January 24, 2025

But the experience doesn’t end there—Warabimochi Kamakura is also famous for its warabimochi drinks, a modern twist on the classic dessert. These refreshing beverages come packed with chewy warabimochi pieces in flavors like Matcha, Hojicha, Strawberry, Coffee, and the zesty Matcha Lemonade. Don’t miss out on their limited-edition seasonal flavors, with the first to be launched this Valentine's Day, which are always worth the wait!

January 24, 2025

Lights Up, Sounds Down" offers inclusive movie experience for autism community

In celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures partnered to host a successful sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning film "Firefly" on January 17, 2025. Over 2,000 participants across 10 SM malls, including children on the autism spectrum and their families, enjoyed a heartwarming and inclusive movie experience.

"Tuwing pumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-dama namin acceptance, accomodation, and appreciation. It is the norm here," said Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Chair Emerita Dang Uy Koe.

January 24, 2025

January 24, 2025

Imagine a world powered by the sun, the ultimate source of life. As climate change worsens due to fossil fuel use, sustainable energy alternatives are more crucial than ever. The Philippines, with its abundant sunlight, is uniquely positioned to harness solar power and help combat climate change. In 2024, Manila experienced around 4,440 hours of daylight, which translates to a significant potential for solar energy production.

SM Prime recognized this potential early on. In 2014, SM North EDSA became the first commercial property in the Philippines to install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on its roof, achieving the largest installation in Southeast Asia at the time. This move signaled the beginning of SM Prime’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan explains, “SM’s environmental sustainability began with energy and water conservation. Revolutionizing our malls’ energy efficiency through renewable sources magnifies our responsibility to serving people and the planet.”

Today, SM Supermalls operates 44 malls with solar PV systems, generating a combined peak energy of 51.6 megawatts (MW). The largest installation is at SM City Santa Rosa. With a total of 96,000 solar panels across malls in Luzon and Visayas, SM Prime holds the Philippines’ largest solar energy portfolio, covering around 33 hectares. These efforts are a vital part of the company’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy, aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.

This 51.6 MW capacity significantly cuts carbon emissions, providing clean energy that powers thousands of homes or removes thousands of cars from the roads. It also reduces the need for coal, offering environmental benefits for both the planet and local communities.

The solar power generated directly fuels essential mall operations like lighting and escalators, reducing SM Supermalls' reliance on the national grid. This, in turn, helps stabilize the power supply, reducing the risk of outages and easing the burden on electricity providers. By tapping into clean, renewable energy, SM Prime is contributing to a more sustainable future for the Philippines.

SM Prime’s sustainability efforts extend beyond solar energy. The company also focuses on waste management, water conservation, and air quality initiatives, all designed to minimize environmental impact. Through these comprehensive measures, SM Prime strives to create a positive change while ensuring responsible, innovative operations.

In sum, SM Prime’s large-scale adoption of solar PV systems, combined with its broader environmental initiatives, exemplifies its dedication to creating a sustainable future for the Philippines. By leading in renewable energy and sustainability, SM Prime is helping pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and brighter tomorrow.

January 24, 2025

The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, a 67-hectare landmark along Manila Bay, showcases SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to leveraging technology and innovation for disaster resilience and community protection for all its projects.

Initially conceived as a pioneering mixed-use development on reclaimed land spearheaded by the Philippine government, it has evolved into a benchmark of safety and stability, fulfilling the vision of founder Henry Sy, Sr., who aspired to create “a destination that brings joy and opportunities to millions.”

Expanding on his father’s vision, Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman and co-chair of ARISE Philippines under the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Resilience (UNDRR), emphasizes the importance of creating resilient, sustainable spaces that prioritize both safety and community well-being.

"We believe that safety is the cornerstone of thriving communities," Mr. Sy states. In affirmation of this belief, he stands as the first Filipino elected to the UNDRR ARISE Global Board.

Launched in 2015, ARISE Philippines is the country’s 157-member-strong premier private sector alliance united by a shared vision of a resilient and prosperous future. The organization, the first country network established by the UNDRR, aims to minimize disaster-related loss of life, ensure investments and assets are risk-informed, and build infrastructure capable of withstanding both natural and man-made hazards.

SM Prime’s commitment to resilience is evident in the very design of the MOA Complex, which incorporates cutting-edge disaster resilience features to protect against the unique challenges posed by its coastal location.

Before construction began, SM Prime engaged the expertise of Jan de Nul, a renowned Belgian coastal development company. Their extensive research and studies ensured the viability of the project, taking into account the complex interplay of land and sea. To create a resilient structure, the company conducted risk reviews in which the following components are incorporated: Identify, analyze, plan, mitigate, and monitor. This meticulous pre-engineering phase laid the groundwork for a structure, completed in 2006, that was capable of withstanding the test of time and nature.

One of the key challenges addressed was soil erosion. To combat this, the team implemented a sophisticated system of wick drains. These drains act as pathways for pore water in soft, compressible soil, effectively preventing erosion and ensuring the stability of the land. This technology, while more costly than traditional methods, provides a significantly higher degree of protection, particularly against liquefaction during seismic events.

The threat of ground liquefaction, a phenomenon where soil loses its strength and behaves like a liquid during earthquakes, was also mitigated through innovative foundation design. Driven and bored piles, combined with precise excavation methods, provide the complex with robust resistance against liquefaction and seismic activity.

To protect against storm surges, a common threat in coastal areas, the complex boasts a robust seawall. This seawall, standing 4.5 meters higher than the Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) mark, is further reinforced by a wave return feature. This inverted structure deflects high waves back towards the sea, minimizing their impact on the complex. A network of drainage channels further enhances flood prevention during storm surges.

These features were instrumental in protecting the complex during Typhoon Pedring (international name Nesat) in 2011, as well as in all succeeding severe weather disturbances this year, where the MOA Complex emerged largely unscathed while helping nearby areas avoid being inundated by prolonged deep flooding.

The structural integrity of the buildings themselves is also paramount. The roof deck, for instance, is designed to withstand substantial loads, ensuring it can serve as a safe refuge during emergencies. The exterior façade is concrete masonry walls with Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 270 kph and provide excellent insulation. This commitment to safety transforms SM Supermalls like the SM MOA into havens for the community during times of crisis.

SM Prime's dedication to disaster resilience is not merely a response to potential threats; it is a proactive strategy integrated into the DNA of all its business operations. The company automatically allocates a significant portion of its capital expenditure to disaster resilience research and construction, recognizing that investing in safety is an investment in the future.

SM Prime's longstanding reputation as a responsible property developer is built not only on its contributions to the country’s economic growth and the creation of dynamic lifestyle destinations, but also on its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the communities it serves. The MOA Complex stands as a powerful symbol of this commitment, a beacon of resilience in the face of natural adversity.

January 16, 2025

As part of GMA’s commitment to delivering the biggest and most comprehensive election coverage for the upcoming 2025 Midterm Elections, GMA Regional TV and Synergy, in partnership with GMA Integrated News, kicks off its ‘GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series’ with its first leg in Mindanao on January 22 to 25.

‘GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series’ is heading to Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, General Santos City on January 22; Holy Cross of Davao College, Davao City on January 23; Liceo De Cagayan University, Cagayan de Oro City on January 24; and Central Mindanao University, Bukidnon on January 25. The programs start at 9 a.m.

Leading the discourse are award-winning speakers led by broadcast journalist Tina Panganiban-Perez, GMA News Online Managing Editor Lou Albano, GMA Integrated News Social Media Assistant Manager Theodore Ortiz, and GMA Sportscaster and Analyst Martin Antonio.

Panganiban-Perez is a multi-awarded Senior Reporter of GMA Integrated News. She joined the Network in 1992 and has since covered various beats for TV and Radio, including Malacañang, COMELEC, Department of Justice, Supreme Court, Department of Health, and the House of Representatives.

A lifestyle and culture journalist for 20 years, Albano is in charge of the digital group’s climate coverage, which reports on the intersections of gender and climate, plastic pollution and health, art and the environment, and climate and cities. She was the only Filipino member of the second cohort of the Oxford Climate Journalism Network. In 2024, Albano was awarded a CCMP Fellowship from the Earth Journalism Network to cover COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

Ortiz, meanwhile, leads a team of digital journalists and online content producers that monitor, curate, and disseminate content for more than 85 million online followers on various social media platforms. His dedication to his craft has resulted in various international recognitions – including his AI Sportscasters Project for GMA Integrated News, which was recognized at the Asia Pacific Broadcasting + (plus) Awards in 2024.

Lastly, a former NCAA champion athlete and San Beda Red Lions Coach, Antonio is currently a sportscaster and analyst for GMA Synergy. He has covered multiple leagues both locally and internationally, which has given him extensive experience in truthful and unbiased sportscasting.

“GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy are committed to ensuring that every Filipino, especially the youth, is engaged in our fight against misinformation and disinformation, particularly as we approach the 2025 Philippine Midterm Elections. Our invited speakers for the ‘GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series’ are seasoned professionals ready to share valuable insights and relatable experiences with young Mindanaoans. Through this initiative, we aim to remind the youth of their vital role as citizens in participating and upholding the highest standards of honesty and integrity during elections,” states Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy.

Set to share her talent as a guest artist during the ‘GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series’ is The Clash Season 4 Grand Champion Mariane Osabel. Keeping the conversations interactive and insightful as the host of the 4-day event is fellow Sparkle artist Migs Almendras.

For inquiries, kindly contact synergy@gmanetwork.com.

For more updates on GMA Network, visit www.GMAnetwork.com. 

January 19, 2025

Only South Korean Company Recognized in Leisure Equipment & Products and Consumer Electronics Category for 13 Years

LG Electronics (LG) has once again secured its position in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for the thirteenth consecutive year. The DJSI World ranks the top 10 percent of the largest 2,500 global companies based on their economic, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, serving as a critical benchmark for investors assessing corporate sustainability.

Notably, LG earned the highest overall score in the Leisure Equipment & Products and Consumer Electronics industry category. Furthermore, it remains the only South Korean company to be included in this category for 13 years running.

Additionally, LG has been included in the DJSI Asia Pacific (top 20 percent of the 600 largest companies in the Asia-Pacific region) and DJSI Korea (top 30 percent of the 200 largest companies in Korea) for 15 and 16 consecutive years, respectively.

LG received high evaluations across various ESG areas, including environmental policy and management, human rights management, human resource management, customer relations, supply chain management and product responsibility management.

Under the ESG management vision of Better Life for All, LG is carrying out various activities with the strategy of 3C for the planet (Carbon neutrality, Circularity, and Clean technology) and 3D for people (Decent workplace, Diversity & inclusion, and Design for all).

To achieve its 3C goals for the planet, LG has set ambitious targets, including reaching carbon neutrality in its product manufacturing process by 2030 and transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy by 2050.

Specifically, LG plans to reduce direct greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1) and indirect greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 2) in the product production stage by 54.6 percent compared to 2017 levels. This will be accomplished through process improvements, the introduction of energy-saving technologies and the use of renewable energy. Notably, LG was the first company in the home appliance industry to obtain UN carbon credits in 2015.

In addition, LG is focused on reducing the unit greenhouse gas emissions of its seven major product groups (TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, home and system air conditioners, and monitors) by 20 percent compared to 2020 levels during the product use stage (Scope 3). This commitment involves various activities aimed at improving the energy efficiency of individual products, thereby reducing overall carbon emissions.

As a member of the UN Global Compact and the Responsible Business Alliance, LG complies with international human rights and labor standards and is enhancing its human rights management processes to respond to strengthening global ESG-related legislation.

In the ESG evaluation and rating announcement results published by the Korea Corporate Governance Service this year, LG received an overall A grade for four consecutive years. LG also received an A grade for five consecutive years in the ESG evaluation conducted by the global ESG evaluation agency Morgan Stanley Capital International, gaining recognition for its ESG management performance from credible domestic and international institutions.

The LG Home Appliance Solution Company (HS) is a global leader in home appliances and AI home solutions. By leveraging industry-leading core technologies, the HS Company is committed to enhancing consumers’ quality of life and promoting sustainability. The company develops thoughtfully designed kitchen and living appliance solutions and has recently integrated LG’s Robot Business Division to incorporate advanced robot technologies into its home solutions. Together, these products offer enhanced convenience, exceptional performance, efficient operation and sustainable lifestyle solutions. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

January 10, 2025

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, iACADEMY—a premier institution under STI Holdings known for its niche college courses—proudly launches the second edition of the iNDIEGENIUS Project Lab. This initiative continues its mission to empower filmmakers with regional backgrounds and concepts rooted in indigenous and regional topics, offering a platform to bring these projects to life. The program is presented in collaboration with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Directors Guild of the Philippines (DGPI), underscoring the shared commitment to fostering film education and supporting the next generation of filmmakers. 

“The first edition counts newly minted award-winners among its mentees,” said Raquel Perez Wong, iACADEMY President and COO. “These include Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico, co-directors of Tumandok—winner at Cinemalaya 2024—and iACADEMY’s own Cedrick Labadia, whose film Threefor100 won ‘Best Director’ and ‘Best Picture’ at the Manila Film Festival and represented the Philippines at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival. Additionally, Kydylee Torato, a recipient of the iNDIEGENIUS finalist grant, premiered her film Bisan Abo, Wala Bilin at the Sinag Maynila Film Festival, earning accolades and gaining international exposure.” 

Wong added, “iNDIEGENIUS aims to empower aspiring filmmakers by providing them with resources and opportunities to thrive. By nurturing these creative voices, we contribute to a vibrant and diverse cinematic landscape. This year, we’re doubling down on our commitment to foster talent and support innovative storytelling.” 

The second edition of iNDIEGENIUS will focus on filmmakers aged 18 to 35. In addition to the 10 projects competing for two ₱500,000 production grants, the program has expanded its scholar slots from two to ten. Scholars, while not yet ready for production, will benefit from workshops and mentorship to advance their projects. 

“This expansion means that up to 20 projects in development will benefit from the project lab,” said Keith Sicat, iACADEMY’s Creative Director and iNDIEGENIUS Program Director. “Last year’s scholars, Cedrick Labadia and Sophia Velonza, had transformative experiences at the Busan International Film Festival—one with their iNDIEGENIUS-developed film and the other through Platform Busan, its educational arm.” 

Submission Details: Applications are open until January 27, 2025, at https://indiegenius.iacademy.edu.ph. iNDIEGENIUS will select 10 finalist projects and 10 scholars, all of whom will undergo intensive workshops. Two projects will be awarded production grants during the program. 

About iACADEMY: iACADEMY offers Senior High School and College programs focused on Computing, Business, and Design. With campuses in Makati and Cebu, iACADEMY is dedicated to producing industry-ready graduates. For more information, visit www.iacademy.edu.ph.

January 9, 2024

Showcasing the Evolution of the Company’s Ultra-Premium Brand, Advanced Lineup Delivers Enhanced User Experiences and Enriched, Connected Living

LG Electronics (LG) is unveiling its expanded second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup at CES 2025 in Las Vegas (January 7-10). Exhibited under the Live Beyond brand theme, the latest LG SIGNATURE range features exceptional products that integrate cutting-edge technology and sophisticated design to deliver enhanced usability, seamless connectivity and an unparalleled smart home experience.

The second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup builds on its signature minimalist aesthetic and exceptional performance with AI-driven features and intuitive functionality. This new wave of appliances comprises the LG SIGNATURE French Door Refrigerator with T-OLED door panel, LG SIGNATURE Smart InstaView™ Over-the-Range Microwave and Slide-in Double Oven Induction Range, LG SIGNATURE Dishwasher, LG SIGNATURE Washer & Dryer, and the LG SIGNATURE Washing Machine and Dryer pair.

The 36-inch Smart InstaView French Door Refrigerator offers a differentiated kitchen experience with its remarkable and fully transparent T-OLED display embedded in the upper right door. This dual-purpose display serves as both a digital touch interface and a Dual InstaView panel, allowing users to conveniently manage the refrigerator and view its contents without opening the door. It can also display mesmerizing hologram-like visuals, blending the virtual with the real in a sublime fusion of art and high technology. For added ambiance, the refrigerator provides access to a curated music playlist* that lets users enjoy smooth, atmospheric beats whenever they are in the kitchen.

The refrigerator’s ThinQ™ Food management system and a built-in AI camera elevate convenience, automatically recognizing stored food items, suggesting recipes based on available ingredients and user preferences, and tracking inventory and expiration dates. These innovations streamline food management, menu planning and meal preparation, saving users time and making the kitchen a truly connected and dynamic space.

The LG SIGNATURE Over-the-Range Microwave and Slide-in Double Oven Induction Range enhance the culinary experience with their versatile cooking capabilities. The microwave is equipped with three built-in cameras for real-time cooking monitoring and time-lapse creation, capturing meals’ journeys from the oven to the table. The induction range, powered by Gourmet AI technology, identifies ingredients and provides helpful recipe suggestions.

The new LG SIGNATURE microwave not only excels in cooking and reheating but also redefines its category by delivering an immersive entertainment experience right in the kitchen. Featuring a 27-inch Full-HD touchscreen display with InstaView, built-in speakers and Wi-Fi connectivity, it enables users to enjoy a variety of entertainment content while they cook. The screen also provides access to the LG ThinQ Smart Home Dashboard, allowing users to control all LG AI appliances and compatible Matter and Thread devices in the home. In addition, when paired with the induction range, the microwave’s LCD display conveniently shows the cooking progress of dishes in the range, eliminating the need to bend down and check the oven manually.

The LG SIGNATURE Dishwasher is designed to fit perfectly with existing cabinetry, creating a clean, built-in look for a sleek, modern kitchen. Its innovative pop-out handle sits flush with the door when not in use and automatically “pops out” when a hand approaches. The new dishwasher is equipped with LG’s exclusive and highly-efficient QuadWash™ Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies.

The second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup also offers exceptional advancements in laundry care. Featuring the LG SIGNATURE Washer & Dryer and 29-inch LG SIGNATURE Washing Machine and Dryer pair, the new laundry lineup leverages LG’s Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive™ (AI DD™) 2.0 for precise fabric care, and inverter heat pump technology for effective, low-temperature drying. Each models is equipped with a 7-inch LCD touchscreen for easy control.

The LG SIGNATURE zone at CES 2025 will feature an “ideal lifestyle” space highlighting the second-generation lineup in settings like a living room, laundry room and kitchen. In collaboration with premium Italian furniture brand Molteni&C, LG will pair its technologically-advanced products with Molteni&C’s exquisite designs. Visitors will also experience the LG ThinQ ON AI home hub in action, demonstrating the ease and efficiency of the AI Home lifestyle.

“The expanded second-gen LG SIGNATURE lineup seamlessly combines advanced technology with elegant, modern design to deliver a smarter, more efficient luxury home lifestyle,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company. “Through the flawless fusion of state-of-the-art smart home, AI and connectivity technologies, we will continue to provide transformative customer experiences that go beyond expectations.”

Visitors to CES 2025 from January 7-10 can explore the new additions to the second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup at LG’s booth (#15004, Las Vegas Convention Center).

* LG SIGNATURE refrigerator and LG SIGNATURE Over-the-Range microwave come with the “essential;” app pre-installed. essential; is a music curation brand operated by NHN Bugs, a South Korean music streaming service.

The LG Home Appliance Solution Company (HS) is a global leader in home appliances and AI home solutions. By leveraging industry-leading core technologies, the HS Company is committed to enhancing consumers’ quality of life and promoting sustainability. The company develops thoughtfully designed kitchen and living appliance solutions and has recently integrated LG’s Robot Business Division to incorporate advanced robot technologies into its home solutions. Together, these products offer enhanced convenience, exceptional performance, efficient operation and sustainable lifestyle solutions. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

January 6, 2025

One of the pioneers in herbal medicine unveils

its newest natural health product this colds season.

January 2, 2025 (Quezon City, Philippines) – Say goodbye to sniffles and hello to wellness! Pascual Laboratories, one of the Philippines’ top pharmaceutical companies, introduces PELARGO—a natural solution to help ease common cold symptoms and keep you feeling your best this holiday season. PascualLab, one of the pioneers in phyto or plant-based medicines in the Philippines and home of the no. 1 natural cough remedy Ascof Lagundi,¹ C-Lium Fibre and other natural-based offerings now comes PELARGO, derived from the Pelargonium sidoides

For centuries, the root of Pelargonium sidoides DC. or South African geranium has been used for the treatment of common colds in South Africa and in Europe.

It helps relieve cold symptoms such as:

• Nasal Congestion

• Runny Nose

• Sneezing

• Headache

Pelargonium sidoides DC. Root (PELARGO) works as a natural decongestant that loosens mucus and hastens its flow.²

Research results from 5 clinical trials involving 833 adults show that Pelargonium sidoides DC. Root extract consistently demonstrated efficacy, lessening the severity and shortening the duration of cold symptoms.²,

So for relief from common cold symptoms especially this holiday season,

 #GoNaturalWithPelarGo! #BTS #BreakTheSipon

PelarGo is available in Mercury Drug, Watsons, and Rose Pharmacy outlets nationwide and at PascualLab’s official Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok stores.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

Shopee: https://tinyurl.com/shopeepelargo

Lazada: https://tinyurl.com/pelargo-lazada

TiktokShop:https://tinyurl.com/tiktokpelargo.