Ballet Manila reawakens Florante at Laura with creative powerhouse

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The restaging of Francisco Balagtas’ masterpiece is a rare opportunity to experience once again the timeless epic reimagined through myth, music and classical ballet.

After a critically acclaimed world premiere marked by overwhelming audience response, Ballet Manila’s Florante at Laura returns to Aliw Theater, with performances scheduled on October 3 at 8:00 PM, and October 4 and 5 at 5:00 PM.

For Ballet Manila’s founder and artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, the return of Florante at Laura is not a rerun but a reckoning with our collective appreciation of our Filipino heritage. It is a rare opportunity to experience once again Francisco Balagtas’ timeless epic reimagined through myth, music and dance. Lisa has long championed Filipino storytelling through classical ballet, and this re-staging affirms that vision with renewed clarity.

“Bringing Florante at Laura back to the stage feels like coming full circle. The first run was a dream realized; the second at Areté affirmed that Filipino stories, when told with care and conviction, truly resonate. Now, with this third staging, it feels less like a return and more like a reckoning. I’m proud, but more than that, I’m moved. This ballet continues to teach us how timeless our heritage can be,” said Lisa.

Audiences can expect the full force of Ballet Manila’s creative ensemble once again. The production features live music performed by the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth under the baton of Toma Cayabyab, interpreting the original score composed by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.

"To be able to hear the score again, seeing it move—it’s like watching a memory evolve. I wrote this as a legacy piece, but its return reminds me that legacy isn’t static. Ballet Manila has given the music new breath, and I feel grateful. This re-staging proves that our classics still have something urgent to say." said Ryan.

Choreographers Gerardo Francisco Jr. and Martin Lawrance collaborate anew to shape the ballet’s emotional terrain, drawing out the tension and tenderness within Balagtas’ verse. The libretto, adapted by Dr. Michael Coroza, anchors the production in language that bridges tradition and movement.

Transporting the audiences back to the kingdom of Berbania, set designer Mio Infante and costume designer Therese Arroyo also return to define the ballet’s visual language. Drawing from Persian motifs and Filipino sensibilities, their work complements the choreography and narrative, shaping a world that moves in step with the story.

This October, Ballet Manila invites audiences to return—not just to the theater, but to the heart of a national epic. For those who missed it, this is your moment. For those who came, it’s time to feel it again. Live, urgent, and unmistakably Filipino.

All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph

Gawad Madiskarte Celebrates Five Years of Heart, Hustle, and Community

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PLDT Home and Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) mark a milestone this year as they celebrate five years of empowering Filipina mompreneurs – women who lead with heart, hustle, and ingenuity. From humble beginnings during the pandemic, the movement has grown into a thriving community of over 215,000 members, with more than 25,000 mompreneurs trained, equipped, and inspired to build businesses that uplift families and transform communities.

This year, MMPH brings back Gawad Madiskarte, the  annual awards ceremony that honors exceptional Filipina mompreneurs who embody leadership, compassion, and innovation. More than just awards, Gawad Madiskarte has become a powerful platform for uplifting women whose creativity and determination transform not only their families, but also their communities—and the nation.

“You work wonders in three different worlds: the world of home, your own personal growth, and the world of business. At PLDT, we believe in the power of community, and our Madiskarte Moms exemplify this through their dedication and innovation,” said Menardo “Butch” Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Technology Head.

 

Butch Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Technology Head

You Are Seen. You Are Heard. You Are Valued.

Every mompreneur in MMPH carries within her dreams, sacrifices, and an unshakable hope—not just for herself, but for those she holds dear. Gawad Madiskarte is more than a set of awards. It is a celebration of courage, purpose, and love. It is a way of honoring the mom who quietly keeps going at dawn, who figures out shipping logistics in her lunch break, who turns passion into profit—even when the odds seem against her.

What Gawad Madiskarte Honors

Beyond building businesses, mompreneurs are reshaping the meaning of success—proving it is not only about profit, but also about purpose and positive change. At the 4th Gawad Madiskarte, inspiring women from government, business, and entrepreneurship will once again come together to honor these trailblazers.

Winners will be selected under two divisions:

●      Start-Up Mompreneurs – for businesses running at least 6 months

●      Scale-Up Mompreneurs – for businesses operating 13 months or more and DTI/BIR-registered

Three major awards reflect MMPH’s core values:

●      Diskarteng Angat – for growth and innovation

●      Diskarteng May Puso – for social good and community impact

●      Diskarteng Eco-Friendly – for sustainability and environment stewardship

Special awards include Diskarteng Digital (for creative digital use), the Mompreneurs’ Choice Award (voted by the MMPH community), and the Madiskarte Icon (for an exemplary leader and inspiration).

Stories of Triumph

Last year’s winner of Diskarteng Angat - Scale-Up Division Award  Heidie Ricca del Rosario, founder of HTP Clothing, turned a humble preloved clothing business into a thriving local fashion brand that empowers community seamstresses.

From L-R (Ina Pineda, Vice President for PLDT Home Marketing Communications and Services, Butch Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Technology Head, Ricca Del Rosario, Owner of HTP Clothing, and Maxine Loyola, AVP & Head, PLDT Home Marketing PR, Influencer Management and Brand Advocacies)

“Gawad Madiskarte allows us mompreneurs to be seen, heard, and celebrated. It fills our hearts to know the awards recognize that behind every successful business is a mom who made it happen,” Del Rosario said. (proposed quote)

How to Apply

Mompreneurs with inspiring stories and impactful businesses are invited to apply. Winners will receive cash prizes, capital support, and national recognition to help propel their businesses forward.

Apply now through the Madiskarte Moms PH Facebook Group and the official MMPH website and learn more about the 4th Gawad Madiskarte, its categories, and past awardees.

Application deadline: November 15, 2025

HONOR and Alibaba Announce Strategic AI Collaboration

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Pioneering a new era of AI-driven mobile experiences through comprehensive cloud-device integration.

HONOR and Alibaba officially cemented a landmark strategic cooperation agreement in Hangzhou, China. James Li, CEO of HONOR Device Co., Ltd. and Eddie Wu, CEO of Alibaba Group, jointly witnessed the signing.

(Left: James Li, Right: Eddie Wu. Alibaba Group and HONOR deepen strategic cooperation to drive the next generation of intelligent interaction through AI.)

This pivotal strategic cooperation agreement is built upon a shared vision for growth and strategic imperatives. The two industry leaders are embarking on a comprehensive, multi-faceted, and systematic collaboration, focusing on critical strategic areas including AI ecosystems, AI models and capabilities, and intelligent services. Together, we aim to cultivate a thriving AI ecosystem, seizing the immense opportunities presented by AI-driven industrial transformation and the convergence of intelligent device ecosystems.

In the realm of AI agent ecosystems, HONOR and Alibaba will leverage their distinct technological and ecological strengths in AI agents, large AI models, intelligent services, and innovative application experiences. This will translate into comprehensive and deep cooperation across a multitude of core service scenarios, including travel navigation, tourism services, lifestyle, mobile office, e-commerce, and entertainment. The partnership will foster technical exchanges and resource sharing across different fields, jointly exploring new groundbreaking features and interaction paradigms for mobile devices.

For AI models and capabilities, the collaboration will center on joint development based on the Qwen open-source model. This includes vertical application models for on-device AI, AI agents, and multimodal understanding and generation. The ultimate goal is to co-create a globally leading "cloud-device integrated" intelligent device experience, seamlessly merging the power of the Qwen large model with HONOR's cutting-edge hardware, operating systems, and diverse scenarios. This joint effort will accelerate the evolution of large model technology which focuses on scenario-specific and on-device improvements, delivering more intelligent, personalized, secure, and fluid AI services and experiences to HONOR MagicOS users.

Furthermore, the two powerhouses will double down on their collaboration on MaaS (Model-as-a-Service) AI capabilities. This involves continuous optimization of performance and integration of capabilities across text, multimodal, image, video, and voice scenarios. We will jointly explore training, fine-tuning, and inference processes for both on-device and cloud AI models, whether based on the Qwen open-source model or developed collaboratively. The ambition is to forge advanced on-device models that achieve State-of-the-Art (SOTA) capabilities.

Looking ahead, this deep cooperation will continue to expand. Leveraging Alibaba's extensive commercial service ecosystem and through the MCP (Multi-Cloud Platform) protocol, a series of vertical intelligent agents, such as Ele.me (food delivery), Damai (ticketing), and Taopiaopiao (movie ticketing), will be progressively integrated. This will extend the Agent ecosystem to a wider array of vertical scenarios, including food delivery, entertainment, office collaboration, and e-commerce, providing users with even more convenient and efficient life services.

This initiative will embed AI technology more deeply into daily life. HONOR's upcoming HONOR Magic8 Series, poised to define the most powerful self-evolving AI native smartphone, will also bring users a wealth of AI usage scenarios and services jointly developed by HONOR and Alibaba in China.

For more information about the HONOR Philippiness, visit and follow HONOR Philippines’ social media pages on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

vivo V60 sales soar past V50 over four days

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vivo Philippines proudly announces a 91% stronger nationwide sales performance and double-digit revenue growth for its newly launched vivo V60 during its first four days on the market from September 13 to 16, 2025, significantly outpacing the launch of its predecessor, the V50.

“This outstanding result proves that Filipinos are excited for next-level mobile innovation,” said Hazel Bascon, vivo Philippines Vice President for Sales. “We expect this momentum to continue, with strong demand forecast through the rest of the quarter as more users experience the V60’s pro-level telephoto camera.”

The vivo V60 is now available in vivo concept stores, kiosks, and online via the vivo e-store, Shopee, and TikTok Shop, starting at Php 28,999, with big discounts and exciting freebies for Shopee and TikTok shoppers.

Why upgrade to the vivo V60

Here are the top three reasons why the vivo V60 is the ultimate upgrade for anyone seeking power, style, and creativity in one device:

Pro-grade ZEISS photography

Capture every detail with the 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, featuring 3x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom plus ZEISS Multifocal Portrait for studio-quality shots.

Powerful and durable performance

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, 6,500mAh BlueVolt Battery, and 90W FlashCharge keep you powered all day. IP68/69 dust and water resistance ensures reliability in any environment.

Smart AI Creativity

Bring seasons to your photos with AI Four-Season Portrait, add dynamic motion using AI Magic Move, and expand images seamlessly through AI Image Expander.

With its groundbreaking camera technology, flagship speed, and rugged yet sleek design, the vivo V60 delivers the ultimate upgrade for those who want power, style, and creativity in one device.

Gary Payton’s ultimate dream team steals the show at vivo concept store

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Filipino basketball fans experienced a once-in-a-lifetime moment as NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, famously known as The Glove, returned to Manila exclusively for vivo Philippines' 10th anniversary!

Payton, a nine-time NBA All-Star, Defensive Player of the Year, and 2006 NBA Champion, brought the crowd to its feet as he shared personal reflections, relived career-defining highlights, and connected deeply with Filipino fans. The visit also underscored his fondness for the Philippines.

“I told the NBA I always wanted to come back here. They called me four weeks ago, asked if I wanted to go, and I said, I’m glad to be back,” Payton shared.

A champion on and off the court

Payton captivated the audience not only as a legendary point guard but also as a father and mentor. He emphasized that leadership, respect, and discipline are values that extend far beyond the basketball court.

“Basketball made me who I am, but now I’m a father first. Watching my son play and raising him to be a good man is my proudest achievement,” he said.

Reflecting on his career, Payton called every moment in the NBA a highlight, but singled out representing the United States in the Olympics as especially meaningful. Winning an NBA championship in 2006 and later celebrating his son’s own victory in 2022 also stood out as milestones that defined his journey both as an athlete and as a parent.

Missed the live event? You can still relive the excitement by watching it here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BhUPj5zJw/

Payton’s dream team

The afternoon reached its peak when Glen Antonio, one of Payton’s most enthusiastic fans in attendance, asked the NBA legend to name his all-time dream team. With the crowd hanging on every word, Payton revealed the players he holds in the highest regard:

● Gary Payton,

● Michael Jordan,

● Kobe Bryant,

● Shawn Kemp, and

● Wilt Chamberlain (whom he praised as the greatest center ever to play the game).

The announcement was met with thunderous applause, as fans witnessed a rare and personal glimpse into the mind of The Glove. It was a defining moment of the celebration, where admiration for the game’s legends resonated powerfully with every fan in the room.

Capturing greatness with vivo V60

The event also shone a spotlight on the vivo V60, vivo’s latest smartphone co-engineered with ZEISS.

Guests experienced firsthand its powerful imaging capabilities, including the 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, ZEISS Multifocal Portraits, and the AI Four-Season Portrait feature for stunning creativity.

Backed by a 6500mAh BlueVolt battery with 90W FlashCharge, the vivo V60 ensures users are always ready to capture and share unforgettable moments even in court!

Payton joined fans for an iconic group selfie using the vivo V60, underscoring the device’s ability to turn legendary experiences into lasting memories.

The afternoon closed with gratitude from vivo Philippines, thanking its community of fans for a decade of trust and innovation, and Gary Payton for making the celebration truly historic.

The vivo V60 is now available in stores nationwide and online starting at Php 28,999. For updates and exclusive content, follow @vivo_philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

GCash and InvestaTrade partner to make investing easier for every Filipino

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GCash and InvestaTrade launch an upgraded GStocks platform for an easier investing experience within the GCash app.

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Powered by InvestaTrade, GStocks lets Filipinos become part-owners of top local companies by investing in stocks—right from the GCash app, in just minutes

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Redefining how first-time investors enter the market, GCash upgrades its GStocks feature with new partner InvestaTrade, the stock trading arm of Investa, known for its beginner-friendly approach to financial education and stock market awareness.

While the level of Filipinos' interest and adoption toward investing has grown in recent years, participation in the stock market is still not widespread. According to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), the number of stock market accounts in the PSE reached 2.86 million, with 99% belonging to local investors as of June 2024. For perspective, this represents only about 4.1% of the country's roughly 70 million adult population.

The new partnership aims to change that. Powered by InvestaTrade, GStocks introduces a simplified investing experience within the GCash app, allowing Filipinos to easily register, fund their accounts, and start investing in local stocks—all in just a few minutes.

The upgraded GStocks experience also aims to drive stronger literacy and ease stock selection with a more intuitive platform that features built-in educational content. The platform is also designed to be as user-friendly and accessible as possible, even to first-time investors.

“Financial tools only work if people actually feel ready to use them. This partnership is about meeting people where they are and giving them room to grow at their own pace,” general manager for wealth management at GCash, Arjun Varma, said.

“Our goal has always been to use technology to break down barriers to investing. With GStocks PH and InvestaTrade, we’re making it easier for more Filipinos to take that first step with tools designed to help jumpstart their financial journey,” he added.

The partnership with InvestaTrade brings additional credibility and community-based learning to the platform. Since 2015, Investa has built a reputation for offering accessible tools, market insights, and educational content aimed at helping everyday Filipinos make sense of the stock market.

“We’ve always believed that investing should be made accessible for every Filipino. This has been our mission since day one. This collaboration allows us to take what we’ve built at Investa—tools, education, and a supportive community—and make it available to a wider audience through GCash,” Investa CEO and co-founder JC Bisnar said.

“This collaboration also highlights the importance of technology in making investing more accessible. By leveraging the seamless experience and advanced features of the InvestaTrade platform, in synergy with GCash, we aim to simplify the learning curve and equip first-time and experienced users alike with reliable tools,” said Investa CTO and co-founder Airwyn Tin.

It only takes minutes to start investing with GStocks. Fully verified GCash users with an updated KYC in the last 3 years just need to register in-app to get approved instantly.

The new GStocks PH powered by InvestaTrade officially launches September 15 as part of GCash’s broader mission to make investing a stronger habit and a part of everyday life for all Filipinos.

Through this, GCash is helping turn what was once an intimidating topic into a practical step toward financial growth, empowering more Filipinos to build a stronger, more secure future.

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

The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. You should always consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions. All investments carry inherent risks, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any reliance you place on the information provided is strictly at your own risk.

Tilly Birds Join Forces with Ben&Ben on New English Single “Heaven”

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Bangkok, Thailand – Thailand’s leading alternative pop-rock band Tilly Birds continue their journey into English-language music with their brand-new single “Heaven”, following the heartfelt release of "Never A Waste Of Time".

This time, Tilly Birds' team up with none other than Ben&Ben, the Philippines’ biggest folk-pop band, whose music has surpassed 2 billion Spotify streams and earned numerous awards across Asia. The collaboration brings together the fresh, playful pop sound of Tilly Birds with Ben&Ben’s signature heartfelt melodies—creating a track that is as vibrant as it is memorable.

The story behind “Heaven” began with a backstage friendship when both bands shared the same lineup at a concert in Malaysia. Inspired by that connection, the three members of Tilly Birds later flew to Manila to co-write the song with Ben&Ben. Recording sessions spanned across borders, with files exchanged between Bangkok and Manila, until the track was fully brought to life.

The collaboration culminated in a music video shot in the Philippines, featuring all three members of Tilly Birds alongside Ben&Ben’s nine members. The experience was described by both bands as fun, warm, and filled with genuine friendship—a true testament to the spirit of “Heaven.”

Lyrically, the single captures the joy of meeting someone unexpectedly, at just the right time, and sharing a moment of happiness together—like finding a little piece of heaven on earth. In many ways, the collaboration between Tilly Birds and Ben&Ben itself is another definition of “Heaven.”

“Heaven” is now available worldwide on all streaming platforms.

Follow Tilly Birds:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tillybirds/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tillybirds

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TILLYBIRDS/

X: https://x.com/TillyBirds

Follow Ben&Ben

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benandbenmusic/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benandbenmusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenAndBenMusic/

X: https://x.com/benandbenmusic

BingoPlus Foundation equips FutureSmart Scholars with leadership, life-skills to become changemakers

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BingoPlus Foundation’s scholars convene at the 2nd FutureSmart Leaders General Assembly in Makati City, participating in high-impact workshops on purpose, vision, and leadership.

On July 19, 2025, BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus, gathered 80 FutureSmart scholars from across the country for its second general assembly for a day of growth, connection, and inspiration. The event featured professional trainers, national beauty queen ambassadors, and nonprofit leaders who shared actionable insights and leadership tools to help the scholars become future-ready leaders.

Through its P.L.U.S. (Pioneering Leadership and Uplifting Service) Factor Program, the Foundation underscores its commitment to nurturing young talents with more than financial aid. The program equips scholars with essential life skills such as leadership, resilience, and a sense of service, ensuring they are prepared to lead both in their chosen careers and in their communities. Building on the momentum of past sessions, this year’s assembly focused on the two high-impact workshops: Purpose and Vision, which guided scholars in aligning their personal mission with future advocacies, and public speaking, which enhanced their confidence, presence, and ability to influence others.

A clear purpose keeps life on the right track.

The Purpose and Vision Workshop aimed to guide scholars in uncovering what drives them and aligning it with their future careers and advocacies. Through reflection exercises and guided discussions, participants explored how understanding their "Why" can empower them to lead with intention and integrity.

Through a workshop facilitated by Management Strategies, a global consulting and training firm based in the Philippines, scholars were guided to discover and define their personal purpose and vision in life. Using practical tools and reflective exercises, they were able to align their individual aspirations with the values of leadership and service, giving them a clearer roadmap for their future.

“We believe transformation begins when a young person discovers their purpose,” said Jasper Vicencio, President of AB Leisure Exponent and Vice President and Trustee of BingoPlus Foundation. “We’re not just offering scholarships. We’re building leaders who can create impact, inspire others, and give back to their communities.” he added.

The workshop was made even more impactful by special guests Chelsea Fernandez, Miss Philippines Cosmo 2025, and Kat Llegado, Miss Philippines Supranational 2026. The two queens shared how they use their pageant platforms to advance meaningful advocacies, shedding light on what it means to lead with purpose.

“Purpose guides everything I do—on and off stage,” said Chelsea Fernandez, urging scholars to stay authentic and clear. Kat Llegado added, “When vision is rooted in purpose, pressure becomes fuel.” Connecting purpose to service, Joie Balaong of iVolunteer Philippines shared: “Volunteerism is our core—we envision every Filipino volunteering by making it known, easy, and doable.”

Adding to the inspiring session was Joie Ann Balaong, Partnership Director of iVolunteer Philippines, who shared her personal journey of turning passion into purpose through community service. Her story echoed a powerful message on how fulfillment comes from alignment between values and vocation.

‘Walk the talk’: Bringing purpose to the podium

Ms. Issa Litton, an experienced trainer in public speaking, host, and actress, assisted the scholars in cultivating confidence by utilizing their voices as instruments to create impact and excel as communicators in their respective fields.

Before the General Assembly, FutureSmart Scholars joined the PLUS Factor: Public Speaking Workshop, aimed to strengthen the scholars’ communication and presentation skills. The workshop mainly focused on presence and delivery, teaching scholars how to project their voice, maintain a confident posture, and present themselves with clarity and poise. This session involved a practical application where participants delivered presentations and received direct feedback from mentors.

Through this experience, scholars not only improved their public speaking skills but also gained a deeper understanding of how communication ties into their personal and professional growth. They also learned how to use their voice as a tool for leadership and advocacy, and gained skills that will serve them as future innovators and community leaders.

“When scholars know their purpose and can speak it with confidence, they become unstoppable forces for good,” said Vicencio. “This is the heart of what we aim to nurture through FutureSmart. We want to help shape leaders who will influence the future with clarity, compassion, and courage.”

Initiatives like this are part of DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation’s broader goal to continue to invest in more than just education but in character-building, leadership development, and values formation for the next and future generation of Filipino leaders. With its FutureSmart Scholarship Program, the foundation remains firm in its commitment to cultivating a generation that leads with purpose and uplifts others in the process.

To learn more about the FutureSmart Scholarship Program, follow BingoPlus Foundation on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BingoPlusFoundation

From Breakthrough and Success: HONOR Philippines Expands as Growth Soars in Just Three Years

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Marking a milestone of continued innovation and resilience, HONOR Philippines celebrates rapid growth with a new office expansion, solidifying its stronghold in the local tech industry.

HONOR Philippines is growing stronger than ever. In just three years since its re-entry into the Philippine market, the global tech brand has achieved milestone after milestone—now culminating in the expansion of its Philippine office at GLAS Tower Ortigas, a testament to its remarkable success and vision for the future.

The innovative breakthrough event was spearheaded by the executive and leaders of HONOR Philippines: Mr. Tom Yuan, Retail Sales Director; Mr. Sean Yuan, Country Manager; and Mr. Stephen Cheng, Vice President.

The office expansion marks more than just an increase in space—it stands as a testament to HONOR Philippines’ rapid rise and growing influence in the country. This milestone is fueled by back-to-back product launches, strong consumer demand, and the brand’s unwavering commitment to delivering consistent innovation tailored to the needs of Filipinos.

Since reestablishing its operations in 2022, HONOR has swiftly climbed the ranks to become one of the most recognized and trusted tech brands in the Philippines. Its diverse portfolio—from affordable devices to premium, AI-powered flagships—has struck the perfect balance between breakthrough technology and accessibility, resonating strongly with Filipino consumers.

“This office expansion is a reflection of our growth story here in the Philippines,” said Sean Yuan, Country Manager of HONOR Philippines. “In just three short years, we’ve gone from reintroducing the HONOR brand to becoming one of the fastest-growing tech companies in the country.”

Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines, added, “Our expansion enables us to better serve our Filipino consumers while setting the stage for even bigger opportunities ahead.”

HONOR Leaders joining the photo opportunity, from L-R: Mr. Pao Oga, PR Manager; Mr. Alvin Clyde de Guzman, Ecommerce Manager; Mr. Hans Mora, Service Manager; Mr. Eason de Guzman, Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead; Mr. Tom Yuan, Retail Sales Director; Mr. Sean Yuan, Country Manager; Mr. Stephen Cheng, Vice President; Ms. Rachelle Ramirez, HR Manager; Mr. Robert Beltran, Business Development Manager; Ms. Joepy Libo-on, Brand Marketing Manager; and Mr. Anthony Avery Ventigan, Creative Manager.

HONOR’s local growth mirrors its global momentum, with the brand earning recognition as one of the most dynamic players in the international smartphone and IoT market. The expansion of its Philippine headquarters highlights the country’s strategic importance to HONOR’s regional and global roadmap.

With its growing team, expanded office space, and robust lineup of upcoming devices, HONOR Philippines is poised for an even brighter future—one that continues to push the boundaries of innovation, strengthen its partnerships, and deliver technology that truly empowers every Filipino.

For more information about the HONOR Philippiness, you can visit and follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

2GO Continues to Deliver Reliable Inter-Island Transport for Automotive Logistics

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2GO powers the automotive industry’s distribution with reliable RORO and freight services.

2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated sea logistics provider, has been recognized by a leading automotive manufacturer for its role as a trusted partner in delivering efficient and reliable maritime transport solutions.

2GO Sea Solutions, the sea freight and maritime operations division of 2GO, continues to strengthen domestic logistics through the modernization of its ROPAX fleet, increased cargo capacity, and reliable sailing schedules. With priority berthing and established port routes, 2GO ensures the consistent and timely transport of goods across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

One of 2GO’s long-standing partners, Toyota Motor Philippines, cited the company’s efficiency and reliability as critical in supporting its nationwide vehicle distribution.

“The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word or brand Toyota is reliability and durability. This is the result of Toyota values and protecting the superior customer experience. Similar to what we expect from our service providers, they should have the same values in ensuring safe vehicle movement and maintaining the high quality of Toyota vehicles to reach customers nationwide in the shortest possible time. The high sailing frequency and timeliness of 2GO’s ROPAX operations provided a significant advantage for Toyota, ensuring that fresh vehicles quickly reach Visayas and Mindanao dealers,” said Sherwin T. Chua Lim, Senior Vice President – Marketing Division, Toyota Philippines.

With regular sailings from Manila and Batangas to major hubs in the Visayas and Mindanao, 2GO ensures Toyota’s vehicles are delivered safely and on time to dealerships nationwide.

“Our partnership with Toyota Motor Philippines is built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to operational excellence,” said Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Vice President and Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions. “Toyota is one of our most valued clients, and we remain committed to ensuring their success through reliable and efficient logistics solutions.”

At the 2025 Toyota Supplier Conference, TMP recognized 2GO with five major awards: 2024 Superior Shipping Line Award, Most Outstanding Performer – Shipping Line (Large Category), Capacity and Service Enhancement Award, Shipment Compliance KPI Award, and the Safety KPI Award. These accolades underscore Toyota’s confidence in 2GO’s role as a logistics partner dedicated to safety, compliance, and consistent performance.

As the country’s foremost ROPAX (roll-on/roll-off passenger) and freight operator, 2GO provides frequency, efficiency, and nationwide reach through its nine ROPAX vessels, one freighter, and over 15,000 container vans, supported by nationwide trucking partners. With reliable port-to-port and door-to-door services, 2GO delivers end-to-end logistics solutions that keep industries and communities connected.

To learn more about 2GO Sea Freight services and how they can support your business, visit www.2go.com.ph or contact seafreight@2go.com.ph​.

Review: vivo X200 FE the first vivo Compact Telephoto Flagship, compact yet powerful!

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vivo X200 FE , slim with high-end performance and great cameras

The vivo X200 FE is the first vivo Compact Telephoto Flagship, praised for balancing high-end features with a pocketable design. While it offers impressive performance, camera quality, and a massive battery.

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The telephoto camera on the vivo X200 FE is a 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera that offers 3x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom to capture distant subjects with clarity. It uses a Sony IMX882 sensor and ZEISS optics to take sharp, detailed photos and offers specialized features like Stage Mode for concerts and AI Telephoto Enhance for vibrant images. This advanced telephoto system allows for powerful zooming and professional-looking photos of concerts, landscapes, and street scenes, all from a compact phone.

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The best compact flagship smartphone in the Philippines right now. Why?

Luckily and so happy for experiencing and exploring the vivo X200 FE for weeks. 

The vivo X200 FE is a rare compact smartphone with high-end performance and great cameras.

Design and build

The vivo X200 FE measures 71.76mm in width, 7.99mm in thickness, and weighs approximately 186 grams.

A pretty and tiny unit, comfortable enough for one-handed use, it easily slips into small pockets or purses. Weighing just 186 grams, the device is lightweight and doesn’t feel bulky in a pocket or bag. An impressive, having massive battery in a lightweight body. This is something I'm always pleased to see.

The vivo X200 FE is a compact flagship smartphone that features a 6.3-inch AMOLED display with 5000nits of peak brightness, 50MP + 50MP + 8MP triple rear cameras with ZEISS optics, and a 50MP selfie camera with autofocus.

It runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor with 12GB of physical RAM, Android 15 OS and the AI-packed Funtouch OS 15 software. There's also an under-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity with eSIM support, Wi-Fi 6, NFC, Infrared function, stereo speakers, 512GB of storage, and IP68/69 water resistance. A 6500mAh high-density battery powers the device with support for 90W fast charging technology.

Vivo X200 FE: Camera Performance

The Vivo X200 FE has three cameras on its rear: a 23mm equivalent 50MP main camera, a 50MP 70mm equivalent telephoto, and a less impressive 8MP ultrawide. Around the front, there's a 50MP punch-hole selfie snapper, and unlike the X200 and X200 Pro, this one has autofocus.

The Vivo X200 FE inherits from the V-series is the Aura Light, there's a bi-colour ring next to the cameras, which can either act as a flash or an adjustable continuous fill-light and it adjusts to match the ambient light temperature makes it look a lot better.

And what I love most here, the Vivo X200 FE mainly focuses on image editing tools like an AI-powered Image Expander, Reflection Eraser, and Photo Enhancer! With AI Image Studio. You can get creative with AI!

Unleash boundless creativity. 

Use AI tools to reframe, expand, and edit images as you please.

With vivo X200 FE Smart Eye Protection 2.0, enjoy effortless viewing anytime—whether day or night. Experience smooth, safe, and eye-friendly display comfort, even in low light.

For users looking for a premium smartphone that’s easy to handle and packed with cutting-edge technology, the vivo X200 FE combines usability with powerful features.

The vivo X200 FE is now available in vivo physical stores nationwide or online via the vivo website. You can also check out vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X or visit vivoglobal.ph to stay in the loop.

Visit : 

https://youtu.be/uM5IR86_5bM?si=YLAAlkOtYmQi7WI7

vivo X200 FE SPECS 

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Display                                            6.31-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED 1216x2640

                                                        71.76mm in width, 7.99mm in thicknes

                                                        weighs 186 grams

                                                        

CPU                                                 MediaTek Dimensity 9300+

RAM / Storage                               12GB / 16GB RAM + 256GB / 512GB storage

Wide Main Camera                        50MP 23mm f/1.9 (1/1.56-inch)

Ultra Wide Camera                        8MP f/2.2 (1/4.0-inch)

Telephoto Camera                         50MP 70mm f/2.7 (1/1.95-inch)

Front Camera                                50MP f/2.0

Video                                            Up to 4K60 / 1080p120

Battery                                          6500 mAh silicon-carbon battery 

                                                     with 90W fast charging

Operating System                        Funtouch OS 15 (based on Android 15)

Weight                                          186g

USB Port                                      USB Type-C

Connectivity                                 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, IR, NFC

Design & Durability                     IP68/!P69 Water Resistant

                                                      MIL-STD 810H Shock Resistant

                                                          

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