Knorr Professional Launches Team Sure Lasap at Flavor-Packed Stir Fry Fest

As a mom who’s always on the lookout for ways to make mealtime both delicious and stress-free, I was genuinely excited to see Knorr Professional introduce Team Sure Lasap at their recent Stir Fry Fest. This group of culinary ambassadors isn’t just about cooking—they’re about bringing reliable, flavorful dishes to the table that even picky eaters will love. Knowing that top chefs are championing the same ingredients I use at home gives me extra confidence in what I serve my family. Plus, the Stir Fry Fest was such a fun reminder that cooking can be both creative and practical—just like how we moms do it every day.

Knorr Professional proudly introduced Team Sure Lasap at its flavorful Stir Fry Fest — a powerhouse lineup of culinary ambassadors made up of Ninong Ry, Chef Rosebud Benitez-Velasco, Chef JR Royol, and Chef Boy Logro. These seasoned pros and Knorr ambassadors turned up the heat and led the charge in showcasing the versatility and boldness of stir-frying, bringing their unique flair to the kitchen.

 

Held at Whitespace Manila, the Stir-Fry Fest brought together chefs, food service operators, and culinary leaders from across the country for a vibrant, hands-on celebration of bold flavors, elevated techniques, and kitchen camaraderie. The venue was transformed into a dynamic cooking arena, where participants teamed up with Team Sure Lasap for live demos, interactive meal prep sessions, and exclusive tastings — all showcasing dishes made with Knorr Professional’s Sure Lasap seasoning.

 

Interactive stations allowed guests to experience cooking with Team Sure Lasap and using the new Knorr Professional Sure Lasap for their stir-fry creations.

 

For many chefs, sticking to old habits and relying on the same go-to ingredients can sometimes limit business success. The new Knorr Professional Sure Lasap offers a solution: an all-in-one seasoning powder packed with real garlic flavor and aroma as well as real chicken, helping chefs break out of their routines and elevate their dishes with ease. Specially crafted for food service kitchens, Knorr Sure Lasap delivers delicious garlic flavour and aroma across a wide range of dishes, from classic Filipino staples like PancitGuisado, Chop Suey, and Fried Rice, to modern Asian favorites. Its ease of use, flavor reliability, and kitchen efficiency make it an essential partner for today’s culinary professionals.

 

At the heart of it all was Knorr Professional Sure Lasap — an innovation designed to help chefs move beyond old habits and embrace new flavors and techniques without sacrificing the authentic taste diners crave.

 

When asked about the vision behind Knorr’s Stir Fry Fest, Monica Reyes, Country Marketing Manager of Unilever Food Solutions Philippines, notes “Knorr Sure Lasap is made for real kitchens, helping food service operators deliver consistent, delicious flavor with ease. It’s a product that understands the fast-paced demands of local kitchens. We aimed to celebrate the energy and creativity of Filipino chefs through our Stir Fry Fest together with Team Sure Lasap, who brings the Knorr Professional brand to life. Their passion, authenticity, and diverse cooking styles perfectly mirror what Knorr Sure Lasap stands for—flavor that connects and inspires."

As part of Knorr Professional’s ongoing commitment to uplift the foodservice industry, the Knorr Stir Fry Fest is just one of many initiatives aimed at empowering chefs with the tools, inspiration, and support they need to succeed in today’s fast-moving culinary world.

 

To know more from Knorr Professional and Unilever Food Solutions, visit www.ufs.com, and follow UFS on www.instagram.com/unileverfoodsolutions_ph and https://www.facebook.com/UnileverFoodSolutionsPhilippines

 

 

Haier x Abenson Just Changed the Game with the New Mini LED TV!

The future of home entertainment has officially arrived. Haier Philippines, in partnership with Abenson, has unveiled its cutting-edge Haier Mini LED TV, promising a next-level viewing experience for Filipino households. Combining ultra-clear visuals, deeper contrast, and lifelike color accuracy, the new Mini LED TV isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a complete reimagining of what watching at home should feel like. With this launch, Haier continues its commitment to innovation, while Abenson ensures the technology is more accessible to families nationwide. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite series or hosting movie nights, the Haier Mini LED TV is designed to make every moment on screen feel larger than life.

With the theme “Where Color Meets Innovation,” the event showcased how cutting-edge technology can elevate home entertainment and smart living for Filipino households.

Hosted by media personalities Aiyana Perlas and Noel Blanco, the event opened with a lively introduction and warm energy that set the tone for an afternoon filled with entertainment, innovation, and inspiration. In her welcoming remarks, Ms. Angeli Patricio, Senior Marketing Manager of Haier Philippines, emphasized that the Mini LED TV represents more than just another product in the lineup—it embodies Haier’s ongoing commitment to creating smarter, more connected homes for the Filipino market. “We’re not just unveiling a new television,” she said, “we’re presenting a smarter way of living.”

Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Apple Ma, Marketing Head of Abenson, expressed Abenson’s pride in being Haier’s exclusive partner for the product launch. She shared that Abenson remains focused on helping families upgrade their entertainment experience and was thrilled to bring this innovative new TV to Filipino households. “It’s about pushing the boundaries of how we see, hear, and experience the world from our living rooms,” she said.

A major highlight of the afternoon was the official unveiling of the Haier Mini LED TV, led by Mr. Xuhong Yan, CEO & President of Haier Philippines, along with Ms. Joy De Leon from Abenson. As the screen lit up with stunning clarity and vivid colors, guests witnessed the real-time capabilities of the Haier Mini LED TV—designed with True Color Pro technology for superior color accuracy, ultra-fine contrast from mini LED backlighting, and powerful AI integration for smart home compatibility.

Product Manager Mr. Jayden followed the unveiling with an in-depth presentation detailing the television’s cutting-edge features. These include 4K HDR resolution, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for cinema-quality viewing and sound, Game Mode Pro for responsive, lag-free gameplay, and voice-activated controls through built-in AI. The presentation demonstrated how Haier continues to redefine the home entertainment experience through innovation and user-focused design.

Adding excitement and insight to the event were special appearances by celebrities and influencers. OPM icon Chito Miranda, gaming content creator Cherizawa, and lifestyle personality Shanaia Gomez all shared how the Haier Mini LED TV fits into their everyday lives—whether for music, gaming, or smart home living—highlighting its immersive visuals, smart features, and stylish design.

Further adding credibility to the event, respected tech reviewer Peter of GizGuide provided a technical breakdown of the TV’s performance and specs. He praised the mini LED backlighting, Dolby integration, and AI-powered UI, calling it a strong contender in the premium TV market. “This isn’t just a display—it’s a digital hub for your home,” he stated during his presentation.

The event also featured elegant performances, including a live violinist interlude, engaging raffle draws, and a dedicated demo zone where guests could experience the Haier Mini LED TV firsthand. Media and partners had the opportunity to ask questions, take photos, and interact with Haier executives in an exclusive media interview segment after the main program.

In his closing speech, Mr. Xuhong Yan reaffirmed Haier’s long-term commitment to pushing innovation and delivering value-driven technology to Filipino consumers. “This launch is just the beginning,” he noted. “We are building a smarter, brighter future—one home at a time.”

The Haier Mini LED TV, now available at Abenson stores and online, promises to deliver next-generation viewing with deeper contrast, smarter features, and a sleeker design tailored for modern Filipino lifestyles. With its immersive color accuracy, ultra-clear 4K visuals, and smart capabilities, the new TV redefines what it means to live, play, and connect from the comfort of your own home.

Toby’s Youth Sports Foundation Launches Grassroots Sports Clinics in Tanay to Empower Young Athletes Ask ChatGPT

In its mission to empower the next generation through sport, the Toby’s Youth Sports Foundation, in partnership with Toby’s Sports, brought its grassroots outreach program to the heart of Rizal. The covered court of Barangay Cuyambay in Tanay recently came alive as students from Cuyambay Elementary School joined free basketball and pickleball clinics designed to spark a lifelong love for movement and physical activity.

Toby’s Sports executives and professional pickleball coach Mark Casal provided sports items to the children of Cayumbay, Rizal.

Children dribbled, passed, served, and scored their way through a day of fun, guided by Toby’s Sports employee volunteers and foundation leaders. The sessions, led by experienced coaches, introduced kids to basic skills and game rules while promoting teamwork, discipline, and confidence.

Luis Angelo Claudio, Head of E-commerce at Toby’s Sports, conducted a basketball clinic for children in Cayumbay, Rizal.

To ensure the momentum continues long after the event, Toby’s Sports donated basketballs, pickleballs, paddles, and nets to the school—providing students and teachers with the tools to keep playing and growing.

Kids trying pickleball for the first time during Toby’s Sports’ pickleball clinic in Cayumbay, Rizal. 

“Our goal is to create real access to sport for Filipino children—especially those in underserved communities,” said Toby Claudio, President of Toby’s Sports. “Through the Toby’s Youth Sports Foundation, we’re building more than athletes. We’re building self-esteem, values, and healthier futures.”

Toby Claudio, President of Toby’s Sports, hands over donated sports equipment to students with a representative from Cuyambay Elementary School.

Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, was a crowd favorite, offering an easy entry point for kids who had never held a paddle before. Paired with basketball, a sport embedded in local culture, the clinics blended new discovery with familiar passion—igniting excitement among both students and teachers.

“It’s inspiring to see how sport can change a child’s outlook, even in just a few hours,” said Andrea Tan, Head of Marketing and Customer Experience at Toby’s Sports. “The laughter, the energy, the smiles—it is proof that sport is a powerful tool for connection and empowerment.”

This initiative is part of the foundation’s broader commitment to bring structured, inclusive sports experiences to youth in all corners of the country—ensuring every child has the chance to move, play, and thrive.

BDO Retains Title as the Philippines’ Most Valuable Brand in 2025

 With its continued focus on enhancing customer experience, promoting financial inclusion, and driving operational excellence, BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) has once again been recognized as the country’s most valuable brand for the second straight year by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. 

Learning from the PH’s Most Valuable Brands: Cora A. Mallillin, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of

Branch Banking Group, shared valuable insights at the Brand Finance Philippines Brand Forum 2025.

In Brand Finance Philippines 2025 report, BDO’s brand value surged to US$ 3.7 billion, representing a 48% increase from previous year, underscoring the Bank’s strong market position, growing customer trust and solid execution.

According to Alex Haigh, Managing Director, Brand Finance Asia Pacific, “BDO’s latest brand

valuation is a testament to the years of strategic growth from an institution that remains focused

on building a future-ready bank for every Filipino. With physical presence in 92% of Philippine

municipalities and a growing global footprint around the world, BDO is on a positive growth

trajectory.”

This recognition highlights BDO’s sustained focus on customer satisfaction, operational

resilience and inclusive growth. In 2024, the Bank expanded its footprint bringing its total

network to 1,793 across the Philippines and key international markets such as Hong Kong and

Singapore. This expansion supports BDO’s mission to bring essential financial services closer to underserved communities.

Additionally, BDO has continued to strengthen its digital infrastructure to meet the evolving

needs of customers. Its Go Digital initiatives are designed to provide clients with secure and easy access to banking services anytime, anywhere.

 Enhancements to its BDO Online and BDO Pay mobile apps have delivered a smoother, more personalized experiences. Cora A. Mallillin, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of Branch Banking Group, said "We continue to put customers at the core of our business. By making financial services simple, easy and secure, we are helping build a more progressive economy while contributing to a better future for Filipinos."

BDO’s consistent distinction as the country’s most valuable brand reaffirms its commitment to

customers, sustainable growth, and long-term value creation for stakeholders. 

TCL Champions Youth and Sports with New Court at Araullo High School for Olympic Day

As a leading global technology brand, TCL has always strived to "Inspire Greatness," a philosophy that perfectly aligns with the Olympic spirit. As the official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category, TCL remains committed to fulfilling its corporate social responsibility, supporting the Olympic Sustainable Development Goals, and building a better future.

Through this initiative, TCL reinforces its commitment to the Olympic spirit, offering an exciting and meaningful basketball event that delivers exceptional experiences. It unites top local basketball players and professional coaches in a revitalized venue, aiming to inspire greatness among young, aspiring athletes at the grassroots level.

The event, dubbed the ‘TCL Basketball Camp,’ took place at Araullo High School in Manila, gathering top basketball players from professional and collegiate leagues. To kickstart the program, a contract signing ceremony officially sealed the partnership between TCL Electronics and Araullo High School. TCL CEO Peter Chen, TCL Deputy Marketing Director Shae Yu, TCL Deputy Product Director of Air Conditioner Bert Cheung, TCL Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez, together with Rain or Shine Assistant Brand Manager Red Magcase, and Araullo High School Assistant School Principal II Ms. Ebuena P. Alvarez were present at the contract signing. 

“We're happy to launch this partnership officially. As we celebrate International Olympic Day and our status as the Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, this basketball clinic perfectly embodies TCL's commitment to ‘Inspire Greatness’ among hopeful kids who aspire to do their best in the field of basketball,” shared Peter Chen, TCL Philippines CEO.

TCL Champions School Sportsmanship

 

Giving an enthusiastic vibe to the collaboration between TCL and Araullo High School, a newly refurbished TCL basketball court was unveiled, making it even more enticing and functional for aspiring student-athletes. The 4,700 square feet basketball court and 2,072 square feet outside basketball court lines were refreshed in collaboration with Rain or Shine, who provided the paint materials. TCL TVs and air-conditioning units worth ₱300,000 were also donated to further enhance the basketball court and school facilities. 

 

To kick off the basketball activities, TCL Deputy Product Director of Air Conditioner, Bert Cheung, performed the ceremonial first shot. Followed by the main highlight of the whole event, the Basketball Clinic, which was facilitated by Better BasketballPH Skills Camp, wherein forty young athletes participated. Adding to the excitement was JD Cagulangan, UP Fighting Maroon and Suwon KT Sonicboom's Rookie of the Year in the Korean Basketball League (KBL), who provided guidance and inspiration. JD joined the basketball clinic and shot hoops with the participants.

 

TCL's brand partner, Blackwater Coach Jeffrey Cariaso, also participated, sharing his basketball expertise through a concise coaching principles session specifically for PE coaches. Joining Coach Jeffrey in the discussion is Araullo High’s Head Teacher VI, MAPEH Department, Mr. Augusto D. Baldoz. 

(L-R) Araullo High School's Head Teacher VI - MAPEH department Augusto Baldoz,  Head Teacher VI English Dept Shiela M. Vergara, Head Teacher VI Math Dept Maita Camilon, Assistant School Principal Ebuena Alvarez, TCL CEO Peter Chen, TCL Deputy Marketing Director Shae Yu, and TCL Brand Manager J

UP Fighting Maroon and Suwon KT Sonicboom's Rookie of the Year in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) JD Cagulangan joined the basketball clinic and shot hoops with the participants.

 

 

 

 

 

Upholding the Olympic Spirit

[L-R] Kevin Wang, Chief Operating Officer of TCL Technology, joined Honorary Life President Thomas Bach and President Kirsty Coventry of the International Olympic Committee for a ceremony unveiling TCL’s commemorative stone at the Donors’ Wall of the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland last June 22, 2025.

Also in line with the first global celebration of Olympic Day as a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, TCL was honored in a special ceremony on June 22, with its name added to the Donors’ Wall at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland. This recognition highlights TCL's significant contribution to smart terminals and display solutions, which are set to enhance the development of sports and culture through innovative technology. The ceremony saw key representatives from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), including President Thomas Bach and President-elect Kirsty Coventry, Olympic Museum Director Angelita Teo alongside Chief Operating Officer of TCL Technology Kevin Wang, who unveiled a commemorative marble brick engraved with TCL’s logo. This permanent addition signifies TCL's outstanding contributions to the international Olympic movement, echoing the Olympic spirit of "Faster, Higher, Stronger—Together" and TCL's commitment to "Inspire Greatness."

Further extending this collaboration, TCL was invited to witness the historic inauguration of Kirsty Coventry as the 10th IOC President on June 23, marking a new chapter for the Olympic movement. Coventry's groundbreaking leadership as the first female and first African IOC President resonates deeply with TCL’s ‘TCLforHer’ initiative, a platform dedicated to empowering women globally through technology and culture. To amplify the Olympic Day celebrations worldwide, TCL also launched its first global campaign, inspired by the IOC’s "Let’s Move" initiative. This campaign includes a dynamic film bridging two future Winter and Summer Olympic host cities through the power of TCL display technology. 

Leading up to the 2025 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, TCL will continue the momentum sparked by this campaign to build on its 30th legacy in sport, furthering its collaboration with the IOC to support cultural engagement with cutting-edge technology and advance the Olympic movement’s evolution.

To Even Greater Sporting Events

 

More than simply providing what people need, TCL seeks to ignite hope and aspiration through this basketball event, sharing a truly admirable spirit.

 

“Through this endeavor, we aim to impart Olympic values to our Filipinos. We hope our partnership with Araullo High School becomes a hub for more vibrant, engaging activities, inspiring people to connect and celebrate through sports. Here's to more exciting and fulfilling events like this in the future!" TCL Philippines Chief Executive Officer, Peter Chen excitedly stated.

PLDT Home Brings Fans to a Real-Life Squid Game in Seoul

A first for any Philippine telco company in partnership with streaming giant Netflix, the leading digital services provider fulfills K-drama dreams with an unforgettable adventure as Squid Game drops its final season

Game face on! K-influencers and Squid Game fans Happee Sy, Kring Kim, and Kristel Fulgar take on the challenge in real life – but did they make it?

PLDT Home, the Philippines' leading digital services provider, turned dreams into reality for five lucky subscribers with their companions and top K-culture influencers – Happee Sy Go, Kring Kim, and Kristel Fulgar – by flying them to Seoul for an exclusive "Squid Game" experience.

 

A few days ahead of the third season premiere of Squid Game, winners and their companions plus the content creators explored the heart of Korean culture and visited iconic landmarks together. Most notably, they got to enter Squid Game: The Experience – a popular interactive attraction inspired by the hit Netflix series.

 

Launched last April, PLDT Home announced the promo with a successful press event to kick off the campaign while drawing excitement from Squid Game fans nationwide. This is a first for the telco brand, as it further pushes its promise of unli-entertainment beyond the home.

 

 

 

Blood pumping action: Happee Sy, Kring Kim, and Kristel Fulgar join lucky PLDT Home subscribers as they tour Squid Game: The Experience in Seoul – packed with challenges inspired by the hit Netflix show

 

With the success of its first-ever flyaway promo, PLDT Home delivered on its promise to elevate entertainment – offering subscribers not just content, but unforgettable experiences. It highlights PLDT Home's commitment to enriching digital lifestyles beyond connectivity. 

 

 

 

Once in a lifetime: Five lucky winners with their plus-ones get the trip of their life as PLDT Home flies them to Seoul for three days and two nights – all expenses paid!

 

"We are absolutely thrilled to have brought this unique 'Squid Game' experience to life for our subscribers and the vibrant K-life community," said PLDT Home Acquisition Marketing First Vice President Patrick S. Tang.

 

"This journey to Seoul is a testament to our unwavering commitment to go beyond connectivity and deliver truly unforgettable experiences. We are incredibly grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our customers who participated in this promo. Their love for the brand truly fuels our passion to continuously elevate entertainment.”

 

As the first of many such programs, the Seoul flyaway promo is proof to PLDT Home's intent to consistently enhance its subscribers’ experience with streaming leaders such as Netflix – with a whole world of exclusive benefits and premier entertainment waiting for them.

 

“This is just the beginning of many more exciting rewards and immersive experiences we look forward to bringing to the PLDT Home family. As a leading services provider, it is always our goal to offer a continuous stream of exciting rewards, innovative engagements, and unlimited entertainment activations for all our valued subscribers,” Tang added.

 

Don’t miss out on PLDT Home’s exciting promos and rewards – get the PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 with up to 300 Mbps and the wide world of entertainment that comes with a Netflix Basic subscription! Learn more by heading to pldthome.com/fiber-netflix.

 

“Experience” Squid Game right in the Philippines when you apply for a PLDT Home Fiber Netflix plan at any of the following PLDT stores: SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM SouthMall, SM Baguio, SM Seaside Cebu, and Abreeza Mall Davao. Enjoy a set of Squid Game-inspired games, gimmicks, and prizes at every store visit!