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MANILA, PH – April 2025 – Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to being the Filipinos’ Partner for Life, Sun Life Philippines announced that it paid more than ₱6 billion in claims, maturities, and other benefits in 2024.



With this amount, the total amount of benefits that Sun Life Philippines has paid in the past five years now exceed ₱32 billion.



“At Sun Life, we understand that our core purpose extends beyond offering policies; it’s about being there for our Clients during the most critical times,” said Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “Our commitment to being our Clients’ partner for life is the cornerstone of our business, guiding us in every decision we make.”



Looking ahead, Sun Life aims to reach more Filipinos across the country to help achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. At present, the company has over 20,000 advisors, 96 New Business Offices, and 80 Client Service Centers nationwide. All these are complemented by continuous efforts to foster financial literacy to increase knowledge about the features and benefits of insurance products.



“As we celebrate our 130th anniversary, we look forward to launching more initiatives and engaging more Filipinos,” Sison said. “We still have a long way to go in terms of making sure every Filipino is insured, but we are ready to do our share to make it happen.”



To learn more about Sun Life’s products and services, visit www.sunlife.com.ph.

Get ready for a Peach Mango Pie lover’s dream come true! Jollibee’s iconic Peach Mango Pie is taking center stage at The Dessert Museum in S’Maison with a mouthwatering new themed room—the Peach Mango Pie-Palooza Room! This vibrant, fruit-filled wonderland celebrates the improved Peach Mango Pie, now bursting with even more peach and mango chunks wrapped in Jollibee’s signature sweet-salty crust.



The moment you enter the Peach Mango Pie-themed room, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a pie heaven. The entrance shows a peach and mango field filled with giant orange and yellow fruits—perfect for a playful photo op. Inside, you’ll find colorful pie-inspired visuals and elements designed to delight any fruit or dessert lover.

The main activity area is where the fun ramps up! Snap a selfie next to a giant Peach Mango Pie or see what’s in store at the Peach Mango Pie Chunk Tank, or even the Peach Mango Pie Pop-it Wall! There’s also a Jolly Kiddie Party area and dessert station, where Jollibee can cater meals for birthday celebrations hosted at the Dessert Museum.



“For those craving immersive, exciting, and shareable experiences, this is the perfect treat,” said Pamela Cruz, Jollibee Philippines Marketing Director. “The new Peach Mango Pie-themed room celebrates the improved pie—which now packs even more peach and mango fruit bits into a golden, flaky crust. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet and fruity cravings while creating fun, memorable moments.”



The best part? Guests can score their own crispy, chunky Peach Mango Pie for FREE—just snap a pic in the themed room and share it on social media with #JollibeexTDM and #PeachMangoPiePalooza. It’s the ultimate blend of indulgence and fun—because a great dessert tastes even better when shared!”

The Peach Mango Pie-Palooza Room will be open to the public starting April 9, 2025 and will be open from Monday to Sunday, 10AM to 10PM. Customers can purchase tickets online (https://book.thenextperience.com/TheDessertMuseum/Booking/664c14aa-69cf-c9.8-8089-13009b848aba) or via walk-in.




Check out the Dessert Museum’s newest addition and dive into the Peach Mango Pie experience. Or, if you’re craving that delicious dessert pie right now, head to your nearest Jollibee for dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru. You can also have it delivered via the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, and foodpanda.

Stay updated on all things Jollibee—like them on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.




#JollibeexTDM

#PeachMangoPiePalooza

#JollibeePhilippines

As the Lenten season ushers in a time of reflection and mindfulness, it’s also a moment for meaningful meals shared with family and friends. Whether you’re abstaining from meat or simply craving something fresh and satisfying, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor during Holy Week. From Korean-glazed seafood to soulful Filipino classics and Japanese comfort food, SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela serve up a curated menu of dishes that are not only meat-free but also full of joy.

Here’s a delicious roundup of seven Lenten-friendly eats you’ll want to try—and maybe even keep craving beyond the season.

1. Crispy Fish and Seafood Mix Bowls at Bonchon in SM Center Sangandaan   

Who said Lenten meals have to be boring? Bonchon turns fish into a flavor fiesta with their Crispy Fish—a juicy fillet wrapped in their signature Korean glaze and served with rice. But if you’re feeling a bit more extra, the Seafood Mix is a full-on ocean party in a bowl. Think crunchy fish, shrimp, squid, and nori, topped with fresh veggies and creamy mayo. It’s like the K-Drama of Lenten dishes: dramatic, layered, and seriously satisfying.

2. Sushi Platters at Kanzen Sushi Roll in SM Center Sangandaan

Sometimes, all you need is sushi to make everything better. Kanzen’s sushi platters are perfect for sharing. With a variety that includes Cali Maki, Kani Maki, and even Kani Sashimi, these colorful bite-sized delights bring balance to your Holy Week gatherings—zen, flavor, and fun rolled into one.

3. Tuna Specials at Mangan in SM City Grand Central  

Craving something that feels indulgent but still meat-free? Mangan delivers with its Kapampangan classics done with a pescatarian twist. The Crispy Tuna Tail is golden perfection, while the Sizzling Tuna Sisig offers a bold, savory kick without the guilt. And if you want something grilled and smoky, the Inihaw na Panga ng Tuna hits all the right notes. Mangan proves that Filipino tradition isn’t just delicious—it’s deeply soulful.

4. Comfort Classics at Nono’s in SM City Grand Central   

If your idea of Holy Week dining is something cozy and hearty, Nono’s has the answer. Their Miso- Glazed salmon is rich yet balanced, while the Red Rice tugs on the heartstrings of every Filipino looking for a comforting bite. Nono’s blends modern flair with homey flavors—perfect for a quiet family lunch or a solo soul-food date.

5. Squid Sisig with a Kick at Kuya J in SM City Valenzuela 

This one’s for the flavor seekers. Kuya J’s Squid Sisig brings together tender squid, a medley of spices, and a playful punch of heat. It’s crunchy, chewy, spicy, and undeniably satisfying. Pair it with garlic rice and a tall glass of calamansi juice, and you’ve got yourself a mood-lifter in meal form.

6. Grilled Salmon at Kenny Roger’s in SM City Valenzuela  

Healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and Kenny Roger’s proves it with their grilled salmon platter. Think fire-kissed salmon drizzled with lemon butter, paired with your choice of sides, their signature corn muffin, and rice. It’s a complete plate that’s as comforting as it is nourishing.

7. Garlic Shrimp and Egg Fried Rice at Botejyu in SM City Valenzuela   

One bite of Botejyu’s Garlic Shrimp and you’re transported to Tokyo. Served sizzling in a hot stone bowl, this dish combines the umami of shrimp with garlicky fried rice and just the right touch of egg. It’s rich, aromatic, and totally unforgettable—perfect for those looking to level up their Lenten meals.

The time, effort, and dedication needed to train for a race or marathon make crossing the finish line so rewarding for many runners. In the same way, creating a greener, more sustainable future requires the same level of collective commitment.

More than just a race, the first-ever GCash Eco Run turned the streets of Ayala Avenue, Makati, into an eco-movement. Over 12,000 eco-runners laced up their shoes—not just to set personal records but to make a lasting impact on the environment. With the support of its event sponsors and sustainability partners, this milestone initiative has already planted 76,000 trees across 11 hectares in the Negros region.




A race that goes beyond the finish line







In support of the South Negros Reforestation Initiative, a long-standing partnership between Silliman University and GCash, each sign-up to the GCash Eco Run contributed to the planting of a grey stilted mangrove tree in Negros Occidental. GCash doubled their commitment by pledging an additional tree for every participant. This means that the runners alone contributed 24,000 new trees.







Grey stilted mangroves play a vital role in environmental conservation as they mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and sequester carbon while providing habitats for marine life. As a result, mangrove forests are some of the most effective natural ecosystems for carbon storage today, making them a crucial asset in the fight against climate change.







In line with its commitment to using tech for good, the GCash Eco Run served as a platform to raise awareness on sustainable living, bringing together partner organizations and eco-conscious brands to share their advocacies and inspire collective action.

Organizations championing various sustainability advocacies joined, such as Berdeng Kalaw, which collects paper and metal for recycling; Caritas Manila, which turns clothing donations into funds for scholars; Zolo, which resells and recycles e-waste; and Aling Tindera, which gathers plastic waste for recycling.







Attendees also explored products from the partner eco-merchants such as Cut the Craft, Bukid ni Bogs, Wonderhome Naturals, Eco Shift, and Commune. They also got their GCash VISA cards from 100% recycled plastic.







GCash makes it easy for partners to drive positive change by bridging them to Silliman University, turning commitments into real action. With the support of 8 companies working together for a greener future, a total of 52,000 trees will be planted in Negros on top of the 24,000 trees from the eco runners.







Continue taking steps for the environment with GForest







GCash continues to make sustainable living easier and more accessible for every Filipino. Through GForest, every transaction on the GCash app, such as cashing in, sending money, paying bills, buying load, or even taking 20,000 steps a day, earns green energy points, which users can redeem to plant virtual trees and contribute to a greener future.







Together with various partner organizations, GCash transforms these into actual trees, planted in key areas around the country, demonstrating how GForest serves as a Tech for Good platform.







“Much like how GForest turns virtual trees into actual ones, the GCash Eco Run brings together our community of Green Heroes, driven by a shared purpose to create real-world impact—one step, one tree, and one action at a time,” said CJ Alegre, GCash Head of Sustainability.







The biggest digital eco-movement is now even bigger. Every step, every action, and every tree planted brings us closer to a greener future. Be a green hero today and sign up by tapping GForest on your GCash app dashboard.







The GCash Eco Run is supported by corporate partners who also pledged trees, such as IKEA Philippines, Globe AT HOME, Pay & Go, and eTap Solutions. This effort strengthens Silliman University mangrove reforestation efforts.

Living or working in an area with no fiber connectivity? Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi offers an easy fix without the hassle of submitting requirements and long waiting time when applying for a plan or worrying over possible bill shock.



Smart Home WiFi provides convenience and reliability, powered by Smart’s superior 5G network, which allows users to stream videos seamlessly, upload and download large files in seconds, instantly post and share content online, and enjoy lag-free mobile gaming.





1. Convenience and connectivity, anytime, anywhere.

The reality in the Philippines is not all places have fiber connectivity, especially in rural communities and low-density areas. If you love the peace and calm of living in the suburbs or long to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then Smart Home WiFi is the best thing for your online needs. The Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi is also more affordable than the option of purchasing satellite internet! Simply load your Smart Home WiFi, find an outlet for the device, and you’re good to go!

2. Budget-friendly device at ₱1,995 and affordable promos.

For only ₱1,995, people on a budget such as students staying in boarding houses and dormitories, can afford the Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi. Upon use, the item already comes with 15 days of Unlimited Data. The data packages are also easy on the pocket. BIG DATA offers a total of 52GB for 7 days for a price lower than the cost of a regular fast-food cheeseburger, or you can already enjoy blazing-fast, worry-free streaming with UNLI for just ₱1299 a month or only ₱43 per day.



3. Connect up to 15 devices.

Whether you love to play mobile games with your siblings or stream movies solo without distractions, the Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi device makes sure everyone is connected to high-speed internet. Students sharing a room can also stay connected with their families through their favorite video call and messaging apps while maintaining a level of privacy on their phones or laptops.

Empowered connectivity in an instant



Whether you’re a parent who just moved your family to a new apartment or condominium unit, or a small business owner who just found the perfect location for your new store, chances are it will still take time for you to have a wired connection.



Smart Home WiFi can instantly provide subscribers with the strong and reliable internet. Just plug the device and load UNLI ₱1299 for fiber-fast, unlimited internet all month long.



On the other hand, if you’re a transient worker, a weekday renter, or a student who lives in shared rental spaces or dormitories, Smart Home WiFi can also maximize productivity for work or school.



Simply subscribe to 7-day data packs via BIG DATA ₱199 for a total of 52GB (45GB + 1GB a day for 7 days) or BIG DATA ₱299 with 72GB (65GB + 1GB per day for 7 days).



Those who want longer validity subscription may go for BIG DATA ₱999 with a total of 250GB (220GB + 1GB a day for 30 days) for 30 days.



Where to purchase and how to load



Simply order the Smart 5G Turbo Max WiFi via the Smart Online Store, Smart official pages in Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok, or head to the nearest Smart Store or authorized Smart retailers nationwide.



Smart Home WiFi users can stay on top of their Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi device by downloading the Smart App and registering their number to conveniently manage their account, and top up with their preferred data offers that suit their needs. Data offers may also be availed via e-wallets and through suki retailers.

Manila, Philippines – Last March, two global icons, McDonald’s and A Minecraft Movie–came together in an epic collaboration and released the first phase of their “A Minecraft Movie” food offers. This much-awaited crossover brings Minecraft’s “blockified” universe to life through movie-inspired menu items, exclusive collectibles, and interactive experiences designed for passionate gamers, collectors, and fans alike.  

Take a peek into how McDonald’s jumps into Minecraft’s sprawling digital landscape and cinematic adventure and get a leveled-up experience where creativity, community and play come together.  

Unlocking A Minecraft Movie Meals

This April 5, McDonald’s is introducing two exciting limited-time A Minecraft Movie-themed flavors:

The Nether Flame Sauce: Fans can enjoy a 6-piece Chicken McNuggets Meal with medium drink and fries featuring a limited-time offer Nether Flame Sauce—a spicy sauce with smooth texture, balanced with hints of savory garlic and subtle sweetness, inspired by the fiery depths of A Minecraft Movie’s Nether dimension.

The Golden Apple Sundae: a sweet and refreshing apple flavored sundae, a nod to one of Minecraft’s most coveted items, the Enchanted Golden Apple. This treat comes with a Cheeseburger Meal, complete with medium fries and a drink.

Each A Minecraft Movie meal comes with one of six premium McDonald’s collectibles, packaged in a blind box: “blockified” McDonald’s characters and items paired with matching cards that reveal scannable codes to unlock special in-game skins—making the experience even more immersive for fans and players.

A Minecraft Movie Happy Meal for Young Fans

In addition to the A Minecraft Movie Meals, McDonald’s also released limited edition Happy Meals featuring exclusive Block World characters from the movie and game. Designed to appeal to young fans and collectors alike, the Happy Meal also comes with a scannable code to unlock an exclusive digital game where players can complete their very own quest in the A Minecraft Movie world.

“McDonald’s has always been a part of this universe through the creative imagination of Minecraft enthusiasts, but the collaboration with the movie has made it possible for fans and collectors from across age groups, to fully live out the experience,” said Ada Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines Marketing Director.

Fans online are already buzzing about the collaboration.

“So excited for the Minecraft Movie 🤩🤩 can’t wait to collect all the McDo toys,” one mom said.

Meanwhile, a collector commented, “I can’t wait to collect the 8 toys for my Kuya and watch the upcoming movie 😍😍😍.”

Another fan shared her excitement for the surprises inside the boxes. “Can’t wait to see what awesome surprises are inside those boxes—it’s going to be a blast for collectors and Minecraft lovers everywhere! ❤️”

Get in on the Action

The McDonald’s x A Minecraft Movie experience is available for a limited time across all McDonald’s channels—Front Counter Dine-In, Take-Out, Drive-Thru, McDelivery and 3POs. Be sure to grab your Minecraft Movie Meal or Happy Meal and own a piece of the action. Mark your calendars as this is one adventure you won’t want to miss—on screen or at your local McDonald’s!

For more information, visit McDonalds.com.ph, or follow @McDo.ph on Facebook, and @McDo_ph on Instagram. 

MANILA, Philippines –– Uratex, the country’s leading foam manufacturer and sleep solutions provider, reaffirmed its commitment to product quality, operational excellence, and enduring customer trust through a full-day showcase of its flagship facility in Plaridel, Bulacan, and a culminating celebration at RONAC Living Gallery in Mandaluyong. The event themed “Tried, Tested, Trusted” marks the brand’s 17th consecutive Trusted Brand Award from Reader’s Digest.

The campaign reinforces Uratex’s position as the country’s leading manufacturer of mattresses and foam products, emphasizing that trust is earned not only through brand longevity but through consistent, everyday execution across systems, teams, and customer touchpoints.

“Being recognized as a Trusted Brand for 17 years is a meaningful affirmation for us,” said Ms. Peachy Medina, managing director of Uratex. “Trust is something that’s earned, and we believe it’s built through how we serve people—whether it’s through the products we make, the service we give, or the promises we keep.”

Now in its 57th year, Uratex continues to be a household name known for innovation, comfort, and durability. The “Tried, Tested, Trusted” event draws attention to the brand’s core values and its long-standing promise of reliability to Filipino families and institutions.

“For over five decades, we’ve stood by our customers through comfort, quality, and care,” said Mrs. Natividad Cheng, chief executive officer of Uratex. “Trust is something we earn every night. And we are grateful that we continue to be a brand Filipinos can rely on.”

The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Awards are based on consumer surveys conducted across multiple countries in Asia, measuring perceptions of brand trust, quality, value, and intent to purchase. Uratex has received the Platinum Most Trusted Brand Award in the mattress category for 17 consecutive years.

A closer look at Uratex operations

The day began with a walkthrough of Uratex’s largest and most technologically equipped facility in Plaridel. Operational since 2000 and spanning over 450,000 square meters, the site plays a major role in the company’s nationwide production and distribution.

Guests were led through each major zone of the plant, beginning with the foam block production area, where raw materials are blended with precision under strict quality protocols. From there, the group moved into the curing and cutting stations, where newly formed foam blocks are stabilized and shaped through automated systems designed to optimize yield and reduce material waste, respectively.

The fabrication, assembly and packaging areas showcased Uratex’s continuous improvements in process efficiency, particularly with the recent addition of automated mattress assembly lines in 2023. The automated systems support a higher production rate, ensure consistent bonding across various foam layers used in mattress configurations and deliver a seamless  flow.

Guests also visited the company’s in-house product testing and research area, where engineers and specialists conduct durability tests, density checks, and performance evaluations. These measures form a core part of the company’s quality assurance program and are aligned with ISO 9001:2015 standards.

Warehousing and delivery areas capped the tour with upgraded racking systems and organized loading zones supporting the smooth flow of finished goods across the country.

Throughout the walkthrough, Uratex representatives emphasized how the integration of lean manufacturing, automation, and real-time monitoring tools helps the company uphold both volume and quality benchmarks.

The facility employs over 500 workers, the majority of whom are part of plant operations. The rest support administration, engineering, warehousing, and quality assurance. Production is run in multiple shifts to meet national demand and support distribution across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“This is our opportunity to express gratitude and to reaffirm what we stand for,” said Medina. “We may be known for our foams and mattresses, but more than that, we want to be known for being reliable—whether you’re a customer, a partner, or a team member.”

Uratex also confirmed ongoing expansion plans, including the development of its very own distribution center, aimed at increasing capacity and improving delivery service in key areas. Further details are expected to be shared in the coming years.

Celebrating partners and milestones

The Trusted Brand recognition took place at RONAC Lifestyle Center in Mandaluyong, where the company hosted a program centered on dialogue, recognition, and gratitude.

The event opened with a fireside chat featuring Mrs. Cheng, along with Mr. Eddie Gallor, executive vice president of automotive, and Mr. William Lee, executive vice president of furniture and bedding. Their discussion focused on Uratex’s approach to operational integrity, leadership, and brand longevity.

This was followed by a message from Medina, who discussed the values that drive the company’s direction and the importance of honoring the trust given by customers, partners, and communities.

Uratex also presented awards to its Most Trusted Partners, including the Philippine Orthopaedic Association and the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine, for their continued collaboration in advancing better sleep health and standards.

The Reader’s Digest outlined the qualifications for the awards before the formal awarding of Uratex’s 17th Most Trusted Brand Award for the mattress category. Mrs. Cheng accepted the award on behalf of the company and delivered a heartfelt message.

“For over five decades, we have worked hard to serve Filipino families with quality and care. Receiving this award again is truly meaningful. It’s a reminder that our work makes a difference and that we must always stay worthy of the trust given to us,” she said.

Trust through execution

The “Tried, Tested, Trusted” event places Uratex’s operational backbone at the center of its messaging. With nearly six decades of consistent growth, the brand remains rooted in product quality, service reliability, and long-standing relationships with customers and communities.

Medina said that while awards and milestones are cause for celebration, the work continues every day on the business operations, factory floor, in distribution channels, and in homes across the country.

“What we do every day is really about helping people sleep better, live better, and trust that we’re here for the long run,” she said. “That trust is not something we take for granted—it’s what pushes us to do better, every day.”

Uratex enters 2025 with a renewed focus on manufacturing innovation, nationwide accessibility, and deepening its promise of trust for generations to come.

Miley Cyrus unveils her new global single “End of the World,” the next chapter of her highly anticipated album, Something Beautiful, out May 30 via Columbia Records.

Listen to “End of the World” here.

“End of the World” arrives with another striking yet simple visual, which brings the project’s unique aesthetic to life. The official video showcases Miley in her element on stage with her microphone in hand, reminiscent of her 2024 GRAMMYs performance.

Miley is wearing an original custom Mugler by Casey Cadwallader. Each release unfolds as a fully realized artistic vision, blending music, film, and fashion into a singular cinematic experience.

Watch the official video for “End of the World” here.

Miley’s fans may recognize “End of the World” from her exclusive invite-only performances at the Chateau Marmont where she often experimented with performing unreleased, original music for a small, hand-selected audience.

Pre-order Something Beautiful here.