Pinoy Fans Celebrate McDonald’s Iconic Fries with a Nationwide FryFest

Thousands of Filipinos gathered last September 4 for McDonald's Philippines' biggest fries celebration yet, the first-ever McDo FryFest, which featured unlimited fries, games, and activities. The McDo FryFest, held simultaneously at over 50 McDonald's locations nationwide, is the culmination of months of Fries-filled celebrations by the quick service restaurant, bringing together a community of Fries lovers to celebrate their shared love for McDonald's World Famous Fries.

A Season of Fries-Filled Celebrations

McDonald's Philippines began celebrating its beloved fries on July 10, National Fries Day, by making its fan-favorite BFF Fries more enjoyable and shareable with a one-day-only P99 promotion. Building on the excitement, every subsequent Friday became a FryDay, giving customers even more reasons to enjoy and share McDonald's World Famous Fries through weekly deals and exclusive offers. Week after week, Fries fans turned their personal cravings into a national celebration of one of the brand's most iconic products.

"We are thankful to everyone who celebrated our World Famous Fries during National Fries Day and every Fry Day that followed. Fry Fest is our way of bringing together the community of Pinoy Fries fans who have continuously shown their love for our World Famous Fries. We wanted to create a fun and memorable experience that celebrates not only the product, but the people who have made it a favorite through the years. The emotional connection of our Fries to generations of Pinoys is built not just with how good it is but how it has been part of moments and memories that fans and customers cherish." ~Ada Almendras-Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines Chief Marketing Officer

Aside from unlimited Fries and games and activities, all participants of the McDo FryFest also took home a limited-edition Fries pouch with wrist strap.

The Fries Filipinos Keep Coming Back To

The World Famous Fries, which are cut from whole potatoes before being deep fried and salted, have grown to become one of McDonald's Philippines' most popular menu items. Its consistency in quality, taste, and freshness made it famous around the world, but what makes it iconic is how it creates everyday feel-good moments, whether through snacking or sharing.

As McDonald's Philippines concludes its largest celebration of World Famous Fries yet, customers can continue to create more feel-good moments with their favorite Fries, which are available nationwide via Dine-In, Take-Out, Drive-Thru, McDelivery, and third-party delivery apps.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, on Instagram, and on X. 

Cebu Pacific's New Hand Carry Policy

Cebu Pacific (CEB) is updating its hand carry policy as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the travel experience and make boarding easier for its passengers.

Beginning September 15, 2026, passengers flying on Cebu Pacific (5J) flights may bring up to 10kg of total hand carry items, up from the previous 7kg limit. Cebgo (DG) flights will continue to have a total hand carry allowance of 7kg. 

The updated policy allows passengers to bring what they need for their trip while establishing clear limits on the number and size of hand carry items. These measures will also assist our crew in managing baggage more efficiently, completing pre-departure procedures on time, and keeping flights on schedule.

Passengers may only bring up to two (2) pieces of hand carry items on board:

• One (1) hand carry baggage (to be placed in the overhead bin)
• One (1) personal item (to fit under the seat in front)

Passengers are reminded to ensure they can comfortably lift and stow their hand carry luggage in the overhead bin by themselves, or under the seat in front of them.

Hand carry items must follow the corresponding size limits:

• Hand carry baggage: up to Height = 56 cm × Length = 36 cm × Width = 23 cm
• Personal item: up to Height = 20 cm × Length = 35 cm x Width = 20 cm  

To help reduce flight delays and ensure a smoother boarding experience, passengers are reminded to keep their hand-carry items to the allowed number of pieces and weight limits.

Any hand-carry item that exceeds CEB's allowed limits must be checked in, subject to applicable baggage fees.

Passengers are encouraged to purchase their checked baggage allowance in advance or add additional baggage allowance through the Manage Booking portal using their MyCebuPacific accounts.

Online check-in is also available through the CEB mobile app and website, which reduces passenger wait time at the airport and allows them to proceed directly to their assigned boarding gates if they do not have checked baggage.

CEB currently flies to 35 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.  

For more information, visit: www.cebupacificair.com.

Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Rolls in Nostalgia to Kingsford Hotel Manila

Many people associate Hot Wheels with childhood memories of a favorite car, their first collection, or a race across the living room floor. For others, their childhood fascination never faded. It simply grew into a lifelong obsession with collecting, trading, and learning the stories behind each diecast.

That shared nostalgia was on full display at Kingsford Hotel Manila, where Hot Wheels diecast designer and Red Line Club design lead Brendon Vetuskey met with local and international collectors and enthusiasts for an exclusive private dinner hosted in collaboration with Metrics Ph, the organizer of the Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention.

Attendees, including the CEO of Metrics PH, enjoy an intimate dinner presentation with Hot Wheels lead designer Brendon Vetuskey.

More than just a gathering of diecast enthusiasts, the evening brought together collectors, families, business leaders, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality representatives, demonstrating how a shared passion can foster meaningful connections across generations and communities.

For Kingsford Hotel Manila, the event provided an opportunity to create an experience that went beyond the typical hotel stay. As a family-friendly hotel, the hotel provided an appropriate setting for an experience that brought together collectors of various generations who have been involved in the hobby for years, enthusiasts discovering new pieces, and kids and kids at heart who continue to enjoy Hot Wheels.

“Hotels can be more than places where people stay. We can become part of the destination experience and create spaces where communities, businesses and visitors connect. Partnering with Metrics Ph allows us to support the collector community while exploring new opportunities for events, partnerships and experiences that can bring people to Manila.” ~Jorold Montelibano, General Manager of Kingsford Hotel Manila

From childhood memories to a collector community

Vetuskey's participation added an international creative perspective to the event. He joined Mattel in 2007 and has worked on numerous Hot Wheels designs, currently serving as the diecast design lead for Red Line Club vehicles.

During the exclusive dinner, Vetuskey discussed Hot Wheels design and the creative process behind diecast vehicles, which was followed by an exclusive presentation and interaction with collectors and invited guests.

For Vetuskey, however, the appeal of collecting goes beyond the cars themselves.

“You might meet someone and start talking about your favorite Hot Wheels from childhood or the first car you ever collected. Those stories and shared memories are what makes collecting special.” ~Brendon Vetuskey, Hot Wheels Diecast Designer and Red Line Club Design Lead

Collectors take home a personal memento as Brendon Vetuskey signs Hot Wheels memorabilia

Collectors take home a personal memento as Brendon Vetuskey signs Hot Wheels memorabilia

Brendon Vetuskey connects with the Philippine collecting community, sharing stories from his journey as a Hot Wheels designer.

That sense of connection has continued to shape the Philippines' growing collector culture. Metrics Ph allows collectors and enthusiasts to gather, exchange stories, share collections, and celebrate a hobby that spans generations.

Shared passion becomes a hotel experience

The event also provided insight into how specialized communities can generate new opportunities for tourism and hospitality.

For collectors, a destination can be more than just a backdrop for an event. It can be a place where people form friendships, share stories, and come together over shared interests. Kingsford sees it as another opportunity to create experiences that give guests and communities more reasons to come together.

For Hot Wheels fans, the appeal is still very familiar. Whether they are longtime collectors or simply recall the thrill of opening a brand-new diecast car as a child, the excitement remains.

At the Kingsford Hotel Manila, nostalgia brought together kids and kids at heart, demonstrating that some childhood passions never really grow up. They simply discover new ways to bring people together.

XPeng Iron Rolls Off Production Line as Humanoid Robot Manufaturing Facility is Commissioned

XPENG Inc. ("XPENG" or the "Company," NYSE: XPEV; HKEX: 9868), a leading global Physical AI company, has officially launched its humanoid robot production lines, a significant step in the company's transition from R&D to scaled manufacturing.

The achievement was marked by the completion of the first next-generation XPENG IRON produced on the new lines. The advanced general-purpose humanoid robot walked off the production floor autonomously, demonstrating the transition from R&D prototyping to production and bringing XPENG closer to volume production.

According to the company, the facility houses the world's first automated manufacturing lines for advanced humanoid robots. It uses automotive-grade quality systems designed for the smart electric vehicle industry to precision manufacture humanoid machines.

More than 80% of the facility's core processes are automated, as it was designed for scalability. Its high-precision, flexible, and intelligent manufacturing system is intended to ensure consistent quality throughout critical stages while allowing for faster capacity expansion.

“The robot production lines were created from scratch with no precedent to follow. Today's step is small, but XPENG is building the production lines for an entirely new product category. Looking ahead, XPENG will continue to explore faster production rhythms and greater scale in robot manufacturing, charting a new path toward a leading robot manufacturing industry in China and globally. We aim to build a new type of robot with full generalization capabilities that can truly become part of everyday life, create a better life for people, and ultimately become a companion in their lives." ~He Xiaopeng, Chairman & CEO of XPENG

The next-generation XPENG IRON is a critical component of the company's Physical AI strategy, combining human-like form and movement with AI-driven intelligence. It is being developed as an advanced general-purpose humanoid platform capable of supporting a wide range of applications and continuously improving through real-world learning and self-reinforcement, all while adhering to strict safety standards.

IRON has a unique, fully enclosed flexible lattice structure that is designed to balance esthetics and safety. The robot has 76 degrees of freedom across its body and 21 in each hand, allowing for high levels of dexterity and mobility.

Its intelligence is powered by three AI Turing chips that can deliver up to 2,250 TOPS of computing power. This enables XPENG to deploy its Physical AI foundation model directly on the robot, allowing IRON to perform complex tasks autonomously without the need for remote control, while also providing low-latency inference and increased data security.

He Xiaopeng, Chairman & CEO of XPENG, put on a staff badge on IRON, symbolizing that it has officially become a member of the XPENG team.

XPENG intends to start mass-producing its robots by the end of 2026, with initial commercial deployment in the company's stores and campuses. The robots will be officially introduced and delivered to Chinese and international markets in 2027.

The production milestone comes as XPENG prepares for its official launch in the Philippines on September 25, 2026. The event will introduce the brand's Physical AI vision to the local market, as well as the Philippine debuts of the XPENG X9 and XPENG L03.

The X9 is XPENG's ultra-intelligent flagship seven-seater, offering premium comfort, flexible interior space, and intelligent mobility technologies. It boasts the Intelligent XOS Cockpit, XPILOT ASSIST driver assistance, active rear-wheel steering, and an intelligent dual-chamber air suspension system. The model is intended to function as an executive lounge, a premium family vehicle, and a versatile companion for daily travel.

The L03, a next-generation AI SUV coupé, joins the lineup, combining intelligent technology, distinctive design, everyday versatility, and connected mobility. The two models will show how XPENG uses artificial intelligence in vehicles to understand, adapt, and respond to the people who use them.

The Philippine launch is part of the company's overall globalization strategy, which aims to bring Physical AI to more markets and areas of daily life. The full details on local pricing, variants, warranties, availability, and delivery schedules will be announced on September 25.

Beyond intelligent vehicles, XPENG is developing three complementary growth pillars: automotive, robotics, and globalization. The introduction of its first production-line-built advanced general-purpose humanoid robot is a significant step forward in the implementation of this strategy.

Given the technical challenges and limited supply of advanced general-purpose humanoid robots, XPENG anticipates gross margins per unit in the segment to be significantly higher than those of new energy vehicles. As its robotics business scales up and commercializes, the company expects it to become its second major growth engine.

On August 24, XPENG's robotics business signed share purchase agreements with multiple investors, raising more than US$900 million at a post-money valuation of more than US$6.3 billion. According to the company, this transaction is the largest single-round private capital raise in China's embodied AI industry to date.

The investment demonstrates capital market confidence in the XPENG Group's technological capabilities, development roadmap, manufacturing scale, and long-term commercial prospects in Physical AI.

XPENG is creating an integrated chain from foundational technology and product development to industrial deployment by combining a unified Physical AI foundation model with intelligent vehicles, humanoid robots, and scalable production capabilities. The company's strategy aims to extend artificial intelligence beyond the digital realm and into vehicles, robots, and the larger physical world.

For the latest updates, follow @xpengphilippines on Instagram and Facebook or visit www.xpeng.com/ph. For further information on global operations, please visit www.xpeng.com.

About XPENG

Founded in 2014, XPENG is a leading Chinese AI-driven mobility company that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets Smart EVs, catering to a growing base of tech-savvy consumers. With the rapid advancement of AI, XPENG aspires to become a global leader in AI mobility, with a mission to drive the Smart EV revolution through cutting-edge technology, shaping the future of mobility.

To enhance the customer experience, XPENG develops its full-stack advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) technology and intelligent in-car operating system in-house, along with core vehicle systems such as the powertrain and electrical/electronic architecture (EEA). Headquartered in Guangzhou, China, XPENG also operates key offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, Munich, and Amsterdam. Its Smart EVs are primarily manufactured at its facilities in Zhaoqing and Guangzhou, Guangdong province. XPENG is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: XPEV) and Hong Kong Exchange (HKEX: 9868). For more information, please visit https://www.xpeng.com/.

SM Center Sangandaan offers FREE AI Skills Session

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape how people study, work, and conduct business, SM Center Sangandaan plans to assist members of the community in better understanding and navigating the technology through a free upskilling session focused on practical AI applications.

The learning session, titled "AI for All," will take place on September 12, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on the 2nd floor of SM Center Sangandaan, which is adjacent to KKV.

The session's goal is to make artificial intelligence more accessible by moving beyond technical jargon and focusing on how AI can be applied in everyday work, business, productivity, and career advancement.

Participants will learn about the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and prompt engineering, as well as practical AI applications in the workplace, business, and productivity. The session will also cover responsible and ethical AI use, assisting learners in understanding not only what the technology can do, but also how it should be applied.

The program will also introduce participants to IBM SkillsBuild, which will offer them additional learning resources as they continue to develop their skills in an increasingly digital workplace.

The free learning session is part of SM Supermalls' ongoing effort to bring accessible skill development and career opportunities closer to Filipino communities.

As AI becomes more prevalent in various industries, learning how to use it can provide students, job seekers, working professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs with another tool for navigating new opportunities.

Because "Your next skill could open your next door," SM Center Sangandaan encourages the community to take the first step by learning something new, understanding emerging technologies, and becoming more prepared for the future.

The AI for All session is made possible by the collaboration of SM Supermalls, DICT, and IBM SkillsBuild, which brings together industry and learning partners to make digital skill development more accessible to the community.

For registration details and additional information, interested participants should scan the QR code found in the official event materials or visit the SM Center Sangandaan's official Facebook page for the most recent event updates and announcements.

Infinix XPAD 30 Pro Is Set to Redefine the Ultimate Entertainment Experience on September 8​

A new era of tablet performance is about to begin. The upcoming Infinix XPAD 30 Pro, which will be available on September 8, 2026, is expected to raise the bar for what users can expect from a tablet in this price range. Designed for users who demand more from their daily entertainment, the XPAD 30 Pro combines powerful performance, an immersive high-definition display, smart AI-powered features, and an ultra-slim design.

Beyond entertainment, the XPAD 30 Pro includes AI-powered learning and productivity features that allow students and professionals to balance school and light office work. It is designed to meet the needs of both everyday learning and work, from AI note-taking and generating graphs or visuals for presentations to attending remote meetings.

Power Up Your Entertainment

The Helio G200 Ultimate Processor powers the XPAD 30 Pro, providing gaming-optimized performance for smooth, responsive gameplay with less lag.

Whether you're playing your favorite games, streaming content, or switching between apps, the XPAD 30 Pro is designed to provide the power required to keep up with an entertainment-focused lifestyle.

The XPAD 30 Pro is already making waves in the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) and Aurora Gaming, where its gaming performance is being tested in intense MLBB action. With exclusive game-optimized features and a large, immersive display, the upcoming tablet is designed to provide players with a clearer, more engaging view of the battlefield, from spotting enemies to landing attacks.

With performance at its core, the XPAD 30 Pro is shaping up to be one of the strongest-performing tablets in its price segment.

Experience Every Detail 

Performance is only a part of the experience. The XPAD 30 Pro also includes an 11-inch 2.5K Eye-Care Display, which provides sharp, detailed visuals for your favorite entertainment.

From watching movies and videos to browsing your favorite content, the high-definition display is intended to make every scene more immersive while also providing an eye-care viewing experience for extended periods of time.

The display, combined with its powerful processor, creates the ideal environment for an immersive entertainment experience no matter where you are.

The Infinix XPAD 30 Pro in Twilight Purple

A Smarter Way to Enjoy Content Is Coming

The XPAD 30 Pro elevates entertainment with its AI-powered all-scenario experience, which is intended to make every moment more convenient, creative, and engaging.

With AI-powered features, users can get information about the entertainment content they're watching with a single tap, turn spontaneous ideas into content with AI-powered creation tools, and easily follow along with their favorite videos thanks to AI-subtitled video streaming.

Whether you're learning more about what you're watching, creating content on the fly, or watching videos in multiple languages, the XPAD 30 Pro integrates AI into everyday entertainment for a smarter, more seamless experience.

Big Performance. Slimmer Form.

Despite packing powerful capabilities, the XPAD 30 Pro maintains an ultra-slim and lightweight design at just 6mm thin and 476g.

The sleek form factor makes it easy to carry and comfortable to use throughout the day, whether you're gaming at home, streaming while relaxing, or taking your entertainment with you on the go.

Get Ready to Level Up Your Entertainment

With its powerful Helio G200 Ultimate Processor, immersive 11-inch 2.5K Eye-Care Display, AI-powered experience, and 6mm ultra-slim, 476g lightweight design, the XPAD 30 Pro is poised to deliver the performance and features users require for an elevated entertainment experience.

More importantly, Infinix is positioning the XPAD 30 Pro to provide strong performance at an exceptional value, making it an appealing option for users seeking the best-performing tablet in its price range.

The XPAD 30 Pro comes in three stylish colors: Twilight Purple, Titanium Silver, and Anthracite Grey, and is ready to deliver powerful performance and an enhanced entertainment experience right to your fingertips.

Don’t miss the launch and join the TikTok Shop Launch Event on September 8 and be among the first to discover what’s next for tablet entertainment.

About Infinix

Established in 2013, Infinix is an innovation-driven brand dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology, bold design, and outstanding performance. The brand provides smart, enjoyable mobile experiences that enhance everyday life. Beyond smartphones, Infinix has expanded its portfolio to include TWS earbuds, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and more—building a comprehensive ecosystem of smart devices. Currently, Infinix products are available in over 70 countries and regions worldwide, including Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.

For more information, please visit: https://ph.infinixmobility.com/

The Comfort Food Fix: Familiar Favorites at SM City Marilao Foodcourt

Kwek kwek all you can at Eggspert.

There's something comforting about familiar food, whether it's a warm bowl of lugaw on a rainy day, a delicious kwek-kwek for a quick merienda, or a favorite snack to munch on in between errands. These simple cravings come together at your favorite SM City Marilao Foodcourt to make each meal a little more enjoyable.

Ultimate comfort food staples at Lugaw Republic.

For those seeking something warm and nourishing, Lugaw Republic offers comforting goodness that will make you feel right at home. Meanwhile, Eggspert's street food-inspired egg recipes provide a flavorful fix perfect for merienda or a quick bite. Are you craving something savory?  PotDog's dimsum on a stick is a tasty snack, while Noodlemix's fried noodles are a filling meal that comes with delicious sauces.

From quick bites to satisfying comfort meals, there’s always something delicious waiting at the SM City Marilao Foodcourt.

And for those who adore a handheld favorite, Fariñas Ilocos Empanada offers savory Ilocano classics— perfect for enjoying while taking a break from a busy mall day.

PotDog makes for an easy-to-enjoy snack.

Noodlemix’s fried noodles paired with savory sauces is a perfect choice for quick meals.

Bite into Fariñas’ signature crispy Ilocos Empanada, freshly prepared with its distinct golden-orange crust and savory filling.

Whether it's a quick snack, a satisfying meal, or simply a longing for something familiar, SM City Marilao Foodcourt offers comfort food staples that make every visit feel a bit more like home.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.