Taiwan Excellence Brings Innovation, Culture and Interactive Experiences Closer to Filipinos at Taiwan Expo 2026

Innovation took on a more interactive and relatable form at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion during Taiwan Expo 2026, where Filipino visitors explored smart technology, everyday solutions, creative collaborations, interactive games, and even enjoyed refreshing boba tea.

The three-day showcase opened with a special performance combining modern movement and cultural influences. Set to “Everyday Excellence,” the official song created for Taiwan Excellence, the performance reflected the connection between technology, creativity, and culture while welcoming VIP guests and visitors into the Pavilion.

Carrying the theme “Empowering a Smarter Future,” the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion brought together award-winning Taiwanese companies from a wide range of sectors. These included computing, digital infrastructure, healthcare, mobility, consumer electronics, and smart living.

The experience went beyond simply displaying products. Visitors were encouraged to interact with technologies, discover innovative solutions, join games and activities, and see how Taiwanese innovation can be applied to everyday experiences.

For Filipino audiences who may be encountering Taiwan Excellence for the first time, Brian Lee, Executive Director of the Strategic Marketing Department at the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), explained the recognition as a symbol of Taiwan’s leadership in innovation.

“For those discovering Taiwan Excellence for the first time, it represents the very best innovation from Taiwan and is often described as the Oscars of Taiwanese industries.” ~Brian Lee, Executive Director of the Strategic Marketing Department at the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)

The Pavilion featured brands including Acer Incorporated, Acerpure Inc., Aetina Corporation, AiSeed Inc., Asus & ROG, AVer Information Inc., Datavideo Technologies Co. Ltd., D-Link, DEMAI Business LTD., Gigabyte, Heartway Medical Products Co., Ltd., HEPTY International Technology Co., Ltd., JIAN LING TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., KUANG YU METAL WORKING CO., LTD., Litemax Electronics Inc., MicroBase Technology Corporation, MSI, Sauber Technology Co. Ltd., Shuttle Inc., SYNTEC TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., Team Group Inc., Transcend Information, Inc., Vision Electronics Industrial Co., Ltd., and Zyxel Networks. Together, these companies presented technologies spanning computing, digital infrastructure, healthcare, mobility, consumer electronics and smart living, giving visitors a closer look at innovations designed to make life more connected, convenient and efficient. 

Where Technology Meets Everyday Experiences

Beyond showcasing innovative technologies, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion created a three-day experience where visitors could learn, play, create, and interact. A lineup of interactive activities and special appearances allowed guests to explore Taiwan Excellence from different perspectives while experiencing its innovations firsthand.

Adding to the opening-day experience was actress and content creator Ivana Alawi, who led a special Pavilion tour. She explored the various zones, interacted with participating brands, and experienced their technologies firsthand. Her tour offered visitors a more personal and relatable view of how Taiwanese innovation can become part of everyday routines.

After her Pavilion experience, Alawi highlighted the quality and innovation represented by Taiwan Excellence-awarded products. 

“I learned a lot, and I’m very happy that these kinds of products are being brought here to the Philippines. The Taiwan Excellence Award is very difficult to earn, so you know that the products have gone through a rigorous process and are truly high quality. But it’s not just about quality. These products also represent the next level of innovation and a smarter future. Technology should be easy to use, simple, and, most importantly, make our lives easier. The technologies being showcased here are also designed with safety and health in mind. So, it’s not just about having a smarter life. It’s also about having a better life.” ~Ivana Alawi, Actress and Content Creator 

She also emphasized the importance of technology being practical and accessible in everyday life. 

The Pavilion also featured product talks from Aetina, Team Group, Zyxel Networks, Jian Ling Technology and Sauber Technology, giving visitors a closer look at how technology can support work, connectivity, health and other everyday needs. 

The second day of the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion put the spotlight on how technology is reshaping entrepreneurship and modern work. Visitors could join two 60-minute workshops designed to provide practical insights into navigating today’s changing digital landscape.

Jay Ortiz, AI Generalist of DarkSide Studio, shared strategies during “AI Generalist: A Strategic Roadmap for Sustainable Success in the Age of AI.” Meanwhile, Jesse Tan, CoFounder and VP of Sales & Marketing at PC Express, discussed productivity and technology tools in “Buy Back Your Time: The Tech Stack Every Filipino Entrepreneur Actually Needs.”

The Pavilion wrapped up its three-day program with a special visit from actress and Taiwan Excellence ambassador Dimples Romana. She toured the featured technologies, experienced the interactive activities, and engaged with participating brands, giving visitors another relatable Filipino perspective on Taiwan Excellence innovations.

“What an amazing energy coming from Taiwan Excellence, of course, here at Taiwan Expo. I’m so grateful that you all came to see us today.” ~Eric Redulfin, known as the “Godfather of Esports.”

The final-day program also welcomed esports personality Eric Redulfin, known as the “Godfather of Esports.” During a separate Pavilion tour, he explored the featured technologies and experiences while bringing his own perspective from the gaming and esports community.

Visitors also had plenty of opportunities to participate beyond the tours and talks. Interactive activities such as Myth or Facts, Tech Vlogger, Win-telligence Mystery Box, and Power Up Hop for Go Healthy with Taiwan encouraged guests to play, explore, and learn about Taiwan Excellence in a fun and hands-on way.

From Taiwan to the Philippines: Fu Bear Meets Quiccs 

The Pavilion also celebrated the connection between Taiwanese and Filipino creativity through a special Fu Bear x Quiccs collaboration. 

Fu Bear, the Taiwan Excellence mascot, joined forces with Filipino contemporary artist and designer Quiccs in a collaboration that brought together Taiwanese identity and Filipino pop culture. The partnership offered visitors a fresh perspective on Taiwan Excellence, showing how innovation can also be expressed through art, design and creative culture. 

Collecting Memories Along the Pavilion Journey Adding to the immersive experience, visitors could also collect exclusive keepsakes inspired by Fu Bear and Filipino culture. 

Exploring the Pavilion came with its own rewards through the Pavilion Journey Card. Visitors could go around the participating exhibitor booths and collect 10 stamps, each carrying an exhibitor’s logo. Once they completed their Journey Card, guests received a wooden jeepney collectible that served as a special keepsake from their visit.

Exclusive Fu Bear merchandise was also available, allowing visitors to bring home a fun souvenir from the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion.

Adding to the lifestyle experience was Happy Hour boba tea, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a refreshing Taiwanese favorite while discovering the different zones and activities around the Pavilion. It was a simple way to bring a taste of Taiwan into the showcase experience.

From technology demonstrations and interactive games to creative collaborations, collectibles and a taste of Taiwanese culture, the Pavilion brought together different experiences in one 

space. 

Across three days, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion showed Filipino audiences that discovering innovation can be both informative and enjoyable. Through “Empowering a Smarter Future,” 

Taiwan Excellence provided a platform for Philippine audiences to discover award-winning Taiwanese technologies while creating experiences that connected innovation with the way people live, work, create and play.

For more information and updates on the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Taiwan Expo 2026, follow Taiwan Excellence on social media (FB: @TaiwanExcellence.ph, IG: @taiwanexcellence_ph, LinkedIn: Taiwan excellence). 

About Taiwan Excellence 

The Taiwan Excellence Awards were established by the Ministry of Economic Affairs in 1993. Each year, eligible products undergo a rigorous selection process covering four major aspects: “R&D,” “Design,” “Quality,” and “Marketing.” The awards recognize outstanding products that offer “Innovative Value” while meeting the key criterion of being “Made in Taiwan.” 

Products selected for the Taiwan Excellence Awards serve as examples of Taiwan’s domestic industries and are promoted internationally to strengthen the global presence and creative image of Taiwan’s businesses. 

For more information, please visit Taiwan Excellence. 

About International Trade Administration (TITA) 

The International Trade Administration (TITA), established by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) on January 1, 1969, is responsible for formulating Taiwan’s international trade policies, promoting trade, and managing trade-related activities. 

Over the decades, TITA’s role and responsibilities have evolved to respond to the changing demands of the international business environment and support Taiwan’s continued participation in global trade. 

For more information, please visit International Trade Administration (TITA). 

About Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) Founded in 1970, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is Taiwan’s foremost non-profit trade promotion organization. Supported by government and industryassociations, TAITRA promotes Taiwan’s innovation and connects its businesses with international markets. 

Headquartered in Taipei, TAITRA has more than 1,300 specialists operating across five domestic offices and a global network of more than 60 branches, in collaboration with the Taiwan Trade Center (TTC), Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC), and Far East Trade Service (FETS). Supported by alliances with more than 500 international affiliates, TAITRA provides a global service network for international trade. 

For more information, please visit Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).

Savoy Hotel Manila Named Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel 2026

Savoy Hotel Manila has brought further recognition to Philippine hospitality after being named Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel 2026 and Philippines’ Leading Airport Hotel 2026 at the World Travel Awards.

The 2026 awards add to the hotel’s growing list of achievements, marking its sixth consecutive victory as the Philippines’ Leading Airport Hotel and its second Asia-level recognition.

Socrates “Sonny” Alvaro, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts, said the recognition creates an opportunity to showcase Filipino hotel brands to a wider audience. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent standard of Filipino hospitality and guest service across the group’s properties.

“What makes this recognition meaningful is that it puts a spotlight on what is already strong about our hospitality: the destinations we represent, the people behind every stay, and the genuine care Filipinos naturally extend to Guests. Our responsibility is to keep strengthening the systems, people, and service standards that allow these qualities to be experienced consistently across our hotels, while giving our brands greater visibility across more markets and channels.” ~Socrates “Sonny” Alvaro, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts

Filipino by Design, Competitive by Standard

Savoy Hotel Manila’s latest recognition builds on a track record that began in 2021, when the property first earned the title of Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel. Since then, it has retained the Philippines’ Leading Airport Hotel distinction each year, with its 2026 win adding another milestone to its regional hospitality journey.

The hotel’s guest experience is shaped by the Sampaguita Brand of Service, a service philosophy centered on Love, Honor, Dignity, and Healing. Across Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts, these values are translated into everyday guest interactions through continuous training, established service standards, key guest touchpoints, and hotel operations.

At the same time, the approach allows individual properties to maintain a sense of place by incorporating the culture, people, and character of their respective destinations.

For MGHR, this balance becomes increasingly significant as its portfolio grows. The goal is to maintain a recognizable standard of Filipino hospitality across its hotels while ensuring that each property remains connected to the destination and community it represents.

Taking the Savoy Brand to More Philippine Destinations

Today, the Savoy brand operates in Manila, Boracay, and Mactan, Cebu.

The expansion of Savoy Hotel in the Philippines will continue with two upcoming destinations: Savoy Hotel Capital Town in San Fernando, Pampanga, featuring 374 rooms within Megaworld’s 35.6-hectare Capital Town development, and Savoy Hotel Palawan, located in Paragua Coastown in San Vicente.

With more properties joining the brand, maintaining a consistent Savoy Hotel service experience becomes increasingly important. New hotels are expected to follow the same operating discipline and service culture that define the brand, while also adapting their guest offerings to the local character, culture, and setting of each destination.

The Savoy brand is part of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts, whose expanding portfolio now includes 16 hotels. MGHR is targeting nearly 12,000 hotel rooms across key Philippine destinations by 2032, reflecting its continued growth in the country's hospitality sector.

As the portfolio develops, MGHR is working to align its hotel operations, people development, service standards, and destination identities. This approach seeks to ensure that expansion in room capacity goes hand in hand with maintaining the quality and consistency of the guest experience.

For the group, building a larger hotel portfolio also means preserving the essence of Filipino hospitality—delivering a consistent service culture while allowing every property to create an experience that feels authentic to its destination.

About Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts (MGHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. Recognized with a Tourism Excellence Award by the Department of Tourism in 2025, MGHR is the country’s largest homegrown hotel operator, offering Muslim-friendly accommodations and mindful stays across its growing portfolio of 16 hotels, 8 brands, and 12,000 room keys, including those in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, The Sampaguita, across its brands, including Savoy, Belmont, Richmonde, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Twin Lakes, Kingsford, Grand Westside and Chancellor. Its properties are located in key tourism and business destinations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. MGHR also manages international brands, including Mercure Mactan Cebu and Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo.

SM Calls on Bulacan Book Lovers to Build Stronger Libraries Through “The Great Book Share 2026”

Reading can reach more communities when books are shared, and shoppers in Bulacan can be part of that effort through “The Great Book Share 2026.” The book donation campaign by SM Supermalls’ Book Nook, together with SM Cares and the National Library of the Philippines, is now accepting book donations at SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag.

Until October 25, 2026, shoppers can donate either gently used or brand-new books that can bring knowledge, inspiration, and new possibilities to readers. Accepted titles include children’s books, young adult novels, Filipino-authored books, reference materials, graphic novels, and other suitable reading materials, which can contribute to public library shelves across the country.

Donors are encouraged to review the campaign guidelines and make sure their books are in good condition and appropriate for readers of all ages. By choosing books that are ready to be read and shared, every donation can have a greater impact on its next reader.

With “The Great Book Share 2026,” the three participating Bulacan malls invite shoppers and local communities to give their pre-loved and new books another purpose—creating more opportunities for people to read, learn, explore, and discover.

Be part of building stronger libraries. Share a book and help spread the joy of reading at Your Most Loved SM Supermalls.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. Every Filipino has an SM story. For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together. As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home. My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

Beyond the Bottle: Discovering Tanduay Through Rum Education

When it comes to Philippine rum, Tanduay is a name closely associated with tradition, celebration, and a long-standing heritage. Since the 19th century, the brand has been producing rum that has become a familiar part of Filipino drinking culture and has been enjoyed during both everyday get-togethers and special celebrations.

Yet there is more to Tanduay than the rum itself.

“Tanduay is very active in building appreciation for rum through grassroots engagement and education. It is our way of investing into the future, as students and young professionals are the next generation that will be shaping not just the rum industry, but the bartending, hospitality, and tourism industries as well.” ~Gem Leonard Boy, Tanduay Brand Manager

Alongside its long history of production, the brand has been exploring ways to promote greater appreciation and understanding of rum. One of these initiatives is the Tanduay Rum Masterclass, which offers participants an opportunity to learn more about the world of rum and gain a better appreciation of what goes into every bottle.

“The Tanduay Rum Masterclass was developed to introduce and deepen students’ appreciation and excitement in the bar and beverage industry and understanding of rum, not simply as a beverage that is part of the subject but as a product shaped by Filipino heritage, craftsmanship, sugarcane, aging, blending, and innovation. To date, we have catered to many schools and universities, including private and state universities, and training schools in and around Metro Manila, North and Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and the Bicol Region. We have also conducted masterclasses in mobile bars, and as part of company activities and private sessions. We usually facilitate masterclasses for a minimum of three institutions per month. For schools in particular, we want to reach future hospitality professionals early in their careers and give them an educational experience that complements what they learn in the classroom. What makes the Tanduay Rum Masterclass different is its combination of education, Filipino rum heritage, sensory appreciation, and practical bartending application. Participants are given the opportunity to understand where rum comes from, how it develops its character, how to appreciate its different qualities, and how it can be used creatively in cocktails. For future bartenders and hospitality professionals, knowledge of the product allows them to make better recommendations, create better cocktails, communicate with guests, and appreciate the craftsmanship behind what they serve. They particularly appreciate learning how to identify differences in aroma, flavor, body, and finish, and discovering that rum can be appreciated in much the same way as other premium spirits. Students also enjoy the interactive components, particularly tasting and cocktail demo and return demonstration, hands-on cocktail mixing, art of flairtending, because they can connect what they learn in the classroom with actual beverage-industry practices as well as prizes and freebies. We want them to leave with greater appreciation for Filipino rum and with knowledge that they can carry into their future careers in bartending, hospitality, and the beverage industry.” ~Jake Alano, Resident Bartender of Tanduay

More than 100 first- and second-year students at the University of Perpetual Help Las Piñas recently got a closer look at the world of bartending and rum during the latest Tanduay Rum Masterclass led by Alano.

Designed for students preparing for careers in the hospitality and beverage sectors, the session covered essential bartending skills and cocktail preparation. Alano was supported by the Band of Young and Outstanding Bartenders (BYOB) and Soilo Productions, who helped introduce participants to bartending basics and the art of mixing cocktails with Tanduay.

How the Masterclass Began

What is now known as the Tanduay Rum Masterclass started years ago as a simple educational session.

Tanduay has been conducting its rum education program since 2016, with Alano identifying the earliest documented class as one held at the Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) Manila.

Originally called a Tanduay class, the program gradually grew and evolved into the Tanduay Rum Masterclass that participants know today.

The sessions feature Tanduay products while introducing participants to essential bartending and flairtending techniques. Beyond mixing drinks, the program also explores the fundamentals of rum appreciation, including how to assess a rum's color, aroma, body, taste, and finish.

Participants are likewise introduced to rum tasting and cocktail mixing, giving them a more comprehensive understanding of the spirit and how it can be used in different drinks.

From the Sensory Appreciation of Rum to Learning Basic Bartending Skills

Participants in the Tanduay Rum Masterclass get a well-rounded introduction to the world of rum through lessons on bartending fundamentals, rum education, tasting, and product appreciation. The sessions also include practical applications and discussions on responsible drinking.

Alano said the goal is to create an experience that goes beyond simply learning the basics, making each masterclass educational, interactive, and enjoyable for participants.

Emphasizing the Importance of Responsible Drinking

According to Alano, responsible drinking is a key message consistently reinforced during the Tanduay Rum Masterclass. The organizers take time to remind participants about responsible alcohol consumption as they learn about rum, bartending, and cocktail preparation.

Why Rum Education Is Important

With 15 years of experience in the industry, Alano believes that appreciating a spirit goes beyond knowing how it is consumed. For him, understanding its story, character, and craftsmanship is an important part of truly appreciating what is in the glass.

This philosophy is reflected in Tanduay's wider approach to rum education. Aside from the Rum Masterclass, the brand organizes distillery tours, mixology and flairtending competitions, and other activities that give students and industry participants opportunities to learn more about rum.

The encouraging feedback from masterclass participants has also been a source of motivation for Alano and the team.

Ultimately, the goal is to help students develop a deeper appreciation for rums, particularly Tanduay, and recognize it not simply as something to drink, but as a product that represents Filipino heritage, craftsmanship, and creativity.

TECNO CAMON Slim 5G Launches: A 6.39mm Ultra-Slim Art Piece in Your Palm with Pro-Level Capabilities

Artfully-created colorways, professional-level imaging, and practical AI — all housed in a 6.39mm yet durable body

TECNO is bringing a fresh perspective to smartphone design with the launch of the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G, an AI-driven smartphone that combines CAMON’s imaging expertise with an ultra-slim 6.39mm profile.

The new device brings together an art-inspired design, pro-level imaging system, and practical AI features, giving users a smartphone experience that balances creativity, technology, and everyday functionality. Adding to its distinctive character are one-of-a-kind artistic colorways created to make each device stand out.

More than a smartphone, the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G is designed as a lifestyle statement—bringing advanced imaging and AI capabilities together with a design that turns technology into something visually expressive and uniquely personal.

6.39mm Ultra-Slim Design: Art in Every Detail

Building on the design language of the flagship CAMON 50 series, the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G features the signature swan-neck curve that gives the smartphone a distinctive and elegant silhouette. Its form takes inspiration from the graceful movements of ballet dancers and the flowing lines of automotive exteriors, resulting in a design that combines a sense of movement with a strong, sculpted profile.

At only 6.39mm thin, the CAMON Slim 5G is crafted for easy one-handed handling without compromising battery capacity. Inside its slim body is a 6,000mAh battery designed to comfortably support full-day use.

The smartphone is available in five artistic colorways—Burgundy Red, Neo Mondrian, Matisse Black, Van Gogh Blue, and Rebel Pink. Each colorway has its own visual character, design inspiration, and craftsmanship story, turning the CAMON Slim 5G into a technology accessory with a distinctly artistic personality.

The TECNO CAMON Slim 5G takes smartphone personalization to an artistic level, with five distinctive colorways inspired by art masters, classic compositions, and bold contemporary design. Each finish features its own materials, visual character, and creative story.

Burgundy Red blends fiberglass with a matte surface, creating an elegant combination of red and brown. Its soft, velvet-like texture adds warmth and sophistication to the smartphone’s slim profile.

With Neo Mondrian, technology becomes part of the design experience. The panel starts as a clean, minimalist white under normal conditions, but its photochromic technology reveals colorful blocks under ultraviolet light, gradually forming the recognizable grid composition inspired by Piet Mondrian.

For Matisse Black, a black fiberglass body is accented with fluorescent green, creating a vibrant contrast inspired by the expressive color blocks of Henri Matisse’s cut-out artworks.

Van Gogh Blue brings The Starry Night to the smartphone’s back panel. A patterned gradient coating creates swirling visual details that evoke the movement of Van Gogh’s famous night sky.

Meanwhile, Rebel Pink combines sharp pink accents with a bold black body. The contrasting colors create a look that balances soft allure with a confident, rebellious attitude.

With each colorway offering a different visual identity, the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G becomes more than a smartphone. It is a wearable piece of technology designed to reflect the personality and individual style of its owner

50MP Sony LYTIA™ 700C Ultra-Night Main Camera: Snap Best Moments with Ease

Photography takes center stage with the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G, featuring a 50MP Sony LYTIA™ 700C Ultra Night Main Camera paired with a 1/1.56-inch sensor. The larger sensor is designed to provide strong light-gathering capability, helping produce clearer and more detailed photos even when lighting conditions become challenging.

The camera also uses a closed-loop ball motor for faster and more precise autofocus, making it easier to lock onto subjects and capture important moments. For smoother and steadier results, TECNO combines OIS, AI EIS, and AI Shutter in a triple stabilization system.

From nighttime photography to dynamic action scenes, the CAMON Slim 5G is designed to help users capture stable, sharp-looking images with greater confidence.

With Super-Zoom FlashSnap, the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G brings AI-powered photography into the moments users want to remember most. There is no need to press the shutter—the AI can automatically capture standout moments during concerts, sports games, social gatherings, and everyday adventures. From a perfectly timed dance move and a soccer player striking the ball to a pet suddenly jumping, the feature is built to capture split-second action. It supports up to 2x telephoto snap shooting and shutter speeds of up to 1/11236 second, helping freeze fast-moving scenes even when the subject is farther away.

The camera experience also includes Multi-Focal-Length Portrait, offering 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm focal lengths for different portrait styles. Users can move from wider environmental portraits to classic close-up compositions while benefiting from TECNO Universal Tone full-spectrum skin tone imaging technology. The result is designed to preserve authentic-looking skin tones across different subjects, including in night portrait photography.

At the heart of this imaging experience is TECNO Universal Tone, an advanced AI-powered full-spectrum skin tone imaging technology developed to address a wide range of skin tones. TECNO combines its industry benchmark multi-skin tone color card with what it describes as the industry’s largest and most accurate skin tone database to deliver comprehensive skin tone imaging.

The TECNO Mag Badge also debuts alongside the CAMON Slim 5G. This magnetic accessory comes with a built-in battery and a 1.73-inch AMOLED display, connecting to the smartphone through Bluetooth. Beyond displaying photos, it can work as a remote shutter from up to 10 meters away and serve as a selfie assistant with preview and camera-switching functions.

Practical AI: Integrated into Everyday Life

Beyond photography, the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G brings AI into everyday life with accessible smart features covering creativity, productivity, education, health, and lifestyle.

For small merchants, AI Snap Poster provides a quick way to create professional-looking product posters. After taking a photo of an item, AI automatically removes its original background and places the product into a chosen theme, including settings such as a home interior or a beach scene. Pet lovers can also use AI Pet Together, which combines separate photos of a user and their pets into one composite portrait.

For photo enhancement, AI LightMaster 2.0 helps restore imperfect images by intelligently removing shadows, flares, and reflections. These tools are conveniently available through the zero screen, allowing users to access them with ease.

The smartphone also serves as a practical AI companion for school and work. AI Recording Notes transforms recorded lectures into structured notes through automatic transcription, while also linking whiteboard photos to the appropriate moments in the recording. With AI Class Schedule, users can capture a paper-based course schedule through a screenshot, assign different colors to courses, and view the organized schedule through a dedicated widget. The feature can be activated directly from the zero screen.

For health-conscious users, AI Healthy Eating analyzes food photos to estimate calories and nutrients, then provides personalized meal recommendations. Together, these AI capabilities make the CAMON Slim 5G more than a communication device by bringing useful intelligence into everyday productivity and lifestyle routines.

Built to Last: Durable and Powerful, as It is Stylish

Style meets resilience on the TECNO CAMON Slim 5G, which is engineered to handle challenging everyday conditions. The smartphone features an advanced IP69K/IP69/IP68/IP66 protection rating, offering strong water and dust resistance and enabling underwater photography. It also carries MIL-STD-810 certification, reflecting its military-standard shock and drop resistance.

The phone's 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED 144Hz display delivers a smooth and immersive viewing experience, complemented by TÜV Rheinland low blue light certification. Its smart touch capabilities are designed for real-world situations, with Wet & Oily Hand Touch Recognition 2.0 maintaining responsiveness when the user's hands are wet or oily. Whether using the phone in heavy rain or through a waterproof case, Rain Touch and Waterproof Case Touch provide additional control in wet conditions.

Performance comes from the MediaTek Dimensity 7300e 5G, an 8-core processor designed to deliver a balance of speed, efficiency, and smooth operation. Beyond hardware, TECNO also extends the device's usability through long-term software support, offering 5 years of security updates and 3 major OS version upgrades. The phone additionally carries TÜV SÜD certification for 60 months of sustained fluidity, supporting a smooth experience over an extended period.

#MakeItLighter, a phone for young Filipina professionals 

With #MakeItLighter as its campaign theme, TECNO puts the spotlight on women who balance different roles while staying true to every part of who they are. The campaign celebrates their careers, ambitions, families, passions, and personal journeys, recognizing that success can take many forms.

Among the key highlights of the launch are the inspiring stories of women and mothers from different walks of life. From creative professionals and entrepreneurs to corporate leaders and women carving out careers on their own terms, their stories showcase the diverse paths women take as they pursue their own definition of success.

*AI function availability varies by market.

**For more information on eligibility for the Google AI Plus trial, please check the terms and conditions.

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

About TECNO 

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

For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com. 

Follow TECNO Philippines: 

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/TECNOMobilePH 

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

TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@tecnomobilephilippines 

TECNO CAMON Slim 5G will be available through authorized TECNO retailers nationwide and official e-commerce stores.

Shopee: https://shopee.ph/tecnomobileofficialstore 

Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/tecnomobilestore 

TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@tecnomobilephilippines 

BPI brings Japanese flavors closer through VYBE and Ramen Nagi, plus other dining brands

Dining out becomes even more rewarding for VYBE e-wallet users as the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) partners with Noodlerama, Inc. to expand its growing roster of brand partners. The collaboration combines the convenience of cashless payments with exclusive dining offers from several well-loved restaurant brands in the Philippines.

Until October 31, VYBE users can enjoy more value when dining at participating branches of VYBE Ramen Nagi, Ramen Ton-ichi, Propaganda Bistro, and Akimitsu. The partnership gives customers another convenient way to make cashless payments while enjoying special dining benefits at their favorite restaurants.

As part of the partnership, VYBE users can enjoy exclusive dining offers:

• Ramen Nagi: Get ₱150 off participating Hot Nagi side dishes with a minimum spend of ₱1,000.
• Ramen Ton-ichi: Enjoy a regular-sized Ton-ichi Ramen for only ₱99 when ordered with any participating regular-sized ramen.
• Propaganda Bistro: Get ₱100 off on one order of Crunchy Pork.
• Akimitsu: Enjoy an 8-piece California Maki for only ₱150 with a minimum spend of ₱500.

"At BPI, we continue to expand VYBE's network by partnering with brands that are part of our customers' everyday lifestyles. Through our collaboration with Noodlerama's restaurant chains, we're making QR Ph payments more rewarding while helping our partners connect with more customers. It's another step in making digital payments more convenient, accessible, and valuable for everyone." ~Eric M. Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships at BPI

Customers can enjoy the exclusive offers by paying through QR Ph using their VYBE e-wallet at participating branches nationwide during the promo period. But the benefits of VYBE extend beyond these partner restaurants. Thanks to its interoperability with QR Ph, users can also pay at any QR Ph-accepting merchant nationwide, allowing them to use their VYBE wallet across a much broader network of establishments.

This wider connectivity makes digital payments more convenient and accessible, giving Filipinos greater flexibility in how they pay while contributing to the country's expanding cashless payments ecosystem.

VYBE is also growing beyond its role as a digital payment tool. As BPI expands its network of brand partnerships, the e-wallet connects customers with exclusive offers across dining, shopping, travel, and other lifestyle categories. With close to 2.9 million users as of September 2026, VYBE continues to build its position as an e-wallet that adds more value to everyday cashless transactions.

Through strategic collaborations with partner brands, BPI aims to make digital payments more rewarding for customers while helping businesses reach and engage more consumers. The initiative reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to making convenient, secure, and rewarding digital payments part of everyday transactions in the Philippines.

Allianz PNB Life Celebrates 10th Anniversary with 98% New Business Growth

Allianz PNB Life is marking 10 years of serving Filipino families with impressive business performance, broader financial solutions, and stronger community and sustainability efforts designed to help families achieve greater financial resilience.

The company commemorated its 10th year in the Philippines through a media briefing carrying the theme “From Promise to Proof.” The event highlighted how Allianz PNB Life has transformed its commitment to Filipino families into tangible results through continued growth, customer confidence, innovative offerings, and community impact.

Customer trust remains an important part of the insurer’s success. According to the latest Insurance Commission figures, Allianz PNB Life ranked third among Philippine life insurance companies in consolidated New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) for the first half of 2026.

The company generated Php4.59 billion in NBAPE, reflecting a remarkable 98% increase compared with the same period last year. NBAPE is one of the key measures used to track new business sales in the life insurance industry.

The insurer has also expanded its customer reach through its bancassurance partnership with PNB. Its network has grown to nearly 500 Financial Solutions Specialists (FSS) stationed across PNB branches nationwide.

This expanded presence enables Allianz PNB Life to bring financial protection, insurance, and wealth-building solutions closer to more Filipino families and make these services easier to access.

"For 10 years, we have worked to earn the trust of Filipino families by helping protect what matters most to them. Our strong first-half performance and continued customer growth are proof that our purpose continues to resonate. For us, growth is not just a business result. It is proof that more Filipino families trust Allianz PNB Life to help secure what matters most. That trust inspires us to keep delivering solutions and partnerships that make a meaningful difference in people's lives." ~Joe Gross, President and Chief Executive Officer of AZPNBL

AZPNBL is looking to further expand its reach by providing Filipinos with solutions that are simple, relevant, and affordable. The company also plans to enhance customer experiences and strengthen its distribution network as it works toward creating lasting value.

Helping families grow and protect their future

One of its latest initiatives is Allianz Secure Save, an insurance and savings solution designed with Filipino breadwinners in mind. It combines opportunities for financial growth with life insurance protection, helping customers work toward important family milestones while safeguarding the people who matter most.

Through professionally managed investments, Allianz Secure Save gives customers an opportunity to grow their money while maintaining life insurance coverage. The product is designed to allocate more of each premium toward investments earlier in the policy, with applicable bonuses providing additional rewards for long-term commitment.

This can help customers prepare for major financial goals, whether it is funding a child's education, preparing for retirement, or building resources for their family's future.

Allianz Secure Save also offers greater accessibility through a Guaranteed Issue Offer and flexible premium payment choices, including 5-pay and 10-pay options.

At the same time, the solution goes beyond savings and wealth accumulation by providing financial protection. If the insured passes away unexpectedly, the life insurance benefit can provide support to beneficiaries and help them stay on track with the goals and aspirations they have planned for.

Extending resilience beyond the household

For AZPNBL, resilience is also at the heart of both its business and sustainability efforts. While insurance helps families prepare for financial uncertainties, the company's sustainability partnerships aim to support communities dealing with broader social and environmental risks.

"Insurance and sustainability share the same goal: building resilience. Through our products, we help families prepare financially and protect the future they are working hard to build. Through our partnerships, we strengthen resilience where it matters most. Together, these are proof points of our commitment to helping Filipino families become more resilient and more Panatag, whether through financial protection, greater opportunities, or stronger community preparedness." ~Zanne Magararu, Chief Marketing Officer and Chief of Staff of AZPNBL

Two flagship initiatives exemplify this shared-value approach:

MoveNow: Empowering Young Single Mothers, Building Brighter Futures

MoveNow, in collaboration with Bahay Tuluyan, supports vulnerable young single mothers through a comprehensive program focused on employment readiness, financial literacy, life skills, parenting, childcare, and psychosocial well-being.

The initiative aims to help participants become more financially independent and better prepared for the challenges of parenthood. By strengthening the mothers' skills, confidence, and access to support, MoveNow also helps create better opportunities and a brighter future for their children.

Project Talaghay

AZPNBL works with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) to help vulnerable communities strengthen their preparedness for disasters and climate-related risks. The partnership supports programs that promote risk awareness, improve early warning systems, build local response capabilities, and empower communities to take action in preparing for and responding to disasters.

The company's sustainability partners were also represented during the media briefing. Catherine Scerri, Executive Director of Bahay Tuluyan, and Rene "Butch" Meily, President of PDRF, joined a fireside conversation focused on strengthening resilience through opportunity, preparedness, and collaboration among different sectors.

Building a More Panatag Future

By bringing together financial protection, long-term savings, financial empowerment, and community preparedness, AZPNBL continues to put its purpose into practice. These efforts are designed to help families meet their financial needs today while preparing for uncertainties and challenges in the years ahead.

As the company moves into its next decade, AZPNBL remains committed to turning its purpose and promises into action and helping more Filipino families live more Panatag each day.

Disclaimer: This is not a deposit product. Earnings are not assured, and the principal amount invested is exposed to the risk of loss. The product may only be sold after its benefits and risks have been thoroughly explained. If you do not fully understand this product, do not purchase or invest in it.

Financial product/s of Allianz PNB Life Insurance, Inc. is/are not insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) and is/are not guaranteed by the Philippine National Bank (PNB).

About Allianz PNB Life

Allianz PNB Life, Inc. (AZPNBL) was established in 2016 through a joint venture between German-based Allianz Group and the Philippine National Bank (PNB). 

 

Allianz ranked as the top insurance brand and 27th overall in the 2025 Interbrand global rankings and is one of the most sustainable global insurers according to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for 2025. Locally, AZPNBL is certified as a Great Place to Work for 4 consecutive years.

 

The company is committed to doing the right things the right way, not just for its customers and employees, but also for the communities it serves. It focuses on building resilient societies and communities by implementing programs that not only reduce environmental impact but also empower Filipino families, helping them to not just get by but improve their lives. 

 

AZPNBL currently operates 21 business centers in key cities in the Philippines, with almost 500 Financial Solutions Specialists serving customers of its bancassurance partner PNB, and over 2,450 Life Changers™ catering to its Agency clientele nationwide. AZPNBL also has an exclusive distributorship arrangement with HSBC Investment and Insurance Brokerage, Philippines Inc., offering insurance propositions to HSBC Wealth clients. 

 

AZPNBL Life Changers™ are committed to the purpose of securing the future of Filipinos in their lifetime financial planning, wealth accumulation, and well-being aspirations, by offering a wide range of life and health insurance products catering to specific needs. 

SM Center Sangandaan Offers 7,971 Job Vacancies Ahead of Christmas Season

A weekend job fair at SM Center Sangandaan brought together 726 applicants and participating employers, resulting in 150 job seekers being hired on the spot as businesses increased recruitment efforts ahead of the Christmas season.

The event, held at the mall’s third-floor area, offered more than 7,971 employment opportunities across several sectors, including retail, hospitality, logistics, and business services.

Among the available positions were sales associates, customer service representatives, warehouse workers, administrative employees, and management personnel, giving job seekers a broad selection of career opportunities.

The recruitment activity came as companies prepared for the anticipated rise in customer traffic and business operations during the holiday period. For many businesses, the Christmas season brings increased demand, creating a need for additional employees and expanded workforce capacity.

SM Center Sangandaan Assistant Mall Manager Roma Bautista said the mall worked with participating employers to help bridge the gap between job seekers and companies looking for additional workers as the holiday season approaches.

"The holiday season holds great significance for us Filipinos, and having a dedicated and dynamic workforce is the key to making Christmas truly memorable for everyone." ~Roma Bautista, SM Center Sangandaan Assistant Mall Manager

According to her, the SM Center Sangandaan job fair went beyond addressing companies’ immediate recruitment requirements. It also aimed to connect job seekers with opportunities that could provide long-term employment, career development, and professional growth.

The employment event demonstrated how community job fairs can serve as an important link between businesses and job seekers, particularly during periods when companies are expanding their workforce to meet increased demand during the holiday shopping season.

Based on preliminary figures, 150 job seekers secured employment during the job fair, while hundreds more were given the opportunity to apply for various positions offered by participating employers.