Saturday, May 30, 2026
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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