New Korean romantic comedy series, The Practical Guide to Love, starring Han Ji-min, Park Sung-hoon and Lee Ki-taek is set to make its streaming debut on Saturday, February 28 on HBO Max.The 12-episode TVING Original drama series portrays the struggle of finding love in this day and age, and presents a modern take on blind dating – following career-driven Lee Ui-young (played by Han Ji-min), in her pursuit to find love efficiently. On a quest to find her other half, she finds herself caught in an unexpected love triangle and drawn to two very different individuals.
Photo Credit: TVING | HBO Max
StarringHan Ji-min (Heavenly Ever After, Our Blues, Love Scout), Park Sung-hoon (Squid Game, The Glory) and Lee Ki-taek (Bon Appetit, My Happy Ending), The Practical Guide to Love is directed by Lee Jae-hun (Run On, Good Manager), with Hwangbo Sang-mi as Executive Producer. The series is written by Lee Yi-jin and produced by SLL.
Stream as Ui-young discovers the true meaning of love on The Practical Guide to Love on HBO Max from February 28.
The Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) turned the magic of movies into a powerful act of kindness with its latest charitable initiative, “REEL HOPE: CEAP’s Gift of Cinema,” held at Gateway Cineplex, Araneta City.
This heartwarming initiative welcomed 21 brave children under the care of Kythe Foundation, Inc., along with their parents and guardians, for a day filled with joy, comfort, and unforgettable memories. The event featured a special screening of Zootopia 2, complete with snacks, creating a truly cinematic experience that lifted spirits and sparked laughter.
Following the screening, participants received Super Meals, Noche Buena Food Packs, and special gifts from TV5 celebrities, adding a personal touch that made the day even more memorable. For many families, the event offered a rare opportunity to share joy and togetherness in a safe, festive environment.
“REEL HOPE” reflects CEAP’s commitment to giving back and using cinema as a platform for good. CEAP believes that the true spirit of the holiday season lies in sharing hope and happiness with those who need it most.
“This event is more than just a movie screening—it’s a celebration of resilience and love,” said JAMES BARTOLOME, CEAP’s Vice-President for External Affairs. “These children remind us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion. We are honored to make this Christmas brighter for them. CEAP extends its gratitude to its members, sponsors, and partners who made this initiative possible. Together, we proved that when we unite for a cause, we can create moments that matter—moments that bring hope, laughter, and love beyond the big screen.”
About CEAP: The Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) is a non-profit organization representing the country’s leading cinema operators. CEAP advocates for the growth and sustainability of the Philippine cinema industry while promoting initiatives that use film as a medium for cultural enrichment, education, and social good.
Phiten, Japan’s cutting-edge, innovative health and wellness brand, is excited to announce that its premium range of retail products are now available at three locations in the Philippines: Shangri-La Mall, Lucky Chinatown and Mitsukoshi Mall.
Founded in Kyoto, Japan, over 40 years ago by its President and Founder, Yoshihiro Hirata, Phiten now has around 150 locations in Japan and a presence in 30 countries, primarily across North and Central America, Europe, and Asia.
Their products leverage advanced technology to enhance one’s health and support body relaxation. Here are the reasons why Phiten is most-sought after by people the world over:
Patented Aqua Titanium Technology: Experience the power of their signature Aqua Titanium technology, a breakthrough innovation that integrates metals such as titanium, gold, palladium, and platinum into everyday wearable products to support overall health and well-being. It reduces muscle and joint pain by improving blood flow and reducing bodily tension.
Faster Recovery: Whether you’re an athlete or someone looking to recover after a long day, Phiten products are designed to shorten recovery times, helping you bounce back stronger.
Stress Reduction & Enhanced Focus and Balance: Many users experienced improved mental clarity and balance, along with decreased stress, making it an ideal fit for busy individuals and those working in high-pressure environments.
Phiten products: Durability and Comfort
At Phiten retail stores, explore a wide selection of wellness solutions to suit every lifestyle, from everyday comfort to professional-grade athletic support. Their wearable and functional products are designed for comfort and long-lasting wear, whether you’re at work, in the gym, or at home.
The stores sell apparel, bracelets, necklaces, tapes, gel, socks, joint supports, and braces. These products are widely used by professional athletes to help them recover from fatigue, muscle strain, and stress. Unique offerings include the volleyball line, which features braces and supports for knees, joints, and other areas of the body. Their apparel line (shirts, jackets, shorts) is stylish and functional. Simple colors and logos help you stand out as you don Phiten’s specially designed fabric with integrated Aqua Metal technology.
With over four decades of expertise, Phiten is a trusted name in wellness, endorsed by professionals who recognize that the products have optimized their performance, reduced pain, and contributed to overall well-being.
Opening in the second half of the year is Phiten IP (Inner Power) Salon, the first outside Japan. It is a health and recovery center featuring cutting-edge equipment using Phiten technology, such as the Alpha O2 hyperbaric chamber, water massage bed, and Light Bathing Capsule.
Phiten is brought to the Philippines by Techno Holdings Corporation, the company behind Karada, Steltz International, HKR Equipment Corporation, The Turf Company, Miss Esthe, Stelton Dermascience, Express Relief, Finix Corporation, Phiten IP Salon, and Nora Salon/Nora Lab.
Experience firsthand the powerful benefits of Phiten products by visiting its stores at the THC Health & Beauty Hub (THBH): 6th level of Shangri-La Plaza Mall, East Wing, Ground floor, Lucky Chinatown, and Ground floor, Mitsukoshi Mall, BGC, Taguig City.
Follow Phiten on FB Phiten Philippines and IG @phitenphofficial.
Safeguard Philippines and creative agency Havas Ortega are taking a new approach to hygiene advocacy by transforming everyday community voices into a living public health tool.
Through a campaign called “Voices of Protection,” the brand is embedding handwashing reminders into the soundscape of communities — broadcasting locally voiced messages in schools, public markets, and health facilities to encourage proper hygiene at the moments when it matters most.
Currently piloted in Marikina City, the initiative features three community representatives delivering handwashing reminders in their own voices and language, now playing across Marikina Elementary School, Parang Market, and the Marikina City Health Office — places where daily routines intersect directly with hygiene risk.
“This is one of the ways we’re actively engaging with and involving communities through the Safe Wash, Safeguard Pinas program,” said Lester Estrada, Vice President for Beauty and Brand Function at Procter & Gamble Philippines. “It’s a simple yet powerful way to help keep communities safe and protected.”
Sound as a Medium for Behavior Change
Produced by Havas Ortega, the campaign uses sound as a behavioral intervention — moving beyond posters and passive reminders, and instead placing prompts directly into people’s daily environments.
“There have been many hygiene campaigns that say the same thing, in the same way,” said Angie Tijam-Tohid, Executive Creative Director at Havas Ortega. “So we designed this to be real-time, urgent, and impossible to ignore — using familiar voices in familiar places to create what we call a live germ-alert system.”
By turning local sound into a public health channel, the campaign aims to make handwashing not just a health message, but a social habit embedded into everyday life.
Expanding Beyond Marikina
Following its initial rollout, Safeguard and Havas Ortega plan to expand Voices of Protection to more cities across the Philippines — recruiting local voices and tailoring messages to different communities nationwide.
The initiative is part of Safeguard’s broader Safe Wash, Safeguard Pinas program, which works with partners to improve hygiene access and education, particularly in public schools and community facilities.
Through this approach, Safeguard and Havas Ortega are redefining how public health communication works — not by broadcasting louder, but by broadcasting closer.
Siklab Brings Filipino Flavor to Conrad SMaison With Its Biggest Branch this January 8; Pursues Aggressive Expansion Plans in 2026
Following the strong reception of The Bistro Group’s Filipino concept, Siklab, the company announces the brand’s aggressive expansion plan for 2026.
This January 8, Siklab turns up the heat as it opens its biggest branch to date at S’Maison. Offering more than just great food, it’s a new destination for social and corporate events. The space sits 265 guests and features three fully equipped function rooms designed to accommodate 30 to over 100 guests. From birthdays, reunions, and weddings to meetings and corporate events, everything guests need is thoughtfully in place for a seamless experience with access to accredited event suppliers, curated and customizable party food packages and on-ground logistical assistance.
Siklab at S’Maison reflects the brand’s aggressive expansion plans with successive openings expected on the 1st quarter of this year: along Kamagong St. in Makati City, Park Triangle in BGC, Vermosa in Cavite and at Evia Lifestyle Mall in Las Pinas, bringing its bold and vibrant take on Filipino dining to even more locations.
This expansion aligns with The Bistro Group’s strategic priorities ofscaling high-performingbrands, enhancing customer experience and strengthening market presence while responding to evolving consumer demand.
“In a short time, Siklab has resonated deeply with guests who are looking for bold yet familiar Filipino food. The brand has become a key driver of Bistro’s growth, reflecting both the strength of the concept and the growing appetite for proudly local flavors. With the consistent support from our guests, we are excited to build on Siklab’s momentum and make it more accessible,” says Guia Abuel, Chief Operating Officer of The Bistro Group. “Our biggest branch is more than just a restaurant. It is where Filipino food brings people together, sharing precious experiences, in a spacious and welcoming ambiance.”
Classic, Bold Flavors
At the heart of it all is Siklab’s well-loved Filipino menu, crafted to feel both familiar and exciting; whether it’s locals craving comfort food, tourists exploring Filipino dishes, or balikbayans reconnecting with tastes of home.
Siklab stokes the fire and fuels the market for Filipino food, serving up favorites like Kuhol ni Tanggol, Gising Gising Na!, Paboritong Pork Sisig, Trio Sinigang na Baboy, merienda staples like pancit, palitaw, bibingka, along with new surprises that are equally as delicious.
Rooted in Filipino tradition and flavors, Siklab speaks to every generation, young and old alike, because it is a place to celebrate Filipino culture and cuisine. The restaurant fuses rustic local charm with contemporary design, giving diners a taste of tradition in a vibrant, modern setting.
Stay in the loop on opening dates, special events, and promos. Follow @siklabph.
Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of Disney embroidery designs at the RE.UNIQLO STUDIO in-store repair and remake service. Starting on Friday, January 9 customers can personalize their favorite UNIQLO items with eight exclusive embroidery designs featuring beloved Disney characters including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck.
Launched in 2022, RE.UNIQLO STUDIO provides in-store repair, remake, and personalization services for UNIQLO items. In addition to the wide variety of embroidery designs available in the studio, UNIQLO will offer Disney-themed embroidery, allowing customers to transform their clothing into one-of-a-kind pieces with iconic character designs. This service is available at RE.UNIQLO STUDIO locations for UNIQLO products purchased in the past or on the same day (excluding collaboration products).
By expanding the range of personalization options, UNIQLO aims to celebrate creativity, joy, and the enduring appeal of Disney, while continuing to promote sustainability and the extended lifecycle of clothing.
Embroidery lineup and availability Launch: Friday, January 9, 2026 Price: Php 250 per icon
Lineup: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck in two color palettes, along with their silhouettes.
Availability: Service available at RE.UNIQLO Studio counters in UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store, UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia and UNIQLO BGC High Street
About RE.UNIQLO STUDIOThe services offered at RE.UNIQLO STUDIO arose from a workshop on clothing upcycling conducted by customers and staff at a store in Germany. UNIQLO’s repair and remake service has since spread worldwide, with the first permanent RE.UNIQLO STUDIO opened at the UNIQLO Regent Street store in London in 2022. The number of stores offering the service has grown to 70 stores in 23 markets*, becoming a favorite of customers around the world. In Japan, a trial of the service began in October 2022 at the UNIQLO Setagaya Chitosedai store, and the service is now available in 18 stores around the country.
*As of November 5, 2025. Available services and prices vary by market.
About MAGIC FOR ALL
MAGIC FOR ALL is a visionary project that combines the world of dreams and magic from Disney, the creativity of Pixar, the action of Marvel, and adventures inspired by Star Wars, with UNIQLO LifeWear. Launched in 2015, MAGIC FOR ALL has offered unique events and exciting experiences to fans around the world.
Canines are set to take center stage at the biggest dog show in Asia — the Philippine Circuit 2026 — from January 21 to 26, 2026, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Now in its 12th year, the Philippine Circuit is organized by the Philippine Canine Club, Inc. (PCCI), a non-stock and non-profit organization dedicated to promoting love and compassion for purebred dogs. The event demonstrates PCCI’s commitment to propelling the canine experience onto the global stage.
This year’s spectacle will be headlined by the 2026 Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) World Grooming Competition, which will highlight the skill and artistry in dog grooming. Dogs and dog handlers from across the globe will showcase creative styling, breed-specific cuts, and technical ability.
Alongside this contest, there will be 12 All-Breed Championship Dog Shows, mediated by renowned international judges to ensure fair and healthy competition. With 7,440 entries representing 91 breeds, the Philippine Circuit 2026 continues to showcase the diversity of breeds and their unique qualities.
Dog lovers will witness lovable Pembroke Welsh Corgis, charming French Bulldogs, fluffy Pomeranians, friendly Golden Retrievers, and more, skipping around the Smart Araneta Coliseum with glee, together with their proud handlers.
Last year, an American Cocker Spaniel earned the title of Grand Champion, impressing judges with its sophistication. A Borzoi claimed Best in Show, while a Chow Chow was awarded Best in Show for Philippine-born dogs, highlighting the expertise and dedication of local breeders.
“The Philippine Circuit is more than a competition,” said Irene L. Jose, COO of Uniprom Inc. “It’s the celebration of camaraderie between humans and dogs. This event is a gathering of the dog-loving community and their love for purebred dogs.”
The event also aims to educate people about dog grooming and its critical role in canine health and hygiene. Dog grooming is essential in controlling parasites, fleas, and other infections. It also helps in the early detection of lumps, bumps, and other health problems. More than its aesthetic function, dog grooming is imperative for canines’ overall well-being.
PCCI Groomers Certification conducts seminars to professionalize dog groomers in the Philippines, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality services.
PCCI is also a member of the FCI, an international organization of registering bodies based in Brussels, Belgium. PCCI is the only FCI-accredited registering body in the Philippines for purebred dogs.
Globe AT HOME is making fiber-like internet speed more accessible than ever with the launch of Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi across leading e-commerce platforms Shopee, Lazada, and GrabMart. This expansion ensures that customers can now shop for plug-and-play 5G Home Prepaid WiFi where they already shop online, and enjoy fast, convenient delivery straight to their homes.
With this initiative, Globe AT HOME solves one of the biggest customer pain points: the hassle of getting connected in an instant. Now, with just a few clicks, customers can order Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi and have it delivered directly to their doorstep, no docs needed, and no complicated processes. For those who need connectivity urgently, GrabMart offers delivery in as fast as two hours, giving customers instant access to reliable internet when they need it most.
“At Globe AT HOME, we are committed to providing fiber-like speeds plug-and-play home prepaid WiFi more accessible than ever,” said Abigail Cardino, Head of Brand Management, Broadband Business at Globe. “With Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi now available across key online platforms, our customers can be connected as fast as within two hours, enjoying multiple convenient options to stay online seamlessly, right at their doorstep.”
By expanding into Shopee, Lazada, and GrabMart, Globe AT HOME continues to drive its mission of channel expansion, customer convenience, and digital inclusion. This initiative reflects Globe’s broader commitment to making 5G technology accessible to more Filipino households, empowering them with fast and reliable connectivity that uplifts everyday life, from work and learning to entertainment and staying connected at home.
To ensure the best experience, Globe encourages customers to purchase Globe AT HOME products and devices only through official Globe stores and authorized e-commerce partner channels such as Shopee, Lazada, and GrabMart. Buying from these trusted platforms guarantees price correctness, access to exclusive benefits, warranty services, and reliable post-sales support, while also ensuring that devices are brand-new and untampered. Customers are reminded that unauthorized reselling of Globe AT HOME products is subject to reprimand and risk device blocking, as Globe remains committed to protecting its customers and delivering only authentic, high-quality connectivity solutions.
Get your Globe AT HOME 5G WiFi now on: Lazada, Shopee, or GrabMart , best viewed on mobile.
ALT ART marks its most anticipated return with a bigger venue, expanded exhibitions, and dynamic public programs at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay from February 12 to 15, 2026, with public days scheduled from February 13 to 15, open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Organized by the ALT Collective and joined by nine of the country’s premier galleries—Artinformal, Blanc, The Drawing Room, Galleria Duemila, Finale Art File, MO_Space, Underground, Vinyl on Vinyl, and West Gallery—the fourth edition of the showcase is set to be the largest yet, featuring twice the floor area of its 2024 iteration, and walls rising up to 5 meters high. This expansion provides more room to exhibit the best works in contemporary art and to develop curated projects that further reframe artistic discourse and critical engagement with art in the Philippines.
Artinformal’s Tina Fernandez says that “Each of the 9 galleries that form part of the collective represent different artists who are experts in their field and have different points of view. ALT ART presents these different voices in a cohesive manner. Being in a venue that is more accessible to a broader audience fulfills our goal to enable more people from different walks of life to experience these shows.”
The staple SPECIAL PROJECTS, presented individually by each gallery, will continue to push conceptual possibilities and expand the showcase’s curatorial scope. Featured exhibitions will include works by Christina Quisumbing Ramilo, Buen Calubayan, Julie Lluch/Kiri Dalena/Ben Brixx, Raffy Napay, MM Yu, Kolown/Christina Lopez, Mauro “Malang” Santos, Lesley-Ann Cao, and Iwan Effendi.
Aiming to offer fresh perspectives in art, which marks another exciting milestone for ALT ART, this edition will unveil the inaugural group of artists featured in the DISCOVERIES SECTION.
“The Discoveries Program is a platform for artists who we think deserve to garner more attention. Some of these artists are not new, but we feel we have a long journey ahead. The program is also a reminder that with the fast paced turnover of attention, it is a good way for us to step back and slow things down a bit,” explains Jay Amante of Blanc.
Showcasing exciting and critically engaged practices, the program spotlights artists whose work merits greater visibility and recognition, including JC Mariategue, Jomari T’leon, Joar Songcuya, Allyza Tresvalles, Eric Bico, Gelo Cinco, Joanolasco, Rhaz Oriente, and Marco Ortiga.
“New highlights lead to new interests which lead to new conversations. We aim to bridge the gap between what is established, and what is to be discovered,” adds Mawen Ong of MO_Space.
ALT ART 2026 promises yet another edition full of discoveries, continuing its mission to promote Philippine art and amplify artistic voices for local and international audiences, collectors, and art enthusiasts.
The art showcase is presented by BDO Private Bank, and with special support from Nagaraya. Tickets for public days from February 13 to 15, 2026, are available onsite, priced at PHP 500 for the general public and PHP 250 for students. For more information, visit www.altphilippines.com and follow @altphilippines on Instagram and Facebook.
Building on over two decades of nurturing independent Filipino cinema, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2026.
The deadline for submissions is on or before 6pm of February 27, 2026.
The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.
Submitted entries must have been produced from May 16, 2025 to February 27, 2026. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya.
Entries may be submitted ONLINE or OFFLINE. For online application, submit all requirements through: https://bit.ly/CM2026_ShortFilm_EntryForm. Requirements include a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format, with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, and running time (which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits).
For OFFLINE submission, send entries to the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St. corner Magdalena Jalandoni St., Pasay City.
For OFFLINE submission, film entry must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB), with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details.
The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2026 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 6 to 18, and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.
Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2026 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers.
For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.
