PLDT Home's Fiber Fest all set for a grand Finale celebration

PLDT Home's Fiber Fest all set for a grand Finale celebration

Friday, June 27, 2025

PLDT’s pioneering broadband festival concludes its tour on June 28

PLDT Home brings its pioneering broadband festival to a powerful close as Fiber Fest 2025 culminates with it grandest event yet – a full-day spectacle of connectivity, entertainment and community spirit – on June 28 in Pasay City.

From Luzon to Visayas and Mindanao, Fiber Fest has empowered Filipino communities with fast, reliable and accessible fiber connectivity. The Pasay leg Finale is set to raise the bar with a culminating celebration highlighting breakthrough offers and unforgettable community experiences.

Pop power also meets sports stardom at the Finale event with a headline performance by P-pop phenomenon Eleven11 and special participation of volleyball icons of the PLDT High Speed Hitters Mika Reyes, Jessey de Leon, Kim Fajardo, Kath Arado, and Kiesha Bedonia.

“Fiber Fest is a celebration of how far we have come, not just in technology but in our mission to empower every Filipino home nationwide. With every Fiber Fest leg, we are not just providing broadband solutions but building bridges to empower dreams, passions, and opportunities as we enable better and reliable digital access in every community,” says Patrick Tang, First Vice President and Head of Home Acquisition Marketing.

A Festival Built on Community Connection

Over the past months, Fiber Fest 2025 has travelled around Luzon, drawing thousands of families in every city.

Last March, Fiber Fest kicked off in Pasig City with a massive community turnout, exclusive broadband deals, and exciting rewards all in one event.

Fiber Fest also treated Batanguenos and Kapampangans with interactive exhibits and fun activities, highlighting the impact of connectivity and better digital access in the regions.

In Cavite and Bulacan, the Fiber Fest tour brought the best fiber experience to underserved areas – bridging digital gaps with high-speed solutions and the promise of same-day connectivity.

Fiber Fest also drew crowds in different parts of Visayas and Mindanao through special on-ground events, local contests and major raffle prizes that created buzz across cities.

All these regional runs brought PLDT Home Fiber closer to families.

The Finale Run Highlights

All roads are leading to Don Carlos Village in Pasay City this weekend, where Fiber Fest concludes its tour with a jam-packed event featuring exclusive promos, non-stop entertainment and prizes.

Strong, Reliable Connections

The Fiber Fest Finale will bring exclusive offers including Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 and the newest products of PLDT Home – Fiber Prepaid and Always On.

PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid offers families with flexibility and stability of a dedicated fiber connection, giving them freedom to enjoy digital access as they need it.

The PLDT Home Always On service provides a hybrid modem that combines the power of fiber and LTE in one device, a groundbreaking solution that ensures uninterrupted connectivity for subscribers, especially during unexpected fiber outages.

Fiber Fest also gives communities a chance to win life-changing prizes with PLDT Home’s One Mega Giveaway (OMG) where subscribers get a chance to win a brand-new Toyota Fortuner, P1 Million cash, or free PLDT Home Fiber subscription for life.

Top-notch Entertainment

Capping off a nationwide hunt for the country’s next viral dance sensation, the much-awaited Grand Finals of the Tiktok Star Search will happen at the Fiber Fest Finale.

Crowd favorite activities such as celebrity performances and games are also expected to bring thrill and excitement to festival goers.

As the country’s first and only broadband festival, Fiber Fest became a unique movement that highlights the life-changing impact of digital access for Filipino families. More importantly, it has become a platform for the celebration and empowerment of many communities.

As Pasay City takes the final spotlight, Fiber Fest signs off with a strong promise: a future of fast, reliable and inclusive internet for all.

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GCash and PNP-ACG Team Up to Strengthen Fight Against Cybercrime

GCash and PNP-ACG Team Up to Strengthen Fight Against Cybercrime

Cybercriminals may be getting smarter, but so are the defenders of the digital space. In a strong push for online safety, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has partnered with GCash to intensify the fight against scams, fraud, and online exploitation. Through joint digital patrols and undercover operations, the partnership has already led to the arrest of several individuals involved in major cyber offenses—from child trafficking to SIM card fraud.

Rescuing Victims of Online Exploitation

In one high-impact operation, the PNP-ACG’s Anti-TIP/OSAEC team rescued a minor who had been trafficked through a popular social media platform. The suspect had arranged a hotel meet-up between the victim and a potential client, unaware that law enforcement was already tracking the illicit activity.

The suspect now faces charges under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act (RA 9208) and its amendment, RA 10364, underscoring law enforcement’s dedication to protecting vulnerable Filipinos from online sexual abuse and exploitation.

Cracking Down on SIM Fraud and Scams

The PNP-ACG also apprehended individuals caught selling pre-registered SIM cards, a common tool used in online scams and phishing schemes. These illegal SIMs allow fraudsters to hide their identity, making fraudulent financial transactions nearly impossible to trace.

The arrested suspects are facing charges under the SIM Registration Act (RA 11934), the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175), and the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA). These coordinated crackdowns aim to disrupt the operations of cybercriminals who put Filipinos’ digital safety at risk.

GCash’s Commitment to Online Safety

As the country’s top mobile wallet platform, GCash is doubling down on its responsibility to keep users safe from cybercrime.

“Digital technology should uplift, not exploit. That’s why GCash is stepping up its efforts to collaborate with authorities like the PNP-ACG to keep Filipinos secure while transacting online,” said a GCash spokesperson.

GCash continues to educate users to:

• Never share their MPIN or OTP.
• Avoid clicking on suspicious links.

Remember that GCash will never ask for personal details via private messages.

How to Report Scams and Suspicious Activity

The public is urged to stay vigilant and report any online fraud attempts through the following hotlines:

PNP-ACG: (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 | Email: acg@pnp.gov.ph

GCash Help Center: help.gcash.com

GCash Chatbot Gigi: Visit the GCash website and type “I want to report a scam”

GCash Hotline: Dial 2882

Protecting Every Filipino Online

With cybercrime tactics becoming more advanced, partnerships like that of PNP-ACG and GCash are critical in safeguarding Filipinos online. As digital transactions continue to be part of daily life, everyone has a role to play—by staying cautious, reporting suspicious activity, and protecting personal data.

For more details on how GCash is keeping users safe, visit www.gcash.com

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Achieve Breakthroughs with the realme GT 7 Series

Achieve Breakthroughs with the realme GT 7 Series

Boasting powerful features and flagship-level performance, the realme GT 7 Series empowers fans to take a leap and keep the Power Within Reach

Change is often scary, but it usually holds space for growth and courage. Whether it’s shifting career, choosing to live independently, or prioritizing passion over career, exploring something new always requires thoughtful consideration and a lot of preparation, but it can also lead to something deeply fulfilling and meaningful.

As fans prepare to take that leap, it’s important to surround themselves with the right people and tools to make the transition smoother, more thrilling, and seamless. With the breakthrough performance of the realme GT 7 Series, they can keep the Power Within Reach and take a bolder step toward their biggest dreams.

Below are some tips to consider when deciding to take a bold move.

Create with Intention

Not everyone is privileged enough to intertwine passion and career. Some have to choose between the two, and deciding to break free from old routines in favor of passion isn’t a choice to take lightly. There are far too many things to consider and weigh carefully. But as cliché as it may sound, sometimes, not everything that’s lost is truly lost. After all, the dancing hand of blessing does not play favorites, especially for those who do things from the heart.

So, whether it’s finally choosing photography, baking, content creation, or any other artistic pursuit over the daily grind of a 9-to-5 job, one can rest assured that something meaningful often awaits. The good thing is that the realme GT 7 Series is equipped with a 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), allowing users to document their artistic masterpieces in crisp and clear detail. Paired with AI features such as AI 2K Live Photos for a livelier and more expressive photo, and AI glare removal that eliminates unwanted bright reflections, users' passion and creative vision can surely shine even in the dark.

Ask the Right Questions

Some are looking for signs, others for answers. But when it comes to switching careers, people often get clarity and make intentional decisions when they ask the right questions. From the shallows of the ‘whats’ to the depths of the ‘whys,’ a person’s quality of questions shapes the quality of their decisions.

But there’s no shame in not knowing the right questions right away, just as there’s no shame in not having any answers. For anyone at the crossroads, lost and confused, there’s comfort in the stories of others. They can turn to blogs, podcasts, or TED Talks to find solace in the stories shared online by those who were once in their shoes.

Whatever their go-to platform for advice, users can rely on the realme GT 7 Series’ huge 7000mAh battery to keep them company from sunset to sunrise. They won’t also have to worry about lags or delays when switching between apps, saving relatable video content, or taking screenshots of excerpts that hit the feels, because the realme GT 7 Series’ up to 24GB RAM and massive storage (512GB on the GT 7 Dream Edition and GT 7; 256GB on the GT 7T), can handle them all and more with ease.

Know the Pros and Cons – and Be Ready for Both

Even the best-laid plans can fall apart without the proper preparation. For those stepping into independence for the first time, it’s important to think beyond freedom and take into account the challenges and struggles that come with it. From budgeting and grocery shopping to managing emergencies and fixing things around the house, independent living demands not just self-reliance, but also the right tools to support the journey.

That’s where having a dependable digital companion makes all the difference. When life demands more, the realme GT 7 and realme GT 7 Dream Edition step up with flagship-level performance powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400e processor, which is designed to help users multitask effortlessly, manage their to-do lists efficiently, and stay sharp and productive through it all.

Moreover, it also supports AI planner, a first-of-its-kind smart scheduler from realme that enables users to manage daily tasks with a simple double tap. This allows fans to easily keep track of their schedule, whether it's a work meeting or a spontaneous gathering with friends.

For fans ready to make a bold move, the realme GT Series can be their everyday partner for progress, empowering them to break through self-imposed limits and level up. The realme GT 7 is priced at PHP 37,999, while the realme GT 7T retails at PHP 29,999, available in IceSense Black and IceSense Blue colorways. Meanwhile, the high-end variant, the realme GT 7 Dream Edition, stuns in Aston Martin's Racing Green colorway and is priced at PHP 39,999. The Series is also available in realme partner stores nationwide.

For more updates and detailed announcements about realme and the realme GT7 Series, visit realme’s official website and follow its Facebook page.

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Sure Lasap Flavors and Kitchen Camaraderie Take Center Stage at Knorr Professional’s Stir-Fry Fest

Sure Lasap Flavors and Kitchen Camaraderie Take Center Stage at Knorr Professional’s Stir-Fry Fest

Where bold flavors meet Filipino culinary pride — Knorr Professional teams up with star chefs to bring the heat with Team Sure Lasap.

Something delicious was cooking in the heart of the metro as Knorr Professional turned up the heat with its highly anticipated Stir-Fry Fest, held at Whitespace Manila. But this wasn’t just any culinary event — it was an immersive celebration of flavor, creativity, and the spirit of Filipino cooking, all made even better with the official introduction of Team Sure Lasap.

Composed of some of the country’s most beloved culinary figures — Ninong Ry, Chef Rosebud Benitez-Velasco, Chef JR Royol, Chef Boy Logro, Chef Pipo Aluning, and Chef Ken Cacho — Team Sure Lasap brought their unique personalities and kitchen skills to the forefront, creating an unforgettable experience for chefs, food entrepreneurs, and culinary enthusiasts.

Stir-Fry With a Twist: Flavor Meets Innovation

Guests were treated to an energetic, hands-on cooking experience with live demos, tastings, and one-on-one interactions with the chefs. The stars of the show? The bold, aromatic stir-fry dishes made with Knorr Professional Sure Lasap — an all-in-one seasoning powder developed specifically for foodservice kitchens.

Infused with real garlic and chicken, Knorr Sure Lasap was designed to deliver consistent, crave-worthy flavor across a wide range of dishes — from Pancit Guisado to Fried Rice and everything in between. It’s a game-changer for busy kitchens aiming to elevate taste without complicating workflow.

“Many chefs rely on the same flavor bases, but that can limit innovation,” shared Chef Ken Cacho during the event. “Sure Lasap makes it easier to experiment while still achieving that rich, homemade taste.”

A Culinary Playground for Pros

The venue was transformed into a bustling cooking arena, with interactive stations where attendees got their aprons dirty alongside Team Sure Lasap. Each station was a flavor-packed adventure — a true reminder of how cooking, when done right, becomes a joyful, collaborative experience.

For food entrepreneurs and kitchen teams, the event offered more than just inspiration. It introduced a dependable kitchen partner in Knorr Sure Lasap — one that supports creativity, consistency, and speed, all while delivering the taste Filipino diners love.

More Than a Product — It’s a Movement

According to Monica Reyes, Country Marketing Manager of Unilever Food Solutions Philippines, the event was about more than showcasing a new product.

“Knorr Sure Lasap is made for real kitchens. It supports the everyday hustle of foodservice professionals, helping them create flavorful dishes with ease. Through Stir-Fry Fest, we wanted to highlight the passion and diversity of Filipino chefs, brought to life by our amazing Team Sure Lasap.”

The Stir-Fry Fest marks just the beginning of Knorr Professional’s mission to uplift and empower the local foodservice industry. Whether you're a chef, restaurant owner, or home cook looking to level up your menu, Knorr Sure Lasap offers a shortcut to rich, delicious meals that keep customers coming back.

Ready to Stir Things Up in Your Kitchen?

Discover how Knorr Professional can transform your kitchen game. Follow them for recipes, chef stories, and exclusive culinary events at www.ufs.com

and on social media @unileverfoodsolutions_ph and Unilever Food Solutions Philippines on Facebook

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Drew and Iya Arellano with Their Kids Join BPI AIA as New Brand Ambassadors for Holistic Health

Drew and Iya Arellano with Their Kids Join BPI AIA as New Brand Ambassadors for Holistic Health

The Arellanos champion family wellness and smart financial habits in BPI AIA’s new "Rethink Healthy" campaign.

Celebrity couple Drew Arellano and Iya Villania, together with their five children, are now the official brand ambassadors of BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation (BPI AIA). Their partnership marks the launch of the company’s new “Rethink Healthy” campaign—a movement designed to inspire Filipino families to embrace a more holistic, practical, and sustainable approach to health and well-being.

Well-known for their active lifestyle, strong family values, and down-to-earth parenting, the Arellanos embody what it truly means to live a healthy, balanced life—physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.

“BPI AIA is proud to welcome the Arellano family to help us inspire more Filipinos to ‘Rethink Healthy’ not just as a goal, but as a way of life,” says Karen Custodia, CEO of BPI AIA.

A New Definition of Healthy: Mind, Body, and Financial Peace of Mind

While many Filipinos still view "being healthy" as merely physical fitness, the 2025 AIA Philippines “Rethink Healthy” Study reveals a deeper picture:

• 52% of Filipinos associate health with physical well-being
• 30% consider mental health essential
• 12% cite financial health
• 59% say financial stress is their biggest worry

With these findings in mind, BPI AIA’s campaign highlights the importance of holistic health—encouraging Filipino families to take small, intentional steps toward a more balanced lifestyle.

“Health isn’t just about workouts or diet plans. It’s about peace of mind, security, and the little daily choices that help us feel whole,” shares Iya.

The Arellanos: Leading by Example in Everyday Wellness

From early morning workouts to budget planning and playful outdoor routines with the kids, the Arellanos demonstrate how simple, consistent habits can lead to long-term well-being.

“For us, healthy means balance—physically, emotionally, and financially,” says Drew. “Whether it’s eating nutritious meals or securing our kids’ future with insurance, it’s about making mindful choices every day.”

How the Arellanos "Rethink Healthy":

Physical Health: Fun family games, bike rides, home workouts

Mental Wellness: Quiet moments, prayer, screen-free bonding

Financial Fitness: Budgeting, savings, and life insurance with BPI AIA

Family Routines: Cooking together, bedtime routines, digital discipline

“Wellness isn’t complicated—it’s about finding what works for your family,” Drew adds.

Empowering Filipino Families to Take Charge of Their Health

With five children and busy schedules, Drew and Iya understand the daily challenges Filipino parents face. That’s why their partnership with BPI AIA is rooted in real-life solutions, not perfection.

“We want to give our kids the best future,” says Iya. “That includes teaching them about money, prioritizing health, and protecting their dreams through smart planning.”

Together with BPI AIA, the Arellanos aim to make holistic health more relatable and achievable—whether it's drinking more water, saving for emergencies, or simply spending quality time as a family.

Start Small, Live Better: Join the "Rethink Healthy" Movement

BPI AIA invites every Filipino family to take that first step—no matter how small—towards a healthier, more secure future. With guidance from role models like Drew and Iya Arellano, the journey toward holistic well-being has never felt more doable.

Because a healthier tomorrow starts with today’s small choices.

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Canon Makes Back-to-School Brighter with Affordable, High-Performance Printers for Students

Canon Makes Back-to-School Brighter with Affordable, High-Performance Printers for Students

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Canon’s “Print Your Way to A+” campaign launches exciting deals, rewards, and campus events for the school year

As the academic year kicks off, Canon Marketing Philippines is empowering students with practical, cost-effective printing solutions that support both academic and creative pursuits. Through its Print Your Way to A+ campaign and the ongoing Canon Campus Tour 2025, Canon is bringing its top-performing MegaTank and PIXMA printers closer to Filipino students ensuring high-quality, low-cost printing right in their study spaces.

Held at Marco Polo Ortigas, Canon’s recent media event spotlighted how students can thrive in school with reliable, budget-friendly printers that offer easy maintenance, wireless printing, and huge ink savings. Canon also unveiled major updates designed to lighten the load for students and families alike, including:

• Lower ink prices across PIXMA MegaTank printers
• An expanded Canon Rewards program, now redeemable at over 400 merchants nationwide via Giftaway e-gift certificates
• The new Ink Bundle Promo, which gives buyers of select PIXMA MegaTank models (G2730, G3730, G4770, G3780, and G4780) a free set of GI-71s inks until September 30, 2025

“We recognize that students face increasing academic demands while managing limited resources,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President and CEO of Canon Marketing Philippines. “Our back-to-school campaign is all about giving them tools that work hard—just like they do.”

Smarter Printing for Smarter Students

During the event, student leaders and media guests experienced firsthand the ease and efficiency of Canon’s PIXMA and MAXIFY MegaTank printers. Designed for high-volume printing, the MAXIFY MegaTank can churn out up to 21,000 color pages or 9,000 black pages in economy mode that is perfect for notes, assignments, and presentations.

Other standout features included:

• Wireless connectivity for printing straight from phones and tablets
• Auto two-sided printing to save paper
• Compact designs ideal for small dorms or home study corners
• Canon Print App integration, which lets users track rewards points and manage printing remotely

Supporting Mental Wellness in Education

Adding heart to the tech-focused event was guest speaker Riyan Portuguez, better known as “Your Millennial Psychologist,” who shared insights on mental wellness and academic resilience. Her talk reminded attendees that thriving in school isn’t just about having the right tools—it’s also about taking care of mental health.

Canon Campus Tour 2025: Coming to a School Near You

The Canon Campus Tour 2025 is already underway, with its first leg held at De La Salle University. Canon will continue visiting top schools in Metro Manila, offering interactive demos, exclusive deals, and fun activities:

• Centro Escolar Integrated School – July 3–4
• De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Taft) – July 9–10
• FEU High School – July 23–24
• University of Santo Tomas – Week of August 4
• Assumption College – Week of August 11
• Ateneo de Manila University – Week of August 18
• Miriam College & Lyceum of the Philippines University – Week of August 25

From everyday printing to creative projects and student wellness, Canon is showing up for students in more ways than one. Don’t miss your campus stop!

For more information, visit the Canon Philippines Campus Tour 2025 official page and follow Canon Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and announcements.

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Champion Bags: A Smarter Plastic Choice for a Sustainable Future

Champion Bags: A Smarter Plastic Choice for a Sustainable Future

In a world drowning in plastic waste, Champion Bags offers a practical and meaningful way for Filipinos to make a difference. As Thailand’s leading eco-friendly trash bag brand, trusted in over 20,000 stores, Champion Bags is finally arriving in the Philippines. The launch was solidified through a contract signing event in Bangkok, marking an exciting step towards a cleaner, more responsible future for Filipino households.

A Mission Rooted in Purpose

Sustainability is not merely a business trend but a personal responsibility for Joshua Abrera Janairo, the founder of Sustainable Strategic and the visionary who introduced Champion Bags to the Philippines.

“I’ve always been an eco-conscious consumer. During my graduate studies, sustainability was a central theme, and my professors instilled in me the importance of integrating it into business. Consumers today are more informed than ever, and I believe now is the best time to introduce products that are both purposeful and sustainable,” he shares.

Champion Bags was introduced to Janairo in late 2023 during a meeting with a retail partner, who had seen the brand’s success in Thailand. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable waste solutions in the Philippines, he took on the challenge of making it accessible to Filipino consumers.

By July 2024, Sustainable Strategic, Janairo’s Singapore-based holding company, focused on sustainable Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) distribution, secured regional distribution rights for Champion Bags, ensuring that Filipinos have access to an eco-friendly trash bag that truly makes a difference.

Why Champion Bags?

Many “eco-friendly” trash bags available today still use oxo-degradable plastics, which were once seen as a sustainable alternative. However, research has since proven that these break down into harmful microplastics, which pollute oceans, soil, and even enter our food chain. This is why major markets like the EU and Canada have banned oxo-degradable plastics altogether since 2021 and 2024, respectively.

Instead of following the biodegradable route, which requires specialized facilities not yet widely available in the Philippines, Champion Bags takes a smarter approach by using recycled plastics in line with circular economy principles. This means:

Less plastic waste – By repurposing existing plastic, Champion Bags helps keep waste out of landfills and oceans.

Stronger, more durable bags – Unlike some biodegradable alternatives that easily tear, Champion Bags are designed for reliable, everyday use.

A solution that works NOW – Without requiring new waste processing infrastructure, these bags can be seamlessly integrated into the existing system.

“One of the biggest things I’ve learned about sustainability is that it must be adapted to a market’s unique conditions. In the Philippines, we rely on landfill-based waste management. Instead of waiting for large-scale infrastructure changes, we need immediate solutions that work within our reality,” Janairo reveals.

Join the Movement: #BagABetterFuture

Champion Bags is about changing how we think about waste, making sustainability easy, accessible, and truly impactful.

Made from Recycled Plastics – A smarter choice that minimizes environmental impact.

Durable & Reliable – Strong, tear-resistant, and leak-proof for daily household and business use.

Scented & Unscented Variants – Available in Strawberry, Apple, and Lavender, plus a fragrance-free option.

Champion Bags isn’t just a product—it’s a movement. Through campaigns like #BagABetterFuture and #PlasticWithPurpose, Filipinos are encouraged to make small, everyday choices that lead to a bigger impact. Champion Bags officially launches this April 2025. Available in major retail stores and online. Make the switch today and be part of the change!

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Last Call for Entries to the 73rd Palanca Awards

Last Call for Entries to the 73rd Palanca Awards

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Don’t miss the chance to be recognized in the field of literature! Submit your work to the 73rd Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (CPMA) before the deadline on June 30, 2025.

Official contest rules and entry forms are available at the Palanca Awards website under the Contest page.

The Palanca Awards invites all Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens of all ages to participate, based whether locally or abroad. Authors are allowed to submit only one (1) entry per category:

● English Division – Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essay, Poetry, Poetry Written for Children, One-act Play, and Full-length Play;

● Filipino Division – Maikling Kuwento, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata, Sanaysay, Tula, Tula Para sa mga Bata, Dulang May Isang Yugto, Dulang Ganap ang Haba, and Dulang Pampelikula;

● Regional Languages Division – Short Story-Cebuano, Short Story-Hiligaynon, and Short Story-Ilokano;

● Kabataan Division – Kabataan Essay (English) and Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino)

The Kabataan Division, dedicated to young writers under 18 years old, is accepting submissions of informal, personal essays on the theme: “AI is rapidly transforming daily life, revolutionizing how we learn, analyze information, and solve problems. How can I effectively use AI to enhance learning while maintaining personal responsibility, independent thought, and ethical integrity?” for Kabataan Essay (English) and “Mabilis na binabago ng AI ang pang-araw-araw na buhay, binabago ang paraan ng ating pag-aaral, pagsusuri ng impormasyon, at paglutas ng mga suliranin. Paano ko epektibong magagamit ang AI upang mas mapahusay ang pag-aaral habang pinapanatili ang personal na responsibilidad, malayang pag-iisip, at integridad sa etika?” for Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino).

Works eligible for the contest include those that were first published or produced between 1 June 2024 and 30 June 2025, as well as unpublished or unproduced works. For the Dulang Pampelikula category, only unproduced works are eligible. Entries that have received a prize in another contest before midnight of 30 June 2025 are not qualified.

All submissions must be done online through the Palanca Awards website. The Carlos Palanca Foundation will not accept printed or email submissions for any categories.

Winners will be honored in a special ceremony later this year. Stay tuned for further announcements by following the CPMA website and CPMA Facebook. For further inquires please contact Ms. Ester Alfaro via email at cpfoundation@palancaawards.com.ph or by landline at +632 8478 7996. You may also call or leave a message at +63917 828 2762 (+63917 828 CPMA) to ensure your inquiry is acknowledged and addressed promptly.

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HUAWEI Partners with RUNRIO for Community Run Event to Take ‘Active Rings’ Movement to Manila

HUAWEI Partners with RUNRIO for Community Run Event to Take ‘Active Rings’ Movement to Manila

HUAWEI forwards its global movement to inspire communities to live healthier lifestyles as it brings its ‘Active Rings’ initiative to the Philippines. This marks the next major stop in HUAWEI’s worldwide series of high-energy fitness events across the globe.

As part of its ‘Active Rings’ fitness campaign, HUAWEI is partnering with renowned running events organizer RUNRIO to host a community run event. Happening on June 28 at Block 20, SM Mall of Asia Complex, the event will serve as a celebration of movement, fitness, and joy powered by HUAWEI’s innovative technology.

Enjoy Every Movement and Every Moment with HUAWEI’s Active Rings

‘Active Rings,’ a fresh take on HUAWEI’s successful ‘Light Up Your Rings’ campaign, redefines how the community connects with their health. Centered around the ‘Enjoy Your Moment’ philosophy, the initiative helps communities to keep moving in an increasingly fitness-focused world. It invites people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels to stay active anywhere, anytime, and anyway, not for perfection, but for joy, consistency, and personal progress.

HUAWEI encourages users everywhere to participate in the global movement with city-specific workouts. Some cities that have participated in the movement included Berlin, Paris, Mexico City, Shenzhen, and Madrid.

Run to Triumph with HUAWEI Wearables

The community run event will also spotlight HUAWEI wearable innovations, including the newly-released HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series. HUAWEI’s wearable devices feature the smart activity rings, which are designed to motivate users to keep moving throughout the day in order to meet their fitness goals. The blue ring reflects users’ movement, the yellow ring tracks workouts or aerobic activities, while the red ring shows the calories users burned. Every completed ring is a mini victory. Together, they build a sustainable rhythm of movement, strength, and self-care.

During the event, participants will get to put HUAWEI’s wearable devices to the test by wearing the smartwatches while running. Participants will be challenged to close out the activity rings during their run. More than a test of endurance, the community run event will showcase the unifying spirit of HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings’ initiative. The event provides Filipinos a chance to be part of a movement that’s transforming how the world stays active.

To learn more about HUAWEI’s ‘Active Rings’ campaign and the community run event, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

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Stream with Pride: LGBTQ+ Stories to Watch This Month

Stream with Pride: LGBTQ+ Stories to Watch This Month

This month, let Lionsgate Play bring pride to your screen.

From thrilling dramas to poignant comedies, some of the most compelling stories being told today are ones that highlight the LGBTQ+ experience. This month, we've handpicked five captivating shows and films that celebrate identity, explore relationships, and showcase the power of connection. These stories are bold, raw, and unapologetic, promising to entertain, challenge, and resonate with audiences everywhere.

Grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to stream with pride.

Killing Eve

What happens when obsession spirals into a dangerous game of cat and mouse? Killing Eve is a deliciously twisted thriller that blurs the line between hunter and hunted. Following the story of Eve (Sandra Oh), a bored MI5 officer, and Villanelle (Jodie Comer), a flamboyant, unhinged assassin, their dynamic is nothing short of electrifying. From sudden plot twists to emotionally charged encounters, the series explores complexities of desire, loyalty, and morality. Will their intoxicating connection survive the violence surrounding them, or will it lead to their undoing?

High Town

Revisit the shadows of Cape Cod in High Town, a gritty crime series that dives deep into addiction, redemption, and the search for truth. We follow Jackie Quinones (Monica Raymund), a lesbian federal agent battling her own demons while investigating a murder tied to Cape Cod's opioid epidemic. With stunning cinematography and an intense emotional core, High Town serves up suspense, raw emotion, and a lead character whose flaws make her all the more human. Can Jackie crack the case while saving herself, or will the darkness consume her?

Casual

Love, sex, and life get messy in the brilliantly witty dramedy, Casual. This series takes a closer look at family dynamics through the unconventional relationship of Valerie (Michaela Watkins), a recently divorced therapist, her tech-savvy yet aimless brother Alex (Tommy Dewey), and her teenage daughter Laura (Tara Lynne Barr). While not strictly an LGBTQ+ storyline, the show's fearless exploration of romantic and sexual fluidity gives it a fresh edge. Whether it’s navigating modern dating or learning to support each other, Casual serves a hearty dose of both comedy and introspection.

Emmanuelle

Sensual and groundbreaking, Emmanuelle is a cult classic that explores sexuality and self-discovery without fear or apology. Following the adventures of its titular character (played by Noémie Merlant), the film challenges taboos and revels in the liberation of desire. It’s bold, it’s provocative, and it’s a story that paved the way for exploring themes of sexual identity with candor. For fans of artful storytelling and unapologetic passion, Emmanuelle is a must-watch.

A Very English Scandal

What if the truth was more shocking than fiction? Based on a true story, A Very English Scandal dives into the outrageous 1970s political scandal involving British MP Jeremy Thorpe. Hugh Grant delivers a career-defining performance as Thorpe, a man desperate to keep his relationship with Norman Scott (Ben Whishaw), a secret at all costs. This darkly humorous drama blends satire with genuine heartbreak, illuminating the devastating consequences of societal oppression.

Celebrate diversity and connection. Watch these captivating LGBTQ stories on Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home and Smart.

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