September 13, 2025

Stay Connected Whatever the Weather with OPPO A5 Pro 5G

Working on the go often means patchy signals, sudden weather changes, and battery anxiety. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G solves these pain points with AI-assisted connectivity, long battery life, fast charging, and proven durability, making it a reliable daily companion.

Stay Connected When It Matters

Bad weather can disrupt mobile signal and data. The OPPO A5 Pro uses a 360° Surround Antenna and AI LinkBoost 2.0 to strengthen weak signals and switch networks intelligently, so you stay online for calls, messages, and map navigation. When mobile networks are congested or unavailable, BeaconLink enables ultra-clear voice calls with nearby OPPO A5 Pro 5G users within approximately 205 meters.

Battery That Keeps Up

The 5,800 mAh battery supports up to 35 hours of calls and 16 hours of video streaming, so long days are not a problem.

Its 45W SUPERVOOC charging adds about 10 percent in 5 minutes and reaches a full charge in around 83 minutes, so you can top up quickly between tasks.

Built For Rain and Rough Commutes

Its triple-certified IP69, IP68, and IP66 resistance ratings help the device withstand heavy rain, splashes, and messy commutes, so you can keep going with confidence.

Set Yourself Up For Success With The OPPO A5 Pro 5G

With the OPPO A5 Pro 5G, you can work, connect, and get more done without worrying about signal strength or battery life.

The OPPO A5 Series is available in a range of choices on OPPO’s official e-commerce platforms on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and authorized OPPO stores nationwide.

     OPPO A5 Pro 5G (Bloom Pink, Mocha Brown)

     8GB + 256GB - ₱15,999

     OPPO A5 Pro (Mocha Brown, Olive Green)

     8GB + 128GB - ₱10,999

     8GB + 256GB - ₱12,999

     OPPO A5 (Mist White, Aurora Green)

     6GB + 128 GB - ₱8,999

     4GB + 256 GB - ₱9,999

     8GB + 256 GB - ₱11,999

     OPPO A5x (Laser White, Midnight Blue)

     4GB + 64GB - ₱6,499

     4GB + 128GB- ₱7,999

     OPPO A5i (Starry Purple, Nebula Red)

     4GB + 64GB - ₱4,699

     4GB + 128GB- ₱5,699

Learn more about the OPPO A5 Series by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

NOBITA and Yeng Constantino collaborate on new heartfelt ballad, “Gayuma”

Produced by Brian Lotho, the song tackles the hesitation of confessing one’s romantic feeling to someone

Filipino pop-rock quintet NOBITA links up with Yeng Constantino in the collaborative new single “Gayuma,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Caught between wanting to confess and being afraid to take the first step, the song explores a quiet kind of love that swells in secret.

“The lyrics capture the uncertainty—whether what you feel is genuine love or just something that seems magical, almost like a spell,” NOBITA shares in a press statement. “It reflects the theme of secret love because it’s about holding back, wondering if the other person feels the same way, and hoping the emotions are mutual.”

The track has an interesting history. According to NOBITA, the demo had been shelved for some time until they revisited it and realized something was missing. The band began considering a female collaborator who could bring balance and emotional nuance to the song.

“And there’s no one more perfect than Ms. Yeng—we’re just so lucky she agreed,” NOBITA explains. “Our first meeting was very productive. We exchanged ideas on what to add and change from the original track, which eventually shaped the final version of the song.”

For Yeng Constantino, it was love at first listen. She specifically requested that the melody of the demo’s first verse be preserved. “The whole session, I was tapping into the emotion of falling in love,” she reveals. “But once you immerse yourself in that space, you realize it’s hard to control your feelings. That energy guided our process, helping us refine the lyrics and capture the material’s vulnerability.”

The collaboration brings the best of both worlds: Yeng’s soulful but delicate singing, and the band’s heartfelt delivery. Together, their vocals stand out even in moments of fragility, exuding both power; and rawness against a simple, yet emotionally layered arrangement.

NOBITA adds, “Each artist brought their own style and emotional depth, and instead of clashing, it blended beautifully. Yeng’s voice and artistry elevated the song’s sincerity.”

The song is produced by Brian Lotho who helped bring out the immediacy and warmth of the track, “making sure that the emotion in the lyrics came through in every beat and melody.”

NOBITA and Yeng Constantino’s “Gayumais out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Inspired by Travel, Driven by Purpose—Tagaytay's Hotel Casiana Delivers Hospitality with Heart and Innovation

Hotel Casiana GM Clive Aranha Shares the Real Work Behind Great Guest Experiences on PLDT Enterprise’s ROI’d to Success with Hustleshare


Clive Aranha, General Manager of Hotel Casiana & Events Center, together with his dedicated team, continues to deliver seamless guest experiences—powered by reliable connectivity and digital solutions from PLDT Enterprise

For Clive Aranha, General Manager of Hotel Casiana, hospitality is about earning every guest’s trust, one thoughtful detail at a time—whether it’s a warm greeting, a child’s smile in the play club, or a wedding that goes off without a hitch.

“At Hotel Casiana, our mission is to delight discerning travelers by curating extraordinary experiences and unforgettable memories,” said Aranha.

Hotel Casiana, located along the scenic Tagaytay-Nasugbu highway, is a ten-story sanctuary that marries Scandinavian aesthetics with Filipino warmth. Built to accommodate families, corporate teams, and eventgoers alike, the hotel offers premium amenities such as a heated pool, wellness center, children’s carousel, and a variety of versatile function rooms.

In the latest episode of ROI’d to Success, the business podcast of PLDT Enterprise in partnership with Hustleshare, Aranha shares how a childhood fascination with hotel life turned into a lifelong mission to create an extraordinary guest experience in Tagaytay.

“I had a neighbor who worked on cruise ships, and he would always share stories about the different countries he visited,” shared Aranha, recalling the moment his interest in the hospitality industry began.

“I’ve been fascinated by the idea of traveling the world and getting paid for it since I was in fourth grade,” shared Aranha. “I’ve always enjoyed interacting with people and exploring different cuisines, which naturally led me to the hospitality industry. As I began my career, I quickly realized the sacrifices and challenges that come with succeeding in this field. But I also believe that many of the skills we develop in hospitality, particularly in dealing with people, are applicable across various careers. That’s what makes this job truly fulfilling for me.”


But behind the luxury is a team that’s been forged through real challenges. From navigating the abrupt decline in bookings during the pandemic to training a team grounded in empathy and precision, Aranha emphasizes that leadership means growing with your people, not above them.

“It’s not about ‘I,’ it’s about ‘we,’” Aranha shares. “Success is when your team feels like they’re part of something greater.”

A Partnership Built for Reliability and Growth

As Hotel Casiana’s reputation for reliable service grew, so did the demands for fast, uninterrupted operations—especially during peak seasons. To support its commitment to guest satisfaction, Hotel Casiana partnered with PLDT Enterprise to enhance its digital infrastructure.

With PLDT iGate and trunkline services now in place, the hotel has transformed its day-to-day operations. Guests enjoy smoother online bookings, event teams coordinate seamlessly across departments, and staff communication remains uninterrupted during critical moments.

“When I joined Hotel Casiana, I made it a point to identify recurring issues raised by our guests and one of the most pressing was connectivity,” said Aranha. “Thankfully, we were able to partner with PLDT Enterprise, who provided reliable solutions like iGate. This significantly improved our Wi-Fi, which is critical in today’s guest experience. We’ve also started adopting paperless, eco-friendly technologies like QR codes, and are now exploring AI integrations. PLDT Enterprise continues to play a key role in our digital transformation.”

Since the partnership with PLDT Enterprise, Hotel Casiana now attributes 12% of its total yearly bookings to online platforms. In 2026, a new hotel will be opened in Mexico, Pampanga, and Aranha looks forward to continuing the partnership with PLDT Enterprise, bringing its technology and innovation offerings to the new establishment.

“We’re in the business of making people feel taken care of,” Aranha says. “The right tools let us do that consistently, even when the hotel is fully booked. That’s where tech meets trust.”

Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise, also expressed his pride in the growing partnership: “Hotel Casiana exemplifies how hospitality is evolving with the help of reliable technology. We’re proud to support their journey in delivering outstanding guest experiences through stable connectivity and digital tools. At PLDT Enterprise, we believe in empowering businesses like Hotel Casiana to thrive—not just in key cities, but in regional growth centers like Tagaytay where tourism and service excellence continue to grow.”

Powering Philippine Hospitality with Purpose

The partnership between PLDT Enterprise and Hotel Casiana reflects a shared mission: to equip Filipino businesses with technology that lets them do what they do best—connect with people.

“We’re in the business of making people feel taken care of,” says Aranha. “Technology doesn’t replace that. But when it’s done right, it empowers us to do it better.

Discover the story of Hotel Casiana at ROI’d To Success with Hustleshare on Spotify. To learn more about the digital solutions fit for your business, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ROId-HC-pr

TP, Muntinlupa City Technical Institute ink partnership for industry learning program


TP, a global leader in digital business services, recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Muntinlupa City Technical Institute (MCTI) and the Muntinlupa City Government to implement the Supervised Industry Learning (SIL) program. This agreement formalizes the strategic industry-academe partnership between TP and MCTI, an educational institution specializing in technical and vocational education.


Building the future with a strong partnership. (From left) TP in the Philippines’ Vice President of Human Resources Rachel Cacabelos, Muntinlupa City Mayor Rozzano Rufino Biazon, TP Marketing Director for External Relations Nash Frias, and MCTI OIC-Director Michelle Licudine sign the MOA for the implementation of an industry-readiness training program.

Through the MOA, MCTI trainees will gain real-world industry exposure and hands-on experience with leading companies such as TP, helping trainees become job-ready, globally competitive, and equipped with the right skills and attitude for potential careers at TP and within the IT-BPM industry.

The MOA requires TP to prioritize MCTI graduates and SIL trainees for job opportunities, engage in all job fairs sponsored by MCTI, conduct career talks, organize workshops, lead training sessions, develop seminars, facilitate site tours, and conduct mock interviews. In turn, the Muntinlupa City Government will highlight TP’s job openings on its web-based job search portal.

Mayor Biazon emphasized the importance of strong public-private partnerships, which support local talent and boost employment in the IT-BPM sector. At the same time, TP leaders reaffirmed the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals.

“Building a strong talent pipeline is at the heart of our work in Human Resources, and this partnership with MCTI is a powerful step forward. By giving students real-world training and a clear pathway to employment, we are not just investing in their future, but in the future of the IT-BPM industry itself. We are excited to welcome the next generation of talent and help them launch meaningful careers right here in Muntinlupa City,” said Jeffrey Johnson, Chief People Officer of TP in the Philippines.

This recent partnership is one of multiple government-academe-industry collaborations TP has participated in. Last June, the company signed a MOA with the Bacolod City Government and the Bacolod City College (BCC) for the latter’s adoption of the @SENSO Life Skills Academy Training Program. Earlier this year, TP also signed a MOA with the State University of Northern Negros (SUNN), establishing a strategic partnership under TP Launchpad. These initiatives demonstrate TP’s ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent and building stronger academic-industry linkages.

“This partnership allows us to create a direct, effective pipeline for new talent, ensuring MCTI trainees receive the hands-on, industry-specific training they need to be job-ready from day one. Our goal is to connect skills with opportunity, and this program is a vital step in making that a reality for Muntinlupa's youth,” added Rachel Cacabelos, Vice President of Human Resources of TP in the Philippines.

Enjoy Essential and Secure AI-powered Features with the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G | LTE and Galaxy A07

The newest Galaxy A series offers upgraded capabilities for productivity and entertainment, along with a stylish new look for everyone

Samsung Electronics today unveiled the latest Galaxy A Series—introducing the all-new Galaxy A17 5G/LTE and Galaxy A07 LTE. Designed to empower users in every moment, these new devices combine essential AI-powered features for productivity and entertainment, strengthened security and privacy upgrades, as well as a sleek, modern design — delivering must-have experiences at accessible price points that help you get more out of every day.

Seamless, integral AI experiences

The new Galaxy A17 offers some fan-favorite features from the Galaxy S Series, furthering Samsung’s vision of democratizing the latest AI experiences to more users. This includes the seamless integration of Gemini activation through pressing and holding the side button, as well as Gemini Live, a completely voice-activated hands-free experience. Both these features allow users to cue seamless interactions across Samsung, Google or third-party apps like Spotify. 

Circle to Search with Google is also available on the Galaxy A17 – supporting new ways to access information in the moment – whether it is simply circling on screen, or instantly searching for music playing in one’s surroundings, or through speakers on their device.   

Awesome entertainment for all

For low light adventures, the new Galaxy A17 brings together enhanced optical image stabilization that enables shake-free videos and brighter images than its predecessor[1], along with a triple camera system that includes a 5MP Ultrawide, 50MP Wide, and 2MP sensor to capture the details of your core memories in every setting.

Users can look forward to smooth and immersive viewing experiences with the new Galaxy A additions. The Galaxy A17 comes with a 6.7-inch large Super AMOLED display, while both models feature an enhanced 90Hz refresh rate and an upgraded application processor (AP)[2] to deliver fast and smooth Galaxy experiences across gaming, video streaming and other multitasking needs. 

With the Galaxy A17 and Galaxy A07’s long lasting battery[3] and 25W Fast Charging, users can stay connected throughout the day, enjoying seamless and uninterrupted usage with minimal downtime.

Future-ready reliability

The Galaxy A17 and Galaxy A07 will receive six generations of Android OS upgrades along with six years of security updates, to deliver mobile experiences that are both up-to-date and secure

Users can also take advantage of Samsung’s best-in-class security and privacy innovations. The Samsung Knox Vault protects personal information in a separate tamper-resistant hardware, for better peace of mind as users go about their digital lives.

In addition, the Galaxy A17 5G, Galaxy A17 LTE and Galaxy A07 LTE are equipped with Theft Protection which allows remote locking of the home screen as well as force biometric authentication to restrict further unauthorized access. Auto Blocker is also available on all the A Series additions, helping owners protect their device and data by preventing the installation of applications from unauthorized sources and blocking malicious activity.

Durable and sleek design

Designed to last, the rear bodies of the Galaxy A17 and Galaxy A07 are assembled with Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) which provides a stronger and lighter back cover. In particular, the front cover glass of the Galaxy A17 uses Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ which provides added durability, and both the Galaxy A17 and A07 come equipped with IP54 dust and water resistance.

 

With its unique sleek designs, the Galaxy A series additions feature lighter and slimmer bodies than their predecessors. The Galaxy A17 is just 7.5mm thick[4] and its 5G and LTE variants weigh 192 grams and 190 grams respectively. Meanwhile, the 7.6mm[5] thick Galaxy A07 weighs only 184 grams. Affordable, durable, and trendy, the Galaxy A17 and Galaxy A07 offer a diverse range of awesome experiences for everyday tasks.  

Pricing and availability

The new Galaxy A17 5G/LTE and Galaxy A07 LTE will be available for as low as Php 9,290 and Php 5,290 for their lowest storage variants respectively. It will come in different attractive color variants including Black, Gray, and Blue (online-exclusive) for the A17 5G, and Black, Silver, and Light Blue (online-exclusive) for the A17 LTE. The A07 LTE will be available in Light Violet and Black.

You can shop the Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy A07 LTE starting September 05 in Samsung Experience Stores, Samsung.com, Samsung Mobile Shop App, and Samsung Flagship stores in Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A17 LTE will be available starting September 26.

Enjoy exclusive deals when you upgrade to the new Galaxy A07 or A17! Get 26% off the Galaxy Buds Core and 10% off the Galaxy Fit3 with every purchase—valid until November 30. Plus, when you buy the Galaxy A17, you’ll receive a free Travel Adapter to keep you powered up on the go. Take advantage of 0% installment plans on the Galaxy A07 and A17, and enjoy up to ₱1,000 off via Home Credit.

Get your new awesome reliable device by going to the links below:

Galaxy A17 5G

https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-a/galaxy-a17-5g-blue-256gb-sm-a176bzbkphl/buy/

Galaxy A07

https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-a/galaxy-a07-black-256gb-sm-a075fzkiphl/buy/

Also check out this story and more in the Samsung Philippines Newsroom: https://news.samsung.com/ph/enjoy-essential-and-secure-ai-powered-features-with-the-samsung-galaxy-a17-5g-lte-and-galaxy-a07

Terms and conditions apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-233649, 233677, 234743 Series of 2025.

 




[1] Compared to the Galaxy A16.

[2] Comparing the Galaxy A17 5G to the Galaxy A16 5G, and Galaxy A07 LTE to the Galaxy A06 LTE respectively.

[3] 2 Day battery certification, ready around end August

[4] Thinner compared to the Galaxy A16 (7.9mm)

[5] Thinner compared to the Galaxy A06 (8.0mm)

Block Out the Noise and Power Through Your Daily Routine with Hours of Audio from a 10-Minute Charge of the Airy-Light HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC, Now Available for Only PHP 1,799!


Take charge of your day with the new HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC, built for anyone who wants affordable smarter noise control, long-lasting battery life, and all-day comfort.

Marking the biggest upgrade in the series yet, the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC brings powerful 50 dB Active Noise Cancellation to the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE Series for the very first time. Alongside newly improved 50-hour battery life, a new in-ear design, and upgraded triple-mic call clarity help make your daily routine easier.

Packed with features at a budget-friendly price, the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC is now available for only PHP 1,799, exclusively on online platforms.

Experience Smart Noise Cancellation Modes for Wherever the Day Takes You

From the clatter of keyboards in the office to the rumble of cars during your commute, everyday noise can be relentless. The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC helps you reclaim your space with up to 50 dB Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) depth, so you can cut through the chaos and focus on what you’re doing right now.

Switch between three levels of Active Noise Cancellation depending on your needs. Use Ultra Mode when you need peace and quiet in the noisiest settings like packed trains or busy city streets. General Mode is ideal for when you want comfort and clarity while working shared offices or shopping in department stores. Choose Cozy Mode for silencing low-level distractions when reading in a library or cooking at home. Need to stay alert? Awareness Mode lets in important sounds, so you can hear train announcements, passing traffic, or your name being called without removing your earbuds.

When it’s time for a call, the triple-mic noise cancellation with wind resistance up to 5 m/s keeps your voice clear. You’re free to catch up with a friend while walking through a windy street or give updates to your team from a packed restaurant. Touch controls keep everything effortless. You can adjust the volume while cooking, skip songs mid-run, or answer calls with just a tap. Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, you’re always in control.

Power Your Weekly Listening with 50-Hour Battery Life and Fast Charging

It's frustrating having your earbuds die right before an important call or in the middle of your favorite playlist. The HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC is designed to stay on, delivering up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge[1]. With the charging case, you get a whole 50 hours of power, enough to handle a full week’s worth of listening even when using it 7 hours a day, during commutes, workouts, or study sessions without constantly reaching for the charger all week.

In a rush? Charging for 10 minutes powers 4 hours of listening[2] which gives you plenty of time to get through your next morning study session, attend an afternoon virtual work meeting, go for an evening walk, or late night binge watching session with loved ones.

Stay Comfortable with an Air-Light, Dust and Sweat Resistant Design

Uncomfortable earbuds can be a dealbreaker especially if they start to hurt after a short time. That’s why each HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC earbud weighs only 4.3g, which makes it lighter than an A4 paper. Shaped from over 10,000 ear canal samples helps make it a perfect fit, you’ll forget you’re wearing them. The silicone tips are available in three sizes help create a secure seal that fits comfortably and improves noise cancellation. With the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC, you won’t feel discomfort whether you’re moving between classes, running errands, or working through a busy day.

With minimalist Black or White finishes, the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC goes with any outfit for your schedule. Whether it’s a coffee run, a day at work, or a quick trip out of town, they fit right in with whatever the day brings you.

Beyond delivering great sound and all-day comfort, your HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC is backed by HUAWEI’s signature reliable quality and innovation, built to keep up with everything you do. The earbuds earned SGS international certification after passing 26 durability tests for drop resistance and overall wear-and-tear. So even if you accidentally knock them off your desk or wear them from morning ‘til night, these earbuds can handle it. Its IP54 dust and water resistance ensures durability, letting you move through sweaty gym workouts or go all out on jogging through a breezy day without worrying about damaging the earbuds.

Connect and Switch Effortlessly with Stable Multi-Device Pairing

Thanks to Bluetooth 5.4, the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC keeps your connection stable and lag-free, so you can enjoy uninterrupted audio every time you present in a virtual meeting, make calls on the go, or stream videos on your tablet.

Its wide compatibility with HarmonyOS, Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS ensures the earbuds work seamlessly with the devices you already own, so you can stay connected across your entire setup.

Upgrade to Noise-Free, All-Day Listening for Less with the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC

Get your hands on the latest upgrade to the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE Series with the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC. Priced at PHP 1,999, the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC will be available for only PHP 1,799 on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and the HUAWEI Online Store starting September 8, 2025.

To learn more about the HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 4 ANC, check out HUAWEI’s official website and social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

 



[1] With ANC disabled.

[2] With ANC disabled.

September 12, 2025

2GO Partners with CITEM to Power Manila FAME 2025

2GO, the Philippines’ largest end-to-end logistics and transportation solutions provider, has partnered with the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) as a Business Solutions Partner for Manila FAME 2025, happening on October 16 to 18, 2025 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
L-R: Peter Joseph Tapang, [EGC1] Assistant Division Chief, CITEM; Marjo Evio, Department Manager, Service Business Department, CITEM; Atty Rowel Barba, Consultant, 2GO Group, Inc.; Leah Pulido Ocampo, Executive Director, CITEM; Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head, 2GO Forwarding; Ethel Concepcion, Head of Corporate Marketing & Communications, 2GO Group, Inc.; Francis Chua, Business Unit Head, 2GO Travel.

Through this partnership, 2GO will have the opportunity to offer logistics support to exhibitors and buyers at the country’s premier design and lifestyle event. With services covering sea, land, and air freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and sea travel, 2GO is prepared to move prized and fragile cargo safely across the Philippines and beyond. Tailored solutions will also be made available to help participants bring their products to the event and distribute them back to markets nationwide or to local and international buyers.

“2GO is honored to partner with CITEM in supporting Manila FAME 2025,” said Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding. “We recognize the importance of this event in showcasing Filipino creativity to both local and global markets. Through our logistics expertise, we aim to make it easier for exhibitors to participate, connect with buyers, and explore new opportunities.”

With exhibitors and visitors coming from all over the world, 2GO will support their journey by providing integrated logistics and sea travel services. This ensures both participants and their products reach Manila smoothly and securely.

As the export promotions arm of the Department of Trade and Industry, CITEM continues to champion local small- and medium-scale enterprises and artisan communities.

“With Manila FAME, our goal has always been to provide a global platform for Filipino craftsmanship,” said Leah Pulido Ocampo, Executive Director of CITEM. “Our partnership with 2GO ensures that participants have reliable logistics support throughout their journey, so they can focus on sharing their designs, products, and stories with the world.”

The return of Manila FAME in 2024 featured 340 exhibitors and welcomed more than 5,700 visitors who sourced the best home, fashion, and lifestyle products in the country. This year, the show is expected to be bigger, with more than 10,000 buyers, exhibitors, media, and industry practitioners anticipated to attend, including leaders in architecture, interior design, and hospitality.

Manila FAME 2025 will once again position the Philippines as a sourcing destination for high-quality, design-driven home, fashion, holiday, and interior products, while strengthening collaboration between local industries and global markets.

For more information about 2GO Forwarding, email forwarding@2go.com.ph.

Filipino-Norwegian R&B star HILLARI headlines first solo show in Manila

The homecoming show aims to create space for reconnection through music


Filipino-Norwegian singer-songwriter HILLARI is set to headline her first solo show in the Philippines this September 21, 2025, at Sari-Sari bar in Makati City.

The rising R&B phenom will be performing an intimate set on the strength of her recently released 7-track EP, New Beginnings, which is described as a “bold body of work that explores transformation, letting go, and stepping into one’s power.”

HILLARI considers the show her official homecoming, reconnecting with her roots in an intimate way. “For me, it feels extra special to share my music with my people. Words cannot express how excited I am to do my first official headline show in Manila. To connect with my audience and my famHilly in a personal way and hear their stories.”

Fans can expect a full-band performance of songs from New Beginnings, alongside the debut live performance of her upcoming single “I’m Still.” The laid-back, soul-infused track serves as a reminder for people to “take a breather, slow their pace, and find beauty in stillness.”

“It’s the New Beginnings Experience: a space to sing, dance, laugh, and even cry together,” HILLARI describes her upcoming solo show. “It’s all about connecting on a deeper level with my famHilly. Maybe a surprise choir will join us, maybe not. But most of all, I’m excited to hear my famHilly sing their hearts out, [because] as we all know, our people can really sing.”

Tickets to HILLARI: Live in Manila are priced at PHP 800 and available exclusively at https://hillariliveinmanila.helixpay.ph.

This event is presented by AIRTIME and GNN.

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About HILLARI

HILLARI is a rising global force in contemporary pop and R&B/Soul, known for her fearless artistry and deeply personal storytelling. She first captured attention with her breakout single “Desperate Soul” and her debut EP How Is Your Soul?, earning praise from outlets like Billboard US, CNN, and Complex Philippines. With a voice that resonates far beyond the studio, HILLARI has quickly established herself as a powerful live performer, playing shows across Norway, Sweden, France, Portugal, the U.S., Canada, and Southeast Asia.Her 2023 single “Loyal” climbed to #30 on the Philippines’ Top 200 Most Shazamed Songs and reached #10 on the Viral Top 50 chart. That same year, she was named NRK P3’s Urørt (Untouched artist of the year) artist and signed a global booking deal with United Talent Agency (UTA), further solidifying her place as one of the Nordics’ most exciting new exports.

Following her debut, HILLARI released her sophomore EP New Beginnings, a bold body of work that explores transformation, letting go, and stepping into one’s power. Described as a sonic journal, the seven-track EP showcased a more mature, self-assured artist and hinted at what’s to come.

Currently, HILLARI is working on her debut album, a carefully curated project featuring 8 to 10 tracks. She is collaborating closely with her main producer Morten Gillebo, alongside a trusted creative team that includes Yakob (6lack, Sza, Giveon), Etienne Edgar (Ella Mai, Janet Jackson), Reggie Becton, Terell Roper, and Ari PenSmith (Tyla, Beyonce, NAO). The album represents the next chapter in her evolution, more defined, more expansive, and unmistakably her. As she continues to build momentum, HILLARI has already earned nominations for Best New Artist and R&B/Soul at the Norwegian Grammys (Spellemann) and was nominated to 2024 Music Moves Europe Award. She has performed on major stages including a sold-out show at Oslo’s MUNCH Museum and has received airplay on BBC Radio (UK), NRK (NO), and Reprezent Radio (UK).

At just 20 years old, the Filipino-Norwegian singer-songwriter is redefining what it means to be an international artist from the Nordics. With each release, she invites listeners into a world that is vulnerable, bold, and undeniably her own. HILLARI’s music isn’t just something you hear, it's something you feel.






GCash highlights role of national ID in enabling inclusive, secure finance at BSP forum

A trusted digital identity system lays the foundation for true financial inclusion, helping ensure that every Filipino, regardless of their background or circumstances, can access essential financial services with confidence.
GCash vice president and head of customer experience management Joanne Avendaño

This was the central message at the recent Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Forum on Digital Identity, where GCash, the country's leading finance finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, shared how its integration with the National ID eVerify Authentication Service (NIDAS) is making identity verification easier, more accessible, and more inclusive to help more Filipinos, especially those with limited access to traditional IDs, open an account.

Held at the BSP Assembly Hall, the forum brought together leaders from government, financial institutions, and the tech sector to examine how digital identity can support more secure and inclusive financial systems. Guided by the theme “Building Trust and Synergy in Digital Identity for an Inclusive and Secure Financial System,” the discussions emphasized the need for collaboration, innovation, and user-centric solutions that address real-world access challenges.

Representing GCash was Joanne Avendaño, vice president and head of customer experience management, who shared the company’s experience as the first and only Electronic Money Issuer integrated with NIDAS. This enables GCash users to validate their identity using their National ID in real-time, eliminating the need for multiple traditional IDs, which many Filipinos today still lack. This approach has helped reduce drop-offs during onboarding and has improved the success rate of account creation, especially among underserved groups. Most importantly, it has helped streamline onboarding for a broader range of users.

“Our partnership with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has always been more than just ID acceptance. It’s a shared commitment to make sure that no Filipino is left behind in the digital economy,” said Avendaño. “By enabling real-time National ID validation and bringing services on-ground, we’re helping more Filipinos complete their verification journey with ease and confidence,” Avendaño added.

The forum also featured insights from the National Privacy Commission, World Bank, Korea Credit Information Services, and several units within the BSP. Topics ranged from data governance and consumer protection to practical implementation challenges and international benchmarks.

Avendaño joined fellow panelists from Asia United Bank, Seabank Philippines, Maya Philippines, and the Bankers Association of the Philippines in discussing the value of coordinated efforts, shared learnings, and responsible use of digital identity systems in strengthening public trust.

Beyond app integration, GCash has also worked with the PSA and local government units (LGUs) to support on-ground National ID registration and account onboarding events, which were held in schools, barangays, and underserved communities across the country. This approach brings both digital identity and financial access closer to Filipinos who need it most.

With digital ID adoption gaining momentum, GCash’s role as an early adopter highlights the importance of responsible integration, cross-sector collaboration, and community engagement in building a more accessible and inclusive financial ecosystem.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

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