Author: Press Release

HUAWEI MatePad Air Now Available in the Philippines, Bringing World’s Best Screen and 4-in-1 AI Productivity

Inspiration can happen anywhere, and you need a device that helps you capture it as soon as it strikes. The new HUAWEI MatePad Air is designed to give you the perfect canvas for all your ideas whenever and wherever they come to you. Combining a spacious, brilliant display with 4-in-1 AI productivity in an ultra-thin form, it gives professionals, and creators a versatile workspace they can bring everywhere.

The HUAWEI MatePad Air is available online and in stores beginning September 18.

Give Your Ideas the Perfect Canvas, Powered by the World’s Best Screen

Whether you are reviewing important work files, finalizing a report, creating a mood board, or simply streaming your favorite show, having a vibrant display that keeps your eyes comfortable is crucial. The HUAWEI MatePad Air boasts a slim 4.69mm bezel and a 12-inch 2.8K OLED PaperMatte Display, giving you an expansive, high-resolution canvas for work, creativity, and entertainment.

For modern professionals reviewing a presentation before a meeting, the large display makes it easier to go through detailed slides and supporting materials at the same time. Meanwhile, the display’s 2.8K resolution and OLED technology deliver vivid visuals, high-fidelity colors, and crisp details, making it ideal for intricate designs and immersive viewing. Plus, with up to 1,200 nits peak brightness, the display is built to stay bright across different lighting environments, whether you’re working indoors or creating outdoors, without needing to manually adjust the screen’s brightness.

The screen features HUAWEI’s signature PaperMatte Display technology, giving the screen a more natural, paper-like feel for writing, reading, and sketching. It also reduces glare and reflections, making extended reading, writing, and creative work more comfortable and helping reduce eye strain.

Complete Every Project with AI-Powered Productivity

When developing your ideas, you need the right tools to turn your concepts into something more tangible. The HUAWEI MatePad Air brings 4-in-1 productivity with AI-powered tools that help you move from brainstorming to execution. When you have to finish an article or pitch deck while on the move, PC-Level WPS Office helps you work efficiently without weighing you down. The new WPS AI feature can summarize lengthy reading materials, refine writing drafts, and generate presentation materials to help you quickly get started. This reduces repetitive workload, so you can focus on executing your ideas.

In the middle of a meeting or brainstorming session, AI-powered HUAWEI Notes helps you capture ideas more efficiently. With speech-to-text, you can record conversations and turn them into structured, editable notes, while handwritten annotations and highlights can be synchronized with the transcription. This means less time sorting through scattered notes and more time focusing on what matters. For studying and problem-solving, HUAWEI Notes can also help solve and explain equations, making complex tasks more manageable.

For designers, illustrators, and aspiring artists, the HUAWEI MatePad Air can become a dedicated creative space through GoPaint. With its rich art tools and AI-enriched capabilities, GoPaint helps professional artists and hobbyists bring their creative ideas to life with greater freedom and precision.

Slide Your 4-in-1 Workstation in Your Bag

Your ideas move quicker when you have the right tools. The HUAWEI MatePad Air works with NearLink-enabled accessories, which help create a more seamless productivity and creation experience. Pairing the tablet with the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard gives the HUAWEI MatePad Air a more familiar PC-like setup. With NearLink connection, you can keep typing out notes or drafting content with a low latency, and more responsive typing feel. The keyboard supports desktop-level shortcut combinations to make extended typing sessions more comfortable, even when your “office” is at a cafe or a co-working space.

Meanwhile, the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro allows you to write or draw with better precision and enhanced responsiveness that you need as you work on your daily tasks. You can browse through your work seamlessly using the stylus as it supports intuitive gestures such as pinch, double-tap, and rotation, all without interrupting your workflow. When presenting your ideas during a meeting, the new Air Mouse feature makes the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro a more versatile tool that lets you easily scroll through your slides and guide your presentation. This also allows the stylus to function as a laser pointer, allowing you to direct your audience’s attention to key data, concepts, or visuals on each slide. Best of all, this complete 4-in-1 setup comes bundled with the HUAWEI MatePad Air, giving you the essential tools to work, create, and present right out of the box.

Ultra-Thin and Lightweight Portability Lets You Move Anywhere Easier

Sometimes the best way to get unstuck is to change your surroundings. Setting up your workstation at a cafe, a co-working place, or even outdoors is easier with the HUAWEI MatePad Air. Featuring a slim 5.3mm frame and a 509g lightweight body, the HUAWEI MatePad Air slides easily into your bag, so you can bring it anywhere the day takes you without weighing you down.

Despite the slim build, the HUAWEI MatePad Air remains reliably tough and durable. This means, you don’t need to worry about scratches or bends. The device’s elegant pearlescent finish in Airy Blue does not only add a sophisticated touch to the device; it also enhances its durability as it resists corrosion and damage from sweat or fading. Meaning, the HUAWEI MatePad Air maintains a polished look that shimmers in the light, even as it moves with you through your daily routines.

Power Up Your Ideas and Keep Them Going

When you’re constantly on the move, you need a device that can keep pace with your day. The HUAWEI MatePad Air’s massive 10,100mAh battery supports up to 18 hours of HDR video playback. That means, you can work through the whole day anywhere or enjoy entertainment during your downtime without having to plan around your device’s battery. When you do need to recharge, the 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo gets the device powered up in as fast as 30 minutes, so you get less interruptions to your workflow or your entertainment.

With the HUAWEI MatePad Air, you feel more confident that your device is fully capable of handling all your work files, creative projects, or entertainment choices without slowing down. It comes with 12GB of physical RAM, 256GB of storage, and an additional 8GB of virtual storage, providing you a total of 20GB of storage to ensure you have enough room for documents, presentations, apps, and other files you rely on throughout the day.

Even when you’ve been working on demanding tasks the whole day, the HUAWEI MatePad Air continues to perform reliably, thanks to its 3D heat dissipation architecture. This helps you stay productive and work on heavy-duty tasks, while the device stays cool and stable as ever to keep your workflow moving.

Take Your Ideas Further with the HUAWEI MatePad Air

Be ready when inspiration strikes with the HUAWEI MatePad Air, now available at PHP59,999 from PHP 64,999. Enjoy vouchers worth PHP 6,500 on the HUAWEI Online Store, while vouchers worth PHP 5,000 are exclusively available on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.

From September 18, you can purchase the HUAWEI MatePad Air and receive an exclusive freebie bundle worth up to PHP 33,886. Freebies include a HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard (worth PHP 9,999), HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro (worth PHP 7,999), a PC-Level WPS Office (worth PHP 4,999), a One-Year WPS AI Membership (worth PHP 7,000), a Bluetooth Mouse (worth PHP 1,899), and a bag (worth PHP 1,990).

To learn more, visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Store or check out HUAWEI’s official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram).

September 19, 2026
KAWS UNIVERSE Expands in new UT Collection New KAWS characters debut alongside COMPANION from September 14th

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of KAWS UNIVERSE, a new UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) collection with contemporary artist KAWS. Created based on the message “We are better together,” the collection features items that reflect the theme of human connections, expressed through KAWS’s iconic COMPANION along with new characters. The collection will be available from September 14.

New characters created by KAWS

KAWS has created new characters for this collection that were inspired by the universal motifs of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. Appearing alongside COMPANION, the characters express feelings of hope, warmth, and human connection. Through designs that evoke a sense of familiarity around the world and across age groups, the collection depicts a worldview where people connect and acknowledge each other across borders, cultures, and generations.

Charms available for the first time, and items that express the KAWS worldview

The T-shirts and sweatshirts in this collection have playful graphics featuring COMPANION and the new characters. KAWS’ distinctive “XX” motif is expressed with subtle detailing and embroidery. Available in both adult and kids’ sizes, the collection can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In addition, for the first time in collaboration with KAWS, the collection includes plush charms that further embody the concept “We are better together.” The charms allow the wearer to take the KAWS UNIVERSE with them wherever they go.

Commenting on the collection, KAWS said: “I’m excited to launch my next collection with UNIQLO, featuring new characters inspired by universal symbols like the Earth, Moon, and Sun—things we all live under and share—celebrating what brings us together.”

KAWS UNIVERSE Collection Overview

<KIDS>
Sweatshirt

T-shirt

<Charms>　

About KAWS
KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. Over the last three decades, KAWS has built a successful career with work that consistently shows his formal agility as an artist, as well as his underlying wit, irreverence, and affection for our times. He has collaborated extensively with UNIQLO since 2016.

September 17, 2026
The Mall That Grew Up With Us: Market! Market! Celebrates 22 Years

Ask anyone who’s spent time in BGC, and chances are they have a Market! Market! story. Maybe it’s the fresh flowers you grabbed on the way to a first date, a weekend karaoke session after a long week, or that one time you swore you saw someone who’s now a K-pop idol performing on a random Tuesday. Whatever it is, there’s a Market! Market! memory in there somewhere.

This September 16, the BGC landmark turns 22. And if there’s one thing that hasn’t changed in over two decades, it’s this: Market! Market! has always been a place where you go in looking for one thing, and walk out having found five more.

From Dampa to Destination

Long before BGC became the glass and steel skyline we know today, Market! Market! opened its doors with a simple, slightly unconventional idea: take everything Filipinos already loved, flowers from Dangwa, gadgets from Greenhills, the chaos-but-in-a-good-way energy of Divisoria, the fresh seafood and paluto of your favorite dampa, and put it all under one roof.

At the time, some thought it was a gamble. But if you’ve ever spent a Sunday afternoon wandering from the flower stalls to Fiesta Market to a random find you didn’t know you needed, you get why it worked.

“The fun is in the finds” – a promise since day one – endures as Market! Market! steps into its next chapter.

Where Small Dreams Became Big Business

Some of the best Market! Market! stories aren’t about the mall itself, they’re about the people who grew alongside it.

Over the last two decades, Fiesta Market became a starting point for many local vendors – whether that’s arranging fresh cut flowers for life’s milestones, bringing regional fruits and delicacies to the city, or putting together everyday toys. Alongside longtime staples like Tina Berin’s Flowershop, Rodem’s Fruits, Pelican Farms, and Edeng’s Toy Center, these homegrown stores put down roots here and never looked back.

And it’s not just the small businesses. Japan Home Centre opened its very first store at Market! Market! before going nationwide. Metro chose it for its first Metro Manila branch. Turns out, this mall has a track record of spotting winners early.

The “Market! Market! Theory”

Here’s some mall trivia for your next group chat: BINI, SB19, KATSEYE, and even The 1975 have all performed at Market! Market!, some of them well before they blew up.

This didn’t go unnoticed online, and it’s how the “Market! Market! theory” was born: perform here, and maybe, just maybe, something bigger is coming for you. Coincidence? Maybe. Fun to believe in anyway? Absolutely.

22 and Not Slowing Down

So, what’s next for a mall that’s basically grown up alongside its own community? More of the same spirit that got it here, just with an even longer runway.

Market! Market!’s lease with BCDA has officially been extended for another 12 years, with fresh investment coming in to upgrade the mall and its facilities. It’s also set to become even more connected to the city, with the upcoming Metro Manila Subway’s Bonifacio Global Station planned right within the property.

But growth doesn’t mean losing what made it special in the first place.

“What I hope we never lose is the feeling of this place. That it is open. Lively. A little unpredictable,” says Meean B. Dy, chairman of Station Square East Commercial Corporation and president and CEO of Ayala Land Inc. “And that there is always room for the next small business, the next artist, the next idea that deserves to be found.”

Twenty-two years in, Market! Market! is still doing what it’s always done best: giving people, businesses, and ideas a place to be discovered.

So, what will you find this time?

Catch up with Market! Market! in Bonifacio Global City, or explore more at www.ayalamalls.com.

September 17, 2026
Bold, Beautiful, Berry Purple: Experience the ‘Never Feel, Never Fall’ HUAWEI FreeClip 2 in its Most Expressive Color Yet

HUAWEI brings together audio innovation and fashion-forward design with the release of the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 in an all-new Berry Purple colorway. Designed to make a statement, the new hue reimagines the traditional earbud as a stylish piece of wearable technology, adding a vibrant yet sophisticated accent to any look.

More than just a bold style statement, the Berry Purple edition delivers the signature “Never Feel, Never Fall” experience of the HUAWEI FreeClip 2. For only PHP 9,999, the device combines all-day comfort, a secure open-ear fit, and intelligent audio, designed for professionals and multitaskers who want to move confidently through their day without compromising style, comfort, or awareness.

“Never Feel, Never Fall” Comfort Meets Intelligent Audio

At the heart of the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 is its innovative Airy C-Bridge Design, created to keep up with everything from morning workouts and daily commutes to back-to-back meetings.

Each earbud weighs as light as a sheet of paper and is crafted from a skin-friendly, shape-memory alloy that gently adapts to the natural shape of any ear. It delivers a light, secure, and pressure-free fit that fulfills its “Never Feel, Never Fall” promise and provides a barely-there feel that stays secure with every movement.

As users move from a quiet office space to a bustling city street, the earbuds’ Adaptive Open-Ear Listening takes over. Powered by an advanced NPU AI processor and a dual-diaphragm driver, the audio output adjusts to the environment, keeping music rich and immersive while preserving awareness of the world around them.

Calls also stay crystal clear, even in busy and noisy environments. When an important call comes through in a crowded café or during the morning commute, Crystal Clear Call technology uses a three-microphone system and bone-conduction sensors to reduce background noise and keep the user’s voice crisp and easy to hear.

Smart, Reliable Performance for Life on the Move

Beyond its eye-catching design and intelligent audio capabilities, the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 in Berry Purple is equipped with practical features made for an active, always-on lifestyle.

Its IP57-rated resistance helps protect the earbuds against sweat, rain, and dust—whether users are running outdoors or powering through a high-intensity workout. With up to 38 hours of battery life with the charging case, the earbuds can keep up from morning meetings to evening plans. For those in a hurry, a quick 10-minute charge provides up to three hours of playback.

Designed for effortless everyday use, the earbuds also offer hands-free control whether commuting, running errands, or enjoying some downtime. Smart Gesture Control makes managing music easy, while Smart Head Control lets users answer or reject calls with a simple nod or head shake. Best of all, the device is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones, making it easy to connect and use across different devices. It also supports seamless switching between connected devices, eliminating the hassle of disconnecting and reconnecting every time you move from one device to another.

All of these features can be easily managed through the HUAWEI Audio Connect app, which gives users more control over how they use their earbuds. From adjusting audio settings and customizing touch controls to managing connected devices and exploring different features, users can tailor the experience to fit their everyday needs—all from one convenient app. Users can easily download the HUAWEI Audio Connect app here.

Express Personal Style with Berry Purple

Turn up the color and express personal style with the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 in Berry Purple. Delivering a standout combination of fashion-forward design, intelligent open-ear audio, and “Never Feel, Never Fall” comfort, it is the ideal everyday companion for those who seek and value quality earbuds that blend style with performance.

The HUAWEI FreeClip 2 in Berry Purple is available for PHP 9,999 across HUAWEI’s online and offline channels, with complimentary offers worth up to PHP 1,478.

Buyers can personalize their tech jewelry by choosing one of three exclusive accessories—the Butterfly, Star, or Snowflake designs—worth PHP 999, and enjoy a complimentary one-year HUAWEI Loss Care plan worth PHP 479.

To learn more about the new HUAWEI FreeClip 2 Berry Purple, visit this page. Check out HUAWEI’s official social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Order the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 Berry Purple on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop or purchase directly from the official HUAWEI Store.

September 17, 2026
PUMA Expands McLaren Mastercard Partnership with Exclusive Southeast Asian Lifestyle Capsule

PUMA Southeast Asia is bringing the energy of the Singapore Night Race to the Philippines with the exclusive McLaren Mastercard F1 Lifestyle Collection. The three-piece capsule transforms McLaren Formula 1 Team heritage into elevated everyday streetwear inspired by one of Formula 1’s most iconic races

.The PUMA McLaren Mastercard F1 Lifestyle Collection includes the cropped jersey (PHP 3,400), the unisex jersey (PHP 4,000), and the varsity jacket (PHP 8,200).

Reimagining the Racing Aesthetic

Stepping away from the team’s signature Papaya color, the collection embraces a crisp white-and-navy blue palette, inspired by the electric lights of the Singapore Night Race. This high-contrast colorway delivers a fresh, versatile look designed for everyday wear. The collection integrates traditional Southeast Asian weave patterns into the modern streetwear silhouettes.

The design direction reflects PUMA Southeast Asia’s goal of creating a collection that feels distinctly regional while remaining true to McLaren’s identity. “We wanted to create something different with this collection – moving away from the Papaya that everyone knows them by but creating pieces in white and blue inspired by the glow of the Singapore Night Race,” said Gabriel Yap, Senior Director of Marketing at PUMA Southeast Asia. “These pieces go beyond traditional fanwear, becoming wardrobe staples designed for how we live and move through the day.”

Driven by F1’s Dynamic Duo

Adding a global dimension to the release, the collection is modeled after McLaren’s driver pairing, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. As two of Formula 1’s brightest young stars, Norris and Piastri represent how easily the capsule moves from motorsport-inspired statement pieces to effortless everyday looks. Showcasing the collection’s versatility, Piastri pairs the F1 Jacket with the Jersey, while Norris highlights the breathable F1 Team Jersey. Together, they highlight how the collection looks just as sharp on the global sports stage as it does in relaxed, off-track settings.

The McLaren Mastercard F1 Lifestyle Collection

Created for comfort and street-ready style, the three-piece capsule collection translates track heritage into versatile urban wear. The collection is anchored by the McLaren Mastercard F1 Team Jacket, a navy varsity piece featuring contrasting white sleeves and a bold ‘McLaren Formula 1 Team’ wordmark across the back.

Complementing the jacket are two distinct tops: the McLaren Mastercard F1 Cropped Jersey, featuring a tailored women’s fit finished with official team branding and a distinctive ‘SINGAPURA exclusive’ tag. The McLaren Mastercard F1 Team Jersey rounds out the lineup with a versatile unisex jersey that subtly integrates traditional regional weave patterns into its modern racing aesthetic.

The collection is now available via PUMA.com and select PUMA stores nationwide. Follow PUMA Philippines’ social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and releases.

September 17, 2026
Familiar and Fresh: How URC Continues to Surprise Filipinos After 70 Years

Some favourites never go out of style—and they continue to delight in new ways. For 70 years, Universal Robina Corporation (URC) has been a constant companion in Filipino households through quality and well-loved brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Maxx, Cloud 9, Cream-O, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste, among others. Staying true to its purpose of delighting everyone with good food choices, URC constantly evolves alongside the tastes and lifestyles of consumers.

Today, the company continues to excite generations of consumers by introducing fresh flavours, new formats, and exciting product experiences that prove innovation can come from the brands Filipinos already know and love.

Here’s how some of URC’s popular brands are continuously evolving to excite and delight everyone:

The iconic tasty hexagon snack keeps offering exciting flavours

As a staple in daily snacking moments of Pinoys, Piattos is widely loved for its signature hexagon shape, satisfying crunch, and classic flavors such as Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion, Roadhouse Barbeque, Nacho Pizza, Roast Beef and Spicy Cheese. To excite today’s adventurous palates and satisfy evolving snack cravings, the brand continues to introduce more flavor options—from limited-edition creations like Beef Bulgogi and Truffle Cream, to exciting flavor combinations like its latest Cheddar & Sour Cream variant.

Alongside Piattos, other Jack ‘n Jill favorites—including Nova, Mang Juan, and VCut—as well as classics like Chippy and Chiz Curls, continue to roll out exciting new flavor profiles, giving Filipinos even more reasons to look forward to snack time.

From sandwich cookie to full chocolate experience

Cream-O has long been the go-to treat for chocolate lovers, but URC has reimagined the brand to go way beyond the traditional cookie format. To satisfy modern cravings for premium and indulgent textures, the brand has expanded into an entire ecosystem, featuring Cream-O Cake Bar, Cream-O Cakewich, and Cream-O Premium. Its newest is the Cream-O Dark Choco, an indulgent cookie sandwich that offers a rich and bold chocolate experience.

The spirit of variety extends across URC’s biscuit favourites with Dewberry, Presto, and Magic Crackers, continuously adapting their formats to fit every kind of modern snack craving.

Reimagining the chocolate enjoyment with a new crunch

Known for its signature combination of nougat, caramel and peanuts, URC’s Cloud 9 chocolate has been a go-to treat for several chocolate lovers. The brand has been introducing new ways to satisfy sweet cravings by offering products like the new Cloud 9 Crunchies that bring a fun and crispy texture to a familiar favourite.

Alongside Cloud 9, other fun treats like Nips chocolate introduce vibrant flavors and formats, proving that chocolate moments can make any day a little sweeter.

Fruity freshness, now with a chewy twist

Maxx has always been a pocket essential for on-the-go freshness. Recognizing a growing consumer preference for playful, chewy textures, URC expanded its candy lineup with Maxx Chews. This chewy menthol candy comes in a convenient, value-packed three-piece stick that is tailor-made for the fast-paced routines of modern commuters and professionals.

Together with URC’s other candy favourites like XO, Dynamite and Lush, Maxx offers something for every candy craving and every moment that calls for a refreshing treat.

Offering refreshing tea favorites, and flavor innovations

As the pioneer of ready-to-drink green tea in the Philippines, C2 Cool and Clean introduced a refreshing tea experience to Filipinos. Alongside its Classic Green Tea, Apple, and Lemon variants, C2 continues to evolve its product lineup, introducing flavor innovations such as Raspberry, Dalandan and Peach. Its latest flavor, C2 Freeze Melon, brings an innovative twist on fruity tea with a delicious melon flavor and a refreshing coolness that lingers in every sip.

Brewing modern coffee moments, one cup at a time

As one of the country’s most chosen beverage brands (based on Kantar’s Brand Footprint report), URC’s Great Taste has a history of delivering innovative products – most notably by introducing White Coffee in the Philippines.

URC continues to elevate Pinoy’s daily coffee ritual with the new Great Taste Premium roast, a coffee mix that’s designed to give everyone a delicious afternoon coffee break companion with its Tapang-Sarap blend of dark-roasted robusta coffee, palm sugar and real milk – para Balik Lakas Sigla.

Bigger, bolder flavours for instant happiness

Payless continues to redefine value-for-money meals by giving consumers MORE at a sulit price, through its delicious range of instant noodle variants and bold innovations.

Its newest Payless Chili Garlic Mami offers a flavorful twist on a Filipino comfort food favorite. Made with rich chili oil and real garlic bits, this crave-worthy meal delivers a balanced blend of Anghang-Linamnam that elevates your everyday noodle cravings. Experience the kakaibang Anghang-Sarap na Tumatatak goodness of Payless Chili Garlic, available in Beef and Chicken flavors.

Moving into modern pet care

Beyond making everyday snacking moments more enjoyable for Filipinos, URC also supports joyful moments shared by pet parents and their fur babies. Through its award-winning pet care brand, TopBreed, URC has been supporting fur parents’ journey by offering quality pet care products including dog and cat food, and other pet essentials. This 2026, TopBreed brand started expanding its portfolio from dry dog and cat food to other formats like wet and treats, also TopCare cat litter.

Always something new to discover

For 70 years, URC has grown alongside generations of Filipinos—evolving with changing tastes, lifestyles, and everyday moments. As a lifestyle companion, URC stays true to what it has always stood for: bringing quality, flavor and everyday delight to Filipino homes.

September 16, 2026
Benilde MMA Alumna Repeats as Best Director at Cinemalaya

Filmmaker and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Multimedia Arts alumna Gabriela “Gaby” Serrano got another Best Director award in the Short Film category of the 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, this time for her short film “Elenita Elena Elaine.”

Gabriela Serrano with her second Best Director trophy at Cinemalaya 22

The recognition highlights her distinct voice in contemporary Philippine cinema and underscores the growing impact of bold, genre-expanding storytelling.

“Elenita Elena Elaine” is a dystopian sci-fi drama set against a sleepless, dreamless Manila where dreaming itself is outsourced. Produced by Archipelago, Studio Dalaga, Key Pictures, Lunari Global, and Membrana Pictures, and supported by the 2025 Momo Film Co Distribution Grant, it explores mother-daughter dynamics, economic displacement, and personal sacrifice.

The narrative shifts across time to follow three interconnected Filipino women: a pop idol, a young graduate preparing to go abroad, and a call-center agent whose voice slowly fades under late-night shifts.

Gabriela Serrano at work with sister Mariana

Serrano drew directly from her own life for the project, reflecting on a period when she and her mother worked remote, outsourced jobs side by side in their living room. While her mother handled foreign call-center support, she served as a series editor on FX’s Spirit Award-nominated series “The Choe Show.”

We worked alongside each other from our living room in Manila, and though our new jobs sustained our household, the darker sides of globalization took root inside our home. Endless night shifts, underpaid labor, and cultural gaps started draining us both of time, sleep and hopes for brighter futures, the filmmaker shared.

Amidst this, we began to confide in one another dreams we had each put on the backburner: my aspirations to direct films someday, and her teenage wish to be a singer. Like millions in the Philippines, our true voices were rendered silent in order to survive our neocolonial economy, she added.

The shared strain of grueling hours and underpaid labor brought forward their suppressed ambitions, shaping the tender, speculative foundation of the film.

Gabriela Serrano directing Agot Isidro and sister Mariana

Serrano’s work routinely weaves folklore, surrealism, and local socio-economic realities. She previously won Best Director and the Special Jury Prize at Cinemalaya 18 for her split-screen folk-thriller “Dikit,” Best Short Film at QCinema’s QCShorts Lokal for the surreal short “Surface Tension” which she co-directed with her sister Mariana in 2025.

Serrano collaborated again with her sister, co-writer, and actor Mariana, together with executive producers Kim Jones, Gabie Tanjutco, and Mike Marks, producers Gale Osorio and Keith Deligero, cinematographer Kara Moreno, production designer Pauline Olarte, sound designers Dawr Toñacao and Deligero, musical scorer Andrea Ramos, and Mariana’s co-actors Agot Isidro and Gabby Padilla.

Gabriela and Mariana Serrano

Serrano is currently developing her feature-length sci-fi project “Please Bear With Me,” a companion piece to “Elenita Elena Elaine” which also expands on similar themes of call-center labor, and earned pitch recognitions at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN), Festival du nouveau cinéma (FNC) Montréal, and the Southeast Asian Film Lab.

Serrano’s latest win at Cinemalaya reinforces a rising path for Filipina filmmakers pushing genre boundaries, proving that personal truths can redefine the scope of local cinema.

September 16, 2026
ASUS ExpertBook Ultra: Flagship Business Laptop Lands in Cebu and Davao
ASUS Business Philippines is expanding its business presence beyond Metro Manila, bringing its flagship laptop ASUS ExpertBook Ultra and business-grade technology closer to the executives, entrepreneurs, and IT decision-makers driving growth in Cebu and Davao.

Following its Manila debut on July 1, 2026, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra made its regional debut in NUSTAR Resort Cebu, Cebu City on September 7 and 8, followed by Dusit D2, Davao City on September 11.

Drawing more than 1,000 total attendees, the Grand Launches supports ASUS Business Philippines’ commitment to expanding access to enterprise-grade AI for business technology. For ASUS Business, the message is clear: the next wave of AI adoption and business-grade devices are not limited to one place. It is also taking shape in the regional business hubs where companies are building, scaling, and competing for the future.

Bringing Business-Grade Technology Closer to Fast-Growing Regional
Businesses

ASUS brought its flagship business laptop, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra, to Cebu and Davao as part of its continued regional expansion and commitment to making its latest business-grade devices more accessible in key regional markets.

As businesses in Visayas and Mindanao continue to expand, the demand for reliable, high-performance technology that can support increasingly sophisticated workplaces is also growing. Bringing business-grade devices like ASUS ExpertBook Ultra closer to these markets allows regional businesses to experience the products firsthand, and explore solutions suited to their needs.

The tour kicked off in Cebu City on September 7 and 8, where more than 600 attendees filled the NUSTAR Resort Cebu. The Cebu launch was hosted by veteran broadcast journalist and ASUS Business Brand Ambassador Rico Hizon alongside co-host Andi Pateña-Mateu, featuring a special performance by Jacky Chang.

The tour continued in Davao on September 11, bringing more than 500 attendees together at Dusit D2 for the regional close. The event was hosted by Claire Lara, with a special performance by Aila Santos.

Both launches opened with an Expert Class Forum featuring sales training, a product showcase, and an exclusive first look at the ASUS Business product roadmap and upcoming programs. The event was followed by the Grand Launch, where guests witnessed live durability demonstrations, local dance performances, and a Gala Night that brought together business leaders for an evening of networking and celebration.

Together, the Cebu and Davao launches mark an important step in ASUS Business Philippines’ regional expansion, bringing business-grade devices and support closer to the companies and professionals shaping the future of Visayas and Mindanao.

ASUS Business Brand Ambassador Rico Hizon leads the Cebu Launch as
Host

The Cebu Grand Launch also marked a significant moment for ASUS Business Philippines Brand Ambassador Rico Hizon, who took on the role of host for the launch.

As a veteran broadcast journalist and business consultant, Hizon brings 38 years of experience covering some of the world’s most consequential business stories.

The launch also featured a special “Murphy’s Law” video featuring ASUS Business ambassadors Gabbi Garcia and Rico Hizon for memorable demonstration of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra’s durability and resilience. Together, they took on “Murphy’s Law”—the idea that anything that can go wrong, will go wrong—putting the flagship business laptop through a series of unexpected challenges and proving that even when things go wrong, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is built to keep going.

Watch the Video: Rico Hizon and Gabbi Garcia Beats Murphy’s Law with ASUS ExpertBook Ultra

Hizon represents the kind of modern business leader the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is built to support: veteran executives who are constantly connected and navigating a professional landscape where portable devices, durability, business-grade security is becoming an increasingly important part of everyday work.

The Flagship AI PC Built for Modern Business

Boldy positioned as “The Flagship of the Industry. Period.” the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra weighs as little as 0.99kg and measures just 10.9mm thin. It combines an ultra-portable form factor with up to an Intel® Core™ Ultra X9 Series 3 processor, a dedicated NPU delivering 50 TOPS and up to 180 total platform TOPS.

As a certified Copilot+ PC, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra also features built-in AI features such as ASUS MyExpert. With Military-Grade durability and up to 26 hours of battery life, it’s designed to withstand the demands of frequent business travel and support executives professionals who are constantly on the move.

No Price Increase: ASUS ExpertBook Ultra Retains Its ₱129,995 Introductory Price

Despite widespread price increases across the PC market, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra maintains its introductory price of ₱129,995.

The decision reinforces ASUS’ aim to make its latest business technology more accessible to Philippine enterprises, SMBs, and professionals, particularly as businesses increasingly look to AI-powered business-grade devices to improve productivity and stay competitive.

Limited-Time Offer until October 18, 2026: Save Up to ₱6,000 on ASUS ExpertBook Ultra + FREE ASUS GaN Charger

Customers who purchase the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra from the official ASUS ExpertBook Stores on Shopee and Lazada can enjoy up to ₱6,000 in savings, plus a free ASUS 100W GaN charger.

The promotional offer is available until 11:59 PM on October 18, 2026. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-266989, Series of 2026.

Where to Buy the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra in the Philippines

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is available starting at ₱129,995 in ASUS Concept Store SM City Fairview, ASUS Concept Store SM Dasmarinas, Villman Stores and ASUS ExpertBook Stores in Lazada and Shopee.
- Where to Buy ASUS ExpertBook Ultra: https://ph.asus.click/ExpertBookUltra-WheretoBuy
- ASUS ExpertBook Store – Lazada: https://ph.asus.click/ASUSExpertBookStoreLazada
- ASUS ExpertBook Store – Shopee: https://ph.asus.click/ASUSExpertBookStoreShopee
Trusted by IT Experts. Built for Worry-Free Business.

Visit the ASUS Business Website, contact your nearest ASUS Business authorized reseller, or fill out the Volume Purchase Form for Volume Purchases for business orders.
September 16, 2026
UNIQLO : C FW26 Explores the “Precision of Softness”

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of the 2026 Fall/Winter UNIQLO : C, the special line from renowned British fashion designer Clare Waight Keller. Created on the theme of “Precision of Softness,” this latest collection reimagines everyday essentials through refined proportions, tactile textures, and precise layering, bringing an urban sensibility to familiar pieces. Denim, wool, cashmere and corduroy are expressed through generous yet controlled volumes, while rich bordeaux and brown are balanced with charcoal and softer touches of lemon, blush pink and green, bringing subtle contrasts throughout the collection.

Clare Waight Keller said:
“I think there is a real desire now for clothes that bring comfort and ease without losing their sense of character. For this collection, I wanted to give that softness greater definition, through proportion, texture and the way each piece moves on the body. Everything is very considered, from the warmth and tactile quality of the new fluffy cashmere to the unexpected lightness and fluidity of corduroy. It is about creating a sense of refinement you can feel, with clothes that have a strong point of view yet remain completely natural to wear.”

A new cashmere series conceived by Clare Waight Keller introduces long-pile fluffy knits that enhance the natural warmth and softness of the fiber. Exceptionally soft against the skin, their textured surface gives the pieces an immediate sense of refinement. Shallow V-neck styles, crew neck cardigans and turtleneck vests are presented in soft, muted shades of pink, lemon, oatmeal, charcoal grey and cream. Corduroy trousers made from a newly developed fabric create a light, fluid drape and are completed with a premium leather belt finished with a metal tip. Vibrant new shades of HEATTECH Cashmere Blend add color to layered Fall/Winter styles.

STYLINGS

UNIQLO : C Special Website
https://www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/women/special-collaboration/uniqlo-c

September 16, 2026
RNDMD (Randoomed) Marked Its First Makati Studio Opening with “Hey Neighbor!”

Makati just got a whole lot more creative. Multidisciplinary design studio RNDMD officially marked a massive milestone on September 11, 2026, opening the doors to its very first physical studio space with a warm, intimate housewarming dubbed “Hey Neighbor! RNDMD Makati Open Studio.”

Since launching in 2022, the creative agency has been quietly making waves behind the scenes. Now, they finally have a permanent brick-and-mortar home inside one of Ayala Avenue’s most iconic architectural landmarks: the PNB Makati Center.

The gathering was also an opportunity to thank the clients RNDMD has come to regard as creative partners – including Philippine Airlines, LIVE PH, and others. Their trust, openness, and collaboration have helped the young studio learn, grow, and take on increasingly meaningful work. Rather than a showcase of names, their presence in RNDMD’s story served as a reminder that every milestone has been built through relationships.

Beyond being a workplace, the studio gave RNDMD a visible home for its multidisciplinary practice. A place where its team could build a stronger sense of belonging, clients could participate more closely in the creative process, and new relationships with agencies and brands could begin.

RNDMD did not just pick any random office floor for their new headquarters. Setting up shop inside PNB Makati Center, a legendary Brutalist structure designed by renowned Filipino architect Carlos D. Arguelles back, the Brutalist landmark has remained a distinct presence along Ayala Avenue since 1980. Its curved facade introduced movement into the district’s ordered skyline, while its continuing adaptive reuse demonstrated how an established structure could evolve without losing its identity.

That balance between permanence and change, restraint and movement reflected RNDMD’s belief that design can move culture.

Designed in-house, the RNDMD office drew from the building’s existing material language and finishes, translating them into a warmer and more contemporary creative environment. The approach allowed the studio to establish its own identity while becoming part of PNB Makati Center’s evolving story.

“Opening our first studio in Makati was a proud moment for us, but the event was really about the people who brought RNDMD here. The office gives our work a home, but its purpose is larger: to build a studio capable of contributing to a world where design moves culture.” said Floyd Esguerra, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of RNDMD. “Seeing our team, families, clients, collaborators, and friends in one space made the milestone real.” said Jerome Rosario, Co-Founder and Creative Director for Multimedia.

The evening’s neighborly spirit was shared by its official event partners. Pizzetta, the event’s Official Food Partner, brought the communal experience of food made for sharing together with its roots in Poblacion, Makati. CHAGEE, the Official Beverage Partner, complemented the gathering through its contemporary expression of tea culture and its belief in bringing people together over tea.

“Hey Neighbor!” marked a new chapter for RNDMD, one approached with pride in its progress, gratitude for its community, and humility about the work still ahead.

About RNDMD Inc.

Founded in 2022 by Floyd Esguerra and Jerome Rosario, RNDMD Inc. is a Filipino multidisciplinary creative studio working across brand strategy, design, campaigns, motion, video, content, product, and digital experiences. Guided by human-centered thinking and innovation through diversity, RNDMD creates purposeful work toward a world where design moves culture.

September 16, 2026