Alex Eala’s Tennis Match in PH to Help Up and Coming Filipino Tennis Players

Tweet

100% Merch Sales to be donated to PH Tennis Grassroots Program

MANILA, Philippines — More than a celebration of Alex Eala's achievements, the upcoming Alex Eala Live: Game. Set. Celebrate aims to turn the excitement surrounding her success into meaningful opportunities for the next generation of Filipino tennis players.

Set for December 8, 2026, at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, the exhibition featuring Eala and Indonesian tennis standout Janice Tjen will also serve as a platform to promote grassroots tennis development and greater access to the sport.

Event organiser Tatler, in partnership with the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA), is working to extend the event's impact beyond the court by providing complimentary tickets to local community groups and aspiring young players.

The event organisers will donate 100 percent of profit from OFFICIAL EVENT MERCHANDISE to PHILTA’s Tennis Grassroots Program that supports local tennis community impact programmes, helping bring the sport closer to underserved communities.

PHILTA Secretary General John Rey Tiangco emphasised the importance of building on Eala's success to develop more Filipino tennis talent.

"Alex has already placed the Philippines on the world tennis map. But her success did not happen overnight. Behind her achievements are years of hard work, sacrifice, and the unwavering support of her family, who believed in her from the very beginning. We hope her journey inspires more institutions to step forward, not only to support Alex as she reaches greater heights, but also to invest in the development of Philippine tennis and the next generation of Filipino athletes,” Tiangco said.

“Alex Eala’s journey is an inspiration to Filipinos everywhere, and Alex Eala Live is an opportunity not only to celebrate what she has achieved, but also to think about what comes next. We want the excitement around this event to extend beyond the court and create opportunities for more young Filipinos to discover tennis, participate in the sport and believe that they too can pursue their ambitions. We thank our sponsors and partners for helping us bring this vision to life and support the future of Philippine tennis.” said Michel Lamunière, Chairman and CEO of Tatler Group.

"Now, our responsibility is to create more opportunities for young Filipinos to follow in her footsteps. We don't just want to celebrate one champion. We want to help develop the next generation of champions," Tiangco added.

Supporting this shared vision are BingoPlus, Jollibee, Marriott Bonvoy, BPI, Globe, and Rebisco, whose participation highlights the vital role of private institutions in supporting Philippine sports.

BPI and Globe, in particular, have stood behind Eala's career long before her international breakthrough, demonstrating the value of sustained support for athletes even before success is guaranteed.

For many promising Filipino athletes, access to proper training, facilities, coaching, and competitive opportunities remains a challenge. Partnerships between sporting organisations and the private sector can help bridge these gaps and give more young talents a chance to succeed.

"We are grateful to the organisations supporting this event, and we hope more companies will invest in Filipino athletes, especially those still developing their potential. Somewhere in our communities is the next Alex Eala. We just need to give them the opportunity, " Tiangco said.

Through Alex Eala Live, Tatler, PHILTA, and their partners hope to demonstrate that the true impact of a sporting event goes beyond the competition itself.

Because Alex Eala's greatest legacy may not only be the titles she wins, but the doors she opens for the next generation of Filipino athletes.

Event: Alex Eala Live: Game. Set. Celebrate

Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2026

Venue: Philippine Arena, Ciudad de Victoria, Bulacan

Headline Match: Alex Eala vs. Janice Tjen

Tickets: From PHP600; Platinum, VVIP and Gold sold out. Diamond, Silver, Bronze and accessible seating still available

Tickets are available through TicketWorld

Coca-Cola Philippines Puts Filipino Stories at the Heart of “Coke Natin ‘To”

Tweet

The new campaign celebrates the people and connections that have made Coca-Cola part of Filipino life for generations.

Coca-Cola Philippines has launched “Coke Natin ‘To,” a new campaign celebrating the people, communities and shared experiences that have made Coca-Cola part of Filipino life for generations.

At the center of the campaign is a film that highlights the people connected to Coca-Cola’s value chain across the country – from employees who produce and distribute Coca-Cola beverages, to sari-sari store and carinderia owners who bring these beverages to communities every day.

The campaign reflects the ways Coca‑Cola has become part of everyday moments shared by Filipinos, from meals at home and roadside gatherings to fiestas, celebrations and time spent with family and friends.

“Every bottle that reaches a Filipino home reflects the efforts of many people across our value chain,” said Chris Pesigan, President and Chief Executive Officer Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines. ” This campaign shines a light on their stories and contributions.”

The brand has also found its place in experiences that bring Filipinos together through music and culture. Coke Studio, for instance, provides Filipino artists with a platform to share their music and reach wider audiences while celebrating Original Pilipino Music. Coca-Cola Philippines is also present at local festivals across the country, reflecting the many ways the brand has become part of how Filipinos celebrate and create lasting memories.

This story also continues through Coca-Cola's work with local partners and communities, including initiatives that support livelihood opportunities, community water access and bottle collection and recycling.

One such example is Tapon to Ipon, Coca-Cola Philippines’ nationwide PET bottle collection program, which encourages consumers to collect and properly segregate used plastic bottles for recycling. Through a growing network of collection hubs and local partnerships, the program helps make bottle recovery more accessible and keeps valuable materials in circulation.

“Coke Natin ’To celebrates the people who continue to make Coca-Cola part of everyday life in the Philippines,” said Banu Karakullukcu Cetin, president, Coca-Cola Philippines. “Every bottle has a story behind it, and these stories belong to the people who make, move, share, and enjoy Coca-Cola. We are proud to be part of these shared moments and to continue supporting the communities that have welcomed us into their lives.”

Ang kwento mo ay kwento rin namin, Coke Natin ‘To.

Discover the people and stories behind Coke Natin ‘To. Watch the film on Facebook and learn more at https://cokeurl.com/CokeNatinTo

Your Journey to Japan Starts with Toshiba: Win an All-Expenses-Paid Dream Getaway or Premium Home Appliance

Tweet

Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines, the global leader in artisanal home appliance solutions, is bringing back its seasonal raffle promotion, the Journey to Japan. Running nationwide from November 1, 2026 to January 30, 2027, the campaign offers shoppers the chance to experience authentic Japanese heritage firsthand or upgrade their homes with premium Japanese appliances.

Two grand prize winners will receive an all-expenses-paid 4-day and 3-night trip for two to Tokyo, Japan. The exclusive cultural journey features immersive traditional ceremonies, fine culinary explorations, and visits to iconic Tokyo landmarks.

Additionally, 18 winners will take home premium Toshiba home appliance upgrades valued up to PHP 119,995.

Customers will receive one raffle entry for every single-receipt purchase worth at least PHP 15,000 from participating dealers nationwide. A clear photo of the official purchase receipt or invoice must be uploaded on or before January 30, 2027 to the online registration form accessible at www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/ph or by scanning the promo QR code available in-store.

The Journey to Japan celebrates Toshiba Lifestyle's commitment to superior Japanese quality, meticulous attention to detail, and innovative home living solutions. Designed for discerning homeowners and modern families, Toshiba home appliances serve as long-term lifestyle investments that seamlessly integrate functionality, aesthetic elegance, and lasting performance.

For a complete list of participating stores and full mechanics, visit 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.

Mang Inasal Tsoko N' Nut Yema Halo-Halo: A New Holiday Dessert You Must Try

Tweet

Chocolate lovers have a new, exciting reason to celebrate the Holidays as Mang Inasal introduces its latest limited-time dessert, the Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo, available nationwide from November 1 to December 31 only.

The new limited-time dessert brings together chocolate, peanut, and salted caramel yema flavors in an indulgent twist on the well-loved Filipino dessert. Available in 12-oz and 16-oz sizes starting at ₱99, it offers a new option for those looking to satisfy their sweet cravings this holiday season.

The Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo combines Mang Inasal's signature extra-creamy milk with Rocky Road ice cream, choco-peanut bars, powdered chocolate, crunchy chocolate coating, and a drizzle of salted caramel yema. The result is a mix of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty elements in every spoonful.

The new offering follows Mang Inasal's previous limited-time halo-halo variants, including the Four-Cheese Halo-Halo in 2025 and the Strawberry Cheesecake Halo-Halo introduced earlier this year.

"Given the strong reception of its previous innovations, Mang Inasal wanted to create another dessert or merienda experience that would excite its customers," said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. "Chocolate remains a well-loved flavor among Filipinos, and we believe that the Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo offers an extra creamy and indulgent way to celebrate the Christmas season."

Among those who got an early taste of Mang Inasal's newest halo-halo flavor was food content creator Chewy's Mukbangs, who initially expected the chocolate flavors to dominate but was pleasantly surprised by the balance of ingredients. "This will be my go-to Mang Inasal dessert this holiday season," she shared on social media.

Japanese ‘foreignoy’ content creator Shotaro Kumano enjoyed what he described as a ‘tsoko overload,’ particularly the combination of the crunchy chocolate coating, Rocky Road ice cream, and choco-peanut bars. "This is another reason for me to visit Mang Inasal more often," Kumano said.

For his part, foodie content creator Kent Xyrel Espiritu appreciated how the different ingredients complemented one another. "As a chocolate lover, I like how the chocolate coating gives extra texture in every bite. What I liked was how the salted caramel yema balanced all the chocolate flavors. I rate it 10/10!" Espiritu shared.

With its combination of chocolatey goodness, crunchy toppings, and extra-creamy milk, the Mang Inasal Tsoko n' Nut Yema Halo-Halo offers a fresh take on the traditional Filipino dessert. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon merienda, a sweet treat after a meal, or a dessert shared with family and friends, this limited-time offering makes the holiday season even sweeter.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Angélica Dass and TECNO Launch the Philippines Portrait Gallery of “Seeing Beyond Labels”

Tweet

The gallery brings together 20 Filipinos whose lives intersect with solo motherhood, revealing the diverse roles, relationships and ambitions that extend far beyond a single label.

TECNO and internationally acclaimed artist Angélica Dass today unveiled the Philippines portrait gallery of 100 Portraits of Becoming. Featuring portraits of 20 compelling people and personal stories, the new collection is live on TECNO’s global story archive. 100 Portraits of Becoming is a two-year global documentary portrait project, spanning five countries and powered by TECNO Universal Tone imaging technology. The Philippines marks its second chapter, following its successful launch in Kenya.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beyond the Label of Solo Motherhood: TECNO and Angélica Dass Launch the Philippines Portrait Gallery for 100 Portraits of Becoming

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Philippines Portrait Gallery of 

“Seeing Beyond Labels”

For the Philippine chapter, themed “See Beyond Labels,” Angélica Dass photographed 20 individuals in Manila whose lives intersect with solo motherhood in diverse ways. The gallery honors a powerful truth: behind every societal label is a human life shaped by many roles, deep relationships and personal ambitions, reminding us that no one should be defined by a single societal label or a single title like “solo mom”.

This creative direction is rooted in the realities of Filipino family life. According to publicly available data, the country has an estimated 14 to 15 million solo parents, with women accounting for about 95% of them. An estimated 2.19 million Filipinos worked overseas in 2024, with women making up 57.2% of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW). Behind these figures are individual lives that are far more layered. This is the space the Philippines chapter sets out to explore.

Captured on the CAMON Slim 5G with TECNO Universal Tone, the Philippines chapter of 100 Portraits of Becoming naturally connects with CAMON Slim 5G’s “Make It Lighter” philosophy, using technology to make expressive photography feel more accessible, intuitive and open to more people.

The Stories Behind the Portraits of 20 People

Through their portraits, that broader context becomes personal, revealing very different experiences of work, family, care and becoming.

Angélica Dass taking portrait photos in Manila

Some stories come from working solo mothers themselves. Others are told through the perspectives of adults raised by solo mothers, multi-generation families, Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) caregivers, and media or community advocates who work closely with women and families. These diverse narratives highlight a pervasive challenge: the social tendency to let a single label define an individual's entire life and capability.

To challenge these stereotypes, their discussions addressed core questions surrounding work, family, and identity - How does motherhood intersect with professional ambition? How do grown children raised in solo-parent families reflect on their upbringing? And what structural support, choices and personal wisdom help families navigate everyday life?

Ultimately, these stories reveal a richer, more nuanced picture of modern family life of solo mothers and women in general: women building fulfilling careers while raising children, multi-generational networks sharing caregiving responsibilities, adults drawing strength from the mothers who raised them, and individuals continuously pursuing their own ambitions.

Portraits of 20 people connected to solo motherhood

Portraits of 20 people connected to solo motherhood from the Philippines chapter now are joining the global 100 Portraits of Becoming on TECNO’s official website, where their images and stories can be explored together.

Her Many Ways of Becoming

Among the 20 participants is Ely Haig, a solo working mother, breadwinner, advertising professional and competitive amateur padel player.

Ely became a mother just as her career was taking off. For a time, she stepped back from opportunities and focused on taking care of everyone around her. Later, she found a different kind of diskarte: knowing what matters to her, then finding ways to make room for her career, her daughter, side projects and padel.

“Being a good mother shouldn’t mean leaving yourself behind,” said Ely. “I want people to see more than a solo mom. A mother, yes, but also a creative, a career woman, an athlete, still becoming.”

The Portrait of Ely Haig

Twinkle Dimayuga Zamora raised two children as a solo mother before turning her own experience into community support. She later founded MAMA, Mothers Advocating through Ministry and Action, an initiative supporting solo mothers and their children. Her diskarte is simple: ask for help, communicate openly and build a village. “Sometimes the strongest thing a mother can do is say, ‘I need help,’” she said.

The Portrait of Twinkle Dimayuga Zamora

Eunice N. Angeles, a fourth-year nursing student, was raised by a solo mother who later became an OFW in Qatar. Growing up, she watched her mother keep finding opportunities and making difficult choices to create a better future for them both. That confidence became something Eunice feels she inherited. “I want people to see what I grew up with: confidence, determination and the courage to find my own way.”

The Portrait of Eunice N. Angeles

These stories reflect different expressions of their own diskarte: the wisdom, resourcefulness and choices women draw on to navigate life in their own way. More stories from the 20 portraits can be explored in the Philippines gallery of 100 Portraits of Becoming, part of TECNO’s global story archive.

An Opportunity to See Behind the Portraits

For Angélica Dass, the Philippines chapter is an opportunity to move from a shared social context to the individual lives within it. Across the 20 portraits, she encountered different ambitions, relationships, personalities and ways of navigating everyday life.

Renowned photographer Angélica Dass captures portraits using the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G in Manila, Philippines.

“What stayed with me was the realization that ‘solo motherhood’ is only one part of a person's identity. Through the stories shared with me and the moments we created during the portrait sessions, I was reminded that behind every label there is a person with their own ambitions, relationships, choices, and dreams. No single label can tell us everything about who someone is.”

To ground these stories in authenticity, the portraits were photographed on location across Manila in environments directly tied to each participant’s daily life—whether a workplace, a family home, or a familiar community space.

The creative approach echoes the campaign’s core philosophy: leaving space to portray work, ambition, relationships, humour and daily routines — the rich parts of everyday life that extend far beyond a single role or a single label.

From Kenya to the Philippines, and Beyond

All portraits in the Philippines were photographed by Angélica Dass using the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G, supported by TECNO Universal Tone technology.

TECNO Universal Tone was developed to more accurately represent a broad spectrum of human skin tones in mobile photography. Within 100 Portraits of Becoming, that capability supports a wider idea at the heart of the project: seeing people as they are, with greater accuracy and attention to individuality.

“What moved us about the Philippines chapter was seeing how naturally motherhood, work, ambition and personal identity can coexist in the same life,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO. “We hope technology can play a small part in helping people be seen more fully, and their stories better understood.”

The Philippines marks the second stop of 100 Portraits of Becoming, following the project’s launch in Kenya in July 2026. Over two years, the initiative will bring together 100 portraits across multiple countries, building a story archive of people, stories and possibilities.

In Kenya, the project explored how people move beyond inherited narratives about place and the future. In the Philippines, the lens turns to family, identity and the roles people carry, looking beyond the first label to the person, the people around her, and who she is still becoming.

And with the Philippines now joining the archive, more portraits, more stories and more ways of becoming are still to be unveiled in more countries.

For any related media queries, please contact pr.tecno@tecno-mobile.com.

2GO Delivers Learning Resources to Public Schools in Culion, Palawan

Tweet

Donation of books bound for Culion Foundation, Inc. (CFI) beneficiaries (Photo courtesy of CFI)

MANILA, Philippines, October 2026 — 2GO, the country's leading integrated transportation and logistics provider, partnered with Culion Foundation, Inc. (CFI) to deliver essential learning resources to 19 public schools across Culion, Palawan, helping make educational materials more accessible to students in one of the country's island communities.

Through 2GO’s integrated transport and logistics network, CFI delivered 17,239 books to elementary and high school students across the coastal municipality. The initiative supports CFI’s Education Program, which aims to strengthen local literacy, improve access to learning materials, and advance foundational educational goals.

The collaboration demonstrates how 2GO’s core capabilities can support organizations in reaching beneficiaries beyond major urban centers. By facilitating the transport of donated resources to underserved communities, 2GO helps connect organizations with the students and families they seek to serve.

“At 2GO, we believe our role goes beyond providing transport and logistics solutions. By working with partners like the Culion Foundation, we leverage our nationwide reach to help address community needs and support education initiatives that create more opportunities for the next generation. Ultimately, connecting the country means helping ensure that more Filipinos can participate in and benefit from its growth,” said 2GO President and CEO Frederic DyBuncio.

For organizations distributing resources across geographically dispersed communities, reliable logistics is essential to translating donations into tangible support for beneficiaries. By working with trusted community organizations, 2GO applies its transport and logistics solutions to move essential resources where they are needed, while contributing to broader efforts to improve access to education.

“Our partnership with 2GO has been instrumental in helping us bring donated books to public schools across Culion. Their logistics support demonstrates how the private sector can mobilize its core strengths to create collective community impact. Together, we are helping make learning resources more accessible and opening more opportunities for children to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Eugenio M. Caccam Jr., CFI executive director.

The initiative reflects 2GO's commitment to extending the value of its integrated solutions beyond commercial requirements. By working with organizations on the ground, the company helps connect resources with communities and supports efforts to expand access to education.

On Running Lands Exclusively on LazMall Philippines and Thailand

Tweet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monster Munch! Here Are Some Tasty Snack Picks for your Horror Movie Marathon

Tweet

Make your next horror movie marathon more enjoyable with URC favorites like C2 Cool 

and Clean, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Chippy, Mang Juan

Whether you're watching with the whole barkada or braving a horror movie alone, there's a snack for every kind of movie night.

There's something about Halloween that makes us willingly chase the thrill of a good scare. We know that suspicious noise coming from the basement is probably bad news, and we know that splitting up is never a good idea. Yet somehow, we keep watching, eager to find out what happens next.

Of course, how you choose to scare yourself is entirely up to you. Some prefer watching horror movies with friends (because misery loves company), while others would rather enjoy a good scare alone. And then there are those who couldn't care less about what's playing, as long as there are snacks.

Whichever kind of horror movie watcher you are, here's what to munch on this Halloween.

For the Barkada That Screams Together: Chippy Barbecue and C2 Litro Lemon

You know it's going to be a good movie night when half the group is screaming at the screen and the other half is laughing at them.

Keep Chippy Barbecue within reach for everyone to munch on between jump scares and hilarious reactions. Throw in a C2 Litro Lemon for the group, and you've got the refreshments covered.

For the Horror Buff Who's Seen It All: Chicharron ni Mang Juan Espesyal Suka't Sili

We all know someone who takes their horror movies seriously. They've seen all the classics, know their way around foreign horror films, and have strong opinions about which sequels should never have been made. For them, one movie is never enough. It's always a full-blown horror marathon.

And what better way to keep the marathon going than with a snack that keeps you craving another bite? Keep Chicharron ni Mang Juan Espesyal Suka't Sili within reach for an asim-anghang treat that's *nakakagana*, perfect for munching on as you work your way through your horror movie watchlist.

For Those Who Dare to Watch Alone: Piattos Roadhouse Barbecue

There's watching a horror movie, and then there's watching a horror movie alone. With the lights off. At night.

If you're the type who enjoys a good scare without anyone interrupting, Piattos Roadhouse Barbecue makes the perfect companion for some well-deserved me-time. Think about it: no one talking over important scenes, no one asking you to explain the plot, and no one suggesting you switch to a comedy halfway through.

Just you, your go-to horror movie, and a bag of your favorite hexagonal potato crisps you don't have to share with anyone. Now that's what we call uninterrupted me-time.

For the One Who's Just There for the Snacks: Magic Chips Cheese

Let's be real: Not everyone who shows up for a horror movie night is actually interested in watching horror movies.

Maybe you were invited by a friend. Or maybe you heard there would be food and decided that was reason enough to leave the house.

If you're more invested in the snack selection than the movie itself, Magic Chips Cheese should be right up your alley. They're flavorful, crunchy, and satisfying enough to keep you occupied while everyone else is busy figuring out who's going to survive.

Whether you're screaming with the barkada, enjoying a solo scare, or simply showing up for the food, the right snacks and drinks can make any horror movie night more enjoyable. So, pick your favorite scary flicks, stock up on your go-to munchies from Universal Robina Corporation (URC). Get ready for a Halloween marathon filled with good scares and even better snacking.

Before We Sail: Five Ways 2GO Prepares for Passenger Safety

Tweet

Ahead of the holiday travel season, 2GO Travel highlights the preparations behind every voyage, reinforcing its commitment as a reliable travel partner for safe and comfortable journeys. At 2GO Travel, every voyage begins with a continuous commitment to safety.

From training crew members and inspecting safety equipment to assessing vessel readiness and securing the necessary clearances, a series of measures takes place behind the scenes before every ship departs.

Through Before We Sail, 2GO Travel highlights five key practices that help support safe and dependable journeys for travelers across its passenger network.

1. Building readiness through regular crew drills

Safety begins with a well-prepared crew. Regular drills give 2GO personnel opportunities to practice emergency response procedures, strengthen coordination, and reinforce their individual responsibilities onboard.

These exercises help foster a culture where safety is a shared responsibility, and readiness remains a priority every day.

2. Inspecting safety facilities and equipment

Alongside crew preparedness, 2GO routinely inspects safety facilities and equipment onboard its vessels to help ensure their condition and operational readiness.

These inspections support emergency preparedness and help identify any items requiring attention before a vessel sets sail.

3. Conducting vessel checks before every journey

Preparations continue even after a ship completes its voyage. Following arrival and ahead of departure, technical teams carry out routine deck, engine, and bearing inspections to assess the vessel's condition and readiness for its next trip.

These assessments help keep vessels operating safely and efficiently for passengers and crew alike.

4. Screening baggage and cargo brought onboard

Passenger safety also extends to everything carried aboard the vessel.

As part of standard operating procedures, baggage and cargo undergo screening before loading to help manage potential risks and contribute to a secure onboard environment.

5. Securing the required departure clearances

Before leaving port, 2GO works closely with the Philippine Coast Guard to complete the required inspections and obtain the necessary departure clearances.

A vessel departs only after receiving the required approval, providing an additional layer of oversight before every sailing.

A Shared Commitment to Safe Travel

These five practices form part of 2GO Travel's ongoing commitment to passenger safety. With 2GO Travel's strict measures in place, the company works to ensure every voyage begins with safety at the forefront, giving passengers greater confidence every time they sail.

Passengers also play an important role in maintaining a safe onboard environment. Travelers are encouraged to pay attention to safety briefings, familiarize themselves with emergency exits and life jacket locations, and approach crew members for assistance.

As families prepare to reunite and travel home this holiday season, 2GO Travel continues the work behind every journey, preparing its people, maintaining its vessels, and carrying out the measures that help passengers sail with confidence.

For bookings, visit travel.2go.com.ph.

Jollibee gives ‘red flags’ a spicy twist with Chickenjoy

Tweet

Red flags are usually a warning sign in dating, but Jollibee is giving Filipinos a different reason to embrace them: spicy fried chicken and witty one-liners that are made to be shared online.

With #TheOnlyRedFlagIWant, Jollibee turned the viral trend into a fun, feel-good experience both online and in-store, bringing its Spicy Chickenjoy to life through cute, funny, and relatable flaglets. The campaign sparked buzz on X, with “JOLLY RED FLAG” trending and inspiring netizens to join the fun and discover the witty flags for themselves.

“We’ve seen how much our customers enjoy joining online trends and creating their own content, even when they’re dining in our stores. We wanted to bring that same fun to their Spicy Chickenjoy experience through these playful flaglets, giving them something to enjoy, take photos of, and share with their friends,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines.

Inspired by the popular online habit of joking about relationship red flags, Jollibee’s “The Only Red Flag You Want” features special flaglets with witty messages that turn the familiar dating term into a fun dining experience.

Among the lines featured on the flaglets are “Red flag na laging available for you” (“A red flag who’s always available for you”), “Red flag na pwede ipakilala sa friends mo” (“A red flag you can introduce to your friends”), and “Red flag worth saying ‘yes’ to.”

The flaglets give customers another way to enjoy their Spicy Chickenjoy, share a laugh with friends, and create their own content inspired by the trend.

The special red flaglets will be available from October 15 to November 15, or until supplies last, at 54 participating Jollibee stores nationwide.

Customers can join the fun by getting a flaglet, choosing their favorite line, and sharing their photos and videos online using #TheOnlyRedFlagIWant.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites via GrabFood and foodpanda, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises.

Beyond the Kitchen: Meet the Chefs Behind Grand Westside Manila Bay

Tweet

This International Chefs Day, Grand Westside Manila Bay celebrates the culinary talents shaping its dining experiences through Filipino flavours, memorable celebrations, creative indulgences and thoughtful kitchen practices.

Long before Grand Westside Manila Bay welcomed its first guests, its kitchens were already coming to life. Menus were being developed, recipes tested and a culinary team brought together, all in preparation for the opening of one of the country's largest hotels.

At the heart of these preparations was Executive Chef Christopher “Chris” Lugtu, whose culinary experience and leadership helped establish the hotel's kitchen operations from the ground up. Today, together with Executive Sous Chef Mary Ann “Meann” Senas and Pastry Chef Erwin Manes, he continues to shape the dining experiences enjoyed by guests.

This International Chefs Day, Grand Westside Manila Bay celebrates three chefs whose stories reflect the creativity, dedication and teamwork behind the food served every day.

Chef Chris Lugtu: Leading with Passion and Purpose

For Executive Chef Christopher “Chris” Lugtu, a successful kitchen begins with its people.

With an extensive career spanning international hospitality brands and leading hotels and resorts in the Philippines, Chef Chris brings a wealth of culinary experience and leadership to Grand Westside Manila Bay.

He joined the hotel during its pre-opening preparations in 2023, taking on the challenge of establishing its culinary operations. From developing menus and setting kitchen standards to assembling and mentoring the team, he has played an important role in shaping the hotel's food and beverage offerings.

His culinary approach draws inspiration from Filipino flavours and regional cooking traditions, bringing familiar dishes into a contemporary hotel dining setting. Creations such as Bukidnon Wagyu Adobo Ribs, Pork Belly Humba and Beef Sinigang Skewers reflect his appreciation for local ingredients and recipes that remind people of home.

“Some of the best meals are the ones that remind us of home. I enjoy working with familiar Filipino flavours and finding ways to present them differently, without losing what makes them special,” shares Chef Chris.

Beyond the menu, Chef Chris places equal importance on developing younger chefs, encouraging collaboration and building a kitchen culture where creativity and responsible practices go hand in hand.

Making Every Ingredient Count

For Chef Chris and his Culinary team, responsible cooking begins with thoughtful planning and making the most of every ingredient.

With the help of Winnow, a food waste monitoring system, the team continues to refine kitchen production, ingredient utilisation and portion planning while maintaining the quality and variety of the hotel's dining experiences.

By August 2026, the hotel recorded approximately 15% less food waste per guest cover compared with its January–August average, reflecting improvements in kitchen efficiency and resource management.

These efforts support Megaworld Hotels & Resorts' MEGreen sustainability programme and the hotel's commitment to responsible hospitality.

“Great dining experiences begin with the care and attention our people bring to their work. I'm proud of Chef Chris and our Culinary team for their creativity, dedication and thoughtful approach to making the most of our resources. It's a wonderful example of how good hospitality and responsible practices can go hand in hand,” shares Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay.

Chef Meann Senas: The Heart Behind Celebrations

For Executive Sous Chef Mary Ann “Meann” Senas, every banquet comes with a story.

With a background in luxury hospitality and extensive experience in banquet operations, Chef Meann understands that food plays an important part in life's celebrations, from weddings and family milestones to corporate gatherings.

She joined Grand Westside Manila Bay in 2024 as Sous Chef and has since progressed to Executive Sous Chef, taking on greater responsibilities in menu development, banquet operations and special events.

Her dedication and leadership earned her the hotel's 2025 Leader of the Year recognition, an achievement she credits to the colleagues who work alongside her.

“Behind every successful event are so many people working together. We have our challenging days, but we look after one another. That's what makes our team special,” shares Chef Meann.

For her, the greatest reward is seeing guests enjoy the celebrations that her team has worked so hard to prepare.

Chef Erwin Manes: The Joy of Little Indulgences

Not every memorable food experience calls for a special occasion.

Sometimes, it's a freshly baked pastry with morning coffee, a favourite cake shared with colleagues or a sweet treat brought home for the family.

At Quick To Go, Pastry Chef Erwin Manes brings his creativity to the hotel's selection of cakes, pastries and freshly prepared treats. His work calls for patience, consistency and an appreciation for the small details that make each creation special.

“I like knowing that something we've prepared can brighten someone's day. It may be a simple pastry or a slice of cake, but when guests come back for their favourites, that's a wonderful feeling,” shares Chef Erwin.

For him, those everyday moments of enjoyment are among the most satisfying parts of his work.

The People Behind Every Plate

From the international selections at Café by Westside and the pastries at Quick To Go to the carefully prepared menus for weddings and celebrations, each dining experience at Grand Westside Manila Bay reflects the efforts of a dedicated Culinary team.

This International Chefs Day, the hotel celebrates not only the skills and creativity of its chefs, but also their leadership, teamwork and commitment to making every ingredient count.

Behind every memorable meal are people who take pride in making it special.

Guests are invited to discover the culinary experiences at Grand Westside Manila Bay, from all-day dining at Café by Westside and freshly prepared treats at Quick To Go to menus created for weddings, celebrations and corporate events.

For dining reservations and banquet enquiries, please contact Grand Westside Manila Bay through its official reservations channels.

-----------------------------------------------------------

About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Grand Westside Manila Bay is the largest hotel in the Philippines, offering 1,528 rooms and suites in the heart of Westside City, Parañaque. Designed for business and leisure travellers, the hotel features contemporary accommodation, versatile meeting and event spaces, wellness facilities and a collection of dining experiences.

Conveniently located near Entertainment City, SM Mall of Asia and Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the hotel combines warm Filipino hospitality with an easy, contemporary stay experience.

A visual journey of memory and light: Richmonde Hotel Iloilo unveils “Dumdumanon” by artist Babak Niaraki

Tweet

ILOILO CITY, PHILIPPINES — In celebration of the Iloilo Arts Festival this October and in support of Iloilo Business Park’s recognition as the city’s Center of Arts and Culture, Richmonde Horel Iloilo recently launched Dumdumanon: Seeing Iloilo—Moments of a City, Seen and Remembered, a striking solo photography exhibition by multimedia artist Babak Niaraki.

Derived from the Hiligaynon word that means to remember or recollect, Dumdumanon showcases the essence of shared memories across the curated photographs. Being an Iranian artist who has found his home in Iloilo City, Niaraki uniquely and affectionately captures an outsider-turned-insider experience of life in the regions, covering familiar scenes from the colorful pageantry of the Dinagyang festival to the quiet, unscripted moments of local living.

Niaraki’s photos take spectators on an immersive and emotion-filled visual journey with images so vibrant one can feel the rhythm of the sadsad, the busy noise of the Central Market, and the refreshing breeze and tranquility of the coastal waters. But more than this, the collection invites them to appreciate the rich mosaic of people and places that define the very soul of this growing city.

Art Meets Enriching Experiences

For Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, hosting Dumdumanon serves a dual purpose: it honors Niaraki’s exceptional artistry while reinforcing its commitment to enriching guest experiences with authentic local culture.

"Just as Babak’s photos effortlessly bridge the gap between Iloilo’s high-energy celebrations and its quiet, soulful rhythms, Richmonde strives to elevate every facet of a guest's stay—delivering memorable hospitality not only through grand gatherings, but also in serene retreats," Lucille Pedroso, Richmonde’s Assistant Director of Sales shared. “So, we invite everyone to visit the hotel to reminisce and rediscover Iloilo anew through Babak’s lenses.”

Dumdumanon runs until November 6, 2026 at the hotel lobby. The large format prints on exhibit are also available for sale. For inquiries, call Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at (6333) 328 7888 (63) 917 580 9058.

Multimedia artist Babak Niaraki poses with Richmonde Hotel Iloilo officers and staff at the launch of his photo exhibit.

Dumdumanon: Seeing Iloilo—Moments of a City, Seen and Remembered photo exhibit runs until November 6, 2026 at the lobby of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo.