HUAWEI Teases nova 16s Series: The King of AI Selfies with Front & Rear True-to-Color Cameras, 200MP Main Camera, and 5G, Starting at PHP 29,999

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Self-expression meets next-level smartphone innovation as HUAWEI unveils the nova 16s Series, arriving soon in the Philippines with prices starting at PHP 29,999. Earning its title as the “King of AI Selfies,” the new lineup raises the bar in the front-facing camera experience by keeping skin tones true-to-color, preserving crystal-clear facial details, and providing smart AI-powered tools to effortlessly elevate every selfie.

The HUAWEI nova Series Legacy Continues

The HUAWEI nova Series has always focused on the vibrant self-expression of young people. Because it is designed for a generation that loves to create, curate, and share, HUAWEI dedicates its most advanced and cutting-edge front-facing selfie technology to the nova Series. By prioritizing these camera breakthroughs, the series continuously blends high-performance tech with trendsetting fashion DNA to match the confident lifestyle of today's youth.

This year, the legacy continues with the HUAWEI nova 16s Series, reinforcing its position as the “King of AI Selfies” with its latest innovations in mobile photography. Featuring Front and Rear True-to-Colour Cameras, a 200MP main camera, and reliable 5G connectivity, the series helps users capture every moment in stunning detail. Its smart AI imaging tools, including AI Composition and AI Move, make it easier to enhance photos.

King of AI Selfies with Front and Rear True-to-Color Cameras

Whether vlogging at a weekend music festival, capturing outfit photos under bright sunlight, or snapping memories during late-night hangouts, the HUAWEI nova 16s Pro’s powerful dual front camera system helps users capture true colors as they appear in real life.

HUAWEI’s exclusive Front True-to-Color Camera is equipped with a 1.5 MP multispectral sensor and pixel-level spectral perception algorithms to actively detect ambient color temperatures. This reproduces colors more naturally across tricky lighting situations like neon concert lights or harsh midday sun, improving color accuracy by 120%[1] and spatial resolution by 100,000x to eliminate distortion and keep skin tones and makeup true to life.

Along with the 50MP Ultra Portrait Camera, the HUAWEI nova 16s Pro also features a 1/2.5-inch ultra-large front camera sensor that captures significantly more light. This ensures exceptional clarity during nighttime parties or dimly lit dinners while preserving natural facial details. Finally, this 50MP Ultra Portrait Camera introduces the industry’s first 0.8x–5x Selfie Zoom, giving users flexibility to capture everything, from ultra-wide group shots with the entire squad to detailed close-up selfies that show off their eye makeup or accessories.

On the back, the HUAWEI nova 16s Pro boasts a powerful four-camera system that elevates everyday photography. This quad-camera setup introduces a dedicated Rear True-to-Color Camera that enhances the color accuracy of all the other rear lenses. Thanks to this integration, users can be confident that their photos will always show their true colors with authentic, natural skin tones, whether they are shooting portraits from the front or the rear cameras.

Anchoring this setup is a flagship-level 200MP RYYB Ultra-Large Sensor Main Camera with a 1/1.28-inch sensor and F1.8 aperture to capture more light and produce clearer photos in low-light conditions. Users can also crop photos of distant concert stages or travel destinations while keeping important details clear.

The HUAWEI nova 16s Series makes photography and editing effortless for young creators using smart AI tools. AI Composition serves as a built-in photography assistant, offering real-time guidance on lighting, perspective, and subject positioning to help make every photo feed-ready. AI Move enables users to reposition subjects in a frame, while AI Remove erases photobombers and background clutter with seamless color blending. For shots taken through reflective surfaces, AI De-Glare sweeps away distracting reflections. Finally, AI Best Expression scans multiple captures to swap and select everyone's best facial look, so no one is caught blinking in group photos.

Powerful Performance & All-Day Durability

For young professionals on the move, the HUAWEI nova 16s Series delivers a smarter, seamless mobile experience powered by robust 5G. This advanced connectivity enables significantly faster upload and download speeds for uploading heavy vlogs and high-resolution photos or lag-free online gaming. The optimized 5G network also ensures instant signal recovery when entering or leaving an elevator, while maintaining stable connections in weak-signal areas such as basement parking lots.

Powered by an upgraded IceBridge Heat Dissipation Architecture, the HUAWEI nova 16s Series delivers smoother gameplay and boosted performance for high-demand activities. The HUAWEI nova 16s Series takes endurance further with a massive 7,000mAh battery and 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, topping up to 40% in just 15 minutes. Its vibrant 6.84-inch display features an adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rate and up to 6,000 nits peak brightness, ensuring razor-sharp clarity whether under direct sunlight or reviewing photos.

Wave-Inspired Aesthetics Built for Everyday Adventures

The HUAWEI nova 16s Pro balances everyday durability with a striking visual identity. Built for peace of mind during daily commutes or outdoor travels, the device features an aerospace-grade aluminum mid-frame and durable Kunlun Glass. This specialized glass utilizes an advanced nanocrystal coating to deliver 10x higher drop resistance and 5x higher wear resistance than the previous generation.

This durability is packed into an ultra-slim 7.1 mm, 218 g body with a fingerprint-free Frosted AG Glass back. Inspired by summer skies and rolling waves, its soft icy-blue matte finish and upgraded Twin Star Orbit Ring catch shifting light with a subtle, soothing shimmer.

Users can express their personal style with the HUAWEI nova 16s Pro in Breathing Crystal, Isle Blue, and Starry Black colorways. The HUAWEI nova 16s is available in Breathing Crystal, Starry Black, and Sky White.

Intelligent and Seamless Ecosystem

Equipped with the latest EMUI 16, the HUAWEI nova 16s Series makes everyday tasks easier and more intuitive. Users can take advantage of the enhanced Celia AI Assistant, which responds to voice commands, answers knowledge-based questions, and helps book a ride hands-free.

It also introduces Seamless Cross-OS File Transfer that allows users to share files and high-resolution photos between the HUAWEI nova 16s Series and Apple devices, like the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook.

For everyday tasks, the HUAWEI AppGallery delivers a smooth and reliable app experience, allowing users to access go-to apps like Gcash, BDO, Shopee, and Grab, and explore Google essentials like Gmail, YouTube, Drive, Meet, and Docs.

Experience the Most Powerful nova Series Ever

The HUAWEI nova 16s Series delivers a fresh take on the youthful flagship experience. Official pre-orders open on October 30, offering the HUAWEI nova 16s at a promo price of PHP 29,999 and the HUAWEI nova 16s Pro at PHP 39,999, giving early buyers a limited-time PHP 5,000 discount. All pre-orders include a premium gift bundle worth up to PHP 14,997.

An exclusive deposit promo runs on the official HUAWEI Online Store from October 23 (10:00 AM) to October 29 (11:59 PM), where a PHP 500 deposit grants a PHP 6,000 discount.

Early buyers on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop can claim a PHP 5,000 voucher. Early bird vouchers and promos are limited, so claim now before they are gone.

To celebrate the upcoming launch, HUAWEI invites everyone to join the TikTok #TrueColorsSelfieChallenge starting October 23. Using the exclusive HUAWEI nova 16s Series Branded Effect, capture your true colors and post your selfie video using the hashtags #TrueColorsSelfieChallenge, #HUAWEInova16sSeries, and #KingOfAISelfies. With a total prize pool worth PHP 2,249,950, the top 50 users with the highest views will win a brand-new HUAWEI nova 16s Pro.

Stay tuned for official availability, and visit the official HUAWEI website and HUAWEI’s official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

[1] Data comes from Huawei labs, and compares HUAWEI nova 16s Pro with HUAWEI nova 14.

Do More, Carry Less: Meet the Viral ‘No-Tripod’ Galaxy Z Flip8 and Next-Gen Smartwatches

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The Galaxy Z Flip8 makes hands-free content creation effortless, so you can capture more moments wherever life takes you.

From capturing solo travel memories to keeping up with fitness goals, today’s lifestyles call for technology that can keep pace without adding to the things people carry. With the Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Watch9, and Galaxy Watch Ultra2, users can enjoy more convenient ways to create content, stay active, and make the most of every experience.

The appeal of going hands-free continues to grow. Whether it’s filming a morning routine or capturing a workout, the Galaxy Z Flip8 and Samsung’s latest smartwatches offer practical ways to bring technology into everyday pursuits.

Hands-Free Creativity with the Galaxy Z Flip8

With its compact foldable design and FlexCam, the Galaxy Z Flip8 makes it easier to capture photos and videos hands-free, without the need for a separate tripod.

By folding the device at a suitable angle and placing it on a stable surface, users can frame hands-free shots for outfit checks, travel diaries, group photos, and everyday videos. The FlexWindow also allows users to preview shots and capture moments without unfolding the device, while Super Steady video helps keep footage stable when recording on the move.

Beyond its practical design, the Galaxy Z Flip8 gives users more opportunities to express their individuality and capture life's moments, making it a natural companion for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

Stay on track with Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 help users stay connected to their wellness goals and active lifestyles. The Galaxy Watch9 supports everyday health and fitness tracking, making it a practical companion for monitoring activity and building more consistent routines.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is designed for more demanding activities, bringing together a durable design and features suited to active adventures. Whether working toward a new fitness milestone, exploring a destination, or simply making more time for movement, both smartwatches help users keep their goals in focus while spending more time doing what they enjoy.

Upgrade Your Flip Side with Exclusive Galaxy Offers

For those ready to experience foldable innovation, Samsung offers more reasons to upgrade. Trade in an eligible device and enjoy up to 50% trade-in savings on the Galaxy Z Flip8, bringing iconic style, intelligent features, and innovation together in one compact device. The trade-in offer is available until November 8, 2026.

Consumers can also power up their payday with exclusive Galaxy offers available from October 26 to 31, 2026. Get 10% off the Galaxy Z Flip8, plus an extra 10% off on up to 24-month installments and freebies. Meanwhile, shoppers can use the code GALAXYAF30 to enjoy 30% off the Galaxy Watch Ultra2, plus freebies.

With these limited-time offers, it is the perfect opportunity to upgrade their devices and discover new ways to capture moments, stay active, and pursue their passions with Galaxy.

For more details on the promotions, eligible devices, and full terms and conditions, visit Samsung Philippines.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-268621, 266841, 269369, 267976, and 266269 Series of 2026

InLife champions health protection that goes beyond the hospital bill

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As Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close this October, InLife University Sr. Asst. Vice President and Business Development Head Fay Cuadra shares her journey from a routine check-up to achieving one year with No Evidence of Disease (NED), and the importance of comprehensive health coverage in managing the true cost of healing.

A cancer diagnosis can change a life and the cost of care can reshape a family’s future. As Breast Cancer Awareness Month closes this October, InLife is championing early detection and comprehensive health protection to help Filipinos face both challenges with greater confidence.

For InLife University Senior Assistant Vice President and Business Development Head Fay Cuadra, that commitment is personal. After more than 20 years in the insurance industry, she found herself navigating the uncertainties she had long helped others prepare for.

A routine Executive Check-Up flagged a breast abnormality requiring a biopsy, despite the absence of pain or noticeable symptoms. "When you hear those words, it feels like time has suddenly stopped. You can spend years advising people about protection and preparing for the unexpected, but when you become the patient, everything feels different," Fay recalls.

Following her cancer diagnosis, Cuadra underwent neoadjuvant therapy, a mastectomy with breast reconstruction, and radiation therapy. Today, she marks one year with No Evidence of Disease (NED), meaning current examinations and tests show no detectable cancer.

Her initial diagnostic procedures exhausted her inpatient Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) limits. Breast surgery cost approximately ₱800,000, followed by ₱585,000 for radiation therapy. Six months later, she underwent another major procedure, a Total Abdominal Hysterectomy with Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (TAHBSO), costing an additional ₱700,000. Even with PhilHealth benefits, PWD discounts, corporate leave benefits, and personal insurance payouts, the financial burden remained considerable. "Your HMO, group hospitalization coverage, and individual insurance policies may have different benefits, limits, and conditions. It is important to understand how these work together and identify any gaps in your protection," Cuadra explains.

Closing the gap with InLife Global Care

To help Filipino families address these gaps, InLife offers InLife Global Care, a comprehensive health insurance solution with up to ₱125 million in annual coverage and access to accredited hospitals, clinics, and specialists in the Philippines and abroad.

Its benefits extend beyond hospitalization to eligible outpatient consultations, diagnostic scans, and monitoring therapies. The plan also offers cashless service options through supported providers, guaranteed annual renewability up to age 99, and worldwide emergency coverage of up to ₱12.5 million outside the selected coverage area, subject to policy terms and conditions.

"Healthcare confidence is knowing that when a serious medical situation happens, you have choices, resources, and someone you can rely on to help you move forward. InLife Global Care aims to provide all these and more so Filipinos can have access to quality healthcare without compromising everything they worked hard for. This is what we mean by World-class care, Filipino heart, and InLife certainty," states InLife Chief Product and Innovation Officer Jose Eduardo O. Ang.

A milestone of gratitude and action

For Cuadra, protection also meant having people beside her. She credits her husband, family, and InLife colleagues for supporting her recovery, including InLife President Raoul Littaua, who personally encouraged her to focus on healing. "Cancer treatment does not end when you leave the hospital or complete your surgery. Follow-up consultations, blood tests, monitoring scans, medications, and ongoing medical care became important parts of my recovery. You have to consider the entire healthcare journey, not just the initial hospital bill," she emphasizes.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, Fay encourages women not to delay preventive check-ups or wait for symptoms before seeking medical advice. "Early detection can make a difference in identifying cancer and understanding your treatment options. Do not postpone the check-up that could change your life," she says.

Through InLife Global Care and its continuing call for preventive care, InLife encourages Filipinos to take two essential steps: prioritize their health and prepare financially for the care they may need.

Grand Westside Manila Bay Plants Seeds of Filipino Heritage at Tambo Elementary School

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Hotel associates join the school community in planting 45 Sampaguita plants as part of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' sustainability and community advocacy.

WESTSIDE CITY, PARAÑAQUE, Philippines – Grand Westside Manila Bay recently brought its commitment to sustainability and community engagement beyond the hotel through a Sampaguita planting activity at Tambo Elementary School, where associates joined teachers, parents and students in planting 45 Sampaguita plants.

Karlo Evangelista, Corporate Sustainability Manager at Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts; Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay; Ruth T. Aguilar, Master Teacher at Tambo Elementary School – Main Campus and Rodolfo Bazar II, Area Director of PMD at Grand Westside Manila Bay.

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Growing Together: Grand Westside Manila Bay General Manager Joe Xavier Fijardo leads hotel associates in planting 45 Sampaguita plants alongside teachers, parents and students of Tambo Elementary School in Parañaque City. The activity supports Megaworld Hotels & Resorts' MEGreen sustainability programme and its advocacy for preserving Filipino heritage 

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Led by General Manager Joe Xavier Fijardo, the activity brought together the hotel team and the school community in a shared effort to create greener surroundings while celebrating the Philippines' national flower.

“It's wonderful to see our team working alongside the students, teachers and parents. Through activities like this, we hope to encourage greater appreciation for our environment and Filipino heritage while building lasting relationships with our community,” said Fijardo.

The initiative forms part of Grand Westside Manila Bay's support for Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' (MGHR) MEGreen sustainability programme and its wider advocacy to preserve and promote the Sampaguita, a flower deeply associated with Filipino culture and hospitality.

At the heart of this advocacy is MGHR's Sampaguita Brand of Service, inspired by the values of love, honour, dignity and healing. These principles guide the group's approach to hospitality and its commitment to making a positive difference in the communities surrounding its properties.

For Grand Westside Manila Bay, the planting activity also reflects the importance of associate involvement. Beyond their daily responsibilities, hotel team members are encouraged to participate in volunteer activities and internally organised fundraising initiatives that support community causes.

“What makes this special is seeing our associates come together and give their time to the community. We want to continue encouraging this spirit of volunteerism, where caring for others becomes a natural part of our everyday culture,” shared Rodolfo Bazar II, Area Director of PMD at Grand Westside Manila Bay.

Across its properties, Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts has undertaken Sampaguita planting activities in partnership with schools and community organisations, helping raise awareness of the national flower's cultural significance while encouraging environmental responsibility. The group's MEGreen programme supports these efforts through sustainability initiatives and the collection of Sampaguita seedlings for future planting activities.

The partnership with Tambo Elementary School offers an opportunity to share these values with younger generations. By taking part in the planting, students are encouraged to develop an appreciation for nature and a sense of responsibility for their surroundings.

The hotel is also exploring ways to sustain its environmental and community programmes through continued associate participation and fundraising efforts, reinforcing a culture of giving that extends beyond the workplace.

As the Sampaguita plants take root at Tambo Elementary School, they represent more than an environmental initiative. They are a reminder of the relationships being nurtured between the hotel and its neighbouring community, and the shared responsibility of preserving Filipino heritage for future generations.

Through initiatives such as this, Grand Westside Manila Bay continues to bring Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' Circle of Happiness philosophy to life, extending the warmth of Filipino hospitality beyond its doors.

vivo V80 opens pre-orders, offers up to Php 2k discount and more

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vivo Philippines has opened pre-orders for the vivo V80 at physical stores nationwide, through the vivo e-store and via the vivo Store app, with prices starting at Php 42,999 and exclusive offers available until November 13, 2026.

Designed for a generation that enjoys capturing memorable moments, expressing personal style, and customizing their devices, the smartphone combines ZEISS co-engineered portrait cameras, a distinctive glass design, and personalized features powered by OriginOS 7.

The vivo V80 is available in two configurations: 8GB RAM with 128GB storage for Php 42,999 and 8GB RAM with 256GB storage for Php 47,999.

Customers who pre-order within the promotional period can enjoy the following perks:

• Php 2,000 discount,
• limited-edition vivo Buds Air3 worth Php 1,799,
• Gold vivo membership privileges,
• six months of broken-screen insurance and warranty, and
• six months of 100GB Google One cloud storage for new users.

Meanwhile, here are the top three things you need to know about the vivo V80.

1.  ZEISS portrait photography for every creative moment

Co-engineered with ZEISS, the vivo V80 features a 50-megapixel ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera and ZEISS 85mm and 100mm Center-Stage Portrait options, giving users versatile ways to frame their subjects and capture portraits with detail and depth. The different focal lengths also provide creative options for photographing people in lively environments while keeping the subject in focus.

The smartphone expands these creative possibilities with AI Creative Camera features, including studio-inspired lighting effects and Creative Sticker Collage, which lets users transform people, pets, and selected photos into movable stickers. CCD Flash Portrait adds a nostalgic, film-inspired aesthetic, giving users more ways to personalize their images and share their favorite moments.

2.  A distinctive design inspired by the stars

The vivo V80 combines cold-carved glass, an aerospace-grade aluminum frame, and smoothly contoured edges for a refined appearance and comfortable grip.

Its Starwish Purple finish features Laser Holographic Lithography, creating a three-dimensional, galaxy-inspired effect that shifts with light. The result is a design that brings together craftsmanship and personal expression, allowing the device to complement different styles and everyday occasions.

Meanwhile, the vivo V80 is also available in Wander Green, featuring refined low-saturation tones that shift gracefully with light.

3.  OriginOS 7 brings personality to everyday interactions

With OriginOS 7, the vivo V80 gives users more ways to make their smartphone experience their own through four customizable themes.

Wiggle features motion-responsive wallpapers, Pet Pals introduces interactive pet elements, Glint adds shimmering visual effects, and StickIt brings customizable stickers into different parts of the system. These features let users personalize their screens and everyday interactions to reflect their interests, moods, and individual styles.

“Smartphones have become an important part of how people express themselves, preserve memories, and connect with others. With the vivo V80, we want to give users more opportunities to explore their creativity through ZEISS portrait photography, AI-powered features, and a personalized interface that reflects who they are,” said Liu Lu, vivo Philippines Brand Marketing Director.

Flexible payment options

For customers who prefer installment payments, Home Credit offers the vivo V80 for as low as Php 85 per day over 18 months. Buyers can also receive an additional Php 500 discount voucher by using the code V80HC500.

Customers can pre-order the vivo V80 at vivo physical stores nationwide, through the vivo e-store, and via the vivo Store app until November 13, 2026.

With its ZEISS imaging capabilities, expressive design, and customizable interface, the vivo V80 brings together the tools to capture favorite moments, explore creative possibilities, and make every detail feel personal.

Expecto Patronum: realme 16 Pro 5G Harry Potter Edition Debuts with Hogwarts Four-House Color-Changing Cres

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The limited-edition smartphone comes in Magic Brown, with a color-changing Hogwarts crest, a Hogwarts-themed UI, and a trunk of HP collectibles

From its Hogwarts-inspired crest to details paying tribute to Harry Potter’s loyal companion, the realme 16 Pro 5G Harry Potter Edition brings elements of the beloved franchise to its design, interface, and special-edition packaging.

Details inspired by the Wizarding World

The device comes in Magic Brown, featuring an Enchanted Texture Leather back with a three-dimensional diamond pattern inspired by the wizard chessboard. At its center is the Hogwarts Four-House Crest, which reveals the signature colors of Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff when exposed to direct sunlight or UV light. This effect is made possible by realme’s Quadra Light-Sensing Color-changing Tech.

A Hedwig-inspired camera deco in gold frames the lenses, and the same gold runs along the edges of the phone. The words “Welcome to Hogwarts,” are laser-engraved along the side.

Hogwarts follows onto the screen

Beyond its exterior, the phone carries the Harry Potter theme into its interface. Exclusive wallpapers feature Hogwarts Castle in two settings: Golden Dawn for daytime and Mystic Dusk for nighttime. The theme extends to the boot-up and fingerprint animations inspired by Hogwarts acceptance letters, along with more than 30 redesigned app icons. Photos taken with the phone can also feature watermarks inspired by the four Hogwarts houses.

Inside the Hogwarts trunk

The limited-edition gift box is a Harry Potter-inspired trunk, with the Hogwarts crest and the realme 16 Pro Harry Potter Edition name on its lid. The surprise realme kept under wraps during the teaser turns out to be what is inside.

Fans will find a Hogwarts acceptance letter addressed to Mr. Potter, a set of Harry Potter character postcards featuring Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and bookmarks for the four houses: Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw. The package also contains Hogwarts Crest pins and a ticket inspired by the Hogwarts Express, with the route marked from London to Hogwarts via Platform 9¾.

Priced at PHP 39,999, the realme 16 Pro 5G Harry Potter Edition joins the realme 16 Pro 5G Series as a limited release for fans and collectors. Fewer than 200 units will be available nationwide, with Hogwarts-inspired store displays at SM Fairview, SM North EDSA, and SM Calamba. The device will also be available at kiosks in SM Clark, SM Dasmariñas, and SM Megamall.

For more updates on the realme 16 Pro 5G Harry Potter Edition, follow realme’s official Facebook page.

Pet Pals theme brings playful touch to vivo V80 with OriginOS 7

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What if your phone had a little companion waiting to greet you every time you unlocked the screen? With the upcoming vivo V80, powered by OriginOS 7, users can add a playful touch to their screens with Pet Pals, a wallpaper theme featuring virtual pets that move and interact with users.

More than just static wallpaper, Pet Pals brings a little character to the lock screen, turning everyday moments like checking notifications or glancing at the time into something more delightful. For pet lovers, it is a charming way to add a touch of cuteness to a device they reach for throughout the day.

More ways to personalize the vivo V80

Pet Pals is just one of the ways OriginOS 7 makes personalization more fun.

The vivo V80 also features Wiggle, which brings movement to wallpaper through motion-responsive effects; Glint, which adds shimmering visual details; and StickIt, which lets users decorate their system with playful stickers.

Wiggle                           

Glint                              

StickIt

From adorable companions to eye-catching effects, these themes make the vivo V80 experience feel more personal, turning everyday phone interactions into opportunities for self-expression.

With Pet Pals and the other OriginOS 7 themes, the vivo V80 brings personality to these everyday interactions, showing how even a simple screen unlock can become an opportunity for self-expression.

Curious to see these playful features in action? Discover Pet Pals and more of the vivo V80 experience by tuning in to the vivo V80 launch livestream on vivo Philippines’ official Facebook page on October 30 at 6 PM

On Running Lands Exclusively on LazMall Philippines and Thailand

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Filipino runners and movement enthusiasts can now access On's Swiss-engineered product through its official flagship store on LazMall

Filipino runners and movement enthusiasts will soon have a new way to shop one of the world's fastest-growing premium sportswear brands, as On officially launches its flagship store exclusively on LazMall Philippines, alongside LazMall Thailand, marking a significant milestone in the brand's Southeast Asian eCommerce expansion.

The launch also marks a major milestone for both brands, with Lazada becoming the first marketplace platform in Southeast Asia to launch an official On flagship store. For the Philippines, the launch brings On's Swiss-engineered approach to performance and movement together with Lazada's established eCommerce ecosystem, giving Filipino consumers a trusted digital destination to discover and shop the brand through an official LazMall flagship store.

The partnership also reflects the growing role of eCommerce platforms in how global brands build their presence in Southeast Asia. For On, Lazada provides a platform to reach and engage consumers at scale in two important regional markets while retaining a strong official brand presence on its trusted shopping environment. For Lazada, the launch further strengthens LazMall as a destination where consumers can discover sought-after global brands and access authentic products directly from official brand stores.

"This partnership is a significant milestone not only for Lazada Philippines, but for the region's eCommerce landscape," said Carlos Barrera, CEO at Lazada Philippines. "On is a globally recognized brand with a strong and growing community of runners and movement enthusiasts. We are proud to be the first marketplace platform in Southeast Asia to launch an official On flagship store and to make the brand's products more accessible to Filipino consumers through LazMall.”

The On Official Flagship Store will initially introduce a curated selection of essential running and training footwear and accessories, giving consumers an accessible introduction to the brand and its approach to performance and movement. Among the products planned for the launch assortment are the Cloudmonster, Cloudrunner and Cloudsurfer running franchises, alongside other training and lifestyle models.

As the partnership develops, the assortment will expand throughout 2027 to include more of On's performance and everyday footwear innovations, offering products designed for different movement needs, from everyday and long-distance running to performance training and all-day wear.

This phased approach allows Filipino consumers to discover the brand through Lazada today while creating opportunities to explore a broader range of On products as their running, training and everyday movement needs evolve.

"The Philippines is an exciting market for On, and we see strong potential to connect with more consumers through Lazada's digital ecosystem,” said Rebecca Cai, Chief Global Markets Officer at On. "This partnership gives consumers another convenient way to discover On and experience our products, while allowing us to build a deeper connection with the local movement community.”

Visit the On Official Flagship Store only on LazMall Philippines https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/on.

Award-winning horror movies to stream this Halloween on HBO Max

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Enhance your movie nights with these critically acclaimed hits on HBO Max, best experienced with your PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1499

(Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures l HBO Max)

In the Philippines, Halloween movie nights are serious business for horror fans. While jump scares and slasher flicks are fun, sometimes you need a movie with real backbone: critically acclaimed, award-winning horror that lingers long after the credits roll.

If you are looking for top-tier cinematic frights, HBO Max is home to some of the most celebrated and award-winning horror movies. Best experienced with your PLDT Home Fiber, here are some titles streaming on HBO Max that promise the ultimate spine-chilling binge session.

IT (2017)

(Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

Starring Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, New Line Cinema’s horror thriller IT is based on the hugely popular Stephen King novel of the same name, which has been terrifying readers for decades. It is the highest-grossing horror film of all time, being nominated for and winning film and genre awards, including the MTV Movie & TV Awards and the IGN Awards for Best Horror Movie of 2017, as well as earning a high Rotten Tomatoes score.

When children begin to disappear in the town of Derry, Maine, a group of young kids are faced with their biggest fears when they square off against an evil clown named Pennywise, whose history of murder and violence dates back for centuries.

Weapons (2025)

(Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

When all but one child from the same class mysteriously vanish on the same night at 2:17 am, a community is left questioning who or what is behind their disappearance.

From Zach Cregger, the director behind Barbarian, Weapons is an intricate, sprawling horror epic that keeps viewers guessing until the final frame. Amy Madigan, who plays the film’s antagonist Aunt Gladys, earned the movie an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, among other awards and nominations, including the Actor Awards (Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role), the AACTA International Awards, and the Astra Film Awards (also Best Supporting Actress).

The Exorcist (1973)

(Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

Modern horror has come a long way, but sometimes, you can’t go wrong with the classics like The Exorcist, available to stream on HBO Max.

This one barely needs an introduction: the classic story of possession and its legacy of unforgettable scares is a proven winner. When a charming 12-year-old girl takes on the characteristics and voices of others, doctors say there is nothing they can do. As people begin to die, the girl's mother realizes her daughter has been possessed by the devil – and that her daughter's only possible hope lies with two priests and the ancient rite of demonic exorcism. The Exorcist has garnered prestigious accolades, including awards like the Oscars and the Golden Globes.

Doctor Sleep (2019)

(Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

The sequel to horror and Stanley Kubrick classic The Shining brings the familiar feeling of eerieness and dread. Ewan McGregor plays the grown-up Danny Torrance, the son of Jack Nicholson’s iconic character Jack Torrance from the 1980 original – and he must deal with the trauma and supernatural threats seeking his psychic power.

Horror master Mike Flanagan directed the highly acclaimed work, and Doctor Sleep garnered much praise from critics and a slew of nominations in the 2021 Saturn Awards, with supporting actress Kyliegh Curran winning Best Performance by a Younger Actor.

Stream more iconic and award-winning movies and enjoy unli entertainment when you apply for PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 1499, which comes bundled with an HBO Max Standard subscription, on top of high-speed fiber internet, Cignal TV, 9GB Smart data, and unlimited calls. Upgrade your home entertainment setup today and experience premium horror streaming and more at its best!

Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark to Invest in Vena Energy's 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in the Philippines

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Vena Energy’s existing 550 MWp Bugallon Solar Power Project in Pangasinan, Philippines, which is next to the 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project now under construction. Image credit: Vena Energy

Singapore, October 2026 – Vena Energy, Norfund, the Norwegian Investment Fund for Developing Countries, and Impact Fund Denmark announced that they have signed agreements on investing a combined 49% equity interest in the 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.

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• Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark have signed agreements to invest a combined 49% equity interest in the 500 MWp Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project in Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.
• The transaction remains subject to the approval of the Philippine Competition Commission ("PCC") and other customary closing conditions.
• The project is expected to supply the equivalent annual electricity needs of approximately 650,000 Philippine households and avoid approximately 570,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually once operational.

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Completion of the transaction is subject to the approval of the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), and other customary closing conditions. The Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project represents a significant addition to the Philippines’ growing renewable energy capacity.

Awarded under the Philippine Department of Energy’s second Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP 2), the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project is expected to generate enough renewable power to supply the equivalent annual electricity needs of approximately 650,000 Philippine households once operational, while avoiding around 570,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

The project reached financial close in July 2026, securing approximately USD 310 million in senior debt financing from a syndicate of eight international banks. This reflects strong international lender appetite for quality large-scale renewable energy infrastructure in the Philippines.

The transaction is expected to contribute to the continued growth of renewable energy generation capacity in the country while supporting long term sustainability objectives.

Nitin Apte, Chief Executive Officer of Vena Group, said, “We are pleased to partner with Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark for the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project. The Philippines is an important market for Vena Energy, and this project demonstrates the scale of renewable energy infrastructure that can be delivered by bringing together strong development capabilities and long-term institutional capital. Together we look forward to supporting the Philippines’ energy transition and contributing to sustainable economic development as we continue to engineer a greener future across Asia-Pacific.”

Simone Grasso, Chief Investment Officer of Vena Group and Global Head of Vena Nexus, said, “This transaction represents another important milestone in our institutional partnership strategy. Once complete, it will bring Norfund and Impact Fund Denmark alongside Vena Energy, allowing us to retain long-term ownership and operational involvement while rotating capital into our construction programmes and future growth. We look forward to progressing the transaction towards completion.”

Erik Sandersen, Chief Executive Officer of Norfund, said, “Norfund’s Climate Investment Fund is set up to avoid emissions in emerging markets, and the Ixus Bugallon Solar Power Project is a great example of what what we want to do more of. The project is expected to avoid more than half a million tonnes of CO2 every year. We are very happy to partner with Vena Energy and Impact Fund Denmark to contribute to the renewable energy transition in the Philippines.”

Lars Bo Bertram, Chief Executive Officer of Impact Fund Denmark, said, “The Philippines is a growing economy, and demand for electricity is rising rapidly. Today, however, a large share of the country’s electricity is generated from coal. To ensure that economic growth does not lead to even higher emissions, significant investment in renewable energy is needed. This project demonstrates how economic growth and the green transition can go hand in hand.”

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About Vena Group

Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a leading green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy arm, Vena Energy, and digital infrastructure platform, Vena Nexus, Vena Group develops, owns and operates integrated, sustainable and cost-effective solutions that support the region’s transition to a low-carbon and AI-enabled future.

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

About Norfund

Norfund is the Norwegian Investment Fund for developing countries with a mission to create jobs and improve lives by investing in businesses that drive sustainable development. Owned and funded by the Norwegian Government, Norfund is the Government’s most important tool for strengthening the private sector in developing countries and reducing poverty. Norfund’s committed portfolio amounts to USD 4.5 billion, with investments across Sub-Saharan Africa, South/Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Additionally, Norfund manages the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund, which focuses on reducing or avoiding greenhouse gas emissions by investing in renewable energy in developing countries with large emissions from coal and other fossil fuel production.

For more information, please visit: www.norfund.no.

About Impact Fund Denmark

Impact Fund Denmark is a Danish impact investor and Denmarks' Development Finance Institution contributing to green, just and inclusive societies as well as supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. Impact Fund Denmark provides risk capital to companies operating in developing countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Ukraine. Investments are made on commercial terms in the form of equity, loans and guarantees. In addition, through Public Infrastructure, Impact Fund Denmark offers concessional finance through loans and grants to secure access to financing for major public infrastructure projects in developing countries that cannot be financed on market terms.

Read more at www.impactfund.dk