LG Brings AI-Powered Korean Home Innovation Closer to Filipino Households

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Korean culture has long shaped how Filipinos enjoy entertainment, food, beauty, and lifestyle. But beyond K-pop, K-dramas, and K-food, another side of Korean influence is becoming more relevant to everyday life at home: K-Tech.

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• LG Electronics highlighted K-Tech innovation through home solutions designed around Asian lifestyles and everyday household needs.
• The latest solutions include laundry, kitchen, built-in, commercial laundry, and AI-powered home technologies showcased at LG InnoFest 2026 APAC in Busan, Korea.
• LG’s K-Tech approach focuses on practical benefits for Asian homes, including space efficiency, fabric care, kitchen convenience, energy efficiency, and connected living.
• Key innovations include the WashTower™ lineup, AI DD™, TurboWash™ 3D, LG WashCombo™, Fit & Max, advanced Ice Solution, Camera Oven, and AI Home Hub, ThinQ ON™.
• Through these solutions, LG is showing how Korean technology can support smarter, more intuitive home living for households across Asia, including the Philippines.

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For LG Electronics (LG), K-Tech is not just about advanced appliances. It is about bringing Korean innovation into the daily rhythms of Asian households, including in the Philippines — helping people wash clothes more efficiently, prepare meals more conveniently, manage compact spaces better, and connect home experiences more intuitively.

This direction was highlighted through LG’s latest home solutions for the Asia-Pacific market, which include laundry, kitchen, built-in, commercial laundry, and AI-powered home technologies designed around Asian consumers’ lifestyles. The innovations were presented under the theme “Innovation, Forward Together” at LG InnoFest 2026 APAC, held in Busan, Korea, from April 7 to 10.

For Filipino households, where space, convenience, energy use, and practical functionality often shape home decisions, LG’s K-Tech approach offers a relatable view of what smarter home living can look like: technology that feels less complicated, more responsive, and more useful in everyday routines.

Jaesung Kim, Regional CEO, LG Electronics Asia Pacific, said, “Across Asia-Pacific, competition continues to evolve, but LG has been preparing for this moment by building stronger ecosystems, expanding into new categories, and broadening our product lineup to better serve the region’s diverse markets. We are seeing growth in key categories such as washing machines, refrigerators, and TVs across many countries, and we will continue to strengthen our competitiveness through technologies that respond to real consumer needs. As Korean culture gains stronger influence across the region, we also see an opportunity to share LG’s identity as a Korean brand with the advantage of K-Tech—bringing together innovation, design, and intelligence to create home solutions that are practical, relevant, and built for the way people live today.”

K-Tech for everyday clothing care

Laundry is one of the clearest examples of how K-Tech can support everyday home life. LG is expanding its WashTower™ lineup with a new 25-inch model tailored for Asian homes, alongside existing 24-inch and 27-inch versions. Designed for space efficiency and everyday convenience, the lineup reflects the varied housing environments found across Asia.

LG also introduced new top-load washer models powered by Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive™ (AI DD™), which optimizes wash motions based on fabric type and soil level. The lineup also features TurboWash™ 3D, which completes a full cycle in under 30 minutes, and an automatic dispenser that measures and dispenses detergent for each load, reducing the need for frequent refills.

For busy households, these technologies make laundry feel more intuitive — from caring for different fabrics to helping shorten wash time and reduce repeated manual steps.

LG also highlighted the LG WashCombo™, an all-in-one model that strengthens the company’s drying solutions through Inverter HeatPump™ technology. The feature supports stable and effective drying, while improved energy efficiency responds to Asian consumers’ strong focus on electricity costs.

For commercial use, LG also offers laundry solutions engineered for high-frequency, long-hour operation. The portfolio includes professional-grade features such as customizable wash programs, open API connectivity, and a service-friendly front-access design. LG will also introduce a new commercial washer-dryer HeatPump Combo that integrates washing and drying in a single unit, enhancing convenience and space efficiency.

K-Tech for smarter kitchens

In the kitchen, LG’s K-Tech approach focuses on making everyday cooking, storage, dish care, and entertaining more convenient for Asian homes. LG introduced refrigerator solutions designed for diverse lifestyles and housing conditions, including the new Fit & Max design with a Zero Clearance Hinge. This enables a seamless built-in appearance without wasted space against the wall while maximizing storage capacity in compact kitchens.

LG also highlighted its advanced Ice Solution, which addresses high ice consumption common among Asian consumers. The solution offers four ice options — Craft Ice™, Crushed, Cubed, and Mini Craft — suited for everyday use and entertaining.

For Filipino homes, these details matter in practical ways: making room for groceries in compact kitchens, preparing cold drinks for family gatherings, or keeping the kitchen ready for both weekday meals and weekend hosting.

Dish care also gets a smarter upgrade. LG’s latest dishwasher features an exclusive one-hour wash-and-dry cycle, while QuadWash™ Pro uses four spray arms with high-pressure water jets and microbubbles to clean dishes from multiple angles. Dynamic Heat Dry+ enhances drying performance using a moisture-absorbing material to remove humidity and efficiently produce warm, dry air.

LG also introduced a tailored built-in kitchen collection for Southeast Asian markets, including ovens, cooktops, and hoods for both B2B and B2C segments. A key highlight is the advanced Camera Oven, which uses an internal camera to identify ingredients, recommend an optimal cooking mode, and monitor surface color to check when dishes are ideally cooked.

Together, these kitchen solutions show how K-Tech can move beyond novelty and into usefulness — helping households save space, simplify cooking, and make everyday kitchen moments feel more manageable.

K-Tech for a more connected home

LG also continues to develop its AI Home vision, powered by the AI Home Hub, ThinQ ON™. Through this system, LG’s AI-enabled appliances and IoT devices are designed to connect and coordinate with one another, creating more intuitive and integrated home experiences.

This is where K-Tech becomes less about individual products and more about how the home works as a whole. Instead of separate appliances performing separate tasks, LG’s AI Home direction points to connected devices that can support daily routines with greater convenience.

ThinQ ON™ has already launched in its initial market and is scheduled for phased introduction across Asia, starting with Australia and Thailand. This reflects LG’s broader direction of making AI-powered home solutions more relevant to local lifestyles and household routines across the region.

As Korean culture continues to influence Filipino lifestyles, LG is showing that Korean innovation can also shape the way people live at home. From AI-powered laundry and smarter kitchens to connected home experiences, LG’s K-Tech approach offers a look at home solutions designed not only to impress, but to make everyday life work better.

Beat the heat with Bell Refreshers, Taco Bell’s coolest sips yet

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This summer, Taco Bell is switching things up with the launch of Bell Refreshers, a vibrant new drink lineup made for those hot days and bold cravings. Light, fruity, and fizzy, each drink is designed to pair perfectly with your Taco Bell favorites or even stand out on their own as a refreshing treat, making every moment more flavorful!

Bell Refreshers come in two bright variants, each offering a choice between a fizzy 7Up base or Taco Bell’s house blend iced tea. The Peach Mango Fizz blends sweet peach and ripe mango flavors into a bubbly, easy to sip drink that feels instantly uplifting. Meanwhile, the Passion Fruit Fizz delivers a tangy sweet profile with a tropical twist, offering a refreshingly bold flavor that cuts through the heat!

Both variants are available for P149, making them an accessible add-on to any meal or a simple way to cool down.

Get these together with your other favorites from Taco Bell by visiting your nearest store for dine-in and take-out orders, or you can also order for delivery via the 8911-1111 hotline, Taco Bell Philippines’ official website, or through official delivery partners Grabfood, foodpanda, and Pickaroo (prices may vary)!

For more updates, offers, and special deals from Taco Bell by following and giving the brand a like on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok!

Gift Your Mom the Break She Deserves at Discovery Samal

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This Mother’s Day, look beyond the usual gestures and offer a gift that truly resonates: the luxury of time, the beauty of the sea, and the space for her to simply be. At Discovery Samal, the celebration unfolds through slow mornings overlooking the water and thoughtful gatherings designed to make her feel profoundly cared for.

Nestled along the shores of Samal Island in Davao, the resort offers a sanctuary where suites and villas capture the shifting coastal light and the beachfront invites long, easy hours watching the tide. From restorative spa treatments to quiet moments on the sand, give her a memory that truly lingers and a peaceful escape where she can finally pause and enjoy the moment.

Celebrate Her at Discovery Samal

The heart of Mother’s Day at Discovery Samal lies in Crowned in Grace, a spectacular collection of dining experiences designed to turn a simple meal into a lifelong memory.

The festivities kick off at Morning Catch with a lavish Mother’s Day lunch buffet on May 10, 2026, from 11 am to 3 pm. For Php 2,800 net per person, families can dive into a culinary journey that spans the globe—from the briny sweetness of the freshest seafood to the rich, savory depth of premium carved meats.

As the sun sets, the celebration shifts to The Bistro for an exquisite five-course Mother’s Day set dinner on May 10, from 6 pm to 9 pm. Priced at Php 3,500 net per person, the evening features a culinary journey through refined, sophisticated flavors, meticulously curated to delight the palate without losing that sense of familiar comfort. It is an invitation to toast to a mother who deserves nothing less than the extraordinary.

Make It a Full Island Escape

For those who want to turn the celebration into a short getaway, the Mother’s Day Room Package offers a seamless way to experience the island. Rates start at Php 20,012 net and include daily breakfast for two at Morning Catch, along with a five-course Mother’s Day dinner for two at The Bistro. Mornings might begin with a leisurely breakfast before heading out to the beach, or simply enjoying the stillness from a private balcony.

To make the stay truly her own, we’ve included thoughtful touches that invite both relaxation and adventure. Guests can indulge in a restorative escape with a 10% discount on Samal Escape spa treatments, from tranquil massages to rejuvenating rituals, or find their thrill on the waves with a 10% discount on exhilarating watersports. Whether she chooses a serene afternoon poolside or an active day on the water, the experience is hers to define, never fixed and always inspired.

The luxury begins the moment she arrives. Every stay includes seamless round-trip land transfers from Davao International Airport and scenic boat transfers via the Davao Welcome Center, ensuring her journey to the island is as smooth and effortless as the island breeze itself.

A Gift That Feels Personal

Mother’s Day comes once a year, but the moments tied to it tend to linger. At Discovery Samal, the focus shifts from a single day to an experience that feels complete, one built around good food, restful spaces, and time shared without distraction.

It’s a different way to celebrate, perhaps quieter than most, but one that stays with you long after the trip ends. For inquiries and reservations, visit https://www.discoverysamal.com, email reservations@discoverysamal.com, or call +63 84 308 2998.

Vena Energy Accelerates Green Energy Transition in the Philippines with Dual Groundbreakings for 380 MWp Solar Projects in Ilocos Norte

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Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider across the Asia-Pacific region, has commenced construction of two major solar projects in Ilocos Norte, marking another significant step in supporting the Philippines’ clean energy transition.

Groundbreaking and time capsule ceremonies for the Astra Solar and Opus Solar projects were held on 5 May 2026 in Currimao and 6 May 2026 in Paoay, respectively. Together, the projects represent approximately 380 MWp of new capacity and will increase Vena Energy’s total solar footprint in Ilocos Norte to around 480 MWp once operational.

The events were attended by Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Vice Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc, Currimao Mayor Edward Quilala, and Paoay Mayor Shiella Galano, alongside Vena Group Chief Operating Officer Juan Mas Valor, Vena Energy Head of Philippines Samrinder Nehria, and Head of Project Development Mia Jarumayan.

Astra Solar

On 5 May, Astra Solar Energy Corp. broke ground on its 80.6 MWp Astra Solar Power Project in Currimao. The project is supported by a ₱2.7-billion green project finance facility from Security Bank. It is expected to generate approximately 142 GWh of clean energy annually, which is enough to power around 120,500 Filipino households. It will also avoid an estimated 95,400 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year. This impact is equivalent to planting approximately 1.5 million trees.

Opus Solar

Following the Astra Solar event, Opus Solar Energy Corp. held its groundbreaking ceremony on 6 May for the 300 MWp Opus Solar Project in Paoay. Spanning 190 hectares across Barangays Bacsil and Mumulaan, the project marks a milestone in the Philippine energy sector. It is the first fully non-recourse renewable energy project in the country to be financed solely by international banks, supported by a US$210-million green loan from seven global financial institutions.

Once operational, Opus Solar will supply clean energy equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 445,000 households. It is also expected to avoid around 349,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

"We are proud to see how our investments continue to create local jobs, support community aspirations, and drive the Philippines’ energy transition forward," said Juan Mas Valor, Chief Operating Officer of Vena Group.

A Legacy of Community Progress

These new projects build upon the success of Vena Energy’s existing facilities in Ilocos Norte, including the Mirae Asia Energy Corporation (20MW) and Nuevo Solar Energy Corp. (83.3MW) solar projects.

The company’s presence in the region has consistently delivered long-term community benefits, including:

• · The generation of hundreds of local jobs during both construction and operational phases.
• · Financial contributions through ER1-94, as well as increased local tax revenues for host communities.
• · Continued support for education, health, infrastructure and the environmental initiatives through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs.

“Opus Solar and Astra Solar demonstrate how strong cross-border and local collaboration can accelerate the transition to clean energy while upholding high standards of environmental and social governance,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of Philippines, Vena Energy.

Both projects contribute to the Philippines’ national targets of increasing the renewable energy share to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

About Astra Solar Energy Corp. and Opus Solar Energy Corp.

Astra Solar Energy Corp. and Opus Solar Energy Corp. are project companies under Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region.

ABOUT VENA GROUP

Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a major green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy and digital infrastructure arms, Vena Group delivers integrated, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that enable the region’s transition to a low-carbon, AI-driven future.

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

About Vena Energy

Vena Energy is a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, accelerating the transition to sustainable and affordable renewable energy that delivers lasting environmental, social, and economic benefits to host communities and stakeholders.

We deliver green energy solutions through a renewable power portfolio of 38GW across Onshore Wind, Solar, and Offshore Wind projects[1], and a green energy infrastructure pipeline including 25GWh of BESS[2] and 848 KTPA of Green Hydrogen and Ammonia.

With over 1,000 employees across 80 corporate and site offices globally, Vena Energy is committed to advancing the adoption of low-carbon energy, contributing to global climate goals, and engineering a greener future.

For more information, please visit www.venaenergy.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram.

PLDT Enterprise Supports Alfamart’s Rapid Expansion with Smart's Superior Mobile Connectivity

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Delivering reliable, high-performance connectivity across over 2000 retail stores nationwide

Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc. (Alfamart), the minimart chain of the SM Group, continues to strengthen its retail operations nationwide through its longstanding partnership with PLDT Enterprise, leveraging reliable mobile connectivity on the high-performance network of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) to support its growing workforce and expanding store network.

PLDT Enterprise and Alfamart leaders come together during a partnership engagement aimed at strengthening connectivity and supporting Alfamart’s expanding retail network nationwide. The collaboration highlights both organizations'' shared commitment to reliable digital solutions that enable efficient operations across Alfamart’s growing store footprint. From left to right: Mary Ann Pagsuyuin, Senior Relationship Manager, PLDT Enterprise; Tony Radovan, Head of Key Industries Group – Retail; Armie Sason, Head of Key Industries Group II, PLDT Enterprise; Victor Genuino, Head of Key Industries Group, PLDT Enterprise, and President and CEO, ePLDT and VITRO Inc.; Harvey Ong, Chief Operating Officer, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc., Jason Ngo, Chief Technology Officer, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc.; Carmelita King, Head of Fixed Assets and Supplies, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc.; Eli Bonsol, Senior HR Manager for Corporate Branding – Human Capital Group, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc.

Known for its aggressive growth and expansion plans, Alfamart has built a strong presence across the Philippines, particularly in underserved communities, by providing access to essential goods at competitive prices. With a total network of 2,494 existing branches and plans to open at least 400 new stores annually, reliable communication across its stores and office-based teams is critical to sustaining day-to-day operations and supporting continued growth.

A Commitment to Supporting the Retail Industry

PLDT Enterprise’s collaboration with Alfamart underscores its commitment to supporting the retail sector, particularly large-scale retail operations that rely on seamless coordination across geographically dispersed locations. By providing dependable communication support, PLDT Enterprise helps ensure that retail teams remain connected, responsive, and operationally efficient as Alfamart continues to scale.

To support Alfamart’s communication needs, PLDT Enterprise provides Smart Postpaid Plans, enabling employees across stores and offices to benefit from wider network coverage and reliable mobile connectivity brought by Smart. Running on Smart's superior and resilient mobile network, these solutions help facilitate day-to-day coordination, improve responsiveness, and support the operational demands of a fast-growing retail organization.

“Retail operations depend on consistent and reliable connectivity, especially as store networks continue to grow,” said Victor Genuino, Head of Key Industry Group at PLDT Enterprise and President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc. “Through our longstanding partnership with Alfamart, PLDT Enterprise remains committed to supporting their operations with mobile solutions that help keep teams connected and enable business continuity.”

A Partnership Built on Reliability and Service

With Alfamart’s transition to Smart services starting in 2020, highlighted by the advantages of nation-widest network coverage and aftersales service, the partnership has now reached its third renewal, with PLDT Enterprise continuing to support Alfamart’s postpaid requirements for both store-based and office-based users. The collaboration reflects a shared focus on reliability, service quality, and long-term partnership—key factors that support Alfamart’s continued expansion and operational efficiency.

From Alfamart, Harvey Ong, Chief Operating Officer, shared that the partnership with PLDT Enterprise continues to play a role in supporting the company’s expanding operations. “As Alfamart grows its store network across the country, having a reliable telecommunications partner is essential. PLDT Enterprise’s mobile solutions and service support our teams as we continue to serve communities nationwide.”

Through this collaboration, PLDT Enterprise reinforces its role as a trusted technology partner for large retail organizations—supporting Alfamart’s mission to improve accessibility to essential goods, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to local economic development across the Philippines.

To learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions, visit [UTM]

About PLDT Enterprise

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

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

5 new ways to connect to Mom this Mother’s Day Weekend – and beyond!

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Celebrate your female inspo with these fun and fresh activities to do at Expo Mom 2026, powered by PLDT Home Fiber

Photo credit:Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels 

Mother’s Day has always had its usual hallmarks and rituals every year: the early morning bouquet while the sunshine is still soft, the frantic search for a dinner reservation (before the actual Sunday, of course), and the familiar chorus of "Thank you, Mom" when it’s time to serenade her.

But as the dynamics of the Filipino family evolve, so does the way we celebrate the women at the heart of our homes. Today’s mothers have evolved beyond their traditional roles – now more empowered than ever, they are entrepreneurs, digital navigators, and lifelong learners. And while they may not always say it, most of the time our moms crave more than just a token gift; they crave the connections with their loved ones, especially their children.

If you’re looking to change it up and move past the usual routine of lunch, flowers, and a gift for Mama, here are a few meaningful ways to bond with her this Mother’s Day weekend at Expo Mom, hosted by Mommy Mundo and powered by its official broadband partner PLDT Home Fiber:

1. Artistic reflections with mom

Instead of buying a card, spend an hour in a creative flow. Creative spaces at Expo Mom, like junk journaling and portrait painting offer a rare moment of pause. It’s a chance for moms to reconnect with their own identities through art, while children – young or grown – get to see a different, more expressive side of their mothers.

Photo credit: RDNE Stock project via Pexels

 

2. Disco dancing during the day!

There is a unique kind of joy found in movement. When was the last time Mom danced her heart out? If it’s been a while, take her to a "Daytime Disco for Moms,” as dancing should be a high-energy reminder that motherhood shouldn't mean the end of fun. Let her let loose, shake off the weekly stress, and simply enjoy the rhythm of being together.

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

3. Shopping with a story

Support can be a form of celebration. Browsing through the MamaMarket lets the whole family meet mompreneurs behind the brands and products your family will love. It’s an inspiring way for families to see the creativity and resilience of the community while picking out something special that supports another family’s dream.

Photo credit: Sam Lion via Pexels

  

4. Listening to insightful talks

Motherhood was never meant to be a solo act. Attending support group sessions or listening to onstage talks provides a sense of "I see you." For families, hearing these honest conversations about the realities of parenting at the Community Connections space fosters a deeper empathy and understanding for what Mom handles every day.

Photo credit: Mommy Mundo

5. Strutting it out!

Confidence is the best outfit, and seeing moms walk the runway during the fashion show is a vibrant celebration of style at every stage of life. It’s a moment for the whole family to cheer from the sidelines, celebrating the individuality and grace that Mom brings to the household.

Photo credit: Doğu Tuncer via Pexels

Make this Mother’s Day Weekend and beyond truly memorable by visiting Expo Mom, powered by PLDT Home Fiber. It’s a space where every member of the family – from the kids to the kids-at-heart – can feel supported and inspired. PLDT Home remains committed to empowering these modern family lives, ensuring that whether you are learning something new online, managing a home business, or simply staying in touch with loved ones, you have the reliable connectivity to make it happen.

While you’re at Expo Mom Manila, don’t forget to check out the PLDT Home booth for exclusive offers to keep your family connected:

●      Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 on Sale: Enjoy free installation, free speedboost, unli entertainment on Cignal, and big discounts on Samsung and other gadgets. Plus, get a chance to win free broadband for life!

●      PLDT Home Life: Shop smart home devices and enjoy ₱200 off, free shipping, and up to ₱500 worth of Maya vouchers.

●      Plus, join booth activities and take home exciting freebies for the whole family!

To know more about these amazing deals you can enjoy this Mother’s Day and beyond, visit pldthome.com.

 

3 Simple Ways to Make Mother’s Day Feel Extra Special—Right at Home

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Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Often, it’s the simplest moments, shared meals, easy conversations, and time spent together at home that moms remember most.

This year, families can celebrate in ways that feel warm and thoughtful. With a few everyday favorites, even the most low-key plans can turn into something special.

Create a special bonding moment with the family with El Real Pasta this Mother’s Day

Here are three easy ways to make Mother’s Day more meaningful:

Share a Home-Cooked Meal That Brings Everyone Together

There’s something comforting about gathering around the table to share a homemade meal. This Mother’s Day, take the time to cook for mom, or better yet, prepare and cook a simple dish together. Make a household favorite pasta dish featuring El Real Pasta and feast with the family to turn the experience into one that everyone will remember.

Turn Everyday Merienda into Quality Time

A relaxed merienda, with no agenda, just good company and some sweet treats can make family bonding time more memorable. Spending quality time with loved ones is a treat in itself, especially with Jack ‘n Jill’s delightful and easy-to-share snacks that’s perfect for all ages. Sharing timeless favorites like Cream-O, Chippy, and Nips for a lighthearted break together can make the moment even more special.

Surprise your mom by gifting them with some of favorite URC classics like Chippy, Cream-O and Nips. 

Make Shared Moments Feel Complete with Something to Pass Around

Whether it’s lunch, merienda, or a simple salu-salo, there’s something about sharing that can make moments fulfilling. Sharing a refreshing bottle of C2 Cool and Clean Litro adds to that sense of togetherness, making it easier to slow down and simply enjoy each other’s company, one sip at a time.

At the end of the day, Mother’s Day is about showing appreciation in ways that feel genuine. It’s not about planning the perfect celebration, rather it’s about being present, sharing delightful food, laughter, and time with the family.

Enjoy and share a sweet treat from Cream-O this Mother’s Day with Cream-O Dark Chocolate.

Enjoy an easy and delicious pasta dish at home with El Real Pasta in celebration of Mother’s Day.

This Mother’s Day, everything you need to create these simple, meaningful moments—from pantry staples to shareable URC favorites—are available at your nearest supermarkets and convenience stores.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC), a Filipino food and beverage company, and maker of several iconic and well-loved brands such as Great Taste Coffee, C2 Cool and Clean, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Maxx Candy, and Cream-O. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

The Manila Hotel Revives Flores de Mayo with Grand Celebration of Faith, Fashion, and Filipino Heritage

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The Manila Hotel marked the grand revival of Flores de Mayo: Dalisay at Halimuyak on Sunday, May 3, drawing approximately 2,000 attendees and participants to a landmark celebration of Marian devotion, Filipino heritage, fashion, and charitable giving. 

Held in partnership with the City Government of Manila, the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila through Manila, My Manila, the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines, and the National Parks Development Committee, the event brought back one of Manila’s most cherished cultural traditions. 

With the theme “Dalisay at Halimuyak,” the revival drew from the ideas of purity and fragrance, reflecting the spiritual and cultural essence of the Filipino Catholic tradition, honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary. At its heart, Flores de Mayo remains a tribute to the Mother of God through the offering of flowers. In Manila, however, the tradition has grown into a uniquely expansive celebration — one that honors Marian devotion while showcasing the richness of Filipino artistry. 

The celebration carried special significance as it began at Kilometer 0 in Luneta, the point from which all distances to places across the Philippine archipelago are measured. From the historic grounds of The Manila Hotel, the procession moved toward the Quirino Grandstand before returning to the hotel, symbolically opening this year’s Flores de Mayo observances ahead of similar celebrations in towns, cities, and municipalities across the country. 

Leading the celebration were Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso and Mrs. Diana Lynn “Dynee” Domagoso, who served as Hermano Mayor and Hermana Mayor, respectively. Atty. Jose “Joey” D. Lina, President of The Manila Hotel, served as Hermano de Honor, together with Mrs. Loretta “Lory” A. Lina as Hermana de Honor. 

Flores de Mayo was first launched at The Manila Hotel in 1979 through the Congregacion del Santisimo Nombre de Niño Jesus, established with the late Ben Farrales, the Dean of Filipino Fashion, as founding chair. Over the years, the celebration became part of the hotel’s cultural calendar, reflecting devotion, heritage, and the enduring elegance of Filipino design. Revived in 2019 before being paused by the pandemic, the tradition returned this year with renewed civic, cultural, and institutional support. 

The day’s festivities unfolded in two major parts. The first was a solemn yet colorful procession from The Manila Hotel to the Quirino Grandstand, where the entries of 30 FDAP designers were judged. The procession then returned to the hotel for the offering of flowers to Nuestra Señora de las Flores. During the procession proper, the image of Nuestra Señora de la Consolacion y Correa de Intramuros was enshrined on the carroza. 

The procession brought together hermanos and hermanas, celebrities, beauty queens, public figures, FDAP senior and featured designers, sagalas, konsortes, and representatives from leading pageant, fashion, and entertainment organizations. 

The second part of the celebration was the Fashion Show for a Cause, with proceeds benefiting Young Focus and the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition. Through this initiative, the event will support Young Focus’ education programs for children from underserved communities, particularly in Smokey Mountain, Tondo, Manila, as well as the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition’s advocacy for children’s health and well-being during their most formative first 1,000 days. 

More than a showcase of pageantry, the charitable component gave the celebration a deeper dimension — transforming devotion into meaningful service for the community. 

A major highlight of the event was the fashion presentation featuring the artistry of 35 FDAP designers. Leading the showcase were five senior FDAP designers — Renee Salud, Albert Andrada, Toni Galang, Glenn Lopez, and Lito Perez — joined by 30 fellow members representing both established and emerging voices in Philippine fashion. 

Under the creative direction of Raymond Villanueva, Flores de Mayo 2026: Dalisay at Halimuyak became more than a religious tribute to Mama Mary. It became a living gallery of Filipino design. Through intricate gowns, floral details, and carefully crafted ensembles, the designers interpreted the ideals of dalisay and halimuyak in visual form. 

Following the judging of the 30 FDAP designers’ entries, the following titles were awarded: 

Reina de las Flores — Main Title 

Cathy Capistrano, with sagala Maria Luisa Varela, Ms. Planet International 2022 

Reina Rosa Mystica — 1st Runner-Up 

Hoho Alidio, with sagala Dawn Salas, Ms. Grand Philippines Quezon 2025 

Reina Las Islas Filipinas — 2nd Runner-Up 

Arhon Macaraig, with sagala Charisse Anthea Abanico, Miss Pearl of the Orient Culture 2025 

Reina La Flor de Manila — 3rd Runner-Up 

Eys Vergara, with sagala Jihaynne Hernandez, Miss Teen International 2021 

The Board of Judges was chaired by Barge Ramos, Past President of the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines. He was joined by Cristina “Inday” Vilar, Director of Euroville Realty and Development Corporation, and Luningning Latoreno, Bodyshot Philippines 1988, international fashion model, and Asian Mega Model finalist. Off-site judges at The Manila Hotel included Rachy Cuna, Social Director and Design Consultant of The Manila Hotel, and Lalaine Vivar, CEO and Owner of One Touch Fabrics. 

The celebration also received support from key government and institutional partners, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, whose cadets from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, and Philippine Navy served as arch bearers during the procession. The Philippine National Police, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Red Cross also provided assistance to help ensure an orderly and secure celebration. 

With its successful return, Flores de Mayo: Dalisay at Halimuyak reaffirmed The Manila Hotel’s role as a steward of Manila’s cultural legacy. More than a devotional celebration, the event brought together Marian tradition, Filipino fashion, civic partnership, and charitable purpose in one memorable occasion — a fitting revival of a beloved heritage event at the Grand Dame of the Philippines.