Global Spanish Brand Debuts in the Philippines With Torres 5 Light

Torres, a Spanish spirits brand, is making its formal debut in the country through a distribution collaboration with Tanduay. In its Philippine market debut, it will introduce Torres 5 Light and other products that highlight its established portfolio and heritage in spirits production.

“The arrival of Torres in the Philippines marks the coming of two great houses that are united by a shared commitment to excellence and growth. This partnership reflects our vision to offer Filipino consumers world-class spirits. We are proud to bring the rich heritage of Spanish brandy to the Philippines. With Tanduay as our distributor, we are confident that Torres products will reach Filipino consumers who appreciate exceptional spirits with authentic Spanish tradition.” ~Lucio Tan III, President and CEO of Tanduay

Christian Visalli, Torres Spirits Global Managing Director, shared that they are looking forward to introducing Torres 5 Light to Filipino consumers.

From sugarcane fields and aging barrels in the Philippines to vineyards and cellars in Spain, these brands are shaped by the hands and hearts of people who understand that true quality is built slowly. Their journey reminds us that behind every iconic name are individuals who dedicated their lives to perfecting the craft. 

A Spanish Brandy Elevated for the Filipino Taste

Torres 5 Light is Torres' inaugural product lineup in the Philippines. Crafted from high-quality grapes and matured in oak barrels using the Solera process, this brandy has a lighter, more approachable flavor that fits right in with local drinking occasions while yet providing a refined, premium experience. 

Torres 5 Light has a clear-medium-gold appearance and delicate aromas of grape, dried fruits, and vanilla, as well as a smooth, subtly sweet taste with notes of prune, grape, and vanilla. Bottled at 25% ABV, it is a masterful balance of tradition, craftsmanship, and approachable enjoyment.

Torres 5 Light will be marketed countrywide with Torres' other premium goods, which cater to a wide range of drinkers, from the youthful and adventurous to the refined and sophisticated.

A Brand Steeped in Tradition and History

The Torres family has been growing vineyards in Penedès, Spain, since the 16th century. Casa Torres, a wine firm, was founded in 1870 by Jaime Torres Vendrell. Juan Torres Casals founded the brandy-making firm in 1928, utilizing oak barrels to age brandy derived from the best white wines from Penedès.

Torres 5 Light will be available at leading supermarkets and groceries nationwide. Other Torres products will also be available in the first quarter of the year.

Pru Life UK backs DOF reforms to widen access to life insurance

(From left to right) Princess Balingit, Pru Life UK Chief Investment Officer; Francis Ortega, Pru Life UK Financial Consultant; Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer; Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Frederick Go; Beth Villahermosa, Pru Life UK Chief Actuary; DOF Assistant Secretary Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston; and Atty. Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal and Government Relations Officer

With more Filipino families looking for stronger financial security in an ever-changing economic situation, Pru Life UK met with the Department of Finance (DOF) to advance policy debates that support a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable life insurance sector.

During the courtesy meeting with DOF Secretary Frederick Go and Assistant Secretary Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston, Pru Life UK executives, led by President and CEO Sanjay Chakrabarty, discussed targeted regulatory reforms that can strengthen the industry while improving access and customer experience for Filipinos.

The debate reflects common goals for financial inclusion and economic resilience. It emphasizes Pru Life UK's role as a dedicated public-private partnership in advancing national development goals and ensuring long-term household stability.

During the meeting, key policy areas discussed included:

• Making it easier for banks to offer life insurance and related products, improving customer experience and widening access
• Reviewing life insurance tax rules to help keep protection affordable and support long-term financial security
• Updating investment rules under the Insurance Code to strengthen industry stability and support sustainable long-term returns

These reforms have the potential to widen insurance coverage, increase consumer protection, and enable the life insurance sector to make a more meaningful contribution to inclusive economic growth, thereby benefiting families, communities, and national development.

“Our engagement with the Department of Finance reflects our shared goal of making long-term financial protection more accessible to more Filipinos, while ensuring the life insurance sector remains strong, stable, and sustainable. We look forward to continued collaboration and policy dialogue that supports responsible growth, strengthens consumer outcomes, and advances a more resilient and inclusive insurance landscape for the Philippines.” ~Sanjay Chakrabarty, President and Chief Executive Officer

Pru Life UK remains dedicated to working with the government and regulators to achieve reforms that Filipinos can rely on to improve experience, strengthen industry foundations, and support larger initiatives to build a more financially secure and resilient Philippines.

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, while their 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. 

Your New Comfort Food Era Starts at Frankie’s & Bloom & Baker at SM City Marilao

Hungry? SM City Marilao has just become a lot tastier. Frankie's and Bloom & Baker have arrived, and foodies in Bulacan should be thrilled. These two restaurants elevate comfort food to new heights, with large, powerful flavors and desserts that make you feel good.

Frankie's draws you in right immediately. Their wings are the type you fantasize about, and the mains? Hearty, generous, and ideal for sharing with friends and family. Whether you're finishing up a shopping trip or simply looking for a relaxing supper, Frankie's strikes the perfect combination of old and fresh. The type of place you keep wanting to return to.

Then there's Bloom & Baker, just around the corner, and the atmosphere completely alters. It's serene, pleasant, and smells like freshly baked pastries. If you enjoy soft breads, pastries, and a wonderful cup of coffee, this is the place to go. You can stay and take it all in, or you can grab a box of treats to carry some sweetness home.  

Frankie's and Bloom & Baker combined? They elevate a routine mall visit into something memorable. Suddenly, SM City Marilao feels warmer, kinder, and far more wonderful.

Cebu Pacific to Launch Direct Clark-Hanoi Flights with Piso Sale

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' biggest carrier, is preparing to operate the first direct flight between Clark and Hanoi, providing travelers from north and central Luzon with more inexpensive and accessible gateways to the Philippines and Vietnam.

• Start Date: May 2, 2026
• Frequency: 3x weekly
• Clark-Hanoi: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
• Hanoi-Clark: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday

“Launching direct flights from Clark to Hanoi is an exciting milestone for Cebu Pacific as we continue to strengthen Clark as a hub. This route enhances travel options from Clark, allowing passengers from north and central Luzon to reach Hanoi more easily.” ~Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer

• Seat Sale Period: January 28 to February 1, 2026
• Price: PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges
• Travel Period: May 2 to October 31, 2026

Hanoi will be the fifth foreign destination served by CEB's Clark hub, after Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore. It will also be CEB's fifth route into Vietnam. The airline now offers direct flights from Manila to Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City. 

Visitors to Hanoi can stroll through the historic streets of the Old Quarter and savor unique Vietnamese food. They can also go on a day trip to Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, which are famous for their limestone formations and natural beauty.

CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

CEB currently operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.  

Book your flights now at bit.ly/CebuPacificSale.

Cebu Pacific's Social Media Accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cebupacificairphilippines

X: https://twitter.com/CebuPacificAir

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cebupacificair

Sony Unveils LinkBuds Clip Open Earbuds

New clip-type open earbuds feature Always-on clip design that lets you hear your surroundings and your music at the same time.

• Open ear listening experience – Always-on clip design lets you hear your surroundings and your music at the same time, with three listening modes to suit your environment.
• Sony’s renowned audio quality – Rich, balanced audio tuned with Sony’s audio expertise, with DSEE upscaling and a customisable 10-band EQ.
• Clear call quality - clear calls, with AI technology and bone conduction sensor keep your voice sharp in any environment.
• Comfortable fit – a comfortable, stable fit across a variety of ear types with removable Fitting Cushions, ideal to wear throughout the day.

Sony has announced its latest wearable audio innovation: the LinkBuds Clip, new open-clip earbuds that let you enjoy the world of music and the real world at the same time, redefining how people experience entertainment.

LinkBuds Clip provides a natural listening experience that keeps you aware of your surrounds, allowing you to hear traffic, conversations, and announcements without having to remove your earbuds. Their socially friendly design allows you to listen while speaking naturally to those around you, resulting in less ear fatigue due to enhanced ventilation and no ear-canal pressure. They are ideal for everyday usage, providing a secure fit, improved situational awareness, and long-term comfort.

The unusual open shape of the LinkBuds Clip, which fits effortlessly in any ear while maintaining Sony's well-known audio quality and useful functionality, was built with consumer feedback in mind. LinkBuds Clip are great for persons who wish to be aware of their surroundings or conversations while listening to music since they deliver a true always-on experience through design, sound, and function.

Designed to stay open

LinkBuds Clip makes it possible to enjoy a seamless listening experience, whether you’re commuting, on the move, or just going about your day.

LinkBuds Clips have a C-shaped construction that does not intrude into the ear canal, so they can fit a wide range of ear shapes. The main body and upper band offer a wide fitting range and great stability. Fitting cushions are also available, allowing you to customize the fit by adjusting the position of the band.

LinkBuds Clip has three listening modes that you may switch between by touching on the earphones. Standard mode provides excellent sound quality, with clear vocals and plenty of detail, making it ideal for listening to a variety of music. Voice Boost mode improves listening in noisy conditions like train stations and crowded areas. The LinkBuds Clip amplifies voices, allowing you to enjoy content such as podcasts or videos in a variety of settings. In calmer environments where you are concerned that others will hear what you are listening to, you can activate Sound Leakage Reduction mode and enjoy your material without disturbing anyone.

Sony’s renowned sound and call quality

The LinkBuds Clip provides excellent sound quality. LinkBuds Clip, which draws on Sony's many years of experience in audio technology and sound tuning skills established through its flagship 1000X series, provides natural, broad sound that remains faithful to the original, despite its open form.

The earbuds include music upscaling with DSEE, 360 Reality Audio for a personalized immersive audio experience, and a Background Music Effect. There's also a 10-band EQ that can be customized in the Sony | Sound Connect app, and "Find Your Own Equalizer" makes it even easier to find your preferred sound.

LinkBuds Clip are equipped with innovative voice signal processing and high-precision voice pickup technology, resulting in superior call quality. LinkBuds Clip uses a bone conduction sensor to precisely capture your voice and an AI-based noise reduction algorithm to reduce background noise, allowing you to speak clearly and naturally even in noisy surroundings.

Designed to look good and be comfortable

Wherever you go, LinkBuds Clip delivers a resonant and comfortable listening experience. The earphones are lightweight and extremely comfy, allowing you to wear them all day without noticing they're there.

Optional Fitting Cushions provide a tighter and secure fit, so the earbuds stay put, even during outdoor sports like running.

The design is inspired by ear cuffs and features a wide range of colour variations, so it’s easy to match your style.

Useful functions

Enjoy a long battery life of up to 37 hours with rapid charge, which enables for 1 hour of use after only 3 minutes of charging, allowing you to listen uninterrupted. LinkBuds Clips are also IPX4 water resistant, so you may use them without worrying about perspiration or rain. The earbuds also have Multipoint Connection, which allows for quick device changing, as well as customizable settings via the Sony | Sound Connect app.

LinkBuds Clip also has tap control and quick access. Plus, scene-based listening adapts your sound to match your surroundings and activities.

Environment in mind

Sony's products are meant to prioritize both acoustic quality and environmental sustainability. LinkBuds Clip packaging is fully plastic-free, demonstrating Sony's commitment to reducing the environmental effect of their goods and operations, with recycled material accounting for around 20% of total plastic consumption.

Pricing and availability

LinkBuds Clip will be available in Black, Green, Lavender and Greige in all Sony centres and authorized online stores for SRP ₱11,999 starting on February 6, 2026.

Visit https://www.sony.com.ph/headphones/products/linkbuds-clip for more information.

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world.

For more information, visit: https://www.sony.co.jp/en/

*Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to the sense of awe and emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time.

MR.DIY kicks off 2026 with newest “Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY” Campaign

“Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY” shows the everyday realities and aspirations of Filipino families to live the life they want | Screengrab from MR.DIY Philippines

Leading home improvement shop MR.DIY Philippines has officially launched its latest brand thematic campaign, "Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY!" 

The campaign, which is centered on the main concept of home and life development and attaining one's goals, contrasts the value-for-money, everyday ease of MR.DIY with the daily realities of Filipino families. 

The campaign comes at a time when Filipino households continue to emphasize necessary spending and cautious budgeting, emphasizing how the home remains central to everyday decisions and family life. 

"Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY" emerges from this genuine, grounded knowledge — not as a faraway ambition, but as a mirror of everyday reality.

“We see Filipinos choosing to fix instead of replace, organize instead of discard, and improve little by little. Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY’ is about empowering those everyday choices — making practical solutions, accessible, and easy for every Filipino household to live the life they want.” ~Ms. Coleen Ducusin, Chief Marketing Officer of MR.DIY Philippines

“Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY” captures the optimism and quiet ambition of a mother for her family | Screengrab from MR.DIY Philippines

With a continuously growing store network and over 18,000 products across household and kitchen essentials, hardware, electrical, school and office supplies, accessories, and many more — the campaign positions MR.DIY not just as a store, but as an everyday ally. 

“At MR.DIY, we want to grow with our customers, and be the practical partner of Filipino families and a progressive brand that reflects the aspirations of modern consumers. From their everyday needs to long-term dreams, MR.DIY helps make the life they want within reach.” ~Ms. Roselle Andaya, Chief Executive Officer of MR.DIY Philippines

“PanDIY,” MR.DIY’s Official Mascot, makes an appearance in the “Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY” video | Screengrab from MR.DIY Philippines

To watch the Gusto Mong Buhay, i-MR.DIY! Official Video visit www.mrdiy.com/ph and follow MR.DIY Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and TikTok.

CHURROSTAR Now Open at SM City Valenzuela

The Korean cuisine revolution shows no signs of slowing down, and it now has a delightful new stop in Valenzuela City. CHURROSTAR, a new spin on the classic churro, has opened its doors at SM City Valenzuela, bringing a lively, street-snack ambiance to the mall's expanding culinary scene.

Churros at CHURROSTAR are more than just a sweet treat. Each one is created to order and fried to a beautiful golden crisp, with a soft, chewy middle that melts in your mouth. The aroma of warm dough and sugar wafts through the store, making it nearly hard to walk by without pausing for a taste.

Customers might stick with traditional flavors like cinnamon or icing sugar, or they can try something new. Dipping sauces range from chocolate and caramel to popular tastes like ube and berry, all with a modern, Korean-inspired twist. It's a combo that's equally enjoyable to eat as it is to shoot.

Beyond the food, CHURROSTAR has established a reputation for casual excess. It is ideal for a fast merienda, a post-shopping treat, or catching up with friends over a modern yet comfortable sweet snack. With ample quantities at reasonable rates, it is intended to be a regular stop rather than a one-time treat.

CHURROSTAR's arrival reflects a larger shift in dining trends. Korean-inspired concepts are gradually influencing the local food scene, and malls such as SM City Valenzuela are becoming popular destinations for experiencing new flavors without leaving the north side.

Find CHURROSTAR on the second floor of SM City Valenzuela and prepare to satisfy your taste senses with something both familiar and delightfully new.