vivo to crown 3x3 champions, GEN V ambassadors

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vivo Philippines will bring together sports, youth leadership, and campus talent as the Grand Finals of the vivo 3x3 Basketball Challenge Year 4 and the culminating stage of the vivo Campus Ambassador Program take place on July 11 and 12, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

The two-day event marks the conclusion of months of competition and selection, with basketball teams competing for championship honors and student finalists presenting their ideas for a chance to become the first members of vivo Philippines' GEN V ambassador program.

Following four qualifying legs, 12 men's teams and 12 women's teams have secured their places in the vivo 3x3 Basketball Challenge Year 4 Grand Finals. The tournament champions will be determined over two days of competition, with the Top 4 teams in each category receiving vivo smartphones, cash prizes, and trophies.

"Sports create opportunities for people to challenge themselves, build discipline, and grow together as a community," said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines. "Through the vivo 3x3 Basketball Challenge, we hope to provide a platform where athletes can showcase their talent, inspire others, and demonstrate the values of teamwork, perseverance, and respect."

Alongside the basketball tournament, vivo Philippines will also hold the final stage of its first-ever Campus Ambassador Program.

Fifteen student finalists advanced from four mall selection events and a wildcard round:

Robinsons Manila

Jerah Bernard L. Eusebio, University of the Philippines Diliman

Karmela Cosette T. De Ocampo, Adamson University

Beverly I. Cantos, Mapua University

Market! Market!

Icen Rose Vivo, University of the Philippines Diliman

Kyle Dominic Carpio, De La Salle University

Eowyn Kay B. Roncal, Adamson University

Ayala Malls Feliz

Celliene Nicole Fresco, Adamson University

Cassandra Lava Bautista, CIIT College of Arts and Technology

Andre Nicole N. Saragosa, Rizal Technological University Pasig Campus

SM Fairview

Rhea Mea T. Parcon, World Citi Colleges Quezon City

John Brent Domaya, Centro Escolar University Manila

Jheanella Anthonette S. Lim, National University Manila

Wildcard Finalists

Dhandrei Justin Basiuang Blanco, Polytechnic University of the Philippines Main Campus

Kirsten Kate B. Salgado, University of the Philippines Diliman

Rhangel D. Mercader, National University Fairview

 https://www.tiktok.com/@vivo_philippines/video/7660082549082868999]

During the Final Presentation, each finalist will deliver a three to five-minute presentation before a panel of judges. Five students will be selected as the inaugural GEN V ambassadors, beginning a year-long program on August 1, 2026 that includes mentorship from vivo Philippines marketing professionals, hands-on experience in branding and campaign execution, a Php 5,000 monthly cash incentive for 12 months, and opportunities to participate in product launches and brand events. Outstanding participants may also be considered for internship or employment opportunities with vivo Philippines after graduation.

"The vivo Campus Ambassador Program is designed to help students develop practical skills while giving them meaningful exposure to the marketing industry," said Liu. "We look forward to seeing these young talents grow through mentorship, collaboration, and real-world experience."

The event is open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to watch the championship games, support the student finalists, and take part in interactive activities prepared throughout the weekend. Attendees will also have opportunities to join games and win exclusive vivo prizes.

How the OPPO Find N6 is Replacing the Laptop for the Modern CEO

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The modern workday rarely happens in one place. One moment you're reviewing a presentation before a client meeting, the next you're responding to emails from the airport or approving creative assets while heading to your next appointment. For today's entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders, productivity is no longer confined to the office. It  actually happens wherever work takes them.

Recognizing this shift, OPPO designed the OPPO Find N6 to be more than just a foldable smartphone. With its expansive display, desktop-inspired multitasking features, flagship performance, and seamless cross-device connectivity, the OPPO Find N6 is redefining what professionals can accomplish from a single device.

For entrepreneur, creative director, and OPPO Find N6 ambassador Vince Uy, that's exactly what makes the device stand out.

"The biggest challenge is shifting between creative direction, business decisions, client work, content, fashion, and travel all in one day," Vince shares. "The OPPO Find N6 helps because it gives me a bigger workspace without making me carry another device. The 8.12-inch foldable display and Zero-Feel Crease screen make reviewing layouts, decks, references, and visuals feel more natural, especially when I'm working on the go."

A Desktop-Class Workspace That Fits in Your Pocket

One of the OPPO Find N6's biggest productivity advantages is Free-Flow Window, OPPO's desktop-inspired multitasking feature that transforms the foldable display into a highly efficient workspace.

Instead of constantly switching between applications, users can open multiple apps simultaneously and move seamlessly between tasks. Reviewing a presentation while replying to emails, joining a video meeting while taking notes, or comparing spreadsheets alongside reference materials becomes effortless on the device's expansive 8.12-inch inner display.

Photo by Vince Uy

Combined with the industry's Zero-Feel Crease, the Find N6 delivers a viewing experience that feels remarkably natural, making extended work sessions more comfortable whether you're editing documents, reviewing proposals, or planning your next business trip.

Designed for Professionals Who Rarely Sit Still

Business today moves fast, and so do the people leading it. The OPPO  Find N6's ultra-slim foldable design makes it easy to carry throughout the day without sacrificing screen size or productivity. Whether tucked into a blazer pocket during meetings or slipped into a carry-on while traveling, it offers the versatility of a tablet in a compact form factor.

For Vince, this flexibility has fundamentally changed the way he works.

"There were days when I could leave my laptop behind and still review presentations, answer emails, approve visuals, join calls, and edit content from one device," he says. "That's what surprised me most—it doesn't feel like a phone trying to be productive; it feels like a proper work tool that happens to fit in my bag."

Built to Keep Up With Demanding Workdays

At the core of the OPPO Find N6 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform, providing the performance professionals need for multitasking, content editing, video conferencing, and productivity-intensive applications.

Its 6000mAh OPPO Silicon-Carbon Battery ensures users can power through long meetings, flights, and full workdays with confidence, while 100W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge minimizes downtime when it's time to recharge.

The device is also protected by Armour Shield Architecture and backed by IP56, IP58, and IP59 water and dust resistance, giving professionals added confidence whether they're working from the office, on location, or while traveling.

Work Across Ecosystems Without Missing a Beat

Modern professionals rarely rely on just one device. Many move between smartphones, tablets, Macs, and PCs throughout the day.

Photo by Vince Uy

With Cross-Ecosystem Connect, the OPPO Find N6 makes it easier to transfer files, photos, presentations, and documents between OPPO and Apple devices, enabling a smoother workflow without unnecessary interruptions. Whether finalizing a presentation on a MacBook after reviewing it on the Find N6 or quickly sharing creative assets across devices, users can stay focused on the task rather than the transfer process.

Together with the dedicated Snap Key, which provides quick access to essential functions and shortcuts, the Find N6 is designed to remove friction from everyday work.

Productivity That Adapts to Every Situation

The beauty of the OPPO Find N6 lies not just in its performance, but in how naturally it adapts to different moments throughout the day.

"My favorite thing is the flexibility," Vince says. "Folded, it's easy for meetings, events, and quick messages. Opened, it becomes this immersive screen for work, content, and travel planning. As someone who moves between advertising, fashion, and being constantly in transit, I like that it keeps up without feeling bulky or limiting."

Whether it's preparing for a board meeting, reviewing campaign concepts, organizing travel plans, or simply catching up on emails between appointments, the Find N6 transitions effortlessly from work mode to everyday life.

A New Era of Mobile Productivity

As the boundaries between work, creativity, and mobility continue to blur, professionals need devices that can keep pace with their evolving routines.

The OPPO Find N6 rises to the challenge by combining desktop-class multitasking through Free-Flow Window, a spacious foldable display, flagship performance, seamless cross-ecosystem connectivity, and durable premium engineering into one remarkably portable device.

For today's CEOs, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, it isn't just another foldable smartphone. It may just be the device that finally lets them leave the laptop behind.

The OPPO Find N6 is priced at PHP 139,999. Customers can also enjoy exclusive offers and freebies available for a limited time. Globe subscribers can avail of the Find N6 through GPlan 2499 with PHP 73,600 cashout, while Smart users can purchase the device under Smart Infinity Plan 5000, with exclusive benefits.

To know more about the OPPO Find Series, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Alpha Southeast Asia Recognizes SM's Governance and Sustainability Leadership

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SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM Group, was recognized by Hong Kong-based investment publication Alpha Southeast Asia for its corporate governance and sustainability reporting, reflecting the confidence of investors and analysts in how the company is managed and how it reports its performance.

SM Investments Executive Vice President for Treasury, Finance and Planning Erwin G. Pato receives the Best CFO in the Philippines award from Alpha Southeast Asia Publisher Siddiq Bazarwala.

In the publication's 16th Annual Poll of Southeast Asia's Top Companies, SM Investments was named the Philippines' Best in Strategic CSR & ESG Reporting. The company also ranked among the Top Five Philippine companies for Strongest Adherence to Corporate Governance and Best Senior Management in Investor Relations Support.

"Recognition like this matters because it reflects the confidence of investors and analysts," said SM Investments President and Chief Executive Officer Frederic C. DyBuncio. "Good corporate governance is about making sound decisions, being transparent about our performance, and creating long-term value. Sustainability is a very important part of how we do that."

“These awards point to a company that not only communicates sustainability priorities clearly, but also pairs that with visible leadership engagement and sound governance discipline,” said Siddiq Bazarwala, Publisher, Alpha Southeast Asia.

For SM Investments, sustainability is part of good governance. It helps guide decisions, strengthen accountability, and support the company's long-term growth while creating value for shareholders and other stakeholders.

SM Investments Executive Vice President for Treasury, Finance and Planning Erwin G. Pato was also named as the Best CFO in the Philippines.

The annual poll gathered responses from more than 580 investors and analysts across Southeast Asia, the United States, and Europe, including fund managers, institutional investors, insurance companies, pension funds, private banks, and buy- and sell-side analysts.

Alpha Southeast Asia's annual poll is one of the region's leading perception-based surveys, recognizing listed companies for excellence in financial management, corporate governance, strategic CSR and ESG reporting, and investor relations.

More than 3,000 qualified market participants were invited to participate in the survey, which was conducted from January to April 2026.

BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza smokes its way to the top

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Step into the smoky haze of a backyard cookout with the new BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza, loaded with tender beef brisket chunks, melty mozzarella cheese, smoky BBQ notes, and just a hint of spice

Launched for Father’s Day and made for anyone who loves hot, sweet, and beefy pizza flavors, the BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza continues to sizzle across Pizza Hut stores nationwide, highlighting its irresistible mix of smoky brisket, tangy sweet sauce, and rich mozzarella that brings the cookout spirit indoors!

“The new BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza is a flavor-packed celebration,” said PPI Holdings, Inc. Chief Operating Officer Chacha Juinio. “It’s sweet, spicy, beefy, and super flavorful. It’s designed to bring that backyard barbecue vibe right to your table.”

“The BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza stood out with its unique sauce and bold flavor, giving our customers something fresh to enjoy, especially those who preferred beef over pork or loved a little spice,” said Pizza Hut Market! Market! Branch Manager Rocelle Prado, when asked how the BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza accounted for 180 of the 210 pies sold on Father’s Day at her branch.

Inspired by the backyard barbecue staples you crave, the BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza is made with slow cooked brisket, smoky sauce, and rich mozzarella cheese, which all come together to capture the spirit of the cookout.

The anatomy of the pizza is what makes you lean in. First comes the smoky and rich aroma, teasing your senses before you even take a bite. When you finally do, the brisket melts in your mouth with the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, a hint of spice lingering just enough to keep you hooked!

Order the new BBQ Beef Brisket Pizza from Pizza Hut today and bring the barbecue spirit straight to your table.

Enjoy this limited-time offer together with your other Pizza Hut favorites by visiting your nearest store for dine-in and take-out. You can also order for delivery by calling the (02) 8911-1111 hotline, by logging on to www.pizzahut.com, with a few taps via the Pizza Hut mobile app, available for Android and iOS devices, or through Pizza Hut’s official delivery partners GrabFood and foodpanda (prices may vary)!

Don’t forget to follow and like Pizza Hut on Facebook, Instagram, and X so you won’t miss out on the latest news, updates, and offers!

Ate Shawie’s grocery list comes with advice on life’s essentials

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Imagine walking into a supermarket and seeing Megastar Sharon Cuneta working as a clerk, helping shoppers fill their carts. One moment, she's at the checkout counter recommending must-have essentials; the next, she's strolling through the aisles, sharing practical tips and chatting with shoppers like everyone's trusted Ate.

This is the premise of InLife's latest campaign featuring InLife's Dreamweaver Sharon Cuneta, which encourages Filipinos to rethink what truly belongs on their essentials list. Through familiar grocery staples and relatable life moments, the campaign delivers a timely reminder that insurance is no longer just a luxury but an essential part of protecting the people and future we value most.

Everyday Choices, Meaningful Insights

In the video, Ate Shawie meets a young woman picking out groceries for her family, from fruits for her mom and coffee for her dad to cookies for bunso and a few self-care treats, a familiar glimpse of the Filipino Sandwich Generation quietly holding everything together. With a knowing smile, she suggests a loaf of bread as a simple pan-sigurado that reflects being a smart breadwinner, then adds milk to “fortify” her health, a gentle reminder that caring for her health is just as essential as caring for those who depend on her.

Elsewhere, a couple rushing to complete their list gets timely suggestions from Ate Shawie, who points them to a coffee blend and canned goods, staples that reflect the madiskarte and sulit mindset of Filipino “all-around” parents, while hinting at the importance of protecting the income that sustains the family, especially for families relying on an OFW breadwinner supporting loved ones from afar.

Meanwhile, a well-heeled retiree lingers by the vitamins aisle, accomplished yet contemplative after decades of success, and is gently reminded that it’s never too late to secure his future, because true retirement freedom comes from protecting and sustaining what he has earned.

Beyond The Grocery Cart

What begins as a lighthearted grocery run reveals a deeper message, as Ate Shawie’s suggestions mirror the quiet questions Filipinos ask when filling their carts: will this sustain my family, bring lasting value, and prepare us for the future? These same questions apply to life and health insurance, yet many still prioritize immediate needs over long term protection. Bridging this gap, the campaign cleverly connects everyday staples to InLife’s solutions:

● Bread (Pansigurado) represents InLife Abundance, with regular cash payouts every two years for education, healthcare, or emergencies.

● Milk (Health N’ Sure Fortified) symbolizes Resilience, a 2-in-1 health and savings plan covering over 100 critical and minor illnesses up to age 99.

● Coffee (3-in-1 Custom Wealth Blend) reflects Wealth Assure Plus, a customizable life insurance product with investment components and flexible add-ons.

● Tuna (InLife 115) stands for iProtect, a term insurance plan providing reliable, renewable protection with added benefits like double cash payouts.

● Vitamins (Retir-E Silver) represent Retire Assure 2, offering retirement protection for Filipinos up to age 73, with guaranteed monthly payouts until age 100.

Through these simple, relatable parallels, financial protection becomes easier to understand, leading to one clear message from Ate Shawie: “insurance isn’t a luxury, it is essential.”

A Timely Reminder for Filipino Families

Many Filipinos still see insurance as optional, often viewed as too complex, too costly, or only for the wealthy, reflecting the country’s low insurance penetration. It is still treated as a luxury rather than a basic need, even as recent events such as the pandemic and economic uncertainties have shown the real cost of being unprepared. Like the essentials we place in our grocery carts, life and health protection, along with financial security, deserve a place in every family’s everyday budget.

Reinforcing this message, Gae L. Martinez, Chief Marketing Officer of InLife, said, “We buy essential items not because they are trendy. We buy them because they protect our family’s well-being. They safeguard our health. They give us peace of mind, knowing we are able to provide for our family’s needs. It’s the same with financial protection. They help us secure everything else inside our grocery cart.”

Making InLife Part of Every Checklist

With over 115 years of service, InLife continues to help Filipinos secure their future with solutions designed for every stage of life, providing security in uncertainty and protection for the family when it matters most. As the country’s first and largest life insurer that is proudly 100 percent Filipino, for Filipinos, it has grown alongside generations, understanding their needs and standing by them with trusted solutions for protection, savings, investments, and retirement, making it an essential part of every Filipino family’s checklist.

Learn more about how InLife can help secure your family’s future at www.inlife.com.ph/mag-sharon-para-sa-kinabukasan

LG Electronics Boosts Global Installation and Service Capabilities With HVAC Academy Expansion

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SEOUL— LG Electronics (LG) is expanding its Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Academy network to strengthen the installation and service capabilities of its global HVAC business. The company has opened new facilities and relocated existing ones within key markets in Asia, Europe, Latin America (LATAM), and the Middle East and Africa (MEA), helping to develop HVAC expertise at the local level and support consistent service delivery across countries as part of its Global South strategy.

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Company Strengthens Technical Expertise and Service Infrastructure Across Key Markets Through Growing Network of Dedicated HVAC Academies

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In Asia, LG opened a new HVAC Academy in Taichung, Taiwan, in June. The facility includes product exhibition areas, classrooms and practical training spaces, allowing customers and partners to directly experience a range of LG HVAC solutions and receive related technical training. Recently LG also reopened its relocated Singapore HVAC Academy with an official ceremony attended by regional representatives. The new facility features a variety of LG HVAC technologies for display and training purposes, including advanced data center cooling solutions such as the LG Coolant Distribution Units (CDUs).

In Europe, LG operates HVAC Academies in multiple countries, including a newly opened HVAC Academy in Poland this year. LG’s European HVAC Academies provide local HVAC professionals with training on the latest LG air conditioning and heating solutions, including hands-on modules on installation, as well as insights into key industry trends.

LG has also been actively expanding its HVAC Academy network across LATAM and MEA this year. LG opened an HVAC Academy at the Universidad de Santiago de Chile (USACH) in Santiago, Chile. Developed in collaboration with the university, the academy offers comprehensive training for future HVAC professionals and provides ongoing training programs for certified technicians.

In March, the company opened a new academy in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The facility features an integrated showroom where visitors can experience LG’s principal B2B and B2C HVAC products, a technical training classroom, an applied learning area for Air Handling Unit (AHU)-based piping and control system training, and a practice space for using engineering tools.

LG operates approximately 70 HVAC Academies in over 40 countries, including Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and Africa. Regional hub HVAC Academies are responsible for developing localized training content and training instructors from neighboring countries, while all academies provide essential training for local customers and distributors. Through this differentiated network structure, LG is improving customer access to training while supporting the development of in-market HVAC professionals and bolstering the company’s own technical capabilities.

“Strong installation and service capabilities are essential for delivering reliable HVAC solutions and long-term customer value,” said James Lee, president of the LG ES Company. “We will continue to expand our global network of HVAC Academies to strengthen local technical expertise, support workforce development, and build the service infrastructure needed for the continued growth of the LG HVAC business.”

Rain won't stop the vivo Y31d

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July marks the peak of the rainy season and tropical cyclone activity in the Philippines, bringing frequent downpours, flooding, and weather-related disruptions across the country. As wet conditions become more common, smartphones have become essential tools for communication, navigation, emergency updates, and access to digital services, making device durability increasingly important during severe weather.

Exposure to rain, splashes, and moisture can affect touchscreen responsiveness and increase the risk of water-related damage, potentially disrupting access to critical information when connectivity matters most. For consumers navigating unpredictable weather, devices designed with water protection and reliable touch performance can help maintain uninterrupted use.

The vivo Y31d addresses these challenges with its IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance as well as features designed for the rain, including Wet-Hand Touch and One-Tap Water Ejection and Dust Removal.

The device’s Wet-Hand Touch feature enables the screen to recognize touch input even when the user’s hands or the display are wet from rain, sweat, or splashes. This allows users to continue performing essential tasks such as checking messages, booking transportation, or using navigation tools in damp environments without significant interruption.

The vivo Y31d also carries IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance ratings, offering protection against dust ingress, rain exposure, and high-pressure water jets. The device can also withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for as long as 30 minutes, providing additional durability for outdoor use and daily commuting during the rainy season.

To support long-term device maintenance, the smartphone includes One-Tap Water Ejection and Dust Removal. The feature uses calibrated vibrations to help remove residual water and dust from the speaker and charging port after exposure to moisture or debris, helping preserve audio quality and charging performance.

The vivo Y31d is available in Glow White and Starlight Grey starting at Php 12,999. Available in three variants with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, get it in vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and authorized vivo stores nationwide.

SAMA Philippines Gives Local SMEs a Gateway to Regional Growth in SEA

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The Strategic Asia Marketing Alliance (SAMA), a network of independent marketing agencies across Southeast Asia, has launched its Philippine chapter, giving homegrown and mid-size Filipino brands an accessible way to expand across the region without taking on network agency overhead or navigating each new market alone. 

The SAMA Philippine chapter seeks to address a long-standing gap in the Philippine business landscape. Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up the vast majority of Philippine businesses, generating millions of jobs and contributing up to 40% of the country’s GDP. Despite their scale and economic importance, many of these businesses remain largely domestic. Expanding into other Southeast Asian markets often requires engaging global network agencies with high fees, or navigating unfamiliar markets independently with limited support. 

SAMA Philippines provides a more direct path forward. The organization offers a single, trusted local partner that connects brands to a network of independent agencies across Asia-Pacific markets, including Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. Each partner agency brings deep expertise in its home market, enabling brands to execute campaigns grounded in local culture and consumer behavior rather than relying on standardized regional approaches. 

This model allows Filipino brands to maintain strategic consistency while adapting execution to the realities of each market. By organizing around local depth rather than network size, the alliance provides a practical alternative to traditional agency structures. 

The Philippine chapter was launched under the theme "Sama-Sama, Halo-Halo," drawing on the structure of the Filipino dessert as the organizing logic of the alliance: many distinct ingredients, each whole and keeping its own flavor, brought together in one glass. The metaphor holds in practice: SAMA's member agencies are independent, chosen for their depth in their respective markets rather than being absorbed into a single structure. The alliance makes them accessible through one entry point. 

“SAMA changes the way Filipino businesses can approach regional growth,” said Enya Reyes, Country President of SAMA Philippines. “Instead of assembling separate partners market by market or paying for a regional network they may not fully use, brands can now work with one Philippine team that connects them to proven local specialists across Southeast Asia. This makes expansion more deliberate, more efficient, and more achievable for companies that are ready to scale.” 

Digital transformation leader and keynote speaker Donald Lim echoed this perspective, sharing his experience of expanding a Filipino brand beyond its home market.

“The next generation of Philippine growth will come from more Filipino companies successfully expanding beyond our borders. Our entrepreneurs already have the talent, innovation, and products. What they often lack is trusted market access and reliable local partners. SAMA helps bridge that gap by connecting Philippine businesses with experienced agencies across Southeast Asia, making regional expansion more practical, less risky, and ultimately more achievable. When more Filipino companies succeed across ASEAN, we strengthen not only individual businesses but the competitiveness of the Philippine economy as a whole.” 

Supporting this model is a group of founding member agencies in the Philippines, each contributing distinct expertise across the marketing industry. 

These include BBX Collab, a creative marketing agency; Blogapalooza, an influencer marketing firm; Curiosity, a design research consultancy; Evident Integrated Marketing and PR, a purpose-driven marketing and communications firm; Inventie Marketing Services, a digital marketing agency; LiveCatch PH, a broadcasting and media production company; M2.0 Communications, a data-driven public relations agency; and RedAnts Media Inc., a multimedia production and events management company.

Together, these agencies reflect the structure behind SAMA’s regional approach: independent specialists, each strong in their own discipline, working in coordination to support brands as they expand into new markets. 

Strategic Asia Marketing Alliance - SAMA

Invitation for Galaxy Unpacked July 2026: A New Shape Unfolds

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On July 22, Samsung Electronics will host Galaxy Unpacked in London, U.K. — a city that moves forward, not by chasing trends, but by setting them.

Join us as we unveil the newest additions to the Galaxy portfolio, which has defined the foldable category. Combining intelligent capabilities with innovative form factors, the next generation of Galaxy devices are set to deliver more personal and adaptive experiences and set a new standard for the AI era.

The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning 9:00PM Philippine Time.

Make sure to register and complete the form at https://samsung.com/ph/unpacked to get a ₱2,000 e-voucher and a chance to win the newest Galaxy device.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-261104, 261688 Series of 2026

Pitik Queen Shows How to Lock In More Everyday Savings With the Upgraded GrabUnlimited

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With the upgraded GrabUnlimited, Filipino consumers need not tighten their belts to enjoy savings across food, groceries, and rides for only Php 48 per month through the annual plan

We all know the feeling. You want to order food, restock groceries, or book a ride, but the budget voice in your head says, “Tipid muna.”

GrabUnlimited makes that decision a little easier.

In Grab’s newest online video, viral social media sensation and Pitik Queen Ian Mark Kamangkang puts his signature tight belt and dance moves to good use, turning a familiar Filipino budgeting habit into the campaign’s main story.

Known online for cinching his belt and breaking into his now-iconic moves, Ian Mark brings humor to a very relatable dilemma: when the budget feels tight, should everyday conveniences like food delivery, groceries, and rides be the first to go?

GrabUnlimited offers a different answer. Instead of tightening their belts to cut back, users can make smarter Save Moves that help them lock in more value across the Grab app.

The upgraded GrabUnlimited gives subscribers more ways to save across the Grab ecosystem, from food and groceries to rides and rewards. For only PHP 48 per month through the annual plan, users can lock in year-round perks designed for everyday needs.

For GrabFood, savings are now easier to unlock. The minimum order value for discounted delivery has been lowered from Php 475 to just Php 390, allowing GrabUnlimited members to enjoy up to Php 49 off on delivery fees with a lower spend requirement. Members can also get 20% off on food orders from participating merchants, making daily meals, cravings, and group orders easier on the wallet.

GrabUnlimited now also includes GrabMart delivery discounts, giving members up to Php 80 off on delivery fees for groceries, pantry staples, household items, and other everyday essentials. It is a timely upgrade for users who want to save not only on food delivery, but also on the things they regularly need at home.

Furthermore, Grab is rolling out Top-Up Packs, giving GrabUnlimited members access to preferential rates and discounts at participating GrabFood restaurants and GrabMart stores. For a minimal upfront fee starting at PHP 29, subscribers can purchase restaurant- or store-specific voucher bundles from participating brands and unlock up to PHP 1,500 in extra savings.

GrabUnlimited members will also continue to enjoy transport perks, including 8% off GrabCar rides with a minimum fare of PHP 99 and an increased maximum discount of PHP 70. Members also exclusively earn base GrabCoins on all cashless transactions, helping them collect points faster and unlock more savings across the app.

The upgraded subscription comes with a more budget-friendly annual plan that brings the cost down to only Php 48 per month. For users who regularly order, shop, or book rides through Grab, the annual plan offers a practical way to lock in savings before the spending even begins.

With GrabUnlimited, Grab is giving Filipino users more ways to make everyday convenience feel more sulit. Whether it is a weekday lunch, a grocery run, a ride across the city, or a planned purchase from a favorite brand, the subscription helps users stretch their budget without giving up the services that make daily life easier.

As Ian Mark Kamangkang shows in the campaign, tipid does not always mean saying no. With the right Save Moves, it can also mean knowing where to get more value out of every peso.

Digital public service in action: LTFRB delivers fuel subsidy to public transportation drivers through GCash, enabling more efficient and accessible government assistance

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More efficient delivery of ayuda through digital disbursement, streamlining the process by eliminating long queues and commutes

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) have partnered with GCash to enable fuel subsidy disbursements benefiting drivers of public transportation nationwide.

DOTr, LTFRB, and GCash partner to streamline fuel subsidy disbursements for Filipino transport workers nationwide.

Under this program, eligible beneficiaries receive fuel assistance directly via their GCash e-wallets. This streamlined approach ensures aid reaches transport workers with greater speed, security, and transparency than traditional manual methods, while eliminating the need for beneficiaries to travel or wait in long queues.

The initiative was launched in response to rising global fuel prices, driven by ongoing geopolitical developments in the Middle East, which have placed significant financial pressure on PUV drivers and operators who depend on daily income to sustain their livelihoods and operations.

"GCash is committed to working with the government to ensure that digital financial infrastructure advances equitable access to essential services and upholds the dignity of every Filipino. In partnership with the LTFRB, this initiative demonstrates how digital subsidy disbursement can remove structural barriers, such as long queues and manual processes, while strengthening transparency and accountability in delivering government support to Filipinos,” said GCash B2B sales head, Cleo Celeste Santos.

Qualified beneficiaries verified by LTFRB

The LTFRB verified the credentials of public transportation drivers nationwide. The fuel subsidy will be disbursed directly to the fully verified GCash account.

Here’s how to check if you are part of LTFRB’s recipient list:

Step 1: Verify if you are on the list through LTFRB

To confirm if you are on the list of beneficiaries, please call LTFRB at 0956-761-0739 through Viber.

Step 2: If you are included in the LTFRB fuel subsidy beneficiaries, select your payout option.

● Eligible drivers choose their preferred bank or e-wallet to receive their funds.

● For those who selected GCash, LTFRB will disburse the fuel subsidy directly to the verified GCash account.

Step 3: If you do not have a verified GCash account yet, here’s what you need to do:

● Open the GCash app. Tap Profile, then tap Verify Now.

● Select a valid government ID: You may use your Driver’s License or any of the following: LTO Driver’s License, physical, digital or paper version of the National ID (Philsys), HDMF (Pag-Ibig Loyalty Plus), Philippine Postal ID, PRC ID, UMID, SSS ID, Philippine Passport

● Please ensure that your ID is not expired or damaged.

● Scan your government ID. Ensure that the ID you submit is valid (not expired), clear (undamaged), and the ID (not a photocopy, xerox, or just a photo of the ID).

● Take a selfie within the app and provide the required information.

● Wait for the message confirming that you are now fully verified.

Step 4: Wait for the SMS confirmation confirming LTFRB’s fuel subsidy disbursement

● Eligible fuel subsidy recipients will receive SMS confirmation from GCash confirming LTFRB’s aid disbursement

● Check your GCash app if the aid fund has been received.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: GCash will never send a link or ask for your OTP (One-Time Password) to access the fuel subsidy.

This partnership lays the groundwork for a scalable Disbursement Service platform that will support bulk and scheduled payouts, role-based governance approvals, and automated audit reporting, strengthening LTFRB's capacity to administer future subsidy programs more efficiently.

GCash reaffirms its commitment to serve as a platform for public good, ensuring that government assistance reaches the hands that need it most, faster and more reliably than ever before.

Drivers can verify their eligibility for the LTFRB fuel subsidy by checking the official beneficiary list through the LTFRB Official Facebook Page (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-LTFRB) or by contacting their regional LTFRB office. Eligible beneficiaries are usually registered PUV drivers and operators with valid franchises and updated LTFRB and LTO records. Drivers may need to present valid IDs and franchise documents, and those not included in the list may request record validation through LTFRB.

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

Celebrate Every Milestone in Island Luxury at Discovery Samal

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Some moments deserve more than a celebration; they deserve a destination. Set on the pristine shores of Samal Island, Discovery Samal invites guests to celebrate life's most meaningful milestones with its thoughtfully curated Celebrations Package, where breathtaking views, warm Filipino hospitality, and personalized service come together.

Be it a wedding, anniversary, milestone birthday, or baby shower, the resort offers an island destination designed for intimate gatherings, complemented by a Celebrations Package starting at PHP 3,800 per person with a minimum of 30 guests and inclusive of thoughtfully curated event essentials and dedicated planning support.

Designed for Meaningful Gatherings

Every celebration at Discovery Samal begins with a journey across the water. Guests arrive by catamaran before stepping into an island setting where the pace slows and every moment feels more intentional. The resort's collection of celebration spaces allows every occasion to take on its own character, from romantic chapel ceremonies and seaside receptions to sophisticated ballroom events, poolside festivities, and intimate private dining experiences.

The Celebrations Package brings together the essentials needed for a worry-free event, including round-trip catamaran transfers, exclusive venue use for five hours, a choice of Western, Asian, or Filipino buffet, one round of beverages, a standard sound system with microphone, and banquet essentials. Couples who envision a chapel ceremony or a seaside exchange of vows may enhance their celebration through dedicated ceremony venues, floral styling, and personalized event arrangements, allowing every occasion to reflect their own story.

Yet the celebration doesn't end when the program does. Guests can extend the experience by unwinding in Discovery Samal's well-appointed accommodations, indulging in spa and wellness treatments, enjoying the resort's signature dining experiences, exploring island activities, or simply gathering for quiet conversations as the sun sets over the water. It is these moments in between that often become the most cherished memories.

Personalized Celebrations by the Sea

No two celebrations are alike, and Discovery Samal embraces that philosophy through personalized event experiences shaped around every host's vision. From curated floral arrangements and specialty dining concepts to grazing tables, carving stations, dessert spreads, mobile bars, coffee stations, and photobooths, every detail can be tailored to create an atmosphere that feels uniquely personal.

For larger celebrations, the resort also accommodates elaborate productions with professional lighting and sound systems, LED walls, and other technical requirements, ensuring milestone occasions of every scale are executed with the same level of care and attention. Behind every event is Discovery Samal's banquet specialists, culinary team, and dedicated event professionals, whose thoughtful service transforms beautiful settings into meaningful celebrations.

Milestones deserve a destination that makes every moment memorable. To learn more about Discovery Samal's Celebrations Package, visit www.discoverysamal.com, email reservations@discoverysamal.com, or call +63 84 308 2998.