East of Metro Manila, Philippines, March 26, 2026 – The wait is finally over—global pop supergroup BTS has made their most-awaited return with their powerful new album, Arirang. Marking a new era for the icons who have redefined music and fandom culture worldwide, this comeback has sparked excitement across the globe—and at SM Supermalls, the celebration went all out for all ARMYs.
Bringing together through SM Fandom, ARMYs across the East Metro gathered for a series of immersive, music-filled events designed all for you—a true Gala to the Max experience that turned every moment into a shared memory.
ARMYs across the East Metro came together in full force as SM Supermalls delivered back-to-back comeback celebrations. At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, the BTS The Comeback Live Viewing Party turned Shakey’s into a concert-like experience, with cheers, lightsticks, and fan chants filling the space as fans witnessed BTS’ much-anticipated return.
Meanwhile, SM City Masinag mall facade was washed in red during the ARIRANG | ARMYRang Cupsleeve Event, where themed setups, fan-made merchandise, and exclusive freebies created a vibrant tribute to BTS’ new era. The excitement continues with the another cupsleeve event on April 9 at SM City San Mateo, promising more fan activities and shared moments as the SM Fandom celebrates the Arirang era together.
From live viewing parties to fan-led gatherings, SM Supermalls continues to be the home of unforgettable fandom experiences—bringing communities together in ways that are truly all for you.
Graduation is a time to celebrate, and for many Filipino families, that means coming together for a hearty meal. This season, SM Hypermarket Baliwag makes it easier to plan a memorable graduation feast without going over the budget.
A flavorful roasted chicken serves as the highlight, along with beef caldereta, a rich and comforting favorite that fits any special occasion.
No Filipino celebration feels complete without crowd-pleasers like juicy pork barbecue, crispy lumpiang Shanghai, and Pinoy-style spaghetti. These classic dishes bring back good memories and add a special touch to the gathering.
To end the meal on a sweet note, smooth and creamy leche flan is the ideal dessert. Combine it all with delightful sparkling juice for a festive feel that’s enjoyable for all ages.
Whether it’s a small or big gathering, throwing a graduation feast does not have to be expensive..
With SM Hypermarket Baliwag’s smart selections, families can celebrate milestones with a delicious spread and great memories.
The excitement was undeniable as ARMYs gathered in full force across SM malls to celebrate one of the most anticipated K-pop comebacks of the year.
At SM City Valenzuela, excitement filled the air during a lively listening party as fans came together to enjoy BTS’ music. With synchronized chants and impromptu sing-alongs, each song became a shared moment, showing that BTS celebrations are best experienced with fellow ARMYs.
Over at SM City Grand Central, the celebration continued with a lively fan meet where ARMYs bonded over their love for the group through activities, games, and unforgettable fan moments. It was more than just an event. It was a heartfelt gathering of a community that spans the globe.
All of this buzz leads up to BTS WORLD TOUR ‘Arirang’, which fans can catch on the big screen at SM Cinema of SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela on April 11, 12 , and 18.
Watch out for more events at your most-loved SM malls in Grand Central, Valenzuela, and Sangandaan, the home of everyday celebrations. Visit and gala to the max at your favorite SM Mall!
GCash echoes calls for values-driven fintech to drive long-term financial progress
In a country where millions are newly entering the formal financial system, inclusion must be measured not by sign-ups or transactions, but by whether people are becoming more financially resilient over time.
Filipinos deserve access to innovative and seamless financial services so they can participate and thrive in the growing digital economy, underscoring that GCash has remained steadfast in expanding digital financial inclusion.
Rowie Zamora, chief strategy officer of Mynt, the parent company of GCash, said the real measure of inclusion lies in helping users build healthy financial habits that allow them not just to transact, but to thrive.
“Access is only the starting point,” Zamora said. “Financial inclusion should ultimately help people manage their money better, prepare for uncertainties, and work toward their long-term financial goals.”
Zamora then explained the company’s goal to support Filipino users across different life stages to help manage their money better through a framework that shows how Filipinos are meeting daily needs, building emergency savings, and planning for the future. At its core is the belief that financial security should feel achievable, especially for first-time savers.
The emergency phase focuses on helping users set aside money for unexpected expenses using simple tools that match how people actually save, such as putting away small amounts and working toward manageable goals. On the other hand, the long-term phase is about building future financial security by giving users easier access to investment and retirement-saving options.
“Financial health starts with small, everyday habits. By helping Filipinos save for emergencies and plan for the future through simple, accessible tools, we make long-term security feel achievable for everyone,” Zamora said.
This shift, from access to outcomes, requires not just better products, but smarter, more responsible technology.
Building on this focus on financial health, Sara Venturina, chief data officer of GCash, underscored that the next evolution of financial inclusion will be shaped by technology that enables sustained financial progress, guided by clear human values.
While GCash has already made strides in democratizing access to digital payments, savings, and credit, the real challenge now is ensuring these tools work hard for its users, in helping them grow, protect, and make sound financial decisions over time.
Artificial intelligence is the driving force behind GCash, quietly democratizing access, affordability, and safety for users. It expands fair lending access through Fuse Financing, boosts security with tools like Double Safe, and personalizes services with tailored offers through the upcoming GCoach feature.
However, Venturina stressed that innovation must be matched with shared responsibility. “AI should not only optimize systems, but it should also serve people fairly and transparently. The future of fintech depends on the values we embed in our technology,” she said.
She added that GCash takes a deliberate, human-centric approach to AI by evaluating potential risks and unintended consequences before rolling out new products and features in the GCash app. This ensures that innovation builds trust, promotes financial literacy, and works for users regardless of their backgrounds and levels of digital readiness.
By aligning advanced technology with empathy and accountability, Venturina said fintech can move beyond convenience and become a long-term partner in improving financial well-being.
In the Philippine context, where financial vulnerability and rapid digital adoption coexist, combining financial health with responsible AI is what allows inclusion to scale sustainably. When technology is guided by values and designed around real human needs, digital finance becomes not just a tool for transactions, but a long-term partner in building resilience, opportunity, and economic participation.
After a breakout 2024 run, the band brings bigger energy and deeper connections this April 2026
Manila, Philippines – After the massive success of their 2024 Taiwan debut, The Itchyworms are gearing up for a highly anticipated return this April 2026.
The pop-rock hitmakers are heading to the land of vibrant night markets for Akin Ka Na Lang TAIWAN Part 2—a three-city tour that will once again bring their signature wit, warmth, and crowd-rousing sing-alongs to Taiwan’s eclectic live scene, proving that great music knows no borders.
The iconic band’s previous tour struck a chord with diverse audiences in Taiwan, reinforcing what Jugs Jugueta puts simply: “Music is a universal language.”
Apart from charming Taiwanese locals who have learned to appreciate music outside of their turf, The Itchyworms have always been vocal in deepening their connections with Filipinos abroad. Known for their infectious humor and relatable storytelling, The Itchyworms aim to create a shared space of nostalgia, joy, and Pinoy pop culture.
“We constantly try to get to know the Filipinos in Taiwan,” Jugueta shares. “Filipinos are really so friendly, so we will just talk about life in Taiwan and the struggles of not seeing your family very often. We will bring them back to the Philippines through our music!”
Each night promises a one-of-a-kind experience, with performances shaped by the crowd’s energy: no two shows are the same, every moment alive.
“It feels great that not only are we sharing The Itchyworms’ music, but we are also sharing OPM and Filipino music with the world,” Jugueta adds.
Check out the cities and dates for the upcoming Akin Ka Na Lang TAIWAN Part 2: • April 3 (Friday) – Kaohsiung, LIVE WAREHOUSE • April 4 (Saturday) – Taichung, Legacy Taichung • April 5 (Sunday) – Taipei, Legacy Taipei
MANILA, PH – March 2026 – Sun Life Philippines, the country’s No. 1 life insurance company in terms of total premium income, recently hosted the Women’s Business Mission of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada at the company’s head office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening ties between Canada and the Asia-Pacific region through research, dialogue, and strategic business engagement. Its Women’s Business Mission brings together women-led and women-owned Canadian companies to explore opportunities for collaboration, trade, and investment in key markets across Asia, while advancing women’s economic empowerment and inclusive growth.
The Women’s Business Mission event underscored Sun Life’s commitment to empowering women in the insurance and financial services industries by championing innovation, collaboration, and technology-driven solutions that strengthen connections between the company and its Clients.
As part of the experience, delegates were given a firsthand look at Sun Life’s digital transformation initiatives through interactive technology booths showcasing tools developed in-house to enhance both advisor and Client experience. These included Advisor Social, a digital content management platform for advisors; Advisor Buddy, a digital onboarding and navigation tool for new advisors; and Medical Document Translation, a cost-efficient, low-risk solution that helps accelerate underwriting decisions.
“We are incredibly proud of the tools we build in-house, but true innovation requires knowing what you can’t build alone,” said Nathalie Bernardo, Vice President and Site Head of Sun Life Global Solutions Philippines. “At Sun Life, we actively look for opportunities to partner with startups because they bring the agility and niche expertise we need to solve complex problems fast. We treat our partners as co-creators, and looking at the brilliant women founders in this room, my genuine hope is that some of your companies will soon join our ecosystem.”
Meanwhile, Sun Life Philippines CEO & Country Head Benedict Sison, highlighted Sun Life’s Canadian roots. “What began as a Canadian company’s commitment to the Philippine market has grown into a long-standing partnership with Filipino families, businesses, and communities, and we’re excited to do more,” he said.
Present during the event were Sun Life’s women leaders, including Joy Castillo, Chief Operations Officer of Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc.; Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines; Michelle Cordero-Garcia, Chief Human Resources Officer of Sun Life Philippines; and Nathalie Bernardo, Vice President and Site Head of Sun Life Global Solutions Philippines.
Sun Life Philippines continues to champion women leadership across its organization. Women make up 73% of the company’s more than 22,000-strong advisor force, while 51% of its senior leadership roles are held by women. This reinforces Sun Life’s belief that inclusive leadership drives stronger outcomes for Clients, communities, and the business.
After continuously bringing vibrant energy to the music industry, the highly talented artist pami from Juicey is back with her latest sassy single, cry jar, her first release since her highly acclaimed debut album puffette, and fresh out of her “Best Hidden Gem of the Year” award win at the prestigious TOTY Music Awards in Thailand yesterday.
This pop track features a light, easy-listening vibe contrasted with biting lyrics that challenge everyone to evaluate the cost of heartbreak in their relationships. ‘cry jar’ represents the transformation of pain into something measurable through the concept of an “emotional compensation” jar. “If you don’t want to try in love, then fine! Pay the price. Every time you make me cry, those tears go into the jar as proof that the pain isn’t disappearing—it’s piling up,” said pami about the single.
‘cry jar’ was written by pami during a song camp in Sydney, Australia, an environment that sparked new inspirations for her. The track is designed with a playful, bright, and almost sweet sound to contrast its straightforward and sarcastic lyrics.
pami adds: “I didn’t want this song to feel heavy or dramatic. I wanted it to be a dark joke that reflects the truth: if someone keeps hurting you without care, that damage comes with a price.”
pami is a Thai singer-songwriter who debuted in 2024, quickly catching the attention of fans worldwide with her pop sensibilities and warm vocals in her debut EP out of nowhere. This was quickly followed by her debut album puffette in 2025, which introduced pami to a wider audience that has followed her growth since.
Over the past year, pami has stood out as one of the brightest young and rising acts in Asia, playing in festivals across multiple countries such as LaLaLa Festival in Indonesia, BiKN Shibuya in Japan, Zandari Festa in South Korea and Bangkok Music City in Thailand.
Developed with Microsoft, “Pera Coach” converses in English, Tagalog, Cebuano, and Hiligaynon to make financial services easier to understand for all Filipinos.
Reinforcing its role in advancing financial literacy and inclusion nationwide, finance super app GCash introduces the Philippines’ first artificial intelligence–powered financial coach to be embedded in an e-wallet. Developed with support from Microsoft and powered by enterprise-grade AI, it converses in English, Tagalog, Cebuano, and Hiligaynon to make financial services easier to understand for all Filipinos. Pera Coach responds contextually to user prompts like financial goals, budget considerations, and risk appetite, delivering guidance personalized to each user’s financial journey.
Despite improvements in the country’s financial inclusion agenda in recent years, the ability to meaningfully use a broader range of financial services, like insurance and investments, remains limited. Persistent gaps in financial literacy contribute to this low adoption, with many Filipinos lacking access to clear and credible guidance. According to a 2021 survey by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), just 2% of Filipino adults were able to correctly answer six basic financial literacy questions.
Pera Coach aims to address these challenges by providing always-on access to clear and tailored financial education within a platform millions of Filipinos already use daily.
“Financial literacy should not feel intimidating or out of reach,” said Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Business at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “With Pera Coach integrated directly into the GCash ecosystem, Filipinos can receive real-time guidance that’s practical, contextual, and easy to understand, helping them make more confident financial decisions.”
“Even everyday moments like deciding how much to set aside for a weekly budget, comparing different savings accounts, or choosing a potential stock, can shape long-term outcomes, and we want to support users through those moments,” he added.
Leveraging AI for inclusion
Beyond the launch itself, the launch signals a broader GCash strategy aimed at leveraging emerging technology to solve real-world financial challenges. “We firmly believe innovation should go beyond adopting the latest technology. Rather, the true value of innovation is measured by the impact it has on the lives of everyday Filipinos, especially the underserved,” Bangit continued.
Likewise, Microsoft echoes the transformative potential of generative AI when applied to real, everyday use cases.
“Millions of Filipinos already carry a financial platform in their pockets, but only one in four is financially literate. We’ve made real progress in financial access, but access without understanding isn’t inclusion—it’s an empowerment gap. And closing that gap is nation building,” said Microsoft Philippines Country General Manager Jonathan Que.
“In working with GCash, we are putting a personal AI financial coach in the hands of every user, from the sari-sari owner in Davao to the OFW family in Pampanga. Responsible AI, built into the app millions already trust, turns everyday transactions into everyday learning. When every Filipino can understand their finances, save with confidence, and invest in their dreams, we don’t just strengthen households, we strengthen the nation.” he added.
To access Pera Coach and begin receiving personalized financial education content, GCash users need to open the app, go to ‘Invest’ and tap the Pera Coach banner. For more information, visit the Help Center.
MANILA, PH – March 2026 – Sun Life Philippines, the country’s No. 1 life insurance company in terms of total premium income, recently hosted the Women’s Business Mission of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada at the company’s head office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening ties between Canada and the Asia-Pacific region through research, dialogue, and strategic business engagement. Its Women’s Business Mission brings together women-led and women-owned Canadian companies to explore opportunities for collaboration, trade, and investment in key markets across Asia, while advancing women’s economic empowerment and inclusive growth.
The Women’s Business Mission event underscored Sun Life’s commitment to empowering women in the insurance and financial services industries by championing innovation, collaboration, and technology-driven solutions that strengthen connections between the company and its Clients.
As part of the experience, delegates were given a firsthand look at Sun Life’s digital transformation initiatives through interactive technology booths showcasing tools developed in-house to enhance both advisor and Client experience. These included Advisor Social, a digital content management platform for advisors; Advisor Buddy, a digital onboarding and navigation tool for new advisors; and Medical Document Translation, a cost-efficient, low-risk solution that helps accelerate underwriting decisions.
“We are incredibly proud of the tools we build in-house, but true innovation requires knowing what you can’t build alone,” said Nathalie Bernardo, Vice President and Site Head of Sun Life Global Solutions Philippines. “At Sun Life, we actively look for opportunities to partner with startups because they bring the agility and niche expertise we need to solve complex problems fast. We treat our partners as co-creators, and looking at the brilliant women founders in this room, my genuine hope is that some of your companies will soon join our ecosystem.”
Meanwhile, Sun Life Philippines CEO & Country Head Benedict Sison, highlighted Sun Life’s Canadian roots. “What began as a Canadian company’s commitment to the Philippine market has grown into a long-standing partnership with Filipino families, businesses, and communities, and we’re excited to do more,” he said.
Present during the event were Sun Life’s women leaders, including Joy Castillo, Chief Operations Officer of Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc.; Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines; Michelle Cordero-Garcia, Chief Human Resources Officer of Sun Life Philippines; and Nathalie Bernardo, Vice President and Site Head of Sun Life Global Solutions Philippines.
Sun Life Philippines continues to champion women leadership across its organization. Women make up 73% of the company’s more than 22,000-strong advisor force, while 51% of its senior leadership roles are held by women. This reinforces Sun Life’s belief that inclusive leadership drives stronger outcomes for Clients, communities, and the business.
Persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools continue to put Filipino children at risk of preventable infections. In the Philippines, diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of illness and hospitalization nationwide, with studies linking around 80% of diarrhea-related deaths to poor access to safe water and sanitation. This recent health concern shows how unsafe water and poor hygiene continue to expose children to avoidable infections.
Enter Batang Matatag, Erceflora’s flagship advocacy, tackling child mortality from diarrhea by flipping the script—from treatment to prevention. The initiative champions gut health awareness, hygiene education, and improved sanitation, reaching over 200,000 children across different regions in the Philippines since its launch in 2022.
“Batang Matatag reflects our commitment to protecting children not just through treatment, but through prevention—empowering communities with the knowledge, habits, and support to build strong foundations for lifelong health and resilience. Real change begins with the small things families do every day, it starts at home, in schools, and in everyday choices,” said Rica Mateo, Erceflora ASEA Zone Brand Lead.
The Batang Matatag initiative by Erceflora has built WASH facilities and donated refrigerated drinking fountains to over 104 schools across BARMM, Luzon, and Rizal, helping drive measurable health gains and improving everyday environments where children learn and grow. 20% decline in diarrhea cases in partner Rizal schools and a 50% reduction in BARMM schools have been observed during School Year 2024–2025.
Looking ahead, Erceflora aims to reach 150,000 students and healthcare providers in 2026 as the program expands across Rizal and Metro Manila, strengthening its mission to build more resilient children through better gut health and hygiene practices.
“Being Batang Matatag starts with taking care of one’s body, but this mission goes far beyond any single product or organization. We call on parents, educators, and partners to work with us—because building stronger, healthier children is a shared responsibility we cannot achieve alone,” Opella Healthcare Philippines Country Head, Emma Valette emphasized.
Batang Matatag Day 2026: Growing the Mission, Strengthening More Young Lives Five years in, Batang Matatag isn’t slowing down—it’s scaling up. Batang Matatag Day 2026 marks a renewed push to expand the program’s reach, highlighted by a visit from Opella Healthcare’s executive leaders—CEO Julie Van-Ongevalle, Chief Growth Officer Alberto Hernandez, and Chief Strategy and Corporate Affairs Officer Matthieu Brucker—and partnerships with seven new schools, including Maharlika Integrated School in Taguig.
There, 200 Grade 2 and 3 learners joined interactive activities—including the Batang Matatag Bus sessions on proper handwashing—to promote healthy habits early and strengthen well-being at its foundation.
“For the past five years, in partnership with Manila Water Foundation, schools, and communities across BARMM and Luzon, we’ve been helping children look after their health—especially their gut health, which supports 70% of immunity. We want more kids across the Philippines to know this and be truly Batang Matatag. We’re committed to reaching even more this year,” Carol-Ann Stewart, Opella Healthcare AMEA President, noted.
For partner schools, the impact is already tangible—and points to what sustained investment can achieve.
“Batang Matatag’s services and contributions came at a crucial time, enabling us to provide improved drinking and washing facilities that will have a lasting impact on our school community. We are honored to be among the program’s beneficiaries. More than the resources, your commitment has brought joy to our learners and strengthened an environment where they can thrive, grow, and build healthier habits for the future,” said Dr. Romeo O. Olalo, Principal of Maharlika Integrated School.
MAHALAGANG PAALALA: ANG ERCEFLORA GUT DEFENSE AT ERCEFLORA GUT RESTORE AY HINDI GAMOT AT HINDI DAPAT GAMITING PANGGAMOT SA ANUMANG URI NG SAKIT.
MAT-PH-2600358 / Ver 1.0 / DA 03-2026 / DM 03-2026 Opella Healthcare Philippines Inc.
