HONOR Watch 6 Offers 120+ Sports Modes for Active Lifestyles

HONOR Watch 6 Offers 120+ Sports Modes for Active Lifestyles

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

If your workouts change from running one day to cycling, badminton, or another sport the next, a smartwatch with a broad range of activity profiles can make tracking more useful.

The HONOR Watch 6 is designed around that kind of flexibility, with more than 120 sports modes and specialized training features for activities including running, football, badminton, cycling, and outdoor adventures.

Priced at ₱13,999 in the Philippines, the smartwatch combines activity tracking with GPS positioning, a high-brightness display, long battery life, and wellness features intended for everyday use.

What sports can the HONOR Watch 6 track?

The watch supports more than 120 sports modes, giving users options beyond basic step and workout tracking.

Some activities get more detailed analysis through dedicated professional modes.

For football players, Football Professional Mode can track metrics such as steps, distance, sprint speed, average speed, and segment data. Users can also view heat maps and movement analysis through the companion app.

For badminton, Badminton Professional Mode provides data across five dimensions and nine core metrics. These include swing count, swing speed, shot power, forehand and backhand ratio, and stroke types.

That makes the watch particularly interesting for people who do not stick to a single workout routine.

What does it offer runners?

Runners get access to the Professional Running Coach, which is designed to provide more detailed guidance during training.

Its features include lactate threshold heart-rate monitoring, real-time AI voice guidance, heart-rate and pace targets, and posture analysis.

For someone who is moving from casual running to more structured training, these metrics can provide additional information to consider when planning workouts and monitoring performance.

How does it handle outdoor activities?

GPS accuracy becomes more important when workouts take place away from the gym.

The HONOR Watch 6 uses the HONOR AccuTrack System, combining a new GNSS chip with dual-band GPS technology for satellite acquisition and positioning.

It also supports dual-frequency independent positioning and 3D distance measurement. These features are designed to provide more precise tracking for activities such as trail running, cycling, and mountaineering.

The watch can provide up to 42 hours of dual-frequency positioning, according to HONOR.

A smartwatch designed for outdoor conditions

Outdoor workouts can be demanding on a smartwatch, particularly when the screen needs to remain visible under bright sunlight or respond to wet fingers.

The HONOR Watch 6 has a 1.46-inch Hybrid LTPS display with peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits. Its Wet Touch Control is designed to keep the display responsive in conditions involving rain, sweat, or humidity.

At approximately 41 grams and 10.8mm thick, the watch is also designed to remain relatively lightweight during extended wear.

How long does the HONOR Watch 6 battery last?

Battery life is another consideration for people who use a smartwatch throughout the day and during longer outdoor activities.

The HONOR Watch 6 has a 980mAh battery, with HONOR stating up to 35 days of battery life in long-endurance scenarios and up to 17 days under typical usage.

Actual battery life will vary depending on settings, connectivity, tracking features, and usage patterns.

It also looks beyond exercise

Fitness tracking is only one part of the HONOR Watch 6.

Its Body Energy Assessment uses information such as heart rate, heart-rate variability (HRV), sleep, and stress to provide an indication of the user's energy levels.

For everyday users, this can add another layer to workout tracking. Instead of looking only at how much exercise was completed, users can also consider sleep and recovery-related information when deciding how hard to train.

Who is the HONOR Watch 6 for?

The HONOR Watch 6 is aimed at people whose activity routines extend beyond one type of exercise.

A runner can use its training tools and running metrics, while someone who plays badminton or football can take advantage of activity-specific tracking. Outdoor enthusiasts also get GPS features designed for activities where positioning matters.

At the same time, its wellness tracking and long battery life make it suitable for people who want a smartwatch they can wear beyond workout sessions.

The combination of 120+ sports modes, specialized training features, outdoor positioning, wellness tracking, and extended battery life makes the HONOR Watch 6 a versatile option for users who want to keep track of how they move throughout the day.

HONOR Watch 6 price and availability in the Philippines

The HONOR Watch 6 is priced at ₱13,999 and is available through HONOR Philippines stores, partner dealers, and its official online channels on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Buyers should check the respective stores for current availability and promotions.

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Eligible ASUS Laptops Now Come With 3 Months of Google AI Access

Eligible ASUS Laptops Now Come With 3 Months of Google AI Access

Buying a new laptop can now come with more than upgraded hardware. For a limited time, customers who purchase select ASUS and ROG laptops in the Philippines can also get three months of Google AI Pro or Google AI Plus at no additional cost.

The offer, which begins September 7, 2026, gives eligible customers access to Google's AI tools along with expanded cloud storage. Depending on the plan, that means either 5TB with Google AI Pro or 400GB with Google AI Plus.

For people who use their laptops for work, school, content creation, research, or entertainment, the combination puts AI tools and additional storage in one package.

What do ASUS customers get?

Eligible ASUS laptop buyers can choose between two Google AI plans, subject to the offer's terms and eligibility requirements.

Google AI Pro provides expanded access to Google's more capable Gemini models and higher usage limits across supported AI features. It also includes 5TB of cloud storage.

Google AI Plus offers access to Google's AI features with 400GB of cloud storage, making it a lower-storage option for users who want to explore Google's AI ecosystem without choosing the Pro tier.

The three-month offer gives new laptop owners an opportunity to try these services as part of their everyday workflow.

What can you actually do with Google's AI tools?

The appeal goes beyond having an AI chatbot on a new laptop.

Depending on the plan and availability, users can access AI experiences through the Gemini app, Deep Research, Google Flow, Gemini in Google apps, and Gemini Notebook, among other tools.

These can be useful in different ways.

Students, for example, can use AI-assisted research and organization tools when working through complex topics. Professionals can use AI to help draft, organize, analyze, or refine documents. Creators can explore image, video, and music generation tools as part of their creative process.

Google AI Pro also includes expanded access to developer-oriented and agentic tools such as Google Antigravity, Jules, and AI Studio, subject to plan terms and availability.

The important distinction is that these are cloud-based services, so the benefit isn't limited to the processing capabilities of the ASUS laptop itself.

The extra cloud storage may be just as useful

For many laptop users, storage becomes a problem long before the computer itself feels outdated.

Photos, videos, presentations, documents, creative files, research materials, and other digital content can quickly consume local storage. The Google AI offer addresses part of that problem by adding cloud capacity.

With 5TB on Google AI Pro and 400GB on Google AI Plus, eligible users have additional space for files and other supported content across Google's services.

For creators and people who work across multiple devices, cloud storage can also make files easier to access without relying entirely on the laptop's internal drive.

Which ASUS laptops are eligible?

The program is planned to run for one year from September 7, 2026, across selected ASUS laptops from the 2025, 2026, and upcoming 2027 portfolios in supported markets.

The participating lineup includes selected models from:

• ROG
• TUF Gaming
• ProArt
• Zenbook
• Vivobook

Not every ASUS or ROG laptop qualifies, so buyers should check the official eligibility list before purchasing.

Redemption is through the MyASUS app, with the full list of eligible models and terms available from ASUS Philippines.

ASUS also has a separate device promotion

The Google AI offer comes as ASUS runs its No. 1 Quality, School-Ready Deals promotion through September 15, 2026.

The promotion covers selected ASUS and ROG devices and is aimed at students, gamers, and professionals looking to upgrade their equipment.

ASUS also highlights its No. 1 Quality and Service package, which includes up to three years of international and local warranty, service access in more than 90 countries, and more than 100 ASUS Service Centers and Drop-Off Points in the Philippines.

For eligible laptops, the package also includes one year of Local Accidental Damage Protection, up to six free device-cleaning claims, and an extended return policy of up to 14 days, subject to the applicable terms.

What this means for laptop buyers

The ASUS-Google offer reflects a broader shift in how people evaluate laptops. Hardware remains important, but the software, cloud services, and AI tools available after purchase can also affect how useful a device becomes in everyday life.

For someone already considering an eligible ASUS laptop, the three-month Google AI access provides another factor to consider alongside the laptop's processor, memory, display, battery life, graphics capabilities, and price.

The offer is available for a limited time and only on selected models, so buyers should verify eligibility and the applicable terms before completing a purchase.

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Filipinos Are Using Ride-Hailing Apps More Often

Filipinos Are Using Ride-Hailing Apps More Often

Monday, September 14, 2026

Ride-hailing is becoming a more regular part of daily transportation for many Metro Manila residents, as commuters increasingly use apps based on convenience, safety, weather, and the availability of public transport.

Data from ride-hailing platform inDrive show that 74% of Metro Manila residents surveyed had used ride-hailing apps within the previous three months, with users booking rides an average of three times a week.

The figures point to a shift in how urban commuters make transportation decisions. Rather than relying on ride-hailing only for occasional trips, passengers are incorporating app-based transport into different parts of their daily routines.

Why are Filipinos booking ride-hailing trips?

According to inDrive's data, 56% of respondents book a ride-hailing trip when they are in a hurry. Weather is another major factor, with 49% saying they turn to ride-hailing when conditions affect their travel plans.

Other reasons include comfort, access, and safety. 

• 32% use ride-hailing to travel more comfortably.
• 30% use it when their destination has limited nearby public transportation.
• 29% choose ride-hailing when traveling late at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Trips from residential areas to malls, airports, and bus terminals also account for significant ride-hailing activity, reflecting the role of app-based transport in connecting commuters to major urban destinations.

The pattern suggests that convenience is becoming more than simply finding a vehicle. For commuters, it can mean having a transportation option that fits a particular schedule, destination, weather condition, or situation.

Passengers are comparing more than fares

Price remains an important consideration, but inDrive's data indicates that passengers are evaluating ride-hailing services on several factors.

Some 78% of respondents said they compare fares across multiple ride-hailing apps before booking. However, the lowest price is not necessarily the deciding factor.

Safety ranks particularly high, with 87% saying they value an app that makes them feel safe while commuting.

Meanwhile, 73% prioritize ride quality over cost. The factors passengers consider include the availability of rides, flexibility when booking, driver behavior, and overall comfort.

For mobility platforms, this means competing for passengers involves more than offering competitive fares. Reliability and the overall experience can also influence which service a commuter chooses.

inDrive sees higher demand in the Philippines

The growing use of ride-hailing is also reflected in inDrive's activity in the country.

The company said its in-city ride requests increased by 155% during the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025. It has also expanded its active partner-driver base as it works to accommodate the increase in bookings.

“With more Filipinos relying on apps like inDrive for their daily commutes, mobility providers need to keep pace with what passengers need and value,” said Sofia Guinto, inDrive Philippines Country Manager.

She added that the company aims to provide available, convenient, and safe rides while giving passengers greater freedom of choice.

The company is also continuing to onboard qualified partner drivers as demand for app-based transportation grows.

What the shift means for urban mobility

The increasing frequency of ride-hailing use reflects a broader change in how commuters navigate cities.

For passengers, an app can provide another transportation option when time is limited, weather conditions are unfavorable, public transport is less accessible, or a trip requires greater convenience.

As these services become part of regular commuting patterns, factors such as safety, availability, flexibility, and ride quality are becoming increasingly important alongside price.

For mobility companies, the challenge is to respond to these changing expectations while maintaining a reliable supply of drivers and rides as demand grows.

inDrive is a global mobility platform offering ride-hailing and other transportation services. More information about the company and its services is available through its website.

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ShopeeVIP+ Adds Netflix to Its Subscription Benefits

ShopeeVIP+ Adds Netflix to Its Subscription Benefits

For Filipinos who already shop on Shopee and maintain a Netflix subscription, a new bundled option is now available.

ShopeeVIP+ has officially launched in the Philippines, combining Shopee's existing membership perks with access to Netflix in a single subscription. The program is also rolling out in Indonesia and Thailand.

The new tier builds on ShopeeVIP, which offers shopping-related benefits such as free shipping and discount vouchers. With VIP+, subscribers can add a Netflix plan while continuing to receive shopping perks and selected benefits from partner brands.

Shopee says the ShopeeVIP+ subscription starts at ₱140 per month for the Netflix Mobile Plan under a multi-month subscription, while a single-month subscription starts at ₱169. Other Netflix plans are available at higher subscription tiers.

The arrangement reflects a broader shift in how subscription services are being packaged. Instead of paying separately for individual benefits, consumers are increasingly being offered bundles that combine shopping, entertainment, digital tools and other everyday services.

What Does ShopeeVIP+ Include?

At its core, ShopeeVIP+ combines the benefits of ShopeeVIP with a Netflix subscription.

Depending on the selected plan, subscribers can get:

• Netflix access, starting with the Mobile Plan
• Daily free shipping vouchers with no minimum spend
• Daily discount vouchers
• Monthly discount vouchers
• Shopee VIP Day perks
• 0% interest SPayLater for eligible three-month transactions
• Selected partner benefits, including offers involving Canva Pro, ChatGPT Go and Duolingo

Shopee's current terms state that VIP+ includes all monthly benefits available under ShopeeVIP, plus a Netflix subscription corresponding to the Netflix plan selected by the subscriber.

That makes the new program potentially more relevant to people who already use several of these services rather than treating Netflix as the only reason to subscribe.

How Much Is ShopeeVIP+ With Netflix?

The entry-level ShopeeVIP+ option starts at ₱140 per month when subscribed through a multi-month plan with the Netflix Mobile Plan.

A single-month subscription starts at ₱169 per month.

Subscribers can also choose higher Netflix tiers, including Basic, Standard and Premium, depending on their preferred viewing setup.

The Premium option is designed for households or users who want to watch across multiple devices, with Netflix's terms for the plan allowing simultaneous streaming on up to four supported devices.

Because the ShopeeVIP+ price depends on the Netflix tier and subscription period, it is worth checking the current package displayed in the Shopee app before subscribing.

Is ShopeeVIP+ Worth It If You Already Have Netflix?

The answer depends largely on how often you shop on Shopee.

For someone who orders regularly, the free-shipping and discount vouchers may provide value beyond the Netflix component. Shopee's current VIP terms list a daily 20% discount voucher, a monthly 20% discount voucher and a free-shipping voucher with no minimum spend, subject to the program's eligibility and voucher conditions.

For an occasional Shopee shopper, however, the calculation is different. A subscription only makes sense if the combined benefits you actually use outweigh the monthly cost.

This is especially important with subscription bundles. A long list of perks can sound attractive, but unused benefits do not necessarily translate into savings.

What Netflix Plan Can You Get?

ShopeeVIP+ subscribers can choose among the Netflix plans made available through the program:

• Mobile is suited to viewers who primarily stream on a smartphone or tablet.

• Basic and Standard provide options for viewers who want a larger-screen viewing experience, depending on the plan's current Netflix specifications.

• Premium is the highest-tier option and is designed for households or users who want higher-quality streaming and simultaneous viewing across multiple supported devices.

Shopee's terms also allow eligible subscribers to upgrade or downgrade their selected Netflix tier. Upgrades can take effect during the current billing cycle, while downgrades take effect on the next billing cycle, subject to the applicable terms.

What Happens If You Already Have a Netflix Account?

Existing Netflix users do not necessarily need to create a new account.

ShopeeVIP+ allows subscribers to link an existing Netflix account when activating the benefit. Once successfully linked, Netflix will stop directly billing that account while the ShopeeVIP+ benefit is active.

There is an important detail to remember: when the ShopeeVIP+ subscription ends, Netflix may resume charging the payment method already associated with the existing Netflix account.

In other words, subscribing to the bundle does not automatically mean your standalone Netflix membership disappears.

How to Activate Netflix Through ShopeeVIP+

The activation process starts inside the Shopee app.

1. Open the Shopee app.
2. Go to the Me page.
3. Select the ShopeeVIP icon.
4. Choose the ShopeeVIP+ subscription package.
5. Select your preferred Netflix plan.
6. Choose the subscription period.
7. Tap Subscribe and complete payment.
8. Follow the instructions to activate or link your Netflix account.

Shopee's terms indicate that Netflix can be activated at any point during an active ShopeeVIP+ subscription. Only one Netflix account can be linked to a VIP+ subscription at a time.

A Subscription Built Around Everyday Use

The interesting part of ShopeeVIP+ is not simply the addition of Netflix.

It is the idea of combining several recurring digital and shopping needs under one membership. For a consumer who already shops online regularly, watches Netflix and uses some of the partner services, a bundled subscription could make more sense than paying for each benefit separately.

That also places more emphasis on how consumers evaluate subscriptions. Instead of looking only at the headline benefit, it helps to consider which perks will actually be used each month.

With ShopeeVIP+, the real value may ultimately come from the combination of entertainment, shopping savings and convenience, rather than from any one benefit on its own.

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HONOR Magic V6 Fits Work, Travel and Everyday Life

HONOR Magic V6 Fits Work, Travel and Everyday Life

For many smartphone users, the day does not stay in one lane. A workday can involve replying to messages, checking documents, heading to an event, taking photos, watching videos and catching up with friends, often before the day is over.

That is the lifestyle space HONOR is targeting with the HONOR Magic V6, its latest foldable smartphone in the Philippines. Priced at ₱119,999, the device combines a foldable 7.95-inch inner display with a 6.52-inch outer screen, a 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery and a multi-camera system designed for everyday photography.

Rather than treating the phone as a device for one particular type of user, HONOR is positioning the Magic V6 around different ways people spend their days, from work and sports to fashion, social events and content creation.

Why does a foldable phone make sense for everyday life?

The appeal of a foldable smartphone is fairly straightforward: it gives users a larger screen when they need it without requiring them to carry a tablet-sized device all day.

The HONOR Magic V6 opens to a 7.95-inch inner display and folds down to a 6.52-inch outer screen. It measures 8.75mm thick when folded and weighs 219 grams, according to HONOR.

That format can be useful when switching between tasks. A larger screen can provide more room for viewing documents, handling multiple apps or watching content, while the outer display works for quick messages, calls and everyday phone functions.

For people who work outside a traditional office, that flexibility can be particularly useful. A smartphone may serve as a communication tool in one moment and a mobile workspace or entertainment screen in the next.

What is a silicon-carbon smartphone battery?

A silicon-carbon battery uses silicon-based material in the battery's anode to increase energy density compared with conventional lithium-ion battery designs. The HONOR Magic V6 uses a 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery with 25% silicon content and supports 80W wired and 66W wireless charging.

For consumers, the practical point is less about the battery chemistry and more about endurance. A larger-capacity battery can be useful for days that involve navigation, photography, messaging, video and other power-intensive activities.

From workdays to weekends, the Magic V6 takes different roles

HONOR's latest campaign features personalities from business, sports, fashion and lifestyle to demonstrate how the Magic V6 can fit into different routines.

Vince and Patricia Hizon represent the busy professional and social side of the device. Their schedules can move between meetings, events, travel and personal commitments, where having a large screen in a relatively compact folded form can make multitasking more convenient.

For golfers Marvi Monsalve and Jesse Guerrero, the phone is presented in a more active setting. The Magic V6 carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance, giving it added protection for users who bring their phones into different environments.

That does not mean a foldable phone is suddenly indestructible. Water- and dust-resistance ratings have specific testing conditions and limitations. Still, durability has become an important consideration as foldable phones move beyond being occasional luxury devices and into everyday use.

Can a foldable phone also work as a camera?

For users who treat their smartphones as their primary camera, the camera system remains an important part of the equation.

The HONOR Magic V6 features a 50MP wide main camera, 64MP telephoto camera and 50MP ultra-wide camera, according to the Philippine product information supplied for the device.

That combination covers several familiar shooting situations: the main camera for everyday photos, the ultra-wide camera for landscapes and group shots, and the telephoto camera for subjects that are farther away.

The phone also uses HONOR's AI Falcon Camera System, adding computational photography features to the hardware.

For fashion, beauty, travel and lifestyle users, having several focal lengths available in one device can reduce the need to switch between cameras or carry additional equipment.

Ida Andu and Isabelle Lim appear in HONOR's campaign with the Magic V6 in settings centered on style and social moments. The positioning makes sense for a category where smartphones increasingly double as cameras, communication tools and social-media creation devices.

A larger screen changes how we use our phones

The more interesting question surrounding foldables is not simply whether they can replace conventional smartphones. It is whether the larger screen changes what people are willing to do on a phone.

The Magic V6's inner display supports up to a 120Hz refresh rate and stylus input, while HONOR's software includes features designed around multitasking and AI-assisted functions.

That creates a different experience from a conventional smartphone when reading longer documents, reviewing content, watching videos or working across multiple applications.

For creators, the format can also be useful when reviewing photos, planning social posts or working with visual material while away from a laptop.

At the same time, the folded form keeps the device closer to the proportions people are already accustomed to carrying in a pocket or small bag.

What makes the HONOR Magic V6 relevant beyond its premium price?

At ₱119,999, the Magic V6 sits firmly in the premium smartphone category. That means its appeal will depend less on whether consumers simply need a new phone and more on whether they value the combination of a large foldable display, portability, cameras, battery capacity and flagship performance.

HONOR's current Philippine product page lists the Magic V6 with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform, a 6,660mAh battery, dual SuperCharge support and IP68/IP69 protection.

The larger trend is clear: foldable phones are increasingly being designed around everyday utility rather than novelty alone.

For someone who spends the day moving between meetings, travel, content creation and entertainment, a foldable can offer a different balance between screen size and portability.

For someone who primarily uses a phone for calls, messaging and social media, however, the advantages may be harder to justify at this price.

That distinction is important. A premium foldable is not automatically a better choice for everyone. Its value comes from whether its form factor solves real problems in the way a person actually uses a phone.

Is the HONOR Magic V6 worth considering?

The HONOR Magic V6 makes the strongest case for itself among users who want their smartphone to do more than handle basic communication.

Its combination of a large foldable display, relatively slim folded profile, high-capacity battery, multi-camera setup and durability features is aimed at people whose phones are part of nearly every part of their day.

The bigger lifestyle question is whether that flexibility is worth the premium price.

For users who regularly work, create, travel, photograph, watch and communicate from one device, the answer may be easier to make. For everyone else, a conventional flagship smartphone may still provide everything they need.

The HONOR Magic V6 is now available in the Philippines for ₱119,999 through HONOR Experience and partner stores. HONOR also lists a Lazada offer that includes a free HONOR Pad X8b worth ₱12,999, subject to the applicable promotion terms.

For more information, visit HONOR Philippines' official product page.

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Maya Bukad Card: Filipino Design Meets Recycled Plastic

Maya Bukad Card: Filipino Design Meets Recycled Plastic

Friday, September 11, 2026

A bank card can be more than something tucked inside a wallet. Maya’s new Bukad Card turns an everyday financial essential into a small showcase of Philippine creativity, while also introducing a more conscious approach to the material used to make its cards.

The special-edition Maya Bukad Card draws inspiration from bukadkad, a Filipino word associated with a flower in bloom. Its colorful design features flowers, foliage, wildlife and other details inspired by the richness of Philippine nature.

The artwork comes from Filipino visual artist and illustrator Raxenne Maniquiz, whose signature style gives the card a playful and distinctly local character.

But the design is only part of the story.

What makes the Maya Bukad Card different?

The Maya Bukad Card is made from 100% recycled plastic, reflecting Maya’s completed transition to using recycled plastic for all newly produced wallet cards.

The shift means the material used for new cards comes from existing plastic rather than newly produced, or virgin, plastic. For consumers, the change is largely behind the scenes, but it adds another consideration to an object that many people use every day.

Maya says the move does not change the security, durability or functionality expected from its cards.

The Bukad Card therefore brings together two ideas that do not always appear side by side: Filipino visual culture and more conscious material choices.

A Filipino-inspired design you can actually use

While the Bukad Card has a collectible quality, it is designed for everyday transactions.

Powered by Visa, it can be used for purchases and ATM withdrawals wherever Visa is accepted worldwide. Within the Philippines, Maya says cardholders receive 1% cashback on both in-store and online purchases.

The card is priced at ₱350.

That makes its appeal less about simply owning a special-edition design and more about turning something functional into an object that reflects personal taste and local creativity.

The Bukad design goes beyond the wallet

Maya is also extending the Bukad artwork into fashion with a limited-edition scarf featuring Maniquiz's nature-inspired illustrations.

The scarf will be available exclusively at PURVEYR Fair on September 12 and 13 at the World Trade Center Tent.

Fairgoers who purchase the Maya Bukad Card for ₱350 can receive the Bukad scarf for free, while supplies last.

The collaboration gives the artwork another life beyond the card itself, allowing the same visual language of flowers, foliage and wildlife to become something that can be worn and styled.

Where can you get the Maya Bukad Card?

The special-edition card is available through the Maya app starting September 9.

To order, open the Maya app, go to the Cards tab and select the Maya Bukad Card.

For those attending PURVEYR Fair, the limited-edition scarf offers an additional reason to check out the card in person.

When everyday objects reflect Filipino creativity

There is something appealing about seeing local creativity move into objects we encounter in ordinary parts of daily life.

The Maya Bukad Card does exactly that. Its floral and wildlife-inspired artwork gives a familiar financial tool a distinctly Filipino visual identity, while its recycled-plastic construction adds another layer to the product's story.

It is a reminder that sustainability does not always have to arrive as a dramatic lifestyle change. Sometimes, it can begin with reconsidering the materials behind the things we already use.

And in this case, that everyday object happens to fit neatly inside your wallet.

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Why Your Midyear Financial Reset Should Include Insurance

Why Your Midyear Financial Reset Should Include Insurance

The middle of the year is a useful time to look at your finances again. But a midyear financial reset should involve more than cutting expenses, reviewing subscriptions, or promising to save more.

It should also include a look at what could derail your financial plans.

For Filipino households, that means considering how unexpected events such as accidents, property damage, severe weather, or travel disruptions could affect money that took months or years to build. The Philippines' rainy season generally runs from June to November, while PAGASA identifies July to October as the peak period for tropical cyclone activity.

That makes the months before the busy "Ber" season a practical point to review both cash flow and protection.

What should you check during a midyear financial reset?

Start with the numbers you can control.

Review your current income, regular expenses, debt payments, savings, investments, and major purchases made during the first half of the year. Then compare them with the financial goals you set at the beginning of the year.

You may find that some goals still make sense while others need to be adjusted.

The exercise can also reveal something less obvious: whether your financial protection has kept pace with your life.

A bigger home, a newer car, a growing side business, more frequent travel, or additional possessions can change the risks you face.

Don't confuse saving money with protecting money

Saving and insurance solve different financial problems.

Savings provide money you can access when you need it. Insurance transfers certain financial risks to an insurer in exchange for a premium, subject to the terms and exclusions of the policy.

That distinction is important.

An emergency fund might help pay for an unexpected repair. But a major accident, serious property damage, or another costly event could potentially exceed what you have set aside.

Insurance does not eliminate financial risk, either. Coverage depends on the specific policy, limits, conditions, deductibles, and exclusions.

The Philippine Insurance Commission advises consumers to understand the premium, benefits, covered and excluded risks, and claims requirements before purchasing an insurance policy.

Which parts of your financial life should you review?

Think about the things that would be expensive or difficult to replace.

Your home

Your home may be one of the biggest assets you own, yet homeowners sometimes focus more on protecting the contents inside it than understanding the risks affecting the property itself.

A policy review is an opportunity to check what is covered, what is excluded, and whether the amount of protection still makes sense for your circumstances.

This is particularly relevant during the rainy season, when flooding, strong winds, and other weather-related events can create significant costs.

That does not mean every insurance policy automatically covers every weather-related loss. The actual protection depends on the policy terms.

Your car or motorcycle

A vehicle is both an asset and an ongoing expense.

Aside from fuel, maintenance, registration, and financing costs, an accident can create repair bills, third-party liabilities, or other expenses.

Review whether your existing motor insurance remains appropriate, particularly if your vehicle, usage, or financial situation has changed since the policy was purchased.

Your travels

Travel is another area where financial planning can overlook risk.

A trip can involve non-refundable bookings, transportation costs, medical expenses, baggage issues, and other unexpected situations.

Travel insurance can provide protection for certain covered events, but travelers should check the policy before purchasing rather than assuming every disruption is covered.

Your side business or small enterprise

For people who run an online shop, home-based business, consultancy, or other small venture, personal and business finances can sometimes overlap.

That makes it especially important to understand what assets, equipment, premises, or liabilities need protection.

A financial reset is a good opportunity to separate household goals from business risks and determine whether existing coverage still fits.

How can lifestyle inflation affect your reset?

There is another reason to revisit your finances midway through the year: lifestyle inflation.

Lifestyle inflation happens when spending increases as income rises.

It can start innocently. A salary increase leads to better dining choices, more shopping, upgraded gadgets, additional subscriptions, or more frequent trips.

None of these are automatically bad.

The problem arises when higher spending leaves little room for savings, investments, or financial protection.

A useful midyear exercise is to compare your current spending with your income from six months ago. Look for recurring expenses that gradually became normal without necessarily becoming essential.

Then redirect part of the money toward priorities that have a longer-term impact.

What should you look for when reviewing insurance?

Don't simply renew a policy because you had it last year.

Before buying or renewing coverage, consider:

• What risks does the policy actually cover?
• What are the coverage limits?
• What exclusions apply?
• How much is the deductible or excess, if applicable?
• Has the value of the asset changed?
• Have your travel, driving, home, or business circumstances changed?
• What documents will you need if you make a claim?
• Is the insurer authorized to operate in the Philippines?

The Insurance Commission specifically advises prospective policyholders to read their insurance contracts and understand the requirements for processing claims.

These questions may not be as exciting as finding a new savings account or investment opportunity, but they can make a financial plan more complete.

Where does Malayan Insurance fit into the reset?

Malayan Insurance positions its non-life insurance offerings around different areas of everyday financial protection, including vehicles, homes, travel, personal coverage, and digital risks.

Its products named in the original campaign include Travel Master, Auto Master, Home Protect, Moto One, Vital Cover, and eSecure.

For consumers considering any insurance product, however, the important question is not simply whether a product exists. It is whether its coverage matches the specific risks they want to manage.

Policyholders should review the actual policy wording, limits, exclusions, premiums, and claims process before making a decision.

A midyear reset is about resilience, not restriction

Financial wellness is often reduced to a familiar list: spend less, save more, pay down debt, and invest.

Those remain useful principles. But financial resilience also means preparing for events you cannot predict or control.

The goal isn't to insure every possible thing or spend money on coverage you don't need. It is to identify the assets and risks that could seriously disrupt your finances and decide how much protection makes sense.

A good midyear reset therefore has two sides.

Build your financial resources, and protect the resources you've already built.

With the rainy season underway and the more expensive months of the year ahead, September and the months leading into the holidays can be a useful reminder that financial planning isn't only about what you do with your money when everything goes according to plan.

It is also about being prepared when it doesn't.

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P-Beauty Is Finding Its Own Place in Asian Beauty

P-Beauty Is Finding Its Own Place in Asian Beauty

For years, K-beauty and J-beauty have shaped how the world thinks about Asian beauty. Now, P-beauty, or Philippine beauty, is gaining attention for a different reason: it is built around Filipino skin tones, tropical weather, local culture, and everyday realities.

The movement is not simply about creating Filipino versions of Korean or Japanese beauty trends. Local brands and beauty creators are increasingly developing products and techniques around what Filipino consumers actually need, while social media is helping those ideas reach audiences beyond the Philippines.

What is P-beauty?

P-beauty refers to Philippine beauty products, techniques, aesthetics, and beauty practices shaped by Filipino consumers and culture. Unlike a single skincare routine or makeup style, P-beauty encompasses the broader local beauty industry, including cosmetics, skincare, creators, brands, and approaches designed with Filipino needs in mind.

That distinction matters because beauty preferences are influenced by more than appearance. Climate, skin tones, purchasing power, lifestyle, culture, and access to products all affect what consumers actually use.

For Filipinos living in a hot and humid environment, for example, makeup that feels comfortable and lasts through everyday activities can be more relevant than simply following a beauty trend that originated in another country.

Why does local beauty need a local approach?

One of the strengths of Philippine beauty is its ability to adapt products to the realities of Filipino consumers.

Makeup Science Asia founder Abby Ofrasio pointed to factors such as undertones, skin depth, climate, and product longevity as considerations that local beauty companies are increasingly taking into account.

These details can make a significant difference. A foundation may have an extensive shade range but still fail to serve consumers well if the undertones do not correspond to the people buying it. Similarly, products designed for cooler or drier climates may behave differently in the Philippines' heat and humidity.

P-beauty therefore has an opportunity to compete on relevance rather than simply novelty.

How Filipino beauty is moving beyond affordability

Price has long been an important advantage for local beauty brands, particularly in a market where consumers can choose between established international names and increasingly sophisticated local products.

But affordability alone is unlikely to define the next stage of P-beauty.

Consumers also want products that perform, suit their complexion, fit their routines, and are easy to find. That combination can help explain why Filipino beauty brands have developed strong domestic followings.

Ever Bilena, for example, has built its business around color cosmetics for Filipino consumers and now has a retail presence spanning more than 6,000 stores nationwide, according to the company. It has also expanded into international markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Guam, the Middle East, Canada, and Australia.

The broader lesson is important: local beauty does not have to remain local simply because it was created for Filipinos.

Why representation matters in beauty

The growth of P-beauty also reflects a change in how Filipino consumers see local products.

Project Vanity founder Liz Lanuzo has credited beauty creators with helping change perceptions by putting local products side by side with established international brands. Social media gave consumers a space to see how products performed in real life, rather than relying solely on traditional advertising.

That shift matters because beauty purchases are highly personal. Consumers often want to see products tested on people with similar skin tones, features, lifestyles, and concerns.

The result is a more participatory beauty culture, where creators and consumers influence which local products gain attention.

Is P-beauty becoming a global beauty trend?

There are early signs that Filipino beauty is attracting interest outside the Philippines, but its international potential should not be reduced to becoming the next K-beauty or J-beauty.

Issy Cosmetics co-founder and chief creative officer Joel Martin Andrade described Filipino beauty as being rooted in adaptation rather than perfection. That idea offers a useful way to understand where P-beauty could go next.

Vice Co. co-CEO Ana Samaco similarly described P-beauty as beauty viewed through a Filipino lens, taking into account skin tones, climate, and culture.

Together, these perspectives point to a broader opportunity. Filipino beauty can develop its own visual language and product philosophy instead of borrowing its identity from more established Asian beauty markets.

What could make P-beauty stand out?

Several characteristics could help Philippine beauty establish a stronger identity:

Local relevance: Products are developed with Filipino skin tones, climate, and lifestyles in mind.

Accessibility: Competitive pricing can make beauty products available to a wider consumer base.

Inclusivity: A better understanding of Filipino undertones and skin depths can improve product selection

.

Adaptability: Local beauty practices often respond to practical, everyday needs rather than a single ideal of perfection.

Community influence: Beauty creators can demonstrate how products work in real-life Filipino settings.

Cultural identity: Brands have an opportunity to express Filipino aesthetics rather than simply reproduce international trends.

What does the rise of P-beauty mean for Filipino consumers?

For shoppers, the growing attention on P-beauty could ultimately mean more choices.

A stronger domestic beauty industry can encourage brands to invest in better formulations, broader shade ranges, improved product development, and a clearer understanding of Filipino consumers.

It can also change the conversation around what makes a beauty product desirable.

Instead of assuming that an imported product is automatically better suited to local consumers, shoppers have more reason to consider whether a product actually works for their complexion, climate, routine, and budget.

That is perhaps the most interesting part of P-beauty's rise. Its value is not simply that Filipino brands are becoming more visible. It is that Filipino consumers are increasingly being treated as the starting point of beauty innovation rather than an afterthought.

P-beauty still has room to define itself, particularly as more local brands seek international audiences. But its strongest advantage may already be clear: it understands the people it was created for.

And if that understanding travels well beyond the Philippines, P-beauty may not need to follow the path of K-beauty or J-beauty at all. It can build a space of its own.

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Julia Barretto and Maris Racal Bring Maya Cashback to Life

Julia Barretto and Maris Racal Bring Maya Cashback to Life

Thursday, September 10, 2026

When it comes to getting more value from your money, Julia Barretto and Maris Racal are apparently not willing to back down.

The two actresses are back together in Maya’s latest video, this time turning everyday spending into a playful showdown over one thing they both want to claim: 1% cashback when paying with the Maya Card.

The new campaign follows their previous Maya video, where the pair highlighted the experience of earning interest daily on savings. This time, the focus moves from saving money to spending it, and how everyday purchases can come with something in return.

Julia and Maris Take “MINE” Seriously

The latest video puts Julia and Maris in an entertaining face-off as they compete to claim their cashback.

The premise is simple. If you are already spending money on purchases you would normally make, getting a portion of that spending back can add another layer of value to the transaction.

And Maya turns that idea into a playful battle between the two stars.

The campaign taps into a familiar mindset among Filipino shoppers. Whether it is comparing prices, waiting for promotions, looking for better deals or choosing where to spend, getting more value from every peso has become part of everyday decision-making.

Cashback works in much the same way. It gives consumers a reason to consider not just what they are buying, but what they can get back from the way they pay.

How Does Maya Card Cashback Work?

With the Maya Card, users can get 1% cashback on eligible in-store or online purchases in the Philippines, according to the campaign.

That can include everyday expenses such as coffee, groceries, dining, shopping and online purchases.

For people who regularly use their card for these transactions, cashback can be a simple way to get something back from spending that is already part of their routine.

The idea also makes the Maya Card part of a broader shift in how consumers approach digital payments. Beyond convenience, shoppers are increasingly interested in the additional value, rewards and benefits that can come with their preferred payment methods.

Making Everyday Spending Work a Little Harder

Julia and Maris may be competing over who gets to claim “MINE,” but the bigger takeaway from Maya’s campaign is less complicated.

Everyday spending is going to happen anyway. For consumers who use a payment method that offers cashback, those regular purchases can also become an opportunity to get some value back.

From that morning coffee to the weekly grocery run or an online checkout, small amounts can add up over time.

And if there is cashback waiting to be claimed, leaving it behind may feel like missing out on money that could have been yours.

So while Julia Barretto and Maris Racal battle it out for what’s “MINE,” the message for Maya Card users is straightforward: make your cashback yours, too.

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Jollibee and DreamWorks Team Up for Forgotten Island

Jollibee and DreamWorks Team Up for Forgotten Island

Jollibee is bringing its signature spirit of togetherness to the big screen through a global collaboration with DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming film Forgotten Island, which opens in theaters worldwide on September 23, 2026.

The partnership brings together food, animation and Filipino storytelling around one of the film’s central themes: the enduring bond between friends.

What is DreamWorks’ Forgotten Island about?

Forgotten Island follows lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, whose lives take an unexpected turn when a mysterious portal transports them to Nakali, a fantastical island inhabited by mythical creatures inspired by stories passed down through their Filipino families.

Their adventure comes with a difficult choice. Finding their way home could mean losing the memories they share, forcing the two friends to find a way off the island without losing the connection that has shaped their lives.

The film has a particularly strong Filipino connection, with Filipino and Filipino-American talent among its cast and creative team. The lineup includes Tony Award winner Lea Salonga, comedian Jo Koy, Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R., actress Liza Soberano, and co-writer and co-director Januel Mercado.

That representation gives the film an added layer of relevance for Filipino audiences, particularly as Filipino-inspired stories and talent continue to find wider audiences internationally.

BINI adds a Filipino soundtrack to the story

The Filipino connection also extends to the music.

Filipino girl group BINI, which is also a Jollibee endorser, contributed “A Parallel World” to the Forgotten Island soundtrack. The electronic-pop song combines English and Filipino lyrics and was released on July 23.

BINI also performed the track during the film’s panel at San Diego Comic-Con in July, bringing the group into the film’s international promotional activities.

The music video for “A Parallel World” features Jollibee as well, with the members enjoying Jollibee meals and sharing moments together while in the United States for the song’s recording and related activities.

Watch BINI’s “A Parallel World” music video

Why Jollibee and Forgotten Island make sense together

At first glance, a fast-food brand and an animated fantasy adventure may seem like an unusual pairing. But the connection becomes more apparent through the themes at the center of the film.

Jollibee has long positioned shared meals as an important part of everyday family and social experiences. Forgotten Island, meanwhile, places friendship and family at the center of its story.

For Jollibee, the collaboration provides an opportunity to connect its food and brand experience with a story built around relationships that audiences can recognize in their own lives.

David Beal, Jollibee Group global chief marketing officer and head of digital marketing, said the collaboration is intended to celebrate friendship and shared experiences, from seeing the movie to enjoying a Jollibee meal together.

Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines, likewise described the partnership as meaningful because the film combines universal themes of friendship and family with Filipino-inspired storytelling.

A global collaboration with a Filipino heart

What makes the partnership particularly interesting is the number of Filipino connections involved.

From the film's Filipino-inspired mythology and Filipino and Filipino-American creative talent to BINI's contribution to the soundtrack, Forgotten Island gives Filipino audiences several points of connection to a story being introduced to an international audience.

Jollibee's involvement extends that connection into a familiar part of Filipino everyday culture: sharing a meal with people who matter.

The collaboration also reflects how Filipino entertainment, music and brands are increasingly participating in global projects rather than simply reaching audiences within the Philippines.

For fans, that means Forgotten Island offers more than a new animated adventure. It brings together Filipino talent, music, food and a story about friendship in a way that can resonate both locally and internationally.

When does Forgotten Island premiere?

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island arrives in theaters on September 23, 2026.

Jollibee has also announced that more elements of its collaboration with the film will be revealed, including an exclusive offer connected to Forgotten Island. Details of that offer have yet to be announced.

For now, the partnership gives audiences another reason to look forward to a film that puts friendship, family and Filipino-inspired storytelling at the center of its adventure.

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