Saturday, May 30, 2026
Upgrading connectivity and technology for enhanced experiences across a leading urban district
Photo shows (L-R): PLDT Enterprise Senior Relationship Manager Rexie Padilla; PLDT Enterprise AVP and Customer Relationship Management Head, Jackielyn J. Ang; PLDT Enterprise VP and Head - Key Industries Group, Jecyn M. Chua-Teng; Araneta City Inc. (ACI) Sr Management Consultant, Rowell L. Recinto; ePLDT and VITRO Inc. President and CEO, and Head of PLDT Enterprise Key Industries Group Victor S. Genuino; ACI CEO, Chairman, and President Jorge L. Araneta; ACI SVP for Business Development John Peter Chick B. Caste, and ePLDT Chief Commercial Officer Amil A. Azurin at the contract signing formalizing the partnership to strengthen ACI's digital transformation.
Quezon City, Philippines — PLDT Enterprise and Araneta City Inc. (ACI) have formalized a strategic partnership to strengthen the digital backbone of Araneta City, reinforcing a long-standing collaboration that continues to evolve alongside the growing technology needs of one of Metro Manila’s most established urban districts.
The partnership brings together PLDT Enterprise’s fixed solutions, wireless enterprise offerings powered by the mobile network of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), and the multi-cloud and digital infrastructure expertise of PLDT’s ICT subsidiary ePLDT Inc. and data center arm VITRO Inc. Through this managed integrated ecosystem, ACI is strengthening its cloud-based digital infrastructure across key business units - spanning real estate, hospitality, retail, entertainment, and food service – to enable more secure and scalable platforms that support cost optimization, operational efficiency, and customer experience.
“At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to ensure that Araneta City continues to thrive as a resilient, innovative, and customer-focused organization,” says Victor S. Genuino, President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc., and Head of PLDT Enterprise Key Industries Group. “Our role is simple: to support our customers’ goals and ensure that partnerships run smoothly, backed by the full strength of PLDT Enterprise’s end-to-end solutions.”
The established collaboration between parent company PLDT Inc. and ACI has expanded over time, as the latter’s transformative digital requirements have grown in scale and complexity. “PLDT has been with us throughout our technological journey - from simpler and legacy-based requirements, to the more complex digital needs we have today,” said Rowell L. Recinto, Sr Management Consultant of ACI. “What we value most is not just access to the latest technologies, but solutions that are proven, reliable, and responsive to our business and our tenants.”
Often referred to as the City of Firsts, Araneta City continues to grow as a major commercial and lifestyle hub in Metro Manila, serving millions of visitors across its entertainment venues, malls, hotels, and offices. Strengthening its digital infrastructure supports more seamless operations and customer experiences across the district.
The partnership supports high-capacity connectivity, and secure cloud infrastructure that will enable ACI to further explore innovations in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and emerging AI platforms. “As urban developments become more connected with intelligent data-driven insights, integrated technology ecosystems play a critical role in enabling resilient and future-ready environments. We look forward to progressing alongside ACI as they boldly embrace innovation to accelerate their digital transformation and reinforce their standing as a top-tier leader in urban development, while driving the district’s long-term growth,” Genuino says.
Discover how PLDT Enterprise supports businesses with end-to-end digital solutions, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-
Almost every Filipino neighborhood has one. A sari-sari store tucked beside a family home. A small storefront where neighbors stop to buy everyday essentials, catch up with one another, or quickly pay for load before heading home. For decades, these community businesses have quietly become part of daily life across the Philippines, built through trust, consistency, and relationships formed one customer at a time.
Today, many of these small businesses are evolving together with the communities they serve. Some now offer bills payment, cash-in and cash-out services, and mobile load in addition to traditional store items. Others have expanded into online selling, using digital tools to help manage transactions and support growing negosyo needs.
For entrepreneurs like Nemia Rontal in Bocaue, Bulacan and Wilma Manalastas, adapting to these changes became part of growing their negosyo while creating more stability for their families through Maya Business.
Before becoming one of the trusted Maya Business agents in their subdivision, 39-year-old Nemia spent nearly two decades working in corporate as an Accounting Supervisor. But after experiencing health challenges that forced her to stop working full-time, she began focusing more seriously on the small sari-sari store she had started years earlier outside their home.
At the time, the setup was simple: two sacks of rice displayed in front of the house. “Nagsimula kami na para pandagdag lang sana noon” (We started it simply as a way to earn extra income), she shares.
Even then, Nemia already had an interest in financial systems and business transactions. Curious about digital financial services and looking for ways to expand what her store could offer, she attended a Maya seminar in Guiguinto back in 2018 and applied to become a Maya Business partner.
Over time, Nemia’s store evolved into more than just a place to buy essentials.
Customers began stopping by not only for rice or groceries, but also for bills payment, cash-in services, and mobile load. During the pandemic especially, digital transactions became more common within their community as more people looked for accessible financial services closer to home.
“Unti-unti siyang naging regular na serbisyo para sa mga tao rito” (Over time, it became a regular service people in the community relied on), she says.
As transactions became more consistent, access to additional puhunan also became important for keeping the negosyo running steadily. Through Maya Advance, Maya Business’ in-app financing feature that allows eligible businesses to access collateral-free revolving funds directly through the app, Nemia was able to secure additional capital for inventory, daily operations, and household expenses whenever needed.
Her first approved amount started at around ₱18,000. Over time, after consistently growing her transactions, her loan limit eventually increased to more than ₱200,000.
For Nemia, the convenience mattered just as much as the financial support itself. “Kapag fully paid na, mabilis lang ulit magamit” (Once it’s fully paid, we can easily access it again) she says. “Malaking tulong siya lalo na kapag kailangang magdagdag agad ng paninda” (It really helps whenever we need additional capital for inventory).
Today, her store has helped support their family through years of change. From improving their home to purchasing a vehicle and continuously supporting her children’s education, the business gradually became a source of stability after leaving corporate work behind.
But success, in Nemia’s case, still looks grounded in everyday routines.
It looks like preparing the store early in the morning before customers arrive. It looks like balancing negosyo operations with household responsibilities. It looks like assisting neighbors with transactions throughout the day.
For Wilma Manalastas on the other hand, her business evolved differently, but with the same mindset of adapting little by little.
What started as a simple sari-sari store eventually expanded into online selling, with Wilma offering gadgets, cellphones, clothes, and other trending products through digital platforms.
Over time, her business became an important added source of income alongside her husband’s work.
Like many Filipinos who entered online selling organically, Wilma learned through experience: balancing multiple sidelines, managing inventory, and handling busy transactions while gradually adapting to more digital systems.
“As the negosyo grew, syempre kailangan din ng pandagdag puhunan” (As the negosyo grew, we eventually needed additional capital to keep up as well), she says.
Before using Maya Business, Wilma often relied on credit cards whenever she needed extra funds for restocking products or supporting busy selling periods. Eventually, she became one of the early Maya Business users and later discovered Maya Advance, which allowed her to access additional revolving funds directly through the app without lengthy paperwork and approval processes.
For Wilma, the accessibility and convenience became especially helpful in supporting both her physical store and online negosyo operations.
Today, years after starting with a sari-sari store, Wilma says her business has helped their family achieve milestones they once only planned for gradually, including purchasing a condominium unit and a vehicle.
But more than the bigger purchases, she says the business gave them more financial stability and flexibility while helping support their long-term family goals.
Across the Philippines, sari-sari stores have long been part of everyday community life: places built on familiarity, convenience, and trust. But as customer habits continue to evolve, many small business owners are also finding practical ways to adapt alongside them.
Through Maya Business, entrepreneurs can access digital tools that help support everyday negosyo needs, from accepting QR Ph payments from different e-wallets and banks to offering bills payment, mobile load, and cash-in and cash-out services, as well as accessing additional revolving capital through Maya Advance. Maya Business also allows merchants to manage business funds through a digital deposit account designed for everyday business transactions.
For many Filipino entrepreneurs, growth doesn’t always happen all at once. Sometimes, it starts with a small store, a loyal community of customers, and the willingness to keep building steadily one day at a time.
Looking to level up your business with digital tools and services? You can apply to become a Maya Center and download the Maya Negosyo app on Google Play to get started.
Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. www.bsp.gov.ph. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.
PLDT Enterprise and 6D Technologies formalize their partnership to expand scalable IoT connectivity and support enterprise digital transformation across the Philippines. (L–R): Gilbert Gaw, First Vice President and Head of IT and Transformation Office, PLDT and Smart; Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Product Management and Innovation, PLDT Enterprise; Manish Arora, Executive Director and Chief Revenue Officer, 6D Technologies; and Abhishek Bhalla, Vice President for APAC, 6D Technologies.
Manila, Philippines — For many businesses, growth depends on being able to see what is happening across their operations in real time — where assets are, how devices are performing, when systems need attention, and how teams can respond faster when conditions change.
This is where connected technology becomes more than just infrastructure. It becomes a way for businesses to make better decisions, reduce delays, improve visibility, and serve customers with greater confidence.
PLDT Enterprise is taking another step toward making this possible for more Philippine businesses through its strategic partnership with 6D Technologies, a global telecommunications software company specializing in BSS/OSS platforms, IoT connectivity management, and digital transformation solutions for mobile network operators. Through the collaboration, PLDT Enterprise is strengthening its IoT capabilities to support more scalable, flexible, and enterprise-ready connectivity services across the country.
At the heart of the partnership is 6D Technologies’ IoT Connectivity Management Platform (CMP), a carrier-grade platform that helps telecom operators create, package, deploy, and manage IoT services at scale. It supports the full IoT lifecycle, including SIM provisioning, device onboarding, real-time usage monitoring, automated billing, and enterprise self-service portals.
Helping businesses see more and respond faster
The partnership is expected to support more IoT use cases across industries such as logistics, manufacturing, utilities, retail, and public services — sectors where reliable information and timely action can directly affect operations. It opens opportunities for use cases such as fleet tracking, smart metering, industrial automation, cold chain monitoring, smart surveillance, and connected car solutions.
For logistics companies, this can mean better visibility over vehicles and deliveries. For utilities, it can help improve monitoring across meters and field assets. For manufacturers, it can support smarter automation and equipment tracking. For retailers and public service organizations, it can help teams make faster decisions based on more accurate, real-time information.
Built on Smart’s 5G-enabled infrastructure, the platform is also positioned to support deployments even in hard-to-reach areas, helping bring connected solutions closer to businesses and communities that need them.
Making IoT easier to start, manage, and scale
For many enterprises, adopting IoT can feel complex. Businesses need to manage devices, connectivity, data usage, security settings, and cost — often across multiple sites and teams.
Through 6D’s platform capabilities, PLDT Enterprise can develop more dynamic bundled offerings, create more accessible starting points for SMEs and mid-market customers, and support customers as their IoT requirements grow over time. The platform’s flexible commercial engine, multi-tenant structure, and automated SIM and device lifecycle management are designed to help PLDT Enterprise respond more quickly to market demand and support enterprise growth with less back-end intervention.
With the new platform, enterprises can access capabilities such as seamless roaming support for connected devices across regions, eSIM enablement for more flexible and remote device provisioning, data pooling across multiple devices to optimize usage and cost efficiency, and enhanced APN management for more secure and customized network configurations.
The platform also introduces AI-powered IoT connectivity management — capabilities that go beyond dashboards to proactively flag anomalies, predict connectivity issues before they affect operations, and automatically optimize device performance and network usage across an enterprise’s entire connected fleet. For businesses managing hundreds or thousands of devices across multiple sites, this translates to fewer manual interventions and more reliable uptime.
A commitment to smarter, more connected businesses across the Philippines
For PLDT Enterprise, the partnership reflects a broader commitment to helping Philippine businesses move beyond basic connectivity and toward more intelligent, device-level digital operations.
“This partnership with 6D Technologies strengthens our ability to deliver more scalable and flexible IoT services to businesses across the Philippines,” said Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Product Management and Innovation at PLDT Enterprise. “By enhancing our IoT platform capabilities, we are better positioned to help enterprises adopt connected technologies faster, support new use cases, and build smarter, more responsive operations.”
“The Philippines represents one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic IoT growth markets, and we see this partnership with PLDT Enterprise as a significant step in realizing that potential,” shared Manish Arora, Executive Director and Chief Revenue Officer of 6D Technologies. “Our platform is built to give operators the speed, visibility, and flexibility to launch and scale IoT services on their own terms — and we look forward to putting that to work for Philippine enterprises.”
By combining PLDT Enterprise’s network strength with 6D Technologies’ platform flexibility and automated lifecycle management, the collaboration aims to help more enterprises deploy connected solutions that are easier to manage, more responsive to operational needs, and built for long-term growth.
Leaders from PLDT Enterprise and 6D Technologies come together to formalize their partnership aimed at strengthening scalable IoT connectivity solutions for Philippine businesses. (L–R): Manoj Jain, Global Head of Marketing, 6D Technologies; Abhishek Bhalla, Vice President for APAC, 6D Technologies; Manish Arora, Executive Director and Chief Revenue Officer, 6D Technologies; Gilbert Gaw, First Vice President and Head of IT and Transformation Office, PLDT and Smart; and Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Product Management and Innovation, PLDT Enterprise.
Indulging in anything Ube is easy peasy at SM Malls in the East Metro
East of Metro Manila, Philippines – From viral desserts on social media to purple-inspired café creations across the globe, ube continues to capture the hearts — and taste buds — of food lovers everywhere. Once known mainly as a Filipino favorite, this vibrant purple yam has now become an international sensation, appearing in lattes, cakes, ice cream, pastries, and specialty treats in different parts of the world. Its rich flavor, comforting sweetness, and unmistakable color have made ube a standout in the global food scene and a source of Filipino pride.
Ube Nation at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo and SM Center Antipolo Downtown
At SM Malls in the East Metro, the ube craze is bigger, bolder, and more delicious than ever. With so many exciting ube-inspired finds across dining spots, cafés, bakeries, and pasalubong favorites, every food trip feels like entering an ultimate Ube Nation — where every gala becomes a purple-filled adventure.
Ube silvanas from Brownies Unlimited in SM City Marikina and SM City San Mateo
Halokay Ube from Bebang Halo Halo at SM City Marikina
Classic Halo-Halo with Ube ice cream and halaya from Bacolod Chicken Inasal in SM City Marikina and SM Center Antipolo Downtown
Craving a refreshing and creamy treat? Enjoy classic halo-halo and ube-loaded desserts from Bebang Halo-Halo, Kuya J Restaurant, and Chowking, serving up satisfying Ube Halo-Halo combinations perfect for cooling down during mall strolls.
Happiness in Zus’ Ube Frappe at SM City Masinag
Ube Milk Drink from Pickup Coffee SM Center Antipolo Downtown
Coffee lovers can also max out their café experience with flavorful Ube Latte creations from ZUS Coffee and Pickup Coffee, where creamy coffee blends meet the sweet and nutty goodness of ube in every sip.
Indulge in the sizzling flavors of Japanese favorites as Pepper Lunch finally opens at the West Wing Expansion of Your Most Loved Supermall—SM City Marilao, bringing its signature hot plate dining experience closer to Bulakeños.
Known for its mouthwatering steak, savory rice meals, and appealing ambience, Pepper Lunch lets diners enjoy meals through its patented sizzling plates that keep food hot and flavorful until the last bite. Additionally, customers can customize their meals by mixing flavors according to preference, making every visit truly fun and satisfying, All For You.
Pepper Lunch is famous among foodies for its crowd favorites ranging from beef pepper rice to steaks and Japanese-inspired comfort meals. Whether craving something hearty, savory, or sizzling hot, Pepper Lunch at SM City Marilao offers a flavorful dining destination for shoppers and food enthusiasts alike for an ultimate Gala to The Max experience.
For many rescued pets across the country, a second chance begins with consistent care, proper nourishment, and the support of communities that step in when it matters most. Through a long-term partnership with GMA Kapuso Foundation, TopBreed is helping strengthen rescue and relief efforts nationwide by providing pet supplies to animals in need.
“We are very honored to partner with GMA Kapuso Foundation. We deeply admire their dedication to uplifting Filipino communities—not only by supporting people in need, but also extending care to animals and local pet communities. Through this partnership, we aim to support animal welfare efforts and help give rescue pets the top love and top care that they deserve,” said Universal Robina Corporation Agro-Industrial Group Marketing Director Jane Bernardo.
Part of this collaboration is the initial support extended to rescued pets after the recent Mayon Volcano eruption under the care of the Albay Veterinary Office, with donated supplies helping address the animals’ nutritional and recovery needs
“Because of the economic challenges, it’s difficult to support pets during calamities, which is very heartbreaking,” said GMA Kapuso Foundation EVP and COO Rikki Escudero-Catibog. “This is why the GMA Kapuso Foundation partnered with TopBreed, to finally prioritize our pets’ welfare, so that no pet gets left behind.”
The partnership of TopBreed and GMA Kapuso Foundation reflects a shared commitment to improving the well-being of pets in need while supporting the communities and organizations working tirelessly to care for them. Through this, TopBreed aims to help provide nourishment and everyday care for pets .
Beyond the immediate assistance, the collaboration highlights the importance of community-driven efforts in advancing animal welfare. By working together, organizations and local communities can help create safer, healthier environments for rescued pets and encourage more responsible pet care practices.
This partnership reflects TopBreed’s commitment to supporting animal welfare efforts, highlighting how collaboration can create a safer, healthier world for every paw and tail.
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Big flavors, bigger servings, and even better vibes are in store for noodle lovers. Nissin is turning up the excitement with Nissin Yakisoba’s new globally-inspired flavors and bigger packs with a fresh look.
Nissin Yakisoba invites noodle fans on a taste adventure with its “Flavors of the World” lineup. Its new Soy Garlic Chicken variant offers a Korean-inspired blend of savory richness with a hint of sweetness, while its Hot Cheesy Pork BBQ delivers a Japanese-inspired fusion of smoky, cheesy, and meaty flavors with every bite. Each variant is crafted to bring exciting international tastes closer to home and turn everyday meals into a flavorful experience.
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For those who enjoy Nissin Yakisoba’s classic flavors, such as Savory Beef and Spicy Chicken, the brand now has a Busog Pack. Nissin Yakisoba fans can enjoy 25% bigger serving (than the regular size) with its new 75g pack. It’s made for those moments when one craves something quick yet filling, bringing more of that enjoyable signature saucy goodness, now offered in a new packaging and in a size that hits the spot.
Nissin also offers a different kind of Japanese-inspired comfort, a special treat for ramen lovers. The Japanese Style Miso Ramen Cup Noodles delivers a rich, savory broth that captures the essence of authentic miso flavor. Ramen fans can enjoy a tasty Japanese adventure with this limited-edition offering. Available exclusively in select convenience stores until June of this year or until supplies last.
Nissin Yakisoba and Nissin Cup Noodles are available in supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. For more yummy updates, follow the official Facebook page.
Thursday, May 28, 2026
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines’ reopening of classes this June 2026 will gain added excitement and inspiration with the scheduled visit of 22-year-old Chinese actress Zhang Yingfei, the breakout star behind the viral vertical drama or micro-drama sensation “The Heiress Who Won with Brains,” whose lead character “Linda Walker” has become an online phenomenon among Filipino viewers.
From June 8 to 11, 2026, Zhang Yingfei will visit the Philippines to help promote the inspiring advocacy “Education for a Better Future” together with the educational charity projects of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII). Her visit coincides with the opening of classes nationwide on June 8, symbolically underscoring the importance of education, discipline, perseverance, and hope among Filipino youth.
The actress’ visit is expected to generate huge interest among students, educators, vloggers, social media influencers, and fans of Asian entertainment. The Linda Walker micro-drama series became wildly popular in the Philippines through localized Tagalog AI-dubbed clips widely shared on TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and short-video platforms.
The story of a young woman who rises above poverty and adversity through intelligence, hard work, courage, and education deeply resonated with Filipino audiences. The character’s determination and moral strength sparked countless online discussions, memes, reaction videos, and motivational posts.
Prominent Filipino personalities including comedian-host Vice Ganda, singer Angeline Quinto, beauty queen Rania Mateo, and numerous vloggers and influencers have cited or discussed the viral “Linda Walker” phenomenon online, further boosting its popularity among Filipino netizens.
On June 8, 2026 Monday 9 am, Zhang Yingfei will make a courtesy visit on Manila Mayor Isko Moreno at City Hall, then FFCCCII shall arrange for her to tour historic Intramuros and the world's oldest Chinatown, the 432-year-old Binondo district. FFCCCII wants to help promote Philippine tourism.
One of the highlights of Zhang Yingfei’s Philippine visit will be her June 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m. outreach program at the 79-year-old Quezon City High School, one of Metro Manila’s oldest and most respected public high schools.
Joining the event are Education Secretary Sonny Angara, China Ambassador Jing Quan, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, and FFCCCII officials led by President Victor Lim.
During the visit, Zhang Yingfei and the FFCCCII will distribute gifts and school supplies including notebooks, pens, toothpaste, soaps, and other useful items to students. She is also expected to deliver a short inspirational message encouraging Filipino youth to “study hard, dream big, and never surrender to difficulties.”
Organizers said the actress hopes her visit can help strengthen friendship, educational exchanges, and cultural understanding between the Filipino and Chinese peoples.
The FFCCCII has long been active in socio-economic, educational and civic causes, including the donation of 6,500 rural public school buildings nationwide under its "Operation Barrio Schools" project, calamity relief, medical missions, and its support Filipino Chinese fire volunteer brigades nationwide.
In an era dominated by fleeting online trends, organizers said the Linda Walker story stands out because it promotes timeless values: education, integrity, perseverance, family sacrifice, and the belief that intelligence and character can triumph over privilege and adversity. For many young Filipinos, “Linda Walker” has become more than a fictional character — she has become a symbol of hope.
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Wednesday, May 27, 2026
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Pay seamlessly abroad with your GCash Visa Card, featuring real-time forex updates and spend tracking via the GCash app
Hassle-free travel: Payments abroad made easier with GCash Visa Card
With the GCash Visa Card, users can view low and transparent forex rates upfront and track international spending in real time within the GCash app for a seamless travel experience
Recognizing that Filipino travelers are more mindful of their spending, the GCash Visa Card is a reliable way to manage travel funds, whether for essential business or a long-awaited family trip. Filipinos can conveniently pay for purchases abroad using the GCash Visa Card, providing a secure and transparent way to ensure every peso is spent wisely while away from home.
The GCash Visa card offers users transparency, real-time tracking, and universal accessibility across the globe, making it a preferred mode of payment when going overseas.
In fact, GCash Visa Card transactions made abroad accounted for 74% of total GCash Visa payment volume in 2025, a figure that shows the leadership of GCash in international payments.
Here are a few reasons why the GCash Visa Card is the best way to transact globally:
l Available in more than 150 million merchants worldwide: The GCash Visa Card offers unparalleled global utility, accepted at over 150 million merchants across more than 200 countries and territories. Whether transacting in-store or online, users are guaranteed a seamless and highly accessible payment experience that bridges the gap between local digital wallets and global commerce.
l Low & transparent forex rates: One of the key considerations for users spending abroad is understanding the true cost of each transaction, with exchange rates varying across providers. To address this, the GCash Visa Card enables users to view competitive foreign exchange rates directly within the GCash app. This feature allows cardholders to see exactly how their GCash wallet balance converts into foreign currency in real-time. By providing this upfront visibility, GCash eliminates the uncertainty of fluctuating rates, ensuring a hassle-free spending experience. Users can manage their travel budget with total confidence.
l Real-time spend tracking: Beyond visibility on rates, managing expenses in real time is equally important for travelers and overseas users. Traditional payment experiences often rely on end-of-cycle billing, which can make it harder to track day-to-day spending until after the fact. With the GCash Visa Card, transactions are reflected in real time within the app, allowing users to monitor their spending as it happens. This immediate feedback loop helps users stay aligned with their intended budgets and reduces the likelihood of unexpected charges accumulating unnoticed during travel or overseas use.
l Withdraw from ATMs abroad: Accessibility also plays a central role in supporting users abroad. Through Visa’s global network, the GCash Visa Card enables users to withdraw cash from ATMs across different countries. This broad acceptance gives users flexibility in how they access and use their funds.
“Travel should be about creating meaningful experiences, not worrying about how to pay abroad. With the GCash Visa Card, travelers can enjoy a more convenient and seamless payment experience wherever Visa is accepted, while having the confidence that their transactions are secure and protected every step of the way,” said Ren-ren Reyes Jr., president and CEO of GCash operator G-Xchange Inc.
As more Filipinos engage in cross-border travel and global digital transactions, the expectations around financial tools continue to evolve toward greater transparency and ease of use.
Through features that bring together upfront foreign exchange visibility, real-time spend tracking, and global acceptance, GCash supports users in navigating international spending with more confidence and control, helping make cross-border payments feel simpler and more predictable.
For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.
The launch bridges tradition and modern education through stories that nurture literacy, creativity, and social awareness
In celebration of National Heritage Month, Lampara Books unveils its latest collection of literary and educational releases that honor the long-standing traditions of Filipino storytelling and encourage cultural appreciation and values formation among the next generation of readers.
The lineup includes Filipino classics, modern retellings, and innovative educational series that share the publishing house’s mission of providing accessible, values-based, and culturally relevant literature for Filipino children and families.
Among the highlights of the launch are two of Philippine literature’s most enduring masterpieces: Ibong Adarna and Florante at Laura. Edited by acclaimed scholar and children’s literature advocate Eugene Y. Evasco, the new edition of Ibong Adarna offers an enriched reading experience through chapter summaries, vocabulary guides, and comprehension prompts designed to support students, teachers, parents, and independent readers alike. The volume features cover art by Arnaldo Mirasol and interior illustrations by Randy Valiente.
The new edition of Florante at Laura modernizes the classic text yet carefully preserves its historical and linguistic character. With annotations, glossaries, discussion guides, and illustrations by Rowin Agarao, the new version is both a literary resource and an important educational tool for contemporary learners.
Also given a special highlight is the newest collection of Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang, as masterfully retold by award-winning writer Christine S. Bellen-Ang, and brought vividly to life by an esteemed roster of Filipino illustrators. Inspired by the iconic stories of Severino Reyes, the collection reintroduces today’s young readers to narratives that have helmed generations through imagination, morality, wonder, and cultural memory.
“These stories have long occupied a cherished place in Filipino childhood,” shares Segundo D. Matias Jr., Founder of Lampara Books and Precious Pages Corporation. “Through these new editions, we hope to preserve their legacy while allowing a new generation of readers to discover the beauty, wisdom, and humanity found within Filipino storytelling traditions.”
In line with its mission to promote literacy and holistic learning, Lampara Books also launches several educational series that address current learning needs and social development of children. This includes the Decodable Comics for Fluency series in Filipino and English, which integrate Systematics Phonics and the Marungko Approach to reinforce foundational reading skills for beginners.
Written by Daisy Jane Calado, coordinated by Victor A. Villanueva, and illustrated by Rowin Agarao, the series combines engaging storytelling with workbook-based exercises that support comprehension and language development.
Also included in the launch is the Kids Have Rights! Series by Michellan Sarile-Alagao (illustrated by Kim Santiago), which introduces children to their fundamental rights through accessible language and relatable narratives. The Sari-Sari Books series by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz, illustrated by Domz Agsaway, celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and self-expression, empowering a new generation of readers to appreciate individuality and social understanding.
Lampara Books also expands its educational offerings with the inclusion of Disaster Ready-Kids Series by Zarah C. Gagatiga and illustrated by Juno Abreu, which introduces the concept of practical safety measures and disaster preparedness to children. Kaligtasan Para sa mga Bata by Mark Norman Boquiren (illustrated by Mark Norman Boquiren), on the other hand, promotes public safety awareness among young Filipinos.
With Lampara Books’ latest roster for the Heritage Month, reading is not just a tool to preserve culture and tradition. It is a strong foundation for education, imagination, and nation-building to prepare the next generation with the right mindset and heart to become better individuals.
For more information on the launch and featured titles, follow Lampara Books on its official social media channels.
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