East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

This initiative aims to raise awareness on the value of water and promote responsible consumption among communities, partners, and stakeholders.
Lakbayan offers a unique opportunity for participants to experience the entire water cycle: from the raw water source and treatment to distribution and wastewater management. Through guided tours of Manila Water’s state-of-the-art facilities, visitors gain firsthand knowledge of the processes that ensure safe, clean, and reliable water supply, as well as the systems that treat wastewater before returning it to the environment.

Since its inception in 2006, Lakbayan has engaged thousands of students, local government units, and private organizations, fostering a deeper understanding of the water cycle and the collective role in preserving this vital resource. In 2025, Manila Water, led by its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, conducted a total of sixty-five (65) Lakbayan tours, participated by 2,151 individuals.

Among the organizations who participated were the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DILG-National Capital Region, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Government of Makati, Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pateros, San Agustin Seminary, University of the Philippines, Technological University of Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, Western Mindanao State University and other public and private schools and private businesses.

“Water is a finite resource and its responsible use is a shared obligation, yet it is often overlooked,” said Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director.

“Lakbayan allows us to share the science, innovation and our dedication behind every drop. Our goal is to inspire individuals and organizations to take meaningful action, whether through simple daily habits or large-scale programs, to conserve water and protect the environment. Every effort, big or small, creates a ripple of impact,” he added.

The program underscores Manila Water’s advocacy for water conservation and environmental protection. By showcasing the complexity and importance of water and wastewater management, Lakbayan empowers participants to become champions of sustainability in their own communities.

Manila Water welcomes all stakeholders to experience Lakbayan. For schedules and reservations, interested parties may email info@manilawater.com.

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

MANILA, Philippines — Hanabishi invites everyone to celebrate the holidays with creativity by showcasing their budget-friendly Christmas recipes on TikTok for a chance to win PhP15,000 and a Hanabishi multi-cooker.

Running from December 17, 2025 to January 23, 2026, the “Paskong Praktikal TikTok Challenge” encourages home cooks, food lovers, and families to share the delicious festive recipes that highlight their resourcefulness.

“For Filipinos, Christmas is about family and sharing a meal around the table, no matter how much it costs,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, VP for Finance and Marketing of Hanabishi Appliances.

How to Join

“Paskong Praktikal TikTok Challenge” is open to all Filipinos, aged 18 years and above with a public TikTok account. To participate, contests must do the following: Post a budget-friendly ulam or dessert video on TikTok and tag @myhanabishi.
Include a caption explaining how the dish is “tipid but festive.” Use the hashtags #PaskongPraktikal and #MyHanabishi. Videos must be a maximum of 60 seconds and should clearly show the cooking or preparation process.

To complete registration, participants must visit https://bit.ly/PaskongHanabishi2025, fill out the required details, and submit a screenshot of their TikTok entry through the link provided. One TikTok post equals one entry. Entries must remain public throughout the entire contest period.
“We want to see real, practical tips and recipes that Filipino families can actually recreate at home. Whether it’s a modern twist on a classic dish or a clever ingredient swap, every entry tells a story,” Ong-Chua said.

Judging Criteria

Entries will be evaluated based on the following:
1 Budget Friendliness – 30%
2 Storytelling / Practical Tips Shared – 30%
3 Taste Appeal / Presentation – 15%
4 Creativity – 15%
5 Hanabishi Appliance Usage – 10%
Entries that feature any Hanabishi appliance during cooking or preparation will automatically earn an additional 10% (or 10 points) under the Hanabishi Appliance Usage criterion.
No matter how simple or grand the spread is, what makes holiday gatherings special is coming together, and Hanabishi is proud to be part of those moments,” Ong-Chua said.

The deadline for the submission of entries to “Paskong Praktikal TikTok Challenge” is on January 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM. The judging will be held on January 30.
The winners will be notified through their registered mail, email, and SMS, and their names will be posted on Hanabishi’s official TikTok account on January 31.
For more information about the contest, follow Hanabishi’s official social media accounts.

GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum chart-topping global superstar The Kid LAROI releases his first full-length album in two years, BEFORE I FORGET, out now via Columbia Records.

Introduced by three singles, “A COLD PLAY,” “A PERFECT WORLD,” and “BACK WHEN YOU WERE MINE,” BEFORE I FORGET signals a powerful turning point for the 22-year-old artist, defined by vulnerability and emotional clarity. Steeped in introspection and showcasing LAROI’s distinctive songwriting and genre-bending prowess at new heights, each track gives an intimate insight into his world.

“BEFORE I FORGET is about the music. Nothing else. That’s what I want people to hear.”

The new album follows LAROI’s 2023 album THE FIRST TIME, whose deluxe edition arrived the following year with five additional tracks including “NIGHTS LIKE THIS PART 2,” the sequel to “NIGHTS LIKE THIS,” and fan-favorite “GIRLS.” LAROI continues to push creative boundaries with every new project, cementing him as one of the most compelling voices shaping music today.

BEFORE I FORGET Tracklist:
ME + YOU
JULY
PRIVATE
COME DOWN
RATHER BE (feat. Lithe)
A PERFECT WORLD
5:21AM (feat. Andrew Aged)
A COLD PLAY
THE MOMENT (feat. Clara La San)
NEVER CAME BACK
THANK GOD
I’M SO IN LOVE WITH YOU
MAYBE I’M WRONG
HER INTERLUDE
BACK WHEN YOU WERE MINE

ABOUT THE KID LAROI
At just 22 years old, LAROI has already established himself as one of the fastest rising stars in the music industry. In 2021, He logged a record-setting hold at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart with “Stay,” his collaboration with Justin Bieber, dominating radio waves and building global recognition. The Kid LAROI has captivated fans across the world with songs including “Let Her Go,” “Diva” ft. Lil Tecca, “Go” ft. Juice WRLD, and “Without You,” the latter of which led to his debut Saturday Night Live performance with Miley Cyrus. His 2020 debut mixtape, F*ck Love, earned chart-topping success, reaching number three on the Billboard 200 Chart. In recognition of his major achievements, LAROI received the highly coveted “Best New Artist” nomination at the 64th GRAMMY Awards (2022). LAROI’s full-length album, THE FIRST TIME, made a splash in 2023, debuting at #26 on the Billboard 200. The album also reached #3 on the ARIA Albums Chart, becoming LAROI’s second top-three entry in Australia.

LAROI had a massive 2024 starting with the release of the deluxe version of THE FIRST TIME, which featured five new tracks. He embarked on The First Time Tour which brought him across Europe, North America and Australia. He released three new singles including “GIRLS,” which he debuted live on tour ahead of the release, along with “APEROL SPRITZ,” and “SLOW IT DOWN” featuring Quavo. “ALL I WANT IS YOU” marked LAROI’s first release of 2025 and was followed by his highly anticipated single “HOW DOES IT FEEL.” With his new releases, LAROI continues to push genre boundaries and impress audiences with his undeniable star power.

JJ Moreno will succeed Benedict Sison as CEO and Country Head and continue to grow

Sun Life’s business as the Number 1 life insurer in Philippines

JJ Moreno (left) will succeed Benedict Sison (right) as CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines

Manila, PHILIPPINES – (January 9, 2026) – Sun Life today announced that Benedict Sison will retire as Chief Executive Officer and Country Head, Philippines, following a distinguished fifteen-year career with the company.  Jonathan Juan “JJ” Moreno, currently President, Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc., will succeed Benedict as the next CEO and Country Head, Philippines, effective 1 April 2026. 

To help ensure a smooth transition, Sison will continue to serve as a strategic advisor and Chairman of the Sun Life Philippines Holding Company and the Sun Life Foundation until 31 December 2026. 

Sison became CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines in 2018 and has guided strong growth across the business. Under his leadership, Sun Life has sustained its position as the number one life insurer in the country and today has over 6.2 million Clients and a strong network of over 22,000 advisors.  Sun Life has expanded into new businesses with the launch of the Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation, introduced innovative Client solutions, and expanded support for the Filipino community through the Sun Life Foundation. Sison has played a leading role in the Philippine Life Insurance Industry, having served two consecutive terms as President of the Philippine Life Insurance Association (PLIA). His leadership and industry contributions were honored with the Executive Champion of the Year award at the Asia Trusted Life Agents and Adviser Awards (ATLAA).

Moreno has worked closely with Sison and the Sun Life Philippines leadership team since joining Sun Life in May 2025. He brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across multiple industries, including financial services, retail, telecommunications, healthcare, and transportation. Prior to joining Sun Life, he held roles as President and CEO of AF Payments, and Chief Strategy Officer at Metro Retail Stores Group.      

“I am delighted to appoint JJ to lead Sun Life Philippines,” said Manjit Singh, President, Sun Life Asia. “JJ has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep understanding of our Clients, and an unwavering commitment to our strategy to help more Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. I also want to thank Benedict for his outstanding leadership for nearly eight years. Under his guidance, Sun Life Philippines has sustained our position as a market leader and trusted partner, helping more than 6 million Filipinos to achieve their life goals.”

Moreno will lead all Sun Life’s businesses entities in the Philippines.

“I am deeply honored to step into this role,” said Moreno. “Since joining Sun Life, I have seen the strength of our people and our purpose here in the Philippines. I look forward to working with our teams to help more Filipinos to achieve their goals for lifetime financial security and healthier lives, while building an organization that is innovative, sustainable, and a great place to work.” 

The Municipality of San Juan in La Union, in partnership with GCash, the country’s leading finance super app, is rolling out a digital Fund Disbursement Service and issuing free GCash Visa Cards to ensure faster, safer, and more timely delivery of financial assistance—particularly as the community prepares for the increased financial needs of the holiday season.

For years, beneficiaries in San Juan have relied on manual payout processes that required long queues and in-person verification at crowded disbursement venues, often causing delays during peak periods such as year-end.

San Juan, La Union Mayor Mariquita P. Ortega underscored how the initiative strengthens the LGU’s commitment to efficient public service delivery. “The Municipality of San Juan is committed to modernizing the way we deliver public service, and this initiative with GCash is a major step toward faster and more transparent financial assistance distribution,” she said. “By adopting digital disbursement, we are reducing long queues, eliminating risks associated with manual cash handling, and ensuring that every eligible citizen receives support quickly and securely.”

With GCash as its digital partner, the LGU is now shifting to a streamlined distribution model that reduces wait times and physical movement for both residents and LGU staff. Through the GCash Fund Disbursement Service, financial assistance can be released digitally, allowing beneficiaries to receive support more quickly and with fewer steps using the free GCash Visa Card. The card also enables residents without mobile data, or bank accounts to securely access their aid—making the system especially beneficial during the busy holiday period.

From a tourism and long-term development perspective, Sangguniang Bayan member Mitos Magsaysay, chairman of the Tourism Committee, highlighted how digital payments support both residents and visitors during peak travel months. “As the surfing capital of Northern Luzon, San Juan welcomes both local and international tourists, and digital payment options like GCash make their experience more seamless,” Magsaysay said. “Beyond convenience, this initiative helps improve digital financial literacy among our residents as we prepare for a more technology-driven future and work toward becoming a world-class municipality.”

Emphasizing the partnership as a broader strategy to make public service delivery more inclusive and efficient, GCash vice president and head for public sector Cleo Celeste Santos said, “By providing free GCash Visa Cards and conducting financial literacy sessions, we aim to empower communities with stronger financial tools and knowledge—helping families better manage their finances during the holiday season and beyond.”

GCash assistant vice president for public sector pre-sales Nikki Serquiña added that the initiative also responds to San Juan’s need for reliable and timely financial access. “San Juan, La Union frequently faces strong typhoons, making fast and dependable financial assistance crucial. Through this partnership, residents can receive support quickly, safely, and without unnecessary delays—even during challenging times.”

Residents who have experienced the new system shared how it will make a difference in their daily lives. One beneficiary said, “The GCash Visa Card has been a huge help because we can now receive financial assistance faster, even if we don’t have time to go to the municipal office. From the financial literacy session, I learned how to better manage my budget and use the GCash card for safer transactions better than cash, especially this Christmas and New Year.”

This partnership program aims to benefit key sectors in LGU San Juan – from public and private employees, to vendors and business operators, transport groups, students, and farmers. Through this collaboration, GCash supports San Juan’s transition from manual processes to a more efficient and citizen-centered digital system—helping ensure that financial assistance reaches residents on time, when it matters most.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

Manila, Philippines – Filipino beauty brand Sugar Dolls Inc. PH, in partnership with the Shunammite Ministry Group and JHOW Christian Church, organized a gift-giving drive for more than 300 children from underprivileged communities in San Mateo, Rizal. Guided by the brand’s philosophy of using beauty as a powerful way to give back, the initiative aims the make the kids feel seen, valued, and celebrated during the holiday season.

Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition alumna Ashley Ortega also took part in the gift-giving activity despite her busy schedule. She was joined by fellow celebrities and online influencers Ralph Malibunas, Jan Silva, Mark Cruz, Kate Jalipa, Juliana Villafuerte, Neron Mendiola, and RJ Perkins, who spent time with the children and distributed gifts.

The afternoon program opened with live performances and a clown show that hyped the basketball court with laughter and anticipation. During the gift distribution, smiles spread across every child’s face as more than 760 loot bags and gifts were handed out, along with 300 packed meals.

The event was led by Ms. Chardy Baldoza a.k.a. Cha Canicosa, the event organizer and Marketing Director, in collaboration with Sugar Dolls Inc. PH. The initiative was made possible through the support of the Core Management Team, Ana Lusong, Hazelyn Perez, Carlo Villanueva, Pastor Vhern, and Ms. LA Marquez, whose collective efforts guaranteed the program’s success.

As expected, the charity drive reflected Sugar Dolls’ vision of using beauty as a force for good. By spreading love, joy, and care, especially to children, the brand is committed to strengthen its community ties and inspire kindness beyond the holiday season. As the celebration concluded, what remained was a shared sense of compassion and connection: a reminder that the most beautiful impact is created when a brand chooses to give back.

Last year, Maya, the #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, changed how people looked at saving, literally. With the world’s first ever Savings Calendar featuring Julia Barretto, Maya turned daily interest earnings into something you could see, track, and feel motivated by.

Now, it’s back, and this time, it’s bigger, bolder, and built for every kind of saver.

Introducing Maya’s 2026 Savings Calendar, featuring three of the country’s biggest stars—Julia Barretto, Maris Racal, and Jericho Rosales—each with their own dedicated calendar layout and striking visual identity. Whether you’re inspired by intention, ambition, or living fully in the moment, there’s a calendar that matches your saving style.

Three Stars. Different Ways to Stay Motivated
With Maya’s 2026 Savings Calendar, you can watch your money grow every day as daily interest builds your balance. No complicated math. Just the confidence of knowing your money is working for you, day after day, month after month.

For Jericho Rosales, saving is about experiences. “You can never bring back time,” he shares. “I make it a point to save for exciting things that I’ll always treasure.” For him, saving isn’t about holding back. It’s about being able to say yes to travel, good food, and moments worth remembering.

Julia Barretto represents the thoughtful planner. She believes in thinking purchases through and making sure money never sits idle. “I plan ahead so I can reach my goals and feel financially secure,” she says. The motivation comes from seeing steady progress and knowing each day brings her closer to what she’s building.

Then there’s Maris Racal, the goal-driven saver. From new spaces to new ventures, her savings journey is fueled by ambition and inspiration. “I feel happy and motivated because it’s so easy to see my money grow every day,” she says. That daily visibility turns saving into something intentional, not limiting.

Different priorities, different mindsets, same realization: saving feels better when you can actually see it working.

Why Seeing Your Money Grow Changes Everything
There’s power in visibility. When growth is something you can actually see, saving stops feeling abstract and starts feeling personal.

With up to 15% per annum credited daily, Maya Savings makes progress feel real. No waiting, no guesswork. Just small wins adding up.

Maya also offers tools that make saving feel structured without feeling restrictive. With Maya Personal Goals, you can create up to five goals, whether it’s travel, gadgets, emergency funds, or celebrations, and earn 4% p.a. right away, with the potential to grow your rate up to 8% p.a. There are no lock-ups or penalties. For longer-term commitments, Time Deposit Plus lets you lock in your savings for 3, 6, or 12 months with rates of up to 6% p.a.

It’s not about having a perfect system. It’s about starting, staying consistent, and feeling encouraged along the way. Because once you get used to seeing your money grow every day, saving stops feeling like something you should do. It becomes something you actually want to keep doing.

And just like Echo, Julia, and Maris, no matter what you’re saving for, whether it’s experiences, long-term security, or big personal goals, the point is the same: saving works best when it fits your life and lets you see your progress as it happens.

Get your hands on Maya’s 2026 Savings Calendar once it drops! Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

Latest Swift AI series of thin-and-light laptops showcases sleek new designs, advanced features, and next-generation AI performance

Summary

• The Acer Swift 16 AI is powered by up to Intel Core Ultra X9 Series 3 processors with built-in Intel Arc graphics and upgraded hardware features – featuring the world’s largest haptic touchpad, up to 120 Hz 3K OLED touch displays, and larger keys with per-key backlighting in a sleek 14.9 mm thin chassis.
• Weighing as light as under 1 kg yet with military-grade durability, the Acer Swift Edge 14 AI and Swift Edge 16 AI are powered by up to Intel Core Ultra 9 Series 3 processors and offer up to 3K OLED touch displays and Acer Multi-Control Touchpads for intuitive media and conferencing control. 
• The versatile and performance-driven Acer Swift Go 14 AI and Swift Go 16 AI provide high value in the premium thin and light segment with Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, OLED displays, and AI-enhanced features for everyday productivity.
• All models enable unique Copilot+ PC experiences on Windows 11 and are complemented with a full suite of Acer’s AI tools for enhanced productivity, creativity, and utility.

Acer today introduced its latest Swift AI laptop portfolio, a new generation of Copilot+ PCs on Windows 11 designed to deliver powerful on-device AI capabilities for creators, on-the-go-professionals, and tech-savvy users. The new lineup includes the Swift 16 AI, along with the Swift Edge AI, weighing as light as under 1 kg, and the versatile thin-and-light Swift Go AI in 14- and 16-inch variants. 

Each model in the Swift AI series is purpose-built with cutting-edge hardware and complemented with Acer’s suite of proprietary AI features. These include productivity enhancements like Acer PurifiedVoice, PurifiedView, and User Sensing, while additional tools for AI-enhanced creativity and entertainment can be downloaded via the Acer Intelligence Space hub. The customizable Acer My Key is a programmable hotkey for launching apps, websites, and Windows 11 features with a single press, providing additional convenience.

Acer Swift 16 AI – Premium Performance Meets Precision Design

The Acer Swift 16 AI (SF16-71T) is Acer’s latest flagship AI laptop, crafted from aluminum for users who demand premium performance and refined design. Powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra X9 388H processor with built-in Intel Arc B390 graphics, it is the perfect choice for digital creators to handle computing intensive tasks and large files.

At its center sits the world’s largest haptic touchpad (16:10 aspect ratio, 175.5 mm X 109.7 mm), which supports up to MPP 2.5 stylus input. As a result, the Acer Swift 16 AI gives creators the ability to interact with AI creativity tools by sketching, animating, modeling, and editing directly on the touchpad. It provides precise, satisfying feedback and enhanced durability with less moving parts, and a Corning® Gorilla Glass cover offers sleek protection.  

Its VESA DisplayHDR™ True Black 500 certified 16-inch 3K OLED WQXGA+ touch display with elegant edge-to-edge glass features a 120 Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut to deliver smooth, vivid visuals with accuracy. Audio is powered by dual DTS®:X Ultra speakers with anti-vibration technology, ensuring clear, immersive sound. The FHD IR camera supports secure facial login via Windows Hello.

The Acer Swift 16 AI features a full suite of ports and connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 or above, dual Thunderbolt™ 4 Type-C ports, USB Type-A, HDMI 2.1, and a MicroSD slot. 

Acer Swift Edge AI – Light, Durable, and Capable

The Acer Swift Edge 14 AI (SFE14-I51/T) and Acer Swift Edge 16 AI (SFE16-I51/T) combine striking thin and lightweight designs with MIL-STD 810H U.S. military-grade durability, making them great options for mobile professionals who need ultra-portable devices that do not compromise on performance and battery life. Built with a stainless steel-magnesium alloy chassis, the Swift Edge 14 AI weighs under 1 kg and measures just 13.95 mm, making it one of the lightest AI laptops in its class. 

Both are powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 386H with built-in Intel Graphics, with support for up to 32 GB of LPDDR5x memory and up to 1 TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, ensuring smooth performance and multi-day battery life. 

The models feature up to 3K WQXGA+ OLED touch displays with 120 Hz refresh rates and vibrant color reproduction for immersive visual work and entertainment viewing. The inclusion of Acer’s latest multi-control touchpads allows users to seamlessly manage media, presentations, and conferencing tools. Bulit-in FHD IR cameras with Human Presence Detection enhance security and convenience, while dual DTS:X Ultra speakers with anti-vibration technology produce clear-cut audio. The teleconferencing experience is further enhanced by Acer’s PurifiedVoice technology through AI-aided noise cancelation. The Swift Edge AI models also support Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 and come with vital ports including Thunderbolt™ 4 Type-C, Type-A, and HDMI 2.1. 

Acer Swift Go 14/16 AI – Everyday Versatile AI Performer 

For users who need a balance of performance, portability, and value, the new Acer Swift Go 14 AI (SFG14-I71/T) and Acer Swift Go 16 AI (SFG16-I71/T) offer appealing options with premium features. They are equipped with up to an Intel Core Ultra X9 388H processor with built-in Intel Arc B390 graphics and backed by up to 32 GB of LPDDR5x memory and up to 1 TB of M.2 SSD storage. 

These two Swift Go AI models feature a sleek laser-etched aluminum chassis and ultra-thin designs that open a full 180 degrees. Display options include 2K WUXGA and 3K WQXGA+ OLED touch panels, with wide color gamut support and smooth refresh rates. Their 5M IR cameras with High Dynamic Range and Human Presence Detection Technology enhance video calls and privacy, while dual DTS:X Ultra speakers with anti-vibration technology and Acer Multi-control touchpads round out their user-centric features. Fast connection speeds are ensured thanks to Wi-Fi 7 and up to Bluetooth 6.0, while an array of I/O ports, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB Type-A ports, and HDMI 2.1, provide convenient data transfer. 

As Copilot+ PCs on Windows 11, the Swift AI lineup delivers AI experiences designed to boost productivity and creativity. Powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, these devices unlock unique Copilot+ PC features like Click to Do, enabling quick, context-aware actions based on what’s on your screen – whether it’s text or images – so tasks can be accomplished faster. Beyond these unique experiences, users get the full breadth of Windows 11 intelligence through Copilot on Windows, a personal AI companion. Copilot Voice enables natural, hands-free interaction through advanced speech recognition while Copilot Vision when opted in provides contextual insights by understanding your active applications and screen content, enabling voice-driven navigation and interaction.

Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications, and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Specifications

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs nearly 12,000 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

© 2026 Acer Inc. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Intel, the Intel logo, and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. All offers subject to change without notice or obligation and may not be available through all sales channels. Prices listed are manufacturer suggested retail prices and may vary by location. Applicable sales tax extra.

The Municipality of San Juan in La Union, in partnership with GCash, the country’s leading finance super app, is rolling out a digital Fund Disbursement Service and issuing free GCash Visa Cards to ensure faster, safer, and more timely delivery of financial assistance—particularly as the community prepares for the increased financial needs of the holiday season.

For years, beneficiaries in San Juan have relied on manual payout processes that required long queues and in-person verification at crowded disbursement venues, often causing delays during peak periods such as year-end.

San Juan, La Union Mayor Mariquita P. Ortega underscored how the initiative strengthens the LGU’s commitment to efficient public service delivery. “The Municipality of San Juan is committed to modernizing the way we deliver public service, and this initiative with GCash is a major step toward faster and more transparent financial assistance distribution,” she said. “By adopting digital disbursement, we are reducing long queues, eliminating risks associated with manual cash handling, and ensuring that every eligible citizen receives support quickly and securely.”

With GCash as its digital partner, the LGU is now shifting to a streamlined distribution model that reduces wait times and physical movement for both residents and LGU staff. Through the GCash Fund Disbursement Service, financial assistance can be released digitally, allowing beneficiaries to receive support more quickly and with fewer steps using the free GCash Visa Card. The card also enables residents without mobile data, or bank accounts to securely access their aid—making the system especially beneficial during the busy holiday period.

From a tourism and long-term development perspective, Sangguniang Bayan member Mitos Magsaysay, chairman of the Tourism Committee, highlighted how digital payments support both residents and visitors during peak travel months. “As the surfing capital of Northern Luzon, San Juan welcomes both local and international tourists, and digital payment options like GCash make their experience more seamless,” Magsaysay said. “Beyond convenience, this initiative helps improve digital financial literacy among our residents as we prepare for a more technology-driven future and work toward becoming a world-class municipality.”

Emphasizing the partnership as a broader strategy to make public service delivery more inclusive and efficient, GCash vice president and head for public sector Cleo Celeste Santos said, “By providing free GCash Visa Cards and conducting financial literacy sessions, we aim to empower communities with stronger financial tools and knowledge—helping families better manage their finances during the holiday season and beyond.”

GCash assistant vice president for public sector pre-sales Nikki Serquiña added that the initiative also responds to San Juan’s need for reliable and timely financial access. “San Juan, La Union frequently faces strong typhoons, making fast and dependable financial assistance crucial. Through this partnership, residents can receive support quickly, safely, and without unnecessary delays—even during challenging times.”

Residents who have experienced the new system shared how it will make a difference in their daily lives. One beneficiary said, “The GCash Visa Card has been a huge help because we can now receive financial assistance faster, even if we don’t have time to go to the municipal office. From the financial literacy session, I learned how to better manage my budget and use the GCash card for safer transactions better than cash, especially this Christmas and New Year.”

This partnership program aims to benefit key sectors in LGU San Juan – from public and private employees, to vendors and business operators, transport groups, students, and farmers. Through this collaboration, GCash supports San Juan’s transition from manual processes to a more efficient and citizen-centered digital system—helping ensure that financial assistance reaches residents on time, when it matters most.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

MANILA, Philippines, 07 January 2025 — Grab Philippines honored the country’s top-performing restaurants and retailers at the Golden Grab Awards 2025, recognizing merchants that have set the “Gold Standard” in an increasingly integrated online-to-offline economy.

Top honors for the night went to homegrown milk tea giant Serenitea, which was named GrabFood Merchant of the Year for National Brands, alongside JT’s Manukan Grille, which secured the title for Nationwide Chains, and Oh Mango, which took home the award for Citywide Merchants in Metro Manila.

GrabFood Merchant of the Year for Citywide Merchants in Metro Manila: Oh Mango!

The awards ceremony, attended by hundreds of Grab merchant-partners from across the Philippines, highlighted the evolution of the superapp from an on-demand delivery service into a broader ecosystem that drives growth across both digital and physical storefronts.

This shared trajectory of growth was highlighted by EJ dela Vega, Grab Philippines Head of Deliveries and Chief Commercial Officer, who emphasized the platform’s role as an active, dedicated ally of merchant-partners as they vie for business growth.

“We know that trust is earned day by day, order by order. And the only way we can repay that trust is by remaining steadfast in our commitment to be the unwavering force behind the growth ambition of our merchant-partners,” Dela Vega shared during the Golden Grab Awards night. “Our pledge is simple: to be the partner that ensures when you dream big, you have the tools and the commercial business to achieve it”

GrabFood Merchant of the Year for Nationwide Chains: JT’s Manukan

A defining standard of excellence
The ceremony underscored the importance of consistency and quality across the board.

In the category of GrabFood Quality, Caramia Cakes & Gelato was honored as the Best Rated National Brand, while 24 Chicken was awarded Most Reliable National Brand for its operational efficiency. For GrabMart, Ever Supermarket and Cion’s Meat Shop were recognized as the Most Reliable merchants, ensuring consistent product availability and exceptional customer experience.

The awards also highlighted the “5-Star Eats” winners — top-performing city and community merchants maintaining the highest ratings. The roster included local favorites Mylene’s Ensaymada and Banana Cake, Paya Street Coffee, Quarantea, and CBS Kitchen.

Retail growth leaders were acknowledged as “Category Captains” for GrabMart, with Pet Express (Pets), Watsons (Pharmacies), and Robinsons Supermarket (Supermarkets) recognized as top sales performers setting the standard for excellence.

Innovation in marketing was also a key focus. Southstar Drug and Davao Central Convenience Store were named Adoption Leaders for effectively maximizing Grab Marketing Solutions. Meanwhile, McDonald’s was awarded the Data-Driven Impact Trailblazer for its precision campaigns, and Chowking took home the Loyalty Innovation Trailblazer award.

Setting the Gold Standard forward
The event also spotlighted the industry’s shift toward “hybrid” dining. JT’s Manukan Grille, Zhenbao Hotpot, and Feta Mediterranean were recognized as Best Dine-Out Merchants for maximizing deals to drive foot traffic.

Greg Camacho, Director for Off-Platform Solutions, emphasized that the future lies in ensuring a gold-standard experience for consumers – whether in-app or in physical stores. “Together, we are changing what it means to be a Grab merchant. Together, we are redefining what it means to be an omnichannel enterprise that’s fully capable of growing sales through both online and offline channels. Together, we are rewriting the playbook on how to win in an ever-evolving F&B industry.”

#