UNIQLO Redefines Everyday Style with “Ultimate Basic” in Its 2026 Spring/Summer Collection

UNIQLO continues to elevate its LifeWear philosophy of improving everyday life through clothing, this time by centering its 2026 Spring/Summer collection on the concept of “Ultimate Basic.” Balancing functionality with the joy of wearing clothes, the exciting line-up was showcased recently during an exclusive media preview.

The concept of “Ultimate Basic” comes from the modern needs of consumers. UNIQLO draws inspiration from the strong demand for the ultimate everyday wear that marries both style and function, especially for the upcoming season. The result: a massive collection designed to embrace both comfort and style for the spring and summer seasons, achieved through fun colors, thoughtful patterns, relaxed silhouettes, and smart material choices.

“At UNIQLO, our goal is to create clothes designed for life’s needs, following our LifeWear philosophy,” UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia said during the event at Intramuros. “Our new collection presents clothes that are light and airy to wear, fresh to look at, and fun to style, because we want everyone to enjoy the warm weather to the fullest.”

While the season’s go-to may be basic jeans, t-shirts, linen, shorts, and Sport Utility Wear, UNIQLO Philippines Marketing Director Jan Ang said that the brand’s new collection has “elevated these spring and summer essentials to the ultimate level.”

“We’ve got new styles, colors, and patterns for everyone to get creative with this season. As always, there are innovations and new technology for enhanced and functional comfort,” she said, before presenting the collection and introducing UNIQLO Philippines’ newest line-up of local celebrity partners.

Ang was joined on stage by the members of the refreshed roster, each representing key UNIQLO items highlighted for the season. Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo and actor Matteo Guidicelli represent the Core T-shirts and Linen line, respectively. Actress Solenn Heussaff also fronts the Linen collection, highlighting this must-have item for the warmer months. Rounding up the line-up are model Anthony Constantino for Jeans, athlete Kianna Dy for UV Protection, and actress Alexa Ilacad for Bra Top.

Spring Pieces Inspired by Urban Rome Styles

UNIQLO’s new season collection takes inspiration from the stylish and relaxed urban vibes of the Italian capital. Think oversized men's blouses or shirts with shorts, a fashionable and comfortable look that works equally well in the city or on vacation, especially during the summertime. Rome’s modern architecture works as style guide as well, featuring clean lines and a crisp white palette. 

Linen is another material that works great for this look, which Sarah Geronimo pulled off at the event, pairing it with a Core T shirt. “You can wear a different combination every day and still get the ultimate satisfaction, because both are comfortable and versatile,” she said. “So, just have fun with it! Express your mood with your color and style!”

Meanwhile, who says there’s no room for jeans during the warmer months? For its 2026 Spring/Summer Collection, UNIQLO develops the appeal of its jeans around three qualities: style, comfort, and timelessness. Each piece, including the Baggy Jeans and EZY Jeans, is centered on the three Fs of Fit, Fabric, Finish, making it the perfect jeans this summer and beyond, offering stylish silhouettes for every body.

For Anthony, a model, wearing a lot of clothes comes part of the job. “But the UNIQLO jeans are definitely fire,” he said. “It’s the perfect example of ‘Ultimate Basic.’ It’s an old reliable upgraded with better fabric and craftsmanship. You will go to bed wearing this if you can. That’s how comfortable it is.”

Fresh summer looks from Amalfi Coast

Meanwhile, lighter fabrics and brighter colors suited to the seaside climate and mood give Amalfi Coast vibes. To get started, consider the W's Ribbed Cropped Bra Top and AIRism Bra Sleeveless Top, or the Premium Linen Longsleeve Shirt and Linen Blend Easy Pants for maximum comfort and breathability. Other options include AIRism inners, such as W's AIRism Bra Camisole, W's AIRism Sleeveless Top, AIRism Crew Neck T-shirt, and AIRism Cotton Crew Neck T-shirt.

Alexa shared her thoughts about the wonders of the Bra Top, saying, “It’s light and low maintenance. In this new collection, I am enjoying the new hues and patterns. I never thought I’d wear a top with built-in bra again since my early teens, but UNIQLO made it so well. Never be afraid to try and explore.”

Meanwhile, Matteo rocked UNIQLO Linen during the event, which he believes promotes the perfect summer vibes. “I like the relaxed silhouette and roomy fit at the shoulders, chest, and hem,” he said. “It’s very comfortable but also stylish at the same time.”

Solenn followed, adding her UNIQLO Linen selection “is the most comfortable yet elegant wear in my wardrobe right now. It’s light, airy, flowy, and can be enough as is. You can still layer it, if you want and if necessary, like with knitwear or a cardigan over it. But I really focus more on the shoes and accessories that I pair with it.”

UV Protection

Feeling stylish and confident under the sun includes being safe from its harmful rays. Since summer is best enjoyed outdoors, UNIQLO presents the new Ultra Stretch AIRism UV Protection Full-zip Hoodie, which not only blocks ultraviolet rays, but also presents the functional cool-to-touch feature for comfortable wear. Other stylish options include the Dry-EX UV Protection Full Zip Hoodie and the UV Protection Crew Neck Longsleeve Cardigan.

“Since the weather is about to get hot and humid, I have started refreshing my wardrobe with new UV pieces for my active lifestyle,” Kianna said. “Wearing something with UV protection gives me the peace of mind that my skin is safe from the sun. Plus, the fact that it has so many colors that fit my outfits, as well as its casual styles, makes it perfect for my everyday looks.”

Moreover, for a true summer staple, UNIQLO introduces a new eyewear line under its 2026 Spring/Summer Collection, showcasing different frames that fit a myriad of looks.

2026 Spring / Summer Collaboration and UT Line-up

The event also mounted an exhibit that features a dedicated area highlighting UNIQLO’s key collaborations—UNIQLO : C, UNIQLO U, and UNIQLO × Comptoir des Cotonniers. Presented as well is UNIQLO’s UT Line-up for summer, which is geared to get attention, given how many people go for shirts during the warmer season. There will be new designs featuring MoMA, Elliot Erwin, Disney and Timeless Magic For All, Powerpuff Girls, SHUEISHA 100, and BABYMONSTER.

Sustainability Initiatives

UNIQLO continues to champion their sustainability initiatives, as a brand with a stronghold in making a positive impact for the planet, people and society. This season, UNIQLO highlights the PEACE FOR ALL Charity T-shirt project, which aims to support peace-building efforts around the world. To date, the brand has raised over JPY 2,883,233,700 from the start of the project in 2022, selling over 9 million t-shirts in all its stores across the globe. The proceeds go towards UNIQLO’s three partner organizations: UNHCR, Plan International and Save the Children. Meanwhile, collaborators for the different t-shirt designs include personalities and icons such as Roger Federer, Haruka Ayase, PEANUTS, Keith Haring and Christophe Lemair, to name a few. 

UNIQLO also highlights its RE.UNIQLO Studio, a service that encourages circularity through repairing and refreshing your LifeWear items. The Studio offers repair services, as well as embroidery to personalize your clothing, giving it a unique flavor and making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. This season, the brand launches the newest patches in collaboration with Disney, available in UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store, UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia and UNIQLO BGC High Street.

Know more about the UNIQLO 2026 Spring/Summer collection by visiting UNIQLO.com and all stores nationwide. For more information and to get all the latest updates on UNIQLO, visit www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow @uniqlo on Facebook, @uniqlophofficial on Instagram, and @uniqlophofficial on TikTok.

Ajinomoto Inspires Youth Leaders to Champion a Healthier Philippines at the Eat Well, Live Well Youth Summit

 Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) reaffirmed its commitment to long-term social and environmental value creation at its recent Eat Well Live Well Youth Summit, which emphasized the importance of nutrition, sustainable practices and the power of the youth as agents of change. 

CHAMPIONS FOR A HEALTHIER PHILIPPINES. Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) executives join hands with officials from DepEd, DENR, and DA during the Eat Well, Live Well Youth Summit held in Tagaytay on January 31, 2026. The summit gathered 250 participants from CALABARZON to promote balanced nutrition and sustainable living.
(L-R): Mika Makino (APC Director); Bea Menorca-de Jesus (APC Nutritionist); Johnalen Aira S. Soberano (DepED); Ms. Eduarda Zapanta (DepED Supervisor); Kristoff Buyoc (APC Manager); Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang (Nutrition Expert); Koichi Ozaki (APC President); and Makoto Tanabe (APC Senior Vice President)

The 2026 Youth Summit, held in Tagaytay for the CALABARZON youth put primary focus on a simple yet powerful philosophy: Eat Well, Live Well. In a world of convenience, Ajinomoto is challenging the youth to realize that the pleasure of eating should not come at the expense of health or the planet.

APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki elaborated, “Ajinomoto is committed to building a network of Wellness Champions. The youth are the best influencers of their social circles and communities. When a student learns how to cook a “Veggielicious” meal or learns a mindful approach to food that minimizes waste and shares these with their loved ones and peers - that’s how we can spark change and create a healthier society.” 

APC has brought the Youth Summit across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, engaging with students from different schools and communities. This was possible through the endorsement of national and regional offices of the Department of Education (DepEd) and support of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as well as Department of Agriculture (DA).  

APC’s CALABARZON Youth Summit was attended by:  DepEd Chief Education Supervisor of the Education Support Services Division Ms. Eduarda Zapanta; DepEd Region IV-A Nutritionist-Dietician II Ms. Johnalen Aira S. Soberano; DENR Regional Community Development Officer Mr. Elbert Basallote; DA OIC- Field Operations Head Mr. Felix Joselito H. Noceda; and former National Nutrition Council Deputy Executive Director Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang. All of them echoed the sentiment that the future of Philippine wellness lies in the hands of a nutritionally and environmentally conscious youth.

About 250 participants from public and private schools were immersed in insightful panel discussions and engaging learning activities. APC’s Nutrition Advancement team spearheaded interesting talks about  the fifth basic taste, umami, as well as its efforts in promoting vegetable consumption and understanding how umami seasoning or MSG  can make nutritious food more delicious. 

APC’s Sustainability team, on the other hand, highlighted the Ajinomoto Group’s “Too Good To Waste” initiative that incorporated easy to follow tips on consuming food mindfully - from choosing to eat more vegetables to cooking them deliciously with umami and minimizing waste. 

The summit culminated in a heartfelt Ceremonial Pledge, where students, teachers, and stakeholders expressed their commitment to the “Eat Well, Live Well” mission. 

Closing the event, APC’s Sales, Marketing & Public Relations Director Mika Makino challenged the student delegates to be catalysts for change. “Today is the beginning of your journey as Champions,” Makino stated. By integrating these mindful habits into your daily lifestyle, you are not only improving your own well-being but are also leading the change toward a more sustainable Philippines.”

BINI Jhoanna Makes a Special Cameo in Puregold’s Tribute to Sari-Sari Store Owners

Puregold carries on with its heartfelt tribute to Filipino sari-sari store owners or micro-entrepreneurs with its Sari-Sari Stories video series, the newest installment of which features a special cameo from BINI’s Jhoanna. “The Witness” is a short film that tells a tender, coming-of-age love story, one that unfolds across the years, shaped by change, constancy, and the quiet presence of a sari-sari store owner who sees it all.

Puregold carries on with its heartfelt tribute to Filipino sari-sari store owners or micro-entrepreneurs with its Sari-Sari Stories video series.

Jhoanna’s cameo adds an extra layer of warmth and relatability to the narrative, underscoring the film’s message of appreciation for small business owners across the country. Affirming the role sari-sari stores play in Filipinos’ everyday lives, Jhoanna shared, “Importante na hindi mawala ang sari-sari store. Bukod sa pagiging very Pinoy, ito pa rin ang pinaka-accessible sa maraming komunidad. Iba pa rin yung may mapupuntahan kang malapit sa’yo.”

The latest Sari-Sari Story follows the budding romance between two childhood sweethearts, their youthful ardor eventually evolving—through the years—into real enduring love. The video depicts the highs and lows of their relationship, all from the perspective of a humble sari-sari store owner who witnessed them all.

Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad echoed Jhoanna’s sentiments, saying, “Puregold has always been a proud ally of micro-entrepreneurs across the country. Through Sari-Sari Stories, we continue to uphold the role sari-sari store owners play in our everyday lives. In their communities, they bring people together by providing convenience and access to daily essentials.”

BINI Jhoanna makes a cameo in the latest installment of the Sari-Sari Stories series.

“The Witness” rides on the momentum of earlier Sari-Sari Stories installments such as “Ways” featuring SB19’s Stell, and “The Sign,” which included a cameo by Skusta Clee. The series has collectively sparked conversations online and resonated with netizens, Aling Puring members, and Puregold followers, reinforcing the remarkable part sari-sari stores play in everyday Filipino life.

As the series continues, audiences are spurred to watch for the next story, reflecting how sari-sari stores have—over time—integrated themselves into people’s lives and into the communities they serve.

 

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.

Upgrade Your Space, Secure Your Home with PLDT Home Life’s Smart Home Starter Kit

With way more modern and technologically advanced threats these days, smart home devices are a must when building a safer, more secure, and more convenient household. These devices not only support a more connected home experience, but also provide added reassurance for you and your family’s well-being.

The new year offers an opportunity to reassess your home technology, especially if you’re considering to level up to a smart home setup. With the Internet of Things (IoT) at the forefront of smart living solutions, upgrading your space proves to be key in keeping your household more connected and protected than ever before.

Further reinforcing the importance of added protection among Filipino families as they embrace a smarter lifestyle, PLDT Home Life launches the Smart Home Starter Kit – security, safety, and automation devices in one powerful but affordable package.

Think of the Smart Home Starter Kit as the backbone of your home, covering all the essentials in one bundle: smart cameras for real-time check-ins, smart plugs to automate and manage home appliances, and sensors to keep tabs on any activity and movement.

PLDT Home Life has especially partnered with trusted electronics brand TP-Link, whose Tapo line of smart home devices offers the most reliable security and automation options. Here are the devices in the Smart Home Starter Kit:

●      Tapo H100 Smart Hub with Chime: The command center of the smart home setup, the hub keeps all your smart devices connected in one seamless and uninterrupted wireless network. It coordinates all functions – including your smart home app and door/window/climate sensors, sounding alarms and chimes, and more.

●      Tapo C110 Indoor Camera: This camera, which connects to your devices including your smartphone, is perfect for those starting a family. With it, you can keep an eye on your home with  2K footage and AI-enabled detection for human motion and sound.

●      Tapo C120 Indoor/Outdoor Camera: With crystal-clear 2K QHD video footage and crisp two-way audio, the outdoor camera works both indoors and outdoors with remarkable recording quality. It’s especially intended for those in bigger homes with AI-enabled detection for pets, vehicles, and human motion and sound.

●      Tapo P105 Mini Smart Plug: The wifi plug lets you create a schedule or establish timers to conveniently automate home appliances from anywhere through your phone.

●       Tapo T310 Temperature and Humidity Sensor: In addition to accurately monitoring your home's climate from anywhere, this sensor helps optimize comfort, prevent home damage from mold during high humid months, improve energy efficiency, and prevent fire risk during hot summer months.

●      Tapo T110 Smart Contact Sensor: Instantly check if someone’s there with this smart contact sensor, which can immediately alert you every time your door or window is opened or when left ajar for a specific time.

 These devices work seamlessly together to enable customizable automation, monitoring, and security – delivering a true smart home experience for first-time users. Key features include integrated sound and camera alarms with voice alerts, automated appliance control based on schedules or environmental conditions, and real-time remote notifications even when homeowners are away.

The PLDT Home Life Smart Home Starter Kit is available for only P4,836. It’s exclusive to existing PLDT Home Fiber subscribers and can be purchased one time via your internet subscription.

Safer, more secure homes for all Filipinos

PLDT Home offers fiber-fast, reliable internet speeds to power even the most advanced and widest-reaching IoT devices. Over time, the telco brand has partnered with various international electronics brands such as TP-Link, Tapo, and Eufy – mixing connectivity and security to further build Filipino families a better, more holistic home.  All these brands and more are now officially available via PLDT Home Life.

PLDT Home Life features 100% authentic smart home devices, sourced directly from official partners. Such finds are picked from their user-friendly interfaces, making for an easy plug and play experience for all ages at home.

“Last year saw a decrease in both property crime and cybercrime in the Philippines, according to the latest data from the Philippine National Police. Yet, it’s more important ever to deter further incidents of theft and break-ins by empowering security in Filipino homes,” said PLDT Home Senior Vice President and Head for Consumer Business John Y. Palanca. “We at PLDT Home Life believe the most effective approach is to proceed with upgrading to a smart home ecosystem that incorporates the latest smart and automated home security solutions.”

Palanca added, “This is why we have introduced the PLDT Home Life Smart Home Starter Kit – to make smart home adoption more accessible for Filipino households through seamless wireless control and automation. The kit is organized to help increase safety and security especially for your children, pets, and property while improving energy efficiency for a smarter, more elevated quality of living.”

“We at PLDT Home Life remain committed to expanding our brand partnerships in pursuit of our shared objective to give Filipino families greater peace of mind.”

Learn more about the PLDT Home Life Smart Home Starter Kit by visiting pldthome.com/smarthome/starter-kit. Existing PLDT Home Fiber subscribers can avail the kit via the Next Upgrade Shop page, where they will need to log in or create a new account. To know more about other device add-ons and digital services that could add life to your fiber-powered lifestyle, visit pldthome.com/life.

Four Wins, One Big Night: TCL Shines at the 61st Anvil Awards

 TCL Electronics, the Triple Global Top 1 TV Brand, a leading force in consumer electronics, and the No.1 ranking in global fresh air AC sales, has achieved four recognitions at the recently concluded 61st Anvil Awards Gabi ng Parangal held last January 28 at Solaire Resort, North Quezon City. Marking a historic milestone, TCL secured its first-ever Anvil trophies, officially placing the brand among the country’s top communicators and demonstrating its excellence in press relations, marketing, and technology.

The Anvil Awards received by TCL highlights how the brand combines innovation, social impact, and strategic communication to deliver meaningful results. The TCL-TESDA Air Conditioning Training Program, which earned top marks in both Good Governance and Government Relations got Gold and Silver awards, the TCL x Olympic Basketball Project, which gained recognition in CSR bagging a Silver award and finally the TCL FreshIN 3.0 Campaign which won in Marketing and Brand Communication got Silver award.

 

“We are beyond honored to be recognized by the PRSP. Bringing home not just one, but four Anvil awards is a monumental achievement for us. We are absolutely grateful, yet deeply humbled to be among this year's top-tier honorees. These awards inspire us to continue pushing boundaries, to innovate boldly, and to deliver initiatives that make a meaningful impact on our customers and communities,” TCL Brand Manager Joseph Cerntichez shares.

 

The 61st Anvil Awards recognizes those who go beyond the conventional, celebrating bold leadership, creative brilliance, and impactful results for communities and brands alike. As one of the most respected programs in the Philippine communications industry, the Anvil Awards, organized annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, honors outstanding public relations tools, programs, and campaigns that demonstrate strategic insight, creativity, and measurable impact. Winners are carefully selected by a distinguished, multi-sectoral jury of communication professionals, academics, business leaders, and industry representatives, ensuring a rigorous and credible evaluation process.

A big win for TCL Philippines! (L-R) Silver award for TCL's Olympic Basketball Project; Gold and Silver Awards for TCL-TESDA Training Center and Silver Award for TCL’s FreshIN 3.0 Campaign

 

Headlining TCL’s historic debut at the Anvil Awards is a Gold trophy in the Public Relations Program for Corporate Responsibility and Good Governance. This prestigious award honors the TCL-TESDA Training Center, a landmark initiative that seamlessly integrates social impact with brand leadership. More than just a facility, this fully equipped hub allows students to master advanced climate control technology through direct mentorship from TCL experts. By pioneering a 'structured enrollment-to-employment' pathway, TCL has created a sustainable solution to the industry's skills gap—transforming graduates into certified professionals within its own service network. This award-winning program stands as a masterclass in nation-building, reflecting TCL’s enduring commitment to the Filipino workforce. TCL-TESDA Air Conditioning Training Program alsogot a Silver award for Public Relations Program Government Relations category.

TCL’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and good governance was once again honored with a Silver Anvil for the TCL Basketball Camp, a project that perfectly embodies the brand's 'Inspire Greatness' mission. Located in the bustling heart of Manila, the camp provided a platform for young athletes to hone their skills and chase their dreams. The campaign’s success across Tech, Education, and Sports media highlights TCL's unique ability to empower the Filipino youth through multifaceted engagement. As the world looks toward the World Olympics, this initiative stands as a testament to TCL’s dedication to fostering the next generation of champions.

TCL’s FreshIN 3.0 Campaign took home the Silver Anvil for its brilliant execution of a consumer-centric marketing strategy. Recognized in the 'Marketing and Brand Communication' category, the program stood out for its seamless integration of experiential touchpoints and multi-channel outreach. By transforming traditional PR into an interactive journey for the public, TCL didn't just market a product—it built a lasting brand connection, proving its mastery in the art of modern storytelling and external engagement.

 (L-R) TCL Digital Officer Jem Domingo,  PR Officer  Guia Ann Tilbe, Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez, Deputy Marketing Director Shae Yu and Product Manager for AC Operation Jasper Jing

Beyond the impressive specs of the FreshIN 3.0 AC, the campaign’s success was driven by the TCL Cool Truck, which brought superior cooling directly to high-traffic areas. By integrating a skills-building partnership with TESDA, TCL showcased a holistic brand philosophy: delivering top-tier appliances while empowering the next generation of Filipino professionals. The result was a massive surge in brand sentiment and a reinforced standing as an industry innovator.

Marking a landmark achievement in its Philippine journey, TCL has solidified its standing as a leader in electronics and communications. These maiden ANVIL honors are a testament to a brand that refuses to settle, successfully merging technical brilliance with the art of storytelling to define the future of the industry

TCL’s growth is driven by a ‘trailblazer mindset’ under the leadership of TCL Philippines CEO Peter Chen. The brand has outlined a strategic roadmap centered on technical leadership and brand elevation. This directive aims to systematically upgrade TCL’s brand value through collaborative industry progress and the continuous pursuit of cutting-edge consumer experiences. 

Looking ahead, TCL is set to roll out several key initiatives in the coming week. The mission remains unchanged, Inspire Greatness upholding the highest standards of quality and service, ensuring that the brand will consistently deliver world-class experiences to their loyal customers.

Planting Seeds of Hope: A Year of Growth with Tala and Greater Financial Access

 Over the last twelve months, Tala Philippines has planted the seed of hope for the Global Majority with a belief that every small act of cultivation holds the promise of significant change. And true enough, 2025 has seen success and sustained growth for Tala as it actively diversified the tools of empowerment beyond just credit, bringing financial access closer to many Filipinos in need.

This year, Tala Philippines has reached 4.5 million customers nationwide, a record-breaking number to its expanding customer base. This, coupled with over 28 million total disbursed loans amounting to Php 137 billion, reflects Filipinos’ increasing trust in Tala as their financial partner for long-term growth. It also reaffirms its commitment of advancing financial inclusion for the underbanked population. 

Tala Philippines empowers the Global Majority to grow and achieve their goals through increased access to credit and financial education.

Moving beyond loan access, the company also launched its new campaign, TALAverse: Patas Na Ang Laban! that aims to actively promote fairness and equal access to financial services for all. Through this narrative, it shows how Tala levels the playing field by providing flexible and convenient online credit that ensures foundation and opportunity to grow, succeed, and rise above life’s challenges.

 

As the highlight of the event, Tala introduced award-winning actress, mom, and entrepreneur, Judy Ann Santos, as its very first brand ambassador. Since entering the Philippines in 2017, Tala has finally chosen the face that best embodies its promise to its customers: that Tala can be Filipinos’ “kasangga sa laban ng buhay” in a world where financial empowerment is a superpower, and that the everyday Filipinos (mothers, workers, dreamers) get to be the heroes in their own life transformations. 

 

Tala also took this year to further boost its social media engagement with a fresh digital initiative of a TikTok game filter within the TALAverse campaign. This interactive branded mission was developed in collaboration with influencers and offered users a chance to win raffle prizes by simply using the filter, uploading the video, and following the entry guidelines. 

As part of expanding its reach, Tala also brought its flagship financial literacy program, TALAkayan with Salve Ibañez, from in-person workshops into the digital space. These online episodes are released every Saturday across Tala Philippines’ official Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok pages, highlighting the company’s efforts to help Filipinos navigate their financial journeys.

 

This strengthened commitment to building a financially informed and empowered Philippines did not go unnoticed as it garnered distinction from award-giving bodies, gaining momentum and recognition locally and in Asia.

 

Notably, Tala’s workshop series, TALAkayan with Salve Ibañez, has been presented with a Bronze Stevie® Award at the Asia Pacific Stevie® Awards held in Seoul, South Korea last May for the Innovation in Community Relations or Public Service Communications category. In the same year, TALAkayan was also given an Excellence Award and got recognition in the Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility category at the Philippine Quill Awards.

These accolades demonstrate that true innovation lies more than just high-tech solutions, and even something as simple as engaging in conversations on the realities of the Global Majority can be instrumental in moving the nation closer to its financial inclusion goals.

 

At the same time, the company also supported different anti-fraud efforts that foster stakeholder collaboration such as the Anti-Fraud Symposium of the Consumer Lending Association of the Philippines, Inc. (CLAP) and the Manila Tech Summit that talked about the future of finance and AI, believing that these events help set industry benchmarks for responsible lending and consumer protection. 

 

2025 is also the year that Tala earned its Great Place To Work certification and actively engaged in grassroots work with its CSR partnership with non-profit organization, Project PEARLS. Through this outreach, Tala was able to support impoverished communities in Tondo, Manila by sponsoring the education of 20 scholars and raising their awareness on the importance of financial literacy. 

 

Berla, a Tala user from Baseco, Manila was also among the many individuals whose lives have been transformed by Tala's support. She was able to manage a sari-sari store using her Tala loan as capital and supplements her income by transporting goods across the lake via boat. She shared how it was hard for her to land a job, instead, she decided to make her own opportunity by starting her own business– a shining example of how Tala is able to change many Filipinos’ lives for the better.

 

“It’s truly been a year of growth for Tala Philippines and our customers. Continuing our mission of empowering the Global Majority and bridging gaps in financial inclusion through increased access to credit, we were able to achieve significant milestones in 2025,” said Moritz Gastl, Tala Philippines General Manager. “We plan to carry that momentum into the upcoming year by reaching out to more customers beyond Metro Manila and bringing our financial services closer to them. We’re also continuing our push for better financial literacy through our TALAkayan workshop and weekly digital series. Lastly, we are looking to expand our product offering, making them more tailored and personalized to the needs of our customers.”

 

Tala remains dedicated to unlocking the potential of the Global Majority, placing a strong focus on empowering financial independence, and improving their overall quality of life.