“Save from Extinction: Save Them, Save Ourselves” Campaign

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The “Save From Extinction” campaign launched by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) aims to protect the six critically endangered animal species endemic to the Philippines – the Philippine eagle, tamaraw, dugong, Philippine cockatoo, pawikan (marine turtles), and Philippine pangolin.

Committed to protecting these remarkable creatures and their habitats, SM through platforms, are taking concrete steps to raise awareness and drive action through posters, videos, and fundraising booths in its malls that ensure their survival for future generations.

(In the photo) TV host RJ Ledesma, SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, and with the fashion show models, from the Girl Scouts of the Philippines among others.

SM is inviting everyone, from eco-conscious advocates to young animal enthusiasts, to support the cause in style.

There are exciting cuddly toys from Toy Kingdom. SM has expanded its offerings to include chic new shirt designs from Kultura and a children’s apparel line from SM Fashion, merchandise lineup includes t-shirt designs for both adults and children in several colors, with each product highlighting one of the six endangered animals. Canvas tote bags featuring the animals are also available for purchase.

Merchandise is available in select Kultura and Toy Kingdom branches: SM Podium, SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM North EDSA, and SM Makati.

Turn compassion into action and join the fight to save endangered wildlife. Join the fight to save wildlife by purchasing your own “Save from Extinction” merchandise.

Shakira Yu FVP and head of Branch experience, BDO Unibank

A key partner in the campaign, Banco De Oro (BDO) Unibank, Inc., is leveraging its vast nationwide network to support the campaign, offering donation channels through its ATMs and branches nationwide as well as through the BDO Online app.

This integration makes it easier for the public to contribute, extending the reach of the campaign to thousands of communities.

DENR has also partnered with wildlife conservation groups to safeguard these animals, such as the Forest Foundation Philippines, Katala Foundation, Philippine Eagle Foundation, World Wide Fund for Nature–Philippines, D’Aboville Foundation, and the Zoological Society of London.

All collected funds will go to the partner NGOs dedicated to the conservation of these species.

For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com/save-from-extinction

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PonteFino Hotel & Estates: 20 Years of Glorious Legacy in Batangas City

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A legacy in Batangas City is the most premiere hotel in the province since founded in 2024, PonteFino Hotel. More than just a hotel, it is a famous landmark in Batangas City and an institution for the grand celebrations of milestone events for both public and private entities. It carries the local vibe in terms of closely knit friendships and families, and business partnerships that last a lifetime. PonteFino Hotel is a prestigious destination for locals and an ideal destination for business travelers.

PonteFino is a real estate trailblazer dedicated to developing townships in emerging cities outside Metro Manila. Its projects have been recognized by industry experts as key contributors to unprecedented regional development in the Philippines. One of its flagship projects, PonteFino Estates in Batangas City, is a master planned 18.5-hectare mixed-use luxury township located just 100 kilometers south of Metro Manila.

2024 marks a significant milestone for PonteFino as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with PonteFino Hotel, its anchor development in PonteFino Estates, an 18.5 hectare mixed-use township in Batangas City, recognized as the most luxurious estate in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 2004, PonteFino has played an essential role in shaping Batangas City into a dynamic and thriving community. Over the past two decades, the company has transformed a bold vision into a prominent development known for its high-quality residential offerings and its commitment to fostering a strong community. From premium homes to commercial lots and spaces, PonteFino Hotel and Estates has become a fundamental contributor to the region's development and prosperity.

On April 25, 2025, PonteFino Hotel formally launches another milestone development – the launch of the latest dining destination in Southern Luzon – Pastorelli.

The PASTORELLI Story

Since PonteFino Hotel was founded in 2004 as the most premium hotel in Batangas City, it has been offering delectable native cuisine to local and foreign guests alike. Located in a luxurious 18-hectare mixed-use estate, PonteFino Hotel is now reinventing itself with the introduction of a new dining destination that is set to transform the Batangas culinary experience with PASTORELLI.

PASTORELLI opened its doors to the public on March 8, 2025 for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving a wide array of well-curated dishes inspired by an international flair and its signature Batangas menu items and local favorites from 20 years ago.

PASTORELLI was named after Atty. Antonio Pastor, member of a prominent family in Batangas City, from whom PonteFino bought the land where the hotel is now built on. Atty. Pastor, apart from being a lawyer, is also a renowned musician who enjoyed a colorful journey as a pianist and singer at a famous Italian restaurant in New York during his younger days. There he was given the nickname, Pastorelli, as coined by the Italian restaurant owner.

Today, Pastorelli opens its doors to guests with a new and elegant interior, that offers an awe-inspiring view of its newly renovated swimming pool and water park, finely curated menu options from local and international cuisines, refreshing drinks and delicious desserts.

Its culinary expert, Chef Stephen George Bustamante, has revolutionized the PonteFino Hotel dining experience with Pastorelli, creating exquisite dishes from the PonteFino Hotel signature items, Batangas specials, to modern and international entrees. His extensive experience in the culinary world, hails from over 20 illustrious years in the U.S.A. from San Francisco, Red Wood and San Mateo in California, after graduating from the California Culinary Academy in 2002 as an Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts. Chef George returned to the Philippines in 2016 and joined as Executive Sous Chef for Sentro 1771 until 2020. Afterwards, he joined the team that opened One World Deli as Corporate Executive Chef in 2020. In 2024, he joined PonteFino Hotel as Corporate Executive Chef and assumed the role as Vice President for the Food and Beverage Group, then opened Pastorelli on March 8, 2025.

Pastorelli is open for breakfast service from 6:00 am to 10:00 am, lunch from 11:30 am to 2:20 pm, and dinner from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The restaurant is also open for private functions. For reservations, you may visit www.pontefinohotel.com, Facebook: HotelPonteFino Instagram @HotelPonteFino or call: 09159641026 09175055214.

PonteFino Estates

On the real estate front, PonteFino offers a diverse array of properties for lease and sale. The Arcade is a premier commercial establishment ideal for offices and retail spaces, while The Mansions—an upscale townhouse development—features neo-Victorian architecture and has gained attention as the backdrop for BINI’s music video "Cherry on Top." Additionally, Accent Crest offers modern Asian-designed townhouses with environment sustainability features. PonteFino Estates is also the home of the first PEZA-registered I.T. business park – THE FORUM, a 4.26-hectare commercial complex with office, retail and commercial lots for sale with the Shophouses, and Commerce Walk for commercial and office spaces for lease.

So, why invest in Batangas City, specifically in PonteFino? The region is a growth hub and center for learning in Southern Tagalog, with over 100 multinational corporations and a robust workforce—6,000 graduates yearly. Batangas City is also recognized as the 6th largest source of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), among the top 10 emerging cities for IT & BPM, and one of the 25 Digital Cities. It's an investment destination poised for growth and opportunity.

To top it off, for 20 years, PonteFino has always been and will always be one of the driving force of Batangas City’s growth and development in terms of economic and social progress. It’s strategic location and commitment to excellence have made it a hub for businesses and a prime location for investors.

With its continuous expansion, PonteFino is set to contribute to the City’s enhancement regarding its infrastructures and elevate the standard of living of its residents – Bridging Life and Leisure.

#PonteFinoEstates #PonteFinoBatangasCity #PonteFinoEstatesBatangasCity

#PonteFinoHotel #PastorelliPonteFinoHotel #PonteFinoPastorelli #PastorelliBatangasCity

Puregold Channel ‘Si Sol at si Luna’—The Series That Hits Different

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Puregold Channel just raised the bar—again.

Following the breakout digital hits ‘My Plantito’ and ‘Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile’, Puregold Channel has stepped confidently into the realm of cinematic-scale storytelling with its newest offering: ‘Si Sol at Si Luna’. The series was unveiled in a star-studded press conference held on May 16 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, making a quantum leap in Puregold’s journey as a force in Filipino digital entertainment.

In ‘Si Sol at Si Luna’, Zaijian Jaranilla and Jane Oineza shed their child-star images for roles steeped in emotional complexity and adult vulnerability, a distinct first for both actors. It’s a career-defining turn for Jaranilla, compelling him to deliver his most mature performance yet in his first intimate scene—a bold moment not just for him but for Philippine retailtainment.

However, the series’ real power lies beyond the sensual as it explores grief, longing, and the uncomfortable space between connection and timing. As Sol, a film student seeking creative spark, falls for the older, emotionally scarred Luna, their relationship forces a confrontation with the hard truths of age, loss, and love that doesn’t fit the mold.

For Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, the wistful insights depicted in ‘Si Sol at si Luna’ are what make it more than just your garden variety romcom.

“At its core, the series is about love—but not the kind that comes easy,” says Hayagan-Piedad. “It asks: Where do we find love? What do we do with it when it comes at the most unexpected time? Luna’s story is about loving through grief. Sol’s is about loving through transformation. Whether love can survive both—that’s the question the audience will ponder on.”

With ‘Si Sol at Si Luna’, Puregold Channel is staking its claim as a powerhouse content studio—one that blends commercial value with creative boldness. This is where sharp writing meets honest emotion. Where full-length narratives meet bite-sized platforms. And where every Filipino, no matter where they are, can watch themselves reflected in stories worth telling.

Visibly excited at the press conference were the series leads Zaijian Jaranilla and Jane Oineza, as well as supporting members of the star-studded cast, including Joao Constancia, Uzziel Delamide, Vaughn Piczon, Lyle Viray, Jem Manicad, Marnie Lapus, and the breakout star, Atasha Franco.

Zaijian Jaranilla and Jane Oineza

‘Si Sol at si Luna’ will drop its very first episode on the Puregold Channel on YouTube on May 31, with a new episode set to be released every Saturday thereafter.

Stay tuned in! Subscribe to Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and @puregoldph on TikTok for more updates.

PNP OLC Foundation expands reach, focusing on health, family support, and spreading hope across the nation ---- Mary Rose P. Marbil

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Ms. Mary Rose P. Marbil, wife of the PNP Chief and head of the PNP OLC Foundation, Inc. (PNP OLCFI) is making significant strides in supporting the welfare of police personnel and their families nationwide. Transitioning from her corporate career in December 2024, Ms. Marbil has been utilizing her organizational expertise in this new role and is persistently working towards the expansion of the foundation's reach and impact.

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Foundation expands reach, focusing on health, family support, and spreading hope across the nation 

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Under Ms. Marbil's indefatigable leadership, the PNP OLCFI, which evolved from a club, focuses on assisting active and retired PNP personnel (uniformed and non-uniformed) and their dependents. The foundation prioritizes those facing critical illnesses like Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and cancer—constituting about 80 percent of their beneficiaries.

Through the "LAB Virus Program" (Love And Blessings Virus), the foundation distributes cash aid and health kits provided by the PNP Health Service, aiming to spread hope to afflicted individuals across all 17 Police Regional Offices. Ms. Marbil reported recently completing visits to all regions, managing three regional visits per week to maximize outreach.

Recognizing the health challenges faced by officers due to stressful work and reliance on instant food options, Ms. Marbil has also championed advocacy for healthier lifestyles within the force. Beyond health, the foundation supports police families by helping hone the future of our ‘little heroes’. To start, the foundation worked with the Quezon City LGU for the reopening of the Child Development Center within Camp Crame, fulfilling requirements under the Early Childhood Care and Development Act.

Inspired by family traditions of giving back, Ms. Marbil emphasizes the importance of supporting police officers, especially those in remote areas or the "laylayan" who face significant risks and public criticism. "It's a circle of happiness," she explained, noting that supported officers are better positioned to serve the community effectively. She believes augmenting the PNP's budget and upgrading health facilities are crucial for their welfare.

As she focuses on ensuring the sustainability of these programs through potential partnerships with private foundations, Ms. Marbil hopes her successors will continue and enhance the foundation's vital work. Her commitment underscores a desire to ensure that those who serve and protect the nation are supported and valued.

The PNP OLC Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to the uniformed and non-uniformed personnel of the Philippine National Police and their dependents. Under the guidance of its National Adviser, Mary Rose Marbil, the foundation implements various programs focused on health, welfare, and sustainable livelihood to help improve the lives of the police community.

Beyond the algorithm: Championing responsible AI, empowering women in tech

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GCash AI Week 2025 gathers industry leaders, tech partners to discuss ethical AI, data-driven decision-making, and the future of intelligent automation

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, reaffirmed its commitment to AI-driven innovation and inclusivity through GCash AI Week 2025.

GCash AVP of automation center of excellence Michelle Santos highlighted the role of AI in daily workflows

The event gathered industry leaders, technology partners, and emerging innovators to explore artificial intelligence's (AI) transformative potential in fintech while emphasizing responsible AI practices and women's critical role in technology.

Guided by the theme “AI-CHIEVED: Explore, Empower, Elevate,” GCash AI Week provided a dynamic platform for thought leadership, collaboration, and hands-on learning. The event featured esteemed partners, including Apple, Google, and Amazon Web Services (AWS), and engaged employees, university students, and fintech professionals in discussions on ethical AI, data-driven decision-making, and the future of intelligent automation.

Kicking off the event, Pebbles Sy, chief technology and operations officer of Mynt, the holding company of GCash, underscored the company’s vision for AI as a force multiplier for innovation and efficiency: “AI Week is about building confidence in AI, understanding its real value, and making it a natural part of how we work. It goes beyond just automation, it’s about intelligent insights, better decisions, and unlocking new levels of innovation.”

Sy shared, “AI is already changing the way we work at GCash. Tools like Glean, Gemini, and Dev Copilots are making our processes faster, smarter, and more efficient, and this year, we’re taking it even further. AI is only as good as how we use it, and we’re making sure that AI is here to empower all of us.”

The event showcased real-world AI applications, featuring sessions such as “Apple Intelligence: Unleash,” where participants learned how to maximize Apple’s AI-driven features on iPhones and MacBooks. The Amazon Quicksight Hackathon by AWS challenged teams to build AI-powered dashboards using Generative AI. Attendees also explored advanced AI capabilities, including large reasoning models with Deep Seek, enterprise AI with Glean, and next-level productivity tools with Google’s Gemini AI.

AI Week also highlighted the importance of AI literacy and upskilling across the organization. Michelle Santos, AVP of the Automation Center of Excellence at GCash, emphasized the necessity of integrating AI into everyday workflows: “AI Week is our way of equipping GCash employees with the skills to augment their daily tasks through AI tools and platforms. This is a critical capability for the future of work; using AI should become natural.”

Through hands-on workshops, hackathons, and expert-led sessions, GCash demonstrated its commitment to fostering an AI-ready workforce. Employees gained direct experience in leveraging AI for operational efficiency, customer engagement, and data-driven decision-making, reinforcing the company’s agile and innovation-driven culture.

GCash AI Week 2025 also placed a strong emphasis on responsible AI development, ethics, and diversity. As a woman-led company with a leadership team that includes trailblazers in fintech and AI, GCash continues to advocate for gender inclusivity in technology. The event honored the contributions of women in STEM, spotlighting female engineers, data scientists, and tech leaders who are shaping the fintech landscape.

GCash chief data officer Sara Venturina emphasized the critical role of ethics and diverse perspectives in AI development

“We must recognize that ethics, human insights, and diverse perspectives are essential to innovating AI,” said Sara Venturina, chief data officer of GCash. “AI teams need diversity in thought, background, and experience, as this directly impacts how AI applications operate. Will they show bias, or will they be fair?”

GCash’s approach to financial inclusion extends to tackling bias in AI development, ensuring that its data collection, labelling, and application processes are designed to serve all users equitably. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous learning, GCash aims to set industry standards for responsible AI adoption.

Through initiatives like GCash AI Week, the company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in fintech. By embedding AI into its operations responsibly and equitably, GCash is not just driving innovation—it is shaping a future where AI serves as a catalyst for inclusion, empowerment, and financial progress.

As AI technology continues to evolve, GCash remains steadfast in its mission to democratize financial access, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital economy