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:

1. Sign up for a PlayTime account.
2. Link your mobile number.
3. Make a deposit and start playing.
4. 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.

“Ready to roll? Let’s go! PlayTime na!”

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!