Wednesday, March 18, 2026



Manila, Philippines, March 6, 2026—HUAWEI, the no. 1 smart wearable brand, in collaboration with HONMA Golf, a Japan-based premium golf club manufacturer and sports lifestyle brand, recently supported the Malbon Buckets Club 004 Golf Tournament. Held at the Canlubang Golf and Country Club, the event allowed participants to explore the newly released HONMA x Huawei Watch GT6 Pro and experience its features in real playing conditions.

Players competed across four divisions where they delivered strong performances and closely contested scorecards throughout the day. The tournament showcased both seasoned golfers and rising talents, reinforcing the inclusive and competitive spirit of the Buckets Club.

HONMA x HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro: Luxury Golf Technology on the Course
Beyond the competition, the Malbon Buckets Club offered players the chance to experience the HONMA x HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro at the tournament. Attendees explored its suite of professional golf features that are designed to elevate every aspect of their game.

With over 17,000 zoomable 3D course maps worldwide, including over 100 courses in the Philippines, players could visualize fairways, hazards, and landing zones before taking each shot. Green Slope Direction and Play-Like Distance provided accurate insights into putting breaks and yardages that account for elevation and wind conditions, helping golfers make informed decisions at every swing.

The watch’s AI Caddie analyzed each player’s performance trends and swing history, offering tailored club and strategy recommendations in real time, while Shot Distance Tracking and digital scorecards automatically captured every stroke for review later in the HUAWEI Health app. Players could even share their best shots via Ball Trajectory Sharing, turning each round into a data-driven and social experience.

Luxury craftsmanship is equally front and center. The watch features HONMA-exclusive dials from the traditional Pine Leaf Pattern to the vibrant BERES 7S Mt. Fuji design, paired with an aerospace-grade titanium case, sapphire crystal glass, and a HONMA-engraved gold buckle. The 1.47-inch AMOLED display, with 3,000-nit peak brightness, ensures clarity even under bright sunlight, while the black-and-gold color scheme balances elegance with sporty functionality.


Two tournament winners took home the HONMA x HUAWEI WATCH GT6 Pro as part of their prizes, underlining the connection between performance on the course and innovative golf technology.


Paul Martires of Malbon Buckets Club
Paul Martires, one of the first Eagles members and part of the highest tier of Malbon Buckets Club membership, used the watch throughout his round. “Super helpful watch on the course. It’s light on the wrist, easy to check mid-swing, with GPS and yardages that stayed on point my whole round,” he shared.

Players and collectors also had the opportunity to purchase the watch on-site, making the experience interactive, exclusive, and a true celebration of golf innovation.


With its combination of professional-grade golf intelligence, real-time performance insights, and premium Japanese craftsmanship, the HONMA x HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro sets a new standard for golfers seeking precision, style, and innovation on the course.
 
From advanced course mapping and AI-driven caddie recommendations to its luxurious titanium build and exclusive HONMA dials, the device offers a full-featured golf companion designed to elevate every round.

The HONMA Premium Collection Gift Box, an exclusive gift set designed for discerning golfers and collectors alike, completes the experience. The premium box includes the limited-edition HONMA x HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro alongside curated HONMA golf essentials such as a commemorative golf ball, tee, divot tool, and ball marker. These are carefully arranged in a signature black-and-gold case inspired by HONMA’s iconic pine leaf motif.
For a limited time, the Premium Collection is available for only PHP 17,999 (from PHP 19,999). The package also includes added digital benefits such as VIP watch faces and a HUAWEI Health+ membership, along with trade-in incentives and exclusive vouchers available in-store and online. Flexible payment options, including 0% installment plans, make owning this luxury golf companion even more accessible.

Golfers and collectors can shop the Premium Collection through Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, the official HUAWEI Online Store, and at your nearest HUAWEI Experience Stores.
For more information about HONMA x HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro collaboration, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

First-quarter 2026 slate highlights structured reading instruction and curriculum-aligned math resources


Manila, Philippines – The nation’s literacy crisis is increasingly difficult to ignore. A recent study published by Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives reveals a troubling trend: many young Filipino learners have advanced to higher primary levels despite struggling with basic reading and math skills. Without significant changes to the curriculum and sustained efforts to improve it, gaps in education system will continue to persist, putting workforce readiness at risk, and potentially, hindering economic growth.

According to Segundo Matias Jr., CEO of Lampara Books, the alarming situation demands immediate attention. “The crisis is deeply concerning—tragic, even,” he says. “It feels like a battle we must urgently confront. The future of our nation is at stake. Our children represent the future: the leaders, the innovators, the ones who will shape the world. Their capacity to read and think critically will be the deciding factor in our nation’s adjustment. We cannot afford to stall any longer.”

Heeding this call is Lampara Books, a leading publishing company that specializes in advocacy-driven educational materials. As a proactive measure against literacy setbacks, the Philippine publishing house launched its first quarter lineup of releases, which was developed to improve reading comprehension, foundational literacy, numeracy skills, and home-based learning support.

Every book in the collection is created in collaboration with respected reading specialists such as Victor Villanueva and Daisy Jane Calado, alongside acclaimed writers including Eugene Y. Evasco and Genaro R. Gojo Cruz—to name a few. By partnering with key literacy consultants and education professionals, the materials meet high pedagogical standards without sacrificing entertainment and fun.

Notably characteristic of Lampara Books’ reading titles is the use of the Marungko Approach and Systematic Phonics, both using time-tested, evidence-based methods that are proven to be effective in teaching children how to read. Lampara’s 
ecodable texts, including its pioneering Let’s Read series in English, allow learners to apply phonics skills in a structured way, improving both decoding and comprehension skills.
“Reading instruction must be grounded in science,” Matias emphasizes. ‘When children master foundational skills, they gain not only competence, but confidence.”

While reading remains a national priority, Lampara Books also reiterates the importance of numeracy particularly in the early stages of education.
“Numeracy is essential to modern life,” Matias adds. “Everyday tasks such as buying goods at a store or counting change, demonstrate how important math skills are. Children should realize that mathematics has real-world value.”
To reinforce foundational skills, Lampara Books introduces curriculum-aligned numeracy resources that focus on story-centered math content and interactive kits for early graders. Making math relatable not only encourages confidence and early proficiency; it also helps in sustained learning.

These initiatives are part of Lampara’s broader efforts to find solutions for the country’s reading and numeracy gap while delivering accessible and age-appropriate resources that support both classroom instruction and home-based learning. The latest collection of books and learning materials includes decodable and leveled texts for early readers, integrated numeracy concepts embedded in stories, and supplementary worksheets and guides for teachers and parents.

 “We are committed to making sure these books reach every island across the Philippines,” Segundo Matias Jr. shares. “High-quality reading materials should not be limited by geography. Our mission is to deliver resources that directly address reading challenges wherever they exist.”

Lampara Books also ensures that the educational materials embrace Filipino cultural contexts and bilingual instructions to make learning more effective and relatable.

“English is everywhere,” Matias notes. “While we guide our children toward global opportunities, we must ensure their Filipino identity and values remain intact.”

The books incorporate Filipino contexts, values, and lived experiences, enabling learners to see themselves reflected in what they read. This bilingual approach shapes identity while expanding global competence.

“Our mission is simple,” Matias adds. “No child should be left behind simply because of limited access to quality learning materials.”

Featured Titles

Magbasa Tayo! / Let’s Read! Series (Victor Villanueva; Daisy Jane Calado)
Focusing on the “read to learn” approach, the bilingual series serves as supplementary material that enriches comprehension and extends learning.

K–3 Reading Packages

Laying the groundwork for lifelong literacy, the K-3 Reading Package embraces a “learn to read” approach. It builds foundational skills step by step, starting from letters, progressing to words, and eventually forming sentences. K-3 equips children with the ability to read, while Magbasa/Let’s Read helps them use reading as a tool for deeper learning.

Start Right Reading Series (STARS) by Zarah C. Gagatiga

The Start Right Reading Series (STARS) is a learning package composed of literacy materials and resources for K-3 learners. The learning package can be used by parents with their children at home and by teachers for their students in school.
 
Divided into four levels—Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4—each level has twelve stories that make up the core in acquiring and learning fundamental communication and language art skills, namely, reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Unang Aklat sa Panimulang Pagbasa by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz

Carefully crafted beginner books that build children’s confidence and make early reading a light, joyful experience.
Math-Talas! Numeracy Learning Kit by Daisy Jane Calado and Jacob Raphael Cunanan

A comprehensive Kinder to Grade 3 numeracy kit combining story-based contexts and skill-building exercises aligned with the curriculum.

Math Storybooks by Jaylord S. Losabia
Story-driven math concepts presented through culturally grounded narratives, highlighting both competencies and values.

Kids Have Rights! by Michellan Sarile-Agalao

The Kids Have Rights! series is an empowering and engaging series that helps early readers understand their rights as children using simple, age-appropriate language in rhyming verse and practical examples.

Kaligtasan para sa mga Bata by Mark Norman Boquiren

A public safety education series providing children with practical, life-saving knowledge.

Disaster-Ready Kids by Zarah C. Gagatiga

This series offers engaging educational stories for early-grade readers on natural disasters like fire, earthquakes, floods, and volcanic eruptions, teaching essential safety measures through vibrant illustrations, making it a valuable resource for parents and educators.

My Healthy Body Series by Prashant Gupta

This series introduces body organs to children through stories that are filled with facts and illustrations. It covers everything a child needs to know about the heart, brain, bones, senses, and more. This series spreads awareness and knowledge in a fun-filled way.

Digital Pinoy Kids Series by Cheeno Marlo Sayuno

The series offers a thoughtful exploration of children’s digital lives, promoting responsible technology use while affirming children’s agency.

New Titles

Magbasa at Matuto Decodable Comics
Fluency-building comics using the Marungko Approach.
Read and Learn Decodable Comics
Systematic Phonics-based comics designed to strengthen reading fluency.
Early Literacy Box
This kit consists of cards that highlight the earliest literacy skills needed to build a strong foundation for reading.
Filipino Board Books by Eugene Y. Evasco
Durable, imaginative board books rooted in Filipino language and culture for the youngest readers.
Science Storybooks by Eugene Y. Evasco
The stories in these books align with K–12 learning competencies, integrating scientific thinking with captivating narratives.
Mga Magigiting ng Pilipinas by Renato C. Vibiesca
Children’s books celebrating the heroism and legacy of Filipino national heroes.
Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang by Severino R. Reyes, retold by Christine S. Bellen-Ang
Timeless Filipino tales reimagined for today’s young readers.
Sari-Sari Books by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz
A Palanca-recognized series celebrating diversity, equality, and children’s freedom to dream and choose.
Independent Storybooks
The stories are award-winning and thematically rich, fostering conversations about real-world issues.
Young Adult Fiction
The 2025 Lampara Prize Grand Winner for the YA category, spotlighting emerging Filipino voices.
Reference Books
Curated works tracing histories and serving as accessible encyclopedic guides for learners.
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Hopeful vision

With its first-quarter 2026 releases, Lampara Books continues to ramp up its initiatives to support literacy and numeracy development. As educators and policymakers call for evidence-based interventions, Lampara Books’ latest offerings advance a hopeful vision: one where every Filipino child not only learns to read, but reads to learn, to imagine, and to shape a brighter future.




GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Shakira and rising Colombian star Beéle have released their new track ALGO TÚ. Produced by A.C., Flambo, Shakira, and Beéle, the track is out now via Sony Music Latin/5020 Records.

Shakira and Beéle debuted the track live this past weekend at Mexico City’s Zócalo, marking the largest event held there in history. Performing “ALGO TÚ” for over 400,000 fans, Shakira and Beéle electrified the city square and built incredible hype for the song’s release. Their range of styles blend perfectly on the track, delivering an incredible Latin & Afro-fusion hit with a nod to autochthonous instruments and sounds such as the Colombian gaita (pan flute), evoking the city of Barranquilla where both Shakira and Beéle were born. This is the second collaboration between Shakira and Beéle, who previously workedtogether on a 2025 version of her global hit, “Hips Don’t Lie,” which featured Ed Sheeran and Beéle for the Spotify Anniversary celebration of her 2005 album Oral Fixation, Vol. 2.

This concert has only built more excitement for Shakira’s upcoming return to Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, where she will take the stage for this year’s Todo Mundo No Rio concert on May 2nd. This free show will be a vibrant spectacle featuring Shakira playing her greatest hits across her entire career, continuing her epic world tour throughout 2026.

The release of “ALGO TÚ” comes on the heels of Shakira being crowned by Billboard as having the “highest-grossing Hispanic tour of all time” with her recent Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, achieving a gross revenue of $421.6 million, inclusive of 82 stadium shows all across the US and Latin America with over 3.3 million people in attendance.

Building on this exciting year, Shakira has just been announced as a 2026 nominee for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This exciting honor will be voted upon and then announced during the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.





GRAMMY Award®-winning global superstar Harry Styles has released his highly anticipated new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. via Erskine/Columbia Records. Accompanying the album is the music video for “American Girls,” directed by the GRAMMY Award®-winning James Mackel.

KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. is the fourth studio album from Harry Styles and first music release since 2022’s record breaking album Harry’s House, which took home the top prize for Album of the Year at the 2023 Grammy Awards. The new 12-track album was written by Harry and executive produced by Kid Harpoon, and includes the #1 single “Aperture”, see full tracklist below.
To celebrate the album release, Netflix is bringing fans the very first live performance of the new album on Sunday March 8th at 7pm GMT, tune in to watch the show he performed Friday March 6th in Manchester, England in full globally.
Harry has also launched KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. pop-up shops around the world in partnership with American Express with 16 locations in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Berlin, Chicago, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Paris, Phoenix, Rome, Seattle, Sydney, Tokyo, and Toronto. The pop-up gives fans a chance to experience and celebrate Harry’s new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. together with special activations and unique merchandise designs, additional information HERE.
Next Saturday, Harry will return to NBC’s Saturday Night Live as host and musical guest for the second time on March 14th. He will make his long awaited return to the global stage with a seven city residency in 2026. Promoted by Live Nation, Together, Together will include 67 stops in Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney from May through December. Highlights on the run include 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and a six night run at Wembley Stadium. Special guests include Robyn, Shania Twain, Fcukers, Jorja Smith, Jamie xx, Fousheé, and Skye Newman across select dates. Please visit hstyles.co.uk/tour for a full list of dates and more information.
KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. TRACKLIST
1. Aperture
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon
Produced by: Kid Harpoon
2. American Girls
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
3. Ready, Steady, Go!
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon, Additional Production By: Tyler Johnson
4. Are You Listening Yet?
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
5. Taste Back
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon, Additional: Tyler Johnson
6. The Waiting Game
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
7. Season 2 Weight Loss
Music & Lyrics by Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon
8. Coming Up Roses
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles
Produced by: Kid Harpoon
9. Pop
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
10. Dance No More
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon
Produced By: Kid Harpoon
11. Paint By Numbers
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles, Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson
Produced By: Kid Harpoon & Tyler Johnson
12. Carla’s Song
Music & Lyrics: Harry Styles & Kid Harpoon
Produced By: Kid Harpoon
Listen to the album here
 


 


RAMONA makes a splashing debut as a pop star provocateur, a rebellious troublemaker, and a fearless outsider. As a daring new voice in modern OPM, she comes off as a refreshing anomaly in an industry that often rewards conformity over disruption. From here, the world she builds only gets louder, more vivid, and unmistakably punk.

Just in time for Women’s Month, RAMONA unleashes “GAGA,” a sharp-witted commentary on celebrity gossip and fake news culture. Her explosive debut single exposes how misinformation distorts truth in the digital age. Rather than retreat from the noise, RAMONA confronts it head-on, transforming public scrutiny into a weapon of her own.

Instead of debunking public accusations, RAMONA reclaims the narrative with biting wit and defiant sassiness. Labels often thrown at outspoken and strong women such as “pa-victim,” “malandi,” and “toxic” are reframed as hollow buzzwords, stripped of their intended sting through repetition and satire. The result is a rallying anthem that challenges the machinery of gossip and the digital mob mentality that fuels it.

“People talk, people guess, people decide what’s true before they even know anything,” RAMONA explains. “GAGA just throws it all back.”
Produced by Tim and Sam Marquez of One Click Straight, the track proves that RAMONA is here for the long haul. Driven by grungy guitars, sing-along chants, and manic, driving rhythms, “GAGA” blends abrasive textures with irresistible pop instincts. But beneath the distortion and defiance lies something more important: RAMONA, reclaiming her voice, turns rumor into resistance and accusation into empowerment. As RAMONA describes her debut work, “GAGA” is “bold, emotional, a little rebellious, a little messy, and not pretending to be perfect.”

With the release of her debut single, RAMONA makes it clear that in an era obsessed by gossip cycles and fake news narratives, she refuses to be spoken for. She would rather speak back.

About the music video

The accompanying music video places the song’s themes within a satirical courtroom setting. The music video follows the story of an ordinary security guard at the center of a highly publicized trial after being falsely accused of stealing from a powerful figure. As the case unfolds, the courtroom turns into a ridiculous spectacle that highlights how power and public perception can shape what is accepted as truth.

The MV stars multi-awarded actor Pepe Herrera as the accused protagonist and RAMONA as his defense lawyer.
RAMONA”s “GAGA” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.



The Filipino R&B icon urges young artists to protect themselves – an issue mirrored in his new film, Songs For Selina

Filipino R&B king Jay R recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding the exploitative practices in the local music industry.
This comes after young singer-songwriter MRLD broke her silence about her departure from OC Records, alleging unfair compensation and limited marketing support, with claims that have sparked broader conversations online about transparency, artist rights, and the power imbalance between emerging musicians and record labels.

In a TikTok video posted over the weekend, Jay R spoke out about what he calls “uncomfortable truths,” reflecting on the dark side of the industry that has long placed new artists at a disadvantage.

“I’ve been in this industry for more than 20 years, and situations like this really do happen to artists,” Jay R said. “It has happened to me as well. When you’re starting out, you enter record deals and contracts without fully understanding what’s written in them. Sometimes, you don’t really comprehend the terms.”
He stressed the importance of legal advice and contract literacy for emerging musicians navigating the complexities of recording agreements.
“That’s why it’s important for artists to carefully read their contracts,” he added. “You should have a lawyer and review everything line by line. You need to understand exactly what you’re getting into. It’s a harsh truth about the industry, but it’s real. And honestly, I think it’s perfect timing that this issue has come to light. Artists need to be educated about what really happens behind closed doors.”

The short-form video post has garnered more than a million views on TikTok and Facebook, combined, fueling wider debate about accountability with the music business.

Jay R further expanded on the topic during the press conference for Songs For Selina, a music-themed film that he produced and stars in. While fictional in form, the project echoes the same tensions now being publicly discussed: creative ownership, exploitation, and the invisible pressures artists face behind the spotlight.

“Artists sometimes fear being marginalized or even blacklisted when they speak about the truth,” Jay R shared. “The story of Songs For Selina comes from real experiences: ours and the stories of fellow artists who have lived through these realities.”
Starring Rachel Coates and Mica Javier, Songs For Selina explores the power structures embedded in the music industry and the ethical dilemmas confronting artists as they navigate ambition, loyalty, and survival in a competitive landscape.

Whether by coincidence or design, the film’s themes now resonate with real-world conversation unfolding across the Philippine music scene—one that many believe is long overdue.
Songs For Selina opens in Ayala Cinemas nationwide beginning March 18, 2026.



Baguio City once again came alive with colors, blooms, and celebration as the Panagbenga Festival filled its streets with floats, music, and the vibrant spirit of the Cordillera community. Beyond the festivities, the festival also highlighted a deeper story unfolding on the ground: how local entrepreneurs—many of them small family-run businesses—are gaining greater access to financial tools that allow them to participate more fully in the local digital economy.

For many nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (NMSMEs), access to safe and convenient financial services is not just about efficiency—it is about opportunity, dignity in work, and the ability to grow their livelihoods. At this year’s Panagbenga Festival, GCash, the country’s leading finance super app and largest cashless ecosystem, supported local merchants by bringing practical digital solutions and on-ground activities that help level the playing field for small businesses.
By enabling simpler, safer, and more accessible transactions, these tools help ensure that even the smallest vendors—from sari-sari stores to flower stalls—can serve more customers and benefit from the surge in tourism during one of the country’s most beloved cultural celebrations.
The grand celebration was led by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan, together with Congressman Mauricio Domogan and the Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon as guests of honor. The local government recognized the growing role of digital financial access in helping communities strengthen livelihoods and support inclusive economic participation.
"As proof of Baguio's resilience, our deep pride in our Cordillera heritage, and our unique capacity to celebrate culture with discipline, it fuels our creative economy and strengthens local livelihood," said Vice Mayor Olowan.

For this year's festivities, GCash carried the theme "Festival of Progress: Empowering Local NMSMEs as the Heart of the Celebration," highlighting how cashless payments help small businesses serve more customers and unlock new income opportunities during peak moments of celebration.
GCash activations reached festival-goers and merchants across multiple touchpoints—from bus terminals and malls to gas stations, public markets, and along the famous Session Road. Merchant crawls showcased MSMEs embracing digital finance, while mall and market activations demonstrated how QR payments and GCash Pera Outlet can transform everyday stalls into community financial service points.

For this year’s Panagbenga, GCash initiative highlighted how accessible digital tools—from QR payments to community-based digital hubs for financial transactions — can help small merchants participate more equitably in the festival economy and expand their growth opportunities.

"Financial inclusion is about ensuring that every enterprise — no matter the size — has access to the tools needed to participate and thrive in today’s economy. Through solutions such as QR payments, SoundPay Plus, EasyPOS, and PocketPay, we help give smaller businesses the same opportunities as larger enterprises. At the same time, GCash Pera Outlet enables sari-sari stores and market stalls to provide essential services such as bills payment, remittances, and mobile load, bringing financial access closer to communities," said Cleo Celeste Santos, GCash vice president and head of public sector.

Strengthening livelihoods at the community level

Across Baguio’s neighborhoods, sari-sari stores, flower vendors, cafés, and market stalls are more than businesses—they are lifelines that sustain families and support local communities. During Panagbenga, these entrepreneurs serve as the frontliners of local commerce, welcoming thousands of visitors and supporting household incomes.

For many merchants, access to digital financial tools has helped make their livelihoods more stable and resilient.

Jen, a cashier at Caroline Trading, has seen the small sari-sari store grow into a mini mart since adopting GCash. "Halos lahat nasa GCash na po, at mas dumami pa ang pumupunta dahil parang pinakamadaling way dito sa amin—very convenient. Mas nag-improve yung sales kasi halos cashless na po lahat. Para sa mga negosyo na mag-start pa lang, i-try lang nila kasi effective siya."

For GCash Pera Outlet partner Marie Audrey Salvador, a general merchandise store owner in Baguio’s public market, going cashless created a more stable income stream while allowing her business to serve as a financial access point for the community.

"Nag-start kami ng negosyo noong July 2023, at napakarami na nitong naitulong sa akin—sa bills, sa rents, at sa travels with family. Dati sapat-sapat lang; ngayon nakaka-afford na rin kami mag-travel. Aside from cashless payments, nagse-serve din kami as cash-in, cash-out, pay bills, at load—sobrang laki ng tulong."

Meanwhile, Tita Leah’s Food Specialty, a well-loved Baguio delicacy brand, found that digital payment tools helped streamline operations as their business expanded. "Dati hiwalay din ang nakukuha ng transaction confirmation. Na-solve yun ni SoundPay. Ngayon hindi na kailangan ng storekeeper na tumawag sa amin for confirmation—seamless na siya," shared Don Paez.

For Yuan, a barista at Balai Studio Cafe, the shift to cashless payments also means better service for a growing number of tourists. "GCash eases our business operations at talagang napakadali. Marami po kaming foreigners na customer at naghahanap din po sila ng cashless payment."

Protecting livelihoods in the digital space

As more Filipinos embrace digital finance, ensuring safety and trust remains essential to protecting the livelihoods of merchants and consumers alike. GCash continues to promote awareness and education to help users safeguard their accounts and income. The message remains simple but important: do not click suspicious links and never share your one-time password (OTP) with anyone.

By strengthening financial safety and awareness, GCash aims to ensure that small businesses can confidently participate in the digital economy while protecting the income they work hard to earn.
Sustaining inclusive growth beyond the festival

While Panagbenga lasts only a few weeks, its impact on communities can endure far longer. By expanding access to financial tools and services, GCash supports local entrepreneurs in building stronger businesses, supporting their families, and contributing to the broader local economy.
For GCash, working alongside communities like Baguio City is part of a broader commitment to advancing financial inclusion, expanding economic opportunity, and helping build an economy where progress is shared—ensuring that the benefits of growth reach even the smallest businesses at the heart of Filipino communities.

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



Monday, March 16, 2026


 
The film’s arrival coincides with the growing debate in the local music industry about exploitation, unfair treatment, and sexism

Songs For Selina, an independent music-themed drama about two musical soulmates whose friendship was tested by the cutthroat music industry, will officially premiere in select cinemas across Ayala Malls starting March 18, 2026.

The timing of the release proved strikingly timely after a young female artist’s revelation about the exploitative practices and unfair treatment of the record label industry went viral.


Jay R, who serves as the film’s executive producer, describes Songs For Selina as both a love letter and a critique of the industry that he loves, advocating for reforms that ensure artists receive respect, fairness, and rightful compensation for their work.
“We hope Filipino audiences take away the importance of discernment—being mindful of what you wish for and why,” the king of R&B adds. “Not everything that glitters are gold, and every opportunity comes with a cost. At its core, the film is a reminder to stay anchored in your values and moral compass, especially when navigating ambition and success. Knowing what you’re entering a career for—and holding on to who you are—matters deeply in staying whole and intact through the inevitable highs and lows of the journey.”

The film stars Mica Javier and Rachel Coates, as Selina and Maya, alongside a powerhouse ensemble from stage, music, and television: Rachel Alejandro, Audie Gemora, Nicole Laurel, Leanne Mamonong, Gian Magdangal, Gabby Padilla, and Jay R.
Having spent much of her life pursuing music and entertainment, lead star and co-producer Mica Javier notes that the story of Songs For Selina holds a special place for her, as it mirrors aspects of her journey as an artist.

“The film explores the highs and lows artists experience while chasing their dreams, and the sacrifices that often come with that pursuit,” Mica explains. “I joined this venture because I believe these stories deserve to be told with honesty and heart. It was also important to me to help create a platform that showcases Filipino creatives to a global audience.”
Prior to its Philippine release this month, Songs For Selina first made waves in the US, after it got picked up last year by Amazon Prime US and Tubi, two of the biggest streaming platforms for movies and serialized content.
Songs For Selina is brought to you by Homeworkz Entertainment and is distributed in the Philippines by Black Cap Pictures.



MANILA, March 3, 2026 – Acer has officially marked two decades of market leadership in the Philippines, maintaining its position as the country’s No. 1 laptop brand for 20 consecutive years from 2006 to 2025. This historic milestone is supported by the IDC Quarterly Personal Computing Device Tracker, Q4 2025, the premier global provider of market intelligence for information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. Acer also reached an all-time high in consumer laptop market share of 37.3% in 2025, according to Nielsen-GfK data. Its leadership is evident in the consumer gaming and non-gaming segments, with 40.5% and 36.1% market share, respectively.

“We are incredibly proud to have earned the trust of Filipino consumers for twenty years,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Managing Director of Acer Philippines. “We will continue to serve our consumers in ways we know best to remain the top-of-mind computer brand in the country.”
Sustained growth and market dominance stem from Acer’s accessible premium positioning. This is bolstered by a strong retail footprint, an extensive service center network, leadership in the esports sector, strategic partnerships with brand ambassadors, and effective promotions.

Acer is known for a comprehensive laptop portfolio across every price bracket without compromising on quality or performance. The Aspire series remains the gold standard for students, delivering a perfect balance of reliability, efficiency, and durability. The Nitro series offers an impressive suite of high-end specifications and robust processing power, ensuring premium performance remains accessible to a wide range of gaming enthusiasts.
Acer is also focused on growing the esports industry through events such as the Asia Pacific Predator League. Additionally, strategic partnerships with icons like the “Kings of P-pop,” SB19, have successfully bridged the brand with a new generation of digital natives.
For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on social media: @AcerPH on Facebook or visit www.acer.com.


Low battery doesn’t just happen to phones anymore, it happens to everything you carry - from earbuds, watches, small accessories, and even travel essentials. Instead of scrambling for an outlet or carrying extra chargers when there’s a need to power up those gadgets, the OPPO A6 Pro makes those moments easier with Reverse Wired Charging, letting you share power straight from your phone. Add its large battery and fast refills, and the OPPO A6 Pro becomes the kind of device that keeps your day moving.

Flip the cable, fuel your gear

Reverse charging on the OPPO A6 Pro is built for real-life moments. Using an OTG connector, you can plug in another device and the phone shares power at 5V/1.0A. It’s the kind of feature that quietly saves the day, whether it’s earbuds dying mid-commute, a smartwatch running low while traveling, or even powering small essentials like a portable fan when the heat hits. Across the OPPO A6 Pro lineup, it makes the phone feel less like a single device and more like a hub for everything you rely on.

Long days, no flinching

The OPPO A6 Pro doesn’t just last, it’s built for it. The 4G model tucks in a 7,000mAh pack, and the 5G version runs a 6,500mAh cell, setting clear expectations for stamina before you even look at specs. Endurance feels like a weekend battery on a weekday grind, and OPPO’s cycle testing points to long-term health, with capacity holding above 80% after 1,830 charge cycles. Put plainly, it’s ready to share power because there’s plenty to go around.

Short plug-in, long play
Reverse charging only works if refills are quick and that’s where 80W SUPERVOOC™ comes in. The OPPO A6 Pro can reach a full charge in about an hour, while a five-minute plug-in gives a noticeable boost for those between-meeting dashes. The system also manages heat and protects the battery, so fast charging doesn’t come at the expense of long-term reliability.
Day to day, that means fewer compromises. When your own battery dips, a short pit stop gets you back to sharing power, gaming, or navigating without missing a beat. With Reverse Wired Charging, a 7,000mAh or 6,500mAh battery, and 80W fast charging, the OPPO A6 Pro becomes more than a phone, it becomes the center of a small ecosystem you carry, and sometimes, share.
Get it at OPPO stores nationwide or online via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and the official OPPO Online Store.

OPPO A6 Pro Pricing
OPPO A6 Pro 4G (Coral Pink and Lunar Titanium)
8GB + 256GB - PHP 15,999
OPPO A6 Pro 5G (Coral Pink and Stellar Blue)
6GB + 128GB - PHP 13,999
8GB + 256GB - PHP 18,999

Online Exclusive perks on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok
PHP 500 off OPPO voucher
6 months 0% interest installment via SPayLater
Up to 0% interest installment via LazPayLater
Up to 12 months installment via TikTok PayLater

OPPO Online Store Benefits
The OPPO Online Store is offering exciting benefits when you purchase the OPPO A6 Pro, with redeemable vouchers using OPPOints via the My OPPO App until February 28, 2026.

PHP 300 voucher – 500 OPPOints
PHP 500 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints
PHP 700 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints
Free Shipping
Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 + 1-Year Extended Warranty

Postpaid Plans 
Globe GPlan1499 with ZERO Cashout - OPPO A6 Pro 5G (8GB + 256GB)
Smart Signature Plan+999 - OPPO A6 Pro 5G (6GB + 128GB)

Flexible Payment Options
Home Credit - Pay in 6, 9, 12, 15, or 18 months at 0% interest + PHP 500 discount from November 1 to 30 (only for OPPO A6 Pro 4G and OPPO A6 Pro 5G 8GB + 256GB)
Credit Cards - 0% interest for 6 or 12 months on select banks

Know more about the OPPO A6 Pro by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website



GCash team paid a courtesy visit to BARMM chief minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua

In support of the commitment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to promote inclusive and people-centered progress, GCash, the country’s leading finance app, took part in the 7th Bangsamoro Foundation Day by working alongside the Bangsamoro Government to deliver initiatives focused on digital inclusion, financial literacy, and community empowerment.

Recognizing that limited access to banking infrastructure remains a barrier to economic participation in many Bangsamoro communities, GCash partnered with the Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD) and the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) to bring practical, entry-level digital financial tools closer to citizens. Through these collaborations, the initiative aimed to reach households, beneficiaries, and communities that are often underserved or excluded from the formal financial system.

To help more Bangsamoro residents join the formal financial system, GCash also provided easier access to the GCash Visa Card. This lets users use their digital wallet for everyday purchases, even in places that still require a card. With more ways to pay safely and conveniently, users can participate more actively in the local economy and the shift toward digital payments.

Complementing access, GCash emphasized financial capability and protection through guided demonstrations and financial literacy sessions. Participants were introduced to practical digital wallet use cases relevant to daily life, such as remittances, bill payments, and essential purchases. Residents also took part in financial literacy sessions that focused on cybersecurity, fraud awareness, and responsible digital behavior. These sessions aimed to ensure that adoption of digital finance is safe, informed, and sustainable, particularly for first-time users, PWDs, children, and senior citizens.

“Financial inclusion is more than about access to tools; it is about enabling people to participate fully in the economy and in society,” said CJ Alegre, Head of Sustainability at Mynt, parent company of GCash.

“By working closely with the Bangsamoro Government and engaging communities on the ground, we help ensure that digital finance becomes a practical, safe, and empowering resource for everyday life. When more people are connected to the formal financial system, entire regions benefit through greater economic activity, resilience, and opportunity,” he added.

The participation of GCash in the Bangsamoro Foundation Day reflects its broader strategy to deepen presence in BARMM by combining access, education, and partnerships. By engaging directly with communities and local government stakeholders, the initiative contributed to building trust in digital financial services and supporting the region’s transition toward a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.

Through sustained on-ground engagement and collaboration with regional partners, GCash continues to advance digital inclusion nationwide, helping ensure that communities in BARMM are not left behind as the country moves toward a cash-lite, digitally empowered future.
For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.


 



Choreographed by BP Artistic Director Mikhail Martynyuk, with a libretto by Sheree Chua and original score by Ronald Vincenzo Khaw de Leon, PAGLALAKBAY explores movement in its many forms: migration, dance, emotion, and the enduring motion of culture across generations.

“Migration is often framed as displacement, but my mother showed me that movement can also be expansion… a widening of self without losing origin,” Chua reflects. “This ballet becomes both historical and intimate—a narrative of seafaring peoples, and a tribute to the woman who taught me how to move through the world.”
Martynyuk’s choreographic vocabulary echoes the terrain of Batanes: grounded footwork resisting wind; tilting bodies leaning into invisible currents; hands functioning like tools, echoing gestures of sailors. Classical technique forms the skeleton, but the island landscape becomes the language.


“Batanes is wind, rocks, and ocean. As the scenery changes, the quality of movement changes,” Martynyuk explains. “The choreography becomes the narrator.”

Landscape, Wind, and Memory: The Visual World of Paglalakbay
For visual artist and production designer Leeroy New, the artistic process began far from the stage. Before creating any designs, New and his team, including assistant designer Arvie Santos, traveled to Batanes in search of the land’s atmosphere, materials, and elemental forces. Their goal was not to replicate Batanes literally, but to understand how its environment shapes life.

In Batanes, wind never stops moving. Grasslands shift in constant motion. Cliffs fall sharply into restless seas. Horizons extend endlessly. Experiencing these conditions firsthand allowed the design team to observe how land, weather, and daily life intertwine in a place defined by both beauty and exposure.

“We wanted the stage to move like Batanes—waves hitting rocks, wind cutting across grass, landscapes shaped by centuries of elemental force,” says New. “The land itself became our collaborator.”

Costumes also respond to movement rather than imposing form. Natural fibers ripple with the dancers’ motions, becoming metaphors for tall grasses bending in the wind or waves rolling across open water. The result is a stage environment where dancers and landscape breathe together, evoking horizons both vast and humbling.

A Ballet Born From Community
PAGLALAKBAY was shaped by BP’s Ballet Brigade outreach program in Batanes. In May 2024, more than 200 locals (elders, students, community leaders) joined BP dancers at Batanes National Science High School for a day of cultural exchange. Stories were shared, dances performed, and traditions celebrated.
This encounter became the emotional spark of the libretto and affirmed the belief that dance can bridge histories, nurture understanding, and activate cultural memory.

A Season Finale Rooted in Identity
“Ending our 56th Season with ‘PAGLALAKBAY’ was a bold investment,” says BP President Kathleen Liechtenstein. “It reflects our belief that local indigenous stories deserve the grand scale and artistic rigor of the classical stage.”
Liechtenstein hopes audiences leave with a deeper appreciation of the massive Austronesian migration of 3000 BCE—one of humanity’s great movements—and a renewed sense of pride in Filipino identity.
“Our stories are epic,” she says. “Resilient, profoundly human, and universally interconnected.”

Performance Details
“PAGLALAKBAY: The Journey of the Sea People”
April 10–12, 2026
The Theatre at Solaire
Tickets available via: www.ticketworld.com.ph, www.ballet.ph, and Solaire Box Office


About Ballet Philippines
Founded in 1969, Ballet Philippines is the country’s premier professional dance company and the first resident company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. With over 400 works in its repertoire, BP continues to shape contemporary Filipino identity by blending classical technique with distinctly Filipino storytelling.
This season, under the theme Our Stage, The World, BP continues its mission to bring Filipino narratives to global audiences.


Rising P-Pop group VVINK has dropped “Kailan Ka Aamin,” which serves as the first pre-release single from their upcoming full-length debut album under FlipMusic. Written by acclaimed Filipino songwriter Nica del Rosario and produced by Julius James “Bojam” De Belen, the catchy pop ballad introduces a more intimate direction for VVINK in terms of musicality and songwriting.



A tender, coming-of-age confession, “Kailan Ka Aamin” was inspired by the Thai Girls Love (GL) pair “MilkLove,” and the playful dynamic fans have associated with them. It’s a story many listeners will instantly recognize: two people who clearly feel the same way, yet neither has gathered the courage to say it out loud.

Instead of the usual perspective of someone secretly admiring a crush, the song unfolds from the point of view of the one on the receiving end: someone who senses the same feelings but is growing impatient with the silence. Drawing from the Filipino experience of being a “yearner,” the track embraces the emotional language of young love: hallway glances, teasing friends, unsent messages, and the courage slowly building toward confession.

“Kailan Ka Amin was inspired by MilkLove, my favorite Thai GL pair who have starred together in various GL series such as 23.5 and Whale Store XOXO,” Nica del Rosario, the song’s composer, explains. “Their Pinoy fans have playfully equated the question, “kailan ka aamin?” with their dynamic after one interview when they were asked what they would do if they liked someone. Milk said that she doesn’t have the nerve to confess, while Love said she won’t confess either and will just wait for the person to make a move. These remarks led their fans to jokingly say that they’re playing a game of “tagu-taguan ng feelings. (hiding feelings in English).”

Production and collaboration

Sonically, “Kailan Ka Aamin” weaves bubblegum pop influences with ‘80s-inspired production and effervescent melodies. The production balances warmth and restraint, allowing VVINK’s delicate vocal style to take center stage while building a wistful atmosphere that mirrors the song’s emotional anticipation. From its soft opening to its sweeping chorus, the bop carries a dreamlike quality that sets it apart from its previous releases.

“Working with Sir Jumbo De Belen and Ms. Nica del Rosario was such a great experience for us,” shares VVINK in a press statement. “When we first heard the demo, the emotion was already very strong. They really guided us through the meaning of the lyrics, so we understood the story before recording. The demo felt personal, but the final version feels complete. It still has the same heart, but now it sounds more VVINK.”

Beyond the recording itself, the five-member powerhouse maintained a sense of ownership carried throughout the entire production process. With encouragement from the production team, the female pop group contributed ad-libs and interpretive nuances that ultimately define the track’s character. They also stayed closely involved in other aspects of the behind-the-scenes work, including contributing ideas for concepts, styling, and even vocal arrangements during studio sessions.

Music video

“Kailan Ka Aamin” arrives alongside a visually striking music video helmed by Nolan Bernardino with Dondi Narciso. Stripping the concept down to its barest essentials, the visuals highlight both performance and atmosphere, presenting VVINK’s performance against both an urban skyline and a dreamlike forest setting.

According to Bernardino, the concept centers on showcasing the group’s natural charisma and beauty. “The music video is as simple as it gets,” Bernardino reveals. “Here we highlight a different side of the girls. This video is all about beauty: the beautiful vocals and performance, with a very pleasant but dynamic choreography. It is a performance that you just want to watch over and over again.”

For VVINK, filming “Kailan Ka Aamin” was indeed a memorable experience. “Working with Direk Nolan Bernardino and Direk Dondi Narciso has always felt light,” the Filipino femme alphas reveal. “They make collaboration fun and creative, allowing everyone to freely share ideas while still feeling guided and aligned.”

As the group’s first release of the year, “Kailan Ka Aamin” marks a new era for VVINK, ushering in a period of intentional artistic involvement and willingness to explore new sonic and storytelling approaches.

VVINK’s “Kailan Ka Aamin” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Flipmusic. 


The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through e-wallet platform VYBE, continues to make cashless payments faster and more convenient for customers, while offering rewards.
VYBE, with its new partnership with fast-growing brand But First, Coffee, allows its users to enjoy a FREE 16 oz. Iced Vietnamese Style or Ice Caramel Coffee for a minimum ₱150 payment via QR Ph using VYBE.

On top of the free drink, users will also earn 100 BPI Rewards points for every qualified transaction. The offer is available for dine in, take out, and over the counter orders at participating stores until March 31, 2026.

Claiming the free drink is simple: users only need to present the VYBE transaction confirmation to the cashier after payment. The complimentary drink may be redeemed the same day the purchase was made.

The collaboration makes small cashless transactions easier and more rewarding for customers at neighborhood cafés. As But First, Coffee expands nationwide, both brands can reach more customers seeking convenient, valuedriven experiences.

“We see a strong alignment between VYBE’s promise of a rewarding e-wallet and But First, Coffee’s commitment to providing quality beverages more accessible to everyday consumers,” said Frederick Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems at BPI. “As their footprint continues to grow, this partnership allows us to incorporate VYBE into the everyday spending moments of more Filipinos,” he added.
To further bring the partnership to life, VYBE Tambayan pop-up events were held at But First, Coffee branches in LAX Alabang–Zapote Road, Mall of Asia, and BGC last February 14 and 15.

These pop-up events had games and exclusive treats for VYBE users—creating fun, social spaces for customers to hang out and enjoy the perks of paying with the app.

More VYBE Tambayan events are coming soon in partnership with other merchants, so stay tuned to BPI’s official social media channels for updates and announcements.

To learn more about the promo, visit https://www.bpi.com.ph/personal/rewards-and-promotions/promos/masaya-sa-but-first-coffee-promo.

VYBE can be downloaded via Google Play or the App Store. Customers may also learn more about the app by visiting www.bpi.com.ph/vybe.



Manila, Philippines, 3/2026
Filipino veterinarians safeguard both animal and public health, standing at the frontlines of disease prevention and community well-being. Limited recognition, financial pressures, and lack of well-being support continue to strain the profession and threaten sustainable animal care.

To address these challenges, Boehringer Ingelheim launched the Going Beyond campaign in the Philippines during the 93rd PVMA Convention welcome dinner in Iloilo, highlighting the challenges veterinarians face and their vital role in protecting animals and communities.
“Veterinarians go beyond caring for animals—they protect communities, food safety, and public health,” said Dr. Michael Banawa, Head of Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines Inc. “Through the Going Beyond campaign, Boehringer Ingelheim recognizes their contributions and supports a resilient and sustainable profession that benefits animals, people, and communities alike.”

Boehringer Ingelheim partnered with TAGR, an independent strategic consultancy, to produce the white paper titled 'Going Beyond: Charting a Sustainable Future for Veterinary Medicine in Southeast Asia’. The study surveyed 335 veterinarians and veterinary staff across the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, revealing the challenges they face and identifying strategies to strengthen the profession while safeguarding animal and public health.

In the Philippines, findings show veterinarians face significant challenges, including balancing quality care with client price sensitivity, limited public understanding of their value, and inadequate well-being support. Nearly half reports feel undervalued and at risk of burnout due to the limited public awareness of their work, affecting both their health and the quality of care.
Many veterinarians work over 40 hours per week, yet 64% of veterinary practices lack formal or informal wellbeing initiatives, leaving professionals without support to manage stress and prevent burnout. Seventy-four percent emphasize that better work-life balance is essential to motivate new veterinarians and ensure the profession’s long-term sustainability. While 44% say increased public recognition of their expertise and commitment could reduce stress, improve well-being, and foster greater support for the profession.

These findings highlight opportunities to strengthen the veterinary profession and support the professionals who care for animals and communities. Collaboration among veterinarians, government, educational institutions, and the animal health industry through awareness campaigns, training, well-being programs, and industry recognition, can build a more resilient profession. Educating animal owners on preventive care can also foster stronger client-veterinarian relationships, creating a more supportive and sustainable environment for veterinary professionals in the Philippines.
Boehringer Ingelheim’s Going Beyond campaign honors the dedication, resilience, and passion of veterinarians working under challenging circumstances. The campaign highlights their vital role in advancing animal welfare, protecting public health, and ensuring food security, while inspiring greater public recognition of their impact beyond the clinic.

Through this initiative, Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, Inc., supports the veterinary community through ongoing forums, trainings, and programs that promote professional development and well-being, including the Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program, which provides advanced research training and mentorship for veterinary students.
Building on this commitment, holistic health and well-being education was delivered to veterinarians during the convention through an expert-led talk and digital engagement on cardio-renal-metabolic (CRM) diseases – reflecting a cross-disciplinary approach that underscores the interconnectedness of the heart, kidneys, and diabetes.

Together, these efforts empower veterinarians to build a more resilient and sustainable future for animal health and the communities they serve.
Celebrate and support veterinarians who go beyond every day to keep animals and communities healthy. Learn more in the Going Beyond white paper: https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/animal-health/our-responsibility/southeast-asias-veterinarians-untold-story-resilience.

 Dr. Michael Banawa, Head of Animal Health at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines Inc., launched the Going Beyond campaign, a global initiative celebrating the dedication, resilience, and impact of veterinarians worldwide. At the PVMA Convention, he presented key findings from the White Paper showing that Filipino veterinarians face long working hours, limited well-being support, and low public recognition, underscoring the need to strengthen professional development and build a more resilient veterinary community.

 

After a breakout 2025 that saw his first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, hundreds of millions of streams across his self-titled album, and a sold-out international headline tour, Malcolm Todd kicks off 2026 with his new single “Breathe.” Co-produced by Todd, the track arrives alongside an official music video directed by longtime collaborator Aidan Cullen and featuring choreography by Lexee Smith, signaling the start of a new chapter for the Los Angeles artist and performer.

At 22, Todd has quickly emerged as one of alternative pop’s most compelling young artists, hailed by Rolling Stone as both a “knockout” and “a new kind of male pop star.” Released in 2025, his self-titled album Malcolm Todd has accumulated more than 600 million global streams since its release, propelled by the breakout single “Chest Pain (I Love),” which earned Todd his first Billboard Hot 100 entry and has tallied over 350 million streams worldwide. The song’s reach extended even further in 2026 when Don Toliver prominently sampled it on his hit “E85,” which climbed to No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and currently tops the Hot Rap Songs chart.

The album’s momentum carried directly onto the stage. In 2025, Todd completed the sold out Wholesome Rockstar Tour, selling more than 85,000 tickets in the U.S. before heading overseas for shows in London, Berlin, Paris, and Australia. Standout festival sets at Camp Flog Gnaw, Pitchfork Paris, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits have confirmed Todd as one of music’s most compelling young frontmen, performing with an easy charm that translates his breakout songs into crowd-sized moments. Malcolm also took the late-night stage, making his debut performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! For 2026, Todd has already been announced on tastemaking festivals Outside Lands and Osheaga.
Along the way, fan favorites including “Sweet Boy,” “Earrings,” and “Roommates” have continued to resonate widely, with all three still landing within Spotify’s Top 200 despite having come out two years ago — further proof they’ve become defining songs for Todd’s rapidly growing fanbase.

With “Breathe,” Todd offers the first glimpse of what comes next.
track artwork


 

Manila, Philippines (March 13, 2026) — HUAWEI turns everyday steps into progress toward a healthier life. Every stride on a morning jog, every push in a workout, and every moment of rest that restores your body all contribute to a stronger, more balanced lifestyle.

As the world’s No. 1 wearable brand, HUAWEI designed the HUAWEI Band 11 for people who want to live actively without feeling weighed down. The HUAWEI Band 11 Series features a featherlight, ultra-thin design, an ultra-bright, easy-to-read AMOLED display, independent GPS on the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro, AI-powered running guidance, and professional-grade health monitoring. It delivers smartwatch-level performance in a band that’s comfortable enough to wear all day.

Effortless Style Meets Everyday Smart Tracking
 
Jae Miranda, Content Creator - Instagram Post

Jae Miranda moves through his day with ease, balancing early-morning jogs, café-hopping, and weekend pop-up adventures while keeping his health and performance in check. The HUAWEI Band 11 Series does just that. Its ultra-thin 8.99 mm, which is as slim as four one-peso coins stacked together, and featherlight 16 to 18 grams design make it feel almost invisible on the wrist, so he can go from sunrise strolls to late-night content editing without any distraction.

 

What really sets the HUAWEI Band 11 apart for Jae is its larger 1.62-inch AMOLED display. Bright, clear, and easy to read even under intense sunlight, it lets him check steps, heart rate, or sleep insights at a glance. The upgraded Hex grid UI ensures information is organized and glanceable, while the brightness delivers up to 2,000 nits on the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro and 1,500 nits on the HUAWEI Band 11. It helps him keep his training data visible, whether he’s jogging along the waterfront or commuting between meetings. For Jae, it’s smartwatch-level readability in a compact, stylish wearable.

Coupled with 14-day battery life, the HUAWEI Band 11 gives Jae everything he needs to stay consistent without fuss. 

Smarter Workouts, Smarter Running Recovery

 
Marline Capones, Fitness Influencer - Instagram Post

Marline Capones treats every workout as an opportunity to push herself, but she knows that recovery is just as important. From sprint intervals on the track to cycling through local lanes or leading dynamic stretch routines, she needs a wearable that moves as fast as she does. The HUAWEI Band 11 Series becomes her smart training partner, adapting to every type of activity with ease.

The HUAWEI Band 11 Series has over 100 sports modes, and the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro is designed with built-in Independent GPS (GNSS). Marline can leave her phone behind while still capturing accurate pace, distance, and route data. When Marline needs interval training on a stadium track, the HUAWEI Band 11’s dedicated Track Run Mode offers professional-level accuracy that automatically compensates for each lane’s true distance and corrects GPS inaccuracies. This delivers highly reliable lap data, ideal for race prep and planned training sessions.

With the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro’s wrist-based Running Posture Analysis, Marline tracks ground contact time, vertical oscillation, and left-right balance in real time. The feature helps runners fine-tune their running form, lower the chance of injury, and boost overall efficiency. Plus, its intelligent auto-pause feature prevents rest periods from being counted as activity, giving you cleaner and more accurate performance data.

Recovery is just as critical as performance. Using Recovery Mode and all-day HRV tracking, Marline gains insights into her body’s readiness after full workouts. Together with the AI Running Plan, Marline gets performance predictions and a personalized training index, guiding her pacing and progress throughout each session. For runners balancing work, family, and fitness goals, the HUAWEI Band 11 is more than a tracker, it’s a tool for sustainable, measurable improvement.

Designed for people from all walks of life, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series includes Wheelchair Mode, which tracks pushes and offers dedicated wheelchair workouts. This ensures precise monitoring of all types of physical activity.

Durable Design to Power Daily Athletic Performance
 
Tyler Tio, Basketball Player and Influencer - Instagram Post

Tyler Tio moves seamlessly between the court and his daily life, whether running drills, joining pickup games, or creating content. He needs a wearable that keeps up with every move without getting in the way. The HUAWEI Band 11 Pro features a nylon-woven, anti-bacterial, and water-repellent strap, while the HUAWEI Band 11 offers a breathable, skin-friendly strap. Both deliver a sleek, minimalist design that pairs effortlessly with sportswear or casual street outfits, making them ideal for practice, pickup games, or urban exploration.

The band’s lightweight construction ensures it never gets in the way during drills, shooting practice, or conditioning sessions. Real-time heart rate monitoring helps Tyler stay in the optimal training zone, while HUAWEI TruSleep™ 4.0 sleep breathing awareness and nap summaries guide recovery after intense workouts. CE-certified pulse-wave arrhythmia analysis and all-day heart rate variability (HRV) tracking provide him with deeper insights into physical readiness, helping him balance exertion and rest for peak performance.

Emotional Wellbeing 2.0 adds a mindful layer to daily living with 12 emotional categories and playful pet-themed watch faces that gently encourage you to pause, breathe, and reset when life gets overwhelming.

Even during packed schedules, the HUAWEI Band 11's and a quick 40-to-60-minute recharge that gets it back to full power keep him ready for spontaneous games or evening runs. For Tyler, it’s more than a fitness tracker—it’s a seamless combination of style, comfort, and performance that supports athletic goals and daily life alike.

Smart Everyday Convenience On Your Wrist

The HUAWEI Band 11 Series is designed to support more than just your fitness goals; it fits naturally into the rhythm of your everyday life. Whether you’re grabbing coffee before heading into the office or making a quick stop between errands, GCash Watch Pay lets you complete QR payments straight from your wrist. It’s a small convenience that makes a big difference when you’re constantly on the move.

Throughout a busy day, staying responsive also becomes easier. With Quick Replies, you can respond to messages in seconds without reaching for your phone, allowing you to stay connected even during meetings, commutes, or workouts.

Compatible with both Android and iOS, the band works seamlessly in the background, quietly supporting your day. It’s a wearable that keeps everything within reach, so your routine feels lighter, more organized, and always under control.

The HUAWEI Band 11 is now available starting at PHP 2,399, and the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro for PHP 4,499 at Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, HUAWEI Online Store (HUAWEI Band 11, HUAWEI Band 11 Pro), and HUAWEI Experience Stores.

For a limited time, enjoy exclusive savings of up to PHP 1,100 off the HUAWEI Band 11 Pro or up to PHP 400 off the HUAWEI Band 11. You can also enhance your experience with optional add-ons: HUAWEI Watch Face VIP and HUAWEI Health+ one-month membership, available for just PHP 10 each through the HUAWEI Health app.

Visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Stores or HUAWEI’s official website and social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) to know more.




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