AirAsia Philippines Launches 14 Million Seat Sale for Easter

In honor of Easter, AirAsia Philippines is reintroducing its highly anticipated "All Seats, All Flights" promotion, which offers up to 25% off 14 million seats across all domestic and international destinations served by AirAsia Philippines.

This special ticket sale, known as an Easter Egg Hunt for flights, allows visitors to buy prices for as little as PHP 284 one-way base rate from April 21 to April 27, 2025, for travel between April 28 and November 30, 2025.

“Easter is a time of hope, renewal, and fresh start. This seat sale is our way of celebrating the season by giving everyone the opportunity to take flight, create new memories, and enjoy more meaningful journeys without breaking the bank. We know many of our guests spend a lot on family gatherings and travel over the holidays, so any extra savings can go a long way in making the most of the summer ahead.” ~First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head

Following the Holy Week travel rush, AirAsia Philippines expects an increase in guests flying back to work.  AirAsia Philippines actively monitors passenger flow and flight operations at its domestic and international hubs to ensure a seamless and safe travel experience.

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.

SM’s ‘We’ve Got it All For You’ strategy captures growing Gen Z market

The SM Store offers a broad product range that appeals to different market segments, making it a one-stop shop for all.

SM Investments Corporation’s (SM Investments) retail arm, SM Retail, Inc., is reaching new consumer markets, particularly the rapidly growing Gen Z demographic. Data from the SM Store, the department store business of SM Retail, reveals a 13% increase in in-store purchases by young shoppers in 2024, signaling a shift in consumer behavior and a rising preference for physical retail experiences.

“Our strategy has always been ‘We’ve got it all for you.’  SM Store offers a broad product range that appeals to different market segments, making it a one-stop shop for all. We’re also placing greater emphasis on engaging with Gen Z. While Gen X and Millennials still lead in terms of purchasing power, we’re strategically investing in Gen Z as they become an increasingly influential consumer group. Filipino shoppers, especially Gen Z, are more experiential and tactile in their shopping preferences. At SM Store, we are dedicated to evolving to meet these expectations, investing in modern store designs and enhancing customer service to stay ahead of the curve. SM is all about excellent customer service.” ~Jonathan Ng, Executive Vice President at SM Retail

This increase in Gen Z shoppers reflects the growing purchasing power of this demographic.

Gen X, ages 45 to 60, are those born between 1965 and 1980, and Millennials, ages 29 to 44, are born between 1981 and 1996. Gen Z, ages 13 to 28 or born between 1997 and 2012, currently makes up 38% of the Philippine population according to the recent census by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

With 41 million Gen Zs, SM Retail is well-positioned to capitalize on this segment. A 2024 study by The Fourth Wall and Uniquecorn Strategies revealed that 31% of Filipino Gen Zs prefer shopping in physical stores, valuing the experience of products they can see and touch.

This trend mirrors a broader global shift. A January 2025 report by Adyen, published by Retail Dive, found that nearly three-quarters of global Gen Z consumers shop in-person at least once a week, viewing it as an integral part of their lifestyle.

SM Retail has also focused on improving the customer experience through strategic partnerships, such as one with Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (CBTL), which aims to create a more delightful in-store environment.  This emphasis on in-store savings, convenience, and the chance to instantly own things is consistent with Generation Z's desires.

Noting the presence of personal shoppers who are always ready to assist customers.

SM shop continues to innovate, adapting its inventory selection, shop layouts, and overall customer experience to match the demands of a rapidly changing retail landscape.  This dedication to quality is evident in SM Retail's strong financial success.  In 2024, the company reported a net income of PHP 20.9 billion, a 5% rise over the previous year, with retail revenues up 5% to PHP 434.5 billion, up from PHP 412.9 billion in 2023.

SM Retail's continued development and ability to engage with various customer categories strengthens its leadership position in the Philippine retail market, contributing considerably to the group's parent company, SM Investments' outstanding financial performance.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

For inquiries, please contact: smic_corpcomm@sminvestments.com

Acerpure Launches First Hand Fan, Inspired by SB19's "MINTYLADORSES"

Acerpure, a lifestyle brand known for its air purifiers and circulators, has unveiled a summer requirement for the searing Philippine heat: a hand fan.  But this isn't just any hand fan. It's the Acerpure Cozy HF1, which was inspired by MINTYLADORSES, a name coined by the Kings of P-pop and Acer ambassadors SB19 during one of their A'Tin Days of Christmas YouTube videos.

The Acerpure Cozy HF1 has a 100-speed setting and a cooling pad for minty fresh air. The limited edition MINTYLADORSES arrive in a special package containing exclusive SB19 photo cards, stickers, a sketch pad, and a lanyard.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Acerpure Cozy HF1, inspired by SB19’s MINTYLADORSES. This collaboration highlights Acerpure’s dedication to delivering quality lifestyle products, as well as SB19’s creativity and innovation. This partnership could not have happened without A’Tin, who has shown tremendous support for both Acer and SB19.” ~Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines

Get your hands on the coolest hand fan in town! The #AcerpurexSB19 Acerpure Cozy H1 limited edition MINTYLADORSES retails for Php1,999.00. Pre-orders begin today, April 16, 2025, through the official Acer online store, https://acer.link/3EnXUHq. 

Visit Acerpure’s official Facebook Page (AcerpurePH) for more information.

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.

AirAsia Philippines is the official airline partner of Love Boracay 2025

AirAsia Philippines deepens its commitment to promoting local tourism by flying as the official airline partner of the Love Boracay 2025 campaign.

As part of this commitment, AirAsia is providing an amazing Php 544 one-way base rate to Caticlan. The Boracay Summer Fiesta seat sale is open from April 7 to May 4, with travel dates ranging from April 7 to September 30, 2025.

Beginning this summer, AirAsia Philippines boosted its weekly flight frequency to Caticlan from 56 to 60 flights, while maintaining a robust 21 flights to Kalibo, for a total of 81 weekly flight options to Boracay.

"The AirAsia Fiesta Series is a continuing journey of supporting local tourism, boosting economic opportunities and highlighting the best of the Philippines. Boracay remains a dream destination for foreign and local tourists alike—and through AirAsia’s affordable fares, this dream is well within reach. As the official airline partner of Love Boracay, AirAsia intends to actively take part in advocating responsible travels, giving more meaning to this annual island celebration." ~First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head

As part of the celebrations, AirAsia Philippines will host the AirAsia LFG!  Love Boracay Fiesta 2025 will take place at Station 2, Boracay Island, from April 30 to May 1, and will include a spectacular beach party, a music festival, and thrilling on-ground activities.

Passengers with an AirAsia Boracay Boarding Pass who fly to Caticlan between April 26 and May 1 will have unique VIP access to the Love Boracay concert, which will feature popular Filipino bands The Juans, Itchyworms, and more.

In addition, AirAsia passengers flying from April 1 to July 31 can receive up to 20% off at partner hotels and restaurants across the island.

Meanwhile, AirAsia MOVE is launching a hotel flash sale ahead of the event, offering tourists up to PHP 900 off hotel bookings made through the AirAsia MOVE app using the code FLASHMOVE between April 24 and 27, 2025.  Travelers can use the code SNAPNOW to receive a PHP 720 discount on SNAP (Flight + Hotel) bundles, making their journey even more easy and value-packed.

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.

Banking on history: SM’s efforts at heritage preservation

A group of students and faculty hand sign a thankful message following the rehabilitation of their facilities at the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD). 

SM is making progress in the preservation of cultural landmarks, demonstrating its commitment to generating long-term social benefit in addition to financial success. 

SM, through the Henry Sy Foundation and the SM Foundation, recently completed the restoration of the West Visayas State University's (WVSU) Quezon Hall in Iloilo City, a genuine educational and architectural landmark protected by the 2009 National Heritage Act, as identified by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. 

SM has long complemented its national economic expansion with programs that promote growth and well-being in the areas where it operates, with recent social expenditures including the restoration of architectural monuments.

“These cultural landmarks are irreplaceable—once lost, we cannot bring them back. Preservation is a collective responsibility. It goes beyond installing commemorative plaques; it means breathing new life into these spaces so they continue to serve, inspire, and remain accessible to future generations. In restoring these heritage educational institutions, we honor the generations of learning they have nurtured. Our hope is that through preservation, we help spark more opportunities for education and personal growth—not just today, but for many years to come.” ~Deborah P. Sy, Executive Director of SM Foundation

The restoration project strictly adhered to the guidelines set by the NHCP to ensure its structural and cultural integrity. While keeping the building’s original character intact, modern sustainable features were mindfully integrated, including energy-efficient lighting, inverter air conditioning units, and the use of paint with light reflective finishes to optimize energy consumption. 

“I believe it is captured already in this slogan: People Helping People. The two foundations and WVSU have a common understanding on the pursuit of changing people's lives for the better.” ~Julius Undar, WVSU Chief Administration Officer

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), heritage sites are critical for societies because their preservation not only establishes an inherent cultural value for future generations, but also has the potential to contribute to social, economic, and environmental goals. 

Last year, the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) finished the renovation of its senior high school building laboratory facilities.  PSD was founded in 1907 with the goal of providing educational opportunities for people with disabilities.

SM, through the Henry Sy Foundation and SM Foundation completed the restoration of West Visayas State University’s (WVSU) Quezon Hall in Iloilo City.

The SM Group collaborated on the project with Pasay's Department of Education (DepEd) and the city's local government unit. Modern learning facilities were built to supplement the century-old school and transform it into an inclusive learning hub, complete with areas for practical learning in electronics, computer technology, and the performing arts.

Taal Vista Hotel, a pre-World War II jewel that opened in 1939, exemplifies SM's commitment to cultural preservation. 

In 1936, Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon envisioned building a hotel near the Tagaytay peak with the best view of Taal Lake.  Mr. Henry Sy Sr. had a special connection to the hotel because he used to frequent it.  The SM company purchased it in 1988 and renovated the 25-cabin lodge into a 262-room hotel with modern renovations such as a new wing to accommodate more conference facilities, events, and first-rate services.

Another example is the restoration of China Banking Corporation's (China Bank) original headquarters in Binondo, Manila.  The Binondo Heritage Restoration Project restored the bank's century-old building to its previous Neo-Classic Beaux Arts brilliance.  The restoration became the focal point of China Bank's centenary celebration in 2020. 

In 2021, China Bank was awarded a historical marker by the NHCP and an Important Cultural Property marker by the National Museum, recognizing the bank's consistent dedication to preserving not only its business history but also the national legacy.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

For inquiries, please contact: smic_corpcomm@sminvestments.com

UNIQLO Reimagines LifeWear Shopping in BGC

UNIQLO unveiled ambitious plans for its stores in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), aiming to improve the LifeWear shopping experience in one of the country's top central business and lifestyle districts.

To meet the rising LifeWear needs of clients in the central BGC area, the company will close the UNIQLO C3 Annex store on April 28 to allow for renovations.  Once completed, the new location will be named as UNIQLO BGC High Street, and it will be one of the brand's key stores in the country.  The new location promises a better LifeWear shopping experience, with a full line-up of LifeWear for women, men, children, and babies, as well as a number of additional services.

UNIQLO BGC High Street is targeted to open in the fourth quarter of this year.

In the interim, shoppers can visit the temporary UNIQLO store at One Bonifacio High Street.  The pop-up area, located on the mall's second floor, will open on May 21 with special prices and exclusive novelties promotions.

Learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear by visiting www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/. Follow @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram for all the latest news and updates.

About UNIQLO LifeWear

Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.

About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing

UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, PLST, Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam, J Brand and Helmut Lang. With global sales of approximately 3.1 trillion yen for the 2024 fiscal year ending August 31, 2024 (US $21.39 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2024 rate of $1 = 144.9 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.

UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world's most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a global brand. Today the company has a total of more than 2,500 UNIQLO stores across the world, including Japan, Asia, Europe and North America. The total number of stores across Fast Retailing's brands is now close to 3,600.

With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and change the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere.  For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.

Implementing the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for Travel to Thailand

AirAsia Philippines wishes to remind all guests traveling to the Kingdom of Thailand of an important change in arrival procedures implemented by the Thai Immigration Bureau.  Effective May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand via any means of transportation, including flights operated by AirAsia Philippines (Z2), must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before to arrival.

To enhance the immigration process and provide a faster, more secure travel experience, paper arrival forms will no longer be used.

Guests may register within 3 days before arrival at: https://tdac.immigration.go.th.