Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is once again throwing its full support behind esports team Smart Omega as it returns to the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League (MPL) Philippines for Season 16—marking a new chapter in its journey toward esports excellence.
This renewed campaign reflects Smart’s and parent company PLDT’s broader commitment to sports development in the Philippines, and the group’s belief in the power of competitive platforms to shape character, build resilience, and inspire the youth.
“Smart’s support for esports is part of our mission to help build character and opportunity through sports and technology,” said Jude H. Turcuato, FVP and head of sports at PLDT and Smart. “We believe in second chances, in comebacks, and in the kind of perseverance that defines true athletes—whether on the court or in the digital arena.”
Smart Omega enters MPL S16 with a revitalized roster, blending veteran leadership and emerging talent with Salic Alauya “Hadji” Imam (Mid Laner), Czedrick Jaylord “SuperYoshi” Romero (Roamer), Dean Christian “Raizen” Sumagui (Jungler), Kenneth “Netskie” Barro (Gold Laner), James “Jeymz” Gloria (EXP Laner), and Errol Ace “Peuder” Amido (Multirole). The team is guided by Hans “Wurahhhh” Solano (Head Coach), Lemuel Josh “Coach Lembot” Lucban (Assistant Coach), and Allec “SN4P” Alvarado (Analyst).
“We know what it’s like to fall short—and we know what it takes to rise again,” said Hadji, Smart Omega team captain and mid laner. “This season is about proving to ourselves and to our supporters that we’re still here, still hungry, and ready to fight for greatness.”
Smart’s continued investment in esports—from grassroots programs to professional leagues—underscores its role in building a vibrant digital and sports ecosystem, where Filipino talent can thrive and inspire.
In 2007, hundreds of Filipino scientists, artists, engineers, and architects from universities and companies, community leaders, and thoughtful businessmen committed 5 years of their talent, energy, creativity, and resources to plan, execute, and raise the money to build the museum that Filipinos deserve. No ready-made stuff. No haphazard text. No shortcuts.
Now, 13 years since it opened, The Mind Museum has been a home to explorers of all ages, from school field trips and weekend family bonding to solo adventures. Each visit gave birth to unforgettable moments that go beyond the over 300 interactive exhibits — whether it’s an awe-mazing encounter with the resident 40-ft T. rex, Stan; an “aha!” moment with friends while learning about the Butanding at the Life Gallery; a shared learning experience with family in Playtales; a laughter or burning question shared over science experiments with the resident scientists, Mind Movers; or quiet solo wonder while gazing at the universe in the Space Shell planetarium.
Every story is a testament to the lasting impact of the museum’s ever-evolving programs on the minds of its guests. From the interactive exhibits inside its main galleries to travelling exhibitions that reach across 300,000 square kilometers across our islands, and has made its mark internationally since it opened in 2012 and even more now through cross-continent collaborations with National Geographic and Futurium in Berlin, Germany.
The Mind Museum has continued to expand its reach to inspire more memorable stories far beyond its walls. The first generation of Filipinos who grew up with our own local dedicated science museum are now adults, and some have grown to be scientists, artists, educators, and other fields but all carry the sense of wonder from their experience at The Mind Museum and the place of understanding the world through science in our lives.
This Science Month, share your stories of wonder and how your exploration at and with The Mind Museum has helped shape who you are today! Because The Mind Museum was built with you in mind.
Recreate your most favorite experience or discover something new from our exhibits through a limited-time offer. Enjoy All-day access for 3 persons for only PHP1,650! Promo valid from August 30 to September 28, 2025.
I already have TVs in the living and family areas, so when the Xiaomi TV A 55 2026 came, I placed it in my bedroom. Marketed with the tagline “Smart living, immersive viewing”, this TV is more than just a crisp 4K panel. It’s a gateway to effortless streaming and everyday entertainment.
Design 4 / 5
At first, a 55-inch panel felt like it might overwhelm my room, but it turned out to be just the right size. Positioned on a built-in wall desk in front of a large window, the TV feels integrated into the space, part of my cozy retreat at night rather than something oversized or intrusive.
The ultra-thin bezel and metal finish give it a premium look that feels more expensive than it is. In daylight, with natural light streaming around it, the TV looks understated; at night, with the curtains drawn, the screen becomes the room’s centerpiece.
I opted to keep it on the double stand setup instead of wall-mounting. The wide stands are solid and stable, keeping the TV steady even when I shift things on the desk. Around the back, Xiaomi kept the design clean and minimal, with ports arranged neatly to the side: three HDMI (one with Game Boost), a USB 2.0, Ethernet, composite AV-in, optical out, and antenna input. This makes plugging in accessories easy without messing up the tidy look.
Although the TV weighs only about 13kg, its 1.2-meter width makes it awkward to move alone. Carrying it into position felt manageable, but I’d recommend an extra pair of hands to make setup safer and smoother.
Hardware 4 / 5
The 55-inch 4K UHD HDR display is where the Xiaomi TV A 55 2025 really proves itself. Filmmaker Mode is a revelation! Switching it on strips away the artificial smoothing and overly vivid colors TVs usually apply by default. What you get instead is a viewing experience that looks closer to how the creators intended.
On Netflix, Wednesday’s gothic aesthetic, with its shadowy interiors, candlelit halls, and moonlit forest scenes, came through with striking clarity. The moody atmosphere was preserved without being over-brightened. On Prime Video, the lush visuals of Butterfly felt vibrant yet natural, with color and motion rendered faithfully thanks to Filmmaker Mode’s careful tone mapping. These two series highlighted how well the panel can handle both dark, detail-heavy visuals and rich, expressive cinematography.
Under the hood, a quad-core Cortex-A55 processor and Mali G52 GPU, backed by 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, handle the workload. For streaming, it is sufficient. YouTube and Netflix ran smoothly once loaded, but launching apps felt sluggish at times.
Audio is powered by dual 10W speakers, enhanced with Dolby Audio™, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X. Dialogue came through clearly, and YouTube concerts carried enough depth to feel immersive. While the built-in sound will not replace a subwoofer or surround system, it delivers more than enough for casual viewing in my bedroom setup.
User Experience 3.5 / 5
The Google TV interface is neat and well-organized, pulling together YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, and more in one place. Logging into my Google account synced watchlists quickly, and within days the home screen was recommending shows that matched my preferences.
Where the experience falters is in responsiveness. Launching apps feels a bit sluggish, and the “Hey Google” voice assistant sometimes takes a while to respond or requires repeating commands. It works, but it is not as seamless as I had hoped.
On the brighter side, casting was smooth and reliable. Google Cast, Miracast, and Apple AirPlay all worked effortlessly, whether for pushing Spotify playlists or mirroring videos from my phone.
The eye-care display deserves mention, since after long nights of watching, I felt noticeably less eye strain.
I also appreciate the Xiaomi TV+ channels, which provide free live content that works perfectly for background viewing when I don’t feel like browsing.
Value 4 / 5
Xiaomi has always positioned itself as the brand for value-conscious consumers, and the TV A 55 2026 continues that tradition. Priced at PHP19,699, you get a 55-inch 4K HDR display, Dolby and DTS audio, Filmmaker Mode, Google TV with “Hey Google” voice control, seamless casting, and Xiaomi TV+ channels.
There are compromises: the 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage mean it isn’t designed for heavy multitasking, and the speakers, while solid, don’t deliver cinema-level bass. But these limitations are easy to accept given what it offers at this price point.
For families, it’s a strong and affordable primary TV. For younger buyers, it’s a first step into premium smart features. And for me, as a personal screen in my bedroom, it feels like a small luxury that has changed the way I end my day.
Bottomline
The Xiaomi TV A 55 2026 is not pretending to be a flagship OLED. Instead, it focuses on delivering the essentials—and delivering them well. The overall experience and value it offers make it easy to recommend this to anyone seeking smart living and immersive viewing without overspending.
Globe, with its subsidiary Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI) and in partnership with Google X: TAARA, has successfully completed a groundbreaking field trial of a long-range Free Space Optics (FSO) technology, achieving 10Gbps, wireless optical connectivity over an 11-kilometer aerial distance across Laguna Lake, with 80% of the link spanning over open water.
The pilot showcases the potential of free space optics to revolutionize wireless transport through laser-based communications that do not require fiber or licensed spectrum, using a microwave system.
The field trial utilized Google’s TAARA free space optics link to bridge a long-distance aerial gap and underwent rigorous testing, including industry standard testings like Enhanced RFC2544 test suite (Throughput, Latency, Jitter, and Frame Loss) and a 24-hour Bit Error Rate Test (BERT). All performance metrics are met based on Globe’s technical requirements.
“This milestone represents a significant leap forward in our quest to deliver future-ready and cost-effective transport solutions that are rapidly deployable,” said Gerhard Tan, senior director and head of Technology Strategy and Innovations at Globe. “The success of the field trial underscores our commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology to expand connectivity even in geographically challenging environments.”
Google’s TAARA free space optics uses highly focused beams of light to deliver multi-gigabit data transmission, offering a viable solution in areas where deploying fiber is impractical or cost-prohibitive. The successful trial over Laguna Lake, where traditional terrestrial infrastructure would face major challenges, demonstrates the resilience and reliability of utilizing the free space optics platform under real-world conditions.
“This pilot opens doors to a reliable and scalable wireless backhaul solution that can be rapidly deployed and help close connectivity gaps, especially in island and remote areas,” added Tan.
Groundbreaking Initiative
As a leading engineering services company, FINSI is proud to support this groundbreaking initiative,” said Xerxes Jonash Sta. Ana, general manager of FINSI. “Our team has been hands-on in enabling the successful deployment and validation of the TAARA system in the field. We are committed to bringing innovative, future-ready technologies into the Philippine market—solutions that not only overcome physical limitations but also accelerate digital inclusion across the country.”
This kind of advancement in transformative technologies like free space optics pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in telecom infrastructure. This successful pilot is a powerful validation of how strategic collaboration and innovation can deliver scalable, fiber-like connectivity without the constraints of terrain or right-of-way limitations. It aligns perfectly with our mission to build future-ready, intelligent infrastructure that connects more communities faster, smarter, and more sustainably.
As Globe continues to push the boundaries of innovation in network transformation, the successful trial solidifies its leadership in future-proof telecom solutions, enabling more inclusive digital access, resilient, and empowering communities across the Philippines.
With this achievement, Globe continues to set the standard for innovation in telecom, bridging the digital divide and paving the way for a more connected and digitally empowered Philippines.
PLDT Inc., the Philippines’ largest fully integrated telco network, continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive digital access through PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, a fiber internet service designed to meet the needs of price-sensitive households and first-time fiber users.
PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid is helping bridge the digital divide by reaching more Filipino families—particularly in high-density urban communities and emerging cities—who are looking for reliable, high-speed connectivity that fits their budget and lifestyle.
“PLDT’s mission goes beyond connecting Filipinos to the internet,” said John Y. Palanca, SVP and head of consumer business – home. “More than connectivity, our goal is to connect Filipinos to opportunities, experiences, and dreams that empower them to live fuller, more meaningful lives.”
Palanca emphasized that PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid complements, rather than replaces, postpaid offerings. “It’s designed for price-sensitive households or first-time fiber users upgrading from older technologies. Prepaid fiber helps us reach new users and strengthen our presence in covered areas.”
The segment has shown encouraging early traction, driven by PLDT’s expanding fiber footprint and the growing popularity of value-added services that enhance the customer experience. Improvements in customer care—including faster installation and repair times, 24/7 support across multiple channels, and smarter self-service tools—further reinforce PLDT Home’s commitment to service excellence.
“We are proud to see the strength of PLDT Home’s performance in the first half of 2025,” Palanca added. “Whether through our premium postpaid plans, growing prepaid offerings, or our ‘Always On’ service, we remain committed to making world-class broadband more accessible, dependable, and inclusive for all.”
PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid reflects the company’s broader vision of digital inclusion—ensuring that every Filipino household, regardless of location or income, can thrive in the digital space.
Mercedes-Benz Philippines proudly unveils the groundbreaking arrival of the new G 580 with EQ Technology, the first-ever all-electric G-Class. This bold evolution marks a historic milestone, seamlessly blending the legendary character and off-road prowess of the G-Class with the cutting-edge innovation of electric mobility.
The G 580 with EQ Technology seamlessly fuses the legendary toughness of the G-Class with the innovation of Mercedes-Benz’s advanced electric drivetrain. Retaining its iconic off-road dominance, this fully electric model delivers an exhilarating yet silent driving experience — a true evolution that stays faithful to the G-Class legacy. More than just a technological milestone, the G 580 embodies Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to sustainable luxury, combining zero-emission mobility with uncompromising performance and presence.
Electric Mobility, G-Class Power
At the heart of the G 580 with EQ Technology is a state-of-the-art electric powertrain built around a high-voltage modular lithium-ion battery. Comprising 216 cells across 12 modules, the battery offers a usable energy capacity of up to 116kWh — all while weighing just 680kg. This advanced setup delivers an impressive all-electric range of up to 473km (WLTP), ensuring a confident, long-distance driving experience that combines the unmistakable power of the G-Class with the efficiency and innovation of electric mobility.
Innovation Meets Intuition Inside
Inside, the G 580 with EQ Technology features dual 12.3-inch displays, one as a fully digital, customizable instrument cluster, and the other as a central touchscreen for infotainment. Both are powered by the intuitive Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, offering advanced voice control, seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an immersive Burmester 3D surround sound system.
This new-generation G-Class doesn’t just meet expectations, it redefines them. Whether navigating city streets or conquering rugged terrain, the G 580 is engineered for agility, traction, and control in every environment, delivering a driving experience that’s as refined as it is capable.
The Off-Road Cockpit: Innovation Where It Matters Most
Engineered for extreme terrain, the G 580 with EQ Technology is equipped with Torque Vectoring, allowing precise distribution of torque to each individual wheel. This ensures optimal grip and stability, especially during tight cornering or while navigating uneven, off-road surfaces.
Taking capability to new heights, the G 580 introduces groundbreaking features such as G-STEERING, which enhances agility by turning the wheels at different speeds — enabling anything from subtle maneuvering to controlled oversteer in complex terrain. Meanwhile, G-TURN allows the vehicle to rotate in place up to 720°, a revolutionary function designed for tight off-road situations on loose or slippery ground.
Adding to the immersive experience is G-ROAR, which gives the all-electric G-Class a bold, signature sound presence both inside and out. And for added safety, the Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) comes standard, ensuring the vehicle remains audible to pedestrians and cyclists when G-ROAR is disabled.
Distinctive AMG Line Styling
Elevating its commanding presence, the G 580 with EQ Technology comes equipped with the AMG Line package — infusing the iconic G-Class silhouette with a bold touch of sporty sophistication. Exterior highlights include brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering, a striking radiator grille in silver chrome, and a silver chrome bumper insert that adds refined contrast and visual impact.
Inside, exclusive black AMG floor mats underscore the cabin’s premium feel, while the vehicle’s muscular stance is perfected by 50.8cm (20-inch) AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels — a true statement of performance and design.
Luxury That Moves with the Times
While the G 580 pioneers new ground with its advanced electric powertrain, it remains deeply rooted in the timeless luxury and iconic design that define the G-Class. The refined and spacious cabin seamlessly blends premium materials with intuitive digital interfaces and cutting-edge connectivity features, ensuring that every journey, whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain, is nothing short of a first-class experience.
Introductory Retail Price:
Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology starts at PHP13,590,000.
The Pokémon Company is pleased to announce the latest news about the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 software title Pokémon Legends: Z-A and the Nintendo Switch 2 software title Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
The Mega Evolution of the Flycatcher Pokémon Victreebel—Mega Victreebel—appears in Pokémon Legends: Z-A! Please forward to Victreebel’s Mega-Evolved Form; its body gets swollen and full of acid that looks ready to burst out at any moment!
To know more about the Mega Victreebel from Pokémon Legends: Z-A, please go to the official Pokémon YouTube channel and check the video, “Mega Victreebel Raises a Stink! |Pokémon Legends: Z-A” athttps://youtu.be/ala25Wsplak
Its body has swollen as a result of Mega Evolution. Even the leaves on top of its head have grown bigger.
It flaps the leaves on its sides and moves its large body by bouncing around.
It opens its large mouth to let loose a Sludge Bomb. It looks more like a Victreebel when it has deflated.
To move around, it flaps the leaves on its sides and bounces its large body. It has so much acid that even closing its mouth tight isn’t enough to hold it in, so it contains the acid by wrapping its own vines around its throat.
Mega Victreebel’s Unique Features
A large amount of acid is stockpiled inside its body, which has grown larger as a result of Mega Evolution.
Mega Victreebel
Category: Flycatcher Pokémon
Type: Grass/Poison
Height: 14’9″ (4.5 m)
Weight: 276.7 lbs. (125.5 kg)
It’s got so much acid that it’s on the verge of spitting it up!
It wraps its own vines around its throat to keep the acid from spilling out.
The energy of Mega Evolution has produced such a large amount of acid within its body that it always has to wrap up its own throat! As a result, it doesn’t keep its mouth open while waiting for prey like Victreebel does. Instead, it actively goes after prey to take it down in a distinctively aggressive style. Its massive body can deliver tackles that are packed with destructive force!
It’s not just the volume that’s overwhelming—its acid gives off a powerfully sweet scent and can even melt through steel!
When all that acid has matured, it smells sweet enough to make others dizzy. Mega Victreebel waves the leaves on top of its head to waft the scent toward opponents, immobilizing them and giving it an edge in battle. The acid’s melting capabilities are also powered up! It can even melt through concrete or steel, so Trainers who use Mega Victreebel in battle will need to keep that in mind.
Mega Victreebel’s Special Video
There have been rumors about a mysteriously sweet scent coming from a certain building. Check out this found footage exploring the building’s darkened halls—parts of which seem to have been melted. What truths about Mega Victreebel and its Trainer will spill out by the end?
Find out more by checking out this special video “The Case of the Sweet Scent Incident | Pokémon Legends: Z-A” athttps://youtu.be/xT_bk0BBp2Y
Ayala Malls, the Philippines’ premier lifestyle destination, is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking year-long partnership with Canva, the world’s leading visual communication platform, to launch the Creativity Project. This exciting initiative invites Filipinos from all walks of life to unleash their inner designer and see their creations brought to life in the most unexpected and inspiring ways.
The Creativity Project is a nationwide design challenge that will transform Ayala Malls into vibrant canvases for Filipino artistry. Starting in September 2025 and running through August 2026, mall-goers will have the unique opportunity to design on Canva using in-store Apple devices in Beyond the Box, Digimap, and Power Mac Center outlets in participating Ayala Malls nationwide. Each month, one winning design per mall will be prominently featured on Ayala Malls’ hoardings, celebrating and empowering Filipino creativity, one design at a time.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Canva to bring the Creativity Project to life,” says Mae Dichupa, Ayala Malls head of marketing. “This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering community and providing enriching experiences. By making design accessible and showcasing the incredible talent of Filipinos, we aim to spark joy and inspire creativity in every corner of our malls.”
The partnership kicked off with a “Canva Creative Corner” pop-up at One Ayala in Makati City from August 22-24, 2025. This three-day experiential pop-up offered a hub of inspiration, inviting attendees to explore the intuitive world of Canva and participate in engaging, hour-long Design Jam sessions using iPads. It was a chance for everyone, from design enthusiasts to curious mallgoers, to discover the power of visual communication in a fun and interactive environment.
“Canva’s mission is to empower the world to design, and this partnership with Ayala Malls is a significant step towards making that a reality for Filipinos,” shares Maisie Littaua, Canva Philippines country manager. “The Creativity Project will not only provide a platform for emerging and established designers but also demonstrate how easy and enjoyable it is to create stunning visuals with Canva, especially when paired with the seamless experience and creativity capabilities of Apple devices.”
Beyond the launch, the Creativity Project will roll out to Power Mac Center, Beyond the Box, and Digimap across Ayala Malls nationwide. Participants can look forward to monthly design prompts, allowing them to continuously engage their creativity and vie for the chance to have their work displayed for thousands to see.
This collaboration promises to be a catalyst for creativity, transforming everyday spaces into dynamic art installations and showcasing the vibrant spirit of Filipino design. Get ready to dream it, design it, and display it at Ayala Malls!
Join Ayala Malls and Canva as they embark on this exciting journey to celebrate and cultivate the boundless creativity of the Philippines. For more information, visit Ayala Malls at www.ayalamalls.com.
Get ready to redefine your home entertainment experience once more. Xiaomi is set to launch its latest TV A 2026 Series this month, bringing an even better immersive viewing experience to tech-savvy users and budget-conscious buyers alike. This new lineup of smart TVs is made and engineered for individuals and families seeking a premium experience with a focus on vibrant displays, smooth performance, and sleek design.
The Xiaomi TV A 2026 Series is now available in four local variants: 32-inch, 43-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch. The 65-inch and 55-inch models feature 4K UHD resolution for crisp and dazzling visuals and lifelike details, while the 32-inch model provides a bright HD resolution that’s truly perfect for smaller spaces.
For gamers, the 65-inch and 55-inch models offer a 120Hz refresh rate via HDMI under Game Boost mode, making sure you’re constantly at the edge of your seat with smoother motion during high-speed gameplay.
Beyond the stunning visuals, the TV A 2026 Series is a statement piece for any modern home, with a sleek metal finish and an ultra-thin bezel design that makes it just as much a work of art as it is a marvel of home entertainment. The audio is equally impressive, with dual speakers supporting Dolby Audio™, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X to deliver an immersive and cinematic sound experience across all screen sizes.
Powered by Google TV™, you can easily access your favorite streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube at either a click of a button or a single voice command thanks to its built-in Google Assistant for voice control and smart home functionality. For even more viewing options, the Xiaomi TV A 2026 Series is also equipped with Google Cast, Miracast, and Apple AirPlay for seamless media sharing from your mobile devices.
To celebrate the launch, Xiaomi is offering an early bird promo from August 28 to September 12, with the following discounts:
32-inch: PHP6,799 (from an SRP of Php 7,899)
43-inch: PHP10,499 (from an SRP of Php 11,699), with a free Xiaomi Power Bank 10000 22.5W Lite
55-inch: PHP18,699 (from an SRP of Php 19,699), with a free Xiaomi Body Composition Scale S400
65-inch: PHP26,699 (from an SRP of Php 27,699)
The Xiaomi TV A 2026 Series will be available for purchase starting August 28, 2025. Give your home entertainment setup the major upgrade you and the family have been looking for today—add to cart now over on Xiaomi’s authorized Shopee store! For those looking for an even higher level of entertainment, the Xiaomi TV A Pro 2026 Series will also be available online. To learn more about the Xiaomi TV A and TV A Pro 2026 Series, visit http://mi.com/ph.
Electricity, water, internet, groceries–every day, it feels like there’s always something new we need to pay for. Now that the school year is in full swing, daily allowances and baon groceries have become part of the weekly routine. And just when we think we’ve finally caught up, here comes the surprise gastos—plus with the holidays slowly creeping in, it feels like there’s always something new to budget for.
As much as we try to cover everything, there are times when our budget just isn’t enough, no matter how hard we try to save and budget our expenses. Sometimes, we just need a little help to get through the tough days, especially during Petsa de Peligro. Thankfully, with GCash, it’s now easier to manage bills even without a credit card and without needing to borrow money from friends and family.
GCredit – Your Trusted Financial Lifeline
If you’re a GCash user, you already have a solution at your fingertips. GCredit, powered by CIMB, gives you an always-ready credit line you can use to cover urgent expenses. The best part? It’s designed to be manageable, with a low daily interest rate of 0.17 percent—equivalent to just PHP1.70 for every PHP1,000 spent. You can also pay as little as 10 percent of your total due, giving you the flexibility to stay on top of expenses even while waiting for your next paycheck, bonus, or allowance.
Not sure where you can use GCredit? It comes in handy for everyday needs like:
Bills Payments: When your electricity bill spikes or your payday doesn’t align with your water bill’s due date, use GCredit to avoid late fees and disconnections.
Internet and Landline: When you need to stay connected, you can use GCredit to cover your bills and avoid disconnection, so you’re always in touch with family, work, and friends.
Groceries: When prices rise or your budget falls short at the grocery store, GCredit helps you buy what you need so you never have to cut back on meals.
Make everyday spending easier with GCredit
With so many everyday expenses now payable through GCredit, GCash makes it simple to get through tough times with less stress:
Low interest: Interest is only 0.17% per day, and the earlier you pay, the less interest you need to pay.
Flexible payments: No need to pay the full amount right away. Just pay at least 10% of your total due, and you’re set.
Borrow up to PHP50,000: Access your credit line directly from the GCash app– fast, easy, and convenient.
Before you use GCredit to manage your bills, make sure you’re an eligible user. On your GCash app’s home screen, tap on “Borrow” and look for “GCredit.” If you’re not yet eligible, the app will guide you on the steps to qualify. Users must also remember that GCredit is available to Filipino citizens aged 21–65 with a fully verified GCash account.
Once eligible, you’ll see your available credit limit. You’ll also receive an SMS to activate GCredit and be instructed to follow these steps:
Confirm your email address
Verify your personal details and other required information in the app
Review and submit your application
Once you’ve completed the steps, you’ll receive a confirmation via email that your GCredit is activated, and you’re ready to use it for your day-to-day needs! Just remember to use GCredit responsibly–read the terms and conditions and make sure you have a payment plan in place.
Whether your bills are going up, piling up, or coming in faster than expected, you no longer have to worry about how to pay. With GCredit, you have a reliable safety net for both personal needs and family expenses. From electricity and water to internet and groceries, you’ve now got a fast and flexible way to stay on top of your bills with GCredit!
The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) celebrates its 174th anniversary by reaffirming its commitment to enabling progress for Filipinos through fast, easy, affordable retail loan solutions—designed to make major life milestones more accessible and achievable.
“In our 174th year, we’re not just looking back at our legacy—we’re focused on how we continue to help Filipinos move forward,” said Dexter Cuajotor, BPI head of retail loans & Bancassurance. “At BPI, our retail loans are more than just financial products—they are trusted enablers of progress. Designed with care and our clients in mind, they are fast, flexible, and built to support every step of your journey.”
To commemorate this milestone, BPI is introducing Special Anniversary Offers across its core loan products, making the experience even more rewarding for new borrowers:
BPI Auto Loan Anniversary Specials
Discounted rate
Free bank fees of up to PHP50,000
Free 1st year Motor Insurance of up to PHP50,000
Free 1st year Personal Accident Insurance
BPI Housing Anniversary Specials
Fixed rate of 6.5% for 5 years
Free bank fees of up PHP8,000 for every PHP1 million loan amount
Free 1st Year Fire Insurance
BPI Motorcycle Anniversary Specials
Up to PHP700 monthly rebate
Free 1st year Personal Accident Insurance
In addition to waived fees and competitive terms, loan clients may also win up to PHP3 million, PHP1 million, or PHP100,000 to pay off their loan balance through the BPI Dream on Us Grand Raffle Promo for Retail Loans. (DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-220821 Series of 2025. Terms and conditions apply.)
Furthermore, those who avail of their loan online will receive e-gift certificates worth PHP8,000 for Auto Loan and Housing Loan, and PHP800 for Motorcycle Loan.
Exclusive Partner Discounts
Through BPI myExclusives, clients can access special discounts with BPI’s trusted network of automotive, real estate, and motorcycle partners:
Auto Loan: Up to PHP60,000 exclusive additional discount on select models of BAIC, Chery, Ford, Foton, GAC, GWM, Lynk & Co, and MG
Housing Loan: Various discounts up to 32% on total contract price and freebies on property developers including Aboitiz Land, Aduna Commercial Estates Corp., Ayala Land Inc, DMCI Homes, Megapines Realty and Development Inc., Next Asia Land Inc, Red Oak Properties Inc, Shang Properties Inc, SM Development Corporation, and Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation
Motorcycle Loan: Up to PHP2,000 discount on select motorcycle models through Premiumbikes, for Kawasaki and Suzuki brands, online and exclusive discounts with LazMall
These offers are available for a limited time and are exclusive to eligible BPI loan clients.
“Whether it’s a first car, a dream home, or simply greater independence, we’re here to make it happen,” added Cuajotor. “As we celebrate 174 years of service, we reaffirm our role in helping Filipinos turn their goals into reality—responsibly, reliably, and with heart toward doing more.”
Thai actress Tu Tontawan recently turned heads in a Vogue Thailand feature with the sleek vivo V60 in Berry Purple, giving fans a glimpse of what might just be this year’s most exciting smartphone launch.
Stylish on the outside and groundbreaking on the inside, the vivo V60 is shaping up to be more than just a pretty face as it’s the first V Series device to debut with a telephoto camera co-engineered with ZEISS.
First V Series with ZEISS telephoto camera
For the first time, vivo introduces a telephoto camera co-engineered with ZEISS, a name trusted in professional photography. This collaboration brings world-class imaging power into a phone that’s designed to be both accessible and stylish, giving users a true flagship experience without the flagship price tag.
A Vogue-worthy camera debut
Bringing professional-grade optics into the V Series, the vivo V60 comes equipped with the same Sony IMX882 flagship sensor used in the recently released vivo X200 FE.
Its 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera makes it possible to capture photos with stunning clarity, vivid detail, and depth that’s typically reserved for higher-end devices.
Get closer than ever with 100x zoom
What makes the vivo V60 a true game-changer is its ability to zoom up to 100x, letting users capture moments from afar.
Paired with AI-powered stage scene detection, it’s the perfect companion for fashion week, concerts, roadshows, and music festivals where fans want to take portrait-worthy shots even from the back row.
The vivo V60 launches this September 3. Follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X or visit vivoglobal.ph to stay updated on this exciting release.
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the Philippines, but initiatives like Sagip CPR are working to change that reality. Launched by Bell-Kenz Pharma in partnership with the Philippine Heart Association and local institutions, the program equips ordinary Filipinos with essential life-saving skills through free, hands-only CPR training. By breaking down the steps into simple actions anyone can follow, Sagip CPR aims to empower communities to respond quickly to sudden cardiac arrest—turning bystanders into everyday heroes
Heart disease claims nearly 1 in 5 Filipino lives, which amounts to an average of 317 deaths every day, according to 2024 Department of Health data. The Philippine Heart Association also indicates that nearly half of these deaths occur as Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), a condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. It can strike at any moment without warning, and despite advances in emergency medicine, SCA remains to have a low survival rate of 10% and major long-term severe mental impairment due to delays in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and treatment.
With 8 out of 10 arrests occurring at home, often in the presence of family members, survival depends on immediate action, yet only 2 in 10 Filipinos know how to perform CPR. The American Heart Association warns that for every minute of delay in conducting CPR, the chance of survival is reduced by almost 10%. However, when administered within the first 4 to 6 minutes, hands-only CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.
While CPR is a basic life-saving skill, many young Filipinos—especially Gen Z—have never been taught how to perform it. This is despite Republic Act 10871 or the Samboy Lim Law, which was passedin 2016 to require students to undergo age-appropriate basic life support training, primarily CPR, as part of their curriculum.
From Left: Patrick Larraga – Bell-Kenz Corporate Branding & PR Head; Dr. Orlando Bugarin – Past PHA President; Dr. Francis Lavapie – Past PHA Council on CPR Chairman; Dr. Rodrigo Alenton – Cardiologist at Maria Reyna – Xavier University Hospital and Northern Mindanao Medical Center; and Dr. Alex Junia – Immediate Past President of the ASEAN Federation of Cardiology and Past PHA President.
“That is why several organizations have been taking the initiative to provide basic hands-only CPR training,” Dr. James Cayetano, cardiologist and president of Bell-Kenz Foundation, noted. “This is age-appropriate and involves psychomotor skills, so children can physically perform it. Students from Grades 5 to 12 are already capable of learning this life-saving skill.”
Recognizing this gap, President Marcos signed Proclamation No. 511 declaring July 17 as “National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Day,” underscoring the importance of teaching CPR even to non-medical practitioners. Answering this call, Bell-Kenz Pharma—together with Philippine Heart Association Northwestern Mindanao, PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College, Cagayan de Oro City Police Office, City Scholars Association in PHINMA COC, and CDO Disaster Risk Reduction Management Department—launched Sagip CPR on August 14 in Cagayan de Oro.
The initiative provided free CPR training to 500 participants, including students, members of the civilian force multiplier, and personnel from COCPO. Sagip CPR training focuses on the Check–Call–Compress approach, breaking CPR down into simple, actionable steps that anyone can follow. In addition, the training will also include how to use the automated external defibrillator (AED). AEDs are devices that deliver an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal heartbeat in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Learning how to use an AED is a crucial part of CPR training, as it can significantly increase the chances of survival in emergencies.
“We are one with the government’s goal for CPR to be second nature for every Filipino, whether or not they have a medical background,” said Dr. Cayetano. “By equipping 1 million Filipinos with hands-only CPR training, we’re building a country where help is never more than a few steps away.”
“Sagip CPR is a big help, because it extends training to people who are not reached by agencies such as the Philippine Heart Association, Philippine Red Cross, and the Department of Health,” Dr. Francis Lavapie, cardiologist and past chair for PHA Council on CPR, echoes. “We have taught many people, and many are already teaching CPR, but still, it’s not enough — not everyone is reached.”
Sagip CPR will be rolled out to schools, barangays, and civic groups across the country for a whole year, until it reaches 1 Million CPR-Ready Filipinos trained— steadily building a nationwide network of “everyday heroes” who are ready to act in a crisis.
CIBI Impact 2025 has put the spotlight on the Philippines’ credit landscape at a critical turning point. Consumer demand for financing continues to rise, but limited access to financial services, insufficient credit data, and high delinquency rates highlight the urgent need for trust, transparency, and collaboration across the ecosystem.
As the country’s first and only local credit bureau, CIBI Information, Inc. convened this inaugural industry summit, bringing together over 150 regulators, senior executives, partners, and decision-makers to confront sector realities and chart a path forward. The clear call to action: the future of Philippine credit depends on trusted data, cross-sector collaboration, and innovative solutions that can expand financial inclusion and drive sustainable growth.
Rising Demand and Shifting Consumer Behavior
Insights shared at the CIBI Impact 2025 summit highlighted how Filipinos are increasingly turning to credit. Nicholas Mapa, chief economist at Metrobank, noted a surge in this demand, while CIBI chief analytics officer Harley Chan pointed to a remarkable rise in tradelines. Pay Later/Buy Now Pay Later (PL/BNPL) products are growing faster than mortgages, auto financing, and credit cards—driven by fintech digitization, stronger BSP and government initiatives, and improved compliance in data submissions to the Credit Information Corporation (CIC).
Consumer engagement with credit reports is also increasing. CIC president and CEO Atty. Ben Baltazar reported that by mid-2025, Filipinos had accessed over 10 million credit reports, with demand expected to grow with lending activity.
Trust Gap: Barriers to Financial Inclusion
Despite rising demand, a trust gap continues to constrain the industry. JurisTech CEO See Wai Hun emphasized that 49% of Filipinos remain unbanked, and only 1% of their loan applications are accepted due to insufficient credit data. High delinquency rates and billions lost annually to fraud further weaken confidence, altering how institutions assess risk and limit consumers’ access to financing.
Misinformation, fragmented records, and inconsistent reporting undermine credibility. Without reliable and transparent information, lenders grow cautious, borrowers are underserved, and decision-making slows across the value chain. The result: exclusion persists while opportunities for responsible credit growth are left untapped.
Trusted Data as a Catalyst
Breaking this cycle requires more than just data, but trusted data. CIBI vice president for service & industrials Ivy Ramirez shared that quality data enables companies to make decisions 30% faster, boost efficiency by 25%, and increase profitability by 19%. Transparency also strengthens relationships, reduces risk, and shortens time to revenue by 63%.
Fragmented or misleading data, however, compromises confidence and leads to poor lending decisions, higher defaults, and failed partnerships. Trusted data builds credibility for responsible lending, smarter collaboration, and sustainable growth. It is no longer an operational tool–it is the foundation of financial inclusion.
The Role of Collaboration
Cross-sector collaboration is equally vital. No single entity can address systemic barriers alone. Progress demands shared accountability, policy alignment, and innovative solutions that meet evolving consumer needs.
This collaborative spirit was evident at CIBI Impact 2025, where regulators, financial institutions, and fintechs came together. Partners such as FICO, JurisTech, and FinScore showcased how ecosystem-led strategies can strengthen trust, expand credit visibility, and extend services to more Filipinos, showing that inclusion is achievable through coordinated action.
Looking Ahead
CIBI president and CEO Pia Arellano closed the summit by reaffirming the bureau’s role as a catalyst for inclusion. She announced initiatives such as the Fraud Bureau and CIBI Advanced Tier platform, designed to enhance transparency, reinforce compliance, and strengthen trust in the system. While credit demand is rising rapidly, she cautioned that the trust gap remains the biggest barrier to inclusive access.
“As the world becomes more digital and more connected, the need for reliable, responsible, real-time data becomes greater than ever,” she emphasized. “Our mission is to innovate and collaborate so that trust in data keeps pace with demand—because only then can we build a future where no Filipino is left behind.”
By anchoring progress on trusted data and collaboration, the industry can transform rising demand into meaningful access— unlocking a more inclusive financial future for the Philippines.
Salmon, a fast-growing financial technology company committed to responsible innovation and financial inclusion, has finished the development and deployment of its proprietary in-house payment orchestration platform to power transactions across its lending and savings products. Designed for speed, resilience, and scale, the platform ensures 99.9% uptime, a 99% QR Ph payments success rate, and consistently high user satisfaction, reflected in Salmon’s 4.8 rating in both the App Store (15,000+ ratings) and Google Play (56,000+ ratings).
The AI-powered payment infrastructure supports all transactions within Salmon’s ecosystem — including loan repayments, deposits, and fund transfers — by connecting seamlessly with a wide network of local banks, e-wallets, and payment providers.
Unlike a standard payment gateway, Salmon’s proprietary platform uses real-time routing, automatic fallbacks, and smart retries to maintain transaction reliability in the face of network issues or downtime. For customers, payments “just work,” with industry-leading uptime with no need to retry or wait for resolution.
“In financial services, reliability is everything,” said Raffy Montemayor, co-founder of Salmon. “We’ve invested in building a platform that ensures payments are fast, secure, and seamless, whether they happen in-app or at a partner store. Our goal is simple: customers should never have to think twice about whether a payment will go through.”
The platform features real-time routing with automatic fallback, allowing it to detect downtime or errors and instantly switch to alternative providers without any action from the customer. Its auto-debit capability is paired with advance reminders and multiple payment attempts, helping reduce missed payments while keeping customers informed at every step.
As one of the early adopters of QR Ph in the Philippines, Salmon offers both scan-to-pay and generate-QR options in-app, supporting the BSP’s push for nationwide payment digitalization and driving strong repeat usage among customers. To further protect transactions, the system incorporates robust payment safety mechanisms, including duplicate charge prevention, timeout handling, and the use of ISO 20022-certified payment rails to ensure data quality and reliability across channels.
Customers can pay directly through the Salmon app or via external partners such as e-wallets, banks, kiosks, and over-the-counter locations. All payments are automatically reconciled to the correct account, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience.
The platform focuses on real-time posting, resilience, and security, helping boost repayment performance and strengthen customer trust— critical elements as Salmon expands its reach in the Philippines.
“By owning our payment infrastructure, we can continuously optimize for both customer experience and operational efficiency,” Montemayor added. “This is a core part of how we scale responsibly while keeping trust at the center of our business.”
With its in-house platform, Salmon is not only enabling faster, safer, and more convenient payments, it is also laying the groundwork for future innovations in financial services, further supporting its mission to provide inclusive, transparent, and reliable financial tools for the emerging middle class.
