In celebration of International Women’s Month this March, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) and Women’s Run PH, is thrilled to announce the second edition of the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, set to take place on March 9, 2025, at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Concert Grounds. This exciting event aims to empower women through fitness and promote a strong sense of community.
Building on the success of the inaugural run with more than 5,000 runners, the 2025 Women’s Run PH will feature a diverse range of categories, including 1km for kids, 5K, 10K, and 16K for individual runners. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the event will also include 10K Buddy and 16K Buddy categories, encouraging male participation and support for female runners.
(L-R): SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno, Women’s Run PH founder Nicole dela Cruz, and RunRio founder Rio dela Cruz
This year, a new 16KM category has been introduced, offering a greater challenge for avid runners. Moreover, the event will introduce the “Biggest Company and Run Club Delegation Award” to recognize and celebrate the active participation of companies and running communities.
A sea of dynamic runners surges forward, their energy palpable as they tackled the Women’s Run PH 10K course last year.
The Women’s Run PH is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of women’s strength, resilience, and camaraderie. Proceeds from the event will support the FCC’s initiatives in empowering Filipino women through education, mentorship, and community development.
As the co-presenter of Women’s Run PH 2025, SM Supermalls champions dynamic sports communities all over the country by enabling safe and fun spaces for sports and active leisure. Following the run on March 9, 2025, SM Supermalls will launch the nation’s largest sports playground for casual fitness seekers and competitors with an exciting gathering of sports enthusiasts, influencers, and athletes at the SM MOA Music Hall.
SM Active Hub is set to be the biggest sports community in the Philippines, setting the stage for exciting opportunities as the country’s official venue for the biggest pickleball tournaments and learning clinics. SM Active Hub hosts the largest running community nationwide, offering a comprehensive network for recreational runners and serving as the top choice for major race events such as the Women’s Run PH 2025.
SM North EDSA continues to redefine the shopping and dining scene with an exciting array of new tenants across its sprawling mall. Brimming with new experiences—from Milksha’s first-ever concept store in the Philippines to exciting store openings—here’s what awaits you at The Block and beyond.
The Block: A Hub of Exciting New Stores
Step into The Block at SM North EDSA, where a fresh wave of stores and attractions awaits. From unique dining experiences to specialty shops and immersive adventures, The Block is your destination for exciting discoveries and memorable moments.
Tonkotsu Kazan (The Block, Ground Floor)
Indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Japanese ramen at Tonkotsu Kazan, now serving its signature dishes at SM North EDSA. Known for its perfectly crafted noodles, flavorful broth, and tender roasted pork, this ramen house brings a dining experience steeped in tradition.
Every bowl is a celebration of Japanese precision and hospitality, or omotenashi, making it a must-try destination for foodies craving comfort and quality.
Bebang Halo-Halo (The Block, Ground Floor)
Rediscover the Filipino classic with a playful twist at Bebang Halo-Halo, where every spoonful is a delightful surprise. Known for its “Fun, Royal, and Filipino” approach, Bebang takes halo-halo to new heights with the creamiest textures and most innovative flavors.
Cool, colorful, and packed with flavor, Bebang Halo-Halo’s best seller, The Presidential, is the ultimate Pinoy merienda. This refreshing mix of sweet, creamy, and crunchy goodness is perfect for any craving this holiday season. Priced at only PHP148–178, it’s the creamiest way to enjoy this Filipino favorite!
Fully Booked x Kinokuniya (The Block, 5th Floor)
A literary and cultural collaboration awaits at Fully Booked x Konikuniya, now open at SM North EDSA. This one-of-a-kind bookstore fuses Fully Booked’s beloved English-language collection with Kinokuniya’s curated Japanese titles.
From timeless Japanese classics Nihongo learning materials to art books and English-translated manga, this store is a cultural oasis for book lovers and manga enthusiasts alike.
Gashapon Bandai (The Block, 5th Floor)
Calling all capsule toy lovers! Gashapon Bandai, Japan’s iconic vending machine toy concept, has arrived at SM North EDSA. With every spin, you’ll discover collectibles featuring beloved anime icons like Dragon Ball and Sailor Moon, and adorable Sanrio characters.
It’s not just a shop; it’s a thrilling adventure that turns every visit into a treasure hunt for kids and collectors alike.
Co. The Collectible Store (The Block, 5th Floor)
Step into Co. The Collectible Store, where pop culture dreams come true. Whether you’re after Funko Pop! figures, rare anime merchandise, K-pop albums, or trading cards, this store is a haven for fans and enthusiasts.
Each visit is more than just a shopping trip–it’s a celebration of your fandom, where nostalgia and discovery meet.
Underwater Adventure (The Block, 5th Floor)
Take the kids on an unforgettable journey at The Underwater Adventure, the metro’s first ocean-themed playground. This immersive experience features murals of marine life across the walls and floors, with ride-on toys in the shape of boats, fish, and sea animals. It’s the perfect destination for families looking to combine play with a creative learning experience in a vibrant, underwater world.
Beyond The Block: New Experiences Across the Mall
Milksha (City Center, 2nd Floor)
Known for its fresh milk, loose leaf tea leaves and dedication to quality and craft, Milksha is making waves with its first-ever concept store at SM North EDSA. Treat yourself to their delicious handcrafted specialty drinks – goodness in every cup.
Aquaflask Design Lab (City Center, 2nd Floor)
The Aquaflask Design Lab redefines hydration with chic, double-insulated water bottles that keep drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12. Style meets sustainability with these game-changing essentials.
Dr. Martens (The Annex, 2nd Floor)
Make a bold statement with Dr. Martens, now at SM North EDSA. Known for its rebellious spirit and timeless style, this globally celebrated footwear brand is perfect for those looking to stand out.
From signature boots to versatile shoes, Dr. Martens delivers the perfect blend of style, durability, and comfort, giving you iconic steps with every stride.
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu (City Center, 2nd Floor)
Craving a satisfying meal that blends tradition with innovation? Look no further than Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu, where the famous Gyukatsu takes center stage. This unique Japanese dish features high-quality beef cutlets, breaded and fried to perfection. What sets it apart is the interactive experience—each cutlet is served alongside a sizzling stone grill, allowing you to cook the beef to your preferred doneness right at the table. While the variety of condiments and dipping sauces enhance the flavors, it’s the premium beef and the hands-on grilling process that truly elevate the experience. It’s the perfect spot for anyone seeking a fulfilling and flavorful meal with a Japanese twist.
Coming Soon
While many new stores are already open, there’s more to look forward to in the coming months:
Stuff’d: An exciting new spot for kebabs, burritos, and quesadillas.
All Aboard: A whimsical destination set to open its doors.
KKV: Offering a vibrant mix of trendy lifestyle essentials.
With so much to discover at SM North EDSA, from The Block to the city center and beyond, now is the perfect time to explore the newest stores, dining options, and stylish concepts. From literary treasures to playful collectibles and authentic dining experiences, SM North EDSA is your gateway to fresh and exciting adventures. Don’t miss out on these new and upcoming openings—plan your visit today and be the first to experience everything that’s new!
For updates and more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) Philippines, a leading resilience network in the country, held its first annual general meeting for 2025 on January 27 at the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex. With a growing membership of 156 private sector companies, civil society groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions, ARISE Philippines is poised to significantly impact disaster resilience efforts nationwide.
Under the theme “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030,” the meeting was grounded in the words “Innovate, Integrate, and Elevate,” urging members to embrace new approaches, collaborate across sectors, and raise the bar for disaster resilience standards.
ARISE Philippines Board Members (from left): Dr. Ma. Teresita Medado, Sylvestre Barrameda Jr., Austere Panadero, ARISE Philippines Co-Chair Engr. Liza Silerio, ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, Raymond Rufino, and Michael Rellosa (not in photo: Rosemarie Rafael and Jessica Bianca Sy)
The co-chair representing the private sector, Engr. Liza Silerio, welcomed the collective and expressed her gratitude for the network’s role in promoting community resilience and sustainable progress. For the public sector, Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of engineering solutions in disaster preparedness and highlighted the critical role of committed private sector leaders in building a more resilient nation.
Chief of Office UNDRR Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Marco Toscano-Rivalta, in a video message, commended ARISE Philippines for its outstanding contributions to disaster risk reduction. “I extend my profound gratitude for ARISE Philippines’ exemplary leadership and contributions,” he stated. He referenced the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction held in Manila last October 2024, saying, “Your efforts were instrumental to the event’s success. ARISE has showcased the power of public-private partnerships and set the benchmark for other regions to follow.”
Member companies pledge their participation in ARISE Philippines’ seven new programs.
ARISE Global board member vice admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, ret., was present to bolster the local network and guarantee its support to the international alliance. A highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of seven ARISE Philippines Materials and Knowledge products by the ARISE Board of Directors. These resources are designed to support members in implementing resilience-building initiatives. The meeting also included a call to action for members to actively participate in seven new programs to be initiated this year.
Mr. Hans Sy, ARISE Philippines Chairperson for the Private Sector, addresses members and observers.
In his closing remarks, ARISE Philippines chairperson for the private sector Mr. Hans Sy rallied the assembled members and observers, emphasizing the importance of unity, collaboration, and action. He urged everyone to work together to “co-create bridges for resilience,” promoting a stronger and more resilient Philippines for the next generations.
SM Prime Holdings serves as the secretariat office of the ARISE Philippines network to advocate a culture of business resilience against natural and man-made hazards. For more information, visit www.arise.ph or email [email protected].
Grammy Award-winning pop-rock band Maroon 5 visits Manila for the fourth time for their Maroon 5 Asia 2025 tour, presented by Live Nation Philippines.
The first stop happened at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena on January 29, with a sold-out concert and more than 11,000 attendees joining frontman Adam Levine, along with members Jesse Carmichael, James Valentine, PJ Morton, Matt Flynn, Sam Farrar, Mickey Madden, and Ryan Dusick. DJ Mailbox and the American alt-rock band Culture Wars were the opening acts.
Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine ignites the stage at the SM Mall of Asia Arena during their sold-out show on January 29, 2025. Photo from Live Nation Philippines.
Trip down memory lane
Adam Levine opens the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena stage with the hit song “Animals” for their first Maroon 5 Asia Tour stop in Manila.
Crowd goes wild
“One More Night” is magical as part of Maroon 5’s opening set.
The crowd
More than 11,000 people light up the night, and Maroon 5 truly appreciates the time spent with their Filipino fans.
A sold-out crowd of over 11,000 fills the SM Mall of Asia Arena with energy and excitement during Maroon 5’s unforgettable performance. Photo from Live Nation Philippines.
The band is no stranger to the world-class venue, having performed there in 2015 (Maroon 5 World Tour 2015 Manila), 2019 (Maroon 5 Red Pill Blues Tour Manila), and 2022 (Maroon 5 World Tour 2022).
Among their many chart-topping hits, the band is well-known for its electric lineup, which includes “Moves Like Jagger,” “Lucky Strike,” “Harder to Breathe,” and “Animals.”
The sold-out show and highly anticipated event happening in Manila is co-presented by the Tourism Promotions Board and the Department of Tourism.
As enterprises increasingly adopt advanced Generative AI (GenAI) for security and efficiency, Globe is making notable progress in integrating this technology to streamline operations, optimize network performance, and elevate customer service.
A GSMA outlook for 2025 showed that telco operators around the world are looking to AI to drive business objectives, including better customer experience and enhancing financial performance.
Globe’s commitment to AI reflects these findings, according to Anton Bonifacio, Globe’s chief AI officer: “The integration of generative AI is central to our efforts to improve both our operational processes and the services we provide. AI enables us to drive efficiency and sustainability, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our customers and the environment.”
The company leverages GenAI in its network to prevent service interruptions and improve uptime, while also applying it in backend operations to ensure more efficient energy use.
To further its AI initiatives, Globe has established a dedicated AI Group and appointed Bonifacio as chief AI officer, the first in the Philippines. This shift demonstrates Globe’s long-term commitment to AI across its operations, ensuring it stays at the forefront of technological innovation.
In customer service, Globe is looking to adopt AI models that understand Tagalog and will serve as conversational AI to better understand and respond to customer queries, reduce wait times, and increase satisfaction.
GCash, Globe’s financial services arm, benefits from AI through automated credit scoring, enabling faster, more accurate loan approvals for millions of customers.
Globe also views AI as a powerful tool to make employees happier by streamlining tasks, improving work-life balance, and freeing up time for more impactful work. This, in turn, drives better customer experiences and, ultimately, increases shareholder value.
Employees are also empowered to build their own bots to address their own work needs and enhance workflow and productivity.
For Globe, responsible AI is a critical component in driving sustainable digital transformation. It has adopted the GSMA’s industry-first Responsible AI (RAI) Maturity Roadmap to ensure its AI delivers business value while contributing to sustainable development.
Technological advancements enable productivity and innovation. Bosch, a global leader in technology and services, is making these advancements more accessible, offering solutions that support efficiency and simplify everyday tasks.
Bosch’s commitment to inspiring innovation drives its positive momentum, addressing evolving everyday needs with practical, reliable, and efficient solutions — whether in driving, construction, or home living.
Transforming Tasks with Bosch Power Tools
Bosch Power Tools empowers professionals and enthusiasts with reliable, high-performance solutions. Introducing its new 18V cordless and measuring tools, Bosch offers great power, versatility, and runtime. The Bosch GSB 18V-65 cordless impact drill, the cornerstone of the 18V series, excels in tough drilling, screwdriving, and masonry tasks.
With increased torque and speed, the Bosch GSB 18V-65 effortlessly drills through wood, metal, plastic and enhanced masonry drilling with its integrated impact function.
By integrating advanced battery technology, optimizing motor performance, and expanding compatibility across an even broader range of tools, Bosch is strengthening this platform to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Enhancing Journeys with Bosch Mobility Aftermarket
Bosch Mobility Aftermarket redefines road safety and convenience. Its products, including high-performance batteries, filters, brake pads, spark plugs, bulbs, horns, and wiper blades, are crafted to enhance vehicle reliability and passenger safety. By minimizing travel disruptions and boosting efficiency, Bosch keeps every journey smooth and stress-free.
Aside from continuous efforts to provide the most comprehensive range of spare parts, Bosch Mobility Aftermarket is expanding its network of workshop services through the growth of its Bosch Car Service, with growing branches across the Philippines.
As Bosch approaches its centennial celebration in 2026, the company reflects on a legacy built on innovation, quality, and efficiency. This remarkable milestone underscores a century of transforming ideas into impactful solutions that have shaped industries and improved lives. In 2025, Bosch is not only honoring this proud heritage but also setting its sights on the future by expanding its product portfolio, embracing cutting-edge innovations, and adapting to the ever-evolving needs of its customers. With a commitment to delivering greater value and driving progress, Bosch is poised to make the next chapter of its journey as impactful as the last.
“Bosch is committed to bringing ‘Invented for Life’ products closer to Filipino consumers, enhancing everyday life with accessible and reliable solutions. Looking ahead to 2025, as we ramp up towards our hundredth year in the Philippines in 2026, Bosch remains focused on empowering Filipinos with top-quality products that improve efficiency and drive progress,” said Paulo Duarte, Managing Director of Bosch Philippines.
For the third year, the International Baccalaureate (IB) is launching the Global Youth Action Fund, an award open to students ages 12 to 19who have a project or idea designed to positively impact their community. The award will highlight the impressive work young people are doing around the globe and nurture future leaders and changemakers.
The Global Youth Action Fund is open to students or student groups enrolled in any secondary school. Applications will be accepted between February 3-28, 2025. Details can be found on the IB website.
Students do not need to be enrolled at an IB World School but must be enrolled in a secondary school. The award aims to support student development and growth by fostering independent, autonomous learning who are addressing pressing global challenges.
Last year, 83 projects representing over 240 young individuals from 26 countries showcased their commitment to creating a better world by submitting projects that address issues ranging from sustainability and equity to social justice. The award recognizes and empowers students who are taking the lead in addressing pressing global challenges within the IB community and beyond.
“We are excited to invite students from schools the world over to bring their innovative ideas and change-making projects to the Global Youth Action Fund. The IB understands the importance of supporting young people’s efforts to tackle the world’s evolving challenges. We hope the Global Youth Action Fund can help motivate and empower them to create the change we all want to see,” said Mr. Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the IB.
Impact – Does the project demonstrate a clear positive impact on one of the SDG goals? Preferences will be given to projects with the most impact.
Stage of project – What stage of development is the project in (idea, in-development, scaling, established)? Preference will be given to projects that are further along in the development process and have the possibility of scaling.
Collaboration – Does the project involve or have the capacity to involve other students? Preference will be given to projects that get more young people involved whenever possible.
School support – Applications will require one teacher recommendation form. Preferences will be given to students who have a teacher recommendation that demonstrates their support of the project in addition to their confidence in the students involved.
Winners will receive up to USD3,000 in grant funding depending on project needs, to transform or develop further their powerful idea.
The Global Youth Action Fund is part of the IB’s commitment to elevate, empower and support youth voices and is a pathway to action for the Festival of Hope. Designed to unite the global community in challenging moments, the Festival of Hope creates space for millions of young people to share their voices and experiences and tackle complex challenges. Learn more about IB’s other pathways to action on the Festival of Hope website.
Applications for the IB’s Global Youth Action Fund are open from February 3-28, 2025. For more information, please visit the IB website for details to apply.
Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) recently honored the outstanding achievements of its dealer network at the 2024 Isuzu Dealer of the Year Awards held on January 31, 2025. The annual event celebrates excellence in sales, parts, and service operations, highlighting the dedication and performance of Isuzu dealers across the country.
This year, Isuzu Cagayan De Oro emerged as the 2024 Isuzu Dealer of the Year, securing the top spot for its exemplary performance across all business areas, which was then followed by Isuzu Calapan and Isuzu Subic taking 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.
The Isuzu Dealer of the Year Award is based on a comprehensive evaluation of each dealer’s performance, measuring their sales achievements, parts and service operations, customer satisfaction, and compliance with IPC’s operational standards.
“We congratulate our entire dealer network for their outstanding performance in 2024. Their dedication to excellence and customer service has played a crucial role in maintaining Isuzu’s position as the No. 1 truck brand in the Philippines for 25 consecutive years. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, passion, and commitment our dealers are delivering to our valued customers nationwide,” said IPC president Tetsuya Fujita.
In addition to the Isuzu Dealer of the Year title, IPC also presented special category awards to recognize dealerships that demonstrated outstanding performance in specific operational areas.
Isuzu Pasig was awarded Best in Sales Operation, reflecting its exceptional ability to meet and exceed sales targets, expand its customer base, and provide top-tier customer service throughout the sales process, which was followed by Isuzu Cagayan De Oro and Isuzu Alabang in 2nd and 3rd place respectively.
Best in Parts Operation was secured by Isuzu Calapan, for its strong inventory management, ensuring that Isuzu parts are readily available to support customers, minimizing vehicle downtime. Other awardees were Isuzu Cagayan De Oro and Isuzu Sto. Tomas.
Isuzu Calapan also received the Best in Service Operation award for its commitment to delivering excellent aftersales service, maintaining high customer satisfaction, and continuously enhancing its service capabilities through training and innovation, followed by Isuzu Cagayan De Oro and Isuzu Bulacan in 2nd and 3rd place, respectively.
IPC also honored individual excellence in sales and customer relations. Maria Teresa Recio from Isuzu EDSA was named Best Sales Executive of the Year for her outstanding performance in sales, customer engagement, and product knowledge, which helped her build strong relationships with clients and contribute significantly to her dealership’s success. Meanwhile, Jorge Garing from Isuzu Talisay received the prestigious Truck Elite of the Year Award, recognizing his expertise in handling truck sales, providing tailored solutions for business clients, and demonstrating a deep understanding of the trucking industry’s demands.
A Commitment to Excellence
IPC’s dealer network plays a crucial role in delivering the Isuzu Advantage, ensuring that customers receive not just high-quality trucks, but also top-tier aftersales service, readily available parts, and expert technical support. Through continuous training, innovation, and commitment to excellence, Isuzu dealers continue to set the benchmark for the commercial vehicle industry in the Philippines.
“These awards are not just a recognition of past achievements but also an inspiration for all our dealers to continue delivering excellent service and providing our customers with the best possible Isuzu experience. We challenge our entire dealer network to build on this momentum and strive for even greater success in the years ahead,” added Fujita.
For more information about Isuzu’s latest line-up of vehicles and dealership services, visit www.isuzuphil.com or follow Isuzu Philippines on Facebook.
MPT South, the concessionaire of the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) and Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX), and a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation was recently granted three International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certifications.
The company achieved certifications for:
ISO 9001: Quality Management
ISO 14001: Environmental Management
ISO 45001: Occupational Health and Safety
These ISO certifications showcase its commitment to operational excellence and sustainable business practices.
To celebrate this milestone, an awarding ceremony was held on January 27, 2025, at Sequoia Hotel, where certifying body, DQS Certification Philippines president Romeo Bravo formally presented the certificates to the MPT South Management Committee, led by officer-in-charge Elnora D. Rumawak, along with MPTC’s chief human resource officer, Atty. Maria Antonette V. Allones.
“This achievement reflects MPT South’s unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the safety of every motorist we serve,” said Rumawak.
Palo Alto Networks, the global cybersecurity leader, has announced the release of a Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) Open API framework, empowering organizations to prepare for future quantum security threats. The framework, developed in partnership with six innovators across the QRNG field, addresses the need for multi-vendor interoperability across the industry and enables organizations to invest in and build QRNG-based systems that are resilient regardless of the underlying technology or company.
Rich Campagna, SVP of product management at Palo Alto Networks, notes: “Helping the world become quantum-safe is much more than any one cybersecurity company, government agency, or critical infrastructure organization can tackle alone. Collaboration in the QRNG field is vital to future-proofing against quantum computing threats and we are committed to our work with standards bodies, global governments, and our partners to help steer the industry toward standardization. We are thrilled to launch the QRNG Open API to benefit as many organizations as possible.”
The future convergence of AI, ML, deep learning, and classical supercomputing with quantum computing necessitates securing today’s systems against quantum-enabled attacks. QRNG is a technology that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers, which are essential for creating secure cryptographic keys. Experts recommend the use of recently released NIST post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards in combination with QRNG to give organizations the best chance to protect against future threats. The QRNG Open API framework eliminates barriers to QRNG adoption, helping global organizations access the highest quality cryptographic operations possible as they prepare for quantum computing technology.
Available through the Palo Alto Networks GitHub portal, the QRNG Open API can be embedded into any application. Later this year, Palo Alto Networks Next Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) will support the QRNG Open API, enabling the network security platform to bring in entropy for cryptographic functions.
Developed by Palo Alto Networks and leading QRNG technology partners, Anametric, ID Quantique, Qrypt, Quantinuum, Quantropi, and Quside, the QRNG Open API will:
Simplify QRNG integration by removing proprietary silos.
Maximize interoperability in multi-vendor networks and promote freedom of choice, allowing customers to select the best technologies and systems for their needs, including both cloud-based and on-prem solutions.
Accelerate QRNG adoption by removing barriers with a collaborative, open approach.
Provide a common mechanism for obtaining high-quality entropy from an external QRNG platform.
This Valentine’s season, let love blossom in the most creative way possible with the LEGO Botanicals Collection. Whether you’re planning to surprise your special someone or treat yourself to a fun and meaningful activity, the LEGO buildable flower sets are here to help you say it all, one brick at a time.
Love in Full Bloom with LEGO Botanicals
Nothing says “I love you” like a bouquet made with love — and with LEGO Botanicals, you can create one that will last forever. Whether you’re choosing the elegant Bouquet of Roses (10328), the vibrant Pretty Pink Flower Bouquet (10342), or the colorful Wild Flower Bouquet (10313), there’s a set to make someone’s day a little brighter.
For those who prefer smaller, thoughtful gestures, the Mini Orchid (10343) and Tiny Plants (10329) add a sweet touch to your Valentine’s celebration. Looking for something with a bit more personality? The Plum Blossom (10369) and Lucky Bamboo (10344) make thoughtful gifts that go beyond the usual bouquet.
Want to make it extra memorable? The Cherry Blossoms (40725) and LOVE Mosaic (31214) are perfect for sharing your creative side while celebrating the season of love. And of course, you can’t go wrong with the timeless beauty of the Orchid (10311) — a classic that speaks volumes. With LEGO Botanicals, you’re not just giving flowers. You’re giving a heartfelt gesture, brick by brick, that lasts a lifetime.
Celebrate Love and Save More with LEGO at One Ayala Mall with Shopee
To make this Valentine’s even sweeter, enjoy up to 20% off on selected LEGO Botanicals, exclusively available at LEGO Official Store on Shopee Mall, from February 1 to 14, 2025! Celebrate the season of love by visiting the LEGO Love Fest at One Ayala Mall during the same dates. Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes, including up to 10% off vouchers (valid for purchases of PHP3,500 and up, capped at PHP400) and free LEGO polybags! Vouchers are valid for one month starting February 1, 2025, and prizes are non-convertible to cash.
Take your LEGO experience to the next level with Shopee’s Valentine’s exclusive! Shop with confidence at Shopee Mall, where all LEGO products are 100% authentic and come with a 15-day return policy for a hassle-free shopping experience.
Even better, spend at least PHP6,000 on any LEGO Botanical set/s at the LEGO Official Store on Shopee Mall and receive a FREE limited-edition Bloom & Bond Box! This special Gift-With-Purchase (GWP) is filled with Valentine’s-themed surprises, including a phone holder, Blooming Exchange game cards, a DIY Vase Kit (with three unique designs), stickers, fairy lights, and coasters to set the perfect mood! Hurry, as the Bloom & Bond Box is available in limited quantities only!
Whether you’re spinning the wheel at One Ayala Mall or shopping online at Shopee Mall, LEGO has the perfect surprises waiting for you this Valentine’s!
Shop, Save, and Celebrate Love with LEGO® Botanicals this Valentine Season!
This Valentine’s, gift creativity and lasting beauty with the LEGO® Botanicals Collection. From stunning bouquets to elegant bonsai trees, these builds are the perfect way to express love.
SM Clark Event Center (Feb 5-16, 2025)
Explore the LEGO® Botanicals Collection and Free-build activities at SM Clark’s 21m x 15m event space, featuring LEGO® flower bouquets, bonsai trees, and more. Enjoy hands-on activities perfect for couples and families.
In-Store Weekend Event Caravan
Visit Toy Kingdom and Toys R Us for exclusive LEGO® Botanicals activations, including building challenges, hands-on displays, and exciting prizes!
LEGO® Botanicals MOC at LCS Shangri-La and LCS Manila Bay
Experience a one-of-a-kind LEGO® Botanicals My Own Creation (MOC) at LCS Shangri-La and Manila Bay, showcasing LEGO® flowers in action.
This Valentine’s, skip the traditional bouquet and gift a LEGO® Botanicals creation Roses, Wildflowers, Orchids, or Bonsai Tree for a lasting symbol of love.
You can also find your nearest LEGO Certified Store (Alabang Town Center, BGC, TriNoma, Shangri-La Plaza, UP Town Center, Manila Bay). You can also explore the full range of products in Toy Kingdom, Toys R Us, Toytown, Rustan’s, and online on Lazada & Shopee, as well as on the website bankeebricks.ph/Botanicals
To learn more about the LEGO Group, check out lego.com.
Razer™, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, has announced the availability of its premium Xbox controllers, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and Wolverine V3 Tournament Editon, in a stunning new White colorway.
White brings a fresh new look to Razer’s latest Pro controllers for the perfect blend of elegance and performance. The new lineup appeals to the competitive console and PC gamers who want a clean look to match their gaming setups. Combining lightning-fast inputs, optimization for esports, and tournament-ready performance, the White Wolverine V3 lineup will allow players to express their individual style without compromising their competitive edge.
Wolverine V3 Pro
Stay one step, one shot, and one level above the competition with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro—the definitive wireless esports controller. Officially licensed by Xbox, play like the world’s best on console and PC with speed, control, and precision that helps you clutch up for the win.
Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition
Get the edge you need to dominate the competition with the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition— the brand’s most advanced wired esports controller. Officially licensed by Xbox, perform like the pros on Xbox and PC with speed, control, and precision that sets you up for true gaming glory.
Gamers looking to complete their high performance console or PC setups in white should also check out the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro for Xbox, now available in a classy, white edition.
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, released new insights into consumer behavior in February 2024. Visa Consulting & Analytics found that more active cards were used for transactions, indicating a change in how Filipinos are celebrating Valentine’s Day.
The data shows an overall increase in transactions for February 2024 compared to February 2023, driven by more active card users. Despite the rise in transactions, the average amount spent per transaction slightly declined. This suggests that inflation and higher commodity prices may have led consumers to be more cautious with their spending this Valentine’s month.
Unlike Valentine’s Day 2023, which saw a peak in transactions on the day itself, the peak in 2024 occurred on the weekends before and after Valentine’s Day. This change points to evolving consumer preferences. The report also highlights changes in spending patterns. Spending on food-related categories decreased while spending on travel-related categories saw a slight rise. There was a significant increase in spending on local transport services. Spending on gifts, such as books, shoes, sporting goods, and jewelry, saw significant growth. Spending on flowers decreased slightly, indicating a preference for more durable gifts. Spending on health and beauty spas remained steady.
Consumers Are Spending Smarter: Likely to Prioritize Value and Affordability this Valentine’s
Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar Survey reveals that many Filipinos are adopting a more budget-conscious approach this year. Instead of splurging on luxury items, they are focusing on experiences that create lasting memories. Across the Asia-Pacific region, many consumers are cutting back on non-essential spending, channeling their budgets into special moments with loved ones.
Shifting Towards Sentimentality: The Growing Demand for Personalized and Meaningful Gestures
With excessive spending taking a backseat, personalized and meaningful gestures are becoming more popular. Custom gifts, handmade creations, and intimate dinners are the go-to choices this season, reflecting deeper emotional connections. According to the survey, arts and crafts purchases are on the rise, with more Filipinos shopping in this category compared to last year. These creative purchases, whether it’s a hand-painted card or a DIY gift, show the effort put into expressing love authentically.
Managing Budgets with Rewards and Discounts for Celebrations
How are Filipinos making it all work on a budget? By leveraging rewards and discounts. Visa’s survey shows that many Filipinos are tapping into promotional deals through their credit cards. By taking advantage of cashback, loyalty points, and exclusive discounts, they’re able to treat their special someone to a memorable Valentine’s experience without the financial strain.
“With Visa, couples can unlock added value with every purchase, from thoughtful gifts to special meals, making it easier to celebrate love while staying within their budget. It’s all about offering more ways to make the most of your budget, so you can focus on creating memorable moments with those you love,” said Jeffrey Navarro, country manager, Visa Philippines.
Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) lets you unleash the power of the Ultimate AI companion as it now accepts pre-orders for the latest Samsung flagship smartphones – the Samsung Galaxy S25, Samsung Galaxy S25+, and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – on Smart Postpaid and Smart Infinity Plans as well as Smart Prepaid bundles.
Specially designed to give you unrivaled productivity and creativity, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Series comes with groundbreaking AI features, including Samsung’s most powerful AI ProVisual Engine for the best camera and editing experience backed by the Korean tech giant’s most powerful processor yet.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Series also now features a seamless action across apps so you can easily complete your task without having to switch between apps, a Now Brief feature that gives you a personalized briefing to guide you on your day ahead, an Audio Eraser that lets you filter out unwanted audio in your videos, and Circle to Search with Google that now even lets you search objects while browsing and search for a song that you hear in the moment without switching apps.
Pre-order now to enjoy FREE storage upgrade, exclusive perks
Smart Postpaid lets you enjoy the Samsung Galaxy S25 Series starting with Postpaid Plans+ 999. Pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S25 (512GB) with a monthly fee of PHP1,100 and a downpayment of only PHP19,700, or the Samsung Galaxy S25+ (512GB) with a monthly fee of PHP1,500 and a downpayment of only PHP23,800, or Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (512GB) with a monthly fee of PHP1,900 and a downpayment of only PHP29,500.
Postpaid Plans+ 999 comes with:
UNLI 5G for 12 months
30GB monthly data (20 GB + 10GB valid for 6 months)
Unli All-Net Calls and Texts
a Netflix Mobile Plan
a 3-month Max Mobile Plan
access to Postpaid Perks
Subscribers who avail of the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 Series via Postpaid Plans+ can also get a free silicon case.
As a special treat, Postpaid and Infinity subscribers with approved pre-orders from January 23 to February 13, 2025, will enjoy a FREE storage upgrade, which means that they will automatically get the 512GB variant of their chosen Samsung Galaxy S25 device.
Aside from the FREE storage upgrade, subscribers who successfully pre-order via Smart Postpaid, Prepaid or Infinity can also enjoy a host of exciting freebies, including a 50% off on Samsung Care+ 1-year subscription, a 30% discount on Samsung Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Buds via Samsung.com.
Smart Infinity members may also get the Samsung Galaxy S25 Series starting with Infinity Plan 3500, which comes with Unlimited Data, monthly international data roaming allocation, and a host of exclusive lifestyle privileges, including a Personal Relationship Manager, a dedicated hotline and worldwide concierge, and specially curated perks and events.
Subscribers availing the Samsung Galaxy S25 with Infinity can get a complimentary standing grip case for their new smartphone.
Subscribers may also pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S25 Series with a Smart Prepaid bundle on zero-interest credit card installment for 12 or 24 months with UnionBank, Security Bank, RCBC, BDO, BPI, and Metrobank at select Smart Stores nationwide.
To pre-order, head to the nearest Smart Store or pre-order online via https://smart.com.ph/galaxyS25 for Smart Postpaid plans.
If you are a Smart Infinity member, you may pre-order via https://smart.com.ph/Postpaid/InfinityS25, call *800, or reach out to Infinity Relationship Managers for personalized assistance.
GAC MOTOR Philippines, operating under the stewardship of Astara Philippines, concluded 2024 on a high, achieving a 65% year-on-year sales increase and marking a pivotal year for the brand. From January to December, a record-breaking 3,207 units were sold by the brand, a significant leap from the 1,943 units delivered in 2023. This stellar performance cements GAC MOTOR’s momentous rise to being one of the fastest-growing automotive brands in the local market.
At the forefront of this growth is the GS3 Emzoom, a standout in the competitive crossover segment, which alone accounted for a total of 2,089 units sold last year. Supporting this performance are the reliable M6 Pro MPV with 301 units sold, and the premium M8 MPV delivering 225 units to Filipino customers seeking luxury and utility.
“More than 3,000 Filipinos have partnered with GAC MOTOR and Astara Philippines in 2024, a powerful affirmation of our shared vision for the future of mobility,” expressed Luis Torres, country manager, Astara Philippines. “We are grateful for their trust and look forward to a continued collaboration, delivering unparalleled mobility solutions that redefine the driving experience.”
GAC MOTOR offers a diverse lineup tailored to meet the needs of a wide range of Filipino drivers. From the sleek and sporty Empow sedan to the elegant M8 MPV, and the dynamic Emzoom crossover, each model delivers a distinct combination of style, performance, and practicality. The GS8 SUV stands out for its rugged durability, while the futuristic Emkoo and eco-conscious Emkoo Hybrid cater to forward-thinking customers. Families will appreciate the versatility of the M6 Pro MPV, designed with comfort and utility in mind. Every GAC MOTOR vehicle is equipped with advanced safety features and cutting-edge technology, making them a top choice for discerning consumers who value innovation and reliability.
Further propelling the brand’s success is its expanding dealership network, now boasting 31 locations nationwide, with more set to open in 2025. This strategic growth ensures greater accessibility for customers across the Philippines, alongside a 5-year/150,000-kilometer warranty and free 24/7 emergency roadside assistance for the first year of ownership. Astara Philippines, part of the global Astara network, has played a pivotal role in this success, bringing world-class mobility expertise to the local market. Together, GAC MOTOR and Astara Philippines are transforming how Filipinos experience automotive innovation and customer care.
GAC MOTOR offers a comprehensive 5-year or 150,000-kilometer warranty on all its vehicles, whichever is first applicable. To further enhance the ownership experience, every new car purchase includes FREE 24/7 emergency roadside assistance for the first year, upon purchase.
To learn more about GAC MOTOR and its impressive vehicle lineup, visit the official GAC MOTOR Philippines website. Join the growing GAC MOTOR community by liking and subscribing to their official Facebook and Instagram pages (@gacmotorph). To experience the brand’s exceptional offerings firsthand, visit your nearest GAC MOTOR dealership.
