realme unveils bold three-year vision at MWC 2025, introducing the realme 14 Pro Series along with imaging and AI breakthroughs

realme unveils bold three-year vision at MWC 2025, introducing the realme 14 Pro Series along with imaging and AI breakthroughs

Monday, March 03, 2025

realme unveils various advancements in technology along with the global launch of realme 14 Pro Series

realme, recognized as the fastest-growing smartphone brand globally, has introduced its three-year strategic plan at MWC 2025 intending to double its global user base while thriving in the mid-to-high-end market. In addition to this announcement, realme unveiled the global release of the realme 14 Pro Series and showcased the cutting-edge realme Interchangeable-lens Concept at the show.

“As realme embarks on a new era of growth, we are committed to user-driven development to achieve sustainable breakthroughs,” said Chase Xu, Vice President and CMO of realme. “Our new strategic plan focuses not only on market expansion but also on our dedication to empowering the younger generation as a tech popularizer, consistently exceeding global users’ expectations in technology.”

Ambitious Goal: Expanding the Global User Base Twofold in Three Years

realme plans to accelerate its market growth starting in 2025, building on its success in Q3 and Q4 of 2024, during which it emerged as one of the fastest-growing smartphone brands in regions such as Spain, Italy, and Mexico. The company is set to pioneer growth in over 100 markets worldwide. realme aims to double its global user base in the next three years and strengthen its presence in the mid-to-high-end market.

To bring this vision to life, the company has outlined an in-depth roadmap focusing on product development, brand enhancement, and technological innovation.

At MWC 2025, realme presented the global positioning of its three signature product lineups, each designed to create exceptional tech experiences that surpass the expectations of young users worldwide. The GT Series, branded as the "Next-Level Performance Flagship with AI," delivers top-tier performance, superior gaming, advanced AI technology, and ultra-clear imaging, taking user experiences to new heights. The Number Series, featuring “Next-gen Performance & Camera,” integrates powerful performance, outstanding imaging, and sleek design, empowering young users to thrive in everyday tasks and gaming. The C Series, positioned as “Better Tech for Youth,” offers ultra-smooth and durable performance, unmatched in its price segment.

Reaffirming its dedication to making AI more accessible to young people, realme will continue to lead the way in AI integration for smartphones, enhancing mobile AI capabilities and encouraging the next generation to explore the endless possibilities of AI. Through its NEXT AI initiative, the brand is committed to delivering advanced, accessible, and user-friendly technologies in AI imaging, efficiency, and gaming. Over the next three years, realme plans to ship 100 million AI-powered smartphones globally. Furthermore, the company aims to provide a premium chipset experience and large battery capacity across all product lines, including the GT Series, Number Series, and C Series.

Better Understanding of Young Users: Thrilling Gaming Partnerships and IP Collaborations

Beginning in 2025, realme is committed to becoming a leading tech brand that excels in performance, stands out in design, and deeply understands the needs of young people. Over the next three years, the brand will implement a series of impactful initiatives.

realme is eager to shape the future of gaming in 2025 by partnering with top gaming companies to empower young people to become authentic and fearless warriors. By teaming up with legendary titles such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), Free Fire, Honor of Kings (HOK), and Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), these powerful collaborations will introduce will bring exciting event activations, bold co-branding opportunities, innovative technology integrations, and much more.

realme will drive innovation in three key gaming areas: delivering breathtaking visuals with high frame rates, ensuring smooth connectivity with ultra-low latency, and crafting immersive, user-focused experiences. The brand aims to provide an unparalleled gaming journey, giving players the freedom and ease they deserve. Gamers can expect exciting esports events, cutting-edge technologies, and exclusive product customizations that will fuel their passion.

Moreover, realme will kick off highly anticipated collaborations with prominent IPs across various industries. Every year, the brand will team up with at least one influential IP that resonates with the culture and values of global youth, fostering genuine connections that inspire and captivate them.

In 2025, realme is poised to announce two groundbreaking collaborations with leading entertainment and luxury IPs, culminating in the release of exclusive limited-edition products that embody the creativity and essence of these partnerships, pushing the boundaries within the industry.

realme 14 Pro Series: Born to Break Flagship Exclusivity

At MWC 2025, realme also unveiled the global launch of realme 14 Pro Series, the world’s first cold-sensitive color-changing smartphone lineup. In collaboration with Valeur Designers, realme proudly presents the “Unique Pearl Design” in its new 14 Pro Series.

This cutting-edge design features advanced thermochromic pigments, enabling the 14 Pro+ and 14 Pro to transition from pearl white to vibrant blue in cooler temperatures, evoking the mesmerizing hues of deep-sea creatures. Meanwhile, the Suede Grey variant of the series highlights the elegance of luxurious vegan suede leather.

Additionally, the new 14 Pro Series debuts the world’s first MagicGlow Triple Flash for pro-level nighttime portraits and holds the TÜV Rheinland Rugged Smartphone Certification with IP69, IP68, and IP66 ratings, allowing underwater use for up to an hour.

realme Interchangeable-lens Concept: A Glimpse Into the Future of Imaging

At MWC 2025, realme introduces its groundbreaking Interchangeable-lens Concept, a prototype that revolutionizes mobile photography. This state-of-the-art device has a 1-inch custom Sony sensor and a unique lens mount system, enabling users to attach DSLR lenses directly to the smartphone. With two professional-grade lenses—a 73mm portrait lens and a 234mm telephoto lens—it delivers optical clarity previously thought unattainable on mobile devices, offering everything from stunning bokeh to lossless 10x zoom.

While still in the prototype stage and not yet ready for mass production, this concept showcases realme's commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile technology. realme aims to tackle industry challenges such as sensor size limitations and the issues associated with digital zoom by melding modular optics with mobile capabilities.

In addition to the innovative Interchangeable-Lens Concept, realme introduces two remarkable AI imaging technologies designed to make photo and video editing easier. The AI Voice-based Retoucher lets users edit their photos simply using voice commands. Just say, "Remove the background," "Change the sky to sunset," or "Add fireworks in the background," and watch the magic happen instantly. Another exciting feature, the AI Video Eraser, allows users to effortlessly eliminate unwanted objects or people from their videos with a single tap.

Local Availability

Set for its local debut on March 20, 2025, the realme 14 Pro Series has yet to receive an official price announcement. Meanwhile, those looking to purchase ahead of the launch can place a pre-order at any realme physical store nationwide until March 19, 2025.

As a bonus, those who pre-order will receive a FREE TechLife Bluetooth Speaker 2 worth P1,799, along with a P 1,000 discount upon claiming their reserved unit.

To hear the latest news and announcements from realme, visit the brand’s official website and follow its Facebook page.

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Alden Richards, Enchong Dee, Gretchen Ho and other celebrities joined vivo V50 Grand Launch!

Alden Richards, Enchong Dee, Gretchen Ho and other celebrities joined vivo V50 Grand Launch!

The vivo V50 Grand Launch brought high energy to the Maybank Performing Arts Theater last February 27, 2025.

Brand ambassador Alden Richards and celebrities Enchong Dee, Gretchen Ho, Nicole Cordoves, and BJ Pascual turned heads as they arrived in red ensembles, embracing the vibrant spirit of the vivo V50 in all its Ancora Red glory.

The newest vivo flagship smartphone has been stealing the spotlight on social media after vivo teased its sleek product images. The highlight? This device isn’t just all about style—it’s a powerhouse! Its bold colorway and elegant design complement cutting-edge features, enhancing the smartphone experience for users.

Featuring 50MP ZEISS All Main Camera, the vivo V50 is designed to deliver exceptionally sharp and detailed portraits with professional-grade clarity. Its versatile 23mm, 35mm, and 50mm focal lengths provide a range of creative compositions, making every shot seamless and precise.

A camera smartphone this impressive calls for a grand celebration! Curious to see all the exciting moments from the vivo V50 Grand Launch?

Setting the stage with expertise and power

KC Montero pumped up the crowd as the night’s host, kicking off the event on a high note as he introduced the innovative minds behind the vivo V50.

Keshav Chugh, vivo Global's Product Manager for Camera, highlighted the vivo V50’s advanced imaging capabilities, showcasing its trio of 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera, 50MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera, and another 50MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera—engineered to enhance portrait photography with stunning clarity and precision.

Franziska Hoffmann, ZEISS' Brand Partnerships Manager, revealed that ZEISS had carefully assessed more than 20 quality parameters to guarantee every shot taken with the vivo V50 would be nothing short of stunning, reaffirming vivo and ZEISS's commitment to co-engineering world-class mobile imaging technology.

A mix of beauty and fashion

Beauty Queen Nicole Cordoves unveiled the vivo V50’s impressive performance, proving that its powerful 6000mAh battery is built to match the unstoppable energy of a true multiphyphenate queen like herself.

Nicole’s segment flowed into an exciting Q&A with Celebrity Photographer and vivo V50 ambassador BJ Pascual, where they chatted about his love for the vivo V50’s camera—a lighthearted moment that brought smiles and laughter to the crowd!

Pick your winning team

The fun reached new heights as lucky guests teamed up with Enchong Dee, Alden Richards, and Gretchen Ho for an exciting lineup of games, including Pinoy Henyo and Lip Reading.

Laughter echoed through the venue as the game segment took an exciting turn, bringing out the competitive spirit in the most entertaining way!

A masterpiece in trendy colorways

Guests had the opportunity to explore the vivo V50 up close during its unveiling. Many were quick to test its advanced camera system and appreciate its stylish colorways: Ancora Red, Mist Purple, and Satin Black.

If you missed the event, check out vivo Facebook page for the replay.

Pre-order for the vivo V50 is until March 14, with an exclusive discount of Php 2,000. Starting at Php 27,999, the vivo V50 will be available for claiming from March 15 to March 31, with a free vivo TWS 3e (worth Php 1,999) and a vivo VIP card included.

Visit your nearest vivo store or shop online via the vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada to secure your own vivo V50!

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Our idols’ inspirations: PLDT’s Dy, Reyes, Alcantara reveal their biggest supporters

Our idols’ inspirations: PLDT’s Dy, Reyes, Alcantara reveal their biggest supporters

Meet the special people who were there for PLDT High Speed Hitters Kianna Dy, Mika Reyes, and Angge Alcantara since the very beginning

The elite athletes of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) may be some of the best to ever step on the court, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t need help to stay at the top of their game.

Sports, especially at the major-league level, is a tough pursuit with all of its treacherous lows that come with the exciting highs. An athlete doesn’t get to and stay in the pros without the support of some important people in their life.

The stars of PLDT High Speed Hitters know this all too well, which is why they’re not shy to appreciate the people that they leaned on throughout the years. This is much more so as they battle it out at the ongoing PVL All-Filipino Conference – pegged to be the longest conference since the league’s inception.

For opposite spiker Kim Kianna Dy, boyfriend and international basketball star Dwight Ramos is the rock that keeps her anchored enough to succeed. Dy just recently made her on-court comeback after suffering a tough knee injury all the way back in 2023.

“I have to give him credit since he’s been there for me since day one, especially through my injury,” she says. “He’s been a constant source of support throughout my recovery, inspiring me to give my best no matter where I am in my journey. He reminds me to be patient with myself and not to be too hard with myself on my progress. Being an athlete himself, Dwight has gone through his own series of injuries, and he understands the frustration of being sidelined. He can relate to the situation I’m in.”

Rookie setter Angge Alcantara also shares the same sentiments regarding her own burgeoning professional career. “I would like to thank my family and my partner for always being there to support me on and off the court,” says Alcantara, who has been orchestrating the team’s offense as veteran setter Kim Fajardo takes a step back. “I would also like to thank Coach Russelle Galang for guiding and supporting me ever since nag-start ako mag-volleyball until now.”

Speaking of family, close loved ones also play an important role in supporting star player Mika Reyes. “My parents, siblings and relatives, my teammates, and the fans are my biggest motivation,” the 2022 PVL Invitational Conference best middle blocker says. “Every game, I play not just for myself but for them.”

Throughout the many different inspirations all three players have in their lives, they also share one consistent source of support and strength: the fans of the High Speed Hitters.

“The fans play a big role in helping boost the team’s morale,” says Dy. “Seeing them support us through ups and downs helps uplift the team’s spirit. Seeing them cheer, whether it’s live from the venue or from their homes, reminds us that we’re not only playing for ourselves but also for everyone who believes in us.”

“Besides my team, I also get my strength from the fans, they are always there for us, so I don’t want to fail them,” adds Alcantara. “I am so happy they welcomed me to be part of the PLDT family.”

“Their support means everything,” shares Reyes. “Knowing they believe in us keeps us pushing forward, especially during tough times. Seeing them cheer, whether in the stands or online, gives us that extra boost.”

Finishing the PVL elimination round with 8 wins and 3 losses after a sweep of the Zus Coffee Thunderbelles last February 22, the PLDT High Speed Hitters shot up to top four in the standings. The Rald Ricafort-coached team, which has previously downed the powerhouse team Creamline Cool Smashers in an exciting five-setter, now heads to the qualifiers with much more confidence.

Armed with an impressive record and boosted by love from their supporters, PLDT now looks to make it even further and hopefully win its first PVL title.

“We just remind each other that this is a journey we are all going through together and no one is alone. ‘Pusong PLDT’ for us is giving our all during training and games and never stopping till we reach our goal. When things get hard, we remind ourselves why we’re doing this and it’s because of love and the puso we have for the team and the game,” says Dy.

“That love drives us to push through all the hard days.”

Continuously support Kim Kianna Dy, Mika Reyes, Angge Alcantara, and the rest of the PLDT High Speed Hitters as they battle it out at the ongoing PVL All-Filipino Conference – Qualifying Round. For more updates, follow the team on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Discover the New UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store: A One-Stop LifeWear Shopping Destination

Discover the New UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store: A One-Stop LifeWear Shopping Destination

UNIQLO continues to expand its presence in the Philippines with the grand opening of the UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store—a convenient and accessible shopping hub for LifeWear essentials. Located in Sierra Valley, Rizal, this latest store concept offers a seamless shopping experience for customers in Cainta, Taytay, Antipolo, Ortigas, and surrounding areas.

What to Expect at UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store

As a roadside store, this new location is designed for maximum convenience, featuring its own parking facility, PWD-friendly access, and integration with the UNIQLO app for easy Click and Collect services. Shoppers can explore a wide range of LifeWear essentials for men, women, and children, all in one place.

The UNIQLO Sierra Valley store is also the first-ever logo store in the Philippines, boasting a distinctive facade that prominently showcases the brand’s iconic red logo.

Exclusive Opening Promos and Discounts

To celebrate its grand opening, UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store is offering exciting promotions, including limited-time discounts on popular LifeWear items:

For Men:

UNIQLO U AIRism Oversized Crew Neck T-Shirt – Now PHP 590 (from PHP 790)

AIRism Cotton Pique Short Sleeve Polo Shirt – Now PHP 790 (from PHP 990)

AIRism Cotton Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-shirt – Now PHP 590 (from PHP 790)

For Women:

Ribbed Cropped Bra Top – Now PHP 790 (from PHP 990)

AIRism Cotton Mini Dress – Now PHP 790 (from PHP 990)

Rayon Skipper Collar Blouse – Now PHP 990 (from PHP 1,490)

For Kids:

Cotton Color Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt – Now PHP 190 (from PHP 290)

Soft Ribbed Mini T-Shirt – Now PHP 390 (from PHP 590)

Exciting Perks for Shoppers

Aside from great discounts, customers can enjoy exclusive giveaways and fun activities:

Limited-Edition UNIQLO Thermal Mug – Free with a PHP 3,000 minimum spend via the UNIQLO app from March 7 to 13.

Shop and Play Gachapon – A special game where shoppers can win exclusive prizes from partners Wendy’s and Conti’s from March 7 to 9.

Free Donuts for Early Birds – The first 100 customers daily from March 7 to 9 will receive a free Dunkin’ donut.

Convenient Click and Collect Service

Shoppers can enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience through UNIQLO’s Click and Collect service. Simply order online via the UNIQLO App or website, select UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside as the pickup location, and receive a free UNIQLO laptop bag for purchases made from February 28 to March 6, 2025.

UNIQLO’s Community Engagement Initiatives

UNIQLO is committed to making a positive impact on the community:

Community Bike Ride with First Bike Ride – A special biking event on March 1 to showcase UNIQLO’s Sport Utility Wear collection.

Upcycled Toy Project with Ten Twenty Kids – Scrap fabrics from UNIQLO will be repurposed into toys for children at Destiny’s Promise orphanage in Rizal.

Visit UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store Today!

Be part of the grand opening celebration and discover the best LifeWear essentials at UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store.

For more details, visit www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram for the latest updates.

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SM City Taytay 3-Day Sale: Massive Discounts and Exciting Prizes at the Biggest Shopping Spree of the Season

SM City Taytay 3-Day Sale: Massive Discounts and Exciting Prizes at the Biggest Shopping Spree of the Season

Saturday, March 01, 2025

Get ready, shoppers! The much-awaited SM City Taytay 3-Day Sale is happening from February 28 to March 2, 2025. Prepare for three days of unbeatable discounts, exclusive deals, and exciting raffle prizes as you shop to your heart’s content!

Enjoy Up to 70% Off on Your Favorite Brands

Whether you’re looking for fashion finds, home essentials, gadgets, or beauty products, SM City Taytay has you covered! 

Score amazing discounts of up to 70% off on a wide range of items from top brands at The SM Store, Watsons, Ace Hardware, Our Home, and more. It’s the perfect time to update your wardrobe, revamp your home, or grab the latest tech deals.

Exclusive Perks for Shoppers

Take advantage of special bank promotions during the sale. Enjoy UP TO 10% OFF on both straight and installment transactions when you use your BDO, Metrobank, PNB, RCBC, or Security Bank credit cards from February 28-March 2. Plus, a FREE Eco Bag when you shop for a minimum P5,000 using your Mastercard.

Shop and Win Big!

Shopping at SM City Taytay during the 3-Day Sale gives you the chance to win amazing prizes! Head over to the What's In The Bag area to win up to P10,000 shopping money! Just spend a minimum P3,000 in a single-receipt.

For every ₱1,000 single-receipt purchase, you get one raffle entry to win a Suzuki S-Presso GL AGS. Plus, get double raffle entries when you shop on Saturday and Sunday!

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Sale

• Massive Discounts – Save up to 70% on top brands.

• Exclusive Bank Promotions – Extra perks when you pay using select credit cards.

• Exciting Raffle Draws – Shop and get a chance to win fantastic prizes.

• Huge Selection – From fashion and gadgets to home essentials and beauty must-haves, everything is on sale!

Plan Your Shopping Spree

📍 Location: SM City Taytay, Manila East Road, Taytay, Rizal

🕘 Mall Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

📅 Sale Dates: February 28 – March 2, 2025

Pro Tips: 

✔️ Arrive early to get first dibs on the best deals.

✔️ Make a shopping list to stay focused and maximize savings.

✔️ Follow SM City Taytay on social media for real-time updates on flash sales and promotions.

Don’t Miss Out!

Mark your calendars and get ready to shop, save, and win! Whether you're shopping for yourself or your loved ones, the SM City Taytay 3-Day Sale is your ultimate shopping destination this February 28 to March 2, 2025. See you there!

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SB19 marks bold new era in P-Pop with genre-defying single “DAM”

SB19 marks bold new era in P-Pop with genre-defying single “DAM”

Friday, February 28, 2025

 

The track will serve as the first official single off their upcoming EP, Simula at Wakas

A week after announcing the highly anticipated kickoff of their world tour at the prestigious Philippine Arena, Filipino supergroup SB19 continues to cement their place as a true P-Pop trailblazer with the release of “DAM,” the first official single off their upcoming EP, Simula at Wakas.

Fueled by their deep appreciation for medieval fantasy and innovative approach to sound, “DAM” marks a fresh chapter in SB19’s genre-defying journey. The track seamlessly fuses elements of hip-hop, Celtic and Filipino folk, EDM, industrial, and prog-rock, while retaining the signature martial energy that defined their previous hits “What” and “GENTO.” What sets “DAM” apart, however, is not only its grandiosity, but also its willingness to push the envelope both lyrically and sonically—an experimental exploration of new musical frontiers, if you would describe it.

“We’ve always pushed boundaries in terms of music,” shares the P-Pop kings in a collective statement. “For this particular track, we’ve built on the elements that made ‘What and ‘GENTO’ resonate so strongly with the general public, but we’ve also uncharted sonic territories that gave us the creative freedom to truly express ourselves.”

“DAM,” a play on the Filipino word “Pakiramdam” or “feeling” in English, encapsulates the pop quintet’s unrelenting drive for purpose, ambition, and legacy. The anthemic track explores themes of staying true to one’s values and principles amidst the sacrifice required to achieve greater dreams in career and life. For SB19, “DAM” is a testament to the price of success in a world that often demands more than one is willing to give.

The release of “DAM” will be accompanied by a music video, set in a dark, medieval fantasy world inspired by the brutal and tragic tales of knights, sorcerers, ravens, and looming castles.

The video marks the latest collaboration between SB19 and 1032 LAB, a creative team known for bringing complex, fantastical worlds to life. Their team-up promises a journey into a brooding and imaginative realm, further enhancing the song’s emotive power.

“The music video has a lot of hidden symbolisms and eastern eggs for fans to uncover so they should look out for that,” says SB19. “Also, what makes this visual project so fulfilling is how committed everyone involved is to bringing the vision to life. We’re aligned in making the unbelievable come true, and there’s a deep respect for the art of world-building that makes this more than just a one-off project. We can’t wait for everyone to experience the music video.”

SB19’s “DAM” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the official music video here.

Stay tuned as SB19 continues to break new ground with their upcoming EP, Simula at Wakas, and their upcoming global tour.

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Grab Philippines Launches Green Programme, Promotes Sustainability for On-Demand Services

Grab Philippines Launches Green Programme, Promotes Sustainability for On-Demand Services

Leading superapp Grab Philippines officially launches its Green Programme, deepening its commitment to environmental sustainability. The initiative introduces a new toggle-on feature across Grab’s on-demand mobility and delivery services, allowing users to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts with strategic program partners Fostering Education & Environment for Development, Inc. (“FEED”), EcoMatcher Ltd, and the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary Project.

Through the Green Programme, Grab users have the opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation with each ride or delivery. For every GrabCar or GrabTaxi ride, users can donate PHP 2.00, while every GrabFood or GrabMart delivery allows for a contribution of PHP 1.00.

A key initiative of the program is a mangrove-planting project in Dulao Village, La Union. This effort involves collaboration with local residents and farming community; and is supported by Ecomatcher and FEED – a Philippine-based NGO focusing on sustainable education and tree planting, aiming to restore, preserve, and protect biodiversity across the country.

Grab users can tap on "Account" and select "Support the Environment" to opt in or out of the Green Programme with a simple toggle. This user-friendly option is also available before confirming any food or grocery delivery.

Passengers of Grab mobility services can also easily access the Green Programme Toggle in the three-dot overflow menu of their booking screen. Users can choose to opt out of the program anytime.

“In line with our ongoing commitment towards nation-building, Grab is focused on leveraging its tech and platform to cultivate a deep sense of sustainability and care for the environment across communities here in the Philippines,” said Greg Camacho, Director for Strategy at Grab Philippines. “We are thankful for the outpouring support of our kababayans on the launch of this program, and we will continuously innovate and explore new pathways to make our services greener and reduce our carbon footprint, nurturing a sustainable future for every rider, driver, passenger, and consumer in the Grab superapp community.”

Regionally, the Green Programme also supports the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary project, which meets the internationally recognized Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and Climate, Community & Biodiversity (CCB) standards. This initiative helps protect and restore nearly 300,000 hectares of natural ecosystems while safeguarding 75 threatened species.

The Green Programme is the latest addition to Grab's comprehensive sustainability initiatives. These efforts include allowing customers to opt out of receiving cutlery in food deliveries to minimize plastic waste and a regional collaboration with BYD to provide electric vehicles to Grab’s driver-partners throughout Southeast Asia. Additionally, Grab has teamed up with Starbucks for the FoodShare Program, leveraging its delivery network to distribute unsold food from Starbucks locations to local nonprofits such as the Philippine Food Bank Foundation, in a bid to tackle food insecurity in the country.

With the launch of the Green Programme, Grab continues to lead the way in promoting sustainable urban mobility, and food and grocery delivery, empowering users to make eco-conscious choices.

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BigBang singer Taeyang returns to SM MOA Arena for ‘The Light Year’ concert

BigBang singer Taeyang returns to SM MOA Arena for ‘The Light Year’ concert

After his successful solo concert held at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena on February 22, 2025, this K-pop superstar delighted his fans with his vocal prowess and signature moves that will knock you off your feet.

Enjoying the time of his life, Taeyang sets the mood on fire for his Filipino fans attending at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

In full swing: Taeyang’s opening performance concert at the stage of SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Fan vibes like no other

It’s been a while since this icon performed in Manila, and with his return, the night was filled with his sensational music and dazzling moves on the stage.

Rhythm and visuals inspired by the sun

Also known as Dong Young-bae or SOL, this certified K-pop star and hitmaker is loved by many VIPs (BigBang’s official fandom)! With his remarkable performance on and off the stage, his presence deserved a roaring crowd.

With his last stop being the grand finale of “The Light Year” tour concert at SM MOA Arena, the singer and performer bowed to his amazing fans to show his appreciation for the incredible night.

About SM Mall of Asia Arena

SM Mall of Asia Arena is the preferred venue, offering world-class services and facilities, to provide the best in international and local live entertainment and thrilling sports event experiences. For more information, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media. Tickets for upcoming events can be purchased online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlet nationwide.

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Pru Life UK supports international and local disaster recovery initiatives

Pru Life UK supports international and local disaster recovery initiatives

Thursday, February 27, 2025

PRUVolunteers from Prudential joined in rebuilding homes in Sukhothai Province, Thailand that were affected by typhoons.

Pru Life UK recently took part in recovery efforts for communities affected by typhoons and flooding in the Philippines and Thailand.

In the Philippines, Pru Life UK extended support to children and their families recently affected by Typhoon Kristine by contributing Php 300,000 to Save the Children Philippines’ emergency response initiatives. The company also organised its in-kind donation drive for affected families in the Bicol Region, distributing essentials through the Project Banyuhay relief operations of the Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3820.

Pru Life UK also joined Prudence Foundation’s PRUVolunteers (PRUVols) Programme, bringing together employees from Prudential in Asia, Africa, and the United Kingdom to rebuild homes and restore infrastructure for communities affected by severe flooding in Sukhothai Province, Thailand.

Prudence Foundation, established in 2011 as the community investment arm in Asia and Africa of Prudential plc, is committed to create better futures through initiatives that achieve sustainable, real-world impact and long-term resilience in the communities we operate in.

Through programmes like PRUVols, Prudence Foundation mobilises resources to provide meaningful support to communities while fostering collaboration across its regional network. This year’s programme was in partnership with Prudential Thailand and the Foundation of Older Persons Development (FOPDEV).

Pru Life UK employees including Kenneth Leyco, Rodel Caricativo, and Jerome Martillano, worked with regional volunteers to construct new homes, prepare drainage systems, and rebuild sanitation facilities.

Volunteers also participated in cultural exchange activities with the local community, including basket-weaving and traditional cooking workshops at Yang Sai Elementary School.

The week-long initiative concluded with the turnover of houses, where beneficiaries received the keys to their newly rebuilt homes. Watch this to see more.

Kenneth Leyco, a Senior Training Specialist, described the experience as “life-changing, happy, and fulfilling.” He shared, “I learned so much, from carpentry techniques to cultural insights. It was humbling to work alongside people from diverse backgrounds, united by a common purpose. Seeing the beneficiaries’ joyful faces made every effort worthwhile.”

This sentiment was echoed by Senior Accounting Specialist Rodel Caricativo, saying, “Participating in this programme was a meaningful way to give back and connect with communities in need. It reinforced my belief that even small contributions can make a big difference.”

This year’s PRUVolunteers Programme in Thailand reflects the Prudence Foundation’s mission of strengthening communities by ensuring our support is both impactful and sustainable. It is a testament to its commitment in building community resilience and supporting vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, who are often disproportionately affected by such natural disasters and climate change.

For Pru Life UK, these efforts underscore its commitment to being a trusted partner in navigating life’s challenges and creating a better future for all.

“Community investment strengthens Pru Life UK’s commitment to sustainability,” shared Atty. Paul Mandal, SVP and Chief Legal, Government Relations and Sustainability Officer of Pru Life UK. “Through these initiatives, we not only extend our resources to support disaster recovery efforts but also demonstrate our long-term commitment to building stronger and more resilient communities.”

For more information about Pru Life UK’s sustainability initiatives, visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph.

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The Itchyworms to stage “Good Time Show” concert at Newport Performing Arts Theater

The Itchyworms to stage “Good Time Show” concert at Newport Performing Arts Theater

Get ready for a night fun, music, and unforgettable banters as The Itchyworms stage their highly anticipated concert, Good Time Show to the Newport Performing Arts Theater on March 1, 2025 at 8:00 PM.

Presented by Philippine Science High School Batch 2000 and AEXPONENT MEDIA PRODUCTIONS, INC., the special concert will benefit the Philippine Science High School community, adding a meaningful cause to event filled with entertainment and camaraderie.

The concert’s title is a playful homage to the band’s iconic, generation-defining album, Noontime Show, which won Album of the Year at the 2006 NU Rock Awards and catapulted them to mainstream success. It also perfectly captures the essence of the concert: “when you to an Itchyworms show, you’re guaranteed a good time!”

As drummer and lead vocalist Jazz Nicolas puts it, “We wanted a name that captures the fun, the nostalgia, the energy, and the connection we have with our audience. Whether you’ve been with us since the early days or just discovered our music recently, this is a show where you can sing your heart out, laugh, dance, and just enjoy the moment.”

Fans can expect an exciting setlist that will include some of the band’s biggest hits, as well as rare gems and reinterpretations from their extensive catalog. But The Itchyworms aren’t stopping there: under the visionary direction of Jamie Wilson, they promise to elevate the live music experience to new heights with a dynamic production that’s sure to leave the audience in awe.

“We’re super excited about this one,” shares vocalist Jazz Nicolas. ‘Every time we play live, we want to give fans something new—whether it’s a fresh take on an old favorite, unexpected mashups, or even songs we rarely play. This time, we’re really pushing the production, the visuals, and the overall experience. And of course, we have some surprises lined up—can’t spill too much yet, but let’s just say you won’t want to blink!”

In an exciting twist, The Itchyworms’ Good Time Show will also feature intricate musical arrangements by the Manila String Machine on select tracks, adding a unique orchestral flair to the band’s signature pop-rock sound. The night will be further amplified by a special guest performance from The CompanY, one of the Philippines most respected pop groups.

“This concert will be a musical journey, and we will make sure to keep the audience engaged with our surprises,” lead vocalist and guitarist Jugs Jugueta reveals. “It’ll be The Itchyworms XXXL!”

Jazz Nicolas adds, “We love feeding off the crowd’s energy! Whether it’s through singalongs, playful banter, or spontaneous moments, we always make sure everyone feels like they’re part of the show. We might even throw in a few unexpected interactions—so if you’re in the front row, be ready! At the end of the day, we just want everyone to have an unforgettable night with us.”

Tickets for The Itchyworms’ Good Time Show are now available at all Ticketworld outlets, with the following ticket categories and prices:

Platinum – PHP 7,000

SVIP – PHP 6,000

VIP – PHP 5,000

Gold – PHP 3,800

Silver – PHP 2,800

Bronze – PHP 1,800

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience The Itchyworms like never before, while supporting a great cause. Get your tickets now and join the celebration of music, nostalgia, and good times!

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