The Bistro Group, one of the country’s leading and most progressive restaurant operators, is thrilled to announce its latest international partnership: the upcoming entry of wagamama into the Philippine market.
The announcement comes on the heels of recent successful launches of new, high-profile concepts, including: Morton’s The Steakhouse, Fogo De Chao, Dave & Buster’s, Dessert39 and the aggressive expansion of their existing brands.
This landmark move reinforces Bistro’s position as the premier gateway for world-class culinary concepts in the region. By integrating this internationally recognized pan-Asian diner brand, Bistro continues to diversify its offerings, which currently span over 200 stores nationwide and nearly 30 distinct concepts.
“We are excited to welcome wagamama to our family,” says Jean Paul Manuud, President of The Bistro Group. “Our goal has always been to give Filipino diners a front-row seat to globally celebrated cuisines. We believe that wagamama’s British take on soul-satisfying Asian flavors and modern social dining vibe will resonate deeply here.”
Founded in London in 1992, wagamama operates an international network of restaurants and is recognized for its Asian-inspired menu, efficient service model, and contemporary design concept. It has a global presence with over 200 restaurants across 18 countries and in the UK.
The brand’s philosophy of fresh, nourishing food served in a vibrant, communal setting has driven its success across multiple markets. Notable specialties are ramens, teppanyaki, curries, fresh salads, freshly squeezed juices, sides and sharers, desserts, wine and Asian beers. A global powerhouse, it has built a reputation around the guiding principle of “nourish all, from bowl to soul.”
We’re incredibly excited to join forces with The Bistro Group. Their understanding of the local restaurant landscape, combined with a shared passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, made them a natural partner for us,” said Francisco Neves, Senior Vice President of Franchise + Partnerships at wagamama. “The Philippines marks an important step in our international growth journey and gives us the opportunity to introduce more guests to the fresh flavours, vibrant atmosphere, and distinctive dining experience that makes wagamama so special.”
The first Wagamama in the Philippines is set to open by year end of 2026.
Mothers are natural caregivers who express their strong love through their instinctive touch. Eager to give the best for their child, moms move with such protective strength and tenderness to create a safe and loving space for their babies.
Johnson’s Baby partnered with moms from Millennial Moms PH to talk about what it feels like being a mother and discovering the power of their gentle touch. Mae Francisco, an expecting mom, shared how even before her baby arrives, her choices have already changed—becoming more intentional, more gentle.
“Now that I’m soon to be a mom, I’m prioritizing all of my baby’s needs and beginning to understand the responsibilities of being a mother on a deeper level. I’ve become more intentional in the sense that I make healthier choices for the baby and me. One way I do this is through self-care, making sure that I am in a calm state of mind so I can make the best decisions for me and my baby’s health.”
For first-time mom Artesa Lim, every day is a learning moment. From bath time to a simple touch, she’s discovering what it means to care with both confidence and tenderness.
“Being a first-time mom honestly changed me a lot. It’s beautiful, fulfilling, but also exhausting at times. I realized that motherhood doesn’t come with a manual—you really learn as you go. There are moments na mapapatanong ka if tama ba ginagawa mo, but seeing your child happy, safe, and loved makes everything worth it. I also discovered that even the simplest things like cuddling, carrying them to sleep, or just being beside them already mean so much to a child,” she shares.
Meanwhile, mom of two Monica Gregorio, raising a newborn and a toddler, spoke about how over the years she can attest to the fact that a mother’s touch goes a long way.
“I’m learning that caring for my child is not just about meeting their needs. It’s also about making them feel safe, loved, heard, and supported even on difficult days. A mother’s touch holds a quiet but powerful kind of love. It soothes my baby without any words, calms their little worries, and makes them feel safe no matter what’s happening around them. In my simple embrace, I hope they always feel my love, my reassurance, and I’m always here for them. Because I believe the gentleness and softness I give them today will become the comfort they lean on and the confidence they carry as they grow,” she shares.
Despite the growing number of mothers recognizing the need for gentle care, studies have shown that only 3 out of 10 households with newborns ages 0-1 years old use a baby wash while the rest cleanse their kids’ skin most likely with adult soaps. Many parents do not realize that baby’s skin is different from adult skin. A baby’s skin is 30% thinner than adult skin. Adult bar soaps and/or family bar soaps are often infused with harsh ingredients that can cause dryness, redness, and irritation to a baby’s skin.
That is why last Mother’s Day, Johnson’s Baby made it a mission to educate moms on the importance of their gentle touch for their loved ones. At the Watsons Mom & Baby Fair held last May 8 to 14, Johnson’s Baby brought this promise to life through the “Mystery Bath Challenge”—an interactive blind test designed to let moms feel the difference between using Johnson’s Baby Milk + Rice on their skin versus common family bar soaps.
Participants dipped their hands into two identical tubs—one with regular family soap and the other with Johnson’s Baby Milk+Rice Baby Bath—without knowing which was which. The result was immediate: many moms were able to distinguish the gentler, softer feel of Johnson’s, reinforcing how important it is to choose products made for delicate baby skin.
(Mystery Bath Challenge at the Watsons Mom & Baby Fair)
Johnson’s Baby Milk+Rice Baby Bath offers gentler and softer care for babies because it is tested by pediatricians and formulated with certified newborn safe ingredients such as natural milk and rice extracts that gently clean, moisturize, and protect a baby’s skin. It is also pH balanced, making it 2x more moisturizing with regular use than adult/family bar soaps.
Highlighting the experience, actress and Johnson’s Baby brand ambassador Melissa Gohing-Nacino joined the activity, engaging with fellow moms and sharing her own insights as a parent. Her participation in the Mystery Bath Challenge added a relatable, real-mom perspective—bridging everyday motherhood decisions with expert-backed care.
As a mom of two kids, Melissa puts importance in having a skincare regimen for her babies upon learning how sensitive their skin is. An essential component of this regimen is Johnson’s Baby Milk+Rice Baby Bath because of how it delicately cleans and keeps her kids’ skin soft and moisturized.
Alongside her, pediatric dermatologist Dr. Giselle Umali Adasa provided deeper context on newborn skin, explaining why gentleness is not just a preference but a necessity, “Newborn skin is very delicate. In the sense that it is thinner and more fragile than an adult’s skin, even up to the age of 6 years old. Not all adult soaps are safe for babies. Many contain disodium distyrylbiphenyl disulfonate and antifungal ingredients that are used to whiten clothes that can cause damage to a baby’s delicate skin.”
(Dr. Giselle Umali Adasa on the left, Melissa Gohing Nacino on the right)
Together, the segment seamlessly combined real-life experience with medical expertise—helping moms better understand the importance of cleansing their babies with a gentle wash.
A mother’s love is powerful in all its forms—but its true strength lies in knowing when to be gentle. Through a mother’s gentle touch, she creates a world where her baby feels safe, protected, and loved.
With Johnson’s Baby, that gentle care becomes a trusted partner in every mother’s journey—because strong love knows when to be gentle.
Masakit ang tiyan? Sure ka bang tama ang gamot mo diyan?
Filipinos tend to treat “masakit ang tiyan” as one simple problem with one go-to solution. But is it really that simple? A stomachache can mean many things: kabag, pangangasim ng sikmura, constipation, or even cramps. Same stomach, different causes, so when it comes to getting over that belly pain, it’s never a one-size-fits-all answer.
Woman hands touching belly and stomach painful suffering from chronic gastritis on white background. Healthcare concept.
Instead of guessing, it helps to understand what your body is actually telling you. Think of your belly as a map. Each zone corresponds to different organs, so where it hurts can reveal just as much as how it feels. Read both right, and you’re not just guessing— you’ll actually get to the bottom of it.
The Upper Belly Pain: Is it Indigestion—or Something Worse?
Upper belly acting up? That familiar flaring up or hapdi, uncomfortable bloating, or a sharp, gnawing pain? That’s not just a random stomachache; that’s usually hyperacidity or pangangasim ng sikmura. These are often felt above the navel, up to the chest area, and tend to show up after meals— especially after that extra spicy, oily, or that “promise, last na ‘to” moment.
This kind of discomfort is your digestive system reacting in real time. The usual suspects are indigestion, acid reflux, and kabag. Same upper belly zone, but different triggers.
Manageable at first, but if the pain sticks around, worsens, or comes with red flags like vomiting, fever, or unexplained weight loss, that’s your cue to stop guessing and get it checked.
The Lower Belly Trouble: Just a Passing Cramp—or Something More Serious?
If the pain hits around or below the navel, it may be linked to Functional Abdominal Cramping Pain (FACP). Think hilab, ipit, tusok—the kind of pain na namimilipit sa sakit, and it often comes and goes.
FACP can appear on its own or with symptoms like pagtatae (diarrhea), constipation, or bloating. One minute you’re fine, the next you feel butterflies in your stomach—and not the kilig kind. It’s not always triggered by food either. Stress, pressure, and kaba can also directly affect your gut.
At its core, this type of pain is tied to how your digestive system functions—factors like gut sensitivity, intestinal muscle movement, or even an imbalance of “good” and “bad” bacteria can all play a role.
But if the pain becomes severe, one-sided, or comes with fever, nausea, or difficulty urinating, don’t brush it off. That’s your sign to get it checked.
What Can You Do For Upper and Lower Belly Pains
This is where it gets practical. If it’s upper belly pain caused by acid, antacids can help calm the burn. If it’s lower belly cramps, that’s where antispasmodics like Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) come in to ease the tension.
Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) is a naturally derived antispasmodic suitable for adults and children over 6 years old. It treats pain at the source, works in as fast as 15 minutes, and provides all-day relief—while helping reduce the intensity and frequency of lower belly pain episodes.
For milder cases, Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) is recommended for light to moderate abdominal cramps, while Hyoscine N-Butylbromide Paracetamol (Buscopan Plus) is designed for more severe cramping. The usual dose is 1–2 tablets, 3x a day for not more than 3 days, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Your body’s not being dramatic—it’s being specific. Masakit ang tiyan isn’t just one thing, and where the pain hits is a clue, not a coincidence. Go back to the map: upper or lower, hapdi or hilab—each one points to a different cause, and a different solution.
Read it right, and you can stop guessing and choose the right care—whether it’s for pangangasim ng sikmura, kabag, constipation, or cramping pain like FACP (where antispasmodics like Buscopan can help).
Because at the end of the day, hindi lahat ng sakit ng tiyan pare-pareho—and your treatment shouldn’t be either. And when in doubt, it’s always best to consult your doctor.
Today, show-stopping London-born singer and songwriter SIENNA SPIRO announces the “My House” tour, including an extensive North American fall run followed by dates in Asia, Australia, New Zealand, UK and Europe. MANILA will be on Saturday, January 9, 2027 at the New Frontier Theater. Presented by Wilbros Live. Ticket pre-sales begin Tuesday, June 16 at 10AM, while general on-sale starts Thursday, June 18 at 10AM via TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide.
Said SIENNA, “I truly can’t wait for this tour. This is the biggest I’ve ever done and we’re going to perform in places I’ve never been before! I’m so excited to see you all and sing the songs from Visitor with you.”
Following stateside festival stops including Lollapalooza, Newport Jazz, Outside Lands, All Things Go, and Austin City Limits, SIENNA kicks off The My House Tour on October 13 at Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium. She then plays cities including Atlanta, D.C., New York, Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, Vancouver, and more, before wrapping up on November 10 at The Wiltern in Los Angeles. She’s also returning to San Francisco’s historic Castro Theatre, where she joined Sam Smith in March for a surprise duet of her hit “Die On This Hill”.
The tour news arrives as SIENNA covers the June/July issue of Rolling Stone UK, and follows a series of overseas dates where she debuted a striking yet cozy stage setup including plush curtains, carpeted floors, vintage audio equipment, lamps, and vinyl records — get a glimpse, and preview her unreleased song “My House,”. The spring U.S. leg of that same tour stirred up rave reviews, including from Variety, who dubbed SIENNA “one of the greatest voices of her generation” and Los Angeles Times, who professed that her voice, “might be the most impressive instrument to come out of England since Adele emerged nearly two decades ago.”
Just last week, SIENNA released the official music video for her enthralling single “The Visitor”. Written and produced by SIENNA with Omer Fedi (SZA, Lil Nas X) and Michael Pollack (Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus), the song draws its power from a spellbinding vocal recorded in one take, lyrics that cut to the bone, and a 20-piece string orchestra led and arranged by Academy Award-winner Peter Rotter (Oppenheimer, The Last Repair Shop). While SIENNA’s poetry and the video nod to matters of the heart, by the song’s end, we sense that she’s singing about something more: a strong awareness of impermanence — of things ending and people leaving — that can quickly turn into paralyzing fear. That sentiment is the driving force behind the concept that powers Visitor, the album.
Of course, SIENNA is very much here to stay. Her music has amassed over 1.2 billion global streams so far and, in late March, she had a trio of singles climbing the Hot 100 all at once: “The Visitor” (which so far peaked at #43), heartwrenching UK Platinum smash “Die On This Hill” (#19), and the enduring “You Stole The Show” (#55). All three are set to appear on Visitor, which was executive produced by Fedi with additional production from an elite crew including Blake Slatkin, Yakob, and Pollack, plus composers like Larry Gold (Al Green, Silk Sonic) andRotter. SIENNA and her hand-picked collaborators brought her vision to life in an array of legendary spaces like Electric Lady Studios in New York, Abbey Road Studios in London, and Valentine Recording Studios in Los Angeles.
As much as her timeless songcraft, SIENNA’s staggering performances have been central to her rise. She opened 2026 with an unforgettable rendition of “Die On This Hill” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, inspiring a standing ovation and flabbergasting her host. Recently, she capped off a series of stunning UK TV appearances by singing Nat King Cole’s “Nature Boy” for the BBC’s David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth special. Sienna will also make her debut as a featured artist on Season 52 of Austin City Limits, taping July 15.
After entering the year shortlisted for the BRIT Awards’ esteemed Critics’ Choice for 2026 award, 20-year-old SIENNA landed on Forbes’ latest 30 Under 30 list; received two 2026 American Music Award nominations for Best Vocal Performance and Breakthrough Pop Artist; sat down for equally charming and revealing interviews with the likes of ELLE, NYLON, and Interview Magazine; and garnered critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, Dazed, The New York Times, V Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, and more. SIENNA also wrote the song “Material Lover” exclusively for The Devil Wears Prada 2 soundtrack.
A DIY-minded artist who first started penning songs when she was 10, SIENNA’s earliest inspirations included Frank Ocean, Etta James, Frank Sinatra, and Amy Winehouse. She began integrating jazz elements into her music while gently leaning toward more contemporary sonic aesthetics on her 2025 debut EP SINK NOW, SWIM LATER. Now, with Visitor on the way, SIENNA shows no sign of slowing down.
DreamPlay by DreamWorks at City of Dreams Manila marks its 11th anniversary this June with a month-long How to Train Your Dragon-inspired Viking adventure. Inspired by the friendship between Hiccup and Toothless, the celebration highlights the discovery, courage, and imagination that have made DreamPlay a family favorite for more than a decade.
Viking Adventure Pass
Families can join the celebration with the Viking Adventure Pass, available until June 28 for P3,099. It includes all-day access to DreamPlay’s 12 attractions, skip-the-queue privileges, and a choice of Viking or dragon-themed face or hand painting.
Passholders also receive a DreamPlay anniversary wristband, a Hiccup or Astrid bobblehead, a Gloria and Mort pin, Gingy’s Viking Treat, 40% off one printed 6R photo memorabilia and a 360-degree video booth experience, plus 10% off a cotton candy stick and tumbler.
Anniversary Festivities
The DreamPlay celebration peaks on June 12 with the Hunt for Night Fury Eggs at 3:30 p.m. This activity challenges participant ticketholders to find 11 hidden Night Fury eggs scattered throughout the attractions, with each egg unlocking a corresponding prize.
The day’s festivities continue with an all-star parade of beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation films Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls, and Madagascar at The Shops at the Boulevard at 4:00 p.m., followed by a Viking-themed dance performance at DreamPlay’s activity area at 5:00 p.m.
DreamPlay is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Viking Adventure Passes are available at the DreamShop counter during operating days. Terms and conditions apply. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB 253495 Series of 2026.
For reservations, interested parties can call +632 8800-8080, email dreamplay@cod-manila.com or visit https://qrco.de/DPVikingAdventure. Guests can also explore City of Dreams Manila’s latest offers and rewards or instantly check Melco Club points through the Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.
The Loop is stepping into a new chapter with the launch of a refreshed brand identity, signaling its evolution from a device-first retailer into a lifestyle-tech partner for everyday life.
For years, The Loop has been a familiar stop for devices and tech essentials. But today, technology is woven into nearly every part of daily life, and people, especially younger consumers, are looking for more than just the next new gadget. They want products and experiences that fit naturally into how they work, create, travel, stay well, and unwind.
With this rebrand, The Loop is sharpening its identity to better connect with a young, modern market, one that values relevance, ease, self-expression, and lifestyle-driven choices.
“People use technology very differently now, and we felt it was time for The Loop to evolve, too,” said Francis Warren Chua, Marketing Director. “More than just a tech retailer, we want The Loop PH to be the first curated lifestyle brand and a trusted partner in everyday Filipino life.”
A Move Beyond Device-First Retail
Rather than focusing only on products, the new The Loop puts greater emphasis on what technology enables in everyday life. The brand now speaks to a wider range of needs and moments—from productivity and mobility to self-care, entertainment, and personal expression.
The Loop is also positioning itself as the first curated lifestyle-tech brand in its space, offering a more thoughtful and relatable way for customers to discover products that match the way they live.
Whether it’s tools for productivity, products that support self-care, or devices that make travel and downtime more seamless, these categories help shape a more lifestyle-led experience for customers.
More Than Apple
While The Loop remains a trusted destination for Apple products, the brand also offers a broader range of devices and accessories that support different lifestyles and preferences. These include Android devices and accessories from brands such as ADAM elements & Rokid for Personal Tech; Polaroid for Travel; Shokz for Audio and Entertainment; and, Activfit for Health and Wellness.
This wider mix of products reflects The Loop PH’s move toward a more curated and lifestyle-focused retail experience—one that gives customers more ways to find the tech that fits them best.
A Sharper, More Distinct Brand
With a more defined voice and clearer purpose, The Loop is carving out a space that feels distinct from a traditional electronics retailer. Its new visual and verbal identity is designed to feel more expressive, contemporary, and human appealing to consumers who want technology to feel intuitive, useful, and naturally part of everyday life.
“Today’s customers want more than just access to devices—they want relevance,” said Chua. “The new The Loop is about making technology feel closer to real life and more connected to the things people care about every day.”
The rebrand is both a visual and strategic transformation-one that reflects how The Loop sees the future of retail: not just as a place to buy products, but as a space that helps people discover how technology can meaningfully support the lives they lead.
Customers can explore The Loop PH’s latest products, brand updates, and lifestyle content by visiting its official social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok. They are also invited to visit The Loop PH stores nationwide, as well as, its official stores in Shopee and Lazada, to discover and shop for the brand’s curated selection of Apple products, Android devices, and accessories.
About The Loop The Loop first opened its doors in 2014 as a retail brand from one of the leading Apple Premium Resellers in the Philippines. With 48 stores and growing nationwide, The Loop offers a wide range of devices and accessories designed to support students, young professionals, and everyday consumers in work, study, travel, wellness, and entertainment. In addition to Apple products, The Loop also carries Android devices from brands such as Samsung, Xiaomi, Honor and Vivo, as well as, accessories from ADAM elements, Belkin, Makerzoid, Oura, PanzerGlass, Rokid, Speck and UAG.
For nearly six decades, Novotel has quietly refined the language of modern hospitality where comfort, wellbeing, and genuine human connection exist in effortless harmony for travelers around the world. Today, the brand unveils a thoughtful new direction through Longevity Everyday, an elevated philosophy that embraces the art of living well through life’s simplest rituals. Rather than viewing longevity as a distant pursuit, Novotel redefines it as something deeply present and attainable: restorative sleep, mindful dining, purposeful movement, and meaningful connection. Guided by the pillars of Eat, Sleep, Move, and Meet, the campaign celebrates the notion that life’s finest luxuries are often found in the everyday moments shared with intention.
Bringing this vision closer to home, Novotel Manila Araneta City introduces My Novotel Family For ALL a heartfelt yet refined campaign that reimagines the modern concept of family through togetherness, wellbeing, and shared experiences. Inspired by Novotel’s global Longevity Everyday platform, My Novotel Family For ALL serves as the human and emotional expression of the brand’s commitment to well-being, meaningful connections, and a balanced way of life.
Built around the four pillars of Eat, Sleep, Move, and Meet, the Longevity Everyday platform encourages guests to embrace simple yet impactful habits that contribute to living better every day. While the first three pillars focus on physical wellness, the Meet pillar highlights the importance of social connection, community, and a sense of belonging as essential elements of long-term well-being.
Bringing this philosophy to life locally, My Novotel Family For ALL celebrates the relationships that make life meaningful. From families and lifelong friends to couples, chosen families, and cherished pets, the campaign embraces every bond that brings joy, support, and companionship. It recognizes that family is not defined solely by tradition, but by the people, and even pets with whom we share life’s most memorable moments.
At Novotel Manila Araneta City, the campaign reflects the belief that true longevity is about more than simply adding years to life; it is about enriching those years through meaningful experiences and genuine human connections. By creating spaces where guests can gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories together, the hotel continues to champion a lifestyle centered on togetherness, belonging, and everyday well-being.
Through My Novotel Family For ALL, Novotel Manila Araneta City reinforces the idea that some of life’s greatest contributors to happiness and wellness are the relationships we nurture. Because living better every day begins with sharing meaningful moments with the people and pets we love most.
To celebrate its launch, Novotel Manila Araneta City mounted a two-day immersive activation featuring curated wellness experiences from InBalance Wellness and Surge Fitness + Lifestyle, family-friendly activities with Dilmah
Tea, interactive lifestyle moments at Art in Island, fur parents participated in a special session led by Dr. Cissy Ramos of Zippet Animal Center, who shared valuable insights on First Aid and Emergency Response for pets and intimate gatherings designed to inspire reconnection and joyful celebration.
The festivities also featured a Sunday Community Fun Run in partnership with aRUNeta Run Club, RWP Kyusi, and Araneta City, alongside a vibrant lineup of partner booths and brand activations from Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Dairy Queen, Evian Philippines, Pocari Sweat Philippines, Noseboop Araneta, EarthLab & Co, Face Republic Philippines, Dilmah Tea, Taichi, Kuchi Kuchi, KEOS Philippines, Renadog Professional Grooming Artistry, PupUp, Equilibrium Intertrade Corporation, and Lifestrong Marketing Inc. featuring brands such as Megan Beauty, Cathy Doll, HairFix, Lummarx, NutriXpert, BodyXpert for Men, Brow It, Colorina Makeup Studio, Chummy Baby, and DermAid.
Adding to the fun-filled morning were special participation and support from Armidia Photo, Accor Plus Explorer, Gateway Cineplex 18, ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, Bluehive MDS Events Inc., InBalance Wellness and Food Exchange Manila.
Anchored in the belief that quality time remains one of life’s rarest luxuries, the campaign presents a thoughtfully curated collection of experiences spanning stays, dining, wellness, recreation, and milestone celebrations.
“Through this campaign, Novotel Araneta City brings its Longevity Everyday ethos into sharper focus not merely as a hospitality message, but as a reflection of how modern families choose to live, connect, and celebrate today. By strengthening engagement with our ALL Accor-loyalty members and ALL Accor+ Explorers, we are creating experiences that feel both personal and culturally resonant for the local market. More than a marketing initiative, this campaign represents a pivotal chapter in the continuous reinvention of Novotel Araneta City. After more than a decade of listening intently to the evolving aspirations of our guests, we understand that the definition of family has become far more nuanced, emotional, and inclusive. Today, family extends beyond tradition embracing fur parents, chosen families, lifelong friendships, and the grandparents who remain the emotional anchors of Filipino homes,” Erwin Dona III, the Cluster Director of Marketing and Communications enthused.
“As a seasoned hospitality brand, we see this as an opportunity to thoughtfully reposition Novotel Araneta City as a contemporary family-centric destination: one that curates meaningful stays, purposeful gatherings, and elevated everyday moments for every generation and every kind of connection. Ultimately, this is our tribute to the enduring Filipino spirit of warmth, care, and togetherness; values that continue to define us across generations.”
Belong Together: Elevated Stays for Every Kind of Family
Through My Novotel Family For ALL, guests are invited to enjoy city staycations intentionally designed for comfort, connection, and ease. The Family Time Elevated package offers a stylish Executive Room retreat complete with breakfast for two adults and two children, Kids Club access, and exclusive Premier Lounge privileges ideal for families seeking a refined urban escape.
For those looking to rediscover the city together, the Explore the City package combines a relaxing stay with curated family experiences, including access to Art In Island, Gateway Cinema, and artisanal gelato treats from Che Buono. Young adventurers, meanwhile, can step into imaginative escapes through the Little Explorers Staycation, featuring Executive Suites transformed with kiddie teepee glamping setups, themed amenity kits, unlimited Kids Club access, and engaging weekend activities.
For intimate reunions and milestone gatherings, Reunions at The 25th offers an elegant setting where the hotel’s Presidential Suite becomes the backdrop for curated dining and cocktail experiences shared among family and friends.
Savor Together: Dining Designed Around Connection
At Food Exchange Manila, dining evolves into a celebration of togetherness through playful yet elevated culinary experiences. Birthday celebrants may indulge in the Your Age, Your Discount offering, while the Milestone Exchange packages create memorable buffet celebrations perfect for reunions and special family occasions.
Weekend gatherings are likewise elevated through Weekend Family Feast (family buffet and kiddie fun), dedicated children’s activities, and lively family moments come together seamlessly.
Reconnect & Play Together: Wellness for Every Generation
Inspired by Novotel’s Longevity Everyday approach, wellness takes center stage through experiences thoughtfully designed to nurture both rest and reconnection.
Couples may retreat into relaxation with the Romantic Interlude Wellness Escape for Two at In Balance Spa, while younger guests can enjoy the charming Little Relaxers Spa Day, specially curated for children aged three to ten.
At the Kids Club, little explorers are invited to discover enriching activities ranging from yoga and cupcake decorating to arts, crafts, and sports-inspired adventures encouraging creativity, movement, and joyful exploration.
From elegant debuts to intimate milestone occasions, Novotel Manila Araneta City also introduces bespoke celebration packages crafted for memorable gatherings.
The Blossom & Bloom Debut Package and Memorable Milestones Celebration Package combine refined venues, curated menus, and seamless hospitality creating celebrations that feel deeply personal yet effortlessly sophisticated.
At its core, My Novotel Family For ALL serves as a natural extension of Novotel’s Longevity Everyday idea a gentle reminder that wellbeing is found not only in how we rest, dine, or move, but also in the relationships we nurture and the moments we choose to share.
Novotel Manila Araneta City invites you to discover a new definition of family. For inquiries and the full list of My Novotel Family exclusive offerings including staycations, dining, wellness, and social experiences visit novotelmanilaaranetacity.com.
ASUS Philippines helps students, gamers, creators, and young professionals start the new school year with greater confidence through the ASUS No. 1 Quality & Service Program, available beginning June 8, 2026.
Made to support users throughout their academic, creative, and everyday journeys, the program reinforces ASUS’ commitment to trusted product quality, enhanced warranty coverage, and accessible after-sales support – making every ASUS device a smarter long-term investment.
As students increasingly rely on laptops for research, collaboration, content creation, and hybrid learning, dependable warranty coverage and accessible service support have become key considerations when choosing a device for school. Through the ASUS No. 1 Quality & Service program, ASUS aims to deliver greater confidence throughout the ownership journey
ASUS NO.1 QUALITY & SERVICE: TRUSTED QUALITY, LASTING PROTECTION
The ASUS No. 1 Quality & Service Program combines trusted product quality – built on high-performance innovation, premium craftsmanship, and US Military Grade durability – with enhanced warranty coverage and service benefits designed to provide greater peace of mind throughout ownership.
Designed to provide peace of mind for ASUS users beyond the point of purchase, the enhanced service package features expanded International and Local Warranty coverage, upgraded Preventive Maintenance services, and an extended Return Policy for a more seamless ownership experience.
2026 Enhanced Warranty Coverage
ASUS Flagship models including ProArt, Zenbook, VivobookS, VivobookFlip, and ROGgaminglaptops will come with a 3-Year International and Local Warranty. While ASUSandROGdesktops, along with ASUS All-in-One (AiO) PCs, will retain their 3-Year Local Warranty.
Meanwhile, Vivobook, Vivobook Go, ASUS Series, ASUS Gaming, TUF Gaming laptops, and ROG Ally gaming handhelds will continue to include a 2-Year International and Local Warranty.
Eligible ASUS and ROG laptops and handheld devices will also retain 1-Year Local Accidental Damage Protection “LADP” (ASUS Perfect Warranty), which covers incidents not included under the standard manufacturer’s warranty, including accidental customer-induced damage.
Alongside the warranty enhancements, ASUS is introducing additional service benefits under the ASUS No. 1 Quality and Service Program:
Up to 6X Free Device Cleaning (ASUS Preventive Maintenance): Customers with eligible ASUS and ROG laptops, desktops, All-In-One PCs and handhelds can now access complimentary preventive maintenance services, including professional cleaning and device care, now up to a total of 6 times during the warranty period. Up to 2 service claims may be redeemed each year through participating ASUS service centers.
14-Day Extended Replacement Window: For extra peace-of-mind, ASUS has also extended its replacement period from 7 days to 14 days, providing customers with additional time to address eligible product concerns following purchase.
Local On-Site Service Upgrade: For Flagship models, ASUS is expanding its on-site support services. ProArt, Zenbook, VivobookS, VivobookFlip, and ROG gaming laptop owners will now be eligible for on-site service, reducing the need to bring devices to a service center. ASUS and ROG desktopand AiO users continue to enjoy the same benefits as well.
Global Accessibility, Seamless Mobility
Whether working remotely within the Philippines or traveling abroad, ASUS customers can access the company’s global service network for technical support and warranty assistance.
100+ Authorized Service Centers located across the Philippines.
90+ International Countries Covered, providing access to parts, labor, and technical assistance through ASUS’ international service network.
The 2026 Enhanced Warranty Packages will be available for eligible ASUS and ROG products purchased and activated through authorized retailers in the Philippines beginning June 8, 2026. The expanded program reflects ASUS’ continued investment in after-sales support, alongside its complete product portfolio.
Follow ASUS Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stay up to date on #AlwaysIncredible devices and services, as well as other amazing Back-to-School programs.
Disclaimers:
The 2026 Enhanced Warranty package is available on eligible units sold and activated starting June 8, 2026, until further notice.
Not applicable to ASUS Business devices. See website for full list of eligible models.
Prior sold units remain covered under their original warranty terms.
All warranty service packages are subject to ASUS warranty policies and local regulations. Contact official ASUS Service Centers for complete details.
The ultimate travel event of the season is back, and it’s bringing a major upgrade to how you plan your next vacation. BDO is kicking off the highly anticipated mid-year run of The Great BDO Travel Sale 2026, offering cardholders unbeatable discounts on international and domestic flights, curated travel packages, and holiday tours.
Whether you are looking to explore the bustling streets of Tokyo, take a scenic cruise through Europe, or unwind on a tropical beach closer to home, this event serves as your literal passport to massive savings. But this year, BDO is doing more than slashing prices—they are eliminating the anxiety of planning your next getaway.
Beyond the exclusive seat sales and installment offers, the on-ground event acts as a true one-stop shop, offering seamless, hassle-free visa application services forJapan, South Korea, select Schengen countries and more, right on the event floor!
One-Stop Travel Booking & Logistics Highlights
Throughout June, BDO Credit and Debit Cardholders can gain exclusive access to special rates from world-class airline partners and top-tier travel agencies, while checking major travel requirements off their to-do list:
On-Ground Visa Assistance: Skip the usual logistical headache of visiting multiple external offices. You can process your visa applications directly at the event for your Japan and select Schengen countries with VFS Global, and Korea with W Express.
Fly Now, Pay Later Flexibility: Keep your savings intact. Secure your travel bookings at the on-ground event using 0% interest on a 3-month installment plan, with your first payment deferred for three months.
Mark Your Calendars: June 2026 Event Schedule
To make sure you don’t miss out on these exclusive deals and on-site visa services, plan your visit according to the schedule below:
Location
Event Dates
Venue & Timings
Manila
June 5 – 7
SMX Convention Center Aura, SM Aura Premier (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
Cebu
June 26 – 28
North Wing Atrium, SM City Cebu (10:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Davao
June 19 – 21
Online at www.travel.bdo.com.ph
Visit The Great BDO Travel Sale website at www.bdo.com.ph/travel to learn more about the event.
Don’t have a BDO Credit Card yet? Apply online at www.bdo.com.ph/live-better and
receive a ₱300 Pluxee eGC upon completion of registration. Plus, enjoy FREE membership for the first 3 years on your new card. Terms and conditions apply.
GAC International Philippines is gearing up for the arrival of the GAC AION UT, a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) hatchback that blends head-turning style, smart technology and an unexpectedly spacious interior into one youthful and city-ready package with “big car energy”.
Designed for trend-seeking Filipino drivers who value both style and substance, the AION UT is poised to bring fresh new energy to the EV hatchback segment with a driving experience that goes well beyond what its compact footprint suggests.
Inspired by European art and fashion, the AION UT embraces “Milanese Aesthetics,” a sleek and expressive design philosophy that gives the vehicle a playful yet chic and sophisticated personality. From its distinctive winky-eye headlights to its carefully curated artistic color palette, the AION UT was designed to stand out whether navigating busy streets or pulling into weekend destinations.
Already gaining strong attention across Australia, Thailand, Europe and Latin America, the AION UT has quickly emerged as one of GAC’s most talked-about global EV models. With its compelling mix of design, versatility, and smart functionality, the AION UT is expected to set a new benchmark for EV hatchbacks in the Philippine market.
Though compact on the outside, the 5-seater AION UT delivers the openness, comfort, and practicality typically associated with much larger vehicles. Built around a class-leading 2,750mm wheelbase and an intelligently packaged interior, the AION UT creates a cabin experience that feels airy, flexible, and ready for real life.
Whether it’s spontaneous barkada road trips, shopping runs, sports gear, travel essentials, or everyday city living, the AION UT adapts effortlessly to different lifestyles. Flat-folding rear seats and a versatile cargo area further enhance its usability, creating an interior space designed to keep up with wherever life takes its drivers.
Beyond style and practicality, the AION UT is engineered with the safety and confidence expected from a modern global EV. It features GAC’s ultra-safe “Magazine Battery” technology, a high-strength steel body structure, and fast-charging capability that can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in approximately 24 minutes.
The AION UT will be offered in five body colors, namely: Champs-Elysees Beige, Emerald Green, Rococo White, and Seine Silver plus a two-tone combination of Rococo White + Emerald Green. Other specifications will be shared in subsequent announcements. Customers may now visit their nearest GAC dealership to learn more about the AION UT and place pre-reservations ahead of its launch.
GAC has leveraged 20 years of collaboration with Toyota and Honda to emerge as a dominant force in automotive tech. A legacy of world-class manufacturing and hybrid expertise ensures that every GAC vehicle adheres to the most stringent quality and performance benchmarks. By harmonizing international engineering with localized precision, GAC delivers high-performance durability tailored specifically for the Filipino driver’s peace of mind.
GAC Philippines also provides a “zero-anxiety” ownership experience through its growing nationwide network of 30 dealerships, a dedicated Manila parts warehouse, and comprehensive aftersales support. For internal combustion vehicles, customers can enjoy warranties of up to 5 years or 150,000 km. Meanwhile, EV models come with an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty, as well as an 8-year or 200,000 km warranty for the core three-electric system. All new owners also receive two years of free roadside assistance.
Visit a GAC dealership near you or explore the new energy lineup of GAC Philippines gacgroup.com/en-ph/test-drive. For the latest news and updates, follow on Facebook and Instagram @gacmotorph.
