Musikwela’s five new episodes bring Filipino values to family viewing

The songs children sing, the characters they imitate, and the stories they ask to watch again become familiar parts of family life. For parents looking for Filipino content to share with their little ones, Musikwela offers a cast of puppet friends whose adventures explore respect, kindness, creativity, and caring for others.

This November, the online children’s show will introduce five new 30-minute episodes for National Children’s Month. Expect stories about making grandparents feel appreciated, building friendships, understanding differences, preparing for emergencies, and protecting nature—all presented through music, storytelling, puppetry, and animation.

The episodes are co-produced by Ideasquest, Inc. and the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT), an attached agency of the Department of Education.

It began with a mother’s concern

Musikwela’s beginnings will sound familiar to parents who pay attention to the habits their children pick up from friends.

In 2014, founder and executive director Ellen Estrada noticed that her daughter’s classmates were no longer saying “po” and “opo.” It made her think about the children her daughter, Yumi, would grow up with—and what she could do to encourage these expressions of respect.

“I somehow felt alarmed. Sila kasi ang mga kasabay ni Yumi paglaki. This thought lingered for some time, then I finally decided to do something about it. I know I can write stories and make music. With our company, I have the resources that I need, so I just went to work and made a song about Po and Opo.”

As creative director and head of advertising boutique agency and animation studio Ideasquest, Inc., Estrada had the resources to turn her idea into a song. According to Musikwela, “Po at Opo” eventually reached 3.4 million views, while “Ang Bagong Alpabetong Filipino” reached 4.7 million.

The project grew to include stories about Filipino values, love for God and country, and respect for oneself, other people, and the environment. Since 2017, Musikwela has served as a resource for parents, teachers, and other educators, with its online content becoming particularly relevant during pandemic learning.

Meet your child’s new viewing companions

Musikwela is hosted by Ate Yumi and three puppets: Potpot, Lala, and Biboy. Together, they are known as the Musikscouts, or Musikwela Scouts.

Ate Yumi is played by Estrada’s daughter, Yumi Sansano. A multi-medalist at the 2019 World Championship of Performing Arts in Los Angeles, she earned the Champion of the World for Opera title in the Junior Division. She was also a Season 1 host of PTV 4’s children’s program Artsy Craftsy.

Each puppet has interests that young viewers may recognize in themselves.

Eight-year-old Potpot is a cheerful red, furry puppet who loves playing the guitar, which he learned from his lolo. He believes music can tell stories and bring people together. His dog, Pawpaw, joins him on many adventures.

Lala, the six-year-old pink, furry puppet, loves drawing and painting. Thoughtful and empathetic, she uses her imagination to make ordinary things colorful and meaningful. She also believes that caring should be shown through actions.

Five-year-old Biboy is the biggest but youngest of the three puppets. He enjoys gardening, looking after plants, tinkering, and experimenting with his discoveries.

Together with Ate Yumi, the characters encourage children to explore their interests and express themselves confidently.

What families can expect from the five episodes

The upcoming stories give parents several starting points for conversations with their children. Each episode explores its subject through a situation the Musikscouts experience together.

Grandparents’ Day: Showing Lolo and Lola they are loved

The Musikscouts are busy thinking of ways to make their grandparents feel special. As they prepare for Grandparents’ Day, the story explores gratitude, respect for elders, and the important role grandparents play in Filipino families.

For families watching together, this could lead to a simple question: “What would you like to do for Lolo or Lola?” A drawing, a song, or time spent together could be a child’s own way of responding to the story.

Campout Day: Learning from a new friend

When Potpot’s dog, Pawpaw, goes missing, the Musikscouts head out to find him with help from their new Aeta friend, Kuya JR.

Their adventure introduces them to the Philippines’ diverse Indigenous Peoples, cultures, traditions, and languages. Kuya JR’s knowledge and skills become essential to their journey, giving young viewers a story about learning from someone whose experiences may differ from their own.

Parents can use the episode to ask children what they learned from Kuya JR and which part of the adventure made them curious.

Talent Show: Confidence, friendship, and understanding differences

Shy Kiko finds the courage to share his singing voice with encouragement from the Musikscouts. Meanwhile, Lala connects with Gelo, a talented young artist with autism, through their shared love of painting.

With guidance from Best Buddies Philippines, Lala learns about Gelo’s sensory needs and discovers how friendship grows through empathy, acceptance, and making room for one another’s differences.

The story offers families a chance to discuss how children can encourage a hesitant friend and listen to what another person needs to feel comfortable.

Emergency Drill: Knowing what to do

The Musikscouts help Chuchay understand why it is important to prepare for fires, earthquakes, storms, and floods. Ate Yumi also explains how the Philippines’ location makes it particularly exposed to typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Practical lessons and teamwork introduce the importance of preparation, knowing what to do, and staying calm. After watching, parents can use the story to begin a conversation about their own family’s emergency plans.

Care for Mother Nature: Taking responsibility for our surroundings

A trip to the wetlands to see migratory birds becomes a chance for the Musikscouts to help clean and protect the area.

They learn about proper waste segregation, reducing, reusing, and recycling, and the role mangroves play in protecting and sustaining the environment.

The episode gives families a starting point for talking about how they handle waste at home and which everyday items they can reuse.

Watching together, then taking the conversation further

Estrada hopes Musikwela becomes something parents and children actively share.

“Technology is now a big part of our lives. There are also different parenting styles. I hope Musikwela becomes a family activity, where parents watch it together with their children. I also hope it will spark a child’s curiosity so that they will ask questions to their parents about the episode, do the same craft activity they saw on the show, or sing the songs together,” she says.

Before the five new episodes, Musikwela had already produced 13 videos, including animated songs and the documentary Ang Bayani at Ang Kanyang Sandok, which tells the story of food chemist and war heroine Maria Orosa.

The documentary received Best Documentary and Most Child-Friendly Documentary in the Adult Division of the NCCT’s 2023 DokyuBata Film Festival. It also earned the Special Jury Citation for Educational Documentary for Children at Baguio’s Montañosa Film Festival’s Pelik Ubbing.

Musikwela’s recent media launch took place at VS Cinema in Victoria Sports Tower 2, Quezon City, with support from Ceelin Gummies, Ceelin Immunped, Appebon, Allerkid, White Rabbit Philippines, Wildfire, Inc., Shop N Play, and Kontrata.ph.

Where to watch

The five new 30-minute episodes will be available this November on Musikwela’s Facebook, website, and YouTube. Families can also follow its Instagram and TikTok accounts.

For your next viewing session with the kids, get to know Ate Yumi and the Musikscouts. Then leave a little time for the questions, songs, or drawings your child wants to share afterward.

 

HONOR 600S takes part in an exciting entertainment collaboration with Studio Viva

Global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines has partnered with Studio Viva for a new entertainment-driven campaign ahead of the highly anticipated launch of the HONOR 600S in the Philippines.

As part of the collaboration, HONOR and Studio Viva are introducing “The CEO’s New Jowa,” a drama reel starring Guji Lorenzana and Krissha Viaje. The series premieres on October 1, 2026, coinciding with the official launch of the HONOR 600S.

Blending romance and drama, The CEO’s New Jowa offers audiences an engaging story while organically showcasing the HONOR 600S. Select scenes in the drama reel were captured using the device, giving viewers a glimpse of its imaging capabilities as part of the narrative experience.

The partnership reflects HONOR Philippines’ commitment to connecting with young professionals, content creators, and digitally engaged consumers through innovative campaigns that merge technology, entertainment, and creativity.

“We’re excited to partner with Studio Viva to introduce the HONOR 600S in a fresh and engaging way,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. “Through The CEO’s New Jowa, we’re giving audiences an entertaining story while giving them a glimpse of the HONOR 600S and what it can bring to their own creative experience.”

Catch the drama reel “The CEO’s New Jowa” on October 1, 2026, on HONOR Philippines’ social media pages, alongside the official launch of the HONOR 600S. Additional details, including pricing, availability, and other launch offers, will be revealed soon.

Watch the HONOR 600S grand launch here: https://bit.ly/H600S_GrandLaunch_PR.

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. #HONOR600S #AnythingIsPossible #HONORPhilippines #HONOR600Series

Dodjie Simon Brings OPM Album ‘Best of All’ to 2027 GRAMMY® Consideration

 

Songs have a way of staying with us long after we forget who wrote them. For many OPM listeners, Elzar “Dodjie” Simon’s work has been part of that soundtrack through “Ikaw Lamang,” “Can Find No Reason,” and “Kung Alam Mo Lang.”

Now, the award-winning Filipino songwriter is bringing his music to a wider stage. His seven-track album, Best of All (The Music of Dodjie Simon), has been submitted for consideration at the 69th Annual GRAMMY®  Awards, along with two of its recordings.

Released on August 11, Best of All features four-part vocal arrangements and a team of Philippine music talents led by Simon and choral conductor Joel Navarro, who produced the album together.

Four GRAMMY®  category submissions

The album has been submitted for Best Global Music Album and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. “Ikaw Lamang” has been entered for Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals, while “Kulang Ang Paleta” has been entered for Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella.

These are submissions for consideration. The nominees will be announced on November 16, 2026.

The voices and musicians behind ‘Best of All’

The album brings together Moy OrtBesiz, artistic director of The CompanY, Nica Tupas, Bianca Lopez-Aguila, and Joshua Cadeliña.

One of its featured recordings, “Kulang Ang Paleta,” unites a melody by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab with Tagalog lyrics by Simon. Navarro created its four-part a cappella arrangement.

Simon also returns to one of his best-known songs, “Ikaw Lamang,” in an updated rendition accompanied by cellist Francisco Llorin and oboist Japs Bautista.

Recording engineer Martin Andrew Guevara and GRAMMY® -winning mastering engineer Jett Galindo handled the album’s technical production, with keyboard contributions from Marvin Querido. Galindo’s credits include Gaby Moreno’s X Mí [Vol. 1].

“Participating in the GRAMMY® consideration process is a privilege that allows us to demonstrate how Philippine songwriting, choral arranging, and vocal performance hold a rightful place on the global recording stage,” said Simon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DaNRKRfILw

A songwriting career that spans OPM generations

Simon won the 1988 KBP MusicFest Grand Prize for “Isang Dugo, Isang Lahi, Isang Musika.” He followed it with the 1997 Asia Song Festival Grand Prize in Hong Kong with Jaya and the 1999 Metropop Song Festival Grand Prize with Lani Misalucha.

His songs include “Ikaw Lamang,” recorded by Zsa Zsa Padilla, Janno Gibbs, and Jaya; “Can Find No Reason,” recorded by Louie Heredia; and “Kung Alam Mo Lang,” recorded by Joanne Lorenzana and Jed Madela.

Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Sharon Cuneta, and Sarah Geronimo are also among the artists who have recorded his work.

Outside music, Simon has built an international career in technology. An Industrial Engineering graduate and Distinguished Alumnus of the University of the Philippines College of Engineering, he has served as Chief Information Officer for P&O Ports, Asian Terminals, Maher Terminals, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in the Philippines. He was also Vice President for IT at AIG near Wall Street and is now a Senior IT Director at a multibillion-dollar research university in New York.

Simon is the author of AI Hacked and AI Hacked 2. He has lectured at institutions including Harvard University and at financial and corporate forums, is a member of The Authors Guild, and has completed executive training at MIT, Oxford, Cornell, and Boston University.

First-round GRAMMY® voting is scheduled for October 12 to 22, 2026. The nominees will be announced on November 16, ahead of the 69th Annual GRAMMY®  Awards on February 7, 2027, in Los Angeles.

PLDT Volleyball Stars Bring Energy and Fun to Peñafrancia

Fresh off their PVL Invitational Conference bronze win, Alleiah Malaluan and Joan Monares celebrate with Nagueños at the city’s biggest festival

PLDT High Speed Hitters Alleiah Malaluan and Joan Monares pay a courtesy call to Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo at the Peñafrancia Festival

Fresh from their Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference 2026 bronze finish, PLDT High Speed Hitters outside hitters Alleiah Malaluan and Joan Monares recently brought their energy to Naga City as they joined the celebration of this year’s Peñafrancia Festival.

The annual celebration drew around 1.2 million devotees to Camarines Sur in a vibrant display of faith, culture, and Bicolano pride. For Malaluan and Monares, the festivities came on the heels of a grueling conference where PLDT powered their way to a milestone bronze finish. This is the team’s second podium finish in the league’s flagship conference, following their gold last year.

Malaluan and Monares traded hard hits and high-pressure rallies for the warmth of Naga, taking the opportunity to recharge, soak in the festivities, and connect with the fans who continue to rally behind the team.

PLDT High Speed Hitters’ Alleiah Malaluan and Joan Monares join the vibrant celebrations at the Peñafrancia Festival in Naga City following their PVL bronze medal win

Highlighting the athletes’ visit was a courtesy call with Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo and local government officials, alongside meet-and-greet sessions that brought them up close and personal with the passionate local sports community.

For former De La Salle University Lady Spiker Malaluan, the Bicol getaway provided an emotional and spiritual reset before heading on to the next tournament.

"After such an intense Invitational Conference, our visit in Naga City became such a special breather for us," shared Malaluan. "Feeling the love of the Nagueño fans at Peñafrancia reminded us why we play the game. Seeing everyone united in celebration gives us a whole new wave of energy as we reset and get ready to fight even harder in the next conference."

Monares, who just won her first medal as a professional player following her stint as captain of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, also reflected on experiencing the festival spirit.

"The energy in Naga was amazing – it was so full of life!" Monares said. "Connecting with the community during Peñafrancia was an incredible experience. Off the court, downtime with the team and connecting with fans who support us from afar is what keeps us grounded."

Performers fill the streets during the annual Peñafrancia Festival celebration in Camarines Sur

PLDT Home continues its mission to bring ultra-fast, reliable connectivity closer to Nagueño homes, ensuring Filipino families and sports fans stay effortlessly connected.

And just as the PLDT High Speed Hitters rely on seamless execution on court, Filipino homes deserve seamless digital experiences for work, play, and entertainment.

PLDT Home brings reliable connectivity closer to festivalgoers with dedicated activity booths throughout the Peñafrancia Festival celebrations.

Sports and streaming fans can upgrade their home entertainment setup with the PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1499. Designed to deliver maximum value for every family, the plan includes Unli Fiber speeds of up to 200 Mbps, unlimited landline-to-landline calls, and landline-to-mobile calls to five nominated Smart or TNT numbers, plus unli entertainment access featuring Cignal TV, HBO Max (Standard subscription), and 9GB of Smart Data.

As a special offer, Naga City residents can switch to PLDT Home Fiber until December 31, 2026 and enjoy a limited-time offer of 50% off their monthly bill for the first 6 months. They can also enjoy free installation, saving up to P3,600.

When Your Son Is in the Headlines: Tony La Viña Explains Loren Legarda’s Side

Being a mother does not end when your child becomes an adult.

You will worry about them, defend them when you believe they are being treated unfairly, celebrate their successes and probably still remind them about things they should already know how to do.

But when your child is already an adult with his own career, businesses and decisions, how much of what he does should still be attributed to his mother?

That question came to mind during a recent lunch with Dean Antonio Gabriel “Tony” La Viña, spokesperson for Senator Loren Legarda, as he discussed the allegations involving the senator and her son, Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste.

Much has already been said about the controversy surrounding Leviste’s renewable-energy businesses. There have been allegations involving unfinished solar projects, renewable-energy service contracts, billions of pesos in alleged financial obligations and questions about why Legarda herself has been included in the controversy.

With so many numbers, accusations and political statements being shared online, it has become increasingly difficult for an ordinary reader to understand what is actually being alleged.

La Viña presented the Legarda-Leviste side of the story.

His position regarding the senator herself could hardly have been more direct.

“Yung nanay niya has nothing to do with the business except that she’s a mother,” La Viña said.

It is an important distinction, but also one that deserves context.

La Viña is Legarda’s spokesperson and part of her legal team. The statements he made during our conversation represent their defense and explanation of the controversy. They should therefore be understood as their account of events, rather than conclusions about matters that remain disputed.

A mother and her adult son

One of the easiest assumptions to make is that because Legarda is Leviste’s mother, she must somehow have been involved in his renewable-energy businesses.

La Viña disputes that.

According to him, Legarda had no role in those businesses beyond being Leviste’s mother.

That distinction is especially worth remembering when dealing with adult children.

Leviste is no longer a young man starting a business under his mother’s supervision. He is an adult, businessman and elected member of Congress whose commercial decisions can be examined separately from those of his mother.

Whether allegations involving Legarda herself have merit is a question for the appropriate proceedings. La Viña’s argument is narrower: the mother-son relationship by itself should not be treated as proof that Legarda participated in her son’s business activities.

But understanding his defense also requires understanding what these controversial solar projects actually were.

What exactly is a service contract?

This was perhaps the most useful part of our conversation because the term “service contract” can easily give people the wrong impression.

According to La Viña, the renewable-energy projects being discussed were funded by private investment, not by government money released to Leviste.

“No government funds were used,” was his position.

He explained that renewable-energy service contracts involve exploration and development. Investors put their own money at risk while determining whether projects can proceed.

“Risk yun, all the risk is with the investor,” he said.

That means receiving a service contract does not necessarily mean that a completed solar power facility will eventually emerge from it.

Some projects proceed. Some do not.

And La Viña cautioned against automatically treating every unsuccessful project as evidence of a crime.

“Kung sasabihin mo na plunder every time an investor is not able to go to the next stage, wala nang mag-i-invest sa Pilipinas. Why would you?”

At the same time, he did not claim that investors could simply abandon projects without consequences.

La Viña acknowledged that projects that fail to proceed can carry financial obligations.

“Merong ibang hindi nag-succeed. Kung hindi ka mag-succeed, meron kang financial obligations na kailangan i-fulfill.”

According to La Viña, Leviste had approximately P92 million in such financial obligations, which he said had already been paid.

“May resibo kami diyan,” he said.

That is quite different from saying there were no obligations at all.

So where did P10 billion and P24 billion come from?

This is another part of the controversy that can become confusing very quickly.

La Viña strongly disputes the suggestion that Leviste personally owes either amount.

“Kahit anong baliktad-baliktad mo, walang twenty-four billion or even ten billion that Leandro Leviste owes. Walang ganun.”

According to La Viña, the P24-billion demand being discussed was addressed to SPNEC. By the time of the letter he was referring to, he said MGen, or Meralco Generation Company, was already SPNEC’s controlling majority shareholder.

“Pag titignan mo yung letter, the letter is issued to Mr. Emmanuel Rubio of SPNEC, na ngayon ay majority-owned na by MGen.”

La Viña also rejected the characterization that Leviste simply acquired solar projects and later “flipped” them.

“Hindi siya flip,” he said.

He described SPNEC’s development with MGen as a joint venture, with MGen subsequently becoming the majority owner.

Again, these are specific assertions from the Legarda-Leviste camp. But they are also assertions that can be checked against documents—which is exactly what La Viña says people should do.

What happened to the Solar Para sa Bayan franchise?

Another source of confusion is the tendency to lump the Solar Para sa Bayan franchise together with the renewable-energy service contracts.

La Viña says they are different matters.

According to him, the Solar Para sa Bayan franchise granted by Congress was non-exclusive.

“Merong franchise, yung Solar ng Bayan na franchise, na binigay ng Kongreso. [It is] non-exclusive.”

He said its implementation required the Department of Energy to issue rules and regulations and identify areas where the franchise could operate.

La Viña claims those steps were not completed.

He further said that because the franchise was not implemented, it was automatically revoked two years after its approval.

He also disputed claims that the franchise was subsequently sold.

“May resibo ako na hindi ’yun nabenta ever to anyone,” La Viña said. “Revoked na kasi yung franchise.”

Ask for the receipts

There was one line from our lunch that stayed with me.

“Humingi naman kayo ng resibo. Kami, may resibo kami.”

Ask for the receipts.

It is useful advice whether you agree with La Viña or remain skeptical of his explanations.

Because there is a difference between an allegation and an established fact. There is also a difference between defending someone because you like them and examining whether the evidence actually supports what is being said about them.

The same standard should apply to the defense.

La Viña says the financial obligations were paid? Show the receipts.

He says the P24-billion letter was addressed to SPNEC after MGen became its controlling shareholder? Check the letter and the ownership records.

He says the franchise was never sold? Check the corporate documents.

He says Legarda had no involvement in her son’s renewable-energy businesses? Examine the evidence concerning Legarda herself.

La Viña himself invited that scrutiny.

“For those na hindi naniniwala o skeptical, I ask lang for an open mind,” he said. “Humingi naman kayo ng resibo. Kami, may resibo kami.”

For a mother, seeing your child’s name dragged through controversy must be difficult, regardless of how old that child is. The instinct to worry does not disappear simply because your son is already capable of making decisions for himself.

But neither should motherhood make a woman automatically accountable for every business decision her adult son makes.

That is ultimately the distinction La Viña wants people to consider when discussing Legarda and Leviste. Whatever questions need to be answered about Leviste’s renewable-energy ventures should be answered by the people responsible for those ventures. And if there are allegations against Legarda herself, then those allegations should stand on evidence of what she did—not simply on the fact that she is his mother.

There will undoubtedly be more statements, accusations and rebuttals as the controversy continues. For now, perhaps the fairest thing we can do is resist turning family relationships into conclusions.

A mother can stand beside her son.

That does not automatically mean she stood behind his business.

TCL Philippines Expands Gaming Display Portfolio with Two New High-Performance Gaming Monitors

 TCL Philippines, the country’s No. 1 Panel TV brand and a global leader in home electronics, is expanding its display portfolio with two new high-performance gaming monitors: the TCL 27P2A and 25P1AD. Built on TCL’s longstanding expertise in display technology, the new models combine speed, picture quality, and responsive performance at competitive price points, giving more Filipino gamers access to advanced display experiences.

Since officially entering the Philippine monitor market earlier this year, TCL has continued to expand its offering for gamers, professionals and consumers whose screens have become an increasingly important part of how they work, play and create. The move into monitors is a natural extension of TCL’s display business, bringing its expertise across different screen technologies into a category where performance, clarity and responsiveness matter.

“Our newest TCL gaming monitors reflect decades of innovation in display technology. By combining CSOT’s world-class panel engineering with TCL’s continuous breakthroughs in gaming performance, we are delivering displays purpose-built for how modern gamers and creators interact with their screens today,” says Maxi Chen, TCL  Senior Product Manager of Browneline.

He continues, “For the Philippine market, our focus is straightforward: to make advanced display technology more accessible while giving Filipino consumers the performance they expect from TCL. Whether they are gaming competitively, creating content, working, or simply enjoying their favorite entertainment, we want our products to deliver an experience that feels meaningful in everyday use. The 27P2A and 25P1AD are part of that commitment.”

Performance Built for the Game

Leading the new lineup is the TCL 25P1AD, a high-performance 25-inch QHD display built specifically for competitive gamers and fast-paced esports. A native 280Hz refresh rate guarantees consistently fluid FHD visuals. For those who push past the limits. Effortlessly unlock 300Hz via the monitor menu and unleash maximum speed. It allows you to instantly spot critical details, keeping you one step ahead of the competition.

The TCL 25P1AD is engineered to give competitive players a decisive edge, pairing a blistering 0.5ms MPRT response time with intelligent Smart Gaming display features that minimize motion blur and optimize target visibility. Built for smooth, lag-free action, the monitor features dual compatibility with both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering during high-stakes play. Complete with HDR support and 400 nits of peak brightness, the 25P1AD delivers vivid contrast, razor-sharp detail, and tournament-grade fluidity for any setup.

Following the monitor hierarchy is the TCL 27P2A, a 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) Mini LED gaming monitor. With a 200Hz ultra -high refresh rate,the image transition becomes more natural. During team battles and when swinging the gun, you can quickly capture key details, giving you the advantage of being one step ahead and achieving victory through ingenious strategies.

Powered by Mini LED backlighting and reaching a striking 600 nits of peak brightness, the display delivers deep contrast, vibrant highlights, and 99% sRGB color gamut coverage for lifelike visual fidelity. Engineered for intense competition, it pairs a true 1ms (GtG) response time with TCL’s proprietary TMOC Motion Clarity technology to eliminate motion blur and trailing. Complete with dual AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility, the 27P2A ensures tear-free, low-latency performance without sacrificing color or contrast.

Both monitors 25P1AD and 27P2A utilize CSOT’s proprietary HFS (IPS-type) high-speed panel technology. This guarantees wide 178% viewing angles, rapid response times, and consistent color stability without color shifts.

The TCL 27P2A and TCL 25P1AD monitors are both available through official TCL stores on Shopee and Lazada. For more information, visit www.tcl.com or follow TCL’s official Facebook and Instagram pages.

What Motherhood Taught Me About Running a Business

I still remember rushing home after an unexpected overtime shift at the hospital. Dinner still had to be cooked, school uniforms needed ironing, homework had to be checked, and one of my children kept reminding me about a school activity the next morning. At the time, I thought I was simply trying to survive another busy day as a mother. Years later, when I started my own online business, I realized those hectic evenings had already been teaching me to become an entrepreneur.

When I started my small online business, I didn't have a background in entrepreneurship. For years, I had worked as an employee at a hospital, where long shifts, unexpected overtime, and caring for others were part of everyday life. At home, I was raising three children while making sure there was always food on the table, homework was done, and no school activities were missed. Today, I'm also "Mama Lou" to five wonderful grandchildren.

I thought I was starting my business from scratch, but looking back, I realized I wasn't.

Motherhood had already begun teaching me everything I needed to become an entrepreneur years earlier.

I remember the days when my schedule rarely went as planned. There wasn't much room for complaining because my children depended on me. Somehow, mothers learn to adjust, prioritize, and keep moving forward.

Those years became my first lessons in entrepreneurship.

People often ask me how I learned to deal with customers. The truth is, I learned it from raising children.

As mothers, we spend years listening before reacting. We learn that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Running a business feels surprisingly similar. Every customer has different needs, preferences, budgets, and expectations. Some ask a lot of questions. Some request special arrangements. Others simply need reassurance before making a purchase.

I've learned that good customer service starts with empathy.

Whenever possible, I try to accommodate reasonable requests because I understand that behind every order is a person with a story I may never fully know. At the same time, motherhood taught me that kindness doesn't mean saying yes to everything. Just as children need boundaries, businesses do too. Sometimes the best decision is to explain why a request isn't possible while still making the customer feel respected and heard.

That balance between compassion and firmness has become one of the most valuable lessons I've carried into my business.

Motherhood also taught me to be resourceful.

Raising a family means learning to stretch a budget, plan ahead, and make thoughtful decisions rather than impulsive ones. Those habits now guide how I manage my inventory. Rather than buying products just because they're popular, I study trends, understand what customers want, and choose items that make sense for both my business and my buyers.

One of the biggest challenges I still face is reaching more customers. Running a home-based business means you're constantly learning—whether it's understanding changing styles, improving your online presence, or finding better ways to serve your market. The learning never really stops, and I've come to appreciate that.

Of course, not every day goes as planned.

I still remember the frustration of handling a lost customer order during delivery. It would have been easy to panic or become defensive, but motherhood taught me that difficult situations are rarely solved by frustration alone. I focused on communicating with the customer, finding a solution, and making things right. That experience reinforced something I've learned over the years: people often remember how you respond to problems more than the problems themselves.

One thing I wish more mothers realized is that we don't have to figure everything out on our own.

As one of the founding blogger moms of Madiskarte Moms PH, I've seen how valuable it is to belong to a community where women openly share experiences, practical advice, and encouragement. Entrepreneurship can feel lonely, especially when you're working from home. Connecting with fellow mompreneurs reminds you that someone else has likely faced the same challenge and found a way through it.

Learning from one another helps all of us grow.

Reliable connectivity has also become an essential part of my daily routine. Whether I'm researching market trends, checking which styles are trending, managing inventory, communicating with customers, attending online learning sessions through Madiskarte Moms PH, or simply seeking new ideas to improve my business, PLDT Home helps me stay connected to the information I need while working from home and being present for my family.

Looking back, I no longer see motherhood and entrepreneurship as two separate journeys.

The patience, resilience, adaptability, resourcefulness, and empathy I rely on in business weren't learned from a textbook or a seminar. They were developed through years of raising my children, solving everyday family challenges, and showing up every day, even when life became overwhelming.

If you're a mother considering starting a business, don't underestimate the experience you already have. You may not have a business degree or years of entrepreneurial experience, but you've already developed many of the qualities successful business owners need.

I never took business school, but motherhood became my MBA—a Madiskarte Business Advantage that taught me resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness. With reliable PLDT Home connectivity, I continue to learn as my business grows.

If you're ready to grow your business, join Madiskarte Moms PH to gain practical business insights, connect with fellow mompreneurs, and make the most of PLDT Home's reliable connectivity as you continue building both your business and your family's future.

HONOR 600S Confirmed to Launch in the Philippines on October 1

 Following the success of the HONOR 600 Series, global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines has officially confirmed the arrival of the HONOR 600S, coming to the Philippines on October 1, 2026.

As a more accessible addition to the HONOR 600 Series, the HONOR 600S is designed to bring the experiences that users value from the series to a wider audience. Built for young professionals, creators, and digital-savvy users, it combines entertainment, content creation, work, business, and connectivity in a smartphone made for everyday life.

The HONOR 600S is set to bring more of the HONOR 600 Series experience to a wider audience, with a combination of entertainment, creativity, connectivity, and everyday performance. Among its highlights is HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0, giving users a glimpse of the creative experiences they can expect from the new device.

It also comes with 5G connectivity, allowing users to stay connected and enjoy their digital experiences wherever the day takes them. It is built to keep up with users who are always on the go, featuring a massive 8,100mAh battery designed to provide the power needed for long days of streaming, scrolling, creating, and getting things done.

“Following the strong response to the HONOR 600 Series, we wanted to continue giving our consumers more of the experiences they value while making them accessible to even more users,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. “The HONOR 600S carries forward the AI-powered creativity and connectivity that our consumers enjoy, while offering an option that fits the needs of a wider audience. We’re excited to officially introduce it to the Philippines this October.” 

The HONOR 600S officially launches in the Philippines on October 1, 2026. More details, including pricing, availability, and other launch offers, will be revealed soon. Watch the live launch here: https://bit.ly/H600S_GrandLaunch_PR.

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. #HONOR600S #AnythingIsPossible #HONORPhilippines #HONOR600Series

Bimby Aquino partners with HMO iCare

Filipinos have watched Bimby Aquino grow up in the public eye. Now stepping into adulthood at 19, he is making a major milestone: choosing his first official brand endorsement as an adult - partnering with iCare, an HMO with one of the country’s widest healthcare provider networks.

For Bimby, choosing healthcare for his entry into adulthood is deeply personal. Raised in a household that navigated his mother Kris Aquino’s ongoing battle with autoimmune illnesses, he developed an early understanding of health protection and medical accessibility. 

 

“But health should not be a privilege, nor should it be a struggle. It should be a given,” he says. “I’m partnering with iCare because every family deserves the care we fought so hard for.”

 

Having experienced firsthand what access to healthcare can mean for a family, Bimby believes it should not be limited to those who can easily afford it.

 

From Cared For to Provider

 

For years, Filipinos saw Bimby as the child being protected by those around him. Today, adulthood means having the agency to give that protection back. 

 

As part of his new chapter, Bimby secured iCare HMO coverage not only for himself and his brother, but also for members of their household staff who helped raise him over the years 

 

“Even if we’re not blood-related, they took care of us. They’re really part of my family and they deserve to have that right to be healthy. “I love having freedom to provide for my mom and brother. It feels nice to be a responsible member of the family,” he furthered. 

 

The decision makes his first adult endorsement more than a career milestone. It reflects the kind of adult Bimby wants to become: a loving son and brother who remembers the people who helped raise him and, when given the opportunity, chooses to care for them in return.

 

Brave Ahead into the Future

 

The partnership anchors iCare’s “Brave Ahead” campaign, encouraging young Filipinos taking their first career steps - whether earning their first paycheck or assuming family responsibilities - to prioritize health security early. 

 

“My mom always told me that if you don’t take care of your health at an early age, your health problems might catch up to you. So, I believe that as early as you can, make sure that your health is well taken care of,” he reflects.  

 

iCare HMO Individual and Family Plans allow principal enrollment starting at age 18, offering coverage for outpatient check-ups, annual physical exams, inpatient hospitalization and accredited emergency care based on plan selection, 

 

For Bimby, being Brave Ahead isn’t about having everything figured out, it's about having the foresight to protect the people who matter most.