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Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Roblox Introduces Kids and Select Accounts to Enhance Safety for Younger Users

 Roblox Corporation today announced two new age-based accounts for younger users on Roblox: Roblox Kids for users ages 5 to 8 and Roblox Select for users ages 9 to 15*. When they roll out in early June, these accounts will more closely align content access, communication settings, and parental controls with a user’s age. They’re also establishing an ongoing selection process for games available to users under 16.

This is a continuation of the work Roblox began earlier this year, becoming the first online gaming platform to require facial age checks to access chat. Since then, over 50% of global and 65% of U.S. daily active users have completed an age check**.


This update will bring age-checks, account-level defaults, content ratings, ongoing moderation, and expanded parental controls together into a unified framework for younger users. Based on Roblox’s selection criteria, the company believes age-checked users under 16 will have access to the vast majority of their favorite games at launch. Age-checked users 16 and older will not see any change to their Roblox experience.

Roblox Kids Accounts (Ages 5–8)

The age-based account system will automatically assign users ages 5 to 8 (as determined through Roblox’s global age-check technology or by a verified parent) to a Roblox Kids account. These accounts will be matched to a dynamically updated catalog containing thousands of select games. 

For Roblox Kids accounts:

  • Access will be limited to games with a Minimal or Mild content maturity label that have passed their three-step selection process (detailed below).

  • All communication is disabled by default.

  • The design will include a distinct background color across the app experience to indicate account type.

Roblox Select Accounts (Ages 9–15)

Roblox Select accounts are for users ages 9 to 15, as determined through Roblox’s universal age-check system or by a verified parent. These accounts will be matched to a dynamically updated catalog containing thousands of select games. 

For Roblox Select accounts: 

  • The design will include a distinct visual treatment to indicate account type.

Account Progression

Roblox’s global age-based account system will automatically progress users as they age.

  • Users will automatically transition from Roblox Kids to Roblox Select accounts when they reach age 9.

  • Users will automatically transition from Roblox Select to standard Roblox accounts when they reach age 16.

Users who haven’t yet completed an age-check will be limited to games rated Minimal or Mild, and all communication will be unavailable. After completing an age-check, users will automatically move into the appropriate age-based account. 

Continuous Evaluation Process for Dynamic Game Selection

As always, all content uploaded to Roblox goes through their existing moderation systems, including AI asset scanning, ongoing user report review, and multimodal moderation that evaluates scenes in real time for potential policy violations.

For content made available to users under 16, they will apply an additional continuous process that dynamically selects games. This process will include developer verification, extended content evaluation and rating, and additional limits on content more suited to older audiences.

Evaluation Criteria

Content will be automatically included in Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts once games are evaluated using additional criteria that include:

  1. Developer Verification: Creators must complete ID verification, enable two-step verification, and maintain an active Roblox Plus subscription.

  2. Real-Time Evaluation: Roblox will analyze how users age 16 and older interact with new games and monitor user reports to assess suitability for younger users.

  3. Content Maturity Rating and Default Exclusions: Roblox will assign an appropriate content maturity label (Minimal, Mild, or Moderate) for each game. By default, Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts will not include games that feature sensitive issues, social hangouts, or free-form drawing games.


Future Ratings Framework Integration


Later this year, Roblox will start transitioning to the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) framework, the globally recognized standard method for assigning content ratings for digital games and apps. These clear, region-specific ratings, such as ESRB in the U.S. and PEGI in much of Europe and the U.K., reflect local cultural norms and will help families identify age-appropriate content. 

Extending Parental Controls

Roblox is also extending their parental controls, which allow parents to manage content ratings, communications settings, and screen-time and spending limits. These tools also transparently show parents which games their child is spending their time in and who their friends are. Under this update, parents will gain one new control and retain access to certain controls until a child turns 16.

  • Extending Granular Game Blocking: Parents can block specific individual games through age 15.

  • Extending Chat Management: Parents can manage direct chat settings through age 15.

  • New Granular Game Approval: Parents can now approve access to specific games that are not otherwise available under the child’s default account type.

This structure is designed to give parents more precise control over the games and friends their child interacts with. Together, these updates are part of the company’s ongoing work to build age-appropriate experiences for all users, apply safety-by-default protections for younger users, and give parents more visibility and control over how their children use Roblox.

Larry Magid, ConnectSafely CEO, complimented Roblox’s updates by sharing: “By combining age assurance, stronger creator accountability, and parental controls, Roblox is helping set a higher standard for how platforms can better protect younger users while preserving positive online experiences.”


"With the launch of Roblox Kids and Roblox Select, we are fundamentally shifting how games are discovered on our platform. Safety isn't a static feature—it’s a journey that evolves as a child grows,” said Matt Kaufman, Chief Safety Officer at Roblox“While no system is perfect, these age-adaptive accounts are designed to help remove the guesswork for parents and help align users' experiences with their age.”

As part of Roblox’s work to become the world’s healthiest platform for users of all ages, they continually invest in safety by design and empower creativity through technology innovation. The products are thoughtfully designed to cultivate creation, connection, and collaborative play, rather than passive consumption. 


*The exact ages, games, and features associated with these accounts will vary by region. Ages are based on age checks; parents can correct a child’s age if necessary.

**As of the seven days ended March 31, 2026.

Friday, April 10, 2026

PLDT Home Honors Mompreneurs Transforming Communities at the 4th Gawad Madiskarte

PLDT Home recently concluded its 4th Gawad Madiskarte Awards, celebrating the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipino mompreneurs who continue to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Since its launch in 2020, the initiative has grown into a powerful platform that recognizes mothers who successfully balance family life while building impactful businesses.

Present during the celebration were (from left) John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of Home Consumer Business, PLDT Inc.; Rosalyn Mesina, Country Programme Coordinator, UN Women; Sheena Marie Mallari, owner of Jakesheen Homemade Spreads; Lanie Abanes Geronimo, owner of Ecobum Cloth Diapers; Melanie Medrano, owner of Gramworth Enterprises Inc.; Elsie Espiritu, owner of Kamagong Woodworks; Rambie Go, owner of Rambie’s Collection; Ina Pineda, VP and Head of Marketing Communications, PLDT Home; and Cheryl Maxine Loyola, AVP and Head of Public Relations and Brand Advocacies, PLDT Home.

Now marking its fifth year, the growing community, together with partners from UN Women and the Philippine Commission on Women, launched its empowering campaign “Panahon Mo Na,” a rallying call for mothers who have quietly built businesses while caring for their families. The message is simple yet powerful: it is time for mompreneurs to take pride in what they have built and confidently embrace their identity as entrepreneurs. 

This spirit is reflected in the growing Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) community, which now has over 227,000 members supporting one another through shared experiences, mentorship, and digital empowerment.

PLDT Home emphasized the role of connectivity in enabling these women to succeed, noting that beyond business growth, it also supports the everyday resilience of mothers navigating both family and enterprise. 

“At PLDT, we believe that reliable connectivity is a powerful enabler of growth. When mompreneurs are equipped with the right digital tools and supported by a strong community, they are able to expand their businesses, create opportunities, and uplift others,” said Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr., PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology officer.

Honoring Heart and Hustle: The PLDT Home 4th Gawad Madiskarte Winners

This year’s awards recognized outstanding mompreneurs across several categories, showcasing the diversity of industries and impact within the community.

Diskarteng  Fiber Biz winner, Rambie Go, with presenter and judge Prep Palacios, Google Country Manager and PLDT executives

The Diskarteng Fiber Biz award was given to Rambie Go of Rambie’s Collection, whose handcrafted accessories made from upcycled materials promote sustainability while creating livelihood opportunities for fellow mothers. “I am happy and grateful for this award as this recognizes the growing interest in sustainable fashion and inspires fellow moms to start small,” said Go.Diskarteng Angat (Start-Up) winner, Sheena Marie A. Mallari,  with presenter and judge Melissa Yeung-Yap, CEO of Greenstone Pharmaceutical and PLDT executives 

For the Diskarteng Angat (Start-Up) category,Sheena Marie A. Mallari of Jakesheen’s Homemade Spreads was recognized for crafting a variety of rich and creamy yema spread flavors. “Every challenge you face is part of your journey. Stay positive, stay consistent, and keep going,” said Mallari.

Diskarteng Angat (Scale-Up) winner, Melanie A. Medrano,  with presenter and judge Anna Meloto-Wilk, President and Co-Founder of Human Nature and PLDT executives

The Diskarteng Angat (Scale-Up) award was presented to Melanie A. Medrano of Gramworth Enterprises Inc., whose healthy, easy-to-prepare instant cacao drink products support local farmers through ethical trade practices. “I want to say mabuhay to every Filipina. I believe that each of us has the diskarte, faith, and the support of our community to succeed,” said Medrano.

Diskarteng Eco-Friendly (Start-Up) winner, Lanie Abanes Geronimo,  with presenter and judge Ces Oreña-Drilon, broadcast journalist and news anchor and PLDT executives

Lanie Abanes Geronimo of Ecobum Cloth Diapers won the Diskarteng Eco-Friendly (Start-Up) award for her locally made cloth diapers designed to help prevent skin irritation among infants. She started the business after the heartbreaking loss of her baby, turning her grief into a purpose-driven venture. “I’d like to congratulate all the mothers present. Each one of us has a story worth celebrating,” Geronimo said. 

Diskarteng May Puso  (Scale-Up) winner, Elsie Camille Espiritu,  with presenters and judges Bernadette “Bidibidi” De Los Santos, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) and PLDT executives

Elsie Camille Espiritu of Kamagong Woodworkz received the Diskarteng May-Puso (Scale-Up) award for her mom-led business, which creates handcrafted woodworks for homes and enterprises. “I was at a low point during the pandemic, but the Madiskarte Moms PH community inspired me to start earning and build a business born from my husband’s and my shared passions,” Espiritu shared.

With over 200 nominations received, the awards highlighted the diversity and innovation within the mompreneur community. Winners received cash prizes and specially designed trophies by Filipino visual artist Eric Masangkay, while finalists were also recognized for their achievements, reinforcing the program’s inclusive and supportive approach.

The distinguished panel of judges included Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr., Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer, PLDT Inc.; Ces Oreña-Drilon, broadcast journalist and news anchor; Bernadette “Bidibidi” De Los Santos, Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) and owner of Bidibidi Enterprise; Prep Palacios, Country Manager of Google Philippines; Anna Meloto-Wilk, President and Co-Founder of Human Nature; Melissa Yeung-Yap, CEO of Greenstone Pharmaceutical; and Angela Chen-Delantar, Chairperson and Co-Founder of Eskwelabs. Their expertise and experience provided valuable insight in evaluating the finalists’ entrepreneurial journeys and the impact of their businesses.

More than an awards ceremony, Gawad Madiskarte underscores the importance of empowering women through digital access and community support. By spotlighting these stories, PLDT Home continues to inspire more mothers to pursue entrepreneurship, proving that success is not only measured by profit, but also by purpose, perseverance, and the ability to uplift others.

As the program continues to grow, it stands as a testament to how heart and hustle can drive meaningful change, both within households and across communities.

Reinforcing this commitment, partners emphasized the importance of creating more inclusive opportunities for women entrepreneurs, noting that initiatives like Gawad Madiskarte help advance gender equality by enabling women to thrive both economically and socially.

Jimenez added, “What makes a Madiskarte Mom remarkable is not how she succeeds when things are easy, but how she moves forward when they are not.”

Mothers and aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to join the Madiskarte Moms PH community and be part of a growing network that empowers women to thrive in business.

Beyond Smartphones: HONOR Previews Its Next Durable Tablet Innovation

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is set to redefine durability and performance with the launch of its newest tablet—engineered to withstand the demands of modern, on-the-go lifestyles.


“If there’s anything I can say about this tablet for now is that it will boast a robust build, reinforced structure, and long-lasting battery life—ensuring uninterrupted productivity and entertainment throughout the day. Paired with an immersive display and powerful performance, users can expect a seamless experience whether they’re attending online classes, streaming content, or multitasking on the go,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Designed with both resilience and style in mind, HONOR’s latest tablet combines a sleek form factor with enhanced durability features, making it the perfect companion for students, young professionals, and families alike. Not compromising performance, the new HONOR tablet is also expected to have outstanding specs for its price point.

To learn more about this exciting news, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

Thursday, April 9, 2026

Robinsons Department Store Celebrates a Month of Play with Its All About Babies & Kids Fair

 Babies and kids deserve to play and have fun. It’s the best way to develop physical, social, and other essential skills they’ll need growing up. As summer vacation rolls on,  the young ones will have all the time to enjoy themselves. Coincidentally, April is also the month of play, which is the perfect time to run around outside and discover new hobbies.

Whether you’re a newbie parent keeping up with your toddler or a seasoned pro with a grade-school kid, it's time to prepare for your children’s next fun adventure. There’s no better place to do this than with Robinsons Department Store’s All About Babies & Kids Fair for the whole month of April. All branches nationwide will have up to 70% off on Kids and Baby items, Children’s Shoes, and the Toys "R" Us section.



Here are some of the brands you can check out for all your kids’ needs:

#1 Nursery Essentials: Hudson Baby and Avent

For the tiniest tots, comfort and safety are non-negotiable. Hudson Baby offers high-quality basics, such as swaddles to sleepsuits, that feel like a warm hug, even while going on a stroll outside. Pair them with Avent’s versatile feeding bottles and accessories to make mealtime a breeze for your baby.

#2 Style Stars: British Polo & Disney Baby

Who says kids can’t be fashion icons? British Polo brings a touch of "mini-chic" sophistication to your child’s wardrobe with timeless designs that are perfect for playtimes and fun parties. If your little one prefers a bit of magic, Disney Baby delivers adorable outfits featuring their favorite cartoon characters.

#3 Playtime Pros: Playpop & Playground

Let your kids’ imaginations run wild! Playpop is your go-to for vibrant, engaging toys that spark creativity, while Playgroundoffers durable, fun apparel and gear designed to withstand even the most energetic outdoor adventures. Playground is exclusively available at Robinsons Department Store, with a wide selection of products on sale.

#4 Adventure-Ready Gear: Grizzly & Whatever

For the kids who are always on the move, Grizzly provides rugged and reliable essentials that can handle any "expedition" to the park. For the kids who want to express their unique personality, Whatever offers trendy styles that make a bold statement.

#5 Storybook Favorites: Bluey & The Little Prince

Bring your kids’ favorite stories to life at home and while on the go. From the wholesome, imaginative world of Bluey to the poetic and whimsical charm of The Little Prince, you’ll find merchandise and toys that celebrate the heart and soul of childhood storytelling.

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Ready your shopping carts and don’t miss out on Robinsons Department Store’s All About Babies & Kids Fair this April, including a special activation at Robinsons Manila’s Midtown Atrium from April 14 to 20, 2026. Aside from discounts, Go Rewards members can enjoy an additional P200 off (minimum purchase of P3,000) on all Wednesdays of April. You can also take home a free Fiesta Surprise Bag for a minimum purchase of P2,500 on kids and babies items.

Make this month of play worth it. Follow the official pages of Robinsons Department Store on FacebookInstagram, and Tiktok to be updated on the best offers.


Wednesday, April 8, 2026

A Sneak Peek at HONOR’s Game-Changing Robot Phone

Following the recently concluded Mobile World Congress 2026, HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng gets his hands on one of today’s most talked-about devices—the HONOR Robot Phone—featuring a built-in gimbal camera engineered for ultra-stable, professional-grade photography and videography.

The Robot Phone blends robotics with smartphone tech in a way that feels seamless and easy to use, giving a glimpse of how HONOR sees the future of smart devices—more intuitive, more interactive, and built around real human needs.
Stephen Cheng gets hands-on with the much-hyped HONOR Robot Phone at Mobile World Congress.

 
It also comes with smart AI features that can track subjects, adjust angles on the fly, and help you capture better shots with less effort. Paired with its robotic design, it creates a more engaging and hands-on experience compared to traditional smartphones.
 
There’s no official word yet when the HONOR Robot Phone will be available in the market, but HONOR says more details are coming soon.
For more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.


Sunday, April 5, 2026

Sari-Sari Stores Take Center Stage in Puregold’s MSME Push

In its final installment of the Sari-Sari Stories, Puregold releases “Pangalan,” a moving

tribute to the sari-sari stores that continue to power daily life, grassroots enterprise, and

community connection across the Philippines.


Pangalan,” the final installment of Puregold’s Sari-Sari Stories series, celebrates the cultural and economic significance of sari-sari stores in everyday Filipino lives. 

 


With Puregold Channel’s Sari-Sari Stories, the company honors the enduring impact of sari-sari stores as drivers of commerce and MSME growth. 

 

Following “Ways,” “The Sign,” and “The Witness,” Puregold broadens the conversation

from nostalgia to economic relevance, highlighting how sari-sari stores continue to

serve as accessible retail touchpoints, community anchors, and entry-level enterprises

that support household livelihoods in the country.

Through “Pangalan,” Puregold highlights neighborhood retail as essential commerce hubs in Filipino communities.

Sari-sari stores go beyond informal neighborhood retail. They function as last-mile

commerce points that respond to everyday consumer needs with proximity, familiarity,

and flexible purchasing options. Their resilience has allowed them to remain relevant even as the retail landscape continues to evolve.


That economic role is matched by social relevance. At the heart of Pangalan is the idea

that sari-sari stores are more than neighborhood shops: they are trusted spaces that people turn to not only for essentials, but for connection and reliability. The film captures this dual role in distinctly Filipino terms: the store as tanungan, tambayan, and takbuhan.

Jhoanna of BINI brings familiarity to Puregold’s Sari-Sari Stories, appearing in “Pangalan.”

The narrative is reinforced by appearances of OPM artists Jhoanna Robles of BINI, Stell

Ajero of SB19, and Skusta Clee, whose personal recollections reflect the deep familiarity of sari-sari stores in Filipino life. Their participation adds cultural relevance to a message ultimately anchored in enterprise, accessibility, and community-based retail.


Puregold’s focus on this segment remains rooted in mass-market demand and the practical realities of everyday consumption. By spotlighting community-based retail, the

company reinforces its relevance at the grassroots level while drawing attention to the

vital contribution of MSMEs to the domestic economy.


The timing is equally strategic, with MSMEs already looking ahead at the upcoming

Puregold Tindahan Ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention in May. 

SB19’s Stell also makes an appearance in Puregold’s Sari-Sari Stories series.

The annual event has become a key platform for sari-sari store owners, entrepreneurs, and partner suppliers, underscoring Puregold’s enduring commitment to small business

development and ecosystem growth.


Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAE7m6Ts2ew


Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like

@puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and

@puregoldph on TikTok for updates and behind-the-scenes content.


Wednesday, April 1, 2026

HONOR rolls out 4.4 Mega Sulitipid Summer Sale with 0% interest offers and free tablet promo

No pranks here---just real summer upgrade. Enjoy easy payments and a free tablet to math your on-the-go lifestyle.  

The leading global technology AI brand HONOR is turning up the heat this April with its highly anticipated 4.4 Mega Sulitipid Summer Sale, offering unbeatable deals designed for tech-savvy shoppers and hardworking professionals looking to upgrade their devices without stretching their budget.

Running from April 1 to 8, the early summer sale puts the spotlight on value-packed offers, headlined by 0% interest installment options and an exciting FREE HONOR Pad X8a bundled with select purchases—making it one of the brand’s most compelling promos yet.
HONOR fans can enjoy flexible payment options, including 0% interest for up to 6 months via SPayLater and major credit cards such as BDO, BPI, UnionBank, and HSBC. For those looking for longer terms, installment plans of up to 12 months are also available through TikTok PayLater and LazPayLater.
Adding even more value, customers can unlock P1,000 off on HONOR Choice Earbuds Clip through exclusive add-on deals with every purchase of any HONOR smartphone or tablet.
“This 4.4, we want to make premium technology more accessible to Filipinos, especially those looking for smarter ways to upgrade their devices without compromising their budget,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. “With our 0% interest installment offers and free tablet bundle, we’re delivering real value that empowers consumers to get more out of their purchases this summer season.”
The HONOR 4.4 Mega Sulitipid Summer Sale will be available across major e-commerce platforms on the following dates:
  • Shopee: April 1 – 5 
  • TikTok Shop: April 1 – 3 
  • Lazada: April 5 – 8 
 
Get 0% interest up to 6 months installment and FREE HONOR Pad X8a this HONOR 4.4 Mega Sulitipid Summer Sale
Whether you're upgrading your daily device or investing in a second gadget for work or entertainment, HONOR’s limited-time deals make it easier than ever to bring home powerful and stylish tech this season.
Shop now via:
 
For more exciting announcements, visit HONOR Philippines’ official website, 
www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms, Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines),Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive news and launch updates.

TCL Celebrates 100 Million Air Conditioner Units in 5 Years with Opening of Guangzhou Smart Manufacturing Base

  On March 28, the TCL Air Conditioner Guangzhou Base Inauguration & 100 Million Units Milestone Ceremony themed “Beyond 100 Million, In...