July 5, 2025

Compact flagship vivo X200 FE to land in Philippines


The vivo X200 FE is officially landing in the Philippines on July 18, bringing with it a powerful new take on the flagship experience - compact in size, bold in style, and designed to keep up with your everyday rhythm.

Built for a new generation of self-starters, creators, and go-getters, the vivo X200 FE delivers high-end features in a sleek and portable form factor. It’s the smartphone that proves you don’t have to go big to go far.

Compact size, maximum impact

One look and you’ll know the vivo X200 FE isn’t your average smartphone. It features a 6.31-inch flat screen, a slim 7.99mm profile, 71.76mm width, and weighs only 186g, perfectly built for one-handed use.

Inside, precision-stacked components give the phone a 1:1 balanced weight distribution, ensuring it feels just right in your hand. Even its minimalist rear camera design takes up only 9% of the back, keeping the look clean and the grip seamless.

Inspired by the modern “squircle” shape, a harmony of square and circle, the phone blends strength with softness, giving it a refined and confident feel. The Rhythm Eye camera design adds a subtle visual signature while enhancing comfort during use.

Finished with Metallic Sand Anti-Glare coating, the texture is about 40% smoother than traditional AG surfaces, delivering a tactile experience that feels as premium as it looks.

Bold colors that reflect you

Available in Blue Breeze and Black Luxe, the vivo X200 FE offers two stylish options to express your personality.

Blue Breeze captures clarity, creativity, and calm, making it perfect for those with a free-spirited edge. Black Luxe, on the other hand, radiates timeless elegance and quiet strength that is made for professionals and minimalists alike.

Built to go wherever life takes you

Despite its delicate frame, the vivo X200 FE is tougher than it looks. With a structural frame made from aerospace-grade aluminum, it offers superior drop resistance while maintaining a lightweight feel.

It’s also IP68 and IP69 certified for dust and water resistance, meaning it can handle everyday spills, sudden rain, and rugged conditions with ease. Add in SGS Triple Protection Certification and Military-grade durability, and you’ve got a compact device ready for big adventures.


While most flagships are powerful but heavy, vivo answers today’s demand for lighter, more flexible lifestyles with a device that’s easy to carry with one hand, yet powerful in every way.

Mark your calendars! This compact powerhouse officially lands in the Philippines on July 18, 2025. Stay tuned on vivo Philippines' website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X to be updated on the launch of the most-awaited X200 FE.

VOLTME Announces Strategic Partnership with Cognetics Philippines to Expand Presence in Southeast Asia



VOLTME, a global leader in innovative charging solutions, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Cognetics Philippines, a leading distributor of consumer electronics and technology solutions. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in VOLTME’s expansion strategy, further strengthening its footprint in Southeast Asia.

With this partnership, VOLTME’s cutting-edge charging products - including GaN chargers, high-speed power banks, and smart charging accessories - will now be available to a wider audience in the Philippines. Cognetics Philippines, known for its strong distribution network and expertise in technology-driven solutions, will play a crucial role in bringing VOLTME’s premium products to local retailers, e-commerce platforms, and corporate clients.

“This partnership with Cognetics Philippines aligns with our commitment to making advanced charging technology accessible to more consumers worldwide,” said Tommy Tse, COO of Voltnex Innovations, the parent company of VOLTME. “The Philippines is a key market for us, and with Cognetics’ deep market knowledge and extensive reach, we are confident that Filipino consumers will benefit from our reliable and high-performance charging solutions.”


“We are excited to join forces with VOLTME and bring their exceptional lineup of charging products to the Philippine market,” said Igue Bonifacio, Integrated Marketing Manager and Business Development Lead of Cognetics Philippines. “Our partnership will empower Filipino consumers with fast, efficient, and reliable charging solutions that enhance their digital lifestyles.

Christine Pascua, Executive Vice President of Cognetics Philippines, added, “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality and innovative technology solutions to our customers. We look forward to a successful partnership with VOLTME.”


VOLTME has been at the forefront of innovation, developing next-generation charging solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern consumers. With its GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, multi-device compatibility, and sleek, compact designs, VOLTME products have gained recognition globally for their efficiency and reliability.

The VOLTME and Cognetics Philippines partnership will officially launch in Q3 2025, with an extensive rollout across major retailers and online marketplaces. Both companies are committed to delivering top-tier charging solutions, ensuring that consumers in the Philippines can experience the convenience and performance of VOLTME’s premium products.

For more information about VOLTME and its latest products in the Philippines:


· Shopee Philippines - https://shopee.ph/voltme


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About VOLTME
VOLTME is a leading innovator in charging technology, offering a wide range of power solutions, including GaN chargers, power banks, and smart charging accessories. Committed to sustainability and innovation, VOLTME continues to push the boundaries of charging efficiency and design.

About Cognetics Philippines
Cognetics Philippines is a premier distributor of consumer electronics and technology solutions, dedicated to providing high-quality products and services to retailers and consumers across the Philippines.

July 4, 2025

HUAWEI and RUNRIO Rally Runners to Embrace Smarter, Healthier Lifestyles with ‘Active Rings: Enjoy Your Moment’ Community Run at SM MOA


HUAWEI continues to empower smart fitness as it hosted a community run event with running events organizer RUNRIO. Held last June 28 at the monumental SM Mall of Asia Complex, the community run event was part of HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings: Enjoy Your Moment’ initiative.

Enjoy the Moment from Start to Finish Line

The event gathered participants from the HUAWEI Wearable community and other run club members, who embraced a morning of movement and motivation during the community run. The community run in Manila is part of HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings: Enjoy the Moment’ initiative, which seeks to encourage communities to live healthier and more active lives. The Manila event was the latest in its lineup of global fitness events in different cities across the globe.

For many, the initiative’s message resonated beyond physical activity. Lara Beriña, engineer and avid runner commended the initiative, saying, “‘Active Rings’ is such a smart and timely campaign. As an engineer, I’m obsessed with numbers and metrics, but this reminded me to be present and enjoy the journey.” She added, “It wasn’t just about hitting goals—it was about celebrating the effort, the community, and the joy of movement.”

Throughout the run, participants worked toward achieving their goals and closing each activity ring on the HUAWEI wearable devices. According to regular runner Addy Alajar, this made the run more fun and challenging. He claimed, “I’m a visual person, so seeing my progress like that keeps me going. It’s a simple but really motivating way to stay on track and know exactly what I still need to do.” By the time they reached the finish line, most runners were able to close each of their activity rings, which added a sense of accomplishment to their experience.

Once the participants have cooled down, the top three fastest male and female finishers. For the women’s category, Arielle Chantal Guado won first place with a recorded time of 24 minutes and 31 seconds. Trisha Cruz came in second, finishing her run in 26 minutes and 19 seconds. Close behind her in third was Hannah Dacanay who finished at 27 minutes and 40 seconds.

Francis Geoffrey Ramos Parreñas was the top finisher for the men’s category with a recorded time of 21 minutes and 32 seconds. With only a 13-second difference at 21 minutes and 45 seconds, John Mark Calves came in second. And, only 9 seconds behind was Josh Campos at 21 minutes and 53 seconds.

The first place finishers for both categories took home a HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro, while the second place finishers were awarded with a HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4. Third place finishers received a HUAWEI FreeArc.

Smarter Run with HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series

During the event, runners were able to take HUAWEI’s latest wearable innovations, including the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series, out for a spin. “I’ve always been a classic watch kind of person. Wearing the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro for the first time completely changed how I ran.” said Lara Beriña.

Many runners praised the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series for its fashionable design and its smart, intuitive features. Designed to look as good as it feels, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series remains true to its fashion-forward identity with a slim, lightweight design and easily customizable watch face and strap options.

Beriña also shared how the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series made a difference in their performance, thanks to its comprehensive fitness features. She said, “It helped me stay focused, track my progress, and push myself more than I normally would. It truly felt like I had a personal coach on my wrist.” After their run, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series offered post-run insights through the HUAWEI Health app.
Nichole Mercado with the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4

Certified holistic health coach, sports nutrition expert, and running enthusiast Nichole Mercado found the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series’ heart rate tracking to be helpful during her run. “I love that it would give me reminders if my heart rate was spiking a little too high,” she said of the feature. “Sometimes when you’re running, you feel strong and just keep pushing yourself. But if you have a strategy in mind, being reminded of your heart rate is so important in optimizing your effort.”

DJ Chacha wearing the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4

“As runners, we often strain our necks (from) constantly checking our stats,” said radio DJ and dedicated runner DJ Chacha, who found the crystal-clear audio updates from the watch a highlight feature. She also said, “The health monitoring and sports tracking features boosted my performance. It’s encouraging when the watch tells you your stress level has improved while running. My previous smartwatch didn’t have this kind of feedback.”

Ramon Bautista wearing the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4

Along with health and wellness tracking as well as over 100 sport modes, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series boasts a powerful 10-day battery life. Comedian, Youtuber, and frequent runner Ramon Bautista commended the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series’ performance, saying, “It performed flawlessly. It will be a great companion for those who just want to enjoy running like me and for advanced users as well. It has comprehensive data displays for anyone (who wants) to achieve their fitness goals or target time.”

Men’s category third placer and seasoned marathoner Josh Campos raved about his experience wearing the smartwatch. On whether he would wear the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series on his future runs, Campos said, “I would love (for) HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 to be part of my marathon training every time I run.”

Achieve Your Goals, One Ring at a Time with 
HUAWEI Wearables

As the ‘Active Rings: Enjoy Your Moment’ movement expands across the globe, HUAWEI remains committed to inspiring healthier lifestyles powered by its innovative technology. With wearable innovations like the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series and other HUAWEI wearables, HUAWEI continues to push the boundaries of innovation to redefine what it means to live an active lifestyle.

The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series is available starting at PHP 6,499 on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, HUAWEI Online Store, and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.

To learn more about HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings: Enjoy Your Moment’ campaign and its line of wearables, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

#BingeAllDayAndNight with the OPPO Pad SE — your daily entertainment buddy



Nothing beats the feeling of enjoying your downtime after a bustling day at the office or school by catching up on your favorite series or movies with the OPPO Pad SE. The newest tablet from OPPO designed to help you succeed can deliver beyond its work features as your ultimate binge companion with its immersive display, rich audio, and all-day battery life—turning downtime into your favorite time.

Big battery for long hours of chill

Getting hit with a low battery warning when you’re just about to get to the best part of the show disrupts your viewing experience. Luckily, the OPPO Pad SE is built to keep up with your binge-watching with its massive 9340mAh battery, delivering up to 11 hours of uninterrupted video playback so you can stream episode after episode without worrying about plugging your charger.

But when you do need to power up, its 33W SUPERVOOC™ fast charging gets you back in watch mode in no time. It’s perfect for those quick breaks before heading to your next class or getting back to work.

Watch comfortably anytime


After hours means curling up in bed and watching your comfort show well into the night. Usually, your eyes would start to feel dry or strained after a few episodes, but not with the OPPO Pad SE.

Designed with an 11-inch LCD Immersive Eye-Care Display, the OPPO Pad SE keeps your eyes protected even during late-night streaming sessions. Certified for Low Blue Light, and Flicker-Free from TÜV Rheinland, it’s binge-watching done right—comfortable and without the eye strain.

Clear views under the sun

Streaming your favorite titles under the sun is no longer a worry thanks to its Anti-Reflective Matte Display, which cuts up to 97% of light interference—keeping visuals sharp and colors vibrant without the constant screen tilting or shade hunting outdoors.

For added eye care assurance, the Anti-Reflective Matte Display also boasts TÜV Rheinland certification for being both glare-free and paper-like in texture and clarity.

Cinema sound in your hands

Outside noise can be a nuisance to your viewing habit, especially if you’re in an epic scene that needs your utmost attention. Fret not because the OPPO Pad SE has you covered with its superb audio specs, featuring its large Quad-Speaker system and powerful sound cavities that deliver rich, room-filling sound, pulling you deeper into every scene.



Its Hi-Res and Hi-Res Wireless certifications ensure crisp, detailed audio whether you’re using headphones or listening through the device itself. Plus with its Omnibearing Sound Field technology, the audio dynamically adapts to how you hold the tablet so booming sound effects hit harder, dialogues stay sharp, and your favorite soundtracks land a cinematic impact no matter where or how you’re watching.

Make the OPPO Pad SE your all-day binge-watch buddy

Whether it’s a weekend K-drama marathon, a late-night anime binge, or a midday movie break between classes or shifts, the OPPO Pad SE is the perfect downtime device packed with powerful features to elevate every viewing experience.

The OPPO Pad SE, which comes in two elegant colors - Twilight Blue and Starlight White, is now available on OPPO's official e-commerce platforms on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok and authorized stores nationwide, starting at Php 9,999.

Visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph and Facebook and TikTok pages to learn more about the OPPO Pad SE.

Epic First Day! HONOR 400 5G Hits Record High Sales with Celeb-Packed Celebration


HONOR Philippines just released its newest AI-packed smartphone, the HONOR 400 5G nationwide. Starting June 28, successful pre-orders can now claim their HONOR 400 5G at any HONOR Experience Stores or online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_H400_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/Shop_H400_PR, and TikTok Shop https://bit.ly/TikTok_H400_PR.

Priced at only Php 22,999, the HONOR 400 5G comes with FREE exclusive items worth ₱9,397, including a JBL Go 4 speaker, HONOR Choice Earbuds Clips, and a Jisulife Pro 1 when pre-ordered from June 17-2, 2025. Plus, pre-order customers get the chance to win a Rolex GMT Master II worth ₱600,000 or a Hermès Lindy Mini Bag worth ₱420,000!

HONOR fever has been proven yet again with a record-breaking first day sale of HONOR 400 5G on June 28, 2025. Shoppers who pre-ordered the viral AI phone nationwide are seen in long lines to claim their units.

“We are honored to have been joined by the HONOR Stars --- Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados and one of GMA Kapuso’s leading ladies Ashley Ortega in this very special milestone. For months, the team has worked tirelessly to bring Your AI Phone HONOR 400 5G to the Philippine market. Today’s launch is a proud moment that reflects the success of those efforts,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Redefining Mobile Photography

The HONOR 400 features a cutting-edge 200MP Ultra-clear AI Camera System that includes a 1/1.4-inch large sensor, f/1.9 aperture, and dual stabilization (OIS + EIS) to ensure exceptional clarity, even in low-light conditions. A 12MP Ultra-Wide and Macro Camera captures expansive shots, while the 50MP Portrait Selfie Camera delivers professional-grade selfies with lifelike details.

Big crowd and long lines scene at SM Baliwag.

AI-Powered Creativity

With advanced AI Editing tools, the HONOR 400 allows users to transform photos into dynamic videos using Google’s Veo 2 model on Google Cloud. The HD Moving Photo feature captures vivid, live moments, while the AI Eraser and AI Outpainting tools simplify editing for everyday users.

Built for Durability and Performance

The HONOR 400 is powered by a 6000mAh Silicon-carbon Battery, offering extended usage even in extreme conditions and maintaining over 80% health after four years of use. With 80W HONOR Wired SuperCharge, the device can charge up to 40% in just 15 minutes.

Pricing and Availability

Available in stunning color options—Midnight Black, Tidal Blue and Desert Gold—the HONOR 400 5G is now available for pre-order across the Philippines for only Php 22,999 (24GB + 512GB)! Get it now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_H400_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/Shop_H400_PR, and TikTok Shop https://bit.ly/TikTok_H400_PR.

You can also #BringPhotosToLife with #YourAIPhone via Home Credit easy installments of as low as ₱979/month for 18 months! Check the best HONOR products and deals for you here: https://hcph.info/3I2m1gb.

To know more about HONOR 400 5G, head on to: https://bit.ly/Web_H400_PR. For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph) and TikTok (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Discover the ideal air conditioner for your every need


Air conditioners are not usually one-size-fits-all. Sure, it may offer standard features that one may expect from an air cooling solution, but it’s also essential for a homeowner to consider other factors before purchasing one.

What you look for in an air conditioner may not be the same as your neighbor's—so what may work for them may not always be ideal for you. Factors like room size, insulation, energy consumption preferences, noise levels, and even aesthetic considerations all play a crucial role in finding the right unit.

In case you’re still on the hunt for a perfect air conditioner unit, it’s important to make sure that it responds to your family and home’s unique needs. With this, Midea, the world's no.1 residential inverter air conditioner company, is here to help everyone navigate the season with ease.

For homes with compact space


With many Filipinos living in condominium units or compact apartments in Metro Manila, selecting an air conditioner unit that fits their space is usually their top priority. This not only ensures ease of use but also delivers the ideal balance of performance, convenience, and style.

If you’re living in dorm rooms, small houses, or apartments, the Midea Qube and Midea Window/Split are excellent choices. The Midea Qube Compact Inverter Window-Type Air Conditioner Series is designed for compactness and space efficiency, with dimensions of 471 mm in width, 482 mm in depth, and 345 mm in height. This lightweight unit is easy to install and features a Full DC Inverter, delivering reliable cooling and energy efficiency for everyday comfort.

Meanwhile, the Midea Window/Split Series Inverter Air-Conditioner is also a space-saving unit that measures 487 mm in width, 558 mm in depth, and 342 mm in height. On top of that, it is super quiet, making it perfect for small spaces. It also offers powerful cooling and creates a relaxing environment.

For energy-saving homes


The spike in electricity bills is commonly the factor that most homeowners worry about. Good thing, Midea offers energy-efficient air-conditioners that cool your home without sweating your bank accounts.

The Midea Celest Full DC Inverter Split-Type Air-Conditioner is a durable unit powered by AI ECOMASTER for 30% extra energy saving. It has the ability to lower the temperature by 5°C in just 10 minutes, allowing to reduce energy costs without compromising the cooling efficiency.

You can also save on your electricity bills with the Midea AirstillPro Full DC Inverter Series, which boasts a 5-star energy efficiency performance rating and is ranked as the most energy-efficient model among over 700 split models in the country. It also provides both gentle and rapid cooling and a customizable experience, allowing you to control the comfort mode to suit your preferences.

For modern, smart homes

In this digital, fast-paced world, some homeowners prefer the convenience of managing household tasks right from their smartphones in just a few clicks. Want your room to be cool before you get home? Want your air conditioner to adjust its temperature on its own in the wee hours? Midea has got the solution for you.

With Midea’s latest product and innovation solutions, they are offering the future of home cooling through the Midea Avigator Full DC Inverter Series–a smart and convenient air conditioner that has rapid cooling. Powered by AI Smart Control, it allows you to automatically adjust its cooling settings through the Midea Smart Home App. You can control it anytime, anywhere, with just one click away, making it a perfect unit if you’re looking for a smarter way to live.

However, if you’re looking for the full package – comfort, energy efficiency, and smart control, this is your sign to get the Midea AirstillPro Full DC Inverter Series. This unit offers three breeze modes: Breeze Away to prevent cold drafts, Breeze Mild to evenly cool the room, and Breezeless for ultra-gentle cooling for maximum comfort.

It can also be controlled through the Midea Smart Home App, giving you complete control from your phone. While it has advanced features, it remains energy efficient thanks to its inverter technology and faster cooling features.


From portable and space-saving designs to energy-efficient models with smart control features, Midea offers a wide range of air conditioners to keep you cool and help you find the perfect match tailored to your lifestyle, space, and needs.

To learn more about Midea’s latest products, visit www.midea.com/ph, follow @mideaph on Instagram and on Tiktok @mideaphilippines, subscribe to Midea Philippines Official on YouTube, and like @MideaPhilippines on Facebook.

July 1, 2025

PLDT Home turns K-drama fantasy into reality with epic Squid Game Seoul experience


A first for any Philippine telco company in partnership with streaming giant Netflix, the leading digital services provider fulfills K-drama dreams with an unforgettable adventure as Squid Game drops its final season

Game face on! K-influencers and Squid Game fans Happee Sy, Kring Kim, and Kristel Fulgar take on the challenge in real life – but did they make it?

PLDT Home, the Philippines' leading digital services provider, turned dreams into reality for five lucky subscribers with their companions and top K-culture influencers – Happee Sy Go, Kring Kim, and Kristel Fulgar – by flying them to Seoul for an exclusive "Squid Game" experience.


A few days ahead of the third season premiere of Squid Game, winners and their companions plus the content creators explored the heart of Korean culture and visited iconic landmarks together. Most notably, they got to enter Squid Game: The Experience – a popular interactive attraction inspired by the hit Netflix series.


Launched last April, PLDT Home announced the promo with a successful press event to kick off the campaign while drawing excitement from Squid Game fans nationwide. This is a first for the telco brand, as it further pushes its promise of unli-entertainment beyond the home.

Blood pumping action: Happee Sy, Kring Kim, and Kristel Fulgar join lucky PLDT Home subscribers as they tour Squid Game: The Experience in Seoul – packed with challenges inspired by the hit Netflix show

With the success of its first-ever flyaway promo, PLDT Home delivered on its promise to elevate entertainment – offering subscribers not just content, but unforgettable experiences. It highlights PLDT Home's commitment to enriching digital lifestyles beyond connectivity.

Once in a lifetime: Five lucky winners with their plus-ones get the trip of their life as PLDT Home flies them to Seoul for three days and two nights – all expenses paid!

"We are absolutely thrilled to have brought this unique 'Squid Game' experience to life for our subscribers and the vibrant K-life community," said PLDT Home Acquisition Marketing First Vice President Patrick S. Tang.

"This journey to Seoul is a testament to our unwavering commitment to go beyond connectivity and deliver truly unforgettable experiences. We are incredibly grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our customers who participated in this promo. Their love for the brand truly fuels our passion to continuously elevate entertainment.”

As the first of many such programs, the Seoul flyaway promo is proof to PLDT Home's intent to consistently enhance its subscribers’ experience with streaming leaders such as Netflix – with a whole world of exclusive benefits and premier entertainment waiting for them.

“This is just the beginning of many more exciting rewards and immersive experiences we look forward to bringing to the PLDT Home family. As a leading services provider, it is always our goal to offer a continuous stream of exciting rewards, innovative engagements, and unlimited entertainment activations for all our valued subscribers,” Tang added.

From just being fans of the show, new PLDT Home Fiber Netflix subscribers find themselves in luck right in the middle of the action in Korea!

Don’t miss out on PLDT Home’s exciting promos and rewards – get the PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 with up to 300 Mbps and the wide world of entertainment that comes with a Netflix Basic subscription! Learn more by heading to pldthome.com/fiber-netflix.

“Experience” Squid Game right in the Philippines when you apply for a PLDT Home Fiber Netflix plan at any of the following PLDT stores: SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM SouthMall, SM Baguio, SM Seaside Cebu, and Abreeza Mall Davao. Enjoy a set of Squid Game-inspired games, gimmicks, and prizes at every store visit!

Hotel101 makes history as first Filipino company listed on Nasdaq

DoubleDragon Corporation has achieved its goal of having its subsidiary, Hotel101 Global Holdings Corporation, with a deemed equity value of $2.3 billion, become the first Filipino corporation to be listed on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange.

Hotel101, an asset-light, prop-tech hospitality platform business designed for rapid global growth, listed at the Nasdaq in New York on June 27, 2025, under the ticker symbol “HBNB” and its shares are set to begin trading on July 1, 2025.


Hotel101 celebrated its U.S. public listing by ringing the Opening Bell last night (Manila time). Leading the bell-ringing were DoubleDragon Co-Chairmen Edgar Sia II and Tony Tan Caktiong.

The approval to list at the Nasdaq came after completion of Hotel101's business combination with JVSPAC Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: JVSA), which JVSPAC shareholders approved on June 24, 2025.
“This is a historic moment for DoubleDragon, becoming the first-ever Filipino company with a subsidiary listed and traded on the Nasdaq,” said Sia, Co-Chairman and CEO of DoubleDragon Corporation and Founder of Hotel101.

He added that, “It reflects the strength of our vision and the dedication of everyone who has helped bring Hotel101 to this global stage. And we're just getting started – with a globally scalable model and a long runway ahead, we aim to redefine the industry and become a leading global hospitality brand working towards our vision of an inventory of 1 million Hotel101 rooms globally.”

Hotel101 CEO Hannah Yulo-Luccini said “Today is an exciting milestone in Hotel101's journey to become the world's first truly global one-room hotel chain.”

Hotel101 Global bell-ringing to mark its listing on Nasdaq Stock Exchange. In photo (left to right): Hotel101 CEO Hannah Yulo-Luccini, Hotel101 Founders Edgar Sia II and Tony Tan Caktiong, JVSPAC CEO Albert Cheuk Fai Wong, and Nasdaq Vice Chairman Robert McCooey Jr.

Hotel101 CEO Hannah Yulo-Luccini, and Founders Tony Tan Caktiong and Edgar Sia II, celebrate their landmark Nasdaq listing by proudly displaying the Philippine flag outside the Nasdaq building in New York City.

“Hotel101 was born from a simple, revolutionary idea: a ‘one room’ global hotel brand delivering consistent comfort and irresistible value worldwide. Our asset-light, technology-driven platform positions us to scale rapidly, with a goal to disrupt the hospitality industry globally with 1 million rooms across 100 countries.”

Hotel101's management believes that Hotel101 properties are efficient to build, maintain, and operate – as well as scale and expand through direct development, joint venture partnerships, and franchise arrangements.

Building on the success of Hotel101-branded properties in the Philippines – where there are two operating properties and a number under development – Hotel101 intends to accelerate its global expansion plans.

Hotel101-Madrid, a 680-room development adjacent to the new Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix Circuit in Valdebebas, is slated for completion in December 2025.

Earlier this month, Hotel101 signed a 10-year agreement with an affiliate of MATCH Hospitality AG, making it an official hotel partner of the F1 Spanish Grand Prix from 2026 to 2035.

In May 2025, Hotel101 signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia's Horizon Group to, subject to additional contract, establish a joint venture for the development of up to 10 hotels in Saudi Arabia.

The partnership underscores Hotel101's confidence in the Kingdom's dynamic tourism market, one of the fastest-growing globally under Vision 2030.

Construction is underway for Hotel101-Niseko, a 482-room property in Hokkaido, Japan. The company has also secured a site in Los Angeles, California, marking its entry into the U.S. market.

In parallel, Hotel101 is actively pursuing five additional joint ventures, further advancing its goal of establishing a presence in 25 priority markets in the medium term.

Hotel101's asset-light “condotel” prop-tech business model is designed to scale efficiently while maximizing value for both unit owners and guests.

Hotel101 generates revenue twice: first, from the pre-selling of individual hotel units during the construction phase; and second, from long-term recurring revenue derived from day-to-day hotel operations following completion of the units.

By pre-selling standardized hotel units, Hotel101 generates upfront capital to fund new developments and expand rapidly. Its long-term management contracts with unit owners create a stable and recurring revenue stream.

June 30, 2025

From Sacrifice to Software: How One Man’s Family-First Vision Sparked a Tech Success in Bulacan

On PLDT Enterprise’s “ROI’d to Success” podcast, Michael Sta. Maria of NBSI shares the journey behind a growing local tech firm rooted in resilience, family, and community impact.

Located in Norzagaray, Bulacan, this building is home to Northeast Business Solutions, Inc., a local tech company built on perseverance, purpose, and community. From these walls, NBSI develops digital solutions that help businesses across the country manage time, people, and growth.

For Michael Sta. Maria, success didn’t begin with software. It started with sacrifice.

Long before he led a growing enterprise resource planning (ERP) software company serving clients across the country, Sta. Maria was a young professional from Norzagaray, Bulacan who spent many years working away from home, missing important family moments in pursuit of stability.

“I really wanted to give back the investment and time to my family, as well as the time to myself. I never thought it would be possible. Before, I would doubt myself, but eventually, after almost ten years, we now see that, while we struggled in the past, we are now established and can run the business well and continue to grow it,” he shares on the latest episode of ROI’d to Success, the podcast collaboration between PLDT Enterprise and Hustleshare.

That turning point came in 2016, when Sta. Maria decided to take a leap of faith and build something from the ground up. The result was Northeast Business Solutions, Inc. (NBSI), a Bulacan-based software company specializing in timekeeping, human resource management systems (HRMS), and payroll.

What started as a homegrown solution to a common business problem — reliable and affordable payroll software — soon evolved into an enterprise payroll and timekeeping solution catering to small and even very large-sized companies. By 2018, NBSI had successfully launched its product in the Philippine market. But the story behind the code is as powerful as the tech itself.

Building a Business with Heart

For Sta. Maria, NBSI was never just about growth, it was about reclaiming time, not only for himself but for others in his community.

Coming from a humble background, he poured himself into mastering software development. His early career took him far from home, requiring long hours and frequent travel. But with his family’s unwavering support, he eventually found the courage to strike out on his own.

Sta. Maria also believes that no business thrives in isolation, emphasizing that, “It is very important to listen to our team. I’ve learned a lot over the past few years about the business from my people. Our employees are truly our ambassadors. And, of course, how they represent themselves is a direct reflection of our company.”

Today, NBSI serves as a pillar of local employment in Norzagaray, providing opportunities for young professionals to pursue careers in tech.

“My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: If you plan to start your own business, be prepared for challenges—they are part of the process. But you will reap the rewards later. You can do it,” he adds.

Tech, Trust, and a Reliable Connection

NBSI’s growth, however, didn’t happen in isolation. Behind its ability to deliver reliable solutions to clients lies a strong digital backbone provided by PLDT Enterprise’s iGate.

“PLDT Enterprise helped us achieve zero downtime in internet connectivity,” explains Sta. Maria. This dependable connection allowed NBSI to provide seamless service to businesses relying on them for sensitive, time-critical operations.

“Thanks to PLDT Enterprise, our productivity increased by over 15%. Our client base grew, while our total working hours decreased—reflecting improved efficiency,” Sta. Maria shares.

Looking ahead, NBSI plans to expand further with PLDT Enterprise’s broadband upgrades and Smart 5G Postpaid Plans, a move that will better connect its mobile workforce and help support its rapidly growing client base.


A Platform for Progress

For PLDT Enterprise, supporting MSMEs like NBSI means amplifying their own stories.

“Through stories like NBSI’s, we see how meaningful technology adoption drives real, measurable business outcomes,” said Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise. “Through ROI’d to Success, we give entrepreneurs a platform to share their stories, highlighting how they harness digital solutions to overcome challenges, grow their businesses, and inspire others.”

You can listen to the full ROI’d to Success episode featuring Northeast Business Solutions, Inc. now on Hustleshare via Spotify.

To discover more inspiring stories and learn how PLDT Enterprise’s solutions empower businesses, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ROId-nbsi-pr.


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About PLDT Enterprise

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

Max Collins and Michelle Dee slayed perfect dreamy photos with vivo V50's ZEISS Style Bokeh effects


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