Beat the heat with Bell Refreshers, Taco Bell’s coolest sips yet

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This summer, Taco Bell is switching things up with the launch of Bell Refreshers, a vibrant new drink lineup made for those hot days and bold cravings. Light, fruity, and fizzy, each drink is designed to pair perfectly with your Taco Bell favorites or even stand out on their own as a refreshing treat, making every moment more flavorful!

Bell Refreshers come in two bright variants, each offering a choice between a fizzy 7Up base or Taco Bell’s house blend iced tea. The Peach Mango Fizz blends sweet peach and ripe mango flavors into a bubbly, easy to sip drink that feels instantly uplifting. Meanwhile, the Passion Fruit Fizz delivers a tangy sweet profile with a tropical twist, offering a refreshingly bold flavor that cuts through the heat!

Both variants are available for P149, making them an accessible add-on to any meal or a simple way to cool down.

Get these together with your other favorites from Taco Bell by visiting your nearest store for dine-in and take-out orders, or you can also order for delivery via the 8911-1111 hotline, Taco Bell Philippines’ official website, or through official delivery partners Grabfood, foodpanda, and Pickaroo (prices may vary)!

For more updates, offers, and special deals from Taco Bell by following and giving the brand a like on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok!

Gift Your Mom the Break She Deserves at Discovery Samal

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This Mother’s Day, look beyond the usual gestures and offer a gift that truly resonates: the luxury of time, the beauty of the sea, and the space for her to simply be. At Discovery Samal, the celebration unfolds through slow mornings overlooking the water and thoughtful gatherings designed to make her feel profoundly cared for.

Nestled along the shores of Samal Island in Davao, the resort offers a sanctuary where suites and villas capture the shifting coastal light and the beachfront invites long, easy hours watching the tide. From restorative spa treatments to quiet moments on the sand, give her a memory that truly lingers and a peaceful escape where she can finally pause and enjoy the moment.

Celebrate Her at Discovery Samal

The heart of Mother’s Day at Discovery Samal lies in Crowned in Grace, a spectacular collection of dining experiences designed to turn a simple meal into a lifelong memory.

The festivities kick off at Morning Catch with a lavish Mother’s Day lunch buffet on May 10, 2026, from 11 am to 3 pm. For Php 2,800 net per person, families can dive into a culinary journey that spans the globe—from the briny sweetness of the freshest seafood to the rich, savory depth of premium carved meats.

As the sun sets, the celebration shifts to The Bistro for an exquisite five-course Mother’s Day set dinner on May 10, from 6 pm to 9 pm. Priced at Php 3,500 net per person, the evening features a culinary journey through refined, sophisticated flavors, meticulously curated to delight the palate without losing that sense of familiar comfort. It is an invitation to toast to a mother who deserves nothing less than the extraordinary.

Make It a Full Island Escape

For those who want to turn the celebration into a short getaway, the Mother’s Day Room Package offers a seamless way to experience the island. Rates start at Php 20,012 net and include daily breakfast for two at Morning Catch, along with a five-course Mother’s Day dinner for two at The Bistro. Mornings might begin with a leisurely breakfast before heading out to the beach, or simply enjoying the stillness from a private balcony.

To make the stay truly her own, we’ve included thoughtful touches that invite both relaxation and adventure. Guests can indulge in a restorative escape with a 10% discount on Samal Escape spa treatments, from tranquil massages to rejuvenating rituals, or find their thrill on the waves with a 10% discount on exhilarating watersports. Whether she chooses a serene afternoon poolside or an active day on the water, the experience is hers to define, never fixed and always inspired.

The luxury begins the moment she arrives. Every stay includes seamless round-trip land transfers from Davao International Airport and scenic boat transfers via the Davao Welcome Center, ensuring her journey to the island is as smooth and effortless as the island breeze itself.

A Gift That Feels Personal

Mother’s Day comes once a year, but the moments tied to it tend to linger. At Discovery Samal, the focus shifts from a single day to an experience that feels complete, one built around good food, restful spaces, and time shared without distraction.

It’s a different way to celebrate, perhaps quieter than most, but one that stays with you long after the trip ends. For inquiries and reservations, visit https://www.discoverysamal.com, email reservations@discoverysamal.com, or call +63 84 308 2998.

Vena Energy Accelerates Green Energy Transition in the Philippines with Dual Groundbreakings for 380 MWp Solar Projects in Ilocos Norte

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Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider across the Asia-Pacific region, has commenced construction of two major solar projects in Ilocos Norte, marking another significant step in supporting the Philippines’ clean energy transition.

Groundbreaking and time capsule ceremonies for the Astra Solar and Opus Solar projects were held on 5 May 2026 in Currimao and 6 May 2026 in Paoay, respectively. Together, the projects represent approximately 380 MWp of new capacity and will increase Vena Energy’s total solar footprint in Ilocos Norte to around 480 MWp once operational.

The events were attended by Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Vice Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc, Currimao Mayor Edward Quilala, and Paoay Mayor Shiella Galano, alongside Vena Group Chief Operating Officer Juan Mas Valor, Vena Energy Head of Philippines Samrinder Nehria, and Head of Project Development Mia Jarumayan.

Astra Solar

On 5 May, Astra Solar Energy Corp. broke ground on its 80.6 MWp Astra Solar Power Project in Currimao. The project is supported by a ₱2.7-billion green project finance facility from Security Bank. It is expected to generate approximately 142 GWh of clean energy annually, which is enough to power around 120,500 Filipino households. It will also avoid an estimated 95,400 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year. This impact is equivalent to planting approximately 1.5 million trees.

Opus Solar

Following the Astra Solar event, Opus Solar Energy Corp. held its groundbreaking ceremony on 6 May for the 300 MWp Opus Solar Project in Paoay. Spanning 190 hectares across Barangays Bacsil and Mumulaan, the project marks a milestone in the Philippine energy sector. It is the first fully non-recourse renewable energy project in the country to be financed solely by international banks, supported by a US$210-million green loan from seven global financial institutions.

Once operational, Opus Solar will supply clean energy equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 445,000 households. It is also expected to avoid around 349,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

"We are proud to see how our investments continue to create local jobs, support community aspirations, and drive the Philippines’ energy transition forward," said Juan Mas Valor, Chief Operating Officer of Vena Group.

A Legacy of Community Progress

These new projects build upon the success of Vena Energy’s existing facilities in Ilocos Norte, including the Mirae Asia Energy Corporation (20MW) and Nuevo Solar Energy Corp. (83.3MW) solar projects.

The company’s presence in the region has consistently delivered long-term community benefits, including:

• · The generation of hundreds of local jobs during both construction and operational phases.
• · Financial contributions through ER1-94, as well as increased local tax revenues for host communities.
• · Continued support for education, health, infrastructure and the environmental initiatives through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs.

“Opus Solar and Astra Solar demonstrate how strong cross-border and local collaboration can accelerate the transition to clean energy while upholding high standards of environmental and social governance,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of Philippines, Vena Energy.

Both projects contribute to the Philippines’ national targets of increasing the renewable energy share to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

About Astra Solar Energy Corp. and Opus Solar Energy Corp.

Astra Solar Energy Corp. and Opus Solar Energy Corp. are project companies under Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region.

ABOUT VENA GROUP

Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a major green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy and digital infrastructure arms, Vena Group delivers integrated, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that enable the region’s transition to a low-carbon, AI-driven future.

For more information, please visit www.venagroup.com.

About Vena Energy

Vena Energy is a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, accelerating the transition to sustainable and affordable renewable energy that delivers lasting environmental, social, and economic benefits to host communities and stakeholders.

We deliver green energy solutions through a renewable power portfolio of 38GW across Onshore Wind, Solar, and Offshore Wind projects[1], and a green energy infrastructure pipeline including 25GWh of BESS[2] and 848 KTPA of Green Hydrogen and Ammonia.

With over 1,000 employees across 80 corporate and site offices globally, Vena Energy is committed to advancing the adoption of low-carbon energy, contributing to global climate goals, and engineering a greener future.

For more information, please visit www.venaenergy.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram.

PLDT Enterprise Supports Alfamart’s Rapid Expansion with Smart's Superior Mobile Connectivity

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Delivering reliable, high-performance connectivity across over 2000 retail stores nationwide

Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc. (Alfamart), the minimart chain of the SM Group, continues to strengthen its retail operations nationwide through its longstanding partnership with PLDT Enterprise, leveraging reliable mobile connectivity on the high-performance network of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) to support its growing workforce and expanding store network.

PLDT Enterprise and Alfamart leaders come together during a partnership engagement aimed at strengthening connectivity and supporting Alfamart’s expanding retail network nationwide. The collaboration highlights both organizations'' shared commitment to reliable digital solutions that enable efficient operations across Alfamart’s growing store footprint. From left to right: Mary Ann Pagsuyuin, Senior Relationship Manager, PLDT Enterprise; Tony Radovan, Head of Key Industries Group – Retail; Armie Sason, Head of Key Industries Group II, PLDT Enterprise; Victor Genuino, Head of Key Industries Group, PLDT Enterprise, and President and CEO, ePLDT and VITRO Inc.; Harvey Ong, Chief Operating Officer, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc., Jason Ngo, Chief Technology Officer, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc.; Carmelita King, Head of Fixed Assets and Supplies, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc.; Eli Bonsol, Senior HR Manager for Corporate Branding – Human Capital Group, Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc.

Known for its aggressive growth and expansion plans, Alfamart has built a strong presence across the Philippines, particularly in underserved communities, by providing access to essential goods at competitive prices. With a total network of 2,494 existing branches and plans to open at least 400 new stores annually, reliable communication across its stores and office-based teams is critical to sustaining day-to-day operations and supporting continued growth.

A Commitment to Supporting the Retail Industry

PLDT Enterprise’s collaboration with Alfamart underscores its commitment to supporting the retail sector, particularly large-scale retail operations that rely on seamless coordination across geographically dispersed locations. By providing dependable communication support, PLDT Enterprise helps ensure that retail teams remain connected, responsive, and operationally efficient as Alfamart continues to scale.

To support Alfamart’s communication needs, PLDT Enterprise provides Smart Postpaid Plans, enabling employees across stores and offices to benefit from wider network coverage and reliable mobile connectivity brought by Smart. Running on Smart's superior and resilient mobile network, these solutions help facilitate day-to-day coordination, improve responsiveness, and support the operational demands of a fast-growing retail organization.

“Retail operations depend on consistent and reliable connectivity, especially as store networks continue to grow,” said Victor Genuino, Head of Key Industry Group at PLDT Enterprise and President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc. “Through our longstanding partnership with Alfamart, PLDT Enterprise remains committed to supporting their operations with mobile solutions that help keep teams connected and enable business continuity.”

A Partnership Built on Reliability and Service

With Alfamart’s transition to Smart services starting in 2020, highlighted by the advantages of nation-widest network coverage and aftersales service, the partnership has now reached its third renewal, with PLDT Enterprise continuing to support Alfamart’s postpaid requirements for both store-based and office-based users. The collaboration reflects a shared focus on reliability, service quality, and long-term partnership—key factors that support Alfamart’s continued expansion and operational efficiency.

From Alfamart, Harvey Ong, Chief Operating Officer, shared that the partnership with PLDT Enterprise continues to play a role in supporting the company’s expanding operations. “As Alfamart grows its store network across the country, having a reliable telecommunications partner is essential. PLDT Enterprise’s mobile solutions and service support our teams as we continue to serve communities nationwide.”

Through this collaboration, PLDT Enterprise reinforces its role as a trusted technology partner for large retail organizations—supporting Alfamart’s mission to improve accessibility to essential goods, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to local economic development across the Philippines.

To learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions, visit [UTM]

About PLDT Enterprise

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

5 new ways to connect to Mom this Mother’s Day Weekend – and beyond!

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Celebrate your female inspo with these fun and fresh activities to do at Expo Mom 2026, powered by PLDT Home Fiber

Photo credit:Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels 

Mother’s Day has always had its usual hallmarks and rituals every year: the early morning bouquet while the sunshine is still soft, the frantic search for a dinner reservation (before the actual Sunday, of course), and the familiar chorus of "Thank you, Mom" when it’s time to serenade her.

But as the dynamics of the Filipino family evolve, so does the way we celebrate the women at the heart of our homes. Today’s mothers have evolved beyond their traditional roles – now more empowered than ever, they are entrepreneurs, digital navigators, and lifelong learners. And while they may not always say it, most of the time our moms crave more than just a token gift; they crave the connections with their loved ones, especially their children.

If you’re looking to change it up and move past the usual routine of lunch, flowers, and a gift for Mama, here are a few meaningful ways to bond with her this Mother’s Day weekend at Expo Mom, hosted by Mommy Mundo and powered by its official broadband partner PLDT Home Fiber:

1. Artistic reflections with mom

Instead of buying a card, spend an hour in a creative flow. Creative spaces at Expo Mom, like junk journaling and portrait painting offer a rare moment of pause. It’s a chance for moms to reconnect with their own identities through art, while children – young or grown – get to see a different, more expressive side of their mothers.

Photo credit: RDNE Stock project via Pexels

 

2. Disco dancing during the day!

There is a unique kind of joy found in movement. When was the last time Mom danced her heart out? If it’s been a while, take her to a "Daytime Disco for Moms,” as dancing should be a high-energy reminder that motherhood shouldn't mean the end of fun. Let her let loose, shake off the weekly stress, and simply enjoy the rhythm of being together.

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

3. Shopping with a story

Support can be a form of celebration. Browsing through the MamaMarket lets the whole family meet mompreneurs behind the brands and products your family will love. It’s an inspiring way for families to see the creativity and resilience of the community while picking out something special that supports another family’s dream.

Photo credit: Sam Lion via Pexels

  

4. Listening to insightful talks

Motherhood was never meant to be a solo act. Attending support group sessions or listening to onstage talks provides a sense of "I see you." For families, hearing these honest conversations about the realities of parenting at the Community Connections space fosters a deeper empathy and understanding for what Mom handles every day.

Photo credit: Mommy Mundo

5. Strutting it out!

Confidence is the best outfit, and seeing moms walk the runway during the fashion show is a vibrant celebration of style at every stage of life. It’s a moment for the whole family to cheer from the sidelines, celebrating the individuality and grace that Mom brings to the household.

Photo credit: Doğu Tuncer via Pexels

Make this Mother’s Day Weekend and beyond truly memorable by visiting Expo Mom, powered by PLDT Home Fiber. It’s a space where every member of the family – from the kids to the kids-at-heart – can feel supported and inspired. PLDT Home remains committed to empowering these modern family lives, ensuring that whether you are learning something new online, managing a home business, or simply staying in touch with loved ones, you have the reliable connectivity to make it happen.

While you’re at Expo Mom Manila, don’t forget to check out the PLDT Home booth for exclusive offers to keep your family connected:

●      Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 on Sale: Enjoy free installation, free speedboost, unli entertainment on Cignal, and big discounts on Samsung and other gadgets. Plus, get a chance to win free broadband for life!

●      PLDT Home Life: Shop smart home devices and enjoy ₱200 off, free shipping, and up to ₱500 worth of Maya vouchers.

●      Plus, join booth activities and take home exciting freebies for the whole family!

To know more about these amazing deals you can enjoy this Mother’s Day and beyond, visit pldthome.com.