TECNO Philippines launches the world's slimmest 3D-curved AI phone, the TECNO SPARK Slim, for as low as PhP7,599

TECNO, an AI-driven creative technology brand, has officially announced the Philippine debut of the world's slimmest curved-screen smartphone, the TECNO SPARK Slim, which will retail for PhP9,499.  SPARK Slim defies conventional trade-offs by combining a huge 5160mAh battery with an ultra-slim design that has passed military industrial certification to assure overall durability.

Carrying on the SPARK series' youthful, colorful, and fashionable DNA, its aerospace-grade fiberglass rear cover makes the device thinner but stronger, while the exquisite 3D-curved profile and lightweight body provide a comfortable in-hand feel.  The expressive world-first Mood Light design incorporates an interactive, playful feature that appeals to youthful inventiveness, while brilliant color selections emphasize uniqueness.  SPARK Slim's blend of slimness, style, and substance provides a premium experience that exceeds expectations in its price range.

Slim Yet Powerful: Redefining the Balance Between Ultra-Thin Design and Lasting Performance 

Despite its ultra-thin body, the SPARK Slim features a 5160mAh high-density lithium cobalt oxide battery that provides up to 24.8 hours of Day of Use (DOU).  It also includes 45W rapid charging, 10W reverse charging, and bypass charging capabilities.  This one-of-a-kind battery solution resists swelling even after extended usage, demonstrating that thin does not imply weakness in endurance.

SPARK Slim features a 0.3mm ultra-thin vapor chamber and a high-conductivity graphite layer with a thermal performance of 1800W/m·K, resulting in a 24,532mm² cooling system.  This allows for consistent charging and gaming performance while keeping the tablet cool in such a tiny design.

SPARK Slim is powered by the new MediaTek Helio G200 chipset, which adds to its solid foundation of power and thermal stability.  Designed to balance efficiency and performance, it ensures smooth everyday use and has TÜV-certified fluency for up to five years, providing consumers with long-term stability and trust in their device.

Slim Yet Durable: Reliability backed by Military-Grade Standards

While achieving extreme slimness, TECNO SPARK Slim does not compromise on durability. Its 0.36mm aerospace-grade fiberglass back cover is 0.19mm thinner than conventional materials yet improves strength by 300% and flexibility by 200%. 

The screen is protected by Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, while the entire device is IP64 rated against dust and water, ensuring peace of mind for everyday use. 

Slim Yet Stylish: Lighting Up Individual Expression

TECNO SPARK Slim is available in two timeless colorways: Slim White and Cool Black, which incorporate classic elegance into new fashion trends.  The device weighs approximately 156g and has an ultra-narrow frame with beautiful curves, providing an excellent slender grip that feels sophisticated and comfortable in the hand.

In addition to its ultra-slim aesthetics, SPARK Slim introduces an interactive Mood Light design on the back, featuring two circular “eyes” that mimic emotions through multi-scene lighting effects. In scenarios such as power on/off, charging, incoming calls, Ella activation, and notifications, the eyes display playful light animations—expressing moods like happy, not happy, or blinking. For Gen Z users, this transforms functional notifications into a unique form of fashionable self-expression, turning the device into both a stylish daily companion and a tool to showcase individuality.

Beyond playful interaction, SPARK Slim also delivers an exceptional viewing experience. Its 1.5K high-resolution curved display offers immersive clarity, reaching 4500 nits peak brightness and supporting a 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth responsiveness, ensuring vivid visuals even in bright outdoor conditions.

Elevated Experiences with TECNO AI and Beyond

SPARK Slim incorporates TECNO AI, which offers real-time translation, document summarization, and AI photo correction, empowering young users in their learning, work, and creative production.  Touch Transfer enables users to instantly share images, videos, or files between two TECNO devices with a single tap via NFC, resulting in seamless connectivity.  The gadget also includes Dolby dual stereo speakers and dual system support, which improves both entertainment and productivity.

The gadget also includes TECNO's best-in-class "FreeLink" technology, which allows for direct Bluetooth-based messaging and two-way communications even in areas without cellular coverage, making it a crucial feature in distant or offline contexts.

Powering Up Gaming and Connectivity

TECNO SPARK SLIM has teamed up with the hit local game Honor of Kings (HOK). Powered by the capable MediaTek Helio G200 chipset, TECNO SPARK SLIM empowers the local gaming community, proving that it offers not just a slim profile but also reliable daily gaming performance. Furthermore, TECNO partnered with TM Cellular Service, a brand under Globe Telecom offering mobile services to its customers. TECNO will offer a free TECNO x TM x HOK co-branded SIM card, which includes exclusive free up to 25GB data, and customized data for HOK, enhancing the out-of-the-box gaming experience for users.

Accessible Pricing and Launch Offers

The TECNO SPARK Slim will be available starting October 8 both online and offline, with an official price of PhP9,499. From October 8 to 10, enjoy discounted first sale price of PhP7,999PhP on Shopee and TikTok Shop. Buyers will receive a free TM SIM card of equal value with their purchase. Additionally, customers who purchase at designated TECNO offline stores during the month of October and use Spaylater for installment payments can enjoy a 20% discount, making the TECNO SPARK Slim even more affordable at PhP7,599. This makes it an excellent and smart choice for an early Christmas gift. Buyers who pay through HomeCredit, Skyro and soon through Kredivo, will enjoy 0% interest on their installment purchase.

 

With the launch of SPARK Slim, TECNO once again proves that slim and powerful can co-exist. As the world’s thinnest curved-screen smartphone, SPARK Slim not only pushes the boundaries of innovative engineering power with its 5.93mm body, but also delivers beyond-class ultra-slim experiences with uncompromising endurance and performance. It delivers a practical, stylish, and easy-to-use ultra-slim experience for users who refuse to be boxed in and want to express themselves at any moment.

 

For any related media queries, please contact pr.ph@tecno-mobile.com

About TECNO 

TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of "Stop At Nothing," TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO Philippines’ official site: https://www.tecno-mobile.com/ph/.

About Globe

Globe Telecom, Inc. is a leading digital platform in the Philippines with interests in telecommunications, fintech, venture building, shared services, and digital marketing. It is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange under the symbol GLO. The company delivers a full suite of mobile, broadband, data, and managed services to meet the needs of consumers and businesses. A UN Global Compact Participant, Globe is the first publicly listed Philippine firm with approved near- and long-term science-based targets under the SBTi. It was named one of TIME and Statista's Most Sustainable Companies in 2025. Its back-to-back inclusion in the Fortune Southeast Asia 500 in 2024 and 2025 affirms its growth and leadership. Its principals are Ayala Corporation and Singtel, prominent industry leaders in the region.

Road to Glory: Battle Commences in Predator League PH Qualifiers for ₱1.2 Million Prize

The fight for glory and honor has begun!  The Predator League returns with the 2026 Philippine Qualifiers, and it is bigger than ever.  With a Php 1.2 million prize fund and the Predator Shield at stake, teams from throughout the country will showcase their abilities and talent in Dota 2, VALORANT, and, for the first time in Predator League history, League of Legends.

The battle horn has sounded, and teams have answered the call.  Online and offline preliminaries began on September 19, providing every aspiring esports professional the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and launch their careers.

“We’re excited to kick off the Predator League 2026 PH Qualifiers. Acer has always supported the growth of esports talent in the Philippines, and the Predator League has served as its proving ground.” ~Sue Ong-Lim, Managing Director of Acer Philippines

The competition is fierce, but the rewards are massive! Dota 2 and VALORANT champions will claim the lion’s share of Php 200,000, while runners-up will receive Php 120,000. Third and fourth place finishers will earn Php 50,000 each, and fifth and sixth place finishers won't leave empty-handed with Php 20,000. 

For League of Legends, the winning team will get Php 100,000, and the runner-up will take home Php 50,000. Third and fourth place finishers will receive Php 15,000 each, while fifth and sixth place finishers will walk away with Php 5,000. 

Besides the prize money, winning Dota 2 and VALORANT teams are also guaranteed a spot as the Philippine representatives for the Asia Pacific Predator League 2026 Grand Finals, scheduled to take place in India early next year. 

For more information and updates about the Predator League, follow Predator Gaming on Facebook or visit the official website www.predator-league.com. 

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Five Tips to Enhance Focus, Mood and Mental Resilience

Have you ever felt like your brain was constantly buzzing with information?  The brain is the body's most important asset, a powerhouse that is constantly functioning, absorbing and adapting.  Every day, the brain processes a massive amount of information, ranging from learning and remembering to making decisions and problem solving.

Taking up only about 2% of our body mass, our brain consumes nearly 20% of the body’s energy, proof of just how metabolically active and demanding it is. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, Filipinos often juggle multiple roles at home, work and community roles, and so it’s not surprising that research compares our brain to a supercomputer, capable of remarkable speed and accuracy in interpreting the environment. 

Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education & Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, believes that memory lapses, such as losing track of a word or misplacing keys, are a normal aspect of cognitive processing.  However, as we age, such lapses may become more frequent due to the changing demands on our nervous system.

The Global Burden of Disease Study (1990-2021) highlights a rise across Asia in brain related disorders like stroke, migraine, Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. This growing incidence is causing more disability and deaths, making it the second most significant health concern in Asia, after cardiovascular disease.

According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, stroke was one of the top three major causes of death in the Philippines between January and August 2024.  Meanwhile, a 2024 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease predicted dementia prevalence among Filipinos aged 60 and up to 10.6%, affecting hundreds of thousands of elderly people.  The same study predicted that the number of dementia patients in the country would increase to more than 1.47 million by 2030.

“Genetics, environmental exposures and lifestyle habits all interact to affect brain vitality, as do age related changes. As population across Asia continues to age, prioritizing prevention and proactive care becomes essential to support overall cognitive well-being.” ~Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education & Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife

The good news is, research shows that our brain has the ability to learn and adapt even throughout the aging process, making it possible to successfully navigate new tasks and challenges.  

 

In conjunction with the World Mental Health Day, Dr. Sae-Lao shares five practical and effective steps to help slow cognitive aging, improve mental flexibility, and ensure your brain is firing on all cylinders. 

 

1. Brain vitality begins on your plate  

As a nutritionist, I’ve learned that the well-known phrase ‘you are what you eat’, actually translates to — ‘you feel and think what you eat’. Essential nutrients from a healthy diet supplements mental performance and emotional wellbeing, while protecting the nervous system that connects the brain to the rest of the body. An anti-inflammatory diet supports brain health, so: 

• Consume foods rich in lutein, a yellow antioxidant plant-based nutrient found in spinach, kale, eggs and avocados. Lutein is the major carotenoid accounts for ∼60% of total carotenoids in the brain known to increase cognitive wellness and protect eye health. 
• Get your antioxidant intake from fresh fruits like berries, red grapes, apples and cherries, and carotenoids in veggies like carrots, spinach and tomatoes, to help shield brain cells from the damaging effects of oxidative stress as we age. 
• Eat eggs if possible, a source of good protein and memory boosting vitamins B, D and E, the choline in eggs helps regulate mood and memory. 
• Include omega-3 fatty acids, found in certain fatty fish and nuts, to enhance learning skills. 
• Use healthier fats for cooking like olive oil can improve learning and memory.  
• Watching your calories, the fat around the abdomen is inflammatory. Many of us think that heightened inflammation drives brain disease as we age, so watching out for that is important. Avoid refine sugar, salts and highly process foods. 
• Hydrate with well brewed black and green teas to improve the body’s antioxidant need and protect cells from free radical damage. 

 

2. Movement powers cognition

The CDC recommends adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week, for optimal brain health and improved overall wellness. Regular movement has been shown to support cognitive function, improve mood, reduce stress and lower the risk of cognitive decline as we age. 

3. Give your brain a workout 

The brain thrives on challenges that stimulate cognitive functioning. Reading, playing board games, solving word puzzles, learning a new skill or language, can support brain health and reduce age related weakening.  

 

Mind engagement tasks have been shown to activate neural networks, especially in adults dealing with any form of cognitive impairment. Enjoy activities like swimming, cooking, painting, tai-chi etc., as they encourage mindfulness through constant thinking, processing and learning. 

 

Also, whether it’s through spirituality or a deeper connection with the nature, a positive outlook is key to overall wellbeing. Practicing mindfulness, yoga or meditation can serve as simple ways to begin this journey. 

4. Clean habits, clearer mind 

Limit exposure to environmental pollutants like smoke, mold and smog. Preserve mental wellbeing by limiting overstimulation from screens and messy surroundings. Stay away from addictions like smoking, excess alcohol consumption or any other substance dependence, as they are known to negatively impact brain health.  

 

5. Form meaningful social connections 

Research has proven that wholesome social networks can lift mood, protect memory and support long-term brain health. Strong and reliable social interactions play a vital role in providing emotional support and encouraging mind resilience. Spending quality time on a regular basis with friends and family can improve memory and slow down brain aging. 

With stroke and dementia on the rise in the Philippines, promoting both brain and mental health has become more important.  Dr. Sae-Lao underlined the need of everyday habit-based prevention.  Simple improvements like eating healthily, being active, keeping the mind engaged, living in healthier environs, and cultivating social bonds can help Filipinos develop resilience and improve their quality of life as they age.

Holiday Styles Unlocked with Top Fashion Brands at SM

This holiday season, step up your fashion game with SM malls in Grand Central, Sangandaan, and Valenzuela, which have chosen the most trendy brands for men and women.  Whatever look you're going for, SM Camanava malls have everything you need to show off your inner trendsetter.

Bloom in Style with ForMe 

Serve looks this joyful season with ForMe at SM City Grand Central. This unique fashion brand caters to all must-have items for ladies, including trendy bottoms and dresses as well as modern footwear, among others. 

Chill in the Season with Regatta

For casual wear supremacy, choose Regatta at SM City Grand Central. Here, shoppers may find the latest style in polos, tees, jackets and pullovers, jeans, and trousers. Natural fabrics and timeless elegance are the sustainable cornerstones of Regatta which makes it a perfect staple for the coming holidays. 

Make a Fashion Statement with Denim Hub

Mix and match your outfits this festive season with Denim Hub at SM City Valenzuela and SM Center Sangandaan. The brand caters to top denim labels in the Philippines, such as Stylistic Mr. Lee, Rough Rider Jeans (RRJ), Petrol, and Bobson. Also explore the best denim selection at Jag and keep an eye on their versatile collection of tops, bottoms, and intimate wear.

Runway Ready with OXGN

Known as a brand designed for all, OXGN in SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela offers a mix of new-fashioned apparel, affordable essentials, and unique collaboration that inspires holiday looks to wear this season. 

Let fashion be the least of your worries these coming holidays with SM Camanava malls’ exciting mix of style purveyors. For updates on the latest trends, deals, and fashion inspo, follow the Facebook pages of SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela.

Cebu Pacific Launches 10.10 Seat Sale for 2026 Getaways

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' premier carrier, offers tourists the option to book unique journeys for 2026 as it unveils its Super Seat Fest in time for the 10.10 festivities.

Seat Sale Period: October 7 – 12, 2025

Price Point: PHP 10 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges

Travel Period: March 1 – September 30, 2025

CEB's broad network and main hubs in Manila, Clark, Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo provide tourists with more access to both local and international adventures.

Puerto Princesa provides access to the UNESCO-recognized Underground River and island hopping in Honda Bay, while El Nido is noted for its lagoons and coastline views.  Travelers can also visit Port Barton in San Vicente, a quieter beach area accessible solely by CEB via its Cebu hub.

After experiencing local attractions, visitors planning international travels can take direct flights to Hong Kong, a popular destination for theme parks, shopping, and harbor views.  Bangkok continues to entice visitors with its cuisine, cultural attractions, and river cruises.  Both cities are accessible via CEB's hubs.

Visitors to Singapore can enjoy local cuisine at hawker centers and explore retail areas, or they can visit Sentosa for beaches and theme park fun, and Gardens by the Bay for indoor gardens and light displays.

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 overseas locations throughout Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.  Passengers are advised to select Go Flexi when booking, which allows them to cancel and convert their flight into a non-expiring Travel Fund.

The package also includes a 20kg checked baggage allowance and a standard seat of their choosing.  CEB accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, for flight reservations and add-on purchases.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com.

Cebu Pacific's Social Media Accounts:

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

X: https://twitter.com/CebuPacificAir

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

Oona Insurance Unveils Flagship Health Plans Offering International and Local Coverage Tailored to Filipino Families

(L-R) Kai Cuneta, Head of Territorial Sales and Agency Development, Oona Insurance Philippines; Esther Go, President and Chief Executive Officer, MediLink Network Inc.;  Abhishek Bhatia, Founder, Group Chief Executive Officer, and Executive Director, Oona Insurance; Jodi Sta. Maria, Guest Speaker at the Oona Premium Healthcare Launch; Ninoy Rollan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Oona Insurance Philippines; Etchie Munsayac, Head of Sales for Retail Health, Oona Insurance Philippines; Mylene Ong, Group Chief Marketing Officer, Oona Insurance; Manik Bucha, Group Chief and Underwriting Officer, Oona Insurance.

Oona Insurance, one of the Philippines' fastest-growing general insurers, has launched two flagship health products: Global Shield, an international plan with up to USD 2 million for globally mobile Filipinos; and Purple Shield, a premier peso-based plan with up to ₱5 million in local coverage for families seeking exceptional care near home.

Jodi Sta. Maria, Guest Speaker at the Oona Premium Healthcare Launch

The launch was held on October 1 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City and was attended by journalists, partners, and industry executives. Jodi Sta, an award-winning actor and wellness advocate, spoke at the occasion. Maria, who spoke on "Wellness: The Investment You Can't Ignore," emphasized the growing importance of preventative and holistic care, which is consistent with Oona's objective of supporting both treatment and wellbeing.

Meeting Evolving Needs with Global Shield and Purple Shield

With medical costs rising faster than incomes and families demanding better private care, Oona’s new plans provide meaningful choice:

• Global Shield: An international flagship plan for globally mobile Filipinos, offering access to leading hospitals and specialists worldwide, including competitive rates for options to seek treatment in Singapore and across the region.
• Purple Shield: A premier peso-based plan for Filipino families seeking comprehensive, affordable protection at home.

Together, these policies go beyond the one-size-fits-all concept of typical insurance.  By providing both foreign and local options, Oona guarantees that Filipinos have access to flexible, relevant, and comprehensive coverage.

Oona purchased critical illness insurance last year to protect her health.  The introduction of Global Shield and Purple Shield broadens its range of health solutions and reaffirms its commitment to long-term, complete protection for Filipino families.

Digital-First, Customer-First

What sets Oona apart is not only coverage, but its customer experience. Its digital-first platform makes every step faster and simpler through:

• Instant quotes and same-day policy issuance for eligible applicants
• Real-time claim tracking with transparent summaries
• Online access to policy details, utilization and claims
• Paperless onboarding with e-signatures
• Fully digital overseas claims for faster reimbursement

This end-to-end ecosystem delivers faster, clearer, and more convenient protection which sets a new benchmark for health insurance in the Philippines.

Leadership Perspectives

“The Philippines is ready for a new standard in health protection. Rising medical costs and changing lifestyles demand solutions that go beyond the basics, offering quality, choice and confidence. With Global Shield and Purple Shield, we are reimagining healthcare for Filipinos and delivering world-class coverage, seamless digital access and peace of mind, whether at home or anywhere in the world.” ~Abhishek Bhatia, Founder and Group CEO of Oona Insurance

Abhishek Bhatia, Founder, Group Chief Executive Officer, and Executive Director, Oona Insurance

Nicasio "Ninoy" Rollan III, President and Chief Executive Officer, Oona Insurance Philippines

“For Filipinos, protection isn’t just about covering hospital bills. It’s about staying healthy and caring for the whole family. That’s why we go beyond treatment to include preventive and wellness benefits like check-ups, vaccinations, mental health support, and telemedicine. Health protection must be holistic in order to provide everyday peace of mind for Filipino families.” ~Ninoy Rollan, CEO of Oona Philippines

Accessible Care, Anytime, Anywhere

Oona members benefit from cashless purchases at over 650 hospitals and clinics around the country, 24/7 online access to over 750 doctors, and the option to visit their favorite overseas health practitioners thanks to partnerships with MediLink and Doctor Anywhere.

Global Shield and Purple Shield embody Oona's mission of making health care more accessible, digital, and family-focused, giving Filipinos confidence that with the appropriate shield, nothing can stop them.

They are now available through Oona Philippines and its network of insurance advisors and partners. For more information, visit myoona.ph.

About Oona Insurance Group

Headquartered in Singapore, Oona Insurance is the leading digital general insurer in Southeast Asia, backed by global private equity firm Warburg Pincus. Established in 2022, Oona aims to become the general insurer of choice for both partners and customers through a buy-and-build strategy, leveraging superior customer service, advanced technology, and a strong brand across the region. The firm currently operates in two markets: Indonesia and the Philippines.

Oona Insurance Philippines traces its roots to 1934 and was formerly known as MAPFRE Insurance. Following a series of strategic moves, including a partnership with Insular Life, it became part of Oona Philippines Holding Corporation in 2022 and was fully acquired in 2023. The company rebranded as Oona Insurance Corporation in February 2025 and today offers a broad portfolio of products spanning health, travel, motor, property, personal accident and more.

Pulong: Flood-control should not be used as props; check Dalipe’s projects

“If the government and independent agencies are truly serious about cleaning up flood-control projects, then they should stop using investigations as PROPS for publicity. Since you are already in Mindanao, why not check the projects of Cong. Dalipe, which I’m sure are as polished and refined as his ever-growing belly.” ~Davao City Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte

The eldest son of former President Rodrigo Duterte also said that investigations appear to be selective and biased, seemingly targeting only Davao City—even though it is clean and free from ghost projects—unlike other areas where anomalies have been reported.

He also criticized government agencies, including the Ombudsman, questioning why they appear eager only when it comes to Davao City, while in other places they suddenly claim to lack funds for transportation and hotel accommodations.

This was directed at former House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, who failed to win in the last elections—seemingly due to lack of support from Zamboangueños following alleged anomalies involving flood-control and other projects, which netizens claim were substandard and ghost projects.

Netizens from Zamboanga also want the ICI (Independent Commission of Investigation) to include their former lawmaker in its probe and subject him to a “lifestyle check” to examine his luxurious lifestyle and millions worth of assets. Some netizens even branded Dalipe as “CongTractor.”