How To Live Your Best Summer Ever, According To Heart Evangelista

Summer is now underway and brings with it a season of leisurely holidays and thrilling trips. Although everyone has their ideal summer bucket list, we could all use a suggestion or two to make the most of this season. Count on no less than renowned fashion and lifestyle star Heart Evangelista to help you make this summer the best ever. Heart, who was just introduced as the face of the GCash summer campaign, tells tales and glimpses of how she intends to realise her fantasy summer. Heart spills it all from the ideal day in one of her beloved locations, her tried-and-true travel tips, and even her most recent finding on the best method to pay when travelling.

“Summers are always so special to me. Ever since I was a kid, it’s the season I look forward to the most because summer meant travelling and making new memories,” she shares.

Recently ruling Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks, the actress admits that her ideal summer vacation this year is not too far from home: “Japan—I love it this season. It’s also a special place that I love visiting with my husband and our kids. My sisters and I also have many great memories there.”

Heart remembers all the excursions she has taken in Tokyo and has already developed the ideal schedule for the city she wishes everyone to visit: “I’ll start with sushi in Omotesando, then coffee in a quaint cafe in the area, followed by hours of vintage designer shopping. I’ve found so many treasures at great prices over the years—from bags, shoes, jackets, and jewellery. I’ll end the day getting lost in Don Quijote buying anik-anik, then eat snacks at a convenience store before calling it a day. I’m getting excited just thinking about it!”

Photo taken by: Nikko Mendoza
Heart Evangelista on a night out in Paris during Fashion Week 2025

Given her frequent travels, often hopping between Manila and other destinations around the world, it’s safe to assume that Heart has already perfected her pre-travel preparations. Of course she has. She has the crucial stuff organised in her thoughts weeks before a trip—we’re talking about clothes and shopping. Her mindset for the season dictates how she prepares outfits in advance and dedicates at least a day to packing and organising, which naturally includes budgeting. “I’m better at budgeting now! I’ll set a budget for the trip, transfer it to my GCash account, and use my GCash Card for the trip. That way, I have better control of my spending. It’s so convenient,” she shares.

Heart dreams of a summer journey reminiscent of a montage of her travels in real life in the recently released GCash film featuring the actress. One moment, she was shopping for a purse in Japan; the next, she was enjoying a mango shake in beautiful Boracay—all with her reliable travel companion, her GCash card.

Heart remembers an occasion when GCash demonstrated its simplicity even more: “I was shopping in an airport abroad when I found a lipstick that I knew a dear friend had been looking for. Even though it was already late in Manila, I called my friend, who became ecstatic and asked me to purchase all the stocks they had. I immediately tapped my GCash Card, and that was that! I tapped my GCash Card, and the exchange rate was also really good. She also added that she and her team rely heavily on their GCash cards when abroad to be stress-free. “We use it for cabs, booking cars, buying snacks, shopping—everything!”

Photo taken by: Nikko Mendoza
Heart Evangelista in Paris during Fashion Week 2025

Heart advises GCash users to maximise the tools and services on the app they could be overlooking to have a fuss-free journey. Although most users just know the ease of sending money and paying basic bills on the app, GCash really offers many services that can save you valuable time and money, particularly when travelling. First of all, your GCash Card serves as a debit card for convenience in transactions and may be used to withdraw money from ATMs at reasonable exchange rates, relieving you of concern about locating money changers overseas. “The GCash Card is the best way to pay abroad for me. The card’s low forex and service fees, along with its absence of hidden charges, are truly life-changing, according to Heart.

Another advantage of GCash’s GlobalPay function is that it lets customers quickly pay via QR in chosen stores, unlocking discounts and rewards overseas. Using Scan To Pay in a few chosen stores until April 30, 2025, will allow you to earn a 10% discount in Japan. One other feature Heart strongly recommends is GInsure: “Travel insurance is truly important—you never know what’s going to happen. Many people forget about this, but this is a tip I always give for a stress-free trip. Once you have insurance, you can have the best summer,” she says. Users can effortlessly purchase travel insurance for international trips with GInsure, which covers trip cancellations, lost baggage, flight delays, medical emergencies, and more for as low as P350 and offers coverage up to P2.5 million.

When asked how she thinks summer trips can be both memorable and rewarding, Heart says not to forget to live in the moment. “Enjoy the moment when you’re finally on the trip you planned and saved up for. Remember, it’s a summer trip to make memories and milestones—take many photos and, yes, reward yourself with delicious food and indulge in a bit of shopping with GCash. I’m serious!”

The globe is Heart’s runway, and she is eager to bring her ideal summer to pass. “Elevated basics and understated elegance are my mood board for this summer trip. I’ll pair my neutral outfits with an intriguing bag in tow—with my GCash Card inside, of course,” she quips. Like Heart, we can all support GCash to bring our ideal summers to pass. GCash is your dependable friend, whether your trip is local, overseas, or just staycations—cozying up in hotels. With your GCash Card, enjoy cashless transactions, use Global Pay to unlock benefits, and stay safe and secure with GInsure. Are you planning to indulge in some summer shopping? Using GGives will help you pay less. There are numerous opportunities.

Download the GCash app to find out how you may spend your summer to remember. View Heart’s fantasy summer film on GCash’s social media pages.

 

Uratex Holds ‘Tried, Tested, Trusted’, Celebrates 17th Reader’s Digest Win

Uratex, the country’s leading foam manufacturer and sleep solutions provider, reaffirmed its commitment to product quality, operational excellence, and long-term customer trust with a full-day tour of its flagship facility in Plaridel, Bulacan, and a celebration at RONAC Living Gallery in Mandaluyong. The “Tried, Tested, Trusted” event honours the brand’s 17th straight Trusted Brand Award from Reader’s Digest.

Uratex Philippines hosted members of the media for a walkthrough of its largest and most technologically equipped facility in Plaridel, Bulacan. Uratex has received the Platinum Most Trusted Brand Award in the mattress category for 17 consecutive years.

The campaign highlights Uratex’s position as the nation’s leading maker of mattresses and foam products, emphasising that trust is gained not only through brand longevity but also through continuous daily execution across systems, teams, and customer touchpoints.

“Having been recognised as a trusted brand for 17 years is a meaningful affirmation for us,” stated Uratex’s managing director, Peachy Medina. “Trust is earned, and we think it’s built through how we serve people—whether it’s through the products we make, the service we give, or the promises we keep.”

Uratex, currently in its 57th year, remains a household name synonymous with innovation, comfort, and durability. The “Tried, Tested, Trusted” event emphasises the brand’s basic values and its long-standing pledge of dependability towards Filipino families and institutions.

Mrs Natividad “Naty” Cheng – Uratex Philippines Founder and Chief Executive Officer. Uratex has received the Platinum Most Trusted Brand Award in the mattress category for 17 consecutive years.

“For over five decades, we’ve stood by our customers through comfort, quality, and care,” stated Mrs Natividad Cheng, Uratex’s CEO. “Trust is something we earn each night. And we are pleased that we continue to be a brand that Filipinos can trust.”

The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Awards are based on consumer surveys done in different Asian countries to assess opinions of brand trust, quality, value, and willingness to purchase. Uratex has achieved the Platinum Most Trusted Brand Award in the mattress category for the past 17 years.

From left: Sheron White – Reader’s Digest Advertising and Retail
Director for the Asia & Pacific Ressfgion, Natividad Cheng –
Uratex Philippines Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Maricarl
Garcia – Reader’s Digest Advertising Sales Director for the
Philippines
Uratex has received the Platinum Most Trusted Brand Award in
in the mattress category for 17 consecutive years.

A closer look at Uratex’s operations
The day started with a tour of Uratex’s largest and most technologically advanced facility in Plaridel. The complex, which has been operational since 2000 and spans over 450,000 square meters, is critical to the company’s national manufacturing and distribution efforts.

The plant guided the guests through its major zones, starting with the section for producing foam blocks, which combines raw materials under strict quality norms. From there, the group proceeded to the curing and cutting stations, where newly created foam blocks were stabilised and shaped using automated technologies designed to maximise yields and limit material waste.

The fabrication, assembly, and packing departments demonstrated Uratex’s ongoing process efficiency advancements, particularly the recent inclusion of automated mattress assembly lines in 2023. The automated technologies enable increased production rates, assure uniform bonding across the numerous foam layers used in mattress layouts, and provide a smooth flow.

Guests also toured the company’s in-house product testing and research facility, where engineers and specialists undertake durability tests, density checks, and performance evaluations. These measures are an integral part of the company’s quality assurance program and are compliant with ISO 9001:2015 requirements.

The warehousing and delivery sectors rounded out the trip, with modernised racking systems and organised loading zones to ensure the smooth movement of finished goods across the country.

Throughout the walkthrough, Uratex representatives emphasised how the company’s use of lean manufacturing, automation, and real-time monitoring technologies helped it meet volume and quality targets.

The facility employs more than 500 people, the majority of whom are involved in plant operations. The rest help with administration, engineering, warehousing, and quality assurance. Production runs in various shifts to accommodate national demand and support distribution throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“This is our opportunity to express gratitude and to reaffirm what we stand for,” Medina told the crowd. “We may be known for our foams and mattresses, but more than that, we want to be known for being reliable—whether you’re a customer, a partner, or a team member.”

Uratex also reaffirmed its ongoing expansion ambitions, including the construction of its distribution centre, which aims to increase capacity and improve delivery services at key locations. Future years are likely to see the publication of additional information.

We are celebrating our partners and milestones.
The Trusted Brand Recognition was held at the RONAC Lifestyle Centre in Mandaluyong, where the company conducted a program focused on dialogue, acknowledgement, and appreciation.

Mrs Cheng, Mr Eddie Gallor, executive vice president of automotive, and Mr William Lee, executive vice president of furniture and bedding, participated in a fireside talk that kicked off the event. Their debate revolved around Uratex’s strategy for operational integrity, leadership, and brand durability.

Uratex Philippines’ Pillars of Trust, top management, and its most
trusted brand ambassadors and personality guests at the Tried,
Tested, Trusted Media Event, which marks its 17th consecutive
Trusted Brand Award from Reader’s Digest.
From left: Hector Go – Manufacturing Director, John Rosagas –
Uratex Group of Companies’ General Manager, Stephen Lee –
Uratex Philippines PSleep Business Unit Director, Eddie Gallor –
Uratex Philippines Executive Vice President for Automotive, Dindo
Medina – Uratex Direct to Consumer Director, Atom Araullo –
Filipino Broadcast Journalist and 2024 Reader’s Digest Platinum
Awardee for Trusted TV Platform, Alyssa Valdez – Filipino
Volleyball Player and 2025 Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Sports
Personality, Natividad “Naty” Cheng – Uratex Founder and Chief
Executive Officer, Pauleen Luna-Sotto – Filipino Actress and Host,
Bigboy Cheng – DJ, Vlogger and Uratex Philippines PR Director,
Janeena Chan – Filipino Actress and Host, Peachy Medina – Uratex
Philippines Managing Director, William Lee – Uratex Philippines
Executive Vice President for Furniture & Bedding, Christian “Kurt”
Cheng – Uratex Philippines Junior Category Manager

Medina then delivered a statement in which he stressed the values that guide the company’s course, as well as the necessity of honouring the trust placed in them by customers, partners, and communities.

Uratex also recognised its most trusted partners, including the Philippine Orthopaedic Association and the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine, for their ongoing collaboration in improving sleep health and standards.

Before presenting Uratex with its 17th Most Trusted Brand Award in the mattress category, Reader’s Digest defined the award’s standards. Mrs Cheng accepted the prize on behalf of the company and delivered a heartfelt speech.

“For almost five decades, we have worked tirelessly to provide Filipino families with quality and care. Receiving this prize again is quite special”. It’s a reminder that our work matters and that we must always uphold the trust placed in us,” she said.

Trust via execution.
The “Tried, Tested, Trusted” event highlights Uratex’s operational backbone. With over six decades of sustained development, the brand’s foundation is still based on product quality, service reliability, and long-term partnerships with customers and communities.

Medina stated that, while honours and achievements are causes for celebration, work continues every day on the company floor, in distribution channels, and in homes across the country.

From left: Janeena Chan – Filipino Actress and Host,
Alyssa Valdez – Filipino Volleyball Player and 2025
Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Sports Personality, Pauleen
Luna-Sotto – Actress and Host, Atom Araullo – Filipino
Broadcast Journalist and 2024 Reader’s Digest Platinum
Awardee for Trusted TV Platform, Bigboy Cheng – DJ,
Vlogger and Uratex Philippines PR Director

“What we do every day is really about helping people sleep better, live better, and trust that we’re here for the long run,” she told me. “That trust is not something we take for granted—it’s what pushes us to do better every day.”

Uratex approaches 2025 with a renewed focus on manufacturing innovation, nationwide accessibility, and strengthening its guarantee of trust for future generations.

 

ArenaPlus Celebrates with the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Champions

ArenaPlus, your gateway for 24/7 sports entertainment in the Philippines, witnessed greatness at the Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall 2, as they joined the TNT Tropang Giga at their victory party last March 30, 2025.

The Commissioner’s Cup is one of the three major tournaments in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). This specific league allows teams to invite a foreign player to play with them as an import. In this 49th season of the cup, TNT Tropang Giga beat the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in a seven-game series that crowned them the Commissioner’s Cup champions.

As a major sponsor for this PBA season, ArenaPlus had the privilege to join the Tropang Giga in their victory party last Sunday. TNT fans were able to have a photo opportunity with the Katropas and have their jerseys signed during the celebration.

Photo courtesy of PBA: ArenaPlus merchandise was given to TNT Tropang Giga victory party attendees.

ArenaPlus also gave a gift package as a token to Rey Nambatak, who was awarded the finals MVP for his exemplary performance at the PBA finals against Ginebra. In addition, ArenaPlus merchandise, such as duffle bags and string bags filled with ArenaPlus treats, was also given to the attendees.

Moreover, the team and some important personages dined together and shared a significant moment after the party during a dinner at Novotel Cubao. While TNT’s success reflects their hard work and perseverance, their victory is also of great significance to ArenaPlus’ goal of helping Filipino athletes achieve their astig moment in life.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, which are widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates SpinPlus and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

Discover the AITO M9 – The Future of Intelligent Luxury SUVs

Are you prepared to explore state-of-the-art electric vehicles? The AITO M9 is a revolutionary flagship SUV for discerning drivers who value elegance, safety, and intelligent mobility.

AITO—“Adding Intelligence to Auto” set a new standard for groundbreaking New Energy Vehicles. Using cutting-edge technology and premium components, the AITO M9 redefines luxury and intelligence on the road, providing a driving experience that will leave a lasting impression on car aficionados.

Five AITO M9 features you’ll love:

1. Appealing Design
Pure, elegant, and innovative, the AITO M9 design shines. The skyline-inspired two-tone body creates two halves: the upper half draws attention to the sumptuous interior, while the lower half symbolises a powerful yet smart platform with modern driving technology. Its 5230mm x 1999mm x 1800mm dimensions make it comfortable to drive in the city, and its 3110mm wheelbase makes it sturdy.

The slim design improves aerodynamics and efficiency with ultra-low wind resistance and 0.279 Cd drag. The M9’s dramatic Galaxy headlights and Starlight taillights balance light and shadow, complementing its unique look.

2. Excellent Work
The AITO M9’s clever dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) system provides 365 kW and 675 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The 52 kWh battery provides a range of over 200 km on a single charge, ensuring comfortable and worry-free driving.

The intelligent Range Extender platform (REEV) eliminates “range anxiety” with a high-efficiency fuel-to-electricity generator. The gasoline tank can be filled in 5 minutes, operating as a “power bank” to add 1,000 km of range and improve energy economy and performance. The overall range exceeds 1,200 kilometres.

3. Comfortable Interior
Welcome to the AITO M9, where luxury meets innovative technology. Flexible seating and zero-gravity seats provide maximum support in the roomy cabin. Every trip is enhanced by advanced sound and comfort with an industry-first adaptive dual armrest that adjusts to the seat angle and a 25-speaker sound system.

Luxury is enhanced by white ash wood trim, crystal knobs, genuine leather seats, and a panoramic sunroof that offers stunning views. The AITO M9’s intelligent storage areas, dual-mode in-car refrigerator, aroma system, and 16.8 million colour LED ambient lighting enhance its organised and personalised driving experience.

4. Smart, cutting-edge technology
The intelligent cockpit harmoniously integrates the instrument cluster, central control, and passenger screens. From million-pixel intelligent headlights to real-time power management, AITO’s intelligent driving technologies guarantee worry-free driving.

5. Uncompromising Safety
The top-notch body structure and modern materials of the AITO M9 incorporate safety features. The AITO M9 incorporates superior crash designs and numerous safety advancements. The AITO M9, with 9 airbags and a “super” five-star rating from the China New Car Safety Assessment Program (C-NCAP), scored 93.9%, the highest in C-NCAP history. This achievement demonstrates its strong design and engineering. The AITO M9 provides peace of mind on every ride with an unparalleled 20 active safety features, including advanced front, lateral, and rear protection systems.

See the Future Now
The AITO M9 will be presented at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2025, where spectators are invited to an exclusive preview to see the breakthrough features firsthand. Customers may now pre-order and reserve the AITO M9 to be among the first to experience this unique vehicle.

To experience the AITO M9, visit aito.ph or the SERES AITO EDSA Test Drive Centre at Primex Tower, Greenhills!

 

Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries Celebrated the 32nd Year Anniversary of its Mass Media Program and Crusade – ORAS NG HIMALA Marking the Greatest and Largest Free Healing Celebration and Miracle Crusade in the Philippines

Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries (JIOSWM) celebrated the 32nd Anniversary of ORAS NG HIMALA, its Mass Media Program and Crusade, with a historic event filled with divine encounters, life-changing miracles, and an outpouring of God’s supernatural power.

This was the greatest and largest free healing celebration and miracle crusade in the Philippines, and it proved to be a powerful and transformative experience for people seeking physical healing, emotional restoration, and spiritual renewal.

This monumental event brought together distinguished guests, including church leaders, bishops, and influencers from across the nation and around the world. Thousands of participants, from the ministry’s congregation to members of various sects, fellowships, and denominations, gathered to witness the supernatural move of God.

The event was broadcast live across social media platforms, extending the impact of this celebration to millions of viewers globally. The live stream connected attendees from over 500 chapters and outreaches throughout the country and extended its reach to 70 nations worldwide, creating an international movement of faith, hope, and healing.

The celebration was highlighted by special prayers for the nation, where the Philippines was lifted up in intercession, and divine blessings were declared over the country. Thousands of people gathered and united in prayer for the nation, and heaven opened up as God answered the prayers, pouring out His blessings. Various miracles were witnessed by everyone who attended the gathering, filling them with joy as miracles unfolded everywhere at the Marikina Sports Center.

𝐄𝐜𝐳𝐞𝐦𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐝

This mother and her baby attended the 31st anniversary of Oras Ng Himala in March 2024. At the time, baby Miracle, just three months old, was covered in wounds from head to toe. The man of God declared that the next time he saw her, she would be healed, with smooth skin and in perfect health. When they returned home that same day, baby Miracle’s wounds began to heal, gradually disappearing.

However, soon after, she developed meningitis, which severely affected her head and caused blindness. She was in a coma for two months in the hospital. Throughout this difficult time, her mother held onto her faith, continuing to watch Miracle Hour on YouTube every night.

Now, by the glory of God, the mother is here to testify that the man of God’s prophecy has come true. Baby Miracle is now perfectly healthy— a living testament to God’s power and grace. She joyfully praises the Lord, the God of Miracles, for His divine intervention in the life of her precious daughter. Praise be to God!

𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐏𝐮𝐥𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 & 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐝

This woman arrived suffering from chronic pulmonary disease and heart failure, but by the power of God, she was gloriously healed! She came in a wheelchair, but now, joyfully, she pushes her own wheelchair— a clear and visible testimony of the Living God’s healing power.

And countless sick people, particularly those with incurable diseases, were all healed by our Almighty God!

The ORAS NG HIMALA event featured powerful messages from the ministry’s founding leaders:

  • Apostle Renato D. Carillo—He is a well-respected servant of God, recognized as the Endtime Prophet and Apostle, with a legacy of living like Jesus. He is the founder and spiritual director of Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries. As the host of the ORAS NG HIMALA program and crusade, he has been a highly sought-after preacher in mainstream media. Additionally, he has authored several life-changing and soul-enriching print resources.

  • Prophetess Elena Ga Carillo—She is the beloved wife of the Man of God and serves as the General Administrator of Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries and the Directress of the ORAS NG HIMALA program and crusade. She is recognized as God’s End-time Mighty Deliverer and the Founder and Directress of the Mission of Love – Love in Action, a heartfelt initiative that has been a profound blessing to countless lives, both within our country and across the globe.

In addition, the event featured the Mission of Love – Love in Action, which offered much-needed support and care to thousands of individuals in need.

That was just the beginning. The miracles do not end; they are ongoing and ever-increasing. It has been proven to all that God is the God of Miracles, and His power continues to manifest in incredible ways, bringing healing, restoration, blessings, and hope to all who believe.

If you are in need of healing, deliverance, breakthroughs, or any kind of miracle, or if you would like more information about the ministry, please visit our website: www.jioswm.org or contact the Living Like Jesus hotline: CALL (+632) 88-546796 / +63906 517 6349; CALL/TEXT: +63985 340 5073 / +63927 411 9503, or send a message to our official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/JIOSWMofficial.

Celebrating Women’s Empowerment in the Workplace

BDO Unibank, Inc. shares invaluable lessons on leadership and financial empowerment at this year’s She Talks Asia Summit. Marla Garin-Alvarez, BDO Unibank Vice President and Head of Sustainability Office (2nd to the left), highlights the importance of women taking charge of their futures—whether through representation in leadership, access to financial resources, or financial literacy.

From left to right: She Talks Asia co-founder Iza Calzado, Marla Garin-Alvarez, session moderator Riki Flores Reyes, and She Talks Asia co-chair and Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach.

Together, these women inspire Filipinas to dream big, lead, and achieve more. 💜

#BDOFindsWaysForYou