Friday, June 13, 2025




Are you a passionate baker with dreams of turning your delicious creations into a thriving business? If so, get ready because Universal Robina Corporation (URC) might just have the perfect opportunity for you with their exciting "BIDA SA MASA, SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR" contest!

URC Flour is calling all bakers with a passion for baking to level up and join the URC Flour Bida sa Misa. Be the next “Bida Bakerpreneur”!





URC Flour is committed to empowering the next generation of baker-entrepreneurs, and BIDA sa MASA is the company’s flagship program designed to help you rise!

This year’s event will be held in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Pasig City, Sariaya, Quezon and Davao City. This contest will showcase a variety of delicacies, including breads, cakes and pastries as contestants will be representing their respective regions via a unique and delicious baked goods.  

There will be two categories for the contest, open to Home Baker or hobbyist who wants to level up their baking skills with the opportunity of owning their own bakery, and for Pro Bakers who have been creating delicious baked goods in a bakery, restaurant or cafĂ© and wants to expand their skills and business.

Since 2017, Universal Robina Corporation, through its Flour Division, has empowered aspiring bakers through Flourish Pilipinas, a learning program that aims to foster a nation of baker-entrepreneurs. From educational initiatives and workshops to baking competitions, the program has continuously evolved to recognize, hone, and support the skills, talent, and passion of baker hopefuls.

URC Flour’s initiative together with the support of our partner LGUs, aims to support community members to turn their baking skills into successful start-up businesses. Our goal is to empower them and promote economic growth by organizing a baking competition that offers not only cash prizes, but most importantly, we want to impart the needed knowledge and resources to support their start-up ventures. BIDA SA MASA 2025 will put their newfound baking skills to the test in a lively and delicious baking competition” said Naida Dalisay, Commercial Director, URC Flour Division.











This year’s "BIDA SA MASA 2025" will be URC Flour’s second installment and because of the program’s success, the search for the “BIDA BAKEPRENEUER” contest mechanics has been updated with the objective to equip community bakers with both the technical know-how and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to succeed in the competitive baking industry.








WHO WILL BE THIS YEAR’S “BIDA SA MASA” GRAND CHAMPION? Exciting prizes is up for grabs for this year’s most awaited baking competition from URC Flour.

The contest will feature various stages designed to test and develop the participants' abilities, including; Baking Training Workshop: Opportunities to learn new techniques and refine existing skill from URC Flour tech team. Business Coaching ad Planning will be part of the training that will help them come up with their own business plan.


Exciting prizes awaits the top winners of this year’s BIDA SA MASA,SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR baking competition. Champions from each category will win a total of P 100,000.00 with P 70,000.00 as cash prize and P 30,000.00 worth of baking equipment and URC flour products. Finalists from Pasig, Quezon and Davao who will be joining the championship will get a consolation prize of P 30,000.00 prize, with P 20,000.00 cash and P 10,000.00 worth of baking equipment and URC Flour products.

So, whether you're a seasoned home baker with a secret recipe or an enthusiastic newcomer eager to learn, if you have the drive and the dream, we want to hear from you!

For complete details about the contest, including eligibility criteria, mechanics, prizes, and how to register, we urge you to visit the official URC Flour website at www.urcflour.com You can also find additional information and updates on URC Flour's official social media channels and other partner platforms.

Don't let this incredible opportunity pass you by. Unleash your inner baking star and become the next "BIDA sa MASA"!


Monday, June 9, 2025






There’s something comforting—almost cinematic—about sinking your teeth into a slice of New York-style pizza. That blistered crust, gooey cheese, and generous toppings feel like a warm, cheesy hug after a long day. Now, pizza lovers in Caloocan can indulge in that same East Coast experience, as Yellow Cab has officially opened its doors at SM City Grand Central.

Tucked along the mall’s vibrant international food strip, the new Yellow Cab branch brings its signature urban flair and bold flavors into a cozy yet contemporary corner perfect for catch-ups, casual dates, or solo cravings. It's the kind of place that makes you say, “Let’s grab a slice,” and mean it.

At the heart of Yellow Cab’s menu is a lineup of pizzas that are as unapologetically loaded as they are delicious. There’s the iconic New York’s Finest, a heavyweight ensemble of sausage, ham, pepperoni, bacon, ground beef, black olives, mushrooms, and bell peppers that’s practically a meal in every bite. Meanwhile, meat lovers will feel right at home with the Manhattan Meat Lovers—a rich combination of pepperoni, salami, ground beef, and all the meat trimmings that make pizza nights worth the calories.

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, the Black Balsamic pizza adds a gourmet twist to the usual fare, layering cheese and arugula over a medley of toppings, all kissed with tangy balsamic drizzle.

For those counting carbs but not ready to skip the pizza party, Dear Darla is a fresh and guilt-free option. With its ultra-thin crust and bundles of arugula and alfalfa sprouts, it’s the kind of “clean eating” that still feels indulgent.



But Yellow Cab’s kitchen doesn’t stop at pizza. The beloved Charlie Chan pasta offers a unique fusion of sweet-spicy flavors with its Asian-inspired stir-fry of noodles, chicken, and peanuts—a dish that has long held cult status among Yellow Cab loyalists. And yes, there’s chicken. Plenty of it. Perfectly seasoned, fried to perfection, and ideal for sharing.

Whether you’re in it for the classics or ready to explore something a little out of the (pizza) box, Yellow Cab at SM City Grand Central delivers flavors that hit the spot. Drop by the lower ground level of the mall and treat yourself to a slice of the Big Apple—no passport required.






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Let’s be honest—shopping for dads is tricky business. They’re lowkey, rarely ask for anything, and when they do, it’s usually something ultra-specific like a “cordless impact drill with variable speed control” (what?). But this Father’s Day, it doesn’t have to be a head-scratcher. Whether you call him Pops, Daddy, Tatay, or ‘Chief,’ SM Bulacan Malls—SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag—have the kind of gifts that make actual sense for the kind of guy who’s been your personal handyman, chef, driver, and real-life superhero all rolled into one.

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We rounded up the best finds for the sentimental dads, the sporty dads, the tech-savvy dads, and even the aesthetic dads who steal your cologne. Here’s your ultimate guide to winning Father’s Day:

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  • A Gift of MemoriesGot a dad who documents everything from your graduation to his backyard barbecue setup? Hit up SM Gadgets at The SM Store in SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag. Whether it’s a GoPro for his weekend cycling vlogs or the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo for capturing family moments retro-style, you’re basically giving him a time machine in his pocket. Bonus: You’ll finally be in more family albums that aren’t blurry.

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  • A Gift of Time. Dad’s been giving you his time since day one—it’s about time he got something timeless in return. Head over at the MI Concept store in SM City Marilao and grab him a smart or classic watch that matches his hustle. From work calls to weekend bike rides, it’s more than an accessory—it’s a daily reminder that you see him.

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  • A Gift of Fashion and FitnessFor the dad who still breaks a sweat doing jumping jacks in slippers (respect), update his workout gear at Sports Central, SM Center Pulilan. Think comfy activewear, stylish sneakers, and dri-fit shirts that shout, “Fit and still fabulous.” Trust us, he’ll be posting OOTD gym selfies before you know it.

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  • A Gift of Scent-sibility. Cologne might be small, but it packs big dad energy. Whether he’s loyal to his all-time favorite scent or open to exploring something fresh, Ian Darcy at SM City Baliwag and Bench stores across all three malls have just the thing. Pro-tip: Pick a scent that matches his vibe—clean and fresh for the cool dad, woody and spicy for the boss dad, or sweet and mellow for the superdad-next-door.

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  • A Gift of CoolYou could gift Dad another necktie. Or you could blow his mind with JBL headphones—available at select tech stores of SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan and JBL store in SM City Marilao. With crystal-clear sound, long battery life, and that plush comfort that says “me time,” he can vibe to his 80s playlist or hop on Zoom calls like a pro. Bonus: No more borrowing your AirPods.

Whatever kind of dad you’re shopping for—chill, sporty, nostalgic, or stylish—SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag have curated finds that say “Happy Father’s Day” in the best way possible. Everything’s in one place, so you can spend less time hunting and more time hyping him up. Make this year’s Father’s Day extra memorable. Drop by your nearest SM Bulacan Mall and gift Dad a little something that says, “Thanks for everything, Tay.”

Thursday, June 5, 2025

baon savers from SM

As school bells start ringing again, moms and students alike are once again faced with the ultimate weekday challenge—what to pack for baon. Luckily, SM Markets brings back a lifesaver just in time: Baon Savers!

For just ₱250, with a minimum ₱500 purchase of participating items, moms can take home a 7.2L storage bucket packed with student-favorite drinks and snacks that are perfect for busy mornings and recess breaks. These handy bundles help take the guesswork out of daily lunchbox prep, saving time and money while keeping the kids energized and happy.

Participating brands include pantry staples like C2, Crème-O, Tiger Bites, Oreo, Monde’s Special Mamon, Dutch Mill, Nissin, Koko Krunch, Chuckie, Bear Brand, and NestlĂ© Trix cereal—all the trusted favorites kids love.

Available from June 1 to 30, the Baon Savers promo is exclusively offered at participating SM Markets branches including, SM Supermarket in SM Center Pulilan and SM Hypermarket in SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag

Whether you're a budget-savvy mom or a student prepping for a jam-packed school day, Baon Savers offer both convenience and value in one reusable bucket. Stock up now and make this school year the best one yet!

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

The best way to honor the nation’s independence? Through the language every Filipino understands—food.

On June 12, as the country waves its flags high, let your taste buds sing the national anthem with dishes that tell the story of resilience, unity, and the richness of our heritage. From comfort food with ancestral roots to cool desserts that remix tradition, these must-try dishes available at SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela are perfect for your Araw ng Kalayaan spread.

Whether you're a foodie rebel, a heritage stan, or just craving something hearty and local, here are six Filipino dishes that proudly scream Lasang Pinoy. Lasang Malaya.

  1. Sinigang na Hipon from Giligan’s, SM Center Sangandaan. Nothing screams "home" louder than a hot bowl of sinigang. With its signature sourness, shrimp, and a healthy serving of kangkong, okra, and eggplant, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together—rain or shine. Whether you’re team sabawan or team kanin overload, Giligan’s Sinigang at SM Center Sangandaan promises the perfect tang to tickle your taste buds.



  1. Kare-Kare from Giligan’s, SM Center Sangandaan. No Filipino gathering is complete without this peanutty wonder. Made with oxtail, tripe, and vegetables simmered in a rich peanut sauce, kare-kare is best enjoyed with bagoong on the side (and yes, extra rice is non-negotiable). Try the one from Giligan’s and let that hearty flavor hug you this June 12.



  1. Sisig from Giligan’s, SM Center Sangandaan. Crunchy, chewy, spicy, and savory—Sisig is the unofficial anthem of every Pinoy barkadahan. At Giligan’s, their take is grilled to perfection, chopped fine, and topped with onions, chilies, and chicharon for that extra crunch. Pair it with rice or pulutan-style with your favorite drink and hear the sizzle that signals one thing: you're about to feast like a true Filipino.



  1. Sizzling Pompano sa Gata from Kuya J’s, SM City Valenzuela. If independence had a flavor, this would be it—bold, creamy, and full of life. Kuya J’s Sizzling Pompano sa Gata is an ode to the country’s love affair with coconut milk and seafood. The pompano is fried just right, laid over sizzling vegetables, and blanketed with rich coconut sauce that’s both indulgent and healthy. A win for seafood lovers and guilt-free eaters alike.



  1. Crispy Pork Belly from Mesa, SM City Grand Central. Golden, glorious, and unapologetically indulgent. Crispy Pork Belly is a deep-fried pork dish that’s juicy on the inside and wickedly crunchy on the outside. It's a guaranteed showstopper on any dining table. For a crispy pork belly that delivers on every bite, get yours at Mesa in SM City Grand Central. 



  1. Bebang Halo-Halo, SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela. No Pinoy meal is complete without a cold treat—and Bebang Halo-Halo is here to serve dessert with drama. Forget the typical layering. Bebang hides its prized leche flan at the bottom, giving you a creamy finale after a mix of macapuno, nata, langka, and more premium ingredients. Topped with cloud-like shaved frozen milk, it's been likened to Korean bingsu by TikTokers for good reason. Find Bebang’s best-selling Presidential Halo-Halo (P168) at SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central.

So, this Independence Day, don’t just wave your flag—taste your freedom. These six dishes are more than just food; they’re edible stories of resilience, culture, and celebration. Visit SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela and dig into the flavors of the Philippines.

Because nothing says Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! like a plate (or two) of your favorite Filipino food. 

















This June to July, East Metro turns purple as SM Malls in the East invite all ARMYs to join the Welcome to BorahaEAST celebration — the biggest fandom event of the year - happening from June 13 to July 9 across 7 SM malls: SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City Taytay, SM Center Angono, and SM City East Ortigas.


Launched under SM Supermalls’ Extra Exciting East regional campaign and the nationwide SM Fandom initiative, Welcome to BorahaEAST is a tribute to the music, message, and global impact of BTS. This multi-mall celebration gives fans the chance to connect, express their love for BTS, and create unforgettable purple memories through curated activities designed especially for the ARMY community.

What to expect: A full month of purple magic

Purple illumination (June 13–July 9)

Witness all 7 malls light up in iconic BTS purple, symbolizing the group’s love and connection with their fans. It’s the perfect way to kick off the BTS Festa season in the East!

Simultaneous cup sleeve event (June 14)

Join fellow fans for a day of fandom unity, photo ops, and exclusive cup sleeves as all seven SM malls host a massive BTS-themed cup sleeve event.



ARMY fan gathering, pop-up market, and key ring party

Celebrate an OT7 reunion with your ARMY friends, shop for K-merch, and enjoy interactive booths and installations at select fan events:

  • June 14 – SM City Taytay
  • June 15 – SM City Marikina
  • June 21 – SM Center Angono
  • June 29 – SM City East Ortigas
  • July 5 – SM City Masinag



ARMY key ring party

June 22 – SM Center Antipolo Downtown

Random play dance

July 5 – SM City San Mateo
End the celebration with a burst of energy as ARMYs take center stage and show off their dance moves during a full-on BTS Random Play Dance showdown!



Where music meets memories


Welcome to BorahaEAST is more than a celebration — it’s a place for connection. It brings together fans from all walks of life who have been inspired by BTS’ music and message of hope, self-love, and togetherness. The event series reflects how SM Supermalls continues to champion safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces for fandoms to thrive.


So, whether you’re a newly converted ARMY or celebrating your BTS era with longtime friends, this is your sign to head to the East. Spend the BTS Festa season with your ARMY friends, collect memories, and celebrate — because a new chapter has begun.

Monday, June 2, 2025


 Leading global technology brand HONOR dropped a hint on what seemed to be its newest phone, dubbed as ‘AI Phone’. From durable devices, student-friendly tablets, and high-end AI camera smartphones – HONOR Philippines has been putting out innovative products since the beginning of the year.


“The time has come. Filipinos deserve to get introduced to the real AI Phone. We are most excited with this launch, and we couldn’t wait to share more to our loyal HONOR fans so stay tuned in the coming days,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.


In a later post, HONOR Philippines released a related video showing still photos coming to life using its latest AI technology. With its viral and out-of-the-box content strategies, one can never really be sure of what HONOR is about to release.


Never miss the latest updates and visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Saturday, May 31, 2025

                      

In photo: BPI Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Eric Luchangco engages with members of the media during the bank’s Sustainability Awareness Month Press Conference. He is joined by event host Mica Pineda.


The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) continues to solidify its position as a pioneer in sustainable finance, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles at the core of its business. Anchored on its unique ESG+E framework—which integrates the creation of economic value into its sustainability efforts—BPI is helping lead the transformation of the Philippine banking industry toward more inclusive and resilient growth.


At the center of this shift is BPI’s Sustainability Agenda—a forward-looking strategy that aligns financial performance with sustainable development goals. Through its proactive and innovative approach, the Bank has achieved several industry firsts, further establishing its role as a thought leader in ESG integration.


Pioneering Sustainability Initiatives

BPI continues to lead the way in sustainable finance through initiatives that reflect deep integration of ESG in its operations:


Pioneering Initiative

Description

Coal Phase-Out Policy

First Philippine bank to have a time-bound commitment to completely phase out exposure to coal power generation.

EDGE Certification of Branches

First Philippine bank to receive IFC-EDGE Green Building certification for its branches, nationwide.

Renewable Energy in Corporate Offices

First Philippine bank to transition all its high-rise corporate buildings to 100% renewable energy.

Renewable Energy in Branches

First Philippine bank to access the retail aggregation program, transitioning 70 branches to 100% renewable energy.

Energy Transition Finance Facility (ETFF)

First financing project in the world to repurpose coal-fired power plants into renewable energy facilities and shorten the operating life of a coal plant.

Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA)

First Philippine bank to map clients and Bank’s asset exposure to natural hazards like earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and volcanic eruptions.

Green Solutions

First Philippine bank to offer eco-friendly solutions including Electric Vehicle Financing, Hybrid Vehicle Financing, and Solar Mortgage.

Green and Social Bond Public Offerings

First bank in Southeast Asia to issue a negative-yielding bond and a COVID-19 response bond by a Philippine bank (7x oversubscribed).

Sustainability in Employee Performance (KRAs)

First Philippine bank to require a minimum 10% sustainability KRA allocation and mandatory sustainability training for all employees.

Sustainable Development Finance (SDF) Program

Financing program for renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, water, and pollution control, with free technical evaluations.


BPI is expanding its reach and impact through exclusive, limited-time promotions that promote both sustainability and financial inclusion. These special offers are designed to make eco-conscious choices more accessible for Filipino families and communities.


Here are some offerings that help you Do More for sustainability:


  • Real 0% Special Installment Plan (S.I.P.) for Solar Panels
    BPI Credit Cards has partnered with Go Solar, Greenergy, JC Solar, and Philergy to offer an exclusive 0% interest installment plan on solar panel purchases. This offer helps more households transition to renewable energy, without the upfront cost. Promo period applies.


  • Green Solutions Promos
    BPI’s commitment to sustainability now comes with added perks for customers ready to go green:


  • Solar Mortgage Loan – 5678 Promo: Lock in a 5-year fixed rate at just 6.7% and enjoy up to Php 80,000 in waived bank fees.


  • E-Vehicle “Charge on Us” Promo: Get ₱5,000 free charging credits when you apply for a BPI Auto Loan for an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle from June 15 to August 31, 2025, and book on or before September 30, 2025. Credits can be redeemed via the EVRO App and used at any ACMobility EV Charging Station. 


These exclusive promos are part of BPI’s broader push to accelerate green adoption while making it more economical for individuals and families to take part.


BPI Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Eric Luchangco

shares the bank’s ongoing efforts to drive sustainability.


“Sustainability is not a parallel track—it is the foundation of how we do business,” says Eric Luchangco, BPI’s Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer. “We are leveraging our capital, data, technical know-how and partnerships to drive real-world solutions such as energy transition, financial inclusion, and environmental risk reduction. Our goal is to create, protect and further improve long-term value—not only for our shareholders but for the communities and ecosystems we serve.”


BPI is the only Philippine bank that is a member of the Global Compact Network Philippines, the local chapter of the UN Global Compact. It has also been consistently included in the FTSE4Good Index since 2020, reinforcing its standing as a trusted sustainability partner on a global scale.


Through its sustainability-driven agenda, the Bank is not only financing the future—it is actively shaping it.


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