POP MART x Lazada: First Super Brand Day Drops Labubu V3, Crybaby, and Exclusive Deals

 Lazada Philippines announces its partnership with POP MART to launch its inaugural Super Brand Day (SBD), which will take place in-app on August 27. During the regional SBD across Southeast Asia, fans can look forward to the timed release of hot-selling IPs such as The Monsters and Crybaby. Fans will also enjoy storewide discounts of up to Php 320 off during the SBD, and receive an exclusive limited-edition gift-with-purchase, while stocks last. These products will be exclusively available on the POP MART brand store within Lazada’s LazMall during the SBD event.

 

POP MART will increase its stock levels and scale up visibility on its LazMall storefront to meet fan demand. With targeted vouchers and promotions on Lazada, the collaboration between both Lazada and POP MART aims to draw both loyal fans and first-time collectors into the art toy scene. As part of the collaboration, a whole set of Hirono Reshape Series Figures will also be given away via Lazada’s Facebook and Instagram pages on August 27.

 

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with POP MART once more, this time as an eCommerce platform enabler to extend exclusive merchandise for Lazada shoppers. This partnership allows us to combine Lazada’s eCommerce strength with the vibrancy of the art toy community. By making exclusive IP releases more accessible, we hope to connect even more fans across the region to this growing cultural movement,” said Alvin Ching, Lazada Philippines’ head of seller operations. “The Lazada x POP MART 5KM Run in the Philippines was a huge success, engaging audiences and blending fitness and pop culture in a highly localized and authentic way.”

 

More than just rare finds, the collaboration underscores Lazada’s role in connecting creators, collectors, and communities, while demonstrating the platform’s commitment to supporting creativity and cross-industry partnerships.

DigiPlus Builds Round-the-Clock CX Powerhouse

 DigiPlus Interactive Corporation, the driving force behind the brands BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, continues to enhance its customer experience (CX) by offering round-the-clock player support, setting a new standard in the industry. With over 40 million registered users, DigiPlus is steadily expanding its customer service operations to ensure timely assistance across account management, transaction support, technical troubleshooting, and fraud prevention.

Since its transition to digital operations during the pandemic, DigiPlus has fostered a vibrant and growing online community through its e-games and entertainment offerings. By bringing the excitement of gaming into the home, the company has made play more convenient, engaging, and accessible—anytime, anywhere.

CX representatives at the DigiPlus Merville studio assist players with their needs and questions across all gaming platforms: BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone.

As DigiPlus continues to scale its business, its customer support team has grown to over 300 dedicated members, with plans to reach 450 by year-end. This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality assistance at every player interaction. By implementing a well-structured support system covering both primary and premium tiers, DigiPlus has built a customer experience framework that not only resolves issues efficiently but also drives greater player satisfaction across all touchpoints.

"The strengthening of our customer service operations plays a vital role in making certain that every player’s concern is addressed swiftly and effectively. Our goal is to elevate the level of service and guarantee timely resolution of all player issues reinforcing our unwavering commitment to player satisfaction,” said Customer Service Director Carlos Pio Feliciano.

A CX representative happily assisting a player over the phone with a withdrawal request—a concern that is the top reason players call.

Serving a diverse user base across generations, DigiPlusprovides support through various channels, including email, chat, and calls. On average, the customer service team handles nearly million transactions per month. The most common concerns involve withdrawals, KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, game fairness, deposits, and account registration.

Representatives undergo advanced communication training covering essential areas such as product knowledge, communication techniques, conflict resolution, and technical troubleshooting. Their top priority is maintaining transparency with players, keeping them informed throughout the resolution process.

“Our commitment to excellence doesn’t stop after initial training,” added Feliciano. “We provide continuous learning modules to ensure our CX representatives stay up-to-date with the latest platform updates, tools, and industry trends. This guarantees they remain equipped to address new challenges as they arise.”

By investing in cutting-edge technology, ongoing training, and innovative digital solutions, DigiPlus is actively cultivating a customer-first culture rooted in trust, satisfaction, and brand loyalty. This 24/7 CX operational powerhouse reflects the company’s commitment to outstanding service and its position at the forefront of digital entertainment. 

For players who seek support and assistance, you may contact the following lines 24/7:
BingoPlus – bingoplus.ph | cs@bingoplus.vip | (02) 8539 0282
ArenaPlus – arenaplus.ph | cs@arenaplus.vip | (02) 8539 0285
GameZone – gzone.ph | cs@gamefun.pro | (02) 8539 0286

Tara, CHAGEE! Manila, are you ready for the BO·YA craze?

 The wait is over. Global tea sensation CHAGEE is making its highly anticipated Manila debut, serving up its global favorite and best-selling drink, BO·YA Jasmine Green Milk Tea.

The Jasmine Green Milk Tea, fondly known to the global milk tea community as BO·YA, is CHAGEE’s signature drink that has sold more than 600 million cups to date. It is made from whole tea leaves, specifically a blend of premium green tea leaves native to Yunnan high mountains, Dabaihao Green Tea, and Double-Petal Jasmine. Whether they’ve followed the hype online or are just discovering CHAGEE, milk tea fans now have the chance to sip the drink that’s taken the world by storm — freshly brewed in the heart of Manila. 

BO·YA Jasmine Green Milk Tea gained global popularity because of its distinct rich tea body and natural floral aroma, made possible through high quality ingredients and modern tea craftsmanship. Using traditional multi-round scenting methods, the Jasmine blossoms are layered over the green tea leaves to absorb the scent of the flowers, leaving a naturally-layered aroma. The result is BO·YA, crafted from premium tea leaves and paired with Arla milk for a naturally smooth taste. With no artificial flavouring tea base and no artificial sweeteners, it offers a pure and authentic milk tea experience. 

Aside from BO·YA, CHAGEE’s first three stores in Manila are now serving its lineup of high-quality teas that are internationally famed. The rich Da Hong Pao Milk Tea, smooth Osmanthus Oolong Milk Tea, aromatic Lapsang Souchong Black Milk Tea, and the distinctive Glutinous Green Milk Tea are among CHAGEE’s first offerings in the country, and will be available in its newly-opened stores at SM North EDSA, Robinsons Galleria, and Venice Grand Canal starting August 29.

CHAGEE Robinsons Galleria, and CHAGEE Venice Grand Canal Mall stores

 

CHAGEE will also be bringing to the Philippines its globally acclaimed Tea Bars that promise to elevate Filipino tea enthusiasts’ tea-drinking experience. The international tea brand’s first stores in the country are designed with welcoming, modern spaces that inspire meaningful connections over a comforting cup of tea. CHAGEE Tea Bars boast a minimalist design paired with warm, natural elements that encourage tea appreciation and offer a quick calm retreat amid the bustling city. By seamlessly blending contemporary aesthetics with tea craftsmanship, each location sets a new standard in the local cafe-hopping scene.

BO·YA Jasmine Green Milk Tea in Large Tear and Win Cup

In celebration of its arrival in Manila, CHAGEE is kicking things off with its  “Tear and Win” promo. Available at all three stores from August 29 to 31, customers can receive an upgrade to the Tear & Win cup with any purchase of large fresh milk tea where they can peel open a special perforated section on their cups to reveal instant prizes including iPhones, Jo Malone perfumes,  limited-edition merchandises, and even a Louis Vuitton Speedy bag! 

CHAGEE is also offering special bundle deals where customers can enjoy two large BO·YA Jasmine Green Milk Teas for PHP 165 (UP PHP 330), or one large BO·YA Jasmine Green Milk Tea and one large Da Hong Pao Milk Tea for PHP 169 (UP PHP 334), with both bundles eligible for the “Tear & Win” promo. Additionally, guests who collected vouchers from CHAGEE's pop-up event can start redeeming them at CHAGEE stores starting August 29.

Customers can now download the CHAGEE app from the Play Store or Apple App Store to access exclusive vouchers and explore the full menu. Follow the official CHAGEE Philippines Facebookand Instagram pages for more updates on CHAGEE.

Watch Movies Anytime, Anywhere with Smart’s New Multi SIM eSIM Adapter

 Imagine being able to stream and binge-watch as many movies as you want on your phone, anytime and anywhere—without worrying about juggling multiple SIM cards or carrying extra phones. That’s the kind of convenience Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is bringing to Filipinos with the launch of its Smart Multi SIM, the first pluggable eSIM adapter for Android in Asia.

This innovation lets even non-eSIM-capable Android devices store and manage multiple eSIMs, giving users the freedom to switch lines and services seamlessly. Whether you need one SIM for work, another for travel, or just want to maximize your streaming data for movie marathons, the Smart Multi SIM makes it possible—without the hassle of buying a new handset.

Affordable and Ready to Use

For only ₱119, the Smart Multi SIM comes as a physical SIM card with its own mobile number and a welcome bundle of 5 GB of open access data, 100 SMS, and 10 minutes of calls valid for three days. That’s enough to get you started on your favorite series or movie right after activation.

The Smart Multi SIM works with a companion mobile app (downloadable on the Google Play Store), where users can download and install up to five eSIM profiles. Switching between these profiles is quick and easy, making it perfect for those who balance personal, business, and travel lines—or simply want to maximize connectivity for uninterrupted streaming.

More Than Just Connectivity

With Smart Multi SIM, users can unlock more of Smart’s innovative services:

• Smart’s Trave App, which makes data roaming abroad more affordable.

• KiQ, Smart’s customizable eSIM-based service that lets you build your own plan based on your data, call, and text needs.

It’s more than just a SIM—it’s your ticket to a smarter, more flexible digital lifestyle.

Where to Get It

The Smart Multi SIM is now available at the Smart Online Store, Smart Stores, and accredited retailers nationwide.

To learn more, follow Smart on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or visit:

• Smart Prepaid

• TNT Multi SIM

Must-Have IKEA Favorites Now Up to 20% Cheaper Starting August 19

Cozy nights during the rainy season remind us to make our spaces brighter, comfortable and more organized. And with high inflation rate, increase in cost of daily living, Filipinos rethinking their spaces are looking for practical solutions. 

With the IKEA principle of Democratic Design, IKEA Philippines is permanently reducing prices on 400 popular items by up to 20% starting August 19, making IKEA pieces for everyday life at home, more affordable. 

IKEA Philippines Country Retail Manager Ricardo Pinheiro says, “In the Philippines, we know the importance of staying within one’s budget to make every peso count. That’s why we’ve permanently reduced our prices on 400 items—we want to side with the many and continue to support the Filipino way of life: practical, resourceful, and always centered on home.” 

Pinheiro adds that IKEA has always been about good design for the many. “Affordability should never mean compromising on design. By lowering prices, we are aligning ourselves with the realities of the Filipino family: their homes are lived-in, shared, and built with care even on modest budgets. Good design should be within reach of everyone even in challenging times. Filipinos derive comfort and pride in their homes, and IKEA’s pricedown is here to support that.” 

With the permanent lowering of prices, you get more for less. Here are five practical reasons for a home refresh with IKEA right now. 

1. Rediscover the joy of clean spaces within budget

As the next half of the year unfolds, it’s time to reorganize, declutter, or revamp your study/work space at home, the Scandinavian way. IKEA makes it easy for you to rediscover the joy of living in a home that truly reflects who you are and who you want to become without breaking the bank. While decluttering can be challenging, the rewards are immediate: a sense of calm, clarity, and renewed energy that transforms the way you feel in your own space. The IKEA Malm single bed now comes at P9,999 from P11,990, a 17% price reduction, with space underneath for storage boxes—making it a smart choice for a condo studio or kid’s room. Pair this with the Utespelare gaming desk, now P7,999 from P8,990, a reduction of 10%. 

2. The “ber” months are coming 

August is often seen as a slower month before the “ber” months rush in with the parties, family visits, holiday hustle, and travels. We can all agree that Christmas in the Philippines is fun—but also a total chaos. Why not prep your home (and yourself) before it all begins? IKEA’s pricedown makes it fun and easy to get your space ready for both everyday living and festive celebrations. The kitchen is the busiest room during the holidays as well, so as early as now declutter the drawers with the Variera pot lid organizer in stainless steel (price reduced by 10%, P399 from P450); and get your powder room ready for guests with the Hornavan trolley (20% price reduction, P699 from P890). 

3. Home refresh made easy 

We all want to give our homes a fresh look, but a full renovation is just out of reach especially with rainy-day repairs to be made. What if your living room could feel brand new with updates that won’t stretch your budget? IKEA’s classic Poang armchair, which combines Scandinavian and Japanese furniture traditions, will soften your room with its birch veneer finish and bent silhouette (10% price reduction, P3,555 from P4,000). 

4. A mental reset too 

For many, the midyear season is a great opportunity to slow down, reassess, and mentally reset. Use this time to examine each space in your home and note what you love—and what you’d like to change. It’s not just about tidiness, it’s about creating a calm, intentional environment for your well-being. The Linanas sofa (5% price reduction, P13,999 from P14,990) is the perfect place to sit quietly with a book and take that pause. 

5. Storage solutions that maximize your space 

If you think you’ve accumulated too much in the first seven months of the year, think of what the next few months will bring: gifts, food, new clothes, and more school requirements for the kids. IKEA has long been known for its clever storage solutions because its designers understand at a visceral level the modern-day problem of not being able to let go of things. The Brimness chest (22% price reduction, P6,999 from P8,990) can help store the things you keep for sentimental reasons—and your shopping hauls. 

Visit IKEA Philippines in Pasay and IKEA.ph

Sama Sama Tayong Sumakses with PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid!

In today’s world, the internet isn’t just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. From powering your work meetings and online classes to keeping your business running smoothly, a reliable connection makes all the difference. That’s why PLDT Home is making it easier for every Filipino family to stay connected with the launch of PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid—giving you the flexibility, affordability, and reliability you need, whenever you need it most.

All it takes is a strong, reliable internet connection to turn once-distant dreams into everyday realities. From starting an online business to becoming the next internet sensation – more Filipinos today are exploring fresh opportunities, kids are learning beyond the classroom, and dreamers are sharing their talents with the world. 

This is exactly what PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid captures in its latest campaign “Hall of Fame”, spotlighting three of today’s favorite online personalities: food content creator Ninong Ry, gaming streamer Suzzysaur, and singer-songwriter Maki. 

As digital platforms continue to redefine careers in content creation, remote work, and entrepreneurship, the “Hall of Fame” campaign celebrates this transformation by highlighting real-life stories of Filipinos who turned their passion into profession, all powered by a strong and reliable fiber connection. 

Fiber Prepaid: Fast, Flexible, and Built for your Lifestyle

John Y. Palanca, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home, says, “Filipinos have the innate talent and drive to turn big dreams into reality. Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki show us that technology is at its best when it empowers and enables you to succeed in life. With PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, we’re giving Filipinos the speed, reliability and flexibility to pursue their passions – whether it’s producing online content, streaming music, learning or upskilling. All it takes is a reliable connection and the courage to begin. At PLDT Home, we are proud to be part of these journeys of success, which continue to inspire us to innovate every day.”

PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid makes high-speed fiber internet more accessible than ever before – no contracts, no monthly bills. With a one-time fee of P999, which already comes with seven (7) days of unlimited fiber, users simply load when they need to and enjoy speeds of up to 50 Mbps. 

Sumakses with PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid. PLDT Home introduces its Fiber Prepaid Brand Ambassadors gaming streamer Suzzysaur, food content creator Ninong Ry, and singer-songwriter Maki together with Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home John Y. Palanca, Vice President and Head of Home Fixed Broadband Roy Victor E. Añonuevo, and Vice President and Head of Home Marketing Communications Ina Pineda.

Meet the Sumakses Stars

Ninong Ry, known for his hilarious no-frills cooking videos, became a household name by filming from his home kitchen during the pandemic lockdowns when everyone was stuck at home, craving content that could lift their spirits and ease their boredom.  

Before that, he was helping his mom run their poultry stall in Malabon -- until the palengke shut down, too. With nothing much to do at home, he began filming himself cooking and uploading videos online. The rest, as they say, is history.

“I was uploading content every day, consistently,” he says. “The biggest challenge in becoming a successful content creator isn’t just staying real or creative, it’s staying consistent.”

It didn’t take long before his down-to-earth style and easy-to-follow recipes earned him millions of fans who feel like they’re cooking right beside him. 

Suzzysaur found her niche by keeping it real: sharing honest stories a glimpse of her every day life, and gaming moments that her audience can relate to. Her content has evolved from the time she started out as a student wanting to pay her own way through college, to helping her parents finance her siblings’ education, too.     

With a pro-gamer husband, a four-year-old daughter, and a business to run, Suzzysaur’s home is always buzzing with online activities. She says, “My husband and I have our own setups in separate rooms because we both have meetings and streams. As a content creator, a CEO, and a mom, the kind of reliability and the customer support that PLDT Home provides help me fulfill my many roles.” 

Maki, on the other hand, won hearts with his soulful music—with content that began at home. 

“From recording in my bedroom to sharing my music online, I found the courage to chase my dream of becoming a recording artist,” he shares. What started as humble covers soon climbed the streaming charts—Maki’s journey is proof that sometimes, all it takes is talent and a strong WiFi signal. 

From cozy bedrooms to creative setups, these creators show how success can truly start at home—with a strong internet connection and a bold dream.

Just like Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki, you’ve got the power to shape your own success story. With PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid, you can connect whenever you need to—just load when you want and keep your budget in check. Whether you're hitting the books, creating content, or working on your next big idea, PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid gives you the freedom to follow your passions and go all out, with no limits.

Ready for your Hall of Fame story? Watch here how Ninong Ry, Suzzysaur, and Maki did it. 

Jackie Chan Plays Himself in Lionsgate Play’s Panda Plan

 You may know Jackie Chan as the iconic martial artist who performs his own stunts, or as the comedic hero of Rush Hourand Shanghai Noon. But in Panda Plan, he takes audiences on a wild new adventure, showing a softer side while still delivering the high-energy action fans love. Now, Pinoys can enjoy this new globe-trotting adventure on Lionsgate Play.

When a baby panda is in danger, Jackie Chan pulls out all the stunts and the laughs in this heartwarming action-comedy.

 

 

In the film, Jackie plays a fictionalized version of himself who unexpectedly becomes the caretaker of Hu Hu, an irresistibly cute baby panda. But when a ruthless crime syndicate sets its sights on the rare cub, Jackie is drawn into a dangerous mission to keep Hu Hu safe. With his loyal agent David (Xiang Wei) and dedicated panda keeper Su Xiaozhu (Ce Shi) by his side, Jackie navigates high-speed chases, elaborate stunts, and hilarious mishaps, all while trying to outwit the syndicate’s relentless pursuit.

 

True to Jackie’s signature style, Panda Plan delivers inventive action sequences and jaw-dropping martial arts moves. According to the action star himself, he even brought in stunt doubles from The Karate Kid (2010) production – specifically those who doubled the child actors – to handle the action choreography for Panda Plan. 

 

Directed by Zhang Luan and shot across stunning locations in China, Panda Plan is an infectiously silly family-friendly adventure that will have viewers laughing and cheering.

 

In an interview with Gulf News, Jackie Chan talked about how special making the film was for him: “It was quite a unique and interesting experience for me to play Jackie Chan.. I remember the first time I watched Kung Fu Panda, I was thinking that pandas are our Chinese national treasure, but it was Hollywood that first put pandas into a movie and made such a good commercial film out of it. So, I really hope that one day we can make a movie about pandas based on our own Chinese themes.”

 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with unexpected twists, plenty of laughs, and the ultimate battle for the cutest treasure in the zoo! Join the adventure and stream Panda Plan on Lionsgate Play starting August 22 via PLDT Home, Smart and Cignal.