TORIKIZOKU Brings Osaka Yakitori Culture to BGC This October

TORIKIZOKU Brings Osaka Yakitori Culture to BGC This October

Saturday, September 26, 2026

A popular Japanese yakitori chain is bringing its casual grilled-skewer dining experience to the Philippines this October. TORIKIZOKU will open its first Philippine restaurant at Serendra in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) on October 12, 2026.

The Osaka-born brand, which traces its beginnings to 1985, has grown to more than 600 locations across Japan. Its Philippine debut gives local diners their first opportunity to experience the brand’s take on yakitori-ya, the Japanese dining style centered on freshly grilled chicken skewers and casual gatherings over food and drinks.

For Filipino diners who enjoy Japanese food, the opening adds another option to BGC’s already diverse dining scene, while introducing a restaurant concept where the experience is as much about gathering as it is about the food.

What can diners expect from TORIKIZOKU in BGC?

TORIKIZOKU’s dining concept revolves around freshly grilled chicken skewers, selected ingredients, and a lively restaurant atmosphere designed for spending time with friends and family.

Yakitori refers to Japanese-style skewered chicken that is grilled, traditionally over charcoal. Different cuts can be used, giving diners a variety of textures and flavors rather than treating the skewer as a single type of dish.

The restaurant’s Yakitori-ya approach places these grilled skewers at the heart of the dining experience. Rather than being positioned simply as a quick meal, yakitori restaurants in Japan are commonly associated with casual social dining, where small plates and skewers can be shared while people talk and linger.

That makes the concept particularly suited to group dining, whether for an after-work meal, a casual dinner, or a night out with friends.

From Osaka to more than 600 stores

TORIKIZOKU started in Osaka in 1985 and has since expanded throughout Japan. The company says its network now includes more than 600 stores.

The Philippine restaurant is part of its international expansion under what the brand calls its Global YAKITORI Family.

The BGC location also gives the brand a chance to introduce its Japanese dining format to a market where Japanese cuisine is already a familiar part of the food scene. The launch is therefore less about introducing Filipinos to yakitori itself and more about bringing a particular Japanese restaurant experience and brand to local diners.

Torikki is already appearing around Serendra

The Philippine launch has also started making its presence felt before the restaurant opens.

TORIKIZOKU’s yellow mascot, Torikki, has appeared on installations around Serendra in different poses inspired by both Japan and the Philippines.

The installations are designed to remain visible during the day and light up at night. More importantly for diners planning to check out the new restaurant, the signages include QR codes that lead to the TORIKIZOKU Philippines website, where visitors can get updates and make reservations.

The installations effectively serve as a countdown to the October 12 opening while introducing the mascot and visual identity of the Japanese chain to the BGC community.

What does “Toriki Tayo” mean for the Philippine launch?

The local campaign comes with the phrase “Toriki Tayo,” an invitation to turn ordinary moments into occasions for getting together.

That message fits naturally with the restaurant's yakitori-centered format. Skewers are easy to share, and the Japanese izakaya-style tradition of casual dining places importance on conversation and spending time together.

For TORIKIZOKU, the Philippine launch is an opportunity to bring that social aspect of Japanese dining to a new audience while establishing its own identity in BGC.

When does TORIKIZOKU open in the Philippines?

TORIKIZOKU will open its first Philippine restaurant at Serendra, Bonifacio Global City, on October 12, 2026.

The opening marks the latest step in the Osaka-born chain's international expansion and gives Filipino diners a new place to explore Japanese yakitori culture without leaving Metro Manila.

For those curious about the brand ahead of opening day, the Torikki installations around Serendra offer an early introduction. The QR codes can also be used to access Philippine updates and reservation information.

Read More

100% Fresh: Catch DreamWork's Highest-Rated Animated Film, The Forgotten Island, Now Showing at SM Cinema

100% Fresh: Catch DreamWork's Highest-Rated Animated Film, The Forgotten Island, Now Showing at SM Cinema

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is making waves with audiences and critics alike, earning a perfect 100% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes and becoming the platform’s currently highest-rated DreamWorks Animation film. Now showing at SM Cinema, the film brings its vibrant animation, emotional story, and Filipino-inspired world to audiences across SM Supermalls, giving moviegoers another reason to experience maxed out moments at their most loved cinema.

The film also made an early impact at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it received a five-minute standing ovation. Its strong reception has continued to build momentum, with critics and early viewers praising its inventive animation, anime-inspired visual style, and heartfelt story centered on friendship and memory.

Forgotten Island comes from directors Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, the filmmaking duo behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. Their latest film transports audiences to Nakali, a richly imagined world inspired by Filipino culture and mythology, bringing elements of local heritage and storytelling into a major animated adventure.

Adding to the film’s Filipino connection is Filipina actress Liza Soberano, who voices Raissa. She joins an international and Filipino roster of talent that brings the characters and world of Forgotten Island to life, including American singer, songwriter, and musician H.E.R., who voices Jo.

The film’s Filipino connection also extends to its soundtrack, which features performances from H.E.R., Filipino theater icon Lea Salonga, P-pop groups SB19 and BINI, the late Filipino music icon Francis Magalona, rapper Ruby Ibarra, and Carl Angelo. KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza also contributes a cover of INXS’ “Never Tear Us Apart” to the soundtrack and makes a voice cameo in the film.

With its Filipino-inspired setting, Filipino talent, and globally recognized voices, Forgotten Island brings together a diverse creative lineup while telling a story rooted in friendship, memory, and the connections that shape who we are. Its colorful animation and expansive world make it an experience designed for the big screen.

As part of SM Supermalls’ commitment to delivering maxed out experiences, SM Cinema offers moviegoers multiple ways to experience Forgotten Island. Audiences can choose from Regular Cinema, Director’s Club, and ScreenX at participating branches.

Regular Cinema lets families and moviegoers enjoy the film’s adventure, humor, and heartfelt story on the big screen. Director’s Club offers a more premium and comfortable setting for families and groups looking to make their movie outing extra special.

For an immersive way to explore Nakali, ScreenX extends selected scenes beyond the main screen and onto the cinema’s side walls. The format brings audiences deeper into the film’s colorful world and dynamic animation.

With its perfect critical score, Filipino-inspired world, and stellar lineup of Filipino and international talent, Forgotten Island gives audiences plenty of reasons to experience the film in cinemas. Catch it at SM Cinema across SM Supermalls and enjoy maxed out experiences at your most loved cinema.

Forgotten Island is now showing at participating SM Cinema branches. Book your tickets through www.smcinema.com or the SM Cinema app.

Read More

Christmas Starts Here: SM Supermalls Launches 12 Weeks of Iconic Christmas

Christmas Starts Here: SM Supermalls Launches 12 Weeks of Iconic Christmas

Christmas arrives early at SM Supermalls as the 12 Weeks of Iconic Christmas gets underway, bringing the holiday season to all 91 SM malls nationwide.

The campaign celebrates the Christmas traditions Filipinos have built at SM over the years, while introducing new experiences to look forward to each season. From Christmas lights and parades to family gatherings, gift shopping, dining, entertainment, and meet-and-greets, 12 Weeks of Iconic Christmas brings together the moments that make a trip to the mall part of the holiday experience.

“Christmas at SM has always been about bringing people together. This year, we are celebrating the traditions that generations have grown up with while creating new experiences for families and friends to discover. With 12 Weeks of Iconic Christmas, there is something new to look forward to every time you visit,” said Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls.

From Luzon to Visayas and Mindanao, your most loved SM Supermalls will take center stage with their own festive celebrations. Among the highlights are the Magical Night of Lights, Magical Drone Show, Grand Magical Christmas Parade, and Santa Meet and Greets, alongside other activities that bring the holiday spirit to communities across the country.

The nationwide celebration will be launched at SM Mall of Asia on September 15, setting the stage for the 12 weeks of festivities that follow. The MOA launch will officially trigger the start of the succeeding 12-week Christmas celebration across SM Supermalls nationwide.

Headlining the launch is Angela Ken, the new face of Christmas at SM, who will premiere her rendition of SM’s official Christmas jingle, “Celebrate Christmas at SM.” She will be joined by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra for a special live presentation of the Christmas anthem.

The launch will also feature the Christmas Sparkle AR activation, giving guests a chance to bring a piece of the festive spectacle from the MOA 360 to their smartphones.

Following the launch, SM’s 12 Weeks of Iconic Christmas will unfold across its 91 malls, with festive experiences and activities giving families, friends, and communities more reasons to celebrate together throughout the season.

For 12 weeks, SM invites everyone to revisit a favorite Christmas tradition, start a new one, or simply find another reason to spend the season together.

Celebrate Christmas at SM and go Gala to the Max.

Follow SM Supermalls on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other social media channels for the latest Christmas events, experiences, and updates throughout the celebration.

Read More

Why Asian Hair Needs a Different Approach to Hair Color

Why Asian Hair Needs a Different Approach to Hair Color

Friday, September 25, 2026

We’ve become much better at understanding that our skin is not one-size-fits-all. We look at ingredients, consider our skin type, and choose products based on what it actually needs.

Hair deserves the same kind of attention.

For Asian consumers, that starts with recognizing something easy to overlook: Asian hair is not one uniform hair type. Texture, strand thickness, density, dryness, curl pattern, porosity, and previous chemical treatments can all influence how hair behaves, particularly when it comes to coloring.

That was one of the themes discussed during a recent visit to the Philippines by Vicki Borley and Katharine Crew, Managing Directors of natural hair color brand Tints of Nature. Their experience working with different hair types brought up a useful beauty question: are we choosing hair color based only on the shade we want, or are we also considering the condition and characteristics of our hair?

What makes Asian hair different?

There isn't a single set of characteristics that defines Asian hair.

Research published in 2025 examining hair characteristics across multiple populations found differences in factors including hair diameter, dryness, damage, and curl pattern. The findings are a useful reminder that broad racial or geographic categories don't tell the whole story about an individual's hair.

Two people who both describe their hair as “Asian” can have very different strands.

One person might have fine, straight hair that becomes oily quickly. Another might have thick, coarse strands that feel dry at the ends. Someone else may have naturally textured hair that has also been repeatedly colored, bleached, straightened, or heat-styled.

All of those details can affect how hair responds to color.

“There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to Asian hair,” Borley explained, emphasizing the importance of considering the individual's texture and the condition of the hair before coloring.

Your hair history matters, too

Hair doesn't exist in its natural state forever.

Bleaching can affect the structure and condition of the hair. Frequent heat styling can contribute to dryness and damage. Chemical straightening and repeated coloring can also change how the hair feels and responds to another treatment.

That means two people with similar natural hair may need very different approaches to coloring if one has extensively treated hair and the other doesn't.

It's a simple point, but one that's easy to forget when we're focused on achieving a particular shade.

Should hair color be part of your haircare routine?

Coloring is often treated as a purely cosmetic decision. We choose a shade, book an appointment or pick up a box, and think about the result we want to see in the mirror.

But the coloring process also interacts with the hair itself.

That's why preparation and aftercare matter, particularly when hair has already experienced chemical or heat treatments.

Tints of Nature's approach is built around formulas that the brand says contain 95% naturally derived ingredients, while its permanent hair color contains 75% certified organic ingredients. The company's permanent colors are also formulated without ammonia and resorcinol, according to the brand.

These are formulation characteristics rather than guarantees of a particular outcome. Individual results can still depend on the hair's starting condition, previous treatments, application, and other factors.

For consumers, the more useful question is therefore not simply, “Is this natural?”

It is: Does this particular color system make sense for my hair, and how will I care for it before and after coloring?

What should you consider before coloring Asian hair?

Before choosing a color, it helps to look beyond your desired shade.

Consider:

Your natural texture. Fine, thick, straight, wavy, or curly hair can respond differently to products and styling.

Your hair's current condition. Dryness, brittleness, split ends, and previous damage are worth addressing before adding another chemical process.

Your color history. Previously colored or bleached hair may behave differently from virgin hair.

Your styling habits. Frequent heat styling can add another source of stress to already processed hair.

Your maintenance routine. A beautiful color is easier to maintain when you know what your hair needs between color appointments.

This is where personalized haircare becomes more useful than simply following a trend.

What does ingredient-conscious haircare actually mean?

Consumers are increasingly paying attention to ingredients in beauty products, including haircare.

A 2025 study published in the Journal of the Korean Society of Cosmetology examined consumer perceptions of hair-care products containing natural extracts and found that those perceptions could influence purchasing behavior.

That doesn't necessarily mean that “natural” automatically equals better.

Ingredients have different functions, and a product's performance depends on its overall formulation, not simply whether individual ingredients are natural or synthetic.

For someone choosing hair color, ingredient awareness can instead be part of a larger evaluation that includes hair condition, scalp sensitivity, formulation, application method, expected result, and aftercare.

In other words, reading the label is useful, but understanding your hair is just as important.

Tints of Nature puts preparation and aftercare alongside color

Tints of Nature's range includes products such as its Hydrate or Structure Treatment, Hydrate Shampoo, and Hydrate Conditioner, which the company positions as part of a care routine before and after coloring.

Borley says the brand's approach involves preparing the hair properly and caring for it after coloring rather than treating the color application as an isolated step.

That's a sensible principle regardless of which hair color brand you use.

Coloring shouldn't be the end of your haircare routine. If anything, it can be a good reminder to pay closer attention to moisture, texture, manageability, and overall hair condition.

Why the one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work

The beauty industry's language can sometimes make hair sound simpler than it is.

“Asian hair,” “fine hair,” “thick hair,” and even “damaged hair” are useful starting points, but none of those descriptions tells the complete story.

Your hair has its own combination of characteristics and history.

That's especially important in the Philippines, where many people regularly deal with heat, humidity, sun exposure, frequent washing, and styling, alongside coloring or chemical treatments. What works beautifully for one person's hair may not produce the same result for someone else.

Healthy Options, which carries Tints of Nature in the Philippines, says its decision to offer the brand reflects its focus on ingredient transparency, conscious formulations, and beauty products that align with its broader wellness positioning.

For consumers, however, the bigger takeaway goes beyond any particular retailer or brand.

Good hair color starts with knowing the hair you're working with.

The shade matters, but so do the strand, texture, condition, treatment history, and care routine behind it.

And perhaps that's the more useful evolution in beauty: moving away from finding the one “perfect” product and toward understanding what actually works for you.

Read More

Playverse Brings Character-Themed Play Experiences to SM Malls

Playverse Brings Character-Themed Play Experiences to SM Malls

SM Supermalls and Toy Kingdom are bringing a series of character-themed play experiences to malls across North and East Metro Manila, giving families more reasons to combine shopping with entertainment.

Called Playverse, the program features pop-ups and activities inspired by popular children's characters and toy brands, including Bluey, Hot Wheels, Sanrio, Pokémon, Paw Patrol, Gabby's Dollhouse, and Bburago x Maisto.

The activities are scheduled across participating SM malls from September through December 2026. Families can expect themed installations, photo opportunities, interactive activities, and opportunities to shop for related toys and collectibles at Toy Kingdom.

What is Playverse at SM?

Playverse is a series of toy and character-themed mall experiences from SM Supermalls and Toy Kingdom that combines play activities with retail shopping.

Rather than limiting the experience to browsing toy shelves, the program brings recognizable children's brands into mall event spaces through temporary installations and activities.

The approach reflects a broader shift in physical retail, where shopping centers increasingly use experiences and entertainment to give customers additional reasons to visit.

Playverse began with Bluey Playdates with Friends at SM City Marikina in May. The program now continues with additional character and toy activations across several SM malls in North and East Metro Manila.

Where can families find Playverse activities?

The upcoming Playverse schedule covers several SM malls, with different brands appearing at different locations.

Bluey Playdates with Friends 

SM City East Ortigas 

Sept. 23–Oct. 18 

Main Atrium

Hot Wheels 

SM City San Mateo 

Sept. 16–28 

Main Atrium

Hot Wheels 

SM City East Ortigas 

Sept. 18–29 

Event Area

Bburago x Maisto: The Ultimate F1 Racing Experience 

SM City Novaliches 

Oct. 1–15 

Mall Atrium

Bburago x Maisto: The Ultimate F1 Racing Experience 

SM City San Mateo 

Nov. 1–15 

2nd Level, in front of SM Store

Sanrio & Pokémon 

SM City Masinag Oct. 12–25 

Mini Atrium

Pokémon Mall Caravan 

SM City East Ortigas 

Oct. 23–Nov. 8 

Main Atrium

Pokémon by FUNISM 

SM City East Ortigas 

Nov. 16–30 

Main Atrium

Paw Patrol & Gabby's Dollhouse 

SM City Marikina 

Nov. 8–Dec. 6 

2nd Level, near TSS

Paw Patrol & Gabby's Dollhouse 

SM City Masinag 

Nov. 15–Dec. 13 

Mall Atrium

Paw Patrol & Gabby's Dollhouse 

SM City Taytay 

Nov. 29–Dec. 20 

2nd Level, fronting Food Court

Paw Patrol & Gabby's Dollhouse 

SM City East Ortigas 

Dec. 6–20 

Main Atrium

Schedules and locations are based on the Playverse announcement and may be subject to changes by the participating malls.

What can shoppers find at Toy Kingdom?

Toy Kingdom serves as the retail component of the Playverse experience, with toys and collectibles connected to several of the participating brands.

Depending on the activation, shoppers can find products such as Hot Wheels cars, Pokémon plushies, Paw Patrol toys, and Gabby's Dollhouse sets, alongside other toys and collectibles.

This creates a straightforward connection between the temporary mall activity and the traditional toy-shopping experience.

For families, a visit can therefore involve both the event itself and browsing products that extend the play experience at home.

Which characters are featured in Playverse?

The Playverse lineup covers a mix of animated characters, entertainment properties, collectible brands, and toy lines.

Featured names include:

• Bluey
• Hot Wheels
• Sanrio
• Pokémon
• Bburago x Maisto
• Paw Patrol
• Gabby's Dollhouse

The variety also means that the activations are spread across different age groups and interests, from preschool-oriented characters to collectible and racing-focused products.

The Bburago x Maisto activation, for example, takes a Formula 1-inspired approach, while Pokémon and Sanrio bring a stronger collectibles and character focus.

For now, Playverse is positioning SM malls as places where families can not only shop for toys but also encounter the characters and brands their children already enjoy.

With activities scheduled through December, families in North and East Metro Manila will have several opportunities to find a Playverse experience during the coming months.

Read More

UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan to Reopen October 16 with Expanded Store

UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan to Reopen October 16 with Expanded Store

UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan will reopen on October 16, 2026, following a temporary closure that began on September 3. The store is being expanded from a smaller-format location into a larger standard-format store, giving shoppers in Nueva Ecija access to a wider range of LifeWear products.

The expanded store will carry apparel for men, women, kids, and babies, while also introducing Self-Checkout counters. The changes point to a broader retail strategy: combining a larger physical assortment with technology designed to make routine purchases more convenient.

For customers in Cabanatuan and nearby communities, the reopening means more product categories can be accessed locally rather than requiring a trip to a larger retail hub.

What will change at the expanded UNIQLO Cabanatuan store?

The biggest change is the store's move from a small-format location to a standard-format store.

That additional space allows UNIQLO to offer a broader selection of its LifeWear range. LifeWear is the company's term for everyday clothing designed around functionality, comfort, and practical use.

The expanded assortment will cover:

• Women's clothing
• Men's clothing
• Kids' apparel
• Baby clothing
• LifeWear essentials
• AIRism Innerwear and other selected products

The store will also have Self-Checkout counters, allowing customers to complete eligible purchases without going through a conventional cashier lane.

Self-checkout has become increasingly common in large-format retail because it can give shoppers another option for completing transactions, particularly when they have relatively straightforward purchases.

Why is UNIQLO expanding its Cabanatuan store?

The Cabanatuan expansion gives UNIQLO a larger retail presence in Nueva Ecija, one of the major provinces in Central Luzon.

For retailers, store format and location are important parts of how product availability is managed. A smaller store can serve a local market with a focused assortment, while a larger standard-format location can accommodate more categories and inventory.

The reopening therefore goes beyond renovating an existing store. It changes the amount and variety of LifeWear that customers can access at the location.

For shoppers, that could translate into fewer compromises when looking for sizes, categories, or products that may not have been available at the previous smaller-format store.

When will UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan reopen?

UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan will reopen on October 16, 2026.

The store temporarily closed on September 3 to make way for the expansion.

UNIQLO has not yet provided details in the announcement about specific reopening-day promotions. The company says customers should monitor the UNIQLO App, official website, and @uniqlophofficial social media channels for announcements about reopening activities and promotions.

The reopening also brings a local education initiative

The expanded Cabanatuan store will also become part of UNIQLO's Supporting Brighter Futures Through Education initiative.

For the Cabanatuan project, UNIQLO is partnering with the ABS-CBN Foundation to support the construction of a new classroom for a selected local public school.

The initiative will be funded through proceeds from purchases of participating AIRism Innerwear products.

This gives the reopening a community component beyond the expansion of the retail space. Rather than treating the store solely as a commercial location, the initiative links customer purchases with an education-related project in the local community.

The announcement does not identify the selected school or provide a construction timeline, so those details will need to be confirmed when the program is formally announced.

What does the expansion mean for customers in Nueva Ecija?

The practical impact is straightforward: shoppers will have access to a larger UNIQLO store and a broader LifeWear assortment within the Cabanatuan retail market.

That matters particularly for families. With men's, women's, kids', and baby apparel available under one roof, the expanded format can serve multiple members of a household during the same shopping trip.

The addition of Self-Checkout also gives customers another way to complete purchases, potentially making the checkout process more flexible during busy shopping periods.

At the same time, the store's expansion reflects a familiar pattern in modern retail: physical stores increasingly serve not simply as places to display products, but as localized shopping hubs supported by digital tools and broader product availability.

UNIQLO and the Philippines-Japan friendship anniversary

UNIQLO is also positioning the Cabanatuan reopening within its activities marking the 70th anniversary of Philippines-Japan friendship.

The company says the occasion highlights the relationship between the two countries through Japanese innovation, local relevance, and community-focused initiatives.

For the Cabanatuan store, that connection is expressed through the combination of Japanese-developed LifeWear concepts, a Philippine retail location, and the education initiative with ABS-CBN Foundation.

The expanded store is ultimately a retail investment, but its reopening also illustrates how international brands can adapt their physical presence to local communities while incorporating technology and social-impact programs into the customer experience.

Read More

Jollibee and DreamWorks Bring Filipino-Inspired Storytelling to Global ‘Forgotten Island’ Campaign

Jollibee and DreamWorks Bring Filipino-Inspired Storytelling to Global ‘Forgotten Island’ Campaign

A Filipino food brand and a Hollywood animation studio are joining forces around a story that draws heavily from Filipino culture.

Jollibee and DreamWorks Animation have partnered for a global campaign tied to the theatrical release of Forgotten Island, a new animated feature about friendship, family, and mythical creatures inspired by stories from Filipino families.

For Jollibee, the collaboration extends its brand into entertainment while connecting its familiar themes of family, friendship, and shared meals with a film that puts Filipino-inspired storytelling at the center of a global production.

DreamWorks describes Forgotten Island as the story of lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R. and Filipino actress Liza Soberano. The two discover a mysterious portal that transports them to Nakali, a magical island populated by creatures based on stories they grew up hearing from their Filipino families.

Why the Jollibee-DreamWorks partnership matters

Brand collaborations with major entertainment properties are not new, but the Jollibee-DreamWorks partnership has a particularly local dimension.

Forgotten Island is a globally distributed animated film, yet its story is built around Filipino-inspired mythology and family storytelling. That creates a natural connection for Jollibee, a Philippine-born brand whose marketing has long centered on family, friendship, and shared experiences.

The partnership therefore works on two levels: it gives DreamWorks a way to connect the film with Filipino consumers through a familiar local brand, while Jollibee gets to associate its products and customer experience with an international entertainment property that already carries Filipino cultural elements.

The collaboration also reflects the increasing potential for Philippine brands to participate in global entertainment and cultural conversations without separating those partnerships from their local identity.

Jollibee turns the film into an in-store experience

In the Philippines, Jollibee is supporting the partnership with a limited-time Forgotten Island Adventure Bundle.

The bundle launched in Metro Manila on September 16 and expanded to participating stores in other regions on September 23. It will be available until October 31, while supplies last.

Priced at ₱389, the bundle includes:

• 1-pc. Chickenjoy with rice
• Pineapple Quencher
• New Peach Mango Pie à la Mode with Vanilla Soft Serve
• Peach Mango Pie with Chocolate Sauce
• Exclusive Forgotten Island Friendship Charm Bracelet

The bracelet serves as a collectible tied to the film and the partnership, extending the campaign beyond the meal itself.

The Adventure Bundle is available through dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru at participating Jollibee stores, subject to availability.

A Filipino story with a global cast

The partnership comes as Forgotten Island introduces Filipino-inspired mythology to an international animated audience.

The story follows Jo and Raissa as they navigate Nakali after discovering that returning home could mean losing their memories of each other. Their journey introduces mythical creatures drawn from stories associated with their Filipino families.

The film's voice cast also brings together Filipino and international talent, including Dave Franco, Lea Salonga, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, and Ronny Chieng, alongside H.E.R. and Soberano.

That combination gives the project a wider cultural footprint than a conventional movie tie-in. Filipino performers are part of a production whose story itself draws from Filipino cultural references.

From shared meals to shared stories

For Jollibee Philippines Vice President for Marketing Dorothy Ching, the connection between the brand and the film comes down to friendship and the memories created when people spend time together.

“At Jollibee, we've always believed that some of life's best memories are made around the dining table,” Ching said.

The partnership allows that idea to move from advertising into a broader entertainment experience, where the film, food, and collectible become parts of the same consumer interaction.

This type of collaboration also demonstrates why cultural relevance can matter in brand partnerships. A campaign becomes more meaningful when the entertainment property and the brand can meet around an idea that already resonates with their respective audiences.

What the campaign says about Filipino brand storytelling

The Jollibee-DreamWorks collaboration comes at an interesting point for Filipino storytelling.

Forgotten Island is being produced for an international audience, yet its mythology and characters are connected to Filipino family stories. Jollibee, meanwhile, brings a distinctly Filipino brand into a partnership with one of the world's major animation studios.

That creates a two-way exchange: a global entertainment property is being introduced to Filipino consumers through a familiar homegrown brand, while Filipino cultural references are being presented within a major international animated production.

For businesses, the partnership illustrates another approach to global brand building: rather than simply exporting a product or campaign, brands can build connections around culture, entertainment, and experiences that audiences already understand.

Forgotten Island, distributed by Universal Pictures, is now in Philippine cinemas following its September 23, 2026 release.

Read More

Bimby Aquino Partners With iCare HMO as Brand Ambassador

Bimby Aquino Partners With iCare HMO as Brand Ambassador

Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Bimby Aquino Enters Adulthood With a New Kind of Family Responsibility

At 19, Bimby Aquino is entering a new chapter of adulthood, and his first official brand endorsement reflects something deeply personal: taking care of the people who have taken care of him.

The young Aquino is now the newest brand ambassador of iCare HMO, a partnership that puts healthcare and family responsibility at the center of its “Brave Ahead” campaign.

For Bimby, the choice comes from years of seeing how health concerns can affect an entire family. Growing up alongside his mother Kris Aquino, whose public health journey has included ongoing battles with autoimmune illnesses, gave him an early understanding of the importance of medical care and access to healthcare.

“But health should not be a privilege, nor should it be a struggle. It should be a given,” Bimby says.

His experience has shaped how he views healthcare as he takes on more responsibility as an adult.

From Being Cared For to Caring for Others

Much of Bimby’s life has played out in the public eye, with Filipinos watching him grow from a child into a young adult.

Adulthood, however, also brings a different role within the family. For Bimby, that means being able to make decisions not only for himself but also for the people he considers family.

As part of his new chapter, he secured iCare HMO coverage for himself and his brother, as well as members of their household staff who helped care for them while growing up.

His reason is simple: family is not always defined by blood.

“Even if we’re not blood-related, they took care of us. They’re really part of my family and they deserve to have that right to be healthy,” he says.

He also describes being able to provide for his mother and brother as one of the meaningful parts of growing older.

“I love having freedom to provide for my mom and brother. It feels nice to be a responsible member of the family.”

That perspective gives his first adult endorsement a more personal dimension. It is not simply about being introduced as a brand ambassador. It also reflects the responsibilities he is beginning to embrace as he moves further into adulthood.

Why Health Planning Matters When You’re Young

Healthcare is often something young adults think about only when they become sick. Yet becoming financially independent can also mean taking a more active role in planning for unexpected medical expenses.

An HMO, or health maintenance organization, provides access to healthcare services through a network of accredited providers, with coverage depending on the specific plan.

iCare's individual and family HMO plans allow principal enrollment starting at age 18. Depending on the plan selected, coverage may include outpatient consultations, annual physical examinations, inpatient hospitalization and accredited emergency care.

For young adults earning their first income, this can make healthcare planning part of a broader conversation about financial responsibility.

It is also worth remembering that HMO coverage is not identical across plans. Prospective members should check the benefits, limits, exclusions, provider network and other terms before choosing a plan.

What Does It Mean to Be “Brave Ahead”?

Bimby's partnership with iCare is built around the “Brave Ahead” campaign, which speaks to young Filipinos beginning their careers and taking on new responsibilities.

That could mean receiving a first paycheck, becoming financially independent, helping support parents or siblings, or simply learning to make decisions about one's own future.

For Bimby, health belongs in that conversation.

“My mom always told me that if you don’t take care of your health at an early age, your health problems might catch up to you,” he shares. “So, I believe that as early as you can, make sure that your health is well taken care of.”

The message is particularly relevant as young adults begin managing expenses that may previously have been handled by their parents.

Healthcare may not always be the most exciting item on a young person's financial checklist. But having a plan for medical needs can be one way of preparing for the uncertainties that come with greater independence.

A New Chapter for Bimby Aquino

Bimby's transition into adulthood has been visible to the public for years. This latest chapter, however, shows a different side of growing up: learning that independence is not only about having more freedom, but also about having the ability to care for others.

His decision to include people who helped raise him in his healthcare planning reinforces that idea.

For Bimby, being “Brave Ahead” does not appear to mean having every part of adulthood figured out. It means thinking ahead and making room for the people who matter.

And perhaps that is one of the quieter signs of growing up: moving from being the one who is cared for to becoming someone who can care for others.

Read More

HONOR 600S Launches in Philippines on October 1

HONOR 600S Launches in Philippines on October 1

HONOR Philippines will launch the HONOR 600S on October 1, 2026, expanding the company's 600 Series with a smartphone aimed at users who want AI-powered creative tools, 5G connectivity and extended battery life.

The new device follows the Philippine arrival of the HONOR 600 Series and is positioned as a more accessible addition to the lineup. HONOR says the 600S is intended for young professionals, content creators and other digital-focused users who use their smartphones for entertainment, communication, work and content creation.

While HONOR has yet to announce the phone's Philippine price, complete specifications and launch offers, the company has confirmed three key areas: AI-powered imaging, 5G connectivity and an 8,100mAh battery.

What can we expect from the HONOR 600S?

The HONOR 600S is designed to extend some of the experiences associated with the 600 Series to a broader group of consumers.

One of its highlighted features is HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0, an AI-based creative tool that can transform still images into video content. The feature is aimed at users who regularly create or share visual content using their smartphones.

The device will also support 5G connectivity, giving users access to compatible high-speed mobile networks where available.

Battery capacity is another major focus. The HONOR 600S will carry an 8,100mAh battery, according to HONOR Philippines.

For users who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day, battery capacity can have a direct impact on how often a device needs to be recharged. Streaming video, social media, photography, video creation and mobile productivity can all contribute to higher power consumption.

An 8,100mAh capacity is therefore notable within the smartphone category, although actual battery endurance will depend on factors such as network conditions, display settings, applications and usage patterns.

Who is the HONOR 600S for?

HONOR is positioning the 600S toward consumers whose smartphones serve multiple roles throughout the day.

The company specifically identifies:

• Young professionals who use their phones for work and communication
• Content creators who need mobile tools for producing and editing content
• Digital-savvy consumers who spend significant time on entertainment and social platforms
• Mobile users who want 5G connectivity and extended battery capacity

This positioning reflects how smartphones have evolved from communication devices into everyday productivity and entertainment tools.

For many users, a single smartphone now handles messaging, video calls, banking, social media, photography, entertainment, work applications and content creation.

Why is AI becoming a bigger part of smartphones?

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being built directly into smartphone features rather than being treated as a separate application.

Image editing, object recognition, translation, writing assistance and content creation are among the areas where smartphone manufacturers are incorporating AI.

HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0 represents the company's focus on creative applications of AI. Instead of requiring users to start with video footage, the feature allows a still image to become the starting point for a video creation workflow.

For creators and social media users, these tools can reduce the number of steps involved in producing visual content.

However, AI features should also be assessed based on how they work in practice, including processing time, output quality, supported formats and whether processing takes place on the device or through cloud services. HONOR has not yet disclosed all of those details for the Philippine launch.

What does the 8,100mAh battery mean for everyday users?

Battery capacity is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh) and indicates the amount of electrical charge a battery can store.

A larger mAh figure generally provides greater battery capacity, but it does not automatically translate into a specific number of hours of use.

Actual battery life depends on several variables, including:

• Screen brightness and refresh rate
• Mobile network and 5G usage
• Video streaming
• Gaming
• Camera and video recording
• Background applications
• Software optimization
• Ambient temperature

For someone who spends much of the day away from a power outlet, however, having an 8,100mAh battery gives the HONOR 600S a clear focus on endurance.

How does the HONOR 600S fit into HONOR's smartphone strategy?

The launch comes after what HONOR describes as a strong response to the 600 Series in the Philippines.

Rather than positioning the 600S as simply another flagship-style smartphone, HONOR is presenting it as a way to make selected experiences from the series available to a wider audience.

HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng said the company wanted to extend the features consumers value from the 600 Series while making them accessible to more users.

The strategy reflects a familiar approach in the smartphone market: manufacturers use different models within a series to reach consumers with different budgets and usage requirements.

The challenge for brands is balancing feature differentiation with affordability. HONOR has not yet revealed the Philippine price of the 600S, so its market positioning will become clearer once pricing and the full specification sheet are announced.

When will the HONOR 600S launch in the Philippines?

The HONOR 600S will officially launch in the Philippines on October 1, 2026.

HONOR Philippines has not yet disclosed the local price, complete availability details or launch offers. The company said additional information will be announced ahead of the launch.

The launch will also be livestreamed online, giving consumers another way to follow the official product unveiling.

For potential buyers, the most important details to watch next are the Philippine price, storage configurations, display and camera specifications, charging capabilities, availability and launch promotions.

Until those details are released, the confirmed highlights remain the device's AI Image to Video 2.0 capability, 5G connectivity and 8,100mAh battery.

What should buyers look for before choosing the HONOR 600S?

The phone's large battery and AI capabilities may attract users who spend considerable time creating content or consuming media. But the eventual value proposition will depend on the complete specifications and Philippine pricing.

Consumers should compare:

Battery capacity and actual endurance — capacity is only one factor affecting battery life.

Camera hardware and AI features — creators should look beyond AI software and consider the actual camera system.

Processor performance — important for gaming, editing and multitasking.

Display specifications — relevant for users who spend long periods watching or creating content.

Charging technology — battery size matters, but charging speed affects daily convenience.

Storage options — especially important for people who regularly shoot photos and videos.

Price and included offers — these will determine how the 600S compares with competing smartphones in its segment.

HONOR's October launch should provide the remaining information needed to assess where the 600S sits within the company's Philippine smartphone portfolio.

For now, the announcement establishes the direction: HONOR is bringing a 600 Series device focused on AI-powered creativity, 5G connectivity and high battery capacity to a wider audience in the Philippines.

HONOR is adding another smartphone to its 600 Series lineup.

The HONOR 600S officially arrives in the Philippines on October 1, bringing AI Image to Video 2.0, 5G connectivity and a massive 8,100mAh battery.

Pricing, complete specs and launch offers are still under wraps. Here's what we know so far and what potential buyers should watch for ahead of the launch.

The HONOR 600S officially launches in the Philippines on October 1. The new 600 Series smartphone features AI Image to Video 2.0, 5G connectivity and an 8,100mAh battery. Pricing and full specs are still to come.

Read More

Anker Philippines Launches New Audio and Charging Tech

Anker Philippines Launches New Audio and Charging Tech

Anker Philippines is bringing two new devices to local consumers as the company expands its technology lineup beyond traditional charging accessories. The Anker soundcore AeroClip 2 and Anker MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro focus on two everyday smartphone needs: staying connected and keeping devices powered.

The local launch comes shortly after Apple introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, which became available globally on September 18. Anker says its latest accessories are designed with the newest iPhone generation in mind, including support for model identification on selected products.

For Filipino consumers, however, the more interesting story is not simply compatibility with a new iPhone. The two devices illustrate where personal technology is heading: more open audio, smarter charging, better heat management and accessories that do more than perform one basic task.

What is Anker bringing to the Philippines?

The two new products take different approaches to everyday mobile use.

The AeroClip 2 is an open-ear clip-on audio device designed for listening and calls while allowing users to remain aware of surrounding sounds.

The MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro, meanwhile, combines magnetic wireless charging with active cooling, a built-in display and a kickstand. It is designed to address one of the practical challenges of faster wireless charging: heat.

Both products are now available in the Philippines through Anker's official e-commerce channels.

Anker AeroClip 2 focuses on calls without blocking the ears

The AeroClip 2 takes a different approach from conventional in-ear earbuds.

Instead of sealing the ear canal, its open-ear design allows users to hear audio while remaining more aware of their surroundings. That can be useful for people listening to music or taking calls while working, commuting or moving around the city.

Its call technology is one of the device's more unusual features.

According to Anker, the AeroClip 2 combines two voice-pickup units that detect mechanical vibrations from the vocal cords with four MEMS microphones. MEMS, or microelectromechanical systems, microphones are compact microphone components commonly used in smartphones, earbuds and other consumer electronics.

The six-sensor system works with Anker's THUS AI Chip to distinguish the user's voice from surrounding noise.

Anker says the chip provides about 150 times the AI computing power of the previous generation for this particular voice-processing task. The company also says the AeroClip 2 received a Guinness World Records certification in September 2026 for the world's clearest open-ear clip-on earbuds for calls, powered by the THUS AI Chip.

That record claim is attributed to Anker and should be understood as a certification for the specified category rather than a general assessment of audio quality.

For everyday listening, the AeroClip 2 features a 12mm dual-magnetic high-excursion driver, LDAC support, Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification and HearID 5.0.

It also carries Apple's Made for iPhone certification, which is particularly relevant as the iPhone 18 generation enters the market. Apple officially launched the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026.

Battery life is rated at up to eight hours from the earbuds and up to 32 hours when used with the charging case. Anker says a 10-minute charge can provide up to four hours of playback.

The AeroClip 2 is priced at ₱9,995 in the Philippines.

It is available in Burgundy Red, Midnight Black and Cloud White, with Mist Blue listed as an upcoming color.

Why does the MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro have active cooling?

Wireless charging is convenient, but transferring power wirelessly can generate heat. As charging speeds increase, managing that heat becomes an important part of product design.

The Anker MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro tackles the issue with an active cooling system that combines a miniature fan, air ducts, temperature sensors, graphene thermal management and a low-resistance battery cell.

Anker says the system is designed to keep the power bank's surface temperature at or below 36°C while delivering 25W wireless charging.

The company says the device has also received SGS Premium Performance certification for charging and heat-dissipation performance.

The power bank has a 10,000mAh capacity and weighs 220 grams. It also includes a built-in display that provides information such as battery level, temperature, charging mode and estimated remaining charging time.

Its 0° to 80° stepless kickstand adds another practical function. Users can attach the power bank to a compatible phone and position it for hands-free viewing.

Anker says the power bank can recharge itself at up to 45W, reaching 80% capacity in approximately 52 minutes.

The company also reports that its internal laboratory testing charged an iPhone 17 Pro to 50% in 25 minutes. This is an Anker test result rather than an independently verified real-world benchmark.

What is Qi2 25W wireless charging?

Qi2 25W is a wireless charging standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium that supports up to 25 watts of power transfer. It builds on Qi2's magnetic alignment system, helping compatible devices and chargers connect in a more consistent position.

The distinction matters because "25W wireless charging" is not simply a marketing number. Compatibility between the phone, charger and charging standard determines how much power can actually be delivered.

The Wireless Power Consortium says Qi2 25W can provide nearly 70% more charging power than the original 15W Qi2 standard.

For consumers, that means the charging ecosystem is gradually moving toward faster wireless charging while maintaining a standardized approach to compatibility and safety.

The MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro's combination of magnetic attachment, 25W wireless charging and active cooling reflects that broader development.

The device is priced at ₱5,995 in the Philippines and comes in Phantom Gray, Starlight Silver and Polar Night. Burgundy Red is listed as an upcoming color.

What does Anker's new direction mean for consumers?

The Philippine launch also reflects how Anker's business has expanded over the years.

What began primarily as a charging-accessory brand now encompasses several technology categories through brands including Anker, soundcore, eufy and Anker SOLIX.

The company's "Ultimate, Unified" direction brings these categories under a broader technology ecosystem rather than treating charging, audio, smart home products and power solutions as entirely separate product lines.

For consumers, the practical effect is easier to see at the device level.

A power bank can now double as a phone stand and charging monitor. Earbuds can use multiple sensors and on-device processing to improve voice calls. Wireless chargers are increasingly designed around heat management as well as charging speed.

The trend is part of a wider shift in consumer electronics toward accessories that combine several functions instead of simply adding another device to the user's bag.

Availability in the Philippines

The Anker soundcore AeroClip 2 and Anker MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro are now available through Anker's official online stores on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop.

The products are also scheduled to reach authorized Anker stores and retail partners nationwide.

Anker says the Nano Charger OTA version will receive an over-the-air update on September 30, 2026, supporting model identification for the latest iPhone generation.

Consumers considering either product should still check the exact compatibility requirements of their phone before purchasing, particularly when relying on specific wireless charging speeds or iPhone features.

What to know before buying

• Choose the AeroClip 2 if open-ear listening and call performance are more important than traditional noise-isolating earbuds.
• Consider the MagGo Power Bank 2 Pro if magnetic wireless charging, portability and heat management are priorities.
• Check charging compatibility rather than assuming that every phone will receive the advertised maximum wireless charging speed.
• Look for official certification and compatibility information when buying Qi2 accessories.
• Consider your actual routine. A multifunctional accessory is most useful when its additional features solve problems you regularly encounter.

Anker's latest Philippine launch ultimately points to a broader change in mobile accessories. Chargers and earbuds are no longer simply supporting products for smartphones. Increasingly, they are becoming smarter parts of the everyday device experience.

For Filipino consumers upgrading to newer smartphones, that means the accessory ecosystem deserves almost as much attention as the phone itself.

Read More