Life in Manila captured with vivo X300 Pro

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 Manila-based multi-award-winning photographer Jamir Lyndon Lumbao is capturing everyday life with striking clarity, powered by vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit.

By profession, Lumbao works in the financial sector, but his creative journey began in 2014 when a friend invited him to join a photography group. What started as a simple introduction soon grew into a passion for street photograph - one that continues to shape how he sees the world.

“Street photography challenges me to capture candid moments, raw emotions, and real-life situations. It allows me to tell stories through unplanned and natural scenes, which I find both exciting and meaningful,” he said.

Inspired by renowned photographers and local creatives, Lumbao developed a style that blends artistic expression with technical precision. His work focuses on light and shadows, reflections, and telephoto compositions, often transforming everyday Manila scenes into images with an abstract and surreal mood.

“I would describe my photography style as creative and expressive, influenced by my background in art,” he said.

This vision is elevated by the Telephoto King vivo X300 Pro, powered by a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera. Built for capturing distant subjects with striking clarity and depth, the device has earned global recognition, including a top score in DxOMark’s telephoto evaluation.

For Lumbao, the difference is clear when shooting in real-world city conditions.

“My experience with the vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit in real-world city shooting was excellent. It’s a clear upgrade from my X100, especially for capturing distant subjects, and the telephoto extender makes it incredibly easy to get sharp, detailed shots from far away,” he shared.

The vivo X300 Pro supports 85mm optical zoom and, when paired with the vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender, expands its reach up to 5400mm. Engineered with advanced optics, the extender enhances clarity, minimizes distortion, and enables photographers to capture scenes that would otherwise be out of reach.

Complementing this capability is the vivo PGYTECH Imaging Grip Kit, designed to provide better control, comfort, and endurance for creators on the move.

“The standout features for me were definitely the grip and the lens, and together they completely transform the shooting experience. The grip feels incredibly comfortable and secure in hand, making long shooting sessions much easier, and the physical controls for exposure compensation, zoom, and video give you a more precise, camera-like feel that makes capturing moments quicker and more intuitive,” Lumbao shared.

Beyond ergonomics, the lens itself delivers a noticeable leap in image quality, especially for distant subjects.

“What really takes it to the next level, though, is the lens. It delivers stunning clarity and detail, especially when shooting distant subjects, allowing you to capture scenes that would normally be out of reach. The added reach, combined with sharp image quality and excellent depth, makes every shot look more professional,” Lumbao said.

One of Lumbao’s most memorable moments highlights the power of this setup. While photographing a sunset, he noticed a subject from afar and quickly adjusted his position to frame the scene.

He shared, “This was one of my most memorable shots. I was photographing the sunset when I noticed a subject on the other side. I quickly moved to the spot and carefully aligned the subject inside the sun. The light was changing fast, and I thought I might miss the moment since the sun was setting so quickly.”

With the telephoto extender, he was able to capture the shot with precision and clarity.

“Thanks to the tele extender on the vivo X300 Pro, I was able to zoom in from a distance and frame the shot perfectly without losing detail. It gave me the reach and clarity I needed to capture this precise moment, turning it into a truly special and unforgettable image,” he added.

Through Lumbao’s work, the vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit demonstrates how advanced mobile imaging can empower creators to capture stories as they unfold, combining reach, precision, and creative freedom in a single device.

As Manila continues to move in rhythm with light, life, and emotion, tools like the vivo X300 Pro are helping photographers turn everyday moments into lasting visual stories.

The vivo X300 Series is available in concept stores nationwide and online via the vivo e-store (X300 and X300 Pro), Lazada, and Shopee at a starting price of Php 68,999.

Samsung Powers ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’’ with Galaxy

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With Galaxy S26 Ultra capturing the concert experience, Samsung invites the world attending BTS’s upcoming world tour to be fully immersed in the show

SEOUL, Korea – – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced a global partnership with ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG,’’ unveiling a new concert experience powered by Galaxy mobile technology that brings artists and the audience closer together.

BTS and ARMY have built a cultural movement that brings everyone together to celebrate self-expression and connection through music. This resulted in a global impact that fosters authentic shared experiences — values that resonate deeply with Samsung’s Galaxy brand philosophy. By harnessing the power of music and technology, Samsung and the ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’’ are empowering people to capture special moments and share them with the world.

“Samsung believes that technology enriches everyday experiences,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP and Head of the Mobile Marketing Center, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “Through this collaboration, Galaxy will serve as a bridge connecting artists and the audience, enabling people to experience concert moments more meaningfully and preserve and share those memories for longer.”

Building on Galaxy’s vision of meaningful, connected experiences, Samsung is reimagining the traditional concert viewing experience by enabling the audience to emotionally engage with artists and their performances in more immersive ways. In particular, the Galaxy S26 Ultra camera captures memorable moments from live performances, allowing the audience around the world to relive and share the experience, bringing the energy and emotion of the concert into their everyday lives.

“Fans are at the heart of everything we do, shaping our music and journey together with us,” said Lee Jae-sang, CEO of HYBE. “Through this partnership with Samsung Electronics, we hope fans can experience concerts more vividly and create lasting memories.”

‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’’ will begin in Goyang, South Korea, and continue in major cities around the world through 2027. As part of the world tour, an exclusive BTS THE CITY ARIRANG SEOUL is taking place in Seoul from March 20 to April 19, including a range of Galaxy-powered immersive experiences to major landmarks across the city.

Fans can explore the Galaxy S26 series through interactive activities, including a stamp rally at Samsung’s Gangnam store and creating self-made stickers using the Galaxy AI-powered Creative Studio. Participants who complete the activities are eligible to receive prizes, including limited-edition ‘BTS THE CITY ARIRANG SEOUL’ merchandise.

Following Seoul, ‘BTS THE CITY’ will expand to other tour stops. Samsung will take part in the entire ’BTS THE CITY’ journey, driving innovation that encourages fans to express themselves, capture meaningful moments and expand everyday experiences with Galaxy.

Zsiga comes alive with Flip Card on vivo V70

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For fans of POP MART and its free-spirited icon Zsiga, self-expression has always been part of the charm. Now, that same bold personality takes on a new digital life with the vivo V70, turning your lock screen into a canvas that moves with you.

Say hello to the vivo V70 x POP MART Zsiga Exclusive Flip Card, a feature designed to transform everyday phone use into something playful and personal. Powered by the device’s gyroscope, the Flip Card responds to your every tilt, shifting visuals in real time as if your screen has a personality of its own.

Tilt your phone and watch Zsiga come alive. Each angle reveals a new expression, moment, and story. It is not just a lock screen. It is an experience that feels dynamic, immersive, and uniquely yours.

How to access the Zsiga Flip Card

Ready to bring Zsiga to your screen? Here is how to unlock the experience:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap 'Home screen, lock screen and wallpaper'
3. Select 'Themes'
4. Choose 'Flip cards

https://www.tiktok.com/@vivo_philippines/video/7619631814331698449]

In just a few taps, your phone transforms into a living, moving showcase of personality.

Try this on your portrait powered by changing weather

Want your lock screen to feel alive from sunrise to twilight? Capture your portrait using the AI Magic Weather feature, then apply all four effects: Morning Glow, Clear Sky, Evening Glow, and Twilight. Each version becomes a different moment of you.

Upload all four portraits under Gallery Effect in Flip Cards, then arrange them in your preferred sequence by simply holding and dragging each image. Finally, go to Transition and choose how the visuals shift as you tilt your phone.

The result is a Flip Card that moves like time itself. Your face, mood, and story, flowing from day to night with a single tilt.

The vivo V70 x POP MART Zsiga Flip Card brings together art, technology, and individuality in one seamless experience. It feels playful yet meaningful, simple yet impactful, and serves as a reminder that even the smallest interactions can spark joy.

For Zsiga fans and anyone who loves standing out, this is a feature that will make a statement.

If you do not have the vivo V70 yet, now is the perfect time to make it yours. Available for as low as Php 31,999, you can get it at vivo stores nationwide or online via the vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. Tilt it. Flip it. Express it your way with the vivo V70

Samsung Brings AirDrop Support to Quick Share with Galaxy S26 Series

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Samsung is introducing AirDrop support to the Galaxy S26 series, making it easier for users to share content between devices using Quick Share.

The feature will begin rolling out from March 231, starting in Korea and expanding to more regions including Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia and Taiwan. AirDrop support will initially be available on the Galaxy S26 series, with expansion to additional devices to be announced at a later date.

1 Availability and timing may vary by market.

Globe Celebrates Filipino Creativity at Art in the Park’s 20th Anniversary

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Globe Telecom joined the celebration of Art in the Park’s 20th anniversary, reinforcing its commitment to nation‑building through its continued support of Filipino creativity and culture. The country’s most accessible art fair, held at Jaime Velasquez Park in Salcedo Village, continues to democratize art appreciation and collecting, bringing together galleries, artists, and creative communities in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Art enthusiasts and Globe subscribers line up at the Globe Experience Booth to explore augmented reality‑enabled art, while enjoying exclusive treats, giveaways, and creative activities that bring technology and artistry together.

This year’s edition featured 55 exhibitors, including galleries, art collectives, independent art spaces, and student groups, with all artworks priced reasonably to keep collecting approachable for young and first‑time art enthusiasts. By supporting Art in the Park, Globe is creating opportunities for customers to experience local art contributing to the growth of Filipino artists and the creative community.

At the Globe Experience Booth, powered by Globe AT HOME, visitors stepped into a vibrant fusion of art and technology. In collaboration with Scarletbox and through the Artivive app, limited edition Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi router skins, featuring artworks of Philippine National Artists, burst into life via augmented reality, transforming static designs into dynamic, interactive masterpieces. This cutting‑edge showcase seamlessly blended creativity, connectivity, and innovation, redefining how audiences experience and engage with art.

Globe subscribers enjoyed exclusive perks, from treats by partner merchants to the chance to showcase their creativity by customizing Globe merchandise, turning the experience into something more personal, memorable, and inspiring.

"Art in the Park has always been about building a space where Filipino artists and audiences can come together and celebrate creativity and community. Long-time partners like Globe help make that possible. Their support not only sustains the fair but also strengthens the broader creative industry by empowering young storytellers and giving them opportunities to engage with the art scene," said Trickie Lopa and Lisa Periquet, Co‑Founders of Art in the Park.

Building on its student programs, Globe welcomed 60 Student Media Ambassadors from universities across Metro Manila to serve as storytellers for the fair. These aspiring creators captured and shared their perspectives through social content, connected with artists and creative communities, and enjoyed exclusive perks like Globe merch and Rewards points. To prepare them for the role, Globe hosted a Social Media 101 masterclass ahead of the event, equipping students with practical skills and creative insights from Globe Marketing Experts and Social Media Ambassadors.

“Globe’s support for Art in the Park reflects our strong belief that creativity is a powerful force which enables progress. This is why we continue to champion platforms that highlight Filipino creativity, while giving our customers meaningful experiences that celebrate culture and technology. At the same time, we are empowering our next generation of storytellers through our student programs, empowering young creators with the skills, experiences, and opportunities they need to thrive in the digital and creative space,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe.

By proudly supporting the celebration of two decades of Art in the Park, Globe reinforces its broader mission to make art more accessible while empowering creative communities. By helping Filipinos discover their passions, unlock opportunities, and share their talents, Globe is driving a more vibrant, inclusive, and progressive Philippines, where creativity and connectivity come together to inspire the youth and the nation. Through initiatives like this, Globe brings experiences closer to its customers, making them more personal, meaningful, and truly just for you.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Erceflora Strengthens Its Commitment to Gut Health Education This Batang Matatag Day 2026

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Persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools continue to put Filipino children at risk of preventable infections. In the Philippines, diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of illness and hospitalization nationwide, with studies linking around 80% of diarrhea-related deaths to poor access to safe water and sanitation. This recent health concern shows how unsafe water and poor hygiene continue to expose children to avoidable infections.

Enter Batang Matatag, Erceflora’s flagship advocacy, tackling child mortality from diarrhea by flipping the script—from treatment to prevention. The initiative champions gut health awareness, hygiene education, and improved sanitation, reaching over 200,000 children across different regions in the Philippines since its launch in 2022.

“Batang Matatag reflects our commitment to protecting children not just through treatment, but through prevention—empowering communities with the knowledge, habits, and support to build strong foundations for lifelong health and resilience. Real change begins with the small things families do every day, it starts at home, in schools, and in everyday choices,” said Rica Mateo, Erceflora ASEA Zone Brand Lead.

The Batang Matatag initiative by Erceflora has built WASH facilities and donated refrigerated drinking fountains to over 104 schools across BARMM, Luzon, and Rizal, helping drive measurable health gains and improving everyday environments where children learn and grow. 20% decline in diarrhea cases in partner Rizal schools and a 50% reduction in BARMM schools have been observed during School Year 2024–2025.

Looking ahead, Erceflora aims to reach 150,000 students and healthcare providers in 2026 as the program expands across Rizal and Metro Manila, strengthening its mission to build more resilient children through better gut health and hygiene practices.

“Being Batang Matatag starts with taking care of one’s body, but this mission goes far beyond any single product or organization. We call on parents, educators, and partners to work with us—because building stronger, healthier children is a shared responsibility we cannot achieve alone,” Opella Healthcare Philippines Country Head, Emma Valette emphasized.

Batang Matatag Day 2026: Growing the Mission, Strengthening More Young Lives

Five years in, Batang Matatag isn’t slowing down—it’s scaling up. Batang Matatag Day 2026 marks a renewed push to expand the program’s reach, highlighted by a visit from Opella Healthcare’s executive leaders—CEO Julie Van-Ongevalle, Chief Growth Officer Alberto Hernandez, and Chief Strategy and Corporate Affairs Officer Matthieu Brucker—and partnerships with seven new schools, including Maharlika Integrated School in Taguig.

There, 200 Grade 2 and 3 learners joined interactive activities—including the Batang Matatag Bus sessions on proper handwashing—to promote healthy habits early and strengthen well-being at its foundation.

"For the past five years, in partnership with Manila Water Foundation, schools, and communities across BARMM and Luzon, we’ve been helping children look after their health—especially their gut health, which supports 70% of immunity. We want more kids across the Philippines to know this and be truly Batang Matatag. We’re committed to reaching even more this year," Carol-Ann Stewart, Opella Healthcare AMEA President, noted.

For partner schools, the impact is already tangible—and points to what sustained investment can achieve.

“Batang Matatag’s services and contributions came at a crucial time, enabling us to provide improved drinking and washing facilities that will have a lasting impact on our school community. We are honored to be among the program’s beneficiaries. More than the resources, your commitment has brought joy to our learners and strengthened an environment where they can thrive, grow, and build healthier habits for the future,” said Dr. Romeo O. Olalo, Principal of Maharlika Integrated School.

MAHALAGANG PAALALA: ANG ERCEFLORA GUT DEFENSE AT ERCEFLORA GUT RESTORE AY HINDI GAMOT AT HINDI DAPAT GAMITING PANGGAMOT SA ANUMANG URI NG SAKIT. 

MAT-PH-2600358 / Ver 1.0 / DA 03-2026 / DM 03-2026

Opella Healthcare Philippines Inc.

GEMs for Tomorrow: Nurturing Young Minds with Discovery Samal

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Discovery Samal has long recognized its people as “Samal GEMs,” a name drawn from the values of being genuine, enthusiastic, and memorable. These GEMs are known for shaping the guest experience, extending their role beyond the resort through community initiatives and engagement programs. With GEMs for Tomorrow, Discovery Samal brings that same spirit into a focused effort that supports young learners and strengthens ties with surrounding communities.

Discovery Samal launched its 2026 GEMs for Tomorrow program on February 28, 2026, through an outreach in Barangay New Carmen, Tugbok District, where the team connected with local children by distributing school supplies, serving meals prepared by its chefs, and initiating a longer-term education-focused effort.

GEMs for Tomorrow forms part of Discovery Samal’s broader CSR direction, centered on building meaningful relationships within grassroots communities through education. The program focuses on underserved sectors, with children as primary beneficiaries, marking a more active step toward sustained engagement with the community.

Reaching the Grassroots

GEMs for Tomorrow is designed as an ongoing campaign that builds on previous outreach initiatives, maintaining a consistent focus on young beneficiaries. The selection of Barangay New Carmen in Tugbok District reflects an intent to work within communities where educational support can be reinforced through both material assistance and structured engagement. The program emphasizes not only resource distribution but the creation of opportunities for learning, making education the central thread across its activities.

The February 28 activity functioned as an initial introduction between the Discovery Samal team and the children. School supplies were distributed during the visit, accompanied by meals prepared by the resort’s chefs, creating an environment that allowed for informal interaction, focusing on establishing familiarity and trust.

Laying the Groundwork for Learning

Future visits under GEMs for Tomorrow will include structured learning sessions facilitated by Discovery Samal team members in coordination with local teachers. These sessions aim to support classroom instruction and contribute to the children’s development over time. The initial outreach serves as a preparatory step, setting the tone for a longer-term engagement that fosters collaboration with the school community.

Beyond the Initiative

GEMs for Tomorrow reflects Discovery Samal’s continuing effort to align its CSR initiatives with education and community-building. The program signals a move toward sustained involvement, in which impact is measured by ongoing presence and deeper community ties. Barangay New Carmen marks the starting point of this engagement, with plans to further develop the initiative in the months ahead.

vivo 4.4 Summer Sale makes easier to own V70 today

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Sun’s out, plans are packed, and memories are waiting to be captured. vivo’s 4.4 Summer Sale on Shopee and Lazada arrives right on cue, bringing irresistible deals, flexible payment options, and exclusive discounts designed to keep up with every kind of summer adventure.

Enjoy summer with vivo V70

Long travel days often come with familiar struggles, from blurry zoom shots of scenic views to missed moments and the constant hunt for a power outlet. The vivo V70 is built to solve exactly that.

It features a 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera that brings distant landscapes and candid moments into sharp focus, supported by new AI features that magically transform your portraits.

With its 6500mAh BlueVolt battery and 90W FlashCharge, it keeps up with long days and gets you powered up quickly when needed.

During the Lazada sale from April 5 to 8, you can own the V70 for as low as Php 11,283 per month for three months at 0% interest via LazPayLater, making flagship-level travel photography easier and more accessible than ever.

Shopee Early 4.4 Sale: March 29 to April 1

The Shopee early sale gives you a head start on your summer upgrade with free shipping, 0% interest for up to three months via SPayLater, and up to 12% off vouchers.

Beyond the V70, shoppers can also explore other vivo smartphones such as the vivo Y29, available for as low as Php 10,899, the vivo V60 Lite 5G at Php 17,699, and the vivo Y21d at Php 7,949, offering options that fit different needs and budgets.

Lazada 4.4 Summer Sale: April 5 to 8

The excitement continues on Lazada, where customers can enjoy free shipping, 0% installment for up to three months via LazPayLater, and 10% off Super Saver Vouchers.

Aside from the V70, more vivo devices will be available during the sale, including the vivo Y04s at as low as Php 2,235 per month and the vivo Y21d at Php 2,685 per month, giving users more ways to upgrade this summer.

From capturing breathtaking views to staying powered through every stop, vivo’s 4.4 Summer Sale ensures you’re ready for whatever the season brings. With exclusive offers on Shopee and Lazada, there’s no better time to upgrade to a device that works as hard as your summer plans.

Mark your calendars and get ready to make every trip, every photo, and every moment count.

Make Easter Moments Matter with Richmonde Hotels’ Family Staycation Experiences

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This Easter, skip the long drives and crowded destinations, and instead, spend meaningful moments with the people who matter most at your home away from home in the city. Richmonde Hotels invites families to celebrate the season with staycation experiences that bring together relaxation and a touch of summer holiday fun—perfect for creating memories across generations.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: Easter Traditions & Celebrations for the Whole Family

 

At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Easter is all about togetherness and with its family-friendly offers at the best value for money rates, grandparents, parents, and the little ones can share in simple joys that become lasting traditions.

Available from March 29 to April 6, 2026, the Easter Break Escape room package may be booked at rates starting at only PhP 3,500 nett for room-only stays (except on April 4) and PhP 5,100 nett if with breakfast buffet for two. Guests staying on April 4 get a special treat with an extended Easter Sunday Breakfast Buffet served from 6am to 11am at Richmonde Cafe. Expect a delectable spread of breakfast favorites plus a roast beef carving, a dimsum & hotpot station, a salad bar, chocolate fountain, and many more that will delight the young ones and the young at heart. The Easter Sunday Breakfast Buffet is also open for walk-in guests at PhP 1,180 nett for adults and PhP 590 nett for children 6 to 12 years old. Children 5 and below eat for free.

Families can spend unhurried afternoons at the hotel’s “Kitchen Lab,” a series of hands-on activities where kids and kids-at-heart can create their own pizzas, decorate donuts, and design cookies for PhP 350 nett per person per activity, complete with themed snacks and drinks.

Metro dwellers can look to Richmonde for a cozy staycation that feels both familiar and refreshing and where there’s something for every family member to enjoy together. For inquiries and bookings, call +632 8638 7777, +63 917 859 7914 (Room Reservations), +63 534 4352 (Food & Beverage), email stay@richmondeortigas.com, or log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: Effortless Easter Fun in the City

Easter unfolds at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel with ease and energy, thanks to its prime location within the vibrant Eastwood City and direct access to Eastwood Mall—giving families everything they need just steps away. Room packages from March 29 to April 5, 2026 start at PhP 4,000 nett (room only) and PhP 5,600 nett (with breakfast for two).

For those planning a full Easter weekend, packages on April 4 and 5 are available from PhP 6,500 nett (room only) and PhP 8,100 nett (with breakfast), inclusive of two tickets to the Enchanted Garden Easter Party.

Happening on April 5, 2026 from 1PM to 6PM at the ballroom, the Enchanted Garden Easter Party celebration promises an exciting afternoon of magical fun and wonder for children and parents alike, highlighted by a variety of engaging activities and delightful surprises. The venue transforms into a whimsical garden where imagination blossoms and childhood fancy come to life. Kids can embark on a thrilling Easter egg hunt, get creative with bracelet making, and enjoy colorful face painting and sticker tattoos, while the whole family can look forward to captivating performances lined up in the party’s program, a deliciously satisfying snack buffet, and special giveaways. Tickets to the Enchanted Garden Easter Party are priced at PhP 1,888 nett per person.

Dining is just as inviting, with Eastwood Café+Bar’s Favorite Filipino Eats consisting of a Lenten Merienda Buffet on April 2 and 3 at PhP 600 nett per person, and an Easter Sunday Lunch Buffet on April 5 at PhP 1,200 nett per adult and PhP 600 nett for children, with little ones five and below dining for free. Offering popular Pinoy dishes like pancit, puto bumbong, bibingka, and halo-halo for snacks and freshly grilled meats & seafood plus many more local delights for the luncheon celebration, Eastwood Café+Bar’s buffets are a flavorful collection of well-loved flavors for all ages.

At Eastwood Richmonde everything is designed for seamless experiences so guests can simply relax and enjoy a worry-free stay. For inquiries, reservations, and ticket purchases, get in touch with Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at +63 8570 7777, +63 917 531 6867 (Room Reservations), +63 917 821 0333 (Food & Beverage), and email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or log on to www.eastoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.

 

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: A Relaxed Easter Escape in the Heart of Iloilo

Easter takes on a more laid-back rhythm at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. Set within the cosmopolitan township of Iloilo Business Park, also named as the city’s Center of Arts and Culture, the hotel embodies the best of the past and present worlds of Iloilo. Expect a space where comfort, convenience, and a sense of place come together beautifully.

From March 29 to April 5, 2026, the Eggsclusive Easter Getaway package is available for both locals of Western Visayas and domestic and international travelers wishing to visit the City of Love during the Easter break. Rates start at PhP 4,200 nett (room only) and PhP 4,800 nett (with breakfast for two), accommodating up to two adults and two children.

During the Lenten Week, days are best spent enjoying the summer breeze at the hotel’s pool or exploring the surrounding scenic spots, including heritage churches, at a relaxed pace. On Easter Sunday, families can gather at The Granary from 11:30am to 4:00pm for the Eggstraordinary Easter Lunch Buffet priced at PhP 1,500 nett per adult and PhP 750 nett for children, with kids five and below dining for free. A festive spread and special raffle draw add a cheerful touch to the celebration.

For inquiries and reservations, contact Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at +633 328 7888, +63 917 580 9642 (Room Reservations), +63 917 563 3558 (Food & Beverage), and stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph

Indeed, Richmonde Hotels make it easy to celebrate Easter in a way that feels both meaningful and memorable without having to travel far. Sometimes, the best holidays are simply but about being fully present with the ones you love.

Another Win for the PH: mWell Secures Second Global Mobile Award for Innovation in Healthcare

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Metro Pacific Health Tech's mWell, the country’s fully integrated health and wellness mega app, brings Philippine health technology to the global stage, having won the Global Mobile (GLOMO) Award for Best Mobile Innovation Supporting Emergency or Humanitarian Situations under the Tech4Good Category at the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain, making it the first Philippine healthtech app to win in this category. This marks a back-to-back GLOMO win following its 2023 award for Best Mobile Innovation for Digital Life.

“Digital innovation is key to our commitment to national progress,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman of mWell and MPIC. “Through mWell, we continue to harness technology to bring quality healthcare closer to every Filipino.”

“This recognition affirms our focus on advancing healthcare inclusion through innovation,” said Chaye Cabal-Revilla, President and CEO of mWell and Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer of MPIC. “Our goal is simple: ensure healthcare is within reach for communities that need it most.”

Global Recognition for Philippine Health Technology

Organized by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), a global organization that unites the mobile ecosystem to drive innovation, advance connectivity, and enable positive business and societal impact, the GLOMO Awards are widely regarded as the mobile industry’s most prestigious recognition worldwide, honoring innovations that transform connectivity and improve lives worldwide.

The winners were announced during the awards ceremony on March 4 and selected by a panel of more than 250 independent experts from across the global mobile ecosystem. With this recognition, mWell joins leading global brands such as Apple, Samsung, Huawei, China Mobile and China Telecom among this year’s winners across various categories at the 2026 GLOMO Awards.

Lara Dewar, CMO of the GSMA, said: “Over three decades in and the GLOMOs continue to set the benchmark for what true excellence looks like in our industry. The standard from this year's winners is extraordinary, with every winner tonight representing innovation and excellence with real purpose and global ambition. Being recognised on the global stage at the GLOMOs is something genuinely special and thoroughly deserved for all our winners.”

Bringing Healthcare Access for Underserved Communities

Today, the mWell ecosystem, together with KonsultaMD, serves 7.3 million users, with 37% coming from vulnerable and underserved sectors. To expand access to care, 179 mWell OnTheGo Clinic-in-a-Bag units have been deployed across remote islands, Indigenous communities, correctional facilities, and disaster-affected areas, supporting almost a million people across 17 Indigenous communities.

Across the Philippines’ 7,641 islands, access to healthcare can still require hours of travel by land or sea. To help close this gap, mWell uses mobile technology to bring care directly to underserved communities.

Through mWell OnTheGo, a portable digital clinic with a smartphone or tablet preloaded with the mWell app, Wi-Fi, satellite internet, solar panel and power station, patients in remote areas can consult with licensed doctors, receive prescriptions, and access their health records without leaving their communities.

mWell also supports BangKalusugan (BangkaHealth) in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), deploying health boats that deliver telemedicine services to coastal villages and island barangays, working closely with barangay health workers to facilitate consultations and connect residents with doctors. In emergencies, mWell launched Southeast Asia’s first medicine drone delivery service, enabling life-saving medicines to reach patients in minutes instead of  Advancing Digital Health Technology for Every Filipino

Through partnerships with national agencies, local governments, and institutions, mWell continues to build the country’s first integrated digital health ecosystem, connecting telemedicine, diagnostics, pharmacy services, wellness programs, and secure digital health records. With its end-to-end digital health solutions, mWell provides national agencies, healthcare providers, and communities with tools that they need to further address their health digitalization needs, further driving a more accessible and efficient care for every Filipino.

mWell supports Overseas Filipino Workers through its partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), providing OFWs and their families worldwide access to Filipino doctors through digital consultations. As part of this effort, mWell is currently extending medical and mind health consultations for Filipino workers in the Middle East, allowing them to connect with doctors and mind health coaches who speak their language during times of uncertainty while away from home.

mWell is also working with YAKAP-accredited hospitals and clinics that are transitioning from PhilHealth’s eKonsulta (eKON) platform, which will be decommissioned on July 1, 2026. As a PhilHealth-certified Clinic Management System (CMS), the mWell YAKAP Claims Platform serves as a ready solution for clinics and hospitals previously using eKonsulta, enabling them to manage consultations and claims while supporting compliance and everyday clinical operations—safeguarding continued access to healthcare and PhilHealth benefits for Filipinos, especially indigent patients who rely on government healthcare assistance.

Looking ahead, mWell is collaborating with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to support the country’s digital health initiatives. Through the eGov PH App, users can also access mWell Teleconsult services and the mWell HealthID, enabling them to conveniently consult with doctors, view their health records, and access essential healthcare services through a unified digital platform.

By making health services more accessible and harnessing mobile technology, strong partnerships, and continuous innovation, we remain committed to improving healthcare access for Filipinos wherever they may be.

As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to working towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

Download the mWell app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Follow mWell on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.

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ABOUT mWell

mWell, is the health technology platform developed by Metro Pacific Health Tech Corporation that offers telemedicine, health and wellness programs, e-commerce, among others, in an integrated, tech-based healthcare digital ecosystem. Metro Pacific Health Tech Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, the leading infrastructure investment company in the Philippines with investments in various infrastructure assets including healthcare. As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to work towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

P1 Pre-Order, Up to P2,000 Off! TECNO CAMON 50 Series Back with Unbeatable Launch Deals

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The wait is over. TECNO’s most anticipated AI-powered imaging smartphone, the CAMON 50 Series, is officially back to the Philippines. Starting from Apr 1 until April 17, the series is now available for pre-order across all authorized TECNO offline stores nationwide.

₱1 Pre-Order, Big Rewards

For a limited time, Filipino fans can secure the latest CAMON 50 series with an unbelievably low P1 downpayment from Apr 1 to April 3. From April 4 onwards, the pre-order requires a P500 downpayment, still making it one of the most rewarding smartphone launches this year. Customers who pre-order can enjoy discounts of up to P2,000 off the SRP — P1,000 off for the CAMON 50, and up to P2,000 off for the CAMON 50 Ultra 5G variants.

But that’s not all. Every pre-order with successful claim starts on Apr 18 – Apr 30 will come with a premium bundle of five exciting perks:

- CAMON 50 Series Exclusive Gift Box (worth P1,999) including an air conduction headphone and charging lanyard cable

- 1-Year Premium Membership on MovieBox App

- 50 GB Free Cloud Storage on TECNO Cloud

- 60-Day Free Replacement (for non-human caused issues) and 2-Year Warranty via CarlCare

- And so much more in store!

Built for Creators, Powered by AI.

From content creators to everyday storytellers, the CAMON 50 Series is designed for Filipinos who want to shoot smarter, create faster, and stand out online. Powered by flagship Sony hardware and an intelligent AI computing architecture, it introduces breakthroughs like Super-Zoom FlashSnap for zero-shutter lag action shots and AI Auto Zoom for perfectly framed portraits. More than just a camera phone, it serves as a full Creative AI Hub — complete with an AI Art Gallery, One-Tap FlashMemo, and the ever-reliable Ella AI assistant to elevate everyday productivity.

With a legacy as the Philippines’ most beloved imaging smartphone series, the CAMON 50 Series is built for those who stop at nothing to capture life’s best moments. Don’t miss out on the country’s most exciting smartphone pre-order event of the year. Visit any authorized TECNO store nationwide to reserve your unit today. For more details, visit TECNO’s official Facebook page or website.

GCash advances AI-powered fraud protection to safeguard digital payments

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A multi‑layered, AI‑powered security strategy showed how it protects millions of Filipinos from the next wave of scams

Digital fraud has evolved from technical exploits into psychological manipulation, targeting not just systems but human trust itself. Financial institutions face mounting pressure to respond with defenses that can learn, adapt, and scale in real time. At the recent Risk.net–AWS conference, GCash demonstrated how it is meeting this challenge, unveiling its multi‑layered, AI‑powered security strategy to protect millions of Filipinos from the next wave of scams.

(L-R) GASA security governance director Mel Migrino, PayMongo chief risk and compliance officer Josh Quinto, Maya compliance management head Mark Talib, 

and GCash chief risk officer Ingrid Beroña

During the conference, which focused on ‘Driving AFASA Compliance Through Advanced Fraud & FinCrime Detection’, hosted by Risk.net and Amazon Web Services (AWS) at Seda Hotel BGC in Manila, industry experts, from chief risk officers and compliance heads to security leaders and key stakeholders, gathered together to discuss how to operationalize the strengthened controls of the Anti‑Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), or Republic Act No. 12010 — a landmark law designed to combat the surge of financial cybercrimes such as phishing, smishing, and money muling.

GCash participated as one of the key speakers, with its Chief Risk Officer, Ingrid Beroña, joining the panel discussion on "Addressing Real-Time Fraud Detection, Authentication and Financial Crime Under AFASA's Circular 1213," where she led critical conversations on emerging fraud scenarios, AI-powered detection technologies, and the company's risk-based approach to compliance. She was joined by fellow leaders in the fintech landscape from Paymongo, GASA Philippines, and Maya.

When fraudsters weaponize AI

"AI-generated phishing and smishing are the biggest problems across different services that we have," Beroña shared. "Fraudsters are now able to craft phishing messages, even translating them into different languages and dialects."

The threat is amplified for the Philippines, which is one of the world's top social media adopters according to the Digital 2024 and 2025 Global Overview Reports by We Are Social and Meltwater. Large-scale social engineering campaigns deploy bots across platforms, while fake pages and merchants impersonate legitimate services with near-perfect accuracy.

As fraudsters weaponize AI, GCash has designed its defenses around four adaptive pillars. It begins with behavioral biometrics that screen user networks, paired with payload systems that monitor massive transaction volumes in real time. On top of this foundation sits adaptive risk profiling, tailoring security to each user. These controls are then scaled through a cloud‑based architecture capable of protecting millions of GCash user accounts simultaneously. Finally, the system continuously profiles consumer behavior, adjusting security controls in response to evolving activity patterns and transaction histories.

Furthermore, the GCash approach to AFASA ensures that the company is continuously working closely with fraud and cyber teams, AML specialists, and legal counsel while embedding AFASA discipline across the organization.

Strengthening ecosystem-wide defenses

The conference also highlighted how Circular 1213 strengthens controls across real-time fraud detection, identity integrity, authentication security, customer-protection alerts, and financial-crime monitoring, addressing how fraud and scams have evolved from isolated incidents to a regional crisis demanding coordinated response.

The conversations at the Risk.net and AWS event underscored a fundamental shift in how financial institutions must approach security. For GCash, having the largest digital ecosystem in the country means protection embedded at every layer, from onboarding through every transaction, continuously profiling behavior, and adjusting security controls based on risk. Technology that scales to handle massive volumes while maintaining the intelligence to identify subtle anomalies. It means security and privacy by design, not bolted on after the fact.

By anchoring security strategies in the realities of today's threat landscape rather than yesterday's playbooks, GCash continues building fraud prevention capabilities that protect users without compromising the seamless digital experience that drives financial inclusion.

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