PCPPI, LC BigMak renew beverage partnership for nationwide outlet network

The local fast-food kiosk chain LC BigMak and Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) have officially extended their partnership, ushering in a new phase of a business partnership based on nearly ten years of cooperation, common standards, and service to Filipino customers.

The PCPPI Sto hosted a ceremonial contract signing that formalized the renewed agreement. PCPPI will become LC BigMak's exclusive beverage partner across its more than 850 locations nationwide thanks to the Tomas Plant in Batangas.

The signing was attended by senior leaders from PCPPI, PepsiCo, and LC BigMak, including PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Phyo Phyu Noe, Chief Commercial Officer Lyndon Cuadra, and General Manager for Food Service and National Development Joseph Michael Go; PepsiCo General Manager Aditya Sheoran, Chief Marketing Officer Nicole Villarojo, and Franchise Lead Juris Melencio; and LC BigMak Chairman and Founder Francis Dy, Founder Edna Dy, and CEO Mark Dy.

The renewed partnership, according to PCPPI, is a reflection of the company's ongoing commitment to enhancing food service relationships by providing dependable supply, consistent execution, and greater value to clients and consumers.

“This is not a cold beginning. It is a return. A renewal. A second chapter,” said Phyo. “We will serve LC BigMak with the seriousness that your history deserves, with the discipline that your scale requires, and with the ambition that your future warrants.” ~Phyo Phyu Noe, PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer

LC BigMak, a family-run business founded in 1984 with its headquarters located in Lucena City, has developed into one of the most well-known fast-food burger kiosk networks in the nation. In keeping with the brand's familial origins, the name is derived from the initials of Maxima and Kimsuy, the founders' parents.

“We are proud to partner again with a globally recognized brand like Pepsi,” Dy said. “To our partners in Pepsi, thank you for your renewed trust and collaboration. We look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.” ~Francis Dy, BigMak Chairman and Founder 

By combining the chain's well-known, affordable food options with PepsiCo beverages that are consistently served throughout its locations, PCPPI and LC BigMak hope to improve the experience throughout LC BigMak's national network.

Additionally, the renewed partnership demonstrates PCPPI's wider dedication to providing better route-to-market support, disciplined execution, and partnerships that add value to regular consumer events in order to serve more customers.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum, Saero, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Vermosa Green Run 5.0 achieves sustainability goals

The fifth edition of the Vermosa Green Run took place on Sunday, June 28, at the Vermosa Estates in Imus, Cavite, with over 2,000 runners and their dogs.

The five-tiered dawn run drew running enthusiasts, run club members, elite runners, and fun runners, as well as members of the running media. Edgardo Panopio and Lorely Magalona won gold in the 21K category; Jomm Lacanilao-Gay and Patrice Quiday dominated the 10K run; John Mark Balogo and Ira Alvaro finished first in the 5K category; Jessi Valentine and Danielle Sophia dominated the 3K category; and Moises Calastravo and his dog, Onzi, made their mark in the 1K Dog Run.

Participants in the Run were encouraged to donate used plastic bottles. These would then be turned over to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) for upcycling into eco-bricks to support sustainable construction at Ayala Land projects. 

The runners' singlets, finisher shirts, and dog bandanas were also made entirely from recycled PET bottles, converting plastic waste into high-quality sportswear.

"We wanted our runners to experience sustainability both literally and symbolically. This year, we offered a discount for donating used PET bottles, and the community supported this! Celebrating our landmark fifth consecutive year, the energy across our 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K tracks, and 1K Dog Run was unmatched. Seeing families, elite athletes, and pet lovers come together at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub shows that our community's passion for fitness is deeply intertwined with environmental action. Looking ahead, our goal is to continue scaling this impact. While Vermosa remains our flagship home because of its expansive, nature-forward open spaces, we are constantly exploring deeper corporate and community partnerships. We want to bring more runners into the fold each year, proving that active, high-performance lifestyles can be completely sustainable." ~Lani Tan, General Manager of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub

Environmental runs, such as the Vermosa Green Run, help to save the planet by raising funds for ecological projects, promoting sustainable habits, and directly supporting initiatives like tree planting.

This year, the Vermosa Green Run encouraged corporate and group registrations, inviting groups of ten to participate and automatically join the Haribon Foundation's Forests for Life Movement. The Haribon initiative supports native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities across the country by bringing together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests through a science-based rainforestation approach that focuses on planting and nurturing native tree species.

"Our partnership with the Haribon Foundation is a cornerstone of why we do this. Over the past few editions, the funds raised have gone directly into Haribon's Adopt-a-Seedling and rainforestation programs. For this milestone 5th edition, we were overwhelmed by registrations where we attracted many groups of 10. That means hundreds of new native trees will be nurtured directly because of our runners’ strides today. Crossing the finish line is fantastic, but knowing your team left a lasting ecological legacy is the real victory." ~Letty Oh-Naňagas, Vermosa Marketing Manager

Beneficiaries of The Green Run at Vermosa 2026 are Haribon Foundation, Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project as the expression of its advocacy for ecosystem conservation, an active lifestyle and youth sports development, and animal welfare.

Supporters of the fifth edition of the Vermosa Green Run are Oishi, Merrell, Pocari, Salonpas, Booster C, Fitbar, Gatsby, Milo, Apex, Topbreed, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Special, Entrée Gourmet Pet Treats, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, Zert, and Wonderpaw.

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.

McDonald’s Celebrates National Fries Day on July 10 with BFF Fries Blowout

McDonald's Philippines is returning Filipino fans' love for its World Famous Fries® with a special blowout on National Fries Day. Fans can get BFF Fries for only P99 (via the McDonald's app) on July 10 at all locations nationwide.

“We are really proud of our World Famous Fries ®, and we’re thankful for all the Filipino fans who consider it their go-to for fries. Since we introduced the BFF Fries over a decade ago , we’ve seen how barkadas, families, and workmates have such fun sharing their favorite. And we can’t think of a better way to celebrate National Fries Day than with BFF fries.” ~Ada Almendras-Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines’ Chief Marketing Officer

McDonald's World Famous Fries are the most popular menu item in the Philippines and around the world. Deep fried and straight cut from whole potatoes, salted and served hot and crispy, they are typically served with tomato ketchup but have been creatively combined with other McDonald's food items such as the Hot Fudge Sundae or gravy. The iconic red fry box can be seen on trays and takeout bags at any time of day.

The National Fries Day BFF Fries Blowout for only P99 (down from P183) is available for one day only on Friday, July 10, exclusively through the McDonald's App. Fans and customers can use the app to redeem the deal, which is available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and in-store ordering kiosk.

Promo runs under DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-260604 Series of 2026.

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

About McDonald’s Philippines

McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holders Dr. George T. Yang & Kenneth S. Yang brought McDonald’s to the Philippines in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a network of over 860 stores nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of Choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines

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