling additional placement options, the enhancement helps improve bass consistency throughout a room, delivering more balanced low-frequency performance across multiple seating positions. The feature further reinforces LG Sound Suite's modular approach, allowing users to start with a configuration that fits their needs today and expand over time as their entertainment preferences evolve.

Broader Compatibility Across Content and Entertainment Ecosystems

LG has expanded content access through Google Cast support on the H7 soundbar, giving users additional ways to stream music, podcasts and entertainment content directly to their LG Sound Suite systems.

Combined with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, Sound Follow, Room Calibration Pro and LG's modular wireless architecture, these enhancements continue to expand the capabilities of the LG Sound Suite ecosystem while preserving the simplicity that made the system distinctive from day one.

Continuing the Vision of Flexible Immersive Audio

Audio continues to play an increasingly important role in home entertainment as consumers seek experiences that match the quality of today's premium televisions and content platforms.

From expanded DTS:X compatibility and dual-subwoofer configurations to broader wireless connectivity and content access, LG continues strengthening the flexibility that defines the LG Sound Suite experience.

By giving consumers more ways to enjoy Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect and immersive home entertainment, LG Sound Suite continues delivering on its original promise: simple, flexible and immersive audio that is right for their home.

For more information about LG Sound Suite, visit LG.com.

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1Features are delivered via software updates. Availability, timing and supported features, including Wi‑Fi 6 GHz and 5 GHz DFS channel support, may vary by model, country/region, router compatibility and software version.

2Product availability, features and timing are subject to change.