Watsons Strengthens Sustainability Efforts with Expanded Solar Energy Use Across Stores and Distribution Centers

 Watsons, the country’s leading health, beauty, and wellness retailer, continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability by expanding the use of renewable energy and energy-efficient solutions across its operations. With solar panels now powering more stores and distribution centers nationwide, Watsons is making meaningful progress in reducing its environmental impact and fostering a more sustainable retail landscape.

 

To date, 95 Watsons stores nationwide, along with all of Watsons’ distribution centers in Luzon and Visayas, are utilizing renewable energy. This transition not only reduces reliance on traditional power sources but also reflects Watsons’ dedication to adopting greener energy solutions.

As of December 2024, a total of 338.32 tons of CO2 have been reduced, 188 trees have been planted, and 135.74 tons of standard coal have been saved since the installation of solar panels. This initiative reduces Watsons' carbon footprint and significantly lowers operational energy costs while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

 

In 2024, Watsons Philippines achieved a milestone by launching its first-ever Greener Store in San Pedro, Laguna. This store, equipped with solar panels, partially operates on sustainable energy. It represents a positive step toward creating eco-conscious retail spaces that balance environmental responsibility with the quality shopping experience Watsons is known for.

 

 

Watsons’ sustainability efforts extend beyond solar energy. Across all its stores, Watsons utilizes LED lights that are free from toxic materials, 100% recyclable, and reduce energy consumption by up to a third. Additionally, the stores are equipped with inverter air conditioners and refrigerators, which consume 40% less energy than conventional units—further boosting energy efficiency and supporting the company’s commitment to sustainable operations.

 

"Our commitment to sustainability drives us to integrate renewable energy into our operations, transforming how we power our stores and distribution centers. With 95 stores and all distribution centers around the country now running on solar energy, we are not only reducing our environmental footprint but also setting a benchmark for sustainable retail practices. This is just the beginning, and we are excited to expand these initiatives to create a greener future," said Sharon Decapia, Watsons SAVP for PR, Marketing & Sustainability.

 

 

 

Looking ahead, Watsons plans to scale up its solar energy program by converting an additional 30 stores and one more distribution center to renewable energy this year. These initiatives underscore Watsons’ dedication to building a more sustainable future while continuing to provide the exceptional shopping experience its customers expect. They also reinforce Watsons’ position as a leader in sustainable retail practices, setting a high standard for the industry.

 

As Watsons innovates and expands its sustainability programs, it invites customers to be part of the journey. Visit your nearest Watsons store or browse conveniently through the Watsons App, available on the App Store or Google Play, to discover sustainable choices products and a wide range of health, wellness, and beauty essentials.

 

Visa and CIMB Bank Philippines Forge Exclusive Deal for SME Debit Cards

 Visa , a global leader in digital payments, and CIMB Bank Philippines, the most-awarded digital-only commercial bank in the country and The Asian Banker’s Best Digital Bank in the Philippines for 2025, have announced an exclusive partnership aimed at enhancing financial solutions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines. The signing ceremony, attended by senior officials from both Visa and CIMB Bank Philippines, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration that began in 2023.

 

From Left: Suraj Ramchandani, Chief Growth Officer, CIMB; Ankur Sehgal, Chief Business and Strategy Officer, CIMB; Vijay Manoharan, CEO, CIMB; Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines; IsidoreBada, Head of Clients, Visa Philippines; Oliver Ornido, Director and Account Executive, Visa Philippines.

 

This strategic collaboration builds on the strong foundation established in 2023, when Visa and CIMB Bank Philippines first joined forces to provide innovative and accessible financial solutions to Filipinos. The new agreement will integrate Visa's world-class technology and extensive global network in digital payments with CIMB Bank Philippines’ cutting-edge digital offerings to deliver a superior banking experience to the underserved SME market.

To complement an upcoming business deposit product from CIMB, a new Visa Business Debit Card will also be offered by Q3 2025. The card will be linked to the high interest business savings account, where business owners can enjoy zero fees, free fund transfers, insurance product offers, as well as a revolving credit facility that they can maximize to grow their business. These new offerings cater specifically to micro and small enterprises, which make up majority of the SME market, with the potential to expand to larger enterprises later on.  

In the Philippines, SMEs are often regarded as the "backbone" of the economy, constituting 99.6% of the economy in the country. This means they create a substantial amount of employment and contribute significantly to the country's GDP. By providing jobs and income to a large segment of the population, SMEs drive economic growth and development. Recognizing their strategic importance, this partnership aims to support the financial needs of SMEs and enhance their growth prospects.

Through this collaboration, Visa will provide CIMB customers with exclusive discounts and privileges at select Visa merchants, adding more value to the CIMB Visa Business Debit Card. This alliance aims to deliver seamless, secure, and innovative payment solutions for SMEs, making it easier for them to access the financial services essential for their operations and growth.

"This milestone marks an important step towards our shared vision of providing accessible and innovative financial solutions to consumers and businesses, thereby boosting financial inclusion for Filipinos everywhere. Building on our successful partnership with CIMB Bank Philippines, there is a tremendous opportunity to enhance the digital capabilities of SMEs in the Philippines. Additionally, SMEs have unique and personalized needs that require bespoke solutions. By utilizing Visa’s global network and expertise, and CIMB’s digital leadership, we are committed to seizing this opportunity to serve the unique needs of SMEs and provide tailored solutions to facilitate their growth and success,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines.

"As a pioneer in digital-only banking in the country, CIMB Bank Philippines has disrupted the retail banking space for the better with our partnership-led model, earning the trust of 9 million customers and counting. We are now dedicated to also empowering SMEs who are looking for better ways to bank, all while we continue to drive digital and financial inclusion," said Vijay Manoharan, CIMB Bank Philippines CEO. "Our partnership with Visa is part of our maiden foray into the SME segment and helps enable us to offer enhanced payment solutions that are secure, convenient, and specifically designed to support the growth and financial health of SMEs. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to empower SMEs and contribute to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap, which targets to make 50 percent of total retail transaction volumes digital."

POTEN-CEE’s 50th Anniversary Campaign Wins Silver at the 60th Anvil Awards

 As Pascual Laboratories, Inc.’s (PascualLab) flagship brand, Poten-Cee, celebrates over five (5) decades of serving the vitamin C needs of Filipinos, it continues to carve milestones in the health industry. At the 60th Anvil Awards at the Manila Hotel, PascualLab received a Silver Anvil from the prestigious PR Society of the Philippines (PRSP) for Poten-Cee's 50th-anniversary campaign, #FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward.

#FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward celebrates 50 years of Poten-Cee which began as pedia brand Infan-Cee. Originally launched to offer vitamin C supplementation, the brand has since evolved to meet the health requirements of various individuals and has adapted to the Filipinos' diverse health and lifestyle needs, including immunity support as brought to the fore by the recent pandemic. The campaign for internal and external audiences highlighted these innovations across various media platforms, including digital and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

For successfully capturing the milestones and meaningfully engaging stakeholders who helped shape Poten-Cee into the well-loved brand that it is today, the campaign met the award-giving body’s strict criteria.  It was then shortlisted among a record-breaking 586 entries, with only 122 or 20% making the cut, earning PascualLab its first Anvil. 
 
According to Mickey de Quiros, Anvil Committee Chairman: “While the volume of entries is impressive, we must remember that the Anvil Awards have always stood for one core principle—integrity. The true value of an Anvil lies not in the number of awards given, but in the quality of the work. So, as we honored winners, we are reminded that the recognition is a reflection of the impact they have on the communities and industries they serve. It is about creating meaningful change through well-crafted, thoughtful, and strategic campaigns.” 
 
This 2025 and forging forward, Poten-Cee affirms its commitment to Filipinos.  

 
Valerie Anne T. Sison, Group Product Head shared: “Quality and care are at the heart of PascualLab’s service. With Filipinos’ health needs front and center, Poten-Cee, will continue to move forward with health innovations tailor-fit for customers’ needs, offering benefits beyond immunity.  We always go forward, true to our 50th-anniversary mantra.” 
 
Poten-Cee is available in all leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide and at PascualLab’s official Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok stores.

https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/pascuallab/?path=index.htm  
https://shopee.ph/buyer/login?next=https%3A%2F%2Fshopee.ph%2Fpascuallabstore
https://www.tiktok.com/@officialpascuallab

Our idols’ inspirations: PLDT’s Dy, Reyes, Alcantara reveal their biggest supporters

 The elite athletes of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) may be some of the best to ever step on the court, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t need help to stay at the top of their game.

Sports, especially at the major-league level, is a tough pursuit with all of its treacherous lows that come with the exciting highs. An athlete doesn’t get to and stay in the pros without the support of some important people in their life.

 

The stars of PLDT High Speed Hitters know this all too well, which is why they’re not shy to appreciate the people that they leaned on throughout the years. This is much more so as they battle it out at the ongoing PVL All-Filipino Conference – pegged to be the longest conference since the league’s inception.

 

For opposite spiker Kim Kianna Dy, boyfriend and international basketball star Dwight Ramos is the rock that keeps her anchored enough to succeed. Dy just recently made her on-court comeback after suffering a tough knee injury all the way back in 2023.

 

“I have to give him credit since he’s been there for me since day one, especially through my injury,” she says. “He’s been a constant source of support throughout my recovery, inspiring me to give my best no matter where I am in my journey. He reminds me to be patient with myself and not to be too hard with myself on my progress. Being an athlete himself, Dwight has gone through his own series of injuries, and he understands the frustration of being sidelined. He can relate to the situation I’m in.”

 

Rookie setter Angge Alcantara also shares the same sentiments regarding her own burgeoning professional career. “I would like to thank my family and my partner for always being there to support me on and off the court,” says Alcantara, who has been orchestrating the team’s offense as veteran setter Kim Fajardo takes a step back. “I would also like to thank Coach Russelle Galang for guiding and supporting me ever since nag-start ako mag-volleyball until now.”

 

Speaking of family, close loved ones also play an important role in supporting star player Mika Reyes. “My parents, siblings and relatives, my teammates, and the fans are my biggest motivation,” the 2022 PVL Invitational Conference best middle blocker says. “Every game, I play not just for myself but for them.”

 

Throughout the many different inspirations all three players have in their lives, they also share one consistent source of support and strength: the fans of the High Speed Hitters.

 

“The fans play a big role in helping boost the team’s morale,” says Dy. “Seeing them support us through ups and downs helps uplift the team’s spirit. Seeing them cheer, whether it’s live from the venue or from their homes, reminds us that we’re not only playing for ourselves but also for everyone who believes in us.”

 

“Besides my team, I also get my strength from the fans, they are always there for us, so I don’t want to fail them,” adds Alcantara. “I am so happy they welcomed me to be part of the PLDT family.”

 

“Their support means everything,” shares Reyes. “Knowing they believe in us keeps us pushing forward, especially during tough times. Seeing them cheer, whether in the stands or online, gives us that extra boost.”

 

Finishing the PVL elimination round with 8 wins and 3 losses after a sweep of the Zus Coffee Thunderbelles last February 22, the PLDT High Speed Hitters shot up to top four in the standings. The Rald Ricafort-coached team, which has previously downed the powerhouse team Creamline Cool Smashers in an exciting five-setter, now heads to the qualifiers with much more confidence.

 

Armed with an impressive record and boosted by love from their supporters, PLDT now looks to make it even further and hopefully win its first PVL title.

 

“We just remind each other that this is a journey we are all going through together and no one is alone. ‘Pusong PLDT’ for us is giving our all during training and games and never stopping till we reach our goal. When things get hard, we remind ourselves why we’re doing this and it’s because of love and the puso we have for the team and the game,” says Dy.

 

“That love drives us to push through all the hard days.”

 

Continuously support Kim Kianna Dy, Mika Reyes, AnggeAlcantara, and the rest of the PLDT High Speed Hitters as they battle it out at the ongoing PVL All-Filipino Conference – Qualifying Round. For more updates, follow the team on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

 

Get the HONOR X6b and HONOR Pad X8a in just One Postpaid Plan!

 Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines introduces an exciting offer for productivity enthusiasts! The HONOR Pad X8a + X6b Productivity Bundle is now available via Globe Postpaid Plans, offering unbeatable value with GPlan 1499. The plan comes with 10GB Data, Unlimited All-Net Calls and Text, and Exclusive Perks.  

“With this exclusive bundle, we are providing an enhanced experience for those seeking powerful tools to boost their productivity and stay connected anytime, anywhere,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.  

The HONOR Pad X8a + HONOR X6b Productivity Bundle offers a seamless integration of work and entertainment, designed to meet the needs of students, professionals, and tech-savvy individuals. With top-notch features and ergonomic designs, these devices elevate your multitasking game, whether for school, work, or leisure. 

Available starting February 28, 2025, the bundle will be exclusively piloted through the Globe Online Shop and 18 select Globe Stores nationwide. 

To grab this incredible offer, visit Globe Online Shop and 18 select Globe Stores nationwide. 

To grab this incredible offer, visit Globe Online Shop (https://bit.ly/GPlan_PadX6bwithX8aBundle-PR) or head to participating stores to experience the unmatched productivity and convenience of the HONOR Pad X8a + HONOR X6b bundle. 

For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms:

 Facebook(Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram(Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

UNIQLO opens another roadside store in Sierra Valley

 

The New Space at Sierra Valley provides a one-stop LifeWear shopping experience for the entire community

 

UNIQLO continues to expand their presence in the Philippines and opens their newest roadside store concept in Rizal with UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store.

 

A UNIQLO roadside store provides a convenient shopping experience of LifeWear items for men’s, women’s and babies. The store is decked with all the familiar roadside features, including its own parking facility, Persons With Disability (PWD)-friendly access, and app to in-store services such as Click and Collect. 

 

The newest UNIQLO store is located at Sierra Valley, a developing mixed-use complex along the major road of Ortigas Avenue extension, delivers just that for shoppers in Cainta, Taytay, Antipolo, Ortigas, and other nearby areas. In addition, UNIQLO Sierra Valley is the first “logo store” in the Philippines, featuring a prominent new look of the facade showcasing the iconic UNIQLO red logo. 

 

UNIQLO celebrates the opening of its newest space with lots of exciting promos and discounts. Check out the exclusive marked-down items at UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store in celebration of its opening.

 

 

Customers will be welcomed with exciting promos and discounts for the whole family. Among the promos, men can expect exclusive limited offers on the crowd-favorite UNIQLO U AIRism Oversized Crew Neck T-Shirt (now PHP 590 from PHP 790), the AIRism Cotton Pique Short Sleeve Polo Shirt (now PHP 790 from PHP 990), and the versatile AIRism Cotton Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-shirt (now PHP 590 from PHP 790).

 

Meanwhile, women will enjoy sales on the Ribbed Cropped Bra Top (now PHP 790 from PHP 990), AIRism Cotton Mini Dress (now PHP 790 from PHP 990), and the Rayon Skipper Collar Blouse (now PHP 990 from PHP 1,490), which are all perfect for summer. 

 

The UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside Store also has great deals for the kids, including deals on the Cotton Color Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt (now PHP 190 from PHP 290) and the Soft Ribbed Mini T-Shirt (now PHP 390 from PHP 590).

 

Aside from these discounted items, there are tons of other promotions in store that customers can look forward to. Shoppers with the UNIQLO app on their phone get a limited-edition UNIQLO thermal mug for every PHP 3,000 minimum spend at the new store from March 7 to 13.

 

Meanwhile, an opening weekend promotion honors the Japanese roots of UNIQLO. In the special game titled Shop and Play Gachapon, shoppers get a chance to win exclusive prizes from the store’s partner establishments, Wendy’s and Conti’s, at no minimum spend from March 7 to 9 by simply showing their UNIQLO app in store. What’s more, during the same three-day span, the first 100 customers daily at UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside will receive a free donut from Dunkin’.

 

The Sierra Valley store is all about accessibility and convenience, making it easier for customers to get their LifeWear items whether online or offline. Through UNIQLO’s Click and Collect service, shoppers can purchase LifeWear items via the UNIQLO App or website and pick up the items from the new store. With every Click and Collect purchase, customers receive a free UNIQLO laptop bag from February 28 to March 6, 2025. All that’s needed is to purchase an item via the online service and select UNIQLO Sierra Valley Roadside as the pick-up store.

 

UNIQLO also makes its presence felt in the community through valuable collaborations. In partnership with First Bike Ride, UNIQLO will conduct a community ride in Sierra Valley on March 1, showcasing the Sport Utility Wear line-up to be available in-store. Then, together with Ten Twenty Kids, UNIQLO scrap fabrics will be used to create upcycled toys to be donated to kids at Destiny’s Promise, a local orphanage in Rizal.

 

Learn more about #UNIQLOSierraValley, #UniqloPH and #LifeWear by visiting www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/. Follow @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram for all the latest news and updates.

 

BDO Unibank at Seven Bank ng Japan, Pinalakas ang Remittance Services para sa Overseas Filipinos

 Fast at secure remittance, handog ng BDO-Seven Bank partnership

Bilib ang mga Overseas Filipinos sa malakas na partnership ng BDO Unibank, Inc. at Seven Bank ng Japan, dahil mas pinabilis nito ang pag-remit ng pera sa Pilipinas. Kasama na dito sina Arianne Matucading at Den Mojica, na naka-experience ng magandang service ng dalawang bangko. 

"Simple at stress-free na ang pag-send sa family ng kinita ko," ani Matucading, sales executive sa Japan ng 11 taon na. "Kailangan kong magpadala dati ng pangbayad ng hospital bills sa Pilipinas. Nakapag-transfer naman ako agad dahil sa ayos ng service ng Seven Bank. Madali ring nakapag-withdraw ang family ko dahil sa BDO. Napaka-dependable nila, pang emergency man o pang-regular na gastusin."

 

No worries. Hanga si Arianne Matucading sa partnership ng BDO at Seven Bank dahil pinadali nila ang money transfer mula Japan hanggang Pilipinas.

Effortless. Dahil sa mobile app ng Seven Bank at Kabayan Savings account ng BDO, natanggap agad ng family ni Den Mojica ang padala nyang pera.

Saludo din si Mojica, customer service officer sa Japan, sa partnership ng BDO at Seven Bank.

 

"Napaka-reliable ng app ng Seven Bank at very accommodating ang staff nila, lalo na sa pagsagot ng client questions. Yung mga kamag-anak ko sa Pilipinas, kahit na limited ang access nila sa mga ATM, madali nilang nakukuha ang padala ko dahil sa mga cash payout services ng BDO," kwento nya.

Very convenient

Dahil sa reliability ng International Money Transfer mobile app ng Seven Bank, may peace of mind ang mga Overseas Filipinos sa Japan.

 

24/7 remittance delivery. Gamit ang International Money Transfer mobile app ng Seven Bank, sure ang mga Overseas Filipinos sa Japan sa fast at secure na remittance ng pera nila sa kanilang mga mahal sa buhay sa Pilipinas.

"Nakita namin na problema dati sa mga Overseas Filipinos sa Japan ang lumabas sa kanilang work para pumunta sa bangko o mga remittance center at magpadala ng pera sa family nila," ayon kay BDO Senior Vice President at head ng Remittance, Genie T. Gloria. "Game changer talaga ang naging partnership namin with Seven Bank, dahil 24/7 na pwedeng mag remit gamit ang app nila, o alinman sa mga 27,000 ATMs nila sa Japan." 

Pinuri naman ni Seven Bank President at Representative Director Masaaki Matsuhashi ang always reliable remittance service ng BDO. "In the remittance business in general, there are some cases wherein the remittance fails to be sent. With BDO, all transactions are successfully sent by the senders and received by the beneficiaries. This is one of the strengths BDO has.”

Suportado ang mga Overseas Filipinos sa Japan. Dahil sa partnership ng BDO at Seven Bank na nagmula pa noong 2017, mabilis at walang aberyang nakakarating sa pamilya nila sa Pilipinas ang mga pinaghirapang pera ng mga Overseas Filipinos.

Flour, Fire ans Future: What’s Next for the Bakery Fair

For more than two decades, the Bakery Fair has been the beating heart of the Philippine baking industry. Organized by the Filipino-Chinese Bakery Association, Inc. (FCBAI), it has grown from a simple trade show into a premier gathering of bakers, suppliers, and entrepreneurs—setting trends, forging partnerships, and pushing the industry forward.

But after 14 editions and countless innovations, what’s next for this biennial baking extravaganza?

A Legacy Built on Growth

When the first Bakery Fair was launched in 2001, FCBAI wasn’t looking to build a massive event. Instead, it was about providing affordable opportunities for bakers—especially small business owners—to access new techniques, equipment, and industry connections.

The event flourished, attracting local and international suppliers, drawing in bigger crowds, and creating a platform for education, networking, and business expansion. Today, it is one of the most highly anticipated baking industry events in the country.

“The goal has always been to create awareness for bakeries, to help them grow and learn,” said past FCBAI president Gerry Chua, who spearheaded the first edition. “It’s not just about selling ingredients or equipment; it’s about fostering a real baking community.”

Adapting to the Times

Like any long-running event, the Bakery Fair has had to adapt to changing times. One of the biggest shifts happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, when face-to-face gatherings were impossible. Instead of shutting down, FCBAI pivoted to virtual events, launching the first-ever online Bakery Fair.

This shift proved that the industry was resilient and willing to embrace innovation. Suppliers held virtual demos, bakers attended online workshops, and knowledge-sharing continued despite the lockdowns.

Now, as onsite events return in full force, the challenge is to keep the fair fresh, relevant, and forward-thinking.

A National and Global Vision

One of FCBAI’s biggest moves in recent years was bringing the Bakery Fair outside of Metro Manila. In 2018, the event expanded to Davao, making it accessible to bakers from Visayas and Mindanao.

“Our greater vision is to bring together all the baking communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” shared past FCBAI president Bien Enrico Ah. “We want to give more opportunities to bakers in the provinces, not just in Metro Manila.”

This expansion highlights a key direction for the Bakery Fair: going beyond its usual boundaries. With regional outreach seminars, international learning trips, and collaborations with global baking organizations, FCBAI is actively positioning the Philippine baking industry as a strong player on the world stage.

Innovation and the Future of Baking

Technology is rapidly changing the food industry, and baking is no exception. Today’s trends include healthier alternatives, automation, and sustainability—all of which are becoming central themes at the Bakery Fair.

FCBAI has been investing in new research and training to help local bakers keep up with global trends. Under past president Bien Enrico Ah, the association acquired new equipment for flour analysis, ensuring that Filipino bakers have access to high-quality ingredients.

“As a true authority and leader in the baking industry, we are here to guide and assist bakers and entrepreneurs,” Ah said. “Though baking is an old culinary tradition, we want to make sure that the people behind it are updated, educated, and equipped to take on a growing and competitive market.”

With AI-driven baking technology, automated dough processing, and eco-friendly packaging solutions becoming the new normal, the Bakery Fair is expected to embrace and showcase more of these advancements in its future editions.

The Next Generation of Bakers

Beyond professional training, FCBAI is also investing in the future of the baking industry by engaging young talents.

Through initiatives like summer baking workshops for kids, FCBAI is sparking interest in baking at an early age. These workshops teach children how to make pizza, cupcakes, cookies, and pancakes—not just as fun activities, but as potential career paths in the industry.

With an influx of young, tech-savvy entrepreneurs entering the business, the Bakery Fair is evolving to cater to the next generation of bakers and pastry chefs.

What to Expect from the Next Bakery Fair?

As FCBAI gears up for the 14th edition of the Bakery Fair, it’s clear that this event will continue to grow and evolve. Expect bigger workshops, more interactive experiences, and a stronger focus on innovation—all while staying true to its original mission of supporting and uplifting Filipino bakers.

“At the end of the day, this is for the bakers,” said Christopher Ah, current FCBAI leader. “We want them to thrive, to grow, and to see that there’s always something new to learn in this industry.”

With a rich history, a strong present, and a bold vision for the future, the Bakery Fair isn’t just an event—it’s a movement that’s shaping the future of the Philippine baking industry, one loaf at a time.

DigiPlus Interactive Expands Globally with New Singapore-Based Entity, DigiPlus Global

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus Interactive), the pioneer of digital entertainment in the Philippines, is expanding its geographical footprint with plans to establish DigiPlus Global Pte. Ltd. (DigiPlus Global), a company to be incorporated in Singapore. This plan was approved by the Board of Directors in their meeting held on February 26, 2025. 

DigiPlus Global will be wholly owned by Diginvest Holdings Inc., a 100% subsidiary of DigiPlus Interactive. It will serve as a support function center and regional hub, dedicated to acquisition of global talents and forging strategic partnerships – key pillars of DigiPlus’ long-term growth strategy.

“Singapore is a world-class hub for business, technology, and talent, making it an ideal base for our global initiatives,” said DigiPlus Interactive Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “With the incorporation of DigiPlus Global, we are strengthening our ability to attract top-tier professionals, forge strategic alliances, and enhance our international presence, all while remaining deeply committed to our home market in the Philippines.”

DigiPlus Interactive is the operator of the Philippines' leading digital entertainment platforms, including BingoPlus, the country’s first government-approved online bingo platform; ArenaPlus, a premier sportsbook; and GameZone, a rising platform for casual and arcade gaming. While DigiPlus Global will focus solely on corporate and operations support functions, it will not engage in any iGaming operations in Singapore, strictly adhering to the country’s regulatory framework.

This milestone marks a bold step in DigiPlus Interactive’s expansion, leveraging Singapore’s advanced business infrastructure and global connectivity to further position the company as a leader in digital entertainment.

Liam Neeson Takes on a Hitman Role with Alzheimer in Memory, Streaming on Lionsgate Pl

A killer losing his memory, a mission that shatters his morals—Memory is a race against time, justice, and a mind in freefall. 

What happens when a calculated assassin is thrust into a deadly moral dilemma while battling memory loss? In Memory, Liam Neesonstars as Alex Lewis, a professional killer with a sharp skillset and a secret he can’t outrun. 

Diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's, Lewis is spiraling as his once-reliable memory begins to betray him. On the verge of retirement, he’s pulled into one last assignment that unravels into something much darker: a child trafficking ring operating in the shadows. Faced with an unbearable moral choice, Lewis refuses to complete the job and turns his lethal precision against the very people who hired him. But with his mind slipping and an FBI task force, led by Agent Vincent Serra (Guy Pearce), closing in, his quest for justice runs on borrowed time.

Directed by Martin Campbell (Casino Royale), Memory adapts the acclaimed Belgian crime thriller The Memory of a Killer, delivering a gritty exploration of justice, morality, and the fragility of the human mind. Featuring Monica Bellucci as a powerful El Paso real estate mogul shrouded in corruption, the film dives into a chilling conspiracy rooted in abuse and cover-ups.

On what drew him to take on the role of a hitman with a fading memory, Liam Neeson told WION, "I thought it was unique. We've all seen action movies with hitmen and assassins, but this was a character in an action-thriller who is legendary in how he executes his job, but we soon realize he's suffering from early onset Alzheimer's-dementia. I find that very, very intriguing and it also gave me the opportunity to research the world of Alzheimer's and dementia. I do have a friend back home who is suffering from early-onset dementia. It's sad to be in his company, because he's an old friend and yet the actor side of my brain is fascinated watching him come into his living room and he doesn't know where he is. He doesn't recognize the room. So, I wanted to pay a certain homage to him and use some of his mannerisms that he would make and do it the right way. It's so easy to overreact and that would be an insult to sufferers of the disease. I wanted it, and (director) Martin Campbell wanted it to be very subtle."

With edge-of-your-seat action and complex themes, Memory promises to leave a lasting impression. Stream it exclusively on Lionsgate Play starting February 28.