Foodies in Bulacan have another reason to visit SM City Marilao as Jiang Nan Hotpot finally opens its door to bring in authentic Chinese dishes that blend tradition, comfort, and bold flavors.
Conveniently located at the 2nd level, West Wing Expansion, Jiang Nan Hotpot features a menu that highlights rich sauces and carefully prepared soup bases, ranging from light and savory to rich and aromatic. Diners can customize their meals by selecting from a variety of fresh ingredients, including premium meats, vegetables, seafood, and noodles, which are cooked directly at the table.
As SM City Marilao is now full steam ahead as a lifestyle destination, Jiang Nan Hotpot certainly tops the list of comfort food restaurants with its flavorful offerings and inviting atmosphere, making it a favorite choice for those seeking quality food and a satisfying dining experience close to home.
Light Railway Transit Authority and SM Prime Holdings seals the deal of a Memorandum of Agreement for the Interconnection Access Bridge.
(Left to right) Engr. Jomar R. Lua, OIC Director of Department of Transport Rail Standards and Enforcement Office, Atty. Hernando T. Cabrera, Light Railway Transit Authority, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for SM Supermalls Mall Operations, and Mr. Ronald Allan Brosas, Senior Assistant Vice President for Mall Operations.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) officially sealed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the construction of the SM City Masinag–LRT-2 Antipolo Station Interconnection Access Bridge in a signing ceremony recently held at the concourse of the LRT-2 Antipolo Station.
SM and LRTA Executives sign the memorandum of agreement, marking an exciting addition to both establishments to serve communities in Antipolo City and nearby areas.
The interconnecting bridge is designed to provide a safe, direct, and weather-protected pedestrian link between LRT-2 Antipolo Station and the mall—addressing a long-standing public need since the station opened and enhancing everyday convenience for commuters and shoppers in Antipolo and the wider East Metro area.
“The interconnection access bridge enhances safety, accessibility, and efficiency for our passengers,” said Atty. Hernando Cabrera, Administrator of the Light Rail Transit Authority. He underscored the value of the partnership between LRTA and SM Prime Holdings, Inc., noting that the project exemplifies how public–private collaboration can deliver practical solutions that improve passenger experience and urban mobility.
A handshake further strengthening the partnership between SM and the LRTA.
“This bridge is designed to serve the Filipino commuter—those who rely on public transport or park-and-ride options—providing safe and convenient access to daily necessities and services,” said Engr. Junias Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls. He added that the interconnection promotes inclusive mobility, walkability, benefiting commuters, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), families, and workers, while helping reduce pedestrian spillover, ease traffic along Marcos Highway, and lower carbon emissions in support of SM’s sustainability and urban mobility goals.
Also present during the MOA Signing Ceremony was Engr. Jomar Lua, OIC Director IV of the Rail Standards and Enforcement Office of DOTR; Ms. Evelyn P. Janeo, OIC Business Development and Public Relations of LRTA; Atty. Ronald Redentor De Veyra is the head executive assistant of the administrator of LRTA. Joining them are SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Mr. Joaquin San Agustin; Mr. Egbert Lim, Senior AVP for Mall Project Management; and Mr. Ronald Allan Brosas, Senior AVP for Operations of SM Supermalls, further reinforcing the strong collaboration between government and the private sector in advancing commuter-focused infrastructure.
SM Executives and LRTA Officials pose for commemorative photo at the soon-to-open interconnection access bridge at SM City Masinag.
The construction of the interconnecting bridge is set to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with completion targeted six months later. As part of the New Era of SM Supermalls, which envisions seamlessly connected and intuitively designed spaces for all, the access bridge is expected to improve pedestrian flow, enhance sustainable urban mobility, and encourage public transport use along the Marcos Highway corridor—elevating the mall experience for shoppers and commuters alike while delivering long-term benefits to the community.
About SM Supermalls
SM Supermalls, a division of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., continues to champion infrastructure developments that enhance accessibility, sustainability, and everyday convenience for Filipino communities. Through strategic public–private partnerships with government agencies, SM integrates transport connectivity, inclusive design, and people-centered solutions into its developments—supporting national goals for mobility, economic growth, and improved quality of life.
Manila, Philippines – Bistro Rising 2025 returns to Manila with a renewed sense of purpose, bringing together some of the most promising Filipino indie artists from Singapore and the Philippines in a cross-cultural music showcase. The highly anticipated event will take place at 70’s Bistro in Quezon City on December 29, 2025.
Co-headlining the show are three Singapore-based Filipino bands that have steadily gained recognition within the Lion City’s underground music circuit: soul-pop act iLaya, indie rock outfit Nostress, and ‘80s new wave-inspired band The Next Wave. The trio will share the stage with Shumi, a Bulacan-based city pop band, and Rooftop Reveries, an indie pop-rock group known for their compelling songwriting and polished live performances.
Bistro Rising 2025 is presented by Mushi Entertainment. The show is part of a broader effort to strengthen creative ties between the Philippines and Singapore, both linked by an increasingly visible community of Filipino musicians and talents.
“This event is a testament to the vibrant and growing indie music community in both Singapore and the Philippines, creating opportunities for creative collaboration and talent showcase,” Requiem Rising Singapore General Manager and Founder Monx Moncayo shares.
Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the country’s major life insurance providers, has launched Sun Grepa EasyLink Protect, an innovative investment-linked life insurance plan designed to make protection and investment simpler and more accessible for Filipinos. Whether you’re aiming for income protection, preparing for health and retirement needs, or pursuing future plans such as starting or growing a business, Sun Grepa Easylink Protect is built to support your journey.
“Sun Grepa EasyLink Protect is thoughtfully designed to meet both protection and growth needs,” said Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim. “It provides lifetime financial security for families while offering opportunities to build wealth through various investment funds. The simplified application process and flexible payment options make it an ideal solution for busy professionals and those looking to optimize their financial planning. ”
Key features that set Sun Grepa EasyLink Protect apart include its easy application process through its Guaranteed Insurability Offer (GIO) which eliminates the need for medical exams, investment flexibility where clients can choose from a range of available funds including local and global options to suit diverse preferences. The plan offers fund growth boosters through the special bonuses that reward policyowners for keeping their policies active and up-to-date. It also supports legacy planning as the product provides lifetime protection ensuring financial security for beneficiaries.
“At Sun Life Grepa, we believe that financial security should be within everyone’s reach,” Lim added. “Sun Grepa EasyLink Protect empowers Filipinos to take a confident step toward a brighter and more secure future, one that’s built on both protection and growth potential.” Ready to take the first step? Visit www.sunlifegrepa.com or connect with a Sun Life Grepa financial advisor to learn more about Sun Grepa EasyLink Protect.
Clark Manalo (center), who won first place for his artwork “Holding Harmony” at the inaugural Security Bank and Art Association of the Philippines (AAP) Paint for the Planet Art Competition, is pictured with Tanya Deakin, First Vice President and Corporate Communications Division Head of Security Bank, and Fidel Sarmiento, President of AAP, during the awarding ceremony held at Security Bank Centre.
Makati City, Philippines — Security Bank Corporation, in partnership with the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP), brought together Filipino artists from across the country through the inaugural “Paint for the Planet” Art Competition, culminating in an awarding ceremony at Security Bank Centre in Makati City. The nationwide competition drew more than 300 submissions, underscoring the role of art as a powerful platform for reflection, dialogue, and action amid growing environmental and climate challenges.
With the theme “The Art of Sustainability: People, Planet, and Prosperity,” participating artists were invited to interpret environmental stewardship, inclusive growth, and shared responsibility—translating complex sustainability issues into compelling visual narratives.
“Sustainability is not just a concept for us—it is central to how we think about progress, said Tanya Ansaldo-Deakin, First Vice President and Corporate Communications Division Head of Security Bank. “As climate impacts become more tangible—through floods, extreme heat, and weather disruptions—we are reminded that progress must move hand in hand with care for people and the planet. Through your work, you brought that message to life.”
Fidel Sarmiento, President of the Art Association of the Philippines, also addressed the finalists and guests: “This competition is a testament to the Filipino artist’s ability to inspire change and spark important conversations. Through your art, you have shown how creativity can be a powerful force for sustainability and nation-building. We are proud to stand with Security Bank in supporting artists who use their talent for a greater purpose.”
Honoring excellence and advocacy The awarding ceremony recognized artists whose works stood out for both artistic excellence and their powerful sustainability messages.
Top winners: First Place (PHP200,000): Clark Manalo, “Holding Harmony” (oil, 24” x 30”) Second Place (PHP150,000): Nino Cris Odosis, “Unboxing Nature’s Gift” (acrylic, 24” x 30”) Third Place (PHP100,000): Edu Perreras, “The Future is in Our Hands” (oil, 30” x 24”) Five artists received Honorable Mentions, each awarded PHP20,000: Ma. Jezshell Nicole Azares, “City in the Garden” Armando Flaviano, “RE” Ian Maigan, “Prosperitree” Johann Padiernos, “Cradled” Pedro Velasquez, Jr., “Pag-Asa, Pagbunga ng Likas ng Yaman” The 12 remaining finalists received PHP5,000 as a token of appreciation for their outstanding contributions. Art as a platform for sustainability “The artworks filled our spaces with color, emotion, and hope,” Ansaldo-Deakin added. “At Security Bank, BetterBanking is about people at the center—and using our platform to support initiatives that create meaningful impact.”
Learn more about Security Bank’s sustainability initiatives by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/sustainability/
On December 14, 2025, Signify Philippines proudly joined the Takbo Para sa Kalikasan Earth Run held at the Quirino Grandstand, bringing together participants who ran not only for fitness but for a shared commitment to protecting the planet. More than a run, the activity reinforced Signify’s belief that sustainability begins with collective action.
As part of the initiative, Signify employees also participated in a tree planting activity, directly contributing to environmental restoration and biodiversity protection. Each step taken during the run symbolized Signify’s continued journey toward creating a more sustainable and resilient future for communities and the environment.
This initiative aligns with Signify’s global CSR vision, “Brighter Lives, Better World,” which guides the company’s efforts to create positive social and environmental impact through responsible business practices. By integrating sustainability into employee engagement and community activities, Signify continues to turn its purpose into meaningful action.
“At Signify, sustainability is not just a strategy; it is a way of life,” the company emphasized. “Through initiatives like Takbo Para sa Kalikasan, we bring our Brighter Lives, Better World vision to life, supporting healthier lifestyles while contributing to a healthier planet.”
The tree planting component further highlighted Signify’s long-term commitment to climate action, reinforcing its mission to reduce environmental impact and promote positive change beyond its products and innovations. Each tree planted represents hope, responsibility, and a promise to future generations.
The Takbo Para sa Kalikasan Earth Run at the Quirino Grandstand stands as another milestone in Signify Philippines’ sustainability journey proof that when people move together with purpose, every run can lead to real change.
Together, we run. Together, we sustain. Together, we create a brighter future.
Turnover ceremony of the 2-storey classroom building at Tarlac National High School, led by Security Bank Foundation Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation Executive Director Kana Manglapus
Tarlac City, Philippines – More than 10,000 students at Tarlac National High School (TNHS) will benefit from safer, more conducive learning spaces following the turnover of a newly constructed two‑storey, 10-classroom building by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), with one classroom sponsored by the Jesus V. Del Rosario Foundation, Inc. (JVRFI). The turnover ceremony was led by SBFI Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. and JVRFI Executive Director Kana Manglapus, together with school officials, local partners, and members of the Security Bank community.
One of the oldest and largest public secondary schools in the country, TNHS has long grappled with overcrowding and limited classroom space. Despite these challenges, the school continues to produce high-performing students and runs inclusive education programs serving out-of-school youth, young mothers, working adults, and learners in correctional facilities under the leadership of Principal Yolanda Gonzales, recently recognized as the Best Principal of the Year at the 26th World School Summit in London.
“The outstanding performance of Tarlac National High School offers a ray of hope for a better Philippines,” said Rafael Simpao, Jr., SBFI Chairman. “Under the remarkable leadership of Principal Gonzales, we see how public schools—when given the right support—can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best and help shape a brighter future for our youth.”
The newly completed building is dedicated to THNS’ Special Program in Sports, providing student-athletes with a safe environment where they can pursue both academic and athletic excellence. “This new facility shows what is possible when vision, care, and opportunity come together,” said Principal Gonzales. “With this support, even the biggest challenges can be transformed into success stories—for our students and for our community.” Jane Canlas, Branch Manager at Security Bank Tarlac- Tañedo and a proud TNHS alumna, also expressed her appreciation for the project. “It is both an honor and a privilege to now represent Security Bank in giving back to my alma mater,” Canlas said. “This donation reflects our commitment to empowering communities through education, and it is deeply meaningful to see it benefit the school where my own foundation was built.” To date, Security Bank Foundation has donated 887 classrooms to 151 schools across 91 cities and municipalities nationwide, helping create safer, more supportive learning environments for Filipino students.
Learn more about Security Bank Foundation’s education initiatives by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/foundation/
It has now become a tradition for HONOR to launch its biggest hit X9 series every January
Manila, Philippines, December 26, 2025 – Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has dominated the mid-range smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit HONOR X9 series. Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit, literally. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.
“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year. What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test– and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.
“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.
That unforgettable moment—when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers.
The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.
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: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).
In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).
The new year is in full swing, with fresh plans, back-to-work routines, errands, and life settling back into rhythm after the holidays. As days pick up pace again, small inconveniences become more noticeable, like waiting in checkout lines, fumbling for wallets, or typing out full card details online.
Many EastWest cardholders are discovering a easier, simpler workaround: paying with just a tap of their phone through Google Pay™. Google Pay is now available in the Philippines for compatible Android and Wear OS devices, and EastWest is one of the first local banks to support it. Cardholders can add their EastWest Visa or Mastercard credit card to Google Wallet and start paying instantly — in stores, in apps, and online — without ever reaching for their physical card.
Smoother Steps Through the New Year Faster grocery runs
The start of the year comes with packed schedules and full carts. Checkout does not have to slow you down. With Google Pay, simply unlock your phone and tap it on the contactless terminal. Payment goes through in seconds. No card swiping, no fumbling, no delay. Online shopping without typing anything Restocking essentials? Booking trips? Paying for deliveries? Google Pay eliminates the need to enter long card numbers or security codes. Select Google Pay at checkout, confirm, and you’re done.
Commuting to avoid holiday traffic
Beat the traffic and take public transport. Taking the MRT-3 can cut your travel time in half and, best of all, it’s tap to pay enabled. Travel safe by keeping your wallet secure in your bag. All you need to do is tap your phone on the turnstile to pay.
Why the Tap Life Works
The value isn’t only speed — it’s the ease you feel.
It’s secure. Google Wallet uses tokenization, so your real card number isn’t shared with merchants. It’s widely accepted. Contactless terminals in groceries, cafés, shops, and more already support tap-to-pay. It’s consistent online. Many apps and websites now allow fast checkout through Google Pay. It’s convenient. You can head out with just your phone and still pay almost anywhere that accepts contactless payments. It’s a simple upgrade to everyday life — one that becomes even more meaningful during the busiest time of the year.
EastWest’s Steady Push Toward Easier Banking
By enabling Google Pay for its credit cards, EastWest continues its shift toward easier, modern, and mobile-friendly banking. More card products, including select debit cards, are expected to follow as Google Pay adoption grows in the country. Sometimes the best upgrades are the ones you barely notice, except for how much lighter your day feels. From paying in store to shopping online, the Bank helps simplify daily tasks so life runs a little more smoothly. The Tap Life brings a quiet sense of ease. A tap at the terminal, a tap online, a tap at the MRT, and you are done.
Makati City, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation is advancing its technology transformation with strategic investments in modern architecture, artificial intelligence, real-time data platforms, cybersecurity, and automation. These initiatives strengthen the Bank’s operational resilience and scalability delivering faster, safer, and more seamless customer experiences, reinforcing its BetterBanking commitment.
Over the first nine months of 2025, the Bank has streamlined core systems and processes, resulting in improved speed, reliability, compliance efficiency, and enhanced service delivery. These advancements have been recognized by regional awards bodies, affirming Security Bank’s position among the Philippines’ most innovative and future-ready financial institutions.
Building a future-ready banking foundation through APIs and real-time platforms
Security Bank received the Technology Excellence Award for API–Banking at the 2025 Asian Technology Excellence Awards for its Enterprise API Platform (EAPI). By transforming banking capabilities into secure, reusable API products, the Bank now enables faster deployment of new services, more consistent digital experiences, and seamless integrations across channels—supporting growth and market agility while strengthening Open Banking readiness.
Digitizing compliance and transforming branch operations
The Bank’s Transactor Due Diligence (TDD) platform was named Best Compliance Risk Technology Initiative at The Asian Banker Global Financial Technology Awards. Now deployed across 346 branches, the fully digitized KYC workflow has reduced processing time, improved customer experience, strengthened compliance integrity, and eliminated paper reliance, supporting both operational efficiency and sustainability. Enabling real-time intelligence and smarter decision-making Security Bank’s Data Streaming Platform earned recognition as the Best Data Integration and Framework Initiative in Asia Pacific by The Asian Banker. By shifting from batch processing to real-time streaming, the Bank can now deliver insights instantly, improve reliability, support faster transactions, and enable real-time analytics, placing Security Bank among the few Philippine banks operating enterprise-grade streaming architecture.
Strengthening competitive advantage
These initiatives mark a disciplined transition toward a platform-based, API-enabled, real-time digital banking environment, supported by:
Enterprise API deployment at scale Fully digitized branch compliance processing Real-time enterprise data streaming capabilities Security and resilience embedded by design Collectively, these deliver BetterBanking experiences for customers, stronger operational performance, and enhanced competitiveness and scalability for future growth.
Looking ahead
Security Bank will continue its multi-year technology roadmap with investments in in: Artificial intelligence and automation for fraud management , service, and operations Advanced cybersecurity and real-time threat monitoring Core banking and payments modernization to enable real-time services API monetization and embedded finance partnerships Further digital across operations and branches
“Security Bank is building a modern, secure, and customer-centric foundation designed to support sustainable growth while continually improving customer experiences,” said Lucose Eralil, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at Security Bank. “Our progress reflects disciplined execution and a forward-looking approach, and these recognitions reinforce the strength of the transformation we are delivering.
