2GO Secures Gold Wins at Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, Marking Debut Recognition

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Macau, China, 22 April 2026 – 2GO, the country’s largest end-to-end logistics solutions provider, has secured Gold wins at the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, marking its debut recognition in the international awards program.

Will Howell, COO and CFO of 2GO Group, Inc., and Ethel Concepcion, Head of Corporate Marketing and Communications, accept two 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards on behalf of 2GO Group.

At the 13th annual awards, 2GO was honored with a Gold Stevie® for “How 2GO’s Management Engineered a Strategic Turnaround and Built a Modern, High-Performing Logistics Enterprise” under the Award for Innovative Management in Business Product & Service Industries category.

Will Howell, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of 2GO Group, Inc., was also recognized as Most Innovative Finance Executive of the Year, underscoring the leadership behind the company’s transformation and sustained operational performance.

The recognition highlights 2GO’s strategic turnaround and its continued investment in strengthening end-to-end logistics capabilities. The company has expanded its nationwide network, enhanced operational efficiency, and integrated its shipping and supply chain solutions to better serve businesses and communities across the Philippines.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards recognize innovation across 29 markets in the region, honoring organizations and leaders that drive business excellence and transformation.

“What we are building at 2GO is about more than logistics. It is about empowering businesses, supporting communities, and helping drive economic progress across the Philippines,” said Howell. “This recognition reflects the meaningful impact of our work, the focus and dedication of our 2GO team, and inspires us to continue delivering value at scale.”

This milestone places 2GO alongside leading organizations across the Asia-Pacific recognized for innovation and operational excellence, reinforcing the company’s growing role in shaping a more connected and resilient logistics landscape in the region.

To learn more about 2GO, visit 2go.com.ph.

Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines’ “Details Matter” campaign wins big at the Marketing-Interactive PR Awards 2026 in Singapore

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Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines, a global leader in home appliance innovation, bags a silver award for its widely successful “Details Matter” campaign at the Marketing-Interactive PR Awards 2026 in Singapore.

Representatives from Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines, together with its PR and Influencer Marketing agency COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, received the Silver Award at the Marketing-Interactive PR Awards 2026 in Singapore (from left: Coco Deng, Senior Marketing Executive, Toshiba Lifestyle APAC; Dawn Liew, Senior Marketing Manager, Toshiba Lifestyle APAC; and Ampy Corpus, Managing Director, COMCO Southeast Asia – Singapore)

Recognized in the Best PR Campaign: Electronics & Tech category, the “Embodying the Takumi Spirit: Toshiba Lifestyle’s ‘Details Matter’ Campaign” was crafted to relaunch Toshiba Lifestyle in the Philippines, establishing itself as a partner for quiet luxury living by unveiling a new product lineup–the Morandi Gray, Nature Pure, and Japandi Suite–and by introducing renowned industry experts to highlight its Japanese-quality craftsmanship.

At the heart of the campaign were the Takumi Masters, each chosen for their expertise within specialized premium fields such as fine dining, design, fashion, music, and contemporary living. Personalities such as Two Michelin Star Chef Josh Boutwood, World-renowned Fashion Designer Francis Libiran, Award-winning Musical Director Gerard Salonga, Author and Journalist Stephanie Zubiri, Globally-recognized Cuisine Chef and Restaurateur JP Anglo, Acclaimed Designer Amina Aranaz-Alunan, and Creative Entrepreneur Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez were among the respected leaders who used personal storytelling to demonstrate how Toshiba enhances elevated living.

The campaign also leveraged niche influencers to highlight experiential activations and create relatable digital content. Key influencers included Michelin Star Chef Aaron Isip, Creative Director Vince Uy, Moss Design Founder Cyndi Fernandez, Personal Mastery Coach Bianca Bradner, BLK Cosmetics CEO Jacqe Gutierrez, SoFa Design Institute Co-Founder Loralee Soong, VMAN Southeast Asia Fashion Editor Rex Atienza, and Lifestyle Journalist Marie Lozano.

"Winning these awards validates our commitment to the Takumi philosophy, where every detail is crafted with purpose and precision. By collaborating with visionaries who share our passion for excellence, we have successfully shown Filipino consumers that Toshiba is not just a home appliance brand, but a cornerstone of a refined, thoughtful home," said Anna Marie Alejandro, General Manager of Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines.

In addition to the Best PR Campaign: Electronics & Tech category, Toshiba’s "Details Matter" campaign was also a finalist for the Best Use of Micro/ Niche Influencers category.

PR Awards 2026 Awarding Ceremony in Singapore

With hundreds of entries, the PR Awards 2026 celebrate top-tier PR, communications, and marketing work, highlighting innovation, strategy, and results. Organized by Marketing-Interactive, the leading source of advertising, marketing, and media intelligence in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Oceania, the PR Awards (Singapore) recognize outstanding work that reflects the disciplines of the PR and communications industry in Southeast Asia.

For more information about Toshiba's Details Matter campaign and upcoming stories, visit https://www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/ph, follow @toshiba_lifestyle_philippines on Instagram and @toshibalifestyleph on TikTok, subscribe to Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines on YouTube, and like @ToshibaLifestylePhilippines on Facebook.

Summer Wardrobe Ready: Refresh Your Clothes with LG Styler RX5

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LG Electronics Philippines introduces the LG Styler RX5 with Dual TrueSteam™, AutoFresh System™, Dynamic MovingHanger™ and LG ThinQ™ for advanced clothing care at home 

• LG introduces the Styler RX5 (SC5GMR80H) for advanced clothing care at home
• Dual TrueSteam™ helps refresh clothes and reduce wrinkles
• AutoFresh System™ enables automatic air circulation inside and outside the unit
• Dynamic MovingHanger™ adapts movement based on fabric type
• Built-in HandySteamer™ delivers high-pressure steam for quick wrinkle removal
• Dual Inverter HeatPump™ improves efficiency and simplifies drying
• EZ Fit PantsPress™ helps reduce wrinkles on pants
• Smart LCD Touch Display and LG ThinQ™ enable intuitive control and connectivity

LG Electronics Philippines introduces the LG Styler RX5 (SC5GMR80H), a clothing care solution designed to help users refresh garments at home between washes. Combining steam care, motion-based garment treatment and smart connectivity, the LG Styler RX5 supports everyday clothing care with features designed for convenience, efficiency and ease of use.

Steam Care for Everyday Garments

At the center of the LG Styler RX5 is Dual TrueSteam™, which helps refresh clothes and reduce wrinkles. This feature supports the care of lightly worn garments that need a quick refresh before being worn again.

To help maintain freshness, the AutoFresh System™ enables automatic air circulation both inside and outside the unit, even without opening the door. This can help air out clothes after wear and support more convenient wardrobe care throughout the day.

Adaptive Clothing Care

Different garments require different care, and the Dynamic MovingHanger™ adapts its movement based on the type and shape of the clothing inside. This allows the unit to support a wider range of fabric and garment care needs.

For quick preparation before heading out, the built-in HandySteamer™ delivers high-pressure steam to help smooth wrinkles efficiently.

The EZ Fit PantsPress™ is designed to help reduce wrinkles on pants while maintaining a more polished appearance, making it suitable for workwear and frequently used clothing.

Efficiency and Smart Convenience

The LG Styler RX5 is equipped with a Dual Inverter HeatPump™, which helps simplify drying while supporting efficient performance. A wide filter structure also helps manage dust within the unit, contributing to consistent operation over time.

For ease of use, the unit features a Smart LCD Touch Display for intuitive control. With LG ThinQ™, users can check status, manage settings and customize clothing care routines through compatible smart devices.

Why It Matters

Summer often brings more frequent outfit changes, lighter fabrics and greater exposure to heat and humidity. In these conditions, having a convenient way to refresh clothes between washes can help users manage their wardrobes more efficiently. With steam care, adaptive garment treatment and smart connectivity, the LG Styler RX5 is designed to support everyday clothing care during the season.

Changhee Doh, Product Director for Home Solutions, LG Electronics Philippines, said, “Summer often means more movement, more outfit changes, and more time spent outdoors. With the LG Styler RX5, we wanted to create a solution that helps make everyday clothing care feel simpler and more manageable, so users can focus on enjoying the season.”

With features designed for daily garment care, the LG Styler RX5 (SC5GMR80H) offers a practical way to help keep clothes refreshed, smooth and ready to wear throughout the summer months.

The Entertainment Arts & Media (TEAM), elects new officers

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The Entertainment Arts & Media (TEAM), an organization of showbiz editors, columnists, photographers, publicists, and talent managers, has elected a new set of officers for 2026-2028.

The new officers are: Noel Orsal (President), Edilberto "Obette" Serrano (Vice President), Audie "See" Ochagabia (Secretary), Sany Chua (Treasurer), Nimfa Chua (Asst. Treasurer), Nonie Nicasio (Auditor), Danny Vibas, and Adjes Carreon (PRO).

Orsal was the organization's assistant treasurer before his election as president. He finished Medical Technology though his heart's desire then was to be in showbiz, and, thus took classes in photography, singing, and Nippongo (the Japanese language), hoping any of those skills will lead into a showbiz break. In a few years, he made into entertainment media as a photographer. With encouragement from editors, he found out he could write and soon was submitting not only photos written mainly in Filipino. Showbiz opened other doors for him, such as PR and production management, acting in Filipino and international films, and the freedom to choose between being a freelancer and a regular employee.

The new vice president, Edilberto “Obette” Serrano, has dedicated 40 years to tri-media (print, television, and radio) information dissemination. Known as “Oohlala Obette,” he is an accountant by training who transitioned into showbiz journalism and later public service information.

He began his career writing for Kislap fan magazine before contributing to major publications like People’s Journal and People’s Tonight. In his tenth year in showbiz, he joined ABS-CBN as a radio-TV reporter for TV Patrol and Radyo Patrol on DZMM, while continuing his print work and eventually appearing on programs such as Bandila, Balitang K (now Rated Korina), and Alas Singko Y Media (now Umagang Kay Ganda).

It's Ochagabia's first time to be elected officer (Secretary) though he is a "veteran" entertainment media practitioner whose stints include directing concerts of teen idol Sheryl Cruz abroad, and being talent caster/coordinator in top-rating TV shows. Ochagabia studied at the Novaliches (Quezon City) Novitiate, a seminary, for two years and then moved on to the University of Sto. Tomas where he took up AB in Economics. He eventually joined the entertainment world as a writer in fan magazines and general interest tabloids. His familiarity with showbiz idols and their managers, Ochagabia decided to venture into talent casting and talent managing which is what he is largely engaged in to this day.

New treasurer Sany Chua is a photojournalist on the entertainment beat mainly identified with ABS-CBN for some decades now. He is a Mechanical Engineering graduate and joined TEAM a few years ago.

Like Ochagabia and Sany, it is Nimfa's first time to be mandated as a TEAM officer. Like them, too, her college education was not geared towards showbiz: Banking & Finance. A network of friendship led her to photography and a dynamic involvement with ABS-CBN as a professional photographer.

Nicasio, elected Auditor, was TEAM president for some years and also the organization's founder. He took up BS Marine Transportation but found himself drawn to journalism, particularly to sports reportage and public service. But then he discovered entertainment writing and found it similarly fulfilling.

Only the elected new TEAM PROs Carreon and Vibas earned college diplomas in Mass Communication (Carreon) and Journalism (Vibas). Both Carreon and Vibas are seasoned entertainment journos.

The officers of TEAM were formally inducted last week by Hon. Gov. Daniel Fernando and Hon. Vice-Gov. Alex Castro at their offices in the Bulacan Provincial Hall, marking the official start of their duties.

Freedom of choice in your own Hot Pot at Dragon Court in Manila Prince Hotel

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Craving for hot pot? The Dragon Court in Manila Prince Hotel offers you a feast of simmering flavors with its new hot pot sets, now made even more enticing with the addition of individual hot pot stations, offering a fully customizable dining experience. Upon entry, Dragon Court’s ambiance paints an immediate picture of what to expect: an authentic Chinese cuisine experience.

Hot pot has become a comforting favorite and new experience choosing different food. At Dragon Court in Manila Prince Hotel, everyone has freedom of choice in your own hot pot. Gathered around one large round table, each one enjoys their own individual hot pot—making the experience both personal and interactive.

Choosing the rich mix of flavors is a wow experience, making the hot pot a truly one of a kind and special.

Since the offerings are unlimited, you can explore different simmering broths throughout your meal. There are four soup base options you can select - clear/plain, sate, Chinese herbal, and spicy mala. I'm not for spicy, my fave is Sate soup, gives a familiar classic taste, If you’re still unsure which base seems preferable to your palate, you can never go wrong with the classic option. Spicy mala implies a high level of spice, the spice levels are left at a tolerable level for anyone to try. Meanwhile, the Chinese herbal soup has a strong, bitter taste. It’s ideal for those looking for lasting flavors, satisfying cravings for the day. Whether you prefer plain soup, Chinese herbal, a savory base, something spicy, or even a combination, the choice is yours.

In your table for sharing, there are premium cuts such as tenderloin, U.S. beef, sliced pork, beef strips, chicken, and shrimp—paired with an abundance of fresh vegetables, noodles, tofu, taro, and other gourmet ingredients.

With a wide array of sauces and condiments, you can create your perfect blend to complement every bite. Each dip enhances the flavors, turning every mouthful into a rich, satisfying experience.

There are three hot pot options to choose from— premium, regular or classic. Each offerings gives you more ingredients and soup bases to pick from.

Dragon Court is located within the Manila Prince Hotel along San Marcelino St. in Ermita, Manila. The hot pot sets are available for either lunch (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) or dinner (6 p.m. to 10p.m.)

For inquiries and reservations:
☎️ +63 2 5328 2222 or 0908-8991912
📧 fnb@manilaprince.com

Goodday Takes Over the Season with Its ‘Summer All’ Campaign

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When you look at your socials during the summer, blink, and your feed is already packed with beach sunsets, island-hopping clips, and out-of-town escapes that look straight out of a travel vlog. It’s the season of getaways, and as the posts keep coming, it’s hard not to pause and think, “Sana all!”

But summer doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s highlight reel. While some are off chasing waves, others are finding joy right where they are—spending the season in the city, discovering simple pleasures, and creating their own kind of fun. It’s a reminder that summer can be just as meaningful and memorable, even in everyday moments.

The season can manifest itself in many different moments, big or small. This can show up in small pauses in between busy days, where you just go for a walk or go on a quick merienda break. This can also be those fun little after-office hangouts that stretch into the evening, or basking in the sunset during golden hour, just as the city starts to slow down.

Summer is not just a season of fun and excitement; it’s also a season of relaxation and a great time to meditate, reflect, and rest in the midst of busy months and seasons.

These small moments—unplanned, everyday, and shared—are where summer truly lives.

This season, Goodday invites Filipinos to rediscover that feeling through its “Summer All” campaign, a celebration of the idea that summer isn’t a destination. It’s a vibe you can find wherever you are.

When it comes to helping you make summer truly yours, Goodday helps you stay ready for the spontaneous and simple shared summer moments. Together with Cloud 7, its ambassadors, Goodday brings “Summer All” to life by cherishing the little moments that turn the season into something memorable. Whether you’re out exploring, unwinding after a long day, or simply enjoying a quick pause, you can own summer in your own way.

Summer is all about unwinding and feeling refreshed, and every sip should match that vibe. With its cool, fizzy burst, it’s like being transported to the beach, soaking up the sun, and letting your worries drift away.

It’s also the perfect companion for all kinds of summer moments, whether you’re cooling down after a busy day at work with your officemates, taking in the golden hour view, or relaxing after a spontaneous weekend adventure.

However you choose to enjoy it, Goodday is there to remind you of those fun, carefree summer celebrations, and that refreshing feeling of a tropical escape, anytime you need it.

With every sip of Goodday, which contains paraprobiotics for immunity support, ensures that you stay healthy during the warm seasons and enjoy your summer moments hassle-free. Whether it be a quick sip during a summer adventure or as your drink of choice after a meal, Goodday helps you stay refreshed.

Sometimes, summer isn’t about relaxing vacations and exciting getaways; it’s knowing that summer can be experienced and celebrated even in the simplest of moments.

Find out more about how you can celebrate Summer All with Goodday via Facebook and share the enjoyment with your buddies.

Beyond the Mirror: Dr. Ruthlyn Pecolera-Salvosa and Verde Creatives Redefine Beauty, Resilience, and Inclusivity at the 2026 BlogCon

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Dr. Ruthlyn Pecolera-Salvosa, ENT-Facial Plastic Surgeon and founder of RPS Aesthetics

Aesthetic and functional rhinoplasty specialist Dr. Ruthlyn Pecolera-Salvosa, shares a deeper look at aesthetic care. At the intimate bloggers conference held yesterday, April 15, 2026 hosted by Verde Creatives, Dr. Ruthlyn Pecolera-Salvosa, ENT-Facial Plastic Surgeon and founder of RPS Aesthetics, shared that "most patients who seek cosmetic procedures are not chasing perfection but looking for a renewed sense of self-assurance."

This year 2026, Verde Creatives' Bloggers Conference hosts and gives us a diflerent kind of conversation on beauty, featuring Dr. Ruthlyn Pecolera-Salvosa - a surgeon whose philosophy is rooted not in vanity but in the "Psychology of Confidence".

As the Philippine acsthetic industry moves away from purely cosmetic alterations toward a more holistic understanding of self-image, Dr. Salvosa has emerged as a pivotal figure in this transformation.

In a strategic partnership with Verde Creatives, the event will serve as a focal point for social media influencers to document Dr. Salvosa's mission to elevate the standards of beauty and self-confidence in the Philippines.

The "Nose Fairy" and the Genesis of a Vocation

Dr. Salvosa's profound sense of service began at age four when she witnessed a doctor solve her sister's two-year medical mystery involving a foul-smelling nasal discharge by removing a foreign body. This carly encounter with the "magic'" of surgical resolution steered her toward medicine.

Today, she leverages her rigorous Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) training to seamlessly balance acsthetic form with internal respiratory function. Her technical precision and ability to fix complicated revision surgeriesprocedures where previous surgeries by other doctors had failed carned her the affectionate moniker of the "Nose Fairy" from her patients.

The Architecture of Confidence: Core Principles

Challenging the "copy-paste" formulas often seen in modern cosmetic surgery. Dr. Salvosa champions "Natural Look Aesthetics". She proves that the most successful surgery is the one that is "visually undetectable". Her practice, RPS Aesthetics, is governed by several core tenets:

• Customized Care: She rejects trendy designs, ensuring every procedure honors an individual's unique bone structure, facial symmetry, and identity so they wake up feeling as though they were "born that way".

• The "Morning Mirror" Effect: Her practice prioritizes the powerful feeling of self- assurance patients experience when they like their bare reflection, recogizing that mental health and self-image are inextricably linked.

• Ethical Transparency: Employing a "friendship-first" philosophy, she dedicates 30 to 60 minutes for initial consultations to assess emotional readiness. She sets a striet cthical benchmark by refusing surgery to those with unrealistic expectations.

• Functional Integrity: Utilizing specialized ENT surgical tools and techniques, she ensures that any aesthetic modification to the nose enhances functional respiratory outcomes alongside aesthetic ones.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Dr. Salvosa's rise to the top of a male-dominated surgical field was forged through immense personal and professional resilience. Early in her career, she frequently met with skepticism due to her young and petite appearance. Rather than being deterred. she let her calm demeanor and technical precision in the operating room serve as her primary advocate, turning doubt into 
national admiration.

Her journey is also marked by pro found heartbreak: during a high-risk pregnancy with triplets. she tragically suffered the loss oftwo ofher babies. Supported by her husband, Don, this period of deep reflection strengthened her dedication to her surviving son and her vocation, teaching her to balance the demanding roles of mother and surgeon.

A Strategic Synergy for Inclusivity

This narrative of resilience and dignity perfectly mirrors the advocacy of Verde Creatives. Founded by Ms. Bemz Benedito. a recipient ofthe Global Transgender Hero award, the agency is celebrated for championing "All Kinds of Love." LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, and community support for marginalized areas like Payatas.

 Ms. Bemz Benedito, Verde Creatives Head and Founder

Together, Dr. Salvosa and Verde Creatives are educating digital influencers to shift the narrative of acsthetic surgery away from surface-level vanity toward a deeper understanding of how these procedures contribute to a person's overall quality of life.

Looking Ahead: "Bigger, Bolder, and Brighter"

Reflecting Dr. Salvosa's vision of integrated care. RPS Aesthetics has evolved into a multidisciplinary "one-stop shop" employ ing dermatologists and other surgeons to address comprehensive beauty and wellness concerns. The clinic's operational excellence extends globally, offering a comprehensive 14-day protocol and medical travel clearances for international patients-such as those traveling from Canadato ensure full healing and support.

Having captivated audiences across League Magazine, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the Philippine Star. and a milestone national television feature on Rated K, Dr. Salvosa's story continues to inspire. Attendees at the upcoming conference will gain exclusive insights into the future of RPS Aesthetics, which Dr. Salvosa promises will be "Bigger, Bolder, and Brighter."

Luzon Institutional Partners lead the charge toward a digitally inclusive Philippines at GCash Digital Excellence Awards 2025

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The 5th GCash Digital Excellence Awards (GDEA) drew the curtain on another milestone evening for Philippine governance, spotlighting the local government units and national agencies that are actively reshaping how Filipinos access public services faster, safer, and entirely cashless.

Held at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, the ceremony gathered awardees under this year's theme: "Recognizing Digital Pioneers: Empowering the Public Sector for a Modern, Inclusive Philippines." Of the 45 awardees recognized nationwide, 32 came from Luzon, a testament to the region's growing commitment to digital governance and financial modernization.

Through the digital payment infrastructure of GCash, these institutions have made tangible strides in building government services that are not only efficient but accessible to every citizen, regardless of location or circumstance.

Leading the charge in the Ilocos Region, the Bauang Public Market of the Municipality of Bauang, La Union, was honored for championing sustainable financial digitalization across public market transactions, making cashless payments a daily reality for vendors and buyers alike.

In Cagayan Valley, the Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District earned recognition for improving citizen access to water-related services through secure digital payment channels and streamlined online service options.

Central Luzon emerged as a strong cluster of awardees, with five institutions receiving citations: the City of San Fernando in Pampanga, the City Government of Baliwag and its Baliwag Public Market in Bulacan, the Municipality of Morong, and the Provincial Government of Bataan. Across urban centers and provincial communities alike, these LGUs have rolled out digital payment systems for local fees, utilities, and market transactions while expanding their online service footprints.

Also recognized for Digital Transformation Excellence in Utility Efficiency was the Metropolitan Naga Water District, underscoring how utilities are embracing digital tools to improve service delivery. Meanwhile, CALABARZON contributed four recognized institutions to the roster: the City Government of Santa Rosa in Laguna, the City Government of Imus in Cavite, the Municipality of Tanay, and the Pililla Water District in Rizal, each implementing traceable, citizen-friendly digital systems that simplify access to government services.

Rounding out Luzon’s awardees are the Municipality of Mauban, Quezon, and its Mauban Public Market, the City of Lucena, and the Provincial Government of Quezon, and Antonio L. Raymundo, Jr., President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines – Bataan Chapter, who were recognized for their efforts to expand online payment channels and digitize public services across provincial towns—bringing modern governance closer to the communities that need it most.

The ceremony also recognized several national government agencies for advancing digital transformation and financial inclusion in public service. The Department of Transportation – Metro Rail Transit Line 3 received the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award for expanding digital payments in commuter services. The Land Bank of the Philippines, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation were named Champions for Digital Advocacy and Connectivity for widening access to digital financial services. The Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) earned the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award for its long-standing digital initiatives, while the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Philippine Statistics Authority, and the Bureau of the Treasury were cited as Catalysts in Financial Inclusion for strengthening digital access and transparency in public financial systems. The Department of Trade and Industry also received the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award for integrating digital platforms into services that support Filipino businesses.

Mynt Chairman Ernest Cu credited the partnerships that made progress possible across these communities. "2025 was truly a year where GCash doubled down on its commitment through partnership with the government in advancing digitalization in our country. We are moving beyond ear access to delivering world-class innovations that people use daily. We could not have reached these heights alone. Together, we have brought strengthened fiscal management, streamlined disbursements, and connections to the LGU," he said.

GCash VP and Head of Public Sector Cleo Santos also added, "We are one with the government in the mission to serve every Filipino. Everything we do is anchored in our shared vision of finance for all. Every leader here tonight is a testament to the belief that no Filipino should be left behind in the digital economy,"

The GDEA's award categories were designed to meet institutions where they are in their digitalization journey. First-year adopters were recognized through the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award, while the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award honored agencies that have demonstrated sustained growth in digital transactions from 2022 to 2025.

Sector-specific recognition was given through awards for Digital Transformation Excellence in Healthcare, Education, and Utility Efficiency, while the Catalyst in Financial Inclusion Award celebrated programs that meaningfully expanded financial access for underserved Filipinos.

Long-standing partnerships were honored through the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award, which is reserved for agencies with at least five years of collaboration with GCash. The Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization for Public Market pushes for governments' call for cashless payments and payment options. These Public Markets maintain at least 70% active vendors using GCash as a payment option to its customers.

The numbers underscore the momentum. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reports that over 97% of government-to-government and government-to-employee transactions are now digitally processed, while retail digital payments now account for more than 57% of total transaction volume nationwide.

Setting the bar for what digital transformation must achieve, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Director General Ernesto Perez stressed that results must ultimately be felt by citizens.

"Digital excellence within government rests on tangible results experienced by individuals and enterprises. It is seen in faster transactions, simplified requirements, dependable payment channels, and platforms that reach communities regardless of geography or circumstance. Through this initiative, GCash and ARTA continue to champion the goals by promoting ease of doing business, enhancing digital payment systems, and fostering stronger collaboration between government and the private sector," he noted.

By putting the spotlight on Luzon's digital trailblazers, the 5th GDEA reinforces that the path to a modern, inclusive Philippines is already being built, one LGU, one transaction, and one empowered citizen at a time

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.

Midea rewards customers with Australia trip and home solutions in Discover, Shop, Fly Promo

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Dreams took flight for lucky customers of home solutions brand Midea Philippines as the Discover, Shop, Fly promo treated the two grand prize winners to a thrilling sports experience in Australia, where they were able to watch the Philippines Women’s Football Team compete at the recent 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Grand prize winners Edgar Allan Salvador Galapon Jr. and Sheryl Balanon Lambino, along with their companions, were awarded an all-expense-paid four-day trip to Sydney, where they toured key destinations, leading up to their support for Filipino athletes who proudly represented the country at the AFC Women’s Cup quarterfinals.

Launched in partnership with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), this year’s Midea Discover, Shop, Fly promo sought to bring everyday champions closer to rewarding deals and surprises. From laundry to cooling, Midea’s smart home solutions not only upgrade your life but also let you enjoy more value from your hard-earned money with exciting rewards.

“Our experience with the Midea Discover, Shop and Fly raffle trip to Australia was truly unforgettable. We enjoyed all the itineraries prepared for us, from sightseeing to unique local experiences. One of the most memorable highlights was watching the AFC Women’s Asian Cup live. Thank you, Midea, for giving us this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and for making the whole trip truly memorable,” shared one of the winning pairs, Sheryl Balanon-Lambino and Roy Balanon.

In addition, Midea also gave away a curated selection of its latest appliances, including the Midea 10/7kg Luna Inverter Series Fully Automatic Front Load Combo Washing Machine for easier laundry; the Midea 60cm 4-Burner Gas Range for safe, seamless cooking; the Midea Celest 1HP Air Conditioner with AI Ecomaster for efficient cooling; the Midea 19.6 cu. ft. Tweed White Side-by-Side Refrigerator for organized storage; and the Midea Top Loading Water Dispenser with Pet Bowl for convenient hydration.

As Midea continues to expand its global presence, its partnership with the Asian Football Federation (AFC) reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful experiences – bringing the brand’s “discover happiness” promise beyond their homes. From intelligent cooling to energy-saving features, Midea highlights its innovative home and air-conditioning solutions designed to elevate everyday living across every space and season.

“At Midea, we believe home solutions should go beyond function to enrich everyday living. In partnerships like this, we hope to bring innovations beyond the home, creating more opportunities for people to experience comfort, convenience, and ultimately, discover happiness,” said Anna Marie Alejandro, General Manager of Concepcion Midea Inc., Philippines.

To stay updated on upcoming promos and innovations, visit https://www.midea.com/ph.

The Women’s Health Concerns More Filipinas Are No Longer Keeping Quiet About

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Eluvo Health highlights women-centered care that helps patients talk, test, and treat in one visit

For many women, reproductive health concerns such as period pain, postpartum discomfort, vaginal dryness, perimenopause, menopause, and irregular cycles have long been brushed aside as something they simply have to live with. But that is starting to change, as more women become more open to talking about intimate health issues they once ignored, downplayed, or were told were just part of everyday life. 

As more women look for answers to what they are experiencing physically and emotionally, Eluvo Health is helping meet the need for more accessible and women-centered care. The Philippines' pioneering women's healthcare clinic offers services that address reproductive health issues across every stage of a woman’s journey—from fertility and maternal health to sexual wellness, hormone balance, perimenopause, and menopause.

“More women are realizing that symptoms they once accepted as normal may need attention,” said Dr. Renaissa Yu, OB-GYN at Eluvo Health. “Patients are asking more direct questions and many are more aware now these concerns can be checked and, in many cases, managed.”

Dr. Renaissa Yu, OB-GYN at Eluvo Health Clinic

Instead of simply saying they feel “off” or “uncomfortable,” many ask directly about what their symptoms could mean, what tests they may need, and what treatment options are available. This shift may be linked to easier access to health information online, as well as the growing openness of women sharing similar experiences. Seeing others speak up can make it easier for patients to raise concerns they may have once kept to themselves.

The concerns women are bringing up

The concerns women raise often vary by age and life stage. Among women in their reproductive years, common questions center on sexual and gynecologic health, including STIs, genital infections, Pap smears, HPV, and cervical cancer screening. For women in perimenopause and menopause, consultations more often focus on hormonal changes and their effects on daily life, including symptoms such as vaginal dryness and reduced libido. Postpartum care is another area where more support remains needed, with a 2014 Philippines-based study pointing to gaps in postpartum healthcare use and low awareness of postpartum health concerns.

Even before visiting the clinic, many women are already searching for answers. Online inquiries through Eluvo Health’s website often mention endometriosis, fertility or trying to conceive, brain fog, PCOS, and questions about available diagnostic services. Still, some long-held beliefs continue to delay care, with painful periods, irregular menstruation, and menopausal symptoms often dismissed as something women simply have to endure. Doctors say these conversations become easier once patients feel they are in a safe, respectful, and judgment-free space.

Care that works for real life

For many women, one of the biggest barriers to care is time. Between work, family, and everyday responsibilities, it can be difficult to schedule multiple appointments across different clinics or providers. “Women are trying to fit healthcare into already full schedules,” said Dr. Yu. “Our goal is to make care easier to access and easier to complete, with trusted doctors guiding patients through each step.”

Doctors of Eluvo Health Clinic, reflecting the clinic’s women-centered approach to care across different life stages, from reproductive health and pregnancy to postpartum recovery and menopause.

To make this easier, Eluvo Health follows a simple care path: Talk, Test, and Treat. Patients can start with a consultation with a women’s health doctor, go through diagnostics and imaging with results available in as fast as 60 minutes or less, and receive a care plan based on their needs and goals. By bringing these steps together in one setting, Eluvo Health hopes to make it easier for women to move from uncertainty to clearer answers without having to navigate care in separate stages.

No woman should have to wonder whether her symptoms matter or wait for them to get worse before seeking help. They should try to remember that better conversations can lead to earlier care, clearer answers, and more informed decisions at every stage of life. For women dealing with pain, cycle changes, postpartum symptoms, vaginal dryness, or other intimate health concerns, the first step may be as simple as asking the question at Eluvo Health.

To learn more about Eluvo’s Talk, Test, Treat approach or to book a consultation, visit www.eluvohealth.com