Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) has formally renewed its partnership with homegrown fast-food kiosk chain LC BigMak, marking a new chapter in a business relationship built on nearly a decade of collaboration, shared standards, and service to Filipino consumers.

The renewed agreement, formalized through a ceremonial contract signing held at the PCPPI Sto. Tomas Plant in Batangas, will make PCPPI the exclusive beverage partner of LC BigMak across its more than 850 outlets nationwide.

The signing was attended by senior leaders from PCPPI, PepsiCo, and LC BigMak, including PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Phyo Phyu Noe, Chief Commercial Officer Lyndon Cuadra, and General Manager for Food Service and National Development Joseph Michael Go; PepsiCo General Manager Aditya Sheoran, Chief Marketing Officer Nicole Villarojo, and Franchise Lead Juris Melencio; and LC BigMak Chairman and Founder Francis Dy, Founder Edna Dy, and CEO Mark Dy.

For PCPPI, the renewed partnership reflects the company’s continued focus on strengthening food service relationships by delivering reliable supply, consistent execution, and stronger value to customers and consumers.

“This is not a cold beginning. It is a return. A renewal. A second chapter,” said Phyo. “We will serve LC BigMak with the seriousness that your history deserves, with the discipline that your scale requires, and with the ambition that your future warrants.”

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Lucena City, LC BigMak has grown from a family-built enterprise into one of the country’s most recognizable fast-food burger kiosk networks. Its name draws from the initials of Maxima and Kimsuy, the parents of its founders, reflecting the family roots behind the brand.

Mark Dy of LC BigMak, described the signing as a meaningful renewal between two brands with a long-standing history together.

“We are proud to partner again with a globally recognized brand like Pepsi,” Dy said. “To our partners in Pepsi, thank you for your renewed trust and collaboration. We look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.”

Through the partnership, PCPPI and LC BigMak aim to enhance the experience across LC BigMak’s nationwide network by pairing the chain’s familiar, value-driven food offerings with PepsiCo beverages served consistently across its outlets.

The renewed partnership also underscores PCPPI’s broader commitment to serving more customers through disciplined execution, stronger route-to-market support, and partnerships that create value in everyday consumer occasions.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum, Saero, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Manila, Philippines — McDonald’s Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to inclusion by participating in major Pride Marches nationwide. More importantly, the company fosters a safe and empowering workplace where both employees and customers can show up as their Best Me, regardless of who they are and whom they love.

“For us, ‘Love Ko All, Celebrate All,’ is not just a Pride Month message, but a culture we live and strengthen every day,” said Ben Marasigan, McDonald’s Philippines Human Capital Group Vice President. “At McDonald’s Philippines, we provide equal opportunities for all. With over 75,000 employees nationwide, we make it a priority to ensure that everyone feels supported in being their ‘best me’—regardless of gender, background, or personal identity.”

Marching with Pride

As a show of support and solidarity, McDonald’s Philippines head office and store employees marched alongside thousands of Filipinos at the Love Lab4n Pride Festival in Quezon City and the Mandaue City Pride March. The brand also extended its support to other Pride celebrations nationwide, including the Metro Manila Pride March, the Cebu Grand Pride Parade, and the Kahilwayan Pride Run in Cagayan de Oro City

For every employee who joined the march, McDonald’s Philippines pledged donations to a partner organization that advocates for safe and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition, the company engaged with the community through recruitment initiatives such as the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride Karir Career Fair, reaching over 450 potential applicants.

Rainbow arches bearing the message “Love Ko All” also stood proudly at McDonald’s Ligaya Quezon Avenue in Quezon City and McDonald’s North Reclamation Area in Cebu City—serving as visible reminders that every McDonald’s store is a welcoming space for all. Customers can still catch these installations until July 13.

More than the celebrations, McDonald’s Philippines’ support for the LGBTQIA+ community extends far beyond Pride Month. Its commitment to workplace inclusivity is embedded in the company’s operations and culture—reflected in how it supports its people and creates opportunities for them to grow and thrive as their best selves.

Inclusive Hiring Practices

For 45 years, McDonald’s Philippines has remained committed to investing in its people. Since Chairman and Founder Dr. George T. Yang opened the first McDonald’s store in 1981, managers and service crew members have been directly hired, providing job security without the practice of contractualization. 

Today, the company supports over 45,000 working students nationwide, offering flexible work arrangements that allow them to earn an income while completing their education. McDonald’s Philippines also works closely with local government units to expand employment opportunities to persons with disabilities and senior citizens, helping ensure more inclusive access to meaningful work. Beyond employment, McDonald’s equips its people with opportunities to grow through world-class learning and development programs, delivering up to 2.8 million training hours across all levels.

McDonald’s Philippines invites individuals from all walks of life to start a career with the company where they can grow, succeed, and be part of a workplace that values what makes them unique. Learn more about starting your journey at McDonald’s Philippines Careers Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/McDoPHCareers )

Jollibee the Philippines' number one fast food chain, is giving fans another reason to enjoy their favorite meals with the launch of the exclusive JolliBINI Bundles. Available for a limited time, the new promotion pairs Jollibee's best-loved menu favorites with exclusive collectibles inspired by the nation's biggest P-pop girl group, BINI.

Available from July 15 to August 31, the JolliBINI Bundles let customers enjoy iconic Jollibee favorites while collecting limited-edition merchandise featuring all eight BINI members. Every bundle comes with random member collectibles, while lucky customers also have the chance to receive a rare Special Group Photocard.

"At Jollibee, we always look for new ways to make every meal more joyful and memorable for our customers," said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. "With the JolliBINI Bundles, fans can enjoy their Jollibee favorites while collecting exclusive BINI-inspired merchandise. Every visit becomes an opportunity to discover a new collectible, celebrate their favorite member, and create moments worth sharing with fellow BLOOMs. We hope this campaign brings even more joy as fans collect, trade, and complete their JolliBINI collection together."

Customers can enjoy two bundle options during the promotional period. The JolliBINI Bundle A, starting at ₱269, includes a choice of an Original or Special Cheesy Yumburger, one-piece Chickenjoy with rice, a regular drink, and one random JolliBINI Collectible Set consisting of a Bag Charm and Photocard. Meanwhile, the JolliBINI Bundle B, starting at ₱399, comes with a choice of an Original or Special Double Cheesy Yumburger, one-piece Chickenjoy with rice, a large drink, and two random JolliBINI Collectible Sets.

By pairing exclusive collectibles with Jollibee's iconic menu favorites, the latest Jollibee and BINI collaboration transforms every meal into an exciting unboxing experience that fans can enjoy and share.

The launch is expected to spark another wave of online excitement, with BLOOMs sharing unboxing videos, collection reveals, photocard trades, and bag charm styling across social media as they race to complete the full JolliBINI collection and find the coveted Special Group Photocard.

The JolliBINI Bundles will be available in all Jollibee stores nationwide from July 15 to August 31 for dine-in and takeout.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Refreshing a home does not always require a major renovation or a significant budget. Sometimes, a few carefully selected pieces can transform a space into one that feels more comfortable, stylish, and functional.

This July, SM Home is making home makeovers more accessible through The Big Mid-Year Sale, offering shoppers up to 70% OFF on select home essentials until July 31 at SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central.

The seasonal sale features a wide selection of home essentials designed to suit every lifestyle and budget. Whether replacing everyday kitchenware, upgrading bedroom linens, organizing living spaces, or adding decorative accents, shoppers can find practical and stylish pieces that help create a refreshed home without overspending.

From quality cookware and dining essentials to storage solutions, home décor, and furniture accents, SM Home offers an extensive collection that caters to homeowners, young professionals, and growing families looking to elevate their living spaces.

At SM City Grand Central, shoppers can make their purchases even more convenient through SM Home's Buy Now, Pay Later offer. Customers may enjoy 0% interest every three months on a minimum ₱5,000 single-receipt purchase using participating credit cards until December 31. The flexible payment option allows customers to bring home essentials and stylish upgrades while managing their expenses more comfortably.

The combination of exciting discounts and flexible payment options makes this season an ideal time to shop for long-awaited home upgrades, practical everyday purchases, or thoughtful gifts for loved ones.

Whether you are furnishing your first home, updating your favorite spaces, or simply looking for everyday essentials at great value, SM Home at SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central offers plenty of reasons to make every visit worthwhile.

Visit SM Home at your most loved SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela and enjoy The Big Mid-Year Sale until July 31. Customers may also shop through the SM Home Personal Shopper service, the SMAC & Shop app, or online at www.smhome.ph. 

###

In photo, from left, TP in the Philippines Finance Senior Director Ariel Carpio, TP in the Philippines CEO Rahul Jolly, PEZA Director General Tereso Panga, and Deputy Director General for Operations Vivian Santos.

Pasay City, Philippines – Global digital business services leader TP in the Philippines continues to strengthen its footprint in the country following the approval of operations for its 29th site in the Philippines set to open at the Four E-Com Center Building complex within the SM Mall of Asia area in Pasay City. The agreement was recently formalized through a signing between TP in the Philippines Chief Executive Officer Rahul Jolly and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Tereso Panga. Once operational by September this year, the expansion is expected to create more than 1,000 job opportunities for Filipinos, further supporting the country’s thriving IT-BPM industry.

“TP's newest expansion reflects our continued confidence in Filipino talent and the country’s position as a global leader in customer experience and digital business services. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary of steadfast operations in the Philippines, opening our 29th site marks another strategic milestone in our growth journey. This isn't just about expanding capacity; it is an investment in modern, digital-first infrastructure. This three-decade legacy is a testament to our enduring stability and the deep trust our global clients place in us,” said Jolly. 

“We are grateful for the continued support of PEZA and our government stakeholders. Together, we remain committed to creating meaningful careers, driving inclusive economic opportunities for the local workforce, and cementing our position as the market leader in delivering world-class, tech-enabled transformation solutions and digital business services to world's leading brands,” he added.

Panga welcomed TP’s announcements of its continued expansion in the Philippines which further strengthens the Philippines’ position as a leading global hub for IT-BPM and digital services.

“As TP broadens its presence across the country, particularly in emerging regional IT hubs, PEZA remains fully committed to supporting their future growth plans through investor-friendly policies, infrastructure development, and close collaboration with industry stakeholders. We look forward to creating more high-value jobs and economic opportunities for Filipinos together,” added Panga.

The new E-Com Center operations further reinforce TP in the Philippines’ sustained growth momentum, marking the company’s third expansion announcement in less than a year. This will augment TP’s initial site in Pasay located in the MAAX Building also in the SM Mall of Asia complex which hosts over 5,000 TP experts. The development highlights the organization’s continued investment in the country as demand for customer experience, digital transformation, and AI-enabled services continues to grow globally. With three decades of presence in the Philippines, TP remains among the country’s largest private employers and a key contributor to the local IT-BPM sector.

For years, Robi Domingo has been one of the country's most recognizable television personalities, effortlessly hosting live shows, interviewing celebrities, and becoming a familiar face in Filipino homes. Away from the spotlight, however, he has embraced a role that's redefining what success means to him - an entrepreneur, employer, and leader.

Alongside his thriving media career, Robi has expanded into entrepreneurship through his ventures in the milk tea industry and his food business, Oink. While building successful businesses has been rewarding, it has also given him a new perspective on leadership and responsibility. "They're both challenging in very different ways. When you're in front of the camera, the pressure is immediate. You have to think on your feet and deliver your best because you only have one chance to get it right," he shares. "Running a business is a different kind of pressure because it's long-term. You're not just thinking about yourself anymore - you think about your business partners, your employees, your customers, and the families that depend on the business. Every decision, whether it's marketing, product development, or operations, has a ripple effect."

Entrepreneurship has also changed the way Robi measures success. Beyond growing the business, every decision he makes is shaped by the people behind it. That shift led to one of the biggest lessons he's learned as an entrepreneur. "I think what surprised me the most is realizing a business is really about people."

Robi believes people thrive when they feel respected, supported, and that their contributions truly matter. It's a philosophy he has carried into his own ventures, where he strives to create an environment where employees can grow alongside the business. That is why, he provides his employees with InLife Benefits' Group Life insurance as part of his commitment to their well-being. Designed to provide financial protection for employees and their beneficiaries in the event of death, Group Life insurance also offers employers the flexibility to enhance coverage with additional benefits tailored to their organization's needs. More than an employee benefit, it gives businesses a meaningful way to help safeguard their people against life's uncertainties while reinforcing a culture of care that extends beyond the workplace.

His decision reflects the same people-first philosophy championed by InLife Benefits Insurance Company, Inc. (formerly Generali Life Assurance Philippines, Inc.). Through its "Benefits That Work" philosophy, InLife Benefits encourages organizations to see employee benefits not simply as a business expense, but as a meaningful investment in their people and the long-term success of their business. As a trusted provider of employee benefits solutions, InLife Benefits offers a comprehensive suite of plans, including Group Life, Group Health, Group Personal Accident, Group Credit Life, and Group Dread Disease. These are complemented by wellness programs, 24/7 telemedicine access, financial literacy initiatives, and digital platforms that help organizations build healthier, stronger, and more resilient workplaces.

It's this shared commitment to putting people first that makes Robi a natural ambassador for InLife Benefits. "That's why I connect with InLife Benefits' mission. It's about helping people prepare for life's uncertainties while giving them the confidence to pursue their goals. I think that's where the connection is between entrepreneurship and what InLife Benefits stands for: both are about building something with purpose. It's not just about preparing for success, but preparing for whatever life brings and making sure the people who matter are protected along the way."

Today, Robi's definition of success has evolved alongside his growing responsibilities as an entrepreneur, husband, and father. More than achievements or recognition, he now measures success by the opportunities he creates, the lives he positively impacts, and the people he helps protect along the way.

As both a business owner and an InLife Benefits ambassador, he hopes more Filipino entrepreneurs will embrace the same mindset by investing not only in business growth, but also in the well-being of the people who help turn their vision into reality. "Businesses are built by people. The stronger and more supported your team is, the stronger your organization becomes. I hope entrepreneurs see employee benefits not as an expense, but as an investment in the people who help them build their vision."

About InLife Benefits

InLife Benefits Insurance Company, Inc. (formerly Generali Life Assurance Philippines, Inc.) is the employee benefits and group insurance subsidiary of InLife, helping organizations support and protect their workforce through group life insurance, healthcare, wellness, and other employee protection solutions.

Guided by its promise of “Benefits That Work,” InLife Benefits goes beyond traditional insurance by enabling employers to invest in their people’s health, financial security, and overall well-being. As part of InLife, the country’s first and largest Filipino life insurance company, InLife Benefits combines trusted expertise with a people-centered approach to create protection solutions that work for both businesses and the employees they serve.

For more information, visit www.inlifebenefits.com.ph or email customercare@inlifebenefits.com.ph.