For coffee lovers, mornings are sacred, and at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan, that daily ritual now comes with an exciting reward and rewarding twist. Following the success of Morning Beats and Brews, SM brings back the spotlight on café culture with the Sip&Win Promo, a campaign created for those who see coffee not just as a beverage, but as part of their lifestyle.
From handcrafted brews to comforting everyday favorites, every coffee break now comes with the chance to win. Shoppers earn one (1) e-raffle entry for every ₱500 worth of single or accumulated purchases from participating tenants. Each sip brings you closer to winning a Suzuki S-Presso GL MT, turning ordinary coffee runs into something truly memorable.
Running until April 10, the Sip & Win Promo invites caffeine enthusiasts to slow down, discover new café favorites, and enjoy the vibrant coffee scene across SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Whether you prefer a bold espresso, a creamy latte, or an iced pick-me-up, your coffee moments could lead to a rewarding surprise. Because at SM, coffee is more than part of your routine. It is an experience worth savoring and celebrating. Visit SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan today!
If there’s one thing quietly taking over 2026 vision boards, it’s travel. The kind that comes with stamped passports, airport selfies, and stories you’ll retell for years. But before the dream trip comes the real challenge: packing without the panic. The fear of forgetting something important or bringing too much is real. Good news: SM just made packing feel less like a chore and more like part of the adventure.
Here is a smarter, stress-free way to pack, curated with travel essentials you can easily find at SM.
Keep Your Must-Haves Organized
Your trip does not begin without documents. Passport, visa, boarding pass, travel insurance, and accommodation details should be kept together. A water-resistant envelope from SM Stationery or National Bookstore keeps everything safe, organized, and easy to reach. Bonus points if you save digital copies on your phone too.
Comfort Is the Real Luxury
Long flights can be unforgiving. A flexible travel pillow from Miniso helps prevent stiff necks and awkward sleeping positions. Add an eye mask and suddenly economy seating feels a little more first class.
Mix, Match, Repeat
Overpacking is the fastest way to excess baggage fees. The trick is choosing clothes that work together. Think classic jeans from Levi’s paired with a white top from Uniqlo. Stick to basics, bring extra innerwear in neutral colors, and leave space for shopping finds.
One Shoe Rule
Wear your most versatile pair on travel day. Neutral sneakers from Hush Puppies work with almost any outfit. Pack lightweight slippers from Havaianas for beach days, hotel walks, or quick errands.
Downsize Your Toiletries
Everything should be travel-size. Transfer your essentials into compact containers from Beabi. Shampoo, skincare, hygiene items, and grooming tools all fit better when they are streamlined and leak-proof.
Skincare and Makeup, But Smarter
Looking good helps you feel confident on the go. Sunscreen and lip balm from Watsons are musts. Add lightweight makeup essentials like skin tint, blush, and setting spray for quick touch-ups without the heavy kit.
Always Be Weather-Ready
Rain or shine, a foldable umbrella from The SM Store belongs in your bag. It is one of those items you never regret bringing.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Pack basic medicines for headaches, motion sickness, allergies, and stomach issues. A small first-aid kit from Watsons can be a trip saver when emergencies pop up.
Power Up Anywhere
Different countries mean different sockets. A universal adapter from Ace Hardware solves that problem instantly. Add a power bank, extra cables, and a mini fan so your devices and your patience never run out.
Pack It All in Style
All these essentials deserve luggage that looks good and lasts long. Find sturdy, aesthetic options at The SM Store in SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela.
Packing does not have to feel overwhelming. With thoughtful choices and reliable essentials from SM, you can focus less on what you forgot and more on the experience waiting for you. For more travel inspiration and practical tips, follow SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram.
Food lovers in Antipolo have more reasons to linger, explore, and indulge as SM Center Antipolo Downtown welcomes three exciting new food tenants, each offering a distinct experience that turns everyday mall visits into flavorful adventures.
From artisanal coffee with a playful twist to beloved Filipino favorites hot off the grill and oven, these new dining spots invite everyone to eat, sip, and savor.
At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, foodies can explore a mix of flavors and experiences, from Block Coffee on the 2nd Level, a quirky tuktuk-inspired café serving bold espressos, creamy lattes, and refreshing iced drinks, to Bacolod Chicken Inasal on the Ground Level, offering smoky, juicy, flame-grilled chicken and Negrense cuisine that’s perfect for family meals or quick comfort food, and Bulawan Panaderya, a local-style bakery filling the mall with the aroma of freshly baked breads and pastries ideal for merienda, pasalubong, or simple everyday treats.
With the arrival of Block Coffee, Bacolod Chicken Inasal, and Bulawan Panaderya, SM Center Antipolo Downtown continues to grow as a must-visit food destination in the Antipolo City. Together, these new spots add more flavor to every mall visit.
Drop by, explore these new eats, and make your next mall visit a delicious discovery. Come hungry, take your time, and enjoy every stop at SM Center Antipolo Downtown.
(L-R) Mynt group head of new businesses Winsley Bangit, Oona Insurance Corporation founder and CEO Abhisek Bhatia, Fuse Financing Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro, and Oona Insurance Corporation president Ninoy Rollan
Fuse Financing Inc. (Fuse), the lending arm of GCash, is now giving free insurance coverage to GLoan borrowers with GLoan Protect. Available for a limited time, this newest feature provides borrowers with free loan and health insurance for every GLoan disbursement worth a minimum of P500, underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation. This free insurance will waive pending loan balance in case of sudden customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, and provide resources to recover from medical emergencies.
Life and health emergencies can strike unexpectedly. For many Filipinos, sudden medical expenses or unexpected urgent costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Hospitalization and medical costs often result in heavy debt, while the lack of insurance leaves families with limited options to recover financially.
“Oftentimes, Filipinos don’t think of insurance until it’s too late,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash. “With the free insurance, we’re making sure that every time someone gets a GLoan, they also get a safety net. It’s our way of helping users feel more secure and protected without them having to spend extra.”
By integrating protection into GLoan, GCash—through Fuse and GInsure, the digital insurance platform of GCash with inclusive insurance products across 11 categories including health, life, accident, travel, vehicle, and more —offers borrowers added peace of mind and a safety net against life’s uncertainties.
Under GLoan Protect, the free health insurance covers a hospitalization allowance given to all eligible users who avail of a GLoan worth a minimum amount of P500 moving forward. Users can claim a minimum of P500 or up to 10% of the total loan value when they get confined in the hospital for a minimum stay of 3 days.
The loan insurance benefit is automatically activated once a customer receives their loan proceeds from GLoan, and coverage remains constant and valid until the end of the loan term even when the customer fully pays off their loan earlier than the loan’s due date. In case of customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, beneficiaries will receive the remaining loan value, and the remaining balance will be waived and settled.
The policy will automatically appear in the GInsure dashboard, making the process simple and familiar for borrowers. Claims can be filed through the same steps used for other GInsure products.
“We see this synergy between Fuse and GInsure as part of our mission to reimagine what finance can do for every Filipino,” said Winsley Bangit, group head of new businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “By combining credit and insurance on a single service, we’re pushing the boundaries of digital innovation to give Filipinos not just access to funding, but also the protection they deserve. It’s another step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”
GCash made this initiative possible in partnership with Oona Insurance Corporation, a wholly-owned company by Oona Philippines Holdings Corporation (OPHC), actively expanding into health and digital-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Through this partnership, GCash is bringing essential protection to more Filipinos by integrating coverage directly into its widely used digital services.
“Our mission at Oona is to make protection part of everyday life, not something out of reach. Partnering with Fuse and GCash shows how insurance can be embedded seamlessly into the financial services people already use, from borrowing to everyday transactions. By making coverage automatic and effortless, we take an important step toward closing the protection gap and ensuring more Filipinos have the security to move forward with confidence.” said Abhishek Bhatia, founder and CEO of Oona Insurance.
This added benefit strengthens GLoan’s role as more than just a lending option. It becomes a tool that provides quick access to funds and supports Filipinos in building resilience against emergencies.
“This is about giving our users peace of mind,” Isidro said. “When someone takes out a loan, they’re usually thinking about solving an immediate need. By adding free insurance, we’re also helping them prepare for the unexpected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting families from unforeseen circumstances,” Isidro concluded.
Through this enhanced offering, GCash continues to push its mission of financial inclusion — ensuring more Filipinos have access to services that can improve their financial security in both the short and long term.
GLoan Protect is now available to new GLoan transactions for a limited time starting on January 16 until March 31, 2026. Borrowers should be Filipino citizens, aged 21-65, fully-verified GCash users with a minimum loan approved and disbursed amount of PHP 500, and at least one month loan tenor.
For more information about GLoan and its free insurance benefit, please visit https://help.gcash.com.
A go-to spot for food trips and everyday gala, SM City Masinag continues to be the most-preferred food destination in lower Antipolo, now made even better with new dining additions that fit every kind of mall visit. From quick sweet treats to satisfying comfort meals, these new spots give you more reasons to stay longer and enjoy the day.
Perfect for sweet cravings on the go, Conti’s arrives at SM City Masinag, offering its well-loved cakes and pastries. Whether you’re picking up a dessert for home or rewarding yourself mid-gala, it’s an easy stop for classic Conti’s favorites—no sit-down required.
For casual dining that works for any kind of catch-up, Shakey’s serves its iconic pizzas, mojos, and comfort food staples. It’s ideal for barkada hangouts, family meals, or a relaxed break between errands while you continue exploring the mall.
Adding a fun local favorite is Taho Story, a kiosk that puts a playful spin on the Filipino classic. Enjoy soft taho paired with ice cream and other sweet toppings—perfect for a quick merienda or a light treat while strolling around the mall.
Rounding out the lineup is Kyu Kyu Ramen 99, serving warm and satisfying Japanese bowls with rich flavors. It’s a great stop when you’re craving something filling before heading back out to continue your gala.
With these new food stops, SM City Masinag reinforces its position as a vibrant dining hub in lower Antipolo—where shoppers can enjoy a mix of sit-down meals and on-the-go treats. Head to SM City Masinag and discover new food favorites on your next gala.
Las Vegas, January 6, 2026 — TCL, a global leader in consumer electronics and the world’s No. 1 Mini LED and ultra-large TV brand, today unveils a new generation of visual technology breakthroughs and AI-powered products at CES 2026. This year, TCL introduces a series of world-first display panels, display technologies, and products, along with a full portfolio of intelligent devices designed to elevate smart living, immersive entertainment, and productivity.
A Glimpse into the Future of Displays
TCL continues to push the boundaries of display technologies that span all screen sizes, from large to small. At its CES 2026 showcase, TCL marks the global debut of its SQD-Mini LED Technology, representing a revolutionary leap in Mini LED performance. By transforming the local dimming zone of conventional Mini LEDs into Precise Dimming Series, it enables precise light control across the entire screen and delivers exceptional performance in both highlights and shadows. It also incorporates TCL’s industry-leading Super QLED technology and an Ultra Color Filter Panel, achieving a longer service life, better color performance, and higher peak brightness. Furthermore, it offers a more stable global high color gamut, more precise light control, and a more refined appearance.
Also showcased is the world’s first TV powered by SQD-Mini LED technology – the TCL X11L. The TV achieves up to 100% BT.2020 All-Scene Wide Color Gamut and features CSOT’s WHVA 2.0 Ultra Panel for better color performance, higher native contrast and sharper picture quality. With up to 20,736 precise dimming zones and up to 10,000 nits, HDR content appears vivid and lifelike on this TV. The X11L also stands out with a sleek, nearly 2 cm-thinner and Virtually ZeroBorder design. For audio, it features Audio by Bang & Olufsen, offering a premium sound experience.
TCL’s collaborations with Gemini integration for Google TV and Dolby Vision 2 brings exciting upgrades to display experiences at CES 2026. Building on last year’s debut of the first “Always On” Google TV with Gemini, this year’s models will add even more intuitive ways to interact with your TV, including enhanced Google Photos search, new creative features with Nano Banana and Veo, and more. TCL also demonstrated Dolby Vision 2, the next generation of Dolby Vision, designed to deliver exceptional visual experiences through Content Intelligence, cinematic detail, and viewing environment awareness. Dolby Vision 2 is planned to be rolled out to TCL’s X and C TV lineups in 2026 via OTA updates.
In eye-care technology, the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro smartphone, powered by NXTPAPER 4.0, delivers all-day eye comfort across all scenarios to ease eye strain in today’s fast-paced digital environment. It’s dedicated NXTPAPER Key enables seamless switching between three distinct viewing modes. Expanding its eye-care ecosystem, the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER eNote tablet integrates AI-driven productivity tools with a paper-like reading and writing experience ideal for users seeking a more focused and efficient digital workspace. Alongside commercial displays and high-performance monitors, TCL is also unveiling the RayNeo Air 4 Pro — the world’s first HDR10 AR glasses — redefining portable viewing with advanced display technology that delivers exceptional clarity and comfort for both work and entertainment.
Powering the Next Era of Intelligent Living
Beyond display technology, TCL presents a wide range of AI-powered smart home solutions designed to bring greater intelligence to everyday living. These include the TCL FreshIN 3.0 Air Conditioner, the GeniusFresh Refrigerator, the AmeraClassic washer and dryer series, and the TCL AI SuperDrum washer-dryer combo. In addition, TCL smart locks offer advanced biometric security, AI-driven access, and seamless smart home control, while TCL Smart Home Energy Solutions deliver an integrated and AI-driven energy ecosystem for modern households, offering end-to-end control of power conversion, battery, and energy management to reduce energy costs, enhance efficiency, and support a low-carbon lifestyle.
In entertainment, TCL leverages AI to elevate picture and sound quality, enable smarter interaction, and enhance content generation. The PlayCube Projector brings cinema-grade viewing to any environment, while TCL AiMe — the world’s first modular AI companion robot — introduces lifelike, adaptive interaction that brings a human touch to smart living.
In mobility and productivity, TCL expands intelligence across smartphones, eNote tablets, and more. The TCL Human × Vehicle × Home Cross‑Scenario Solution enables seamless integration between the vehicle and home ecosystems. TCL 5G Mobile WiFi P50, featuring the industry’s first 5G mmWave mobile Wi‑Fi with both fast and wireless charging, delivers an ultra‑convenient connectivity experience for on‑the‑go users.
Pioneering Partnerships that Are Shaping the Future Home
At CES 2026, TCL is also redefining the future of home design with TCL NXTHOMETM, which brings together smart home solutions, lifestyle appliances, and premium collaborations with brands including Bang & Olufsen, BMW Group Designworks Shanghai Studio and Alcantara. Also in the home, TCL ECORA™, developed in collaboration with Chris Lefteri Design, is a new sustainable material made from recycled porcelain ceramics that combines high-performance technology with eco-conscious design.
TCL’s commitment to innovation in display technology, AI, and sustainability is shaping a smarter, more efficient future for all. As the company continues to break new ground, its technologies are not only transforming homes, but also enhancing the way people live, work, and connect – paving the way for a more intelligent tomorrow.
To discover the latest TCL products and innovations, visit TCL at CES 2026:
TCL CES 2026 Booth:
● Date: January 6 to 9, 2026
● Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, Booth #18604
Manila, Philippines – Are you ready to turn your everyday experience into a selfie-worthy moment? Get on the groove and try Poppy Blush by Sugar Dolls PH! It’s a must-have cream blush for women who need a touch of skincare glow, flawless color, and dewy radiance.
What sets Poppy Blush apart from its contemporaries is its versatility. It’s a hybrid skincare makeup that adds a gorgeous color to your look while enhancing your skin. Think hydration, antioxidants, and a silky-glide formula that blends like a dream and stays put all day. From getting on the daily grind to heading to a meeting, Poppy Blush keeps your glow game strong.
Are you in need of a vibrant drama or subtle chic? There’s a hue in this lineup just for you:
Pink Pop: A bold raspberry pink for fair to medium skin with cool or neutral undertones. Imagine a lively flush that brightens (never clashes!) and looks instantly youthful. Heartbeat: Terracotta coral meets burnt orange. This sun-kissed shade amps up golden undertones and suits medium to tan skin. (Olive beauties, Heartbeat is made for you!) Bubbleglow: If bubblegum pink makes you smile, dive into Bubbleglow. Think fresh and playful, perfect for porcelain to light-medium cool tones. Cherry Rush: Brick red meets raspberry—your go-to for sculpting cheeks on medium to deep skin. Warm, earthy, and oh-so flattering for olive complexions.
Poppy Blush goes deeper than pretty pigments. Packed with vitamins, it delivers deep hydration and skin conditioning, reinforces the skin barrier (hello, long wear!), and brings anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action to soothe and support. Plus, it actively mattifies and controls oil for the kind of radiance that’s never greasy.
Application? Effortless. Dab, blend, and you’re done—on cheeks, eyes, lips, wherever you want a multitasking color lift.
Thanks to its blendable, hydrated finish and pocket-friendly price, Poppy Blush is taking over the conversation online, while lighting up makeup bags everywhere in the world. Beauty experts and creators call it a “game-changer.” Now it’s your turn to glow!
Get your hands (and cheeks) on Poppy Blush and experience color, confidence, and care in one sweep. Selfie ready? Always. Glow on, doll!
Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer, Calvin Kohchet-Chua together with PRUVolunteers, the ASSIST team, and beneficiaries from the Maricaban and Sulangan communities of Bantayan Island, Cebu.
Leading life insurer Pru Life UK reinforced its commitment to the Bantayan Island communities in Cebu through Ulan Alang sa Bantayan, the company’s climate resilience initiative, alongside its annual gift-giving activity.
Launched in 2024, Ulan Alang sa Bantayan aims to educate communities and build long-term resilience against the impacts of climate change, with a focus on water security. In the programme’s pilot year, Pru Life UK donated two rainwater harvesting systems for its adopted communities – providing a reliable 2,000-liter supply of clean water to over 500 families. Training sessions on the proper use and maintenance of the systems were also conducted to ensure sustainable support for the communities.
This year, the company continued the programme by facilitating Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) training and distributing gift packs as part of its annual gift-giving tradition. To further community capacity-building, Pru Life UK also conducted a pilot run of a new financial literacy programme for adults developed by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc.
“Ug alang kanako, dako kaayo og impact ang WASH program, labi na sa tubig tungod kay ang tubig maoy naghatag og kinabuhi alang kanatong tanan, ug naghatag og limpiyo sa atong matag usa. Ug labaw sa tanan, dako kaayo ikatabang kanato, ingon nga paglimpiyo sa atong kaugalingon, ug labaw sa tanan, personal hygiene alang kanato. Dako kaayo ni’g ikatabang tungod kay kon limpiyo ang atong kaugalingon, limpiyo sab ang atong palibot. (For me, the WASH programme has a huge impact, especially when it comes to water because water gives life to all of us and provides cleanliness for each one of us. Above all, it greatly helps us in cleaning ourselves and maintaining personal hygiene. This is very important because when we are clean, our surroundings are also clean,” said Rolly Giducos, community leader from Maricaban, Santa Fe on Bantayan Island, one of the community beneficiaries).”
Pru Life UK’s support for Bantayan Island started when the Prudence Foundation formed a multi-year partnership with Habitat for Humanity Philippines to help rebuild the homes of residents affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda. When the housing initiative was completed in 2017, the company continued its annual outreach, which has since evolved and expanded through the Ulan Alang sa Bantayan programme, which was developed in collaboration with the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) to align with its broader climate and health advocacy.
“Our work in Bantayan reflects our belief that progress is built through trust and shared responsibility,” said Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer. “As Ulan Alang sa Bantayan grows, so does our dedication to helping communities prepare for the future with confidence and security.”
Through sustained partnerships and programmes that address both immediate and long-term needs, Pru Life UK continues to embody what it means to be a trusted partner in protection – one that Filipinos can count on today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
About Pru Life UK
Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.
Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents.
Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.
Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.
Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.
Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph.
The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information.
Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission.
The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information.
Notes:
*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year
(In photo) Left to right – Atty. Reynaldo Regalado, Insurance Commissioner; Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President&CEO; Atty. Alberto Muyot, Save the Children Philippines CEO; Mike Welch, British Embassy Manila Deputy Head of Mission
Pru Life UK, together with Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, has turned over a combined Php 6 million donation to Save the Children Philippines to support children and families affected by Typhoons Tino and Uwan.
The ceremonial turnover gathered leaders from Pru Life UK, Prudential plc, Save the Children Philippines, the Insurance Commission, and the British Embassy Manila—demonstrating a united front in strengthening disaster response and long-term community resilience.
The donation will fund back-to-school and hygiene kits for 960 learners and provide multi-purpose cash assistance to 224 families in Cebu and Catanduanes, two of the hardest-hit provinces. This initiative builds on the immediate relief already provided to Pru Life UK employees, agents, and partner communities across the Visayas region.
“Today, we come together with a shared purpose: to bring hope and help families and children affected by the recent typhoons recover faster,” Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK, President and CEO said. “This donation strengthens our partnership with Save the Children Philippines and reinforces our mission to protect the most vulnerable.”
Chakrabarty noted that this latest support continues the company’s long-running collaboration with humanitarian partners, including joint efforts with Save the Children Philippines following super typhoon Egay in 2023 and typhoon Kristine in 2024. He emphasised that strengthening resilience is central to Pru Life UK’s sustainability priorities.
“By supporting families and children, we help communities prepare, recover, and thrive. Together with Prudential, we are also committed to delivering long-term, climate-ready insurance solutions,” Chakrabarty added.
“We thank Prudence Foundation, Pru Life UK, and its employees for bringing hope to the children and their families affected by the recent typhoons. Many of them have had their houses swept away by the typhoon. And any donation, especially cash assistance, will really go a long way to buy essential needs such as a few bags of cement, wood, GI Sheets for their roofing. And in a sense, for these families, knowing there are people and corporations willing to lend a hand, it gives them a lot of hope that whatever comes about in the future, there is still hope and a life worth living for,” shared Atty. Alberto Muyot, Save the Children Philippines CEO.
The donation underscores Pru Life UK’s broader mission to advance inclusive protection, enhance community preparedness, and help Filipino families rebuild with resilience and dignity.
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About Pru Life UK
Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.
Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents.
Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.
Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.
Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.
Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph.
The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information.
Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission.
The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, whiletheir Davao District office is in Door 2&3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information.
Notes:
*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year
The Care Companion zone concluded Samsung’s “Your Companion to AI Living” vision at The First Look 2026 — highlighting technology’s most human purpose, care.
For decades, care has been reactive, addressing problems only after they arise. Samsung aims to change that by embedding AI across its product ecosystem to support safety, health and security. The goal is to shift care from response to anticipation — an approach Samsung calls Intelligent Care.
Samsung Newsroom visited the final area of the exhibition to see how Galaxy devices serve as the hub for healthier, safer everyday living.
View of the Care Companion zone
Upon entering, visitors encountered the futuristic Galaxy Z TriFold showcased on a Transparent Micro LED display.
Galaxy Z TriFold
Video Link: https://youtu.be/Y48W42RnTaY
Personalized Health Management: Optimizing Daily Routines
In the Self Care – Good Sleep section, visitors learned how wearables such as Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring track sleep conditions while working in concert with lighting and connected home appliances including the Bespoke AI WindFree Pro air conditioner and Infinite AI Air Purifier. Without user input, the connected home automatically optimizes temperature and airflow to support a more comfortable sleep environment.
Galaxy devices connect with TVs and home appliances to create optimal sleep conditions.
Tristen Menzies
“I love being able to take AI out of my pocket and use it right away,” said Tristen Menzies, a digital content creator from Guam. “What I appreciate about Samsung is that it creates AI that complements your life, rather than interferes. I think that’s the direction we should be heading.”
Family Health Care: Supporting Everyone From Older Adults to Pets Early Detection and Prevention of Cognitive Health
Healthcare is expanding beyond individual management to encompass every member of the family. Samsung introduced features designed to help detect dementia early in older adults at the Family Care – Brain Health section. By analyzing lifestyle patterns through mobile and wearable devices, the system can identify early signs of cognitive decline and send alerts to designated caregivers, enabling timely intervention.
More important, however, is preventing cognitive decline before it occurs. To that end, Samsung analyzes a wide range of everyday indicators—including speech, typing, walking, sleep and gait—to detect subtle changes in cognitive function. The system also recommends brain-training programs to help older adults reduce concerns about cognitive decline and maintain healthier, more independent lives.
Demonstration of Samsung Health’s cognitive decline detection feature
AI-Enabled Pet Health Monitoring
Samsung’s AI extends to pets as well. The SmartThings Pet Care service helps identify common health conditions such as dental disease, patellar luxation, and cataracts. Using AI, SmartThings Pet Care analyzes photos of household animals with on-screen guidance to help identify potential health concerns.
SmartThings Pet Care checks for cataracts in a pet.
AI Home Monitoring: Smart Detection for a Safer Home
When users are away from home, AI-powered home care monitoring offers greater peace of mind. Vision AI analyzes video and audio collected from connected devices such as refrigerators equipped with cameras and TVs, detecting potentially dangerous situations and sending alerts directly to the user’s smartphone.
When no one is home, TVs and refrigerators with built-in cameras can display summaries of moments flagged as potentially risky. Furthermore, AI home monitoring can compare detected faces with images stored in the user’s photo gallery to determine whether the person is a known contact or a stranger.
With AI home monitoring, users can feel more at ease even when away from home.
Alert activity demonstration
Dr. Rob Longwell
“What I like about Samsung’s AI ecosystem is how everything is connected,” said Dr. Rob Longwell, a member of the media from Beverly Hills, CA. “Home security and safety are especially important to me, and I was impressed by how devices work together to help protect the home.”
Expanded Safety Services: Greater Protection Through Partnerships
The zone concluded with a look at how Samsung’s AI technology works seamlessly with a wide range of partner products, including sensors, cameras and smart door locks, to support safer living.
Wall with compatible devices from partners
With the Care Companion—designed to help everyone live with greater peace of mind, safety and well-being—Samsung concludes the “Your Companion to AI Living” journey presented at The First Look 2026.
Looking ahead, Samsung plans to continue expanding its AI ecosystem to create experiences that users can trust and rely on with confidence.
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