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.

SM Morning Beats & Brews Brings the Vibes to Bulacan

SM City Baliwag, in collaboration with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, kicks off Morning Beats & Brews in Bulacan.

SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag have recently launched Morning Beats & Brews, which combines handpicked music, delicious coffee, and feel-good morning energy.

Good music and great coffee come together during the launch of Morning Beats & Brews in partnership with Cong Caphe at SM City Marilao.

Morning Beats & beverages is designed for early risers, creatives, and cultural enthusiasts, delivering tunes matched with premium beverages to set the tone for a productive and inspired day.

At SM City Marilao, a multitude of coffee lovers congregate at Cong Caphe to dance to the beat of music, with DJ Wency providing a lively yet laid-back ambiance.

Meanwhile, SM City Baliwag, in collaboration with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, serves the crowd a delicious cup of coffee while DJ Melvin plays energetic music.

daily Beats & Brews is more than a daily routine; it's a feeling that brings people together through rhythm and flavor. Moments like these distinguish SM Bulacan malls as the “Home of Everyday Celebrations.”

Stay tuned as more vibin’ events will unveil your way in 2026. For updates, check out the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.

Asia’s Biggest ACE Store Opens at Baliwag, Bulacan

A new era in home and building retail is about to begin as ACE Builders opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. This newest branch, spanning over 6,000 square meters, is the most expansive ACE store to date, offering a vast and comprehensive choice of construction supplies, home renovation products, and lifestyle essentials—all under one roof.

ACE Builders officially opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. Present at the ribbon cutting were (L-R): SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino; SM Retail Inc. President Jonathan Ng; Baliwag City Mayor Sonia Estrella; Ace Hardware Phil Inc. Director JV Cobankiat; AHPI Business Unit Head Alvin So; Ace International Sales Director Calvin Kim; and AHPI VP Supply Chain Alex Kho

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Designed for both homeowners and professionals, ACE Builders SM City Baliwag combines scale, selection, and service to provide a shopping experience tailored to real, everyday needs.

Everything You Need, All in One Place

ACE Builders SM City Baliwag carries an extensive lineup of trusted and reliable products across major categories:

• Tiles & Flooring
• Wall Cladding
• Sanitary Wares and Plumbing
• Paint and Paint Accessories
• Electrical
• Lawn and Garden 
• Home Hardware
• Small Appliances
• Hand and Power Tools
• Automotive Products
• Chemicals and Cleaning Solutions
• Pet Care Essentials
• Home Basics and Storage

From major renovation projects to simple home upgrades, the store is designed to meet the demands of modern Filipino households, contractors, and construction professionals alike.

Strengthening a Growing Network

ACE Builders SM City Baliwag joins other flagship stores in the ACE Builders network, such as ACE Builders North EDSA, Fairview, and Pampanga. With the launch of its largest location yet, ACE continues to broaden its reach and increase access to high-quality building supplies and home solutions.

ACE Hardware Philippines, founded in 1997 at SM Southmall in Las Piñas, has expanded to 238 branches nationwide, making it a leading hardware company in the country. The ACE Builders idea was developed to give a more comprehensive solution for customers that require larger-scale or more specialized items for building and residential projects.

With expert assistance from in-store staff, a wide product assortment, and a convenient location at SM City Baliwag, this store is set to become a key destination for building, improving, and upgrading living spaces in Bulacan and neighboring areas.

To find your nearest ACE Hardware or ACE Builders location, visit our store locator here.

Top Filipino science students urged to apply for the 2027 Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) confirms its commitment to promoting Filipino science proficiency by providing financial help to academically exceptional students pursuing postgraduate studies in Japan.

APC announces that applications are now open for the 2027 Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant, a program that provides deserving candidates the opportunity to pursue master's-level studies in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, or Engineering at partner schools including: University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Nagoya University, Institute of Science Tokyo, Ochanomizu University, Waseda University, and Japan Nutrition University (form).

The successful applicant who meets the program's qualifications and requirements will be given full support and access to important advantages to help them prosper in their postgraduate journey. These include full examination, entrance, and tuition expenses; full coverage of medical, psychiatric, and Japanese language training prior to travel to Japan; and monthly allowances. The scholar's flight from the Philippines to Japan will also be covered.

Japan's famous education system, noted for its high academic standards, continues to attract students from all over the world. According to the Japan Student Services Organization's (JASSO) 2024 study, Japan has approximately 336,708 international students, with 58,215 of them enrolling in graduate education. According to the JASSO 2022 Career Status Progress Survey, a considerable number of international graduates find work in Japan after completing their education.

According to Mika Makino, APC Director of Marketing, Sales, and Public Relations, the company's continuing support and commitment in the Ajinomoto Scholarship Foundation is rooted in the company's mission to improve the well-being of people, society, and the environment.

“We believe that a world-class postgraduate education in Japan empowers scholars personally and professionally. The scholarship is an advantageous pathway to career advancement and global mobility. It is our hope that with advanced knowledge and training, the scholars will also be able to contribute to developing solutions for helping people Eat Well, Live Well.” ~Mika Makino,  APC Director for Marketing, Sales & Public Relations

Since the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant was introduced in the Philippines in 2010, fifteen (15) full scholarship awards to various colleges in Japan have been awarded to meritorious Filipino students.

APC encourages applicants to seize the opportunity to level up their education and careers. To know the full requirements and application process, visit https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2027-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/. The deadline for sending applications is March 2, 2026.

The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. In fiscal 2021, sales were 1.1149 trillion yen (8.73 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

Globe Opens New Store at NAIA Terminal 3 Arrival Section, Elevating Connectivity for Record-Breaking Traveler Volume

As air travel recovers rapidly, Globe is expanding to fulfill inbound demand by constructing a new store at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 arrival section. The store, which is conveniently located near the arrivals exit, is intended to provide international travelers with immediate access to mobile connectivity as soon as they arrive.

According to a statistic published on NAIA's website, the airport processed 52.02 million passengers last year, the biggest yearly number ever. Travel demand has increased beyond pre-pandemic levels, indicating a strong rebound.

With thousands of passengers arriving daily, the new store intends to provide immediate value and convenience by selling physical SIM cards and eSIM activation, prepaid load top-ups, and bill payment to meet the different demands of foreign travellers.

From December 15, 2025 to January 31, 2026, Globe will provide special launch incentives to mark the store's inauguration. Travelers who purchase a Globe Traveler SIM card receive a complimentary gift, such as a portable travel neck pillow and a Grab coupon.

“Global traveler volume at NAIA has surged to record highs, and we’re making sure every visitor begins their Philippine journey with reliable connectivity. Our new NAIA store ensures our brand delivers beyond network services. We enable seamless access to community, mobility and information the moment travelers arrive.” ~Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid

As Globe Prepaid is the preferred mobile partner for inbound tourists, Globe reinforces its role as a catalyst for effortless connectivity and tourism‑ready service.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/international/traveler-sim.

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.

4-in-1 PC-Like Productivity Companion is Here: HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026)

As we enter 2026, Huawei continues to make productivity more accessible by introducing the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition, an exclusive tablet designed to help you start the year stronger and work smarter. It's designed for students, young professionals, and everyday multitaskers looking for a more flexible approach to stay productive, offering the greatest PC-like tablet experience for only PHP 19,999. With powerful productivity capabilities, a detachable keyboard experience, and dependable all-day portability, this tablet makes it easy to turn New Year's productivity resolutions into daily progress.

Whether you're working on documents, taking online classes, or handling everyday activities on the road, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition keeps you focused, efficient, and in control without the need for a traditional PC.

Get More Done Anywhere with PC-Like Productivity

Working on the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition feels strikingly similar to using a PC, thanks to the PC-level WPS Office 2.0 software. You can easily create and edit big documents, use complicated spreadsheet formulas, and design dynamic presentations on the tablet—no PC required. When coupled with an external keyboard, familiar system and app shortcut buttons speed up navigation and editing, allowing you to work more efficiently no matter where you are.

The tablet's clever multitasking tools make productivity even smoother. You can flexibly resize app windows for a more flexible workflow, use Floating Multi-Window to take notes while perusing web resources, or use App Twin to display two programs side by side for optimal efficiency. SuperHub makes it simple to transfer files between devices. Simply drag and drop content from one HUAWEI device to another to keep your workflow uninterrupted.

HUAWEI Notes is a note-taking and idea capturing app that adjusts to your own style and demands. Its AI Handwriting Enhancement rapidly converts handwritten meeting notes or brainstorming doodles into clean, polished text in Crescent or Gibbous fonts, making them fit for sharing or presentation. Every page can be modified to meet your workflow and creativity with the Resource Center's customizable papers, covers, and expressive stickers, as well as flexible brushes like the 2B Pencil, Felt-tip Pen, and Calligraphy Brush, transforming commonplace notes into structured, professional-looking content.

Type, Click, and Work Comfortably with a Detachable Keyboard Setup

With support for the HUAWEI Smart Keyboard, which offers comfortable typing and a familiar PC-like layout, you can transform your tablet into a versatile workplace. The removable keyboard allows you to work in various configurations according on your space and requirements—ideal for moving between intensive typing sessions and relaxed tablet use.

With mouse functionality, navigating apps and documents is more precise and efficient, similar to working on a desktop. From writing reports and responding to emails to completing school assignments, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition makes everyday chores easier and more comfortable to do.

Portable Power That Keeps Up with Your Day

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition is designed for a mobile lifestyle, striking the ideal mix between portability and durability. Weighing only 515g and measuring only 6.1mm thin, it fits effortlessly into your backpack and is pleasant to carry from morning lessons to after-work activities. Its all-metal unibody design with an anodized finish not only looks sleek and futuristic in Gray, but it also resists wear, fingerprints, and smudges, ensuring that it remains polished no matter where you go.

Despite its tiny size, the tablet is designed to endure all day. A big 10,100mAh battery provides over 14 hours of local video playback, allowing you to work, study, or relax without continually monitoring the battery level. Whether you're finishing projects, attending online meetings, or streaming content during downtime, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition keeps up with your schedule from dawn to evening.

When it comes time to recharge, the 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge function swiftly recharges the tablet, allowing it to achieve a full charge in around 94 minutes. Even on busy days, a short 30-minute recharge provides hours of use, allowing you to leave with confidence knowing your device is ready to go. On top of that, the tablet supports magnetic wireless charging for the stylus, ensuring that your tools remain energized whenever inspiration or productivity hits.

Exceptional Value with the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition is now available for PHP 19,999, bundled with exclusive productivity freebies worth up to PHP 17,997, including the HUAWEI Smart Keyboard (PHP 6,999), the HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Generation with NearLink) (PHP 5,999), PC-Level WPS Office (PHP 4,999), and a HUAWEI Bluetooth Mouse (PHP 1,899).

 

This exclusive e-commerce offer runs from January 9 to January 15, 2026 with a special selling period from January 15 to January 18. Don’t miss the chance to upgrade your everyday productivity with the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition—available through HUAWEI Online Store and HUAWEI’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

 

To learn more, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

About HUAWEI Consumer BG

 

HUAWEI's products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world's population. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India, and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of HUAWEI's three business units that covers smartphones, PC and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. HUAWEI's global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.

 

For more information please visit: this page.

PCPPI Chief ESG Officer Joins BSP Leadership and Sustainability Summit Panel

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) Chief Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Officer Atty. Carina Lenore Bayon spoke on a panel at the 2025 Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Leadership and Sustainability Summit, where she discussed "Greening Institutional DNA."

During the panel, Attorney. Carina explained how PCPPI integrates sustainability into its operations and culture by incorporating ESG concepts into its basic business practices. She focused on practical ways to operational efficiency, circularity, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting workplace sustainability.

The annual BSP Leadership Summit brings together BSP leaders to increase strategic alignment, facilitate information exchange, and build leadership capability, all while fostering cross-departmental collaboration and peer learning.