The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery Showcases Lander Blanza’s “Prominence”

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The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery presents Prominence: A Visual Break from the Norm, the 12th solo exhibition of Filipino multidimensional artist Lander Blanza.

The month-long exhibition brings together Blanza’s distinctive approach to tone, depth, balance, and texture, offering a collection of works that invite a closer look. His use of tonal manipulation gives each piece a sense of dimension and movement, creating a visual experience that is both striking and contemplative.

Prominence features several of Blanza’s notable series, each exploring a different visual language. His Abundance series draws from ideas of wealth and prosperity, while Big Catch looks into the richness of nature and its seemingly endless bounty. The Ridge series turns to the landscape, translating dramatic mountain formations into atmospheric compositions.

The exhibition also extends beyond the canvas with Blanza’s brass sculptures. Works from his Bonsai, Lucky Bamboo, and Money Tree series combine intricate craftsmanship with familiar symbols associated with beauty, harmony, growth, and fortune.

With solo exhibitions previously presented in Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, London, Italy, and Singapore, Blanza brings an international perspective to The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery.

“We are honored to host Lander Blanza’s Prominence exhibition at the Art Gallery. The exhibit offers our guests an opportunity to discover and engage with his art, while continuing the hotel’s commitment to providing space for Philippine art and culture,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

Prominence: A Visual Break from the Norm is on display at the Art Gallery of The Manila Hotel until October 31, 2026. Admission is free.

For more information, please contact +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit. www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

Why Running Crews Are Becoming the New Social Circles for Young Filipinos

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“See you tonight” can mean something different when your friends are part of a running crew. The meeting spot is a starting point, the plan is a few kilometers together, and catching up happens along the route. It could be a quick run after work or a late-night race that keeps the group out well past its usual bedtime.

For some Gen Zs and Millennials, running is becoming part of their social life, not just their fitness routine. It gives them a reason to step away from their desks, see familiar faces, and experience the city after dark with people who make showing up easier. And when the run is over, there is still time to linger, talk about how it went, and make plans for the next one.

Running crews are becoming a place to build friendships around a shared routine. The run itself might be a chance to chase a personal best or clear your head after a long day. Just as often, the reason to show up is knowing someone will be there to run alongside you.

That mix of movement and connection is at the heart of HOKA Midnight Run which brings runners and crews together at night, offering a different kind of social experience of where the energy of an evening out carries through every kilometer.

When Running Becomes Part of the Nightlife

A night run gives people more to look forward to than the distance ahead as crews meet up before the start, encourage one another along the route, and linger afterward to cool down and trade stories. Someone might be chasing a faster time; someone else might simply be glad they made it after a long day. Both have a place in the group.

HOKA Midnight Run brings that social side of running into the city after dark. Music and the energy of fellow runners make the evening feel like a night out, while the run gives everyone something to experience together. Friends can push one another toward the finish line, then stay to celebrate the effort whether it was a personal best or a first race.

It is those moments around the run that make people want to come back. The distance gives them a goal for the night and everyone they share it with gives them a reason to show up for the next one.For HOKA, the race is one part of a larger running culture shaped by crews, recovery routines, and the friendships that keep people showing up. HOKA Midnight Run celebrates those everyday connections alongside the excitement of race night.

That spirit reflects HOKA’s Fly Everyday philosophy: movement can help people feel connected and balanced in their daily lives, whatever their pace or goal. As running communities grow, they offer a social circle where people can pursue their own progress while moving alongside others.

Keep Moving Through the Night

HOKA Midnight Run continues in Cebu, Iloilo, and Clark, inviting more runners to experience the city after dark with a crew beside them. Whether you are chasing a personal goal, bringing a friend to their first race, or looking for people to run with, each leg offers a chance to take part.

For a growing number of young Filipinos, a night run is becoming a way to make plans, build friendships, and find a place to belong. That is what makes the next run worth showing up for: the distance you cover together, and the people you look forward to seeing again.

For more information on HOKA Midnight Run and race day gear, visit HOKA.com and/or drop by HOKA Metro Manila stores at Ayala Manila Bay, SM Aura, One Ayala, Greenhills and Trinoma, and regional stores at Ayala Cebu, SM Iloilo and Ayala Abreeza Davao.

Jollibee gives its coffee cups a fresh new look

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Coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite brew hot or iced at Jollibee stores nationwide this International Coffee Day, now served in cups with a fresh new look featuring a vibrant red design that brings a distinct Jollibee touch to every coffee run.

Designed with a strawless lid, the new cups offer a convenient way to enjoy Jollibee coffee on the go while helping reduce the need for additional single-use materials.

“In today’s social-first culture, even the way we enjoy our coffee can be something worth sharing,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “With our vibrant red sippy cups, we want our customers to feel proud carrying their Jollibee coffee wherever they go. It’s a simple way to make every coffee moment feel more joyful and distinctly Jollibee.”

For those who prefer their coffee hot, Jollibee’s Hot Fresh Brew is available during breakfast hours, offering a classic way to start the day.

Iced coffee lovers can enjoy Jollibee’s Iced Coffee Blends all day, with flavors including Iced Latte, Iced Mocha, Iced Vanilla, and Iced Caramel. They are available in regular and large sizes, as well as float variants topped with Jollibee soft serve.

The vibrant red sippy cups also give Jollibee coffee a distinctive look, making them a fun addition to everyday coffee runs, afternoon pick-me-ups, and catch-ups with friends.

This International Coffee Day, coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite Jollibee brew hot or iced, with the new cups designed to make every sip more convenient whether they’re dining in, taking their coffee to go, or enjoying it on the road.

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.

Helios Convenes Partners in Solar Expo to Help Address Rising Household Electricity Costs

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Filipino homeowners have recently gathered at U.P. Town Center for Manila’s first residential solar expo, where Helios Sustainable Energy Corp. and over 20 financial and industry partners showcased solutions to eliminate upfront costs and lower rising household electric bills.

Helios Chief Executive Officer Mr. Edmund Martinez introduces Helios as the solar partner for every Filipino home

The Helios Solar Expo 2026 welcomes homeowners to Manila's first residential solar expo

at U.P. Town Center, Quezon City

With electricity rates steadily climbing across the Philippines, homeowners are increasingly turning to solar energy to manage household costs. However, adoption is frequently delayed by upfront setup expenses and complex, inconsistent supplier quotes. The two-day expo addressed these challenges directly by offering one-on-one consultations, live system comparisons, on-ground financing approvals, and "Solar 101" educational sessions led by industry experts.

“A lot of people walked in with their solar questions and rising electric bills,” said Mr. Edmund Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of Helios. “By the time they left the expo, they knew what solar would cost them per month and which bank would finance it. That’s what we want. Real numbers, not guesswork.”

Visitors explore booth exhibits and consult with Helios’ financial and industry partners

Making Solar Accessible with ₱0 Upfront Financing

Founded in 2023, Helios operates as an end-to-end residential solar platform handling design, permitting, bank financing, installation, and long-term maintenance. Serving most of Luzon and Cebu, the company enables homeowners to transition to solar power with ₱0 upfront cost through flexible financing models, including solar mortgages and structured monthly plans backed by over 20 financial partners.

Participating bank and financing partners at the expo included BDO, BPI, UnionBank, Security Bank, RCBC, EastWest Bank, Home Credit, SB Finance, Coins.ph, Pag-IBIG Fund, and Country Funders. Component and tech brand partners present included Atmoce, LuxPower, Dyness, Power AI, SunSynk, Bluetti, and Stronghold Insurance.

Helios specialists conducted personalized one-on-one consultations to help families

calculate potential monthly energy savings

“Solar used to be for families who could write a big check,” added Martinez. “With our 20+ financing partners offering a range of solutions—from solar mortgages and credit card promos to personal loans—getting started with solar now costs zero pesos upfront. All we ask is that people sit down and do the math with us.”

Looking Beyond Sticker Prices

A core message emphasized during the weekend was evaluating rooftop solar based on total lifetime value rather than low initial quotes. Experts urged homeowners to review warranty coverages, net metering support, after-sales service, and VAT inclusivity to ensure long-term savings.

Helios Chief Executive Officer Mr. Edmund Martinez delivers his presentation on making

rooftop solar accessible and affordable for Filipino households

“I tell every homeowner the same thing: look past the price on the quote,” said Martinez. “Ask who’s going to show up in year five if something needs fixing in your solar system. That part of solar never makes it onto the flyer, but it’s where your money is protected.”

Helios aims to empower more households across Luzon and Cebu to take control of their energy needs. Homeowners who missed the live event can still calculate their potential monthly savings and book a free, no-commitment home evaluation online.

To Join the Solar Movement, book a free consultation at joinhelios.com/consultation or follow @joinhelios on social media.

Anne Curtis, first official brand ambassador of XPENG in the PH

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Anne Curtis is driving into a new chapter as the first official brand ambassador of XPENG in the Philippines.

The acclaimed actress, “It’s Showtime” television host, recording artist, and fashion and lifestyle icon was introduced as the new face of the global Physical AI company during its grand brand launch at SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on September 25.

Anne Curtis at the grand brand launch of XPENG Philippines at SM Mall of Asia Arena on September 25, 2026. Joining her are (from left to right) Katoon Su, Country Manager of XPENG Philippines; Sam Chu, General Manager of XPENG Southeast Asia; James Wu, Vice President of XPENG; JuanMa Lopez, Vice President - Design, XPENG; Pang Chao, Head of Brand Marketing for Southeast Asia and Australia New Zealand, XPENG; Vincent Yambao, Chief Operating Officer, XPENG Philippines; and James Qi, Head of Global Aftersales, XPENG.

At the same event, XPENG Philippines debuted the first two vehicles in its local lineup: the XPENG X9 Ultra-Intelligent Seven-Seater MPV and the XPENG L03 Next-Generation AI SUV Coupé. The X9 combines intelligent technology with premium comfort and a highly versatile seven-seat cabin, while the L03 brings together coupé-inspired styling, spaciousness and a choice of fully electric and range-extended powertrains.

Anne Curtis checks out the features of the flagship XPENG X9 Ultra-Intelligent Seven-Seater MPV

Anne Curtis receives a special gift from XPENG with James Wu, Vice President of XPENG

The launch also gave guests a glimpse of XPENG’s wider Physical AI ecosystem through special displays of the X2 Flying Car and IRON Humanoid Robot. Performances by singer-songwriter TJ Monterde, rising Pinoy Pop group GAT and social media sensation Criselda Alvarez added entertainment and energy to the arena showcase.

Why Anne Curtis Is the Perfect Fit for XPENG

The choice of Curtis as brand ambassador reflects the values she shares with XPENG: confidence, curiosity and a forward-looking spirit. Her enduring success across film, television, hosting, music, fashion and lifestyle, together with her sophisticated yet approachable image, aligns with XPENG’s vision of redefining premium mobility through Physical AI.

“Anne brings together elegance, energy, intelligence and authenticity,” said Hanna Tao, Southeast Asia Marketing Director of XPENG. “She is modern, stylish and constantly evolving while remaining true to her audience. As we begin our journey in the Philippines, we are excited to have her as our partner in bringing XPENG’s premium and human-centered vision of intelligent mobility to Filipino drivers.”

For Anne, the partnership began with her experience behind the wheel of an XPENG. “Ever since I first drove the XPENG L03, I’ve wanted people to experience it for themselves,” said Anne. “I love discovering things that feel fresh and exciting, and that’s what I felt with XPENG. It’s smart and stylish, but it also feels very intuitive, like the car is designed around you and what you need. I’m really happy to be part of bringing that experience to more Filipinos,” she says.

Through its partnership with Anne, XPENG aims to make advanced electric vehicles and intelligent mobility more accessible, relevant and engaging to Filipino consumers. Her appointment also marks the beginning of the brand’s efforts to introduce its premium design, intelligent technology and human-centered approach to mobility to a wider local audience.

XPENG is a global Physical AI company that develops AI-powered electric vehicles and other intelligent machines. More than 40 percent of its workforce is dedicated to research and development across artificial intelligence, software, robotics and advanced mobility. By the end of 2025, XPENG had established a presence in 60 countries and regions, with cumulative worldwide vehicle deliveries exceeding 1.2 million as of July 31, 2026. XPENG Philippines is a direct subsidiary of XPENG and the company’s first subsidiary in Southeast Asia.

For the latest announcements, follow @xpengphilippines on Facebook and Instagram. Product information is available at www.xpeng.com/ph, while further details about XPENG’s global operations may be found at www.xpeng.com.

TJ Monterde serenades the crowd at the XPENG Grand Brand Launch at the SM MOA Arena

GAT performs on stage alongside the XPENG X9 and L03.

Social Media Sensation Criselda Alvarez joins GAT for a special performance.

Criselda Alvarez with event hosts Tim Yap and Nicole Cordoves.