Alfamart, the minimart business of the SM Group, is set to expand its network by at least 200 new stores in Luzon in 2025, further strengthening its commitment to making fresh goods and daily essentials more accessible to Filipino neighborhoods. As of end 2024, Alfamart had a total of 2,100 stores.
With its steady growth, Alfamart continues to generate more job opportunities for local communities. In 2024 alone, the minimart chain was able to create more than 2,500 new jobs as a result of its network expansion, which includes the new distribution center located in Sariaya, Quezon.
Alfamart, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in the Philippines last year, has successfully expanded across 11 provinces, including Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon, Rizal, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pangasinan, and Zambales, as well as 15 cities in Metro Manila.
“Our continued growth is anchored on the needs of the neighborhoods we serve. We remain committed to strengthening our presence in the underserved areas within Luzon, in order to provide the communities better value and easier access to essential goods.” said Harvey T. Ong, Chief Operating Officer of Alfamart Philippines.
Beyond job creation, Alfamart’s expansion has opened doors for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to grow. Through strategic partnerships, local entrepreneurs have set up businesses within Alfamart stores, creating a thriving ecosystem that fuels local economic development.
Among the MSMEs that have successfully partnered with Alfamart is Laundry Express, a self-service laundry shop which has grown to over 52 outlets across the Philippines. Well-loved brands such as Coco Fresh Tea & Juice and Potato Corner are also present in select locations, offering customers more choices.
As part of its commitment to continuous innovation, Alfamart is enhancing its in-store services to provide fresh and affordable options. In collaboration with local hog raisers and poultry farmers, Alfamart offers frozen meats at competitive prices. To further improve the shopping experience, it has also recently introduced in-store butchers in select stores, allowing customers to select custom cuts and portion sizes of fresh meat.
“As we grow, we want our communities to grow with us. By offering spaces within our stores for MSMEs, we empower local businesses while enhancing the overall shopping experience for our customers,” added Ong. “Fostering inclusive growth, creating more business and employment opportunities, and bringing modern minimart convenience to the communities remain our priority as we enter our second decade of service to the Filipino people.”
PlayTime, the Philippines’ most thrilling and innovative online entertainment games brand, is turning up the heat this year! In celebration of hitting a million of followers on its Facebook page and every subsequent milestone, @PlayTimePH, they are about to blow your mind with the BIGGEST car giveaway of 2025! That’s right—PlayTime is giving away up to 100 brand-new Toyota cars. YES, you heard that correctly! 100!
What started as a promise to reward one lucky follower of FB account @PlayTimePH with a car has now skyrocketed into a jaw-dropping giveaway that will see more cars, more chances to win, and a whole lot more excitement. With every milestone of followers of FB page @PlayTimePH hits, the number of cars up for grabs keeps increasing, with the potential for 100 lucky winners who will drive brand-new sedans this summer.
Here’s how the raffle giveaway works:
1 Million Followers = 1 Car
5 Million Followers = 3 Cars
3 Million Followers = 5 Cars
5 Million Followers = 10 Cars
30 Million Followers = 50 Cars
50 Million Followers = 100 Cars!
“PlayTime owes its success to its incredible and ever-growing community. This giveaway is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to those who have supported us and made our journey special,” said Jay Sabale, Senior PR Manager at PlayTime. “As the Playtime community grows, more fun, interactive and engaging games await our customers.”
Here’s how to join the action:
Sign up for a PlayTime account.
Link your mobile number.
Make a deposit and start playing.
Follow us on Facebook (@PlayTimePH).
As PlayTime’s followers count rises in social media, the number of cars up for grabs increases correspondingly. Whether someone is a first-time player or a seasoned PlayTime enthusiast, this is an opportunity to win big!
The ride of a lifetime is waiting for lucky PlayTime customers —this summer, they can bring home their dream car soon! Terms and conditions apply.
PlayTime, the Philippines’ most innovative brand in online games entertainment, has reached a significant milestone, crossing over one million followers on its social media account, @PlayTimePH. To celebrate, the company is giving away cars, it may be one of the largest car giveaways in the nation’s history.
What began as a promise to award one lucky social media follower a brand-new car is elevated, as PlayTime responds to its rapidly growing following. With more social media followers, the number of cars to be raffled increases.
“PlayTime continues to redefine a rewarding experience for our customers” said Jay Sabale, Senior PR Manager. “As summer approaches, what better way to kick off an adventure than with brand-new rides up for grabs!”
As PlayTime social media followers grow, more cars are in store for customers. With a chance to win big, everyone, from first-timers to PlayTime pros, can join. This ride of a lifetime is not to be missed this summer, lucky winners can drive home their dream cars! “Ready to roll? Let’s go! PlayTime na!”
Terms and Conditions Apply. PlayTime is a Remote Gaming Licensee (RGL) of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). For unparalleled online gaming experience, PlayTime is easily accessible via popular payment gateways or www.playtime.ph, where every moment is fun-filled, and every peso brings one closer to winning big and earning more.
You place an arrow on the bowstring, pull it back, and take a deep breath. For a split second, it’s just you and the target—pure focus, precision, and anticipation. Then, the arrow flies. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to try something new, a casual visitor looking for a unique experience, or a dedicated archer perfecting your shot, CV Archery at Circulo Verde (CV) is your new playground.
Now open to the public, CV Archery is more than just a range—it’s a place to experience the thrill of archery in an open-air setting, whether for fun, fitness, or sport. Developed in partnership between Ortigas Land and the Archery Excellence Center (AEC), it is led by award-winning archers Nino Sinco, Rona Galicano, and Macky Santos, offering coaching and guidance for both newcomers and experienced archers alike.
“Archery isn’t just about hitting a target—it’s about discipline, control, and the excitement of seeing your arrow land exactly where you want it,” says Coach Nino Sinco. “CV Archery makes the sport accessible to everyone, whether you’re here to try it once for the thrill or looking to train seriously.”
Cashie Enecio, a Poveda student and a member of the Seraphim Archery Academy, locks on her target at the CV Archery range.
The Outdoor Archery Experience in Metro Manila
CV Archery is one of only three outdoor archery venues in Metro Manila—and the only one open to the public. As part of CV Play, the estate’s dedicated sports hub, it offers an uncluttered, open-air environment where archers can practice without the usual distractions of indoor facilities. Whether you’re testing your aim at 5 meters as a beginner or working towards Olympic-level 70-meter distances, the range provides a professional setup in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Nestled alongside other CV Play facilities—including The Palms Arena, a full-sized football field; The Bike Playground, an all-weather cycling park; and CV Quad, a FIBA-sized basketball court—CV Archery reinforces the estate’s dedication to active, outdoor lifestyles.
Located near The Palms Arena and the CV Bridge, the range is easily accessible whether you’re coming from Pasig, Quezon City, or nearby areas. The entire space is designed to encourage families and groups to enjoy the estate beyond archery—whether it’s a casual game of basketball, or soccer, or simply a relaxed afternoon exploring the area’s outdoor amenities.
Archery for Everyone: Learning, Training & Competing
For those new to the sport, the Discovery Archery Program offers a guided introduction, complete with equipment rental and coaching. More structured lessons are available for those who want to develop their technique, improve precision, or even train for competitions. Specialized courses are also open for aspiring archery coaches, making CV Archery a true learning hub for both students and instructors.
Philippine Archery Team coach Nino Sinco and Ortigas Land Vice President Atty. Michael David Abundo III pose after shooting the arrows that formally opened the CV Archery range.
For those who simply want to shoot, the range is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 8 AM to 6 PM, with flexible practice options for independent archers. Regulars can also look forward to tournaments and competitions held at the venue, including in-house games, national championship events, and even potential international matches like the ASEAN Youth Archery Championships.
A Safe & Relaxed Archery Experience
Safety remains a top priority at CV Archery. Before taking their first shot, all participants receive a quick orientation on handling equipment properly and following range etiquette. Trained Range Officers are always present, and the facility is equipped with protective barriers, first-aid-trained staff, and designated shooting areas to ensure a safe and structured environment.
Make a Day of It at CV
A session at CV Archery is just one part of the full experience at the estate. After an hour (or more) of perfecting your aim, you can explore CV Play’s vibrant sports facilities or simply wind down at Liam’s & Louis Gourmet Café—where farm-to-table dishes offer the perfect post-practice reward. Whether it’s a hearty meal or a light refreshment, it’s a great way to wrap up an adventure-filled day.
Your Next Adventure Starts Here
If you dream of becoming the next Katniss Everdeen, Hawkeye, or Legolas, or simply want to try something different, CV Archery welcomes you to take aim, fire, and discover a new passion.
For updates, visit Circulo Verde’s official Facebook page or drop by to experience it firsthand!
PlayTimePH is just a few clicks away from reaching 1 million followers, and the excitement is building! After giving away 5 Yamaha Mio Fazzios last December, the stakes are even higher this month. Once the Facebook account @PlayTimePH hits 1 million followers, one lucky follower will drive off with a brand-new car this summer!
That’s right! Forget two wheels, this time it’s all about four! It’s the ultimate summer ride, ideal for beach trips, scenic drives, and exploring the country. Followers won’t want to miss the chance to win a car, just in time for the warm season.
Jay Sabale, Senior PR Manager at PlayTime, says, “Our success would not be possible without our incredible 20 million+ subscribers, and we are so excited to give back! PlayTime is all about sharing blessings, and what better way to do that than by giving away a brand-new car to one of our amazing players!”
So, how do you get in on this epic giveaway? Visit @PlayTimePH Facebook page for more details.
Join now, and this summer, you could be behind the wheel of your dream car. Ready to roll? PlayTime na!
The much-anticipated second leg of the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan is set to take place at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025, bringing together an exciting array of MSMEs and community members for a dynamic shopping experience. This collaboration between Viyline and SM aims to boost local businesses while promoting community engagement, and the event is poised to be a game-changer for MSMEs in the region.
A highlight of the event will be the presence of Viy Cortez, renowned influencer and wife of popular YouTuber CONG TV. Known for her strong online following and influence, Viy Cortez will grace the opening ceremony, adding a touch of excitement and star power to the event. Her involvement in this initiative underscores the significance of the MSME Caravan as an opportunity to elevate the community.
The Viyline MSME Caravan is more than just a bazaar—it’s a collaborative effort to strengthen the local economy, support budding entrepreneurs, and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the MSME sector. By bringing together small business owners, influencers, and community members, this event nurtures deeper connections and encourages greater consumer engagement.
The success of the first leg of the Viyline MSME Caravan, held at SM City Bataan last January 22 – 29, 2025, has set the stage for a thrilling second installment, and this collaboration with SM City Baguio promises to take things to the next level. With the support of influential figures like Viy Cortez, the event is bound to attract a wide audience, further solidifying the importance of MSMEs in promoting community growth.
The caravan continues to SM City Dasmarinas from March 19-30, after its SM City Baguio stop (February 19-25, 2025). See the full schedule at www.smsupermalls.com.
Empowering MSME success at SM Supermalls
SM Supermalls champions MSME growth and sustainability by providing prime retail spaces and high-impact promotions. As home to the country’s largest MSME community, SM offers end-to-end support—from incubation to national expansion—ensuring that local businesses thrive in a highly competitive landscape.
With the success of HONOR X9c 5G, the upcoming HONOR X9c Smart 5G is expected to deliver incredibly durable, value, and cost-effective experience.
Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is excited to present its best-value tough smartphone, the HONOR X9c Smart 5G, building on the massive success of the HONOR X9c 5G. The much-awaited smartphone is set to be available exclusively on Shopee starting February 20, 2025.
“This new addition to HONOR is groomed to make waves with its progressive features and exceptional durability. Engineered to impress, the HONOR X9c Smart 5G combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design, ready to elevate the smartphone era to new heights and experience,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
As HONOR continues to push the boundaries of durability and innovation, the HONOR X9c Smart 5G is designed for those who seek performance and toughness without compromise. Its bold features are expected to cater to a wide range of users, redefining what it means to own a smartphone.
Mark your calendars this coming February 20, 2025, and get ready to see the next phase of HONOR’s history of providing innovation, value, and durability.
For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
SCG, a leading conglomerate in Southeast Asia, demonstrated resilience in 2024, effectively managing its EBITDA at 87,917 million PHP (US$1,528 million), matching its 2023 performance. As Thammasak Sethaudom, President and CEO of SCG, highlighted, this achievement came amid a complex economic landscape marked by a slowdown in the petrochemical cycle, geopolitical tensions, volatile energy costs, and high interest rates. Despite these headwinds, SCG maintained financial stability and delivered consistent shareholder returns.
A key factor in SCG’s success was its proactive implementation of reinforcement measures initiated in late 2024. These measures focused on three core areas: working capital management, operational restructuring, and controlled capital expenditure. These efforts yielded significant results, including a reduction in working capital of approximately 10,613 million PHP (US$183 million) year-on-year, streamlining operations through discontinuing unprofitable ventures, and focusing on high-return, rapid-payback projects. Consequently, net debt decreased by 28,718 million PHP (US$494 million) from the previous quarter, resulting in a healthy net debt-to-equity ratio of 0.7 times. SCG ended the year with robust cash reserves of 91,289 million PHP (US$1,570 million).
Looking ahead, SCG is well-positioned to capitalize on the projected economic recovery in ASEAN. The region, particularly Indonesia and Vietnam, is expected to experience GDP growth exceeding the global average, fueled by strong domestic demand, government stimulus, and increasing foreign investment. This positive outlook bodes well for SCG’s construction materials businesses. SCG Distribution & Retail, for instance, is accelerating the expansion of its Mitra 10 modern trade format in Indonesia. It aims to reach 100 branches by 2030, having already achieved 56 branches serving over one million customers monthly in 2024. SCGP (SCG Packaging) is also poised to benefit from rising ASEAN consumption and the increasing demand for packaging paper.
While SCG’s overall performance remained strong, its chemicals business (SCGC) faced challenges in 2024. The regional petrochemical industry experienced intensified competition due to new production capacity and weakened demand stemming from China’s economic slowdown. SCGC responded by prioritizing the development of High-Value Added Products & Services (HVA) and diligently managing EBITDA, costs, and working capital to maintain competitiveness. With signs of stabilization in the petrochemical cycle and anticipated declines in oil prices in 2025, SCGC is focused on further enhancing EBITDA and cost management efficiency. Notably, SCGC has accelerated its Long Son Petrochemicals (LSP) project in Vietnam by increasing the use of ethane gas feedstock, securing a long-term supply agreement, and chartering ethane shipping vessels to enhance long-term competitiveness.
SCG is also actively pursuing growth in new export markets, including North America and Australia. SCG Cement & Green Solutions is ramping up exports of Low Carbon Cement, targeting approximately one million tons this year. SCG Decor is experiencing success with its high-strength X-PORCELAIN tiles exports and aims to double export growth in 2024. SCGP is similarly expanding exports of polymer packaging, food service packaging, and printing and writing paper.
Furthermore, SCG is investing in smart living solutions and clean energy. SCG Smart Living is broadening its portfolio to include air quality products and solar solutions under the ONNEX brand while introducing more affordable product lines. SCG Cleanergy is expanding its solar power generation and distribution capacity, aiming for 3,500 MW by 2030.
In 2024, SCG reported Revenue from Sales of 833,070 million PHP (US$14,483 million), a 2% increase year-on-year, driven by higher sales volumes from SCGC and SCGP. However, profit for the year declined by 76% to 10,336 million PHP (US$180 million) due to the performance of the LSP project and lower contributions from associate companies. Excluding extraordinary items from 2023, profit declined by 52%. Fourth-quarter 2024 Revenue from Sales increased by 2% from the previous quarter, but the company reported a loss of 834 million PHP (US$15 million) due primarily to LSP performance and entire depreciation expenses.
SCG’s ASEAN operations (excluding Thailand) generated Revenue from Sales of 223,378 million PHP (US$3,883 million) in 2024, a 12% increase year over year and contributing 27% to SCG’s total revenue. In the Philippines, Revenue from Sales reached 19,356 million PHP (US$337 million), a significant 45% increase driven by SCGP.
Meanwhile, SCG Philippines is committed to sustainable development. This quarter, the company introduced the lightweight Q-con block, an eco-friendly building material from Thailand, to the Philippine market, a collaboration with key contractors like EEI that underscores its focus on Inclusive Green Growth. SCG showcased a diverse range of sustainable building solutions at NATCON-CONEX 2024, including Smart Block, Smart Putty, and Façade, reflecting its dedication to providing high-quality, environmentally friendly products.
Meanwhile, SCG Philippines expanded its retail presence with the opening of four new CTM stores, offering affordable ceramic tiles and sanitary ware. Furthermore, the SCG Open House 2024 provided a platform for industry professionals to explore its latest innovations and foster collaboration within the construction and home improvement sectors.
The company also partnered with Urban Farmers PH on urban farming initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to ESG principles and Inclusive Green Growth.
“SCG continues to adapt and expand into new markets. We are confident that in 2025, we will sustain strong EBITDA management while ensuring continuous commitment to shareholder care,” Thammasak concluded.
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Unveils Exclusive Offers at the 32nd Travel Tour Expo at the SMX Convention Center Manila
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR), the Philippines’ largest hotel operator, offers enticing deals, including its specially curated Sampaguita Wellness Package, at this year’s Travel Tour Expo happening from February 7 to 9, 2025 at SMX Convention Center.
“We want travelers to rediscover the joy of travel in the Philippines and to journey in some of the beautiful destinations like Batangas, Boracay, Mactan, and Iloilo. We always want to bring something new to the table. Now, allow us to pamper you through our signature Sampaguita Wellness Package that aims to provide an experience that prioritizes comfort and wellness and appeals to your five senses,” Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said.
A Journey of Wellness
A tribute to the Philippines’ national flower, the Sampaguita brand of service highlights MHR’s hospitality by creating a journey with the five senses for the guest. Whether it is the welcoming scent of Sampaguita, the comforting sound of kundiman, or inspiring dishes infused with floral notes, guests can fully immerse themselves in an all-around Sampaguita-inspired stay.
Enjoy up to 20% discount when you book the Sampaguita Wellness Package, a serene escape with carefully selected inclusions such as: a welcome card with Sampaguita-inspired design; an in-room SPA massage voucher; and a 15% F&B discount voucher for dishes on the Sampaguita Menu.
This signature offering reflects MHR’s dedication to celebrating Filipino hospitality while embracing wellness-focused travel experiences.
A Journey of Comfortable Stay
Whether exploring the vibrant cityscape or basking in island getaways, guests can also enjoy the affordable Stay & Breakfast Deal inclusive of room accommodation, breakfast for two guests at the hotel’s all-day dining outlet, use of leisure facilities, and complimentary WiFi access.
The Sampaguita Wellness Package and Stay & Breakfast Deal are available across the 13 properties of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts: Belmont Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Mactan Newtown, Savoy Hotel Manila, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Twin Lakes Hotel, and Grand Westside Hotel.
Visit Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ booth at the 32nd Travel Tour Expo (Booth Nos. 124-127 and 142 – 145) and take the first step in planning your next great journey.
TCL’s main ambassador and Asia’s superstar Kathryn Bernardo has finally revealed her top secret during the recent renewal contract signing for her partnership with the top electronics brand in the Philippines.
Kathryn’s biggest revelation, which captured her heart, was, “Movie nights have always been special to me, and my TCL C655 QLED PRO TV makes them even better! The picture quality is just amazing—it’s like bringing the cinema at home.”
The TCL C655 QLED PRO TV features cutting-edge quantum leap color technology. This innovation unlocks a world of vibrant colors, delivering unmatched depth and brightness for every shade, along with deeper contrasts and sharper details.
“The picture quality is incredible! It really feels like I have my own personal cinema at home” Kathryn enthuses.
TCL’s innovative QLED PRO Display sets a new standard for color accuracy. This revolutionary technology ensures a lifelike viewing experience, where every detail shimmers with breathtaking vibrancy.
With its powerful AI-driven AiPQ PRO Processor, the TCL C655 QLED PRO TV automatically fine-tunes every scene—enhancing colors, sharpening details, and ensuring smooth motion for a viewing experience so real.
The TCL C655 QLED PRO delivers stunning, cinema-quality visuals, and with the addition of Dolby Vision, the picture becomes truly captivating. The dynamic HDR technology unlocks a world of stunning colors, deep blacks, and incredible highlights, replicating the cinematic experience right in your living room. To further elevate the immersion, Dolby Atmos delivers unparalleled sound clarity, filling your room with captivating audio for an emotionally charged experience.
Undoubtedly, TCL TV will always have a special space in Kathryn’s heart. For someone who has grown up watching and having an old-school-box-type TCL TV at her very home and creating the best bonding experience with the whole fambam, Kathryn is bound to make more fond memories with TCL C655 QLED PRO TV.
“I believe that their products don’t just entertain — they bring people closer together, making everyday moments even more special,” Kathryn added.
The C655 PRO is available in 55″, 65″, 75″, and 85″ sizes, while the C655 series offers a broader range from 43″ to a massive 98″. Find them now at all TCL-authorized dealers nationwide. For more information, visit https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.
