Philippine Seven Corporation posts Record Sales in 2025, opens a new chapter under President Richard Lee

Tweet

Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), the exclusive licensor of 7-Eleven in the Philippines, closed 2025 with record system-wide sales and continued nationwide growth, in a year that marked a new chapter for its leadership. At its Annual Stockholders' Meeting, the Company reported another year of solid financial performance, a wider store network, and accelerated digital transformation, reinforcing its position as the country's leading convenience store chain and laying a strong foundation for its next phase of sustainable growth.

Another Year of Strong Financial Performance

PSC delivered another year of strong results in 2025. System-wide sales grew to a record Php 99.4 billion, up 6.4% from Php 93.5 billion in 2024, driven by higher customer traffic, larger basket sizes, and continued store expansion. Revenues rose 7.2% to Php 95.1 billion from Php 88.7 billion the year before.

Net income remained strong at Php 3.6 billion, demonstrating the resilience of the business despite a more challenging consumer and operating environment. The Company also strengthened its balance sheet, growing total assets by 10.5% to Php 47.8 billion and stockholders' equity by 23% to Php 11.2 billion. Return on equity improved by 41 basis points to a record 35.61%, with debt-to-equity properly managed at 3.28x, giving PSC the flexibility to fund future investments and continued expansion.

Richard Lee, President of Philippine Seven Corporation said:

"We delivered another solid year in a demanding environment. Our priority was continuity, keeping the momentum going while strengthening the business for what comes next. We stayed disciplined in how we grow and kept investing in the capabilities that serve our customers and shareholders over the long term."

A New Chapter Under New Leadership

2025 was a year of transition and continuity for PSC. In July 2025, Mr. Richard Lee assumed the Presidency of the Company, while Mr. Jose Victor Paterno moved into the role of Chairman of the Board. The handover marked a new chapter for PSC while preserving the continuity of its long-term growth strategy, with the Company staying focused on sustainable expansion, operational excellence, and innovation, and keeping the creation of long-term shareholder value at the center of every decision.

Highlighting the company's strategic direction, Philippine Seven Corporation Board Chairman Jose Victor Paterno noted that the past year represented a pivotal transition period.

"I am confident in the leadership now guiding the Company day to day. Richard brings a deep understanding of our operations and a disciplined approach to growth. As the Board, our focus remains on sustaining that momentum and creating lasting value for our shareholders and the communities we serve."

Strengthened Market Leadership Through Expansion

PSC continued to grow its nationwide 7-Eleven network in 2025, ending the year with 4,491 stores from 4,130 the previous year, an addition of 361 new stores that brought everyday convenience closer to more Filipino communities. Of the total network, 53.42% are company-owned and 46.58% are franchised. The Company expanded its footprint in key growth markets and reinforced its leadership in the Philippine convenience retail sector, while enhancing store formats and the overall customer experience to keep pace with evolving consumer needs. Strong performance from fresh food and PSC's proprietary foodservice brands further supported growth across the network.

Investing for the Future

PSC continued to invest in the capabilities that will power its next phase of growth, directing resources into store modernization, technology, supply chain, and operational efficiency. The Company accelerated its digital transformation to make everyday shopping more convenient for customers and its operations more responsive.

A key milestone was the expansion of cashless payment acceptance across the network. Cashless payment acceptance was successfully rolled out to more than 1,000 stores by the end of 2025, and has since built on that momentum, expanding to cover over 4,000 stores by the end of May 2026. Customers can now pay using credit cards, debit cards, QR Ph, e-wallets, and other cashless methods, making transactions faster and more convenient. These investments position the business for long-term, sustainable growth built on continued innovation.

"We enter the next chapter with confidence," Lee added. "Our focus now is on execution, opening the right stores, deepening how we serve customers, and scaling the digital and payment capabilities we built this year. That is how we keep 7-Eleven the most convenient choice for Filipinos wherever they are."

Samsung Introduces New 990 SSD with Powerful Performance and Improved Power Efficiency

Tweet

The Samsung 990 SSD delivers robust performance with a sequential read speed of up to 7,250 MB/s and 38% improved power efficiency over its predecessor.

The 1TB and 2TB options widen PC upgrade choices for consumers ranging from everyday use to gaming and content creation.

Samsung Electronics today announced the launch of its new 990 SSD, available in 1-terabyte (TB) and 2-terabyte (TB) capacities. Delivering exceptional sequential performance and enhanced power efficiency, the Samsung 990 SSD is designed as a balanced storage solution optimized for gaming, creative workloads, and daily PC use.

"Samsung’s new 990 SSD is an excellent solution for a wide range of users looking to expand their storage for heavy workloads, immersive gaming, high-resolution content creation, and DIY PC builds," said Tommy (Hyoungsuk) Kwon, Vice President of Memory Brand Product Biz Team at Samsung Electronics.

Thanks to PCIe 4.0 support and the latest NAND technologies, the Samsung 990 SSD 2TB model delivers a sequential read speed of up to 7,250 megabytes per second (MB/s), while the 1TB model reaches up to 7,150 MB/s5. Both models provide sequential write speeds of up to 6,450 MB/s5, enabling fast file transfers and reduced loading times. For random performance, the 2TB model delivers up to 850K read and 1,200K write IOPS, while the 1TB model reaches read and write speeds of up to 700K and 1,100K IOPS, respectively. These capabilities help users experience faster application launches, responsive gameplay, and efficient handling of large-scale workloads.

The expanded storage capacity also allows users to store large amounts of high-quality content and the latest AAA games. The 2TB model can store up to 30 large-scale games based on an average size of 64GB1, making it an ideal solution for gamers and creators managing increasingly sizable files and applications.

The Samsung 990 SSD has also achieved significant improvements in power efficiency. Compared to its previous 990 PRO model, the power efficiency has improved by up to 38%2, allowing users to achieve high performance with lower power consumption. The Samsung Magician Software helps ensure SSDs—including the Samsung 990—maintain optimal performance. It supports seamless data migration and drive health monitoring, enabling users to benefit from customized performance optimization and robust data protection.

The Samsung 990 SSD will be launched globally starting July 15, 2026, and is coming soon to the Philippines with an SRP of ₱19,075 for 1TB and ₱37,678 for the 2TB capacity. Upon its arrival, it will be available across official Samsung Storage stores on Shopee and Lazada, as well as partner retailers in the Philippines such as PC Express, Infoworx, Octagon, The Net, JW Summit, PC Hub, Thinking Tools, Dynamic PC, Datablitz, Memo Express.

Stay updated on the local release and learn more about the Samsung 990 SSD, follow their official TikTok and YouTube channels and visit at https://www.samsung.com/sg/

---

Samsung 990 SSD
Interface	PCIe® 4.0 x4 NVMe™ 2.03
Form Factor	M.2 (2280)
Storage Memory	Samsung V-NAND
Controller	Samsung in-house Controller
Capacity`	1TB	2TB
Sequential Read/Write Speed5	Up to 7,150 MB/s, 6,450 MB/s	Up to 7,250 MB/s, 6,450 MB/s
Random Read/Write Speed (QD32)	Up to 700K IOPS, 1,100K IOPS	Up to 850K IOPS, 1,200K IOPS
Management Software	Samsung Magician Software
Data Encryption	AES 256-bit Full Disk Encryption, TCG/Opal V2.0, Encrypted Drive (IEEE1667)-
Total Bytes Written	400TB	800TB
Warranty	Three-year Limited Warranty6

[1] Based on an average game size of 64.3GB – calculated using the top 12 titles from Steam’s “Best of 2025: New Releases” list

https://store.steampowered.com/charts/bestofyear/2025

[2] SSD 990 sequential read/write 1,686/1,697 MB/s per Watt, 990 PRO sequential read/write 1,221/1,255 MB/s per Watt based on the internal test result of the 2TB capacity model.

[3]The NVM Express® design mark is a registered trademark of NVM Express, Inc.

[4]1GB = 1,000,000,000 bytes by IDEMA. A certain portion of capacity may be used for system file and maintenance use, thus the actual available capacity may differ from the labeled capacity.

[5]Sequential and random performance are based on 1Ometer1.1.0 Performance may vary based on SSD's firmware version, system hardware & configurations. Test System: AMD Ryzen 9 7650X 16-Core Processor CPU@4.50GHz, DDR5 4800MHz (16GBx2), OS-Windows 11 Pro 64bit, Chipset-ASRock-X670E-Taichi. Sequential and random write performance was measured with Intelligent TurboWrite technology being activated. Intelligent TurboWrite operates only within a specific data transfer size. For detailed information, please contact your local service center

[6]Samsung Electronics shall not be liable for any loss, including but not limited to loss of data or other information contained on Samsung's products or loss of profit or revenue which may be incurred by the user. Warranty provides coverage for the stated time period or the TBW (Total Bytes Written), whichever comes first. Please refer to the detailed warranty statement here at http://www.samsung.com/samsungssd

Justice Zones to strengthen coordination within the nationwide justice system

Tweet

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has welcomed the City of San Fernando, La Union, into the expanding network of Justice Zones under the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC), underscoring continued efforts to strengthen nationwide coordination of the justice system.

Department of Justice undersecretary Atty. Ian Norman Dato, assistant secretary Robert Nomar V. Leyretana, and associate justices John Z. Lee and Rex Bernardo L. Pascual

Unveiled during the grand ceremony at Hotel Aureo, the initiative is part of the continuing expansion of the JSCC, which promotes stronger collaboration among the five pillars of justice, such as law enforcement, prosecution, courts, corrections, and the community, to improve the efficiency and coherence of justice delivery across local jurisdictions.

Representing the DOJ secretary Fredderick A. Vida was DOJ Law Enforcement Cluster undersecretary Ian Norman E. Dato, who conveyed the DOJ’s full support for the City of San Fernando’s inclusion in the growing network of Justice Zones nationwide.

“Today’s launch reflects more than commitment. It reflects vision and the conscious decision of the City of San Fernando to embrace a system where communication, cooperation, and collaboration become the foundation of every action and every decision. The launch marks a shift in perspective. From functioning as separate offices, the justice sector agencies and actors of the City of San Fernando now move forward together as one collective unit; a Justice Zone,” he stated.

Justice Zones are designed as hubs where law enforcement, prosecution, courts, corrections, and community stakeholders work as one coordinated system. “Justice Zones thrive because they develop a stronger culture of interdependence, coordination, and shared responsibility in the service of justice,” Dato added.

The DOJ also explained that the framework strengthens coordination during case build-up, ensuring prosecutorial involvement at earlier stages while giving prosecutors greater confidence that filed cases meet the required quantum of evidence.

Department of Justice undersecretary Atty. Ian Norman Dato

“With an established Justice Zone, law enforcement agencies gain the assurance of prosecutorial involvement during the case build-up stage. At the same time, prosecutors gain confidence that the cases filed before them meet the required quantum of evidence, ensuring that only quality cases are brought before our courts,” Dato emphasized.

The launch in San Fernando follows similar initiatives led by the JSCC in other parts of the country, including specialty zones addressing Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC-CSAEM) in Calbayog, Tacloban, Ormoc, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and Ozamiz.

The DOJ also highlighted ongoing reforms within the National Prosecution Service, including updated policies on inquest and preliminary investigation proceedings, aimed at improving case efficiency and supporting broader justice sector decongestion efforts.

During the event, local justice sector partners, including judges, prosecutors, public attorneys, law enforcement officers, and corrections representatives, were likewise recognized for their participation and continued support in advancing the Justice Zone framework.

vivo names first Gen V campus ambassadors

Tweet

vivo Philippines has named the first five members of its GEN V Campus Ambassador Program following the grand finals on July 12 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, marking the conclusion of the brand's first nationwide campus ambassador search.

The initiative brought together student leaders from colleges and universities across the National Capital Region, reflecting the growing role of student creators and campus communities in brand engagement and youth marketing.

Fifteen finalists, selected through four mall auditions and a wildcard round, advanced to the final competition. During the event, participants showcased their talents through acting, singing, and dancing. The finalists also delivered speeches outlining how they would use the platform to serve their respective communities.

Based on their overall performance, the inaugural GEN V Campus Ambassadors are:

1. Rhea Mea T. Parcon (World Citi Colleges) – 92.88
2. Beverly I. Cantos (Mapúa University) – 91.86
3. John Brent Domaya (Centro Escolar University Manila) – 90.48
4. Jerah Bernard L. Eusebio (University of the Philippines Diliman) – 87.46
5. Icen Rose Vivo (University of the Philippines Diliman) – 87.30

Throughout the competition, the finalists highlighted themes of community leadership, confidence, creativity, education, inclusivity, and storytelling. Their presentations reflected how they intend to use digital platforms to engage fellow students and encourage participation within their campuses.

"The vivo Campus Ambassador Program was created to identify students who can communicate with authenticity, collaborate with their communities, and grow alongside the brand," said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines. "The five ambassadors represent different experiences and perspectives, and we look forward to supporting their development over the coming year."

The selected ambassadors will officially begin their term on August 1, 2026.

As part of the program, each ambassador will receive a Php 5,000 monthly cash incentive for 12 months and access to mentorship sessions led by vivo Philippines marketing professionals covering branding, digital marketing, campaign execution, and communication.

They will also participate in vivo product launches, marketing campaigns, and major brand events, providing firsthand exposure to the company's marketing initiatives. Outstanding participants may be considered for internship or employment opportunities with vivo Philippines after graduation, while select ambassadors may also gain access to international learning or exchange opportunities, subject to program availability.

For Parcon, the top-ranked ambassador, the recognition reinforced the message she shared during the competition.

"This opportunity reflects the message I shared during the competition, that everyone deserves to feel seen," she said. "I hope to encourage more students to believe in their own potential and take chances on themselves."

Domaya said the program provided opportunities beyond personal achievement.

"Through this ambassadorship program, I aspire to create meaningful impact, not only for myself, but for the community as well," he said.

Meanwhile, Vivo said she hopes to use the platform to create meaningful stories that inspire fellow students.

"More than an achievement, I see this as a responsibility to uphold the values of both vivo and my university with authenticity, creativity, and purpose," she said.

The GEN V Campus Ambassador Program is part of vivo Philippines' broader effort to strengthen partnerships with student communities by providing leadership development, practical marketing experience, and opportunities for campus engagement.

Stay updated on vivo's latest products, events, and community initiatives by following vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram , YouTube, X, and TikTok.

Ballet Manila brings back global ballet superstars Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim in La Bayadère

Tweet

Mariinsky Ballet principal dancers Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim return for Ballet Manila's La Bayadere

Two of the world’s most celebrated ballet artists will once again step onto the Philippine stage to give Filipino audiences a glimpse of their extraordinary and world-renowned artistry, passion and technical brilliance.

This August, Ballet Manila brings back ballet superstars Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim, principal dancers of the Mariinsky Ballet, to breathe new life into the timeless classic, La Bayadère happening at the Aliw Theater on August 14 at 8 PM, and on August 15 and 16 at 5PM.

Notably, their return solidifies Ballet Manila’s long-standing mission of bringing world-class ballet closer to the Filipino audiences, giving local theatergoers a rare chance to witness internationally celebrated performers in the country.

“We are very excited to welcome Renata and Kimin back to Ballet Manila,” exclaimed Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s founder and artistic director. She recalls with pride last year’s successful run of Don Quixote which starred the formidable duo. “Their performances in Don Quixote were truly unforgettable, and the response from Filipino audiences was overwhelming. It was a delight to see our audiences embrace them so warmly, and I know many have been looking forward to seeing them perform here again.”

Kim and Shakirova bring exceptional credentials to the production. Shakirova, whose extraordinary talent was recognized early on, is already a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Benois de la Danse award – touted as the “Ballet Oscar.” The Tashkent, Uzbekistan-native is highly regarded for her musicality, dramatic depth, and commanding presence; thus, establishing herself as one of the Mariinsky’s top prima ballerinas.

Conversely, Kim started ballet relatively late – at around 10 years old – but made his mark as the first foreign male principal dancer in the Mariinsky Ballet’s history. He is also highly acclaimed worldwide for his remarkable athleticism and precise technique. As a pair, they are just as impressive having won the Russia-Kultura TV’s Grand Ballet competition in 2016.

The couple are no strangers to La Bayadère, one of the celebrated masterpieces in ballet. Set in ancient India, the story follows the tragic love story of the temple dancer (bayadère) Nikiya and the warrior Solor. The High Brahmin (high priest), who is also in love with Nikiya, learns of her relationship with Solor and asks the Rajah to kill Solor. But his plan backfires when the Rajah orders Nikiya to be killed instead. The classic melodramatic love triangle spans both the mortal world and afterlife.

At the Mariinsky Theatre, Kim regularly performs the role of the noble warrior Solor, while Shakirova has portrayed both the Nikya and the regal Gamzatti, highlighting her versatility that has earned her international acclaim.

“Renata and Kim’s extensive experience with La Bayadère promises Filipinos audiences a moving and authentic interpretation of Marius Petipa’s enduring masterpiece. We hope that by the end of the show, the audience will have a renewed love for ballet,” concluded Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

Stay up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting Ballet Manila’s website www.balletmanila.com.ph or Ticketworld page www.ticketworld.com.ph