Pag-IBIG Fund reported double-digit year-on-year growth in its income for the first half of 2025, marking the highest earnings for the period in the agency’s 45-year history, top officials announced on Friday (August 01).
From January to June, the agency’s gross income reached PHP44.39 billion, rising by 11.65 percent or PHP4.63 billion compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Pag-IBIG Fund’s net income grew by 15.25 percent or PHP3.71 billion to reach PHP28.04 billion. This is the highest net income recorded since the agency was founded in 1980.
Officials attributed the growth to strong collections and higher earnings from Pag-IBIG Fund’s housing and short-term loan portfolios.
“This performance shows how excellently we are managing the funds that our members have entrusted to us. With our strong fiscal standing, we remain capable of continuing to deliver our members’ benefits and are in a solid position to finance more homes under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino, or Expanded 4PH Program, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to empower more Filipinos achieve better, more dignified lives,” said Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, who also chairs the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees.
Higher investment returns also contributed to the income growth. The agency’s income from investments surged by 51.79 percent year-on-year to PHP4.27 billion.
This was driven by strategic placements in bonds and other debt securities, money market instruments, equities, and investment properties. Investment income accounted for 5.56 percent of the agency’s total gross income in the first half of the year.
Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta, meanwhile, emphasized the strength of the agency’s financial position. As of June 2025, Pag-IBIG Fund’s total assets stood at PHP1.14 trillion, reflecting a 7.02 percent or PHP74.90 billion increase from the year-end 2024 figure of PHP1.07 trillion.
Acosta further stated that the agency’s strong performance directly benefits its members. Under its charter, the agency returns at least 70 percent of its annual net income to members in the form of dividends, which are credited to their savings every year.
“Pag-IBIG Fund is owned by its members — the Filipino workers. It is our duty to grow and protect their savings,” Acosta said. “Guided by President Marcos Jr.’s call for government institutions to deliver responsive social benefits, we continue to ensure that our members enjoy competitive earnings on their savings and gain access to affordable home financing. We are committed to sustaining our strong performance to help uplift the lives of more Filipino workers,” she added.
In the wake of recent typhoons, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) is reaching out to help customers get back on their feet and back on the road through the launch of its 2025 Flood Assistance Program, S.O.S. Support On Standby, a dedicated initiative to support vehicle owners affected by flooding across the country.
The company aims to ease the financial weight of repairs by lowering the cost of restoring critical components such as electronics, engine parts, and other systems damaged by the extreme weather. Starting August 6, 2025, the flood assistance program will offer up to 30% discount on selected genuine spare parts for Mitsubishi vehicles exposed to flood-water intrusion. The program will run until November 6, 2025, and will be available through all DTI-accredited Mitsubishi dealerships nationwide.
“This program reflects our strong commitment to supporting our customers during difficult times,” shared MMPC after sales executive vice president Toko Imai. “We understand that our customers rely on their vehicles, not just for convenience, but also for their livelihoods and families. Their trust in Mitsubishi is something we value deeply, and this program is one way we can give back by helping them recover quickly, he added.
Customers may bring their vehicles to participating dealers, where they will be assessed and repaired through authorized workshop services. The discount assistance applies exclusively to repairs carried out using genuine parts to ensure safety and quality for all Mitsubishi models officially distributed by MMPC.
The 2025 Flood Assistance Program is part of MMPC’s long-standing commitment to providing disaster relief support to customers and helping rebuild the resilience of communities it serves.
For more information, customers are encouraged to visit their nearest Mitsubishi dealership.
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH)is once again bringing the Hyundai Mobility Experience (HME) to the City of Cebu. On August 8 to 10, 2025, mallgoers can experience the latest Hyundai innovations at the SM Seaside Cebu Activity Center.
On display are some of the brand’s newly launched nameplates: the Hyundai CRETA, ELANTRA, and KONA Hybrid. Those seeking more spacious options can also check out the STARGAZER X and STARIA. Each vehicle is designed to suit a wide range of lifestyles, from families to young professionals, solidifying the brand’s purpose to provide a Hyundai for every Filipino.
Visitors who simply register and inquire at the display will be treated to a free refreshment from the signature Hyundai Café. Visitors can also get behind the wheel through test drives of select models and see for themselves how Hyundai continues to deliver performance, comfort, and convenience. Customers who take a Hyundai for a spin will receive a free Hyundai-branded Knowell cap.
As an event-exclusive offer, every customer who makes a reservation during the event gets to redeem a free Knowell bag, contributing to the brand’s Donate-a-Bag initiative, where one equivalent backpack will be donated to a partner foundation. In addition, those who reserve either the STARGAZER or CRETA will score a PHP10,000 e-voucher.
“We at HMPH are thrilled to be back in Cebu for another round of the Hyundai Mobility Experience. It has always been a vibrant and welcoming city for the brand, and we’re excited to connect with more Cebuanos through our latest lineup,” says Cecil Capacete, HMPH managing director. “We invite everyone to visit us this weekend. Test drive, explore, and take advantage of our special offers only available during HME Cebu.”
Everyone is welcome at the Hyundai Mobility Experience Cebu, only this weekend. For the latest news, visit Hyundai Philippines – Innovate Everyday and follow @HyundaiMotorPhilippines on Facebook and Instagram.
In homes where life never stops and every second matters, PLDT Home introduces a game-changing innovation designed for today’s fast-paced, always-connected lifestyle. PLDT Home’s Always On, the country’s first hybrid modem with built-in fiber and LTE backup, ensures uninterrupted connectivity so Filipino families can stay online no matter what.
From early-morning meetings and online classes to streaming marathons and remote work setups, staying connected has become a non-negotiable part of daily life.
“Always On was built around the realities of how Filipinos live and work today—complex, multitasking, and digitally-driven,” said John Y. Palanca, senior vice president and head of home consumer business, sales and development at PLDT. “At PLDT Home, we are committed to creating innovative solutions that meet the real needs of our customers. Even a moment of disconnection can mean missed opportunities or lost time with loved ones. That’s why Always On is more than just a device. It’s our promise to keep families connected when it matters most.”
Seamless Internet, Even During Outages
PLDT Home Always On features automatic LTE failover, allowing it to switch to a wireless connection whenever fiber service is disrupted. There’s no need to reset or configure—once fiber is restored, the device automatically switches back, ensuring continuous connectivity for video calls, meetings, classes, and more.
What distinguishes this new service is its proactive care feature: the modem detects a fiber issue and automatically generates a repair ticket, starting the resolution process even before you have to report it.
With AlwaysOn, PLDT Home reaffirms its commitment to delivering reliable, responsive, and future-ready connectivity for Filipino households across the country.
Discover how Always On can keep your home connected.
Last June 28, 2025, Yamaha turned a routine track day into a full-throttle showcase of innovation and power. In a surprise reveal, Yamaha unveiled the all-new Aeroxand Aerox SP, engineered to redefine speed itself. No hype, no teaser trailers, just pure, unfiltered performance in front of the very riders who live and breathe it.
The grid was set. The engines were primed. Riders from the Aerox Club Philippines (ACP) gathered at the Clark International Speedway expecting a community track day, but Yamaha Motor Philippines had a different plan, one that would rewrite what they thought they knew about automatic performance
The event kicked off with what appeared to be a private session for ACP, one of the country’s most passionate riding communities. But when the new Aerox lineup was unveiled, the reaction was electric. Riders got their first glimpse, and first taste, of Yamaha’s next-generation machines before it even hit the market. The sleek Aerox SP stood out immediately with Yamaha’s exclusive Y-ECVT system for optimized acceleration response, selectable Sport or Touring Modes, and 3-level Downshift Control.
What followed wasn’t just a test ride, it was a time attack. Members of ACP were invited to take on the circuit, pushing the new Aerox SP through apexes and straights in a controlled, competitive format. Lap times were recorded. Rivalries were sparked. And the fastest riders earned a once-in-a-lifetime chance: to go head-to-head in an exhibition run with the Yamaha Philippines Racing Team and international Yamaha riders.
The on-track battles proved what the spec sheets already hinted at: the Aerox SP isn’t just a step forward in style or tech, it’s a weapon for riders who demand precision and power in one seamless ride. Its Traction Control System, 4.2-inch TFT Dash, and Supersport Cockpit delivered a race machine experience.
For Yamaha, the event wasn’t just about showing off new machines. It was about handing the keys to the people who matter most, the riders. By placing the Aerox and Aerox SP directly into the hands of enthusiasts, the brand let the machines speak for themselves.
This surprise track day marks the beginning of a new era for Yamaha’s automatic segment. Speed isn’t just a claim; it’s a proven experience. And with the Aerox SP leading the charge, it only proves that fast never looks back.
Xpress Superapp, one of the Philippines’ fastest-growing mobility platforms, is launching a large-scale Driver Recruitment Drive to onboard thousands of professional drivers as salaried employees ahead of the –Ber months, in preparation for the peak Christmas season. The initiative aims to expand its transport network while providing flexible livelihood opportunities for Filipinos during the year’s busiest economic period.
On August 15-20, 2025, Xpress will open its doors to over 1,500 professional drivers as it kicks off its biggest recruitment drive yet at the newly built Xpress Paranaque Hub. The Hub is envisioned as a central processing center for walk-in driver applicants. During that week, applicants can go through the entire hiring process in just one day—from screening, skills testing, safety training, to job offer—and walk out employed.
This hiring campaign signals the company’s commitment to delivering reliable transportation solutions while providing stable livelihood opportunities for thousands of Filipino drivers. At the heart of this effort is the belief that mobility workers deserve more than just gigs, they deserve careers.
“We are not just onboarding partners. We’re offering real employment—with full government benefits, safety training, and long-term support,” said Alyssa Duldulao, chief of staff at Xpress. “We’re not just building a transportation platform, at Xpress we’re building a community of empowered employed drivers.”
Exciting Raffle Prizes Await All Hires — Including a Brand-New Motorcycle.
As a grand highlight, Xpress is raffling off a brand-new motorcycle, smartphones, Mic Rider intercoms, and other exciting prizes to all successfully hired drivers from August to October 2025. Every successful hire during this period gets one raffle entry for the grand draw in November. During the week-long Job Fair (August 15–20), daily raffle draws will be held with fun prizes up for grabs. It is open to all applicants who show up and participate in the event.
How to Join
Interested applicants can head directly to the Xpress Paranaque Hub for one-day processing. It is located at 846 West Service Road, KM 18, South Super Highway, Parañaque City. Don’t forget to bring the original and a photocopy of your Professional Drivers License and NBI Clearance (or Official Receipt).
Better yet, to get an assured slot, pre-register through the QR code provided in Xpress’ official social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok).
The Xpress Advantage
Xpress is an LTFRB-accredited Transport Network Company (TNC) and has partnered with LGUs and top EV brands like BYD, Jetour, and Hyundai to promote sustainable mobility solutions. Its recent expansion into Bataan included the rollout of electric vehicles and the opening of 150 new TNVS slots, demonstrating its commitment to inclusive growth and environmental responsibility.
Founded in 2024, Xpress Superapp is redefining urban mobility through technology, community empowerment, and sustainability. With its intuitive interface and consolidated services, the app—once fully operational—will simplify daily life for commuters, entrepreneurs, and service providers across the country.
A proud affiliate of the P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, Xpress Superapp is a homegrown platform currently offering ride-hailing services through Xpress Ride. Eventually, it plans to introduce a full suite of services, including Xpress Eats (food delivery), Xpress Send (courier), Xpress Mart (grocery), and Xpay (digital payments). It currently operates in Metro Manila, Cavite, Boracay, Bataan, Bulacan and Pampanga, with plans to expand further into key regional hubs.
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) recently formalized its partnership with Good Neighbors Philippines, a humanitarian organization established in South Korea that aims to serve the marginalized and underserved. Founded in 2008, the latter’s goal is to empower vulnerable communities, especially children from areas affected by poverty and calamities. On the part of Hyundai, the partnership signals its continued commitment to creating human-centric change beyond mobility.
With Good Neighbors Philippines, HMPH has launched the “Service with a Heart” After-sales Promo. Until September 30, 2025, each Out-of-Warranty vehicle serviced at authorized Hyundai service centers corresponds to a donation to selected communities via Good Neighbors International Philippines. This includes all preventive maintenance, change of oil, and general repairs availed during the promo period. Out-of-Warranty customers are also eligible to get a PHP1,000 discount on their total service bill. Customers may also make an in-kind donation via donation boxes located across Hyundai dealerships. The proceeds will go to communities in Rizal and Quezon City, particularly San Isidro & Southville, Sitio Bakal, and Sitio Ibayo.
“We at HMPH are glad to be partnering with Good Neighbors Philippines to serve communities in need. As part of Hyundai’s global vision, ‘Progress for Humanity’, this partnership is just one of the ways that we get to elevate the car ownership experience into a more meaningful and personal one. Our customers get to take part in a good cause if they simply bring their vehicle in for service – which goes to show that when you own a Hyundai, you make a positive impact on not just your life, but more so, the lives of those around you.” says HMPH managing director Cecil Capacete.
You step out of school, backpack heavy with notebooks and deadlines, and head straight for the corner. It’s late afternoon, and the air is thick with the scent of deep-fried dreams—fishballs, kwek-kwek, calamares—all sizzling in golden oil. You dig into your pocket and count the last of your allowance. Just enough for Manong’s famous 3-for-5 pesos and a generous scoop of orange sauce.
No menu. No receipts. Just nods, sauce choices, and trust. This is the after-school ritual, the comfort food of students and workers alike. The turo-turo, the food cart, the kanto stall. It’s where stories are swapped, friendships are formed, and flavors become memories.
But quietly, things are changing.
Swipe, Dip, and Fry
In recent years, Filipino street vendors have started blending tradition with tech. It’s part of a broader movement called inclusive innovation—making sure even the smallest players benefit from digital progress. Tools like QR codes and mobile apps aren’t just trendy; they’re opening doors to the digital economy.
Across cities and barangays, micro foodpreneurs are going cashless. Where coins once ruled, laminated GCash and Maya QR codes now hang proudly on stalls. It’s fast, secure, and perfect for a generation that might not carry change but never forgets their phone.
Social media is also changing the game. Vendors post daily menus, promos, and shoutouts on Facebook and TikTok, reaching customers far beyond foot traffic. Some even take pre-orders via Messenger, making transactions smoother and more efficient.
The Delivery-Only Hustle
As vendors look to grow, many are tapping into delivery apps and online platforms. This is the platform economy in action—connecting small food businesses with hungry customers through apps like GrabFood and FoodPanda.
Some are skipping the physical stall altogether, opting for ghost kitchens—delivery-only setups with no storefront. For popular micro brands, renting space in a shared cloud kitchen means reaching more customers while keeping operations lean.
The Future Digital Turo-Turo
The food cart of tomorrow will be powered by more than just oil and hustle. Mobile POS systems can help vendors track sales and understand customer habits. These tools streamline prep, reduce waste, and boost profits.
Inventory apps prevent overbuying, while loyalty programs keep suki customers coming back. Even AI-powered dashboards are entering the scene, offering pricing tips and bundle suggestions based on real data.
Cloud kitchens provide scalable growth without the need for physical expansion. Shared facilities and delivery infrastructure let micro foodpreneurs grow smart and sustainably.
MSME Glow Up
Digitalization is a big win for Filipino MSMEs. It levels the playing field, giving small vendors access to tools once reserved for big businesses. With just a smartphone, they can accept payments, promote their brand, and join delivery platforms.
POS systems offer financial clarity—tracking income, managing costs, and even helping with microloan applications. Social media builds brand identity and trust within the community.
Best of all, tech-enabled growth is low-risk and scalable. Cloud kitchens, online ordering, and mobile platforms let MSMEs test markets and expand without huge investments.
Sustainability in Every Bite
Going digital isn’t just about convenience—it’s also about sustainability. With better tracking tools, vendors can reduce food waste by prepping smarter. Pre-orders and data-driven schedules mean fewer spoiled ingredients and more efficient cooking.
Hyperlocal delivery cuts down on transport emissions, while smarter order data helps reduce packaging waste. Shared kitchen spaces save energy and promote resource sharing, especially for vendors without permanent stalls.
In short, digital tools help micro food businesses operate more mindfully—without sacrificing flavor or profit.
Final Bite
The neighborhood food cart, once powered by hustle and hand-me-down sauce recipes, is now running on data, digital tools, and a drive to grow. And honestly? We’re all for it.
Tech is making life easier for vendors and suki alike. But let’s not lose the heart of it all. We still want our turo-turo moments—the nods, the sauce choices, the stories.
So yes, let’s embrace innovation. But let’s also keep the warmth and flavor that made these stalls our go-to in the first place. The future can be high-tech and still taste like home.
Words by Aljhelyn Piador Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 No. 1 Issue.
ASUS Philippines welcomes the new school year yet again with the ASUS New Tech, New Class sale! From accessible AI laptops and the latest stylish notebooks to high-performing devices, ASUS offers the best tech to empower every kind of student. Purchases of qualifying products come with exclusive bundles that complete the back-to-school essentials. This special promo runs until September 30, 2025.
Study Smarter With A Vivobook AI Laptop
The Vivobook S16 (S3607QA) and Vivobook 16 (X1607QA) are Copilot+ PCs designed for the modern multitasker – best for students who are active in classes and extracurriculars. Powered by the latest Snapdragon X Series processor with 45 TOPs NPU, these laptops deliver faster AI performance anytime and anywhere with battery life to spare! The Vivobook S16 (S3607QA) boasts up to 32 hours of usage, a vibrant 16-inch 2.5K display with a 144Hz refresh rate, and a premium metal design in Matte Gray at just 1.59cm thin and 1.74kg light. Meanwhile, the 16-inch Vivobook 16 (X1607QA) promises up to 27 hours of all-day use.
Vivobook AI laptops are also available for those who need a productivity partner for everyday use. Vivobook S16 (S3607CA) and Vivobook S14 (S3407CA) are smart choices for students who need daily AI power in sleek form factors. Powered by up to thelatestIntel Core Ultra 7 Processor 255H and promising up to 20 hours of nonstop computing, these Vivobook S models are great for running AI-integrated programs and doing schoolwork seamlessly.
The Vivobook S16 (S3607CA) features a large 16-inch WUXGA 144Hz display inside a 1.59cm thin and 1.7kg light chassis, in the Matte Gray color. Tailored for students who are always on the go. While the ultraportable Vivobook S14 features a 14-inch display, with thin and compact 1.59cm and 1.39kg chassis in stylish Cool Silver. Rounding up the list of ASUS AI laptops is the ever-dependable 16-inch Vivobook 16 (X1607CA). With an Intel Core Ultra 5 Processor 225H, this Vivobook provides the ideal balance of AI performance and efficiency, ready to take on all kinds of homework and projects.
Starting prices are as follows:
Vivobook S16 S3607QA – PHP50,995
Vivobook S16 X1607QA – PHP45,996
Vivobook S16 S3607CA – PHP65,995
Vivobook S14 S3407CA – PHP52,995
Vivobook S16 X1607CA – PHP50,995
During the promo period, these Vivobook Copilot+ PCs and AI laptops will come complete with the ASUS Backpack and the ASUS Marshmallow MD100 mouse worth PHP1,795.
Be Stylish and Reliable Vivobook Classic Series
Students can march to the beat of their drums and still stay on top with the trusted Vivobook Classic Series! This lineup of dependable laptops is ready to keep up with today’s trends and school demands, offering great value for money. Whether it is taking notes, doing assignments, or finishing projects, these Vivobooks deliver solid performance in style.
The Vivobook 15 (X1504) and Vivobook 14 (X1404) are sleek, reliable laptops built to handle everyday tasks, powered by up to Intel Core 5 processor (Series 1). Crafted with comfort and convenience in mind, both have a 180-degree ErgoLift Hinge, a three-sided NanoEdge display, and the ASUS ErgoSense keyboard. Prioritizing user safety, these Vivobooks the ASUS Antimicrobial Guard Plus, which inhibits 99% of viruses and bacteria – ideal for long study sessions at any environment. For more ease of use, both models support fast charging and can reach 60% battery life within 49 minutes.
While Vivobook 15 (X1504) and Vivobook 14 (X1404) share ASUS’ signature military-grade durability, they differ in sizes and color options – to fit different preferences. The Vivobook 15 (X1504) has a larger 15.6-inch FHD screen, housed in 1.79cm thin and 1.7kg body – available in Cool Silver and Quiet Blue. On the other hand, the Vivobook 14 (X1404) has a more compact design, with a 14-inch FHD screen, a 1.4kg light and 1.79cm thin frame, and in Cool Silver, Quiet Blue, and Terra Cotta.
Of course, the Vivobook 16 (X1605, M1605) is also part of the ASUS Back to School festivities. Whether powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 or an AMD Ryzen 5 7000 CPU, the Vivobook 16 in classic Indie Black color features a slim and light 1.99cm thin and 1.88kg chassis and provides a large and immersive 16-inch WUXGA display – for the more multitasking space. It also comes with the same crowd-favorites performance and protective enhancements found in Vivobook 15 and Vivobook 14.
For the more budge-savvy students, Vivobook Go 15 (E1504) and Vivobook Go 14 (E1404) are go-to options as well. With up to Ryzen 5 7000 and Intel Core i3-N305 processors, these laptops maintain the same industry-grade security and power without breaking the bank! The Vivobook Go 15 comes in a 15.6-inch Full HD display, in a 1.79cm and 1.63kg slim chassis in Cool Silver, Green Gray, or Mixed Black. Meanwhile, the Vivobook Go 14 comes with a 14-inch FHD screen at just 1.38kg in Mixed Black.
Starting prices for these models are:
Vivobook 16 M1605 – PHP40,995
Vivobook 16 X1605 – PHP40,995
Vivobook 15 X1504 – PHP35,995
Vivobook 14 X1404 – PHP35,995
Vivobook Go 15 E1504 – PHP25,995
Vivobook Go 14 E1404 – PHP25,995
Each purchase of a participating Vivobook Classic until September 30, 2025, will also come complete with an ASUS Backpack and the ASUS Marshmallow MD100 mouse.
Study Hard, Game Harder With ASUS Gaming V16
Get ready to play when the bell rings and school is out! The ASUS Gaming V16 (V3607) is made for students ready to dive into other realms right after assignments are done. Powered by up to an Intel Core 7 240H CPU and up to RTX 5070 GPU, this budget gaming laptop can handle all kinds of schoolwork and after-class quests – and without overheating too! Thanks to ASUS IceCool Thermal technology. Its 16-inch WUXGA screen quality and 144Hz refresh rate deliver smooth and immersive visuals, whether exploring documents or dungeon maps. With its Matte Black chassis at only 1.8cm slim and 1.95kg light, students equipped with the V16 stay sleek, stylish, and discreet no matter where they are.
Starting price for this bang-for-the-buck gaming laptop is PHP56,995. It comes with an ASUS Backpack and a TUF Gaming M4 Air mouse, worth PHP1,850.
Be The Best In Class With The TUF Gaming Laptops
Grind to the top and outclass the rest with TUF Gaming laptops. Built to withstand real-world and in-game challenges, these machines combine military-grade durability and reliable firepower to see every student through their wins.
The TUF Gaming F16 (FX608, FX607) packs serious power with up to a 14th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU and up to an RTX 5070 GPU combo, making this line ready for hardcore gaming and heavy multitasking. Backed by up to a 165Hz 16-inch 2.5K IPS display, visual experience will surely be immersive and smooth whether users are studying, editing, or grinding. Moreover, when the pressure is on, students can also stay cool thanks to its upgraded cooling system!
TUF Gaming F15 (FX507) offers an option for those who prefer horsepower in a 15.6-inch frame. While equipped with a 144Hz screen, a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, and up to an RTX 4060 GPU, this TUF laptop also possesses the gaming caliber and quality of its 16-inch sibling.
For the more compact gamers who want power in a smaller package, the TUF Gaming A14 (FA401WV, FA401KH) is a viable choice. While powered with an unrivaled combination of the Ryzen AI CPUs and up to an RTX 5050, this 14-inch powerhouse is housed in a sleek frame, at just 1.69cm thin and 1.46kg light! Its 165Hz, 2.5K WQXGA display with 100% sRGB coverage ensures color accuracy and smooth visuals – best for editing projects and exploring open-worlds. Its easy upgradeability allows users to tailor the laptop according to their needs as well. Even better, this unique gaming laptop is also touted as a Copilot+ PC with its 50 TOPs NPU, unlocking not only advanced AI features for games but also unlimited potential in seamless productivity.
The TUF Gaming A16 (FA607) is a strong contender at a more affordable price point, powered by the Ryzen 7 7445HS and RTX 4050 combo with a 16-inch 144Hz display. TUF Gaming A15 (FA507, FA506) is also available with the same CPU, up to RTX 4060 GPU, and the same refresh rate options as the 16-inch counterpart, but in a 15.6-inch body.
Starting prices for the gaming laptops are:
TUF Gaming F16 FX608 – PHP79,995
TUF Gaming F16 FX607 – PHP59,995
TUF Gaming F15 FX507 – PHP47,995
TUF Gaming A16 FA607 – PHP65,995
TUF Gaming A15 FA507/FA506 – PHP43,995
TUF Gaming A14 FA401 – PHP99,995
All TUF Gaming laptops featured in the promo are also eligible for the TUF Gaming Backpack and a TUF Gaming M4 Air mouse.
#playALLYourgames After School With ROG Ally
Featuring up to an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor in an ergonomic handheld gaming device, the ROG Ally (ZC71L) is always ready to run any game during the much-needed downtime from a busy school week. Get ready to be immersed in its 7-inch 120Hz FHD display and experience other realms unlike before. With a premium cooling system, keeping cool is always an option.
The starting price for the ROG Ally RC71L is PHP30,995.
Buy the ROG Ally during promo period to get an ROG Cetra True Wireless headphones worth PHP4,890.
Packaged Complete With Essentials
Vivobooks come bundled with lifetime access to Office Home and a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Basic, while the ASUS Gaming V16, TUF Gaming line, and ROG Ally include a three-month PC Game Pass.
All participating laptops are also covered by ASUS’ service package, which includes a two-year internation warranty and one-year accidental damage protection. Meanwhile, the ROG Ally is backed by a two-year international warranty.
ASUS New Tech, New Class
Kick-off the 2025 school year with ASUS’ Back to School promo – New Tech, New Class! which runs until September 30, 2025. From smart laptops, everyday notebooks, to top-of-the-line gaming tech – there is an ASUS product for any students! Visit ASUS and ROG stores now.
Follow the official ASUS and ROG Facebook pages for updates on Always Incredible tech.
The promise of portable PC gaming has been around for ages, but the Lenovo Legion Go S gets very close to nailing the assignment. If you’ve ever wished you could cram your gaming PC into a tiny bag without too much compromise, this might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Design: 4/5
The Legion Go S is compact, clean, but with reasonable heft at 730 grams, making it a travel-friendly gaming companion. Finished in Glacier White, it looks sleek without being too flashy. The ergonomic grips, front-firing speakers, and well-placed controls make it comfortable to use even during long gaming sessions. The layout will feel instantly familiar to gamers while maintaining a solid, premium feel that Lenovo’s Legion line is known for.
Hardware: 5/5
At the heart of the Legion Go S is AMD’s new Ryzen Z2 GO processor, built on Zen 4 architecture paired with RDNA 3 graphics and a 4nm process. This means smoother gameplay, lower heat, and improved battery efficiency. AAA games like Elden Ring and Fortnite run well, while the Windows 11 environment ensures full anti-cheat compatibility, something SteamOS still struggles with. The Go S can be configured with up to 32GB of LPDDR5X memory, providing fast, efficient multitasking, and the SSD is user-replaceable, which is a welcome feature in portable devices on the whole.
The Legion Go S packs an 8-inch WUXGA (1920×1200) 16:10 touch display, capable of a 120Hz refresh rate and hitting up to 500 nits of brightness with VRR support. It’s bright, crisp, and buttery smooth, whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just browsing the web. The touch interface is responsive, adding another layer of flexibility for both gaming and productivity.
User Experience: 4.5/5
One of the standout aspects of the Legion Go S is its versatility. Our model ran Steam OS out of the box, and I have to admit that I didn’t appreciate the streamlined, game-focused interface until I got my hands on this device. I’m honestly considering an install on my personal gaming handheld, and I apologize for all my previous Steam OS remarks.
Should you want something that’s a little more skewed towards productivity, the device fully supports Windows 11 as well, so a quick install of that and you’ll have a productivity machine that you can comfortably slip into a sling.
Thermal management is excellent, with air intake from the back and exhaust from the top, and users can toggle between performance modes in Legion Space: 40W for max power or Quiet Mode for longer sessions with less fan noise. Not that the fan was obnoxiously loud at full tilt. You can hear it, but it won’t interfere with game sounds or music.
Controls and ergonomics are excellent, with Hall effect joysticks to prevent stick drift over time, and adjustable triggers to customize the control feel depending on your game. These are small but significant details that elevate the gaming experience in a way other devices in the market haven’t managed yet.
The Legion Go S houses a 55.5Wh battery with Super Rapid Charge support, letting you juice up to 70 percent in just 30 minutes. Real-world use will, of course, depend on your performance mode and game, but the battery life holds up well, and your arms will almost certainly tire before your battery gives out.
Value: 4.5/5
Starting at PHP39,995, the Legion Go S is a reasonably powerful yet relatively affordable entry into handheld gaming. For that price, you get a device that can potentially replace a bulkier gaming laptop, offering flexibility for those who need both work and play on the go.
Bottomline:
If you want to take your gaming PC with you wherever you go while retaining the freedom to use it as a productivity device, the Lenovo Legion Go S is ready to be your next travel companion.
What’s Hot:
Bright, smooth 8-inch 120Hz display
GREAT performance on Steam OS
Windows flexibility if needed Ergonomic design with Hall effect joysticks
Rapid charging with a solid battery size
What’s Not:
Slightly on the large, heavy side
Battery life depends heavily on power mode and game, but is sufficient
A profile with no bio. No curated grid. No polished selfies. Just a scattered feed of random uploads: worn-out sneakers beside a half-finished coffee, a grainy meme, a Notes app screenshot mid-overthink. Then a long, all-caps, emotionally charged caption under a pixelated photo of a congressional session on TV, dragging a politician for being “illogical and stupid despite that fat paycheck and fancy title.”
It’s a dump account—an intentionally messy, semi-private space for the things that don’t “fit the feed.” For Gen Z, these accounts are digital breathing rooms in a world wired for aesthetics, algorithms, and applause.
The Case for Dump Accounts
At their best, dump accounts are acts of digital resistance. A way to reclaim control in an era of constant visibility. While main accounts often serve as personal brands, feeding into aesthetic pressure and social metrics, dump accounts are refreshingly human. They’re where someone can post three unrelated photos, a blurry mirror selfie, and an emotional caption—without needing it to “make sense.”
Sociologists Alice Marwick and Danah Boyd call this context collapse: the merging of all our audiences into one digital space. On platforms like Instagram or Facebook, you’re simultaneously addressing your parents, classmates, boss, and romantic interests. This forces self-censorship and fuels digital anxiety.
Dump accounts offer a workaround. Instead of tailoring content to a mixed audience, users control who sees it. By limiting visibility to a trusted few, Gen Z reintroduces contextual boundaries, restoring micro-communities where authenticity can thrive without fear of misinterpretation.
It’s also about controlled intimacy. Adding someone to your dump account is like handing them a spare key to your inner world, minus the pressure to perform. These accounts become modern confessional booths, friendship diaries, or emotional group chats with an Instagram interface.
And beneath it all is something more profound: freedom in secrecy. Not secrecy to hide something wrong, but to protect something real. Vulnerability, here, doesn’t need packaging. In a world where everything feels like content, secrecy becomes a space not just to be seen, but to be understood.
Privacy Illusions, Echo Chambers, and Digital Exhaustion
Still, dump accounts aren’t without contradictions. While they offer refuge, they also reinforce a kind of double life. Gen Z may be rejecting polished content, but they’re still performing, just in a different tone. “Here’s my chaotic side” is still a brand, especially when followed by affirming comments like “sameee” or “(2).”
There’s also the illusion of privacy. Dump accounts feel safer, but screenshots, leaks, and accidental exposure are always risks. The intimacy feels real, but it’s still happening on platforms designed to harvest attention and data.
Selective audience control can also lead to ideological insulation. When users handpick who sees their unfiltered thoughts, it fosters intimacy, but also echo chambers. Rants and emotional bursts often receive agreement, not challenge. While validating, this can distort reality and reinforce tribalism.
In extreme cases, it may breed us-vs-them thinking, where outsiders—family, boomers, political opponents—are dismissed as irrelevant. The primary account polishes the persona; the dump account may quietly entrench division under the guise of authenticity.
The Rejection of the Algorithmic Self
At the heart of it all is Gen Z’s exhaustion with algorithmic identity, constantly shaping the self to fit what performs well. After growing up in digital spaces dominated by likes, views, and virality, many young people are craving the opposite.
Dump accounts also reflect parasocial fatigue: burnout from being both the observer and the observed. Watching others live their best lives while managing your own digital presence is emotionally draining. Dump accounts offer a way to participate in digital culture without being consumed by it.
They’re not just rebellion. They’re refuge. And maybe more importantly, they’re quiet declarations of freedom.
A Digital Middle Ground
Through dump accounts and private circles, Gen Z proves that authenticity and privacy are still possible online, just not in the places we were told to look. These spaces feel like resistance: against algorithms, overexposure, and the pressure to perform.
But how free is this freedom, really? These comforting corners of the internet still live on platforms engineered for surveillance and profit. The blurry fries, the vulnerable rants, the cryptic Spotify lyrics may feel radically honest, but they’re still content. Still data points in someone else’s system.
Maybe there’s something powerful in posting just because you felt like it. No branding. No filters. Just digital honesty in a world that may have forgotten what that looks like.
Words by Aljhelyn Piador Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 No. 1 Issue.
No pop-up notification. No software prompt. But somehow, tech has quietly reprogrammed how we live—from the way we wake up and move, to how we care for ourselves. This isn’t about flashy new gadgets. It’s about how innovation has subtly woven itself into our everyday routines.
Just a few decades ago, the internet was a novelty. We printed maps, waited for TV schedules, and lined up to pay bills. Now, we tap, swipe, and voice-command our way through life without even thinking about it. The shift from pre-Internet to today’s hyper-connected world wasn’t loud, but it was profound. You didn’t just download an update. You’re living it.
Smart Homes: Your House Is Smarter Than You Think
What once felt like sci-fi is now standard. Smart homes are quietly reshaping how we live. Motion-sensing lights, voice-controlled assistants, and fridges that know when you’re low on eggs—these aren’t luxuries anymore. They’re becoming the norm.
Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub let you control lights, locks, and doorbells with just your voice. Samsung’s Family Hub fridge shows you what’s inside—even when you’re at the grocery store. Philips Hue lights adjust to your schedule, setting the mood without you lifting a finger.
Tech isn’t just in your home—it is your home. It’s in the walls, the appliances, the routines. Your house doesn’t just have Wi-Fi. It is Wi-Fi.
Seamless Mobility: Getting Around, Upgraded
Mobility today is smoother, smarter, and far less stressful. From app-connected scooters to cars that park themselves, commuting is turning into a tech-powered glide.
Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 come with autopilot and smart route planning. Apps like Waze and Google Maps use real-time data to dodge traffic. Grab and Xpress offer cashless rides, while Angkas and Joyride motorbike taxis solve the last-mile problem in busy cities.
Whether it’s EVs with autopilot, train schedules synced to your phone, or AI-powered traffic tips—getting from A to B no longer feels like a journey through Z.
Tech-Enhanced Wellness: Self-Care, Upgraded
Fitness bands count your steps. Sleep apps analyze your snooze patterns. Smart rings detect stress before you even feel it. Wellness tech today doesn’t just track—it coaches, nudges, and predicts.
The Apple Watch Series 10 monitors heart rate, sleep, blood oxygen, and even menstrual cycles. Fitbit Charge 6 offers guided breathing and personalized workouts. The Oura Ring tracks sleep and stress so precisely that even elite athletes swear by it. Apps like Calm and Headspace guide you through mindfulness exercises to boost focus and reduce anxiety.
Whether you’re meditating with a virtual coach or tracking hydration through your watch, tech is your wellness partner—quietly supportive, always present.
Sustainable Living: Saving the Planet, One Click at a Time
Tech and sustainability used to be separate conversations. Now, they’re one. From solar-powered devices to apps that fight food waste, green tech is making eco-friendly choices easier than ever.
The EcoFlow River 2 brings solar charging to homes and travelers. Nest’s smart thermostat learns your habits to cut energy use. Apps like Loop and Too Good To Go help you shop sustainably and rescue surplus food. Electric scooters like the Segway Ninebot Max or Hatasu e-bikes make short trips cleaner and greener.
You don’t need to live off-grid to live sustainably. You just need smart tech that thinks green for you.
The Invisible Revolution: Life, But Smarter
The biggest tech revolution? It’s the one you barely notice. Automation, personalization, and silent optimization are working behind the scenes—saving time, energy, and effort without demanding your attention.
IFTTT (If This Then That) automates your digital chores—from turning on lights when you walk in, to reminding you if the oven’s still on. The Roomba i7+ maps your home and cleans while you’re out. Your phone—whether it’s a Galaxy Z Fold7 or an iPhone 16 Pro—learns your habits and adjusts battery use, app suggestions, and more.
It’s not about flashy features. It’s about making life smoother. In a world that updates overnight, you’re already living the upgrade—you just didn’t notice.
From Subtle to Significant
There was no press release. No dramatic shift. But look around—your home thinks, your car analyzes, your phone guides, and your watch cares about your health.
This isn’t the future. It’s the now. Quietly updated, intuitively connected, and deeply embedded in your daily life.
We’re part of a revolution that didn’t need noise to be heard. Because the update has already installed itself. Welcome to version 2025—you’re already running it.
Words by Phia Manuell Layoso Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 No. 1 Issue.
Ready to take on every adventure with style, confidence, and electrified innovation? Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) introduces the new Yaris Cross SE, the top-of-the-line Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) variant of the Yaris Cross lineup. Crafted for those who want a sportier edge, a smarter drive, and a more sustainable ride.
Whether you’re a young professional on the move or a college student seeking a vehicle that matches your lifestyle, the Yaris Cross SE delivers the perfect blend of urban style, cutting-edge features, and Toyota’s renowned reliability, all while continuing Toyota’s legacy of Hybrid innovation. With its fuel-efficient, eco-conscious performance, the Yaris Cross SE is ready to conquer the city streets, cruise highways, or explore far-away winding roads, offering power and sustainability in one sleek package.
Bold looks for every destination
The Yaris Cross SE is designed to stand out on city streets and open highways, featuring:
Front bumper and Grille Garnish
Rear Bumper with Chrome Garnish
Rear Spoiler
Fog Lamp Garnish
Sport-inspired exterior upgrades: SE exclusive dynamic front and rear skirts, roof spoiler, and refined garnishes on the bumpers, back door, fog lamps, and grille.
A sleek and urban profile that complements active lifestyles, perfect for after-work hangouts, weekend road trips, or your everyday commute.
Sporty design meets modern comfort
Inside, every drive feels elevated with:
Interior
Digital Rearview Mirror w/ integrated front and rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) function
Digital rearview mirror with front and rear Digital Video Recorder, for seamless visibility and safer drives
Additional ambient lighting to set the right mood, day or night
A digital signal processor for richer, crisper audio
Premium touches like an upgraded horn, completing the refined experience
These features, paired with Toyota Safety Sense (also available on Yaris Cross V and S), ensure you not only ride in comfort but also with peace of mind.
Ready to experience the drive?
Customers can see, feel, and test drive the new Toyota Yaris Cross SE at any Toyota dealership nationwide or explore it online at www.toyota.com.ph/yaris-cross
The Yaris Cross SE is priced starting at PHP1,690,000.
With Toyota’s extensive dealer network and aftersales support for maintenance, repairs, and accessories, owning the Yaris Cross SE means having a complete, worry-free driving experience today and for the journeys ahead.
Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram , and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos.
Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is making it easier, more affordable, and more convenient for Filipinos to enjoy seamless connectivity while traveling with the launch of Smart Travē (pronounced TRAV-ie), a handy app that allows users to purchase local eSIMs and connect in over 80 overseas destinations for as low as PHP40 per day.
Now downloadable on Google Play Store for Android users and on the Apple App Store for iOS users, Smart Travē enables customers — regardless of their network provider — to conveniently browse, purchase, and activate prepaid eSIM data packages with just a few taps on their eSIM-compatible device.
Connect for as low as PHP40 per day
By using Smart Travē, travelers no longer need to swap physical SIM cards, queue at airport kiosks just to purchase a physical SIM card, or go through the hassle of locating public WiFi hotspots just to connect while traveling.
Once downloaded, users can simply choose their destination, select a data package, pay using their preferred method, and activate the eSIM for immediate use.
Depending on their destination, chosen data package, and preferred validity period, customers can connect online with data packages starting at USD4.50 valid for 7 days, enabling them to access essential travel apps to navigate unfamiliar cities; book rides or accommodations; stay connected on messaging apps; access travel documents; translate languages; and share real-time updates on social media.
Travel with ease and convenience in over 80 destinations
Smart Travē supports local connectivity in over 80 destinations worldwide, including top international destinations among Filipino travelers such as Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Thailand, United States of America, Korea, and Vietnam.
The app also offers eSIM connectivity in Albania, Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guadeloupe, Guam, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Isle of Man, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan.
Whether you’re heading to Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore for business, embarking on a culinary adventure in Korea, Taiwan, or Thailand, or attending a summit in the United States or the United Arab Emirates, Smart Travē offers a reliable and convenient app to stay connected wherever your journey takes you.
The launch of the Smart Travē app reinforces Smart’s position as a trailblazer in bringing the latest groundbreaking innovations and next-generation connectivity solutions to match the evolving lifestyles of Filipinos. Download Smart Travē on Google Play Store now! To know more, visit https://smart.com.ph/World/trave.
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) recognized the outstanding achievements of its dealer network during the recently held Dealer Conference. Aside from performance review and target setting, the event also highlighted the exceptional performance of dealers, reaffirming MMPC’s commitment to delivering quality products and services to Filipino customers nationwide. Among this year’s top awardees were:
HIGHEST RETAIL SALES: Union Motor Corporation / Peak Motors Philippines Inc.
TOP DEALER IN PARTS & ACCESSORIES BOOKING: Fast Autoworld Philippines Corporation
BEST IN SALES SATISFACTION INDEX (SSI): Freeway Motor Sales of Baliuag Corporation
BEST IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION INDEX (CSI): SJ Legacy Motors, Inc. – Cordon, Isabela
These awards stand as a testament to the passion, hard work, and dedication of MMPC’s dealer partners in providing outstanding service and value to Mitsubishi customers across the country.
“We take great pride in recognizing the achievements of our dealers, who represents our brand, Mitsubishi Motors, and the frontliners in catering quality services to our customers. The heart and goal of our business is delivering excellent customer experiences. These awards serve not only as recognition but also as motivation for all our dealers to continuously raise the bar in customer satisfaction and service excellence,” said MMPC president & CEO Ritsu Imaeda.
MMPC, together with its dealer network, remains steadfast in its mission to serve customers better by offering quality vehicles, dependable aftersales services, and a seamless ownership experience. The company looks forward to working hand-in-hand with its dealers in setting new benchmarks for customer care and business excellence in the automotive industry.
