PBB Big Winner Mika Salamanca Joins Book Nook’s Literacy Mission

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Book Nook, SM Cares’ flagship program that promotes literacy and community engagement, recently hosted another heartwarming storytelling and book donation event at SM North EDSA, The Annex Level 4 Atrium. The session featured Mika Salamanca, Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition Big Winner, whose presence quickly drew excitement among children and families.

A community of readers: Mika Salamanca joins the children in a joyful group photo during Book Nook’s storytelling and book donation event at SM North EDSA.

With Mika’s passion for books backing the most recent leg of the initiative, Book Nook continues to inspire a similar kind of love for reading, giving children a welcoming space to explore literature, spark their imagination, and nurture creativity. Each child participant received a personal copy of Mika’s book, while an additional copy was donated to Book Nook to ensure more children can read and enjoy her story during future visits.

“Winning Pinoy Big Brother made me feel that I could take on many new paths, but I chose to start with books because I truly believe in the power of storytelling. Stories can inspire, shape young minds, and spark dreams—and if I can play even a small role in that journey for children, then I know I’m making the right choice,” said Mika Salamanca.

During the session, children eagerly listened to stories brought to life and joined in activities that made reading fun and interactive. Beyond the entertainment, the book donation initiative ensured that more young learners would have access to books, helping develop reading as a habit that extends beyond the walls of the mall.

Every child a storyteller: Participants proudly raise their new books, gifted through Book Nook and Mika Salamanca, sparking a love for reading that will last a lifetime.

PBB Big Winner Mika Salamanca brings stories to life at Book Nook, inspiring young readers to imagine, dream, and explore the joy of books.

Parents and participants shared how Book Nook has become a place where children not only read but also discover new ways of learning and bonding.

“As both a parent and an educator, I’m grateful for programs like Book Nook because they create a safe, nurturing space where kids can explore the wonder of reading. Seeing our children light up with excitement as they read books and listen to stories today was a beautiful reminder of how reading can inspire dreams and shape their future," shared Dr. Leah Joyce C. Quilang, Kasarinlan High School teacher and WEngaged PH Youth Org founder.

Book Nook’s ongoing mission is to serve as a community hub—one where children of all ages can discover the joy of books and where reading becomes a bridge to imagination, growth, and lifelong learning.

“Mika’s energy and love for sharing stories made this event memorable for the children, and you can really see that what makes Book Nook special is how it continues to bring families together around books,” said Shereen Sy, Pioneer of Book Nook for SM Supermalls.

A heartfelt moment: Mika Salamanca shares a warm hug with one of the kids at Book Nook, showing how reading and storytelling create genuine connections.

PBB Big Winner Mika Salamanca with Shereen Sy, Pioneer of Book Nook for SM Supermalls, celebrating their shared mission of bringing families together and inspiring children to discover the joy of reading.

This initiative is part of SM Cares’ broader efforts to create spaces that support literacy, education, and community development, alongside other programs that advocate for children and youth. With Book Nook, SM Cares cements its belief that every child deserves the chance to explore worlds and ideas through reading.

Interested organizations or schools are very welcome to partner with Book Nook. For more information on upcoming Book Nook activities or to explore partnership opportunities, visit your nearest Book Nook corner at SM malls or email smcares@smsupermalls.com.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.

Nonstop fun with new gaming beauty, vivo V60 Lite

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A new smartphone is about to make gaming more fun and stylish. Launching on October 19, 2025, the vivo V60 Lite combines beauty and performance in one device made for the new generation of gamers.

Designed for young people who love gaming and expressing their unique style, the vivo V60 Lite proves that a gaming phone can be both powerful and fashionable. It comes in two eye-catching colors, Pop Pink and Titanium Blue, that highlight its soft pastel tones and modern look.

While vivo is saving a few surprises for launch day, here’s a preview of why this device will be a must-have for gamers.

• The MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Turbo promises an upgraded gaming experience that delivers impressive speed and smoothness.

• The Bypass Charging feature ensures you can stay in the game longer, keeping things cool while you play.

• With Ultra Game Mode, expect a more focused and seamless session each time you tap into your favorite title.

• The vivo V60 Lite also draws you into every match with a vivid 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display that turns every frame into a visual delight.

This October, vivo unveils a gaming phone that blends power and style into one beautiful device. The vivo V60 Lite is designed for young people who play hard, create fearlessly, and stand out with confidence.

Be part of the excitement on October 19 by tuning in to vivo Philippines' Facebook page or heading to vivoglobal.ph for the official launch.

How do you bring out your ‘Ultra’ self? #TeamGalaxy shares their thoughts with Unfold Your Story

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Catch the podcast hosted by Erwan Heussaff, Nico Bolzico, and Jaz Reyes on Samsung’s official Spotify, YouTube, and Facebook pages

Step into your Ultra Self with “Unfold Your Story,” where curiosity meets candor, and every conversation sparks insight. Presented by Samsung, the podcast offers a deep dive into honest, and thought-provoking dialogues with creators, experts, and cultural voices shaping the way we live, think, and create content.

Hosted by #TeamGalaxy’s Erwan Heussaff, Jaz Reyes, and Nico Bolzico and featuring other creatives from #TeamGalaxy, the episodes dive into real, relatable conversations about personal growth, self-discovery, and the role of innovation not only in content creation but in everyday life. Listeners will also discover how Galaxy AI—Samsung’s suite of intelligent tools—empowers the guests to unlock their full potential.

With countless hours of content consumed by Filipinos every day, success can seem instant—effortless, even. But behind the lens lies a deeper story: one of grit, growth, and the unseen hustle. From uncovering your “why,” carving a path that’s uniquely yours to staying authentic in a world of trends, “Unfold Your Story” is a must-listen podcast that invites listeners to explore what it truly means to be their Ultra Self — the most authentic, empowered, and creative version of who they are.

Unfolding the secrets in finding purpose beyond passion, the premiere episode tackles how to recover from burnout, fight imposter syndrome and reignite the creative spark that often dims in the face of pressure and perfectionism relevant to listeners in their late 20s to 40s. It features Life Coach Mara Banson who will share insights in navigating “new adulthood,” while Jun Guevara, Head of Mobile Experience at Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation, shared how the brand supports people through this transformative life stage.

It also tackles how Galaxy AI features like Gemini Live, elevate productivity through natural conversations that adapt to everyday life. With Gemini Live, users can interact freely and access real-time information, upload images, or use the camera for instant suggestions. On the Galaxy Z Fold7, one of Samsung’s latest foldable innovations, these features come to life, showing how Samsung’s most advanced devices are built to integrate seamlessly into any lifestyle.

In Episode 2, the spotlight turns to Janine Gutierrez, an award-winning actress who has earned Best Actress honors at both the FAMAS and Gawad Urian Awards, and was recognized as a Rising Star at the 20th New York Asian Film Festival. Coming from a prominent showbiz family, Janine opens up about the pressures of legacy, the journey of carving her own path and shares how someone can build their own identity and bloom on their own terms, even when it doesn’t follow the expected path.

The podcast also highlights how modern tools, including Galaxy AI, are transforming creative processes. Whether it’s running lines with voice assistants or using AI to simulate a character’s tone and delivery, technology is becoming an invaluable partner in artistic and personal development.

In the food content sphere, Ryan Reyes, better known as Ninong Ry, is always known for his relatable, light, and humorous content that ranges from classic Filipino dishes to quirky kitchen hacks. He’s a chef, vlogger, and digital creator who has captured millions of followers and created a loyal community of “inaanak,” with his no-frills, laugh-out-loud approach to cooking.

But staying relevant and creative is difficult. In the final episode, Ninong Ry opens up about what it takes to remain inspired, honest, and raw in a space where trends and algorithms often dominate, and where innovation is a constant demand for creators like him.

Tune in to “Unfold Your Story” to hear all the episodes anytime and anywhere on Spotify. You can also watch the series by visiting Samsung official Youtube channel and Facebook Page.

For more updates on the latest episodes and exclusive content, visit Samsung’s official website at www.samsung.com/ph and follow Samsung Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Treat Yourself: Get Up to 20% Cashback When You Dine at Thousands of Casual Dining Restaurants with Maya Credit Cards

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Who says treating yourself has to cost more? For many of us, food is the ultimate comfort, whether it’s a favorite ramen bowl, a barkada samgyup night, or a cozy dinner catch-up. Now with your Maya Credit Card, those moments don’t just satisfy cravings — they reward you too.

Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, makes every dining experience more rewarding. Get up to 20% cashback, with as much as ₱1,000 credited straight to your Maya Wallet every month, when you dine with your Maya Black or Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card.

Unlike other cards that limit rewards to select partner restos, Maya gives you cashback at thousands of casual dining restaurants*. Wherever you eat — from comfort-food staples to new food adventures — you’re instantly rewarded just by paying with your Maya Credit Card.

And here’s the best part: this dining cashback comes on top of the usual perks you already enjoy. Earn up to 10x Maya Miles with Maya Black or 2% cashback points with the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, all while enjoying this special dining treat.

So go ahead — order that extra dish, split the bill with the barkada, or plan that long-overdue catch-up dinner. With Maya Credit Cards, every bite truly pays you back.

To get your own Maya Credit Card and discover all the perks, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. 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.

*See full list of merchants here.

The Ultimate Family Food Festival: Why Marby’s New Superloaf is Your Next Must-Try

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This World Bread Day, Marby, the proudly Filipino bread brand, is taking center stage at the Mall of Asia (MOA) with a celebration like no other. Mark your calendars because on October 16, families from all over are invited to experience the Marby World Bread Day Festival, a one-of-a-kind event that promises delicious food, fun activities, and unforgettable moments.

More than just an event, this festival is a celebration of Filipino family and food culture and at the heart of this grand celebration is Marby’s upgraded Superloaf, now mas pina-siksik, mas pina-pino, mas pina-malambot, at mas pinasarap. This isn’t just a new recipe; it’s a commitment to giving Filipino families the best quality for their daily meals.

For almost 50 years, Marby has been a part of Filipino households, continuously striving to deliver products that bring families together over better, more satisfying meals. Bread has always been at the core of every Filipino home, and the new Superloaf represents Marby’s dedication to that legacy. This year’s World Bread Day celebration is the brand’s way of reconnecting with its community and reaffirming its place as the top choice for every family’s daily bread.

Visitors to the Marby World Bread Day Festival at MOA can expect a full day of family-friendly fun, hosted by Trina Legaspi. Also known by her childhood nickname “Hopia”, Trina first gained fame as a child star on the ABS-CBN hit show Goin’ Bulilit. Her journey from child star to devoted wife and mother makes her the perfect host for a celebration that’s all about family, food, and togetherness.

Highlights of the day include:

● Interactive kid zones with games and activities

● A live cooking demo by Chef Marky, showcasing creative and tasty ways to enjoy Marby’s Superloaf at home

● A special appearance by a much-loved celebrity, actress, Dimples Romana, a true family icon who embodies the values of togetherness and Filipino tradition that Marby celebrates, as she shares her thoughts on family, food, and why the Superloaf is set to become a household favorite

● Exclusive treats and surprises for attendees

Marby’s World Bread Day celebration is designed to be a memorable experience, building on the shared joy of food and family. It’s an opportunity to discover your family’s new favorite bread and celebrate a brand that is truly rooted in Filipino tradition.

So gather your loved ones and head to Mall of Asia this October 16. Come hungry, come curious, and discover why Marby’s Superloaf deserves a place at your family’s table.