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.
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.
