Category: Feature

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Enchanted Kingdom unveils 31st anniversary events and offerings, announces new developments at AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY

Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ premier theme park, is gearing up for its 31st Anniversary with Fiesta ng Saribuhay, a month-long celebration that showcases the country’s rich biodiversity. This October, guests can expect an enchanting lineup of exciting shows, world-class entertainment, and other anniversary experiences.

EK’s theme for this year’s anniversary aims to enrich every guest’s visit by highlighting the Philippines’ unique beauty. The park will present a grand showcase of its people, culture, and biodiversity, making the country truly enchanting.

The festivities officially commence on October 2 with an enchanting World Teachers’ Day Celebration. This event will feature insightful sessions, captivating performances, and special treats and giveaways dedicated to the inspiring educators who nurture the next generation of Filipinos.

Guests can also take a symbolic step towards sustainability, wellness, and togetherness by participating in Run to 31: Takbo ng Saribuhay Fun Run on October 11. EK will share more details about the event, including registration information, on its social media pages soon.

Every weekend in October, the Fiesta ng Saribuhay street dance performances will bring the country’s vibrant culture and festive spirit to life across the park. EK’s Storyverse characters will also add their magical touch to the festivities with their spectacular nighttime parade.

On October 17, the Fiesta ng Saribuhay Concert will spotlight Filipino music, talent, and pride. R&B hitmaker Dionela will headline the star-studded lineup of OPM acts, ensuring that the anniversary festivities are truly unforgettable.

The celebration continues on October 18 with another exciting set of Fiesta ng Saribuhay performances featuring more OPM artists. Details about these performances will be revealed soon.

Embark on a culinary journey through the archipelago with EK’s newest Saribuhay Menu, a delightful offering of healthy and hearty local dishes from the featured destinations in the upcoming AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY film. This exciting menu will soon be available at LaunchTime and Amazon Grill restaurants.

EK continues to expand its diverse selection of in-park food and dining options. In the coming months, new tenant partners will join the EK family, including Pepper Lunch at the EK Portico, Minimelts, Stroop & Zo, and Mango Royal.

AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY 2.5

As EK celebrates its 31st anniversary, the launch of AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY 2.5 this October marks a significant milestone. This new installment introduces captivating immersive pre- and post-show experiences that bring the enchanting stories of biodiversity to life. Upon entering, guests will embark on a multi-sensory walkthrough that unveils the inspiration, symbolism, and creation of the attraction.

Delve deeper into the walkthrough and immerse yourself in the natural habitat of the Philippine eagle. Gain insights into its lifecycle and witness the poignant plight of one of the country’s most iconic and critically endangered birds.

EK is also elevating the retail experience at Pugad, AGILA’s in-house concept store. The store will feature displays and experiences that seamlessly blend retail, education, innovation, and sustainability. Guests can leave Pugad not only with souvenirs but also with a deeper appreciation and understanding of their overall AGILA experience.

AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY, a renewed attraction launched in October 2025, has a mission that extends beyond tourism to champion sustainability. Last January, it was notably named the Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA).

EK has expanded its advocacy beyond the park by partnering with its homegrown P-pop girl group, SMS, to become the Saribuhay Explorers. These ambassadors will use short-form digital content to raise awareness about AGILA and the local biodiversity among audiences both inside and outside the park.

*Schedules are subject to change with prior notice.

For more information and updates on EK’s 31st Anniversary Celebration and other events and offerings, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph. Follow EK on Facebook and TikTok at @enchantedkingdom.ph and Instagram at @ek_philippines.

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Strong Performance, Stronger Trust: How SM Supermalls Is Shaping the Future of Filipino Mall Culture

SM Supermalls isn’t just keeping pace with the times—it’s setting the rhythm. Fresh off a record-breaking first half of 2026, the country’s largest mall operator is proving that strong numbers are only part of the story. The real win lies in trust: the enduring confidence of tenants, shoppers, and communities who continue to see SM as more than a mall—it’s a lifestyle hub.

A Business Built on Foot Traffic and Faith

From January to June, SM Supermalls grew revenues by 8%, hitting ₱41.8 billion. That growth was fueled by expanding leasable space, more tenant sign-ups, and steady foot traffic averaging 3.7 million daily. With over 23,000 tenants now under its roof, SM’s portfolio is bigger, busier, and more diverse than ever.

President Steven Tan summed it up best: “Our growth reflects the enduring trust of our tenants and shoppers. Despite macroeconomic headwinds, they continue to find value in the variety of our offerings and the strong sense of community in our malls.”

Beyond Retail: Pickleball, Marathons, and More

Transformation at SM isn’t just about square meters—it’s about experiences. In the first half of 2026 alone, SM added 41 new Pickleball courts, bringing the nationwide total to 102 across 32 properties. Sports and leisure are now part of the mall DNA.

And then came June 12: the Galaxy Manila Marathon, the first-ever full marathon to take over EDSA. With 25,000 runners pounding the pavement, SM proved it could turn the country’s busiest highway into a stage for wellness and community.

Sustainability at Scale

SM’s transformation isn’t just about fun—it’s about responsibility. The company expanded its rooftop solar PV system to 122 MWp, powering malls with clean energy. It also achieved 100% coverage for free EV charging stations across all 90 malls, with 203 chargers now available nationwide.

These moves reinforce SM’s role as a community partner, not just a commercial landlord.

Strongest Brand, Strongest Bond

For the second year running, SM Supermalls was named the Philippines’ Strongest Brand by Brand Finance, scoring 95.3 out of 100 on the Brand Strength Index. With an AAA+ rating, SM isn’t just leading in revenues—it’s leading in relevance.

The Next Chapter: My SM

Looking ahead, SM is rolling out My SM, a five-year transformation platform designed to evolve malls around the changing needs of Filipino communities. From new entertainment acts to leisure concepts, the strategy is clear: keep innovating, keep connecting.

The highlight? The upcoming opening of SM Nuvali, the 91st mall in the portfolio. Positioned in South Luzon’s growth corridor, it promises an upscale concept unlike anything the Philippine market has seen before.

Final Take

SM Supermalls is proving that malls can be more than shopping centers—they can be ecosystems of trust, innovation, and community. With strong performance fueling stronger bonds, the brand is evolving for the next generation of Filipinos who want more than retail—they want experiences, sustainability, and a sense of belonging.

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Diversifying Your Investment: How to Transition from Gold to Bitcoin

Gold, a reliable wealth safeguard, attracts investors seeking diverse investment options. Combining traditional assets with innovative digital options maximizes returns and secures financial futures.

Integrating digital gold into portfolios builds enduring wealth. This trend is gaining traction, with Asian countries holding 64.5% of global gold jewelry and bullion demand, as reported by The Economist. The World Gold Council also observed a surge in digital gold product popularity.

While traditional gold and stocks may limit returns, many investors view Bitcoin as a complementary asset to gold in a well-rounded portfolio.

Alden Paul Yburan, Head of GCrypto, explains that Filipinos seek ways to safeguard their money amidst financial pressures. GCash offers digital gold and curated cryptocurrency options alongside traditional assets, empowering users to build long-term financial resilience and maintain a balanced portfolio within a trusted platform.

Reasons behind gold investors’ interest in Bitcoin:

– Digital gold provides stability and inflation hedging, maintaining value during economic uncertainties.

– It eliminates the logistical complexities of physical ownership, such as visiting jewelers, substantial upfront cashouts, and secure vault storage.

Investors seeking accelerated portfolio growth are increasingly turning to Bitcoin, a decentralized digital asset that has emerged as one of the fastest-growing investments over the past five years, surpassing traditional funds and local stocks.

A Bitwise study reveals that incorporating a manageable amount of Bitcoin into a diversified portfolio consistently enhances risk-adjusted returns, allowing investors to increase potential returns without proportionally increasing overall risk.

Bitcoin’s global networks facilitate 24/7 trading, enabling convenient management or conversion of holdings from smartphones. Its price movements are generally independent of traditional markets, ensuring portfolio exposure to different market pressures simultaneously.

Yburan explains that Bitcoin and traditional markets complement each other. When traditional markets experience downturns, Bitcoin acts as a cushion, while when technology and digital adoption surge, Bitcoin serves as an accelerator.

Users can manage both digital gold and Bitcoin directly from their phones using GCrypto on GCash.

GCrypto makes acquiring digital gold accessible, starting at ₱500. Investors can grow their holdings at their own pace through small, consistent contributions. GOLD in GCrypto is fully insured, certified, and backed 1:1 by physical gold stored in high-security vaults in Switzerland. Investors can monitor, buy, or sell 24/7.

Yburan emphasizes that transitioning from gold to the broader cryptocurrency market is user-friendly. Growing investors can gain direct exposure to Bitcoin, one of the fastest-growing modern asset classes, without managing multiple external applications. GCrypto removes traditional barriers, enabling more Filipinos to build long-term financial resilience within a trusted platform.

GCrypto offers a comprehensive resource, A Beginner’s Guide to Crypto, within the app to help users understand Bitcoin and other major tokens.

GCrypto’s carefully curated token selection ensures market strength and credibility, helping users avoid scams and ‘rug pulls.’

Unlike traditional investments, GCrypto offers a more accessible option. With GOLD in GCrypto, users can start exploring Bitcoin and supplement their digital gold investments for as low as ₱500.

Upgrading financial strategies doesn’t mean abandoning proven methods. It’s about expanding investment choices for financial peace of mind and potential wealth growth.

Ready to start your cryptocurrency investment journey? Open the GCash app, go to the Invest tab, and select GCrypto. Download the GCash App from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

The information provided is for informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified financial professional before making investment decisions. Remember, all investments carry risks, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance isn’t indicative of future results. Any reliance on the information is at your own risk.

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SM Remains on Track to Cut Emissions by 40% by 2040

SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM Group, said it remains on track to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2040, supported by investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other initiatives across its businesses.

Speaking at a recent MUFG NOW Manila forum, “Pathways to a Sustainable Future: Opportunities and Challenges,” Timothy Daniels, consultant and head of sustainability and investor relations at SM Investments, said the company’s emissions reduction goal builds on years of investment in efficiency and renewable energy across the group.

“When we looked at our emissions, we identified where we could make meaningful reductions and developed a target supported by specific programs and investments. We wanted a goal that reflects what we can achieve based on actions we are taking today,” Daniels said.

“For us, sustainability helps reduce costs, improve reliability, and make our operations more resilient. It’s simply part of how we run the business.”

Across the group, SM has installed more than 200,000 solar panels on its properties, helping generate electricity and reduce dependence on grid power.

Carmen Copper Corporation’s floating solar facility at the Malubog Reservoir

Its mining subsidiary, Carmen Copper Corporation, operates a three-hectare floating solar facility at the Malubog Reservoir in Cebu. The facility’s 8,540 solar panels generate 4.99 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy that could potentially supply about 10% of the mine’s power needs.

SM has also expanded its renewable energy investments through Philippine Geothermal Production Company (PGPC), which operates geothermal steam fields in South Luzon.

Beyond its own operations, the group is helping support the country’s energy transition through BDO Unibank. To date, BDO has deployed approximately Php1.2 trillion in sustainable financing, including support for 71 renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 6,165 MW.

Daniels noted that some of the largest emissions reductions will depend on the broader shift to renewable energy. While companies can improve efficiency, install solar panels, and use renewable power, progress also depends on the availability of renewable energy, transmission infrastructure, and grid development.

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All transactions no fees, kaya BDO Pay Mo Na!

Life moves fast, and your payment app should keep up—without extra fees and unnecessary complications. In a world where you can do almost anything with a tap, your digital payments shouldn’t come with added costs just to access your money. That’s the essence of BDO Pay: a payment app designed to simplify everyday finances, save you money on fees, and provide the convenience of managing everything in one place.

Keeping Things Simple and Free

Eliminate extra fees and unnecessary steps. BDO Pay offers a variety of ways to manage your money seamlessly:

– Send money for free to any BDO account, as well as to other banks and e-wallets through InstaPay or PesoNet.

– Pay bills to over 2,200 billers and purchase load without any fees.

– Scan QR codes for free—whether you’re paying at stores via QRPh with your BDO debit card, utilizing Scan to Pay with your BDO credit card, or withdrawing and depositing cash at QR-enabled ATMs.

Built for the Way You Pay

Paying shouldn’t feel like an overwhelming task, yet many Filipinos find themselves juggling multiple apps, cashing out funds, or incurring extra charges when completing everyday transactions.

To maximize the value of your transactions, BDO Pay allows you to pay directly from your linked BDO account or credit card, without needing to cash in. It also offers deals, discounts, and cashback opportunities to enhance your spending experience, all while keeping track of your rewards points in one convenient location.

You deserve a payment experience that works for you, not the other way around. With BDO Pay, every transaction is designed to be straightforward and rewarding, making it easier to navigate your day with confidence.

Better When Shared

Introduce your family and friends to the convenience and benefits of BDO Pay, and earn rewards together. From July 1 to September 30, 2026, you can convert referrals into cash. Share your referral code through the app. Once your loved ones sign up and enter the code, you’ll receive ₱100 in cash credits, and they’ll get ₱50 too. Here’s how it works:

1. Open the BDO Pay app, tap on “More,” and select “Refer a Friend.”

2. Copy your referral code or tap “Invite Friends” to share it.

3. Choose a messaging app and send the referral code to your friend.

4. Your friend can download and sign up for BDO Pay, enter the referral code during sign-up, and complete the registration process.

It’s easy and a thoughtful way to help those you care about enjoy the benefits of cashless payments while earning rewards together.

No Fees, Just Pay

The era of paying extra for convenience is coming to an end. If you’re ready to simplify your payment transactions with zero fees, it’s time to choose BDO Pay! Download it now from the App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), or Huawei AppGallery (HarmonyOS).

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Php 2M Incentives Awarded to inDrive’s Top Drivers

The ride-hailing scene in the Philippines just got a major boost. inDrive, one of the fastest-growing TNVS platforms, recently rolled out its Platinum Driver Campaign, rewarding top-performing partner drivers with over Php 2 million worth of incentives, fuel vouchers, and special prizes.

A BYD Seal 5 DMi car was awarded the grand prize.

Celebrating Dedication on the Road

From Metro Manila to Cebu and Bacolod, drivers who achieved Platinum status were entered into weekly raffles. A total of 319 winners took home laptops and fuel vouchers, while the grand finale saw lucky drivers receiving life-changing rewards—including a BYD Seal 5DMi, an M25 EV motorcycle, and even sari-sari store packages to help families build additional income streams.

Vanessa Taqueban, inDrive’s Driver Operations Lead, Philippines

“Being a TNVS driver comes with its share of challenges, including heavy traffic and expensive fuel. But despite these hurdles, inDrive drivers still show up every single day. This inspired us to come up with the Platinum Driver Giveaway to thank them for their dedication,” shared Vanessa Taqueban, Driver Operations Lead Philippines.

Driving Growth in the Mobility Industry

The campaign isn’t just about prizes—it’s about empowerment. As of June 2026, inDrive’s active driver base has grown by more than 100% compared to May 2025, with top performers increasing by 130% year-on-year. Weekly earnings also rose by 12%, proving that incentives can fuel both motivation and financial stability.

Beyond the Platinum Driver Campaign, inDrive continues to support its drivers through:

    • Seasonal incentives — top-up bonuses and fuel vouchers.
    • Green Zone program — reduced commission rates as low as 1%, letting drivers keep up to 99% of their earnings.

Upskilling for the Future

inDrive is also investing in long-term growth. Partnering with TESDA, the company launched the Driver Academy, offering professional training and upskilling opportunities. This initiative ensures drivers not only earn more today but also build sustainable careers in the mobility industry.

“As inDrive continues its nationwide expansion, it is vital for us to build a stronger Platinum Driver community. We plan to continue rewarding loyal drivers with strategic incentives and financial support both on and off the job,” said Sofia Guinto, inDrive Philippines Country Manager.

The Road Ahead

With its driver-first approach, inDrive is setting a new standard in the TNVS industry — one that values dedication, rewards excellence, and invests in professional growth. For updates on upcoming initiatives, visit inDrive Philippines or follow @inDrive.ph on social media.