Make Easter Moments Matter with Richmonde Hotels’ Family Staycation Experiences

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This Easter, skip the long drives and crowded destinations, and instead, spend meaningful moments with the people who matter most at your home away from home in the city. Richmonde Hotels invites families to celebrate the season with staycation experiences that bring together relaxation and a touch of summer holiday fun—perfect for creating memories across generations.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas: Easter Traditions & Celebrations for the Whole Family

 

At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Easter is all about togetherness and with its family-friendly offers at the best value for money rates, grandparents, parents, and the little ones can share in simple joys that become lasting traditions.

Available from March 29 to April 6, 2026, the Easter Break Escape room package may be booked at rates starting at only PhP 3,500 nett for room-only stays (except on April 4) and PhP 5,100 nett if with breakfast buffet for two. Guests staying on April 4 get a special treat with an extended Easter Sunday Breakfast Buffet served from 6am to 11am at Richmonde Cafe. Expect a delectable spread of breakfast favorites plus a roast beef carving, a dimsum & hotpot station, a salad bar, chocolate fountain, and many more that will delight the young ones and the young at heart. The Easter Sunday Breakfast Buffet is also open for walk-in guests at PhP 1,180 nett for adults and PhP 590 nett for children 6 to 12 years old. Children 5 and below eat for free.

Families can spend unhurried afternoons at the hotel’s “Kitchen Lab,” a series of hands-on activities where kids and kids-at-heart can create their own pizzas, decorate donuts, and design cookies for PhP 350 nett per person per activity, complete with themed snacks and drinks.

Metro dwellers can look to Richmonde for a cozy staycation that feels both familiar and refreshing and where there’s something for every family member to enjoy together. For inquiries and bookings, call +632 8638 7777, +63 917 859 7914 (Room Reservations), +63 534 4352 (Food & Beverage), email stay@richmondeortigas.com, or log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel: Effortless Easter Fun in the City

Easter unfolds at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel with ease and energy, thanks to its prime location within the vibrant Eastwood City and direct access to Eastwood Mall—giving families everything they need just steps away. Room packages from March 29 to April 5, 2026 start at PhP 4,000 nett (room only) and PhP 5,600 nett (with breakfast for two).

For those planning a full Easter weekend, packages on April 4 and 5 are available from PhP 6,500 nett (room only) and PhP 8,100 nett (with breakfast), inclusive of two tickets to the Enchanted Garden Easter Party.

Happening on April 5, 2026 from 1PM to 6PM at the ballroom, the Enchanted Garden Easter Party celebration promises an exciting afternoon of magical fun and wonder for children and parents alike, highlighted by a variety of engaging activities and delightful surprises. The venue transforms into a whimsical garden where imagination blossoms and childhood fancy come to life. Kids can embark on a thrilling Easter egg hunt, get creative with bracelet making, and enjoy colorful face painting and sticker tattoos, while the whole family can look forward to captivating performances lined up in the party’s program, a deliciously satisfying snack buffet, and special giveaways. Tickets to the Enchanted Garden Easter Party are priced at PhP 1,888 nett per person.

Dining is just as inviting, with Eastwood Café+Bar’s Favorite Filipino Eats consisting of a Lenten Merienda Buffet on April 2 and 3 at PhP 600 nett per person, and an Easter Sunday Lunch Buffet on April 5 at PhP 1,200 nett per adult and PhP 600 nett for children, with little ones five and below dining for free. Offering popular Pinoy dishes like pancit, puto bumbong, bibingka, and halo-halo for snacks and freshly grilled meats & seafood plus many more local delights for the luncheon celebration, Eastwood Café+Bar’s buffets are a flavorful collection of well-loved flavors for all ages.

At Eastwood Richmonde everything is designed for seamless experiences so guests can simply relax and enjoy a worry-free stay. For inquiries, reservations, and ticket purchases, get in touch with Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at +63 8570 7777, +63 917 531 6867 (Room Reservations), +63 917 821 0333 (Food & Beverage), and email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or log on to www.eastoodrichmondehotel.com.ph.

 

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: A Relaxed Easter Escape in the Heart of Iloilo

Easter takes on a more laid-back rhythm at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. Set within the cosmopolitan township of Iloilo Business Park, also named as the city’s Center of Arts and Culture, the hotel embodies the best of the past and present worlds of Iloilo. Expect a space where comfort, convenience, and a sense of place come together beautifully.

From March 29 to April 5, 2026, the Eggsclusive Easter Getaway package is available for both locals of Western Visayas and domestic and international travelers wishing to visit the City of Love during the Easter break. Rates start at PhP 4,200 nett (room only) and PhP 4,800 nett (with breakfast for two), accommodating up to two adults and two children.

During the Lenten Week, days are best spent enjoying the summer breeze at the hotel’s pool or exploring the surrounding scenic spots, including heritage churches, at a relaxed pace. On Easter Sunday, families can gather at The Granary from 11:30am to 4:00pm for the Eggstraordinary Easter Lunch Buffet priced at PhP 1,500 nett per adult and PhP 750 nett for children, with kids five and below dining for free. A festive spread and special raffle draw add a cheerful touch to the celebration.

For inquiries and reservations, contact Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at +633 328 7888, +63 917 580 9642 (Room Reservations), +63 917 563 3558 (Food & Beverage), and stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph

Indeed, Richmonde Hotels make it easy to celebrate Easter in a way that feels both meaningful and memorable without having to travel far. Sometimes, the best holidays are simply but about being fully present with the ones you love.

LG Electronics Continues to Lead the Global OLED TV Market, Marking 13 Years of Excellence

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For 13 consecutive years, LG Electronics (LG) has remained at the forefront of OLED innovation, shaping the premium TV category through long‑term leadership and consistent technological advancement. Building on our success in 2025, we are entering 2026 with new OLED technologies and viewing‑experience upgrades, ready to set the pace in an industry defined by rapid evolution.

LG Leads the Global OLED TV Market

According to market research firm Omdia, LG accounted for 49.7 percent of the global OLED TV market in 2025, with approximately 3.22 million units shipped. Global OLED TV shipments reached 6.47 million units during the same period, up 6.6 percent year over year, highlighting the continued shift toward high‑performance premium displays. As the OLED category continues to grow, we have maintained our leadership in the segment.

Europe once again emerged as a major OLED market in 2025. For the first time, OLED TV shipments in the region surpassed 3 million units, reflecting strong demand for premium home entertainment. In this key market, we led the category with around 1.59 million OLED TVs shipped, representing approximately 50.5 percent of all OLED TVs sold in the region.

Beyond Europe, our OLED leadership also extended across other major regions, including a 50.1 percent share of the OLED TV market in North America and 62.3 percent in Asia‑Oceania. Together, these results reflect the widespread confidence consumers place in our OLED technology and our ability to meet diverse preferences across markets.

Why Our Leadership in the Global OLED Market Matters

Our 2025 performance underscores how OLED has become a central part of the premium TV category. Consumers continue to choose OLED for its immersive picture quality, elegant form factors and consistent performance across varying home environments. As the category evolves, expectations around brightness, clarity and design continue to rise.

OLED Innovation Continues in 2026

Our 2025 results also provide a strong foundation for our 2026 OLED evo TV lineup, which introduces upgrades designed to improve performance in brighter spaces while delivering even greater visual precision.

Our new Hyper Radiant Color Technology enhances color accuracy and delivers up to 3.9 times brighter images than conventional OLEDs.1 This is powered by the new α (Alpha) 11 AI Processor Gen 3, with its enhanced NPU that enables the Dual AI Engine. By running noise‑reduction and texture‑preservation algorithms simultaneously, the Dual AI Engine helps produce clean, detailed images without the over‑sharpening or softness often associated with traditional processing.

We also achieved the industry‑first Reflection Free Premium certification from Intertek,2 further strengthening performance in glare‑free viewing. Together, these enhancements enable our 2026 OLED evo TVs to be among the best TVs for handling reflections, delivering clear and consistent picture quality even in bright, high‑glare living rooms. By tackling these real‑world lighting environments head‑on, we continue evolving OLED into a technology that performs beautifully in any home setting.

At LG, we continue expanding the possibilities of premium TV innovation in both design and picture quality. Our new Wallpaper OLED evo TV W6 is the latest example, achieving a nine-millimeter-range thin profile3 through meticulous component miniaturization and a complete redesign of its internal architecture – all without compromising structural integrity or visual performance. This breakthrough was recently recognized with an iF Design Award, underscoring how the Wallpaper TV blends refined aesthetics with advanced engineering.

By pairing bold form‑factor innovation with next‑generation picture performance, we remain committed to advancing OLED innovation and setting new standards for premium home entertainment.

SM expands rewards ecosystem through Trip.com partnership

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The collaboration between SMAC and Trip.com further expands SMAC’s travel ecosystem while delivering rewarding member experiences.

The SM group recently expanded its integrated rewards ecosystem through a new partnership between its loyalty program, SMAC, and global online travel platform Trip.com, giving members more ways to earn points on travel bookings.

Under the partnership, SMAC members can earn 1 SMAC Point for every PHP250 spent on hotel and flight bookings made through Trip.com. Points will be credited within 60 working days after completion of your Trip.com booking (i.e., after your hotel stay or flight).

The collaboration strengthens SM’s broader ecosystem strategy, connecting retail, banking, property, and lifestyle services to deliver seamless and rewarding customer experiences.

Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer of SMAC

“Through strategic partnerships, both within and beyond the SM Group, we continue to enhance the value proposition for our members,” said Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer of SMAC. “This collaboration with Trip.com further expands our travel ecosystem, allowing members to earn rewards while accessing local and global destinations.”

Trip.com is an international one-stop travel service provider, available in 24 languages across 39 countries and regions in 35 local currencies. Offering an extensive hotel and flight network of more than 1.5 million hotels and flights from over 640 airlines, along with over 300,000 attraction and tour products, Trip.com covers 3,400 airports in 220 countries and regions.

To qualify, members must log in via smac.ph and access Trip.com through the SMAC homepage before completing their booking. The Trip.com partnership complements SMAC’s growing network of travel and lifestyle collaborations, including Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles, AirAsia Rewards, and SM Hotels.

Beyond travel, SMAC continues to expand benefits across retail and financial services, including its remittance rewards program with SM Store and BDO.

Financial Independence Is the Real Power Move This Women’s Month and Maya Is Here to Help

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Women’s Month this year opened with a clear message: women are done settling for less. Across social media, conversations about respect and accountability have been louder than ever.

But empowerment isn’t just about calling things out. For many, it’s also about making sure they never feel financially stuck in the first place. Because independence doesn’t only show up in conversations or personal choices. It shows up in everyday decisions, including how we manage our money.

As the country’s #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, Maya is helping more Filipinos take control of their finances with tools that make saving, spending, and borrowing easier to manage.

If you’re thinking about strengthening your own financial independence, here are a few places to start:

Start by Building Your Own Safety Net

One of the most empowering things you can do for yourself financially is having a buffer.

Life happens: a medical bill, an urgent repair, or a sudden trip. And when those things come up, having savings means you don’t have to rely on anyone else or scramble for solutions.

With Maya Personal Goals, you can create up to five savings targets for things like emergencies, travel, or future plans. Each goal earns 4% interest per annum immediately, and every ₱20,000 added increases the rate, reaching up to 8% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱100,000.

If you prefer a more structured way to grow your savings, Time Deposit Plus allows you to lock in funds for 3, 6, or 12 months, earning up to 6% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱1 million per account. With up to five accounts available, that’s as much as ₱5 million growing through disciplined saving.

Spend for Yourself. Not for Expectations.

Another part of financial independence is deciding what your money should actually go toward.

Used responsibly, credit cards can make everyday spending work in your favor. The Maya Black Credit Card, for example, turns routine purchases into rewards. Cardholders earn instant Maya Miles on all transactions — from groceries and bills to flights, hotel bookings, dining, and more.

At Maya Black Preferred merchants, you can earn up to 10X Maya Miles, helping rewards build faster on select purchases. Those Miles can later be used to offset future travel and lifestyle expenses.

With no annual fees for life, Maya Black also comes with premium perks like complimentary quarterly global lounge access, making travels more comfortable without the typical annual costs associated with premium cards.

For those who prioritize everyday savings, the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card offers a practical way to make the most of your spending. Cardholders can enjoy up to 5% cashback at Landers, 2% cashback on dining, and 1% cashback on other transactions, turning routine expenses into real savings.

Borrow When You Need To — But Borrow Smart

Independence doesn’t mean never seeking help. It means knowing your options.

For short-term needs, Maya Easy Credit offers a revolving credit line of up to ₱50,000, payable up to 30 days, helping bridge temporary cash flow gaps while giving you clear visibility into repayment.

For big goals or unexpected expenses, Maya Personal Loan provides up to ₱250,000 with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months, making it easier to manage obligations without unpredictable balances.

Having a variety of borrowing options means you can stay in control of the situation, not the other way around.

Let Your Money Grow Alongside Your Goals

Financial independence rarely comes from one big move. More often, it’s built through small decisions like saving consistently, spending intentionally, and making sure your money is working for you.

Keeping funds in Maya Savings can earn up to 15% interest per annum, credited daily, helping balances grow steadily while remaining accessible when needed.

Women’s Month is often about celebrating progress. But it’s also a reminder of something important: Independence isn’t just social or cultural. It’s financial too. And increasingly, more Filipinas are making sure they have both.

To know more, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.

Celebrate Araw ng Davao with an Island Retreat at Discovery Samal

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Araw ng Davao is Davao City’s biggest annual celebration, an all-out festival month that turns the city into a moving showcase of culture, community, and hometown pride. It’s when streets come alive with parades, drumbeats, dance performances, pop-up bazaars, concerts, and food finds, and every corner feels like an invitation to join in. Whether you’re coming for the pageantry, the people, or the sheer energy of a city celebrating itself, Araw ng Davao is the kind of celebration that makes a quick flight to Mindanao feel more like a must-do trip than a maybe.

As Araw ng Davao fills the city with parades, performances, and community gatherings, Discovery Samal invites locals and visitors to keep the celebration going by the sea. Minutes away by boat, the resort offers seasonal room packages, festive dining, and easygoing activities that let you stretch the city’s high-energy festivities into a refreshing coastal break.

Island stays with easy summer comforts

For those looking to turn the celebration into a quick getaway, Discovery Samal is offering its Happy Summer Room Package, a simple way to extend the holiday into a laid-back island break. Designed for easy unwinding, the package pairs comfortable accommodations with resort perks that let guests slip into Samal’s slower pace.

Starting at P17,500 per night, the package includes daily breakfast for two at Morning Catch, plus added savings across the resort. Guests enjoy 15% off at food and beverage outlets, 10% off spa treatments and watersports activities, and seasonal inclusions such as a complimentary one-hour crystal kayak or paddle board session and a relaxing foot massage for two. The offer is available for booking until May 31, 2026, with stays from March 1 to June 15, 2026—ideal for travelers looking to cap off the city festivities with a short Samal retreat.

Seafood feasts with Davao flavors and coastal flair

Discovery Samal is also offering a themed lunch buffet at Morning Catch, serving up ocean-fresh seafood prepared with local flavors and a distinct sense of Davao pride. Inspired by the energy of coastal markets and regional culinary traditions, the spread is guided by the day’s catch from local fishermen, vibrant produce, and time-tested cooking techniques—moving from beloved seafood classics to bold, creative takes on coastal specialties. Every plate celebrates the character of the surrounding waters, capturing the richness and unmistakable taste of Davao’s culinary heritage.

The buffet is served from 11 am to 3 pm every weekend in March, priced at P2,600 net per person. The rate includes round-trip boat transfers from the Davao Welcome Center, making it easy for guests to travel seamlessly from the city to Samal Island for the dining experience.

Seaside moments with sun, sea, and slow island time

A visit to Discovery Samal during Araw ng Davao opens the door to a range of leisurely pursuits shaped by the island’s natural setting. Guests may begin the day with a quiet walk along the shore or spend the afternoon swimming in the pool while looking out over the gulf. Others may choose to relax by the beach, paddle across the calm waters, or settle into a shaded corner of the resort with the sound of the waves nearby. Time on the island tends to unfold at a gentler pace. The bustle of the city fades into the background, replaced by wide horizons and open sea air.

A city celebration that flows into island calm

Araw ng Davao honors the heritage and resilience of the city. Discovery Samal offers a fitting continuation of that celebration, inviting guests to cross the water and experience a different side of the region’s charm.

From festive dining to seaside relaxation, the resort presents a simple invitation to celebrate the city first, then escape to the island where the spirit of the occasion lingers a little longer. For inquiries and reservations, email reservations@discoverysamal.com or call +63 84 308 2998.

 

Grab and MOVE IT partner with ARK, drive urban food security among rider communities

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Grab Philippines and MOVE IT have partnered with social impact innovator ARK Solves to launch a community-led food security program aimed at helping gig worker communities build more sustainable and self-reliant food sources.

Nearly 1,000 Grab delivery-partners and MOVE IT rider-partners have signed up in the pilot rollout of the ARK’s flagship community exchange program ‘Feed Back’

At the center of the partnership is Feed Back, ARK Solves’ flagship community exchange program that enables families to grow fresh produce at home and share excess harvests with their neighbors, helping strengthen food access at the community level.

The collaboration comes amid continuing concerns over food security in the Philippines. While government data showed food inflation easing to 0.7 percent in January 2026, down from 1.2 percent in December 2025 and 4.0 percent a year earlier, the Department of Agriculture said the gains remain fragile and could easily be undone by renewed supply disruptions[1].

Grab Philippines Managing Director Ronald Roda shares: “Grab remains committed to helping our driver- and delivery-partners and their families stay resilient in the face of shifting macroeconomic realities. Beyond ensuring that livelihood opportunities on our platform remain viable, we believe it is equally important to introduce support programs that reinforce their long-term well-being. Through our partnership with ARK Solves, we hope to help more gig worker families build more sustainable lives and greater food security for the future.”

The partnership was formally launched with the support of the local government units of Montalban, San Mateo, and Antipolo in Rizal, where the program will be piloted among Grab and MOVE IT’s rider community. So far, almost 700 community leaders and rider-partners from the platforms have signed up and begun receiving seeds, along with training on how to grow food and compost even in small spaces.

“Community has always been at the heart of MOVE IT. Our rider-partners look out for each other, and we see that every day in how they support one another on and off the road,” highlights MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto. “Our role is not just to recognize that strong sense of solidarity, but to help harness it, so riders can come together and co-create sustainable programs that support their everyday needs.”

Over the course of the 16-week program, participating riders will help expand access to fresh produce within their households and communities. Once harvests are ready, they will lead weekly exchange activities in their neighborhoods, allowing families and neighbors to share surplus crops with one another.

“This partnership is a major milestone, as we work with Grab and MOVE IT in showcasing how we can enable Feed Back’s impact to thrive wherever it is needed the most, including urban areas,” says Ayesha Vera-Yu, CEO and Co-Founder of ARK.

By combining behavior-change principles with a market-based approach, Feed Back helps families build and sustain productive home gardens that strengthen access to localized food sources. The program, which gathers multiple partners, has since scaled to 120 communities across the country, benefiting more than 36,000 fishing and farming households.

Following the initial rollout, Grab, MOVE IT and ARK Solves plan to expand the program to more driver- and rider-rich communities in the months ahead, applying lessons from the pilot to improve the model as it scales.

About Grab

Grab is a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, operating across the deliveries, mobility and digital financial services sectors. Serving over 700 cities in eight Southeast Asian countries - Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - Grab enables millions of people everyday to order food or groceries, send packages, hail a ride or taxi, pay for online purchases or access services such as lending and insurance, all through a single app. Grab was founded in 2012 with the mission to drive Southeast Asia forward by creating economic empowerment for everyone, and strives to serve a triple bottom line: to simultaneously deliver financial sustainability and have a positive social and environmental impact in Southeast Asia.

About ARK Solves

ARK is an award-winning social impact innovator. With over 120+ partner communities and over 200,000 lives impacted, ARK has become the go-to food security solution in the Philippines, proving that hunger can be solved for good.

For more information, email info@arksolves.org and visit fb.com/ARKSolves for latest updates.

[1] https://www.da.gov.ph/da-eyes-supply-fixes-to-head-off-food-inflation-pressure/remains

Home Credit Philippines Encourages Customers to Seek Early Support for Payment Concern

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Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) is encouraging customers to reach out early if they encounter payment difficulties, underscoring the company’s continued commitment to responsible lending and customer care.

Through its Payment Support Program, Home Credit works with customers experiencing temporary financial challenges to explore practical repayment arrangements suited to their situation. The program is a standing support service available to all customers and forms part of the company’s broader approach to helping Filipinos maintain financial stability throughout their loan journey.

Whether dealing with medical expenses, employment transitions, or unexpected family needs, customers may coordinate directly with Home Credit representatives to discuss available options designed to keep repayment plans manageable.

In 2025 alone, more than 30,000 customers accessed Home Credit’s payment support services, reflecting growing awareness of the importance of early communication in managing financial obligations.

“Behind every payment is effort and commitment,” said Wojciech Krotoszynski, Head of Collections at Home Credit Philippines. “Our role is to listen, understand our customers’ situations, and work with them to find solutions when circumstances change. When customers reach out early, we are better able to support them and help them stay on track.”

Home Credit emphasizes that seeking assistance early can help prevent temporary financial challenges from becoming more difficult burdens. By coordinating proactively, customers may: 

• Discuss flexible payment arrangements for a defined period
• Maintain alignment with their longer-term financial plans
• Identify practical repayment solutions with company support

Customers who wish to learn more about payment assistance options may contact Home Credit through:

• Our official Home Credit website at www.homecredit.ph
• Official customer support channels
• Verified company representatives

As one of the country’s leading consumer finance providers, Home Credit Philippines continues to strengthen programs that promote responsible borrowing, financial resilience, and accessible support for Filipino customers. 

About Home Credit 

Home Credit Philippines is the leading consumer finance company in the country, backed by Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited (Krungsri), the fifth largest bank in Thailand, and Security Bank Corporation, one of the most trusted and leading universal banks in the Philippines. 

Now in its 12th year, Home Credit has served over 12 million Filipinos and financed more than ₱400 billion worth of loans through a diverse portfolio that includes installment financing, cash loans, credit cards, and Qwarta, a virtual spending limit. 

Registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Home Credit continues to drive financial inclusion by expanding access to credit and transforming the consumer finance landscape. The company was named Best Finance Company of the Philippines in 2024 by the Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) Retail Banking Awards. 

More information on HCPH is available at www.homecredit.ph.  

 

Baguio blooms brighter as Jollibee spreads joy at Panagbenga 2026

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Baguio City came alive as Jollibee, the Philippines' no. 1 fastfood chain, joined the vibrant Panagbenga Festival, delighting locals and tourists alike with a spectacular float, campus treats, and exclusive promos that added extra cheer to the City of Pines’ annual flower celebration.

“Panagbenga shows Baguio at its most beautiful, and Jollibee is proud to fill it with joy,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Whether it’s a float that amazes or treats that make every day special, our goal was simple, and that was to share joy with every person, everywhere.”

Building on its legacy of festival excellence, Jollibee participated in the large float competition with a spectacular floral masterpiece inspired by Cordilleran artistry. The float featured a miniature Stone Kingdom symbolizing the region’s creativity, a radiant cityscape in full bloom, a rotating Mines View observation deck showcasing Baguio’s scenic landscapes, and a giant Chickenjoy Bucket seemingly blossoming from a flower, capturing the festival’s playful and joyful spirit.

Jollibee also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry to bring its BEE Earth’s Best Friend campaign to Benguet, promoting sustainable practices. Customers who opted not to use plastic utensils for take-out or drive-thru orders from February 27 to March 27 were rewarded with incentives for future visits. Music fans enjoyed a lively appearance from Jollibee and Friends at the Coke Studio Concert at Melvin Jones Football Grounds on February 27.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to share their Jollibee moments on social media using #JolliPanagbenga2026 for a chance to be featured on the brand’s official channels.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

 

DENR cites SM for group-wide efforts on plastic recovery and waste management

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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recognized the SM Group for its support of the Extended Producer Responsibility Program (EPR) that aimed to reduce plastic use, recover plastic packaging, and strengthen on-ground waste systems across its diverse business units.

(From left to right) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs Atty. Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla; SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions and SM GUUN President George Cheung; SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels; SM Retail, Inc. Vice President for Sustainability Suyin Liu; Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) President Engr. Jess G. Reyes; DENR Assistant Secretary for Environment and concurrent Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Jacqueline A. Caancan.

In a recently concluded event on January 30, 2026, the DENR cited SM’s coordinated group approach that went beyond compliance under Republic Act No. 11898, also known as the EPR Law of 2022, particularly in ‘advancing recovery, reduction, innovation, and inclusive circular economy practices that support the national Zero Waste to Nature agenda.’

“This award is a credit to every part of the SM group, and we're very grateful to receive it. From our retail business, to our banks and logistics companies, they have been reducing their plastic footprints in their packaging and influencing consumer behavior to use less plastic,” said SM Investments Corporation Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels.

SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through its #SMWasteFreeFuture project, has partnered with Japanese waste processing firm Guun Co., Ltd to convert waste back into new materials at their first waste processing factory in Consolacion, Cebu.

To further enhance the development of waste conversion, SM has installed RDC-labeled (recyclable, disposable, compostable) bins across various SM properties nationwide. Recyclables, such as bottles, cans, and paper, are sorted and sent to their respective recycling plants. Meanwhile, disposables such as cups, straws, and rags are converted into replacement fuel for cement kilns. Compostables, or food scraps, are converted to landscaping soil within 48 hours.

“GUUN is a collaboration across the Group that ensures consumption or waste is not the end of the economic cycle,” said SM GUUN President George Cheung who is also concurrently SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions.

The #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign consolidates various initiatives across SM’s ecosystem of businesses into a centralized system, communicating its commitment to environmental stewardship and championing sustainable communities.

Under this initiative, other SM companies, such as SM Supermalls continue to lead with its long-running Trash-to-Cash (TTC) monthly recycling market held in SM malls nationwide, where customers can exchange recyclables such as paper, plastic, metal or even appliances for cash. TTC facilitates the exchange of over 1.5 million kilograms of recyclables every year. Customers can also find the E-Waste Collection bins in Cyberzone areas and the Plastic Waste Collection vans in 15 malls.

In addition, SM Markets, the SM Group’s umbrella brand for SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore, has ushered in greener retail practices in encouraging the use of eco-bags over single-use plastics since 2007. In 2025 alone, SM Markets sold 20.8 million Green Bags, equivalent to around 31.2 million plastic bags avoided.

“When we look at plastics, which is a significant problem in the Philippines, we have looked to take quite a range of actions across the group. But what they have in common is that they are very practical, they are commercially viable initiatives, and they all have actual meaningful differences that we make to the plastics problem,” said Mr. Daniels.

Lenten Specials now available at The Manila Hotel

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THE Manila Hotel welcomes guests to gather over meat-free, comforting dishes thoughtfully prepared for this Lenten season. 

Across its dining outlets, a selection of Lenten specialties joins the hotel’s well-loved vegan and vegetarian offerings, creating menus that feel both meaningful and satisfying.

At the Lobby Lounge, the Lenten menu leans into bright flavors and wholesome comfort. 

Guests can try the Spring Citrus Salad, a refreshing mix of mesclun greens, orange and pomelo in olive oil-raspberry dressing, or the Green Lentil Soup infused with fresh herb pistou.

Heartier options include Linguine in Walnut Sauce with cherry tomato and fresh basil, White Cheese and Spinach Pizza with roasted garlic and ricotta, and Tandoori Pompano served with tomato-cucumber salad and freshly baked naan.

MEAT-FREE OFFERS 

The Manila Hotel offers meat-free, comforting dishes this Lenten season across its dining outlets. Photo shows the Buddha Salad Bowl at the Lobby Lounge. 

Beyond these Lenten specials, the hotel continues to offer an extensive selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes year-round from salads to vegetable entrees and meat-free dishes, reflecting its commitment to inclusive and mindful dining.

For plant-based diners, the vegan a la carte menu at Lobby Lounge and In-Room Dining offers comforting favorites with a wholesome twist.

For those seeking a more refined culinary journey, Champagne Room presents its Vegan Degustation menu, a multicourse dining experience that evolves monthly.

At Red Jade, the Vegetarian Set Menu brings the classic Chinese flavors to the forefront. Meanwhile, M Takeout completes the meat-free offerings with well-balanced solo meals, comforting rice and noodle bowls with its vegan options.

PHOTOS FROM THE MANILA HOTEL

Tanza’s Transformation from Coastal Town to a Rising Growth Hub in Cavite

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Driven by better connectivity, infrastructure, and early residential developments such as Micara Estates by Profriends, Tanza continues to evolve into one of Cavite’s emerging places to live

Tanza is steadily progressing into one of Cavite’s emerging growth centers, supported by improved access, growing communities, and a continuous pace of development.

As connectivity and infrastructure improve across the province, Tanza is becoming a practical option for families seeking long-term opportunities beyond Metro Manila. Residential communities continue to take shape, daily essentials are within closer reach, and growth feels steady rather than overwhelming.

Long before this shift gained wider attention, Property Company of Friends, Inc. (Profriends), one of the country’s fastest-growing property developers, recognized Tanza’s potential. In 2014, Profriends established Micara Estates, guided by the belief that progress should be built around people. Since then, the development has continued to support Tanza’s growth by nurturing meaningful connections and creating spaces where families can grow and feel at home.

Moving beyond a coastal identity

For decades, Tanza was known as a coastal municipality shaped by fishing and farming. As Cavite’s development gradually expanded, that identity began to evolve. Tanza opened itself to urban growth while preserving the community-oriented character that long defined everyday life in the town.

Located in northwestern Cavite and fronting Manila Bay, Tanza now benefits from a position within reach of major economic areas while offering a calmer pace than the capital. Residential neighborhoods and emerging commercial activity reflect a town no longer defined by a single livelihood, with families now engaged in manufacturing, retail, logistics, and services. This steady transition has allowed Tanza to absorb new opportunities without losing the sense of familiarity that continues to make it feel like home.

Stronger connectivity and accessibility

Improved road networks continue to support Tanza’s steady progress by making daily travel more efficient and predictable. Major routes such as CAVITEX, CALAX, the C5 Link, CCLINK, and the NAIA Expressway connect the municipality to Metro Manila and key business areas, helping residents manage work commutes, logistics, and access to essential services. Access to transport hubs such as the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), together with LRT Line 1, has also made public transportation more accessible for daily commuters.

Within Cavite, the Tanza–Trece Road provides direct access to Trece Martires City and other nearby destinations, while Antero Soriano Highway remains a vital local route supporting public transportation and connections to neighboring municipalities. Future access to the Cavite–Bataan Bridge is also expected to strengthen regional links, reinforcing Tanza’s role as a practical place for long-term living.

Living close to work and everyday essentials

Alongside better roads, economic activity in Tanza has expanded. Industrial zones, commercial centers, and new enterprises have created employment opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and services. These developments strengthen the local economy and allow more residents to work closer to home, supporting a daily routine that is easier to manage over time.

Access to everyday essentials has also improved. Shopping centers such as SM Tanza and nearby retail areas in General Trias provide residents with access to supermarkets, dining options, and basic services. Schools, hospitals, churches, and local markets are within reach, reducing the need for frequent trips outside the area. This growing convenience supports a balanced lifestyle, where work, daily needs, and family time can be handled within the same community.

A community designed to grow with Tanza

As Tanza continues to develop, established residential communities have played a role in shaping how growth is experienced within the town. Micara Estates has been part of Tanza since 2014, providing housing options at a time when the town’s wider transformation was only beginning to take shape. Over the years, the community has grown alongside the municipality, supporting families who chose to settle in Tanza for the long term.

Micara Estates was planned to support everyday living beyond the home itself. The vision comes to life through community initiatives such as GalingMicara, led by volunteer homeowners, many of whom are youth. They organize activities focused on sports, health and wellness, learning, livelihood, and environmental care. Through these shared efforts, families are encouraged to participate, strengthening everyday connections across the community.

Located along Antero Soriano Highway in Barangay Sahud-Ulan, Micara Estates remains accessible to transport routes, workplaces, and daily services. As Tanza continues its steady progress, the community provides Filipino families with a place to live that aligns with the town’s pace of growth and supports a stable, community-oriented lifestyle.

“Tanza’s progress has been shaped by steady infrastructure, expanding opportunities, and the people who have chosen to build their lives here,” said Nieves Santos, Business Unit Head of Profriends. “Our role at Profriends is to support that progress by creating communities where residents can feel settled and connected. Micara Estates was planned to grow alongside Tanza, offering families not just homes, but shared spaces and a sense of community as the town continues to move forward.”

For the latest updates on Profriends communities, visit its official website at www.profriends.com. You can also follow its official social media accounts for news, events, and community highlights on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.