August 5, 2026

Your Next Great Meal is at Discovery Samal


Discovery Samal continues to redefine island escapes with its signature blend of warm hospitality, breathtaking coastal views, and unforgettable experiences. While its recent anniversary celebrated another milestone on Samal Island, the festivities didn't stop there.

Guests now have even more reasons to make the trip, thanks to a lineup of dining experiences that are just as worthy of the journey. From leisurely breakfasts with ocean views and indulgent afternoon treats to sunset cocktails and thoughtfully curated themed dinners, Discovery Samal proves the best way to experience paradise is one delicious bite at a time.

Start the Day at Morning Catch

There's something different about having breakfast by the water. At Morning Catch, guests can begin the day with views of the Davao Gulf while enjoying a generous spread of local favorites, international breakfast staples, freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and made-to-order dishes.

As part of its third anniversary celebration, Discovery Samal is making every visit to Morning Catch even more rewarding. For a limited time, guests can purchase a Php 3,333 dining voucher for only Php 3,000, adding extra value to the restaurant's well-loved Asian fusion and Thai-inspired buffet. The anniversary offer is valid until September 2026, giving diners plenty of opportunities to return.

Set against Samal's tranquil coastline, Morning Catch pairs flavorful cuisine with a laid-back island atmosphere, encouraging guests to linger a little longer. It's the kind of place where a meal naturally stretches into an unhurried afternoon, made even better by the resort's anniversary dining offer.

Beachfront Evenings at Haribar Lounge

As the sun begins to set, Haribar Lounge offers another reason to stay a little longer. Every Friday, Saturday, and on holidays, guests can experience Fiesta sa Pilipinas, a festive beachfront dinner that celebrates Filipino culture through food, music, and entertainment. The evening features a BBQ dinner buffet paired with live performances, including cultural dances, drum beaters, fire dancers, live acoustic music, and a bonfire by the bay. Priced at Php 2,700 net per person, the experience also includes round-trip boat transfers to and from the Davao Welcome Center, making it an easy evening escape from the city.

Guests can also take advantage of Haribar’s 3+1 Glamping Anniversary Offer, where purchasing three (3) glamping dining vouchers at the regular rate includes one (1) complimentary voucher free. At Php 8,100 net for four guests, the offer brings the equivalent rate down to Php 2,025 net per person, making it an ideal option for double dates, family gatherings, or small group celebrations by the beach.

To complete the evening, guests can also try the Samal Sapphire, a limited-time signature cocktail created for Discovery Samal's third anniversary. Inspired by the island's crystal-clear waters, the cocktail blends premium rum, elderflower, and coconut into a refreshing drink that's best enjoyed with a sunset view.

A Slower Pace at The Bistro

As the sun sets, The Bistro offers a more intimate way to end the day. Its contemporary menu showcases premium ingredients in thoughtfully prepared dishes, creating an elevated dining experience that feels right at home in Discovery Samal's laid-back island setting.

Guests can make the experience even more rewarding with The Bistro Promotional Voucher. For Php 3,000, diners receive Php 3,333 worth of dining credits, redeemable toward the restaurant's five-course dining experience. Valid until September 2026, the offer also includes round-trip boat transfers to and from the Davao Welcome Center, making an evening at The Bistro an easy escape from the city.

Make the Most of Your Island Getaway

Three years since opening its doors, Discovery Samal continues to find new ways to give guests a reason to return. From leisurely breakfasts at Morning Catch and lively evenings at Haribar Lounge to refined dinners at The Bistro, every visit offers something different to discover.

Guests can also enjoy 20% off Best Available Rates for bookings made until August 15, 2026, with stay dates until October 22, 2026. With Junior Suites starting at PHP 13,900 per night, extending the getaway has never been more tempting.

Good food, warm hospitality, and the unmistakable charm of Samal continue to come together at Discovery Samal, inviting guests to return not just for the views, but for the experiences that linger long after the trip ends. For inquiries and reservations, visit www.discoverysamal.com, email reservations@discoverysamal.com, or call +63 84 308 2998.

The future of foldables has arrived: It’s time to make the switch!

Enjoy pre-order offers for the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8 until Aug 13!


Samsung is redefining what a smartphone can be with the launch of its newest foldable lineup: the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8. Designed for different lifestyles yet united by Galaxy AI, the latest Galaxy Z Series offers smarter ways to create, work, and express yourself in durable form factors proving that the future of mobile experiences is already here.

Samsung is also offering exclusive pre-order promotions and upgrade deals until August 13, giving early adopters even more value when they purchase the new Galaxy Z Series.

Whether you're looking for the ultimate productivity companion, a device that elevates everyday entertainment, or a stylish foldable that reflects your personality, Samsung's newest foldables are built around how people naturally live, create, and connect.

A Foldable for Every Lifestyle

The new Galaxy Z Series goes beyond offering different screen sizes—it introduces three distinct foldable experiences designed around how people work, create, and express themselves.


The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is Samsung's most capable AI productivity foldable yet, combining powerful Galaxy AI features with innovations like Flex Titanium Technology for a larger, flatter, and more seamless display, My FanCam for effortless social-ready content creation, and a 5,000mAh battery that delivers up to 27 hours of use on a single charge.

Introducing Samsung's newest foldable form factor, the Galaxy Z Fold8 is the first of its kind, built for immersive entertainment, effortless multitasking, and everyday discovery. Its intuitive display transitions naturally from a familiar cover screen for quick tasks to a spacious main display that makes streaming, reading, gaming, and productivity feel more immersive wherever you are.

Completing the lineup, the Galaxy Z Flip8 is Samsung's thinnest and lightest Flip yet. Weighing just 180 grams and measuring only 6.1mm thin, it combines a sleek, expressive design with enhanced durability through Advanced Armor Aluminum and a stronger hinge, making it the perfect companion for users who want flagship innovation in a compact form.

Fold Into the Future with Exclusive Pre-Order Offers

Early adopters can enjoy exceptional value when they pre-order the new Galaxy Z Series until August 13.

Customers can double their storage and save up to PHP 7,000, receive up to PHP 14,000 through eligible trade-ins, and enjoy Samsung Care+ free for three months (worth PHP 3,297) for added peace of mind.

Every eligible Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8 purchase also includes a six-month trial of Google AI Pro, unlocking even more advanced AI-powered experiences.

Complete the Galaxy experience with Samsung's latest wearables. The new Galaxy Watch9 delivers smarter everyday wellness and productivity, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 offers Samsung's most advanced smartwatch experience with premium durability for active lifestyles.

Those who pre-order the 256GB variant of the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, or Galaxy Z Flip8 can enjoy PHP 3,000 OFF on select Galaxy Wearables. Meanwhile, customers who purchase a participating Galaxy Watch9 or Galaxy Watch Ultra2 until September 30 can also receive a PHP 2,000 discount on a participating Galaxy smartphone.

To make upgrading even more rewarding, Samsung is also offering up to 50% trade-in value, up to PHP 16,000 in guaranteed savings, and up to PHP 3,000 in exclusive vendor discounts, making it the perfect time to experience Samsung's most advanced foldables yet.

Why Wait for Tomorrow?

The future unfolds today.

Whether you want the ultimate powerhouse with the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, an immersive everyday companion with the Galaxy Z Fold8, or a stylish and compact device with the Galaxy Z Flip8, Samsung's newest foldables are designed to move with your lifestyle and help you experience more every day.

Discover the next generation of foldable innovation and pre-order the new Galaxy Z Series today:

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra - https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold8-ultra/buy/ Galaxy Z Fold8 - https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold8/buy/

Galaxy Z Flip8 - https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip8/buy/

*Offers may vary per store. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. 262261, 261885, 261334, 260761 Series of 2026.

August 4, 2026

EastWest Renews Support for Domestic Tourism via Two-Year PHILTOA Partnership

Making banking easier for travelers while driving greater access to Philippine destinations

As part of its commitment to making banking easier for travelers, East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is renewing its support for Philippine tourism through a two-year partnership with the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) as the exclusive credit card partner and co-presenter of the 37th and 38th Philippine Travel Mart, the country's longest-running travel trade exhibition.

Building on its partnership with PHILTOA that began during the 36th Philippine Travel Mart in 2025, EastWest continues to support Filipino travelers through secure payment solutions, flexible financing options, and travel-focused credit card benefits.

(from left) PHILTOA 2nd Vice President Harold Atondo, 1st Vice President Mary Ann Ong, and President Maria Lourdes Japson together with EastWest President Jacqueline Fernandez, SVP & Head of Unsecured Lending Alastair de Lara, and FVP & Head, Cards Product, Campaigns and Marketing Head Francis Ramon Tioseco

During the Philippine Travel Mart, EastWest cardholders can enjoy one complimentary ticket for every qualified ticket purchase, applicable to both 1-day and 3-day passes, from August 1 to September 6, 2026. Cardholders will also have access to special deals and 0% installment payments at select exhibitors.

Visitors can also expect a one-stop showcase of the best travel experiences the Philippines has to offer, with nearly 300 exhibitors from across the country. Beyond exclusive travel deals, attendees can discover emerging destinations, locally curated experiences, and connect directly with tour operators, hotels, airlines, and tourism stakeholders.

"Travel has a unique way of bringing people closer to the places, cultures, and experiences that matter most. As the Philippine Travel Mart champions 'Nurturing the NextGen Tourism,' we hope to inspire more Filipinos to explore the country and support them with the payment solutions and benefits that make every journey easier and more rewarding," said EastWest President Jacqueline S. Fernandez.

The 37th Philippine Travel Mart will be held from September 4 to 6, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

To know more about EastWest credit cards, visit https://www.eastwestbanker.com/cards.

PLDT Home champions Filipino game developers at PGDX 2026



The country's biggest game development expo showcased Filipino creativity, innovation, and global gaming ambitions

PLDT Home supports Filipino game developers and the local gaming community at the Philippine Game Developers Expo (PGDX) 2026.

The Philippine gaming scene took center stage at the fourth Philippine Game Developers Expo (PGDX), drawing thousands of gamers, creators, developers, and tech enthusiasts to the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Among the event's key supporters was PLDT Home, reaffirming its commitment to enabling stronger gaming experiences and supporting the growth of the local gaming industry.

From folklore-inspired indie gems to action-packed competitive titles and story-driven experiences that tug at the heartstrings, the games on display reflected the vibrancy and maturity of the local development scene.

Philippine developers showcased an impressive blend of artistry, innovation, and cultural storytelling, creating experiences that resonated with players while highlighting distinctly Filipino perspectives. Sharing the spotlight with leading global gaming brands and publishers, these homegrown creators proved that local talent is more than capable of making its mark on the international stage.

Beyond pixel art and code, each PGDX booth told a human story: eager developers spending endless nights refining game feel, independent studios pushing creative boundaries, and young creators eager to share authentic Filipino perspectives with players worldwide. The energy of the local exhibitors and the excitement of gamers on the show floor proved that Pinoy indie titles can also possess the charm, depth, and originality to captivate global audiences.

As more Filipino developers build games for global audiences, PLDT Home continues to provide the reliable connectivity that supports creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

The PLDT Home booth at PGDX 2026 offered both digital and physical gaming experiences powered by its most reliable internet connection.

Why empowering local game developers matters

For gaming to thrive as both a lifestyle and a sustainable creative industry, developers need more than ambition; they need a strong digital backbone and continuous support. Building modern games, for example, requires uploading massive builds, real-time cloud collaboration, instant playtesting, and seamless multiplayer integration.

For PLDT Home, supporting the local gaming community goes beyond connectivity. As the official broadband partner of PGDX through the years, the company champions a growing ecosystem of developers, creators, and innovators whose work showcases Filipino talent, creativity, and storytelling on a global stage. This reflects PLDT Home's conviction that game development is not only an emerging economic opportunity, but also a powerful medium for cultural expression.

Whether it is enabling a lone indie developer to distribute their game on international platforms or helping local studios conduct low-latency multiplayer playtests, a reliable internet connection powered by PLDT Home can help connect Filipino creativity with players around the world.

Beyond supporting game creators behind the scenes, PLDT Home continues to empower the everyday gaming and digital lifestyle. Today’s gamers demand lag-free performance, rapid download speeds for updates and patches, and seamless connectivity across multiple devices – whether they are grinding ranked matches, streaming gameplay, or downloading the latest Pinoy indie titles.

At PGDX 2026, visitors experienced firsthand how reliable fiber connectivity enhances both game development and gameplay, from cloud collaboration to competitive matches.





Ready to elevate your gaming setup and support the thriving gaming culture? Power your intense and exciting gaming sessions with the all-new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 1499, which delivers fast, reliable internet up to 200 Mbps built for gaming, streaming, and more.

On top of lag-free gaming, you can also unlock non-stop PC gaming action with over 200 Steam games available on the iGV Game Pass subscription, accessible at an exclusive rate to PLDT Home subscribers! Visit pldthome.com/unligaming to know more.

GoTyme Bank Brings Apple Pay to its Debit Card Customers in the Philippines


GoTyme Bank today brings Apple Pay to its debit card customers in the Philippines. Apple Pay is an easy, secure, and private way to pay in-store, in-app, and online.

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An easier and more secure way to pay with iPhone, 
Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac
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To pay in-store, customers simply double-click the side button, authenticate, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. Every Apple Pay purchase is secure because it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code. Apple Pay is accepted in grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and many more places that accept contactless payments.

”At GoTyme Bank, we're constantly looking for ways to make banking more seamless for our customers. Bringing Apple Pay to GoTyme Bank customers in the Philippines gives them an easy and secure way to pay wherever they shop," said Nate Clarke, CEO of GoTyme Bank.

This news marks another milestone in GoTyme Bank's mission towards bringing the best global banking experiences to Filipinos. Through continuous innovation and a strong focus on customer experience, GoTyme Bank continues to create more convenient and rewarding ways for customers to pay.

Customers can also use Apple Pay on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to make faster and more convenient purchases in apps or on the web without having to create accounts or repeatedly type in contact information, card details, or shipping and billing information.
Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay. When customers use a credit or debit card with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on the device, nor on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted, and securely stored in the Secure Element, an industry-standard, certified chip designed to store the payment information safely on the device.

Apple Pay is easy to set up. On iPhone, simply open the Wallet app, tap the ‘+’, and follow the steps to add GoTyme Bank debit card. Once a customer adds a card to iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac, they can start using Apple Pay on that device right away. Customers will continue to receive all of the benefits offered by GoTyme Bank cards.

For more information on Apple Pay, visit: https://www.apple.com/ph/apple-pay/

For more information on GoTyme Bank, please visit www.gotyme.com.ph.

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