Sony Alpha Fest 2026 Inspires the Next Generation of Filipino Creators Through Learning, Innovation, and Hands-On Experience

Sony Philippines hosted Alpha Fest 2026 in Foro de Intramuros, where hundreds of photography and filmmaking enthusiasts, aspiring creators, and industry professionals celebrated creativity with inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, interactive experiences, and the most recent innovations in Sony's Alpha imaging ecosystem.

Shuhei Sugihara shares his opening remarks at the Alpha Fest 2026

Kentaro Imamura takes guests on a journey through the Sony Alpha Experience

Sony Philippines President and Managing Director Shuhei Sugihara, along with Marketing Director Kentaro Imamura, officially opened the festival before revealing Sony's latest imaging innovations, including the Alpha 7R VI, FE 100-400mm F4.5 GM OSS, RX10 V, and the highly anticipated FX5.

A first look of FX5, Sony’s newest addition to the Cinema Line

One of the highlights of Alpha Fest 2026 was the introduction of Sony's newest imaging innovations, the RX10 V and the all-new FX5, both designed to meet the changing needs of today's creators. The RX10 V, Sony's fifth-generation all-in-one super zoom camera, has a versatile 24-600mm ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T lens, AI-powered Real-time Recognition Autofocus, blackout-free continuous shooting at up to 30 fps, and 4K 120p recording in a compact body, making it an ideal companion for travel, wildlife, sports, and everyday photography.

Jiggie Alejandrino’s wedding and portrait session

Meanwhile, the Sony FX5 joins Sony's Cinema Line as a powerful full-frame camera designed for professional filmmaking. The FX5 offers exceptional cinematic performance in a lightweight, production-ready design. It features a full-frame stacked Exmor RS™ CMOS sensor, the latest BIONZ XR™ processor, integrated AI, and advanced recording capabilities such as Open Gate, internal 16-bit X-OCN, and up to 4K 240p recording. The RX10V and FX5 demonstrate Sony's ongoing commitment to providing innovative imaging solutions that enable photographers, filmmakers, and content creators to realize their creative vision.

Street photography session with Martin San Diego

Manny Librodo’s shooting session in the Festival Zone

Throughout the day, attendees were able to learn directly from some of the country's most respected names in photography and filmmaking through genre-specific sessions. Win Magsino discussed Wildlife Photography, sharing techniques for photographing animals in their natural environment. Jiggie Alejandrino spoke about Wedding and Portrait Photography, sharing tips for creating timeless and emotive portraits for wedding photography. Martin San Diego took charge of Street Photography, demonstrating how to tell compelling stories using everyday moments.

Win Magsino shares his techniques with Wildlife Photography

Jason Magbanua shares his techniques on Wedding Videography

Nicco Valenzuela led the afternoon sessions on Landscape Photography, covering composition, light, and storytelling in outdoor photography. Jason Magbanua, an acclaimed wedding filmmaker, shared his knowledge of Wedding Videography, emphasizing cinematic techniques and narrative-driven filmmaking, while Manny Librodo, one of the Philippines' most celebrated portrait photographers, spoke about Festivals and Portrait Photography, inspiring attendees with his signature approach to portraiture and cultural storytelling.

Q&A Session with National Geographic Explorer, Noel Guevara and award-winning Thai Street Photographer, Tavepong Pratoomwong

Noel Guevarra, NatGeo Explorer, Conservation Photographer & Filmmaker

Tavepong Pratoomwoong, International Street Photographer

Alpha Fest 2026 also featured distinguished guest speakers from the Alpha community. Noel Guevara, a National Geographic Explorer, conservation photographer, and filmmaker, shared his experiences using Sony's Alpha 7R VI to document marine life and promote environmental conservation. Meanwhile, Tavepong Pratoomwong, an award-winning Thai street photographer known for his unique style, led a special Street photography session, encouraging attendees to look for extraordinary moments in everyday scenes.

Fast Talk sessions with Miki Labarda

Miki Labarda, a ravel videographer and content creator, also led a special session on stage where she discussed her journey as a content creator, the growth of the creator community, and the impact of Sony and the Alpha Fest event on visual storytellers like herself. Together, these speakers demonstrated the limitless possibilities of visual storytelling, inspiring craters to see familiar subjects from new angles while constantly pushing the limits of their creativity.

As the Alpha community grows, Sony remains committed to assisting creators from various fields at every stage of their journey by providing innovative imaging technology, educational initiatives, and experiences that inspire them to capture and share stories that change the world.

Pre-Order Offers

 

Camera enthusiasts can still take advantage of exclusive pre-order offers on Sony’s latest imaging innovations. The Sony RX10 V pre-order is still ongoing at SRP PHP 130,999. Customers who purchase from July 10 to August 7, 2026 will receive a free NP-FZ100 Battery worth PHP 4,490, making it a perfect opportunity for photographers and videographers looking for an all-in-one camera capable of capturing everything from everyday moments to wildlife and sports. 

Meanwhile, the newly announced Sony FX5 is available for pre-order at participating Sony Centres and authorized retailers nationwide from July 23 to August 24, 2026 at an SRP of PHP 318,000 for body only and PHP 349,000 with the XLR Handle. Customers may reserve one (1) ILME-FX5 or ILME-FX5B unit with a PHP 5,000 down payment. Upon purchase, customers who successfully register their camera on My Sony will receive a complimentary NP-SA100 battery, valued at PHP 6,400, upon presentation of their email confirmation of successful product registration.

For more information about the Sony RX10 V and Sony FX5, including complete product specifications, participating dealers, and pre-order promotions, visit the official Sony Philippines product pages at:

RX10 V: https://www.sony.com.ph/interchangeable-lens-cameras/products/rx10m5

FX5: https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/interchangeable-lens-cameras/ilme-fx5

 

For the latest updates, visit the Sony Philippines website or follow Sony Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

SONY CORPORATION

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

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

Beard Papa brings its world-famous Japanese cream puffs to SM City Grand Central

Dessert lovers in the North Metro now have a new reason to visit SM City Grand Central, as Beard Papa officially opens its 16th branch, the latest addition to the mall's expanding dining lineup.

Beard Papa, known worldwide for its freshly baked cream puffs, brings its signature Japanese pastries closer to shoppers in Caloocan and surrounding cities, providing a sweet stop for families, students, and food enthusiasts seeking a premium dessert experience.

Dessert lovers in the North Metro now have a new reason to visit SM City Grand Central, as Beard Papa officially opens its 16th branch, the latest addition to the mall's expanding dining lineup.

Beard Papa, known worldwide for its freshly baked cream puffs, brings its signature Japanese pastries closer to shoppers in Caloocan and surrounding cities, providing a sweet stop for families, students, and food enthusiasts seeking a premium dessert experience.

Beard Papa's story began in 1999 in Osaka, Japan, with baker Yuji Hirota welcoming customers into his small neighborhood bakery. His warm personality and distinctive white beard earned him the nickname "Beard Papa" among loyal customers. Inspired by the joy of sharing freshly baked pastries, he developed the cream puff, which would eventually become the brand's global signature.

Every Beard Papa cream puff is made with a double-layered shell of delicate choux pastry inside and a crisp pie crust outside. Each pastry is filled only after it has been ordered, resulting in a light, crunchy shell paired with smooth vanilla bean custard and whipped cream. This commitment to freshness has become one of the brand's distinguishing characteristics.

Beard Papa has grown from its humble beginnings in Osaka to more than 500 stores in 15 countries and territories, introducing the Japanese tradition of freshly made pastries to millions of customers worldwide.

Shoppers at SM City Grand Central can now enjoy the same freshly prepared cream puffs that have made Beard Papa an international favorite. Whether it's an afternoon snack, an after-shopping treat, or a dessert to share with family and friends, each cream puff is designed to deliver the brand's signature balance of crisp pastry and creamy filling.

Beard Papa's arrival expands SM City Grand Central's dining options, introducing North Metro shoppers to another globally recognized food destination. As the mall's mix of local and international brands grows, visitors can expect even more exciting culinary experiences in one convenient location.

Visit Beard Papa at SM City Grand Central to see why its freshly baked cream puffs continue to bring smiles and a taste of Japanese oishii, or deliciousness, to customers worldwide.

Discover the Magic of Saving as BPI Launches Jumpstart Savings Account with Disney-Themed Pop-Up Event

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) invites families, young dreamers, and Disney fans to attend "Discover the Magic of Saving: BPI Jumpstart," a Disney-themed event taking place on August 1 and 2 at the Glorietta Activity Center.

The event, which will last only two days, provides a unique opportunity for parents and children to immerse themselves in a world where learning about saving meets fun and wonder. Designed specifically for families with children aged 7 to 12 (with eligibility extended to 17), the experience demonstrates how a child's first savings account can spark lifelong financial habits.

The event will provide guests with a free first look at BPI's new savings account, Jumpstart, which combines practical banking features, financial education, and engaging digital experiences. At the heart of Jumpstart are three financial education tools that make saving fun, engaging and habit-forming:

• A Disney-themed Sleeve that acts as a modern piggy bank, available in multiple designs, featuring Disney Princess heroines, Spider-Man, and Mickey Mouse and Friends.
• A BPI-proprietary Jumpstart Book that teaches savings fundamentals through stories and hands-on activities.
• A kid-led, parent-assisted Jumpstart Web App that gamifies the savings experience. Kids can earn by completing chores or tasks, answer questions that reinforce lessons from the Jumpstart Book, and engage in learning and play. The web app also allows children to track their progress as they build positive money habits.

Inspired by Disney storytelling and guided by the theme "Discover the Magic of Saving: BPI Jumpstart", the event brings Jumpstart to life through interactive, super-sized installations and exciting activity zones. The Disney-themed Jumpstart Sleeve, Jumpstart Book, and Jumpstart Web App invite families to explore playful environments. For example, the event will incorporate designs of popular Disney characters such as Disney princesses, Spider-Man, and Mickey & Friends.

The pop-up demonstrates how saving can be a fun shared adventure with the family. An on-site account opening booth will also be available for families who want to start their child's savings journey at the event. When you pay with your BPI Debit Card, you will also receive event-exclusive deals on select Disney-themed packages.

“As BPI continues to innovate for the next generation of Filipinos, Jumpstart reflects the bank’s commitment to helping parents build strong financial foundations for their children—one small saving habit at a time.” ~Ginbee Go, Head of Consumer Banking at BPI

Make your child’s first step into saving a memorable one. Visit the BPI Jumpstart launch event in Glorietta Activity Center on August 1 from 1PM to 9PM, and August 2 from 10AM to 9PM  and be among the first to experience a magical start to big dreams. No pre-registration is required.

Jumpstart is one of several initiatives commemorating BPI's 175th anniversary, reflecting the bank's dedication to empowering Filipinos at all stages of life through meaningful partnerships, innovative financial solutions, and financial education.

For more information, visit bpi.com.ph/jumpstartevent

Beyond Mobility: GAC Champions Philippine Sports through Partnership with Cignal and TV5

GAC Philippines is increasing its support for Philippine sports through a strategic partnership with Cignal TV and TV5, which will connect the global mobility brand with Filipino fans in some of the country's top basketball and volleyball leagues.

By collaborating with the official broadcasters of the PBA Governors' Cup, Premier Volleyball League On Tour and Invitational Conference, and UAAP Season 89 Men's Basketball, GAC connects its lineup of smart, high-performance vehicles to some of the country's most anticipated basketball and volleyball action.

GAC's sports marketing campaign, Go Above Competition, echoes the brand's initials, and it brings this mindset to life both on the court and on the road, accelerating its brand presence in the Philippines through high-energy fan engagement.

Throughout the partnership, fans can expect GAC broadcast integrations, custom player features, and highlights honoring game-changing performances. These activations aim to bring GAC closer to millions of sports fans across the country while also expanding the brand's global sports marketing tradition into the Philippines.

The partnership also demonstrates how GAC vehicles cater to the diverse lifestyles of Filipino sports fans and active families. From the all-electric AION V and AION UT, which are designed for smart and efficient everyday mobility, to GAC's diverse lineup of MPVs that provide space and comfort for families, teams, and their gear, the brand offers mobility that complements life both on and off the court.

The local initiative reflects GAC International's global commitment to aligning its core values of perseverance, teamwork, and innovation with the dynamic spirit of sports. Building world-class mobility in the automotive industry necessitates unwavering determination, precise engineering, and relentless self-improvement.

"Bringing our global sports marketing tradition to the Philippines is an exciting step as we deepen our roots in the country. Sports embody energy, endurance, and relentless determination, which are values that lie at the very core of GAC’s brand DNA. Through this partnership with Cignal TV and TV5, we aim to inspire Filipino sports enthusiasts by bringing together the dynamic spirit of competition and our commitment to world-class mobility." ~Steven Wang, Senior Vice President of GAC International

Globally, GAC International's sports marketing footprint includes top-tier athletic disciplines on multiple continents. GAC has been an official sponsor of prestigious football clubs such as Mexico's Deportivo Toluca FC and Australia's Sydney FC, as well as cricket's international Global Super League in the Caribbean and major European golf events such as the Rosa Challenge Tour in Poland. From supporting official mobility fleets for China's 15th National Games to sponsoring endurance events such as the Bolivia Half Marathon, GAC has consistently aligned its high-performance vehicles with the energy, teamwork, and competitive spirit of international sports.

For the latest news and updates, follow on Facebook and Instagram.

La Mesa Ecopark celebrates World Environment Day with youth #ECOmmitments for climate action

Anchored on this year’s theme, #NowForClimate, youth leaders and representatives from various youth organizations gathered at the La Mesa Ecopark to engage in a series of targeted eco-activities. The event successfully highlighted the vital role of the younger generation as future climate champions equipped to address escalating environmental challenges.

In honor of World Environment Day 2026, the Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark recently hosted an event focused on youth-led environmental advocacy. 

Based on this year's theme, #NowForClimate, youth leaders and representatives from various youth organizations gathered at the La Mesa Ecopark to participate in a series of targeted eco-activities. The event successfully highlighted the importance of the younger generation as future climate champions prepared to face escalating environmental challenges.

The celebration began with a special screening of the inspiring documentary "The Foresters: A Story of Climate Keepers," organized in collaboration with MAD Travel. The film, which chronicled real-life stories of grassroots communities and young people working together to protect nature, inspired participants to take an active role in conservation and cultural community outreach. 

Following the screening, the youth participants put their inspiration into action by writing down their individual #ECOmmitments. These pledges outlined specific, actionable steps they will take to practice responsible environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of individual responsibility in achieving a sustainable future.

The youth leaders then took a guided #BiodiverCity Walk through the La Mesa Ecopark, which is a rich sanctuary of diverse tree species. The trail included an educational visit to the Butterfly Garden, which provided a closer look at the fragile, thriving ecosystems. 

To leave a lasting, positive impact on the watershed, a ceremonial tree planting event was held to highlight the long-term benefits of reforestation. Youth participants planted two seedlings of Mangkono (Xanthostemon verdugonianus), a rare tropical hardwood endemic to the Philippines also known as Philippine Ironwood. The Malampaya Foundation donated the ecologically valuable seedlings, which represent strong cross-sectoral collaboration in environmental conservation.

The celebration concluded with a hands-on seed extraction activity. Having marveled at the towering Kupang (Parkia timoriana) trees earlier on their BiodiverCity Walk, participants enjoyed extracting seeds from their pods. The collected seeds will be nurtured at Bahay Punlaan and eventually spread throughout the La Mesa Ecopark and the adjacent La Mesa Nature Reserve. 

The World Environment Day event is a preview of more eco-activities at the La Mesa Ecopark, which will open Phase 2 in July. The public can expect more spaces for groups and families to enjoy leisure activities, teambuilding, and connecting with nature.

In celebration of World Environment Day 2026, Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark recently hosted a gathering dedicated to youth-led environmental advocacy. 

During this World Environment Day celebration, the Manila Water Foundation and La Mesa Ecopark successfully demonstrated the wave of collective action fueled by youth passion, demonstrating that the next generation holds the key to creating a sustainable, climate-resistant world.

Easy, Affordable Baon Ideas Await at SM Hypermarket Baliwag

Baon made better! Pack your lunch with Purefoods favorites available at SM Hypermarket Baliwag. These are quick, delicious, and ready to fuel every school and work.

It is not necessary to spend a lot of time or money to prepare delicious and nutritious baon. Whether it's for students leaving for school or professionals heading to work, SM Hypermarket Baliwag has everything a family needs to prepare delicious meals while staying on budget.

Make every recess sweeter with Nissin favorites at SM Hypermarket Baliwag! Grab Wafer Choco and Eggnog Cookies for a delicious baon treat.

Whether it's nutritious sandwiches, ready-to-cook meals, wholesome snacks, or refreshing drinks, shoppers can find everything they need in one location while saving money with everyday low prices and exciting promotions.

Baon win, every time! Purefoods favorites bring crispy goodness to every lunch break. Grab yours today at SM Hypermarket Baliwag!

Cheesy baon? Yes, please! Elevate every sandwich and burger with Emborg Cheese Slices available at SM Hypermarket Baliwag.

Make every school and work day more enjoyable with practical baon ideas that are simple to prepare, filling, and reasonably priced—only at SM Hypermarket Baliwag, where quality, convenience, and savings come together—All For You.

What If You Bring More? AirAsia Philippines Lets You Check In as Many Bags as You Need

As more travelers return home with extra pasalubong, souvenirs, and shopping finds, AirAsia Philippines reminds guests that they can check in as many bags as they need, with no weight limit, as long as the total weight falls within their purchased or complimentary baggage allowance.

Guests can purchase checked baggage allowances ranging from 20kg to 60kg, providing flexibility for both short and long trips. For safety reasons, however, each individual checked bag must not weigh more than 32kg, even if a higher baggage allowance has been purchased.

However, if you have purchased more than 30 kg of baggage allowance, please note that each bag you will be checking-in must follow the following requirements:

Several essential mobility items may be checked in free of charge, including:

• Baby strollers, buggies, and prams
• Wheelchairs and mobility devices
• Crutches and walking frames

RE-BOOKED TO AVOID OTHER FEES

Guests who purchase checked baggage before departure can save up to Php 919 compared to airport rates. Checked baggage can be purchased conveniently via the AirAsia MOVE app, the AirAsia website, or Ask Bo.

BUYING ADDITIONAL BAGGAGE AFTER BOOKING

Guests who wish to add or upgrade their checked baggage allowance after completing their booking may conveniently do so through the Manage My Booking feature or by chatting with Ask Bo up to two hours before their scheduled departure. Checked baggage may also be added at the airport check-in counter, subject to applicable airport baggage rates.

To purchase or upgrade checked baggage through Ask Bo:

• Chat with Ask Bo on the AirAsia MOVE app or website.
• Type "Purchase Add-ons (Seats, Baggage, Meals)".
• Select "Baggage" and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase.

CABIN BAGGAGE

For cabin baggage, guests are entitled to two carry-on items—one cabin bag and one personal item like a laptop bag or a hand bag—with a combined weight of up to 7kg. Those who need additional cabin space may opt for Xtra Carry-On, which increases the cabin baggage allowance to 14kg when pre-booked.

As travelers continue to embrace spontaneous shopping, longer vacations, and meaningful trips home, AirAsia Philippines' flexible baggage policy ensures guests can bring home more of what matters—without worrying about the number of bags they check in.

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

NOTE: The Communications and Public Affairs Group kindly requests for all media partners to follow the correct typography for the brand – for airline (AirAsia) spelled as one word with both As capitalized; and for non-airline (AirAsia MOVE) with MOVE capitalized.. 

For more information, feel free to contact:

AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Team: paa_commsandpublicaffairs1@airasia.com