AMA Rural Bank of Mandaluyong Inc. (ARB), owned by businessman Amable Aguiluz, has demanded that the Department of Education (DepEd) remit P1.495 billion in unremitted collections from public school teachers, warning of legal action against key officials.
In a letter dated February 12, 2025, ARB chief operating officer Felino H. Esquivias Jr. urged DepEd Undersecretary for Finance Annalyn M. Sevilla to release the funds within five days.
The amount includes P734.57 million collected between September 2019 and April 2022, and an additional P760.6 million from May to November 2022, both under the Automatic Payroll Deduction System.
Sevilla confirmed the initial amount in a May 2022 letter but has yet to remit the funds, ARB said.
The bank warned that failure to comply would result in complaints being filed before the Ombudsman and the Civil Service Commission against Sevilla and other DepEd officials.
SM J Mall proudly unveils its latest innovation — Experience Pods, immersive creative spaces designed to inspire content creators, trendsetters, and visionaries alike. Located at the Atrium, Upper Ground Level, these dynamic pods provide captivating installations and innovative features perfect for photoshoots and social media challenges.
Whether you’re capturing a casual fashion shoot or exploring new creative ideas, SM J Mall’s Experience Pods, in collaboration with Power Mac Center, offer a unique environment to bring your imagination to life. Each pod is uniquely themed to deliver a memorable experience.
Cosmic Flow
Immerse yourself in a serene, dreamy ambiance inspired by twilight skies. This pod features soft, dim lighting in gentle gradients, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for artistic and contemplative content. Equipped with iPads and JBL Bluetooth headsets playing songs that make you think of chill nights, Cosmic Flow provides the perfect setup for creators seeking ethereal vibes.
Coastal Chill
Step into a vibrant, refreshing escape reminiscent of endless summer days. With turquoise and mint-colored accents and lighting that mimics the warmth of the sun, Coastal Chill delivers an upbeat atmosphere for social moments and vibrant content creation. Enjoy upbeat music genres like pop and disco, and capture every lively moment with the latest tech setup, including an iPad, iPhones, and JBL headsets playing summer chill songs.
Lovestream
Capture heartwarming moments at this charming, interactive space designed for couples, friends, and solo guests. The highlight is the Magic Mirror Camera Photobooth, offering high-quality images, lighting effects, and real-time touch controls. Strike a pose and take away memorable printed photos by just presenting your accumulated or combined receipts worth ₱1,500 from any store at SM J Mall.Strike a pose and take away memorable printed photos by just presenting your accumulated or combined receipts worth ₱1,500 from any store at SM J Mall.
Discover endless creative possibilities at SM J Mall’s Experience Pods. Explore captivating themes, capture unique moments, and unleash your imagination in these immersive spaces. Let your creativity take center stage and visit now, only up until February 28!
“It is the right of every citizen to enter any courtroom and watch.”
This was the statement of Atty. Ferdinand Topacio after the Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecution filed a motion to bar him from attending or observing the hearing on the Degamo slay case—where former Negros Oriental Congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. is being implicated—held at the Regional Trial Court at Manila City Hall on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Teves is believed by his constituents in Negros and other areas to be innocent and a victim of political persecution.
According to Topacio, he did not attend the hearing at RTC Branch 51, presided over by Hon. Merianthe Pacita Zurake, in his capacity as a lawyer but as a member of the public who is expressly allowed by the Constitution to observe any hearing. The court ultimately allowed Topacio to remain during the proceedings to avoid further arguments. Topacio emphasized that he did not attend the hearing because the judge permitted it but because it is a right granted to him by the Constitution.
The lawyer also stated that he would file a motion to lift the prohibition on public attendance, asserting that the restriction violates the Constitution and the rules of court, which provide that court hearings should be open to the public unless the case involves sensitive, obscene, or private testimony that requires protection.
Topacio also mentioned that Teves has a pending appeal regarding his extradition case and an application for political asylum, which is why he is being allowed to stay “legally” by the government of Timor-Leste.
As we finally embrace the love month, the pressure to find the perfect gift can often feel overwhelming. However, there’s no need to break the bank just to express your feelings. After all, it’s the thought that counts!
This love month, create lasting memories in the place you cherish most—your home. Beko, Europe’s number 1 home appliance brand, is here to help you make the perfect Valentine’s plan through meaningful, practical gifts that enhance everyday life.
Show your love in a cup
There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of coffee in the morning to express love. When it’s made by someone special, it means even more. Start your day with a delightful breakfast by pairing your coffee with a hearty meal. Experiment with different coffee blends and recipes for future breakfast dates!
Feel like a barista at home with the Beko espresso machine. The Beko CaffeExperto® Espresso Machine features an integrated milk frother, allowing you to create delicious cappuccinos and lattes right at home. Its user-friendly touchscreen interface lets you make coffee with just a tap, while the easy-to-clean design simplifies maintenance.
Acts of Service
Sometimes, it’s the simplest acts that have the biggest impact in showing how much you care, such as helping your loved ones with household tasks to create a more harmonious home. Lend a hand by volunteering to clean surfaces, wash the dishes, or do the laundry. Your loved ones will truly appreciate the effort!
Make laundry easier with Beko’s line of washers and dryers. These powerful appliances provide the gentle care your clothes need. One of Beko’s top washer-dryers has an Xpress Super Short 14-Minute Program that allows you to wash up to 2 kg of laundry in just 14 minutes. While 2 kg might not sound like a lot, it’s enough to wash around 20 T-shirts! That means more quality bonding time with your loved ones.
Cook Up Some Romance
Cooking is a way to someone’s heart, especially when it’s made with love. Instead of waiting in long reservation lines at a restaurant, consider having a simple yet intimate dinner date at home. Elevate the experience by setting up the table beautifully and creating a personalized menu that features your loved one’s favorite dishes.
Unleash your cooking prowess in the kitchen with Beko refrigerators featuring the innovative NutriFreeze technology. Imagine preparing for steak night or dishes with delicate fish—now you can keep your meats fresh, without deep freezing!
This unique feature freezes fresh foods like meat, shrimp, and fish at a precise temperature of -3°C, which helps to keep the natural texture and taste intact while slowing down bacterial growth. With NutriFreeze, you can reduce nutrient loss and extend the shelf life of your meats, making it easier to store food and enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home.
This Valentine’s season, show your loved ones how much they mean to you with Beko’s high-quality European appliances. Transform your home into a more love-filled space. Visit your nearest leading appliance store, or shop online at Beko Philippines’ official stores on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.
For more details, visit our official website at www.beko.com/ph-en and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @bekoph.
Eraserheads: Combo On The Run also makes history as the first Philippine documentary in Dolby Atmos
DVent Pictures and Warner Bros. Philippines, in cooperation with WEU, have unveiled the official poster of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, a documentary film about the iconic Pinoy rock band and the monumental staging of their Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022.
The film’s poster was designed by Brandon Schaefer of Jumpcut NYC, a multimedia artist renowned for his work on some of the most acclaimed films in recent memory. His portfolio includes the poster for Drive My Car, winner of the 94th Academy Award for Best International Feature, as well as artwork for the Sundance and Cannes-winning documentary All That Breathes, and the 40th anniversary release of Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver.
Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura shared that Schaefer came up with multiple design concepts with minimal guidance, allowing him the freedom to explore different visual approaches.
“I had such a difficult time choosing just one,” said Ventura. “But in the end, it was a unanimous decision to go with the most commercially viable, one that includes all the vital elements. However, I wish I could release all of them, especially the more abstract and avant-garde designs which were really quite impressive and evocative.”
Apart from the poster reveal, Ventura disclosed that the Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be the first Philippine documentary to be screened in Dolby Atmos, a cutting-edge audio technology known for its most immersive sound experience. Award-winning sound mixer and engineer Jason Abell, who has worked on music-themed documentary films such as Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé and Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, was responsible for the film’s innovative sound design.
“After we finished sound design at the famed Funkhaus in Berlin, Hilarion Banks, our exceptionally talented Cinematographer and one of our associate producers recommended Jason whom he has worked with previously.” Ventura explained. “When I came across his body of work, I knew I wanted to not just collaborate but to learn from him as well. I immediately flew to LA to work at the same soundstage where they mixed Hans Zimmer’s Dune soundtrack, and both Beyoncé and Taylor Swift documentary, and he did not disappoint. He’s a consummate professional dedicated to giving justice to the band’s genius and that somehow aligned perfectly with our primary objective: if we’re making a film to honor the music, then it has to be heard in the best possible way, and Jason made that happen. I truly am incredibly lucky to be working with such amazing artists, both Filipino and international.”
Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert, held in 2022 against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews that reveal intimate details about the band, the upcoming documentary feature is considered one of the most important films of 2025 by both film critics and pop culture pundits.
The film will screen nationwide only from March 21 to 23, 2025. Meanwhile, the official trailer, which garnered significant attention from the public, has amassed more than 2 million views across various platforms within its first 30 hours.
Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, is making Valentine’s celebrations extra special with its TWO-gether Combos, perfect for couples, families, and friends.
Running from February 1 to 16, the promo includes Combo A with two Extra Creamy Halo-Halo (Small) for ₱118, Combo B with two Palabok Regular and two Small Drinks for ₱178, and Combo C with one Palabok Regular, one Small Drink, and one Extra Creamy Halo-Halo (Small) for ₱148. These deals are available via dine-in, takeout, and delivery at all Mang Inasal stores nationwide.
“At Mang Inasal, we’ve always been part of our customers’ celebrations – from everyday meals to life’s biggest moments. This Valentine’s, we’re making the experience even more special with comforting treats that bring people together and celebrate togetherness,” said Mang Inasal president Mike V. Castro. “Whether you’re celebrating with a loved one, family, or friends, our TWO-gether Combos bring people closer over a delicious feast. And for one lucky couple, we’re making their love story even more memorable with a free wedding reception at Mang Inasal.”
Through a special digital promo, Mang Inasal is giving away a wedding reception package to a lucky couple getting married this February. Those who wish to join can share their love story and explain why they deserve a Mang Inasal wedding feast. This exclusive giveaway is open to Mang Inasal Nation members and runs until February 14.
Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!
The world is truly one’s oyster, filled with exciting destinations, thrilling activities, and endless adventures waiting to be explored. The best way to make the journey last forever is having the perfect smartphone to capture core memories, just like the all-new OPPO Reno13 F 5G.
OPPO’s newest AI phone is made for young explorers who want to elevate and preserve every moment of their journeys with its sophisticated design and a perfect blend of camera system and AI imaging tools.
Capture new horizons with impressive camera and AI tools
If you’re someone who likes to hop on new adventures with your family or friends, you can immortalize each moment with them with the help of the OPPO Reno13 F 5G.
From exploring scenic mountains or taking a plunge in infinity pools or picturesque rivers or lakes, the OPPO Reno13 F 5G is the ideal companion for these moments with its impressive combination of camera innovations and AI tools at its accessible price point.
You can capture clear, crisp, and detailed photographs with the OPPO Reno13 F 5G’s camera system, which is bannered by a 50MP Ultra-Clear Main Camera and a 32MP Front Camera. It also has an 8MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera and a 2MP Macro Camera, a smooth complement to its camera system.
This device’s rear camera can also capture 4K videos which takes recording and sharing reels or stories to the next level.
An accessible smartphone with powerful cameras such as the OPPO Reno13 F 5G is made more impressive with a slew of equally helpful AI imaging tools.
Perfecting each photo by easily enhancing clarity, making blurry shots as clear as ever or removing unwanted reflections, or photobombers can be done with just a few taps using the OPPO Reno13 F 5G’s AI Editor.
Similar to the other variants of the OPPO Reno13 Series 5G, the OPPO Reno13 F 5G also has AI Reflection Remover, AI Eraser 2.0, AI Clarity Enhancer, and AI Unblur.
Framing the perfect snapshot and posting it on your feed is also made faster and better with the OPPO Reno13 F 5G’s AI Livephoto feature.
Jump to fresh possibilities with zero worries
Are you fond of freshwater adventures, whether it’s in infinity pools of premium resorts or the cold lakes and rivers across the Philippines? You don’t need to worry about documenting your dives to these spots as the OPPO Reno13 F 5G is boosted by an IP69 rating and Underwater Photography Mode.
These cutting-edge features are no longer confined to bulky or expensive cameras. For just PHP 22,999, you now have a smartphone that can capture your jumps in freshwater locations for up to two meters deep within 30 minutes without having to purchase a special case to protect it.
Style your way to standout with an elegant inspiration
Easily blend style and practicality to stand out among the crowd wherever you go with the OPPO Reno13 F 5G’s Butterfly Shadow Design.
Lightweight yet durable, the OPPO Reno13 F 5G offers you different looks that perfectly reflect your style and persona.
Enjoy your core memories all day with a powerful device
Go on your merry ways in living your best life and savoring new experiences without any worries of your smartphone dying when you need it the most. The OPPO Reno13 F 5G, as sleek and fashionable as it may seem, is a powerhouse of a device with a 5,800mAh large battery, ensuring that you have more than enough power to last a day. On top of this, it also has a 45W SUPERVOOCTM flash charge feature, providing you peace of mind that you will not miss anything important whenever you need to recharge your phone.
Ready to explore? Get Your OPPO Reno13 F 5G today!
Open yourself to endless possibilities with the OPPO Reno13 F 5G!
The OPPO Reno13 F 5G is available for Php 22,999 (12GB+256GB) or PHP 25,999 (12GB+512GB) and comes in Plume Purple, Luminous Blue, and Graphite Grey.
You may also purchase the OPPO Reno13 5G at Php 34,999 in Plume White and Luminous Blue, or the OPPO Reno13 Pro 5G at Php 43,999 in Plume Purple and Graphite Grey.
Official OPPO E-Commerce Stores
You can now check out your all-new OPPO Reno13 F 5G across OPPO official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
A free OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro when you order the OPPO Reno13 F 5G until February 13.
Purchases via OPPO’s official e-commerce channels will also entitle you to the following benefits:
Pre-orders for the OPPO Reno13 F 5G are also ongoing in all OPPO authorized offline stores nationwide until February 13. You can secure your reservation with just a PHP 1,000 deposit and enjoy a free OPPO Enco Buds2 and exclusive PHP 1,000 discount when you claim your unit plus an OPPO Care Elite freebie.
Comprehensive Protection with OPPO Care for Reno13 Series 5G
Discover and explore using your OPPO Reno13 F 5G without any worries! Customers who pre-order today until February 13 will get a complimentary 1-year OPPO Care Elite service, offering premium, all-around protection for their device—including Screen Protection and Liquid Infiltration Coverage.
Operators
You can also purchase your OPPO Reno13 F 5G via your preferred operators and get the following benefits:
Globe
● OPPO Reno13 F 5G (12GB + 256GB) will be available via GPlan 1799 with a Php 1,500 cashout● Comes with a free OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro until stocks last
Smart
● OPPO Reno13 F 5G (12GB + 256GB) will be available via Signature Plan +999 with a cash out of Php 17,700● Comes with a free OPPO Enco Buds2 Pro until stocks last● Preorder freebie of free one-year OPPO Care Elite subscription (Screen Protection and Liquid Infiltration Plan)
Home Credit and Credit Cards
Flexible installment payment options are also available for the OPPO Reno13 F 5G via Home Credit and Credit Cards.
Home Credit offers installment plans of up to 18 months at 0% interest with lowest monthly payment for each device:
Php 979 for the OPPO Reno13 F 5G (12GB + 256GB)
Php 1,109 for the OPPO Reno13 F 5G (12GB + 512GB)
You may also opt to purchase your OPPO Reno13 F 5G device via select credit cards, available in 6- or 12-month installments at 0% interest.
Get ready to redefine how you capture, create, and connect with the OPPO Reno13 Series 5G! For more details and updates on the OPPO Reno13 Series 5G, MyOPPO App benefits and OPPO Care plans, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
With a new year upon us, Filipinos are taking steps to attract good fortune and manifest their goals into reality. Many are likewise turning to experts for advice on how to have a winning mindset and overcome challenges that may arise along the way.
Sun Life, the no. 1 life insurance company in the Philippines1, gave its advisors a head start through a gathering called One Sun Life Congress. The annual event was graced by renowned guest speakers including Bo Sanchez, financial expert and lay preacher, and Rex Mendoza, business strategist and entrepreneur.
Addressing over 6,000 Sun Life advisors, Sanchez and Mendoza shared valuable insights on how one can strive for success while also feeling fulfilled. Among the key themes they highlighted were:
1. Master the basics. Sanchez highlighted the importance of a strong foundation, especially when one is still getting started on their journey. To become an expert, one needs to put in the work and master the basics. For financial advisors, this may include thorough product knowledge and sharpening one’s interpersonal skills.
2. Be wary of the behaviors that hold you back. As part of his talk, Mendoza discussed the behaviors and distractions that hinder people from reaching their dreams. These include procrastination, overthinking, social media addiction, financial irresponsibility, and poor health choices. He emphasized that one’s life is the result of all the decisions one makes, so it’s best to make bright choices today.
3. Play to win. Both Sanchez and Mendoza shared motivational messages on playing to win this 2025. They emphasized the importance of personal growth, goal setting, and embracing a winning mindset.
“At Sun Life, we are committed to empowering our advisors to achieve their dreams and goals,” said Al Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “As we celebrate our 130th anniversary, we will continue to support them on their journey to success, so that they may shine brighter together this 2025.”
One Sun Life Congress provides advisors with a platform to connect, learn, and be inspired. Through engaging talks, exciting performances, and networking opportunities, the event fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among the Sun Life Philippines advisor force.
Want to join the Sun Life team as a financial advisor? Learn more by visiting www.sunlife.co/BecomeAnAdvisor.
For many Filipinos, a simple indulgence in their favorite ice cream is a moment of happiness. But for the winners of Aice Ice Cream’s “Aice on the Prize” campaign, that happiness turned into life-changing victories– proving that sometimes, a delightful treat can bring an unexpected and meaningful win.
A life-changing ride for Elisha Lucente
For Elisha Lucente, a caregiver in Iloilo, all he wanted was to have a comfortable life for his family. But he received more. Thanks to Aice, Lucente was named one of the lucky winners, driving home a Toyota Avanza 1.3 CVT E variant through the Aice on the Prize raffle.
“Sobrang grateful ko kay God kasi hindi ko ine-expect na grand prize pala ‘yung mapapanalunan ko. Ang mahambal ko lang sa gid Aice Ice Cream is buligan lang puwede buligan, kag padayon lang gid sa pag bulig sa mga tawu,” shared Lucente, overwhelmed with gratitude.
[“I am so grateful to God because I never expected that I would win the grand prize. My message to Aice Ice Cream is to help those who need help and continue striving to assist people.”]
A mother’s prayer answered
Among the 50 winners of the Honor X9B smartphones, one story stood out—the story of Gina Corpuz, a hardworking 43-year-old pandesal vendor. For her, this was more than just winning a phone; it was about fulfilling a heartfelt wish for her daughter, and Aice made it happen.
“Nagjoin pa lang ako sa Aice, nag-pray na talaga ako na makuha kami sa cellphone, kasi kako deserve talaga ito ng anak ko.”
[“When I joined the Aice promo, I immediately prayed that we would be chosen to win the cellphone because I truly believe my child deserves it.”]
She added, “Kung tutuusin kaya ko naman siya bilhan, pero syempre, may nakalaan kasi sa ibang bagay.”
[“I could buy her one, but of course, our money is already set aside for other needs.”]
Thanks to Aice, Gina’s wish was granted, and her daughter now has the phone she needs for her studies. Grateful for the unexpected blessing, she further expressed, “Kung hindi din dahil sa inyo, wala eh, hindi din namin matikman yung mga pagpapalang ito.”
[“If not for Aice, we wouldn’t have experienced these blessings.”]
A surprise cash blessing
For Barnard Roque, winning the P10,000 GCash credits is a big help for his family.
“Ako’y nagpapasalamat ng marami na ako’y nakatanggap ng sampung libo. Bale, ayun po’y inambag po namin sa munting negosyo ng asawa ko para medyo mapalago nang kaunti ‘yung kanyang mga paninda,” said Roque who currently works as a CCTV installer.
[“I am very grateful to have received ₱10,000. We decided to invest it in my wife’s small store so we could expand her products a little.”]
More chances of winning at Aice’s “Aice on the Prize”
The excitement of “Aice on the Prize” doesn’t stop at the raffle. Customers who purchase Aice’s Chocolate Crispy still have the chance to win millions of prizes, including ₱10.00 or ₱300.00 in GCash credits—no draw needed!
And here’s a piece of good news: Aice has extended the promo until March 31, 2025, allowing more Filipinos to enjoy their favorite ice cream while winning exciting prizes.
Joining is easy: simply buy a marked Chocolate Crispy, check the popsicle stick for a 9-digit code, and send a message to Aice Ice Cream Philippines’ official Facebook page. Follow the prompts and you might be the next winner!
The “Aice on the Prize” promo is Aice’s way of bringing happiness, hope, and real-life opportunities to everyday Filipinos. From brand-new cars to essential gadgets and financial boosts, Aice continues to prove that with every delightful bite, there’s a chance to change lives.
To watch the Aice on the Prize winners’ video, visit this link or follow Aice Ice Cream’s official Facebook page.
Ready to win your next premium cosmetic prize? The second challenge of ‘Bring Me Color Red with vivo V50’ is here!
This month, it’s clear that red reigns supreme—a color that is gaining even more attention with the highly anticipated arrival of the vivo V50.
The prize: The winner of the second challenge will receive a CHANEL Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush in Rouge Franc, a stunning match for the vivo V50’s Ancora Red colorway.
Strike your best post
This challenge is a playground for creativity!
Take a photo of yourself with a red blush makeup on your hand and let your creativity shine. Whether you strike a high-fashion pose or add some quirky flair, the choice is yours. After all, red embodies power and elegance, make sure that energy comes through in your look!
You can submit a photo entry, but if you’re aiming to stand out, a video will make a stronger impact.
All the steps to secure your prize
Follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.
Capture a creative photo or video based on this week’s challenge: “Bring Me Red Blush”
Upload your entry via the Google Form link: https://bit.ly/vivoBringMeColorRED. Only one entry per person per challenge will be accepted.
Comment “DONE” on the challenge post from @vivo_philippines and tag 3 friends!
Entries for the first challenge will be accepted until February 16, 2025, 11:59 PM.
Ready to shine? You can also post your photo or video on social media using #vivoV50BringMeRed and #vivoV50Giveaway. Don’t forget to make your account ‘Public’ so vivo can find your post and give it the love it deserves!
More luxury cosmetic prizes are up for grabs! The ‘Bring Me Color Red with vivo V50’ challenge continues with two new rounds on February 17 and 23. Don’t miss out!
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-214030 Series of 2025
