Berde Renewables Inc., a distributed renewable energy portfolio company of I Squared Capital based in the Philippines, has announced the expansion of its partnership with Holcim Philippines. Building on the success of last year’s solar rooftop projects, the two companies are now taking their collaboration to the next level. Together, they will work to increase the renewable energy capacity at Holcim’s facilities in Davao City and Lugait, Misamis Oriental, further enhancing their sustainability efforts.
Patrick Zhu, co-founder and president of Berde Renewables, Inc., and Nicolas George, president and CEO of Holcim Philippines.
Through the expanded partnership, Berde Renewables will take on the design, construction, and management of additional solar facilities at new Holcim sites, increasing the combined capacity to 12.79 megawatt-peak (MWp). These installations are expected to generate approximately 21,263-megawatt hours of clean energy annually, which will help reduce carbon emissions by approximately 14,000 metric tons per year. This project supports Holcim’s ambitious goal of reducing Scope 2 emissions by 65 percent by 2030.
Being selected once again through a highly competitive process is a testament to Berde’s proven track record and the trust that Holcim Philippines places in our expertise,” said Patrick Zhu, CEO of Berde Renewables. “We are truly honored to extend our partnership and work together to accelerate the Philippines’ transition to renewable energy.”
“Berde Renewables’ exceptional track record, proven through their re-selection in a highly competitive process, makes them an indispensable partner in advancing our sustainability goals,” said Nicolas George, CEO of Holcim Philippines. “This partnership is pivotal in reducing our environmental impact and accelerating the Philippines’ shift to renewable energy.”
Lace up your running shoes and join Samsung and RunRio with thousands of people across the Philippines in celebration of Earth Day with the highly anticipated Galaxy Earth Day Run 2025.
Together with the Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines, RunRio and Samsung aim to bring the spirit of environmental consciousness through a festive race in Manila, Cebu, and Davao on April 27, 2025. The run will take place in SM Mall of Asia Complex for its Manila leg, City Di Mare for its Cebu leg, and Azuela Cove for its Davao leg.
The theme for this year is Run with Purpose. “It’s a simple yet telling call to action for everyone and a reminder that every step we take is a step to a more sustainable future,” said RUNRIO managing partner Andrew Neri.
The Galaxy Earth Day Run 2025 is designed to raise awareness about environmental protection and advocate for conserving resources and reducing our carbon footprint. This event will implement waste reduction strategies, including optimized water distribution to reduce plastic bottle usage and utilizing eco-friendly materials for event collaterals. The partnership with Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines further reinforces this commitment, as they will lead waste management and recycling efforts during and after the run.
“This isn’t just any run. It increases the awareness of each person in making a difference for our planet,” said Jane Sy, Tzu Chi Foundation commissioner.
Participants will enjoy their run with scenic routes as it will be held in SM Mall of Asia Complex for its Manila leg, where participants will enjoy a course along the picturesque Manila Bay, with stunning sunrise views reflecting off the calm waters. In Cebu, the City Di Mare route will offer a refreshing coastal breeze and a scenic run along the South Road Properties. Finally, in Davao, Azuela Cove will provide a lush, green environment, with runners traversing pathways lined with mature trees and offering glimpses of the Davao Gulf.
From left to right: Krisel Raymundo-Ramilo, SAVP Marketing for Premier 3 SM Supermalls; Jane Sy, Commissioner for Tzu Chi Philippines; Nic Rodriguez, Mobile Ecosystem Product Marketing Manager for Samsung Electronics Philippines; and Andrew Neri, Managing Partner for RUNRIO Inc.
Participants will have the opportunity to choose from three race categories: 5K, 10K, and 21K, catering to runners of all levels. The race is targeting an ambitious 17,000 participants across the three cities, united in the commitment to a greener planet. About 16,000 runners have already signed up for the race. Registration details and further information about the event can be accessed here: https://earthdayrun.org/.
This year’s event is proudly powered by Samsung, reinforcing its dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation. Following the impactful partnership seen in the Galaxy Watch Earth Day Run 2024, Samsung continues to support initiatives that promote both health and sustainability.
Nic Rodriguez, the Galaxy Ecosystem product marketing manager for Samsung Electronics Philippines added, “Samsung’s partnership in the Galaxy Earth Day Run 2025 signifies our belief that technology should empower action, not just track it. We’re uniting thousands to run with purpose, proving that every kilometer logged is a step towards a more sustainable world, powered by innovation.”
Furthermore, participants can enhance their running experience and track their progress with the cutting-edge Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 7, the perfect companions for those committed to both fitness and sustainability.
This run will serve as the perfect opportunity to test the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 7’s features to track users’ progress during the run. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is a premium, rugged smartwatch with its titanium body and sapphire crystal glass, built to withstand the demands of any runner. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch 7 is a stylish, high-performance smartwatch with a sleek design and various durable features that make it an ideal companion for participants aiming to track their personal wellness in a compact device.
Samsung’s commitment to durability and longevity aligns with the Galaxy Earth Day Run’s message of sustainability, making the Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Watch 7 the ideal companion for runners who care about both their personal fitness and the planet.
Formula 1 is back with another adrenaline-pumping season, and for fans in the Philippines, the excitement isn’t just on screen but also in stores. This year, the LEGO® Group is bringing the high-speed action of F1 back to the Philippines with a weekend of hands-on F1 fun at the LEGO Certified Store (LCS) in Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
This is your chance to build, play, and race some of the most legendary F1-inspired LEGO sets as the motorsport world celebrates its 75th season. Whether you’re a racing fan, a LEGO collector, or just love a good speed challenge, Build the Thrill: Pick, Build, Race gives you the ultimate hands-on experience — no pit stop required! Plus, there’s no purchase necessary to join the fun. Simply pick from the box, build your car, and see how fast you can race it.
And if you’ve ever dreamed of owning an F1 car, this is as close as it gets. Filipino fans can now bring home iconic sets – from the Ferrari SF-24 to the Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 set – all without the million-peso price tag.
Rev Up for the Ultimate Race at Ayala Malls Manila Bay
The high-speed action continues at the LEGO® Certified Store in Ayala Malls Manila Bay, with special events happening all month until April 30. Mark your calendars for these weekend highlights:
LEGO Make & Take for Adults on April 26 & 27
Kick off the weekend by building your very own LEGO F1 Steering Wheel, a must-have for any F1 enthusiast.
Build & Race Challenge (Parent + Child): Race against the clock to build your fastest LEGO® F1 car in 10 minutes! Winners receive LEGO Speed Champions sets worth up to PHP4,000, with bonus prizes for runners-up.
LEGO F1 Beat My Time Challenge (Ages 10+): Bring your own LEGO Speed Champions F1 car and compete on the official racetrack. The five fastest racers will qualify for the finals and take home LEGO F1 sets and gear.
Slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Stubs will be distributed as soon as the store opens, so be sure to arrive early! More details at the annex.
More Reasons to Race In
On top of all the action, enjoy up to 30% off on select LEGO F1 sets and receive a free LEGO polybag when you spend at least PHP2,500 in-store.
Don’t miss the weekly Make & Take activities in LEGO Certified Stores (Alabang Town Center & Manila Bay). You may also visit all leading toy stores near you or through official LEGO stores online such as bankeebricks.ph, Lazada, and Shopee.
To learn more about the LEGO Group, check out www.lego.com.
Mercedes-Benz Philippines is thrilled to announce its extraordinary offers inviting customers to experience unparalleled luxury and unrivaled performance with significant savings of up to PHP900,000. This limited-time offer highlights the sophisticated C-Class and the Luxury van V-Class.
This summer, experience the refined luxury and advanced technology of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, now available with discounts up to PHP400,000. Widely recognized as the “Baby S-Class,” the C-Class offers a timeless design paired with unmatched innovation and the renowned comfort of a luxury sedan.
Enjoy the exceptional comfort of a true luxury sedan, engineered to provide a relaxed and secure driving experience regardless of road conditions. The C-Class has a MBUX Entertainment, Avantgarde Interior, Ambient lighting, Active break assist, and Blind Spot Assist making it the ideal choice for future leaders who value technology, comfort, and the rewards of their success. Drive home a brand new C-Class this summer and enjoy substantial savings.
For those requiring space and adaptable functionality without sacrificing premium comfort, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is now offered at an exceptional price, starting as low as PHP4,990,000. The V-Class is the epitome of versatility meeting luxury van, offering generous space for family adventures, business needs, and everything in between.
Its flexible interior can be configured to accommodate passengers and cargo with ease. Key highlights of the V-Class include spacious seating for up to 7 passengers, Luxury seats, Burmester Surround Sound System, Easy-pack tailgate, making it perfect for young families needing a premium luxury van or businessmen with active lifestyles. Discover the unparalleled adaptability and premium experience of the V-Class at an unprecedented price this summer.
Mercedes-Benz will be offering discounts for other units until May 31, 2025.
Eplayment, a local fintech company leading innovations in content aggregation and e-wallet services, is thrilled to announce its elevated workshop series for content creators, the PIXEL Academy. Nearly two years after the launch of PIXEL, Eplayment’s content aggregation and monetization platform, the company is taking it a step further by empowering its robust roster of creators through this initiative.
Taking place on April 26, 2025, at Thames International School Inc., Quezon City, PIXEL Academy is an exclusive learning experience designed to equip aspiring creators with essential knowledge and practical skills to thrive in the ever-evolving world of content creation.
PIXEL Academy is a key initiative of Eplayment’s commitment to further support and nurture PIXEL creators. This workshop series will go beyond theories and abstract ideas of what it means to be a creator. It aims to provide practical and real-world insights for creators on how to be ready for challenges and opportunities ahead. Each session will cover vital topics tailored to the needs of content creators in the digital space.
The first in this series of workshops kicks off with a masterclass by Dani Rogacion, CEO of Overdrive Studios, titled Designing for Impact. Dani is a creative force in the world of branding and entertainment, with a proven track record of collaborating with top-tier brands both locally and internationally. This class will help creators understand more about content visuals and their importance in content creation and branding. She shares, “It’s important in our digital landscape today to craft compelling and recognizable content that resonates with audiences. It’s all about branding and creating a niche for yourself when you’re a budding creator.” The program will further cover topics such as creating brand identity and developing mood boards. Rogacion’s extensive knowledge, backed by industry experience in the esports and content creator space, ensures that the session is a must-attend for anyone who is looking to build their identity in the digital world.
When asked about the significance of these workshops to content creators, Eplayment CEO Karlos Naidas says, “PIXEL Academy is more than just skill-building; it’s a platform for creators to connect, collaborate, and unlock opportunities through the shared community that PIXEL has built. We at Eplayment and PIXEL strive to provide creators with the platform and tools that will enable them to reach their potential in content creation and establish a brand that will further connect them to their audience and other creators.” PIXEL Academy is opening its doors to anyone interested in joining, so don’t miss out on this chance to learn from the best and enhance your skills for leveled-up content creation.
Level Infinite, a global leader in game publishing and development, has entered into a strategic partnership with Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila to strengthen esports initiatives, enhance esports management and game development education, and provide students with invaluable industry experience.
This collaboration aims to bridge academia and the gaming and esports industry through three key initiatives:
Internship Opportunities with Level Infinite PH – LPU students will have the opportunity to intern at Level Infinite’s Philippine team, gaining hands-on experience in game publishing, marketing, esports management, and community engagement. This initiative aligns with LPU’s commitment to equipping students with practical skills and exposure to real-world industry practices.
Knowledge Sharing to Enhance Esports Management and Game Development Curriculum – Level Infinite and LPU will collaborate on curriculum development and knowledge exchange programs, ensuring that LPU’s esports management and game development courses remain cutting-edge and aligned with industry trends. This initiative will provide students with insights from seasoned gaming professionals and help prepare them for future careers in the gaming industry.
Collaborations through Regular Honor of Kings and PUBG MOBILE Tournaments at LPU—As part of this partnership, LPU will host regular Honor of Kings and PUBG MOBILE tournaments on campus during key university events. This will foster a competitive esports environment and provide students with a platform to develop their skills in professional gaming, esports broadcasting, and event organization.
LPU Manila previously hosted Honor of Kings’ grassroots tournaments during its pre-launch phase last year, known as the Academy of Honor. The university has also actively participated in multiple esports competitions, fielding representative teams in Honor of Kings and PUBG MOBILE tournaments. LPU will also participate in the upcoming Kings CampusSeries (KCS) tournament, where students can compete for a chance to win a lion’s share of the PHP500,000 prize pool through scholarships and stipends.
Benj Dalmacio, senior business development manager at Level Infinite PH, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. He stated: “We are excited to partner with LPU Manila to cultivate the next generation of gaming and esports professionals. Through this initiative, we aim to provide students with firsthand experience in the gaming and esports industry, contribute to LPU‘s curriculum development, and support campus grassroots esports initiatives for our games.
Dr. Arlene Caballero, Dean of the College of Technology at LPU Manila, highlighted the partnership’s importance: “At LPU, we are committed to providing our students with industry-relevant opportunities that enhance their academic journey. This partnership with Level Infinite is a major step in preparing our students for gaming, technology, and esports careers, ensuring they are well-equipped for the evolving digital landscape.”
With the esports and gaming industry in the Philippines rapidly growing, this partnership is set to provide students with competitive advantages in career development and gaming opportunities. Level Infinite and LPU Manila are committed to fostering an ecosystem where students can thrive, whether as future gaming professionals, esports athletes, or game developers.
(from L to R) Prof. Janette Princess Dupaya – LPU Manila Internship Program coordinator, Prof. Janice Velasquez – LPU Manila Esports chairperson, Mr. Benj Dalmacio – Senior Business Development Manager for Level Infinite PH, Dr. Arlene Caballero – dean of the LPU Manila College of Technology, and Dr. Erlito Albina – LPU Manila IT chairperson
Vietnam’s electric mobility pioneer VinFast made a confident stride into the Philippine market at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show with the official launch of its all-electric VF 6 B-segment SUV. Alongside the launch, the company unveiled a free nationwide EV charging program, aggressive buyback guarantees, and strategic partnerships aimed at making EV ownership more accessible and worry-free for Filipino drivers..
A Compact SUV with Big Ambitions
The VinFast VF 6, available in Eco (PHP1,419,000) and Plus (PHP1,610,000) variants, is an urban-ready SUV that combines futuristic styling—crafted with Italian design studio Torino Design—with robust performance. The dual-motor setup delivers up to 150kW of power and up to 310Nm of torque (Plus), while offering a generous 480km range per charge (NEDC).
Compact in footprint yet spacious inside, the VF 6 leverages EV architecture to offer cabin dimensions that rival larger C-segment sedans, making it ideal for growing families and city commuters alike.
Built for Safety, Backed by Service
The VF 6 doesn’t hold back on safety, either. With eight airbags and 20 advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) features, it’s built with families in mind. VinFast backs this up with one of the most competitive warranties in its class: 7 years or 160,000 kilometers.
The company is rapidly expanding its footprint through strategic dealership and service partnerships—including with Motech and JIGA—and is targeting 100 authorized service centers nationwide by end-2025.
Powering the Green Shift
One of the most compelling components of VinFast’s MIAS presence was the introduction of its free EV charging program, powered by partner company V-GREEN. Valid until May 1, 2027, this initiative allows new EV owners to charge at no cost at a growing network of charging ports, with 15,000 stations targeted for deployment in 2025.
VinFast also announced MOUs with EastWest Bank and Banco de Oro (BDO) to develop tailored financing and support programs for customers transitioning to electric vehicles—another sign of the company’s integrated approach to building a full EV ecosystem.
Suzuki Philippines marked a major milestone at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show with the public debut of the All-New Dzire Hybrid, a stylish, fuel-efficient compact sedan that blends elegant design, everyday practicality, and advanced hybrid technology. The unveiling also served as a highlight of Suzuki’s 50th year in the Philippines—a celebration of trusted motoring made better through innovation.
A More Refined Drive
Sporting a sharper, more sophisticated aesthetic, the Dzire Hybrid now features a reworked front fascia, a chrome-accented grille, and multi-light LED headlamps. The redesigned rear lamps and flowing body lines complete the premium makeover, giving the compact sedan a larger-than-life presence on city streets.
Inside, Suzuki raises the bar with a spacious, dual-tone interior, ergonomic controls, and a driver-focused dashboard. The top-tier GLX trim adds a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear AC vents, and a foldable center armrest for rear passengers—comforts rarely seen in its segment.
Hybrid Efficiency, Everyday Practicality
Under the hood is Suzuki’s new 1.2L Z12E 3-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission and mild hybrid system. This efficient pairing enables key features like auto start-stop, electric motor assist, and smooth, quiet acceleration, all while maintaining strong fuel economy ideal for city and highway drives alike.
This next-gen Dzire also places a premium on safety. Now with six airbags standard across all variants, the vehicle also features Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with EBD, Hill Hold Control, and a rear parking camera with sensors. It’s no surprise that the model has earned a 5-Star Global NCAP Safety Rating for Adult Occupancy, giving drivers peace of mind at every turn.
A Special Edition for a Special Year
Available in two variants—the GL CVT Hybrid (PHP920,000) and the GLX CVT Hybrid (PHP998,000)—the Dzire comes in stylish hues, including Gallant Red, Arctic White, Magma Gray, and Alluring Blue (GLX-exclusive).
GAC Motor Philippines turned heads at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show with the public debut of the M8 PHEV, a plug-in hybrid MPV that marks the brand’s most luxurious and electrified vehicle yet. With the theme “Innovate the Drive – GAC’s Road to Electrification,” the brand is underscoring its shift toward sustainable mobility, smart technology, and premium performance.
A Grand Entrance: The M8 PHEV
Making its first appearance before Philippine audiences, the M8 PHEV drew attention for its bold styling, spacious and tech-laden interior, and refined plug-in hybrid powertrain. Slated to officially launch in Q3 2025, the M8 PHEV targets professionals and families seeking luxury and efficiency in one striking package—with a projected price below PHP 4.3 million.
Full Lineup, Full Experience
GAC’s booth at MIAS was far from a one-car show. The automaker also showcased an impressive range of vehicles—including the GS3 Emzoom, Emkoo Hybrid, M6 Pro, GS8, and the newly revealed M8 PHEV. Visitors had the chance to test drive select models during the event, getting up close with the latest in GAC engineering.
Every career begins with a choice—just as every towering tree starts as a seed. Career Fair 2025: Roots to Success, organized by the UPLB Career Assistance Program (UPLB CAP) as the biggest student-led career organization in the university, will take place this April at the University of the Philippines Los Baños campus, providing students and job seekers with opportunities to cultivate their professional growth and branch out into a world of possibilities.
With the right environment and resources, careers—like trees—can thrive. This year’s fair is designed to help participants lay strong foundations for long-term success by connecting them with top employers across different industries. UPLB CAP remains committed to bridging the gap between students and the workforce, ensuring that UPLB graduates are ready to take on the evolving job market.
The first part of the event was the Pre-event Exhibit that happened last April 7-11 at the Student Union Building with satellite exhibits across different college buildings. This introduced the attendees to participating companies, giving them an early look at potential career paths before the main fair begins.
On April 21 and 22, the Company Talks will be held online via Zoom, featuring industry professionals who will share hiring trends, career insights guidance on entering the job market, and offer students the opportunity to engage directly with company representatives and learn more about career opportunities.
The main event, the Company Exhibit on April 23-24 at the Baker Memorial Hall, will bring together a diverse range of employers eager to connect with prospective candidates. Students can explore career openings, network with industry leaders, and submit their resumes and curriculum vitae—all essential steps in cultivating a successful career.
More than just a job-hunting event, Career Fair 2025 is a launchpad for professional growth. Alanis Ysobelle Angulo, Project Head for Career Fair 2025 and the UPLB CAP President, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the event. “UPLB CAP has always advocated that your career journey does not start just after graduation. Starting early and building connections in your last years of college can kickstart your growth by a lot, and that is what UPLB CAP and our events are for! We’re encouraging everyone to take every opportunity in building your careers and grow with UPLB CAP.”
Since its establishment in 2020, UPLB CAP has remained steadfast in its mission to empower students through career development programs and networking initiatives. With Career Fair 2025: Roots to Success, the organization continues to foster an environment where students can strengthen their professional foundations and thrive in competitive industries.
Your future begins with a single step. Nurture your roots, expand your network, and take your career to new heights.
Dongfeng Motors Philippines, under the distributorship of Legado Motors Inc., proudly announces its official sponsorship of the MPTC Tour of Luzon 2025, solidifying its commitment to supporting premier sporting events and championing mobility solutions that drive Filipino dreams forward.
The official contract signing was held on April 14, 2025, with representatives from both organizations present to formalize the collaboration. Signing on behalf of Legado Motors Inc. were Brennan Lim (Deputy CEO), Wilbert Lim (President & CEO), and Regina Lim (Chief Finance Officer), while Edward Allan Gregorio and Arrey Ancheta Perez represented Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), a key organizer of the event. The agreement establishes Dongfeng Motors Philippines as one of the major sponsors of the 2025 Tour of Luzon, a multi-leg cycling event that promotes healthy living, sports excellence, and scenic road tourism across the northern regions of the country.
Dongfeng Motors will also be offering premium chauffeured services for VIP guests and officials during the Holy week. Guests will be transported in style and comfort aboard two standout models: the Electric Dongfeng Nammi, a modern, eco-friendly vehicle perfect for city commuting, and the Hybrid Dongfeng Aeolus Huge, a versatile and innovative SUV designed for both performance and sustainability, providing a smooth and reliable ride across varied terrains.
In addition to its role as a sponsor, Dongfeng Motors will host a vehicle display from April 17 to 20, 2025, at John Hay Hotels, where attendees can explore two of the brand’s key models: the Dongfeng Aeolus Mage, a sleek compact sedan ideal for urban driving, and the Dongfeng Rich 7 4×4, a rugged pickup designed to handle both city streets and off-road conditions. This display will offer guests, tourists, and cycling fans the opportunity to engage with the car company’s range of premium mobility solutions.
This partnership goes beyond just sponsorship; it is a celebration of movement, ambition, and the collective journeys that unite people across the country. Through the Drive Your Dreams initiative, Dongfeng Motors Philippines continues to empower individuals to pursue their aspirations, whether conquering the mountains of Luzon, navigating the bustling city streets, or embarking on the drive of a lifetime. This collaboration with the Tour of Luzon 2025 perfectly aligns with the car brand’s core values of innovation, endurance, and purpose-driven mobility, showcasing the brand’s commitment to helping every Filipino move closer to their dreams with confidence and style.
As Dongfeng Motors continues to grow its presence across the Philippines, partnerships like this reinforce the brand’s vision of becoming the trusted mobility solution for every Filipino, whether navigating the rugged terrain of Luzon’s mountains or the bustling streets of tomorrow.
Epson has announced a call for entries for the 16th edition of the landmark photography competition, The Epson International Pano Awards. Following a successful 2024 event, Epson Southeast Asia joins Epson Australia once more as the main sponsors of The Pano Awards, which Epson has helped grow into one of the world’s largest competitions devoted to the craft and art of panoramic photography. In 2024, the Epson International Pano Awards saw 4,529 entries submitted from 1,105 photographers across 95 countries.
“It gives me great pleasure to officially announce that professional and amateur photographers around the world are now invited to enter the 16th Epson International Pano Awards,” says David Evans, the Epson International Pano Awards’ Curator. “We are incredibly thankful to the incredible support from our invaluable sponsors to be able to reduce entry fees in 2025, making the competition more accessible than ever. The prize pool this year is again well in excess of USD50,000, including USD15,000 in cash and for the Open winner – a package exceeding USD11,000.”
Jocelyn Tan, regional deputy director, commercial products, Epson Southeast Asia, says, “We are proud to support the 16th edition of The Epson International Pano Awards, once again partnering with Epson Australia to spotlight the exceptional talent from Southeast Asia and beyond. This milestone reflects the awards’ enduring relevance in the global photography community. At Epson, we remain committed to empowering photographers through cutting-edge print technology that helps bring their boldest visions to life.”
Fikri Muharom (Indonesia) won the inaugural Pano Awards 2024 Southeast Asia Open Photographer of the Year award with this photo of Mt. Bromo, titled The Volcanoes Theatre
The judging panel for The 2025 Pano Awards includes some of the world’s top photographers and industry professionals, such as Pano Awards 2023 Amateur Photographer of the Year Merche Llobera, Pano Awards 2024 Open Photographer of the Year Kelvin Yuen, Pano Awards 2020 Open Photographer of the Year Matt Jackisch, and more.
Hear more from previous Pano Awards winners at the following links:
Early-bird entries for the Epson International Pano Awards 2025 are now open until Monday, 30 June 2025, and final entries are due by Monday, 21 July 2025.
Addressing a gathering of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair 2025, foodpanda Philippines highlighted its commitment to supporting the MSME sector through its innovative programs, “Negosyo Like a Panda” and foodpanda Capital.
Highlighting that 99% of registered businesses in the Philippines are MSMEs, contributing significantly to employment and the economy, foodpanda acknowledged the challenges these businesses face, particularly in accessing traditional financing and vital growth tools.
“At foodpanda Philippines, we recognize the challenges that many of our hardworking MSME partners face, especially when it comes to securing the financial support they need to grow,” said Shaun Malalad, Fintech head at foodpanda Philippines. “That’s why we’ve worked tirelessly to develop programs specifically designed to address these challenges and empower our merchants.”
Among these programs is the “Negosyo Like a Panda” program, which aims to help merchant partners grow their businesses beyond logistics and visibility, by offering easier access to business loans.
Complementing this, foodpanda Capital offers a performance-based financing program with simplified requirements, no collateral, and transparent terms, providing much-needed financial support for MSMEs.
“Ultimately, we envision these programs to help in achieving a sustained growth and resilience of the MSME sector. By providing accessible financing and comprehensive support, foodpanda hopes to empower small businesses to scale their operations, create more jobs, and contribute even more significantly to the overall prosperity of the Philippine economy,” Malalad concluded.
As the excitement builds around the kickoff of the realme Mobile Legends Cup (RMC) Season 9, realme has confirmed that the realme 14 5G will soon be available in the Philippines. This smartphone is set to serve as the official device for the tournament’s regular season, delivering exceptional performance for gamers.
In line with its founding principles, the RMC Season 9 continues to foster a strong gaming community for Filipinos. It serves as a training ground for aspiring esports athletes, simulating the high-stakes atmosphere of professional competitions. By doing so, RMC not only hones the skills of everyday gamers but also inspires them to pursue their dreams and seize opportunities in professional tournaments.
realme raises the stakes with a massive prize pool for RMC Season 9
RMC Season 9 promises an intense competition as teams from diverse backgrounds go head-to-head in a series of gripping matches. This season features a massive prize pool totaling PHP1.6 million, making it both an exciting opportunity for participating teams and a captivating event for the Squad.
Champions will take home a PHP600,000 cash prize, along with five units of the flagship realme GT Series, while the 1st Runner-Up secures PHP250,000 in cash and five units of the realme Number Pro Series.
Meanwhile, the 2nd and 3rd Runner-Ups will also enjoy big rewards: PHP100,000 and PHP50,000, respectively, along with smartphones from the realme Number and C-series lines. Even teams that place 4th to 7th will score realme Buds T Series devices.
On top of this, the MVP award comes with PHP100,000 worth of prizes. Additionally, realme will be hosting broadcast and offline event giveaways worth another PHP100,000, making every match even more exciting for fans.
Ready to battle it out with the toughest non-pro players in the country?
This season, the open qualifier round encompasses six regions throughout the Philippines. Aspiring teams will battle it out in the Eliminations, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and Grand Finals, with only the finest athletes seizing the sought-after RMC Championship title.
The RMC Season 9 registration is officially open until May 7 only, allowing qualified teams to display their talents and establish their dominance on the battlefield. Teams that are prepared for the challenge can register online via https://rb.gy/y61bym
For updates and announcements about RMC Season 9, make sure to follow realme Philippines’ official Facebook page.
Changan Philippines, under the distributorship of Inchcape Philippines, introduced a game-changing lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) that signals a bold new era of sustainable mobility in the country.
With the theme “Begin Your Electrifying Journey with Changan,” the brand showcased its commitment to eco-conscious driving and cutting-edge technology by unveiling four electrified models—each aimed at transforming the way Filipinos drive, from city commutes to rugged road adventures.
Changan Nevo Q05: Where Versatility Meets Efficiency
Leading the charge was the Nevo Q05, a plug-in hybrid SUV that balances everyday usability with high-tech elegance. Its sleek, minimalist exterior is matched by a well-appointed cabin featuring two-tone leather seats, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment setup boasts a touchscreen as large as 12.3 inches with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What sets the Q05 apart is its trio of drive modes—Battery Electric, Hybrid, and Range Extended—alongside Changan’s Intelligent Energy Management (iEM). The Q05 delivers up to 125-kilometers on full electric and a class-leading 1,215km with the range extender engaged, making it one of the most capable PHEVs in the segment.
Changan Nevo Hunter K50: World’s First REEV Pickup
Changan’s pioneering spirit was on full display with the Hunter K50, touted as the world’s first range-extended electric pickup. Rugged yet refined, the K50 combines bold 7-shaped LED headlamps with practical features like 2.5-ton towing capacity and 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) output—ideal for outdoor adventures or emergencies.
Its 4×4 variant churns out 268hp and 470Nm of torque, with a pure electric range of 180km and total range up to 1,031km. The Hunter K50 redefines utility without compromising sustainability.
Changan Lumin: Compact, Cute, and Capable
A crowd favorite for urban drivers was the Changan Lumin, a micro-BEV designed for smart, efficient city mobility. With its round headlights and minimalist design, the Lumin offers a refreshing aesthetic and functional features like 580L expanded cargo space, tri-color fabric seats, and Bluetooth audio.
Available in two battery configurations—17.65kWh (190km range) and 28.08kWh (301km range)—the Lumin proves that small can be powerful, efficient, and fun.
Changan Nevo A05: Sophistication in a Hybrid Sedan
Also making its Philippine debut was the Nevo A05, a sleek plug-in hybrid sedan previewed ahead of its formal launch later this year. Inside, it offers a plush experience with ambient lighting, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, digital displays, and a sunroof. Like its SUV sibling, it’s equipped with three drive modes and iEM technology, offering 145km electric-only range and up to 1,250km with the range extender.
