Compact flagship vivo X300 FE previews pro shots, coming on May 23

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After revealing the impressive camera capabilities of the upcoming vivo X300 Ultra, vivo is now turning the spotlight to another exciting addition to its flagship lineup: the compact yet powerful vivo X300 FE.

Set to launch in the Philippines on May 23, the vivo X300 FE is designed for users who want flagship-level photography in a more compact form. Slim, lightweight, and built for life on the move, it combines everyday comfort with imaging capabilities that punch far above its size.

At just 7.99mm thin and weighing only 191g, the vivo X300 FE slips easily into your pocket, bag, or hand, but behind its streamlined design is a camera system made to capture moments with depth, detail, and a distinctly cinematic feel.

Compact flagship, serious camera power

Leading the vivo X300 FE’s camera setup is its 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, powered by the Sony IMX882 Super Sensitive Sensor and a large 1/1.95-inch sensor for sharper detail and improved light capture.

Here are some portraits shot on vivo X300 FE captured by the vivo Philippines team.

With a 73mm equivalent focal length, OIS, and f/2.65 aperture, it delivers clear portraits and crisp zoomed shots with natural depth. Its 50MP telephoto lens supports 3x optical zoom and up to 100x zoom, making distant subjects feel strikingly close.

From portraits to stage moments and sweeping landscapes, the vivo X300 FE turns everyday shots into more vivid, cinematic captures, all within a compact flagship design.

Bring the stage closer

Further elevating the experience is the 200mm Equivalent vivo ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2, a lighter, more refined accessory that transforms how users interact with distance.

Featuring a 2.35x teleconverter with an equivalent 200mm focal length, the accessory allows users to achieve farther and clearer zoom shots for portraits, stage moments, concerts, and distant subjects.

The vivo ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2 also supports photography, video recording, Stage Mode, and capture functions, transforming the vivo X300 FE into a compact imaging companion users can conveniently carry every day.

The vivo X300 FE reflects a clear philosophy: a smartphone can remain light in form while delivering depth in creative capability. It is built for users who value mobility, but refuse to compromise on how their moments are captured.

As everyday experiences continue to evolve into content worth capturing, the vivo X300 FE is designed to meet that demand with a more balanced approach to portability and imaging performance.

The vivo X300 FE will officially launch in the Philippines on May 23, 2026 along with the vivo X300 Ultra. Updates will be available via vivo Philippines' website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.

Westlife release landmark 25th anniversary album 25 - The Ultimate Collection

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Global tour dates announced for Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour

Globally renowned pop group Westlife today release their monumental era-defining album 25 - The Ultimate Collection, a celebration of their record-breaking 25-year journey at the very top of global pop. The album is available across multiple formats including 1CD, 2CD deluxe, 1LP, Amazon Exclusive 1LP picture disc and cassette.

The release follows “Chariot”, written by Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid and Will Reynolds, and co-written and produced by Steve Mac, which was instantly added to the BBC Radio 2 New Music Playlist (A List). The track features on the new album alongside recent release “Your Love Amazes Me”, with the collection bringing together 21 of the band’s most beloved songs including “You Raise Me Up,” “Uptown Girl,” and “Flying Without Wings” alongside brand-new material recorded by all four members: Shane, Nicky, Kian and Mark.

To mark the release, the group have also announced the global expansion of their highly anticipated Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour with dates across Asia, Mexico, Scandinavia, Australia and New Zealand. The tour promises a euphoric, hit-filled set spanning their extraordinary career, featuring timeless ballads and global chart-toppers. It kicks off with a 13-date residency in Dublin this September before heading across the UK and Europe, marking their first headline continental run in two decades. On-sale timings for new dates can be found on westlife.com/live/, with further international shows to be announced soon.

Westlife said: “What better way to mark 25 years of Westlife than with an album that brings together our biggest hits alongside new music we’re so proud of. We’re beyond excited to head out on a global tour and celebrate these songs with the fans who’ve made it all possible.”

Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour

10 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

11 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

12 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

15 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

16 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

18 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

19 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

20 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

22 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

23 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

24 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

25 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

26 September 2026 – Dublin – 3Arena

29 September 2026 – Aberdeen – P&J Live

30 September 2026 – Glasgow – OVO Hydro

1 October 2026 – Glasgow – OVO Hydro

3 October 2026 – Newcastle – Utilita Arena

4 October 2026 – Newcastle – Utilita Arena

6 October 2026 – Leeds – First Direct Bank Arena

7 October – Sheffield – Utilita Arena

9 October – London – The O2

10 October – London – The O2

11 October – London – The O2

13 October – Brighton – Centre

14 October – Bournemouth – International Centre

16 October – Birmingham – Utilita Arena

17 October – Birmingham – Utilita Arena

18 October – Birmingham – Utilita Arena

19 October – Cardiff – Utilita Arena

20 October – Cardiff – Utilita Arena

23 October – Manchester – Co-op Live

24 October – Manchester – Co-op Live

25 October – Manchester – Co-op Live

27 October 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

28 October 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

29 October 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

30 October 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

31 October 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

2 November – Sheffield – Utilita Arena

3 November 2026 – Aberdeen – P&J Live

5 November 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

6 November 2026 – Belfast – SSE Arena

15 November 2026 – Paris, France – Zenith

17 November 2026 – Hamburg, Germany – Barclays Arena

19 November 2026 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena

20 November 2026 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena

21 November 2026 – Oslo, Norway – Spektrum

23 November 2026 – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Ziggo Dome

24 November 2026 – Antwerp, Belgium – Lotto Arena

25 November 2026 – Cologne, Germany – LanxessArena

26 November 2026 – Zurich, Switzerland – Hallenstadion

2027 

14 January 2027 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Unifi Arena

16 January 2027 – Singapore – Indoor Stadium

20 January 2027 – Manila, Philippines – Mall of Asia

23 January 2027 – Jakarta, Indonesia – Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium

25 January 2027 – Bangkok, Thailand – Impact Arena

30 January 2027 – Hong Kong – AWE Arena

24 February 2027 – Monterrey, Mexico – Arena Monterrey

25 February 2027 – Guadalajara, Mexico – Arena Guadalajara

27 February 2027 – Mexico City, Mexico – Arena CDMX

11 June 2027 – Kaunas, Lithuania – Zalgiris Arena

12 June 2027 – Riga, Latvia – Xiaomi Arena

14 June 2027 – Helsinki, Finland – Veikkaus Arena

16 June 2027 – Gothenborg, Sweden – Scandinavium

20 June 2027 – Trondheim, Norway – Sverresborg Museum

16 July 2027 – Perth, Australia – Perth RAC Arena

18 July 2027 – Adelaide, Australia – Adelaide Entertainment Centre

20 July 2027 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena

23 July 2027 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena

26 July 2027 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre

28 July 2027 – Auckland, New Zealand, Spark Arena

30 July 2027 – Christchurch, New Zealand – Wolfbrook Arena

ABOUT WESTLIFE

Over the last 25 years, Westlife have become one of the most successful pop groups of all time. Their music has been streamed over 3 billion times globally; they’ve achieved 36 No.1 albums worldwide, 14 UK No.1 singles (ranking only behind Elvis Presley and The Beatles), sold over 55 million records, surpassed 1 billion YouTube views, and sold more than 6 million concert tickets around the world. The Wild Dreams Tour sold over 1.2 million tickets alone. The band have performed over 200 shows since their reunion in 2019 across 30 countries. Westlife remain the UK & Ireland’s top-selling album group of the 21st century.

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Security Bank reports 24% growth in pre-provision operating profit in Q1-2026

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Revenues reach PHP 17 billion, up 10% year-on-year; net profit at PHP 2.7 billion.

Security Bank Corporation (PSE: SECB) delivered strong core operating performance in the first quarter of 2026, with pre-provision operating profit rising 24% year-on-year to PHP7.5 billion, supported by disciplined cost management. Total revenues reached PHP17.0 billion, up 10% year-on-year. Net income was PHP2.7 billion, up 6% quarter-on-quarter, despite higher provisions amid evolving operating conditions.

Net interest income grew to PHP15.2 billion and total non-interest income was PHP1.9 billion. Operating expenses were well-managed, increasing 2% year-on-year and decreasing 13% quarter-on-quarter, resulting in an improved cost-to-income ratio of 56% from 61% a year ago.

The Bank set aside PHP3.9 billion in provisions for credit and impairment losses, higher year-on-year as part of its prudent risk management approach. Asset quality metrics remain manageable, with gross non-performing loan ratio at 3.08% and NPL reserve cover at 81%.

Balance sheet remains strong

Total deposits increased 12% year-on-year to PHP938.0 billion, with CASA deposits growing 13% year-on-year and 4% quarter-on-quarter, accounting for 51% of total deposits.

Net loans stood at PHP679.4 billion, up 5% year-on-year as the Bank continued to rebalance its portfolio toward higher-quality segments. Total investment securities stood at PHP370.4 billion.

The Bank maintains healthy liquidity, with Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) at 198% and Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) at 145% as of March 31, 2026.

Security Bank’s capital ratios remain healthy, with Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio at 12.2% and Total Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) at 13.1%. Shareholders’ capital increased to PHP153.5 billion, up 7% year-on-year. Total assets increased to PHP1.2 trillion, up 10% year-on-year.

The Bank expanded its branch network to 390 branches to-date, opening 9 new branches in first quarter 2026 and four additional branches in April and May 2026.

Recently, Moody’s Ratings affirmed Security Bank’s investment-grade credit rating of Baa2 and revised the rating outlook to stable.

On April 8, 2026, the Bank declared a regular cash dividend of PHP1.50 per common share representing regular semestral cash dividend, with payment date on May 8, 2026.

“We had a solid start to the year, driven by stronger core earnings and disciplined cost management. We remain focused on sustaining operational discipline, growing responsibly, and making banking simpler, faster, and more responsive for our customers,” said Victor Lee Meng Teck, President and CEO of Security Bank.

Mang Inasal named 2025 Top Brand in PH by Influential Brands®

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Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, continues to solidify its leadership in the quick service restaurant (QSR) space after being recognized as the 2025 Top Brand in the Philippines under the QSR Grilled Category by Influential Brands®.

The prestigious recognition highlights Mang Inasal’s strong connection with Filipino consumers and its lasting influence on dining culture—especially in bringing grilled favorites to everyday meals and celebrations.

“We are truly honored for Mang Inasal to be recognized as the 2025 Top Brand for the QSR Grilled category. This recognition reflects the continued trust and love of our customers who have made Mang Inasal part of their everyday celebrations—from simple meals to meaningful moments shared with family and friends,” said Mike V. Castro, President of Mang Inasal.

He added that beyond being a brand milestone, the award is a testament to the dedication of Mang Inasal’s team members nationwide. “This award represents the passion and commitment of our team who work hard every day—despite evolving business challenges—to deliver the Ihaw-Sarap flavors and Unli-Saya dining experience that Filipinos have come to know and love.”

Looking ahead, Mang Inasal remains focused on expanding its reach while staying true to its roots. The brand is committed to bringing more delicious, affordable, and proudly Filipino meals to communities across the country, while continuing to innovate and elevate its offerings.

With an awardee portfolio of over 500 of Asia’s most influential companies, Influential Brands® presents the Top Influential Brand award annually to honor companies from countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and China among others, that have significantly shaped consumer preferences and industry benchmarks. The recognition is given to brands that demonstrate strong brand equity, innovation, and sustained customer engagement across a wide range of sectors, making it a meaningful benchmark of brand strength and influence.

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Quick Kitchen Wins for Busy Filipinos, Powered by LG NeoChef™

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For many busy Filipinos, cooking at home is something they want to do more often—but time does not always cooperate. Between work, errands, commutes, and everyday responsibilities, preparing meals can easily feel like one more thing squeezed into an already full day.

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• The LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven with Grill (MH6565DIS) is designed to support faster, easier, and more intuitive everyday cooking.
• Its Smart Inverter Magnetron supports precise temperature control for faster and more even cooking.
• The appliance also features Microwave Oven + Grill (Combination), Touch and Dial Control, EasyClean™, a Stable Turntable, and a White LED display.
• With a Black Smog Glass Finish and a 10-year warranty on magnetron parts, it is designed to fit naturally into modern kitchens and everyday routines.

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That is where smarter kitchen habits can make a difference. With features designed for faster, easier, and more intuitive everyday cooking, the LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven with Grill (MH6565DIS) helps make home meal preparation feel more manageable—even on busy weekdays.

Here are some time-saving kitchen tips that can help simplify everyday cooking:

1. Make the most of faster everyday cooking

When you get home tired and hungry, speed matters. The LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven features a Smart Inverter Magnetron, which offers precise temperature control for faster and more even cooking.

For busy households, this means less waiting and a more efficient way to get meals on the table.

2. Use microwave + grill for easy after-work meal upgrades

For quick after-work meals, using both microwave and grill functions can help make simple food feel a little more complete. LG NeoChef’s Microwave Oven + Grill (Combination) function combines microwave and grill cooking, making it useful for people who want meals that are both convenient and satisfying.

It is a practical option for nights when there is no time for a full cooking session, but there is still a desire for something warm and freshly prepared.

3. Simplify prep with intuitive controls

When time is tight, kitchen appliances should feel easy to use. The Touch and Dial Control of the LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven combines a one-body tempered glass design with a clean, modern control interface for a sleek and simple experience. It also features a White LED display, making settings easier to view while preparing meals.

For busy users, intuitive controls can help make everyday cooking feel less complicated.

4. Keep your microwave easier to manage between meals

The LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven is built with 99.99% Anti-Bacterial EasyClean™ coating, designed to help keep the inside of the microwave clean. For people using the microwave regularly throughout the week, this can make routine maintenance feel more manageable.

A cleaner microwave also helps support a smoother everyday cooking routine—especially in homes where the kitchen is in constant use.

5. Maximize cooking space with more stability

The LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven features a Stable Turntablewith a hexagonal-shaped turntable designed to provide more stable cooking space.

Combined with a 25-liter capacity, this gives users room for everyday meal prep and reheating while helping support steadier placement inside the unit.

For people juggling multiple tasks at home, that extra stability can make a difference in day-to-day use.

6. Make your kitchen routine feel brighter and easier

Cooking after sunset or preparing food early in the morning often means relying on good visibility. LG NeoChef’s LED White Lamp is three times brighter than conventional lighting, helping make the interior easier to see while cooking or reheating.

Small details like this can make a familiar routine feel more convenient, especially on packed weekdays.

7. Choose a kitchen appliance that fits everyday living

With its Black Smog Glass Finish, slim look, and practical features, the LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven with Grill (MH6565DIS) is designed to fit naturally into modern kitchens. Behind the design is a set of features meant to support real-life cooking needs: Smart Inverter, multi-functional cooking, Touch and Dial Control, and Microwave Oven + Grill (Combination).

It also comes with a 10-year warranty on magnetron parts, supporting long-term everyday use.

For busy Filipinos, smarter cooking is not always about doing more in the kitchen—it is about making everyday meals easier, faster, and more intuitive.

For more information on the LG NeoChef™ Smart Inverter Microwave Oven with Grill (MH6565DIS), visit the product page here: https://www.lg.com/ph/cooking-appliances/mh6565dis.