The Ocean Cleanup marks first milestone with Meycauayan plastic Interceptor rollout

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The first Interceptor barrier in the Manila Bay region to be operational by June 2026

Global non-profit organization, The Ocean Cleanup, reinforces its commitment to mitigating ocean-bound plastic waste from the Manila Bay region, with the deployment of its first Interceptor™ barrier in the Philippines, set to be in the Meycauayan River by June 2026.

This follows the recent announcement of Interceptor deployments in the entire Manila Bay region, as part of The Ocean Cleanup’s global initiative, the 30 Cities Program, which aims to accelerate efforts to intercept and remove ocean-bound plastic pollution from rivers globally by up to one third, by the end of the decade.

In partnership with the City of Meycauayan and supported by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), this new Interceptor barrier will replace an existing trash trap and enhance plastic waste interception capacity before it reaches Manila Bay.

The significant advancement will enable the capture of some of the projected 370 to 540 tonnes of annual emissions from the Meycauayan River system into Manila Bay.

“This milestone brings us one step closer to building tangible solutions toward cleaner rivers and healthier communities in the Manila Bay region. We are excited to collaborate with the City of Meycauayan on this first deployment in the Philippines, where commitment and leadership play a vital role in mitigating ocean-bound plastic waste pollution,” said Boyan Slat, Founder and CEO, The Ocean Cleanup.

Henry R. Villarica, Mayor of Meycauayan, added: “In a timely and necessary step forward, our city is proud to formalize a partnership with The Ocean Cleanup to support the rehabilitation of the Meycauayan River. Our work has never stopped, and this collaboration strengthens our capacity to accelerate meaningful, lasting change. We are fully committed to doing everything in our power to rehabilitate our river for the health, dignity, and future of our community.”

Each year, an estimated 20,000 to 33,000 tonnes of plastic waste enter the ocean from the Philippines. According to The Ocean Cleanup’s Smart River Survey, emissions are projected at 3,500 to 4,400 tonnes annually within the Manila Bay region alone, a clear indication of the challenge and the need for urgent solutions.

Rivers are a major source of plastic waste in the oceans, with 1000 of the three million rivers around the world responsible for 80% of the problem, according to The Ocean Cleanup. To address this, the organization deploys Interceptor solutions in rivers and works within local waste systems to stop plastic before it reaches the sea.

This initiative also underscores The Ocean Cleanup’s expanding network of partnerships, bringing together key stakeholders such as the Embassy of the Philippines in the Netherlands and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Philippines, alongside Energies PH as marine renewable energy advisors. The partners collectively work hand in hand with The Ocean Cleanup toward mitigating ocean-bound plastic in the Philippines.

This project is poised to grow even further as The Ocean Cleanup deepens its partnerships with the City of Meycauayan, other local government units, and organizations in the country to go beyond interceptor deployment and drive further awareness and research initiatives.

To find out more about The Ocean Cleanup, visit theoceancleanup.com.

About The Ocean Cleanup 

The Ocean Cleanup is a nonprofit organization that develops and scales technologies to rid the oceans of plastic. By conducting extensive research, engineering scalable solutions, and partnering with governments, industry, and like-minded organizations, The Ocean Cleanup is working to stop plastic inflow via rivers and remove legacy plastic already polluting the oceans. As of March 2025, the non-profit has collected over 50 million kilograms (110.2 million pounds) of trash from aquatic ecosystems around the world. Founded in 2013 by Boyan Slat, The Ocean Cleanup now employs a multi-disciplined team of approximately 200 people. The organization is headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, with international operations in 10 countries.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run sets record for widest North American release of a Filipino documentary

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Ely Buendia and director-producer Maria Diane Ventura join fans in celebrating a milestone debut

From left to right: Byron Atienza, Creative Director of Live Nation; Hilarion Banks, one of the film editors and DOP; Maria Diane Ventura, filmmaker, writer and executive producer; Ely Buendia; and Winston Emano one of the film producers

Following a wave of sold-out advanced screenings across select cities in the United States and Canada, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run has set a new record as the Filipino documentary with the widest theatrical release in North America.

The award-winning docu film opened in more than 100 cinemas on April 24, 2026. To celebrate the release, Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia and director-producer Maria Diane Ventura made special appearances in select theaters in California, where they got to share the film’s growing success with the audience.

Ventura expressed gratitude for the overwhelming reception received by the film in its first few days of release. “It’s incredibly humbling. I feel a deep sense of gratitude to the audiences, to the critics, and to Abramorama for believing in the film and helping bring it to a wider audience.”

She adds, “What’s been most meaningful, though, is the way people have responded on a personal level. I’ve had people come up to me and share that they found a sense of healing in watching it or that it made them feel proud to be Filipino. Hearing that makes all the hard work and exhaustion worth it. That, to me, is the greatest reward.

To see a Filipino story resonate beyond our borders, and to feel that sense of identity and pride reflected back, reminds me why I do this. This film is a love letter to the Filipinos.

And I think it’s arriving at a time when people are searching for connection. We’re living in a period of division, but the film suggests that even then, there is still a way back to each other, through music, art and through storytelling, one of the few things we still all understand regardless of where we come from.”

Ely Buendia also thanked everyone who supported the film’s debut in North America. “To be embraced by the fans is proof that the film did something right. We didn’t want to let them down because this is their story too. And of course, to have the approval of the critics is icing on the cake. They have different standards and are not as subjective as the fans, so for them to think it was a good film, and a documentary at that, is quite amazing.”

Distributed in North America by Abramorama and produced by DVent Pictures, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run tells the story of the Philippines’ most influential band, tracing their meteoric rise from their formation in UP Diliman to becoming a defining voice of a generation, their painful breakup, and their eventual resurgence years later.

Set against the backdrop of the Philippines’ shifting socio-political landscape, the film situates the band’s journey within a country grappling with deep political polarization, reflecting how their music and story became intertwined with the nation’s cultural memory.

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run’s special panel at Austin, Texas last month was recently heralded by Esquire Magazine as “The 5 Best Things We Saw at SXSW 2026.”

Eraserheads is now showing in North America.

For updates, announcements, and ticket information, visit eraserheadsfilm.com.

Best Local Summer Destinations to Enjoy Music with LG xboom Stage 301

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For many travelers, summer trips are not only about where to go, but also about how the experience feels once you get there. A surf morning, a late-afternoon island stop, or a slow evening after a full day outdoors can all feel more memorable with the right playlist in the background. That is where portable audio can naturally become part of the journey.

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• LG xboom Stage301 is designed for outdoor listening with 12 hours of playing time and IPX4 water resistance.

• The speaker features a 6.5-inch woofer, 2.5-inch midrange drivers (2EA), Space Calibration, and Wireless Party Link.

• Summer destinations such as Siargao, La Union, El Nido, Coron, and Southern Cebu offer natural settings for music-led getaways.

• For travelers heading farther afield, Bali and Jeju also pair well with outdoor adventures and portable audio.

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The LG xboom Stage 301 is designed for this kind of use. It features a 6.5-inch woofer, 2.5-inch midrange drivers (2EA), 12 hours of playing time, IPX4 water resistance, Dual Bar Lighting, Space Calibration that optimizes audio, Auracast, Wireless Party Link, and Karaoke / DJ Effects through the app. These features make it a fitting companion for outdoor plans, casual group trips, and summer escapes.

Here are some of the best destinations to pair with a summer soundtrack.

1. Siargao for surf mornings and sunset wind-downs

Siargao remains one of the country’s most popular summer escapes, especially for travelers drawn to surfing, island hopping, and laid-back afternoons. It is the kind of destination where days can shift quickly from active mornings to slower evenings, making music feel like a natural part of the in-between moments.

The LG xboom Stage301 works well for this kind of setup. Its 12 hours of playing time can support day-to-night listening, while IPX4 water resistance is useful for splash-prone outdoor settings. Its Wireless Party Link also helps support shared listening when a trip calls for a bigger sound experience.

2. La Union for road trips and beach house playlists

La Union continues to be a favorite for quick summer escapes, especially for travelers planning surf sessions, café stops, and relaxed evenings with friends. It is close enough for a spontaneous road trip, but still offers the atmosphere of a real getaway.

For this kind of trip, the LG xboom Stage301 supports the easy, social rhythm of the day. Its Space Calibration is designed to optimize audio, while Dual Bar Lighting adds a more lively mood for post-surf hangouts or late dinners by the shore.

3. El Nido for island-hopping days and scenic resets

El Nido is often the choice for travelers who want dramatic views, long boat days, and moments of quiet after being outdoors. It is less about bringing the loudest setup and more about having music that fits naturally into the environment.

The LG xboom Stage301 fits that balance well. Its 6.5-inch woofer and 2.5-inch midrange drivers (2EA) support outdoor listening, while its portable design and 12 hours of playing time make it practical for villa stays and day-long itineraries.

4. Coron for active mornings and easy evenings

Coron offers a summer rhythm shaped by movement—boat rides, lake visits, swimming, and short hikes—followed by slower evenings back at the accommodation. It is a destination where gear needs to keep up without feeling bulky or overly complicated.

This is where the LG xboom Stage301 feels appropriate. With IPX4 water resistance, Space Calibration, and Auracast, it supports a more flexible listening setup for trips that move between activity and downtime.

5. Southern Cebu for adventure-heavy weekends

For travelers whose summer plans lean toward canyoneering, waterfalls, and packed schedules, Southern Cebu offers a different kind of beach-season energy. It is ideal for people who want their getaway to feel active rather than purely restful.

The LG xboom Stage301 suits this kind of pace. Its 12 hours of playing time supports all-day use, while Karaoke / DJ Effects (App) and Wireless Party Link make it easy to shift from outdoor adventure to a more social evening setup.

6. Bali for tropical trips beyond the Philippines

If the itinerary extends beyond the Philippines, Bali remains an easy choice for surf, beach clubs, scenic stays, and outdoor dining. It is a destination where music often becomes part of the backdrop, whether during villa mornings or sunset gatherings.

The LG xboom Stage301 fits this kind of travel mood with Dual Bar Lighting, Space Calibration, and Auracast, helping make shared listening feel more seamless while keeping the setup simple.

7. Jeju for scenic drives and slower summer escapes

For something less party-driven and more scenic, Jeju offers a quieter but equally rewarding summer pace. Beaches, coastal drives, and open-air stops make it a good destination for travelers who want a more relaxed type of getaway.

In settings like these, the LG xboom Stage301 works best as a companion for unpacking, winding down, or setting the tone for a slow afternoon. Its Space Calibration and 12 hours of playing time support a more effortless travel listening experience.

Why LG xboom Stage301 works for summer

Summer plans tend to be flexible. One day might be a beach trip, the next a road trip, and the next an overnight stay with friends. What makes the LG xboom Stage301 a strong fit for this season is that its feature set aligns with how people actually travel: 12 hours of playing time, IPX4 water resistance, Dual Bar Lighting, Space Calibration, Auracast, and Wireless Party Link.

For travelers who want music to move with them—from surf towns to island escapes and scenic weekends—the LG xboom Stage301 is designed to support a more portable and more enjoyable summer listening experience.

Shopee Philippines and PNP Eastern Police District Sign MOU to Empower Police Families Through E-Commerce

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Partnership extends Shopee's Tatak Pinoy program to support the livelihood and financial well-being of police personnel's families across Eastern Metro Manila

Jack Ng, Head of Commercial, Shopee Philippines, with the PNP Eastern Police District

Shopee Philippines and the Philippine National Police-Eastern Police District (PNP-EPD) have formalized a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at helping the families of police personnel build sustainable livelihoods through e-commerce. The collaboration brings Shopee’s flagship digital skills training initiative, the Tatak Pinoy program, directly to PNP, equipping police families with the tools and knowledge to start and grow online businesses.

The MOU reflects a shared commitment to the financial well-being of the men and women who serve on the front lines of public safety. Under this initiative, which PNP-EPD has named “Love at First Click: Negosyong Online para sa Pamilyang Pulis,” police families will be equipped with the digital skills and practical knowledge they need to establish and grow their online businesses through e-commerce.

"We have always believed that e-commerce can be a powerful equalizer and that belief extends beyond the marketplace," said Jack Ng, Head of Commercial, Shopee Philippines. "Through this partnership with PNP Eastern Police District, we want to give the families of our police personnel the same opportunities we are bringing to entrepreneurs across the country: real, practical skills that can help them build businesses and improve their quality of life."

The Shopee Tatak Pinoy MSME Roadshow, which has trained over 700 MSME sellers across 10 cities since 2025, will serve as the foundation of the collaboration. Police families will have access to hands-on training in online store setup, digital marketing, order fulfillment, and customer engagement. This is the same curriculum that has helped entrepreneurs transition from informal businesses to thriving online stores.

"Our partnership with Shopee reflects our belief that supporting our personnel goes beyond the badge. The PNP Eastern Police District has always been committed not only to the safety of our communities, but to the well-being of the men and women who protect them—and the families who stand behind them," said PNP-EPD Police Brigadier General Aden Lagradante. “When we give our personnel's families access to real livelihood opportunities, we are investing in their future and strengthening the foundation of our organization from within."

The partnership underscores Shopee's broader mission to build an inclusive digital economy, one that reaches not just traditional entrepreneurs but communities that stand to benefit most from access to e-commerce tools and training. As the Tatak Pinoy Roadshow continues its nationwide expansion, Shopee remains committed to finding new ways to bring digital opportunities to more Filipinos.

U Be the Judge: Experience First-Ever Live Scoring at Miss Universe Philippines 2026 with Maya

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For the first time in Philippine pageant history, the crown won’t be decided by judges alone. This year, Filipinos get to take the judge’s seat.

Powered by Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines and Official Voting Partner of Miss Universe Philippines (MUPh) 2026, coronation night transforms into a fully interactive experience—where fans can score candidates live, in real time, alongside the Selection Committee.

From Viewer to Judge: A Major, Major Shift

MUPh raises the stakes by giving fans a more meaningful role during the most anticipated night of the competition.

Through Maya’s live scoring feature, audiences can evaluate candidates as they compete across key segments—from swimsuit to evening gown to Q&A. Every walk. Every answer. Every moment. Now comes with a score—from you.

How It Works: Your Front-Row Seat to Judging

Joining the live scoring experience is simple and seamless through the Maya app:

Step 1: Through the MUPh tile in the Maya app, purchase a Premium Pass, and review the instructions and scoring guide.

Step 2: During the coronation night, enter the active competition round (e.g., Swimsuit, Evening Gown, Q&A) and review the candidates

Step 3: Score each candidate based on your evaluation (from 1 to 10) and review your scores after each round

From confidence and stage presence to overall impact and suitability to the round, fans can judge using guided criteria—making the experience both fun and meaningful.

More Than Just Voting—A Voice That Counts

Beyond live scoring, fans can continue to support their favorite queens throughout the competition by getting FREE votes every day or buying more votes for your MUPh bets.

With Maya powering this innovation, pageantry evolves into something more dynamic—where fan support doesn’t just live in comments or conversations, but becomes part of the journey itself.

Because on coronation night, when everything is on the line, one thing becomes clear: The universe isn’t just watching. The universe is judging.

U vote. U decide. U crown. For free. U vote with Maya.