“ Crash Landing in Manila: Hyun Bin Brings His Star Power to Solaire Resort"

The moment I watched Crash Landing on You, I was an instant Hyun Bin fan—hooked not just by his charm, but by the quiet strength and sincerity he brought to every scene. So when news broke that he was partnering with Solaire Resort, it felt like the perfect drama twist we never knew we needed. Manila’s excitement was palpable, and seeing him here in person was like watching a beloved K-drama come to life. The collaboration isn’t just a meeting of star power and luxury; it’s a celebration of the kind of elegance, warmth, and world-class presence that both Hyun Bin and Solaire embody.

Global Korean superstar Hyun Bin has officially touched down in the Philippines for the first time—and he’s doing it in true world-class style, with Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Parañaque as his luxurious home base.

As part of his much-anticipated visit, Hyun Bin attended a press conference where he shared his impressions of the Philippines—and gave glowing praise to the warmth of the Filipino people, the vibrant energy of Manila, and the impeccable hospitality he experienced during his stay. “From the moment I arrived, everyone has been so warm and welcoming,” he said. “I’ve heard many good things about Manila but experiencing it for myself — it’s even more wonderful than I expected.”

Solaire Resort Entertainment City, the Philippines’ first integrated resort, is known for offering a seamless blend of luxury, entertainment, and Filipino hospitality. With over 800 rooms and suites boasting panoramic views of the Manila Bay or the city skyline, the resort is a haven of comfort and sophistication. The resort is also home to an impressive lineup of 18 dining concepts, ranging from elevated Filipino cuisine to award-winning international fare—making it a true destination for discerning travelers.

Hyun Bin described his stay as serene and memorable, highlighting the elegant accommodations and attention to detail that made it easy for him to relax and recharge. “The hotel is very beautiful,” he noted. “One thing that really stood out to me is the incredible view from my room—especially during sunset. It’s truly breathtaking... The bed is so soft and comfortable, and the whole room feels very calm and private—perfect for recharging after a busy schedule.”

 

But beyond the luxurious amenities, it was the people who left the deepest impression on him. “What makes the experience even more special is the warm hospitality—especially from the staff at Solaire Resort —who go above and beyond to make me feel at ease. Their kindness and attentiveness truly make me feel at home here.”

Hyun Bin also shared his excitement about sampling Filipino food, particularly the iconic adobo—a dish that had been highly recommended by his Korean friends who previously visited the country. “It was very delicious—rich, flavorful, and definitely something I’d like to try again,” he said. “I’m looking forward to tasting more of the local dishes while I’m here.”

 

Aside from his stay, the actor also took time to meet lucky raffle-winning fans at a special fan event—many of whom have followed his career for years. “It’s very touching. Meeting my fans here in person and feeling their energy, their smiles, and hearing their cheers—it’s truly overwhelming, in a good way,” he said. “Their support, even from so far away, has always meant so much to me.”

 

When asked what continues to fuel his passion as an actor, Hyun Bin emphasized his drive to grow and take on new challenges. “Each project teaches me something new about life and emotion. I’m preparing for my next project now—can’t share much yet, but I’m excited for fans to see a new side of me soon.”

As Solaire Entertainment City plays host to this unforgettable visit, the property’s expansion into Solaire Resort North—a newly opened luxury development in Quezon City—further cements its position as a premier hospitality brand in the Philippines. Designed for both leisure and business travelers in the north of Metro Manila, Solaire North brings the signature warmth and world-class standards of Solaire Resort to a whole new location.

 

Hyun Bin’s visit marks a momentous milestone not only for his Filipino fans, but also for Solaire Resort, as it continues to deliver extraordinary experiences fit for global icons—proving once again that Filipino hospitality is second to none.

Mystery Awaits: The Thursday Murder Club Launches August 28 on Netflix

("Courtesy of Netflix")

Four retirees. Countless cold cases. And now, a real murder.

("Courtesy of Netflix")

Based on Richard Osman’s international bestselling novel of the same name, THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB follows four irrepressible retirees - Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), Ron (Pierce Brosnan), Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley) and Joyce (Celia Imrie) - who spend their time solving cold case murders for fun. When an unexplained death occurs on their own doorstep, their casual sleuthing takes a thrilling turn as they find themselves with a real whodunit on their hands. Directed by Chris Columbus, the film is the latest to be produced through the Netflix and Amblin Entertainment partnership.

For more information, check out The Thursday Murder Club on TUDUM.

Read more about The Thursday Murder Club on Netflix Media Center.

AirAsia Philippines Joins 50,000 Boholanos in Sandugo Festival

 

AirAsia Philippines further cemented its presence in Central Visayas as it successfully staged the third leg of its LFG! Let’s Fly & Go Fiesta Series during the vibrant Sandugo Festival in Bohol bringing together thousands of Gen Z travelers through a celebration of local culture and music.

The event drew over 50,000 concertgoers and 300,000 online views, with the majority being young travelers who gathered at Bantawan in the Old Tagbilaran Airport. Guests who presented their AirAsia boarding passes were granted exclusive fast-lane access to the concert grounds, which featured headline performances by rising OPM artists Cup of Joe, known for their hit “Multo,”and Earl Agustin, who serenaded the crowd with “Tibok”, last August 8.

“AirAsia is deeply committed to enriching stakeholders’ experiences while promoting cultural diversity. Through music and festivities, communities unite and celebrate meaningful causes such as preserving history for future generations. We’re proud to partner with the LGU of Bohol in championing initiatives that drive travel growth in this beautiful destination,” AirAsia Philippines President and CEO Suresh Bangah shares.

Alongside this, the World’s Best Low-Cost airline also participated in cultural events, particularly in Miss Bohol pageant and Sandugo Street Parade, further showcasing support for local festivities.

Operating 28 weekly flights between Manila and Tagbilaran, AirAsia Philippines reinforces its strong market in Bohol while solidifying its role as the preferred carrier through competitive fares and reliable connectivity.

Level Up Your Play: TECNO Launches POVA 7 Ultra 5G, the Philippines’ First Triple-Crown Official Gaming Phone

 

TECNO Philippines transformed SM Fairview into a gamer’s paradise on August 9-10 with its "POVA Gaming Fiesta," drawing record crowds for the explosive launch of the POVA 7 Ultra 5G. Set against a life-size PUBG Mobile battleground, the event immersed over 5,000 Filipino gamers in interactive zones where they experienced first-hand the device’s industry-leading 120FPS gameplay and futuristic light-strip design – solidifying TECNO’s commitment to revolutionizing local mobile gaming culture.

Philippines’ First Triple-crown Esports Phone Redefines Competitive Edge

The POVA 7 Ultra 5G achieved an unprecedented trifecta of esports endorsements, directly addressing Filipino gamers’ demands for tournament-grade reliability. As the newly unveiled Official Device for PUBG Mobile Challenger Leagues SEA(PMCL) 2025, it guarantees frame rate stability during high-stakes professional matches – a critical advantage validated by PMCL Commissioner’s live demonstration at the event. Simultaneously, TECNO announced long-term collaboration as Exclusive Gaming Partner of the Philippine National Esports Team (SIBOL), designating POVA 7 Ultra 5G as the official gaming phone for SIBOL athletes in SEA Games and Global Esports Championships. "When our players defend PH glory, they’ll do it with POVA’s 120FPS precision," stated SIBOL Team Manager, Jeff Victoriano. The phone also received pre-certification as the Official Gaming Phone for Honor of Kings Philippine Kings League (PKL) launching late August – positioning it as the undisputed performance benchmark across Philippines’ top two mobile esports titles.

 

Dito Partnership Eradicates Gaming Data Barriers

In a game-changing move for cost-conscious Filipino gamers, TECNO partnered with DITO, the country’s fastest-growing mobile network, to launch the industry-first "TECNO x DITO x PUBG Mobile Prepaid Gaming SIM." in the event. DITO’s brand ambassadors PPOP sensation ALAMAT brought down the house with a surprise performance, announcing the customised SIM releasing.

DITO Mobile, TECNO, and PUBG Mobile have joined forces to create the "Perfect Gaming Squad," offering Filipino mobile gamers an exclusive bundle with a winning edge. The bundle features the TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G—the official PUBG Mobile smartphone—and a DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM. Recognized by Opensignal as the Philippines' fastest network, DITO ensures a superior gaming experience with reduced lag and fast loading times. Subscribers who get the exclusive DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM also receive unlimited PUBG Mobile access, valid as long as they are subscribed to select DITO Level Up promos. This powerful collaboration delivers unbeatable performance and a premium gaming experience at an accessible price.

 

POVA Chief Gaming Officer Myrtle Sarrosa Bridges Gaming-Cosplay Divide

TECNO cemented its cultural relevance by renewing multi-hyphenate icon Myrtle Sarrosa (actress/gaming queen/cosplay star) as POVA Chief Gaming Officer. Her expanded role will deepen TECNO’s penetration into PH’s exploding cosplay community while anchoring hardcore gaming credibility. During the offline appearance, Myrtle cos the newest PUBGM skin - Spectral Byte with  light-strip flares on her costume and weapon – a visual metaphor for how the phone merges performance and personal expression. "POVA 7 Ultra 5G isn’t just a tool, it’s your battle jewelry," she declared, showcasing the device light effects and designs that drew roaring approval from Gen Z attendees.

 

Freebies for All Buyers for TikTok Super Brand Day and Offline Preorder - Buy 1 Get 3!

The official price of POVA 7 Ultra 5G is PhP16,999, with the color of Geek White and Geek Black. Avail the early bird price of PhP12,999 for the POVA 7 Ultra 5G from August 8 to 10 during the TECNO Super Brand Day at the TikTok Shop. From August 11 to 14, the Super Brand Day discount price will be PhP13,999.

Pre-order in all nationwide TECNO stores are starting from August 8 to 21, getting PhP1,000 off the standard retail price of PhP16,999 plus three freebies when order one POVA 7 Ultra 5G. Use Skyro to enjoy additional PhP500 discount, or use Home Credit to enjoy up to 18 months, 0% interest payments of PhP24 per day.

For the freebies, TECNO TikTok Super Brand Day and retail store preorder buyers will receive freebies worth PhP1,999 when they buy the POVA 7 Ultra 5G and get 3 items (limited stock) –  1 POVA wireless powerbank (5000mAh), 1 customized DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM for PUBG Mobile, and 1 special edition PUBGM case card.

 

 

The fiesta climaxed with fans queueing three-deep at experiential booths, where the Dimensity 8350 chipset’s blistering speed and hyper gaming engine converted skeptics into believers. TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G’s triple-crown validation (PMCL/SIBOL/PKL), carrier alliance, and cultural connectivity position it not just as a device, but as the engine of Philippines’ esports ascendancy.

Life’s Good in Action: LG Teams Up with Good Neighbors Philippines for Youth Development

With hands-on training from the Learn and Grow program, young Filipinos are gaining the skills and mindset to succeed on their own terms 

(Mr. Jaechoon Lee, Country Director of Good Neighbors Philippines, shakes hands with Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines) 

 

With more Filipinos striving to build a brighter future, LG Electronics Philippines is stepping in through a meaningful partnership with Good Neighbors International Philippines. On July 28, 2025, LG formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to express its commitment to the Learn and Grow vocational training program. As part of this agreement, LG will donate Php 1,200,000 (over USD 20,000) to help provide tools, training assistance, and other essential resources for the program’s students. 

 

Present at the signing ceremony were Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines; Mr. Hongseok Chang, Chief Financial Officer of LG Philippines; Mr. Jaechoon Lee, Country Director of Good Neighbors Philippines; Ms. Visitacion Apostol, Senior Manager of Good Neighbors Philippines; Mr. Mark Gerald Paner, Social Development Division Manager of Good Neighbors Philippines; Ms. Maria Julia Orcullo, Field Manager of Good Neighbors Philippines; and Ms. Aimee Jill Fernando, Communication Manager of Good Neighbors Philippines. Their presence marked a shared commitment to uplifting Filipino youth through education. This initiative guides Care Leavers, young people aged 18 and above who are exiting sponsorship programs, toward independence by building their practical skills and creating opportunities for meaningful careers. By investing in youth empowerment, the program also contributes to long-term nation-building, one skilled graduate at a time. 

 

(From L-R: Ms. Visitacion Apostol, Senior Manager of Good Neighbors Philippines; Mr. Jaechoon Lee, Country Director of Good Neighbors Philippines; Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines; Mr. Hongseok Chang, Chief Financial Officer of LG Philippines)
 

Many young Filipinos today are eager to get ahead, but not all have equal access to the resources and opportunities they need to get started. With around 17.5 million Filipinos still living below the poverty line and youth unemployment at 6.85% in 2023, many of those who do find work are limited to low-wage or part-time jobs. They have few means to pursue education or find decent work, held back by financial constraints and less access to skills training or support systems. San Isidro in Rodriguez, Rizal, is a resettlement community home to urban poor migrants who have relocated due to job-seeking opportunities or displacement caused by natural disasters. The area faces a lack of educational opportunities and economic support, leading to high dropout rates among youth. Few students go on to pursue higher education or vocational training. To help address the situation, Good Neighbors created a program called Learn and Grow. 

 

From Community Care to Career Building 

Good Neighbors is an international humanitarian aid and development NGO established in South Korea in 1991, operating in nearly 200 communities across 51 countries. Active in the Philippines since 2008, it supports around 9,000 sponsored children across 11 communities nationwide and focuses on child protection, education, and youth empowerment. As part of this mission, Good Neighbors Philippines launched the Learn and Grow vocational training program for Care Leavers, offering hands-on training in refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) servicing. With the country’s growing tourism industry and rising temperatures driving demand for appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators, and with 4.87 million foreign tourists visiting the Philippines from January to October 2024 alone, the need for refrigeration and air conditioning services continues to grow. Learn and Grow provides youth with practical, in-demand skills that help them secure employment and contribute to stronger, more self-reliant communities. 

 

A Shared Vision: LG and Good Neighbors Empower the Next Generation  

(Good Neighbors International Philippines with LG Electronics Philippines) 

 

To expand the reach and impact of the Learn and Grow program, LG is making a meaningful contribution by providing tools, training assistance, and educational materials for the students. A Korean brand globally recognized for its innovations, LG has long been committed to improving everyday life through appliances powered by cutting-edge Korean technology and making after-sales support more accessible through its service centers that offer reliable repairs for air conditioners, refrigerators, and more. This hands-on industry knowledge further reinforces LG’s belief in the value of programs like Learn and Grow, which equip the next generation with livelihood skills. 

 

“Supporting the Learn and Grow program aligns perfectly with LG’s mission of creating a better life for all. We are proud to be part of an initiative that empowers young Filipinos with skills, opens doors to new opportunities, and contributes to nation-building by helping shape a stronger, self-reliant generation. As a brand that provides after-sales services through our service centers, we understand the importance of technical expertise. That’s why we believe in supporting programs like this—where passion meets purpose and training becomes a stepping stone to a better future,” said Mr. Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Electronics Philippines. 

 

Mr. Jaechoon Lee, Country Director of Good Neighbors Philippines, expressed his gratitude for LG’s support, saying, “We appreciate LG Philippines for their dedication to building ‘A Better Life for All.’ We truly value the trust and support of LG Electronics, particularly your Customer Service Team, and see this initiative as the beginning of a long-term, strategic partnership between LG and Good Neighbors. Together, we hope to develop more inclusive CSR initiatives that create meaningful and measurable impact for marginalized communities in the Philippines.” 

 

This meaningful partnership reflects the spirit of LG’s Life’s Good campaign. By uplifting young people with the right tools and training, LG is creating more chances for growth where they matter most. It’s not just about giving; it’s about opening doors, building skills, and fueling ambition. Through Learn and Grow, these future professionals are discovering their strengths, gaining practical experience, and stepping into a future full of promise. Discover more at https://www.lg.com/ph and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines. 

Five URC Brands Remain Top Favorites in Filipino Homes

 

Five flagship brands from food and beverage firm Universal Robina Corp. (URC) have landed in an exclusive list of products consistently chosen by millions of Filipino households.

Great Taste, C2, Piattos, Nissin and Payless were all among the most chosen FMCG brands in the Philippines according to the 2025 Brand Footprint Report of global consulting firm Worldpanel by Numerator.

“The results of this study show that our brands continue to earn the trust and loyalty of Filipino consumers,” said URC Chief Marketing Officer Karen Ong. “We’re proud that our products remain staples in homes across the country,” she added.

The Brand Footprint report is Worldpanel’s annual ranking of the most chosen FMCG brands worldwide. It uses a metric called “consumer reach points” (CRP) to measure a brand’s strength based on how many shoppers are buying the brand and how often. It essentially shows which brands are winning at the point of purchase.

Part of Filipino Homes: URC products are among the top picks of Filipino households, according to the 2025 Brand Footprint Report of global consulting firm Worldpanel by Numerator.

 

One CRP represents a single instance of a shopper choosing a brand – integrating data on population, penetration and frequency – to provide a holistic view of brand performance.

“With more time spent out and about and an easing of inflation, Filipinos shop more often. This means more opportunities for each brand to be bought.” said Marie-Anne Lezoraine, Managing Director for Worldpanel by Numerator in the Philippines

Coffee brand Great Taste was in the top 10 most chosen FMCG brands in the Philippines, with 367 million CRP. It was also the fourth most chosen brand in the beverage sector.

Ready-to-drink green tea beverage C2 also landed in the beverage sector list with 33 million CRP.

Potato snack Piattos outpaced its rivals in the food sector, holding steady at seventh in the rankings, with 180 million CRP.

Noodle brands Nissin, with 101 million CRP, and Payless, at 73 million CRP, likewise landed in the most chosen brands list for food sector.

Worldpanel said an economic rebound in 2024 had led to a 6 per cent jump in consumer spending on FMCG brands.

“Brands that remained visible and accessible during this recovery period saw stronger gains in consumer engagement,” said Karen Ong. “URC’s portfolio clearly benefited from that momentum.”

URC produces iconic brands such as Great Taste, C2 Cool & Clean, Piattos, Maxx candy and Cream-O cookies, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. One of the country’s largest food and beverage manufacturers, URC also has significant, and growing, presence in ASEAN. Its leading regional brands include Lexus, Tivoli and Fun-O.

 

Xiaomi Makes Big Tech Affordable for Every Juan

 

Like a lot of basic necessities, smartphones and tablets are an absolute must-have for every Filipino now. No matter what you’re doing, whether you’re a student or a worker, daily life is dependent on having a reliable and working mobile device. We use it to communicate, connect, be entertained, and sometimes even make a living to get by; and the sheer accessibility of Android devices makes it so much easier for everyone to get one.

But with so many options in the market today, which Android device do you go and get? For one, Xiaomi has established itself as the go-to brand for high-quality mobile devices that don't come with a hefty price tag. Not to mention, everyone’s familiar with the Xiaomi brand, recognizing it as a sign of reliability.

From its budget-friendly entry-level models to the feature-rich Redmi Note series, there's a Xiaomi device that fits every need and every budget. Here are the four best (and latest!) Xiaomi devices that you can get, with some going for ₱25,000 or less.

1. Xiaomi 14T

If you’ve got the cash for a premium phone that’s still within the midrange, you may want to consider the Xiaomi 14T.

The Xiaomi 14T is a true flagship killer, offering a premium experience with a Leica co-engineered camera system. It features a brilliant 6.67-inch AI display with a 144Hz refresh rate, a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8300-Ultra processor, and a long-lasting 5000mAh battery with 67W turbo charging.

For photography enthusiasts and users who demand top-tier performance, as well as those who want to harness the power of AI, the Xiaomi 14T is a standout choice at around half the cost of a traditional flagship phone. It goes for as low as P23,999.

2. Redmi Note 14 Series

But if you don’t have a higher budget for a midrange phone, there’s no more perfect choice than the Redmi Note 14 Series, with its banner model the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G.

The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G, at the top end of the line, stands out as a mid-range mobile photography champion, delivering a premium experience at an accessible price. Take the best photos and videos when you snap any shot using its camera, which the phone will then enhance using its AI technology. That’s its promise of Iconic Shots, AI Crafted.

The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G retails for as low as P16,999, while the lower end of the whole line goes for as low as P8,199.

3. Redmi 14C

For the most budget-conscious buyers, the Redmi 14C offers essential smartphone features without compromise.

It has a large 6.88-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a capable 50MP AI triple camera, and a massive 5160mAh battery that can last for days. The Redmi 14C is the perfect entry-level device for first-time smartphone owners or as a secondary phone. It retails for as low as P5,999.

4. Redmi Pad 2

Need something bigger than a smartphone that can serve as a personal assistant—but don’t want to splurge on a laptop or desktop PC? That’s where a good, reliable, high-performing tablet comes in, like the Redmi Pad 2.

Touting massive views for massive fun, the Redmi Pad 2 gets everything you need done at the fraction of a cost of a powerful computer—while being as portable as possible. It’s got a crystal-clear 11-inch 2.5K display and is powered by an Advanced Helio G100-Ultra chipset so you can work, stream, or game to its fullest potential. Use it all day with a long-lasting and massive 9000mAh battery, ensuring you never lose a minute of performance.

The best part about the Redmi Pad 2 is its sheer affordability, going for as low as P9,799 online!

Ready for a new Xiaomi phone or tablet? There’s a lot more where this came from—check out the selection for every kind of budget over on Xiaomi’s official Shopee and Lazada stores, or at your nearest Xiaomi branch today.

To learn more about Xiaomi and Redmi devices, visit http://mi.com/ph.