CHURROSTAR Now Open at SM City Valenzuela

The Korean cuisine revolution shows no signs of slowing down, and it now has a delightful new stop in Valenzuela City. CHURROSTAR, a new spin on the classic churro, has opened its doors at SM City Valenzuela, bringing a lively, street-snack ambiance to the mall's expanding culinary scene.

Churros at CHURROSTAR are more than just a sweet treat. Each one is created to order and fried to a beautiful golden crisp, with a soft, chewy middle that melts in your mouth. The aroma of warm dough and sugar wafts through the store, making it nearly hard to walk by without pausing for a taste.

Customers might stick with traditional flavors like cinnamon or icing sugar, or they can try something new. Dipping sauces range from chocolate and caramel to popular tastes like ube and berry, all with a modern, Korean-inspired twist. It's a combo that's equally enjoyable to eat as it is to shoot.

Beyond the food, CHURROSTAR has established a reputation for casual excess. It is ideal for a fast merienda, a post-shopping treat, or catching up with friends over a modern yet comfortable sweet snack. With ample quantities at reasonable rates, it is intended to be a regular stop rather than a one-time treat.

CHURROSTAR's arrival reflects a larger shift in dining trends. Korean-inspired concepts are gradually influencing the local food scene, and malls such as SM City Valenzuela are becoming popular destinations for experiencing new flavors without leaving the north side.

Find CHURROSTAR on the second floor of SM City Valenzuela and prepare to satisfy your taste senses with something both familiar and delightfully new.

SM Morning Beats & Brews Brings the Vibes to Bulacan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Asia’s Biggest ACE Store Opens at Baliwag, Bulacan

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

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

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

Everything You Need, All in One Place

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

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

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

Strengthening a Growing Network

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT GLOBE 

Globe Telecom, Inc. is a leading digital platform in the Philippines with interests in telecommunications, fintech, venture building, shared services, and digital marketing. It is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange under the symbol GLO. The company delivers a full suite of mobile, broadband, data, and managed services to meet the needs of consumers and businesses. A UN Global Compact Participant, Globe is the first publicly listed Philippine firm with approved near- and long-term science-based targets under the SBTi. It was named one of TIME and Statista's Most Sustainable Companies in 2025. Its back-to-back inclusion in the Fortune Southeast Asia 500 in 2024 and 2025 affirms its growth and leadership. Its principals are Ayala Corporation and Singtel, prominent industry leaders in the region.

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

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

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

Get More Done Anywhere with PC-Like Productivity

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portable Power That Keeps Up with Your Day

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

About HUAWEI Consumer BG

 

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

 

For more information please visit: this page.

PCPPI Chief ESG Officer Joins BSP Leadership and Sustainability Summit Panel

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

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

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

Main Character Meals: Kain Lokal Arrives at SM City Baliwag

Good food tastes different when it's local, and Kain Lokal at SM City Baliwag is an excellent example. This native restaurant celebrates Filipino dishes that we all know and love, prepared with heart, heritage, and a lot of sarap.

From cozy classics to daring, innovative twists on local favorites, Kain Lokal is all about huge flavors at reasonable costs. The menu items they serve, such as silog, pares, unli rice, and unli kape, evoke memories, while the next makes you say, "Balik us here."

Kain Lokal is more than just a supper; it's a celebration of Filipino cuisine and camaraderie. It's never been more enjoyable to support local businesses.

Visit Kain Lokal located at SM City Baliwag Central Terminal! Come hungry. Leave happy. Eat local.

SIP & WIN AT SM

For coffee lovers, mornings are important and at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan, this routine activity now has an exciting twist.

Following the success of Morning Beats and Brews, SM returns attention to café culture with the Sip & Win Promo, a campaign aimed at individuals who see coffee as more than just a beverage but as an essential part of their lifestyle.

From specialty brews to everyday favorites, every coffee break now has the chance to win. Shoppers can earn one (1) e-raffle entry for every ₱500 worth of single or accumulated purchases from participating tenants. Each drink brings you closer to winning a Suzuki S-Presso GL MT, turning routine coffee errands into truly remarkable experiences.

The Sip & Win Promotion, which runs until April 10, invites caffeine enthusiasts to relax, discover new café favorites, and enjoy the vibrant coffee scene at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Whether you prefer a strong espresso, a creamy latte, or an iced pick-me-up, your coffee breaks may provide a delightful surprise.

Because at SM, coffee is more than just a part of your day. It's an experience worth cherishing and appreciating. Visit SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, or SM Center Sangandaan now!

Myth Avenue Gaming, Fancy United secure the 2026 Predator Shield

The Asia-Pacific Predator League concluded in New Delhi, India. What began with 24 VALORANT and Dota 2 teams from 14 regions around Asia-Pacific ended with only the best of the best taking home the Predator Shield. 

To many people's surprise, rising Vietnamese squad Fancy United defeated fan favorite BOOM Esports on Day 1 of the event, winning the trophy and a $65,000 part of the prize pool. Young shot Hoàng "Twilight" Minh Dũng was an unstoppable force for the Vietnamese, racking up an amazing 40 kills during their series versus BOOM Esports. Twilight's efforts earned him the tournament MVP title and a $10,000 cash reward.

In Dota 2, Myth Avenue Gaming defended their Predator Shield against in-form REKONIX, who had earlier on Day 2 bested the Philippine squad InterActive Philippines. The series went all the way as the two squads proved equal in skill and mettle. The deciding Game 3 was a 41-minute brawl that showcased Myth Avenue Gaming’s dominance, allowing them to take home the Predator Shield anew and $65,000. Myth Avenue Gaming racked up 44 kills in the deciding game, with offlaner ‘egxrdemxn’ showing everyone why he deserved to be the MVP and take home $10,000. 

Philippine grit in full display

Throughout the South Asian LAN, Philippine teams went all out. Xipto Esports, lead by former Team Secret stalwart Emmanuel 'Emman' Morales, was instrumental in the VALORANT team's success, carrying the banner all the way to a Top 4 finish. Meanwhile, despite being a late addition to the Dota 2 roster, InterActive Philippines delivered some unexpected results.

Xipto Esports defeated APAC Predator League Philippine Champions Oasis Gaming in the event. Oasis Gaming went eliminated with a 1-2 record in the Group Stage, while Xipto Esports won their difficult Group C assignment. Xipto Esports lost to BOOM Esports in the semifinals, which featured international VALORANT superstar and former VCT Masters winner Nikita 'd3ffo' Sudakov. While they were unable to hoist the Predator Shield this time, Xipto Esports demonstrated their latent potential.

Indonesia’s REKONIX was InterActive Philippines’ (IAP) obstacle to reaching the grand finals. REKONIX was the team that sent IAP to the Lower Brackets, so IAP didn’t need any extra motivation to send the Indonesians packing in New Delhi. The match was a tightly contested affair that went all the way to three games. In the Winner-Take-All Game 3, a Slardar and Anti-Mage draft misfired for IAP, and REKONIX secured their Grand Finals slot.

At the conclusion of the tournament, it was officially announced that APAC Predator League 2027 will be held in Vietnam.  

For more information and updates about the Predator League, follow Predator Gaming on Facebook or visit the official website www.predator-league.com. 

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Pru Life UK expands climate resilience and community support efforts in Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island residents received gift packs as part of Pru Life UK’s annual gift-giving tradition.

Pru Life UK, a leading life insurer, renewed its commitment to the Bantayan Island community in Cebu through Ulan Alang sa Bantayan, the company's climate resilience initiative, as well as its yearly gift-giving activity. 

Ulan Alang sa Bantayan, which will launch in 2024, intends to educate communities and build long-term resilience to the effects of climate change, with a particular emphasis on water security. During the program's first year, Pru Life UK donated two rainwater harvesting systems to its sponsored villages, providing over 500 families with a consistent 2,000-liter supply of clean water. To ensure long-term support for the communities, training sessions on correct system use and maintenance were also provided.

As part of its annual gift-giving tradition, the company expanded the initiative this year by providing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) training and distributing gift packs. Pru Life UK also piloted a new financial literacy curriculum for adults designed by Prudence Foundation, Prudential plc's community investment arm.

“Ug alang kanako, dako kaayo og impact ang WASH program, labi na sa tubig tungod kay ang tubig maoy naghatag og kinabuhi alang kanatong tanan, ug naghatag og limpiyo sa atong matag usa. Ug labaw sa tanan, dako kaayo ikatabang kanato, ingon nga paglimpiyo sa atong kaugalingon, ug labaw sa tanan, personal hygiene alang kanato. Dako kaayo ni'g ikatabang tungod kay kon limpiyo ang atong kaugalingon, limpiyo sab ang atong palibot. (For me, the WASH programme has a huge impact, especially when it comes to water because water gives life to all of us and provides cleanliness for each one of us. Above all, it greatly helps us in cleaning ourselves and maintaining personal hygiene. This is very important because when we are clean, our surroundings are also clean.” ~Mr. Rolly Giducos, Community Leader from Maricaban, Santa Fe on Bantayan Island, one of the community beneficiaries)

Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer, Calvin Kohchet-Chua together with PRUVolunteers, the ASSIST team, and beneficiaries from the Maricaban and Sulangan communities of Bantayan Island, Cebu.

Pru Life UK's assistance for Bantayan Island began when the Prudence Foundation developed a multi-year relationship with Habitat for Humanity Philippines to help locals rebuild their houses following Super Typhoon Yolanda. When the housing initiative was completed in 2017, the company continued its annual outreach, which has since evolved and expanded through the Ulan Alang sa Bantayan program, which was developed in collaboration with the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) to align with its larger climate and health advocacy efforts.

“Our work in Bantayan reflects our belief that progress is built through trust and shared responsibility. As Ulan Alang sa Bantayan grows, so does our dedication to helping communities prepare for the future with confidence and security.” ~Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer

Calvin Kohchet-Chua - Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer

Pru Life UK continues to represent what it means to be a trusted partner in protection by establishing long-term partnerships and programs that address both current and long-term needs.

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 close to 38,000 licensed agents. 

  

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* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

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

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

AirAsia Philippines Launches Flights to Vietnam from ₱888​

AirAsia Philippines begins 2026 with a significant expansion of its international network, including the opening of two new flights to Vietnam. This network expansion strengthens AirAsia's expanding foothold in Southeast Asia and provides more economical options for Filipino visitors to visit the region.

Guests can book flights from Manila to Hanoi and Da Nang with initial one-way base tickets starting at ₱888, exclusive of fees and surcharges, until February 1, 2026, with travel dates from March 20 to October 25, 2026.

Both routes will begin on March 20, 2026, giving customers plenty of time to plan and book affordable seats for their next overseas trip.

“The addition of Vietnam to our route network highlights AirAsia Philippines’ commitment to growth and leadership in the budget travel market. Our hope is to give Filipino travelers  more choices, better value, and easier access to exciting destinations in Southeast Asia. We also aim to bring more tourists to the Philippines to contribute to economic growth.” ~Capt. Suresh Bangah, CEO and President of AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia Philippines will operate four weekly flights to Hanoi and four weekly flights to Da Nang on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with convenient afternoon to evening departure times.

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.

Manila Water strengthens water and wastewater advocacy through Lakbayan

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

Manila Water, an East Zone concessionaire, is strengthening its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program, Lakbayan, which offers educational facility tours that provide participants with an in-depth look at the company's water and wastewater facilities.

This campaign seeks to raise awareness of the importance of water and encourage responsible consumption among communities, partners, and stakeholders.

Lakbayan provides participants with a unique opportunity to experience the full water cycle, from raw water supply and treatment to distribution and wastewater management. Visitors visiting Manila Water's cutting-edge facilities can learn firsthand about the processes that maintain a safe, clean, and reliable water supply, as well as the systems that treat wastewater before returning it to the environment.

Since its debut in 2006, Lakbayan has brought together thousands of students, local government entities, and private businesses to create a better knowledge of the water cycle and our joint role in protecting this critical resource. In 2025, Manila Water, headed by its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, held 65 Lakbayan excursions, with 2,151 people participating.

Participating organizations included the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DILG-National Capital Region, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Government of Makati, Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pateros, San Agustin Seminary, University of the Philippines, Technological University of Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, Western Mindanao State University, and other public and private schools.

“Water is a finite resource and its responsible use is a shared obligation, yet it is often overlooked. Lakbayan allows us to share the science, innovation and our dedication behind every drop. Our goal is to inspire individuals and organizations to take meaningful action, whether through simple daily habits or large-scale programs, to conserve water and protect the environment. Every effort, big or small, creates a ripple of impact.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

The show focuses on Manila Water's advocacy for water conservation and environmental protection. By demonstrating the complexities and necessity of water and wastewater management, Lakbayan encourages participants to become sustainability advocates in their own communities.

Manila Water welcomes all stakeholders to experience Lakbayan. For schedules and reservations, interested parties may email info@manilawater.com.

Acer Expands Connectivity Product Lineup with New Predator 5G CPE, Wi-Fi 7 Mesh Routers, and Mobile Hotspot

New Predator Connect X7S 5G CPE, Acer Connect Ovia Wi-Fi 7 mesh routers, and Acer Connect M4D 5G Mobile Wi-Fi deliver ultra-fast, secure connectivity for gaming, home, and on-the-go use.

Acer has expanded its connectivity product portfolio with four new networking devices that deliver next-generation Wi-Fi 7 and 5G capabilities to new use cases. The new lineup includes the Predator Connect X7S 5G CPE, the Acer Connect Ovia T360 Wi-Fi 7 Dual-Band Mesh Router, the Acer Connect Ovia T520 Wi-Fi 7 Tri-Band Mesh Router, and the Acer Connect M4D 5G Mobile Wi-Fi, all of which are designed to provide fast, stable, and secure connections for smart homes, gamers, hybrid workers, and frequent travelers.

Predator Connect X7S 5G CPE: 5G and Wi-Fi 7 for Gaming and Entertainment

For gamers and performance-oriented customers, the Predator Connect X7S 5G CPE provides 5G connectivity with downlink rates of up to 4.67 Gbps, allowing it to handle more demanding gaming and streaming scenarios even in areas with poor fiber connectivity. It supports tri-band Wi-Fi 7 (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands) to provide minimal latency and excellent throughput across the house.

Advanced Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and Wi-Fi 7 speeds of up to 5,764 Mbps improve responsiveness by using multiple bands to stabilize connections while many devices are active. The device supports Hybrid Quality of Service (QoS), which works with the Intel® Killer™ Prioritization Engine to optimize bandwidth for latency-sensitive and bandwidth-intensive applications including online gaming, video streaming, and cloud services.

The Predator Connect X7S 5G CPE supports Nano-SIM-based 5G or 4G LTE and comes with numerous antennas for robust signal reception. It can use its mobile connection as the primary link while also providing the option to switch to a backup 2.5 Gbps Ethernet WAN, ensuring uninterrupted access for gaming, streaming, and smart home control.

Acer Connect Ovia T360 Dual-Band and T520 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Mesh for Smart-Home and Small-Office Coverage

The Acer Connect Ovia T360 dual-band Wi-Fi 7 router provides high-speed access across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. It can cover up to 90 m² per node, making it ideal for apartments or smaller households that require stable everyday coverage. The Acer Connect Ovia T520 tri-band Wi-Fi 7 router adds a 6 GHz band alongside 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz, with each node covering up to 110 m² for larger living spaces or environments with more devices connected at the same time. It also supports Wi-Fi 7 speeds of up to 5,764 Mbps for heavier streaming and gaming workloads.

Both routers are designed to improve Wi-Fi coverage and reduce dead zones in homes and small offices, resulting in more consistent connectivity from room to room. Both support Wi-Fi 7 features such as MLO, which reduces latency and increases speed by accessing several bands simultaneously.

Their clean industrial designs blend nicely with modern environments, and specialized WAN and LAN ports enable high-speed cable connections to smart TVs, game consoles, and desktop PCs. In a multi-mesh design, additional nodes can be added as needed to enhance coverage, with automatic node switching facilitating a more seamless roaming experience as users move from room to room.

Acer Connect M4D 5G Mobile Wi-Fi: High-Speed Connectivity Anywhere

The Acer Connect M4D 5G Mobile Wi-Fi is a small, portable hotspot that can connect up to 16 devices at once via dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHZ + 5 GHz). It is intended for users who require dependable, high-speed internet on the go, whether they are traveling for business, commuting, attending events, or sharing access with friends, family, or colleagues.

The Acer Connect M4D has a battery life of up to 15 hours of average use while sharing its connection, which allows for a complete working day away from fixed power. It supports a variety of SIM formats, including Nano-SIM, eSIM, and Virtual SIM, allowing for 5G access across multiple operators and regions. It can also operate in Wi-Fi Internet Service Provider (WISP, Wi-Fi Extender) mode, connecting to an existing Wi-Fi AP (access point) and redistributing internet connectivity to other devices. Users can keep numerous eSIM profiles and swap providers as needed while traveling, allowing them to stay connected while they move between locations. The Acer Connect M4D enables USB tethering on Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux operating systems.

With a supplied docking station, the Acer Connect M4D can function as a tiny home or business router, complete with an RJ45 LAN connector for wired devices. The docking station supports 5G NR to LAN and WAN (switchable via the screen) capabilities. On the security front, the device offers advanced WPA2/WPA3 encryption, firewalls, SIM lock, screen PIN lock, and VPN use to protect data. The Acer Connect M4D is designed to help customers stay connected and secure with no effort by automatically delivering software updates over-the-air (OTA).

Security and Simple Control Across the Predator and Acer Connect Ovia Lineup

The new Predator and Acer Connect Ovia devices prioritize simplicity of control and security. All three products may be managed via the Acer Connect app, which allows users to set up, adjust, or add mesh nodes, review connected devices, and configure guest access all from their smartphones. They also offer a standard set of security features, including as WPA3 encryption, VPN support, parental controls, and firewall settings, to protect home networks and linked devices from online threats.

Pricing and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

About Acer 

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs nearly 12,000 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

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