Midas Promotions proudly presents acclaimed New Zealand singer-songwriter Bic Runga, the voice behind the global hit “Sway”, as she performs in Manila for the very first time. This intimate, one-night-only concert will take place on October 1, 2026, at the SM City North Edsa Skydome.
Celebrated for her exceptional songwriting and enduring hit songs, Runga has built an acclaimed career spanning more than two decades, earning multi-platinum success and international recognition. Her timeless catalog includes beloved tracks such as “Sway”, “Drive”, “Listening for the Weather”, “Get Some Sleep”, and “Something Good”, songs that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Since the release of her first single ‘Drive’ in 1996, Bic Runga (Ngāti Kahungunu, Rongomaiwahine) has been awarded almost every musical honour in New Zealand, including the prestigious APRA Silver Scroll songwriting award.
Bic has won the most Tui Awards (New Zealand Music Awards) by any individual. She has won Best Female Vocalist four times and Best Producer three times. Bic’s debut album ‘Drive’ was certified seven times platinum and featured the enormous hit ‘Sway’. The follow up, ‘Beautiful Collision’ in 2002 was certified an incredible eleven times platinum and featured the hits ‘Get Some Sleep’, ‘Something Good’ and ‘Listening For The Weather’.
In January 2006, Runga was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the New Zealand New Year’s Honours List. In 2016 she was the recipient of the Legacy award at the New Zealand music awards and inducted into New Zealand Music hall of fame. Bic sits on the APRA board as a writer-director and on the executive committee of the Music Producers Guild New Zealand. 2023 featured a sold out tour across Aotearoa and Australia celebrating 20 years of ‘Beautiful Collision’, followed by tastemaker Rolling Stone Magazine honouring Bic with the Rolling Stone Icon award.
In February 2026, she returned with a new album ‘Red Sunset’, recorded in Paris in the winter of 2025. Bic’s gift has always been her ability to turn personal truths into shared experiences, inviting listeners into her gentle, thoughtful, and beautifully human world.
Sing-along to nostalgic favorites like “Sway”, “Drive”, and many more as Bic Runga brings her celebrated repertoire to the Philippine stage. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience one of New Zealand’s most beloved artists live in Manila. Meet & Greet and Soundcheck add-ons for a more intimate fan experience will also be available for purchase. Tickets are available via SM Tickets. Promoted by Midas Promotions.
Tickets at smtickets.com at P4,500 (VIP Seated) / P3,500 (Floor Seated) / P2.500 (Bleachers) / P3,000 (Add-on/top-up Meet & Greet + Soundcheck Perk). Exclusive of ticketing charges. Tickets on-sale starting 12:00 NN, August 15, 2026.
For more details and updates about the concert please check the official website and Facebook Page of Midas Promotions at https://www.facebook.com/midaspromotions
Enjoy a filling meal complete with an appetizer, entrée, and drink at Fish & Co with the latest rendition of the All Yours All Day offer. Starting at P385, guests can taste the new dishes on the menu.
Select from either of the two salad options as appetizers:
Garden Salad
Caesar Salad
For your entrée, choose one of the following:
Fish and Squid Sisig
Fish with Garlic Parmesan
Grilled Pork Loin with Brown Gravy Sauce
Chicken Curry
Grilled Honey Lime BBQ Chicken (+P65)
Get the most out of Fish & Co’s seafood sensations and upgrade to Seafood Rice for only P55.
The meal already comes with a refreshing glass of Iced Tea, with the option of upgrading to bottomless Iced Tea for an additional P50. Guests can avail of the offer at Fish & Co. Shang-ri La Plaza, Uptown Bonifacio, and McKinley. The offer cannot be combined with other offers or discounts, including the BFF and Senior Citizen discounts.
Visit Fish & Co. anytime, any day, and try the latest season of All Yours All Day. Follow @fishandco for more news and exciting updates
When a fallen prosecutor returns after nine years of plotting his revenge, a new battlefield will emerge in Made in KoreaSeason 2 – coming September 9 exclusively on Disney+.
Named one of TIME’s “most anticipated K-dramas of 2026” Made in KoreaSeason 2 follows Baek Kitae as he continues his rise to power after framing prosecutor Jang Geonyoung. Now the Deputy Director of the Korean CIA (KCIA), Kitae continues to grow his wealth and influence, expanding his drug operations across the region. But with political turmoil and discontent spreading, Kitae’s old foe Geonyoung will step out from the shadows to exact his revenge nine years in the making. With more at stake than ever before, Geonyoung and Kitae will break every rule and cross every line to eliminate the other once and for all in this fast-paced second installment.
Made in KoreaSeason 2 sees the return of Hyun Bin (Crash Landing on You, Confidential Assignment) as Baek Kitae, Jung Woosung (12.12: The Day, Hunt) as framed prosecutor Jang Geonyoung, and Woo Dohwan (Bloodhounds, Mr. Plankton) as Kitae’s brother Baek Kihyun. Season 2is written by Season 1 writer Park Eunkyo (The Silent Sea, Mother), directed by Season 1 director Woo Minho (The Man Standing Next, Inside Men), and produced by Hive Media Corp (Inside Men, The Man Standing Next, 12.12: The Day).
Made in KoreaSeason 2 will debut with a two-episode premiere on September 9, with two new episodes premiering each Wednesday through September 23.
Making headlines as the number one most viewed Korean Original premiere of 2025 on Disney+ in APAC,Made in KoreaSeason 1 followed Baek Kitae, an ambitious KCIA agent living a double life. Driven by his thirst for power, Kitae worked as a government agent by day while running a highly illegal operation by night. Smart, suave, cunning and capable, Kitae rapidly moved up the ranks after using his smuggling operation to consolidate power, protect his brother, and generate vast sums of money for the agency. Seemingly unstoppable, only one thing stood in his way – a tenacious prosecutor who refused to be bought, bribed or reasoned with. With everything at stake for both men, the series followed the duo as they battled to take each other down.
Fans of adrenaline-spiking dramas can sign up to Disney+ today to enjoy all six episodes of Made in KoreaSeason 1, as well as other hit dramas including A Shop for Killers Season 1 and 2, The Manipulated, about a man who seeks revenge after being falsely convicted of a heinous crime; Tempest about a dangerous conspiracy that threatens the stability of the Korean Peninsula, and so much more.
Stream Made in KoreaSeason 2 from September 9 and Season 1 today, exclusively on Disney+.
Samsung is redefining what a smartphone can be with the launch of its newest foldable lineup: the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8. Designed for different lifestyles yet united by Galaxy AI, the latest Galaxy Z Series offers smarter ways to create, work, and express yourself in durable form factors proving that the future of mobile experiences is already here.
Samsung is also offering exclusive pre-order promotions and upgrade deals until August 13, giving early adopters even more value when they purchase the new Galaxy Z Series.
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate productivity companion, a device that elevates everyday entertainment, or a stylish foldable that reflects your personality, Samsung’s newest foldables are built around how people naturally live, create, and connect.
A Foldable for Every Lifestyle
The new Galaxy Z Series goes beyond offering different screen sizes—it introduces three distinct foldable experiences designed around how people work, create, and express themselves.
The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is Samsung’s most capable AI productivity foldable yet, combining powerful Galaxy AI features with innovations like Flex Titanium Technology for a larger, flatter, and more seamless display, My FanCam for effortless social-ready content creation, and a 5,000mAh battery that delivers up to 27 hours of use on a single charge.
Introducing Samsung’s newest foldable form factor, the Galaxy Z Fold8 is the first of its kind, built for immersive entertainment, effortless multitasking, and everyday discovery. Its intuitive display transitions naturally from a familiar cover screen for quick tasks to a spacious main display that makes streaming, reading, gaming, and productivity feel more immersive wherever you are.
Completing the lineup, the Galaxy Z Flip8 is Samsung’s thinnest and lightest Flip yet. Weighing just 180 grams and measuring only 6.1mm thin, it combines a sleek, expressive design with enhanced durability through Advanced Armor Aluminum and a stronger hinge, making it the perfect companion for users who want flagship innovation in a compact form.
Fold Into the Future with Exclusive Pre-Order Offers
Early adopters can enjoy exceptional value when they pre-order the new Galaxy Z Series until August 13.
Customers can double their storage and save up to PHP 7,000, receive up to PHP 14,000 through eligible trade-ins, and enjoy Samsung Care+ free for three months (worth PHP 3,297) for added peace of mind.
Complete the Galaxy experience with Samsung’s latest wearables. The new Galaxy Watch9 delivers smarter everyday wellness and productivity, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 offers Samsung’s most advanced smartwatch experience with premium durability for active lifestyles.
Those who pre-order the 256GB variant of the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, or Galaxy Z Flip8 can enjoy PHP 3,000 OFF on select Galaxy Wearables. Meanwhile, customers who purchase a participating Galaxy Watch9orGalaxy Watch Ultra2 until September 30 can also receive a PHP 2,000 discount on a participating Galaxy smartphone.
To make upgrading even more rewarding, Samsung is also offering up to 50% trade-in value, up to PHP 16,000 in guaranteed savings, and up to PHP 3,000 in exclusive vendor discounts, making it the perfect time to experience Samsung’s most advanced foldables yet.
Why Wait for Tomorrow?
The future unfolds today.
Whether you want the ultimate powerhouse with the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, an immersive everyday companion with the Galaxy Z Fold8, or a stylish and compact device with the Galaxy Z Flip8, Samsung’s newest foldables are designed to move with your lifestyle and help you experience more every day.
Discover the next generation of foldable innovation and pre-order the new Galaxy Z Series today:
HUAWEI has once again raised the bar for flagship smartphones with the new “King of Imaging,” the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series, available starting at PHP 54,999, and now open for pre-order in the Philippines.
Bringing together trendsetting aesthetics, next-generation imaging, reliable 5G connectivity, and advanced AI-powered features, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series ushers a new era of intelligent mobile experiences.
King of Imaging Brings Your Vision to Focus
The HUAWEI Pura Series is renowned for seamlessly blending groundbreaking imaging innovation with fashion-forward design, empowering users to capture life’s beauty while expressing their individuality through a device that is as remarkable as the moments it preserves. Reinforcing its position as the “King of Imaging,” the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series introduces a new range of imaging innovation to take the mobile photography experience to greater heights, enabling users to preserve their best moments exactly how they experienced it. Built to be an absolute Zoom Beast, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series lets users capture extraordinary detail from near or far. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max redefines flagship smartphone imaging with its industry-leading 200MP Ultra Large Sensor Telephoto Camera with a 1/1.28-inch sensor and the first-ever 200MP RYYB Sensor. The advanced Telephoto Camera system enables users to capture details with stunning clarity, bringing distant subjects into sharp focus with exceptional clarity. Its powerful Telephoto Zoom brings users closer to every unforgettable moment, whether it’s a live performance of their favorite artists, elusive wildlife in their natural habitat, or intricate, microscopic details. Combined with the industry-leading image stabilization of CIPA 7.0, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max keeps handheld zoom shots sharp and steady, ensuring every distant scene is preserved with impressive clarity.
Even in complex lighting conditions, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max captures brilliant highlights without overexposure, and reveals rich detail in darker shadows. Its 50MP Ultra Lighting HDR Camera, powered by a 3-in-1 Ultra Lighting Prism and an industry-leading dynamic range of up to 16 EV, captures more light information than ever before to render brighter highlights and deeper, more detailed shadows. This results in naturally balanced, richly textured photos that faithfully recreate the atmosphere of every moment no matter the lighting contrast.
Colour precision is key to render true-to-life photos that are true to what you see. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Series introduces the 2nd Gen True-to-Colour Camera, which renders a wider breadth of colour range with improved accuracy and an expanded colour gamut processing. When shooting vivid landscapes to everyday portraits, the imaging system delivers naturally balanced, lifelike colours with exceptional precision to ensure every photo reflects the scene just as users see it.
Boundless Possibilities for Creativity, Powered by AI
Beyond its advanced camera hardware, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series unlocks limitless creative potential for mobile imaging through the power of AI. By intelligently assisting with composition and image enhancement, the series empowers users to turn everyday moments into compelling visual stories.
The upgraded AI Composition feature assists users by quickly identifying photo subjects and providing intelligent framing references. It analyzes scenes in real time and offers on-screen composition suggestions and visual guides according to professional photography principles, helping users adjust their position and find the optimal angle for taking photos. This allows users to take professional-looking photos of landscapes, portraits, food, or architecture.
Making photos look perfect is just as effortless with AI-powered editing tools on the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series. Among these, the AI De-Glare feature easily eliminates distracting glass reflections, window glare, and screen interference from captured images. With a single tap, it removes these visual obstacles and restores the underlying details of every photo. The AI Move tool makes the mundane look magical. It allows users to isolate, move, resize, or duplicate subjects or objects within a photo. When an object is relocated, it instantly “heals” the vacant space and keeps it looking seamless. It also allows users to paste isolated objects onto completely different photos, with AI aligning the lighting, the shadow, and the edges of the object to the new background.
Evocative, Rhythm of Colour Design That Suits Your Style
Staying true to its legacy of combining powerful imaging with fashion-forward design, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series introduces the Rhythm of Colour, a new design philosophy inspired by the fluid interplay of light, form, and movement. Featuring sleek flat-edged lines and richly layered colour palettes, the lineup carries refined elegance with vacation-inspired vibrance. Leading the series, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max debuts the industry-first Dual-Tone Gradient Mid-Frame in Orange Ocean, inspired by sunlight shimmering in coastal waters during golden hour, alongside Blazing Purple that reflects the transition from dusk to night. These expressive hues are meticulously crafted to create smooth, gradient transitions that give off exceptional visual depth and a premium, sophisticated finish. The Blush Gold and Graphite Black finishes are just as evocative and elegant as they are timeless.
Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro comes in vibrant, beverage-inspired tones reminiscent of a lighter, more playful rhythm of holiday living. In Orange Soda, the device bears a crisp citrus shade that captures the sparkling rhythm of sunlit moments, while Guava Soda has a lively pink tone balancing brightness and softness. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro also looks effortlessly elegant in Coconut White and Mulberry Black.
Reliable Connection and Intuitive Experience to Put You One Step Ahead
As HUAWEI’s latest flagship lineup, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series is engineered to set new standards for smartphone performance in the industry. Powered by 5G, the series delivers consistently smooth and reliable connections with smoother signal recovery, stronger performance in weak-coverage areas, and faster upload and download speeds. This keeps users connected wherever life takes them.
The series’ enhanced Celia AI brings smarter, more personalized assistance to simplify daily tasks. From checking the weather and setting general reminders, to drafting messages, making calls, and checking the weather, Celia AI makes everyday interactions more convenient and efficient. The intelligent assistant also comes in handy during travel as it allows users to hail rides through voice command, so they can get to their next destination quickly and more conveniently.
Transferring files is just as effortless with the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series, which now supports cross-OS sharing with iOS devices. Whether transferring photos, work documents, or videos, users can easily share files quickly across device ecosystems without interrupting their workflow.
Powerful Performance and Durable Design You Can Count On
The HUAWEI Pura 90s Series’ flagship performance is powered by a 6,000mAh large-capacity battery, which supports all-day use. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max supports 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge which can recharge the battery back to 85% in just 30 minutes and 80W Wireless HUAWEI SuperCharge. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro supports 66W Wired HUAWEI SuperCharge and 50W Wireless HUAWEI SuperCharge for ultra-fast, convenient charging whenever, wherever.
The HUAWEI Pura 90s Series pairs its massive battery with an ultra-durable build. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max adopts a new Anti-Reflection and Scratch-Resistant Kunlun Glass, engineered with nano-level precision technology to reduce glare, resist scratches and fingerprints, and keep the display clear even under bright sunlight. It also offers enhanced drop resistance, giving users confidence for everyday use.
To further enhance the everyday smartphone experience, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series gives users access to the apps they rely on daily through the HUAWEI AppGallery. From productivity tools like Google Workspace and digital banking apps like BDO, BPI, and GCash, to ride-hailing apps like Grab or Angkas and social media platforms like Facebook, Youtube, and Instagram, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series ensures the services users’ need to keep their daily routines going are always within reach.
Bring Your Best Moments to Life with the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series
Discover a whole new smartphone experience with the “King of Imaging,” the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series, now available for pre-order online and at HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide. The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max 512GB retails for PHP 79,999. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro is available in 256GB at PHP 54,999 and 512GB at PHP 64,999.
Pre-order the HUAWEI Pura 90s Series from August 7 to August 19 to enjoy up to PHP 5,000 off via selected bank credit or debit cards, along with exclusive freebies including a HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 (worth PHP 3,999), a HUAWEI Pura exclusive gift box (worth PHP 3,999), and premium services (worth up to PHP 6,499).
Starting 8:00PM on August 7 until 12:00PM on August 20, you can avail vouchers worth PHP 4,000 exclusively through the HUAWEI Online Store. Vouchers worth PHP 2,000 will be available from August 7 on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok. Vouchers are limited only, so get yours fast.
Capture your best moments and show the world your vision by joining the HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2026. Interested participants may submit their entries through the official HUAWEI XMAGE Awards website: https://consumer.huawei.com/en/campaign/xmage/ for a chance to win the Grand Prize worth USD 10,000. Submissions are open until August 16, 2026.
To learn more, visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Store or check out HUAWEI’s official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).
Repertory Philippines (REP) is throwing a ball for young audiences and the entire family as it presents another fairytale adaptation with Cinderella: The Tale of the Glass Slipper. This year’s Repertory Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA) production showcases a story about kindness and courage—complete with a royal ball and plenty of twists along the way. Running from August 22 to December 13 at the REP Eastwood Theater, REP’s Cinderella will charm its way into your heart, and remind you that dreams really can come true.
Directed by Joy Virata and Cara Barredo, this new RTYA offering is a creation by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman who are the artists behind the show’s book, music, and lyrics. The duo is known for adapting beloved children’s stories into musicals, which include REP productions Alice in Wonderland and Snow White and the Prince.
Cinderella
Offering a fresh take on the classic fairytale, the production features eight main characters with quick and short scenes which are particularly crafted to keep the young audience engaged and entertained while delivering important lessons about consideration for others and resilience. Alongside fairytale favorites such as Cinderella, her Stepmom and two Stepsisters, as well as her Fairy Godmother and the Prince, the audience gets to meet a mischievous rat named Putterman who helps Cinderella in her journey.
Prince
For this staging, REP has lined up a company of seasoned theater actors, performers, and emerging stars. Sharing the title role of Cinderella are actress-singer Katie Bradshaw, Swiss-Filipina performer Ornella Brianna, and Ateneo Blue Repertory alumna and Star Magic trainee Julia Santiago.
Putterman
Alternating in the role of the Prince are Khalil Tambio and Radson Flores, with Lance Soliman as cover. Audiences can also look forward to the antics of Putterman, played by Stephen Viñas and Jay Pangilinan with Steven Hotchkiss as cover, whose scene-stealing character adds humor and heart to Cinderella’s adventure.
Fairy Godmother
The production also features Barredo and Mayen Cadd as the Fairy Godmother; Hans Eckstein, Hotchkiss, and Hades Kitane as Frederick; Pinky Marquez and Ring Antonio as the Stepmother with Cadd as cover; Arielle Magno and Barbara Jance as Stepsister 1; Sebastian Katigbak and Paul Atienza as Stepsister 2, with Jay Barrameda serving as cover for both stepsisters.
Stepmother
Rounding out the royal entourage and ensemble are Jill Tavanes, Lani Pelovello, Cheska Quimno, Bern Ignacio, Cydel Gabutero, Lucylle Tan, Julia Panlilio, Paula Paguio, Francis Gatmaytan, Godfrey Astronomo, Leanard dela Victoria, Kenny Isidro, Sean Nolasco, Vinz Cantillo, Johann Parungao, Jovito Bonita, Jae Valencia, VJ Cortel, DJ Buban, and Chesko Rodriguez, with Monica Tulio as female swing and Deo dela Cruz as male swing.
Stepsister 1
The creative and production teams are composed of artists whose creative vision transforms the classic tale into a magical experience brought to stage through immersive music, choreography, captivating costumes and set design. This team includes Ayam Eckstein as production and company manager, Viñas as choreographer, Phoebe Bitoon as musical director, John Batalla as technical director and lighting designer, Raven Ong as costume designer with Dreu Fernandez as associate costume designer,Lawyn Cruz as set designer, Johann Dela Fuente as hair and make-up designer, Dela Cruz and Gatmaytan as dance captains and assistant choreographers, Kayla Teodoro as puppet designer, and Jana Jimenez as projections designer with Gab Carmelo as associate projection designer. Jojo Amboy serves as the stage manager and Ronnie Cruz as assistant stage manager.
Stepsister 2
“Whether this is a child’s first theater experience or a family’s beloved tradition, REP’s Cinderella: The Tale of the Glass Slipperpromises everyone an unforgettable time at the theater. For this year’s RTYA, we are going to celebrate the power of compassion for others and the courage it takes to follow one’s dreams,” says Virata.
Frederick
Do not wait until the clock strikes 12 and grab the chance to witness REP’s Cinderella: The Tale of the Glass Slipperfrom August 22 to December 13 at the REP Eastwood Theater.
Tickets are now available at TicketWorld and the REP Box Office at the 4/F Eastwood Mall, open on Wednesday to Sunday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
TERNOCON 2027, a terno-making convention and contest, commences with its first mentoring-consultation for the 15 aspirants from August 4 to 8, 2026, at the Clark Events and Conference Center in Pampanga.
Organized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and Bench/Suyen Corporation, TERNOCON pursues the preservation and promotion of the Philippine dress.
It aims to encourage the use of the terno as a popular form of dress, and inspire and motivate emerging designers to create ternos that are at par with the construction skills of professional designers. Its objectives also include encouraging dialogue and scholarly discussion on issues concerning the Philippine dress and sustaining the growing awareness and interest in the Philippine dress.
Selected from 52 applications, the 15 aspirants come from Luzon – Laguna, Oriental Mindoro, Tarlac, Makati and Taguig; from Visayas – Cebu, Mandaue, Roxas, Silay and Iloilo; and from Mindanao – Zamboanga City, Maguindanao del Norte, Davao de Oro, Iligan and Koronadal.
Before the selection, all applicants attended a week-long regional workshop and a one-day Zoom lecture conducted by fashion designers and art experts, namely Dr. Nicanor G. Tiongson, Len Cabili and Gino Gonzales.
To help the aspirants achieve the competition goals, some of the country’s experts in design will mentor and guide them, led by fashion designer Inno Sotto who has been the Ternocon’s chief mentor since 2018. He will be joined by fashion designers Josie Natori, Randy Ortiz and Jojie Lloren, as well as Ternocon’s founding artistic director Gonzales and incumbent artistic director Ricardo Eric Cruz.
Following the theme “An Ode to Nature,” the fifth edition of Ternocon marks the 10-year milestone of the program, celebrating its remarkable impact on the public’s awareness and appreciation of the terno, especially among the young generation.
The first lock-in workshop is presented in partnership with the Clark Development Corporation, City Government of Mabalacat, Department of Tourism Region III, Royce Hotel, and Victory Liner.
The second lock-in workshop is set for January 27 to 31, 2027, and the final competition and cultural show will be on March 14, 2027.
The CCP Cultural Exchange Department and CCP Production Design and Technical Services Division lead the project implementation, with the Ternocon organizing team and the Bench Ad & Promo team.
For more information, visit the CCP website. Follow the official social media accounts of CCP, CCP Cultural Exchange Department, Ternocon, and Bench for more updates and the latest news.
South Korea’s leading fried chicken brand BHC Chicken has officially entered the Philippine market with the opening of its first local restaurant at SM North EDSA, marking a milestone partnership between Dining Brands Group, Suyen Corporation, and B.V. Cuisine Inc.
The launch brings one of South Korea’s most successful restaurant brands to Filipino consumers following the signing of the Philippine master franchise agreement in 2025. The collaboration combines BHC Chicken’s globally recognized menu innovation with Suyen Corporation’s extensive experience in building lifestyle and retail brands in the country.
“Our partnership with Dining Brands Group reflects a shared commitment to bringing authentic Korean flavors to Filipino consumers while creating meaningful dining experiences that go beyond food,” said Bryan Lim, Vice President for Business Development of Suyen Corporation, during the grand opening.
Located at the Upper Ground Floor of the City Center in SM North EDSA, the flagship restaurant introduces BHC Chicken’s signature lineup of Korean fried chicken to the local market, led by Bburinkle, the brand’s iconic sweet-and-savory chicken that has surpassed 100 million cumulative servings in South Korea. The Philippine menu also features Matcho King, known for its blend of aged soy sauce and honey, and Hot Bburinkle, celebrated for its exceptionally bold and spicy kick of flavors.
Founded in 1997 as Byeol Hana Chicken, BHC Chicken has grown into Korea’s No. 1 chicken brand, operating approximately 2,230 stores and generating KRW 614.7 billion won as of 2025. Its success has been driven by continuous menu innovation, rigorous quality standards, and a research and development program that introduces new products each year.
The brand’s arrival in the Philippines comes amid the sustained popularity of Korean culture and cuisine among Filipino consumers. Beyond the influence of K-pop and Korean dramas, Korean food has become a fixture in the country’s dining scene, with Korean fried chicken emerging as one of the fastest-growing casual dining categories.
BHC Chicken has likewise accelerated its international expansion in recent years. After opening its first overseas store in Hong Kong in 2018, the company expanded into the United States before signing master franchise agreements in Taiwan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, reinforcing its strategy of strengthening its presence across Asia and North America.
For Suyen Corporation and B.V. Cuisine Inc., the opening represents the beginning of a long-term collaboration with Dining Brands Group to grow BHC Chicken in the Philippine market. For Filipino diners, it offers an opportunity to experience the authentic flavors, product innovation, and culinary heritge that have made BHC Chicken one of South Korea’s most recognized and trusted restaurant brands.
The questions pet parents are asking have changed. A few years ago, many focused primarily on flavor, convenience, or price. Today, they’re looking more closely at ingredient quality, digestive health, and how nutrition supports their pets through every life stage.
As more Filipinos treat pets as family, they’re applying the same wellness mindset they use for themselves to their pets’ nutrition—viewing food not just as daily sustenance, but as an investment in long-term health and wellbeing.
“Pet parents today are asking more thoughtful questions. They’re no longer just asking what’s popular,” said Romy Sia, Managing Director of Bow & Wow Philippines. “They want to understand where ingredients come from, how they’re formulated, and how they support their pet’s health throughout every stage of life. We’re seeing a clear shift from simply feeding pets to nourishing them for lifelong wellness.”
This reflects a broader consumer shift toward preventive health. Euromonitor identifies ‘Wellness Pragmatists’ as a key trend shaping purchasing decisions, with consumers increasingly prioritizing long-term wellbeing. At Bow & Wow, one of the country’s leading specialty pet retailers with seven stores across Metro Manila, Laguna, and Cebu, this is reflected in the double-digit growth of functional nutrition products supporting digestive health, immunity, mobility, and healthy aging.
From Growing Pet Ownership to Smarter Nutrition Choices
The Philippine pet care market is evolving alongside changing consumer preferences. Euromonitor estimates that 48.3% of Filipino households owned a dog or cat in 2025—equivalent to 14.2 million pet-owning households, up from 11.9 million in 2021. At the same time, the Philippine dog food market grew by 10% in retail value in 2026, driven by rising demand for premium, functional, high-protein, and veterinarian-formulated diets.
As pet parents become more informed about nutrition, they’re looking beyond attractive packaging and marketing claims to evaluate ingredients, nutritional philosophy, sourcing, and manufacturing practices. In response, retailers like Bow & Wow are curating products that meet these evolving expectations.
Before reaching store shelves, every product undergoes a rigorous evaluation based on ingredient integrity, nutritional formulation, sourcing, and manufacturing standards. Brands are expected to meet internationally recognized benchmarks, including Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and AAFCO nutritional guidelines, alongside Bow & Wow’s own ingredient criteria.
This commitment is reflected in its curated portfolio of globally recognized brands, including Schesir, Open Farm, Natural Balance, and Health Extension, offering science-backed nutrition tailored to support pets at every life stage.
Even with better products on the shelf, finding the right nutrition isn’t always straightforward. Many owners are discovering that choosing the right diet ultimately depends on each pet’s individual needs shaped by factors such as age, breed, lifestyle, and health concerns. As more pet parents take a proactive approach to wellness, many are seeking expert guidance to make informed nutrition choices.
To support this need, Bow & Wow launched its Nutrition Consultation Service at Bow & Wow Robinsons Magnolia. Exclusive to members, the complimentary service provides personalized nutrition guidance tailored to each pet’s specific needs.
“As pet parents become more proactive about their pets’ health, access to the right guidance is just as important as access to quality nutrition,” said Romy Sia, Managing Director of Bow & Wow Philippines. “Our goal is to help them better understand their pets’ needs so they can make informed choices for healthier, happier lives.”
From digestive concerns and food sensitivities to weight management, picky eating, and life-stage nutrition, the consultations help pet parents support their companions’ overall wellness. Appointments may be booked through participating Metro Manila stores, with walk-ins accommodated when slots are available. As preventive wellness continues to shape pet care, Bow & Wow goes beyond offering premium products by helping pet parents navigate nutrition through carefully curated brands, rigorous standards, and expert guidance. By combining science-backed nutrition with education and support, Bow & Wow empowers Filipino pet parents to make confident choices for their pets’ long-term health—one bowl at a time.
“Minsan, may mga pangarap na hindi natutupad. Pero may mga pangarap na hindi sinusukuan.” These words anchor the journey of Atty. Sheila Gomez, the spotlight of the latest #GCashStories installment that recently moved audiences online.
Her path—juggling the demands of being a working law student, falling short of passing her first Bar exam, and ultimately triumphing to become a lawyer—stands as a powerful reminder: sometimes, a second chance and the right financial support through tools like GLoan are all it takes to rewrite a life’s trajectory.
But while Atty. Sheila’s milestone is an extraordinary feat, millions of Filipinos are winning their own victories on different stages. Progress, after all, looks different for everyone. Behind each of these milestones is the indomitable Filipino spirit—and the value of a trusted financial partner committed to helping each one see their dreams prevail.
The Dignity of the Daily Hustle
Neighborhood sari-sari stores serve as the lifeblood of local communities. Yet, for the millions of micro-retailers managing these stores, formal credit lines remain out of reach.
For Juvy Camante, a sari-sari store owner from Pateros, Metro Manila, this reality was a daily hurdle for nearly five years. But when cash flow tightens—especially when daily earnings are diverted to urgent school expenses—restocking those shelves becomes an agonizing challenge.
Juvy was initially deeply skeptical of digital credit alternatives when she first encountered them through app promos and a friend’s recommendation. “Ayoko ng mga ganyan. Parang nakakatakot,” she admits, recalling her initial hesitation. But when a soft drink delivery arrived and her budget fell short, she decided to try GLoan. “Nagulat ako… saglit lang, pumasok agad yung pera sa wallet,” she recalls.
Beyond speed, loaning through GCash offered something she couldn’t get from borrowing through informal lenders: protecting her dignity. “Mas magaan po sa loob na parang hindi mo kailangan makiusap,” she explains.
Today, Juvy has turned GLoan into a part of her financial routine. After manually navigating her very first payment, she activated the auto-deduction feature. Now, she simply ensures her GCash wallet is sufficiently funded before her due date every month.
By managing her credit responsibly, Juvy has transformed borrowing from a source of anxiety into a strategic business tool. Her advice to fellow cash-strapped entrepreneurs is simple and fearless: “Huwag matakot mangutang, lalo na kung gagamitin naman talaga sa negosyo.”
Education without Compromises
For many Filipino parents, the ultimate measure of progress is securing their children’s education. Often, micro-retailers face an agonizing compromise: using up funds to pay for tuition, or keeping their business running.
It is a balancing act that carinderia owner Fevelyn Bellen knows all too well. Running her small eatery, she managed to send her children to school. But when her youngest child moved to the province for a college education, the daily budget often fell short. Whenever emergency school expenses arose, she relied on GLoan to bridge the gap instantly from home: “Pag kailangan ng anak ko ng pera, ‘matic yan. Pag lumabas na sa wallet ko, ise-send ko naman kaagad sa kanya. Walang hassle.”
The pressure peaked during her child’s final year in college. To avoid disrupting her household cash flow during enrollment, Fevelyn used GLoan strategically as pandagdag-puhunan. She increased her daily sales volume, eventually funneling her business profits directly into school tuition.
“Sa tulong ng GLoan, hindi ko kailangang mamili kung negosyo ba o tuition ng anak ko ang uunahin—natutugunan ko pareho,” she shares.
Like Juvy, Fevelyn saw GLoan’s value beyond mere convenience—it provided a level of dignity and financial privacy that traditional, informal borrowing formats often cannot. “Sa GCash, walang nakakaalam. Ikaw lang at saka si GCash ang nakakaalam,” Fevelyn shares.
The investment paid off fully. Her youngest child recently graduated with a degree in education, moved back to Manila, and has already started working at a corporate call center while actively preparing for the teaching board licensure examinations.
Hand in Hand in Realizing the Filipino Dream
The stories of Juvy and Fevelyn prove that the Filipino spirit doesn’t look for handouts—it looks for fair opportunities.
Marking its 10th year of service, Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, is actively championing fair, transparent, and deeply respectful financial practices.
“When given the right tools, everyday heroes can help navigate systemic hurdles on their own terms,” says Tony Isidro, Fuse President and CEO “By providing fast, collateral-free loans, we ensure a safe and secure credit experience that, most importantly, enables Filipinos to borrow with absolute dignity.”
Kasama mo Mangarap by GCash, continues to act as a reliable ally, empowering millions of Filipinos to look toward the future with confidence and write their own stories of perseverance and success.
