From Screen to Real Life: One Piece Lands in PH Malls with PLDT Home Promo

 The Great Pirate Era isn’t just streaming – it’s landing in real life. In the Philippines, the journey begins at select PLDT stores, complete with an exclusive one month free broadband promo when you apply for Fiber Netflix 1599

GMA actor Vince Maristela (center) joins content creators Klen Cos, Awie De Guzman, Cholo Tolentino, and Prince De Guzman (left to right) set sail as the Straw Hat crew, bringing the world of One Piece to life at the PLDT Store

 

With two successful seasons and a recently confirmed third one, One Piece on Netflix has transcended the screen. What started as a beloved manga and anime has become a global phenomenon, arriving just in time for summer, when the call to adventure feels impossible to ignore. The Great Pirate Era is here, and fans everywhere are answering it.

 

Across the world, One Piece has evolved into an “experience.” At the famed Netflix House Philadelphia, for instance, fans can step inside an escape room where teams of 6-12 race against time to uncover clues, solve puzzles, and find the hidden Devil Fruit through the show’s iconic locations.

 

If you’re dreaming of your own grand escape this summer – stepping onto the Going Merry or testing your mettle against the sea’s most notorious villains without having to fly to the States – you’re in luck. You can do all of that right in any of these real-life One Piece gimmicks and activations which are already making waves around the world.

 

For one, it’s no surprise that the birthplace of the series – Japan – offers the wildest experiences: from the towering life-sized statues in Kumamoto (the creator’s hometown) to the immersive Tokyo One Piece Tower (which long served as a pilgrimage site). Beyond these landmark installations, fans can also find themed cafes and pop-up events in Shibuya as if they’ve just walked into a panel of the manga.

Photo source: Klook

In Australia, the One Piece buzz has reached fever pitch with exclusive screenings and massive fan gatherings. Major cities have seen public installations that celebrate the show’s record-breaking viewership on Netflix. The One Plus Piece Cafe in Melbourne, for one, features a large-scale Tony Tony Chopper installation and series-themed memorabilia.

Photo source: One Plus Piece

 

But if all of that seems daunting – or downright expensive – you don’t need to cross the Red Line to join the adventure. Right here in the Philippines, home to one of the largest One Piece fandoms in the whole world, PLDT Home is transforming its physical stores into an immersive One Pieceexperience. It’s also the only telco in the country to bring this Netflix partnership to life.

 

Fans can head to select PLDT stores to see the world of the Grand Line come to life. For long-time readers of the manga and new fans of the Netflix live-action series alike, these store takeovers offer a chance to celebrate your fandom in real life.

And if you’re not yet a subscriber, you can also score a store and online exclusive deal! Apply for PLDT Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 (or Fiber Unli Plans 1699, 2099, and 2699) from March 15 to May 31, 2026, and set sail with ONE MONTH FREE BROADBAND (applied on your fourth month), a FREE Speed Boost, and FREE Installation with No Cash-Out to kick you off your journey the best way possible.

 

Visit the following locations for the experience:

 

● SM North EDSA

● SM Megamall

● SM Southmall

● SM Manila

● Ayala Fairview Terraces

● PLDT Jones

● SM Lipa

● SM Marilao

 

Stream One Piece: Into the Grand Line and enjoy more unli entertainment with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan – your all-in-one subscription for fast internet and premium entertainment. Apply today in-store or online atpldthome.com/one-piece-1MF and start your journey to becoming the King of the Pirates!

foodpanda PH Matches Tips Nationwide for Labor Day Under Panda-Malasakit Project

 This Labor Day on May 1, foodpanda Philippines is doubling the in-app tips received by their Ka-panda partner riders, as part of its ongoing efforts to provide added support amid rising daily costs.

Rolled out nationwide, the initiative encourages customers to show appreciation through tipping, with foodpanda matching each tip to amplify its impact– and 100% of tips going to riders. It also emphasizes the vital role riders play in connecting communities—delivering not just food, but convenience and care to households across the country.

“Our partner riders are the backbone of our business, and on Labor Day, we want their rewards to reflect their resilience," said Patricia Jacinto, growth and marketing director of foodpanda Philippines. "By doubling tips, we are joining forces with our customers to ensure that every Ka-panda feels the full weight of the country’s gratitude. In the face of rising costs, we aren't just moving food—we’re moving forward together."

This initiative is part of the Panda-Malasakit Project, a purpose-driven campaign that brings together efforts designed to support riders, customers, and partners during a time of rising costs. Built on the idea that every order can create impact, it combines matched tipping and on-ground initiatives to support riders, customers, and partners across the foodpanda ecosystem.

As foodpanda continues to roll out more initiatives under the project, the company remains committed to strengthening its support for riders and the communities it serves.

Empowering Filipinas through menopause and muscle health

 Across generations, Filipinas have been the quiet strength holding families and communities together. They are the mothers who rise before dawn for their families, the daughters caring for aging parents, and the professionals balancing demanding careers with life at home. In every role, Filipinas show resilience—constantly enduring, giving, and caring.

Yet one essential form of strength often goes unnoticed: muscle health – the physical foundation that allows women to move freely, stay independent, and live life fully. As women enter menopause, this foundation is quietly challenged. Understanding how menopause affects muscle health can empower women to take intentional, proactive steps to remain strong through midlife and beyond.

Understanding the change

Menopause marks a significant life transition for women. It is a natural biological process signaling the end of menstrual cycles and typically unfolds in three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause. Each woman’s experience is unique, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. 

This transition is primarily driven by a natural decline in estrogen, a hormone that affects many systems in the body¹—including muscles.² Estrogen helps maintain muscle mass and strength by supporting tendons, ligaments, and the repair of muscle tissue.² When estrogen levels drop, women may notice: 

 

·        Reduced muscle mass and strength³

·        Slower recovery after activity

·        Lower energy levels, and

·        Increased risks for osteoporosis and cardiovascular conditions.⁴

“While these changes are normal, they do not have to limit a woman’s quality of life. Midlife is a critical window for women to prioritize their muscle health. By intentionally building and maintaining strength during this stage, women can protect their independence, mobility, and overall quality of life. Strength-building remains valuable at every stage, even long after the reproductive years,” said Dr. Rowena Auxillos, former President of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society.

 

Building strength through daily habits

Women typically reach menopause at an average age of 48, often accompanied by symptoms such as headaches, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and joint discomfort.⁵ While these symptoms can feel overwhelming, these are also gentle reminders to invest in one’s health. 

 

Here are practical habits every woman can adopt:

 

Daily movement. Because metabolism naturally slows during menopause, staying active is crucial.⁶ Simple exercises—like walking, morning stretches, or dancing—can offer meaningful benefits for muscle maintenance and mood. 

Resistance training. Resistance or strength training is the most effective way to rebuild and protect muscle mass.⁷ This can include using free weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups. Just two to three sessions a week can make a noticeable difference.

 

A nutritious diet. Protein-rich foods help repair and build muscles. Aim for 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily.⁸ Great options include eggs, lean meats, and dairy like milk, yoghurt and cheese.⁹ Plant-based foods such as edamame, dried fruits, tofu or sesame and flax seeds are high in phytoestrogens, which help ease menopausal symptoms by mimicking estrogen’s effects.¹⁰

 

Additionally, foods rich in calcium and vitamin D—like sardines, salmon, mackerel, tuna, and leafy greens—also support bone health, which becomes increasingly important during this life stage.¹¹

 

Supportive supplements. Incorporating clinically proven nutrients into daily diet can improve muscle mass and overall resilience. For example, Ensure Gold contains CaHMB (Calcium β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate) which supports muscle repair and maintains muscle mass, and YBG (Yeast Beta Glucan) which helps strengthen immunity within four weeks, when combined with proper diet and exercise.

 

Quality sleep. A study has shown that 40% of women in their late 40s and early 50s experience sleep difficulties.¹²To improve sleep quality, avoid caffeine and alcohol near bedtime and focus on establishing a regular nighttime schedule. Good sleep supports both muscle recovery and emotional balance.

 

“From a medical nutrition perspective, muscle health cannot be supported by physical activity alone—particularly during and after menopause. During this transition, women’s nutritional needs increase at a time when appetite and nutrient absorption may decline. Without adequate intake of high‑quality protein and essential micronutrients, muscle loss can accelerate. Clinically formulated nutritional supplements such as Ensure Gold are designed to help address these nutritional gaps, supporting muscle mass and functional strength as women age,” said Dr. Gamaliel Tayao, Abbott’s head of medical affairs in the Philippines.

 

Midlife is not about slowing down—it is an opportunity to refocus on strength that supports everyday living. When women are informed and proactive about muscle health, they are better equipped to grow into stronger, healthier versions of themselves.

The New Diskarte: How Filipino Moms Are Using AI to Grow Their Businesses

Gemini Academy attendees gather around for a collaborative, hands-on activity. During the session, participants explored how to integrate various Google AI tools into their daily operations to elevate their local businesses.

For years, the conversation around empowering women has centered on one word: access. We talked about access to education, the internet, and the global marketplace. But as the world changes, so does the definition of being "connected."

Today, a new digital divide is emerging. It isn't just about who has an internet connection. It's about who knows how to use and maximize the digital tools at their disposal. As artificial intelligence (AI) begins to reshape how we work, learn, and grow our businesses, the goal is shifting.

It’s no longer enough just to be online. To truly thrive, women need the skills and confidence to lead in an AI-driven world.

Moving Beyond the Connection

Through a collaboration between PLDT Home’s Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) and Google, the second Gemini Academy for mompreneurs was recently held to bridge this gap. Building on last year’s introduction to AI, the program focused on practical use, showing participants how AI can support their businesses and help them stay competitive in a fast-changing digital landscape. It also encouraged women to become #maAIdiskartemom, embracing innovation by using AI tools.

While "AI" can sometimes sound like a complicated term reserved for tech experts, Gemini Academy is proving that these tools are actually for everyone. Most especially for mompreneurs who are balancing their family life and work, while looking to reach more customers. AI is a partner that helps get things done faster and more creatively.

Cheryl Maxine P. Loyola, AVP & Head, PLDT Home Marketing PR and Brand Advocacy 

“AI is no longer limited to large enterprises. It is for everyone, and we need to embrace it. Today, it goes beyond being a tool. It becomes a partner that helps you write product descriptions in seconds, respond to customers with confidence, create content, and support your day-to-day operations,” said Cheryl Maxine Loyola, AVP and Head of Public Relations and Brand Advocacy at PLDT Home.

“When you put tools like Gemini in the hands of women who are already 'madiskarte', you do more than improve productivity. You unlock potential.”

Tools for the Modern Filipina

The Gemini Academy has always focused on making technology approachable. It also recognizes the efforts of mompreneurs who have leveraged AI to grow their businesses, such as mom ambassadors Princess Alvarez of ISLA Everything Accessories and Jenielyn Sicabalo-Nieva of MP Nieva's Flower Shop. 

Princess successfully built a custom pricing calculator and business tracker from scratch with the help of Gemini. This gives her a real-time view of her business profitability without a technical background. Jenielyn also utilized Gemini to do deep research into bouquet trends and innovative "add-on" gift ideas. This keeps her up to date on the latest market trends, so she can consistently offer fresh gift ideas to customers.

These stories reflect a broader shift in how Filipino women are redefining entrepreneurship in the digital age.

Daphne Gripal Abello, Manager, PLDT Home Marketing PR and Brand Advocacy

 

“What we’re seeing today is a new kind of ‘diskarte’—one where Filipina entrepreneurs are not just adopting technology, but using AI to lead, innovate, and scale their businesses with confidence, and ultimately lead their own success story,” said Daphne Gripal Abello, Manager, PLDT Home Marketing PR and Brand Advocacy.

During this year’s Gemini Academy with PLDT Home’s MMPH, participants discovered how other innovative Google products can simplify their day-to-day business tasks, such as NotebookLM, which serves as their personal assistant, helping organize notes, understand complex documents, and brainstorm ideas. Music generator Lyria and AI image editor Nano Banana can open up new worlds of creativity, helping users explore music and media in ways once possible only with expensive equipment. While AI marketing tool Pomelli is designed to help streamline tasks and improve how they interact with digital information.

Through digital mastery, women are moving from learning the basics to dominating the digital space. They are now finding ways to automate information so they can focus on what they are passionate about

Participants proudly share their work following the hands-on activity. They demonstrated how quickly mompreneurs can supercharge their brands and craft compelling, professional stories using Google AI tools. 

Celebrating the "Diskarteng AI"

The mission doesn't stop at training. Empowerment also means recognition. During the program, it was announced that next year’s Gawad Madiskarte, the annual awards ceremony of PLDT Home’s MMPH that honors the grit and ingenuity of Filipina entrepreneurs, will include the Diskarteng Digital Award.

This category will honor women who have successfully integrated AI into their businesses, demonstrating that "diskarte" today is about more than just hard work—it's about being innovative and creative with the best available technology. 

Prep Palacios, Google Philippines Country Manager.

"The award will recognize the mompreneur who can best leverage AI to scale her business. We want to show that a modern Filipina entrepreneur is not just a participant, but a leader in the global digital landscape. This is our way of celebrating your growth and AI mindset," said Prep Palacios, Google Philippines Country Manager.

Why This Matters Now

If we don’t prioritize AI literacy for women today, we risk leaving them out of the most important economic conversations of tomorrow. Empowerment is about having a seat at the table, and in 2026, it’s all about maximizing digital potential.

By turning connectivity into capability, PLDT Home’s MMPH and Gemini Academy are ensuring that Filipino women aren't just spectators in the tech revolution. They are the ones leading it. It’s time to move beyond just getting online. It’s time to take charge.

To know more about PLDT Home’s Madiskarte Moms PH, join the Facebook community and follow the official page.

CCIP Launches “CCIP Brief” to Boost Transparency and Member Engagement

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) proudly introduces the CCIP Brief, its official quarterly report designed to provide members and stakeholders with a clear and structured update on the Chamber’s key activities, engagements, and advocacy efforts.

The inaugural CCIP Brief: Q1 2026 Edition highlights the Chamber’s ongoing work across regulatory collaboration, industry consultations, strategic partnerships, and member-focused initiatives. It reflects CCIP’s continued commitment to representing the interests of the Philippine cosmetics industry while supporting both compliance and sustainable growth.

Through engagements with government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), CCIP plays an active role in shaping policies and addressing key industry concerns. 

“The CCIP Brief is part of our commitment to transparency and alignment with our members,” said Denice Sy, CCIP’s VP for Information Publication and Public Affairs. “It allows us to clearly communicate what the Chamber has been doing on behalf of the industry and how these efforts translate into value for CCIP members.”

The quarterly report also captures the Chamber’s participation in regional platforms, including its role within the ASEAN Cosmetics Association (ACA), further strengthening access to cross-border insights, networks, and opportunities.

Moving forward, the CCIP Brief will be released every quarter as a key communication platform. This ensures members stay informed, engaged, and represented in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.

 

For more information, visit CCIP’s official website cciphilippinesinc.com or contact the Secretariat ccipsecretariat@gmail.com

HONOR 600 Surfaces at Miss Universe PH 2026 Pre-Pageant

Is HONOR 600 launching at Miss Universe PH 2026 Coronation Night?

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has once again stirred excitement after the upcoming HONOR 600 was spotted during a pre-coronation shoot for Miss Universe Philippines 2026—fueling speculation about the collaboration between the tech brand and the prestigious national pageant. 

Eagle-eyed fans caught glimpses of the sleek new device in the hands of select candidates, marking its first public appearance ahead of HONOR's official announcement. 

 

“The partnership with Miss Universe Philippines 2026 further underscores HONOR’s dedication to celebrating confidence, creativity, and individuality—values that resonate strongly with both the brand and the pageant’s empowered community,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. 

 

The HONOR 600 is expected to raise the bar in smartphone photography and intelligent performance. Building on HONOR’s continued innovation in AI technology, the device is rumored to feature next-generation AI imaging capabilities, enabling users to capture stunning, professional-quality content effortlessly—whether on stage, behind the scenes, or on the go. 

 

More details about the HONOR 600, including its full specifications, pricing, and availability in the Philippines, will be unveiled soon. In the meantime, HONOR and Miss Universe PH fans can win a brand-new HONOR 600 by just voting for their Miss Universe Philippines 2026 here (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EaA1yWgLR/). 

 

To learn more about this exciting news, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines),Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

AirAsia Philippines Issues Updated Advisory on Gadgets and Power Banks

  AirAsia has reinforced its commitment to passenger safety with updated and clarified guidelines on the carriage and use of portable electronic devices (PEDs), including stricter policies on power banks across all flights.

To further mitigate safety risks, AirAsia has emphasized that power banks shall be treated separately from spare batteries. Each guest is allowed to carry a maximum of two power banks, with a capacity not exceeding 100Wh per unit. 

Power banks must be mandatorily stored properly either in the seat pocket or under the seat, and are strictly prohibited in overhead compartments or checked baggage. Any damaged or defective units may be confiscated by airport authorities for safety reasons.

Guidelines for Other Portable Electronic Devices

Electronic devices such as watches, calculators, cameras, mobile phones, laptops, and camcorders remain allowed onboard. Devices powered by lithium or lithium-ion batteries exceeding 100Wh but not more than 160Wh may be carried for personal use, subject to airline approval.

Meanwhile, spare or loose batteries must be carried in cabin baggage only and individually protected to prevent short circuits.

E-cigarettes and self-balancing battery-powered devices also remain strictly prohibited in checked baggage.

For a full guide on electronic device and battery safety, guests may visit the official AirAsia website for AirAsia Flights: Carriage of Portable Electronic Devices (PED).

Cheesy, Anghang, and XTRA BIG: PAYLESS Serves It Hot

Finding a snack or meal that’s both filling and flavorful without breaking the bank can feel like a rare win. This is why Payless XTRA BIG is giving you more reasons to celebrate with its newest flavor, Chili Cheese. 

This new flavor provides a perfect combination of swabeng anghang from chili, and linamnam from cheddar cheese, creating a “Cheesy-Anghang Sarap” experience. Inspired by the viral international flavor pairing, Payless XTRA BIG makes indulgence accessible, all in a sulit package that delivers generous portions where you get MORE but pay less.

Cheesy-Anghang Sarap That Gives You More

At the heart of Payless XTRA BIG Chili Cheese is its signature balance of swabeng anghang and cheddar-namnam, a combination that delivers the perfect “Cheesy-Anghang Sarap” in every bite. It’s a flavor experience at a price that stays true to everyday value.

For just Php 17.75 SRP, noodle lovers truly get more: more flavor, more satisfaction, and more sulit with every pack. With its “extra big” serving at 128g, Payless XTRA BIG proves that you don’t have to spend more to enjoy a filling and flavorful snack.

The new Payless XTRA Big Chili Cheese brings in “Cheesy-Anghang Sarap” in one sulit package

International Flavor, Everyday Value

Payless XTRA BIG Chili Cheese is for those who want a premium taste experience on a budget. Whether it’s for a quick merienda or a late-night snack during a gaming session, the new variant offers a rich, spicy-cheesy experience that is perfect for sharing or solo snacking.

Alongside Chili Cheese, fans can also explore other favorite variants under the Payless XTRA BIG line such as Xtra Hot, Kalamansi, Chilimansi, Sweet & Spicy, and Original, each delivering its own unique flavor punch. 

Try the new Payless XTRA BIG Chili Cheese. It’s available in stores and supermarkets nationwide.