Jollibee Brings the Dubai Chocolate Trend Home with New Limited-Edition Pistachio Choco Sundae

 Jollibee is partnering with Filipino pastry chef and culinary innovator Nouel Catis, whose work is associated with the global Dubai chocolate phenomenon, to introduce the Pistachio Choco Sundae, a limited-edition Christmas dessert that brings a globally popular flavor combination to a familiar Filipino favorite.

“Christmas is a time when people look forward to experiences that make the season more special. At Jollibee, we want to bring that joy through both the food our customers love and new flavors that surprise and delight them,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. "Partnering with Chef Nouel gives us a chance to offer something new this Christmas while celebrating Filipino culinary talent on the global stage."

Based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Catis is recognized for his work in the chocolate confectionery space, particularly the Dubai chocolate phenomenon that helped popularize the combination of chocolate and pistachio flavors among consumers worldwide.

His work has also received recognition, including being named an Emerging Global Filipino Icon by The Global Filipino Magazine and receiving a Service Excellence Award in Culinary Innovation in Dubai.

“We see Chef Nouel as a partner in our mission to bring joy to Filipinos and people around the world through food. By bringing his culinary expertise together with a Jollibee favorite, we hope to give our customers a new way to enjoy flavors they love and discover something different this Christmas,” Ching added.

For Catis, the collaboration is also a personal milestone, bringing him together with a brand he has loved since childhood.

“I was so happy when Jollibee reached out to me. I grew up loving Jollibee, so I never imagined that one day, I’d get to work with a brand that’s been part of my childhood. After the Dubai chocolate experience, it’s exciting to be doing something like this with Jollibee, especially for Christmas,” said Catis. “As a Filipino, it makes me proud to be part of something that can bring joy to people here at home and hopefully introduce more people around the world to the creativity and talent of Filipinos.”

The collaboration brings Catis’s culinary expertise to Jollibee’s annual Christmas sundae offering. The Pistachio Choco Sundae features creamy vanilla soft serve coated in a pistachio shell, topped with chocolate syrup and diced pistachios.

Priced at ₱79, the dessert will be available nationwide from October 16 to December 31 through Jollibee dine-in, takeout, drive-thru and delivery via GrabFood and foodpanda.

The partnership reflects Jollibee’s continuing effort to create new food experiences for customers during the holiday season, combining familiar favorites with fresh flavors while celebrating Filipino talent whose work has reached international audiences.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites via GrabFood and foodpanda, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises.

 

 

HONOR Extends PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo Following Massive First-Day Sales

 Global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines has extended the registration deadline for its PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo until October 18, 2026, giving eligible customers more time to register for a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping at SM Stores.

The extension follows the strong consumer turnout during the HONOR 600S first-day sale, which drew large crowds eager to get their hands on the latest smartphone. Featuring AI-powered capabilities, a durable design, and a long-lasting battery, the HONOR 600S has generated excitement among consumers looking for a reliable and feature-packed device.

Customers who pre-ordered or purchased the HONOR 600S can register until October 18, 2026, for a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping at SM Stores, subject to the official promo mechanics. Those who have not yet registered are encouraged to complete the process before the extended deadline. 

For complete promo mechanics and registration details, visit www.honorphrafflepromo.com.

For more information about HONOR Philippines, you may visit: https://www.honor.com/ph/. To stay updated on launch announcements, product information, and exclusive offers, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more.

How Watsons is Making Preventive Care Accessible Year-Round

 

For many Filipinos, taking care of their health means finding ways to make preventive care part of everyday life. A change in the body, an unfamiliar health result, or a symptom that does not feel quite right can be easy to overlook amid work, family, errands, and other daily priorities. Yet paying attention to these signs and having access to the right health guidance can be an important step toward taking better care of one’s health.

As a leading health, wellness and beauty retailer, Watsons Philippines continues to make preventive healthcare more accessible by offering free health services at selected stores every month. From screenings and consultations to specialized health checks, these services give Filipinos more opportunities to monitor their health and seek professional guidance without having to wait until a concern becomes more serious.

This October, Watsons is partnering with Diabetes Philippines Inc. to offer a free clinic and chronic kidney disease (CKD) screening at selected stores. The initiative provides consumers with an opportunity to learn more about their diabetes and kidney health, while encouraging those who may be at risk to seek appropriate medical guidance and take proactive steps toward managing their health.

Beyond diabetes and CKD screening, Watsons is also offering a range of free health services throughout October:

 

Blood Pressure & ECG Check

●      North Edsa Grand — Oct 1– 31

●      SM Aura Premier Mall — Oct 1–31

●      Watsons Rockwell Business CT — Oct 1–31

●      308 Makati Mall 1 — Oct 1–31

●      SM City-Fairview 1 — Oct 1–31

●      SM Megamall 7 — Oct 1–31

●      SM Mall of Asia 7 — Oct 1–31

●      Robinsons Place Manila — Oct 1–31

 

Cardiometabolic & Free Physician Consultation

●      Watsons E. Rod, St. Luke's QC — Oct 14

●      Watsons Manila Blumentritt — Oct 15

●      Watsons SM Grand Central — Oct 25

 

Cholesterol Screening, Random Blood Sugar Screening & MD Consultation

●      SM Makati — Oct 13 & 20

●      Ayala North Exchange — Oct 20

●      Watsons Molito Lifestyle Center — Oct 14

●      Watsons Town Square — Oct 14

●      Watsons Satorre — Oct 14

●      SM Taytay — Oct 15

●      SM Center Las Piñas — Oct 16

●      Shangri-La Plaza — Oct 16

●      Watsons Venice Grand Canal — Oct 17

●      Watsons Bayani Road — Oct 18

●      Southmall 1 — Oct 19

●      Watsons SM Muntinlupa — Oct 21

●      Marikina Mall — Oct 21

●      Megamall A2 — Oct 22

●      SM San Mateo Mall — Oct 23

●      Estancia Mall Pasig — Oct 23

●      SM City East Ortigas — Oct 23

●      Waltermart Sucat — Oct 24

●      Greenhills Mall San Juan — Oct 26

●      One Ayala — Oct 27

●      SM Megamall 7 — Oct 29

●      West Drive Marikina Heights — Oct 30

 

Free BP Check-up & Medical Consultation

●      SM City-Novaliches 1 — Oct 16

●      Venice Grand Canal Taguig — Oct 16

●      SM City Grand Central Mall — Oct 16

●      SM City San Lazaro 1 — Oct 16

●      Waltermart Sucat 1 — Oct 29

●      SM Center Muntinlupa 1 — Oct 29

 

Diabetes Philippines Free Clinic + CKD Screening

●      SM Mall of Asia 8 — Oct 18

●      SM Southmall 5 — Oct 17

●      SM City San Lazaro 1 — Oct 17

 

Blood Sugar/Eye Check Up/Sleepmode

●      Megamall 7 — Oct 17

●      Gateway Mall — Oct 24

●      SM East Ortigas — Oct 31

 

For consumers looking for additional support, Watsons also offers free health teleconsultation with doctors, including guidance on wellness and weight management. This gives consumers a convenient way to discuss their health concerns and seek professional advice without needing to visit a clinic in person. Those interested in wellness or weight management options can call the Watsons hotline at (02) 7919-9999. Consumers can also book vaccination appointments through the Watsons Philippines Online Store or mobile app.

 

“Preventive healthcare becomes more meaningful when people have more opportunities to access it as part of their everyday lives. Through our continuing free health services, we hope to make health monitoring and professional guidance more accessible to more Filipinos, while encouraging them to take action early and stay proactive about their well-being,” said Danilo S. Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons Philippines.

Together, these services give Filipinos more ways to stay informed about their health, whether they want to monitor an important health indicator, seek professional guidance, or better understand what steps they can take toward managing their health.

Watsons' commitment to accessible healthcare also extends to making everyday health and wellness essentials easier to get, with options such as Click & Collect and Express Delivery available for customers who prefer to shop online and have their essentials ready for pickup or delivered to their doorstep.

To stay updated on Watsons' free health services and upcoming schedules, follow Watsons Philippines' official social media channels for announcements. Customers can also visit participating Watsons stores or explore the Watsons Philippines Online Store and mobile app for their health and wellness essentials.

With free health services continuing throughout the year, Watsons gives Filipinos more opportunities to make health checks, professional guidance, and everyday wellness part of their routine.

---

UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan Grand Reopening: What’s New Inside the Expanded Store

 Customers can enjoy exclusive reopening offers, special treats, and sustainability-driven community programs as UNIQLO welcomes shoppers back to an expanded store.

 UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan officially reopens on October 16, 2026, at 10 AM, welcoming customers to a bigger store with an enhanced shopping experience, exclusive offers, and special treats.

To celebrate the reopening of UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan, the first 100 customers daily from October 16 to 18 will receive a complimentary pastry from local favorite Edna's Cakeland.

Customers can enjoy exclusive Limited Offers on LifeWear favorites, including Men's and Women's Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirts for only PHP 390, from October 16 to 22, 2026, at UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan.

From October 16 to 22, customers can receive a complimentary UNIQLO Drawstring Bag with a minimum PHP 3,000 purchase at the newly expanded UNIQLO SM City Cabanatuan.

As part of its Supporting Brighter Futures Through Education initiative, UNIQLO extended its community efforts to Macatbong Integrated School, where students received LifeWear essentials and participated in interactive disaster preparedness activities. The school is the fourth of fifteen last-mile schools UNIQLO aims to support nationwide.

Students participate in the ABS-CBN Foundation's Master of Disaster program, learning essential disaster preparedness skills through an interactive board game that promotes awareness and community resilience.

Arado and Davison Lead PLDT's Charge into the PVL 10th Season

Coming off a hard-fought bronze finish in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference 2026, the PLDT High Speed Hitters are definitely not resting on their laurels – channeling the momentum from their recent success into immediate preparation for this new milestone 10th season.

 

At the heart of PLDT’s sustained rise are defensive anchor Kath Arado and explosive outside hitter Savi Davison – two decorated stars whose synergy continues to set the benchmark for the franchise. With 12 individual PVL awards combined, the duo has anchored both ends of the floor. Arado’s elite back-row defense and floor coverage consistently give the High Speed Hitters second-chance opportunities, setting up Davison’s heavy-hitting attacks at the net.

 

Their individual excellence has established a standard for the High Speed Hitters, serving as the cornerstone of the team’s growth into a dangerous contender in every tournament.

 

Ready, set, gold

Ahead of the upcoming tournament, Davison noted that the team’s mindset remains focused on continuous growth.

 

"The mindset of every off-season is to be better than before," last conference’s Best Outside Spiker said. "We fell short in the Invitational Conference, but we are heading into the new conference with some momentum. Hopefully we will be able to take the lessons learned and apply them during the off-season to propel us forward."

 

"I am happy that we were able to close out the PVL Invitational Conference on a high note with a win," Davison added. "Although the goal was to be placed in the finals, I believe that we were challenged and were able to grow in ways that were needed. I am proud of us for being able to respond accordingly in such a short period of time following mid-season losses – that's what I am most happy about."

 

Arado echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the mental and physical recovery needed ahead of the 10th season opener.

 

"Honestly, our Invitational Conference finish feels really fulfilling and emotional," the captain, who won last conference’s Best Libero, recalled. "After the losses we experienced in the middle of the season, winning the bronze medal showed us that we were able to bounce back, stay together, and keep fighting.”

 

“It may not have been the result we initially wanted, but I'm really grateful for the lessons, the experience, and the opportunity to finish the conference on the podium. For us, the mindset is to use the previous season as motivation to keep improving," she added.

Reliance in teamwork, reliable support group

A key highlight of PLDT’s recent campaign was their back-to-back victory against powerhouse Creamline to secure the podium finish. Facing one of the league's most formidable rosters required total composure and discipline.

 

"Any match against Creamline is highly competitive. At no point during those two matches did we think we had the win secured, we had to push to the very end considering that they are capable of turning matches around if given the opportunity. From the very first point of the first match to the very last of the bronze match we had to stay consistent and confident in our abilities," Davison recalled.

 

Arado described the turning point in those high-stakes encounters as a collective commitment to hold the line.

 

"I think the turning point was when we realized that we had already been through so much this season, but we were still standing and fighting together," Arado recalled. "In those last two games, every point felt so important, and we just refused to give up on each other. When we were able to fight back, especially in the crucial moments, I felt that this was our chance to finish strong. We believed in each other, trusted the process, and fought for every ball."

 

For both Arado and Davison, navigating demanding tournament schedules and preparing for the new season is a shared effort that extends beyond individual play. Credit for the team’s success belongs across the entire roster, coaching staff, and support network.

 

Davison stressed, “The key is to have everyone on the same page and prepared to compete, from coaching staff to all the players."

 

"The fans have been the core of PLDT," she added. "They inspire us to work when not being watched and to play to our best abilities when given the opportunity to play in front of them. They inspire us to be better every day, supporting us through the highs and lows."

 

Arado shared a direct message for their supporters as the High Speed Hitters prepare for their next chapter in the PVL: "To all our fans and supporters, thank you so much for staying with us throughout the season, through the wins, the losses, and all the challenges we faced. Your support, love, and encouragement meant so much to us and gave us extra strength to keep fighting. Our bronze medal last conference was also for you. We’re taking all the lessons from the last season and using them as motivation to come back stronger."

 

Catch every moment of the PLDT High Speed Hitters' journey at the PVL 2026-2027 All-Filipino Conference. Follow the team on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok to stay connected to the action.

 

Ready, Set, Woof! Your Guide to a Fun and Safe Run with Your Dog

 Running with your dog doesn’t have to be about beating a personal best. Think of it as your usual walk with a little more bounce: fresh air, happy zoomies, fellow fur parents to meet, and plenty of opportunities for cute photos along the way.

If you and your four-legged friend are joining a fun run soon or if you’re planning to do more leisure runs, a little preparation can help make the day more enjoyable. Start with your usual walks, then mix in some playful movement or easy jogs to help your pup get used to being active alongside you.

Make sure your pup is up for it

Every dog has their own way of enjoying the outdoors. Pay attention to how your pet normally responds to walks and active play. If they’d rather stroll, sniff every tree, or take frequent breaks, consider that part of the adventure.

For dogs with health concerns, or if you’re unsure whether a longer outing is suitable for your pet, checking with your veterinarian beforehand can offer extra peace of mind.

Pack the running essentials

Your pup may not need fancy running equipment, but a few familiar essentials can make the outing smoother. Bring a comfortable leash or harness, water and a portable bowl, poop bags, and perhaps a favorite treat for some mid-route encouragement.

And because this is a leisure run, there’s no need to rush. Stop for water, take a breather, say hello to fellow fur parents, or pause for that inevitable photo op.

Fuel the everyday adventures, too

Of course, getting ready for an active day isn’t only about what happens on the route. Consistent care and proper nourishment are part of helping your dog enjoy everything from everyday playtime to bigger bonding adventures.

That’s where Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) TopBreedDog Meal can become part of your pup’s everyday routine. TopBreed is formulated with nutrients such as Omega 3 and 6 for a healthy heart, skin, and coat; calcium for healthy bones and teeth; and Vitamin E and Organic Selenium to support the immune system.

Paired with regular activity, affection, and plenty of quality time, serving your pup proper nutrition is another way to show them some love. After all, TopBreed's approach to pet care is about being a partner to Filipino fur parents—making the brand a natural companion for both ordinary days and special adventures together.

Make the finish line the least important part

At the end of the day, your fun run or leisure run doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Maybe you jog part of the route and walk the rest. Maybe your pup gets distracted making new furry friends. Maybe you spend more time taking photos than actually running.

That’s all part of the fun! Because when your running buddy has four paws, the best takeaway is another happy memory together—and maybe even a few new fur-parent friends to share the next adventure with.

PascualLab Celebrates 80 Years of Excellence with ‘Galing That Keeps Going’

Eight decades after its founding, Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab) ❶, continues to evolve alongside Filipino families, introducing family-friendly health and wellness products that address changing consumer needs, while remaining rooted in the values of quality, care and malasakit.

Founded  in 1946 by Isosceles and Leonora Pascual to address the post-war needs of Filipinos, PascualLab has grown from a family-founded enterprise into the company behind household brands such as: Ascorbic Acid (Poten-Cee),Vitex negundo L. Lagundi Leaf (Ascof Lagundi), C-Lium Fibre, and OraCare Mouthrinse. Guided by its vision of Strong, Healthy Families, PascualLab continues to mark its 80^th anniversary with the #GalingThatKeepsGoing, a theme that honors its heritage, reflects its purpose, and celebrates the Filipino excellence carrying it into the future. 

Galing (Healing)
Over time, the health and wellness needs of many Filipinos have changed. This 2026, PascualLab continues to evolve alongside them, offering new health products and innovations designed to make everyday wellness relevant and accessible to every Filipino family. 

These include the launch of MyColla-C, a premium Collagen + Vitamin C support for those in their mid-30s and 40s as they embrace their next brightest chapter; and Paracetamol + Vitamin B1 + Vitamin B6 + Vitamin B12 (Alevia-B) for triple action relief of mild to moderate muscle, joint, and nerve pain. 

The company also relaunched its Poten-Cee Gummies, Ascorbic Acid in a yummy, gummy format to support the Vitamin C needs of young members of the family;andPelargonium sidoides DC. Root (PELARGO), a natural option for relief from the common cold.

Galing (Excellence)
Behind these innovations is the galing of PascualLab’s people -- professionals whose expertise, commitment and malasakit continue to move the company forward.

For PascualLab, however, excellence is not only about creating innovative and relevant health products – it's also about making them accessible and affordable. In celebration of its 80^th year, the company also offered Php 80 off selected products through one of the country’s top drugstores, as a gesture of gratitude for the many years of continued trust and support.

Galing (Roots)
Through it all, PascualLab is inspired by its vision of Strong Healthy Families while remaining rooted in the spirit of care or malasakit upon which its founders built the company.

As it celebrates its 80^th this 2026, it celebrates a legacy founded on quality and care – and looks ahead to a future of stronger, healthier Filipino families. That is the #GalingThatKeepsGoing.

For more information, follow us at https://linktr.ee/pascuallaboratories

TCL Celebrates 45 Years of Innovation with Opening of Industrial Museum

 TCL today marked its 45th anniversary with the Inauguration Ceremony of the TCL Industrial Museum in Huizhou, the city where TCL was founded in 1981. Built on the former factory site of TCL’s predecessor, TTK, the museum chronicles TCL’s evolution alongside the development of China’s electronics industry.

“The TCL Industrial Museum is not only about preserving the journey behind us, but also about inspiring the journey ahead,” said Li Dongsheng, Founder and Chairman of TCL. “Over the past 45 years, TCL has grown through entrepreneurship, transformation and innovation. As we enter a new chapter, we will carry forward the same boldness and commitment to create new possibilities for the future.”

TCL Founder and Chairman Li Dongsheng joins guests at the Inauguration Ceremony of the TCL Industrial Museum.

 

45 Years of Innovation and Transformation

Spanning more than 23,000 square meters, including over 9,000 square meters of exhibition space, the museum brings together over 3,000 curated pieces across six exhibition halls and a central atrium.

 

The collections cover key eras of technological development, with highlights including a 1920s Nipkow mechanical scanning disk, China’s first television set, China’s first commercial computer, and the world’s first mass-produced printed OLED 4K display developed by TCL CSOT in 2024. The television gallery also features more than 100 vintage television sets from around the world.

 

The museum traces TCL’s history from early manufacturing to display technology and clean energy.

 

Strategic Focus Powers Global Growth

Beyond preserving products and historical milestones, the museum shows how TCL has successfully adapted its business strategy over the years as industries, technologies, and markets have evolved. One of the most consequential turning points came in 2019.

 

In 2019, TCL completed a major restructuring that established TCL Technology and TCL Industries as two independently operated entities. With TCL Technology focusing on display and new energy businesses, and TCL Industries specializing in smart devices and services, the restructuring has enabled each business to strengthen its strategic focus and unlock greater growth potential. From 2019 to 2025, TCL Technology’s revenue more than tripled from approximately US$8.4 billion to US$27 billion, while TCL Industries’ revenue more than doubled from US$11.7 billion to approximately US$24.9 billion.

 

Alongside revenue growth, the restructuring has also strengthened TCL’s position across its core businesses. TCL TV ranked No. 2 globally by shipment volume in 2025. According to Omdia, TCL CSOT ranked No. 2 globally in overall TV panel market share that year. In clean energy, TCL Zhonghuan is the world’s largest producer of solar-grade silicon crystals and a key supplier in the global silicon wafer market. Beyond pure business performance, TCL’s broader progress was also recognized in 2026, when it was named one of TIME’s World’s Best Companies.

 

The Next Chapter: Technology Leadership with Purpose

 

With the museum sharing the journey that brought TCL to where it is today, the brand is now looking to the future with a series of initiatives. As a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, TCL is connecting people with technology through one of the world’s most universal cultural platforms, while TCLArt, TCLforHer, TCLGreen, and TCLYoung are extending the brand’s engagement across culture, society, and sustainability.

 

At 45, the boldness and commitment that have shaped TCL’s story remain central to its future. TCL will continue advancing its technology, sustainable growth and global brand‑building efforts, while strengthening its role as a responsible corporate citizen and trusted technology brand.

Cebuana Lhuillier Aralan Brings Learning Opportunities Closer to Filipino Communities

Education does not begin and end in the classroom. To develop strong literacy skills, children also need books, places to read, and resources that encourage them to keep learning. Yet for many Filipino families, particularly those in underserved and hard-to-reach areas, these basic tools remain difficult to find.

The challenges facing Filipino learners highlight the need to strengthen access to learning resources. The latest PISA 2025 results show that only 31% of Filipino 15-year-olds reached at least Level 2 proficiency in reading, compared with 69% across OECD countries. Meanwhile, the World Bank reported in 2026 that 91% of 10-year-olds in the Philippines cannot read and understand an age-appropriate text, a condition it identifies as learning poverty. These figures underscore the continuing need to strengthen foundational literacy and bring learning resources closer to children, particularly those in underserved communities.

For Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, the idea for Cebuana Aralan took shape after he learned about the situation at Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School in Manila, where students lacked a library to support their reading and study needs. Seeing how the absence of a dedicated space could limit children’s opportunities to read, explore new ideas, and learn beyond their regular classes, Lhuillier saw an opportunity to address a practical need through the Cebuana Aralan Mini Library Project.

“We believe that every child deserves a fair chance to succeed and that opportunities should not be determined by circumstance. Cebuana Aralan reflects our commitment to helping create a stronger foundation for children and supporting them as they work toward their aspirations,” he said.

The need to bring learning resources closer to communities remains significant, particularly as the country continues to address gaps in reading and comprehension. The 2024 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) found that 18.9 million Filipinos aged 10 to 64 were functionally illiterate, meaning they experienced difficulty with comprehension despite having basic reading and language skills. Recent learning assessments also show that while Filipino Grade 5 learners have made progress in reading, significant disparities remain, underscoring the importance of sustained support for foundational literacy and access to learning resources.

While strengthening the country’s education system remains a shared responsibility, initiatives outside the classroom can help address some of these gaps. Cebuana Aralan does this by providing books, digital materials, school supplies, and practical learning opportunities in communities where they are needed.

Implemented by the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI), Cebuana Aralan has launched three community and school libraries, donated more than 2,500 books, and distributed 764 school supply packs. It has also introduced the C Learning eLibrary App and digital library tablets with ebooks, giving students additional ways to access learning materials.

CLFI’s experience with the project has also reinforced the importance of collaboration. Cebuana Aralan works with local governments, NGOs, community leaders, educators, volunteers, scholars, and other partners to identify areas that can benefit from the program and better understand students’ needs. The project also brings together CLFI’s Inclusive Education and Financial Inclusion programs, complementing literacy efforts with financial education and practical knowledge.

“Education initiatives are most meaningful when they respond to the realities of the communities they serve. By working with local partners and listening to what learners need, we can bring resources closer to them and create opportunities that can make a practical difference in their everyday learning,” said Jo-Ann Tacorda, First Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Cebuana Lhuillier and Executive Director of CLFI.

As CLFI looks to expand Cebuana Aralan to more remote barangays nationwide, its goal remains to ensure that a child’s location does not determine their opportunities to learn. By bringing educational resources closer to underserved communities, the program helps children strengthen their skills, build confidence, and see greater possibilities for their future.

Music, Movement, and Local Talent Collide as LG xboom IDOL 2026 Rocks Iloilo

 

LG Electronics Philippines brought music, movement and local talent together as LG xboom IDOL 2026 made its Iloilo stop at Festive Walk Iloilo, giving aspiring Filipino singers and dancers a platform to showcase their skills in front of the local community. The Iloilo leg welcomed 14 registrants, with 11 semi-finalists advancing to the competition. Seven semi-finalists also came together for the opening production number, setting an energetic tone for a day celebrating music, performance and local talent.

Iloilo Talent Takes Center Stage

More than a competition, LG xboom IDOL 2026 gave emerging performers an opportunity to step onto the stage, connect with an audience and share their talent through music and dance.

After a series of performances, Idel Siaotong Navarro of Banate, Mark Anthony Layson of Bacolod and Jayne Raizel T. Sajulla of Molo emerged as the competition’s Top 3 finalists.

Following the final performances, Jayne Raizel T. Sajulla was named the Iloilo winner and Grand Finalist, earning an average score of 95.98 percent and securing her place in the next stage of the competition.

Winners Bring Home LG xboom Prizes

The competition brought added excitement through prizes designed to keep the music going beyond the stage. As part of the elimination-round prize mechanics, standout performers received an LG xboom Stage 501 with Php 5,000 in cash, while other selected performers took home an LG xboom Mini with Php 2,000 in cash. These same elimination-round prizes were also featured in the previously approved LG xboom IDOL releases for Tagbilaran, Davao, and Subic.

The journey to the national finals brings even bigger rewards. The 5th place winner will receive Php 10,000 and a 50-inch LG Nano UHD 4K Smart TV. The 3rd and 4th place winners will each receive Php 20,000 and a 50-inch LG Nano UHD 4K Smart TV, while the 2nd place winner will take home Php 50,000 and a 55-inch LG Nano UHD 4K Smart TV. The 1st place winner will receive Php 100,000 and a trip for two to Seoul, South Korea.

A Stage Built for Big Voices and Bigger Moments

At the heart of the LG xboom IDOL experience is the LG xboom Stage 501, a portable Bluetooth party speaker built around interactive, shared music experiences.

Its AI Karaoke Master can transform virtually any song into a karaoke track in real time without requiring dedicated karaoke tracks. Built-in AI Vocal Remover and Key Changer let users adjust vocals and pitch directly on the speaker or through the companion app, making it easier to turn everyday listening into a karaoke experience.

The LG xboom Stage 501 delivers up to 220 watts of output when plugged in and up to 160 watts on battery, along with up to 25 hours of battery life. Sound tuned by will.i.am, together with AI Sound and Space Calibration Pro, helps optimize audio based on the content and surrounding environment.

Its combination of powerful sound, AI-powered karaoke and long playtime makes the LG xboom Stage 501 a natural fit for karaoke nights, performances, parties and other music-led gatherings. LG positions the Stage 501 as the ideal party speaker for social gatherings, featuring AI Karaoke Master, Vocal Remover and Key Changer, up to 25 hours of playtime, and xboom Signature Sound by will.i.am.

Celebrating Music and Community

“Through LG xboom IDOL, we want to create more opportunities for aspiring performers to be seen, heard, and celebrated,” said Yongwoo Park, Media Solutions Product Director, LG Electronics Philippines. “It’s our way of bringing people closer to music while showing how LG xboom can make every performance feel more alive, more shared, and more memorable.” The Iloilo program was hosted by Ayumi Cassandra Zerrudo, with Matthew Edward Tiu, Monica Dipad and AG Constantino serving as judges.

Adding to the celebration, the SALOG Dance Troupe delivered a special intermission performance. Event attendees also had the opportunity to take part in the festivities through a raffle, with 10 LG xboom Minis given away during the program.

LG xboom IDOL 2026 Heads to Manila

LG xboom IDOL 2026 is set to conclude on November 7 at the SM MOA Music Hall, giving more aspiring singers and dancers the opportunity to step into the spotlight. Through LG xboom IDOL 2026, LG Electronics Philippines continues to bring its sound experience closer to Filipino music fans while creating opportunities for emerging performers to showcase their talents, foster community connections, and bring people together through music and shared experiences.