Pru Life UK named International Life Insurer of the Year-Philippines at the 2025 Insurance Asia Awards

Pru Life UK won its sixth consecutive title as International Life Insurer of the Year - Philippines at the recent 2025 Insurance Asia Awards, confirming its position as the country's biggest insurer.

The Insurance Asia Awards are Asia Pacific's premier awards ceremony for the insurance industry.  It seeks to recognize and honor the region's most exceptional insurance firms for their innovation and significant influence on customers' lives.

“Winning the International Life Insurer of the Year – Philippines title for the fifth consecutive year is a testament to our dedication to excellence and inclusive growth. Over the past year, Pru Life UK has continued its focus on improving our business performance, while also empowering and accelerating value for our employees, customers, shareholders and communities. These initiatives play an important role in our growth. To date, we have insured over two million lives. Our people remain our greatest asset. In the past year, we have also reinforced our commitment to employee welfare through well-being initiatives and career development support, ensuring that our workforce remains motivated, resilient, and equipped to meet future challenges. We recognise that sustainable growth requires collective action, and we will continue to collaborate with partners, communities, and stakeholders to protect the planet and make a positive difference for generations to come. Once again, we are grateful to Insurance Asia Awards for this honour. We will use this accomplishment as an inspiration to continue delivering impactful work that empowers Filipinos.” ~Kathryn Cajucom, Vice President and Head of Branding and Integrated Marketing Communications

Maintaining customer trust

Pru Life UK won its sixth consecutive title as International Life Insurer of the Year - Philippines at the recent 2025 Insurance Asia Awards, confirming its position as the country's biggest insurer.

The Insurance Asia Awards are Asia Pacific's premier awards ceremony for the insurance industry.  It seeks to recognize and honor the region's most exceptional insurance firms for their innovation and significant influence on customers' lives.

Furthermore, Pru Life UK provided simple and secure cashless payment solutions to provide a more smooth and convenient experience for its consumers.  Its PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund allows customers to invest in dynamic growth possibilities in the global technology industry.

Keeping employees delighted

Fostering employee well-being and development is also among Pru Life UK’s key priorities.

In the past year, the company opened the PRUHouse head office, aimed at enhancing collaboration and promoting a customer-centric culture.

Pru Life UK has grown its workforce to more than 40,000 dedicated professionals and expanded its network to over 200 branches and general agencies nationwide.

Cultivating a sustainable future

Pru Life UK has strengthened its climate resilience strategy.  As part of this endeavor, it launched instructional sessions and a comic book that illustrate how climate change affects Filipinos' mental health and financial resiliency.

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future. 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of over 40,000 licensed agents. Its headquarters is based in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. 

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance. 

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* and Total Renewal Premium Income from Variable Life Insurance Products** as of FY 2024, according to the Insurance Commission. 

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a 175-year legacy of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come. 

For more information visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph.

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year

*Renewal Premium Income from Variable Life Insurance Products – premium collected for existing policies

TCL Maintains Dominance as Philippines' No. 1 Panel TV Brand!

Talk about a winning streak!  TCL, the Triple Global Top 1 TV Brand and a consumer electronics industry leader, has dominated the No. 1 slot in the Panel TV Brand category for the second year in a row, according to TRS Research's most recent Annual Cumulative Market Share Data for Panel TVs.  This news strengthens TCL's position as a global TV powerhouse!

As they enter their 25th year in operation, TCL has once again achieved a remarkable feat: capturing the lead in both market share (value and volume) for their core TV industry!  TCL has also dominated the premium TV market, taking the top spot for QLED televisions, according to TRS research.

Omdia, a market research company, recently awarded TCL three Global TOP 1 rankings, showcasing its supremacy in ultra-large TVs, Mini LED TVs, and Google TVs.

According to Omdia's most recent data, TCL dominated global shipments of 85-inch and larger TVs in 2024, with a 22.1% market share.  TCL also secured the top spot in Mini LED TV shipments, with a 28.8% share, and maintained its dominance in Google TV shipments worldwide from 2021 to 2024.

"TCL has truly become a trailblazer, driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation, pushing beyond limits to develop cutting-edge, sustainable technologies. We believe this relentless pursuit of progress is what continues to elevate TCL's brand value. With this recognition, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has helped us achieve this remarkable milestone. Through this partnership, TCL's innovations will ignite inspiration in billions, delivering exceptional experiences and contributing to a sustainable future all over the globe. TCL is committed to fulfilling its corporate social responsibility and fostering a better world.” ~Peter Chen, TCL Philippines’ visionary CEO 

TCL has been a vital role in bringing technology advancement not only to Filipino households, but around the world, continually offering breakthroughs that improve daily life.  This tradition of pushing limits and reimagining home experiences has made more intuitive, efficient, and powerful technologies available to a broader spectrum of Filipino families and others.

Celebrating Excellence and Greatness

TCL has also launched on an exciting new adventure, constantly improving everyday life and empowering customers with attractive, useful, and amazingly smart devices!  This milestone represents a bold embrace of the future, in which TCL remains passionately committed to envisioning and shaping tomorrow's homes for every Filipino. 

Another significant milestone to commemorate is TCL's global cooperation with the International Olympic Committee.  This relationship, which runs through 2032, demonstrates TCL's commitment to innovation and quality.  This cooperation, founded on shared principles of performance, enthusiasm, and a vision for greatness, will propel the Olympic and Paralympic Games to new heights.  TCL will enhance the Olympic Games by bringing cutting-edge technology to the Olympic Village and increasing the worldwide fan experience.

TCL goods will create unique experiences for spectators and athletes, ranging from digital displays at the Olympics to household appliances in the Olympic Village.  Through this new agreement, the organizations will also collaborate to transmit the magic of the Olympic Games to billions of fans worldwide via innovative marketing efforts.  TCL will play a crucial role as the IOC advances its Olympic AI Agenda, which includes enhancing fan and athlete experiences both on-site and at home.  TCL will also support the Olympic Games' "Athletes Moments" project, which allows competitors to interact with loved ones around the world immediately following their competition.

Looking ahead, TCL is positioned to achieve even greater success by expanding its ultra-large TV line with cutting-edge Mini LED technologies that provide even more immersive viewing experiences.  Crucially, TCL's solid collaboration with Google has contributed to its overall success.  TCL remains committed to bringing better, healthier lifestyles to consumers globally by seamlessly combining Google TV's smart capabilities with its innovative screens, paving the way for an exciting future in home entertainment.

For more updates on TCL’s upcoming product Launch, log on to https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.

About TCL Philippines:

TCL Electronics (HKG:1070) is a fast-growing consumer electronics company and a leading player in the global TV industry. Founded in 1981, it now operates in over 160 markets globally. TCL specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio, and smart home appliances. Visit the TCL home page at https://www.tcl.com/ph/en. 

Manila Water rallies barangay participation in July desludging roll-out

A Manila Water Advocacy Manager conducting an information, education, and communication (IEC) program at a barangay hall in Pasig.  

Manila Water's commitment to clean and healthy communities continues with the implementation of its July desludging program in Metro Manila's East Zone and sections of Rizal Province.  The company encourages locals to participate in this important service, which helps to reduce environmental contamination and promotes public health.

Manila Water runs an information, education, and communication (IEC) program ahead of each scheduled service to keep citizens informed and prepared.  The IEC workshops, which are held in collaboration with local government units and barangay offices, provide critical information to households on the desludging process, its benefits, and the procedures they must follow prior to service day.

“Desludging is a shared responsibility, and through our IEC program on sanitation, we make sure communities are equipped with the knowledge they need to participate actively.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Director 

For July, Manila Water desludging trucks and ground personnel will be deployed in the following barangays: San Jose in Antipolo; San Isidro in Taytay; San Pedro in Angono; Mambog, Layunan, Libis, and Libid in Binangonan; San Jose, San Isidro, and Balite in Montalban (Rodriguez); Ampid II and Banaba in San Mateo; Gulod Malaya, Silangan, Sta. Elena, and Industrial Valley Complex in Marikina; Rosario, Santolan, and Buting in Pasig City; Alicia, Pasong Tamo, Loyola Heights, Bagong Pag-asa, San Roque, Ramon Magsaysay Damayang Lagi, and Holy Spirit in Quezon City; Balong Bato, Ermitanyo, Pedro Cruz, Little Baguio, and Maytunas in San Juan City; and Poblacion and Mabini-J. Rizal in Mandaluyong City. 

Regular desludging not only ensures that septic systems run properly, but it also helps to protect water sources, reduce pollution, and promote community health.  Residents who participate in this service help to make the environment cleaner and the community safer and more resilient for everyone.

AirAsia Philippines Now Serving Taipei with 17 Flights a Week

In response to rising travel demand between Manila and Taipei, AirAsia Philippines increased its flight frequency to Taiwan's capital from 14 to 17 times weekly beginning in July.

The move comes after AirAsia Philippines posted a good average load factor of 85% on its Taipei route, indicating strong and continuous guest interest, with Taipei ranking among AirAsia Philippines' top foreign destinations.

From January to June 2025, the airline flew over 70,000 visitors to Taipei, and this figure is projected to rise as visa-free entry for Filipino travelers staying in Taiwan for 14 days is extended until July 31, 2026.

“The additional flights come at the perfect time as we enter Q3 and gear up for the peak travel season. This move gets us ready for the expected surge in demand during the ‘Ber’ months, when many Filipinos head to Taipei to enjoy its cooler climate from September through February. It also allows us to serve our guests better by offering more options and flexibility whether they’re flying for leisure, business, or to reconnect with family and friends.” ~Suresh Bangah, AirAsia Philippines President and CEO

In addition to increasing flight frequencies, AirAsia Philippines is strengthening its 15 + 1 fleet to accommodate growing demand on both domestic and international routes, confirming its commitment to accessible and dependable travel for all.

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.

Cebu Pacific Showcases Filipino Culture at Australia’s Bondi Festival

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, has introduced the warmth and richness of Filipino culture to Australia with the opening of the Cebu Pacific Travel Beach Bar at Bondi Beach, a first-of-its-kind heated beach bar that offers visitors to the annual Bondi Festival a unique way to experience the Philippines.

The travel beach bar is surrounded by standing heaters that create a pleasant environment evocative of the Philippine climate, providing the ideal retreat from Australia's cold season.  It also serves Filipino cuisine, music, and a design inspired by the bahay kubo, bringing a taste of the Philippines to Bondi Beach, one of Australia's most renowned locations.

Until July 31, 2025, CEB passengers can book flights to Australia for as little as PHP 7,999 for a one-way all-in price.  The travel period runs from August 1 to December 31, 2025, making it ideal for holiday holidays. 

CEB's travel beach bar is the first time an airline has been an official airline partner of the Bondi Festival—a ground-breaking relationship that demonstrates CEB's dedication to bringing Filipino joy to the global arena.   Festivalgoers can visit the Cebu Pacific Travel Beach Bar till July 20.

 

The travel beach bar complements CEB's Fly to Your Happy Philippines campaign, as the airline expands its global efforts to encourage visitors to discover the country's varied islands in their own distinctive way.

Bondi Beach, located just outside of central Sydney, is noted for its long stretches of sand, surf culture, and laid-back environment, which appeals to both locals and tourists.  It hosts the Bondi Festival every winter, a celebration of arts, live entertainment, and culinary experiences made even more thrilling by CEB's tropical-themed vacation beach bar.

With daily flights between Manila and Sydney and four weekly flights to Melbourne, Filipinos may explore Bondi Beach and other classic Australian attractions.  From Sydney's Bondi Beach and Opera House to Melbourne's Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, there's much to see all year round.

CEB launched its Manila-Sydney route in 2014, followed by Manila-Melbourne in 2018. The airline has flown over 250 million passengers as it continues to offer affordable and accessible flights.

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com.

Cebu Pacific's Social Media Accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cebupacificairphilippines

X: https://twitter.com/CebuPacificAir

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cebupacificair

HBO Original Harry Potter Television Series Begins Production

Warner Bros. has begun production on HBO's Original Harry Potter television series. The series, produced by Leavesden Studios in the United Kingdom, will premiere in 2027 on HBO and HBO Max in regions such as Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

The recently revealed cast includes Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley, Louise Brealey as Madam Rolanda Hooch, and Anton Lesser as Garrick Ollivander.

Newly announced department heads include Adriano Goldman (Director of Photography), Cate Hall (Hair and Makeup Designer), Paul Herbert (Stunt Coordinator), Mark Holt (SFX Supervisor), Mara LePere-Schloop (Production Designer), Naomi Moore (Set Decorator), John Nolan (Creature Effects Design Supervisor), Alexis Wajsbrot (VFX Supervisor), Dom Sidoli (VFX Producer), and previously announced Holly Waddington (Costume Designer). 

Francesca Gardiner wrote and executive produced the next series.  Mark Mylod, in collaboration with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros., will executive produce and direct several episodes of the HBO series.  Television.  J.K. is the executive producer of the series.  Rowling, Neil Blair, Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman from Heyday Films.

Revisit the complete Harry Potter movie collection on HBO Max. Subscribe to HBO Max at  www.hbomax.com or via the Apple App Store or  Google Play Store from only ₱149/month & ₱1,040/12 months and stream on HBO Max via your preferred device. 

About HBO Max

HBO Max is the premier global streaming platform from Warner Bros. Discovery that delivers the most unique and captivating stories, ranging from the highest quality in scripted programming, movies, documentaries and true crime to adult animation. HBO Max is the destination for prestigious entertainment brands such as HBO, Warner Bros., Max Originals, DC, Harry Potter, as well as iconic shows like Friends and The Big Bang Theory, all in one place. www.hbomax.com.

Worried about Dropping Your Phone or Getting Caught in the Rain? Meet the Phone Designed to Face It All, the HUAWEI nova Y73

With the rainy season officially underway in the Philippines, every commuter, traveler, and on-the-go user understands the difficulty of rushing through a sudden rainstorm while carrying an umbrella, a backpack, and a smartphone.  If you're concerned about your phone sliding from your grasp or being caught in an unexpected rain shower, the Huawei Nova Y73 is the best smartphone option for you.

The HUAWEI nova Y73, which will be available for PHP 9,999 with a free HUAWEI Band (worth PHP 2,399) in July, is a sleek, attractive gadget designed to withstand the unpredictable nature of daily life.  Whether you're avoiding the weather or combating carelessness, this smartphone is built to withstand it all.

Feel at Ease with a Rain-Ready, Life-Proof Smartphone

In a place where the weather may change from beautiful skies to tropical deluge in an instant, your technology must be as adaptive as you.  The HUAWEI nova Y73 provides peace of mind this rainy season with a durable design from the inside out.

The phone is 1.8m drop resistant and can withstand pressures of up to 65kg.  Furthermore, the HUAWEI Nova Y73's strengthened aluminum alloy frame and cleverly optimized structure provide 360° protection and 5-star, SGS-certified drop resistance.  This shields all sides of the phone from life's unavoidable slips and bumps.  From smooth marble floors to gritty cement streets, the HUAWEI nova Y73 can easily handle a variety of surfaces since its body and key components are well sheltered from impact.

Stay in Control of Your Phone Even in the Rain

Did you get your fingers wet while looking for your phone in the rain?  The HUAWEI nova Y73's Splash Touch technology allows you to navigate the phone with ease.  This ensures that touch controls remain precise even with damp fingers.  Furthermore, the phone's 6.67" Eye Comfort Display is designed to be easy on the eyes while remaining clear in bright sunlight or dark rain clouds. 

If you are caught in a sudden downpour, using your phone can be difficult.  With the HUAWEI X-Button, you don't have to navigate through so many buttons to get to your most important apps quickly.  It provides a one-click gateway that makes phone use easier, faster, and more intuitive.

A simple push of the button activates the customisable Quick Access menu, providing rapid access to your favorite programs.  You can even skip the menu entirely by double or long clicking the button.  This allows you to quickly access the most important elements, such as Maps, Camera, and Notes. 

Fuel Your Day with Battery Power That Outlasts the Storm

With everything so uncertain, including the weather, the last thing you want is battery anxiety.  Whether you're dealing with inclement weather or a hectic schedule, the HUAWEI Nova Y73's enormous 6620mAh Super Battery is designed to last.  You no longer have to continually look for a charger or power bank.

The HUAWEI nova Y73 is designed to withstand hectic schedules, rainy delays, and impromptu adventures, lasting up to two days on a single charge.  Even in extreme temperatures as low as -20°C, the phone's battery remains robust.  When you need a boost, the 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo kicks in, providing up to 5 hours of movie playback in just 10 minutes of charging.

The HUAWEI nova Y73 comes equipped with standard safety features.  The phone includes AI-powered battery-saving technology and global battery safety certifications.  This assures that the HUAWEI nova Y73 is not only durable, but also protective.  It's a clever, efficient, and worry-free device that can withstand whatever the day delivers, rain or shine.

Be Ready for Rain, Drops, and Everything in Between with the HUAWEI nova Y73

From accidental slips to rain splashes, the HUAWEI nova Y73 can face it all without cracking under pressure—literally. Grab yours for PHP 9,999 on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide. 

This July, gear up for the new school year with a free HUAWEI Band (worth PHP 2,399) that comes with every HUAWEI nova Y73 purchase. Collect vouchers worth PHP 300 on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok until July 31, 2025.

To learn more about the HUAWEI nova Y73, 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 and 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.