UNIQLO 2025 SPRING / SUMMER Bra Top Collection: Celebrating Creativity, Movement, and Ultimate Support

UNIQLO 2025 SPRING / SUMMER Bra Top Collection: Celebrating Creativity, Movement, and Ultimate Support

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

UNIQLO is redefining everyday comfort and style with the launch of its 2025 Spring/Summer Bra Top Collection, designed to support and celebrate women. This season’s refreshed lineup delivers enhanced all-around support, ultimate comfort, and effortless style, blending functionality with fashion in a variety of designs and colors.

Beyond Just a Bra or a Top – A Wardrobe Essential

UNIQLO Bra Tops are more than just bras or tops; they are versatile essentials that cater to modern lifestyles. Each piece features molded cups and an elastic underband that provide a flattering lift while ensuring optimal support. With power net technology, these tops deliver a secure yet flexible fit, allowing women to move confidently throughout their day.

Empowering Women for International Women’s Month

To celebrate International Women’s Month, UNIQLO unveiled its latest Bra Top Collection through two exclusive, empowering events. Attendees experienced firsthand the innovation behind the collection in activities that blended creativity and movement:

A collaborative painting session with UNIQLO’s local celebrity partner Solenn Heusaff and multidisciplinary artist Anina Rubio, emphasizing artistic self-expression.

A dynamic dance session with online personality Nica Fabregas, highlighting the freedom and confidence UNIQLO Bra Tops provide.

Reichelle Vergara, UNIQLO Philippines Head of PR and Sustainability, emphasized the brand’s mission: “UNIQLO's goal is to make lives better through clothing that supports people every day. We introduced the first Bra Top 20 years ago as a gamechanger, and this year’s collection continues that legacy with new styles, enhanced designs, and advanced technology. Women can move, create, and express themselves freely with confidence.”

Find Your Perfect Fit: A Bra Top for Every Woman

UNIQLO’s Spring/Summer 2025 Bra Top Collection is designed for go-getters who seamlessly transition between work, play, and everything in between. Here’s a look at the latest must-have styles:

Camisole Bra Tops: The UNIQLO Crepe Jersey Bra Camisole features a lightweight, non-clingy fabric with a subtle flare at the waist for a flattering silhouette. It also offers quick-drying technology for all-day freshness and built-in 360° support.

Sleeveless Bra Tops: The ever-popular UNIQLO Ribbed Cropped Bra Top is made from contouring ribbed fabric, offering a stylish silhouette that can be worn as a statement piece or innerwear.

Bra Tops with Sleeves: Experience seamless comfort with the AIRism Low Back Bra T-Shirt, available in timeless shades like white, black, pink, and brown—perfect for effortless styling.

Bra Dresses: Elevate your look with the UNIQLO Crepe Jersey Bra Dress, designed for both casual outings and semi-formal gatherings while ensuring support and shape.

Innovative Fabric Technology: Comfort Meets Performance

UNIQLO’s signature fabric innovations make this collection a standout. The AIRism and AIRism Cotton technologies are engineered for breathability, moisture-wicking, and all-day comfort. Key features include:

AIRism Bra Tops: Seamless bust and armhole design for a sleek, polished look.

AIRism Cotton Bra Tops: A fusion of AIRism’s breathability with the relaxed feel of cotton.

AIRism Cotton Bra Tube Top: A versatile option with removable straps for multiple styling possibilities.

Shop the Collection Now

Discover the perfect blend of fashion, function, and freedom with UNIQLO’s 2025 Spring/Summer Bra Top Collection.

Shop in all UNIQLO stores nationwide or online at www.uniqlo.com/ph/en. Stay updated by following @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram for the latest news and releases.

Experience the future of comfort and style—because every woman deserves to move, create, and express herself with confidence!

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Savor the World on a Plate: A Culinary Journey at World Kitchens

Savor the World on a Plate: A Culinary Journey at World Kitchens

Exploring the world’s finest cuisines no longer requires a passport and a long-haul flight. At the new World Kitchens in Araneta City’s Gateway Mall 2, foodies can embark on a convenient global culinary journey—all in just one sitting at an extraordinary dining destination.

Inspired by the comfort food of the world, WORLD KITCHENS is a one-of-a-kind, first-of-its-kind 5-star dining destination created by Singapore’s food and beverage guru, Andrew Tan Hock Lai. With 15 show kitchens and international chefs specializing in unique cuisines, this giant full-table-service restaurant offers a variety of international dishes at affordable prices. Serving great food at a single table and using AI technology for seamless ordering, World Kitchens redefines dining as a global culinary experience.

From the familiar classics of Asia to the bold flavors of Europe, World Kitchens brings together a passionately curated selection of authentic dishes crafted by renowned chefs from around the world. Here, world-class, full-service dining need not be limited to special occasions; it’s an experience diners can savor on a whim.

Oriental Flavorful Delights

For those who crave refined Cantonese flavors, HK Ma’s Bistro presents a menu that balances tradition with innovation. Must-try offers are the Sous Vide Iberico Char Siew (special Chinese BBQ pork), Drunken Clams, and Charcoal Grilled Squid, all masterfully prepared by Chef Steve Ma of Hong Kong.

Ramen lovers will find You No Men to be a new haven for authentic Japanese flavors with offerings like Maze Soba (dry ramen with savory toppings) among an array of savory bowls– crafted with the guidance of Chef Takahiro Fujita–that highlight meticulous attention to texture and umami-packed broths.

Premium eel dishes take center stage at Unagi Yukimitsu. A must-try is Unagi Hitsumabushi (grilled eel on rice with sweet, savory sauce), a rich caramelized delight that can only come from expert preparation, for those who long for the fresh flavors of sushi and sashimi, Kuro Maguro is the place to enjoy the indulgent Premium Otoro Roll or experience a medley of flavors with the Aburi Otoro Roll Truffle Sauce. Both show kitchens are handled by Japan's esteemed "Tuna King", Chef Masaki Watanabe.

An additional Japanese dining thrill is brought in by Shinshima, with its teppanyaki options like the exquisite Japanese Wagyu. In this show kitchen by Chef Hoshiba Fumihiko, premium ingredients and live cooking performances turn every meal into unforgettable experiential dining.

The gastronomic journey through World Kitchens expands with the upcoming opening of Chef Fung Private Kitchen. It will introduce the artistry of Cantonese fine dining with specialties like Braised Wagyu Beef Noodle, promising a reasonably priced authentic taste of Chinese culinary heritage.

European Flavor Excellence

The heart of Italy is found in every slice at Dario Pizza & More, with handcrafted treats by Chef Dario Bonaccorso, like the Pizza Selvaggia and Pizza Bomb,a featuring premium ingredients and a perfectly blistered crust. Each bite delivers a truly satisfying taste of Italy, proving that quality is affordable.

For those who love Spanish cuisine, Asador de Manila offers the art of open-fire cooking, with specialties like Paella de Tuetano, Lengua Estofada, and Lechón Asado expertly prepared by Chef Gale Tan Sun. His creations celebrate heritage while introducing innovative twists to beloved classics.

Rich Asian Taste

The warmth of Indian cuisine travels to World Kitchens through Prana, with Chef Rajan Veeranan offering dishes that burst with depth and tradition. Preparations like the Afghani Murgh Tikka, a creamy and flavorful chicken dish, Butter Chicken Masala, and Pani Puri deliver an authentic taste of India that’s both indulgent and reasonably priced.

Beloved Filipino dishes are redefined with a fine dining approach by Chef Jessie. Offerings like the Baked Chilean Seabass in Miso, Baby Lechon, and Award-Winning Sisig bring elevated flavors to a local favorite, proving that comfort food can be both indulgent and accessible. Chef Jessie Sincioco makes this kitchen a great option to explore local favorites in a different light.

To cap off every meal, desserts like Wagashi (Japanese Mochi) and Petit Four (mini cakes), as well as specialty coffee and beverages, are prepared by Sticky Sweet. Every drink and dessert is a work of art, making it the perfect finale to every meal.

For those who appreciate cocktail drinks, signature creations like the Pandan Negroni and Ace of Araneta are expertly crafted by Lepak (which means relax and chill in Malay; formerly named Santai). It blends unique flavors into refined, memorable sips—all while offering an accessible and refreshing luxury for drink enthusiasts.

At World Kitchens, the finest flavors from around the globe, prepared by artisans, come together in one exceptional dining destination at the very heart of Manila. Every dish is a celebration of culinary craftsmanship, delivering a world-class yet accessible experience that indulges the senses, satisfies every craving, and offers exceptional value proposition.

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Beko: Bringing the Legacy of Europe to Filipino Homes

Beko: Bringing the Legacy of Europe to Filipino Homes

European appliances are known for their exceptional quality, energy efficiency, innovative features, and compact design. This is mainly shaped by their commitment to sustainability and strict regulations as typical living spaces in Europe were particularly small.

Since 1955, Beko has evolved from a newcomer in the home appliance industry to a trusted brand in over 135 countries. With a mission to help people lead healthier lives, Beko offers solutions that meet everyday needs while being sustainable.

Beko, from Europe’s No. 1 Large Home Appliance company, continues to inspire Filipino households through products made with time-tested innovation and quality.

Cool Innovation

Beko’s kitchen technologies are designed to transform daily routines into enjoyable experiences, emphasizing convenience and efficiency. One standout feature is HarvestFresh technology in Beko refrigerators which uses a unique three-color light system to mimic the sun's 24-hour cycle. This feature helps preserve vitamins longer, ensuring that your healthy and flavorful Filipino dishes are always at their finest.

Beko's NutriFreeze technology also revolutionizes food preservation by using a soft freezing method at -3°C, which keeps nutrients intact and makes meal preparation a breeze. Unlike traditional freezing which often leads to icy food, the NutriFreeze feature ensures that meat, fish, and shrimp remain fresh and easy to slice without thawing. This also slows down bacterial growth and extends shelf life, ensuring your meals are tasty and fresh.

Legacy in Laundry

Beko redefines laundry care with its unique Steam Cure Hygiene+ feature. This innovation removes tough stains by using steam as a pre-treatment, effectively softening the stains before the wash cycle begins. This dual-action process not only enhances stain removal but also releases an additional burst of steam after the wash cycle to smooth out any creases or folds, ensuring that your laundry is not just clean, but also fresh and wrinkle-free.

Crafting Kitchen Excellence

The Kitchen is an important part of Filipino homes, and Beko's cooking technologies are the best fit for daily cooking needs. Beko's AeroPerfect feature, found in select models, minimizes temperature fluctuations, ensuring faster and more even cooking results every time. The Steam-Assisted cooking injects steam into the oven cavity for better baking and roasting, while the Fan-Assist cooking allows for uniform heat distribution for homogenous cooking results, making Beko an ideal choice to make delightful dishes at home.

Beko also has built-in hobs that help whip up meals through its special burner design that uses less gas while cooking more quickly than standard burners. The Beko Built-In Induction Cooktop allows for cooking dishes for larger groups, or for cooking multiple recipes at once. Its Flexi-Zone feature offers two cooking zones at the same time by combining them into one, larger zone with consistent features. Ideal for large family gatherings or special occasions, you get to free up your time in the kitchen.

Experience the best of European quality right in your home. Visit your nearest leading appliance store or shop online at Beko Philippines' official stores on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.

For more details, visit our official website at www.beko.com/ph-en and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @bekoph.

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Chanyeol's fire and Ever Bilena’s freshness at Waterbomb Manila 2025

Chanyeol's fire and Ever Bilena’s freshness at Waterbomb Manila 2025

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Waterbomb Manila 2025 kicked off with a bang, but nothing could top the explosive finale of Day 1—EXO’s Chanyeol setting the stage on fire in the most unforgettable way!

Returning to the Philippines for the third time, the K-pop superstar delivered a high-energy set that had fans screaming from start to finish. He kicked things off with “Nothing,” his hit track with EXO-SC, effortlessly commanding the crowd with his signature charisma and electrifying presence.

“I know you’ve been waiting a long time. Thank you so much! It’s amazing to see everyone having fun together,” Chanyeol said in Korean, flashing his trademark smile. “You know I really love it here in the Philippines.”

The energy only intensified as he hyped up the crowd, playfully shooting water guns and sharing lighthearted moments with fans. But it wasn’t all just fun and games—his heartfelt performance of “Good Enough” had the audience swaying in emotion, while “Tomorrow” left them completely mesmerized.

Beyond the show-stopping performances, festival-goers also got to enjoy exciting brand activations. Ever Bilena, an official sponsor of Waterbomb Manila 2025, made sure attendees stayed fresh and flawless despite the scorching Manila heat. Their exclusive makeup retouch station was a must-visit, ensuring that everyone looked as vibrant as the performances on stage.

Adding a fun, personal touch, Ever Bilena also set up a charm-making booth, where guests who brought their EB Lip makeup could create their own festival keepsakes. With the sun beating down, EB’s moisturizing lippies became the ultimate festival essential, keeping lips hydrated, smooth, and picture-perfect all day long.

From heart-thumping performances to thrilling festival experiences, Waterbomb Manila 2025 delivered an unforgettable weekend—one that left fans already counting down to the next one!

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Calvin Harris returns as producer and lead vocalist for new single “Smoke The Pain Away”

Calvin Harris returns as producer and lead vocalist for new single “Smoke The Pain Away”

Today, Calvin Harris releases his new single “SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY,” marking a major return to his roots as a vocalist after several years.

This fresh release, written and produced solely by Calvin himself, showcases his evolution as an artist.

“SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY” offers a glimpse into a more personal side of Calvin Harris, with the artist showcasing both his vocal abilities and exploring a fresh approach to songwriting. This track marks a step in his musical evolution, expanding beyond his DJ roots into a genre-bending space that reflects his desire to push creative boundaries.

“SMOKE THE PAIN AWAY” is a celebration of artistic freedom, weaving together influences from his past with exciting new sounds.

This release follows Calvin’s Platinum-selling, GRAMMY-nominated single “Miracle” with Ellie Goulding, which enjoyed eight weeks at #1 and over 2.91 million global single sales. With “Smoke the Pain Away,” Calvin is ready to reintroduce himself to the world in an entirely new light.

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Pamungkas and Scrubb join forces to co-headline Philippine-only concert

Pamungkas and Scrubb join forces to co-headline Philippine-only concert

GNN marks its tenth-year anniversary of producing shows and concerts with a one-day music event top-billed by Pamungkas from Indonesia and Scrubb from Thailand.

#GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila will take place on April 26, 2025, at 123 Block (outdoor area) in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City. The exclusive, co-headline show is a Philippine-only engagement and will form a key part of #GNN10, a year-long music campaign. This project kicked off with a string of sold-out shows earlier this year, including Regina Song: Live in Manila and Tanaw: The Repeat at Newport Performing Arts Theater.

The inaugural celebration not only commemorates the production company’s commitment to championing local and Asian artists but also reaffirms its mission of mounting concerts and events rooted in community building and inclusivity.

Having earned iconic status in their respective countries and throughout Southeast Asia, Pamungkas and Scrubb have cultivated a dedicated fanbase in the Philippines with their inescapable anthems. Indonesian singer-songwriter and producer Pamungkas became a regional sensation with his breakout hit, “To The Bone,” which topped streaming charts across Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, where it peaked at No. 5 on Spotify PH charts. Meanwhile, phenomenal Thai alt-pop duo Scrubb captivated global audiences with their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit to ever come out of the region.

GNN brought both artists in 2022 and 2024, respectively, introducing them to the Philippine market through separate headline shows.

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Icons of Strength and Resilience: Must-Watch Titles on Lionsgate Play for International Women’s Month

Icons of Strength and Resilience: Must-Watch Titles on Lionsgate Play for International Women’s Month

Check out these five unforgettable stories to stream on Lionsgate Play this Women's Month

Imagine stepping into the shoes of women who rewrote history and showed courage in the face of powerful adversaries. This Women’s Month, give your fictional heroes a rest and dive into stories highlighting the impact of real women who defied the odds and left enduring legacies. From courtroom battles to royal palaces, newsrooms to war rooms, these five biopics on Lionsgate Play offer a powerful glimpse into the strength that defines womanhood.

Woman in Gold (2015)

Helen Mirren delivers a compelling performance as Maria Altmann in Woman in Gold, a Jewish refugee who, sixty years after escaping Nazi Vienna, sets out to recover her family's stolen inheritance. Her primary objective is Gustav Klimt's famous "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I," a painting of her cherished aunt. With the assistance of the ambitious, young attorney Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), Maria initiates a challenging legal battle against the Austrian government, which claims the artworks as national heritage.

Bombshell (2019)

Bombshell shines a light on the bravery of women who dare to challenge a powerful, predatory system. It follows the stories of Gretchen Carlson (Nicole Kidman), Megyn Kelly (Charlize Theron), and Kayla Pospisil (Margot Robbie), three women who bravely confronted sexual harassment and a toxic work environment at Fox News. When Carlson made the bold decision to file a lawsuit against Fox News founder Roger Ailes (John Lithgow) for harassment, it set off a chain reaction that empowered women to come forward with their own stories. Bombshell shows the importance of solidarity and the power of women supporting each other in the face of adversity.

On the Basis of Sex (2018)

On the Basis of Sex chronicles the inspiring journey of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, one of the most influential figures in American legal history. The biographical drama starring Felicity Jones brilliantly portrays Ginsburg’s struggle against gender discrimination within the legal system, highlighted by a landmark case that shaped her path to becoming the U.S. Supreme Court Justice. On the Basis of Sex is a must-watch for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the fight for gender equality, the power of legal advocacy, and the remarkable life of a woman who defied societal expectations.

Spencer (2021)

Pablo Larrain gives the audience a glimpse of the tumultuous mind of Diana, Princess of Wales (Kristen Stewart) in Spencer. Set over three days during the 1991 Christmas holidays at the Sandringham estate, Diana struggles with mental health problems as she questions everything about her once-beautiful marriage to Prince Charles in the wake of his extramarital affair. Larrain’s biopic might blend truth with fiction but it doesn’t gloss over the pain of a woman trapped within rigid royal traditions, fighting to reclaim her identity.

Golda (2023)

Set against the backdrop of the Yom Kippur War in 1973, Golda chronicles the life of Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir (Helen Mirren) and the high-stakes political decisions she made that changed the course of history. Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Guy Nattiv, the film dives deep into the mental and physical toll Israel’s first and only female prime minister had to face as a leader who would do anything to save her beloved country from the worst war it’s ever been in.

Keep the movie marathon going with Lionsgate Play’s diverse catalog of powerful and inspirational stories for everyone via PLDT Home and Smart.

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PLDT Home Speedboost Promo gets you up to 2x internet speeds for FREE

PLDT Home Speedboost Promo gets you up to 2x internet speeds for FREE

If you’re a new customer of selected PLDT Home Fiber Plans, you can boost your internet speeds up to 2x faster with the PLDT Home Speedboost Promo for FREE for six (6) months when you apply until March 31, 2025.

This upgrade works great for homes with users who have different requirements and demands, such as those who work from home, gamers who need to download games and play with low latency, creators who need to download and upload huge files, and those who want seamless 4K streaming of their favorite movies and TV shows.

How you’ll benefit from PLDT Home’s Speedboost Promo:

● Significantly increased bandwidth: 

For example, subscribers on a Fiber Unli Plan 1299 with 50 Mbps will experience up to 100 Mbps. If you’re on a 700 Mbps plan, you will experience speeds of 1 Gbps. Check out https://www.pldthome.com/speedboost2025 for details.

● Smoother network performance across all devices at home: 

Boosting your internet speed will give you a smoother experience as devices won’t have to compete over the limited bandwidth. Are you on video call while someone else is watching Netflix on 4K TV? You can do both, and more when you have a faster internet speed!

● Uninterrupted entertainment: 

Speaking of Netflix, do you already have a 4K TV but the streaming quality is pixelated or constantly buffering? The quick fix is to boost your internet speed so you have uninterrupted entertainment. Good thing PLDT Home Fiber Netflix plan 1599 got Speedboost of up to 300 Mbps!

● Better gaming experience: 

Games nowadays have better graphics and higher hardware requirements. Upgrading your gaming rig or console is not enough; you must also upgrade your internet speed to cope with the demands. What’s the point of having all these games online if it takes you forever to download a new game or update? Boost your internet speed so you can drop into that game faster!

● Gets you ready for data-intensive tasks: 

Gaming and streaming are not the only tasks that require a faster internet connection. Those who work from home can accomplish tasks faster, as websites and online tools load faster. This is also a blessing for creatives who work with large assets that need to be downloaded and uploaded regularly, or those who work with cloud backups.

● You can add more devices to your network: 

The increased internet speed will allow you to take advantage of IoT devices such as smart lights, Wi-Fi security cameras, smart speakers, smart appliances, and smart wearables. Network congestion won’t be an issue as you have a boosted bandwidth. A good mesh Wi-Fi system is recommended for these setups.

If you’re not yet a PLDT Home subscriber, this is the perfect time to switch and enjoy the following benefits:

● Free Speedboost to the next higher plan

● 50% off monthly service fees for the first six (6) months

● Free installation and activation (worth ₱3,600)

● A chance to win exciting smart home gadgets, including a Smart TV, PlayStation 5, tablets, and a smartwatch!

“Speed and reliability are essential for a fully connected home,” said Patrick Tang, First Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Acquisition Marketing. “Our Speedboost offer ensures that customers get the best fiber-fast experience at home, allowing them to level up their digital lifestyle with seamless browsing, streaming, and online work.”

Know more about the free speedboost on www.pldthome.com/speedboost2025.

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Shop & Save: Massive Deals Await at SM City Marikina’s 3-Day Sale!

Shop & Save: Massive Deals Await at SM City Marikina’s 3-Day Sale!

Saturday, March 15, 2025

Are you ready for an exciting shopping spree? Mark your calendars because SM City Marikina is bringing you massive discounts and exclusive deals during its highly anticipated 3-Day Sale! From March 14, 15, and 16, get ready to shop till you drop while enjoying unbeatable savings on your favorite brands.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss SM City Marikina’s 3-Day Sale

1. Incredible Discounts

Enjoy jaw-dropping markdowns on fashion, electronics, home essentials, beauty products, and more. Whether you’re looking for trendy outfits, gadgets, or home decor, this sale offers incredible savings that you simply can’t pass up.

2. Exclusive Deals and Special Promos

Be on the lookout for exciting Buy 1 Get 1 offers, bundle promos, and exclusive discounts from top brands. Some stores even have time-limited flash sales, so make sure to shop early!

3. Lucky Shopper Raffle Draw

Get a chance to win up to P10,000 worth of SM Gift Certificates when you purchase a minimum single receipt of P3,000. You will choose a paper bag with a corresponding prize inside.

You can also win a Suzuki S-presso GL AGS! Every P1,000 receipt will earn you one e-raffle entry. Shop on March 15 and 16 and you'll earn two e-raffle entries. Five additional entries when you shop via SM Malls Online.

4. Extended Mall Hours for More Shopping Fun

To make sure you have enough time to shop for everything on your wishlist, SM City Marikina is extending its mall hours during the 3-Day Sale. On March 14-15, you can shop from 10am to 11pm and on March 16, the mall hours is from 10am to 10pm. Take advantage of the extra time to browse all the best deals!

5. Check Out Credit Card Promos 

Get extra 10% off when you use your qualified BDO Credit Card with a minimum Buy Now, Pay Later purchase of P10,000 and EXTRA 5% OFF with a min. straight purchase of P5,000 Discount is capped at P3,000.

For Security Bank Credit Card holders, enjoy EXTRA 10% OFF with a min. P10,000 installment purchase (discount capped at P1,000) and EXTRA 5% OFF with a min. P5,000 straight purchase (discount capped at P500)

Get EXTRA 5% OFF with a min. P15,000 installment purchase (discount capped at P2,000) or 5% OFF with a min. P5,000 straight purchase (discount capped at P500) using your RCBC Credit Card.

Visit SM City Marikina and Shop Smart!

This is your chance to celebrate big and save bigger at SM City Marikina’s 3-Day Sale! Bring your family and friends and make the most of this thrilling shopping experience. Don’t miss out on the best deals—head to SM City Marikina and score amazing discounts now!

For more updates, follow SM City Marikina on Facebook. See you at the sale!

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Philippines Strengthens Commitment to Sustainable Growth Through Farm Tourism

Philippines Strengthens Commitment to Sustainable Growth Through Farm Tourism

Thursday, March 13, 2025

The Department of Tourism (DOT), led by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth through farm tourism at the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC). The three-day event was held at KCC Mall in General Santos City, South Cotabato, bringing together experts, policymakers, farmers, and tourism stakeholders.

Promoting Sustainable Farm Tourism in General Santos City

With the theme “Innovations in Farm Tourism: Cultivating Growth and Sustainability,” the conference highlighted General Santos City’s potential as a leading farm tourism destination. The DOT, in partnership with the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST), showcased innovative bio-diversified farming initiatives, including the city’s emerging grape farming industry.

Secretary Frasco Highlights Farm Tourism’s Role in Economic Growth

In her keynote address, Secretary Frasco emphasized farm tourism’s transformative impact on rural development, food security, and cultural preservation.

“At the heart of farm tourism lies a simple yet powerful idea: our farms are more than just places of production. They are living landscapes of culture, history, and sustainability—where traditions are passed down, innovation takes root, and communities find new pathways to prosperity,” she stated.

She further highlighted President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to farm tourism through the National Tourism Development Plan, which aims to empower local communities and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth

Frasco reiterated the DOT’s dedication to farm tourism as a key pillar of the country’s tourism strategy. She emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and private stakeholders to ensure the sector’s sustainability and long-term growth.

“By embracing our agricultural heritage and unlocking new opportunities in farm tourism, we cultivate a future where agriculture and tourism bring prosperity to our rural communities—while preserving these vital livelihoods for generations to come,” she said.

Transition to Baguio City for the Next PIFTC

A major highlight of the event was the ceremonial turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next PIFTC. Secretary Frasco, alongside ISST Chairperson and former DOT Secretary Mina Gabor and General Santos Councilor Virgie Tiongson Llido, presided over the transition, underscoring the importance of continuity in farm tourism promotion.

The 8th PIFTC successfully reinforced the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable farm tourism. With ongoing efforts from the DOT and key stakeholders, rural communities stand to benefit from economic growth, cultural preservation, and sustainable farming practices. As the country looks forward to the next PIFTC in Baguio City, the future of farm tourism in the Philippines remains promising.

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