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Tiny but Mighty: The Bestune Pony is Perfect for First-Time EV Owners

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So, you’ve finally decided that it’s time to be more responsible with all the choices you make going forward. You’ve had enough of waiting in line to get to work using public transport. You’re tired of booking a ride just to get to or from a meeting. You’d like your mobility to be on your own terms and not rely on others to take you from one part of the city to another. You have finally decided to get your own set of wheels.

However, part of you wants to be financially, socially and ecologically responsible. You are conscious with your spending so you do not want a used or second-hand car where you will have to fork out money for repairs that the previous owner neglected. You’d rather have a brand-new car that you will care for and maintain diligently. You’d like a vehicle that is practical, economical and eco-friendly, yet stylish and fun. You ask yourself: “Is there such a car?”

Ideal First EV for Young Idealists

The answer to your question is a firm “Yes”! Consider the 2025 Bestune Pony. It is a fully electric 3-door subcompact car that’s designed for getting around the city. At three meters long and 1 ½ meters wide, its svelte size makes it suitable for tight city traffic, crowded streets and tight parking spaces. With a height of 1.6 meters, it has ample room to seat 4 occupants comfortably while the rear seatback folds down to increase cargo space when you need to haul some bulky items.

Its hatchback design makes it easy to load and unload stuff while its automatic transmission makes it easy to drive around the metropolis. With its 20kW electric motor, the Pony can easily keep up with traffic and accelerate smartly with 85 Nm of torque on tap. Furthermore, FAW Bestune Automobile Co., Ltd. engineers fitted the Pony with an independent suspension system within its two-meter wheelbase so it can cruise at 100 km/h with comfort, confidence and safety.

Having Fun and Saving While Driving     

The best thing about this cute electric Pony is that it cost very little to recharge the 13.9 kWh battery pack. Electricity bills averages around ₱13.50 per kWh in most areas, thus a full charge will only cost around ₱187.65 (13.9 kWh x ₱13.50 per kWh). You can drive it up to 170 kilometers on a single full charge and it will only cost around ₱1.10 per kilometer. And if you travel less than 30 kilometers each day, you’ll need to recharge its battery pack just once every 5 days, or just 6 times a month.

Thus, your recharging expenses will be less than ₱1,200 per month, which is less than the cost of one full tank of fuel that will last a conventional gas- or diesel-powered car less than a week, especially with today’s prevalent heavy traffic. You can smile while you drive past gas stations without caring about the unsteady fuel prices while you enjoy the music from your mobile device that is connected via Bluetooth or USB to the classic-looking radio on the cute and colored dash that’s matched to the Pony’s body.

“Is this cute, hip and economical mobility available locally and how much does it cost?”, you may ask. The best news is that the Bestune Pony is available in the country through QSJ Motors Philippines, Inc. and its network of dealers at unbelievably low price of just P588,000. This tiny but mighty Pony provides not only eco-friendly performance and attractive styling for first-time car owners, but it allows them to have fun and save resources while they’re on the go.

Tiny but mighty — what more can you ask for?

The Bestune Pony isn’t just a car, it’s your ticket to eco-smart independence.

Experience it today at any QSJ Motors Philippines dealership.
📍 Follow FAW Bestune Philippines on Facebook for updates and promotions.
📞 Call 0917-111-BEST (2378) to book a test drive or inquire about pricing and availability.

OPPO and CCP Launch the Likha Creative Challenge

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Spotlighting the Next Generation of Filipino Artists and Storytellers

OPPO, in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), proudly launches the Likha Creative Challenge, a nationwide competition celebrating the bold creativity of young Filipino artists, storytellers, and visionaries.

With the theme “Make Your Moment,” the challenge invites young and emerging talents aged 18 to 35 to submit original work in Video, Photography, or Digital Art, three categories that reflect how this generation captures and creates.

Beyond a competition, Likha is a platform for Filipino creativity to take the spotlight, whether you’re a student, self-taught artist, or part of an underground movement. With the help of OPPO Student Ambassadors, the initiative will reach universities, collectives, and communities across the country, giving visibility to voices that deserve to be seen and heard.

This is your moment—on your terms.

Create something that reflects who you are and what you stand for.

Challenge Details
           
Submission Period: August 15 to September 30, 2025
            Announcement of Winners: October 15, 2025

Creative Categories

  • Video Content: Original videos (max 5 mins) in 16:9 or 9:16 format—vlogs, edits, or reels reflecting the theme. AI-generated or enhanced content is not allowed.
  • Photography: Up to 10 original photos in any style (portrait, landscape, street, etc.), shot with a camera, smartphone, or OPPO Reno14 Series. AI-generated images are not accepted.
  • Digital Art: Original digital illustrations, collages, or graphic compositions. Must be created using traditional digital tools—no AI or AI assistance allowed.

Judging Criteria

  • Creativity & Originality – 30%
  • Artistic Skill – 20%
  • Relevance to Theme – 20%
  • Impact & Presentation – 20%
  • Technical Skill – 10%

Prizes and Recognition

Three Grand Winners per category will each receive ₱50,000 worth of OPPO products, including the OPPO Reno14 Series 5G and IoT devices.

Winning entries may be featured in an art exhibit at CCP’s Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, partner galleries, or select OPPO Concept Stores nationwide.

How to Join

  • Post your original work publicly on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok using the hashtags:
     #OPPOxCulturalCenterPH
      #MakeYourMoment
      #OPPOReno14Series5G
  • Submit the link to your post via the official Google Form available on OPPO Philippines’ social media pages.

Participants may enter multiple categories but can win only once. All works must be original, AI-free, and remain the intellectual property of the artist. By joining, participants grant OPPO and CCP the right to feature works with proper credit for promotional use.

To learn more about the Likha Creative Challenge and OPPO’s partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, visit www.oppo.com/ph and follow OPPO Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim bring fresh fire to Don Quixote in Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year finale

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Performing a role repeatedly can either deepen a dancer’s mastery or dull their connection to the material. For international ballet stars Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim, it’s a challenge they meet with precision, passion, and a relentless pursuit of nuance.

Set to portray Kitri and Basilio in Don Quixote from August 22 to 24 at the Aliw Theater—the final offering of Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year season—Renata and Kimin return to roles they’ve danced countless times, but never the same way twice.

Both dancers are part of the world renowned Mariinsky Ballet where they have attained principal dancer status – a feat that signifies their years of experience and expertise in ballet, performing with technical precision and exceptional artistry.

“I think that the role of Kitri is my most performed role in the classical ballet repertoire,” admits Renata. Yet despite this, she stresses that the key to keeping the character fresh is to forget how many times she’s performed it.

She adds, “I have to prepare for the performance like it’s my first time so that we are always paying attention and ready. For example, looking at each other as partners—it can become mechanical. But it is our responsibility to always look into the details and discover something new with every rehearsal or performance.”

Renata also acknowledges her partner Kimin’s ability to see the smallest nuances: “He has this trait of always looking at and paying attention to even the smallest of details, and I think that every performance consists of these small details.”

Kimin, a multi-award-winning principal dancer trained at the Mariinsky Theater, describes Basilio as “the color red that shimmers”—a bright, shining character that is thrilling to portray.

Even with his unique perspective on the role, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining the level of excellence instilled through his Mariinsky training: “I think schooling is still the most important. Without proper schooling, you cannot really show anything. There are the fouettés and the male jumps that show technique in the pas de deux. In the first act, you can also show a lot of acting that I learned from my teachers. I try to give the audience my inner self as well as the technique that is expected of me.”

Having danced with Renata previously in the same roles, Kimin still finds excitement in discovering something new about his partner. “It is always a pleasure to work with Renata. When we are dancing the same ballet a hundred times, there are also a hundred different versions of her dancing.”

He continues, “She is very emotional, and onstage she can show everything differently. As her partner, it is always so nice—I watch her with surprise, so I am never bored with her performance.”

Now portraying Kitri and Basilio with Ballet Manila on a Philippine stage, both dancers are eager to show audiences what they’ve been preparing so diligently.

For Renata, who had a wonderful experience playing Giselle with Ballet Manila last year, her return as Kitri is most welcome. “The audience was so receptive and hospitable, and now that I am here with a different performance, I am so excited to show a different side of me. Giselle was a very dramatic and heavy ballet, and Don Quixote is very happy—with different requirements of coordination and style. As an artist, I want to show this other side of me.”

Meanwhile, for Kimin—performing in Manila for the first time—he hopes the audience will carry the emotions of the performance long after the curtain falls: “I always want the audience to feel a bright emotion after a performance—not only to clap and shout ‘bravo’ after the show, but to bring home that memory of Renata and Kimin. I think that can only happen if the performer gives the audience a message and a feeling. It is so important to me that the audience will like our performance.”

With the caliber and artistry of Renata and Kimin, Ballet Manila’s CEO and artistic director Lisa Macuja Elizalde exclaims, “I think it’s only fitting to close out our Pearl Year performance season with Renata and Kimin leading Ballet Manila’s Don Quixote. With their performance, we will once again reinforce our pursuit of bringing world-class performances to our audiences.”

Don’t miss the stellar performance from Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim as they portray the well-loved characters Kitri and Basilio in Ballet Manila’s Don Quixote on August 22 at 8 PM, and August 23 and 24 at 5 PM.

All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.

YSA Skin and Body Experts Shaw Unveils a Fresh Look and Renewed Commitment to Beauty and Wellness

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YSA Skin and Body Experts celebrates over 30 years of skin expertise with the blessing and relaunch of its SM Center Shaw branch

Mandaluyong City, Philippines – Today marks a significant milestone for one of the Philippines’ pioneering names in beauty and skincare. YSA Skin and Body Experts proudly reopens the doors of its SM Center Shaw branch with a renewed look, enhanced services, and an unwavering mission to empower Filipinos through skin health and confidence.

Founded in 1985 by esteemed dermatologist Dra. Isabel Nazal, YSA Skin and Body Experts has long been a trailblazer in dermatology and cosmetic aesthetics. It was among the first to introduce Lipodissolve, IPL, and cutting-edge laser treatments to the local market—cementing its place as a trusted authority in aesthetic innovation.

By 1989, the brand took a bold step forward by establishing its own in-house laboratory, ensuring excellence in customized skincare formulations. Over the decades, YSA has grown with its loyal clientele, opening branches in key locations such as Forbestown, Bonifacio Global City, Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas, and Robinsons Place General Trias, Cavite.

Now, the spotlight shines on YSA Skin and Body Experts Shaw, originally launched in 2016 at SM Center Shaw. This clinic has become a go-to destination for clients from Mandaluyong, San Juan, Makati, and nearby areas—offering expert skin analysis, non-invasive treatments, and state-of-the-art aesthetic procedures delivered with precision and care.

This relaunch marks the beginning of a vibrant new chapter. With upgraded interiors, enhanced treatment menus, and a fresh take on service excellence, YSA Shaw continues to uphold the core values that have defined the brand: integrity, innovation, and personalized care.

“Our mission has always been clear—to help every client shine with confidence. This relaunch is our recommitment to that purpose,” says Aiza Diuco-Sun, Managing Partner. 

As YSA steps into this exciting era, its legacy remains deeply rooted in its founding vision: to provide quality, science-backed skin solutions that transform lives.

Because at YSA—You Shine Always.

📍 Visit Us:

YSA Skin and Body Experts

Upper Ground Floor, SM Center Shaw, Mandaluyong City

📞 09758820434

🌐 FB/IG: Ysa Skin and Body Experts SM Center Shaw

Empowering Filipino Farmers: Palawan Group and Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. Partner Partner to Provide Easier Access to Crop Insurance

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To support and protect the nation’s most essential yet vulnerable workforce, the Palawan Group of Companies and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to formalize their strategic partnership. This collaboration is designed to enhance the delivery of crop insurance payouts and expand financial access for millions of Filipino farmers.

Despite being the backbone of our food system, Filipino farmers face constant risks,  ranging from typhoons and droughts to pests and crop diseases. While crop insurance is available to offer protection, claiming benefits quickly and conveniently remains a significant challenge, especially for those in geographically isolated and economically disadvantaged areas. In 2024, PCIC reinforced its commitment to inclusivity and sustainability by insuring over 4.2 million farmers, a 7.76% increase from 2023, with total coverage reaching ₱141.561 billion. However, many of these farmers continue to face difficulties when accessing their payouts due to limited banking infrastructure in rural communities.

To help close this gap, Palawan Group’s nationwide network of more than 3,500 Palawan Pawnshop–Palawan Express Pera Padala branches, which remain open even on weekends and holidays, offers farmers convenient locations to claim their benefits. The group’s digital wallet app, PalawanPay, extends this access even further by enabling farmers to receive funds, pay bills, and manage transactions from their mobile devices, without the need for traditional bank accounts.

Atty. Jovy C. Bernabe, President of PCIC, highlighted how the partnership will ease long-standing burdens for Filipino farmers: “This will reduce delays, burdens, and ensure that our farmers receive their benefits in a faster, cheaper, and more convenient way. They save on transportation costs to reach the nearest bank, and more importantly, they will no longer be forced to rediscount their checks at unreasonable rates.”

Through its “BrickTech” approach, blending physical accessibility with digital convenience, the Palawan Group is helping modernize the way government services reach the people. This initiative streamlines the distribution of insurance payouts, making them faster, safer, and more accessible, especially for farmers in rural and remote areas. More than a payout channel, this collaboration marks a shift toward more responsive, technology-driven public service delivery, bridging the gap between government support and the communities that need it most.

Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Chief Business Development Officer of the Palawan Group, expressed heartfelt appreciation for farmers and emphasized the more profound significance of the partnership: “We believe that farmers are the backbone of our nation. Because of their hard work, we enjoy nutritious meals every day. Yet many remain vulnerable to the threats of nature without adequate protection. This partnership is  much more than a business agreement. It is a shared commitment to uplift and empower our agricultural sector.”

Moving forward, Palawan Group aims to strengthen its role in promoting financial inclusion by continuing to grow its services and digital innovations designed for farming communities. By leveraging insights from this partnership, the group plans to explore new collaborations, make transactions easier, and offer financial tools that match the changing needs of Filipino farmers.

“Our farmers work tirelessly to feed the nation, yet their livelihoods remain among the most fragile. With PalawanPay, we’re building a bridge that connects farmers to the fast, reliable disbursement of insurance claims — serbisyong matatag, maaasahan, mapagkakatiwalaan nasaan man sila sa Pilipinas (reliable, dependable, and trustworthy service that reaches every corner of the Philippines),” added Third Librea, CEO of PalawanPay.

Angelita M. Castro, Co-founder and Deputy Chairman of Palawan Group, added her support and vision for long-term impact: “We’re proud to partner with PCIC and serve our underserved communities. We believe this collaboration marks the beginning of a broader rollout of meaningful, inclusive solutions that benefit Filipino farmers everywhere.”

As climate-related risks and financial inequality continue to affect the agricultural sector, this partnership between the Palawan Group and PCIC is a timely and crucial step forward. This initiative makes it significantly easier for farmers to claim and manage their crop insurance benefits, which promotes transparency, reduces waiting times, and empowers farmers to focus on productivity rather than paperwork. Together, they aim to create inclusive, resilient, and accessible systems that protect and empower the farmers who sustain the nation.

Breaking A Limit: Acer Day 2025 draws a crowd of 50,000 viewers

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The highly anticipated concert was attended by over 50,000 live and online viewers, making it one of the hottest tech and youth events of the year.

Acer Day 2025 at the Mall of Asia Arena was an epic night of technology, music, and star power with some of the country’s biggest artists sharing one stage! More importantly, the evening was a celebration of its theme, “Break A Limit,” highlighting the drive to overcome obstacles, reach new milestones, and push boundaries. As a tech company, Acer’s mission is to provide the necessary tools that empower individuals to break their limits.

“Through the power of music and interactive brand experiences, Acer Day encourages people to go beyond their personal best and explore new possibilities with Acer’s technology,” said Sue Ong-Lim, Managing Director at Acer Philippines.

The Mall of Asia Arena was a sea of green as fans and supporters braved the Saturday afternoon traffic for Acer and their favorite artists.

Returning for its ninth consecutive year, Acer Day set the stage for performances by its star-studded roster of ambassadors Sarah Geronimo, SB19, and G22. Acer also welcomed its new ambassadors from Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition Housemates Klarisse De Guzman, Mika Salamanca, Shuvee Etrata, Esnyr Ranollo, Will Ashley, Brent Manalo, Ralph De Leon, and Charlie Fleming. They were joined by guest artists KMKZ, Itchyworms, and Maki. The event was hosted by Robi Domingo.

As is Acer Day tradition, there were many collaborative stages, demonstrating that breaking the limit is possible.

PBB Celebrity Collab winner duo BreKa performed “Tibok” by Earl Agustin, Ralph and Shuvee thrilled the crowd with “Palagi” by TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan, and Klarisse and SB19’s Stell gave a vocal masterclass with “A Million Dreams.” Will, Charlie, and Esnyr showed their powerful dance moves along with SB19 in their song “CRIMZONE.”

The Honmoon was sealed with G22’s performance of “Golden,” and Pop Royalty Sarah Geronimo showed MOA Arena why Popsters have remained loyal through the years as she performed “Tala” and “Kilometro.” SB19 did not disappoint the waiting crowd with their hits “DAM” and “DUNGKA!”

More electrifying collaboration stages set the Mall of Asia Arena on fire with SB19 and G22’s performance of “8tonball,” and the most anticipated first live performance of “Umaaligid” by SB19 and Sarah Geronimo. The night ended with Acer’s original song, “Ace Your World.”

“We are happy about the success of Acer Day 2025, which pushed the boundaries of technology and entertainment. We set out on a mission to break limits, and we achieved it,” said Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines.

For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on social media: @AcerPH on Facebook or visit www.acer.com.

The successful students behind RF Pinoy Games who created Super B!

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RF Pinoy Games is a small but passionate team of Filipino creators behind a meaningful project called Super B. Super B is created by RF Pinoy Games, founded by Rylle Jewel A. Villamater and Franchesca Del Mundo – also the creators of Super B. With special participation of Arianne Ignacio and Jasmine Alboleras as the programmers of the game.

Super B is the first Filipino mobile game that teaches Philippine history through fun and interactive gameplay. It was designed to be inclusive, especially for children who are speech-impaired and deaf. Through vibrant storytelling, accessible design, and historical adventures, we aim to spark curiosity and pride in our heritage while bridging communication gaps through visual elements and sign language support.

Let us continue to support Filipino creativity and advocacy! Download Super B now!
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.rfpinoygames.superb&pcampaignid=web_share!

For more info: https://youtu.be/4YpYIVxZ8z8

Meet iFFALCON: Redefining Smart TV Entertainment with the New U Series

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iFFALCON, a pioneering brand, is taking smart entertainment to the next level with the launch of its cutting-edge U Series Smart TV. Designed for the modern generation, the U75 is packed with groundbreaking features that deliver a seamless and immersive experience for gaming, movie-watching, and sports.

About iFFALCON: Innovation for Young Consumers

iFFALCON is a new tech brand for young consumers around the world with high quality and competitive price performance, dedicated to bringing infinite possibilities to young people around the world. As a tech brand created for young consumers, iFFALCON is dedicated to bringing infinite possibilities to users worldwide. It is redefining smart displays by offering high-quality, high-performance televisions at competitive prices. With a spirit of innovation, creativity, and freedom, iFFALCON continues to expand its reach across the globe, bringing cutting-edge entertainment technology to users in over 11 countries, including the UK, Germany, France, Australia, India, and Singapore.

The Future of Smart TVs: A Gaming Powerhouse with Stunning Visuals

iFFALCON’s latest smart TV lineup U series is designed for gaming, cinematic immersion, and live sports, delivering unrivaled performance with industry-leading features:

  1. 144Hz Native Refresh Rate: Ultra-Smooth Motion, No Lag
  • A true 144Hz refresh rate delivers fluid, tear-free visuals, ensuring seamless gameplay, cinematic clarity, and immersive sports action.
  • Say goodbye to motion blur and lag – this TV is designed for next-generation gaming and high-speed action scenes.
  1. Wide Color Gamut (WCG): Vivid, True-to-Life Colors
  • With 93% DCI-P3 color accuracy, iFFALCON’s Wide Color Gamut ensures brighter blues, richer greens, and deeper reds, making every frame more vibrant and realistic than traditional TVs.
  • Whether you’re exploring open-world games, watching action-packed movies, or cheering for your favorite team, every color pops with breathtaking clarity.
  1. Gaming Like Never Before – Built for Ultimate Immersion
  • Game Master Mode enhances gameplay with Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Shadow Enhancement, Aiming Aid, and Screenshot Mode, giving gamers a competitive edge.
  • 2K 240Hz VRR (55”) / 2K 288Hz VRR (65″, 75″, 85″) delivers high-speed responsiveness, perfect for fast-paced esports and console gaming.
  • Narrow Bezel Design + WCG + AiPQ Pro + HVA Panel = A fully immersive gaming experience, bringing lifelike visuals and deep contrast.
  1. A True Cinematic Experience at Home
  • Dolby Vision & HDR10 optimize every scene, ensuring deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and stunning contrast.
  • Dolby Atmos delivers 360° surround sound, putting you at the center of the action.
  • AiPQ Pro Processor + Dolby Vision + Dolby Atmos + HVA Panel work together to create a breathtaking movie-watching experience with sharp, clear, and realistic visuals.
  1. Smarter, Faster, and More Convenient
  • Google TV & Hey Google: Navigate effortlessly using voice commands, making it easier than ever to access your favorite content.
  • Slim, Metallic Bezel-Less Design: A modern aesthetic that enhances any living space while maximizing screen real estate.

Experience Next-Gen Smart TVs – The Best in Its Class

iFFALCON’s latest lineup U series is positioned as the best high-refresh-rate, wide-color-gamut smart TV in its price segment. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, movie lover, or sports fan, iFFALCON delivers top-tier performance without the premium price tag.

The iFFALCON U Series is now available, offering a range of models and screen sizes to suit every viewing preference. The U75 is available in 75″, 65″, and 55″ variants; the U65 comes in 75″, 65″, 55″, 50″, and 43″; while the S55 is offered in 43″, 40″, and 32″. These models are now available in e-commerce platforms and select dealers, promising an unparalleled viewing experience for consumers worldwide.

For more information and to explore the full range of iFFALCON products, please visit https://www.iffalcon.com/ph/en

*Product appearance, functionality and availability may differ between countries/regions.

Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines: Special Press Event Previews September’s Showcase of Taiwan’s Soft & Hard Power

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Organized by the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA) and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the highly anticipated Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines will make its grand return from September 17 to 19 at the SMX Convention Center in Manila after a six-year hiatus. Today (the 13th), a special Press Conference was held to provide the Philippine mainstream media and industry associations leaders with an exclusive preview of the innovative products and integrated solutions that will be showcased at the Expo, generating excitement ahead of the Taiwan Expo.

Mr. Woody Wang, Deputy Executive Director of TAITRA, emphasized that this year’s Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines marks a major milestone for Taiwan’s post- pandemic re-engagement with the Philippine market. In line with the Philippine government’s policies, evolving market demands, and emerging consumer trends, the exhibition has been thoughtfully designed around five key themes: Green & Sustainability, Agritech & Aquatech, Health & Wellness, Smart Technologies, and Intelligent Lifestyle. Featuring five themed pavilions and industry zones, the Expo will showcase over 140 leading Taiwanese companies, vividly illustrating Taiwan’s wide- ranging industrial competitiveness and innovative prowess.

Mr. Dustin Teng-Shi Yang, Minister of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (TECO), highlighted that Taiwan’s advanced technology and well- established manufacturing capabilities perfectly complement the Philippines’ rapidly expanding market and youthful demographic dividend, unlocking vast potential for collaboration.

Ms. Atty. Evangeline Q. de Leon, Corporate Secretary of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), emphasized that the Taiwan Expo serves as a crucial platform for bilateral business exchanges and market expansion by introducing innovative solutions to the Philippine market.

Mr. Bryan Ang, Vice President for Trade of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), remarked that Taiwan’s strong reputation for technological innovation and business agility will further enhance bilateral industrial competitiveness and foster long-lasting cooperation.

The product highlights at the Press Conference covered all five key themes. Under Agritech & Aquatech, MIC Meter Industrial Co., Ltd. showcased its Bluetooth Soil nutrition 9 in one meter and AIoT Pig Counter Board, emphasizing real-time monitoring and precision livestock management. Meanwhile, JNC Technology Co., Ltd. presented its Multi-channel Gas Detector and Water Sensor, offering efficient solutions tailored for smart agriculture and aquaculture.

In Smart Technologies, AIRA Corporation introduced its airaTrack-Intelligent Person Tracking Solution, which integrates seamlessly with existing surveillance infrastructures. Zyxel Networks demonstrated its cloud technology embedded with advanced cybersecurity features, addressing the Philippines’ pressing need for secure, non-red supply chain products.

In Health & Wellness, ASUS led the way with ICT-based smart medical applications, while V5med Inc. showcased its AI-assisted software, V5med Lung AI, setting new standards in precision medicine.

Under Green & Sustainability, hiPower Hydrogen Technology Co., Ltd. demonstrated cutting-edge renewable hydrogen energy solutions, and Super Battery Co., Ltd. featured innovative lithium battery applications—both responding proactively to the global energy transition.

Within Intelligent Lifestyle, SHAAN HONQ INT’L COSMETICS CORP. introduced a premium hair care line that masterfully blends technology with aesthetics, while Morita Biotech Co., Ltd. highlighted popular Taiwanese skincare products, underscoring the strength and appeal of Taiwan’s beauty industry.

These innovations not only exemplify technological advancement but also address the diverse needs of the Philippine market, including energy stability, food safety, accessible healthcare, cybersecurity, and lifestyle enhancements.

The Press Conference drew participation from numerous industry associations, major chambers of commerce, and Taiwanese community organizations, showcasing strong interest and support from the Taiwan-Philippines business community. Stakeholders across various sectors eagerly anticipate the Taiwan Expo in the Philippines this September, which is expected to serve as a robust platform for bilateral business exchanges, foster greater commercial opportunities, and deepen cooperation in technology innovation, sustainable development, and the health industry—paving the way for a new era of Taiwan-Philippines economic collaboration.

STARTING SMALL, DREAMING BIG: HOW SARAH GERONIMO TOOK CHARGE OF HER FINANCIAL JOURNEY

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From being a multi-talented performer who has captured the hearts of Filipinos with her chart-topping hits and captivating performances, Sarah Geronimo is now inspiring fans in a new way: through her personal financial journey. Not only has she expanded her portfolio with insurance and investment products, but she is also dabbling in various businesses, including a production house and a music label, effectively integrating her strong creative background with her emerging entrepreneurial pursuits. 

“I’ve always known how important it is to be financially secure. But when I was younger, I thought saving was the only way to achieve this,” Sarah shares. “It was much later when I realized that I shouldn’t put all my eggs in one basket.”  

Such misconception is common among Filipinos. Fortunately, with technology making credible information more accessible, there is a growing awareness about financial tools beyond the usual bank account.   

Sarah’s own financial journey, much like her rise to stardom, began with small, consistent steps. She emphasizes that it wasn’t always easy, but the lessons learned along the way have been invaluable. “I was eager to learn and thankfully, I was surrounded by people who could guide me, like my husband. Now, I understand that I have to go beyond saving; I also need financial protection,” she says.  

As she opens up about her financial journey, Sarah hopes to encourage more Filipinos to also widen their horizon. “I want to encourage everyone, especially young professionals, to start their financial journey early,” she says. “Don’t be afraid to ask experts. Learn the basics of insurance and investment so you know how it can help you. And most of all, remember that it’s okay to start small.”   

Sarah’s inspiring story of how she evolved from pop sensation to a businesswoman aligns perfectly with her role as a brand ambassador for Sun Life Philippines. And for those inspired by Sarah’s story and are eager to take their first step towards financial security, Sun Life offers solutions like Sun Life Save & Protect.  

Sun Life Save & Protect is a simple and affordable life insurance and savings plan ideal for goal-driven employees or professionals ready to take their financial journey to the next level. 

At its core, the plan provides maximum insurance protection, helping secure the future with up to 20 times the total annual premium. It also has guaranteed money-back feature, paying back at least 100% of the total annual premiums paid after 20 years, enabling one to save for future goals. Best of all, these benefits and more can be availed at budget-friendly payment options. 

“It’s a different kind of fulfillment when you know you’re taking a step towards financial security, no matter how small that step may seem,” Sarah says. “Just focus on your goals and be consistent in your financial journey. Soon enough, you will get there!”      

Want to learn more about Sun Life & Protect? Visit www.sunlife.co/SaveAndProtect or connect with a Sun Life advisor through www.sunlife.co/TalkToAnAdvisor.