Baguio blooms brighter as Jollibee spreads joy at Panagbenga 2026

Tweet

Baguio City came alive as Jollibee, the Philippines' no. 1 fastfood chain, joined the vibrant Panagbenga Festival, delighting locals and tourists alike with a spectacular float, campus treats, and exclusive promos that added extra cheer to the City of Pines’ annual flower celebration.

“Panagbenga shows Baguio at its most beautiful, and Jollibee is proud to fill it with joy,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Whether it’s a float that amazes or treats that make every day special, our goal was simple, and that was to share joy with every person, everywhere.”

Building on its legacy of festival excellence, Jollibee participated in the large float competition with a spectacular floral masterpiece inspired by Cordilleran artistry. The float featured a miniature Stone Kingdom symbolizing the region’s creativity, a radiant cityscape in full bloom, a rotating Mines View observation deck showcasing Baguio’s scenic landscapes, and a giant Chickenjoy Bucket seemingly blossoming from a flower, capturing the festival’s playful and joyful spirit.

Jollibee also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry to bring its BEE Earth’s Best Friend campaign to Benguet, promoting sustainable practices. Customers who opted not to use plastic utensils for take-out or drive-thru orders from February 27 to March 27 were rewarded with incentives for future visits. Music fans enjoyed a lively appearance from Jollibee and Friends at the Coke Studio Concert at Melvin Jones Football Grounds on February 27.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to share their Jollibee moments on social media using #JolliPanagbenga2026 for a chance to be featured on the brand’s official channels.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

 

Rap icon Gloc-9 is re-introducing himself as Aristotle Pollisco, poet.

Tweet

On March 12, 2026, at the Philippine Book Festival in SM Megamall, Gloc-9, going by his real name Aristotle Pollisco, will be launching seven poetry chapbooks under the omnibus title Makata Sa Pinas — a hashtag he has been using the past decade.

While Gloc-9 previously released the poetry book Akin Lang Naman in 2017 with ABS-CBN Publishing, this new project offers a different approach to presenting his work as poetry. This time, Gloc-9 envisioned a series of slimmer volumes—a concept that became the starting point of the project.

In collaboration with the small press Everything’s Fine, the idea grew into a deeper reexamination of his entire discography. By revisiting the recurring themes and subject matter that consistently surface throughout his music, seven chapbooks were developed, each shaped around these enduring ideas and reflections.

The first three chapbooks are personal. "Pagkatao" tracks his development as a poet, talking about his roots in Binangonan, Rizal, and how this formed him into the rapper that we now know as Gloc-9. "Pangarap" includes all the poems about his dreams of becoming a songwriter and a rapper, reaching those aspirations, and reassessing what that means to him. "Pursigi" talks about the kind of hard work and persistence that reaching one's ambitions demands, the clarity of one's goals, and the importance of holding on to one's values.

From the personal, the next two chapbooks slowly shift to Gloc-9's storytelling through poetry. "Pagibig" speaks of love — from the familial to the romantic, and to the ones that unravel and end painfully. "Komunidad" tells the stories of the people that exist in our local neighborhoods — the people we talk to, the ones we care for, the ones we rarely see.

The final two chapbooks turn to the more political dimensions of Gloc-9’s poetry. “Lipunan” reflects on the kind of society we have collectively—and often unconsciously—built, shaped by who we have become as people and by the hate and compassion we choose to nurture within it. "Bayan" is composed of the stories of our nation that few popular songwriters speak of, from the perspective of the struggling majority who suffer in the hands of the wealthy and powerful few.

In totality, the seven chapbooks of Makata Sa Pinas capture the 28 years of Aristotle Pollisco as the poet of the nation. It also reminds us of how much more he can continue to do, given where he comes from, who he has become, and the legacy he has continued to build.

Gloc-9 will be at the Makata Sa Pinas book launch on March 12, 2026, 5PM to 7PM, at the Philippine Book Festival 2026, Megatrade Hall, 5th Level, SM Megamall. Admission is free.

From Rush Hour to Happy Hour: Wind Down After Work at Richmonde

Tweet

For many office workers in the city, the hours after work are less about grand plans and more about finding the perfect place that will let them shift from deadlines to downtime with ease. Conveniently located at the center of the metro’s business hubs, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel’s bars present reliable after-hours spaces where familiar flavors, fun entertainment, and reasonable prices help guests leave the stress of the day behind. 

The Exchange at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: 

Trade Meetings to Music for Stress-free Weeknights

Offering a cozy setting that feels instantly welcoming, The Exchange is an inviting refuge for those looking to shake off the workday without the intensity of a frenzied nightlife. Soft lighting, the low hum of conversation, and the occasional bursts of laughter create an atmosphere that is lively without being overwhelming. Open from 4:00 p.m. Wednesdays to Fridays with no door charge or minimum spend required, guests can switch from office form to relaxation mode without missing a beat.

Each night brings its own rhythm. Open Mic Wednesdays transform the bar into an impromptu stage where guests trade the day’s tension for favorite karaoke anthems. Chill & Jam Thursdays introduce a more relaxed tempo, with pianist Bobbet Bernadas accompanying singers in a way that feels spontaneous yet intimate. By Retro Fridays, the mood lifts with the familiar beats of ’80s classics performed live by the Big Bash Band, drawing smiles, nostalgic sing-alongs, and sometimes even dance floor showdowns.

Happy Hour is served from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at PhP 725 nett with a choice of unlimited local beer or bottomless featured cocktail paired with a comforting bar chow. “We see a lot of guests coming straight from work, still in their office attire,” shares the F&B Manager Ria Rosal. “They don’t want anything complicated—they just want something easy and genuine.”

 “It’s my go-to spot after work because it’s accessible, safe, and the vibe is just right—not too loud, not too formal,” says a regular patron. “You can drop by alone or with colleagues, and the vibe always helps you reset.”

 

Eastwood Café+Bar at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: 

Clock Out then Chill Out, Alfresco Style

Tucked in the heart of Eastwood City, Eastwood Café+Bar offers a different kind of after-work mood—one that leans into open-air comfort. This restobar’s alfresco area invites guests to settle into the evening breeze, with the gentle clink of glasses and easy conversation creating a laid-back backdrop for relaxation.

 

From Thursdays to Saturdays, the Double Delight Happy Hour, available from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., taps into the natural rhythm of the workweek, when teams begin winding down from deadlines and colleagues look forward to transitioning into the weekend. With Buy 1, Get 1 offers on local beers and well-loved cocktails such as margaritas, mango daiquiris, lychee blanco, and creamy brandy for only PhP 285 nett, the promotion keeps things simple and inexpensive—perfect for spontaneous catch-ups or last-minute plans. Complimentary snacks like kropek and spicy peanuts add to the easygoing atmosphere, encouraging guests to settle in and stay. “We wanted to give guests their own hangout spot,” relays the F&B Manager Dave Bañez. “A place where conversations flow naturally as the evening unfolds without pressure.”

To help organize large, hassle-free gatherings, the bar can serve up an alfresco pica-pica buffet for those customary team dinners, milestone celebrations, or casual bonding nights with officemates during the week. It highlights Filipino pub grub favorites with flavors that feel familiar yet are thoroughly satisfying. A minimum reservation for 30 persons is required for the buffet at rates as low as PhP 1,000 per person.

 

A Comfortable Pause Between Work and Home

In neighborhoods defined by movement and productivity, both bars offer something increasingly valuable: a convenient pause. With accessible locations, relaxed ambiance, and approachable pricing, Richmonde Hotels continue to create after-work experiences that feel less like an occasion—and more like a pleasant habit.

For inquiries and table reservations, contact The Exchange at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at (632) 8638 7777 or (63) 917 534 4352, and Eastwood Café+Bar at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at (632) 8570 7777 or (63) 917 821 0333. For more information, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph and www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.

vivo X Series earns major PH tech awards

Tweet

vivo X Series continues to raise the bar in smartphone innovation, earning top awards from the Philippines’ respected tech media.

The flagship vivo X300 Pro and X200 FE were recognized for excellence in camera technology, performance, and design at the YugaTech Editor’s Choice Awards 2026 and The 2025 Boxies by Unbox PH.

X300 Pro: Smartphone of the Year & Best Smartphone Camera

The vivo X300 Pro emerged as one of the biggest winners at the YugaTech Choice Awards 2026, receiving two Editor’s Choice distinctions: Smartphone of the Year and Best Smartphone Camera.

These recognitions highlight the vivo X300 Pro’s ability to excel not only as an imaging powerhouse but also as a well-rounded flagship designed for daily use, creativity, and performance.

The Smartphone of the Year award reflects the X300 Pro’s ability to deliver a complete premium experience, with a 6.78-inch 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, and a 6510mAh BlueVolt battery with 90W FlashCharge + 40W wireless charging for all-day reliability.

Powering its Best Smartphone Camera win is the X300 Pro’s advanced imaging system, with a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera. This setup delivers exceptional clarity, accurate color reproduction, and refined detail across a wide range of shooting scenarios, from long-range zoom to low-light photography.

This marks a defining moment for vivo X Series, setting the stage for another award-winning device that continues the brand’s momentum in the flagship segment.

X200 FE: Best Compact Flagship Phone

Continuing the X Series’ winning momentum, the vivo X200 FE earned the Best Compact Flagship award at The 2025 Boxies by Unbox PH, recognizing a device that proves smaller smartphones can still deliver flagship-level performance.

Mary Bautista awarded the plaque to vivo PH at The 2025 Boxies by UNBOX PH

Designed for users who prefer a smaller smartphone without compromise, the vivo X200 FE combines a 6.31-inch flat display with a slim, ergonomic build for comfortable one-handed use.

Despite its compact size, the vivo X200 FE delivers flagship-level performance with a 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera and a 6500mAh BlueVolt battery for all-day endurance.

Unbox PH highlighted this balance of size and performance, stating, “The vivo X200 FE is celebrated for packing flagship-level internals, including a high-end camera system and a powerful chipset into a smaller, more ergonomic form factor. It caters to users who want top-tier performance and premium build quality without the bulk of traditional oversized flagship devices.”

These awards reflect not only industry recognition but also the trust of everyday users. From redefining smartphone photography to reimagining what compact flagships can achieve, vivo X Series continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology.

The award-winning vivo X300 Pro and vivo X200 FE are currently available through vivo concept stores or online via the vivo e-store, Lazada, and Shopee.

Experience the award-winning X Series and see why it continues to set the standard for smartphone innovation.

DENR cites SM for group-wide efforts on plastic recovery and waste management

Tweet

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recognized the SM Group for its support of the Extended Producer Responsibility Program (EPR) that aimed to reduce plastic use, recover plastic packaging, and strengthen on-ground waste systems across its diverse business units.

(From left to right) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs Atty. Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla; SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions and SM GUUN President George Cheung; SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels; SM Retail, Inc. Vice President for Sustainability Suyin Liu; Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) President Engr. Jess G. Reyes; DENR Assistant Secretary for Environment and concurrent Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Jacqueline A. Caancan.

In a recently concluded event on January 30, 2026, the DENR cited SM’s coordinated group approach that went beyond compliance under Republic Act No. 11898, also known as the EPR Law of 2022, particularly in ‘advancing recovery, reduction, innovation, and inclusive circular economy practices that support the national Zero Waste to Nature agenda.’

“This award is a credit to every part of the SM group, and we're very grateful to receive it. From our retail business, to our banks and logistics companies, they have been reducing their plastic footprints in their packaging and influencing consumer behavior to use less plastic,” said SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels.

SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through its #SMWasteFreeFuture project, has partnered with Japanese waste processing firm Guun Co., Ltd to convert waste back into new materials at their first waste processing factory in Consolacion, Cebu.

To further enhance the development of waste conversion, SM has installed RDC-labeled (recyclable, disposable, compostable) bins across various SM properties nationwide. Recyclables, such as bottles, cans, and paper, are sorted and sent to their respective recycling plants. Meanwhile, disposables such as cups, straws, and rags are converted into replacement fuel for cement kilns. Compostables, or food scraps, are converted to landscaping soil within 48 hours.

“GUUN is a collaboration across the Group that ensures consumption or waste is not the end of the economic cycle,” said SM GUUN President George Cheung who is also concurrently SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions.

The #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign consolidates various initiatives across SM’s ecosystem of businesses into a centralized system, communicating its commitment to environmental stewardship and championing sustainable communities.

Under this initiative, other SM companies, such as SM Supermalls continue to lead with its long-running Trash-to-Cash (TTC) monthly recycling market held in SM malls nationwide, where customers can exchange recyclables such as paper, plastic, metal or even appliances for cash. TTC facilitates the exchange of over 1.5 million kilograms of recyclables every year. Customers can also find the E-Waste Collection bins in Cyberzone areas and the Plastic Waste Collection vans in 15 malls.

In addition, SM Markets, the SM Group’s umbrella brand for SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore, has ushered in greener retail practices in encouraging the use of eco-bags over single-use plastics since 2007. In 2025 alone, SM Markets sold 20.8 million Green Bags, equivalent to around 31.2 million plastic bags avoided.

“When we look at plastics, which is a significant problem in the Philippines, we have looked to take quite a range of actions across the group. But what they have in common is that they are very practical, they are commercially viable initiatives, and they all have actual meaningful differences that we make to the plastics problem,” said Mr. Daniels.

SB19 turns frustration into fire with era-defining anthem “VISA”

Tweet

The P-Pop trailblazers raise the stakes with a song that channels global ambition and systemic frustration into a rallying cry for change



 SB19 marks a watershed moment in P-Pop with the release of “VISA,” their first official single of 2026 and the bold follow-up to the Simula At Wakas era. Delivering a more confident and uncompromising approach in artistic direction, SB19’s “VISA” tackles socially relevant themes that stand as both a prologue and a promise: an assertion that the new musical era will not only entertain, but also dare to challenge, provoke, and shake up comfort for conviction.

[LISTEN TO “VISA” HERE]

Their brand-new song confronts the lived realities of Filipinos striving to shift culture and build a life of security and stability for their families. It channels the frustrations of overseas Filipino workers, athletes, creatives, and professionals, who dedicate their hard work and talent to representing the Philippines, only to be met with systemic barriers that hinder their goal and recognition. Through piercing lyricism that confronts as it wounds, the five-piece powerhouse “calls out the invisible cages that restrict opportunities” on their brand-new track, emphasizing the irony of a people celebrated for their resilience yet burdened by bureaucratic inequities.

“This release will really define SB19’s sound, personality, and the way we present ourselves,” Stell admits. “We have always been known for being vocal, but this time it is even stronger. We are addressing sensitive and current topics that people can relate to, even if not everyone agrees with us. We are ready to face any reaction. This release is very powerful and a strong way to start the year and introduce this new era."

Inspired in part by real-world events and ongoing conversations around visa denials affecting Filipino talents, SB19’s latest single also serves as a commentary on access and privilege, on the disparity between global contribution and mobility. By centering these themes with a more defined perspective, SB19 transforms personal and collective frustrations into an anthem of awareness, and, to an extent, resistance.

“We were very affected by visa applications during our tour,” Pablo reveals. “SB19 has been active for seven years, and we hope that songs like these can reach officials and encourage laws that make it easier for athletes, artists, and others working overseas to access visas. This could include creative acts, producing content, or receiving rebates for spending related to the arts. This is not just an attempt to produce music, but to push Filipino culture forward. There is little support from the government, so it is important that our work can make an impact not only personally but also on a national level."

Josh echoes the familiar frustration, sharing parallels with the struggles of athletes who train and work hard to compete abroad and make Filipinos proud. "I have always had this dream during our tour, as someone who represents the Philippines all over the world. I have also seen the struggles of athletes when they represent the country. They give so much for the Philippines, but it often feels like the country does not give back. There needs to be a change."

Justin chimes in on the ongoing issue while highlighting the intentional messaging of the track. "We are highly skilled and hardworking, and we’ve significantly contributed to raising the morale of Filipinos abroad, as well as impacting the economy in positive ways. But somehow, it often feels like we are at the end of the line.”

Musically, “VISA” mirrors its thematic tension with bold, unconventional production and brass sounds. Conceived from a melody Pablo imagined in one of their brand campaign shoots, the track fuses satire, personal experience, and commentary with sonic experimentation.

Ken explains, "This song is very unconventional and unorthodox. The instruments are not the usual ones, especially the melody. It is kind of unusual, but in a good way. The melody is impactful, and the instruments we used in the track are well chosen. The percussions, ad-libs, and other elements are perfectly placed, making it a very pleasing experience for the ears."

SB19’s “VISA” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow SB19 on their socials:

 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SB19Official/

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

 

The must-have AC upgrade of 2026 has arrived with Midea Chione Inverter Series

Tweet

 

Every beginning of a year is a chance to reset, not just your life goals, but also your space. It’s the perfect time to give your home an upgrade that can truly transform how you relax, recharge, and spend time with the people who matter most.

Elevate your everyday living with the Midea Chione Inverter Series, a next-generation line of air conditioners that redefines comfort through advanced AI technology. Engineered to last in every season, the Midea Chione Series comes in two variations, high-wall and floor standing, both designed for smart cooling that intelligently adapts to your lifestyle, delivering an all-in-one solution for every space.

Smart Cooling for All-in-One Comfort

Every family deserves a home that feels comfortable all year round. With Midea Chione High Wall Split-Type Air Conditioner, every room can become a haven of comfort, turning moments from cozy mornings to family dinners into something extra special. Coming in 1.0 HP to 3.0 HP models, its PrimeGuard Hyper Grapfins provide 12.5x more corrosion resistance than blue-coated fins, ensuring all-weather comfort while keeping your air conditioner efficient and long-lasting.

What’s even cooler is that it is powered by Smart Control + AI Ecomaster, which allows you to adjust the temperature anytime, anywhere, while intelligently managing energy consumption, while its AI Humidity Control helps maintain balanced moisture levels, delivering healthier air quality throughout your home.

Smart Cooling for Bigger Spaces

Upgrading to a bigger space but unsure if your current AC can keep up? The 3.0 HP Midea Chione Inverter Floor Standing Split-Type Air Conditioner has you covered. Designed for residential and commercial spaces, this compact variant is suitable for cooling areas of up to 47 square meters, such as bedrooms, study rooms, lounge areas, restaurants, coffee shops, and working spaces, among others. It delivers Powerful Cooling for long-distance and wide-angle airflow reaching up to 10.8 meters with 100 wind-speed settings to cool every corner of your room.

The system also guarantees long-term performance with its PrimeGuard Golden Fins to protect the unit against corrosion.  It's also equipped with Wi-Fi Control for a more personalized, convenient, and smart cooling experience in any space. And need not worry about your electricity bill because it has Eco Mode to manage your consumption.

This year, upgrading is more than just spending more; it is investing in comfort. Elevate your space and everyday moments with the new Midea Chione Inverter Series and step into a new era of smart cooling that goes beyond performance, savings, convenience, and style. To learn more about Midea Chione Series, visit www.midea.com/ph, follow @midea_philippines on Instagram and on TikTok @mideaphilippines, subscribe to Midea Philippines Official on YouTube, and like @MideaPhilippines on Facebook.