Reality Awaits album cover art — Untitled (Cowboy) 1989 courtesy of Richard Prince “Going Shopping” single artwork.
Reality Awaits, the seventh studio album from The Strokes, is set for release on June 26 via Cult Records/RCA Records. “Going Shopping” is out now—listen here.
Recorded in Costa Rica with producer Rick Rubin and finished around the globe, Reality Awaits marks the band’s first new music since 2020’s much-lauded The New Abnormal and extensive global touring in its wake.
The Strokes will play major festivals around the world this spring and summer including this weekend and next at Coachella, in addition to dates headlining Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, Japan’s Summer Sonic 2026 and more.
The Strokes are a band from New York City. Since their 2001 debut, their beloved discography has defined the sound of a generation.
A deeply personal single leads the band into a new chapter marked by international performancesOrange & Lemons to release “Too Young To Be Old,” announce 2026 European Tour
Iconic Filipino indie pop outfit Orange & Lemons are back with the upcoming release of their new single, “Too Young To Be Old,” alongside the announcement of a European tour set for May-June 2026.
The track explores the complexities of transition and self-awareness, capturing what vocalist and guitarist Clem Castro describes as “that strange middle space where you’re no longer reckless, but not quite settled either.”
“Lyrically, it plays like a quiet conversation with your younger self,” Castro explains. “The verses reflect doubt and self-awareness, while the chorus opens up into something more universal: the idea that age isn’t just a number, it’s a perspective you sometimes resist. It’s not a sad song, but it carries a gentle ache.”
According to the band’s principal songwriter-producer, “Too Young To Be Old” was inspired by a relationship that made him more aware of time: how differently two people can experience it, even when they’re in the same moment. “The song came from trying to understand that space and finding something beautiful in it.”
Produced by Castro at his hybrid studio, LILYPOD AUDIO, the track balances analog warmth with modern precision. It also serves as O&L’s first release mixed in Dolby Atmos, which is a surround sound technology that creates an immersive sonic experience.
As Clem puts it, the latest release leans toward gentler textures, tighter songwriting, and arrangements that “let the emotions breathe.” It’s classic in spirit, but contemporary in how it’s framed.
“This track sits right at the heart of where we’re headed. There’s still that 60s/70s melodic sensibility we naturally gravitate toward, but it’s more refined now—less about imitation, more about interpretation.”
The new release also serves as a teaser of what’s to come for their forthcoming new album, VISIONS OF AMBER, which the band promises to be a more cohesive, all-English body of work that hopefully connects beyond borders while retaining the essence of their signature sound.
In tandem with the release, Orange & Lemons are set to embark on a European tour, with stops in major cities, including Dublin, London, Milan, Madrid, Paris, and Amsterdam.
The Hanggang Kailan hitmakers also expressed excitement in performing abroad, particularly for the Filipino community in the region, as well as new listeners from varying backgrounds and ethnicities.
“What excites us most is the contrast: You’re playing for people who may be hearing us for the first time, alongside Filipino communities who’ve carried the music with them wherever they are,” Castro shares. “There’s something special about that mix. For Filipinos abroad, the songs become a connection to home. For new listeners, it’s a fresh introduction. That shared space—where familiarity and discovery meet—is what we’re really looking forward to.”
As for the set list, O&L emphasized that it will be a balance of the “essential” or the songs people expect to hear and newer material like “Too Young To Be Old,” which marks a new direction in sound and discipline.
“We also paid attention to pacing, making sure the set moves naturally, with moments to lift the energy and moments to bring it back down. It’s designed to work even if it’s your first time seeing us live.”
Here’s the current run for the Europe tour:
• May 14 – Dublin, Ireland – The Academy
• May 16 – London, England – Dingwalls
• May 17 – Birmingham, England – Hare & Hounds
• May 18 – Liverpool, England – Cavern Club
• May 22 – Geneva, Switzerland – Esther House
• May 23 – Milan, Italy – Alcatraz
• May 24 – Madrid, Spain – Mon Madrid
• May 30 – Frankfurt, Germany – Zoom Frankfurt
• May 31 – Stavanger, Norway – Fiskepiren
• June 5 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Toekomstmuziek
The Gala is Maxed out as Ppop groups Cloud 7 and Yanna groove to the SM Supermalls’ anthem at SM City Marikina
Screengrab from SM City Marikina
Eastern Metro Manila, Philippines — The vibe is maxed out at SM Malls in the East as “Gala To The Max,” the newest anthem of SM Supermalls performed by rising P-Pop trio DNA in partnership with StarPop, comes to life through music, movement, and community. Across SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown, mallgoers are stepping into a more dynamic kind of hangout—one that goes beyond the usual and brings every moment all out at their most loved malls.
Rising Ppop Girl Group, DNA, leads the boppy Gala To The Max anthem of SM Supermalls
Powering the energy are rising P-Pop acts and young artists including Cloud 7 members Kairo, Egypt, Fian, Lucas, Migz, PJ, and Yohan; Yanna members Samantha, Bri, Reylie, Cheska, and Keziah; Yuna members Sachi, Faith, Sara, and Mhai; and solo performers Amiel, Tavis, Marcky, and Duna. Together, they turn each mall stop into a stage for expression, connection, and shared moments that totally match today’s vibe.
P-Pop cuties Yanna also grooves their way to SM Center Antipolo Downtown for the Gala To The Max anthem
Screengrab from SM Center Antipolo Downtown
Girl group Yuna tours you at SM City Masinag as they Gala ToThe Max
Screengrab from SM City Masinag
More than just an anthem, “Gala To The Max” transforms everyday malling into something more meaningful—where barkadas, fans, and families come together, find their tribe, and create moments that feel personal, spontaneous, and real. It’s a celebration of individuality and community, all happening in a space that feels like home.
Young artists Duna, Amiel, Tavis, and Marcky dancing to Gala To The Max anthem in SM City San Mateo
Screengrab from SM City San Mateo
Round up your crew, bring your vibe, and gala to the max at SM Supermalls in the East—then follow your favorite malls’ official social media pages and join the Gala To The Max dance challenge. Show off your moves and be part of the movement.
As fuel prices rise and utility costs continue to put pressure on household budgets, many Filipinos are feeling the squeeze of everyday expenses more sharply, not just because things cost more, but because everything seems to come in at once.
Bills don’t always arrive with a warning. A subscription renews, a utility rate adjusts, a weekend plan comes together — and before long, next month’s salary already feels allocated.
In moments like this, staying ahead of bills isn’t about cutting out every small comfort or putting your life on hold. It’s about having a system in place, something that helps keep things steady, even as costs shift around you.
As the #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, Maya is helping Filipinos move from simply keeping up with their expenses to feeling more on top of them. Here are a few ways people are starting to make that feel more manageable.
1. Build a Buffer and Make It Grow
Bills are predictable. Emergencies aren’t.
The reason people fall behind isn’t always overspending, it’s when an unexpected expense collides with fixed monthly obligations: a repair, a medical bill, a sudden change in plans. Without a buffer, bill money becomes emergency money. And that’s where stress starts.
With Maya Personal Goals, users can create up to five separate savings buckets, whether for upcoming bills, emergencies, or future plans. Each goal earns 4% interest per annum immediately, and every ₱20,000 added increases the rate, reaching up to 8% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱100,000.
That means savings grow while staying organized, reducing the need to rely on credit when something unexpected happens.
For those who prefer added discipline, Time Deposit Plus allows funds to be locked in for 3, 6, or 12 months, earning up to 6% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱1 million per account. With up to five accounts, that’s as much as ₱5 million earning interest.
2. Don’t Romanticize the Swipe, Make It Work for You
Bills don’t usually hurt in the moment, they hurt next month. And spending can feel effortless especially when travel, dining, and “I deserve this” purchases are everywhere. But the real pressure shows up when those swipes roll into minimum payments that eat into future income.
Staying ahead of bills in 2026 isn’t about avoiding credit. It’s about preventing today’s spending from becoming next month’s stress.
Before tapping your card, it helps to pause: Can this be paid in full when the bill arrives? Is this already part of the budget?
Used intentionally, the Maya Black Credit Card can make everyday spending feel a little lighter over time. Cardholders earn Maya Miles on all transactions, which can be used to offset future essentials, dining, travel, and other lifestyle costs, turning routine purchases into something you can actually benefit from later.
For more everyday expenses, the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card offers cashback across common spend categories, including 1% at Landers Caltex branches, up to 5% at Landers Superstore, 2% on dining, and 1% on other transactions, helping soften the impact of costs that tend to show up month after month.
Credit should reward what’s budgeted and not create bills that compete with rent.
3. When You Need to Borrow, Choose Predictability
Sometimes, even with planning, expenses exceed what’s available.
For short-term gaps, Maya Easy Credit provides a revolving credit line of up to ₱30,000, designed to be repaid within up to 30 days. This gives you flexibility to bridge temporary shortfalls while keeping usage and repayment clearly visible inside the app, helping prevent small gaps from turning into uncontrolled balances.
For larger, planned expenses, Maya Personal Loan offers up to ₱250,000 with fixed repayment terms. Knowing exactly how much is due and when reduces uncertainty, and helps avoid balances from slowly piling up month after month.
4. Make Interest Work in Your Favor
Interest can either build your savings or build your stress.
Keeping funds in a Maya Savings account can earn up to 15% per annum, credited daily, helping money grow steadily instead of sitting idle. Over time, that growth strengthens your buffer, making it easier to absorb rising costs without relying on credit.
At the same time, paying credit balances on time prevents finance charges from compounding and adding unnecessary weight to future statements. The goal isn’t just paying what’s due. It’s preventing small balances from becoming long-term burdens.
Dining out. Weekend trips. Occasional upgrades. These don’t have to disappear to stay ahead of bills. But building buffers that grow, using credit strategically, and borrowing with predictability matters. Because staying ahead isn’t about restriction, it’s about making sure next month still feels manageable, even before it even begins.
To know more, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.
If you are looking for something fun to do this April, SM Cinema has a simple answer: go watch a movie.
SM Cinema is closing the month with a strong film lineup that includes big releases and crowd favorites. One of the most talked about titles is The Devil Wears Prada 2, which opens in SM Cinema on April 29.
The film brings viewers back into the world of high fashion, sharp decisions, and even sharper ambition. Andy Sachs is now living life on her own terms after her early days in the demanding world of Runway. But just when everything feels settled, Miranda Priestly returns, bringing old tensions, pressure, and unfinished business back into the picture.
Set in the worlds of fashion and digital media, the story looks at ambition, reinvention, and the real cost of success. It keeps the stylish tone fans remember while reflecting a more modern take on careers and identity.
For moviegoers in Northern Metro Manila, it is the kind of film that easily fits into weekend plans, whether for a barkada hangout, a date night, or a solo cinema trip.
SM Cinema is also making it easy to catch the film on opening day. Tickets are available through the SM Cinema app, website, and ticket booths nationwide.
Selected SM Cinema branches will also offer themed snack bundles available while supplies last starting April 29, adding a bit more fun to the movie experience.
So, if you are looking for something light, stylish, and entertaining this month, this might be your sign to head to the SM cinema of SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela and SM Center Sangandaan. A return to Runway is landing soon, and it is best experienced on the big screen.
The local food scene has never been more exciting than in the past few years. With new concepts emerging and a constant demand for something fresh, business owners are constantly thinking about how to ensure they’re set for success.
The modern dining experience is holistic, and the most successful food entrepreneurs understand that every detail shapes how a brand is remembered. Today, it’s not just about what’s on the plate. It’s about every touchpoint before and after the meal – from how customers first discover a restaurant online, to how they’re welcomed, how efficiently they’re served.
Yet across today’s food scene, the experience is constantly challenged by a recurring issue: friction and delays in payment. For three food entrepreneurs, solving this has become central to building their businesses.
Designing the full experience with the customer in mind
For one of Manila’s coolest new gelato shops, Kariton, designing the experience begins with putting the customer first.
“The name Kariton comes from the street carts many of us grew up with, so when people walk in, I want them to feel an instant sense of warmth and curiosity. It should feel approachable, not intimidating, but once you taste our gelato, you’ll realize that it’s made with serious technique and high-quality, local ingredients,” Leon Taira, Global Partner of Kariton, explains.
Kariton blends Filipino culture and nostalgia with a fun, Australian-inspired charm to use gelato as a shareable way to introduce local ingredients and culture. But because gelato melts quickly, service speed is a priority. “Very early on, we realized that small details matter a lot. Things like queue flow, signage, temperature control, portioning, and how staff greet you. At the same time, we don’t want to rush the customer, and we want to make sure we have time to tell them our story and the stories in each scoop.”
This challenge of balancing convenience with staying true to their concept is something modern food businesses, including Mariell Chuateco-Tanchip and her team at Taste &Tell, are navigating, especially after expanding from their home business into their first physical store.
Taste & Tell
“We realized dining is about the entire journey — ambiance, service, speed, and even how customers pay. Even if the food is excellent, a slow or stressful checkout can change the entire experience,” she says. “Generosity is important to us. We never want guests to feel like they’re getting less. We want them to leave full, happy, and excited to come back,” she adds.
Nolita Joe’s
This is echoed by Patrick Santos, owner of Nolita Joe’s, whose service philosophy marries the best of New York-style dining – which is fast-paced – without sacrificing quality. For him and his team, it’s about balancing efficiency with what guests expect and deserve.
“It’s not unusual for guests to either rave about or get annoyed at the small things, so everything should matter. Even something as seemingly minor as waiting a bit too long for the bill to be settled or having limited payment options can affect the whole experience,” she points out.
To address this friction, all three businesses have since integrated GCash for Business and tools like the new GCash SoundPay to improve both speed and service flow, especially at checkout. GCash SoundPay is a payment device that enables instant cashless transactions through QR payments with real-time voice confirmation, helping both staff and customers confirm payments instantly, without slowing down service.
“It’s made things a lot more seamless. Less friction, faster turnover, and less stress for the team. It really helps during peak hours. Faster transactions mean more turnover and better customer satisfaction,” he explains.
Embracing new tools as part of the experience
Across all three concepts, one shift is clear in modern dining: technology is an essential part of hospitality. For Leon, removing friction is key to repeat visits. “Before being able to provide cashless payment options, the common issues we would face included not having exact change and delays during peak hours. These small frictions add up and can slow down the entire service flow and ultimately affect the chances for return visits.”
For today’s young restaurateurs, success is no longer just about serving great food. It’s about the experience around it, which requires understanding customer behavior, mastering operations, and designing a seamless experience from start to finish. Throughout their journey, they have found support in solutions like GCash for Business.
If you’re a young business owner, getting started with GCash for Business is your first step into your easy era. Create an account on the GCash for Business Portal. You can get started as a merchant using just your verified GCash account of at least 12 months to qualify for a Starter Plan. Order a GCash SoundPay device, then wait for your email confirmation on your GCash SoundPay delivery. For more information on how GCash helps empower businesses and explore other products to help your business, visit GCash for Business.
BPI will become the first bank in the Philippines to bring Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars-themed offerings to its customers across Disney’s regional businesses – Disney Consumer Products, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Entertainment and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
[L-R] Eric M. Luchangco, Executive Vice President, Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer, BPI; Maria Theresa “Tere” D. Marcial, President & Chief Executive Officer, BPI Wealth; Mariana Beatriz E. Zobel de Ayala, Director, BPI, and Senior Vice President, Ayala Land; Maria Cristina “Ginbee” L. Go, Executive Vice President, Head of Consumer Banking, BPI; Jose Teodoro “TG” K. Limcaoco, President and CEO, BPI; Disney’s Minnie Mouse; Mickey Mouse; Sarah Fox, Vice President & Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line; Simon Ho, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort; Geraldine Naidu, Director of Brand Commercialization and Market Lead, the Philippines, Disney Consumer Products; Ben Cox, Vice President, Partnerships, Direct-to-Consumer, Asia Pacific, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific; Ivan Lee, Vice President, Corporate Alliances, Asia Pacific, The Walt Disney Company Asia Pacific
As the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) marks 175 years of service to Filipino families, it opens a new chapter by entering into a strategic collaboration with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia and its affiliates.
Through this collaboration, BPI will become the first bank in the Philippines to bring together four of Disney’s regional businesses, introducing Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars-themed offerings to its customers across Disney Consumer Products, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Entertainment and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.
BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco said the collaboration reflects BPI’s continued commitment to evolving the banking experience while remaining anchored in its core purpose of serving Filipino families.
“By bringing together BPI’s legacy of trust and financial empowerment with Disney’s timeless storytelling and characters that continue to inspire people in the Philippines across generations, we are creating more meaningful and engaging ways for our customers to connect with us. This collaboration is about helping families plan, dream, and experience more—while staying true to our mission of building a better Philippines, one family and one community at a time,” said Limcaoco.
BPI customers may look forward to enjoying themed activations including:
Branded cards featuring designs inspired by fan-favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars stories, along with other themed premiums and offerings
Special privileges for BPI cardmembers when purchasing Disney Adventure holiday vacations and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort experiences
Special Disney+ promotions and rewards
Special offers and events that will accompany select Disney film releases
Said Alex Baillie, Vice President & General Manager, South Asia Pacific, Disney Consumer Products: “Great storytelling underpins everything we do at Disney, and we’re excited to bring Disney stories closer to home for fans and families in the Philippines. We look forward to collaborating with BPI to bring creative products to their customers, reaching people where they are and deepening Filipinos’ connection to Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars.”
Said Sarah Fox, Vice President & Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia, Disney Cruise Line: “The Disney Adventure is a gamechanger for cruising in Asia, introducing a uniquely Disney vacation experience where the ship itself is the destination. We look forward to creating more opportunities for guests in the Philippines to experience Disney Adventure cruises from Singapore, creating memories to last a lifetime for guests of all ages.”
Said Simon Ho, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: “The Philippines has long played a treasured role in the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s 20 years of history, with a passionate Disney fan base, millions of guests who have visited over the years, and our talented Filipino cast members who proudly represent their heritage. Through our collaboration with BPI and continued new offerings at the resort, we are excited to bring the magic closer to even more fans — whether visiting Hong Kong Disneyland Resort for the first time or returning as our dear friends and fans.”
“Disney has long been part of cherished moments for many Filipinos,” said Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, BPI Head of Consumer Banking. “We are excited to join hands with Disney to bring that magic into new and unexpected spaces, creating delightful experiences that families and fans can enjoy in their everyday lives.”
The collaboration underscores BPI’s commitment to innovation and customer obsession, as the bank continues to reimagine how financial services can fit seamlessly into the lifestyles and passions of its customers.
As BPI continues to strengthen its position as a trusted financial partner for generations of Filipinos, the collaboration with Disney reflects the bank’s broader ambition to make banking not only reliable and secure, but also more rewarding, relevant, and memorable.
Manila, Philippines: TCL presents its latest residential and light commercial air conditioning innovations at MCE – Mostra Convegno Expocomfort 2026, taking place 24–27 March 2026 at Fiera Milano Rho. Visitors can explore TCL’s smart climate technologies at Hall 7, Booth T11/U20, where the company will showcase AI‑driven solutions designed to improve indoor air quality, energy efficiency and everyday comfort.
With continued expansion across global markets, including ranking No.2 in global air conditioner export shipmentsTCL Air Conditioner’s attendance at MCE aims to strengthen its position as a provider of intelligent, energy‑efficient climate technologies for homes and businesses.
At MCE 2026, TCL’s booth will also feature dedicated experience zones where visitors can see its latest air‑conditioning technologies demonstrated in real‑world scenarios. The Smart Voice Experience Zone showcases voice‑activated control through FreshIN 3.0, while the Excellent Heating in Low Ambient Temperature Zone highlights VoxIN’s ability to maintain stable heating performance even at outdoor temperatures as low as ‑40°C. Together, these live demonstrations illustrate how TCL combines AI‑driven control, energy‑saving performance, and comfort‑focused airflow to address real climate challenges faced in homes and buildings.
TCL’s air conditioning portfolio is built around three core technology pillars, AI Health, AI Voice Control and AI Energy-Saving, designed to improve indoor air quality, simplify everyday climate control and reduce energy consumption.
Visitors to the booth at MCE 2026 can experience these TCL innovations:
FreshIN 3.0, featuring fresh air ventilation and intelligent purification to improve indoor air quality. Offline voice control is available for visitors to try on the air conditioner in the dedicated smart voice experience zone.
VoxIN, demonstrating reliable heating performance in temperatures as low as -40°C at the Excellent Heating Experience Zone.
SaveIN, designed to support improved everyday energy‑saving performance for home cooling and heating.
BreezeIN, combining T‑AI energy‑saving technology, smart control and Gentle Breeze for more comfortable cooling.
Light commercial air conditioner, TCL Free Match outdoor unit enabling one outdoor unit to connect with up to six indoor units for businesses that need flexible climate control.
200Pa high‑static ducted system, has up to 20m extendable duct length and is compatible with BMS & AIRZONE systems, perfectly meeting European commercial space demands.
AI Climate Solutions for Modern Homes
At the exhibition, TCL will showcase its core lineup of premium residential air conditioners, including FreshIN 3.0, VoxIN, SaveIN, and BreezeIN.
The FreshIN 3.0 features high-performance Quadrupuri four-layer filters and real-time air quality visible air-quality monitoring to purify indoor air and remove odors for cleaner, healthier spaces. Equipped with a Quadruple Noise Reduction System, it operates quietly at levels as low as 16 dB, ensuring peaceful comfort while working, relaxing or sleeping. FreshIN 3.0 is certified with an industry-leading A+++ energy rating. The upgraded T-AI Energy-Saving algorithm delivers up to 37%+ additional energy savings on top of current performance.
VoxIN, TCL’s new-generation voice-controlled AC, is a step forward in natural, hands-free comfort. Featuring a 5E design specifically for installers, the VoxIN ensures easy installation, maintenance, assembly & disassembly, cleaning, and OTA updates. The VoxIN integrates advanced T-AI energy-saving technology and Gentle Breeze, delivering efficient cooling without direct wind. Certified with an A+++ energy rating, VoxIN offers energy-efficient comfort for everyday use.
FreshIN 3.0 and VoxIN both support offline voice control for hands-free operation, responding instantly without an internet connection, allowing users to adjust temperature, modes, or airflow through simple voice commands. TCL also integrates its proprietary T‑AI Energy‑Saving technology across its air conditioning portfolio, making them both high-performance and environmentally friendly.
TCL also offers additional lineups including SaveIN and BreezeIN air conditioners, providing comprehensive air solutions tailored to diverse European user needs.
Flexible Climate Solutions for Commercial Spaces
Alongside residential systems, TCL will also present its light commercial air conditioning portfolio, designed for offices, retail environments, hospitality venues, and other commercial spaces.
At the center is TCL’s Free‑Match Solution, enabling a single outdoor unit to connect with up to six indoor units for flexible multi‑zone climate control across different rooms.
TCL’s outdoor unit delivers robust performance and seamless smart integration, fully compliant with BMS and Airzone systems for centralized monitoring and control. Additional engineering features, such as enhanced 58°C heat dissipation and a 56°C self‑cleaning function help maintain system efficiency and long‑term performance. The unit supports Hotel Mode with interconnected control for automatic operation linked to door/window status and fire alarm systems. It also comes with a wired controller for convenient local operation.
To support diverse building layouts, TCL also offers multiple indoor unit formats including Air duct, ceiling&floor , console and cassette , providing flexible installation options for different commercial spaces.
The 200Pa high‑static ducted system supporting extendable duct lengths of up to 20 meters, enabling flexible long‑pipe installation across larger commercial spaces. Combined with multi‑zone control and compatibility with BMS and Airzone platforms, the system allows precise climate management across different rooms while supporting integrated building management.
TCL also presents its renewable energy products and solutions including the R290 TRI-THERMAL PRO ATW Heat Pump and R290 HP Water Heater, demonstrating its environmentally friendly, whole-house smart energy solution and professional system connectivity capabilities.
Creating Comfortable Environments for Professional Sports
TCL is a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner across the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances categories. During Milano Cortina 2026, TCL Air Conditioner provided professional, stable and intelligent air solutions.
Units of TCL’s FreshIN 3.0 air conditioner were installed in the Olympic Village to deliver healthier indoor air for athletes at Milano Cortina 2026. TCL also showcased its air conditioning solutions at TCL Edelweiss Land and China House during the Olympic Winter Games, delivering reliable performance and premium experience to global visitors, media and guests in Milan.
With features like AI intelligent control, ultra‑low temperature stable heating and efficient, quiet operation, the systems demonstrated TCL’s strong R&D capability while helping maintain comfortable indoor environments in the Olympic Village and beyond.
Leveraging its capabilities in providing consistent comfort in high-demand sports environments, TCL, as the official partner of Italy’s National Football Teams (FIGC), is delivering optimal conditions for professional football activities.
TCL’s participation at MCE reflects the company’s mission of making healthy, sustainable air effortless for everyone and its vision to become a global leader in sustainable energy and healthy air solutions. Its AC portfolio is designed to improve indoor air quality, simplify everyday climate control, and help households and businesses reduce energy consumption.
Every year on April 22, Earth Day highlights the importance of protecting our planet to ensure a brighter future for all its inhabitants. As a global technology company serving over 760 million users in more than 90 countries and regions worldwide, OPPO recognizes its responsibility and influence in shaping a more sustainable future. More than just creating exceptional products and experiences, OPPO integrates sustainability across its operations and innovation and has pledged to make its entire operations carbon-neutral by 2050. With this goal firmly on the horizon, the company is continuing to implement greener practices, develop more environmentally friendly products, and inspire people all around the world to take real steps to building a sustainable future.
Upgraded Packaging Materials and Processes Drive Green Transition
Excessive packaging has become a widespread environmental challenge for the consumer goods industry. OPPO has introduced the “3R+1D” principle of Reduction, Recyclability, Reusability, and Degradability into its packaging, promoting more sustainable packaging through upgrades to both processes and materials.
According to data from the World Wildlife Fund, around 405 million tons of paper and paperboard are produced globally every year, and paper-based packaging alone consumes approximately 3 billion trees, placing ongoing pressure on forest resources. To reduce paper consumption, OPPO has actively shifted paper-made product guidance information to digital formats. In 2025, this initiative saved about 110 million A4 sheets, equivalent to avoiding the felling of approximately 13,000 mature trees and reducing around 3,500 tons of carbon emissions.
According to estimates from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), over 430 million tons of plastic are produced globally each year, with more than 11 million tons entering the oceans, posing a serious threat to ecosystems. To minimize plastic usage, OPPO has incorporated natural biomass materials, such as tea residue, into packaging designs. By replacing 10–30% of petroleum-based plastics with these environmentally friendly alternatives, OPPO is not only reducing plastic consumption but also finding a valuable use for biomass waste that would otherwise be disposed of.
Bringing New Life to E-Waste
The volume of electronic waste generated globally continues to rise too. Data from the United Nations shows that the scale of e-waste reached 62 million tons in 2022 and is increasing by about 2.6 million tons annually. By 2030, this is expected to surpass 82 million tons, far exceeding current recycling capabilities.
One of the ways in which OPPO is tackling this challenge is through its commitment to improving product durability, so that each device is used for longer rather than ending up as waste. At the same time, the company is continually improving its recycling system for electronic waste, encouraging users to return their devices to either be reused, or dismantled, recycled, and safely discarded. In 2025, while selling around 35,300 tons of new products, OPPO recycled as many as 1,187 tons of used devices in China and Europe during the same period.
Engaging more Public to join the Green Initiatives
In addition to improving environmental practices through its own products and technology, OPPO also works closely with communities around the world to inspire greater public participation in environmental initiatives.
Across Africa’s vast savannas, researchers are photographing the unique eye patterns of rhinos to track their movements, migrations, births, and deaths. To better protect these extraordinary and endangered animals, OPPO has partnered with the Peaceland Foundation and Impact Steps to donate OPPO Find X9 series smartphones to Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Taking advantage of the smartphone’s advanced telephoto capabilities, researchers can now use more lightweight equipment to photograph these rhino eyes in high detail from a distance while also streamlining data collection and enhancing the accuracy of subsequent identification work.
OPPO Find X9 Series are used to track rhinos
In India, OPPO has teamed up with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to launch the Generation Green Initiative. The program brought together 5,000 interns and over one million young people nationwide, who collectively volunteered 469,500 hours to help process 10,339 kilograms of electronic waste. While promoting effective e-waste management, the project also enhanced environmental awareness among young people and empowered them to take more active responsibility in protecting the environment.
Generation Green Initiative leads the young generation in handling e-waste
Guided by the mission “Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World,” OPPO will continue to advance sustainability initiatives worldwide, working hand in hand with users, partners, and all sectors of society to build a more sustainable future together.
The Davao-based pop act challenges conventions while celebrating identity, purpose, and collective strength
AYO is the latest addition to Sony Music Entertainment’s esteemed roster of P-Pop acts. Arriving with primal energy and unmistakable superstar aura, the Davao-based, seven-member boy group is composed of Justin, Renzo, GV, TJ, Enzo, Zack, and Patrick. Their name is derived from the Cebuano word “maayo,” which means talented. It’s also commonly used as a call for attention, much like knocking on a door.
Representing a new generation of pop groups that are unafraid to disrupt the norm, AYO embodies the multicultural spirit of their hometown while rewriting the rules with effortless confidence and discipline. These qualities reflect the unapologetically authentic sound of “I’m Him,” their pre-debut single. Anchored in rebellious spirit and self-awareness, the song defies expectations while encouraging their listeners to stand firm on who they are and embrace their individuality.
“Within our group, we each bring different strengths and come from varied backgrounds,” shares the P-Pop newcomer in a press statement. “Instead of letting that highlight our individuality alone, we turn it into a collective advantage. “I’m Him” represents our confidence in our individual strengths—but more importantly, it’s about expressing them together as one, in harmony.”
Touching on themes such as identity and self-discovery, the track empowers music fans to embrace every facet of themselves, including imperfections. It reframes difference as strength and individuality as power, asserting presence and purpose.
“I’m Him” is produced by Paolo Lofranco, whose booming hip-hop beats, layered textures, and commanding vocal design, bring an exciting new dimension to their sound. The group also contributed heavily to the songwriting and production process, reflecting the duality that defines their work: chaotic and refined, raw and powerful.
“We’re incredibly grateful to be working with our producer on this song,” AYO reveals. “It is a song he already made even before AYO was formed. Undoubtedly, it captures the core of AYO’s DNA. Moving forward, we’re excited to create and write more of our music while continuing to explore different sounds and genres.”
Accompanying the release of the track is a music video helmed by ODS Productions. The video captures the pop group’s duality through contrasting environments: raw, industrial warehouse scenes, which reflect their chaotic and powerful side, and the helipad scenes, which highlight their refined, elevated presence. Together, these elements exhibit two extremely different visuals unified by a singular identity.
AYO also praised ODS Productions, the creative group responsible for the video treatment and direction. “They were able to fully embody our vision as artists and translate it into reality with precision and care. It’s also a pleasure collaborating with a team that shares the same passion and drive that we have for creativity. We look forward to growing this partnership further and building a stronger, more active creative community in Davao—and eventually across Mindanao.”
AYO’s “I’m Him” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.
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