SM Hotels and Convention Corp. (SMHCC), the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime), is accelerating its national expansion with seven new hotel projects set to be completed by end-2029.
The move will increase the SM property group’s hotel count from 10 to 17 and boost total room inventory from 2,602 to 3,923, translating to a 51 percent capacity growth. The majority of the new inventory—969 rooms—is slated for delivery by 2028.
SMHCC’s five-year growth plan, supported by a P10 billion capital expenditure program, will be fully funded through internally generated cash flows.
Six of the new hotels will carry the Park Inn by Radisson brand, while one will be developed under Radisson. The expansion strengthens SMHCC’s position in the midscale and high-end segments while leveraging synergies with the SM Prime’s diverse property network.
“This rollout reflects our belief in the long-term potential of the Philippine domestic travel and tourism market,” explained SMHCC executive vice president Peggy Angeles. “We are building on the strength of regional tourism while delivering quality accommodations that enhance the value of our ecosystem of malls, events spaces and mixed-use developments.”
Only one of the new SM hotels will be in Metro Manila. The rest are strategically distributed in regional growth corridors: Calabarzon (2), Central Luzon (1), Cebu (2), and Laoag (1). The locations were selected based on tourism potential and integration with existing SM Prime assets.
SMHCC’s hotel portfolio currently includes luxury (Conrad Manila, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu), leisure (Taal Vista, Pico Sands) and business hotels (Park Inn by Radisson, Lanson Place Mall of Asia).
“Our hotels serve as catalysts for local economic activity,” Angeles added. “We are focused on creating long-term value—through jobs, tourism flows and sustained growth that enhances SM Prime’s diversified revenue base.”
Hotel Sogo and local skincare brand Hikari Skin Essentials have teamed up to promote simple and affordable self-care, rest, and wellness. Their new campaign, “Glow More & Stay More,” was officially launched during a press conference held at Eurotel North EDSA.
Under this partnership, Hikari will provide Ultra White Kojic Soap to Hotel Sogo. The hotel will give these soaps for free to guests during selected events, promotions, and corporate social responsibility activities. In return, Hikari will have billboard ads displayed in important Hotel Sogo branches in Metro Manila and other busy areas.
Sue Geminiano, Marketing Head of Hotel Sogo, said, “We want our guests to enjoy more than just a comfortable stay. With this partnership, we remind them to value good rest because it improves their well-being and supports healthy skin.”
Ralph Lim, CEO of Hikari Skin Essentials, added, “We are happy to work with Hotel Sogo to inspire Filipinos to appreciate how rest and simple skincare routine makes our skin healthy.”
Michael Almazan, President of Hikari, said, “This partnership shows how two local brands can work together to bring value, comfort, and care to more Filipinos.”
The press conference was attended by company leaders, media representatives, and online content creators. Attendees saw previews of upcoming giveaways, co-branded materials, and future joint projects focused on wellness and community care.
Starting soon, guests at selected Hotel Sogo branches can receive free Hikari Ultra White Kojic Soap during special promotions.
The “Glow More & Stay More” campaign reminds everyone that self-care does not have to be expensive. Sometimes, a simple moment of rest and a little pampering is enough to make a difference.
HONOR’s AI Phone transforms prenup photos into living, moving memories.
Leading global technology brand HONOR unveiled the extraordinary capabilities of its newest innovation, the HONOR 400 5G, during an exclusive prenup photoshoot featuring celebrity couple Shaira Diaz and EA Guzman. Known as the “AI Phone,” the HONOR 400 5G introduces a nostalgic yet futuristic twist to photography, with its cutting-edge Image-to-Video AI feature that turns still photos into lifelike videos.
A Blend of Nostalgia and Innovation
The prenup shoot, set in the nostalgic ambiance of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City, highlighted how the HONOR 400 5G bridges the past and present. By blending classic love stories with modern technology, the AI phone brought Shaira and EA’s cherished moments to life, capturing not just their smiles but the essence of their love.
The Future of Memory-Making
“Our goal with the HONOR 400 5G is to redefine how people capture and relive their most special moments. This shoot with Shaira and EA showcases the device’s ability to preserve memories while bringing them to life with unparalleled clarity and emotion.” Said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
During the event, media and guests were given an exclusive look at the HONOR 400 5G’s AI capabilities. The Image-to-Video feature left attendees amazed, offering a glimpse into how the device transforms photography into an immersive storytelling experience, perfect for milestones like weddings, travels, and beyond.
Elevating Every Detail with AI
What sets the HONOR 400 5G apart is its ability to evoke deep emotions with every frame. Each AI-powered transformation is designed to highlight the small but meaningful details, from the subtle movements of a veil in the wind to the warmth of sunlight on a couple’s smiles. The result is a photo album that feels alive and dynamic, unlike anything traditional cameras can deliver.
Your Perfect Partner for Capturing Life
The HONOR 400 5G also offers a seamless and intuitive user experience, making advanced AI features accessible to everyone. Whether you’re capturing an intimate prenup shoot, family gatherings, or spontaneous adventures, this phone ensures that every moment becomes a timeless masterpiece. Its sleek design and 5G connectivity further enhance its appeal, proving it’s not just a device but a companion for creating and sharing life’s most meaningful moments.
A Love Story in Motion
For soon-to-wed couples like Shaira and EA, the HONOR 400 5G is more than just a phone, but a gateway to reliving every unforgettable moment. With its sleek design and intuitive AI features, the device is set to become a must-have for anyone looking to preserve their love stories in the most innovative way possible.
The HONOR 400 5G will officially be available in stores nationwide starting June 17, 2025. Designed to be the ultimate tool for memory-making, the phone caters to photography enthusiasts, tech lovers, and anyone who wants to capture their most treasured moments in the most innovative way possible. Stay tuned as HONOR unveils full details at the official launch, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/H400Launch_PR!
Never miss the latest updates about the HONOR 400 5G and visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
The Palawan Group of Companies, one of the leaders in financial services, kicked off the celebration of its 40th anniversary by honoring its most loyal and dedicated employees.
Recognized as the heroes who laid the foundation of the Palawan Group, individuals who have reached their 20th, 25th, and 30th year of service were celebrated for their contributions and their commitment to upholding husay na Tatak Palawan at serbisyong Pusong Palawan all these years. Awardees and their families were flown to the company’s headquarters in Puerto Princesa City and were given a much-deserved red carpet treatment.
The heartfelt ceremony, dubbed as ‘Gintong Lingkod Awards’, was attended by the company’s founders, leaders, and partners. It was intended to honor the awardees not only for their role in the growth of the business but also for living out the Palawan Group’s core values of humility and service.
In her welcome remarks, Palawan Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Korina Castro-Fernando, thanked the awardees for being “the founding ates and kuyas, ‘nangs and ‘nongs (big sisters and brothers) who lived out the Kulturang Palawan of integrity and sincere service – to sukis and to co-associates” as she emphasized that it is this culture that serves as the solid foundation that led the company to where it is today. She also reiterated her appreciation, on behalf of the Castro family, of the awardees’ faith in the company as it evolved from a single pawnshop in Puerto Princesa City to a globally recognized financial services provider known for its serbisyong Matataag, Maaasahan, at Mapagkakatiwalaan (enduring, dependable, trustworthy).
This appreciation was echoed by co-founder and Deputy Chairman Angelita M. Castro, who remarked, “our awardees are not just witnesses to our history – they helped build it.” She further expressed, “kami man [ni Sir Bobby] ang nagsimula, hindi tayo aabot sa 40 years at sa tagumpay na tinatamasa natin ngayon kung hindi dahil sa inyo, sa inyong sipag, at sa inyong pagmamahal sa ating kompanya. Salamat, maraming salamat sa inyo.”
Select awardees delivered speeches – personal accounts of how being part of the Palawan Group impacted their lives – which earned a harmony of laughter, tears, and cheers from the audience.
Flora Mae Salarzon, a 25-year service awardee, remarked, “If I weren’t well-compensated, I would’ve left a long time ago. But when I say ‘compensated’, I don’t just mean in terms of salary. At Palawan, we are enriched mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. The company takes care of us as people—not just as employees. We are trained, guided, and equipped not just for work, but for life. [Our mentors in Palawan] help us grow as professionals, as parents, as members of the community. We learn how to balance our careers with our responsibilities at home, and how to prepare for our future. That kind of support is rare, and I’m truly grateful.”
Another 25-year service awardee, Ma. Criselda Emnace, emphasized how genuinely “malasakit” (care) to our Sukis served as the glue that holds the business together. She shared, “My job felt less like a job but more like a purpose. I discovered more profoundly that the key business acumen in a business like ours is Customer Love. I do my best to extend my services to customers the best way I know how.”
Each awardee received a 24K Palawan Gold coin as a token of appreciation. They were each called to the stage, accompanied by a loved one to receive the token, and received a warm embrace from the company’s leaders. Many also shared their personal journeys with the company, offering reflections that were both inspiring and moving.
The Gintong Lingkod awards is part of the Palawan Group of Companies’ efforts to nurture a workplace where employees are valued, empowered, and celebrated. It reflects the company’s commitment to upholding Tatak Palawan – the spirit of bayanihan and service.
Leading global technology brand HONOR Philippines is set to change the way we remember moments with the upcoming arrival of its groundbreaking AI phone, the HONOR 400 5G. Officially teased today, this next-generation smartphone promises to bring old photos to life using cutting-edge artificial intelligence on June 17, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/H400Launch_PR.
Launching Soon in the Philippines
Launching in the Philippines on June 17, the HONOR 400 is the latest innovation designed to blend nostalgia with AI magic. As part of the teaser campaign, HONOR is inviting fans to join the HONOR Image-to-Video Challenge, a viral trend that transforms old childhood photos into lifelike video moments using AI.
Reviving Memories Through Technology
From cherished portraits to candid family snapshots, the HONOR 400 5G can animate static memories, a powerful demonstration of how technology can reconnect us with the past in dynamic new ways.
“With the HONOR 400 5G, we’re not just launching another smartphone, but introducing a new emotional experience. This is the real AI phone, designed to bring your memories back to life and create meaningful moments through innovation.” Said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.
With a legacy of pushing boundaries through durable devices and high-end camera phones, HONOR Philippines is doubling down on breakthrough technologies. The teaser video released online has already sparked excitement, showing how the phone’s AI can breathe movement into once-static photos. A clear signal of HONOR’s commitment to making tech more human.
Join the Movement
Get ready to relive the moments that matter. Stay tuned as HONOR unveils full details at the official launch on June 17, live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/H400Launch_PR!
Never miss the latest updates and visit HONOR’s official website at www.hihonor.com or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
The most-awaited premier B2B beauty trade show in the Philippines is opening its doors from June 4 to 6, 2025 at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City. Cosmobeauté Philippines 2025, powered by Cosmoprof Asia, is a B2B event that encompasses the beauty, wellness, and personal care industries.
“The journey towards Cosmobeauté Philippines 2025 is an interesting and empowering one,” said Rungphech ‘Rose’ Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines, the organizer of the annual Cosmobeauté Philippines. “This edition holds importance as it sets the latest trend and standard in events focused on skincare and cosmetics in the country. Cosmobeauté Philippines also kicks off the series of Cosmobeauté trade shows across Southeast Asia—in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam in July and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Jakarta, Indonesia in October.
Aside from showcasing the latest innovations, trends, and products in the beauty industry from 250 exhibiting brands and companies, Cosmobeauté Philippines is featuring the most engaging programs, conferences, and seminars designed to share new knowledge and insights.
One of the significant activities in the Cosmobeauté Philippines 2025 is the 17th Asian Societies of Cosmetics Scientists (ASCS) Conference, set on Day 1 and Day 2. The summit is gathering some of the most reputable cosmetic chemists in the country and from across Asia. Among the most interesting topics are AI and its Impact on the Personal Care Industry, Cosmetics Acne in the Skin of Diverse Color Filipinos, Global Regulatory Science Trends in Cosmetics, and Cosmetic Ingredient Safety.
Industry Seminars are scheduled to impart updated and new knowledge about cosmetics and skincare. The Seminar Room will be filled by participants and guests who are interested in pressing subjects like Cosmo in the Age of Beauty and Algorithms, Trending Skincare Ingredients, Salon and Wellness in Digital World, and Secretome Extract from Human Stem Cells.
The Makeup Box, which is mounted at the Main Stage Lobby is serving as an ideal venue for skincare and makeup tutorials and live demonstrations, featuring the latest trends and technology in the industry. Among the most-awaited sessions are Office Makeup to Glam Look, How to Lift Hooded Eyes (No Needles Needed), Color Correcting & Matching Masterclass, Bridal Skin Prep Masterclass, and Holistic and Zen Skincare with Pure Culture.
Finally, makeup competitions are set from Day 1 to Day 3, setting Cosmobeauté Philippines 2025 apart from all other trade shows across all industries. Eco-chic: Ultimate Artistic Hair and Makeup Showdown is scheduled on Day 1, while Bridal Makeup Competition happens on Day 2. On the last day of the event, the Professional Aestheticians Association of the Philippines will hold the Beautelympics, or the competition for microblading and nail extensions which will feature industry expert judges.
The kick-off of Cosmobeauté Philippines is of high importance as it is supported by the Department of Trade and Industry and some of the prominent and most reputable industry partners for the beauty sector such as the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc., Philippine Society for Cosmetic Science, Unified Makeup Artists of the Philippines, Professional Aestheticians Association of the Philippines, Pinay Girl Boss, IBITA, PARLON, GS1 Philippines, and the Association of Local Artisans, Food and Other Producers of the Philippines.
Aside from the exhibition, there are more exciting activities and giveaways to be given away to the visitors. To add to the excitement, Cosmobeauté Philippines is rolling out the #B2BeautePh Photo Contest. All participants are invited to take a photo at the event and to post it on social media using the hashtags #cosmobeauteph and #B2BeautePh to win exciting prizes.
Cosmobeauté Philippines is organized by Informa Markets, a division of Informa plc. Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate, and grow. We provide marketplace participants around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience, and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, targeted digital services, and actionable data solutions. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com.
For more information, please contact the organisers:
PlayTime CARES, the social responsibility arm of online entertainment platform PlayTime, officially turned over its inaugural PlayTime Playground in Gawad Kaling (GK) Village Trece Martires, Cavite. The playground aims to supplement GK’s community facilities while focusing on the holistic development of children.
The turnover event was attended by residents, local community leaders, and representatives from PlayTime CARES and Gawad Kalinga. With a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of lives of Filipinos, the PlayTime Playground serves as a dedicated space for the children of the community to be able to play, connect, and enjoy.
Krizia Cortez, PlayTime CARES Director of Public Relations, shared “We are excited to officially turn over our first PlayTime Playground to the Gawad Kalinga community of Trece Martires. We believe that every child deserves a happy and healthy environment where they can thrive. This project is a symbol of our commitment to building nurturing communities, and the actualization of our vision for this project of imparting happiness to every child one playground at a time.”
The PlayTime Playground is designed to encourage active play, build social skills, and nurture creativity among children. The space aims to serve as a fun, engaging, and developmental setting for the youth in the community. As the first PlayTime Playground, it sets the tone for future collaborations that center on holistic child development through play.
Local GK leader Lito Rey expressed his gratitude, saying, “Maraming salamat sa PlayTime CARES dahil maraming kabataan ang maswerteng makakagamit ng playground,” (Thank you to PlayTime CARES. Our youth are very lucky to have a new playground [in our community]).
GK Executive Director Dan Bercasio emphasized the importance of keeping children active and healthy through physical development programs and endeavors. “Sa panahon na puro gadgets, this is a good way for the kids to learn sports and social interaction with other children,” (In a time when gadgets are the norm, this is a good way for the kids to learn sports and social interaction with other children). He also highlighted how GK is committed to giving kids more opportunities to discover their talents and grow into well-rounded individuals.
The initiative is part of PlayTime CARES’ broader efforts to give back and support programs that empower communities through education, wellness, and inclusive recreational spaces.
Shell Philippines has delivered a set of 110 bike racks made from 3,000 kg of plastic waste around Metro Manila and Southern Luzon as part of a unique activation to help encourage sustainable mobility and spotlight the power of the circular economy.
The Philippines has been hard hit by the plastic waste crisis which threatens the health of our planet. The country’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act, which requires large companies to recover 40% of their plastic packaging footprint in 2024, aims to encourage a circular economy for plastics to ensure waste doesn’t end up in nature.
Shell Philippines bought plastic credits from PCX Markets,a responsibility platform that offers upstream solutions and helps fund plastic pollution cleanup projects around the world. One credit enables the collection and processing of 1,000 kilograms of plastic waste by project partners listed on PCX Markets. This purchase supports the work of EFT Philippines, an SME based in Davao that upcycles plastic waste into various items such as outdoor furniture.
Funds raised by credit sales helped EFT Philippines expand collection and purchase more plastic waste from informal sector waste pickers through aggregators, such as junk shops.. Shell went on to purchase upcycled bike racks from EFT, helping fund the entire circular journey of plastic waste, from collection through to processing and finally, through the purchase of the end product.
Shell unveiled the project on October 24, 2024 including the first prototype, as part of the company’s Sustainability Week event in Manila. The first 55 bike racks was installed in various Shell Mobility sites in Q1 of 2025, and another 55 will be deployed within the the 3rd quarter of 2025.
Shell supports the need for improved circularity of plastics markets and globally aims to increase the amount of recycled plastic in Shell-branded packaging to 30% by 2030 and ensure that the packaging used in their products is reusable or recyclable. The company’s approach to sustainability is integrating sustainable practices in every aspect of the business, from its operations to customer interactions.
In the Philippines, Shell has partnered with PCX Markets to develop a downstream plastic diversion program that helps fund several recycling, upcycling, and social impact projects to help keep plastic out of nature.
Preparing for retirement is a crucial aspect in building one’s financial portfolio. It is especially important for business owners who aspire to enjoy their golden years without solely depending on their business for income.
According to a study commissioned by Sun Life, six out of 10 business owners are already planning to retire as part of their medium-term goals. However, majority are preparing their finances for retirement through traditional ways such as bank savings accounts and government contributions, with some considering investment options.
“We want to help business owners achieve their retirement goals by providing an alternative solution that can address this specific financial need,” Sun Life Philippines Client Segment Marketing Head Cary Casipit said.
In line with this, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. has launched the Sun Life FlexiRetire to provide business owners with the flexibility to set up their retirement plan at their desired age with their preferred annual retirement benefit and payout period.
Sun Life FlexiRetire is a new and innovative option of Sun Life Secure Income, a participating, limited-pay whole life insurance product that provides guaranteed annual cash benefits equal to 6% of the face amount starting at the end of the 6th policy year until age 100.
With the Sun Life FlexiRetire option, the annual guaranteed cash payouts and the potential dividends earned can be accumulated until the Client’s pre-determined retirement age. Once the retirement age has been reached, the cash benefit will be paid annually, within the Client’s chosen payout period.
“This can serve as an additional income stream for business owners during their retirement years, independent from the funds tied to their company. It can help ensure a smoother succession process, as it helps future-proof their business for generations to come,” Casipit said.
Those interested in availing of the Sun Life FlexiRetire may get in touch with their Sun Life advisor or connect with one via www.sunlife.co/Talk-To-An-Advisor. For more information, visit www.sunlife.co/Sun-FlexiRetire.
LG Electronics (LG) is hosting the LG HVAC Leaders’ Summit 2025, a series of conferences aimed at reinforcing its leadership in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) market. Building on the success of its inaugural event in Seoul last year, LG is expanding the summit’s reach this year, starting with Africa last May 14-16 and the Asia and India Summit last May 19-22, followed by sessions in major markets around the world, including the Middle East and Latin America.
The LG HVAC Leaders’ Summit is a key initiative in LG’s strategy to establish itself as a global HVAC thought leader. The summit also serves as a platform to deepen collaboration with LG’s global network of technical consultants, foster customer loyalty and strengthen regional partnerships through impactful engagement.
Taking place in Seoul and Busan, the Asia and India Summit is being attended by leading HVAC consultants from Vietnam, the Philippines, Australia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia and India. The agenda features technical seminars delivered by LG experts, along with deep dives into key topics such as carbon-neutral building policies, advanced variable refrigerant flow system technologies for sustainable building application, and specialized solutions for data centers. Participants have the opportunity to explore the latest industry trends and gain insight into LG’s next-generation HVAC innovations.
Complementing the seminars, the summit also includes best practice sessions highlighting successful implementations of LG’s HVAC solutions across Asia and India. Notable case studies include the implementation of Singapore’s Green Mark strategy and the installation of the energy saving Multi VTM i system in Southeast Asia. Additionally, attendees are visiting key reference sites, experiencing LG’s high-efficiency solutions in action across both commercial and residential settings.
To enhance the overall experience, LG has curated a customer care program, designed to foster long-term loyalty and trust. The summit offers personalized networking opportunities, immersive cultural activities and branded engagement programs, enabling consultants to forge deeper connections with LG representatives and peers from across the region.
Following the Africa, Asia and India event, the LG HVAC Leaders’ Summit will turn its attention to other high-growth markets, hosting technicians from the Middle East in June, and Latin America in July. The summits will not only deepen engagement with local consultants but also serve as strategic platforms to introduce tailored HVAC solutions, strengthen regional partnerships and reinforce LG’s position as a global top-tier HVAC brand.
“The expanded LG HVAC Leaders’ Summit reflects our commitment to working closely together with key partners to drive growth in the global HVAC market and lay the foundations for sustainable success,” said James Lee, president of the LG ES Company. “Through continuous technological innovation and customer-focused approach, LG will keep delivering optimized HVAC solutions that ensure stable and efficient operations.”
Life’s about more than having the latest technology; it’s about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. To learn more, visit www.lg.com/ph and like and follow LG Philippines’ social media accounts (@lgphilippines) on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
