SOCIAL MEDIA

Likhang Mateo Exhibit at SM City San Mateo Celebrates Homegrown Art This National Arts Month

Tuesday, February 24, 2026



Mall visits are not always just about shopping and dining. This February, they are also about discovering powerful stories told through paint, wood, resin, and imagination. In celebration of National Arts Month, SM City San Mateo is shining the spotlight on local creativity through Likhang Mateo: A Homegrown Visual Exhibit.

Organized by the local tourism office of the Municipality of San Mateo, the exhibit transforms the mall into a vibrant gallery space where community, culture, and contemporary artistry meet.

A Tribute to “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting”

Likhang Mateo aligns with the 2026 National Arts Month theme of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, titled “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting.” The theme highlights artistic truth, courage, and creative identity deeply rooted in Filipino communities.

True to this vision, the exhibit features works by both veteran and emerging artists who proudly hail from San Mateo, Rizal. Each piece reflects lived experiences, local heritage, and the evolving creative landscape of the town.

Art That Tells Local Stories

Among the featured works is the striking wood sculpture “Mariang Kalikasan” by Marciano Pagkatipunan, which draws mallgoers in with its detailed craftsmanship and environmental symbolism. 


Another notable piece is an artistic rendition of “Tumba-Tumba” by Aguilardo Pagkatipunan, offering a fresh perspective on familiar cultural imagery.


Visitors can also admire “Amore De Madre” by Marie Claire, as well as intricate 3D printed resin and FDM-acrylic sculptures by Jenevic Carino. Each artwork serves as a conversation starter, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and connect.

What makes Likhang Mateo special is how seamlessly these works are integrated into the everyday mall experience. Shoppers who come in for errands find themselves immersed in meaningful art displays that celebrate local identity.

A Shared Commitment to Community and Culture


The exhibit opening was graced by San Mateo Mayor Bartolome “Omie” Rivera, together with Municipal Administrator Jose Enrique P. Desiderio and other town officials. They were welcomed by SM City San Mateo Assistant Mall Manager Sigfred Tatom and Khristine Lenon.

Their presence underscores the collaboration between the local government and SM Supermalls in bringing arts and culture closer to the community. By hosting initiatives like Likhang Mateo, SM City San Mateo reinforces its role as more than just a retail destination. It becomes a gathering place where creativity and daily life intersect.

Why You Should Visit Likhang Mateo

Art becomes more meaningful when it feels personal. Likhang Mateo is not just a visual showcase. It is a celebration of San Mateo’s creative spirit and a reminder that talent thrives within local communities.

If you are in Rizal or nearby areas, take time to gala, explore, and support homegrown artists. The exhibit runs at the 2nd Level Activity Area of SM City San Mateo until February 26.

It is an opportunity to experience National Arts Month in a way that feels close to home, accessible, and proudly local.

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nubia V80 Max: A Durable Smartphone Built for Everyday Filipino Life



In the Philippines, daily life is rarely predictable. One minute you are squeezing into a packed MRT coach, the next you are caught in a sudden downpour. Add long school days, field work, weekend trips, and nonstop group chats, and your smartphone needs to do more than just look sleek.

This is where the nubia V80 Max proves its value. Designed with durability, long battery life, and smart features in mind, it is built to keep up with real Pinoy routines, not just showroom demos.

For Students: Tough Enough for Campus Life


Student life can be rough on gadgets. Phones get tossed into backpacks, squeezed between books, and exposed to unpredictable weather during campus transfers.

The nubia V80 Max addresses this with a tough build and IP64 dust and water resistance. That means better protection against splashes, dust, and everyday mishaps. Whether it is a spilled drink in the canteen or light rain on the way to class, the phone is designed to handle it.

Its 6.9-inch high-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 780 nits brightness also makes reading notes and reviewing slides easier, even outdoors. With up to 256GB of storage and up to 20GB dynamic RAM, students have ample space for school files, productivity apps, and endless group chats.

Real-life advantage: less stress about accidental bumps and more focus on acing requirements.

For Commuters and Field Workers: Built for the Daily Grind

Crowded public transport, sudden stops, and long hours outdoors are part of everyday Filipino work life. For riders and field workers, dust, heat, and constant movement are standard conditions.

The nubia V80 Max is engineered with practical durability and paired with IP64 protection to handle daily exposure. Its 6000mAh battery is a standout feature, designed to power through long days without constant charging breaks.

Smarter power features such as AI Night Charging, Bypass Charging, and 10W reverse charging provide flexibility. You can optimize charging overnight, reduce battery strain during heavy use, or even power up another device when needed.

Real-life advantage: fewer battery anxiety moments and more confidence getting through a full shift.

For Content Creators and Weekend Travelers: Ready for Every Shot


Beach trips, hikes, café shoots, and spontaneous city walks require a phone that can keep up with movement and varied environments.

The nubia V80 Max is equipped with a 50MP AI camera and supports dynamic image capture, gesture snap, voice snap, and multi-camera simultaneous recording. These features make it easier to capture moments quickly without complicated setups.

Combined with its durable design and long-lasting battery, creators can focus on shooting content instead of worrying about where they place their phone or how much battery is left.

Real-life advantage: more time creating and less time worrying about your device.

Smooth Performance for Everyday Multitasking

Beyond durability, the nubia V80 Max delivers smooth day-to-day performance. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures fluid scrolling through social media, shopping apps, and school or work platforms. Expanded RAM support helps manage multiple apps without constant lag.

For Filipinos balancing work, studies, side hustles, and social life, that seamless experience matters.

A Smartphone That Matches Filipino Hustle

The nubia V80 Max is not just about specs on a product sheet. It is about surviving packed commutes, unpredictable weather, demanding schedules, and spontaneous adventures.

If you are looking for a smartphone that combines durability, long battery life, smooth performance, and practical smart features without being overly complicated or expensive, this device deserves a spot on your shortlist.

In a country where life rarely slows down, having a phone that keeps up makes all the difference.
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Christian Bautista Releases “Sa’yo Lamang” Under Sony Music Entertainment, Blending City Pop Vibes with OPM Romance


When you think of timeless Filipino love songs, one name immediately comes to mind: Christian Bautista. Known across the region as Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Bautista is stepping into 2026 with a refreshed sound that still carries his signature charm.

His new single, “Sa’yo Lamang,” pairs nostalgic pop warmth with a sleek, contemporary edge. The result feels like the neon glow of 1980s Tokyo at twilight, yet unmistakably Pinoy at heart.

A Love Song with a Fresh Sonic Identity

Released under Sony Music Entertainment, “Sa’yo Lamang” leans into the classic romantic template but elevates it with polished production and city pop grooves. The track radiates feel-good energy, wrapped in sophisticated arrangements that make it both familiar and excitingly new.

Bautista shares that the single reflects exactly where he stands creatively and emotionally. He describes himself as fully committed, joyful, and ready to connect. This year, he says, he is going all in. He wants listeners to feel uplifted, have fun, and begin the year with positive energy.

That intention is evident from the first note. The smooth melodies and shimmering textures create a listening experience that feels effortless yet intentional.

A Game-Changing Collaboration with Ziv

The single is produced by Ziv, whose attention to sonic detail plays a crucial role in shaping the track’s identity. From the crisp drum patterns to the groovy basslines, the production anchors the song in a smooth vintage atmosphere while allowing Bautista’s vocals to shine.

Bautista describes working with Ziv as transformative. He highlights the producer’s strong vision, meticulous sound design, and collaborative spirit, which encouraged creative risks. According to him, the process felt seamless and professional, ultimately resulting in a final mix that surpassed expectations.

The blend of global and local influences ensures the song feels dynamic and difficult to box into one genre. It is nostalgic yet modern, polished yet playful.

A Music Video That Matches the Mood

The upcoming music video for “Sa’yo Lamang” extends the track’s vibrant personality into visual form. Directed by Tristan Ortega, the video embraces retro styling, warm neon tones, and light choreography.

Conceptualized in collaboration with Sony Music Philippines and Balcony Productions, with creative direction by Rico Blanco, the MV promises an atmosphere that feels like a joyful night out. Expect intimate performance shots, carefree dance moments, and city snapshots that mirror the song’s easygoing vibe.

Bautista even teased a small Easter egg hidden in a karaoke machine scene, giving fans something extra to look out for.

The single drops on February 25, 2026, across all digital platforms worldwide, with the music video premiering at 6:00 PM on the same day.

Bautista x Bautista: A Live Celebration

Fans eager to hear the new track live will not have to wait long. Christian Bautista is set to share the stage with fellow singer Mark Bautista for a special concert titled “Bautista x Bautista.”

The show takes place on March 6, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City. The evening promises a mix of timeless hits and fresh material, making it a must-watch event for OPM fans.

A New Era for an OPM Icon

Managed by NYMA Management, Christian Bautista continues to evolve while staying rooted in the romantic sensibility that built his career.

“Sa’yo Lamang” signals more than just a new single. It represents an artist embracing growth while honoring his musical identity. For listeners craving a love song that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern, this release might just be your next repeat track.
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LG CLOiD Home Robot Debuts at CES 2026, Bringing the Zero Labor Home Vision to Life


Imagine waking up to breakfast already in motion, laundry handled without reminders, and your appliances working together without constant input. That future is inching closer to reality as LG Electronics unveils the LG CLOiD home robot at CES 2026 in Las Vegas.

Designed to demonstrate the company’s “Zero Labor Home” vision, LG CLOiD introduces Physical AI into everyday living spaces. The goal is simple but ambitious: reduce the time, effort, and mental load required for daily housework.

What Is the LG CLOiD Home Robot?

The new LG CLOiD is an AI-powered home robot built to perform and coordinate common household chores. It integrates seamlessly with LG’s ThinQ ecosystem and builds upon innovations like the LG Q9 Self-Driving AI Home Hub.

At CES 2026, LG is showcasing CLOiD in realistic home setups. In one demonstration, the robot retrieves milk from the refrigerator and places a croissant in the oven to prepare breakfast. After the household leaves, it can initiate laundry cycles, then fold and stack garments once drying is complete.

These scenarios highlight CLOiD’s ability to understand user routines and control appliances with precision.

Built for Real Homes, Not Just Showrooms

LG CLOiD features a head unit, a torso with two articulated arms, and a wheeled base designed for autonomous navigation. The torso adjusts its height, allowing it to reach objects from knee level to overhead storage.


Each arm offers seven degrees of freedom, closely mirroring the range of motion in a human arm. With flexible shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints plus five independently controlled fingers on each hand, CLOiD can grasp, open, transfer, and manipulate everyday household items.

Its wheeled base incorporates navigation technology derived from LG’s robotic vacuum experience and the LG Q9 platform. A low center of gravity enhances stability and reduces tipping risks, an important consideration for homes with children or pets.

Physical AI Powered by Vision Language Models

At the heart of LG CLOiD is its Physical AI framework, which combines Vision Language Model and Vision Language Action technologies.

The Vision Language Model converts images and video inputs into structured understanding. The Vision Language Action system translates visual and verbal instructions into real-world movements. Trained on tens of thousands of hours of household task data, these models enable CLOiD to recognize appliances, interpret context, and perform appropriate actions such as opening doors or transferring items.

This fusion of perception and action allows the robot to move beyond simple automation toward adaptive assistance.

A Mobile AI Home Hub

CLOiD’s head functions as a mobile AI home hub. Equipped with a chipset, display, speaker, cameras, and multiple sensors, it communicates through voice-based generative AI and expressive visual feedback.

Through integration with LG’s ThinQ and ThinQ ON platforms, the robot orchestrates connected appliances across the home. This enables coordinated tasks that extend beyond isolated devices, moving toward a unified AI-driven ecosystem.

Introducing LG Actuator AXIUM


Alongside the robot, LG introduced LG Actuator AXIUM, a new brand of robotic actuators designed for service robots.

Actuators serve as robotic joints, combining motors, drives, and reducers to control speed, torque, and movement. As one of the most critical and cost-intensive components in robotics, actuators are considered foundational in the Physical AI era.

Leveraging its expertise in appliance components, LG aims to deliver lightweight, compact, high-efficiency actuators capable of supporting advanced robotics. Modular design also enables scalable, multi-variant production for complex robotic systems.

The Road to a True AI Home

LG’s broader roadmap includes expanding robotics into everyday appliances. The company envisions categories such as appliance robots like robotic vacuums and robotized appliances such as refrigerators that open automatically when someone approaches.

Ultimately, the objective is an AI Home where housework is delegated to intelligent machines, allowing people to focus on rest, creativity, and meaningful experiences.

Steve Baek, president of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company, explained that LG CLOiD is engineered to naturally engage with and understand the people it serves. He emphasized the company’s commitment to realizing the Zero Labor Home vision so customers can spend more time on what truly matters.

The LG CLOiD home robot represents more than a futuristic concept. It signals a shift toward practical robotics embedded directly into daily life. By combining Physical AI, smart appliance integration, and advanced actuator technology, LG is redefining what home automation can look like.

If the Zero Labor Home becomes reality, the most valuable upgrade may not be a faster device, but reclaimed time.
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Why Planning Ahead with St. Peter Life Plan, Inc. Is the Ultimate Act of Care


Valentine’s season usually means flowers, dinners, and grand romantic gestures. But beyond the chocolates and bouquets, there is a deeper conversation worth having. What if the most meaningful way to say “I love you” is by planning ahead for the future?

This Love Month, St. Peter is encouraging Filipinos to see love through a more practical and lasting lens. Because while romantic moments fade, security and peace of mind for your family can last a lifetime.

Love Beyond the Moment

Valentine’s Day often highlights couples and romantic relationships. However, love comes in many forms. It exists in the quiet sacrifices of parents, in the steady support of a spouse, and even in the way we choose to care for ourselves.

Preparing for life’s inevitable realities is not about fear. It is about responsibility. Memorial preparedness ensures that when difficult moments arise, families are not left overwhelmed by financial pressure or urgent decision-making.

For more than five decades, St. Peter has been advocating this mindset. The company offers affordable traditional and cremation life plans that allow individuals to lock in memorial service packages at today’s rates. This protects loved ones from rising costs in the future.

What Makes a St. Peter Life Plan Different

As one of the country’s most established pre-need providers, St. Peter has built a nationwide presence and reputation for reliability.

Its life plans are designed to be anti-inflationary and assignable. Planholders also benefit from value-added features such as credit life coverage, cash assistance, and waiver of installment under qualifying conditions. These additional layers of protection help ensure that beneficiaries are supported when they need it most.

In a statement, President and CEO Jonathan B. Vitangcol emphasized that love is not merely an emotion but a conscious commitment. He explained that choosing a St. Peter Life Plan reflects long-term responsibility and a desire to protect a family’s peace of mind both now and in the years ahead.

Love in All Its Forms

1. Self-Love Means Being Prepared

Planning ahead is an act of self-respect. It acknowledges life’s realities while taking control of the future. Rather than avoiding difficult topics, it demonstrates maturity and foresight.

2. Love for Family Means Lifting Future Burdens

For parents and caregivers, securing a life plan removes uncertainty from loved ones. With flexible installment options and transparent pricing, planning becomes accessible and manageable for every generation.

3. Love for a Partner Means Planning Together

Couples often talk about future homes, travels, and retirement goals. Including memorial preparedness in those conversations strengthens trust and reinforces shared responsibility. It shows that love is not only felt in the present but also safeguarded for the future.

A Practical Yet Powerful Valentine’s Gift

The most enduring gifts are not always wrapped in ribbons. Sometimes, they come in the form of assurance and dignity.

This Love Month, St. Peter reminds Filipinos that true care extends beyond celebrations. Preparing today means your family will be protected from unnecessary emotional and financial strain tomorrow.

If you are looking for a meaningful way to express love this season, consider having that important conversation. Planning ahead may just be the most thoughtful decision you will ever make.
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LG Electronics Unveils 2026 LG gram Lineup with Aerominum and Dual AI


Ultra-portable laptops are no longer just about being lightweight. In 2026, they are about being intelligent, durable, and seamlessly connected. At CES 2026 in Seoul, LG Electronics introduced its latest 2026 LG gram lineup, marking a new chapter in the brand’s decade-long dominance in ultra-light laptops.

This year’s highlight is Aerominum, a newly developed material that promises a premium metallic finish without sacrificing portability. Paired with advanced dual AI capabilities, the new LG gram models are designed for modern professionals, creatives, and multitaskers who need performance on the move.

Aerominum: Lightweight Yet Reinforced

The biggest innovation in the 2026 LG gram lineup is Aerominum, an ultra-light composition engineered by LG. It addresses a long-standing challenge in laptop design: balancing weight and durability.

With Aerominum, the chassis becomes lighter while gaining enhanced structural strength. The material improves scratch resistance and meets military-grade standards, making it suitable for daily commuting, travel, and hybrid work setups.

Beyond durability, Aerominum introduces an aeroplate structure and refined atelier brushing that create a sleek metallic look. The result is a premium design that feels solid yet remains easy to carry.

Dual AI for Smarter Productivity

Select models in the 2026 lineup are equipped with advanced dual AI, combining on-device intelligence with cloud-based AI for greater flexibility.

These laptops support Microsoft Copilot+ PC and LG’s gram chat On-Device AI. Powered by the upgraded EXAONE 3.5 sLLM, users can access fast and private AI assistance even without an internet connection. This setup allows smoother multitasking, faster content creation workflows, and more secure AI processing.

Under the hood, the devices run on the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, ensuring they can handle complex AI-driven tasks, demanding applications, and heavy multitasking with ease.

Seamless Connectivity Across Ecosystems


Mobility is not just about weight. It is also about connectivity.

The enhanced gram Link feature enables file sharing, screen mirroring, and content transfer across Android and iOS devices, as well as webOS-based LG products such as TVs, monitors, and projectors. This makes the LG gram function as a central hub across three major ecosystems, reducing compatibility barriers that typically slow down workflows.

For security, LG ThinQ offers remote locking and data erasure capabilities in case a device is lost, providing an added layer of protection for professionals handling sensitive information.

LG gram Pro 17: The World’s Lightest 17-Inch RTX Laptop

The LG gram Pro 17 delivers high-performance graphics in a surprisingly compact form. Although it features a large 17-inch WQXGA display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600, its form factor is comparable to many 16-inch laptops.

Powering this model is the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 laptop GPU with 8GB of GDDR7 memory. This configuration supports graphics-intensive workloads such as video editing, 3D rendering, and even gaming, without the bulk typically associated with high-performance machines.

LG gram Pro 16: Ultra-Portable Dual AI Powerhouse

The LG gram Pro 16 stands out as one of the lightest 16-inch laptops in its class to feature both on-device and cloud-based AI.

Its 16-inch WQXGA+ OLED display with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 delivers sharp detail and vibrant contrast, making it ideal for creatives and professionals who rely on color accuracy and visual clarity.

Combined with Intel Core Ultra processors, the device offers responsive multitasking and consistent performance for demanding day-to-day workloads.

LG’s Vision for the Future of Portability


Lee Choong-hwoan, head of the Display Business at LG Media Entertainment Solution Company, described the 2026 LG gram as a milestone in the brand’s pursuit of ultimate portability. He explained that Aerominum resolves the long-standing tension between weight and durability, resulting in a laptop that is both exceptionally light and robust.

He added that integrating this material with advanced dual AI and security solutions allows users to work, create, and connect seamlessly wherever they are.

If you are looking for a premium ultra-light laptop in 2026, the new LG gram lineup deserves serious consideration. With Aerominum for durability, dual AI for productivity, and cross-platform connectivity for convenience, it reflects where portable computing is headed.

For digital nomads, creatives, and hybrid professionals, this could be the upgrade that finally balances power, portability, and intelligence.


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Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Launches Free Daily Fan Voting via Maya App


Pageant season in the Philippines has always been serious business. But this year, it is becoming even more interactive. Miss Universe Philippines 2026 is transforming the way fans engage with the competition by introducing its first-ever daily free fan voting experience, powered by Maya, the country’s leading digital bank and the official voting partner of the pageant.

For longtime supporters and casual viewers alike, this update is more than just a new feature. It is a shift toward a more inclusive, tech-driven pageant experience where every vote truly counts.

A First for Miss Universe Philippines

For the first time in the history of Miss Universe Philippines, fans can cast votes daily and receive free votes every single day through the Maya app. This means supporters no longer have to wait for a single voting window to show their love for their chosen candidate.

By simply upgrading their Maya account, users unlock access to complimentary daily votes, making consistent support easier and more rewarding throughout the competition. The goal is clear. Fan participation is no longer a one-time event but an ongoing journey leading up to coronation night.

This move raises the bar for pageant engagement in the country, where audience participation has always played a crucial role in building momentum for candidates.

Live Voting on Coronation Night

Another historic first is the introduction of live voting during coronation night itself. Instead of being passive viewers, fans can actively participate in real-time judging moments.

Public voting through the Maya app will be available for a limited period before coronation night, with the official timeline to be announced on Miss Universe Philippines’ social media platforms. Votes submitted through the app will be integrated into the overall selection process and combined with expert evaluations in determining the semifinalists.

This approach ensures that while seasoned judges provide professional insight, the voice of the Filipino public is also embedded in the results.

A More Accessible and Secure Voting Experience

At its core, this partnership prioritizes accessibility and security. By leveraging Maya’s digital banking platform, the voting process becomes streamlined and protected, giving fans peace of mind as they participate.

More importantly, it allows pageant fans nationwide to engage regardless of location. Whether you are in Metro Manila or cheering from the provinces, you can directly support your candidate with just a few taps.

This initiative reinforces the idea that representation, leadership, and beauty are collective values shaped not only by experts but by the community itself.

The Philippines has long been a global powerhouse in the pageant world. Engagement runs deep, and fan bases are passionate and vocal. By offering daily free votes and live coronation night participation, Miss Universe Philippines 2026 is recognizing that fans are not just spectators. They are stakeholders in the journey to the crown.

Instead of watching history unfold, Filipinos now have the opportunity to help shape it.

If you have been following Miss Universe Philippines or planning to support a specific candidate this year, downloading or upgrading your Maya app might be your next move. This is more than a digital feature. It is a new era of fan-driven participation.

Be part of the moment. Cast your votes. And help crown the next queen.
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Smarter Way to Ride When Your Train Card Runs Out

Monday, February 23, 2026


For daily commuters, every minute counts. Mornings are a race against time—beating the rush, catching the train, and getting to work without unnecessary delays. That’s why realizing your stored value card is low on balance right when you’re already in line feels like the worst possible timing.

Suddenly, you’re scrambling for a top-up machine, queuing at the ticket booth, or hoping the reloading kiosk doesn’t malfunction during peak hour. What should be a routine commute turns into avoidable stress.

Now, commuters riding the MRT-3 have a more convenient alternative: paying directly with GCash.

One Less Thing to Worry About

With GCash, your phone or your GCash Visa Card can serve as your train ticket. No more second-guessing your balance while the line grows behind you. No more separate top-up stops interrupting your schedule.

Even when you do need to cash in, it’s straightforward:
  • Free cash-in machines are available across all MRT-3 stations.
  • You can transfer funds online from your linked bank accounts.

MRT-3 stations offer free Wi-Fi, so you can complete transactions on the spot even without mobile data.

Instead of disrupting your commute, topping up can now happen seamlessly along the way.

Three Easy Ways to Pay for Your MRT-3 Ride


1. Tap to Pay Using Your NFC-Enabled Android Phone

If you’re using an NFC-enabled Android device, your phone becomes your entry and exit pass.

One-time activation steps:
  1. Open your phone’s Settings.
  2. Turn on NFC.
  3. Log in to the GCash app.
  4. Select Tap to Pay and agree to the Terms & Conditions.

Once activated:
  1. Log in to your GCash app.
  2. Tap your phone at the turnstile upon entry.
  3. Tap again upon exit for automatic fare deduction.

No station input required. Just tap and go.

2. Scan Your GCash Commute QR

No NFC? No problem.

You can generate a Commute QR code inside the GCash app and use it as your digital ticket.

Here’s how:
  1. Tap Commute in the GCash app.
  2. Select Generate QR (you may download or screenshot it).
  3. Scan the QR at the turnstile upon entry.
  4. Upon exit, scan the same QR again, and the exact fare will be automatically deducted.

It’s a fully cashless option no physical card needed.

3. Tap Your GCash Visa Card

If your signal is spotty, your battery is low, or you simply prefer using a physical card, you can tap your GCash Visa Card at the turnstile—just like a standard stored value card.

The card links directly to your GCash wallet and can also be used for:
  • Online and in-store purchases
  • ATM withdrawals (as low as P10 per withdrawal)

To get one:
  1. Tap Cards in the GCash app.
  2. Select Order a Card and pay P250 (delivery within 7–10 days), or choose Link my Card if you already have one.
  3. Enter the required OTP and card details to complete setup.

All transactions are reflected in your app’s Transaction History for easy tracking.

Convenience Is More Than a Luxury

In a world where schedules are tight and stress is constant, small efficiencies make a real difference. Skipping a top-up line. Avoiding machine errors. Eliminating guesswork around balance.

These aren’t just minor improvements—they shape how your entire day unfolds.

With its growing adoption among commuters, GCash has become a trusted payment option at MRT-3. Whether you tap, scan, or use your card, you’re choosing a faster, more flexible way to move through your day.

Ready to upgrade your commute? Download the GCash app via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery and power up your daily ride.
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SB19 “VISA” Lyrics and Meaning: A Bold New Era for P-Pop in 2026


A new year, a new chapter, and a louder message. Filipino supergroup SB19 ushers in 2026 with the release of “VISA,” a powerful single that signals a defining shift in their sound and purpose.

As the first official release following their Simula At Wakas era, “VISA” is not just another comeback track. It is a statement. One that confronts uncomfortable truths, challenges systemic barriers, and repositions SB19 at the forefront of socially conscious P-Pop.

“VISA” as a Turning Point for SB19

“VISA” marks what many fans are calling a watershed moment for SB19 and the broader P-Pop movement. While the group has always been vocal about issues affecting Filipinos, this release amplifies that voice with sharper conviction.

Stell shared that the track will define their sound and personality moving forward. He explained that the group is addressing sensitive and timely topics that not everyone may agree with, but they are prepared to face any reaction. According to him, it is a powerful way to begin the year and introduce a new era.

This is SB19 stepping into 2026 with clarity, confidence, and an unapologetic stance.

The Realities Behind the Song: Visa Denials and Systemic Barriers

At its core, “VISA” tackles the lived experiences of Filipinos striving to build secure futures for their families. The song reflects the frustrations of overseas Filipino workers, athletes, creatives, and professionals who represent the Philippines globally yet encounter bureaucratic roadblocks.

Inspired in part by real-world visa denial issues affecting Filipino talents, the track comments on access, privilege, and mobility. It highlights the irony of a nation celebrated for resilience while facing systemic inequities that limit opportunity.

Pablo revealed that the group was deeply affected by visa challenges during their tour. He expressed hope that songs like “VISA” could reach policymakers and encourage reforms that make it easier for artists, athletes, and other professionals to access international opportunities. For him, the song is not just about making music but about advancing Filipino culture and advocating for national-level change.

Speaking for Athletes and Creatives Alike

Josh drew parallels between SB19’s struggles and those faced by Filipino athletes competing abroad. He reflected on how individuals who work tirelessly to bring pride to the country often feel that support is lacking in return. He emphasized that meaningful change is needed.

Justin reinforced this perspective by pointing out the contributions Filipinos make globally. From boosting morale among overseas communities to positively impacting the economy, their work carries weight. Yet, he noted that it can sometimes feel like Filipinos are placed at the end of the line when it comes to access and recognition.

Through “VISA,” SB19 channels these collective frustrations into a unifying anthem.

A Bold, Unconventional Sound to Match the Message

Musically, “VISA” mirrors its thematic tension with daring production choices. The track incorporates bold brass elements and unconventional instrumentation, reflecting the urgency and defiance embedded in its lyrics.

Ken described the song as unorthodox in a positive way. He explained that the melody and instrumental choices are unusual but impactful, with carefully placed percussion and ad-libs that create a compelling listening experience.

Interestingly, the song originated from a melody Pablo imagined during a brand campaign shoot. From that initial spark, it evolved into a track that blends satire, personal experience, and social commentary.

More Than a Comeback, It Is a Cultural Statement

With “VISA,” SB19 transforms personal obstacles into a broader commentary on systemic inequality. The single does more than entertain. It provokes discussion about global mobility, representation, and the value of Filipino talent.

As P-Pop continues to expand internationally, this release reinforces SB19’s role not just as performers but as cultural advocates. They are challenging norms, amplifying Filipino voices, and daring to push conversations beyond the stage.

If this is the tone of their new era, 2026 may well be one of their most impactful years yet.
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Dunk Into Flavor Once Again as McDonald’s Brings Back the Cheese and Chili Con Carne Dunks, Plus the Ebi Burger



Third time’s definitely the charm as McDonald’s Philippines invites customers to “dunk into flavor” once again with the return of the Cheese Dunk and Chili Con Carne Dunk starting February 18. The fan favorites from 2025 that unlocked myriad ways of enjoying other beloved McDonald’s food items are returning with the Ebi Burger this year.

“The return of both the Cheese and Chili Con Carne Dunks is McDonald’s way of digging deeper into the Pinoy sawsawan culture, which inherently invites sharing and creativity. Filipino culture encourages participation and individual creation in the way we consume our food, and this is exactly how our customers enjoyed the Dunks last year when they created new flavors and combinations with other favorites from our menu,” said Ada Almendras-Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines’ Chief Marketing Officer.

The two Dunks are as flavorful as they look mouthwatering. There’s the Cheese Dunk, a savory and addicting cheese sauce. There’s also the Chili Con Carne Dunk, another savory sauce featuring the rich, hearty flavors of chili, beef, and other spices. Both perfectly complement everyone’s favorite cheeseburgers, as well as other McDonald’s items.

The Ebi Burger is also returning this year, a timely offering by McDonald’s during the season of Lent. It’s everyone’s favorite crispy shrimp patty but now made even better with rich, silky cheese sauce for a creamy seafood delight.

“The Ebi Burger is another product we’ve been wanting to offer again and offering it alongside the two Dunks would make for exciting new flavor combinations that we’re sure our customers will explore,” added Almendras-Lazaro.

Both the Cheese and Chili Con Carne Dunks, as well as the Ebi Burger, are available through dine-in, take-out, drive thru, and delivery via McDelivery, Grab Food or Food Panda. For more information about McDonald’s products and promos visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph.
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