Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Makati City, September 30, 2025 — Security Bank has announced the appointment of Victor Lee Meng Teck as its next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He is set to assume the role in early January 2026, following the completion of his work permit, visa, and other regulatory requirements. He will succeed Sanjiv Vohra, who will continue to lead the Bank until that time. Upon stepping down, Mr. Vohra will transition to the role of Senior Advisor to the Board.
Victor Lee is a Singaporean banker with over 30 years of leadership experience throughout Asia. Most recently, he served as CEO of CIMB Singapore and CEO of Growth Markets for CIMB Bank Berhad.
At CIMB Singapore, Mr. Lee spearheaded a period of strong growth, doubling revenue and raising Return on Equity to nearly 20%. Under his leadership, the bank was recognized by The Straits Times as one of the Top 3 institutions for customer experience for three consecutive years (2023–2025). He also fostered a culture where employees felt more engaged and valued, with satisfaction levels rising significantly during his tenure.
Sanjiv Vohra assumed leadership of the Bank just months before the onset of the global pandemic. Despite unprecedented challenges, he led the organization through transformational change—strengthening digital and customer-first strategies, building a culture that has made Security Bank an Employer of Choice, advancing its sustainability agenda, and positioning the Bank for long-term profitability.
“We’re grateful to Sanjiv for his steady leadership during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. His vision and dedication have left the Bank stronger, more resilient, and well-prepared for the future,” noted Cirilo Noel, Security Bank Chairman. “As we welcome Victor, we’re confident this seamless transition will allow us to sustain momentum and capture new opportunities.”
Mr. Vohra said: “As I prepare to step down, I leave with pride and gratitude in what we have accomplished together. Our journey over the past six years has been one of total transformation—reimagining Security Bank from front to back. We have strengthened our people, embraced new technology, modernized platforms, and, most importantly, embedded customer-centricity at the heart of everything we do. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and passion of our team, and the trust of our clients and partners. As I step aside, I am confident the Bank is well-positioned to continue its momentum and achieve even greater success in the years ahead.”
Mr. Lee adds: “I’m honored to be entrusted with this responsibility. Security Bank has built a strong reputation for customer-centricity, innovation, and its distinct BetterBanking experience. I look forward to working with Sanjiv, the Board, and all employees to continue building on this foundation and delivering sustainable growth for our stakeholders.”
Monday, September 29, 2025
C&E ALS inspires future-ready learners with interactive and tech-powered solutions at its “ALS University” showcase in MIBF 2025
Manila, Philippines – The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) has always been a celebration of books, ideas, and innovation. This year, C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions (C&E ALS) took center stage with its groundbreaking “C&E ALS University” booth, a visually stunning and highly interactive showcase that blended tradition and technology to highlight how education is evolving in the Philippines.
A Booth that Captured Attention
The “Campus of the Future” stood out at the SMX Convention Center with its unique design: curved walls symbolizing adaptability, green strips echoing the vibrancy of campus life, and modern archways that invited visitors to step into a space where past and future converged. From the outside alone, the booth signaled something different: a glimpse of how classrooms, libraries, and campuses could look and feel in the years ahead.
“Our vision was to create more than a booth,” said John Emyl G. Eugenio, COO of C&E ALS. “We wanted to give educators, students, and partners a real experience of what the future of learning looks like, one where books, digital solutions, AI, and hands-on tools all come together.”
Honoring Tradition, Driving Innovation
Inside the booth, C&E ALS showcased its full spectrum of solutions, positioning itself as a complete education partner for schools and institutions: Print and Digital Content from C&E Publishing and world-renowned partners such as McGraw Hill, Elsevier, Sage, Pearson, Cengage, and Wiley; Library and Learning Platforms, including Canvas LMS, distributed by C&E ALS in the Philippines; STEAM and Makerspace Tools for all levels, designed to spark creativity and innovation in students; AI-Powered Solutions that helps educators run their courses faster and with greater precision; and Technology Collaborations with global leaders like Samsung and Britannica, reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing future-ready tools.
This holistic presentation showed that for C&E ALS, innovation and tradition are not opposing forces but partners in shaping tomorrow’s classrooms.
C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions unveiled its “Campus of the Future” at the Manila International Book Fair 2025, showcasing innovations that bridge tradition and technology in Philippine education
A Hub of Engagement and Discovery
Beyond being visually striking, the booth became a lively hub of activity. Thousands of visitors–from teachers and librarians to students and parents–took part in interactive
experiences such as the Course Card Passport Challenge, where participants explored different zones, learned about new solutions, and earned instant prizes.
Teachers tested AI platforms for lesson planning, librarians discovered tools to streamline resource management, and students experimented with STEAM kits. The result was an environment that felt more like a living campus than an exhibition booth.
Spotlight on Generative AI
One of the key highlights of C&E ALS’s participation was the seminar on Generative AI in Education, led by Engr. Ericson Dimaunahan, Director of the Office of Digital Education, Learning Technologies and Analytics at Mapúa University.
Held on September 11, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, the session drew educators eager to understand how AI can improve efficiency, personalize learning, and enhance teaching quality.
“Education has always been shaped by the tools of its time. Our task as decision makers is not just to keep pace, but to set direction,” said C&E ALS Representative Ronald Laovinia.
The seminar resonated with attendees, many of whom expressed excitement about integrating AI-driven solutions into their classrooms. It underscoredC&E ALS’s mission not only to showcase tools but also to lead the conversation on how emerging technologies can transform learning in the Philippines.
C&E ALS’s seminar on Generative AI in Education sparked excitement among teachers about using AI to enhance efficiency and personalize learning.
A Strong Turnout and Positive Impact
The booth’s design, activities, and solutions drew strong engagement throughout the five-day fair. C&E ALS reported thousands of visitors, from casual fairgoers to decision-makers in education, underscoring the company’s role as a thought leader in the sector.
“Seeing so many educators and students actively engage with our solutions tells us we are on the right path,” Eugenio said. “It validates our mission to make education more adaptive, inclusive, and future-ready.”
Looking Beyond MIBF
While the “Campus of the Future” was a highlight of MIBF 2025, C&E ALS emphasized that the showcase was just the beginning. The company remains committed to expanding its ecosystem of solutions for Philippine schools and institutions, ensuring that both tradition and innovation continue to shape education.
“At MIBF 2025, we showed how education is both about shaping the future and honoring tradition,” Eugenio added. “After the fair, our focus is to keep driving innovation that empowers educators and inspires learners nationwide.”
With the success of its MIBF participation, C&E ALS upheld its position as a leader in educational transformation. By seamlessly integrating print books, digital content and platforms, STEAM, and adaptive tech like AI, the company is preparing Filipino children to thrive in the future, staying true to its promise of adapting today, shaping tomorrow.
Innovation doesn’t stop at the fair! After showcasing the “Campus of the Future” at MIBF 2025, C&E ALS continues its mission to empower educators and inspire learners.
As the holiday season draws near, it's always a good idea to set the mood with joyful discoveries to bring out the Christmas in us. Here are some offers from SM City Marilao that are perfect for giving or simply making you happy.
Customized Gift Ideas from The Fat Bunny Club
There is nothing like a well-chosen, personalized gift. The Fat Bunny Club promotes creativity with their exquisite assortment of lovely patches, personalized bag tags, pouches, keychains, and more!
Practical Stationeries at Miniso
Get some premium stationery from Miniso at SM City Marilao as a thoughtful present. For those looking for traditional Christmas finds, such as sturdy ballpoint pens, pocket notebooks, two-way colored pens, and much more, Miniso will always be the best place to go.
Upbeat Accessories from Broadway Gems
The Christmas season requires a few delicate pieces to create unique ensembles. You can depend on Broadway Gems in SM City Marilao for chic girl accents suitable for all the gatherings and activities you will be attending this Yuletide season.
Portable Appliances at SM Appliance Center
Small but functional items always have a particular allure. At SM Appliance Center, you may get portable appliances that are perfect for tiny spaces or as gifts for friends who recently moved into a new residence. These include flat irons without the bulk, fancy-colored little electric fans, and portable rice cookers.
Give in to your heart’s desires this holiday season. Jumpstart Christmas with joyful finds from SM City Marilao. For updates and sneak peeks, visit https://www.facebook.com/SMCityMarilao.
The best of Galaxy design meets AI innovation to deliver breakthrough productivity in Samsung’s thinnest and lightest foldable
In today’s fast-paced, always-on culture, professionals need the tools that not only keep up with their demanding schedules but also support a healthier way of integrating work into your life. The Galaxy Z Fold7, powered by Galaxy AI, meets these evolving needs by enhancing productivity and managing work efficiently when you are on the go.
Intelligent Multitasking
The Galaxy Z Fold7 is Samsung’s lightest and thinnest fold yet at just 215 grams and is 8.9 mm thick when folded and 4.2 mm thick when unfolded. But this device is packed with features that lets you work anytime and anywhere. With its large screen, you can utilize different applications at the same time and have them displayed beside one another, as you would with a computer display.
With Galaxy AI Optimized for Large Screens, the Galaxy Z Fold7 further boosts productivity by leveraging key features like AI Results View and Drag & Drop. AI Results View shows results in a separate window, so your original content stays visible. You can also be more efficient with Drag & Drop, moving AI-generated content—such as images and text—between apps using Multi Window, which enables smooth transitions from one app to another.
Smart Tools for Daily Workflow
Note-taking is now smart and easy. The Note Assist feature utilizes Galaxy AI to organize your handwritten notes. It will even make a simple summary that you can go through so you can easily remember the highlights.
When you are in meetings, Transcript Assist is an absolute revelation. It transcribes voice recordings into text, makes a summary of the entire conversation and can even translate the dialogue transcript into another language with AI technology.
You can enhance your messaging with a tool like Writing Assist, which allows you to adjust the conversational tone of your text. It also provides real-time translation, which helps you communicate effectively and ensures that every conversation is a meaningful one.
All-Day Performance
Out and about? The Galaxy Z Fold7 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor that can handle whatever the day throws your way, all without slowing down. It makes multitasking all while running advanced apps, fast and smooth. You can do your daily work with no problems.
The device has also been equipped with 4400 mAh smart battery and mDNIe technology which manages power by optimizing brightness, sharpness, and contrast for a natural viewing experience. It memorizes your routines and optimizes power consumption to stay with you through the longest and busiest days.
The Circle to Search with Google feature is fast and easy to access. Thanks to this feature, you can learn more about any object or text in your photos, in a webpage, or in a document, by simply drawing a circle around it. Voila, search results appear without the need to type your query.
Gemini Live also offers a new level of productivity for professionals with its multimodal AI. This feature understands what you see, say, and do, allowing you to ask questions and get instant answers without switching between apps. With screen or camera sharing, you can simply show Gemini what you're working on, ask questions for immediate insights. This transforms the way professionals can collaborate, research, and problem-solve in real time.
Available in four colors, Blue Shadow, Jetblack, and Silver Shadow, as well as the online exclusive Mint, the Galaxy Z Fold7 is more than a smartphone, it is an intelligent and intuitive companion that continually transforms mobile productivity, designed for ambitious professionals with all-day efficiency, refined style, and a competitive advantage.
Enjoy expanded access to Google AI Pro and 2TB of cloud storage, free for six months with your Galaxy Z Fold7. Plus, get up to ₱5,000 off when you pay via one-time payment using a credit/debit card, online bank transfer, or e-wallet until September 30, 2025.
Revolutionize your workflow and learn more about the new Galaxy Z Fold7 by visiting https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold7/buy/.
Terms and conditions apply.
*Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-235744 Series of 2025.
**Offers vary per participating credit card and stores
Friday, September 26, 2025
Security Bank opens its 361st branch in Naic, Cavite (L-R): Ronald Austria, SVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Head; Jeany Sabillo, General Manager of Lotus Development Corporation; Bienvenido Guevera Jr., President of Haumaru Realty Ventures; Marcela Angeles, Sales Manager of Antel Land Holdings, Inc. – Anyana Tanza; Hon. Mayor Rommel Magbitang, Municipal Mayor of Naic; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Atty. Arnel Janabajal, President of Colegio de Naic; Lourdeni Sourtijas, Business Manager of Naic Branch and Hannah Anonuevo, FVP and Area Head
“Our newest branch is strategically located in Naic— a fast-growing, well-connected community that’s becoming a prime destination for families and businesses alike. It’s the perfect place to bring our enhanced banking services even closer to customers,” says Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head of Security Bank.
With Naic steadily emerging as a key growth corridor in Cavite, Security Bank’s new branch aims to provide convenient access to a wide range of financial solutions to support both personal and business needs.
The Naic branch is open Mondays to Fridays, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.
For more information on Security Bank’s latest products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Jomar Sapo-an, a humble tailor, emerges victorious in the GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup: September Arena…“Maraming maraming salamat sa lahat ng bumubuo ng GameZone, kung di po dahil sa kanila, wala po ako rito.”
GameZone presents the “GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC): September Arena”, a 2-day tournament which ran from September 20 to 21, held at the FilInvest Tent in Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, bringing in the top 36 seasoned players from all over the Philippines to compete in the September Arena for the prestigious golden trophy and a prize pool of ₱10,000,000, the largest prize pool for a tongits competition in the entire Philippines.
A tailor from Rizal wins and raises the GTCC: September Arena Championship Trophy
As the GameZone community continues to grow it brought out their top players, to showcase their competitive spirit representing the brand that leads the gaming industry in promoting friendly competitions and positive values in the gaming community, with a goal to uphold a positive spirit, while contributing to the success of the people. This GTCC is the 3rd tongits tournament held by GameZone, it will also allocate ₱1 Million for public welfare projects and community development initiatives.
This effort reflects GameZone’s commitment to continue bringing entertainment while also promoting responsible gaming and meaningful contributions to society.
As GameZone culminates the final day of the tournament, the top 2 players Jomar and Erlinda are both reserve players who only went to the event for their love of the game, not knowing that they will both be facing each other in the finals, they brought out their competitive nature as Erlinda won the first round of the finals leading the game by 10,600 points, but then things took a quick turn with Jomar’s exceptional performance and mastery of the game, he was able to take the lead by 500 points to win a championship, enduring to the end and going all out in the final game to become the GTCC September Arena’s grand champion.
Jomar, the ultimate winner, received the grand prize of 5 million pesos and the golden trophy with Mr. Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of Gamemaster Integrated Inc., to present the prize and trophy to the grand champion of the GTCC: September Arena tournament.
Gamemaster Integrated Inc. President, Mr. Rafael Jasper Vicencio presents the grand prize and trophy to the winner of the GTCC: September Arena
In an exclusive interview with the grand champion, Sapo-an still in shock after winning the tournament, raises his hands up to the skies…”nag papasalamat po ako kay God at sa pamilya ko”
Sapo-an and his family resides in Rizal, but is originally from Bohol, he says that it was his wife, his number one fan who pushed him to join but was nervous as it was his first time to ever join a tongits tournament, with him now being the grand champion, he feels every bit of happiness…
“Inaalay ko po ang panalong ito sa pamilya ko po, lalong lalo na sa asawa ko, na number one fan ko, supportive sa akin yun, sya ang nag-push sakin na pumunta rito, nag pray lang din po ako kay God, na kung para sa akin, para sa akin.”
Sapo-an, raises his hand up to the skies as he becomes the champion of the tournament
When asked what he will be doing with his winnings…”Unang una po sa lupa’t bahay, para po sa pamilya, bibili po kami ng lupa at bahay, sa ngayon po di pa po namin napapagusapan kung sa Maynila o sa Bohol.”
The tournament brought out the players competitive spirit and after winning the prize Sapo-an showed his character of sportsmanship by also giving credits to his fellow players stating that all of them are masters of the game and it was not easy, but left it all to luck in the cards, he stated that his playing experience comes from playing household card games and playing through the GameZone application on his phone. This gave him an unforgettable experience through his whole journey during the tournament, as he emerged as the champion in the GTCC: September Arena, after the tournament he plans to go home to hug his wife and two kids.
What sets GameZone apart is its commitment to creating memorable experiences in and out of the competition. Players were not only celebrated for their talent but also treated with hospitality deeply rooted in Filipino values. Each participant was allowed to bring up to 1 companion who enjoyed an all-expense-paid, 5-day hotel stay complete with food and accommodation, a gesture that reflects GameZone’s dedication to making the journey unforgettable for both players and their families.
At the heart of GameZone as a brand is the desire to promote qualities that not only speak to the competitive nature of gaming but also to the virtues that can inspire and uplift society, with the event being labeled as the biggest tongits table game tournament in the Philippines. The tournament opened with an air of excitement with participants and players from different backgrounds making their way to the event with 36 players given a life changing opportunity and were grouped randomly as they went head-to-head with each other in one of the most challenging long hours and rounds of their playing career, making their way through the elimination round and finals giving each player a platform to shine.
Passion meets purpose: GameZone donates 1 Million Pesos to the Kalusugan Plus initiative, chosen by the community received by the BingoPlus Foundation
All of the participants were recognized during the 2-day tournament creating another milestone event with the brand raising a platform where everyone can join, win and be part of GameZone another highlight of the event was the donation given by GameZone to the initiative that was voted by the public community, GameZone was able to donate an amount of ₱1M donation to the Kalusugan Plus initiative, with BingoPlus Foundation’s Executive Director Ms. Angela Camins-Wineke there to accept donation, which will go to the chosen initiative by the community for support and development.
Overall the GameZone was able to set a milestone moment as it set records and opened new doors of opportunities, promising an exciting and entertaining platform for future players of the game. The tournament was not only a game of cards for the players because it also fostered champions for change, with proof that the love for Filipino entertainment is as strong as ever. This commitment to excellence, combined with a strong focus on public welfare, positions the GameZone brand as a leader in the gaming industry, paving the way for even greater achievements in the future.
DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Manila, Philippines – Security Bank Capital Investment Corporation, the investment banking arm of Security Bank, has been recognized as the Philippines’ Best Investment Bank for Financing 2025 at Euromoney’s Asia-Pacific Awards for Excellence.
Euromoney cited Security Bank Capital’s pioneering role in sustainable and large-scale financings, including:
- Sustainability leadership – Arranging the country’s first sustainability-linked bonds for Ayala Land, Inc. worth PHP14 billion, with innovative step-up features tied to performance targets; and the oversubscribed PHP10 billion ASEAN green bonds for Energy Development Corporation.
- Transformational infrastructure – Leading the landmark PHP52 billion project finance facility for New NAIA Infra Corp., a new benchmark for PPP airport projects.
- Capital market depth – Closing nine major bond issuances in 2024 totaling PHP139 billion, including SM Prime’s PHP25-billion issue and SMC Tollways’ PHP35-billion debut—the largest in the market.
- Energy transition financing – Delivering PHP91.8 billion in project finance, such as the 450MW 3 Barracuda Solar Project, the largest solar financing in Philippine history.*
- Equity capital markets – Raising PHP40.1 billion across four equity deals, highlighted by Citicore Renewable Energy’s IPO and the largest preferred share offerings from Petron and Ayala Corporation.
“Security Bank Capital has cemented its position as a cornerstone of investment banking in the Philippines,” Euromoney noted. The recognition adds to the firm’s recent distinctions, including Best Investment Bank in the Philippines (Alpha Southeast Asia 2025), Best ESG House in the Philippines (Euromoney 2024), and Best ECM House – Highly Commended (FinanceAsia).
“This recognition by Euromoney is a testament to our role as a trusted partner in enabling our clients’ growth and the country’s sustainable development,” said Virgilio Chua, President and CEO of Security Bank Capital. “From renewable energy to infrastructure and inclusive finance, we remain committed to delivering solutions that power progress for businesses, communities, and the nation.”
*as of 2024
October ushers in the heart of the ber months in the Philippines, a season filled with early Christmas shopping, fiesta vibes, and the excitement of cooler days ahead. What better way to welcome it than with a shopping spree that promises both savings and style?
From October 3 to 5, SM Center Sangandaan kicks off its first big sale of 2025, treating shoppers to up to 70% off on fashion finds, tech must-haves, home essentials, beauty services, and more. The best deals await at SM Hypermarket, Ace Hardware, Miniso, Simply Shoes, Watsons, SM Appliance Center, and over 100 other stores across the mall.
It is the perfect excuse to tick off that Christmas gift list early, refresh your wardrobe for the season, or simply indulge in retail therapy with friends. With exclusive promos, freebies, and surprises lined up, you will have even more reasons to fill those shopping bags to the brim.
Mark your calendars, rally your shopping squad, and be part of SM Center Sangandaan’s 3-Day Sale tradition because in this part of the city, October means bargains you cannot resist.
For updates and event details, follow SM Center Sangandaan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smcentersangandaan
Sunday, September 21, 2025
21 September 2025, Makati City, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation (PSE: SECB) has been selected for inclusion in the FTSE Asia Pacific Small Cap Index, one of the region’s most recognized benchmarks used by global institutional investors.
The announcement, made as part of FTSE’s September 2025 quarterly review, reflects Security Bank’s growing stature in the Philippine financial sector and its consistent market performance. The inclusion took effect on September 19, 2025 (after close of business).
“This recognition underscores the trust that investors continue to place in Security Bank,” said Sanjiv Vohra, President & CEO. “Our commitment to delivering BetterBanking and creating long-term value for clients, communities, and shareholders is now being validated on a global stage.”
The FTSE Asia Pacific Small Cap Index forms part of the FTSE Global Equity Index Series (GEIS), a comprehensive framework covering large-, mid-, small-, and micro-cap stocks across developed and emerging markets. Within this series, the FTSE Global Small Cap Index represents over 5,800 stocks with a combined market capitalization of about USD7 trillion.
Built on clear, rules-based criteria, FTSE GEIS provides investors with a transparent and unbiased view of global equity markets. Constituents are screened for liquidity and investability to ensure the index remains tradable and representative. The index is calculated using both price and total return methodologies. To stay aligned with evolving market conditions, the index is reviewed and rebalanced on a quarterly basis.
Security Bank was among a select group of Philippine companies named in the FTSE review. Its addition highlights the Bank’s increasing relevance to international investors, who often use FTSE indices to guide investment decisions.
“As we celebrate our 74th anniversary this year, being part of the FTSE Asia Pacific Small Cap Index reinforces our mission to be the most customer-centric bank in the Philippines,” added Vohra. “We see this milestone not only as market recognition, but as an inspiration to continue innovating and putting customers at the heart of everything we do.”
Saturday, September 20, 2025
SM City Baliwag, Government Agencies Collect River Waste in Celebration of Int’l Coastal Cleanup Day
In observance of the International Coastal Cleanup Day, SM City Baliwag, in collaboration with government agencies and institutions, participated in a cleanup drive along the Angat River trench located between Barangay Tibag and Barangay Poblacion, at Baliwag City in Bulacan.
Organized by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), the activity aims to increase awareness on the importance of proper waste disposal and the role of the community in the protection and conservation of wetland areas.
Together with the volunteers from SM City Baliwag, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and NU Baliwag, the event yielded significant results as the said groups collected the most common types of garbage found on water bodies, such as cigarette butts, food wrappers, take-out containers, metal and plastic bottle caps, fishing nets, diapers, and beverage bottles. Waste collected during the recently concluded event will then be disposed of through the proper facilities and channels.
As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, SM Supermalls participates in regular cleanups throughout the year and executes initiatives such as the water recycling program across all SM Malls, the Trash to Cash Recycling Market, and solar rooftops in several malls that promote the use of clean energy; the Green Film Festival features documentaries about biodiversity, climate change, and solid waste, offered for free to high school students.
“SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION” spotlights talent, unity, and energy through a nationwide group competition
In a move that merges entertainment, inclusivity, and brand excitement, Hotel Sogo has officially launched the SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION—a nationwide dance competition open to groups of four to eight members, aged 18 and above, offering ₱100,000 worth of prizes in cash and staycation perks.
Designed as the hotel’s biggest campaign for 2025, the SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION is not just a contest—it’s a nationwide celebration of dance, teamwork, and Filipino creativity.
“We want to highlight the real dance talent of the Filipino people—those who bring energy, rhythm, and positive spirit wherever they go,” said by Ms. Sue Geminiano, Hotel Sogo Marketing Manager. “This contest allows groups to bond, express themselves, and possibly win big while doing something they love.
A Digital-First Dance Challenge
To join, dance crews must produce a 30–60 second video featuring original, creative, and family-friendly choreography. Entries should be posted on TikTok, Facebook, or Instagram, with the caption: “We’re joining the SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION! Support our entry by liking and sharing!
#SogoDanceRevolution #HotelSogo #SogoDanceShowdown”
The video must tag @hotelsogo and be set to public. All members must follow Hotel Sogo’s official social media pages, and the group must register via an online form or QR code available at any Hotel Sogo branch nationwide.
The deadline for submission is September 5, 2025.
Judging and the Grand Finals From all valid entries, top-performing groups will be selected based on the following criteria: Dance Skills & Choreography – 40% Social Media Engagement – 30% Creativity & Overall Look – 20% Confidence & Energy – 10%
These finalists will advance to a Grand Finals Showdown, where they will perform live before a panel of celebrity judges and a cheering crowd.
Prizes include a grand champion title, a possible official ambassadorship, and a share of the ₱100,000 prize pool. One group will also receive a Special Award for Most Engaged Group, based on social media virality and shares.
A Movement of Dance, Community, and Filipino Pride
Hotel Sogo, widely recognized for its “So Clean, So Good” brand promise, continues to expand its footprint beyond hospitality. This latest campaign reflects the brand’s commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment through digital platforms.
“We’ve always believed in creating opportunities that are fun, meaningful, and community-driven,” added by Ms, Geminiano. “SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION embodies our commitment to give ordinary Filipinos extraordinary moments.”
Finalists will be announced on Hotel Sogo’s social media pages, and the Grand Finals will be held at a to-be-announced venue later this year.
For full mechanics and contest updates, visit www.hotelsogo.com or follow Hotel Sogo on social media: Facebook: @HotelSogoOfficialPage Instagram: @hotelsogo TikTok: @hotelsogo.official
Interested participants may register through this link: https://update.hotelsogo.com/dance-revo-form/
SM City Marikina: Flavors Entwined and Favorites Rediscovered
SM City San Mateo: Wishes, Convenience, and Chill Treats
SM City Masinag: Asian Comfort in Every Bite
SM Center Antipolo Downtown: Everyday Eats, Elevated
This September, the SM Food Fest is your ticket to a delicious adventure. Whether you’re dining with family, catching up with friends, or simply treating yourself, there’s always something new to savor at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown. Don’t miss the chance to explore these exciting new food finds—visit your nearest SM Mall in the East and make every meal a feast!
Friday, September 19, 2025
Radiant Photo 2.1 is here, and it’s more than just tweaks: we’ve polished up the user experience, improved performance, and added features that help you get beautiful, natural-looking results with less fuss. No artificial effects, no fake clouds—just making the most of what you’ve already captured.
What’s new & why it matters
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Black & White tools: You can now work in zones (instead of fixed colors), feather your control areas, and even keep a hint of color in specific hues. Smooth transitions; clean edges.
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Load your own LUTs (Looks): Bring in external .cube files (and others) so you can use film looks, your previous edits, or other creative styles.
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“Uber” sliders in Develop & Color Grade: Big tonal or color changes with one move, or subtle shifts—easy fine-tuning.
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Better navigation & crop tools: More keyboard shortcuts, including nudging or rotating the crop; quicker preset/Looks browsing.
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Smarter noise reduction: A “Detailed Scan” evaluates each image and picks the best method (night, high-ISO, portrait, etc.), helping maintain texture and realism.
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EXIF viewer: See important info (camera, lens, shutter speed, ISO, etc.) right in the app so you make informed edits.
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Continuity features: Open recent files, resume last sessions, and sidecar files keep your edits non-destructive.
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Better integration with workflows: Smooth working with Apple Photos (external editor), Lightroom, etc. Faster load times, optional “keep running” mode for Lightroom plug-in, headless batch export (export without having to use the UI every time).
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Custom workflows & presets: You can assign presets to different scenes (portrait, landscape, etc.), import/export them, so your editing style is easier to reuse or share.
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Creative Packs: New packs like Newborn & Baby and Neo Tokyo tones are now available. They’re made to work in with the updated tools & workflows.
Philosophy & values
Radiant Photo 2.1 is built on a few core ideas:
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Use what you have — no fake or generative content. We help you make the most of your original pixels.
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Natural first — the edits should look good, not “obviously edited.” If someone says “nice edit,” dial back a bit.
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Privacy & performance — all the magic happens on your device; no need to send your photos to the cloud.
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Open workflows — works well with common tools (Apple Photos, Lightroom, Photoshop, etc.), your files, drives, memory cards.
Performance & stability
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Over 80 fixes for performance, interface polish, stability.
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More frequent smaller updates to address customer feedback & real-world issues.
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What helps: when reporting bugs, provide sample images, system info, and steps to reproduce so fixes are faster.
Updating
To update:
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Open the Radiant Manager (you’ll find it inside Radiant Photo or from the app folder).
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If 2.1 is available, hit the Update button.
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Before updating, close any host apps (Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, etc.) and Radiant Photo itself to avoid issues.
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Overall: What you’ll notice day one
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Smoother, cleaner black & white conversions.
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Faster edits with fewer steps.
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More control without overwhelming options.
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Better integration into your existing workflow.
Thursday, September 18, 2025
VIPs gather for a group photo at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion, Taiwan Expo 2025 Philippines.
From left: Ms. Marilou Walohan Ampuan (Al Hajj President/Founder/CEO, Universal Islamic Center, Inc.), Representative Wallace Minn-Gan Chow (Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines - TECO), Mr. James Huang (Incumbent Chairman, Taiwan External Trade Development Council — TAITRA), Catriona Gray, Mr. Wilson Tecson (Board of Directors, Manila Economic and Cultural Office - MECO), Mr. Simon Wang (President and CEO, President and CEO, TAITRA), Mr. Benedict M. Uy (Executive Director, Department of Trade and Industry – Foreign Trade Service Corps – DTI-FTSC)
Taiwan Expo 2025 officially opened its doors in the Philippines at the SMX Convention Center, running from September 17 to 19. Among its highlights was the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion, which showcased cutting-edge innovations under the theme “Inspiring Tomorrow: Solutions for a Brighter Life.”
Adding excitement to the event, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray hosted a meet-and-greet and autograph signing, delighting fans and visitors of the pavilion.
Key representatives from Taiwan also graced the launch press conference, including Mr. Simon Wang, President and CEO of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), and Ms. Josephine Shun, Director of the Economic Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (TECO).
Mr. Simon Wang shared his message on the pavilion. “On behalf of TAITRA, we are proud to bring Taiwan’s spirit of innovation and excellence to the Philippines through the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion. All these products combine smart design, advanced technology, and practicality, highlighting that Taiwan is really committed to creating solutions that improve lives while setting high standards of quality.”
Ms. Josephine Shun also spoke about Taiwan’s initiatives to improve everyday living for all. “The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion embodies our belief in Taiwan that innovation must serve humanity by creating sustainable, meaningful improvements to daily living. We, at TECO, are proud to support the Pavilion by bringing together Taiwan’s most outstanding brands on a global stage, fostering collaboration and showcasing how our innovations can shape a brighter future.”
Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, saying hello to fans as she goes on a tour of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines, held at the SMX Convention Center.
After a quick tour of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion with Mr. Simon Wang and the lovable Fu Bear, the Taiwan Excellence mascot, Catriona Gray made a special appearance at the press conference to mark the pavilion’s official launch. She later delighted fans with a free meet-and-greet and live autograph signing session, drawing a large crowd of visitors to the pavilion.
“It is such an honor to be here today at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion. Witnessing these innovative solutions from Taiwan inspires me in looking forward to a better tomorrow. I hope that Filipinos will seize every opportunity that’s available to them here at the pavilion, and that we all take home the empowering spirit from seeing a brighter future together as Taiwan and the Philippines.” The beloved pageant queen spoke on the significance of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion in the Philippines.
The beauty queen also joined the lively Gimme Five Parade around the Taiwan Expo, where she explored booths showcasing a wide range of industries and services from Taiwan.
Representatives of leading Taiwan brands and institutions posed for a group photo after presenting their products on the first day of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion. From left to right: Mr. Joseph Aquino (Zyxel Networks), Mr. George Pascua (Team Group), Ms. Josephine Shun (Director of the Economic Division, TECO), Mr. Simon Wang (President and CEO, TAITRA), Ms. Jacqueline Hsiao (Vinxper Life), and Ms. Charge Lu (HEPTY).
Visitors of the pavilion on September 17 were also able to attend the product presentations given by key representatives of leading Taiwan brands. The presentations featured messages from the following delegates of esteemed Taiwanese institutions and companies: Ms. Jacqueline Hsiao — Vinxper Life, Mr. George Pascua — Team Group, Mr. Joseph Aquino — Zyxel Networks, Charge Lu — HEPTY.
Filipinos visiting the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion, currently in exhibition at Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines, at the SMX Convention Center.
The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion showcases a wide variety of products from industries such as sustainable technology, advanced medical devices, and smart fitness and leisure equipment. These innovations are organized into three themes — Comfortable Life, Smart City, and Greener Future — reflecting Taiwan’s dedication to creating solutions that make everyday living better for all.
Beyond the exhibits, visitors also enjoyed interactive activities, had the chance to meet and take photos with Fu Bear, the Taiwan Excellence mascot, and even brought home special giveaways from the pavilion.
Taiwan Excellence Pavilion @ Taiwan Expo 2025 at the SMX Convention Center
The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Taiwan Expo 2025, held at the SMX Convention Center, is open until September 19. Visitors are invited to explore pioneering products and solutions from Taiwan that are shaping a brighter tomorrow, while also discovering opportunities for business collaboration through hands-on experiences and direct engagement with delegates from leading Taiwanese companies.
For updates and more details, visit the Taiwan Excellence PH Facebook page: facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph.
The pavilion proudly features the participation of Taiwan Excellence-awarded brands, including: Apacer, ApexBio, Atunas Sports, Chimei Motor Electronics, CyberTAN, Heartway Medical, HEPTY, InWin Development Inc., LCW, LUFTQI, MacroHI, Mecom, MicroBase, Sheng Yuan Electric, Team Group, Transcend, Vinxper, WebComm Technology, Yee Jee Technology, and Zyxel Networks.
About Taiwan Excellence
The Taiwan Excellence Awards were established in 1993 by Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) to recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements of Taiwan's most innovative products. Each year, eligible products go through a rigorous selection process that assesses their products based on four important factors: research and development, design, quality, and marketing with the key criterion of being Made in Taiwan. The Taiwan Excellence mark has gained global recognition as a prestigious symbol of quality and design, effectively showcasing Taiwan's impressive product innovation. For more information, please visit https://www.taiwanexcellence.org/en
About International Trade Administration (TITA)
International Trade Administration (TITA), established by Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs, is entrusted with planning trade policies, engaging in international cooperation, and promoting economic agreements. Responsibilities include trade barrier removal, data analysis, import-export administration, and addressing trade disputes. The Administration's comprehensive role spans trade promotion, MICE industry development, and managing commodity classification. It conducts investigations on import relief and anti dumping cases, addressing diverse facets of international trade, making it a pivotal entity in Taiwan's global economic engagement. Please visit https://www.trade.gov.tw/English/
About Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)
Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is the leading non-profit, semi-governmental trade promotion organization in Taiwan. It was founded in 1970 with the aim of promoting foreign trade, and is jointly sponsored by the government, industry associations, and several commercial organizations. The organization has a well-coordinated trade promotion and information network, which consists of over 1,200 trained specialists stationed throughout its Taipei headquarters and 60 branches worldwide. In conjunction with its sister organizations, the Taiwan Trade Center (TTC) and Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC), TAITRA has created a wealth of trade opportunities through effective promotion strategies. Please visit www.taitra.org.tw
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