Category: Time Out

Last Call for Talents: Join the MSO Concerto Competition 2025 Before the October 8 Deadline!
The Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation is excited to welcome back the MSO Concerto Competition 2025!

This long-standing tradition, first held in the 1960s and 1970s, has been an important part of the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s history of discovering and encouraging young Filipino talents. Many outstanding soloists had their first big break through this very competition, and now, the MSO is continuing that legacy for today’s generation of musicians.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025 hopes to give gifted young instrumentalists the chance to shine, grow in their artistry, and experience the joy of performing as a soloist with a professional orchestra.

CATEGORIES

1. Instrument
- Strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, guitar)
- Woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone)
- Brasses (trumpet, horn, trombone, tuba)
- Piano
2. Age Levels
- Level A: Not more than 12 years old by October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
- Level B: 13-18 years old as of October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
- Level C: 19 to 25 years old as of October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
REPERTOIRE REQUIREMENTS
- Applicants must prepare one complete movement from a standard concerto of the Baroque, Classical, or Romantic period.
- The piece must be performed from memory.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE

1. Video Submission
- Applicants must submit a video recording of their chosen concerto movement, performed from memory.
- Piano accompaniment is recommended but not mandatory.
- The video must be unedited, recorded in a single take, and should not be older than 2 months.
2. Application Form
- Applicants must complete the official MSO Concerto Competition Application Form and submit alongside the video link.
- Proof of age (valid ID) required.
- ₱1,000 Application Fee Applies
3. Deadline
- October 8, 2025
SELECTION PROCESS
- A screening committee composed of MSO musicians and qualified guest adjudicators will evaluate all submissions.
- Finalists will be chosen based on technical mastery, musicality, artistic expression, and overall musicianship.
- Winners from each level will be announced no later than October 10, 2025.
PRIZES AND PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY
- Winners will be invited to perform with the Manila Symphony Orchestra in the Concert of Winners at the GSIS Theater on October 15, 2025.
- Each winner will perform the same concerto movement submitted during the competition.
- A total of 9 winners will be selected: 3 from Level A, 3 from Level B, 3 from Level C.
GENERAL RULES

1. The competition is open to all Filipino citizens and foreign students currently studying in the Philippines within the specified age brackets.

2. Judges’ decisions are final.

3. By submitting an entry, applicants grant the MSO Foundation permission to use their recordings and performance materials for promotional, archival, or educational purposes.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025
Concert of Winners is on
October 15, 2025 Wednesday
7:30PM
GSIS Theater, Pasay City

Tickets are available at Ticketworld
Orchestra Center P2,000
Orchestra Sides P1,000
Balcony P500

CONTACT INFORMATION
Manila Symphony Orchestra – Circuit Makati Office
Address: 3rd Floor, Circuit Lane, AP Reyes Street, Circuit Makati, Makati City, Metro Manila

Telephone: (02) 8523 5712
Email: info@manilasymphony.com
Website: www.manilasymphony.com
September 30, 2025
Limited Slots Left for the First ASICS META: Time: Trials Philippines Run This October 19

For the first time ever, the ASICS META: Time: Trials, a global race redefining road running, is coming to the Philippines. Happening on October 19, 2025, at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the ASICS META: Time: Trials is a 10KM road race that invites runners to push their limits and chase new personal bests. With limited slots available, runners with a love for the sport and a drive to hit new personal records now have the chance to be part of a race experience built to celebrate exactly that.

Fresh off its success in Spain, Thailand, and Malaysia, this global event is engineered for speed: wide, flat courses, race-day precision, and world-class support. It’s a format that has already produced breakthrough moments, including Sonny Wagdos’ championship victory in Thailand 2024 and 2025, along with Richard Salaño’s podium finish in 2024 – proof that Filipino runners can rise to the international stage. Even in the female division, Joida Gagnao bagged second place in the 2023 and 2025 editions of the ASICS META: Time: Trials in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Bangkok, Thailand, respectively.

While the spirit of the ASICS META: Time: Trials is all about reaching new personal bests, the inaugural Philippine edition comes with a competitive edge: a ₱400,000 cash prize pot, split equally between the men’s and women’s divisions.

With ₱200,000 per division, the ASICS META: Time: Trials Philippines is set to be one of the most competitive 10KM races of the year.

“This is more than just a run, it’s a global performance experience,” said Ishina Buxani, Marketing Director of the SONAK Retail Group, the official distributor of ASICS in the Philippines. “The Philippines is home to one of the most passionate running communities in the region, and bringing the ASICS META: Time: Trials here is about giving every runner the opportunity to push their limits and discover what they’re truly capable of.”

In the lead-up to race day, the ASICS Running Club (ARC) offers free weekly training sessions on Tuesdays at ASICS Glorietta, Thursdays at ASICS Festival Mall, and Fridays at SM Mall of Asia. These sessions provide expert guidance, structured training plans, and highlight ASICS’ latest performance innovations to help participants prepare for their fastest race yet.

Don’t miss your chance to run for glory, or your fastest self, at the inaugural ASICS META: Time: TrialsPhilippines. Only limited slots are left for this first-of-its-kind race in the Philippines! Register online now via Race Roster.

Stay updated by following @ASICSPH on Facebook and Instagram.

September 30, 2025
Online Booking for Ceres Transport Now Available!
Great news, commuters! Ceres Transport – the largest fleet operating in Visayas and Mindanao with major hubs in Batangas, is now available for online booking through biyaheroes.com! Passengers can now choose their seats, get points and freebies, and choose from multiple payment options such as Gcash, Maya, credit/debit card, banks, payment centers, and more.

Currently, the schedules live for online booking are:
- Busport Araneta City to/from Batangas Grand Terminal and Batangas Pier
- LRT Buendia to/from Batangas Grand Terminal and Batangas Pier
- Cubao (Kamuning) to Batangas Grand Terminal
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Batangas Pier
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Bulalacao, Mindoro
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Dumaguete via EB Magalona/Kabankalan
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Iloilo via Central, Antique, Calinog or Roxas, Estancia
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Guihulngan
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from San Jose, Mindoro
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Zamboanga
- PITX to/from Batangas Grand Terminal and Batangas Pier
- PITX to/from San Jose, Mindoro
More routes and schedules will be added online soon!

And as part of the digital launch, Biyaheroes and Ceres are giving away free shirts to the first 100 passengers who book their Ceres trips online!

Enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of booking your Ceres commutes online. Other destinations such as Ilocos Region, La Union, Baguio, Sagada, Palawan, and various ferry routes are also available through Biyaheroes.
September 27, 2025
PAWS Confers Certified Pet-Friendly Seal to Ayala Malls Vertis North

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has officially conferred its first-ever Certified Pet Friendly Seal to Ayala Malls Vertis North, in recognition of the establishment’s commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment for people and their beloved companion animals.

The certification underscores the mall’s inclusive pet policy that welcomes all breeds, especially aspins (Asong Pinoy) and puspins (Pusang Pinoy)—showing that pet-friendliness goes beyond pedigrees and embraces all animals equally.

Ayala Malls Vertis North is also a proud KabaliCAT partner, supporting PAWS’ Trap-Neuter Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) program for community cats. Through this collaboration, the mall not only provides pet-friendly spaces but also contributes directly to responsible and humane population management of stray animals.

“The PAWS Pet-Friendly Seal is our way of honoring establishments that go the extra mile for companion animals and their humans,” said Atty. Anna Cabrera, PAWS Executive Director. “We commend Ayala Malls Vertis North for its inclusivity in welcoming aspins and puspins, and for its active partnership in TNVR through KabaliCAT. This is what true pet-friendliness looks like— creating safe spaces while also addressing animal welfare at the community level.”

This marks the official conferment of the PAWS Pet-Friendly Seal to a shopping mall, setting a standard for other establishments to follow in promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare in the country.

September 23, 2025
Techno Holdings’ THC Health & Beauty Hub opens at Shangri-la Plaza Mall this November

Envisioning a space that fosters vitality in life’s essential areas, Techno Holdings Corporation (THC) announces the upcoming opening of THC Health & Beauty Hub (THBH)  at Shangrila Plaza Mall. The 455-square-meter hub designed by CPG Design & Architecture, will house a total of five concept stores and will serve as the Philippines’ new home for Phiten, a new location for Nora Japanese Hair Salon and Nora Lab, and will also include Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care. This multi-brand flagship space will host the opening of the first two stores, Phiten and Nora Lab, in October, while the rest are set to open in November.

Phiten is a Japanese health and body care brand that promotes relaxation and healthy life conditioning using patented Aqua Metal/Nano technology. THBH  will house the first Phiten IP Salon location outside Japan. The health and recovery center features advanced technology and equipment such as the hyperbaric Oxygen (O2 Alpha) chamber, Healthy Light Bathing Capsule, Aqua Titan Bathing Egg, Bathing Egg Beauty, and water wave massage beds. Phiten’s retail store, on the other hand, will sell health and body care products along with innovative items like stylish bracelets, necklaces, Phiten tape, and apparel that support relaxation, relieve body pain, enhance performance, and promote overall body balance.

Nora Hair Salon is a Kami Charisma-awarded Japanese salon led by renowned hairstylist Hidekazu Ando-san. The Nora Lab operates as a training facility exclusively for Nora’s Hair Salon stylists and trainees. The Nora Lab trainees and assistants undergo a strict training program with a curriculum explicitly designed by Nora’s Japanese creative directors. The Japanese hair salon shares an open, walk-through reception area with Miss Esthe, a top Japanese esthetic clinic where estheticians are trained to help clients achieve beautiful skin through gentle and thorough techniques.

By bringing together these leading Japanese brands, THC has achieved a significant milestone in offering exceptional products and services within a single, beautifully designed space.

Visit http: technoholdings.com.ph to learn more about Techno Holdings Corp.

September 22, 2025
Zac Efron’s favorite eyewear is finally in Vision Express

Police eyewear, De Rigo Group’s house brand, has finally landed in Vision Express, with acclaimed actor and producer Zac Efron at the forefront.

True to its mission to make designer brands accessible to more Filipinos, Vision Express, the leading premium optical retailer in the Philippines, has brought Police frames and sunglasses to selected stores nationwide.

“We are ecstatic to bring Police in Vision Express because we believe this is a brand that resonates with Filipinos – bold, passionate, unapologetic. Their new tagline, Audacity Wanted, talks to the Filipino men who exude style and boldness,” shares Vision Express President Neelam Gopwani.

The collection

In a society where having audacity is deemed appalling, Police eyewear embraces it in their Spring/Summer 2025 collection. This boldness is interpreted and expressed through Zac Efron’s multifaceted personality. Efron epitomizes the new kind of man Police envisions – one with a modern sense of masculinity, mindful of the environment, and capable of reinventing himself while staying true to who he is.

The Police collection reinterprets tradition with an innovative and distinctive design. It is divided into two main segments: Contemporary, which offers original and modern shapes for a fresh and dynamic look, characterized by the application of the “Gothic P” or Police logo.

The second segment, Origins, is inspired by more classic lines and is recognizable by the iconic eagle logo, a tribute to the brand’s historical roots. These are joined by Statement, the line that represents the excellence of the brand, encompassing the most distinctive and exclusive styles.

Book your free eye test today and head on over to the nearest Vision Express stores to try on the Police SS25 collection. To learn more about Vision Express, please visit https://visionexpress.ph/ and follow Vision Express on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

About Vision Express

Vision Express offers state-of-the-art vision care technology paired with a truly personal approach to eye care – focusing on what brings joy in life, as well as prescription needs. Home to various global luxury eyewear labels like Ray-Ban, Celine, Loewe, Prada, Gucci, Cartier, Bvlgari, Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Dior, and Vision Express exclusive Tony Morgan London, paired with the World’s Best Lens Innovation from Shamir, Tokai, and Opulens—customized based on not just your face shape, but also tailored to your every day, work, or play lifestyle.

September 17, 2025
Shop, Dine, Repeat: UNIQLO, Shake Shack, and More Open at GH Mall’s South Wing

GH Mall’s South Wing is buzzing with anticipation as a fresh wave of stores is ready to welcome more shoppers and foodies with the opening of 14 new establishments. From diverse cuisines to international brands, you’ll have plenty of options for your next visit with the fam.

UNIQLO is Coming to GH Mall

The biggest store opening coming to GH Mall is UNIQLO, with two floors of stylish pieces to browse from. The popular clothing brand from Japan is bringing its wide range of high-quality and functional “LifeWear,” cool UT collections, and more closer to shoppers.

UNIQLO officially opens its doors at GH Mall’s South Wing on September 19, 2025.

Shake Shack, Yabu, and More Restaurants Opening

Foodies will have no shortage of delectable finds at GH Mall’s South Wing. Get your savory fix at Shake Shack, which just opened on September 1, Peri-Peri Chicken, and Yabu; have a hearty feast with Tong Yang’s hotpot selection and filling meals from Super Uncle Claypot, Ocean Empire, and Gingerlily.

Top off a long day of shopping and eating with sweet desserts from La Creperie, Pinkberry, and Sour Sally. You can also get your much-deserved beverage fix at Starbucks, Chi Cha San Chen, and Dough Creamery Cafe.

If you’re looking for your next hangout spot for the week, head to GH Mall’s newly opened stores in the South Wing. You can also discover more experiences, from shopping local and international clothing brands to fun interactive activities, in GH Mall’s other wings.

For more updates and information on GH Mall’s new establishment, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

September 15, 2025
DailyFix Partners with RunRio to Launch first-ever Power Run 2026 at MOA Grounds

DailyFix, a well-loved granola and trail mix brand in the country, is proud to announce its first-ever DailyFix Power Run, happening in partnership with premier race organizer RunRio on January 11, 2026 at the iconic Mall of Asia Grounds. This partnership marks a pivotal moment for the brand as it strengthens its commitment to promoting healthy breakfasts and snacks that inspire a more active and balanced lifestyle.

DailyFix Power Run invites runners, health enthusiasts, and families to take part in an exciting event that celebrates wellness, movement, and wholesome nutrition. This fun run marks DailyFix’s biggest brand event to date, created to inspire lasting health transformations through the power of community. Additionally, it also reflects the brand’s mission to make wellness fun, engaging, and accessible through a lively fun run that celebrates connection, energy, and shared experiences.”

“DailyFix’s mission as a brand has always been to make breakfast and snacking not just healthier—but smarter and more enjoyable for all Filipinos. We’re excited to bring wellness to life through this fun run.” said Abigail Ng-Reyes, Vice President for Marketing at Fly Ace Corporation.

Launched in 2020, DailyFix was created to offer a wholesome, enjoyable breakfast and snacking experience. Made from a nourishing blend of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, it’s designed to satisfy and sustain you any time of the day. Whether you need a hassle-free breakfast, quick pick-me-up or a guilt-free snack that supports an active lifestyle, DailyFix delivers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition—making it your go-to companion for smart, on-the-go snacking.

Racers can choose from four exciting categories: 1K Run (with Pet Dog), 3K Fun Run, 5K Intermediate Fun and 10K Competitive Race. Each category is designed to match every fitness level- whether you’re joining for fun, aiming for a personal best, or looking to jumpstart your wellness journey, there’s a race tailored just for you. Running a marathon is no small feat—that’s why every participant will take home a bag brimming with exciting goodies from DailyFix, Fly Ace Corporation, and other partner brands. Beyond the race, the finish line village will come alive with wellness booths, a nutrition talk, and a ‘meet the experts’ corner where runners can learn more about healthy living. Participants can also look forward to games, raffles, and fun interactions, plus the chance to mingle with fellow wellness enthusiasts and creators. To top it off, everyone will recharge with a generous serving of DailyFix Granola and Trail Mix.

In conclusion, Ms. Abbie Ng-Reyes shares: “This event is more than just a race, it’s a celebration of community and shared passion for wellness and an active lifestyle. Participants can look forward to sampling our power-packed granola and trail mix, while taking part in engaging activities designed to energize and inspire wellness advocates of all kinds. Partnering with RunRio allows us to bring that commitment beyond the pantry and onto the community–where energy, connection, and positive change come together.”

RunRio also shared its enthusiasm for the collaboration. RunRio founder Rio de la Cruz expressed: “We are excited to partner with Fly Ace Corporation for the very first DailyFix Power Run on January 11, 2026 at the SM MOA Complex. DailyFix, a well-loved healthy snack brand known for its granola and trail mix products, is committed to promoting wholesome, nutrition-focused living — making it the perfect partner for a running event.”

Step Into Wellness: Join the DailyFix Power Run 2026!

Engage in a day of power-packed fun, active lifestyle and connect with a vibrant community at the DailyFix Power Run—an unforgettable celebration of health, fitness, and togetherness.

Register now at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/108942/dailyfix-power-run-2026 and secure your spot! For latest updates and announcements, follow DailyFixPH Facebook, DailyFixPH Instagram, and DailyFixPH TikTok. DailyFix is available in leading supermarkets, drug stores and convenience stores nationwide.

September 8, 2025
“Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.” Ayon sa Celebrity Moms sa Hirap ng Back-To-School Season

School’s officially back, and with it the early mornings, baon prep, never-ending shopping lists, and long days for parents – especially moms. In the newest episode of Mommy, G Ka Na?, celebrity host and mom of two Jolina Magdangal-Escueta opens up about the pressure of balancing her numerous responsibilities during the back-to-school season.

Together with guests Dimples Romana and Angeline Quinto, the candid conversation turns personal, andthe three moms share personal stories, smart strategies, and comforting words for moms who may be overwhelmed with the back-to-school rush. They remind each other, “Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.”

Amid the laughs and real talk, Jolina, Angeline, and Dimples reveal some of their back-to-school survival tricks.

Angeline, for example, swears by the power of a cute lunchbox (or fun shapes) to get her kids to eat. “Kahit simpleng sandwich lang, basta cute ang baunan, ganado na agad si Sylvio,” she shares.

She and Jolina also agree that fancy recipes aren’t necessary. Instead, a little bit of creativity and a whole lot of love go a long way. As Jolina puts it, “Hindi kailangang mahal ang baon, basta punong-puno ng effort at love, ramdam ‘yan ng mga anak natin.”

Then there’s the never-ending to-do list. Groceries, bills, errands. Sometimes, when schedules get too packed, there are things forgotten along the way. For when it gets overwhelming, the three moms all agree – shopping online and paying with GCash is the ultimate lifesaver. While doing the laundry or helping with their kids’ homework, they can check off items on their grocery list without even leaving the house!

Dimples, meanwhile, brings up the challenges she faces having to keep up with the constant stream of expenses once the school year starts. From school projects and extracurricular activities to unexpected gastos, the financial pressure doesn’t end after enrollment.

“Kala mo tapos ka na, pero may bagong shoes, uniforms, at pang-extracurricular pa pala,” she opens up. Her solution? Breaking down the big-ticket items. With GCash’s GGives, she can split purchases like gadgets or sports gear into smaller payments, with zero down payment needed.

And of course, there are the surprise expenses – like when emergencies happen. For those moments, Jolina reminds viewers that they can lean on GCredit, which provides users with a credit line of up to PHP 50,000. For even bigger needs like tuition fees, there’s also GLoan, which lets users borrow up to PHP 150,000 instantly, with affordable terms and quick disbursement straight to their GCash wallet. “At least alam mong may masasandalan ka. Hindi ka kakabahan agad,” they agree. It’s peace of mind for those who are faced with unexpected expenses before payday.

Watch Mommy, G Ka Na? online

Throughout the episodes, a recurring theme emerges: moms can learn a lot from other moms. “Okay lang humingi ng tulong,” Jolinareminds viewers. “May mga kapwa mommy, may mga tools — tulungan tayo.”

Stream Mommy, G Ka Na? on the official YouTube channel of GCash. Join the conversation online with fellow moms finding gaan and ginhawa in every stage of school-year parenting by following @gcashofficial on Instagram and Facebook.

September 8, 2025
Shop Smarter, Save Bigger: Guilt-Free Deals Await on LazMall this 9.9

The highly anticipated 9.9 Mega Brands Sale is back, and Lazada is making it easier than ever to shop guilt-free. With LazMall’s Authenticity Guarantee, shoppers can indulge in great deals without second thoughts – knowing every purchase delivers real value and trusted quality.

This year’s 9.9 sale promises up to 90% off branded deals, up to PHP 2,000 vouchers, and free shipping with no minimum spend from September 8 (8PM) to 11. To kick off the celebration, catch the special LazLive show on September 8 at 11PM, where you can take on the “Guilt-Free Test” yourself. Shoppers can play along for a chance to win vouchers from top LazMall brands and enjoy even more exclusive deals and rewards during the livestream. Just search “Lazada Guilt Free” on the app to join the fun.

Authenticity, Quality, and Value Guaranteed

As one of the country’s leading eCommerce platforms, Lazada is committed to delivering high quality shopping experiences, with LazMall serving as the flagship of authenticity, dependable service, and secure transactions. Complementing the wide range of trusted brands at great value, shoppers also benefit from fast shipping and free returns, making every purchase even more convenient and worry-free. Lazada reinforces this vision through collaborations across the eCommerce ecosystem, partnering with brands, sellers and its creator network to drive trust and shared growth. “At Lazada, we’ve always worked closely with our brands and prioritized our buyer experience to make sure that every purchase on LazMall is worry-free,” said Alvin Ching, Head of Seller Operations, Lazada Philippines. “Through our 100% authenticity guarantee, 2X Money Back, and fast delivery and free returns, customers can be confident that they’re getting authentic brands and the best possible value with no hesitation.”

Smarter and More Rewarding Shopping with AI Lazzie

Lazada is also introducing new ways to make the shopping journey smarter and more seamless through AI Lazzie, Lazada’s AI-powered shopping assistant. AI Lazzie helps users cut through the noise of endless options by offering personalized guidance, smarter recommendations, and fun interactive experiences designed to make online shopping more rewarding.

This 9.9, shoppers are invited to take part in a special challenge – just chat with AI Lazzie to unlock prizes of up to PHP 100 in LazRewards every day!

“AI is helping us create a more personalized and rewarding shopping experience,” said Pauline Castro, Head of User Product Operations, Lazada Philippines. “From helping users find the right products faster to surfacing deals that truly match their needs, our goal is to let everyone shop guilt-free, knowing they’re getting quality and value every single time.”

Beyond empowering individual shoppers, Lazada continues to play a key role in fueling the growth of the Philippine digital economy. By providing a platform that brings together trusted brands, diverse product assortment, and innovative AI-powered technology, Lazada inspires trust among shoppers while shaping the future of eCommerce.

This year’s better 9.9 sale kicks off on September 8 (8PM) to September 11, only on the Lazada app. Don’t miss out – visit lzd.co/99MegaBrandsSale today!

September 7, 2025