Manila, Philippines – Thai artist James Alyn (former 1/2 of HYBS) and London-based pop band PREP team up for the heartfelt new single “Don’t Worry.” With PREP’s smooth blend of soft pop, funk, and soul, paired with James’ warm, emotional tone, they complement each other to create a sound that feels both intimate and timeless, offering comfort and hope.
“Don’t Worry” was inspired by a touching encounter with a fan. “She told me my songs helped her through her darkest times. I wrote this song hoping it could be a beacon of light for others who need it. I’m really thankful to my fans for being by my side through thick and thin. Just like the line ‘Even in another life, you can find me by your side’, I’ll always be there for them too.”
Combining soothing vocals, lush synths, and PREP’s signature groove, “Don’t Worry” is a reminder to keep faith through difficult moments.
“It was the night I opened for PREP in Taipei,” James recalls. “After the show, I and the guys from PREP went to Kuo from Sunset Rollercoaster’s house and jammed for a bit, not intending to make anything of it. A year later, I found a voice memo from that night and built the rest of the song from there.”
James Alyn, formerly the lead vocalist of the internationally acclaimed duo HYBS, has embarked on a dynamic solo career, showcasing his versatility across a wide range of musical styles. His repertoire features beloved HYBS classics alongside cutting-edge new material that he has both written and performed, solidifying his reputation as a trendsetter in the music industry.
On stage, James Alyn captivates audiences with his electrifying performances, backed by a band that has been by his side for over a decade. Together, they create an immersive and exhilarating live experience, leaving fans enthralled for the entire show.
As they say, cooking is an act of love. Every slice, stir, and simmer is a testament to care and the joy of being able to feed the family a hearty meal. This Christmas, be the star of the celebration and let the warmth of the kitchen bring your loved ones closer together. Share stories and laughter over flavors because sometimes, the most meaningful gifts aren’t wrapped– they are served.
To prepare flavorful and perfectly prepared meals, using the best cooking companion aside from the freshest ingredients makes all the difference. Beko, from Europe’s No. 1 Large Home Appliance Company, ensures that every meal you make is served at its best. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Beko’s got your back in helping you create dishes that bring delight and nourishment.
Inspired by the classic favorites, here are some handaan ideas perfect for the family or potluck, or when you want to gift a cooked meal:
No-fail festive bites
The appetizer sets the tone for any holiday feast, and nothing captures everyone’s attention quite like the iconic Lumpiang Shanghai. With its golden, crispy wrapping and a savory mix of protein and veggie filling, this classic Filipino dish is a guaranteed party hit. To ensure your lumpia sizzles to golden brown perfection, a rangehood can give you a clear view of what’s cooking, just like Beko’s rangehood options that feature LED illumination. This kitchen essential lets you see if your dishes are cooking properly and helps you better gauge the cooking process.
Make it cheesy
Apart from the appetizer, pasta dishes bring satisfying comfort and are quite filling. Instead of the usual spaghetti, consider trying a cheesy classic: mac & cheese. Top it with bacon bits or put a Pinoy flair with sweet ham toppings; this casserole dish truly makes the carbs worth it. For those looking to add a fun twist, try the viral Tini mac n’ cheese crafted by American chef and social media personality Tineke “Tini” Younger. To get that crispy crust and oozy cheese texture, the Beko’s freestanding cooker has your back to make it happen! Its Steamaid function ensures fluffier, crisper baking for that golden crust, while the Halogen illumination gives you a clear view of what’s happening inside, so every bake is perfectly monitored. Its high-efficiency gas burner also cooks faster and more efficiently thanks to its smart design, while gas safety features provide peace of mind with the automatic gas cut-off.
Cap it off with a sweet note
After a hearty holiday feast, it’s now time for the sweet finale: the ever-popular Mango Graham Float. With the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess from the mango and cream, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as festive as it is delicious.
To ensure the best experience, the mango graham float should be served freshly chilled instead of frozen. Using a Beko refrigerator with ProSmart Inverter technology will keep your desserts perfectly chilled. During preparation, store the mangoes in the fresh produce compartment, which has the HarvestFresh technology that features a three-color light system that simulates the natural sunlight cycle, preserving vitamins in fruits and vegetables and keeping them fresh for up to 30 days.
Feast on a holiday meal that warms the hearts and fills the stomach; check out Beko’s cooking appliances that will make the kitchen a place of joy and celebration. Get BIG discounts and take home freebies on select appliances until December 31, 2025, as Beko Sends Love This Christmas! Visit any appliance store near you or shop online via Shopee and Lazada For more information, visit www.beko.com/ph-en and on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @bekoph.
Joined by a 30-piece orchestra, the special homecoming show celebrates the enduring power of brotherhood, legacy, and music
Manila, Philippines – Side A returns with a special musical homecoming that reunites the founding and current members of the iconic Filipino pop band.
Produced by Minsan Studio, the two-night concert will take place at the Metropolitan Theater (MET) on February 21 and 22, 2025, and will feature orchestral arrangements by acclaimed musical director Ria Villena-Osorio
Described as a big family reunion, Now&Then represents Side A’s enduring spirit, one that is built on music, brotherhood, and timeless artistry. “Bringing both the OGs and current members together on one stage shows how the Side A story has grown through the years but kept the same heart,” shares the band.
The idea for the concert was born out of a serendipitous moment. Joey Benin recounts how the collaboration took shape after attending his daughter Clara’s concert at the MET. “I was so impressed with the sound and the whole production. After the show, Jason [Conanan] of Minsan Studio said, ‘How about we do a passion project with Side A here at the classic Metropolitan Theater?’ I immediately contacted our manager, Lito Fugoso, who pitched it to the band—and here we are now: excited and looking forward to next year’s ultimate gathering.”
What makes Now&Then stand out is the union of two generations of Side A musicians, each bringing their chapter of sound, story, and soul. The concert will feature the following lineup:
Side A Now:
Naldy Gonzalez – Keyboards/Musical Director (the only remaining and active original member of Side A) Ernie Severino – Drums Leevon Cailao – Lead guitars and vocals Ned Esguerra – Bass Yubs Esperat – Lead vocals and acoustic guitar
Side A Then:
Rodel Gonzalez – Lead vocals / guitars Pido Lalimarmo – guitars and vocals Joey Benin – Bass and vocals
Music fans can look forward to a one-of-a-kind experience as Side A’s rich and vast catalog gets reimagined with a 30-piece orchestra.
“Expect to hear Side A songs in a new way, but still very familiar,” reveals the chart-topping band. “The orchestra adds a bigger emotional landscape to the songs. It’s going to be a special experience for all of us on stage and in the audience.”
Ultimately, Now&Then serves both as a celebration of Side A’s legacy and a gift to generations of listeners. “We hope people go home reminded of why they fell in love with Side A songs in the first place and maybe fall in love with them all over again. For us, Now&Then is a thank you: to God, to the people who have supported us all these years, and to our families, our wives, children, and apos who became part of the story. If people leave the concert with full hearts, good memories, and fresh hope, then this reunion will have done its job.”
Tickets to Side A’s Now&Then concert are now available on minsan.studio
HONOR 500 Series in four colorways: Blue, Pink, Silver, and Black! The HONOR 500 Series will be available globally
Manila, Philippines, December 12, 2025 – Global AI device ecosystem company HONOR today announced the launch of the all-new HONOR 500 Series, comprising the HONOR 500 Pro and HONOR 500. The HONOR 500 Series redefines the mid-range segment with flagship-class portrait imaging, all-scenario live capture capabilities, extended endurance, and an upgraded MagicOS 10 experience designed for the next generation of young, always-on creators.
“With the HONOR 500 Series, we are redefining what consumers should expect from a standard, mid-range smartphone. The HONOR 500 is ‘standard’ done right, delivering a complete, well-rounded user experience that is engineered to impress. The HONOR 500 Pro goes a step beyond, building upon the solid foundation to improve upon every facet of the experience, just like what a ‘Pro’ model is expected to do,” said Fei Fang, President of Products at HONOR.
200MP Portrait Engine: All-Scenario Live Photo
Both models in the HONOR 500 Series feature the new 200MP AI Ultra-Clear Main Camera, equipped with a category-leading 1/1.4-inch CMOS sensor, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. The HONOR 500 Pro also comes with a 50MP telephoto camera that supports HONOR’s self-developed SOIS stabilization system, delivering flagship-grade CIPA5.0 image stabilization performance to ensure images remain crisp and steady even during fast-paced or handheld shooting.
The HONOR 500 Series delivers a comprehensive live imaging experience with industry-first front-and-rear Live portrait modes that add background blur, beauty effects, and atmosphere to every frame. It also introduces an industry-leading range of immersive film-inspired color options, offering six distinct Film Live modes for users to choose from. Additionally, the innovative Live Passerby Removal feature ensures that dynamic moments remain free from distractions, keeping you the focal point at all times. The series also supports effortless 4K-to-Live conversion, enabling users to easily transform 4K videos into 4K Live clips for seamless sharing on social media.
Snapdragon Flagship Power: Smooth, Fast, and Reliable Performance
The HONOR 500 is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, while the HONOR 500 Pro upgrades to the Snapdragon 8 Elite, delivering flagship-level speed and responsiveness across both models. Paired with the HONOR Phantom Engine 3.0, which accurately anticipates graphical workloads and optimizes rendering processes, the HONOR 500 Series delivers remarkably stable gaming performance, with consistent frame rates in popular titles including Honor of Kings and Genshin Impact.
8,000mAh Battery: Two-Day Endurance in a Slim 6.55-inch Body
The HONOR 500 Series features the class-leading 8,000mAh HONOR Silicon-carbon Battery, with an incredible energy density. HONOR 500 Pro and HONOR 500 also support 27W Wired Reverse Charging, providing a convenient way to power accessories and other devices on the go. The standard model also supports 80W wired charging, while the Pro model supports 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging for effortless, rapid battery top-up.
Flagship-Level Experience: Display, Connectivity, and MagicOS 10 Intelligence
HONOR continues to lead the industry in eye-protecting display technology. The HONOR 500 Series supports a wide range of eye protection features, helping to alleviate discomfort from natural light fluctuation, flicker, brightness, and more. It also supports features such as AI Defocus Display and AI Motion Sickness Relief to enhance the viewing experience in everyday use.
The HONOR 500 Pro also features the self-developed HONOR C1+ RF Enhanced Chip, which significantly improves signal reception, network stability, and uplink speed, ensuring smoother streaming, faster uploads in high-traffic and signal-weak areas.
The HONOR 500 series is equipped with the all-new MagicOS 10 operating system, featuring the industry’s only tiered AI Button. This customizable one-touch button provides instant access to frequently used functions, delivering a more convenient and intelligent interaction experience, making smart living effortlessly accessible.
Stunning Crystal-Clear Straight Display: Redefining Texture Standards with Exquisite Craftsmanship
The HONOR 500 Series features an industry-leading integrated cold-carved unibody design, in which the camera module and rear glass are crafted as a single seamless piece. This creates a unified, sculptural surface with a refined hand feel. Benefiting from the redesigned body architecture, the device achieves an ultra-slim 7.75mm profile and an industry-leading narrow 1.05mm bezel. Its new horizontal camera layout emphasizes clean aesthetic lines while freeing internal space for a larger battery, and offers a more comfortable, unobstructed grip in both portrait and landscape orientation. With IP68 / IP69 / IP69K water and dust resistance, the HONOR 500 Series raises the bar for durability and tactile sophistication.
Color and Availability
The HONOR 500 Series is available in four crystal-inspired color options: Blue, Pink, Silver and Black. The HONOR 500 Series will be available in China.
Never miss the latest updates—visit HONOR Philippines’ official website at www.hihonor.com, or follow their social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
The award-winning band closes 2025 with a year-end celebration of music, storytelling, and community, giving fans a front-row experience from anywhere in the world
One year after translating their award-winning 2025 concept into a sold-out spectacle at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Ben&Ben invites fans into the luminous universe of Liwanag through The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film.
The special full-length film, created in collaboration with LunchBox Productions, will premiere on YouTube on December 14, 2025, giving audiences across the globe the rare opportunity to relive the concert experience in full, free of charge. Ben&Ben explains: “We really wanted all our listeners to get to enjoy this concert that we poured our hearts and souls into, so we deliberately chose to make this as accessible as possible by putting it up on YouTube. We thought it would also be a nice way to bring families together for the holidays, sharing with each other the magic and joy of our concert from the comfort of their homes.”
Billed as a “multiverse of music and emotion,” the original TTAD concert blurred the boundaries between concert, animation, and theater. Staged late last year, the arena show received widespread acclaim for its storytelling, emotional depth, and technical execution, setting a new benchmark for multimedia concerts in the Philippines. The cinematic retelling offers both a retrospective and a revelation for fans who want to relive that night in the arena and for those who will be seeing it for the first time.
“When we first conceptualized the concert and saw all the work that had to be put into it, we knew we wanted to exert an equal amount of effort to document it all. It represented many firsts for us: our first major concert at the MOA Arena, our first time performing that many songs, and our first time attempting to record a show of that scale,” Ben&Ben shares. “With all the work we put into each second of it, we knew a well-made concert film also needed a lot of work and enough time for it to be ready for public release. So that, along with us continuing to tour The Traveller Across Dimensions throughout the year, we ultimately decided to release the film as a first anniversary special offering.”
According to the nine-piece band, the concert film was conceived as a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to their fans, fondly called Liwanag. The film’s free release emphasizes Ben&Ben’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and community.
“This year has been just so challenging for so many of us,” Ben&Ben says. “But despite these challenges, we’ve felt so much love and support from all of our Liwanag, from them constantly listening to our music to still showing up and attending our live shows. As the year ends, we wanted to give back by simply letting people enjoy this show, no strings attached, no paywall.” While the live concert captivated the crowd with its scale and immediacy, the film version provides a more intimate encounter, allowing audiences to discern subtle details, symbolisms, and emotional arcs that may have been missed in the live setting.
In the weeks leading to the release of The Traveller Across Dimensions: The Concert Film, Ben&Ben earned Album of the Year honors at the Awit Awards 2025, the country’s version of the Grammys. Soon after, fans were treated to a surprise first look at the concert trailer during The Traveller Across Dimensions: An Immersive Storytelling Experience. The trailer eventually premiered on social media channels on December 3, 2025, a day after the official announcement about the concert film was shared online.
The band brings their most personal and sonically adventurous album on vinyl, reaffirming the enduring value of physical media
Award-winning Filipino pop-rock powerhouse IV OF SPADES continues to ramp up the celebration of their highly anticipated comeback with the exclusive vinyl release of their critically acclaimed album, Andalucia.
The new record will be available in a thousand copies for its first vinyl pressing, with a few of them already available during the first and second day of IV OF SPADES’ concert, which took place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on December 12 and 13, 2025.
For those unable to attend the concert, worry not! Andalucia will be available starting December 15, 2025, through Backspacer Records via their official website.
“Andalucia feels like a special snapshot of where we are in our lives right now,” shares the acclaimed quartet in a press statement. “This is the first vinyl of IV OF SPADES. Pangarap din namin ito.” Hailed as one of the most astounding creative rebirths in OPM for the last decade, Andalucia stands as a testament to renewed brotherhood and friendship. Shaped by years of individual growth and nearly seven years of separation, the album was forged through trust, mutual respect, and a deep appreciation for the member’s creative process. The twelve-track album also traverses a rich spectrum of sound and experiment, while remaining anchored in the band’s signature introspection, emotional honesty, and meticulous sonic craftmanship.
IV OF SPADES’ new album, Andalucia is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
In photo: Pru Life UK Chief Customer and Marketing Officer Rozanne Magararu (right) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Romando Artes (left)
Pru Life UK and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have renewed their long-standing partnership for the eighth consecutive year, reinforcing their shared commitment to protect, empower, and uplift thousands of the MMDA’s frontline personnel.
Since 2017, Pru Life UK has been providing free Group Personal Accident insurance to up to 8,000 MMDA employees—including traffic enforcers, street sweepers, and other permanent, casual, and job order staff. MMDA employees can count on Pru Life UK for insurance with coverage that includes accidental death and disablement benefits, as well as burial assistance, offering vital protection to workers who brave daily risks on the road, in flood control operations, and in disaster response.
This year also marks a significant milestone, with MMDA expressing openness to expand the partnership to include financial literacy and inclusion activities designed to help employees build stronger financial habits and resilience.
During the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes expressed his gratitude to Pru Life UK for consistently supporting the safety and welfare of MMDA personnel over the years.
“Magbibigay ito ng karagdagang proteksyon sa mga frontliner na nagtatrabaho araw-araw sa ating mga kalsada, sa trapiko, pagbaha, at pagtugon sa kalamidad,” Chairman Artes said, emphasising the crucial role of insurance for employees who face daily hazards.
He added that the partnership stands as an important reminder that when government, and the private sector work together toward a shared goal, “masisiguro ang kapakanan at seguridad ng mga kawani at ng kanilang pamilya.”
Long-term commitment
Rozanne Magararu, Pru Life UK’s Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, highlighted the company’s dedication to supporting MMDA personnel not just through insurance, but through long-term empowerment.
“It has been our privilege to extend accidental death and disablement benefits, as well as burial assistance, to up to 8,000 MMDA personnel, including traffic enforcers and street sweepers,” Magararu said. She noted that 154 claims have already been supported under the program, proof of the partnership’s meaningful impact on the lives of frontline workers.
She further emphasised Pru Life UK’s readiness to broaden its role in supporting the agency. “We are eager to explore new ways to support your team, particularly through our upcoming financial literacy and inclusion initiatives designed to empower the MMDA employees and staff. Know that you can count on us as your partner in promoting the well-being and financial resilience of your workforce.”
Evolving partnership
What began as a shared commitment to protection has now grown into an expanded collaboration anchored on education, empowerment, and long-term resilience.
Pru Life UK will work closely with MMDA to introduce financial literacy sessions to its workforce—supporting their personal financial well-being and helping them better prepare for emergencies, long-term goals, and everyday financial decisions.
The MOA signing was also attended by several MMDA directors and representatives from Pru Life UK.
As both organisations continue this shared mission, the partnership stands as a strong example of how public–private collaboration can support the welfare, resilience, and dignity of frontline workers who keep Metro Manila moving each day.
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About Pru Life UK
Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.
Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents.
Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.
Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.
Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.
Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph.
The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information.
Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission.
The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2&3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information.
Notes:
*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year
Please use “Pru Life UK” when referring to the company.
Makati, Philippines— In line with its mission to enrich lives, empower businesses, and build communities sustainably, Security Bank worked tirelessly in 2025 to strengthen institutions, expand opportunities, and deliver programs that create lasting progress across the Philippines.
From providing cacao seedlings to 40 farmers in Aklan and mentoring 980 families to aiding 661 disaster-hit families, Security Bank strengthened livelihoods nationwide. Education remained a priority with a total of 901 classrooms donated to 153 schools and free eye care for 1,170 students. Cultural programs engaged more than 300 artists, while environmental efforts planted 940 mangrove seedlings toward a 10,000-seedling goal. The Bank also exceeded its sustainable finance target, disbursing ₱99.4 billion in green and social loans—benefiting 500,000 households, expanding healthcare with 544 beds, and creating opportunities for 400,000 people.
These achievements reflect Security Bank’s unwavering commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for every Filipino. Improving livelihoods and uplifting vulnerable communities
Security Bank, together with BUSOE and Angat Pinas, provided cacao seedlings, poultry farming kits, and wilderness rescue initiatives in Aklan. Security Bank broadened its community livelihood and resilience programs through diverse partnerships. In Malinao, Aklan, the Bank worked with Beacon for the Upliftment of Status of Everyone Inc. (BUSOE) and Angat Pinas to provide cacao seedlings, poultry starter kits, and rescue equipment—benefiting 40 solo parents and smallholder farmers.
Security Bank, together with JCI Manila and the Global Peace Foundation, provided solar-powered streetlights to a remote community in Pampanga In Sitio Pisapungan, Pampanga, the Bank worked with JCI Manila and the Global Peace Foundation to install solar-powered streetlights, enhancing safety and promoting sustainable energy in remote areas. Through the Prevail program with International Care Ministries, it provided business mentorship and financial training to 980 Cebu families. The Bank also partnered with Meritxell Children’s World Foundation to fund yearlong vaccinations for 15 children.
The Bank, in partnership with Angat Buhay, likewise extended its support through disaster response efforts for 661 families affected by the earthquake and Typhoon Tino in Cebu, distributing food packs to communities in Cebu City, Liloan, and Talisay, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to aiding vulnerable communities during times of crisis.
Strengthening culture, community, and inclusive representation Security Bank celebrated Filipino creativity, heritage, and empowerment through advocacy-driven initiatives. The Bank supported the Bravo Empowered Women Awards, honoring trailblazers who are driving meaningful change in business, culture, public service, social entrepreneurship, and STEM—including Lifetime Achievement awardee Glenda Barretto and Social Services honoree Andie Estrada of social enterprise Rural Rising Philippines.
The Bravo Empowered Women 2025 awardees (L-R): Maryan Cabasag Diaros (Education), Doreen Alicia Gamboa (Culinary), Sittie Habiba Sarip (Media & Public Affairs), Dr. Emmeline Cua-De Los Santos (STEM), Glenda Barretto (Lifetime Achievement), Andie Estrada (Social Services), Larissa Palma Chavez (Arts, Culture & Heritage), Maiki Enriquez-Oreta (Business), and Jamie Berberabe Lim (Sports).
In partnership with the Art Association of the Philippines, the Bank launched its inaugural Paint for the Planet Art Competition, inspiring environmental awareness through artistic expression. More than 300 artists participated under the theme “People, Planet, Prosperity,” demonstrating the power of art in shaping sustainability dialogue.
Security Bank’s first Paint for the Planet Art Competition drew more than 300 artists from all over the Philippines. The Bank also supported key cultural fairs and heritage events such as ArteFino and National Heritage Month, championing Filipino craftsmanship and encouraging conscious community-driven consumption. Championing education and investing in the nation’s future
(Left) The Santa Cruz Elementary School, one of many school buildings donated by Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI). To date, SBFI has donated over 900 classrooms to schools nationwide. (Right) A look inside an SBFI classroom. For nearly two decades, Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI), has led one of the country’s most impactful private-sector education programs. In 2025, SBFI expanded its reach, donating 901 classrooms to 153 schools nationwide under its flagship Build a School, Build a Nation program—easing overcrowding and creating better learning spaces for thousands of Filipino students. SBFI also accelerated its capacity-building efforts through Mentoring Future Leaders for Nation-Building, supporting 79 principals and 88 teachers through training programs developed with leading academic institutions. SBFI likewise supported 302 scholars across multiple levels, bringing its total scholar count to more than 2,000 future leaders. Recognizing that clear vision is essential for learning, SBFI partnered with Ideal Vision Center and the Rotary and Rotaract Club of San Francisco del Monte to conduct free eye screenings and distribute eyeglasses to 1,170 students. Walking the talk: Advancing sustainability and climate action
Security Bank employees volunteered to plant 940 native mangrove seedlings in La Union as part of the first phase of Project MITHI Security Bank continued to scale its environmental initiatives through Project MITHI, planting 940 native mangrove seedlings in La Union as part of its first-year goal of planting 10,000 seedlings to help protect coastal ecosystems and strengthen community resilience against climate risks. The project was implemented with Oceanus Conservation, Communities for Nature, and local organizations.
Through Project MITHI, Security Bank, together with Oceanus Conservation, Communities for Nature, and local organizations planted 10,000 mangrove seedlings. The Bank also achieved significant momentum in sustainable finance. As of October, Security Bank had disbursed PHP99.4 billion in green and social loans—exceeding its 2025 target by 18%. These investments provided clean water for 500,000 households, expanded healthcare capacity with 544 beds and clinic rooms, and created opportunities for over 400,000 people, most of them women. This impact is strengthened by the Bank’s global leadership as the first Philippine bank to join IFC’s Alliance for Green Commercial Banks and the only local bank with an MSCI ESG Rating of ‘A.’ Doing good with BetterBanking Security Bank believes that serving customers goes beyond providing financial solutions—it requires building a legacy of positive impact. Through purposeful partnerships and programs grounded in its mission to enrich lives and uplift communities sustainably, the Bank continues to show that BetterBanking is not just a promise—it is a lasting commitment to creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Philippines. Learn more about Security Bank’s CSR and Sustainability efforts by visiting https://www.securitybank.com/sustainability/
The Bank has received numerous local and international recognitions for product innovation, market leadership, and best-in-class management practices. For more information, visit www.securitybank.com. Security Bank Corporation is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas www.bsp.gov.ph
Manila, Philippines – This Christmas season, Philips Lighting brings brighter homes within closer reach of Filipino families with a nationwide price markdown of up to 50% across selected LED lighting products. More than a seasonal offer, this initiative represents a long-term commitment to making trusted, energy-efficient lighting more affordable for households across the Philippines.
As families prepare their homes for festive gatherings, shared meals, and everyday moments, Philips Lighting aims to support Filipinos in creating spaces that feel warmer, safer, and more welcoming without compromising on quality or performance.
“Christmas is about family, comfort, and the joy of coming home,” said Paolo Royol, Commercial Leader for Consumer Business, Philips Lighting Philippines. “By lowering our prices nationwide, we want more Filipino families to enjoy brighter homes that support their daily lives, not just during the holidays, but well beyond them. This is our way of making quality lighting more accessible and meaningful for everyone.”
Nationwide Price Markdown Highlights
Filipino consumers can now enjoy reduced prices on the following Philips Lighting products nationwide:
High Lumen Bulbs – up to 54% off Essential Bulbs Mini – up to 13% off Essential LED Bulb A-Shape – up to 28% off Ecofit TLED (Single Ended) – up to 33% off Ecofit TLED (Double Ended) – up to 33% off
Designed for energy efficiency and long-lasting performance, these products help families reduce energy consumption while enjoying dependable brightness across living spaces, kitchens, work areas, and shared family zones.
Lighting Homes, Supporting Filipino Dreams
This nationwide price markdown reflects Philips Lighting’s enduring commitment to Filipino households, helping turn everyday spaces into brighter homes where memories are made and dreams grow.
As Christmas lights fill homes and communities across the country, Philips Lighting continues to deliver on its promise: to bring light that cares, inspires, and lasts, now made more affordable for Filipino families nationwide.
Security Bank executives and guests at the opening of the Bank’s 368th branch in Davao City (From left): Salvador Castro III, VP and Area Head; Russel Cai, Plant Manager/Quality Management Representative of Davao Mighty Steel Corp; Ricardo Luis Mateo Lagdameo, President and CEO of ANFLO Construction and Corp.; Decy Sarmiento, FVP and Region 7 Head; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Ricardo Floirendo, Vice Chairman of ANFLO Group of Companies; Jezel Aballe, Business Manager of Davao-Damosa Branch; Benjamin Umapas, General Manager of Benbert Co.; Karl Gregor Catadman and Maria Christie Catadman, Owners of KCKS Builders Inc.; Jason Ang, SVP and Visayas and Mindanao Distribution Head
Makati, Philippines – Security Bank Corporation continues to advance its reach and make banking more accessible to Filipinos with the opening of eight new branches in November alone, bringing its nationwide branch network to 372 branches.
The latest expansion strengthens Security Bank’s commitment to deliver BetterBanking by widening access to financial services and supporting the growing needs of individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities across the country.
In Luzon, the Bank opened its Congressional Extension Branch plus three new branches in Pampanga—Mexico, Mabalacat, and Subic Town—supporting fast-growing residential areas and key economic corridors in Central and Northern Luzon.
In the Visayas, Security Bank enhanced its presence through the opening of the Cebu–Basak Branch, located in a highly urbanized district that supports a dynamic commercial environment and a growing SME sector.
In Mindanao, new branches in Midsayap, Cotabato and Davao City—including Davao–Damosa and Davao–Ecoland—further solidify the Bank’s footprint in major business districts and thriving residential hubs, extending financial access to communities, MSMEs, and local enterprises.
“These branch openings reinforce our vision to be a more customer-centric bank,” said Leslie Cham, Executive Vice President and Branch Banking Head at Security Bank. “Reaching 372 branches nationwide allows us to be closer to the communities we serve and deliver BetterBanking through more personalized service, modern facilities, and deeper local engagement.”
As Security Bank grows its nationwide presence, it remains focused on elevating the in-branch experience. New branches are designed to address evolving customer needs—from everyday transactions to long-term financial goals—supported by technology-enabled platforms that work seamlessly with the Bank’s digital channels.
“Modern banking is about balancing technology with empathy,” Cham shared. “Our branches are welcoming, inclusive spaces that integrate human connection with digital convenience. We want every customer to feel supported.”
“The branch of the future will be powered by data, enabled by technology, and brought to life by people,” he added. “Banking will continue to evolve—but its heart will always remain human.” For more information on Security Bank’s products, services, and branch locations, visit www.securitybank.com or follow Security Bank on social media.
