NBA and Daily Fantasy Announce Multiyear Collaboration in the Philippines

Leaders from Daily Fantasy and the NBA pose together at the official launch event in Taguig, highlighting their shared commitment to innovation and fan engagement in the world of fantasy basketball. (From L-R) Wei Chen, Chief Product Officer, Daily Fantasy; Rona Mariano, Chief Financial Officer, Rac Phil Corp.; Jennifer Bautista, Marketing Director, RachPhil Corp.; Paul Wu, Chief Operating Officer, Daily Fantasy; and Kuljeet Sindhar, Head of International Gaming and Data Distribution, NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Daily Fantasy, the first officially licensed fantasy sports platform in the Philippines run by local gaming company RAC Phil Corp., today announced a multi-year partnership that will make Daily Fantasy the league's official daily fantasy partner in the Philippines. 

Daily fantasy sports are short-term activities in which participants can create virtual teams made up of real players and receive points based on their performance in real competitions.   Through the agreement, Daily Fantasy will create fantasy sports contests based on NBA games, allowing users in the Philippines to pick a new fantasy NBA team every day under a salary cap and make real-time strategic decisions based on NBA players' on-court performance. 

Furthermore, Daily Fantasy will use official NBA statistics, provide in-depth statistical insights and interactive content, and run contests to give fans the opportunity to win special rewards.   Daily Fantasy will also be available on the NBA's localized digital channels in the country.

RAC Phil Corp. made the announcement today during a launch event in Taguig.  Marketing Director Jennifer Bautista, Daily Fantasy Marketing Manager Colwin Tanhehco, and NBA Head of International Gaming and Data Distribution Kuljeet Sindhar.

The NBA and Daily Fantasy celebrate their multiyear collaboration, offering Filipino basketball fans an immersive and interactive way to engage with the league through fantasy sports.

“We are thrilled to work with the NBA, a league that shares our commitment to innovation and fan engagement. This collaboration will allow us to provide our users with an unparalleled fantasy basketball experience, offering real-time stats, expert analysis, and exciting contests that bring them closer to the game they love.” ~Colwin Tanhehco, Daily Fantasy Marketing Manager

“The Philippines continues to be among the most passionate NBA fanbases in the world, and fantasy sports offer an innovative platform to deepen their engagement with their favorite teams and players. We look forward to teaming up with Daily Fantasy to introduce an authentic NBA fantasy experience that provides Filipino fans with more opportunities to immerse themselves in the excitement of the NBA.” ~Kuljeet Sindhar, NBA Head of International Gaming and Data Distribution

Fans in the Philippines can download the Daily Fantasy app on the App Store or through their official website at www.playdailyfantasy.com and follow Daily Fantasy on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates on exclusive contests, rewards, and exciting events.

For all the latest NBA news and updates, fans in the Philippines can visit www.nba.com, download the NBA App, and follow the NBA on Facebook, TikTok and X.  The 2024-25 NBA season is airing live in the Philippines on One Sports, RPTV and NBA TV Philippines, and on streaming platforms Pilipinas Live, Setanta Sports and NBA League Pass, the league’s premium live game subscription service available via the NBA App.  Fans in the Philippines can shop for official NBA merchandise at the NBA Stores at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia and at NBAStore.com.ph.

UP SAMASKOM Presents Live A.I.D.S. 35: "A Laugh Story" as its Golden Presentation

Following last year's exhilarating production of Live A.I.D.S. 34: Hysterical Revisionism, UP SAMASKOM returns with Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story from May 9 to 11, 2025 at the Ignacio B. Jimenez (IBG) - KAL Theater in UP Diliman.

The program is the 35th and final installment of the iconic comic-musical variety show, which has amused generations of students and comedy variety show fans since the 1970s.  The longest-running comedic musical variety show is presented annually by the leading university organization UP SAMASKOM.  Live A.I.D.S. teases and provokes at the same time with positive vibes, comedy, and sharp social commentary.

Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story keeps loyal to the show's signature sharp wit and engaging humor.  The program presents amusing anecdotes with cutting sarcasm while entertaining the audience with humor, music, production numbers, and social commentary.  It carefully weaves satire into Philippine society while also passing by pop culture and sociopolitical topics, as well as playfully addressing viral trends and current events. 

More than just a popular comic variety program, Live A.I.D.S. is best known as a platform for growth, experience, and connection, nurturing budding performers, writers, creatives, and talents both on and off stage.  Live A.I.D.S. has paved the way for the careers of its alumni, who include Kuya Kim Atienza, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O' Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and Jervi Wrightson (KaladKaren), among others.

LIVE A.I.D.S. has also highlighted talent behind the scenes, including ABS-CBN's head of TV Production, Star Magic CEO and Pinoy Big Brother Head Director Laurenti (Loren) Dyogi, and ABS-CBN Global Head of Creative Services, Ned Legaspi.

“Live A.I.D.S is a vital and memorable journey for SAMASKOMERS. It is not just about how it makes you shine; it also fosters lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging through shared stories.” ~ Mrs. Tan, Renowned Drag Artist and International Performer a Live A.I.D.S. veteran whose works have been featured in art festivals and exhibits around the world

“The show provides a stage to showcase extraordinary talents, build confidence, create opportunities to shine, and prepare you to step into the real world of entertainment.” ~Jervi Wrightson, a UP SAMASKOM alumna and seasoned performer, veteran writer, production member, and former resident officer

“LIVE A.I.D.S. connects its story with its members, performers, and audiences, keeping the laughter of the organization alive.” ~MJ Karaan, the Production Manager of the show

Well-known personalities such as Bianca Gonzalez, Ricky Lee, Quark Henares, John Lapus, Rajo Laurel, Jigs Mayuga, Tim Yap, and Vice Ganda are avowed Live A.I.D.S. fans, showing how the show is regarded in the entertainment industry.

Acer continues to lead the consumer and gaming notebook industries in the Philippines

According to GfK's third-party survey data, Acer will once again dominate the Philippine consumer and gaming notebook market in 2024, accounting for 35.7% of the total market share.  Acer had a 34.2% market share in the consumer notebook category and a 40.6% market share in the gaming notebook segment.  This means that Acer accounts for one out of every three laptops in the Philippines.

Key growth drivers included best-in-class services, wide sales coverage, and clever marketing initiatives.  Acer's ability to adapt to the latest trends and leverage the power of its brand ambassadors, such as SB19 and G22, appealed to the young target market.

With Predator Gaming, Acer reinforced its gaming market supremacy. The brand has always aimed to expand the esports community through events such as the Asia Pacific Predator League.

“These initiatives have built stronger brand equity, resulting in customers recognizing and trusting Acer and its products. For 2025 and beyond, our consumers can only expect the best of what we can offer.” ~Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines Managing Director

Another aspect contributing to Acer's success is the company's extensive national presence.  Acer items can be purchased in Acer Concept Stores or through authorized dealers.  Acer items are also available online via the Acer online store, Lazada, and Shopee.

Visit Acer’s official social media pages for more information - Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or through the official website www.acer.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.

PalawanPay e-Wallet Enables Exclusive Eraserheads Concert Access and Improves Fan Experience

PalawanPay is transforming the concert ticketing experience for the highly anticipated Eraserheads Electric Fun Music Festival, effortlessly blending fintech innovation with the intense passion of Filipino music fans.  PalawanPay, as the official payment partner, does more than just facilitate transactions; it also provides unique early access and a faster purchasing procedure, all through the comfort of a mobile app.

PalawanPay's integration with the Electric Fun Music Festival is a crucial step in digitizing the Philippines' live entertainment landscape.  Instead of waiting in traditional ticket lines, fans may now secure their positions with a few touches on their cellphones.  This mobile-first approach takes advantage of the ubiquitous use of digital wallets, effectively bridging the gap between tech-savvy consumers and the live event business.

The PalawanPay app offers a separate section for Eraserheads ticket purchases, which simplifies the customer experience.  The platform's user-friendly design enables consumers to select their favorite ticket tier, add it to their basket, and complete transactions in minutes.  This frictionless process is further enhanced by the app's real-time transaction confirmation and digital receipt production, which eliminate the need for physical paperwork.

Are you ready to score concert tickets to the most anticipated music festival? What if we tell you…it’s as easy as a few taps on your phone?

Great news for Eraserheads fans: PalawanPay is providing you first access to the highly anticipated event on May 31, 2025, at the SMDC Festival Grounds!  An even better deal that will undoubtedly draw you to Alapaap: all tickets purchased using PalawanPay from March 29 to April 16 receive a 5% discount!  Yes, regardless of the ticket tier! 

As the official payment partner for the Electric Fun Music Festival, PalawanPay is providing its users with special early access to ticket sales before the general public.  That's true, you can reserve your energy for the show by skipping the big queue!  Be the first to reserve your spot to rock with Ely, Marcus, Raimund, and Buddy, among other renowned OPM bands!

Get First Dibs and 5% Discount on Eraserheads Tickets via PalawanPay in Four Easy Steps:

1) Download and Sign Up for PalawanPay.

• Just scan the QR code or open your app store (Google Play, Apple App Store, or Huawei App Gallery) and download PalawanPay!

2) Upgrade Your Account to Get it Verified.

• Tap ‘Upgrade Now’ in your PalawanPay app and follow the steps.
• Submit 1 valid primary ID or 2 secondary IDs. Then wait for a few minutes for the confirmation! This will be a breeze as long as there are no errors and your ID is clear.

3) Buy Your Eraserheads Tickets in the PalawanPay App.

• Open PalawanPay and tap ‘Eraserheads’
• Choose the ticket you like!
• Tap ‘Add to Cart’, then go to your Cart and tap ‘Checkout’
• Enter your contact details and tap ‘Proceed to Payment’
• Done! You’ll get a Transaction Reference Number in your email.

4) Claim Your Tickets at SM Ticket Outlets the Next Day!

• Go to any SM Ticket outlet after 24 hours
• Show them your Transaction Reference Number from your email
• Get your ticket and have the best night at the Electric Fun Music Festival!

And that’s not all!

Everyone who buys tickets via PalawanPay between March 29 and April 16 will be eligible for the raffle draw.  A fan will be given four SVIP seats so that they can bring their barkada along.  

“If the winner already purchased an SVIP ticket, the total cost will be refunded, and they will be given three more SVIP tickets. But if a lower-tier ticket was availed, an automatic upgrade to SVIP will be implemented.” ~John Paulo Llamera, Brand Manager of PalawanPay

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime chance to relive the Eraserheads magic!

“The Eraserheads continue to be relevant and extremely popular. Even today’s youth sing along to their hits! We are beyond thrilled to be part of this concert. PalawanPay users deserve front-row opportunities, and this is our way of saying thank you for their continued trust and support.” ~Third Librea, CEO of PalawanPay

Download PalawanPay, register and verify your account today and get ready to rock with the legends on May 31!

For more details, follow PalawanPay on Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT PALAWAN GROUP OF COMPANIES: 

The Palawan Group of Companies includes products and services such as Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Express Pera Padala, Palawan ProtekTODO, Palawan Credit, and PalawanPay. A brand trusted by Filipinos for almost four decades, PGC is one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the country. With its strength in remittance and pawning services, the company is the market leader in the industry and has over 70,000 branches, Pera Padala outlets, and PalawanPay Money Shops nationwide.

The Palawan Group of Companies offers a wide range of services, including pawning, domestic and international remittances, microinsurance, bills payment, electronic mobile phone loading, cash-in and cash-out of e-wallets, money exchange, ATM withdrawal, and cash disbursements. Additionally, the company sells jewelry and gold bars, catering to customers looking to invest in valuable assets. 

Palawan Group of Companies introduced PalawanPay, an e-wallet app that allows users to send and receive remittances anytime, anywhere. PalawanPay is the company’s latest digital solution, offering faster, safer, and more convenient transactions. In addition to remittances, the app provides access to other financial services, including bills payments, mobile load top-ups, and scan-to-pay QR Ph codes. The app also features integrated functionality for pawn renewal, purchasing jewelry and gold items, ProtekTODO personal insurance, and claiming international remittances.

Palawan Group of Companies is supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

For more information, go to Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay Websites. 

The National Resilience Council's colloquium demonstrates how resilience thrives in partnership

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

The National Resilience Council (NRC) of the Philippines brought together a diverse group of stakeholders for the event "From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations." As a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, the NRC unites national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector to advance the interconnected objectives of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

The event, known as the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium, highlighted progress and updates from participating cities and municipalities in the NRC's Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative.  This effort allows businesses to go beyond disaster aid and invest in risk reduction through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs.  By empowering local governments, AAC encourages collaboration to create safer, more resilient communities.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the Academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for Civil Service Organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress towards disaster resilience.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies.

“Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” ~Benjamin Magalong, Baguio City Mayor

Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides.

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies - Philippine network, and the City Mayor of Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime Villanueva.

“I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.” ~Lucy Torres-Gomez, Ormoc City Mayor

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council (NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the realm of disaster risk resilience.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool designed to strengthen local government capabilities in disaster resilience. Drawing from the NRC’s mission, the colloquium underscored the power of multi-stakeholder collaboration in driving transformative change. By bridging sectors and promoting innovation, the NRC and its partners are paving the way for a resilient Philippines.

Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

With the involvement of thousands of volunteers, this event is now more than just a walk—it’s a movement for change.

On March 30, 2025, hundreds of families, advocates, and supporters will gather to celebrate Happy Walk 2025, a national movement dedicated to raising awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for people with Down syndrome.

This year's event, hosted by SM Cares in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), will be held at the SMX Convention Center – Manila, with simultaneous celebrations at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, making it a truly nationwide effort to highlight the abilities and aspirations of people with Down Syndrome.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

For over two decades, Happy Walk has been more than just an event; it is a dynamic movement that emphasizes the qualities, abilities, and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome.  It is a day of joy, unity, and acceptance, when communities join together to celebrate not only their diversity, but also their common aims and goals.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations.” ~Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head, Happy Walk 2025.

Participants come together to show love and support for individuals with Down Syndrome

A Nationwide Call for Participation

Happy Walk 2025, themed "321 & Beyond," is projected to attract thousands of participants, including persons with Down Syndrome and their families, volunteers, educators, corporate partners, and inclusion activists.  The event will include a variety of events, such as performances, inspirational stories, and community-building projects that emphasize the value of diversity in society.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share.” ~Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

SM Prime Chairman Hans Sy, together with SM Cares and DSAPI members, is celebrating the success of last year’s Happy Walk event.

The Happy Walk community continues to grow in number and contribute to a broader movement of inclusivity and empowerment.

Join the Movement: How to Be Part of Happy Walk 2025

Everyone is encouraged to take part in this inspiring event—whether by walking, volunteering, or simply showing support. To register, kindly visit the official Happy Walk 2025 registration page at: https://portal.dsapi.ph/dsapi/Register/RegParticipant. For more details on how to join, follow SM Cares’ social media pages.

About SM Cares

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, leading initiatives on inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and community development. Through its long-standing partnership with DSAPI, SM Cares continues to advocate for persons with disabilities, ensuring that every SM mall is a place where everyone feels welcome and valued.

About DSAPI

The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Through education, awareness campaigns, and community-building efforts like Happy Walk, DSAPI works to create a more inclusive society.

SM Job Fairs: Bringing career opportunities nationwide

SM Supermalls makes job hunting easier, faster, and more lucrative!  February's job fairs laid the groundwork for 2025, with the SM Retail Job Fair at SM North EDSA successfully connecting more than 1,000 job seekers with leading employers.  Now, the momentum continues with a statewide series of job fairs in March, providing even more opportunity for Filipinos to advance their professions.

The March schedule includes:

• March 21 (Friday) – SM City Trece Martires and SM City Naga
• March 25 (Tuesday) – SM City Bacoor
• March 27 (Thursday) – SM City Daet
• March 28 (Friday) – SM City Sta. Mesa and SM City Trece Martires
• March 29 (Saturday) – SM Seaside City Cebu

Success stories: Real people, real impact

SM Job Fairs continue to change lives by providing a fresh start, stable incomes, and career growth. Here’s what some of our hired-on-the-spot applicants had to say:

John Paul Arido begins his career journey as a Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket.

“This is the best—I can finally stand on my own and support my family! Thank you, SM Job Fair, for this life-changing opportunity. I hope more job seekers take advantage of this chance to build a better future.” ~John Paul Arido, a newly hired Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket

SM Hypermarket welcomes Maria Patricia De Leon, a new Customer Assistance team member hired instantly.

"Getting hired on the spot was both exciting and overwhelming since this is my first job fair. Thank you, SM, for creating opportunities like this—your job fairs truly make a difference for job seekers like me!" ~Maria Patricia De Leon, hired on the spot for Customer Assistance at SM Hypermarket

Joselito Oniza joins the Watsons team as a proud pharmacist assistant.

"I’m grateful to be hired on the spot after two months of job hunting. This opportunity means so much to me and my family. The SM Job Fair was well-organized, and the staff were very approachable, making the entire process smooth and comfortable.” ~Joselito Oniza, hired pharmacist assistant at Watsons 

Teresa Enriquez, Toy Kingdom’s newest cashier, is excited to start her journey in customer service.

"I’ve been following SM Supermalls’ job fair schedule, hoping for a chance to work for an SM-affiliated company. Being hired on the spot made the wait completely worth it! What sets SM Job Fairs apart is the quality of employers—established, reputable companies that offer real career opportunities. I’m truly grateful for this experience!" ~Teresa Enriquez, Cashier at Toy Kingdom

Hassle-free job hunting with on-site government services

When everything you need is in one location, finding a job is made easy!  Government agency booths at SM Job Fairs provide candidates with necessary needs like the Pag-IBIG Fund, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Social Security System (SSS), guaranteeing a seamless hiring process.

Driving growth, building the nation

SM Job Fairs are more than just hiring events; they help to rebuild economies and improve communities.  With SM Supermalls' dedication to employment, more Filipinos are securing a better future.  Your next significant professional move begins here—don't miss out! 

SM Retail and SM North EDSA unite to empower job seekers at a bustling job fair.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls, a division of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the Philippines' leading mall developer, dedicated to sustainable and community-driven initiatives. Through its job fairs, SM Supermalls continues to empower job seekers, support businesses, and contribute to economic growth.