June 12, 2026

SNAP highlights watershed and environmental conservation in observance of World Environment Day


In celebration of World Environment Day, SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP) reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship through watershed management, reforestation, forest protection, and community-based conservation programs. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, SNAP continues to promote climate resilience and sustainable development in its host communities.

Among its major initiatives is SNAP-Magat’s Partnership in Uplifting Upland Natural Resources Livelihoods and Assets (PUNLA), an Upper Magat Watershed Management Program focused on the Province of Ifugao. PUNLA supports enrichment planting, reforestation, and the restoration and rehabilitation of the iconic Ifugao Rice Terraces while engaging local communities in watershed protection and sustainable livelihood activities. To date, PUNLA has rehabilitated and restored 34.3 hectares (ha) in the municipalities of Mayoyao and Banaue, reforested and enriched 100.44 ha of forest areas in Banaue and Hungduan, and established 5 ha of agroforestry farms in Lagawe, Ifugao. These efforts have helped mitigate an estimated 6,722 tons of soil erosion across the Ifugao Province.

Complementing these initiatives is SNAP-Benguet and the National Power Corporation’s (NPC) 5-kilometer-radius Technical Cooperation Agreement, which strengthens forest fire prevention and suppression efforts through the establishment of firelines and greenbelts, the provision of firefighting equipment to community volunteers, and logistical support during wildfire response operations. The program maintains at least 13 kilometers of greenbelt areas and 12 kilometers of firebreaks annually, with volunteers deployed to assist various agencies in fire protection activities. SNAP-Benguet also supports the Adopt-a-Watershed Program, which advances NPC’s carbon sequestration objectives and consolidates watershed rehabilitation and protection efforts within a 1,000-hectare watershed area. Under NPC’s Energy Sector Carbon Sequestration Initiative, SNAP completed 42 hectares of its 50-hectare reforestation commitment from 2022 to 2025.

SNAP further strengthens forest conservation through the Aboitiz Passion for Agroforest and Reforest to Keep (A-PARK), the Aboitiz Group's flagship agroforestry and reforestation program. The initiative aims to establish at least 20 hectares annually through the planting of native and fruit-bearing tree species while promoting sustainable land management practices that create both environmental and livelihood benefits for partner communities.

As of May 31, 2026, SNAP has planted 487,775 seedlings across 408.34 hectares within its watershed areas from 2008 to 2025, achieving an average survival rate of 91 percent. These efforts form part of the company’s long-term strategy to enhance watershed health, strengthen biodiversity, and support the sustainability of hydroelectric power generation.

In support of this year’s World Environment Day observance, anchored on the call for “Now for Climate,” SNAP carried out environmental stewardship activities that promote sustainability and climate action.

On June 5, 2026, SNAP-Magat conducted reservoir clean-up drives in Ramon, Isabela, helping protect water resources and surrounding areas. Meanwhile, on June 8, 2026, SNAP-Benguet employees participated in Hug-a-Tree eco-walk activities in Itogon and Bokod, Benguet, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and the importance of environmental conservation.

Through these collective efforts, SNAP continues to champion environmental responsibility and contribute to building greener, safer, and more resilient communities for future generations.




About SNAP:

SNAP is a renewable energy producer and developer. It owns and operates the 112.5-MW Ambuklao and 140-MW Binga hydroelectric power plants in Benguet; the Magat hydroelectric power plant which has a nameplate capacity of 360 MW and maximum capacity of 388 MW on the border of Isabela and Ifugao; the 8.5-MW Maris hydro; and the 24-MW Magat battery energy storage facility in Isabela. The non-power components such as dams, reservoirs, and spillways are owned, managed, and operated by the government. SNAP is a joint venture of Scatec and Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI).

Scatec is a leading renewable energy solutions provider, accelerating access to reliable and affordable clean energy. As a long-term player, it develops, builds, owns and operates renewable energy plants, with 6.2 GW in operation and under construction across five continents today. It is committed to grow its renewable energy capacity, delivered by passionate employees and partners who are driven by a common vision of ‘Improving our Future’.

ARI is the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation, leading the company’s push toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the Philippines. It develops, builds, operates, and grows a diversified portfolio of renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and energy storage.

Get HUAWEI's Largest Battery and Bigger Screen for Under PHP 20,000 with the HUAWEI nova 15 Max, Coming June 12

HUAWEI continues to deliver smartphone performance that can keep up with modern users as it introduces the new HUAWEI nova 15 Max.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max delivers on every user demand with the biggest battery ever on a HUAWEI phone, ultra-immersive audiovisual experience, stylish yet durable design, and impressive imaging performance—all for PHP 19,888.

Max Performance for a Limitless Day

With modern users constantly on the move, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max is built for heavy-duty, non-stop action. It’s a practical powerhouse that can handle the busiest schedules and helps users max out their day.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max cancels battery anxiety, thanks to its massive 8500mAh Super Battery, the largest capacity ever found in a HUAWEI smartphone and its 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo. With its Advanced Energy Booster Technology and SGS 5-Star Battery Performance certification, the battery supports up to 48 hours of continuous calling, 25 hours of navigation and up to 23 hours of video playback on a single charge. This means no more daily charging or bringing a power bank when heading out. In emergency cases, the phone doubles as a power source for another device through Reverse Charging technology.

The newest addition to the HUAWEI nova Series also enhances entertainment and productivity with its expansive 6.84-inch Vivid OLED Display. With a 120Hz intelligent refresh rate and slim bezels, the screen offers smoother scrolling, more responsive gameplay, and a more immersive viewing experience. Its 4,000 nits peak brightness ensures clear visibility even under bright outdoor sunlight. Ideal for extended use, the screen comes with Eye Comfort mode to help reduce eye strain through adaptive brightness and adjustments.

Sound makes the experience even more immersive. The HUAWEI nova 15 Max comes with stunning symmetrical dual speakers pushing out up to 85dB of powerful, clear sound. Unlike typical smartphones, whose 67–77 dB sound output easily gets drowned out, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max’s audio cuts through the noise of busy streets and daily commutes. It’s best for taking calls on loudspeaker, catching every turn of your navigation, or sharing your favorite music with friends. With an ultra-large display and powerful stereo sound system, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max keeps users fully immersed in every video or gameplay.

Exquisite Design, Built to Last

Many users require more than style when choosing their smartphones. They also demand reliable durability that can handle the unpredictability of everyday life. The HUAWEI nova 15 Max brings both, in a stunning 7.98mm slim and 232g lightweight body that comes in three trendy colors: Lake Cyan, Blush Gold, and Golden Black. The phone’s back design maintains a symmetrical layout, featuring the iconic Star Ring design. Its sleek and stylish frame makes the HUAWEI nova 15 Max look fashionable and easier to hold.

 

Beneath its sleek exterior is an extra-durable body that is SGS 5-Star Drop Resistance Premium certification, meaning it can withstand the accidental drops and bumps of daily life. The device also has an impressive bend resistance, capable of enduring up to 100kg of pressure. This gives users a phone that won’t bend even when they accidentally sit on it.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max is built to effortlessly endure harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures. It has an IP65 rating, ensuring it can hold up against water splashes and jet pressures. With its accurate touch response, users can continue to use their phone even when wet. This allows users to still send a message or scroll through their phone despite getting caught in the rain. The device is built to endure heavy rain and extreme temperatures as high as 60ºC and as low as -20ºC.

Imaging Excellence and Effortless Experience for Everyday

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max delivers remarkable mobile imaging with its advanced camera system. It features a 50MP RYYB Ultra-Clear Camera with an F1.9 aperture that captures more light for brighter and clearer shots.

Thanks to its RYYB color filter array, the camera increases the light intake significantly, helping users produce detailed photos with reduced noise even in lowlight environments like night streets or concert halls — without added equipment. On the front, an 8MP front camera with an F2.0 aperture ensures selfies are well-lit with natural-looking clarity.

This photo was taken on a HUAWEI nova 15 Max.

For a more efficient smartphone experience, the AI Smart Control on the HUAWEI nova 15 Max helps users unlock next-level convenience with a press of a button. One tap grants users access to their frequently used apps like GCash, Grab, or Angkas. They can also easily pull up their preferred AI assistant such as Google Gemini, Deepseek, ChatGPT, or Dola by double tapping the button. If they need to open a specific app, users only have to long press the button to find the app they need.

Max Your Fun with the HUAWEI nova 15 Max 

When you’re juggling multiple activities, you need a phone that won’t slow you down. Whatever your nonstop day brings, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max is designed to help you maximize every moment without worrying about battery life, durability, or performance.

Seize your biggest moments with the HUAWEI nova 15 Max, launching in the Philippines this June 12. The HUAWEI nova 15 Max will be available on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, the HUAWEI Online Store, and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.

Early buyers enjoy a special launch price of PHP 19,888 from its original price of PHP 20,888. They will also receive exclusive freebies including a 2-Year Battery Replacement service (worth PHP 2,999) and two stainless thermos tumblers (worth PHP 1,499).

Starting June 5 at 10AM, enjoy an early bird discount of PHP 1,000 plus PHP 300 in vouchers on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. Meanwhile, on the HUAWEI Online Store, a teaser promo runs from June 5 at 10AM to June 11, where you can pay a PHP 500 deposit to unlock an additional PHP 3,000 off.

To learn more about the HUAWEI nova 15 Max, visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Store or check out HUAWEI’s official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

 


SM’s data privacy efforts recognized anew at National Data Privacy Conference

SM remains committed to ensuring and maintaining in-depth data privacy standards as a core component of corporate governance.

SM Retail, the retail arm of the SM Group, was recently awarded the NPC Seal of Registration Compliance Excellence Award for the Private Sector by the National Privacy Commission (NPC) during the National Data Privacy Conference.

The NPC Seal of Registration Compliance Excellence Award recognizes private sector organizations that uphold transparency and accountability through visible display of their NPC Seal of Registration across their operations and digital touchpoints.

“We are grateful for this recognition from NPC. We understand how critical data governance is in maintaining customer trust and loyalty. This award reflects the collective effort of the different business units across SM Retail to strengthen data privacy compliance and awareness,” shared Jonathan Ng, President of SM Retail.


SM Retail, the retail arm of the SM Group, received the NPC Seal of Registration Compliance Excellence Award for the Private Sector at the National Data Privacy Conference in Parañaque City. In photo are officers from the SM Retail Data Privacy & Protection Team, from left: Bernadette C. Salinas, Chief Data Officer; Atty. Mikhail Josef P. Soriano, Manager; Leyson N. San Juan, Data Protection Officer and AVP; Lorenz Victor D. Anyayahan, Senior Manager; and Luis Angelo D. De Castro, Senior Manager.

SM Retail was also recognized as a finalist for Privacy Initiative of the Year, a recognition of the company’s significant efforts in further educating its employees through data privacy learning channels, modules and learning sessions. These are key initiatives aimed at strengthening privacy awareness across the organization.

“These programs promote the responsible handling of personal data as part of everyday work using practical, retail-specific scenarios to make privacy more relevant and actionable for employees,” Ng further shared.

SM Retail’s Data Protection Officer (DPO) Leyson San Juan, was also named a Finalist for Data Protection Officer of the Year for the second consecutive year. These recognitions follow SM Retail’s Privacy Management Program Award win last year.

The awarding ceremony in Paranaque was held during the Privacy Awareness Week (PAW). PAW is an annual celebration dedicated to strengthening data privacy awareness and promoting responsible personal data processing in the Philippines.

June 11, 2026

Puregold Price Club and GCash for Business bring access to end-to-end digital financial tools to more Filipino sari-sari store owners, powering community hubs nationwide

Puregold Price Club, Inc. has entered into a strategic partnership with GCash for Business to accelerate the digitalization of sari-sari stores and expand access to digital payments and financial solutions among Filipino nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs).

(L–R) GCash for Business general manager Paul Albano; G-Xchange Inc. president and CEO Ren-Ren Reyes; and GCash for Business sales head Cleo Celeste Santos

Through this partnership with Puregold Price Club, GCash for Business aims to provide easier access to payment tools for merchants who were previously unable to use them and equip them with the right tools to accept digital payments, manage finances, and grow their business.

Sari-sari stores remain one of the most vital pillars of the Philippine economy, serving as accessible sources of essential goods in local communities across the country. Yet despite their reach, many NMSMEs continue to operate on cash-based systems that limit their ability to accept digital payments, such as QRPH payments and debit and credit cards; track transactions; manage cash flow; and access formal financial services.

Puregold Price Club and GCash for Business are directly addressing these gaps, bringing tools that are easy to access, scalable, and made for them.

“Our partnership with Puregold Price Club reflects a shared vision of empowering communities on the ground, by making digital payments and business solutions more inclusive, practical, and within reach," Ren-Ren Reyes, President and CEO of G-Xchange, Inc, the mobile wallet operator of GCash, shared.

Bringing digital solutions to the local economy

One of the key activations under this partnership took place at the Tindahan ni Aling Puring (TNAP) Convention 2026, one of the country’s largest annual gatherings of sari-sari store owners and small business operators.

The event introduced Puregold Price Club’s TNAP network of entrepreneurs to GCash for Business full suite of easy, simple, and convenient solutions, empowering business owners with flexible digital payment solutions that fit their needs and are functional, such as GCash SoundPay and GCash PocketPay.

GCash PocketPay turns an NFC-enabled Android smartphone into a POS machine, allowing merchants to accept credit card and QRPH payments anytime, anywhere. With GCash SoundPay, each payment transaction is secure with real-time payment confirmations you can hear. Beyond payment acceptance, the GCash for Business Portal provides a centralized platform where merchants can monitor transactions and manage their transfers to their suppliers, with no limits and no fees.

Through on-ground demos and onboarding support, merchants learned how to quickly set up and start accepting digital payments using GCash for Business devices. Doing so has enabled merchants to accept more payments, cater to their customers better, and open more opportunities, truly empowering them to grow.

“Puregold Price Club and GCash have worked hand in hand to empower our Tindahan ni Aling Puring members, who remain at the very heart of our mission. Through our partnership with GCash for Business, we are helping equip members of the Tindahan ni Aling Puring network with digital tools and payment solutions that strengthen their day-to-day operations, support their growth, and enable them to better serve their customers in an increasingly digital economy,” Puregold Price Club, Inc. President, Vincent Co, concluded.

The partnership also extends to Puregold’s retail operations, where GCash for Business solutions are being integrated to support in-store transactions, disbursements, and broader operational processes. This creates a more connected ecosystem between suppliers and the sari-sari stores they serve.

Puregold Price Club and GCash for Business are proactively championing digitalization among NMSMEs by making digital tools and solutions more accessible to businesses of all sizes — empowering even small businesses to adapt to changing consumer behavior, participate in the digital economy, and unlock more opportunities for long-term growth and financial inclusion.

Learn more about GCash for Business solutions for sari-sari store owners and MSMEs at https://gcash.com/business/msme.

Viral Grocery ‘Hacks’ Take Over PH Social Media as pandamart Deals Gain Buzz

From Threads to Reddit, budget-conscious Filipinos are turning to pandamart for up to 50% off essentials and upcoming piso sale

From Threads posts highlighting sulit grocery finds to Reddit communities trading practical financial tips, more Filipinos are sharing digital “hacks” to help stretch household budgets. Among the deals gaining traction online are pandamart’s grocery promos, which users have been sharing as cost-effective ways to save on everyday essentials.

“Nag-trend na bigla tong pandamart dito sa Threads ngayong week & honestly in this economy? Sulit to!” one Threads user wrote online, while another posted, “This isn’t just a trend, this promo is a lifesaver in this economy!” after sharing a discounted pandamart grocery haul.

As rising everyday expenses continue to shape how households plan their weekly spending, many consumers are looking not just for discounts, but for smarter and more convenient ways to manage daily errands. For some, that means finding ways to skip unnecessary trips outside while still keeping the pantry stocked and the household running smoothly.


As part of the initiative, pandamart is offering up to 50% off on first-time orders for new users nationwide. The promo applies across all categories, including fresh produce, meats, frozen goods, snacks, drinks, and household essentials.

Available 24/7 through the foodpanda app, pandamart allows customers to order groceries any time of day for immediate delivery, whether they need dinner ingredients, weekly pantry restocks, or last-minute items.

“We’ve noticed more users sharing the promo online as a helpful way to save on everyday grocery needs, and that’s exactly the kind of experience we hoped to create,” said Joseph Wijesekara, Director of Q-Commerce at foodpanda Philippines. “We want pandamart to become a practical everyday solution for households looking for smarter and more convenient ways to manage their grocery needs.”

Aside from the newcomer discount, existing pandamart customers can also enjoy ongoing deals and added savings across the platform. Customers can get 5% off for purchases worth P599, 8% off for purchases worth P999, and 10% off for purchases worth P1,499. Meanwhile, pandapro subscribers can unlock bigger discounts, with 8% off for purchases worth P599, 10% off for purchases worth P999, and 15% off for purchases worth P1,499.

foodpanda shared that the savings initiative will continue beyond its current rollout after originally being introduced as a limited-time offer. Beyond the up to 50% off deals for first-time users, pandapro subscribers can also enjoy Buy One Get One offers and added savings across the platform, while select grocery items will continue to feature discounts of up to 20% off.

Sustaining the momentum, pandamart is set to launch its highly anticipated Dad’s ₱1 Sale just in time for Father’s Day.

From June 19 to 21 (or until supplies last), customers nationwide can score essentials for as low as ₱1, with no voucher code needed.

The Father’s Day Piso Sale aims to give families a seamless way to treat Dad without turning the celebration into another errand for him. Instead of asking him to drive, brave supermarket crowds, or carry heavy bags, families can handle the party prep with a few taps—allowing Dads to simply kick back and enjoy their day.

As online buzz around pandamart’s grocery deals continues to grow, the platform is also expanding its nationwide footprint, with more locations opening across the country and existing stores gradually transitioning to 24/7 operations—making the internet’s favorite grocery “hack” even more accessible for everyday essentials, late-night cravings, and last-minute celebrations.

Join the grocery hack everyone’s been talking about online. Download the foodpanda app now, grab your 50% newcomer discount, and start shopping smarter.

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