5 Reasons Smart Travelers Always Get Travel Insurance

Friday, October 24, 2025


Because Peace of Mind Is the Best Travel Companion

You’ve booked your dream destination, packed your bags, and counted down the days but even the most carefully planned trip can take an unexpected turn. From flight delays to lost luggage, surprises can happen when you least expect them, especially during the busy holiday season.

That’s why smart travelers always have one extra thing on their checklist: travel insurance. With the right coverage, you can explore the world confidently, knowing that you’re protected from financial stress and unexpected detours.

This year, BDO Insure is reminding Filipinos that a truly worry-free vacation starts with preparation. Here’s why travel insurance should be as essential as your passport and boarding pass.

1. Accidents and Illnesses Can Happen Anywhere

No one wants to get sick or hurt while traveling, but if it happens, travel insurance has you covered.

With BDO Insure, emergency medical coverage of up to ₱500,000 starts at just ₱350. You can also choose to upgrade your plan for pre-existing conditions or extreme activities like skiing, diving, or hiking, perfect for thrill-seekers and adventurers.

2. Flight Delays and Cancellations Are More Common Than You Think

Missed connections and last-minute cancellations are every traveler’s nightmare. Thankfully, insurance can help soften the blow.

If your flight is delayed for six hours or more, you can claim compensation. If your trip gets canceled, you may be reimbursed for non-refundable costs like prepaid airline tickets, hotel bookings, and transfers.

3. Plans Change — Sometimes Beyond Your Control

From family emergencies to extreme weather, life happens. When you’re forced to cut your trip short or cancel altogether, travel insurance ensures you don’t lose the money you’ve already spent.

BDO Insure’s plans can reimburse non-refundable expenses within your coverage limits giving you flexibility and peace of mind no matter what comes your way.

4. Luggage Issues Are All Too Familiar

Few things ruin a trip faster than missing luggage. If your baggage is delayed or damaged, travel insurance can cover essentials like clothes and toiletries so you can still enjoy your trip while waiting.

And if your suitcase is confirmed lost or stolen, you can claim the value of your belongings including passports, cameras, and electronics up to your policy’s limits.

5. You Get 24/7 Global Assistance

Whether you lose your passport in Paris or need to find a hospital in Bangkok, having 24/7 multilingual assistance can make a world of difference.

BDO Insure’s global hotline connects travelers to emergency support anytime, anywhere because peace of mind should never be out of reach.

Travel Smart, Travel Protected

Skipping insurance might save you a few pesos, but dealing with an emergency abroad could cost you thousands. With BDO Insure, travelers can choose budget-friendly packages from top providers tailored to every kind of trip from quick weekend getaways to long-haul adventures.

Throughout October, you can even score special discounts on travel insurance during the BDO Travel Sale online. And if you’re heading to Europe, BDO Insure offers Schengen Visa-compliant plans with COVID-19 coverage.

Your journey deserves protection. Secure your plans, safeguard your memories, and travel with confidence because when it comes to adventure, peace of mind should always come along for the ride.
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The Icon Returns: McSpicy Is Back to Bring the Heat at McDonald’s!


The Comeback We’ve All Been Waiting For

Spice lovers, rejoice! Your favorite fiery burger is finally back! After three long years, McDonald’s Philippines is bringing back the legendary McSpicy, the bold, flavor-packed chicken sandwich that fans have been craving nonstop since its debut.

Starting October 22, 2025, you can once again bite into that crispy, juicy, spice-loaded goodness that made McSpicy a certified cult favorite. But here’s the catch. It’s only back for a limited time, so better grab it while it’s hot (literally!).

A Fiery Legacy Since 2013

When the McSpicy first hit the McDonald’s menu in 2013, it instantly became the go-to burger for Filipinos who wanted more than the usual. Its bold, peppery kick and crunchy chicken fillet earned it a loyal following, one that never stopped asking for its return.

“It’s an icon for spicy food lovers, and fans never stopped looking for it, especially on social media,” said Ashley Santillan-Delgado, Marketing Director of McDonald’s Philippines. “There’s a constant clamor for McSpicy’s return, and we’re happy to give our customers what they want.”

The McSpicy is more than just a menu item, it’s a statement. A crispy, golden whole chicken fillet, layered with fresh lettuce, creamy mayo, and that signature kick of spice, all tucked in a toasted sesame seed bun. It’s proof that McDonald’s isn’t afraid to turn up the heat.

The Ultimate Burger for Heat Seekers

If you’ve missed the McSpicy, now’s your chance to relive the fiery goodness. And if you’re new to the hype? Prepare for your first bite of heat that balances spice and flavor just right.

“The McSpicy returns to honor its loyal fans who can’t wait to satisfy their spicy cravings,” shared Santillan-Delgado. “But even first-timers will fall in love with its real heat and bold flavor on a generous chicken fillet.”

Pair it with McDonald’s World Famous Fries and an ice-cold drink to cool down the spice, the perfect combo for any mood or craving.

Available Nationwide for a Limited Time Only

The McSpicy officially returns to all McDonald’s stores nationwide starting October 22, 2025. Whether you’re dining in, taking out, driving through, or ordering via McDelivery, you can finally enjoy the burger everyone’s been talking about.

Get extra-hot deals on the McSpicy through the McDonald’s App! Download it to score exclusive vouchers and limited-time promos, the perfect excuse to double the heat and double the fun.

A Fiery Bite of Nostalgia

For long-time fans, the McSpicy isn’t just food, it’s a throwback to late-night drive-thrus, lunch breaks with barkadas, and those moments when only something spicy can hit the spot. Its return is a delicious reminder that some legends never fade, they just come back hotter than ever.
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Max’s Celebrates 80 Years of Filipino Home, Heritage, and Hospitality

Thursday, October 23, 2025


A Legacy of Togetherness That Spans Generations

Few brands can say they’ve been part of Filipino family celebrations for eight decades — but Max’s Restaurant can. As it marks its 80th anniversary, Max’s continues to honor the warmth, hospitality, and love that began in a humble home on Scout Tuazon, where the story of Sarap to the Bones first took root.

What started in 1945, when founder Maximo Gimenez opened his home to American soldiers and served them hearty Filipino dishes, has become a household name synonymous with family gatherings, comfort food, and unforgettable memories.

“Max’s has always been more than a restaurant. It’s a feeling of being at home, of being together with family,” said Jim Fuentabella, Vice President for Marketing of Max’s Group. “This anniversary is about celebrating that shared warmth with the people who made it all possible.”

A Musical Celebration of Heritage and Heart


For its milestone year, Max’s transformed its original Scout Tuazon home into a vibrant celebration of food, music, and memories — a space where the past and present met in rhythm and flavor.

The soulful sounds of jazz filled the air, paying homage to postwar Manila’s music scene. In collaboration with New York Cubao Project, Max’s found the perfect harmony between nostalgia and modern Filipino artistry. Their tracks, “Pritong Manok” and “Dewey Blvd.”, captured the spirit of the brand’s enduring story.

Adding to the nostalgia, Max’s also introduced an original anniversary theme song titled “The Doors Are Open” — a jazz-inspired piece that celebrates the comfort of home, the passage of time, and the welcoming embrace that Max’s has offered for generations.

Heritage Meets the New Wave of Filipino Creativity


The 80th anniversary celebration also highlighted Max’s deep appreciation for craftsmanship and Filipino creativity. The restaurant partnered with modern artisans and studios including Goods From Scratch, Studio Yakal, and Ryan Reyes of Tarzeer Pictures, to reimagine Max’s legacy through art, design, and storytelling.

Goods From Scratch brought the Birthday Cake Room to life with custom pastries and cakes that merged Filipino flavors with contemporary artistry in collaboration with Max’s Corner Bakery.

Studio Yakal recreated Maximo Gimenez’s Living Room using vintage furniture and retro touches that evoked Sunday gatherings and nostalgic family moments, complete with live OPM spins from local DJs.

Ryan Reyes, alongside creatives Judd Figuerres, Gio Panlilio, and Paul Jatayna, curated the Max’s Museum,  an exhibit of rare photos, artifacts, and memorabilia tracing the brand’s humble beginnings and rich history.

A Feast of Memories: The Maximo Dining Hall & General Store


To complete the experience, Max’s introduced the Maximo Dining Hall, where guests could enjoy classic dishes in a setup inspired by the restaurant’s early days complete with vintage tableware and the brand’s signature hospitality.

Outside, open food stalls offered iconic favorites like fried chicken, kare-kare, and pancit in nostalgic takeout packaging. Meanwhile, the General Store  inspired by both the Filipino sari-sari store and the classic American general store  featured exclusive 80th anniversary merchandise that guests could take home as keepsakes.

Together, these spaces served as a living reminder of how Max’s continues to blend heritage with modern Filipino creativity, keeping its legacy alive in new and heartfelt ways.

Looking Ahead: Keeping the Heart of Home Alive


After 80 years, Max’s remains more than just a dining destination, it’s a shared story among generations of families who have celebrated life’s biggest milestones within its walls.

For Carlyn Trota-Salud, President of Max’s Restaurant, this milestone is both a reflection and a promise.

“Max’s has always been about people, the laughter, the heartwarming stories, and the memories shared over every meal,” she said. “As we look to the future, our commitment is to keep that feeling alive. We remain a brand grounded in timeless values, with the customer at our core.”

With every table set and every chicken served sarap to the bones, Max’s continues to remind us that the best memories are those made together over good food and heartfelt company.

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A Living Tapestry: 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair Showcases Filipino Creativity and Heritage


Where Tradition, Innovation, and Culture Weave Together

Step inside the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF) and you’ll immediately feel it — the hum of weaving looms, the aroma of freshly brewed local coffee, and the burst of color from hand-dyed fabrics, intricate beadwork, and finely carved wooden pieces.

Held at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall, this year’s NACF gathers more than 300 exhibitors from across the Philippines, transforming the venue into a vibrant celebration of Filipino artistry and craftsmanship.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in partnership with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the fair continues to champion the country’s creative heritage while supporting sustainable livelihoods.

A Celebration of the Country’s Creative Heartbeat

From the moment the fair opened, visitors—families, students, and collectors—flocked to witness how Filipino artisans are keeping traditions alive while embracing modern design.

Among the highlights:
  • Kalinga weavers demonstrating traditional backstrap weaving.
  • T’boli artists from South Cotabato showcasing their signature t’nalak cloth.
  • Maranaw craftsmen presenting elegant brassware and torogan-inspired décor.
  • Antique women’s cooperatives proudly displaying patadyong weaves passed down through generations.

Each booth tells a story — a piece of our cultural identity woven with skill, heart, and history.

Honoring the Masters of Filipino Craftsmanship

At the heart of NACF are the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardees, or National Living Treasures, whose presence adds depth and purpose to the event. Their demonstrations of age-old techniques inspire visitors to appreciate the enduring legacy of Filipino craftsmanship.

Through the Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs), young apprentices also share how their elders teach them to weave, carve, and mold clay by hand, a moving reminder that heritage isn’t just preserved, it’s lived.

Tradition Meets Modern Design

This year’s fair also shines a light on innovation. Curated by the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), exhibits explore how local materials can be reimagined for modern living.

Think rattan furniture with minimalist flair, bamboo lighting fixtures, and fashion accessories that fuse indigenous patterns with contemporary style. Each creation reflects how design collaboration can breathe new life into tradition — making Filipino artistry relevant for today’s market.

Hands-On Learning Through Workshops and Demos

Visitors aren’t just there to shop, they’re there to learn.

Daily workshops, live demos, and business talks give artisans, entrepreneurs, and students the chance to gain valuable insights. Experts share tips on branding, product innovation, and intellectual property, while hands-on demos by potters, weavers, and carvers bring the creative process to life.

Partnerships that Uplift Communities

The NACF’s success lies in its strong partnerships.
  • DTI-BMDPO helps artisans reach wider markets through trade promotion.
  • NCCA ensures traditional knowledge is preserved.
  • DCP bridges the gap between heritage and design.

And of course, Senator Loren Legarda remains a steadfast supporter. Her vision for the NACF is both cultural and economic empowering local artisans, especially women-led cooperatives, to sustain their families through creativity.

“Every artisan brings the story of a community,” Senator Legarda shared. “Through their hands, we see how creativity transforms lives and how culture remains our strongest foundation for progress.”

A Fair for Every Filipino


As the 7-day event unfolds, the fair buzzes with excitement — students observing traditional techniques, entrepreneurs exploring collaborations, and tourists taking home handmade treasures.

The National Arts and Crafts Fair has grown beyond being a simple marketplace. It’s now a living celebration of identity, creativity, and community — a space where tradition and innovation meet, and where every piece tells a story of Filipino pride.

Plan Your Visit

Date: October 23–29, 2025
Venue: Megatrade Halls 1–3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City
Ticket: Admission is free!


Support Filipino artisans and discover handcrafted products that celebrate our rich culture. For updates, follow DTI.BMDPO on Facebook and Instagram or email bmdpo@dti.gov.ph
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itel SUPER 26 Ultra Launches in PH with Flagship Features

A Premium Smartphone Experience That’s Surprisingly Affordable

Who says you need to spend big to enjoy flagship-level performance? This October 28, itel Philippines is launching its most advanced smartphone yet, the itel SUPER 26 Ultra via its official TikTok Shop, combining high-end design, powerful AI, and unbeatable value.

Designed for Gen Z go-getters and young professionals, this phone proves that innovation doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a smart assistant, fast processor, and sleek display, itel’s latest release is all about helping Filipinos “Enjoy Better Life” without compromise.

Performance That Goes the Distance

Under the hood, the itel SUPER 26 Ultra packs serious power. It runs on a Unisoc T7300 (6nm) processor paired with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB UFS storage, delivering smooth multitasking and impressive speed with an AnTuTu score of over 510,000.

It also features a massive 6000mAh battery for all-day use and 18W fast charging, so you can stay connected from morning to night whether you're streaming, gaming, or working on the go.

Immersive Display and Sleek Design

The 6.78-inch 3D Curved AMOLED display offers a cinematic viewing experience with a 144Hz refresh rate, 1.5K resolution, and a blinding 4500 nits peak brightness perfect for binge-watching your favorite shows, even under the Philippine sun.

Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, the SUPER 26 Ultra is also rain-proof and drop-resistant up to 1.5 meters, giving you confidence wherever you go.

Capture Every Moment with Clarity

For content creators and selfie lovers, the SUPER 26 Ultra won’t disappoint. It features a 50MP main camera and a 32MP front camera, both enhanced by AI for crisp, vivid results in any lighting condition.

Whether you’re vlogging, taking travel snaps, or capturing spontaneous moments, you’ll love how AI Sola, itel’s smart assistant, helps organize your gallery, clean up unwanted objects, and even generate cinematic vlogs in seconds.

Meet AI Sola: Your Everyday Smart Companion

The highlight of the SUPER 26 Ultra is AI Sola, itel’s in-house intelligent assistant that simplifies your smartphone experience. With Circle to Search, you can highlight anything on your screen for instant info; AI Smart Charge learns your daily habits to protect your battery; and the built-in AI tools make productivity and creativity effortless.

It’s smart, intuitive, and designed to fit the fast-paced lifestyle of today’s Filipino users.

Flagship Features Without the Flagship Price

Here’s the best part. The itel SUPER 26 Ultra delivers all these premium specs for only ₱9,399. Available nationwide and on major e-commerce platforms, the phone comes in four stylish colors: Sapphire Black Blue, Blush Pink Gold, Moonstone Silver, and Gilded White.

More than just a smartphone, the SUPER 26 Ultra is a statement of affordable innovation bringing flagship performance to everyone.

itel SUPER 26 Ultra: Built for the Digital Generation

itel continues its mission to make advanced technology accessible for all. With AI Sola, stunning performance, and elegant design, the SUPER 26 Ultra is proof that you can have it all without breaking the bank.

Get yours starting October 28, 2025, and experience what it truly means to “Enjoy Better Life” with itel.
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Piolo Pascual Shares Money Tip for OFWs Using BDO Pay

Piolo Pascual smiling while holding a smartphone and promoting BDO Pay at a white table with a small plant.

A Smart Way for Overseas Filipinos to Cut Transaction Fees

Every piso counts especially when it’s earned abroad. That’s why actor and global Pinoy icon Piolo Pascual is sharing his Alagang Kabayan money-saving tip for our hardworking Overseas Filipinos (OFWs). In his latest Facebook video, Piolo shows how combining BDO Kabayan Savings with the BDO Pay app can help OFWs cut down on transaction fees while sending money back home.

BDO Pay: One App for All Your Payments

BDO Pay makes everyday payments easy whether you’re scanning QR codes, sending money, or paying bills. You don’t even need to cash in! Simply link your BDO Kabayan Savings, other BDO bank accounts, or credit cards to get started.

Here’s the best part: when you receive a remittance through BDO Remit from abroad into your Kabayan Savings account, your next transfer to any BDO account via BDO Pay is absolutely free.

As Piolo says, “Free sa lahat ng BDO accounts, kabayan, kaya download and try mo na.”

Small Fees Add Up But They Don’t Have To

In his video, Piolo paints a familiar picture for many OFWs:

“P2,000 para kay Mama, P3,000 para kay Junior, P4,000 para kay Ate, tapos P5,000 kay Daddy.”

Each transfer may cost only ₱15, but when you send to several family members, those fees pile up fast. “Akala mo maliit, pero pag sunod-sunod, it adds up,” Piolo reminds his fellow kababayans.

He adds, “Kabayan, dahil bawat piso ay pinaghirapan mo, huwag sayangin sa pa-isa-isang fees.”

That’s why he encourages Overseas Pinoys to be smart savers and make the most out of every hard-earned peso.

How to Get Started with BDO Pay

It only takes a few steps to enjoy fee-free transfers between BDO accounts:
  1. Download the BDO Pay app from Google Play, App Store, or AppGallery.
  2. Sign up or log in using your BDO Online credentials.
  3. Link your BDO Kabayan Savings account and you’re good to go!

With these simple steps, OFWs can conveniently send support to their loved ones without worrying about extra charges.

Alagang Kabayan, Alagang Sulit

For Piolo Pascual, it’s all about being practical and caring: “Sulit ang bawat piso basta may BDO Kabayan Savings at BDO Pay ka at ang pamilya mo.”

BDO continues to champion the financial well-being of Overseas Filipinos through innovative solutions like BDO Pay, making it easier to manage funds from anywhere in the world.

So if you’re working abroad and want to stretch your remittances further, download BDO Pay and link your Kabayan Savings today. Because every peso saved is another peso for your family’s dreams.
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BTS Fans Celebrate RM, Jung Kook, and Jimin’s Birthdays at SM Malls in the East

Wednesday, October 22, 2025


It’s been a dynamite few months for BTS fans in the East!  September and October brought extra excitement as SM Malls in the East became fan havens for the BTS ARMY, celebrating the birthdays of RM, Jung Kook, and Jimin through fun, music-filled gatherings that lit up the local mall scene.

Virgo Vibes and SerendiPARK: ARMY Energy All Around

The festivities kicked off with “Virgo Vibes: RM and Jung Kook Day Fan Gathering” at SM Center Antipolo Downtown, followed by “SerendiPARK: Jimin Day Fan Gathering” at SM City San Mateo.

In partnership with ARMYs of the East PH, a passionate local fanbase, both events showcased the best of K-pop fandom culture heartfelt tributes, fan-made booths, photo walls, and exciting giveaways, all filled with the kind of love and energy only BTS fans can bring.

These gatherings weren’t just about celebrating birthdays, they were about celebrating community. From sharing fan projects to singing along to BTS hits, the events reminded everyone what it means to belong to the global ARMY family.

SM Malls: Safe Spaces for Every Fandom


SM Malls in the East continue to prove why they’re the go-to spots for fan gatherings and creative expression. With partnerships like this, SM is championing a culture where fans can connect, collaborate, and celebrate what they love in a safe, inclusive environment.

Whether you’re into K-pop, anime, gaming, or pop culture in general, there’s always something happening that brings fans together.

Up Next: Moon Bear Fan Gathering for Jin and V

The BTS celebrations aren’t stopping anytime soon! Mark your calendars for “Moon Bear: Jin and V Fan Gathering” happening on November 30 at SM City East Ortigas.

As part of the SM Fandom campaign, SM Malls in the East is inviting not just ARMYs, but all fandoms to join in the fun. It’s a celebration of music, passion, and connection, everything that makes being a fan so special.

So whether you’re Team Kim Taehyung or Worldwide Handsome Jin, get your light sticks ready and join the fun!
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Aveeno Promotes Sensitive Skin Confidence for Eczema Awareness Month


October is Eczema Awareness Month, and for many Filipinos, it’s a time to shine a light on what living with sensitive skin truly means. It’s more than just dry, itchy skin, it’s about the daily challenges, the self-conscious moments, and the courage it takes to feel confident in your own skin.

This year, Aveeno®, the trusted dermatologist-recommended skincare brand with 80 years of clinical expertise, is leading the movement with its empowering campaign, #SensitiveSkinWontStopUs a reminder that sensitive skin should never hold you back from living fully and confidently.

Science Meets Empathy: Aveeno’s Oat-Powered Care

For decades, Aveeno® has stood by those with sensitive and eczema-prone skin, combining nature’s healing power of oat with scientific innovation. This October, the brand amplifies its mission through the “#SensitiveSkinWontStopUs” campaign encouraging individuals to embrace resilience and self-love.

“Eczema is not only a skin condition; it's a journey that can challenge one's confidence and limit daily experiences,” shared Ira Santos, Marketing Manager for Aveeno®. “Through our clinically proven oat science and campaign, we aim to foster a community where sensitive skin is understood, supported, and never a barrier to living fully.”

During the campaign’s launch, Aveeno® invited real people with sensitive skin to share their stories and experiences, turning personal struggles into collective strength. The movement also reached social media through a TikTok hashtag challenge, inspiring more Filipinos to speak up about their skin journeys.

Aveeno Dermexa: The #1 Most Prescribed Product for Dermatitis

Aveeno’s dedication to skin health is backed by science. The Aveeno® Dermexa line, formulated with Triple Oat Complex and Ceramides, is now officially recognized as the #1 most prescribed product for dermatitis by dermatologists in the Philippines.

This dermatologist-approved line offers:
  • Instant itch relief upon application
  • Barrier restoration in as fast as 3 days
  • 24-hour hydration to prevent flare-ups

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mabelle Colayco, fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society, explains:

“Effective eczema management hinges on strengthening the skin barrier with scientifically backed ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and ceramides. With consistent use, individuals can reduce flare-ups and enjoy better skin health and confidence.”

Aveeno® also joined Watsons Derm Skin Activation, in partnership with the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), where experts shared practical skincare advice for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.

Real Stories of Strength and Confidence

Aveeno’s campaign celebrates real Filipinos who embody resilience and positivity despite their skin challenges including celebrity mom Coleen Garcia, fitness creator Vince Velasco, and beauty content creator Enzo Villacorta.

Enzo shared how his eczema journey taught him acceptance and self-care:

“There was a time I was ashamed of my skin. I didn’t even want to be in photos. But I’ve learned that having sensitive skin is normal — and it should never hold us back. I personally use Aveeno Skin Relief and Dermexa to help manage my skin daily.”

Everyday Care for Sensitive Skin

Beyond eczema care, Aveeno® offers a full line of products to soothe and protect all types of sensitive skin:

Aveeno® Skin Relief – Calms dry, itchy skin in as fast as 20 seconds, strengthens the skin barrier, and provides long-lasting hydration.

Aveeno® Calm + Restore – Formulated with prebiotic oat and calming feverfew for gentle, daily facial care that maintains a healthy skin barrier.

Join the Movement

This Eczema Awareness Month, Aveeno® invites everyone to share their stories using #SensitiveSkinWontStopUs and #EczemaAwarenesswithAveeno. Let’s continue building a supportive community where sensitive skin is embraced  never hidden.

Aveeno® products are available in Watsons stores nationwide, and online via Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.
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“Cat Person” on Lionsgate Play: A Chilling Look at Modern Dating Gone Wrong


Think being ghosted is the worst thing that can happen in modern dating? Think again. The new psychological thriller Cat Person, now streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home, Smart, and Cignal, dives deep into the unsettling gray areas of dating, consent, and connection in the digital age.

When Flirting Turns Frightening

What starts as a fun exchange of emojis and flirty texts quickly turns into a nightmare in Cat Person, a story that feels all too real for today’s online dating generation.

The film follows Margot (Emilia Jones), a college student who meets Robert (Nicholas Braun), an older man who often visits the movie theater where she works. Their casual chats evolve into constant messaging and romantic tension—but the spark soon fades into suspicion.

As Robert’s stories start to contradict and his messages grow more controlling, Margot’s instincts begin to scream that something’s not right. The result is a haunting exploration of how easily attraction can slip into anxiety and how blurred the line between desire and danger can become.

A Film That Holds Up a Mirror to Dating in the Digital Age

Directed by Susanna Fogel and written by Michelle Ashford, Cat Person is based on the viral 2017 New Yorker short story by Kristen Roupenian. The film doesn’t try to offer neat answers, it thrives in the gray area of relationships: those awkward silences, overanalyzed texts, and moments when we question our own instincts.

In an interview, Fogel captured the film’s haunting realism:

“Most encounters aren’t fairy tales or horror stories, they’re somewhere in between. That ambiguity is what makes modern dating so complicated.”

With Emilia Jones delivering a painfully relatable performance and Nicholas Braun (yes, Cousin Greg from Succession!) balancing charm with menace, Cat Person will make you rethink every red flag you’ve ever ignored.

Where to Watch

Cat Person is now streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play starting October 17, available through:
  • PLDT Home – offering unli-entertainment and award-winning internet speed
  • Smart – the country’s leading mobile provider
  • Cignal – via the Cignal Super app, the Philippines’ first streaming aggregator

You can also stream Lionsgate Play directly at www.lionsgateplay.com for ₱79/month with PLDT Home or ₱199/quarter with Smart.

Why You Should Watch It

If you’ve ever second-guessed a message, a date, or your own gut feeling, Cat Person will hit close to home. It’s not your typical love story, it’s a mirror to how connection, power, and fear collide in the modern world of dating apps and unread messages.

So before your next swipe, maybe take a moment to ask yourself: Do I actually like this person or do I just like that they like me?
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Pink Glitter Maya Visa Card: Style Meets Smart Banking


Move over, basic cards! The Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card is here to steal the spotlight! Known for blending finance and fashion like no other, Maya, the Philippines’ #1 digital bank and fintech ecosystem, just dropped a debit card that’s not only Instagrammable but also incredibly rewarding.

This isn’t just a card, it’s an accessory that matches your aesthetic while helping you make smarter money moves. Whether you’re buying coffee, shopping for groceries, or booking that dream getaway, the Pink Glitter card lets you spend stylishly while growing your savings.

All Glitter, No Filler 

The Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card is the perfect mix of style and substance. Its matte glitter finish looks sleek, feels smooth, and glides easily through ATMs and payment terminals. It’s designed for the go-getter who wants every swipe to sparkle.

But don’t let the looks fool you! It’s packed with serious financial perks. The card is globally accepted anywhere Visa works, so you can pay, shop, or withdraw cash worldwide. And here’s the real glow-up: it lets you earn up to 15% p.a. interest on your Maya Savings account, helping your money shine brighter over time.

Your Swipe Could Take You to BLACKPINK! 

Here’s where things get even more exciting. Using your Pink Glitter card between October 1 and November 11 could win you tickets to the BLACKPINK's DEADLINE World Tour in Manila!

Every ₱500 single transaction with your Maya Visa card earns you a raffle entry. Whether you’re buying a new outfit or grabbing lunch, that swipe could bring you closer to your VIP fan package or daily ticket giveaways courtesy of Maya and Visa.

And don’t worry if you don’t have the Pink Glitter card yet, you can also join with:

Maya Black Visa Credit Card – a sleek, numberless card that gives you instant miles and global lounge access (no annual fees!)

Maya Visa Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card – earn 5% cashback at Landers, 2% on dining, and 1% on everything else

How to Join the Giveaway
  1. Open the Maya app and head to the Tickets tab.
  2. Tap “Join today’s giveaway” to start earning entries for the daily and monthly draws.
  3. Use any Maya Visa Card (Debit, Black, or Landers) to earn raffle entries—every ₱500 transaction counts!

The more you swipe, the more chances you have to win. With Maya, even your usual spending can turn into once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Why Maya Is Still the Ultimate Money App for Filipinos

Maya continues to lead as the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, offering an all-in-one app for saving, spending, and managing finances. With its secure platform, smart savings features, and exciting promos, it’s no surprise that more Filipinos are going cashless and doing it with flair.

So if you’re ready to glam up your wallet and upgrade your money game, it’s time to go pink and glitter with Maya!
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