Love is in the Air: The Legendary Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Returns to New Clark City on February 13–15, 2026!

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Experience riding hot air balloons this Valentine’s weekend—no need to fly abroad—while enjoying drones, paragliders, live music, and more at the Philippines’ longest-running, sky-high adventure!

Love is truly in the air! This Valentine’s weekend, couples and adventure seekers alike can soar above New Clark City, Tarlac, aboard colorful hot air balloons. From February 13–15, 2026, the skies come alive with breathtaking views, magical balloon rides, and unforgettable moments that will make your Valentine’s weekend truly one to remember.

Three Days of Sky-High Adventure

The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) is back and bigger than ever! For three full days, New Clark City transforms into a playground for lovers of flight and fun. Hot air balloons, drones, paragliders, tech marvels, cars, delicious food, and live music all come together for an adventure you have to see to believe.

Set your alarms early for a magical weekend. Balloons take to the skies as early as 6:30 AM, offering a breathtaking morning spectacle as they lift off one by one against the rising sun. Arrive early, look up, and witness one of the most beautiful sights of the Fiesta unfold right before your eyes.

Love Takes Flight: A Valentine’s Dinner Under the Balloons

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 with an unforgettable romantic dinner for ₱1,800 per person, set against the magical sight of hot air balloons burning and glowing to the beat of the live band’s music. Share an intimate evening of great food, enchanting melodies, and a sky illuminated by color, an experience you and your loved one will never forget. 

Learn, Fly, and Be Inspired

Step into a world where adventure meets discovery! The Aviation Seminar returns, giving students, aviation enthusiasts, and industry pros a front-row seat to the latest in flying, safety, and aviation innovations. It’s the perfect chance to see the skies come alive, learn from the experts, and be inspired by the magic above New Clark City.

Action in the Air!

From paramotor stunts to paragliding displays, the skies above New Clark City will be packed with jaw-dropping aerial performances. Don’t miss the Kyxz Hoverbike demo—a futuristic look at next-generation flying vehicles that will leave you in awe.

Meet the Stars of the Sky!

This year’s Fiesta features brand-new and whimsical hot air balloons soaring above the Philippines for the first time. Spot Finley the Turtle (UK), Tuca the Toucan (Brazil), Red Macaw (Brazil), Blue Macaw (Brazil), and Walrus (Brazil)—adding playful color to the skies.

Festivalgoers can also catch Master Zaba (UK), Gnome (North Macedonia), Winnie (UK), Iggy the Purple Baby Dragon (Netherlands), Te Amo (USA), Frank Boy (Brazil), Babbe the Witch (Belgium), Saxon (USA), Boo (USA), and Cupid’s Heart (Switzerland)—promising magical mornings, unforgettable photo moments, and smiles for all ages.

Fiesta Favorites Return!

Beloved hot air balloon icons are back to thrill festivalgoers once again. Soar with Yoda, flown by Benoit Lambert (Belgium); join Princess Nelly, piloted by Peter Van Overwalle (Belgium); take to the skies with the Busby, piloted by Paul Burrows (UK); party overhead with Party, flown by Sheryl Reichert (USA); lift off with Bagger, flown by Thomas Grubbstorm (Switzerland); and marvel at La Cartuja, piloted by Fred Kool (Netherlands). These fan favorites promise sky-high thrills, unforgettable smiles, and memories that will last a lifetime for audiences of all ages.

Busby (UK), Party (USA), La Cartuja (Netherlands)

Adrenaline and Innovation!

The excitement doesn’t stop with the balloons—thrill-seekers can catch high-octane competitions that push the skies to the limit. Watch precision landings at the Paragliding Accuracy Competition, speed and skill at the FPV Drone Races, and fast-flying drones battle it out in Drone Soccer, a unique mix of sport, strategy, and cutting-edge technology.

Fun on the Ground!

The action isn’t just above the clouds. On the ground, festivalgoers can enjoy car shows and drifting exhibitions, colorful kite-flying demonstrations for the whole family, and the bustling Fly Market, featuring food stalls, local products, and unique finds. As the sun sets, live musical performances light up New Clark City, turning the festival into a vibrant celebration of music, food, and adventure.

Tickets and Details

Be part of the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, happening February 13–15, 2026, at New Clark City, Tarlac. Tickets are available on-site or in advance via HelixPay, SM Tickets, and Klook, with options for every type of visitor:

• ₱750 – General Admission

• ₱1,000 – General Admission + Aviation Seminar

• ₱8,500 – VIP Pass

This event is made possible with the support of valued partners: Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and New Clark City; FedEx as the Official Logistics Provider; Hann Resorts and Casino (Widus, Marriott and Swissotel) as Official Hotel Partner; NuStar Online as Lifestyle Gaming Partner; with Festival Friends - McDonald’s Philippines Converge, and Prulife UK; and Official Media Partners - BusinessMirror (Print Media Partner), PTV4, and Asian Air Safari.

Stay updated with schedules, announcements, and festival news at www.philballoonfest.net.  Follow the Fiesta on social media for sneak peeks and live updates: Facebook (www.facebook.com/pihabf), Instagram (https://instagram.com/philballoonfest), and TikTok (www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta). 

Schneider Electric Cavite Smart Factory: First Luzon Government Ecozone Site on 100% Renewable Energy

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● Schneider Electric’s Cavite Smart Factory is the first manufacturing site in a Luzon economic zone and the first Schneider Electric factory in East Asia to operate on 100% renewable energy.

● The transition was made possible through partnerships with Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Meralco Ecozone Power (MEP), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), and ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES).

● The Cavite facility, a key hub in Schneider Electric’s East Asia supply chain supporting 1,300 employees, now serves as a model for sustainable, smart manufacturing.

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, recently switched its Smart Factory in Rosario, Cavite to 100% renewable energy, setting a new benchmark for industrial sustainability in the Philippines.

Marking 30 years in the Philippines, Schneider Electric transitions its Cavite Smart Factory to renewable energy–first in a Luzon government economic zone–reinforcing its commitment to clean power. Photo from Schneider Electric Philippines.

The Cavite Smart Factory is the first manufacturing site within a government-operated economic zone in Luzon to fully transition to renewable energy, and the first Schneider Electric factory in East Asia to operate entirely on clean power. The switch, completed on December 26, 2025, capped Schneider Electric’s 30th year in the Philippines and was formally marked during the company’s 190th global foundation year on January 14, 2026.

Schneider Electric celebrates the 100% renewable energy milestone at its Cavite Smart Factory with partners PEZA, CEZ, MEP, IEMOP, and ACEN RES, highlighting the power of cross-sector collaboration in advancing the Philippines’ energy transition. [L-R: Engr. Alejo Macaraeg, Deputy Administrator, Cavite Economic Zone; Engr. Ronald Torres, General Manager, Meralco Ecozone Power; Antonio Cheng Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director, Schneider Electric Philippines, Tony Valdez, Senior Vice President for Market Transformation (Philippine Operations), ACEN RES; Ireen Catane, Country President, Schneider Electric Philippines; and Arjon Valencia, Corporate Planning and Communications Manager, IEMOP]

The milestone was achieved through collaboration with partners including the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Meralco Ecozone Power (MEP), Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), and ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), underscoring the role of cross-sector partnerships in accelerating the country’s energy transition.

“By moving our Cavite Smart Factory to 100% renewable energy, we are demonstrating that sustainability and industrial competitiveness can go hand in hand,” said Antonio Cheng, Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director. “This facility shows what can be achieved when innovation and collaboration come together and we hope it serves as a model for more Philippine manufacturers to follow.”

The transition to 100% renewable energy was made possible through the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), which allows eligible customers to choose renewable power suppliers. With the program relying on multiple stakeholders, ACEN, PEZA, CEZ, and MEP emphasized that partnerships between companies and institutions are critical to accelerating the country’s energy transition. “We commend Schneider Electric for collaborating with partners and embracing innovations that align with our shared vision of a more sustainable and inclusive energy future,” said Arjon Valencia, Corporate Planning and Communications Manager of IEMOP, the central registration body for the GEOP.

The move is also part of Schneider Electric’s broader effort to decarbonize its operations and value chain in line with its net-zero targets. Since 2018, the company has helped customers save and avoid 729 million tonnes of CO₂, reduced emissions across its top 1,000 suppliers by 53% since 2020, and expanded access to green electricity to more than 60 million people since 2009. Over the same period, Schneider Electric has trained more than 1 million people in energy management, underpinning the company’s long-running sustainability program and contribution to its repeated global recognitions–including from TIME Magazine and Statista, and from Corporate Knights, as the World’s Most Sustainable Company, in 2025.

With over 1,300 employees, the Cavite Smart Factory now serves as a strategic hub within Schneider Electric’s East Asia supply chain network. Established in 1996 and integrated into Schneider Electric in 2007 through the acquisition of American Power Conversion (APC), the site supports global markets across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa through the production of secure power and industrial automation solutions.

“We will continue to provide solutions that help industries reduce carbon emissions while maintaining efficiency and resilience in the way we operate,” shared Antonio Cheng, Jr., Cavite Cluster Plant Director of Schneider Electric Philippines

The Cavite Smart Factory’s switch positions Schneider Electric as a leader in clean energy adoption, showing how innovation turns sustainability commitments into real-world impact.

Kawasaki Strengthens Tricycle Market Leadership as National Sales Outpace Industry Growth in 2025

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Kawasaki Philippines further strengthened its leadership in the Philippine tricycle segment in 2025, commanding a 61.5% market share, supported by a 14.8% year-on-year growth. The brand’s continued expansion in the segment outpaced overall tricycle market growth, reinforcing Kawasaki’s position as the preferred motorcycle brand for livelihood and utility use nationwide.

Beyond its dominance in the tricycle segment, Kawasaki Philippines also delivered a strong overall performance in 2025, recording 15.7% year-on-year growth in total motorcycle sales, exceeding the industry’s overall growth rate. This performance marked the strongest growth among major Japanese motorcycle brands in the local market, reflecting demand across both its Regular Bikes and Leisure Bikes categories.

Kawasaki’s sustained leadership in the tricycle segment continues to be anchored by the Barako 175 and CT line-up, which remain widely recognized for their fuel efficiency, reliability, and suitability for daily commercial operations. These models continue to play a vital role in supporting income-generating activities, particularly in provincial and semi-urban communities.

Complementing its strong performance in its Regular Bike segment, Kawasaki Philippines also maintained momentum in its Leisure Bike portfolio, supported by growing consumer interest in premium and higher-displacement models. The company is set to further expand its Kawasaki Leisure Bikes line-up with upcoming model introductions in February 2026, featuring highly anticipated models previously unveiled at major international motor shows such as the Japan Mobility Show and EICMA in 2025.

As Kawasaki Philippines moves into the year ahead, the company remains focused on building on its leadership in core segments while continuing to strengthen its presence across a wider range of motorcycle categories, supporting riders, operators, and dealers across the country.

A Digital Playground Parents Can Trust: Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition Makes Learning Safer, Smarter, and Fun!

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With Galaxy AI-powered learning tools, playful inclusions, and built-in safety controls, the Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition turns learning into a fun, worry-free, and enriching experience for the whole family.

Parenting in a digital age is about embracing new opportunities for children to learn, create, and explore, while keeping them protected every step of the way. Designed for today’s families, the new Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition transforms your kid’s everyday tablet use into a safer, guided digital playground where they can explore, learn, and play with its expansive 11-inch display and fluid 90Hz refresh rate built just for growing imaginations. Parents can have peace of mind knowing every moment is secure, while kids can dive into a world designed just for them.

Find out how easy it is for parents to create a safe, balanced, and fun digital space, staying informed on usage, guiding app access, while supporting kids as they dive into learning and play.

Samsung Kids: Your Child’s Safe Digital Playground

At the heart of the Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition is Samsung Kids, a secure and thoughtfully curated space where learning and play live side by side. With just a swipe down and a tap from the Quick Panel, parents can instantly open a kid-friendly world using the device’s existing PIN or biometric security, no extra steps, no added passwords. Set up is seamless, letting families personalize the experience in minutes and focus less on managing screens and more on enjoying them together.

Parents shape the playground by personalizing daily experiences, choosing age-appropriate apps, and managing contacts, while kids enjoy a digital space that evolves and empowers their curious minds. Paired with family-friendly content that entertains, educates, and inspires, Samsung Kids helps build healthy digital habits, so kids stay engaged while parents enjoy peace of mind.

Adventure Awaits with the Samsung Gang

Your child can embark on fun, imaginative adventures with the Samsung Gang: Crocro, Cooki, Lisa, Bobby, and new friends Leo and Finn on the Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition. From creative drawing and storytelling to interactive learning games, every activity sparks curiosity, imagination, and skill-building in a safe, child-friendly environment.

Crafted for real family life, its long-lasting 7,040mAh battery supports learning, creativity, and everyday tasks, whether kids are exploring educational content or parents are joining in to browse, plan or stay connected, while 25W Super Fast Charging gets everyone back in action in no time. At the same time, it opens up shared moments with parents to laugh and bond, turning screen time into meaningful, shared experiences that are both fun and enriching for the whole family.

All-in-One Accessories for Extra Fun and Protection

The Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition comes complete with a protective Kids Cover, a Touch Pen for creative expression, and a Tethering String to ensure safe handling. Together with the Galaxy tablet’s robust technology and built-in Samsung Kids app, these accessories make learning, playing, and exploring worry-free for both parents and children.

From building healthy digital habits to unlocking a universe of learning and creativity, the Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition equips parents to create a safe and supportive digital learning playground. Samsung Kids makes it easy for kids to learn, play, and grow, while parents can feel confident that the Galaxy Tab is designed with safety in mind.

Grab Exclusive Discounts and Fun Perks for Your Kids!

Get the Galaxy Tab A11+ Kids Edition in classic Gray for as low as  ₱16,990 with fullpayment at Samsung Authorized Stores, Samsung.com, Shopee, Lazada, or TikTok Shop, making it easier than ever to give your child a safe and fun digital experience. Visit Samsung Retail Stores to enjoy exclusive perks, including a Kids Cover, Key Ring, Sticker, Touch Pen, and Tethering String, designed to make playtime safe, creative, and worry-free.

For more info, visit Samsung Philippines Newsroom or Samsung.com.

Security Bank partners with Philippine Retirement Authority to offer retirees priority banking privileges and special Time Deposit rates

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Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) has formalized a partnership with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) to provide foreign and returning Filipino retirees applying for the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) with priority banking privileges and access to a special Time Deposit rate—delivering a more seamless and secure banking experience aligned with the Bank’s BetterBanking commitment.

(L-R): Eric Buensuceso, FVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Region Head, Security Bank; Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head, Security Bank; Roberto Z. Zozobrado, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of the Philippine Retirement Authority; and Virna Liza Alamar, FVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Area Head, Security Bank

Under the partnership, SRRV applicants may open their Security Bank accounts as part of the SRRV process and enjoy an exclusive Time Deposit (TD) rate, premium onboarding support, and priority relationship management. Account opening and servicing are handled at the Bank’s Reposo-J.P. Rizal Branch in Makati City, the Bank’s dedicated hub for SRRV retirees.

As part of the enhanced onboarding experience, eligible clients may also be offered enrollment in Security Bank’s VIP Gold Circle Membership program. Depending on individual qualifications, additional privileges may include access to a Platinum Mastercard (subject to credit approval), unlimited free InstaPay and PESONet transfers, and unlimited free BancNet ATM withdrawals nationwide.

“This partnership represents our BetterBanking commitment by offering a strong customer value proposition—one that makes banking easier, safer, and more rewarding,” said Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head, Security Bank. “Our goal is to make these clients feel that Security Bank is not just a place to keep their funds—but a trusted partner as they begin a new chapter in the Philippines.”

The SRRV is a Philippine visa program administered by the PRRA that allows foreign nationals and returning Filipinos aged 40 and above to live, retire, and invest in the country with long-term residency benefits. The PRA is a government-owned and controlled corporation under the Department of Tourism.

Benefits for SRRV retirees with Security Bank

· Exclusive Time Deposit rate - Higher than standard market rates.

· Gold Circle privileges - Priority queuing across branches, waived fees for certificates, statements, and OTC transactions, complimentary annual checkbook, optional Platinum Mastercard (subject to credit approval).

· Tailored for retirees - Available exclusively to SRRV holders aged 40 and above.

· Family inclusion - Spouses and dependents may also enjoy SRRV banking benefits.

· Easy entry and continuity - Simple Time Deposit placement with automatic renewal aligned to SRRV visa terms.

· Dedicated support - Account opening and servicing handled at the Security Bank Reposo-J.P. Rizal Branch.

“Our partnership with Security Bank is built on a foundation of trust and a shared commitment to serve our retirees with excellence,” said Roberto Z. Zozobrado, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of the Philippine Retirement Authority. “Through this collaboration, we are confident that SRRV members will enjoy a seamless and secure banking experience that supports their transition to a fulfilling retirement in the Philippines.”

SRRV clients may initiate account opening through PRA channels and complete onboarding at Security Bank’s Reposo-J.P. Rizal Branch, located at Kalimera Building, Nicanor Garcia Street corner J.P. Rizal Avenue, Makati City.

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