Pru Life UK introduces PRULove Wealth Direct, the first single-pay traditional endowment life insurance product available for online purchase in the market. This innovation reflects the company’s mission to making financial solutions simpler and more accessible for Filipinos, addressing their needs for financial returns and protection.

Available exclusively via PRUShoppe.com, the new product can be purchased online without the need for medical examinations or physical paperwork. It features guaranteed net annual cash payouts equal to 4% of the single premium for seven years along with a full return of premium at the end of the seven-year term plus 125% of the single premium as life insurance coverage. Loanable cash values also allow policyholders to access their funds for emergencies or major expenses.

“PRULove Wealth Direct opens doors for individuals who wish to secure their future but face barriers like limited time, restricted access, or insufficient resources,” said Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer at Pru Life UK. “It is a straightforward solution that enables more Filipinos to make most out of life and prepare for key milestones—through a seamless online purchase experience.”

“This streamlined digital process is designed to empower consumers with direct access to life insurance—particularly those looking for services beyond traditional financial channels, and those seeking alternative tools that offer growth and protection,” Dee added.

With just a one-time payment, policyholders can receive guaranteed payouts comparable to high-yield time deposits. The product serves as an alternative to traditional savings, with the added advantage of a safety net through life insurance.

The launch of PRULove Wealth Direct comes at a pivotal moment in the Philippine life insurance industry as it continues to evolve through digital innovation. As more Filipinos seek flexible, accessible ways to secure their financial future, Pru Life UK is responding with solutions to help them pursue their passions and prepare for life’s milestones—for every life, for every future.

For more details, please visit PRUShoppe.com and refer to the respective product terms and conditions.

The Manila Water enterprise continues to lead the way in sustainable energy adoption as it transitions fifty-six (56) additional facilities to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP)

The 56 facilities consist of 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, 45 facilities of Estate Water covering Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Metro Manila, and Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark which stands as the first and largest ecopark to be powered entirely by renewable energy under RAP, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable operations and innovative energy solutions. Altogether, the transition represents a total demand of 1,682 kW.
This milestone was marked with another RAP switching ceremony held at the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City, which is the 4th switching for Manila Water this year.
“Manila Water’s participation in RAP demonstrates its commitment to innovation and consumer empowerment. By aggregating demand and leveraging competitive supply options, Manila Water is helping pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient energy sector. At the ERC, our mandate is clear: to promote consumer welfare while ensuring a fair and competitive energy market and RAP is a key component of this vision.” said ERC Director for Market Operations Service Sharon Montaner.
“Since Manila Water’s first switching in February 2025, RAP participation has grown by 70%, a rate faster than RCOA, reflecting greater inclusivity and freedom of choice”, Director Montaner further noted.

The event was also graced by ERC Chair Francis Saturnino Juan, MWSS Corporate Office Department Manager for Policy, Planning, and Public Relations Christian Nicole Baluca, MWSS-RO Legal Affairs Department Manager Crescenciano Minas Jr., PrimElectric Holdings Chief Operating Officer Richard Nethercott, IEMOP Vice President for Administration Sheryll Dy, MERALCO AVP and Head of Enterprise Commercial and Conglomerates Bernice Rama and representatives from the Climate Change and Sustainability Department of the Quezon City Local Government.

With these developments, Manila Water now sources electricity for a total of 214 facilities, representing an aggregated demand of 11 MW. Under the enhanced RAP framework, these facilities are supplied by PrimeRES Energy through Meralco’s distribution network.
“This is all about the power of choice. We have 214 facilities switched now to RAP… and that’s very powerful because at the end of the day, we are held as a utility accountable to the costs that we charge our customers. We’ve tried to rethink our approach towards tariff and our customer base and really be as sufficient as possible,” says Jocot De Dios, Manila Water President and CEO.

Earlier this year, Manila Water pioneered the country’s first transition to the enhanced Retail Aggregation Program, consolidating ten (10) of its wastewater facilities under a single electricity sourcing. This marked a significant step in leveraging the RAP framework to streamline energy procurement and reduce costs.
Building on this momentum, the Company expanded its aggregation efforts through its operating units. In April, Laguna Aquatech facilitated the switch of 25 facilities, representing a combined demand of 900 kW. Additionally, Laguna Water transitioned 67 more facilities, contributing a substantial 4.3 MW to the total aggregated demand.

In May, Boracay Water made history as the first utility in the Visayas region to adopt RAP. Its switch included 11 facilities, ranging from water treatment plants and pumping stations to wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations, further highlighting the adaptability of RAP across diverse operational setups.

Under the enhanced Retail Aggregation Program (RAP) framework, consumers like Manila Water are now able to group the electricity requirements of its facilities located within the same distribution utility franchise areas. This approach strengthens the principle of consumer choice and opens the door to more cost-effective energy options available in the retail electricity market which is one of the core mandates of the EPIRA.

The Manila Water enterprise continues to lead the way in sustainable energy adoption as it transitions fifty-six (56) additional facilities to the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP).

The 56 facilities consist of 10 additional facilities from Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit Laguna Water, 45 facilities of Estate Water covering Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Metro Manila, and Manila Water Foundation’s La Mesa Ecopark.

Manila, Philippines, October 14, 2025 – Global AI device ecosystem company HONOR Philippines today announced the launch of its all-new HONOR X7d, the latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up for as low as Php 7,299! Get it during pre-order period until October 24, 2025 and get a FREE HONOR Camping Light Speaker worth Php 4,999. Head on to your nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores.

“The HONOR X7d represents HONOR’s dedication to providing practical, feature-rich smartphones catering to the needs of budget-conscious consumers who still desire AI interaction in their mobile devices. Setting a benchmark as a powerful budget phone with enhanced durability and brand-new AI experience in the market, the HONOR X7d brings 5-star Premium Drop Protection, IP65 Water Resistance, a robust 6500mAh Dual-cell Battery, 108MP Ultra-Clear Main Camera and stunning Instant AI Button,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Exceptional Durability with All-around Protections

Positioned as a durable entry-level phone, the latest HONOR X7d showcases comprehensive drop protection with prestigious SGS Premium Performance Certification of Drop & Crush Resistance, offering impressive resistance to drops from heights of up to 1.8 meters.  The corners reinforced by Rhinoceros-like structure Bulletproof Vests Design, Cushioning and Fall Protection Architecture and Decentralized Force Design safeguards the phones from different daily impacts.

Equipped with an IP65 Water Resistance, the HONOR X7d’s robust design is further enhanced, making it not afraid of washing, rinsing and water spray. This device has been tested to function after being submerged in water for up to 1 minute at a depth of 0.5 meter, making it a dependable companion in various settings and situations. Meanwhile, with the Wet-hand Touch Enhancement, users can also have smooth experience even with wet or greasy fingers.

Exceptional Battery with Enhanced Safety&Strength

Equipped with a large 6500mAh Battery, the HONOR X7d provides price-level biggest battery life, offering all-day lasting and 5 years Super Durable. The Double-cell Battery Structure design offers longer lasting, faster charging as well as a stronger and safer structure. With multi-point temperature monitoring, the battery performs well in temperatures from -20°C to 55°C, which allows it to work perfectly in the harshest conditions from blizzards to deserts. Additionally. The 35W wired HONOR SuperCharge8 rapidly revives the battery for extended usage.

Practical AI Button for All New AI Experience

As the first smartphone in its class to feature AI Button, the HONOR X7d offers brand-new AI interaction through this subtle design. Simply put, the AI button has two ways to interact which correspond to different functions. With a single click, users can open APP which they customize or perform background cleaning and speeding up, while with a long press, users can activate functions like AI Translation and AI Creation, delivering a truly personalized and seamless user experience.

Additionally, powered by the latest MagicOS 9.0 based on Android 15, the HONOR X7d carries various other intelligence features including Magic Capsule, Magic Portal, Circle to search and Google Gemini Assistant, offering AI Editing functions including AI Outpainting, Al Upscale, AI Cutout and so on, making it the best partner for work and life.

AI-powered Smartphone Photography Experience

Equipped with a 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera, the HONOR X7d captures images with exceptional details and enhanced brightness, empowering users to have the best photography experience even at night. With 3x Lossless Zoom and three distinct portrait modes – 1x Environmental Portrait, 2x Atmospheric Portrait, and 3x Close-up Portrait – users can create stunning portrait shots with diverse focal lengths. Furthermore, the HONOR X7d integrates AI photography features like HONOR AI Eraser, AI Remove Reflection and AI Style, improving image quality and promoting users’ photo editing experience on smartphones.

Generous Storage Saving All Precious Memories

The HONOR X7d comes equipped with 512 GB large internal storage at most providing ample space for years of precious memories. This power efficiency is complemented by HONOR’s innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual). It ensures smooth performance even after extended use, allowing users to multitask and switch between apps effortlessly.

Pricing and Availability
Catering to users’ diverse style preferences, the HONOR X7d is available in 3 captivating colorways: Desert Gold, Ocean Cyan, and Velvet Black. Starting from October 14 to 24, 2025, you can pre-order the HONOR X7d (512GB Variant) for only Php 9,999 to get a FREE HONOR Camping Light Speaker worth Php 4,999 at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores.

HONOR X7d (256GB Variant) will also be available exclusively online for only Php 7,299: Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7d_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7d_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7d_PR).
For more information about the HONOR X7d, you may visit: https://bit.ly/WEB_X7d_PR. Stay updated by visiting www.hihonor.com or following HONOR’s official social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To explore HONOR’s full list of retail stores, visit https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Manila, Philippines, October 13, 2025 – Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is all set for the arrival of its newest viral smartphone HONOR X7d! In anticipation of the launch, it entices HONOR fans to watch its launch live on Facebook on October 14, 6PM to win a brand-new HONOR X7d: https://bit.ly/X7dLaunch_FB.

About the HONOR X7d

Setting a benchmark as a powerful budget phone with enhanced durability and brand-new AI experience in the market, the HONOR X7d brings 5-star Premium Drop Protection, IP65 Water Resistance, a robust 6500mAh Dual-cell Battery, 108MP Ultra-Clear Main Camera and stunning Instant AI Button.

Don’t miss the arrival of HONOR X7d on October 14! More exciting updates about this latest HONOR device will be revealed in the coming days. Stay updated by visiting www.hihonor.com or following HONOR’s official social media platforms: Facebook (@HonorPhilippines), Instagram (@honorph), and TikTok (@honorphilippines). To explore HONOR’s full list of retail stores, visit https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

AXA global executives highlighted the Philippines’ strong growth potential during their visit in the country, citing its expanding economy and young population’s rising demand for insurance and financial services.

Manila, Philippines, October 8, 2025 – AXA, a worldwide leader in insurance, reaffirmed its commitment to the Philippines as a key growth market during the recent visit of its global leadership team. AXA Group Chief Executive Officer Thomas Buberl and AXA International Markets Chief Executive Officer Hassan El-Shabrawishi emphasized the country’s strong potential, citing its growing economy of about 5% per year that is driven by strong domestic demand from a growing yet fragile middle class, its young and dynamic population, and increasing demand for protection and financial solutions. They noted that these factors make the Philippines both a vital market for AXA’s global strategy and a hub of innovation and resilience.

The executives also reinforced AXA’s strong partnership with Metrobank, which anchors the company’s presence in the Philippines. The companies’ long-standing joint venture for over 25 years has pioneered bancassurance in the country, expanded digital channels for easier policy access, and integrated financial education closer to Filipino families and businesses. This partnership continues to amplify access to financial protection while pairing it with risk-reduction education to promote more inclusive economic growth.

During their visit, Buberl and El-Shabrawishi emphasized AXA’s mission to provide inclusive, future-ready protection solutions tailored to Filipino households, businesses, and communities. By combining the Group’s global expertise with its strong local presence, AXA aims to deliver solutions that address the country’s unique risks, helping future-proof the lives of Filipinos to ensure economic and financial progress for the long-term—from vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters to reliable safety nets for evolving health and financial challenges.

“Insurance today must go beyond protection after the fact. Our goal is to help communities anticipate risks, prepare for them, and recover more quickly,” said Thomas Buberl, CEO of AXA Group. “The Philippines plays an important role in this vision. If risk preparedness and recovery can be strengthened here, it can serve as a model for other high-risk regions across the globe.”

Hassan El-Shabrawishi highlighted the Philippines as a vital testbed for AXA’s inclusive protection initiatives. “We are committed to scaling access to insurance for underserved groups such as MSMEs, informal workers, and vulnerable households,” he said. “Through AXA EssentiALL, our global inclusive insurance program, we are creating affordable, practical solutions that support financial resilience for millions of families.”

Beyond specific programs, AXA illustrates this commitment by prioritizing financial literacy, enabling digital access, and conducting resilience-building initiatives. In the Philippines, these efforts help families gain a better understanding and appreciation of how insurance can help them navigate life’s uncertainties, making protection a standard part of Filipinos’ everyday lives.

With a focus on deepening partnerships, driving a prevention-first mindset and shifting to more inclusive insurance into general protection benchmarks, the executives’ visit reflects AXA’s broader strategic direction of positioning insurance as an essential societal infrastructure.

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ABOUT AXA PHILIPPINES 

Established in 1999, AXA Philippines is one of the largest insurance companies in the country. It offers financial security to over a million individuals through its group and individual life insurance as well as general insurance products. 

AXA Philippines is one of the first to introduce bancassurance operations in the country and is among the pioneers in the investment-linked insurance sector. 

AXA Philippines is a joint venture between the AXA Group, headquartered in France, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. (GT Capital), a leading listed conglomerate in the Philippines, and Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company (Metrobank), one of the Philippines’ largest financial institutions. It is duly recognized by the Insurance Commission and has license to operate and engage in life and general insurance business under License No. 2025/14-R. 

For more information on AXA Philippines and their products, visit their website at www.axa.com.ph.
  
FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

Media Relations:                                            

Rochelle Rivera                         
rochelle.rivera@axa.com.ph

Abbie Remo
Abbie.remo@axa.com.ph

Filipino singer-songwriter Jolianne reunites with chart-topping R&B star Arthur Nery on their collaborative single “Palayo Sa Mundo”—released under Sony Music Entertainment. The smooth yet soulful pop track paints a picture of romantic love that is strong enough to make the world wait.

Marking their second collaboration following “Lullaby,” from Arthur Nery’s 2024 album, II: The Second, “Palayo Sa Mundo” finds the two Bisaya artists seamlessly blending their voices in a tender duet that feels both effortlessly captivating and intimate.

“Working with Arthur came so naturally,” Jolianne shares. “For one, we’re both Bisaya, so that was an effortless connection. Musically, we also speak the same language. We share a lot of the same influences, and we’re both deeply rooted in R&B.”

Written during a songwriting camp with producer Luke April (James Reid, Playertwo), the song evolved from an English concept titled “The World Can Wait” into an emotionally arresting Tagalog piece that pays homage to classic OPM romance.

“Arthur is a real poet,” the rising newcomer recalls. “And he wrote the song so quickly. It felt like a masterclass watching him in his element.”

Arthur Nery reveals that the song wasn’t intentionally written as a love song at first. “Joli wanted a track about self-reflection or identity crisis,” he shares. “The direction of the song changed after I wrote the first two lines. While Luke let us listen to his guitar sample and production, I wrote and arranged the lyrics freely and we just let the song take us to where it is now. It was a fun experience.”

For what it is, “Palayo Sa Mundo” reflects on the bittersweet nature of love that persists even when fate intervenes.

“This song is about that bittersweet feeling of loving somebody you know loves you too,” Jolianne explains. “But sometimes fate has its own plans, and things don’t turn out as we hope. Still, love in its purest form is worth offering, because love isn’t about guarantees. It’s, I love you because I do, not because I expect it back.”

The track’s stripped-down but warm arrangements highlight the duo’s vocal chemistry while retaining the melodic pop appeal of the material.

Jolianne adds, “We paid homage to ‘Lullaby’ by going the acoustic pop route. We wanted something that felt intimate and timeless. When Arthur and I sing together, it’s never a sing-off; it’s a duet.”

Jolianne and Arthur Nery’s “Palayo Sa Mundo” is out now on all digital music platforms via Sony Music Entertainment.

About Sony Music Entertainment

At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, and even history. And we’ve played a pioneering role in music history, from establishing the first-ever music label to inventing the flat disc record. We’ve nurtured some of music’s most iconic artists and produced some of the most influential recordings of all time. Today, we work in more than 100 countries, supporting a diverse and distinctive roster of talented creators at every level and on every stage. Situated at the intersection of music, entertainment, and technology, we bring imagination and expertise to emerging products and platforms, embrace new business models, and employ breakthrough tools—all to support the creative community’s experimentation, risk-taking, and growth. And we form deep, trusted, cause-based partnerships to uplift and empower communities around the world. Sony Music Entertainment is part of the global Sony family.

MANILA, Philippines — October 7, 2025 — Bossjob, the chat-first, AI-powered career platform, continues its strong growth trajectory across Southeast Asia and beyond, powered by steady user expansion, breakthrough product innovations, and new employer partnerships that reinforce its role as a trusted hiring platform for the future of work.

From January to August 2025, Bossjob achieved remarkable global adoption, generating more than 1.7 million monthly chats between job seekers and employers. This surge in engagement highlights the success of its AI-driven, chat-first hiring model, which provides faster, smarter, and more efficient talent matching.

“Our vision has always been to make hiring seamless for both talents and employers. These milestones show that Bossjob is not only growing steadily but also transforming the way recruitment works across markets,” said Kiat How Quak, Co-Founder of Bossjob.

Driving Product Innovation
Central to this momentum is BossAI, now fully integrated into the Employer Dashboard. The tool consolidates resumes, applies AI-powered suitability analysis, and introduces new collaboration features, such as team notes—giving employers sharper insights and faster decision-making capabilities.

Bossjob also improved its onboarding process, driving resume completion rates up to 86% through A/B testing. Enhanced job recommendations and upcoming UI and copy refinements are set to create an even more intuitive experience for job seekers and higher conversion rates for employers.

Philippine Growth: A Core Driver
The Philippines remains at the heart of Bossjob’s growth. From January to August 2025, the platform’s registered talents increased from 4.16 million to 5.20 million (+25%), while employer accounts grew from 67,000 to 81,000.

This expansion has been strengthened by deeper collaborations with PESO Biñan, PESO San Jose del Monte, PESO Pasay, and partner schools, including Trimex Colleges, University of Rizal System, Philippine Women’s University, and Adamson University. These partnerships are expected to grow even further as part of Bossjob’s continuing commitment to preparing the Filipino workforce for success and generating employment opportunities nationwide.

Trusted by leading employers such as INGCO PH, Good Eats by SSI, Jeeves Manila, and TDCX, Bossjob’s value continues to grow as it further equips businesses across various industries. In recent months, high-profile brands Gongcha Philippines Inc. and Fruitas Group Inc. also joined its growing roster of employer partners, underscoring Bossjob’s reputation as a platform of choice.

Building the Future of Work
By bridging innovation with impact, Bossjob is building a future-ready ecosystem where technology, employers, and talents converge. The platform’s continuous growth across markets reflects not just business success but also its role in uplifting lives, empowering job seekers, and enabling companies to thrive with the right talent.

“Find Job. Talk to Boss.” — Bossjob continues to reshape recruitment: fast, direct, and impactful.

To learn more about Bossjob’s latest updates and explore career opportunities, visit Bossjob.ph or download the app here: Bossjob App.

Some days just call for something extra — and after long hours, endless deadlines, or that long-awaited sweldo, you #SUPERDESERVE a meal that delivers the best of everything you crave. With the Jollibee Super Meals, you no longer have to choose between Jollibee favorites because it’s got them all in one special plate.

The lineup includes:
 Super Meal A: 1-pc. Chickenjoy, Burger Steak, Half Jolly Spaghetti, Rice and Drink
 Super Meal B: 1-pc. Chickenjoy, Half Jolly Spaghetti, Fries and Drink
 Super Meal C: Yumburger, Half Jolly Spaghetti, Fries and Drink
Each option brings together classic Jollibee dishes in one rewarding meal— making it easy to celebrate and treat yourself to something special without having to choose.

It’s the reward that hits every craving while giving you big servings and big value, making it the well-deserved treat-yourself meal for paydays, celebrations, achievements, or extra-gutom days.
“We want all Filipinos to celebrate their wins and achievements in life, whether big or small—with Jollibee to be part of that joyful experience. With Super Meals, you get a rewarding meal, bringing together Jollibee’s best-tasting favorites in one hearty, special plate. It’s a bundle made for everyday indulgence and joyful moments alike,” said Luis Berba, Assistant Vice President of Jollibee Philippines.

So, the next time you’re asking yourself, “Which Jollibee favorite should I treat myself with, in celebration of today’s big win?” — don’t stress. The answer is you #SUPERDESERVE all of them, in the Jollibee Super Meals!

The Jollibee Super Meals is available nationwide in all Jollibee stores for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. Order now through the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, or foodpanda, and give yourself the super treat you #SUPERDESERVE.

From exclusive deals to interactive activations, SM Beauty is the one-stop shop where beauty meets excitement. This month, three powerhouse local brands, namely Ever Bilena, Careline, and Spotlight, take center stage with unique concepts designed to delight beauty enthusiasts nationwide.

A sweet escape at the Ever Bilena Beauty Bakery

Indulge your senses at the Ever Bilena Beauty Bakery, where beauty looks as tempting as a box of treats. Shoppers can enjoy irresistible bundles such as The Sweet Deal – 3 items for only ₱499, Mid-Tier Indulgence – 4 items for just ₱599, or The Ultimate Confectionery – 8 items for only ₱999.

And here’s the cherry on top: every purchase that includes an EB Plus Tinted Lip Oil comes with a complimentary Pond Naravit poster, a must-have collectible for fans. The Beauty Bakery experience will be open until September 30 at SM Manila, SM Calamba, and SM Cebu Department Stores.

Fill it up with Careline’s Beauty Tank
With beauty experiences getting more creative than ever, there’s one activation that’s sure to catch the eye of Gen Z shoppers. Careline is turning up the fun with its Beauty Tank: Fill to the Max activation, designed especially for young beauty lovers. For only ₱999, customers can load their pouch with products valued at up to ₱5,000. To add sparkle to the experience, every Canva Pot purchase comes with free bedazzling, while shoppers who collect three Canva Pots will also take home a stylish silver pouch.

This activation runs until September 30 at SM Megamall, SM Bicutan, and SM J Mall Department Stores.
Feast at the Spotlight Beauty Buffet
Exploring new makeup finds can be just as exciting as discovering a fresh look. This September, Spotlight is offering beauty fans the chance to do both with its Beauty Buffet.

For just ₱999, shoppers can pick out eight of their favorite Spotlight products from a wide array of essentials, perfect for restocking or experimenting with something different. To sweeten the experience, exclusive freebies await, making this buffet as rewarding as it is fun. The Spotlight Beauty Buffet runs until September 30 at SM Marikina and SM Consolacion Department Stores.

A month of beauty you’ll love
This September, SM Beauty redefines the beauty shopping experience with activations that are as fun as they are rewarding. From Ever Bilena’s sweet-inspired bundles to Careline’s pouch-filling challenge and Spotlight’s indulgent beauty buffet, every visit promises something new to discover. Whether you’re drawn to bold experiments or simply revisiting trusted makeup favorites, these activations make beauty feel fresh, lighthearted, and worth savoring.

Head to your nearest SM Beauty and join the fun, because beauty is always better at SM!