Rain or Shine: Discover Rainy-Day Essentials at Your Most Loved SM Bulacan Malls

Rainy days may bring gloomy skies, but they also provide an excellent opportunity to refresh your everyday look with weather-resistant basics. Whether you're going to work, running errands, or spending a relaxing day at home, there are plenty of ways to find everything you need for the season at Your Most Loved SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Centre Pulilan.

1. Stylish Raincoats

A trendy raincoat is a must-have for rainy days. It provides both protection and style. The SM Store offers a diverse range of brilliant colors and traditional neutral designs to suit any wardrobe.

2. Waterproof Footwear

Wet pavements are no match for sturdy and fashionable waterproof footwear. Crocs and Melissa Clube  in SM City Marilao provides comfortable rain shoes and sandals that keep every step dry while remaining attractive.

3. Compact Umbrellas

Unexpected downpours become less of an issue with a dependable compact umbrella. Mr. DIY at SM Center Pulilan offers a wide range of umbrellas in traditional forms and interesting prints, making them ideal for everyday usage.

4. Cozy Accessories

Rainy days necessitate warm and comfortable gear. Scarves, caps, and other comfortable items are available at the SM Store to complement any rainy-day ensemble with both comfort and style.

5. Waterproof Bags

Miniso's waterproof bags make it easy to keep personal goods dry. These bags, made from sturdy materials like nylon and coated canvas, combine functionality with modern style for everyday use.

6. Insulated Drinkware

Staying hydrated is vital regardless of the weather. Surplus, AquaFlask, and Sunnies Flask sell insulated tumblers and bottles that keep beverages hot or cold longer, making them ideal companions throughout the day.

Rainy days no longer have to disrupt plans or style. From fashionable attire and practical accessories to everyday supplies, SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan provide everything needed to stay prepared, comfortable, and stylish during the rainy season, All For You.

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.

Light, Crispy, and Flavorful: Discover the NEW Magic Chips Thin & Crispy

Make your breaktime more fun with the delicious and flavorful Magic Chips Thin & Crispy, available in BBQ and Sour Cream and Onion flavors.

Some days can feel like they're on repeat—the same routine, tasks, and brief pauses in between. That's why even the smallest breaks should include something enjoyable, flavorful, and exciting to brighten the day. Taking a quick snack break with friends can transform an ordinary moment into something memorable. 

Enter the new Magic Chips Thin & Crispy, a lighter version of the popular Magic Chips designed to turn ordinary breaktimes into truly magical moments. It provides a uniquely light, airy, and flavorful bite by seamlessly combining the satisfying crunch of chips with the familiar sarap of crackers.

Magic Chips Thin & Crispy are baked rather than fried, making them thinner and crisper than ever before. This provides snack lovers with a delicious, guilt-free muncharap experience that they can enjoy whenever they need a quick break from their hectic schedules. 

Available in delicious BBQ (Barbeque) and Sour Cream & Onion flavors, each bite packs bold flavor into irresistibly thin, crispy pieces that keep snackers coming back for more.

Packed in convenient 28g pouches, Magic Chips Thin & Crispy is perfectly portioned for on-the-go snack breaks, study sessions, or commute cravings. Offering a more premium snacking experience at an affordable Suggested Retail Price (SRP) of 8.20 PHP, it is now available in leading retail stores nationwide, and major e-commerce platforms. 

Sometimes, all it takes is one crispy bite to turn an ordinary pause into something magical. So, basta break time, Magic.

Try Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) new Magic Chips Thin & Crispy today. Have a magical and guiltless munching with every crunchy bite.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. Magic Chips Thin & Crispy delivers a light, crunchy, and flavorful snacking experience that’s perfect for anytime cravings. It offers a satisfyingly thin & crispy texture and delicious flavors that make every moment more enjoyable. Packed with delicious flavors and affordably priced, Magic Chips Thin & Crispy lets Filipinos enjoy big taste without feeling weighed down- making every break more magical, whether enjoyed solo or shared with others. To learn more about URC, visit its Website at www.urc.com.ph, Facebook Page and TikTok account.

TARA! Your Next Great Getaway Is Already Here

Whenever someone says "Tara!", you instantly know an adventure is about to begin. It's one of the most recognizable Filipino expressions that means "Let's go!", "Come with me!", or "Join the adventure!" a simple invitation that reflects the warmth, excitement, and sense of togetherness that define Filipino travel.

From left: Claire Bernabe, Head of Sales of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR); Geraldine Gaw, General Manager of Hotel Lucky Chinatown; Eden Decano, Chief Finance Officer of MHR; Arturo Boncato Jr., Group General Manager of MHR; Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of MHR; Capt. Stanley Ng, Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism; Loleth So, Group Commercial Director of MHR; Divine delos Reyes, Head of People Management of MHR; Den Navarro, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Manila; Rowena Samonte, General Manager of Twin Lakes Hotel.

This beloved expression became the inspiration behind TARA! (Travel Away and Reignite Adventure), the newest nationwide campaign of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR). I recently attended its official media launch at Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo, Manila, where members of the media, travel bloggers, lifestyle influencers, and content creators gathered to witness how one of the country's leading hotel groups is encouraging Filipinos to rediscover the beauty of local destinations.

More than simply introducing a hotel promotion, the event celebrated domestic tourism and reminded everyone that memorable adventures don't always require international flights. Sometimes, the best experiences are found just a few hours away from home.

"This campaign reflects our shared belief with the Department of Tourism that domestic tourism remains one of the strongest drivers of a resilient and sustainable tourism industry. Every local trip supports livelihoods, celebrates our culture, and creates meaningful economic opportunities for communities across the country. Through TARA!, we hope to make discovering more to love about the Philippines easier, more accessible, and ultimately more rewarding for every Filipino." ~Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

Supporting Philippine Tourism One Staycation at a Time

"TARA! is not just another hotel room promotion. It is an invitation for Filipinos to rediscover the incredible destinations we already have, from the heritage streets of Manila and Iloilo to the pristine beaches of Boracay and Cebu to the cool escapes of Batangas. With thousands of room keys across our portfolio, we are creating more opportunities for travelers to explore different parts of the country while enjoying the warmth of our Sampaguita brand of service wherever they go." ~Loleth So, Group Commercial Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

The launch was graced by Stanley Ng, newly appointed Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism, who praised Megaworld Hotels & Resorts for supporting the DOT's "Discover More to Love" campaign.

Mr. Stanley Ng, Newly Appointed Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism

His message resonated with everyone in the room: the Philippines still has countless destinations waiting to be explored, and campaigns like TARA! make it easier for Filipinos to travel more frequently without stretching their budget.

According to the Department of Tourism, domestic tourism generated ₱3.26 trillion in tourism expenditure last year—an increase from ₱3.16 trillion in 2024. These figures highlight the growing interest of Filipinos in exploring their own country while supporting local businesses and communities.

A Binondo Food Crawl That Showed Travel Can Begin in Your Own City

One of my favorite parts of the event happened after the launch when we joined a specially curated Binondo Food Crawl.

 

Walking through the colorful streets of Binondo reminded me why this district remains one of Manila's greatest treasures. Established in 1594, Binondo is recognized as the oldest Chinatown in the world, making it one of the city's most historically significant destinations.

From iconic Chinese-Filipino delicacies to generations-old restaurants and hidden food gems, every stop reflected centuries of cultural exchange that continue to influence Filipino cuisine today. It was the perfect reminder that meaningful travel doesn't always mean going far—you can rediscover history, culture, and amazing food right in the heart of Manila.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts: The Largest Hotel Operator in the Philippines

One thing I learned during the launch is just how expansive Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has become.

Today, MHR manages 16 hotels with more than 9,000 room keys strategically located across Metro Manila, Boracay, Cebu, Batangas, and Iloilo. Each property is thoughtfully integrated within Megaworld's signature townships, allowing guests to enjoy hotels, shopping centers, restaurants, entertainment hubs, business districts, and tourist attractions all within one destination.

Whether you're planning a staycation, family vacation, romantic getaway, business trip, or workcation, there's a Megaworld hotel that perfectly suits your travel style.

TARA! Promo: Hotel Deals Starting at Only ₱3,800

The TARA! Travel Away and Reignite Adventure campaign runs until November 29, 2026, with stays valid until November 30, 2026. Guests can book directly through participating hotel websites using the promo code TARAMHR.

Here are the participating hotels and why each destination deserves a visit.

Belmont Hotel Manila

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

Located inside Newport City and just across NAIA Terminal 3 via the Runway Manila bridge, Belmont Hotel Manila is one of the most convenient hotels for travelers arriving or departing from Manila.

Trivia: Its rooftop swimming pool and rooftop bar offer relaxing views of the airport skyline, making it a favorite among transit travelers and staycation guests alike.

Savoy Hotel Manila

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

Just a few steps away from Newport World Resorts, Savoy Hotel Manila combines affordability with modern comfort.

Trivia: Its colorful contemporary interiors are inspired by travel and movement, making every corner Instagram-worthy while offering easy access to entertainment, shopping, and dining.

Grand Westside Hotel

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

Situated within Entertainment City, Grand Westside Hotel is Megaworld's newest landmark hospitality development.

Trivia: It is currently recognized as one of the largest hotels in the Philippines by room inventory, making it ideal for large conventions, business events, and leisure travelers visiting Manila Bay.

Kingsford Hotel Manila

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

Perfectly located near Okada Manila, Parqal, SM Mall of Asia, and other Entertainment City attractions.

Trivia: Families love staying here because of its proximity to Manila Ocean Park attractions, convention centers, and numerous dining destinations.

Hotel Lucky Chinatown

Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)

The launch venue itself perfectly showcased why Hotel Lucky Chinatown is the ideal base for exploring Binondo.

Trivia: Guests can easily walk to Binondo Church, Ongpin Street, Escolta, Jones Bridge, and some of Manila's oldest and most famous restaurants, making it one of the best hotels for food tourism and heritage walks.

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel

Promo: From ₱5,800 (with Breakfast)

Located inside Eastwood City, this hotel offers a perfect mix of business convenience and leisure.

Trivia: Eastwood City is recognized as the first-ever live-work-play township in the Philippines, pioneering the integrated township concept that Megaworld is known for today.

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas

Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)

Nestled in Ortigas Center, the hotel remains a favorite among business travelers.

Trivia: Its central location provides quick access to major shopping malls like SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza, and Estancia, making it an excellent base for both work and leisure.

Belmont Hotel Boracay

Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)

Located inside Boracay Newcoast, Belmont offers a peaceful alternative to the island's busier stations.

Trivia: Guests enjoy access to Newcoast Beach, a quieter stretch of white sand perfect for sunrise walks and relaxing away from the crowds.

Savoy Hotel Boracay

Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)

Known for its tropical-inspired architecture and family-friendly amenities.

Trivia: The hotel offers complimentary shuttle services to White Beach, giving guests the best of both worlds—peaceful accommodations and convenient access to Boracay's famous nightlife.

Chancellor Hotel Boracay

Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)

One of the newest additions to Megaworld Hotels & Resorts.

Trivia: Its modern design and strategic location make it an excellent option for travelers who want to experience Boracay's world-famous beaches while enjoying contemporary comforts.

Savoy Hotel Mactan

Promo: From ₱3,800 (with Breakfast)

Located within The Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City.

Trivia: The hotel is just minutes away from the historic Mactan Shrine, where local hero Lapu-Lapu defeated Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, making it an ideal base for combining history and beach adventures.

Mercure Mactan Cebu

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

A newly opened internationally branded hotel under the Accor group.

Trivia: It blends French-inspired hospitality with Filipino warmth while offering convenient access to beaches, island hopping tours, and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

Located inside Iloilo Business Park.

Trivia: It is only minutes away from the Iloilo Convention Center and serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Iloilo's famous heritage churches, museums, and culinary scene, including the city's renowned La Paz Batchoy.

Belmont Hotel Iloilo

Promo: From ₱3,800 (Room Only)

One of the newest hotels in Iloilo's thriving business district.

Trivia: Its location provides easy access to Festive Walk Mall, Iloilo River Esplanade, and many of the city's emerging lifestyle destinations.

Twin Lakes Hotel

Promo: From ₱5,800 (with Breakfast)

Perched above the Twin Lakes township in Batangas.

Trivia: It offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. Because of its cooler climate and vineyard-inspired surroundings, many visitors compare the experience to a countryside escape in Europe—without leaving the Philippines.

After attending the launch, I realized that TARA! is more than just another hotel sale. It's an invitation to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, support local tourism, and rediscover the incredible destinations our own country has to offer.

Whether you're planning a quick weekend staycation in Metro Manila, a food trip in Binondo, a relaxing beach escape in Boracay or Cebu, a cultural adventure in Iloilo, or a scenic retreat overlooking Taal Lake, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts makes it easier to travel without breaking the bank.

Sometimes, the best adventures aren't found abroad—they're waiting right here at home.

So the next time someone says, "Tara!", don't hesitate.

Pack your bags, book your stay, and experience why there's always more to discover, more to experience, and definitely more to love in the Philippines.

Galaxy Unpacked July 2026: A New Shape Unfolds

Samsung Electronics will host Galaxy Unpacked on July 22 in London, United Kingdom. — a city that creates trends rather than following them. 

Join us as we reveal the most recent additions to the Galaxy portfolio, which has redefined the foldable category. The next generation of Galaxy devices, which combine intelligent capabilities with innovative form factors, are expected to deliver more personalized and adaptive experiences, setting a new standard for the AI era.

The event will be streamed live on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning 9:00PM Philippine Time.

Make sure to register and complete the form at https://samsung.com/ph/unpacked to get a ₱2,000 e-voucher and a chance to win the newest Galaxy device.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-261104, 261688 Series of 2026

TECNO and Angélica Dass Co-Launched “100 Portraits of Becoming,” A Living Archive of Human Possibilities

As AI increasingly shapes how people are perceived and represented, an urgent question arises: how can we ensure that technology reflects humanity in all of its complexities?

TECNO believes that the answer begins with a simple principle: technology should help the world see people more accurately. With that belief, TECNO and Brazilian visual artist Angélica Dass launch "100 Portraits of Becoming," a two-year initiative that begins today in Nairobi, Kenya and will span five countries.

The "100 Portraits of Becoming" initiative, co-founded with Angélica Dass, seeks to capture 100 authentic portraits of people around the world and document their individual journeys of becoming. These portraits from various backgrounds serve as a testament to the human tapestry and spark a global cultural conversation about authentic representation, identity, dignity, and human becoming in the age of AI.

This collaboration is based on a shared commitment to recognizing the true diversity of human life, combining TECNO's inclusive imaging innovation, which helps individuals be represented more fairly, with Dass' human-centered approach to portraiture.

“Every image shapes assumptions — why it matters, who matters, and how people are understood. That makes fair and accurate representation increasingly important in the AI era. But beyond representation lies a bigger question: who is the real person behind the image? Through this project, we want to move beyond representation as technical accuracy alone and explore representation as recognition — enabling technology not only to capture people faithfully, but to help people feel truly seen. By moving beyond bias, labels, and stereotypes, we hope to build a future where technology reflects people more authentically and allows the world to understand them more fully. Truthful representation is the foundation of genuine human understanding.” ~Jack Guo, General Manager at TECNO

“As a photographer, I realize that I can be a channel for others to communicate. The ‘100 Portraits of Becoming’ initiative with TECNO creates such a channel for people to speak for themselves and be seen on their own terms. That is why this collaboration with TECNO felt meaningful to me. My portrait practice has always been less about documenting appearance and more about creating space for people to exist beyond assumptions. What moved me about this collaboration is the shared vision and the possibility of bringing that intention into a medium used by millions every day. I am excited that this initiative is not about defining people — it is about allowing identity to remain open, layered, and human. Because being visible is not the same as being understood. True recognition begins when we are seen as we really are.” ~Angélica Dass

Angélica Dass: Seeing Humanity Beyond Skin Tones

The collaboration with Angélica Dass is a natural extension of TECNO's vision and Dass' investigation into how technology, culture, and personal stories intersect to produce truthful forms of human representation. 

Angélica Dass, an award-winning Brazilian-Spanish visual artist best known for Humanae, a global portrait series that questions traditional notions of racial identity, recognized long before others that skin tones are more than just colors; they are reflections of distinct cultures and individual identities. Her work emphasizes that everyone deserves to be treated as an individual rather than a group.

Dass uses portraiture in her practice to highlight her subjects' individuality, viewing skin tone as an entry point into personal narratives rather than a label. Her impact extends far beyond traditional galleries; her 2016 TED Talk on skin and identity drew over two million viewers, and her work has been featured at leading platforms and institutions such as the World Economic Forum, UNESCO, AMNH, the Migration Museum in London, and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, as well as in publications such as National Geographic, Vogue, and Foreign Affairs.

“One thing I appreciate about the ‘100 Portraits of Becoming’ initiative is our shared belief that portraiture is not simply about recording appearance visually. It is a way of questioning assumptions, challenging labels, and creating space for people to be seen and understood beyond stereotypes.”

From 100 Portraits to 100 Ways of Seeing Humanity in Five Countries

Dass will photograph 100 people in five countries as part of "100 Portraits of Becoming," beginning in Kenya. To ensure maximum authenticity, participants register on a dedicated global website and are photographed in natural light, without filters, and in their own attire.

In addition to stepping in front of the camera, each person will share their personal stories of growth and evolution, demonstrating how they overcame various cultural and societal shifts to become who they are today.

These portraits and narratives will be featured on the project's website, resulting in a "Living Archive." This digital repository will provide a space for people from all walks of life to be seen, heard, and understood as part of a larger human story. As AI redefines representation, the archive aims to sustain a cultural conversation about dignity and identity.

TECNO Universal Tone: Expanding What Technology Can See

"100 Portraits of Becoming" will be shot on the TECNO CAMON 50 Ultra, which is equipped with TECNO Universal Tone Technology, providing the technological foundation for the project's commitment to truthful representation. 

Historically, mainstream AI models and imaging algorithms have frequently been trained on datasets that adhere to a narrow range of aesthetics, rendering them incapable of reflecting humanity's full diversity. As a result, people with non-fair skin tones are frequently misrepresented in mobile photography, with images being over-brightened, underexposed, or rendered in ways that do not accurately reflect their true appearance.

TECNO Universal Tone, which debuted in 2023, is the industry's most advanced AI-powered full-spectrum skin tone imaging technology. It combines TECNO's industry-leading multi-skin-tone color card, which currently includes 372 skin tones and is constantly expanding, with the industry's largest and most accurate skin tone database.

Universal Tone allows the portraits in this initiative to begin with fairness and authenticity by facilitating more accurate capture of the full spectrum of human skin tones. It helps to ensure that each subject is not corrected to a narrow standard, but rather represented with the dignity, nuance, and truthfulness that the project requires.

From Nairobi to the World: One Hundred Ways to See Humanity

"100 Portraits of Becoming" starts in Kenya for a reason. Kenya, home to one of the world's youngest populations and often referred to as the "Silicon Savannah," represents a future being shaped by the next generation — not somewhere else, but right here. From pioneering mobile financial inclusion to advancing local innovation across industries, Kenya has long challenged conventional wisdom about where progress begins. However, representation frequently lags behind reality, leading to assumptions. Places like Kenya are still too often framed in global media, and increasingly in AI-generated imagery, through inherited narratives rather than lived complexity.

In Kenya, this project is based on a different belief: people should be defined by the stories they tell themselves, not by the stories others tell them. The first portraits capture that spirit, showcasing entrepreneurs, farmers, dancers, artists, and everyday creators whose lives cannot be reduced to a single story. They're not keeping up with the future. They are helping to define it.

“People are always quick to tell you what you are and where you fit. I stopped waiting for that. The story that counts is the one I'm writing myself.” ~Alexander Odhiambo, a Kenyan participant in “100 Portraits of Becoming” and co-founder of Solutech Limited, an enterprise software company serving manufacturers and distributors across Africa

What starts in Nairobi does not end here. Over the next two years, "100 Portraits of Becoming" will travel to the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Brazil, creating a living archive of people, identities, and the moments that shape them. The first portraits and stories will go live online in early August, signaling the start of the campaign's full rollout.

The future of imaging isn't just about seeing more. It is about learning more. Through one technology, five countries, and one hundred portraits, "100 Portraits of Becoming" provides one hundred perspectives on humanity, one story at a time.

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

About TECNO

As a global innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 markets, TECNO has been committed to revolutionizing the digital experience in global emerging markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies and AI. TECNO offers a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, smart gaming, HiOS operating systems and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO is committed to unlocking the newest technologies and AI-powered new experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

About “100 Portraits of Becoming” by TECNO and Angélica Dass

“100 Portraits of Becoming” is a global portrait project created by TECNO together with internationally recognized artist Angélica Dass. Over two years, it will produce one hundred portraits across five countries — Kenya, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Brazil — pairing Dass’s portrait methodology with TECNO’s Universal Tone imaging technology. Each portrait moves beyond a face to the person behind it — to the lives unfolding across some of the world’s most dynamic markets. One hundred portraits become one hundred ways of seeing humanity — and one growing archive of who we are, told by the people living it. To participate in the portrait project, please visit: https://www.tecno-mobile.com/100portraitsofbecoming/.

Go Healthy with Taiwan 2026 Launches New Top 20 Mentorship Program to Turn Bold Health Ideas into Market-Ready Solutions

The 2026 campaign's Top 20 Mentorship Program matches finalists with industry experts to transform creative concepts into market-ready solutions, building on a record-breaking inaugural edition of 638 submissions from 55 countries. The program also welcomes more innovators globally to apply.

Following the global launch of the "Go Healthy with Taiwan 2026" campaign at a press conference in Taiwan on May 27, the global effort is currently seeking applications from innovators, startups, researchers, institutions, and organizations throughout the world, including those from the Philippines. Participants are encouraged to use Taiwan's products, technologies, and business models to create scalable health and wellness solutions. This year, a new Top 20 Mentorship Program gives each finalist immediate access to industry experts, providing a compelling new motivation for innovators worldwide to submit their ideas.

The campaign, organized by the International Trade Administration (TITA), Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taiwan, and implemented by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), focuses on the theme "Designing Healthier Futures Together." It highlights Taiwan's strengths in smart healthcare, medical devices, sports and fitness technology, healthy ageing, and wellness, encouraging participants to apply these capabilities to communities, workplaces, cities, and

In 2026, the Top 20 Mentorship Program will assist finalists in refining business models, validating market opportunities, accelerating commercialization, and strengthening international partnerships. The inaugural campaign received 638 proposals from 55 countries, exceeding the target of 100.

The impact of last year's campaign is already clear. In Ukraine, the winning team successfully installed Taiwanese medical equipment in healthcare institutions and used the entire prize money to boost equipment acquisition and hospital donations. Perovskia of Switzerland collaborated with Everlight Chemical on research that was published in Nature, with pilot production set to begin in 2026. Ideas Lab teamed with Taiwan Institute of Sports Science (TISS) to implement AI-powered motion analysis technology, providing access to professional-grade sports instruction.

How to Submit a Proposal 

Eligible participants can submit suggestions on the official Go Healthy with Taiwan website. Proposals must be in English and should describe the proposed solution, its estimated impact, and how it incorporates Taiwanese products, technology, services, or business models. Submissions will be reviewed using predefined grading criteria.

Submission Details & Deadlines 

Applications: https://bit.ly/GoHealthywithTaiwan2026PH

Submission Deadline: August 1, 2026 (23:59 GMT+8) 

Note: Applications cannot be modified after submission. 

The top three winning concepts will get US$30,000 each, and the top 20 finalists will receive personalized mentorship from industry professionals. The six finalists will also be invited on a funded trip to Taiwan to meet with prominent Taiwanese businesses, learn about the country's health innovation ecosystem firsthand, and compete in the final round.

AI, preventative care, and longevity-focused technology are transforming the global health industry, opening up new opportunities in fields such as healthcare, hospitality, insurance, workplace wellness, and sports science. Taiwan's established strengths in smart healthcare, digital health, and systems integration enable it to provide innovations that are easily adaptable to global markets. As the Philippines becomes a hub for digital health and wellness entrepreneurship, the campaign aims to scale innovative concepts through collaboration with Taiwan.

For more information, please visit the official website: https://gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org/ 

Participating in the “Go Healthy with Taiwan 2026” global contest is quick and easy. Just share your innovative idea by completing this e-Form ( https://bit.ly/GoHealthywithTaiwan2026PH ), and your submission will automatically be considered as your official contest entry.

Sip, Stay, Repeat: Coffee & Chill Moments Await at SM

Coffee has the power to unite people in some way. It provides energy for early mornings, gets through hectic afternoons, and makes for the ideal excuse to spend time alone or catch up with friends. This July is all about Coffee & Chill at your most loved SM Supermalls, where each cup serves as a call to relax, rejuvenate, and find your next favorite café.

Whether you are a devoted latte drinker, an iced americano enthusiast, or someone who is always looking for the latest café trend, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela provide numerous reasons to take a well-deserved coffee break. From globally recognized brands to proudly local favorites, each stop offers more than just great coffee. It provides a unique experience that is worth returning for.

PICK UP COFFEE AT SM CITY GRAND CENTRAL

Great coffee does not have to be expensive, and Pickup Coffee continues to demonstrate that. This proudly Filipino brand has become a favorite among students, professionals, and coffee lovers because it provides high-quality coffee at reasonable prices. Pickup Coffee uses beans sourced from Mt. Apo and Brazil to produce rich flavors that rival the most expensive brews. Popular drinks include the creamy Latte and the signature Kape Kastila, a delightful blend inspired by Filipino and Spanish coffee traditions. Whether you're grabbing a morning cup before work or taking a quick shopping break, Pickup Coffee makes every visit enjoyable without breaking the budget.

COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF® AT SM CITY GRAND CENTRAL

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® is bringing back its viral Dry Americano Series to celebrate its 23rd anniversary, giving coffee lovers another reason to visit. Following its success on social media last year, the Dry Americano returns with the well-known Dry Vanilla Americano and Dry Double Chocolate Americano, as well as the new Dry Hazelnut Chocolate Americano. Rich espresso combined with creamy half-and-half yields a smooth, indulgent finish that has become a coffee lover's favorite. Until August 16, 2026, guests can also collect stamps from participating beverage purchases to redeem a limited edition 23rd Anniversary Tumbler, making every coffee run even more enjoyable.

COTTI COFFEE AT SM CENTER SANGANDAAN

Cotti Coffee provides a premium café experience for those looking to explore international coffee flavors, using beans sourced from coffee-growing regions around the world, including Ethiopia and El Salvador. Its menu includes silky Americanos, creamy oat lattes, and refreshing matcha creations that appeal to both traditional coffee drinkers and adventurous café visitors. Whether you're catching up on work, meeting friends, or simply relaxing on a quiet afternoon, Cotti Coffee provides a welcoming environment to pause and recharge.

FAMOUS BELGIAN WAFFLE AT SM CENTER SANGANDAAN

Famous Belgian Waffle is best known for its freshly made waffles, but it has also quietly become a coffee lover's secret. Its carefully brewed coffee, made with locally sourced beans, pairs perfectly with its signature waffles, creating a cozy café experience that is both familiar and satisfying. It's ideal for anyone looking for a sweet treat to go with their freshly brewed coffee.

ZUS COFFEE AT SM CITY VALENZUELA 

Zus Coffee combines specialty coffee with everyday affordability, making high-quality brews accessible to all. Popular drinks include the refreshing Java Jelly Frappe and the smooth signature Americano, as well as an expanding selection of handcrafted beverages that continue to appeal to students, young professionals, and coffee enthusiasts alike. Zus Coffee, with its modern vibe and affordable menu, has quickly become one of your favorite hangout spots in SM City Valenzuela.

DUNKIN’ AT SM CITY VALENZUELA

Some coffee traditions never go out of style, and Dunkin' Donuts remains one of the country's most reliable coffee companions. Whether paired with its iconic donuts or a satisfying Bunwich, Dunkin' Donuts' signature hot and iced coffee continues to deliver the familiar flavors that generations have enjoyed. Dunkin' Donuts is a convenient stop for quick coffee breaks and everyday cravings, with branches in SM City Valenzuela, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Grand Central.

This July, make time to slow down and enjoy Coffee & Chill at your most loved SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela, the Home of Everyday Celebration.

Whether you're trying out a new café, revisiting an old favorite, or simply having meaningful conversations over coffee, each visit becomes another reason to celebrate life's everyday moments. Because sometimes all it takes is a great cup of coffee, good company, and the ideal setting to unwind.