EastWest Guides Clients Through 2026 with Economic and Feng Shui Insights

Expert-led sessions to help clients navigate opportunities in a fast‑shifting economic landscape

In line with its commitment to empower clients with insights that fuel informed and confident decision making, East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) hosted a series of curated events in Pampanga and Metro Manila to usher in the Year of the Fire Horse with a forward-looking economic outlook for 2026.

The sessions brought together clients from the bank’s Retail, Priority, and Corporate Banking, offering exclusive insights from experts to help them navigate the year ahead with confidence, enhance their wealth management plans, and support their long‑term financial well‑being.

The gatherings featured economist and University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) professor Dr. Bernardo Villegas, who outlined emerging opportunities amid shifting local and global market conditions. He emphasized that despite a dynamic environment, the Philippines is poised for moderate yet steady growth.

HONOR and ARRI announce strategic technical partnership to bring ARRI Image Science into next-generation consumer devices

HONOR CEO James Li (left) and ARRI MD David Bermbach (right) at the MWC 2026 announcement

·      ARRI and HONOR extend cinematic image science and production workflows into consumer devices

·     A bridge from the world of high‑end filmmaking to the next generation of creators

·     ARRI technology will debut in HONOR’s upcoming ROBOT PHONE

Leading AI device ecosystem company HONOR has entered into a strategic technical collaboration with ARRI, the world-renowned designer and manufacturer of professional camera technology for cinematic storytelling. This landmark partnership marks a significant step in extending established cinematic standards into the rapidly evolving world of mobile imaging.

By uniting HONOR’s advanced mobile imaging capabilities with ARRI’s century long heritage in defining cinematic image quality, the collaboration reflects a shared ambition to unlock new creative possibilities and extend cinematic standards for visual expression from the world of high-end filmmaking to the next generation of content creators.

“HONOR is pioneering a new era of mobile imaging, where technology exists to inspire creativity and storytelling,” says James Li, CEO of HONOR. “ARRI has defined the visual language of cinema for generations. Through this collaboration, we are bringing those cinematic standards and professional workflows into mobile imaging, enabling creators to craft stories with greater authenticity and emotional depth.”

Where Strength meets Gentle Care: LG redefines the Top Load Wash

In every home, laundry is more than just a routine — it’s part of daily life. From school uniforms to workwear and weekend favorites, each load carries stories. LG’s Top Load Washing Machines are designed with this in mind, combining cleaning strength with intelligent care through technologies such as Smart Motion and Smart Inverter.

Built around the idea that not all power needs to splash, LG focuses on balance — where strength meets gentleness. Rather than relying on aggressive water force alone, LG’s approach centers on smarter movement and stronger cleaning action inside the drum.

Chang Hee Doh, Product Director for Home Solutions, LG Electronics Philippines, said, “We believe cleaning is better when it’s intelligent. With our Top Load Washing Machines, power is guided by care — delivering thorough cleaning while helping protect everyday clothes.”

How financial health and responsible AI can redefine inclusion in the Philippines

 GCash echoes calls for values-driven fintech to drive long-term financial progress

In a country where millions are newly entering the formal financial system, inclusion must be measured not by sign-ups or transactions, but by whether people are becoming more financially resilient over time.

Filipinos deserve access to innovative and seamless financial services so they can participate and thrive in the growing digital economy, underscoring that GCash has remained steadfast in expanding digital financial inclusion.

Rowie Zamora, chief strategy officer of Mynt, the parent company of GCash, said the real measure of inclusion lies in helping users build healthy financial habits that allow them not just to transact, but to thrive.

“Access is only the starting point,” Zamora said. “Financial inclusion should ultimately help people manage their money better, prepare for uncertainties, and work toward their long-term financial goals.”

Exclusive on Shopee: Get the New HONOR X5c Plus for Just P4,999 This 3.3 Sale!

 

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just announced its newest smartphone HONOR X5c Plus through a partnership with Shopee Philippines. Combining a sleek design, ultra-long battery life, expansive storage, advanced AI camera capabilities, and a vibrant display, the HONOR X5c Plus empowers users to unlock their potential, setting a new benchmark in the entry-level smartphone category. Now available exclusively on Shopee for just Php 4,999: https://bit.ly/Shop_X5cPlus_PR.

“We’re excited to introduce the HONOR X5c Plus to the Philippine market — a smartphone that brings exceptional battery life, reliable performance, and value-for-money features to everyday users. And we are as proud to partner with Shopee Philippines in bringing this new phone closer to our customers nationwide,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Security Bank Wealth convenes global experts to guide investors through shifting market conditions in 2026

Security Bank Wealth hosted Chinese New Year Appreciation Gatherings in Manila and Cebu, offering clients valuable insights from local and global experts. From (L-R): Jason Lim, Director, Team Lead, Retail Distribution, Southeast Asia, Allianz Global Investors; Angelo Taningco, VP and Chief Economist, Security Bank; Chrissi Morillo, FVP and Investment Strategy Head, Security Bank; Cirilo P. Noel, Chairman, Security Bank; Victor Lee Meng Teck, President and CEO, Security Bank; Jim Yap, EVP and Financials Market Segment Head, Security Bank; Thomas Wu, Market Strategy Analyst, Invesco Ltd.; and Dion Ong, Head of APAC, Horizon Capital AG.

As inflation stabilizes and interest rates begin to normalize, investors are entering a more selective risk environment in 2026—one that calls for disciplined diversification and a sharper focus on opportunity across both local and global markets.

At its recent Chinese New Year client briefings in Manila and Cebu, Security Bank Wealth brought together over 400 clients with local economists and offshore investment strategists to share timely perspectives on navigating this transition.

Boehringer Ingelheim Sustains Excellence as a Top Employer in the Philippines

●       Recognized for outstanding well-being program supporting employees’ physical, mental, social, and financial health

●       Strong results also in career development, rewards and recognition, and work environment

Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines earns Top Employer for the 8th consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to holistic employee well-being. The recognition underscores the company’s dedication to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and people-centric workplace.

"Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and their well-being is our top priority," says May Evangelista, Head of Human Resources at Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. "Being certified as a Top Employer reflects how we empower our employees to thrive personally and professionally, while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve."

Jobstreet by SEEK: Hiring mistakes can be costly for MSMEs

Building winning teams starts with the right platform

Employees are the backbone of every organization, especially for Philippine micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Essentially, hiring talent is a make-or-break step for businesses, and a single hiring mistake can cost an average of Php 740,000, which can have significant and costly consequences for MSMEs that rely heavily on limited resources.

As part of its advocacy to empower MSMEs, Jobstreet by SEEK, a leading online job portal, equips hirers from small businesses to leverage available tools and its pool of talent that best matches their needs.

In a recent joint study by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), hiring remains largely informal among Philippine MSMEs. They rely on low-cost, informal channels to recruit new employees – primarily walk-in applicants, social media, and referrals. By contrast, formal recruitment avenues are used far less often: hiring through employment programs, online job portals, school/university partnerships, and local agencies or print advertisements.

Skye Newman continues her ascent with bold new single ‘Walk’

LISTEN HERE / ARTWORK HERE / PRESS SHOT

South London singer-songwriter Skye Newman returns with her new single ‘Walk’, a sharp and defiant release that captures her at her most direct and unfiltered.

The track unfolds as a lyrical confrontation as it documents a moment every listener can relate to - where patience runs out and self-preservation takes over. Skye’s delivery is typically controlled but cutting - pairing emotional clarity with dark humour. It is a song about recognising emotional damage for what it is and choosing to step away rather than absorb it.

Written by Skye Newman alongside long-time collaborators Boo and Luis Navidad, and marking her first collaboration with Chrissi, ‘Walk’ continues Skye’s reputation for turning lived experience into sharply observed songwriting. The production remains restrained, allowing the lyrics to carry the weight and leaving nowhere for the narrative to soften.

Lyrically, ‘Walk’ traces the imbalance of a relationship in vivid detail. Skye captures frustration, humiliation and emotional exhaustion with a bluntness that feels conversational and typically honest. Lines are delivered without embellishment as she documents defending someone at her own expense, chasing loyalty that is never returned and finally drawing a clear boundary. The repeated image of walking becomes both literal and symbolic - a final act of reclaiming control.

GAC Philippines unites dealers under ONE GAC, previews GS8 HEV and Expanded Lineup

GAC International Philippines, Inc. successfully held the 2026 GAC Philippines Dealer Conference on February 27, bringing together its dealer network from across the country under the theme “Building Success Together as ONE GAC.”

The conference marked the first dealer gathering organized under GAC’s direct, self-operated presence in the Philippines, following the establishment of GAC International Philippines, Inc. as the brand’s wholly owned local subsidiary. Now managed directly by GAC headquarters, the company is positioned to provide faster parts availability, more efficient aftersales support, and closer coordination across its nationwide dealer network, reinforcing customer confidence during this new phase of operations.

The event served as a key platform to align dealers on GAC Philippines’ strategic direction, anchored by the ONE GAC brand philosophy of One Brand, One Channel, and One Service, which aims to deliver consistent standards across sales, service, and customer experience.

Dealer principals and representatives from Metro Manila, North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao took part in a dealer agreement signing ceremony during the conference. The nationwide participation underscored the strength and breadth of GAC’s dealer network and stands as a clear testament to market stability and long-term confidence in GAC’s direction, structure, and investments in the Philippine market.

All Of The Noise 2026 expands to 3 days, amplifying Filipino and Asian Music on the global stage

Live performances, documentary premieres, networking sessions, and industry talks converge in TRIN’s most expansive edition yet.

The Rest Is Noise (TRIN), a music curation and events production outfit based in the Philippines, returns with the fourth edition of All Of The Noise 2026. The showcase and conference event will take place in three venues across Metro Manila: Astbury Makati (April 17 and 19), Sari-Sari in Makati City (April 17 and 19), and 123 Block in Mandaluyong City (April 18).

This year’s edition will feature dynamic, multi-format music programming centered on community building, cross-cultural collaboration, and visibility, positioning Filipino and Asian music as vital forces within the global creative economy.

“This year’s programming is more expansive than ever, growing from two days to three, with each day offering a different entry point into the experience and live music happening throughout,” shares Mary Christine Galang, co-founder and creative director of The Rest Is Noise PH. “We’re welcoming more than 20 artists this year, including Filipino artists from across the country as well as international acts from across Asia-Pacific.”

Your breaks just got better with GH Mall’s Power Lunch promo

The Power Lunch promo is back to take your lunch breaks to the next level. Enjoy exclusive weekday lunch deals at GH Mall from February 1 to March 31, 2026, 11am to 2pm. From hearty meals to sweet treats, don’t miss out on special offers from these participating restaurants:

●       Alba

●       Banh Mi Kitchen

●       CIBO

●       Chinese Beef Noodles House

●       Ebi10

●       Genki Sushi

●       Iroha

●       Kettle

●       Lucky Boba Milk Tea

●       Mango Tree

●       Pizza Planet

●       Sen-ryo

●       Sibyullee

●       Stoned Steaks

●       Supreme Beef Hotpot

●       Three Dots

●       Tittos

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-247448 Series of 2026. Download the Ortigas Malls app, like Ortigas Malls on Facebook, and follow @greenhillsph on Instagram. For full promo mechanics and details per restaurant, view the official post here.

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Security Bank joins DTI, regional partners to strengthen cross-border startup collaboration

(From left) Palida Artispong, Acting Managing Director, Krungsri Finnovate Co., Ltd.; John Cary L. Ong, Executive Vice President and Wholesale Banking Segment Head, Security Bank Corporation;  Hirofumi Umeno, Board Director, Executive Vice President and Alliance Segment Head, Security Bank Corporation; Nylah Rizza Bautista, Assistant Secretary and Supervising Head, Department of Trade and Industry-Competitiveness and Innovation Group; Bunsei Okubo, First Executive Vice President and Japanese Corporate Banking Head, Bank of Ayudhya Public Co., Ltd.; Masami Yoshitake, Managing Director and Country Head – Philippines, MUFG Bank Ltd.; and Atsushi Ishihara, Deputy CEO, MUFG Innovation Partners Co., Ltd., at the MOU signing held at Security Bank Centre in Makati City 

Security Bank Corporation, together with Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited (Krungsri), MUFG Bank Ltd., MUFG Innovation Partners Co., Ltd. (MUIP), Krungsri Finnovate Company Limited (KFIN), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen inbound and outbound startup collaboration and advance innovation across the region.

“At Security Bank, this commitment reflects our BetterBanking promise—to create value, deliver meaningful experiences, and open doors for businesses to thrive,” said Hirofumi Umeno, Director, Executive Vice President and Alliance Segment Head. “Our shared goal is to turn collaboration into real outcomes that strengthen industries and fuel long-term growth across the Asia and globally.”

Love is in the Air: The Legendary Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Returns to New Clark City on February 13–15, 2026!

Experience riding hot air balloons this Valentine’s weekend—no need to fly abroad—while enjoying drones, paragliders, live music, and more at the Philippines’ longest-running, sky-high adventure!

Love is truly in the air! This Valentine’s weekend, couples and adventure seekers alike can soar above New Clark City, Tarlac, aboard colorful hot air balloons. From February 13–15, 2026, the skies come alive with breathtaking views, magical balloon rides, and unforgettable moments that will make your Valentine’s weekend truly one to remember.

Three Days of Sky-High Adventure
The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) is back and bigger than ever! For three full days, New Clark City transforms into a playground for lovers of flight and fun. Hot air balloons, drones, paragliders, tech marvels, cars, delicious food, and live music all come together for an adventure you have to see to believe.

Set your alarms early for a magical weekend. Balloons take to the skies as early as 6:30 AM, offering a breathtaking morning spectacle as they lift off one by one against the rising sun. Arrive early, look up, and witness one of the most beautiful sights of the Fiesta unfold right before your eyes.

TP opens second Davao site, strengthens Mindanao footprint with state-of-the-art, scalable hub

TP officially opens its 26th site in the Philippines with the launch of TP Davao Uprise situated at the Felcris Centrale in Davao City.

TP in the Philippines (formerly Teleperformance), a leader in digital business services, today announced the launch of TP Davao Uprise, its second site in Davao City and fourth across Mindanao, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to regional growth, talent development, and inclusive job creation in the Philippines.

Located at The Uprise at Felcris Centrale Mall, a PEZA-accredited development, the new site currently serves global and domestic markets and scalable for expansion as needed. Apart from the operations areas, the site also houses a recruitment hub and several recreational spaces including a fully equipped gym, a karaoke room, and a basketball half court.

“The launch of TP Davao Uprise reflects our confidence in Davao City as a strategic growth hub and in Mindanao as a critical pillar of the country’s IT-BPM industry,” said Rahul Jolly, CEO of TP in the Philippines. “With scale-ready infrastructure, deep talent pool, and strong public–private collaboration, Davao continues to enable us in TP to deliver world-class service to our clients.”

Power to Play, Stream, and Multitask All at Once with the new Samsung Galaxy A07 5G

The latest addition to the Galaxy A series provides access to greater convenience with an integrated core AI experience, improved durability, and enhanced performance  

Samsung Electronics today announced the launch of the new Galaxy A07 5G, with this latest addition housing a larger battery capacity in the A Series line-up, a 6 nm processor for faster loading, and AI features including Google Gemini^[1], and Circle to Search^[2] with Google to deliver more ease and convenience through mobile experiences. And with a dual camera to improve storytelling on social media, smoother refresh rates, and a brighter screen, users can enjoy and immerse themselves in their favorite content wherever they are.

Enjoy better entertainment experiences for longer

Stream movies and TV shows and enjoy content for hours day and night with the Galaxy A07’s 6,000mAh battery built for long-lasting performance^[3]. With a 120% larger battery capacity^[4], users can stay connected on the go for much longer and enjoy extended video playback time without worrying about recharging.

An immersive 6.7”^[5] edge-to-edge view combined with a 120Hz^[6] refresh rate enables smoother transitions and seamless scrolling so users can fully dive into their favorite content and look forward to elevated viewing experiences. Meanwhile, the High Brightness Mode delivers up to 800^[7] nits so the watching experience stays clear and bright, even when you’re outdoors and under sunlight.

Security Bank partners with Philippine Retirement Authority to offer retirees priority banking privileges and special Time Deposit rates

Pictured (L-R): Eric Buensuceso, FVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Region Head, Security Bank; Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head, Security Bank; Roberto Z. Zozobrado, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of the Philippine Retirement Authority; and Virna Liza Alamar, FVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Area Head, Security Bank

Security Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) has formalized a partnership with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) to provide foreign and returning Filipino retirees applying for the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) with priority banking privileges and access to a special Time Deposit rate—delivering a more seamless and secure banking experience aligned with the Bank’s BetterBanking commitment.

Under the partnership, SRRV applicants may open their Security Bank accounts as part of the SRRV process and enjoy an exclusive Time Deposit (TD) rate, premium onboarding support, and priority relationship management. Account opening and servicing are handled at the Bank’s Reposo-J.P. Rizal Branch in Makati City, the Bank’s dedicated hub for SRRV retirees.

HONOR X9d 5G Smashes First-Day Sales, Up 160% Over HONOR X9c 5G

 

Talking about smashing! HONOR X9d 5G just smashed the sales record of its predecessor

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines had a fantastic start to the year with the launch of its newest smartphone, the HONOR X9d 5G. The brand kicked things off on January 1 with its viral drop tests, followed by the star-studded HONOR X9d 5G vs. Tesla Cybertruck experiential event, culminating in its grand launch at the Grand Hyatt. On January 24, the HONOR X9d 5G officially hit stores nationwide with a record-breaking first-day sales performance, posting a 160% increase compared to its predecessor, the HONOR X9c 5G.

Upgrade for the New Year: Lenovo Offers Up to ₱5,000 Pluxee Vouchers This Chinese New Year

Welcome the new year with smarter technology as Lenovo ushers in the season with its Lenovo Chinese New Year Promo 2026, offering exciting rewards for customers upgrading their devices.

From February 1 to March 31, 2026, customers who purchase select Lenovo laptops and desktops can enjoy corresponding freebies, including Pluxee vouchers worth up to ₱5,000 or a Canon Pixma MG2570S multifunction printer, depending on the model purchased.

Upgrade for the New Year and Get Rewarded

Designed to help users start the year on a smarter note, the promo covers a wide range of Lenovo devices across the IdeaPad, Yoga, LOQ, and Legion series. Customers who purchase participating models are entitled to Pluxee gift cards ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000, which will be sent via SMS upon successful redemption.

Meanwhile, customers purchasing select IdeaCentre desktops and AIO models will receive a Canon Pixma MG2570S multifunction printer, provided instantly upon purchase from participating authorized Lenovo resellers.

SB19 turns monumental concert into lasting legacy in Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album

Recorded across the two-day concert in Philippine arena, the 19-track live album captures a defining moment in P-Pop history

P-Pop phenomenon SB19 has released Simula At Wakas: Kickoff Concert Album, a live recording of tracks from their two-day concert at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan on May 31 and June 1, 2025. The album redefines a new era of boldness and ambition in SB19’s music, further elevated by the group’s undeniable world-class performance.

Mixed and mastered by Radkidz, with live arrangements by Jem Florendo, the 19-track album features live performances of songs from Simula At Wakas (2025), Pagtatag! (2023), and Pagsibol (2021), alongside the concert version of the fan-favorite single “Moonlight.”

Originally featuring US-based producer/DJ Ian Asher and Chinese electronic producer Terry Zhong, “Moonlight” takes a more restrained, but more soulful direction in its live iteration. For this version, the subdued arrangement places SB19’s vocals front and center, offering a more intimate take on the track.

HONOR X9d 5G Records All-Time High Demand During Pre-Order Period

The HONOR X9d 5G Craze is not a drill! Nationwide demand hits an all-time high!

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is widely known for its viral X9 series, and the newest HONOR X9d 5G might just be the most successful release in the series so far. Still in its pre-order period, the HONOR X9d 5G has already reached an all-time high in nationwide demand. With a chance to win a Tesla Cybertruck worth 17 million pesos, secure your HONOR X9d 5G now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via leading e-commerce platforms.

“We must admit that we were unsure whether the HONOR X9d 5G could live up to the success of its franchise, but seeing the reception and the overwhelming pre-order turnout, we cannot thank our HONOR fans enough. One buyer even pre-ordered 50 units. That says a lot,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Ben&Ben releases “Duyan” music video starring Khalil Ramos and Gabbi Garcia

The song completes the ‘Mahiwaga trilogy,’ which includes hit songs “Pagtingin” and “Araw-Araw”

Ben&Ben continued to solidify their status as one of the most important voices of OPM in 2025. The acclaimed band made history as the first Filipino act to surpass three billion streams on global streaming platform Spotify, while also earning major wins at the 28^th Awit Awards, including Album of the Year for their third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions and Best Performance by a Group Recording Artist for "Triumph.” As the year drew to a close, Ben&Ben’s music found itself intertwined with national consciousness when “Kapangyarihan,” their collaboration with SB19, emerged as a modern anthem in protest spaces, echoing public anger amid allegations of corruption surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects.

Now, as they turn the page to a brand-new year, the multi-awarded nine-piece collective invites listeners to start the year on a more intimate yet optimistic note with the release of their new single “Duyan”—out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Written and composed by frontman Miguel Benjamin and produced by longtime collaborator Ziv alongside Ben&Ben, “Duyan” represents a profound, romantic bond that defies distance, time, and obstacles. The rousing pop-rock ballad encapsulates what true love really means: deep affection, unwavering loyalty, and the choice to remain committed even when faced with challenges and adversities.