Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer, Calvin Kohchet-Chua together with PRUVolunteers, the ASSIST team, and beneficiaries from the Maricaban and Sulangan communities of Bantayan Island, Cebu.
Leading life insurer Pru Life UK reinforced its commitment to the Bantayan Island communities in Cebu through Ulan Alang sa Bantayan, the company’s climate resilience initiative, alongside its annual gift-giving activity.
Launched in 2024, Ulan Alang sa Bantayan aims to educate communities and build long-term resilience against the impacts of climate change, with a focus on water security. In the programme’s pilot year, Pru Life UK donated two rainwater harvesting systems for its adopted communities – providing a reliable 2,000-liter supply of clean water to over 500 families. Training sessions on the proper use and maintenance of the systems were also conducted to ensure sustainable support for the communities.
This year, the company continued the programme by facilitating Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) training and distributing gift packs as part of its annual gift-giving tradition. To further community capacity-building, Pru Life UK also conducted a pilot run of a new financial literacy programme for adults developed by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc.
“Ug alang kanako, dako kaayo og impact ang WASH program, labi na sa tubig tungod kay ang tubig maoy naghatag og kinabuhi alang kanatong tanan, ug naghatag og limpiyo sa atong matag usa. Ug labaw sa tanan, dako kaayo ikatabang kanato, ingon nga paglimpiyo sa atong kaugalingon, ug labaw sa tanan, personal hygiene alang kanato. Dako kaayo ni'g ikatabang tungod kay kon limpiyo ang atong kaugalingon, limpiyo sab ang atong palibot. (For me, the WASH programme has a huge impact, especially when it comes to water because water gives life to all of us and provides cleanliness for each one of us. Above all, it greatly helps us in cleaning ourselves and maintaining personal hygiene. This is very important because when we are clean, our surroundings are also clean,” said Rolly Giducos, community leader from Maricaban, Santa Fe on Bantayan Island, one of the community beneficiaries).”
Pru Life UK’s support for Bantayan Island started when the Prudence Foundation formed a multi-year partnership with Habitat for Humanity Philippines to help rebuild the homes of residents affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda. When the housing initiative was completed in 2017, the company continued its annual outreach, which has since evolved and expanded through the Ulan Alang sa Bantayan programme, which was developed in collaboration with the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) to align with its broader climate and health advocacy.
“Our work in Bantayan reflects our belief that progress is built through trust and shared responsibility,” said Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer. “As Ulan Alang sa Bantayan grows, so does our dedication to helping communities prepare for the future with confidence and security.”
Through sustained partnerships and programmes that address both immediate and long-term needs, Pru Life UK continues to embody what it means to be a trusted partner in protection – one that Filipinos can count on today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Monday, January 12, 2026
NEW DELHI, January 11, 2026 – The Asia Pacific Predator League concluded in New Delhi, India. What began with 24 VALORANT and Dota 2 teams from 14 territories across the Asia-Pacific region culminated in only the best of the best being crowned with the Predator Shield.
On Day 1 of the tournament, the rising Vietnamese squad Fancy United outdueled fan-favorite BOOM Esports to the surprise of many, lifting the trophy and a $65,000 cut of the prize pool. Young gun Hoàng "Twilight" Minh Dũng was an unstoppable force for the Vietnamese, racking up an impressive 40 kills throughout their series against BOOM Esports. Twilight’s performance earned him the tournament MVP award and a nifty $10,000 cash prize.
In Dota 2, Myth Avenue Gaming defended their Predator Shield against in-form REKONIX, who had earlier on Day 2 bested the Philippine squad InterActive Philippines. The series went all the way as the two squads proved equal in skill and mettle. The deciding Game 3 was a 41-minute brawl that showcased Myth Avenue Gaming’s dominance, allowing them to take home the Predator Shield anew and $65,000. Myth Avenue Gaming racked up 44 kills in the deciding game, with offlaner ‘egxrdemxn’ showing everyone why he deserved to be the MVP and take home $10,000.
Philippine grit in full display
Philippine teams came out swinging throughout the LAN in South Asia. Xipto Esports, led by former Team Secret stalwart Emmanuel ‘Emman’ Morales, was key to the VALORANT team’s run, carrying the flag all the way to a Top 4 finish. Meanwhile, in Dota 2, InterActive Philippines turned in some surprise performances despite being a late call-up.
Xipto Esports outperformed APAC Predator League Philippine Champions Oasis Gaming in the tournament. Oasis Gaming fizzled out after a 1-2 record in the Group Stage, while Xipto Esports topped their tough Group C assignment. Xipto Esports lost to BOOM Esports in the semifinals, who featured international VALORANT superstar and former VCT Masters winner Nikita ‘d3ffo’ Sudakov. While they couldn’t lift the Predator Shield this time, Xipto Esports showed everyone a glimpse of their untapped potential.
Indonesia’s REKONIX was InterActive Philippines’ (IAP) obstacle to reaching the grand finals. REKONIX was the team that sent IAP to the Lower Brackets, so IAP didn’t need any extra motivation to send the Indonesians packing in New Delhi. The match was a tightly contested affair that went all the way to three games. In the Winner-Take-All Game 3, a Slardar and Anti-Mage draft misfired for IAP, and REKONIX secured their Grand Finals slot.
At the conclusion of the tournament, it was officially announced that APAC Predator League 2027 will be held in Vietnam.
For more information and updates about the Predator League, follow Predator Gaming on Facebook (www.facebook.com/PredatorGamingPhilippines) or visit the official website www.predator-league.com.
Pru Life UK President&CEO; Atty. Alberto Muyot, Save the Children Philippines CEO; Mike Welch, British Embassy Manila Deputy Head of Mission
Pru Life UK, together with Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, has turned over a combined Php 6 million donation to Save the Children Philippines to support children and families affected by Typhoons Tino and Uwan.
The ceremonial turnover gathered leaders from Pru Life UK, Prudential plc, Save the Children Philippines, the Insurance Commission, and the British Embassy Manila—demonstrating a united front in strengthening disaster response and long-term community resilience.
The donation will fund back-to-school and hygiene kits for 960 learners and provide multi-purpose cash assistance to 224 families in Cebu and Catanduanes, two of the hardest-hit provinces. This initiative builds on the immediate relief already provided to Pru Life UK employees, agents, and partner communities across the Visayas region.
“Today, we come together with a shared purpose: to bring hope and help families and children affected by the recent typhoons recover faster,” Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK, President and CEO said. “This donation strengthens our partnership with Save the Children Philippines and reinforces our mission to protect the most vulnerable.”
Chakrabarty noted that this latest support continues the company’s long-running collaboration with humanitarian partners, including joint efforts with Save the Children Philippines following super typhoon Egay in 2023 and typhoon Kristine in 2024. He emphasised that strengthening resilience is central to Pru Life UK’s sustainability priorities.
“By supporting families and children, we help communities prepare, recover, and thrive. Together with Prudential, we are also committed to delivering long-term, climate-ready insurance solutions,” Chakrabarty added.
"We thank Prudence Foundation, Pru Life UK, and its employees for bringing hope to the children and their families affected by the recent typhoons. Many of them have had their houses swept away by the typhoon. And any donation, especially cash assistance, will really go a long way to buy essential needs such as a few bags of cement, wood, GI Sheets for their roofing. And in a sense, for these families, knowing there are people and corporations willing to lend a hand, it gives them a lot of hope that whatever comes about in the future, there is still hope and a life worth living for,” shared Atty. Alberto Muyot, Save the Children Philippines CEO.
The donation underscores Pru Life UK’s broader mission to advance inclusive protection, enhance community preparedness, and help Filipino families rebuild with resilience and dignity.
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About Pru Life UK
Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.
Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents.
Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.
Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.
Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.
Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph.
The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information.
Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission.
The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, whiletheir Davao District office is in Door 2&3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information.
Notes:
*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Redefining what a flagship smartphone camera can achieve, the OPPO Find X9 sets a new standard for mobile imaging with its innovative capability to capture full-resolution 50MP photos by default, delivering unprecedented clarity without relying on shooting modes or manual tweaks.
This breakthrough delivers unprecedented clarity and detail, with 8K-level resolution across all three rear lenses every time you press the shutter, marking the brand’s biggest leap in camera innovation yet. It is designed specifically for creators, visual storytellers, and photography enthusiasts in mind.
Delivering Professional- Grade Quality with the LUMO Image Engine
While most smartphones downscale images to 12MP due to processing limits, the OPPO Find X9 overcomes this barrier with an industry-first imaging pipeline powered by the LUMO Image Engine. All rear cameras now capture crisp, ultra-clear 50MP photos by default, preserving deep textures, sharp edges, and rich detail even after heavy cropping or zooming. To fully appreciate its exceptional quality, users can tap the 8K icon that appears when viewing their photos in the default Photos app for a level of clarity and resolution previously only associated with professional cameras.
Meanwhile, LUMO’s real-time parallel processing enables the CPU, GPU, ISP, and NPU to work simultaneously, enhancing clarity while cutting power consumption by up to 50 percent. This results in balanced highlights, clean shadows, and impressive detail retention even in complex lighting conditions.
Refining Creative Expression Through the Hasselblad Master Camera System
At the core of the OPPO Find X9’s imaging capabilities is the Hasselblad Master Camera System, which brings professional-grade engineering to smartphone photography. The system includes:
● 50MP Main Camera with an ultra-large sensor for enhanced light intake
● 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera capable of capturing sweeping landscapes with zero distortion
● 50MP Periscope Telephoto Camera featuring OPPO’s Triple Prism Lens and 120x Super Zoom for astounding long-range shot results
The collaboration with Hasselblad ensures natural color calibration, beautifully rendered portraits, and deeper tones that reflect the iconic look of Hasselblad cameras. Features like Hasselblad XPAN Mode, Master Mode, and enhanced bokeh simulation provide depth and artistic control for creators.
Revealing True-to-Life Color Through Advanced Spectral Sensing
OPPO Find X9’s True Color Camera supports the 50MP default mode. It is an innovative sensor equipped with two million spectral pixels that analyze color temperature across a refined grid. This ensures that skin tones, neon signs, sunsets, and indoor lighting appear as close as possible to how the eye sees them, providing accuracy that is difficult to achieve on typical mobile cameras.
Colors are rendered naturally, without overly saturated processing, creating images that stand out in their authenticity and tonal balance.
Empowering New Perspectives With 120x Super Zoom
The OPPO Find X9 delivers dependable detail even at extreme distances through its 120x Super Zoom. Using a combination of optical zoom, sensor-level processing, and OPPO’s Super Resolution algorithm, the phone allows users to capture subjects far across the city skyline or fine details across a concert venue. Images remain clear and stable, unlocking creative perspectives normally accessible only with professional telephoto lenses.
A Fusion of Artistry and Engineering
The OPPO Find X9 embodies a design philosophy that brings together art, precision, and intelligent engineering. Its camera innovations are paired with a powerful performance core, ideal for Filipinos who rely on their smartphones to capture their stories.
The OPPO Find X9 (16GB + 512GB) is available nationwide through OPPO’s physical stores, e-commerce platforms on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and the official OPPO online store.
OPPO Bundle Offers
● PHP 1,000 off when purchased with the all-new OPPO Enco X3s
Online Exclusive Perks (Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok)
● PHP 1,500 off OPPO voucher
OPPO Online Store Benefits
The OPPO online store is offering exciting benefits when you purchase the OPPO Find X9, with redeemable vouchers using OPPOints via the My OPPO App until February 28, 2026.
● PHP 1,500 voucher – 500 OPPOints
● PHP 2,000 voucher – 1,000 OPPOints
● PHP 2,800 voucher – 2,000 OPPOints
● Free Shipping
● Comes with OPPO Enco Buds3 Pro + One Free Movie Ticket (to claim within three months, valid exclusively at Bonifacio High Street Central Square Mall Cinema – Standard Cinema)
Postpaid Plans
Experience the power of the OPPO Find X9 through Globe Postpaid, Smart Postpaid, and Smart Infinity plans.
● Globe GPlan 2499
○ Initial cashout of PHP 26,000
○ Inclusive of 25 GB data, unlimited all-net calls and texts and unlimited landline calls
● Globe GPlan PLUS 1799
○ PHP 2,038 per month or 24 months
○ No lock-in period
● Smart Postpaid Plan+ 1999
● Smart Infinity
○ Complimentary OPPO Find X9 for Device Plan 8000
○ With PHP 7,200 cashout for Device Plan 5000
A limited DJI Osmo Mobile SE Stabilizer freebie is also up for grabs for all postpaid plans.
To know more about the OPPO Find X9, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
Friday, January 9, 2026
GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum chart-topping global superstar The Kid LAROI releases his first full-length album in two years, BEFORE I FORGET, out now via Columbia Records.
Introduced by three singles, “A COLD PLAY,” “A PERFECT WORLD,” and “BACK WHEN YOU WERE MINE,” BEFORE I FORGET signals a powerful turning point for the 22-year-old artist, defined by vulnerability and emotional clarity. Steeped in introspection and showcasing LAROI’s distinctive songwriting and genre-bending prowess at new heights, each track gives an intimate insight into his world.
“BEFORE I FORGET is about the music. Nothing else. That’s what I want people to hear.”
The new album follows LAROI’s 2023 album THE FIRST TIME, whose deluxe edition arrived the following year with five additional tracks including “NIGHTS LIKE THIS PART 2,” the sequel to “NIGHTS LIKE THIS,” and fan-favorite “GIRLS.” LAROI continues to push creative boundaries with every new project, cementing him as one of the most compelling voices shaping music today.
BEFORE I FORGET Tracklist:
ME + YOU
JULY
PRIVATE
COME DOWN
RATHER BE (feat. Lithe)
A PERFECT WORLD
5:21AM (feat. Andrew Aged)
A COLD PLAY
THE MOMENT (feat. Clara La San)
NEVER CAME BACK
THANK GOD
I’M SO IN LOVE WITH YOU
MAYBE I’M WRONG
HER INTERLUDE
BACK WHEN YOU WERE MINE
ABOUT THE KID LAROI
At just 22 years old, LAROI has already established himself as one of the fastest rising stars in the music industry. In 2021, He logged a record-setting hold at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart with “Stay,” his collaboration with Justin Bieber, dominating radio waves and building global recognition. The Kid LAROI has captivated fans across the world with songs including "Let Her Go,” “Diva” ft. Lil Tecca, "Go" ft. Juice WRLD, and “Without You,” the latter of which led to his debut Saturday Night Live performance with Miley Cyrus. His 2020 debut mixtape, F*ck Love, earned chart-topping success, reaching number three on the Billboard 200 Chart. In recognition of his major achievements, LAROI received the highly coveted “Best New Artist” nomination at the 64th GRAMMY Awards (2022). LAROI’s full-length album, THE FIRST TIME, made a splash in 2023, debuting at #26 on the Billboard 200. The album also reached #3 on the ARIA Albums Chart, becoming LAROI's second top-three entry in Australia.
LAROI had a massive 2024 starting with the release of the deluxe version of THE FIRST TIME, which featured five new tracks. He embarked on The First Time Tour which brought him across Europe, North America and Australia. He released three new singles including “GIRLS,” which he debuted live on tour ahead of the release, along with “APEROL SPRITZ,” and “SLOW IT DOWN” featuring Quavo. “ALL I WANT IS YOU” marked LAROI’s first release of 2025 and was followed by his highly anticipated single “HOW DOES IT FEEL.” With his new releases, LAROI continues to push genre boundaries and impress audiences with his undeniable star power.
Connect with The Kid LAROI
Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook | Website
East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.
This initiative aims to raise awareness on the value of water and promote responsible consumption among communities, partners, and stakeholders.
Lakbayan offers a unique opportunity for participants to experience the entire water cycle: from the raw water source and treatment to distribution and wastewater management. Through guided tours of Manila Water’s state-of-the-art facilities, visitors gain firsthand knowledge of the processes that ensure safe, clean, and reliable water supply, as well as the systems that treat wastewater before returning it to the environment.
Since its inception in 2006, Lakbayan has engaged thousands of students, local government units, and private organizations, fostering a deeper understanding of the water cycle and the collective role in preserving this vital resource. In 2025, Manila Water, led by its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, conducted a total of sixty-five (65) Lakbayan tours, participated by 2,151 individuals.
Among the organizations who participated were the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DILG-National Capital Region, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Government of Makati, Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pateros, San Agustin Seminary, University of the Philippines, Technological University of Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, Western Mindanao State University and other public and private schools and private businesses.
“Water is a finite resource and its responsible use is a shared obligation, yet it is often overlooked,” said Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director.
“Lakbayan allows us to share the science, innovation and our dedication behind every drop. Our goal is to inspire individuals and organizations to take meaningful action, whether through simple daily habits or large-scale programs, to conserve water and protect the environment. Every effort, big or small, creates a ripple of impact,” he added.
The program underscores Manila Water’s advocacy for water conservation and environmental protection. By showcasing the complexity and importance of water and wastewater management, Lakbayan empowers participants to become champions of sustainability in their own communities.
Manila Water welcomes all stakeholders to experience Lakbayan. For schedules and reservations, interested parties may email info@manilawater.com.
East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.
Jollibee, the Philippines’ no. 1 fastfood chain, has brought back Mix & Match, giving customers new ways to enjoy its best-tasting favorites in a single meal. Starting at ₱78, diners can pair popular mains and sides, showing how the brand’s Best sa Sarap items are meant to be enjoyed together.
With the return of Mix&Match, Jollibee puts the spotlight back on the taste of its core products while giving customers the freedom to enjoy them their way. By bringing together popular mains and sides in one offering, the brand aims to make it easier for customers to enjoy their Best sa Sarap favorites in combinations they prefer.
“Mix&Match is all about bringing people together over the Jollibee favorites they love,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “It lets everyone enjoy our best-tasting products in a way that feels personal, letting them choose the combinations that make their meal the perfect match.”
Under Mix & Match, customers select one main and one side. Main options priced at ₱78 include the Yumburger, Jolly Spaghetti, and 1-piece Burger Steak, while ₱88 mains include the Cheesy Yumburger, Crunchy Chicken Sandwich, and Jolly Hotdog. Side choices include Soda Float, Peach Mango Pie, Choco Sundae, Jolly Crispy Fries, and the newly introduced Iced Mocha.
This 2026, Jollibee Mix&Match is endorsed by the Nation’s Girl Group BINI, whose strong group dynamic reflects the spirit of the offering. Each member brings her own personality, and together they show how different favorites can come together to create a more enjoyable experience.
“BINI reflects what Mix&Match stands for,” Ching added. “Just like with food, life is better when everything you love comes together. Kahit anong piliin mo, masarap. Kahit sinong kasama mo, mas masaya!”
Watch the latest ad here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/870310422408342
Fans are encouraged to share their favorite Mix&Match combinations online, turning everyday meals into moments of connection. With the message “Maraming match. At lahat, Best sa Sarap,” Jollibee Mix&Match underscores the joy of choice and the pleasure of enjoying great-tasting food together.
Jollibee Mix & Match is available nationwide for dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru.
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!
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