Monthly Archives: April 2025

The local government of Caloocan marked a significant step in making public services more accessible and business-friendly with the recent opening of the Caloocan Business One-Stop-Shop center at SM Center Sangandaan.

Designed to fast-track business-related transactions, the newly inaugurated center aims to simplify the process of registration and compliance for entrepreneurs and business owners in the city.

Business owners line up at the newly opened Caloocan Business One-Stop-Shop Center at SM Center Sangandaan to process permits, pay taxes, and access government services with greater convenience.

City officials said the mall-based center will centralize a range of government services under one roof—offering convenience to constituents and helping stimulate local economic growth. Among the services now available at the mall-based center are business tax and real property tax payments, renewal of business permits, new business registration, application receipt for building, occupancy permit, zoning clearance processing, and payment of community tax certificates, or cedula.

With its newest satellite office at SM Center Sangandaan, Caloocan City reinforces its commitment to becoming a Business-Friendly City—offering easier, faster, and more accessible government services for entrepreneurs and residents alike.

Strategically located at the heart of North Caloocan’s commercial hub, SM Center Sangandaan was chosen as the site to make government services more accessible to the public, particularly the city’s growing number of entrepreneurs.

The launch of the business center aligns with the city’s broader goal of improving efficiency in public service and fostering ease of doing business—a key measure for attracting more investments and formalizing more enterprises within the city.

Today’s travels are defined by seamless experiences. More booking platforms exist for finding the most affordable rates for flights and stays. There are more ways to pay; no more frantic ATM searches in an unfamiliar destination or awkward bill-splitting moments with your friends. Now, it’s all about making every experience count with more ease and a lot more room for spontaneous fun. And that’s exactly how GCash is rewriting the rules of summer this year!

As the #1 finance app in the Philippines, GCash goes beyond payments and makes sure your dream summer happens thanks to its products and services. Whether you’re heading to new countries, indulging in local delicacies, or gearing up for a road trip, here’s why GCash is the best way to pay for every summer adventure.




Rule #1: Travel light anywhere with no hassle

Traveling can be stressful enough without the added worry of carrying wads of cash, looking for the best money changer, calculating every peso spent, or dreading extra charges on your credit card. The worst feeling is realizing you’ve been overcharged, or even worse, losing cash altogether.

For GCash, rule #1 of dream summers is that it’s light anywhere you go, offering a solution that lets you leave those worries behind. With just a tap or swipe of your GCash Card, you can easily hop on the train, grab a bite to eat at your favorite cafe, and shop at local stores – all at real-time, low exchange rates. And the best part is, there are no surprise charges to worry about!

Now what happens if you come across a place that doesn’t accept card payments? No problem! Through the Global Pay feature of GCash, you can still pay seamlessly via QR directly from your app while exploring your dream destination – now nothing stands in your way! Plus, every transaction unlocks exclusive discounts, amazing perks and unforgettable experiences.



Rule #2: Last minute plans? Always a yes

With more people opting for DIY summer trips, paying for a last-minute trip or a spontaneous getaway doesn’t need to be stressful. Sure, we’ve all been there – trying to grab a limited time flight deal or a massive hotel price drop. But then you realize you can only pay with a credit card and panic sets in when you don’t have the option to pay right away!

With your GCash e-wallet, you can pay instantly, without scrambling for another payment method or having to borrow someone else’s card (and risking surprise fees yet again).

Smooth, stress-free travel planning awaits when you use GCash Webpay to pay straight from your GCash wallet with just a few taps.

Accepted across online merchants like Klook, Agoda, or Philippine Airlines, GCash not only lets you pay easily but also unlocks exclusive deals for your dream summer. No borrowing, no delays, no surprise fees. Just smooth, stress-free travel planning, paid straight from your GCash Wallet. Finally, you can score the best deals without the hassle.

Rule #3: Instant insurance, no worries

Travel insurance used to feel like an afterthought. It’s complicated to apply for, and in the rush of planning a trip, it's easy to neglect. But travel is truly unpredictable. Flight cancellations, lost luggage, or getting sick abroad can turn your trip upside down, sometimes leaving you with unwelcome additional expenses.

With GInsure, GCash makes it easy to secure travel insurance with just a few taps. GInsure 
Travel Protection offers you instant coverage for unexpected flight delays, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more. It’s affordable, requires no paperwork or lengthy approvals; just peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your dream summer.



Rule #4: Treat yourself without guilt

It’s your dream summer, so it shouldn’t come with any feelings of guilt! Forget settling for less or compromising your comfort on cheap flights or accommodations just because you can’t afford to pay everything upfront. With GCash, you can treat yourself without guilt with flexible payment options!

Pay for your summer expenses in easy installments for up to 24 months with zero down payment with GGives, and book that dream trip without the stress. So go ahead, lock in that dream trip, focus on the experience and not the expenses with a splurge you deserve!


Discover the best way to pay this summer


Define your dream summer with these new rules with GCash, and leave the stress of traveling behind with the best way to pay! Now you can enjoy the freedom of an easier, more seamless, always secure, and effortlessly cashless season. Download the GCash app today. Your dream summer awaits!

Get ready for a basketful of joy and excitement this Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, as SM Supermalls in the East burst with festive fun for the whole family! From thrilling egg hunts to creative costume contests and exciting pocket activities, there’s an egg-stra special treat waiting for everyone. So, gather your loved ones and hop on over to your nearest SM mall in the East for an unforgettable Easter celebration!

Here’s a peek at the egg-citing activities lined up just for you:

SM City East Ortigas: Prepare for a delightful Egg-Hunting adventure at the Main Atrium. Join the fun at 3:00 PM and see how many colorful treasures you can find!

SM City Marikina: Experience the full Easter spectacle at SM City Marikina! Join their grand Easter Parade, showcase your best attire in the Easter Costume Contest, and participate in the thrilling Egg Hunt all happening at the Mall Atrium Ground Level.

SM City Taytay: The hunt is on at SM City Taytay! Head to the Bldg A Ground Level at 3:00 PM for their special Easter Egg-Hunting event. Get ready to scamper and discover hidden surprises!

SM City Masinag: The Easter fun never stops at SM City Masinag! Be part of their vibrant Easter Parade, flaunt your creativity in the Easter Costume Contest, and join the exciting Egg Hunt. Plus, enjoy an engaging Easter pocket activity including a colorful coloring activity at the Mall Atrium.

SM City San Mateo: Head to the 4th Level of SM City San Mateo for a day filled with Easter cheer! Witness their festive Easter Parade, join the adorable participants in the Easter Costume Contest, and embark on a fun-filled Egg Hunt. Don’t miss their engaging Easter pocket activity too!

SM Center Angono: Get your creative costumes ready! SM Center Angono is hosting an exciting Easter Costume Contest at the Upper Ground Level (in front of BDO) starting at 2:00 PM. Show off your most imaginative Easter-themed outfits and win fantastic prizes!

SM Antipolo Downtown: Celebrate Easter in style at SM Antipolo Downtown! Join their exciting Easter Parade, participate in the thrilling Egg Hunt, and unleash your creativity with their Easter pocket activity which includes delightful Easter egg painting at the 2nd Level.

Don’t miss out on these fantastic Easter celebrations happening across SM Supermalls in the East! It’s the perfect opportunity to create cherished memories with your family and friends.

Join the fun and share your egg-stra special moments with us using the hashtag #ExtraExcitingEast! We can’t wait to celebrate Easter with you!

After the pastel egg hunts and Sunday Mass selfies comes the real treat—brunch. And at SM Center Pulilan, brunch is not just a meal, it’s a whole mood. Whether you’re wrapping up a long weekend staycation or hopping back on the road for school and city life, these brunch spots offer the perfect quick-fix flavors and cozy vibes that fit Gen Z and millennial energy to a tee. Think local coffee, smart snacking, and sweet pairings that hit just right after a packed holiday.

Here are the top four brunch spots that are totally Instagram-worthy and undeniably satisfying.

Brew X Press

Born in Plaridel and brewed with heart, Brew X Press isn’t just your usual coffee stop—it’s a love letter to Bulacan. Their signature blends are rich, aromatic, and thoughtfully crafted, perfect for families needing a break or millennial barkadas on a caffeine quest.




Famous Belgian Waffle

Crispy outside, fluffy inside, and filled with everything from ham and cheese to blueberry cream cheese, Famous Belgian Waffle is the ultimate handheld brunch. Easy to eat, affordable, and nostalgic, it’s perfect for families heading back home or barkadas road-tripping back to the metro.





Gong Cha

Let’s face it: no brunch date is complete without boba. Gong Cha delivers crowd-favorite milk tea flavors with that signature chewy goodness. It’s the ideal stop for a refresh before heading back to Metro or catching up with cousins one last time.





Chaboba

Playful, fruity, and refreshingly different—Chaboba is a go-to for brunchers who want something light but exciting. Their fruit teas and colorful concoctions are perfect for sharing with the fam or updating your story with that aesthetic snacks and signature drinks.





Whether you’re a commuter, student, or just not ready to let go of vacay mode, SM Center Pulilan is your brunch base before you bounce. These quick but memorable stops are a reminder that good food, great coffee, and better company make for the best kind of Easter Sunday.

So this Easter Sunday, make one last stop worth remembering at SM Center Pulilan.

Acclaimed pop-balladeer RJ Dela Fuente have joined forces with Mr. Pure Energy himself, Gary Valenciano for a moving and heartfelt rendition of Laura Story’s “Blessings”—released just in time for the Holy Week

Their powerful duet offers a fresh take on the iconic Christian ballad, serving as a timely reminder of hope, healing, and unwavering faith in God amid life’s trials.

Known for bridging the worlds of pop and gospel music, both artists bring a depth of emotion and sincerity to the song that resonates deeply with listeners. “But more than our styles complementing each other, it’s our united stand, belief, and faith in Jesus that I believe has made it a perfect fit. Probably one of my favorite duet recordings in my lifetime,” shares Gary Valenciano.

The track was produced and arranged by Mon Faustino, Gary’s musical director for more than 35 years, in collaboration with recording consultant Mike Jamir. Considered by both as one of their favorite Christian songs, “Blessings” stands as a personal anthem for each of them: a source of comfort during Gary’s own medical battles and a guiding light for RJ during his journey through grief, healing, and spirituality.

Gary reflects, “Not every blessing comes in an ideal, joyful, happy, celebratory manner. Blessings can come hidden behind trials that come in various forms, and our prayer is that our listeners will know that not all disappointments are failures but surely sometimes delays that God allows to hone our character into becoming more like His before we are given that which we have asked of Him. Big blessings may require heightened responsibilities on our part and God can use the trials to deepen our personal walks with Jesus and strengthen us for more battles and blessings we will surely face in the future.”

RJ Dela Fuente shares how the song’s message of unexpected grace resonates with his own story. “The original artist, Laura Story, talked about how her husband was faced with a brain tumor and health conditions, which was the story behind this song. She talked about how she had to find comfort and had to depend on God during that tough time. I myself also had to find peace and comfort in Him when my family and I were grieving the loss of my stepmom due to cancer. Tito Gary also had to face cancer and a heart problem and is a type 1 diabetic.”

Through the song’s message, RJ believes that God has a bigger plan for us and we can still find comfort and peace in Him. “He won’t ever leave us and will be alongside us if we allow him to be. We can still find His “blessings” through tough times.”

The two artists first performed the duet as a surprise during CBN Asia’s Beyond Measure concert, held at the Araneta Coliseum last year.

The collaboration also serves as an important milestone for both Gary Valenciano and RJ Dela Fuente, who are involved in separate projects under Sony Music Entertainment and WATERWALK RECORDS, a music label focused on bringing fresh Christian music to a new, streaming generation.

RJ, on the other hand, will be releasing an EP with the help and support of Sony Music Entertainment, WATERWALK RECORDS, and Manila Genesis.RJ Dela Fuente and Gary Valenciano’s “Blessings” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment and WATERWALK RECORDS.

In an age when screen time often trumps playtime, SM Center Pulilan offers a refreshing escape that brings families back to the joy of interactive fun.

Here, tots can tumble, parents can play, and everyone can rediscover the wonder of imagination, and connection. From colorful inflatables to arcade thrills, these play zones promise more than just giggles—they’re gateways to learning, bonding, and priceless memories.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the most exciting kid-friendly spots at SM Center Pulilan that’ll have your little ones—and the young at heart—saying “one more time!”

Baby Play: Bounce, Crawl, Slide, Repeat!

If your tot has the energy of a tiny tornado, Baby Play is your new best friend. This vibrant amusement zone is a paradise for little movers and shakers, with inflatables, trampolines, obstacle courses, and colorful slides that keep them active and entertained for hours.

But Baby Play is more than just a space to burn off extra energy—it’s where gross motor skills are fine-tuned, creativity blooms, and friendships begin. Let your little one navigate tunnels, climb soft walls, or simply bounce to their heart’s content. It’s safe, sanitized, and built with every stage of child development in mind.

 

Ambika Kid’z Funbox: Play with Purpose

Calling all curious minds and tiny tinkerers—Ambika Kid’z Funbox is a wonderland of learning disguised as fun! This interactive playground was thoughtfully designed to stimulate imagination while supporting early learning milestones. Here, toys aren’t just toys—they’re tools for discovery.

From mini kitchens to ride-ons, shape sorters to creative role-play corners, each station is an opportunity for kids to enhance problem-solving skills, engage in sensory play, and make sense of the world around them—all while having a blast.

 

Tom’s World: The Arcade of All Ages

Ready to level up? Tom’s World is a family-favorite arcade that lights up with the sounds of laughter, friendly competition, and the ever-familiar jingle of game tickets. Here, teens, kids, and parents find their perfect mix of nostalgia and novelty in every claw machine, racing game, and dance pad.

It’s visually stimulating, filled with neon lights and pulse-pounding music, yet totally family-friendly. Whether you’re guiding your child through their first game or having a showdown at air hockey, Tom’s World turns every visit into an exciting bonding moment.

So ditch the tablets, round up the gang, and spend a day of real connection and discovery at SM Center Pulilan. Whether your little ones love to bounce, build, or beat the high score, there’s a play zone that’s just right for them—and for you. After all, the best kind of learning is the one that comes with laughter.

Insular Foundation, InLife’s corporate social responsibility arm, recently awarded college scholarship grants to 26 first-year students taking up Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses.

The Foundation awarded Gold Eagle College Scholarship Grants to 11 students from the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD); and 15 students from other partner schools, namely, Aurora State College of Science and Technology, Benguet State University, Bohol Island State University, Central Mindanao University, and Davao Oriental State University. The scholarship benefits include stipend, transportation and book allowance.

 

During the scholars’ orientation program, Insular Foundation Executive Director Ana Soriano expressed optimism that the scholarship grant will help the students achieve their dreams and live better lives.

 

“The reason why we continue the Insular Foundation Gold Eagle College Scholarship Grant every year is to be able to help students like you reach your personal dreams, with the hope that you will use your acquired knowledge and skills to make life better. When you graduate, you will be able to help your family enjoy a more comfortable life. When you become serious professionals like a Civil Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Mathematicians, Statisticians, and other fields in the sciences, your impact will expand in the bigger community,” she said.

 

Speaking on behalf of the scholars, UPD student Blessilyn Ramos thanked the Foundation for easing their financial burden and empowering them with the gift of education. “As Gold Eagle Scholars, we are immensely grateful for the privilege of accessing quality education, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive community. Your kindness and trust in our potential give profound meaning to our academic journey—it motivates us to instill discipline in ourselves, persevere despite countless challenges, and become more conscious of the impact we can create,” she said.

Bohol Island State University student Charity Joy Roma said the scholarship grant motivates her to study harder and inspires her to give back to others someday. “The scholarship has provided me the means to focus on my studies and strive toward my dreams. More importantly, it has reminded me of the power of community and generosity in transforming lives. To the Insular Foundation, thank you for your unwavering dedication to education and empowerment,” she said.

 

Since the Gold Eagle College Scholarship Program’s relaunch in 2008, Insular Foundation has helped 134 students finish their college education.



To learn more about Insular Foundation, visit https://www.insularfoundation.com.ph/.

Spirits enthusiasts and culinary professionals were treated to an elevated beverage experience as Tanduay, the world’s number one rum, took center stage at this year’s World Food Expo (WOFEX), held from March 27 to 29 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

“We aimed to highlight the rich heritage of Philippine rum-making and the many delightful ways to enjoy our products at the country’s premier platform for food and beverage innovation,” said a Tanduay spokesperson.

At booths 716 and 717, visitors explored a curated selection of Tanduay’s beloved local products and sought-after export brands—available at exclusive event-only deals. The brand’s featured lineup included Asian Rum Gold, Asian Rum Silver, Especia Spiced Rum, Double Rum, Heritage Rum, Ginto, Embassy, Flavored Mixes, and Tanduay Select—showcasing both its heritage offerings and contemporary innovations.

A key highlight of Tanduay’s WOFEX 2025 presence was the daily mixology demonstrations featuring three of the country’s most talented mixologists, who each brought unique flair and creativity to the brand’s versatile spirits.

On March 27, mixologist RJ Ramirez captivated attendees with his signature creations—KALABASA HIGH, MAIS CON YELO, and GINTONIC—highlighting the versatility of Tanduay’s Especia Spiced Rum, Asian Gold, and Ginto Barrel Aged Gin.

The excitement continued on March 28 as Dondz Bolante took the stage with his refreshing takes on the classics: WATERMELON HIGHBALL, ESPECIA SOUR, and GINTO MULE, using Asian Rum Gold, Especia Spiced Rum, and Ginto Barrel Aged Gin as his base spirits.

Capping off the mixology showcase on March 29, Paulo Layao impressed the crowd with his inventive drinks—GINTO POMELO, BAYABUZZ, and RUMCHATTA—crafted with Ginto Barrel Aged Gin, Asian Rum Gold, and Especia Spiced Rum.

Tanduay’s presence at WOFEX 2025 not only reaffirmed its leadership in the global spirits industry but also celebrated Filipino excellence in craftsmanship and innovation, further strengthening the brand’s connection with both local and international audiences.

WOFEX remains the Philippines’ largest food and beverage trade show, serving as a dynamic platform for industry leaders, emerging trends, and potential business partnerships.

One of the many signs of a healthy workplace is the level at which employees feel valued and engaged. Throughout its 35-year history Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) has become a venue for character development, personal growth, and community volunteerism.




Guided by the company’s core values known as ICARE—Integrity and Innovation, Care and Respect, and Excellence and Empowerment—PCPPI fosters an environment where individuals, whom it calls Bravehearts, can thrive professionally and personally.




Two such stories of growth belong to Ailyn Caudilla and Armando Mandigma, whose experiences at PCPPI illustrate how the company’s values empower its people.




Aileen Caudilla never anticipated a lengthy career with PCPPI. She started at the Naga office, where she not only experienced professional growth as a member of the Human Resources (HR) team, but also encountered opportunities for personal development.




Dealing with different personalities allows her to develop her communication and organization skills. She sought advice from senior employees in her team to deepen her understanding about PCPPI’s culture in line with her role. Today, she maintains the same humility and willingness to listen.




In PCPPI, she developed a keen eye for details as her work involved a wide range of responsibilities, from managing direct reports and payroll concerns. “It has been challenging experience but I have learned so much,” she shared, looking back.




Aside from ensuring that employee-company relations flow smoothly, Ailyn is also the president of her office’s Bukluran Council. The Bukluran Council is composed of PCPPI employees who lead and facilitate engagement initiatives within their area.




Using skills gleaned from her role as an HR Assistant, she connects representatives from PCPPI’s different departments to plan a year’s worth of socio-civic activities in line with the organization’s values. This includes working with partner-schools during the annual Brigada Eskwela program of the Department of Education.




“When I started in the company, my confidence was low,” Ailyn recalled, “but as I’ve learned to balance my daily tasks with the Bukluran Council, I’ve seen how I’ve grown professionally and personally.”



All in a day’s work

Armando Mandigma is a true blue Batangueño—gregarious, warm, and friendly. He’s the Environmental, Health, Security, and Safety (EHSS) manager in PCPPI’s largest production facility in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.




A seasoned professional, Armando is actively involved in community initiatives, from river clean-ups to employee physical fitness activities. His years of experience have allowed him to balance his responsibilities in managing daily operations and monitoring compliance to safety and security standards.




One can tell his profession is a vocation, as he clearly views his colleagues as part of a larger community. Armando’s role sees him looking after the safety of both employees and plant visitors, as he and his team ensure the risk of accidents are mitigated within facility grounds.




Armando reveals this is a challenge for his team given the high foot and equipment traffic at the Sto. Tomas facility. “We have to conduct refresher training sessions for all our people, and even third-party partners who frequent the plant. Engagement is key, because workplace safety and security do not solely rest on one person or one team’s shoulders.”




PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products are available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.