PHILCONSTRUCT LUZON 2026 Leads with Integrity as It Powers Purpose-Driven Construction Today

Discover the top innovations and entrepreneurs in the construction industry at PHILCONSTRUCT Luzon 2026, which will take place at the SMX Convention Center Clark from April 23 to 25. In order to satisfy the needs of our nation, PHILCONSTRUCT Luzon 2026 is an essential forum that brings people together with creative ideas and solutions.

The Philippine Constructors Association (PCA) organizes PHILCONSTRUCT Luzon, and this year's theme is "Leading with Integrity." The PHILCONSTRUCT Luzon expo, "Building with Purpose," highlights the construction industry's growing need to offer communities long-term value, sustainability, efficiency, and innovation. This event also supports the grantees and projects of the Ayala Foundation, Inc.

The three-day expo will provide a comprehensive display of construction materials, equipment, and tech solutions, ranging from heavy machinery and building systems to cutting-edge technologies that are transforming project planning and execution.

Attendees may expect direct access to leading brands and suppliers, creating opportunities for cooperation, sourcing, and business expansion in one place.

The expo is enhanced by HVAC/R Philippines, a branch of PHILCONSTRUCT Luzon, which displays advancements in HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) systems, which are crucial to modern, energy-efficient buildings. This specialist business highlights the increasing need in commercial and industrial enterprises for more intelligent temperature control systems.

One of the event's main highlights is the TechnoForum, a series of knowledge-driven seminars given by professionals and industry experts. By offering a platform for education, discussion, and creative solutions on contemporary topics including construction innovation, sustainable practices, and emerging market trends, the TechnoForum gives professionals insights that extend beyond the show floor.

The exposition will be open to trade visitors at SMX Convention Center Clark on April 23 and 24 from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and on April 25 from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. This will provide visitors plenty of time to look over exhibits, participate in talks, and network with significant business figures.

Discover and grow with the construction landscape as it continues to evolve through PHILCONSTRUCT. Visit the event for free by registering at:

http://philconstructevents.com/registration-luzon

Discover new technologies, activities to grow and exchange ideas, and meet key players.

FinanceAsia names SM companies among Asia’s Best Companies for 2026

In its Asia's Best Companies 2026 survey, which reflects the views of financial analysts and institutional investors across the region after they assessed corporate performance and governance over the preceding 12 months, the Hong Kong-based newspaper FinanceAsia identified four SM companies.

SM Retail, Inc. and SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM Group, were two of these companies. Eight awards were given to SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and BDO Unibank, Inc. collectively. 

SM Investments received gold for Best Large Cap Company and Most Committed to ESG in the Philippines and silver for Best Managed Company in the Conglomerates category.

“We appreciate the recognition. It reflects our continued focus on delivering consistent results and creating long-term value for our stakeholders through disciplined execution.” ~Frederic C. DyBuncio, SM Investments President and CEO 

SM Retail was recognized as Best Managed Company in both Retail and Consumer Durables & Apparel.

“This recognition reflects our team’s ability to execute consistently across our retail platforms, anchored on serving Filipino consumers while delivering sustainable long‑term value.” ~Jonathan Ng, SM Retail President 

SM Prime was recognized as Best Managed Company in Real Estate.

“Earning the trust of the investment community affirms the discipline and consistency of our execution. We are grateful for this vote of confidence and remain focused on strengthening the business and creating long-term value for our stakeholders.” ~Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime Holdings, Inc.

BDO was recognized as Best Managed Company in Financials, while BDO President and CEO Nestor V. Tan received Bronze in the Best CEO (Philippines) category.

“These recognitions underscore BDO’s disciplined pursuit of operational excellence, enabled by managers across the organization who consistently lead with accountability and keep our customers’ needs firmly in mind.” ~Nestor V. Tan, BDO President and CEO 

FinanceAsia is a leading capital markets publication covering Asia’s business, sustainability, technology, and financial landscape.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

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

CCIP brings regulatory excellence and innovation to Davao this May 2026

“CCIP Connect Mindanao empowers growth and inspires innovation by bringing together members, industry leaders, and professionals, fostering stronger networks, knowledge sharing, and new opportunities for our expanding membership in the region.” ~Dr. Janina Gutierrez-Tan, president of CCIP

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (CCIP) intends to promote industry cooperation and raise regulatory awareness in Mindanao through CCIP Connect Mindanao, which will be held at the D'Leonor Hotel in Davao City on May 21–22, 2026.

The goal of the two-day seminar, which has as its theme "Your Path to Regulatory and Innovation Excellence," is to give stakeholders in the beauty industry vital information on compliance, business growth, and innovation—all of which are essential pillars in navigating today's increasingly competitive and regulated landscape.

The event will bring together members, industry leaders, regulators, and professionals for a comprehensive educational experience covering key topics such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), sales promotion permits, ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) labeling and claims compliance, post-marketing surveillance, brand protection, the Internet Transactions Act, export services, and a formulation workshop under the segment "Beauty by Design."

As Mindanao emerges as a crucial growth area for the beauty and personal care industry, the initiative shows CCIP's continued commitment to expanding its reach and supporting regional stakeholders through easily accessible, high-value initiatives.

“On behalf of our Board of Trustees, I am pleased to invite you to CCIP Connect Mindanao, a forum on regulatory updates, industry innovations, and business opportunities in the Mindanao cosmetics sector. Your participation will be invaluable in connecting with industry leaders, regulators, and professionals shaping the Philippine cosmetics industry.” ~Eileen Marie Ng, Event Chairman

In addition to in-depth discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with speakers through a panel Q&A, which will help them comprehend significant business challenges and regulatory difficulties.

The lecture is open to both CCIP members and non-members, including manufacturers, brand owners, regulatory teams, online retailers, and aspiring business owners in the beauty sector. Meals and a certificate of attendance are included in the registration fee, which is Php 2,000 for members and Php 3,000 for non-members.

CCIP Connect Mindanao is operated in partnership with RDL and is supported by a number of industry partners, including H&E Manufacturing Corporation, Heliochem Corporation, and EMC Environmental Corporation.

Interested participants may register via: https://bit.ly/3LSGo21 or scan the official QR code.

About the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP)

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. is the leading organization representing the Philippine cosmetics industry, committed to promoting regulatory compliance, industry competitiveness, collaboration, and innovation. Through its programs and partnerships, CCIP continues to empower businesses and professionals while supporting the sustainable growth of the beauty sector in the Philippines.

Bounty Fresh Chicky's Easter Camp "Sarap Mornings Basta Breakfast, Bounty Fresh!"

Bounty Fresh – the leading, fully integrated poultry company in the Philippines that produces and sells fresh chicken, various meat products and table eggs known for its “no antibiotics ever” chicken production policy – is staging the camp to highlight the importance of breakfast for both young and old.

"Sarap Mornings Basta Breakfast, Bounty Fresh!" positions the brand as the family's favorite breakfast choice, whether it's served at home or packaged as baon for on-the-go. With their delicious, healthful, and practical options, Bounty Fresh improves and eases mornings.

When it comes to breakfast or baon, Bounty Fresh helps families have satisfying meals. Great days start with great decisions, according to the campaign.

Chicken, eggs, and a hearty, delicious, and nutritious lunch are the highlights of Bounty Fresh's Chicky's Easter Camp during the Easter season. With games, adventures, surprises, and delectable discoveries, the whole family had a blast at Ayala Malls U.P. Town Center, Phase 2 Activity Area, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City. On Sunday, April 12, 2026, this educational and enjoyable event took place.

At Chicky's Easter Camp, children enjoyed the joy of Easter with their loved ones. In addition to games like Eggy's Adventure and Breakfast Match, there is a small play area for children, a photo booth, freebies, and unexpected surprises from the booths.

Actress and certified ka-Bounty Fresh family member Jolina Magdangal, a special guest, will add to the excitement and provide tips on how to prepare delicious and healthy breakfast foods. The adored Bounty Fresh mascot, Chicky, made a special appearance, and campers also learnt about healthy eating!

The Easter Camp event naturally expands on this concept. Easter is a time for joy, spending time with family, and starting over. The best times to highlight how Bounty Fresh helps families start the day off right. In order to increase brand remember and affection during a family-oriented event, we will bring breakfast to life through captivating activities, product experiences, entertaining programming, and a special meet and greet with Chicky.

For stimulating alone time or family dinners, only Bounty Fresh Sarap Mornings is the perfect blend of poultry, eggs, meats, and breaded things!

Only Bounty Fresh Sarap Mornings - ang perfect na almusal na masarap, masustansya, at madaling ihanda mula sa chicken, eggs, meats, at breaded products para sa masayang pamilya o energizing me-time!

 

From fresh chicken and eggs to a wide variety of chicken, meat and breaded products, Chicky’s Easter Camp will help moms and dads plan the most important meal of the day and make it the best meal of the day.

Chicky's Easter Camp will assist parents in organizing and preparing the most significant meal of the day, from fresh chicken and eggs to a selection of chicken, beef, and breaded goods.

RUNRIO Earth Day Run 2026 in Davao is powered by the TECNO CAMON 50 Series

“We’re turning the Manila leg into a celebration of health, planet, and creativity. Sarah G represents the energy and passion of every Filipino who stops at nothing — exactly what CAMON 50 stands for.” ~Ms. Phia, TECNO Marketing Manager

TECNO formally joins the spirit of this multi-city celebration that connects movement, community action, and a shared commitment to a greener future as the first leg of RUNRIO Earth Day Run 2026 begins in Davao on April 12 at SM Lanang.

Run for the Planet, Captured Like Never Before

TECNO's participation goes beyond simply showing up on race day; it symbolizes the goal of the CAMON 50 Series, which is to let people capture real life as it happens. Sports in motion are one of the most dynamic real-world scenarios for mobile imagery, and the CAMON 50 Series uses its Super Zoom FlashSnap capabilities to capture everything from long-range action and wide community panoramas to quick runners and finish-line reactions.

TECNO is marketing the CAMON 50 Series as the phone that helps users better focus on the energy, emotion, and movement of the day—whether they are families making Earth Day a memorable weekend event, friends celebrating a personal best, or runners pushing toward the finish line.

New Wearables Join the Green Mission

The partnership also highlights TECNO's growing smart lifestyle ecosystem with newly announced wearables like the Watch NEO and FreeHear 2. Whether users are running, training, listening while on the go, or creating content based on their everyday experiences, these devices enable a more expressive and connected daily routine when used in conjunction with the CAMON 50 Series.

The Runnio Earth Day Run has long stood for more than just physical fitness. It acts as a public reminder that commonplace actions like showing up, cooperating, protecting shared spaces, and encouraging better environmental choices may have a discernible effect. TECNO is connecting its product narrative to a broader lifestyle message by taking part in the race: technology should empower individuals to achieve more and engage with the world more fully.

What’s Next: Manila Leg with Sarah Geronimo & CAMON 50 Street Party

Following Davao, on April 19 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds in Manila, the next leg of the Earth Day Run will meet the launch momentum of the CAMON 50 Series on an even larger scale. In order to raise awareness of the Manila stop, Sarah G, a brand ambassador for TECNO, will energize the occasion and assist in showcasing the spirit of movement, style, and better-captured moments.

Run and Win

As it continues to build momentum for the CAMON 50 Series in the Philippines, TECNO's Earth Day Run partnership shows that the firm is doing more than just launching a phone. Additionally, it is making its way into the places where young Filipinos reside, travel, communicate, and create.

Following the successful Davao leg (April 12 in SM Lanang), runners can still sign up for the remaining Visit https://earthdayrun.org/ for the Manila leg (April 19 at SM Mall of Asia) and CEBU leg (April 26 at SM Seaside Cebu). Participants from all legs will have the opportunity to win CAMON 50 series and AIOT products. TECNO’s Earth Day Run presence provides the CAMON 50 Series with a unique platform to prove itself not only as a new Smartphone launch, but as a gadget designed for activity, expressiveness, and the everyday stories people want to Remember and share.

Luzon Institutional Partners will spearhead the promotion of a digitally inclusive Philippines at the 2025 GCash Digital Excellence Awards

"2025 was truly a year where GCash doubled down on its commitment through partnership with the government in advancing digitalization in our country. We are moving beyond ear access to delivering world-class innovations that people use daily. We could not have reached these heights alone. Together, we have brought strengthened fiscal management, streamlined disbursements, and connections to the LGU." ~Ernest Cu, Mynt Chairman

The 5th GCash Digital Excellence Awards (GDEA), which honored national and local government agencies that are actively transforming how Filipinos can get public services more swiftly, safely, and entirely cashlessly, marked another momentous landmark for Philippine governance.

The subject for this year was "Recognizing Digital Pioneers: Empowering the Public Sector for a Modern, Inclusive Philippines." Of the 45 honorees countrywide, 32 were from Luzon, indicating the region's growing commitment to financial modernization and digital governance. The Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, hosted the event.

Thanks to GCash's digital payment infrastructure, these organizations have made significant strides in developing government services that are not only efficient but also accessible to all residents, regardless of location or circumstance.

Leading the example in the Ilocos Region, the Bauang Public Market in the Municipality of Bauang, La Union, was honored for encouraging sustainable financial digitalization across public market transactions, making cashless transactions commonplace for both customers and businesses.

Through better online service options and secure digital payment methods, the Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District in the Cagayan Valley was acknowledged for improving citizen access to water-related services.

Central Luzon was a significant cluster of honorees, with the City of San Fernando in Pampanga, the City Government of Baliwag and its Baliwag Public Market in Bulacan, the Municipality of Morong, and the Provincial Government of Bataan being the five institutions that were cited. In both urban and rural locations, these LGUs have increased the scope of their online services and put in place digital payment methods for market transactions, utilities, and municipal levies.

The Metropolitan Naga Water District was also honored for Digital Transformation Excellence in Utility Efficiency, demonstrating how utilities are utilizing digital tools to enhance service delivery. In the meantime, CALABARZON added four reputable organizations to the list: the Municipality of Tanay, the City Government of Santa Rosa in Laguna, the City Government of Imus in Cavite, and the Pililla Water District in Rizal. Each of these organizations is putting in place traceable, user-friendly digital systems that make it easier for citizens to access government services.

Luzon's beneficiaries include the Municipality of Mauban, Quezon, and its Mauban Public Market; the City of Lucena; the Provincial Government of Quezon; and Antonio L. Raymundo, Jr., President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines - Bataan Chapter. They were recognized for their efforts to digitize public services across provincial municipalities and expand online payment options, bringing contemporary governance closer to the areas that most need it.

The ceremony also recognized several national government agencies for advancing digital transformation and financial inclusion in public service. The Department of Transportation's Metro Rail Transit Line 3 received the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award for expanding the usage of digital payments in commuter services. The Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Land Bank of the Philippines, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation were selected Champions for Digital Advocacy and Connectivity in an effort to expand access to digital financial services. The Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) was awarded the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award for its long-standing digital initiatives, while the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Philippine Statistics Authority, and the Bureau of the Treasury were named Catalysts in Financial Inclusion for improving digital access and transparency in public financial systems. The Department of Trade and Industry also received the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award for integrating digital platforms into services that support Filipino businesses.

We are one with the government in the mission to serve every Filipino. Everything we do is anchored in our shared vision of finance for all. Every leader here tonight is a testament to the belief that no Filipino should be left behind in the digital economy." ~Cleo Santos, GCash VP and Head of Public Sector

The GDEA's award categories were designed to accommodate organizations at various phases of their digital transformation. While the Digital Breakthrough Growth Award recognized first-year adopters, the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award recognized companies that demonstrated steady growth in digital transactions between 2022 and 2025.

While awards for Digital Transformation Excellence in Healthcare, Education, and Utility Efficiency offered sector-specific recognition, the Catalyst in Financial Inclusion Award recognized programs that greatly expanded financial access for impoverished Filipinos.

Long-standing partnerships were honored with the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization Award, which is only granted to companies who have collaborated with GCash for at least five years. Governments should require payment methods and cashless transactions, according to the Leader in Sustainable Financial Digitalization for Public Market. In these public markets, at least 70% of active vendors use GCash as payment from their customers.

The figures illustrate the motion. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reports that over 97% of government-to-government and government-to-employee transactions are now completed digitally, and retail digital payments account for over 57% of all transactions in the nation.

Setting the bar for what digital transformation must achieve, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Director General Ernesto Perez stressed that results must ultimately be felt by citizens. 

"Digital excellence within government rests on tangible results experienced by individuals and enterprises. It is seen in faster transactions, simplified requirements, dependable payment channels, and platforms that reach communities regardless of geography or circumstance. Through this initiative, GCash and ARTA continue to champion the goals by promoting ease of doing business, enhancing digital payment systems, and fostering stronger collaboration between government and the private sector." ~Director General Ernesto Perez, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA)

By putting the spotlight on Luzon's digital trailblazers, the 5th GDEA reinforces that the path to a modern, inclusive Philippines is already being built, one LGU, one transaction, and one empowered citizen at a time.

For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.

About GCash

GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. Its mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only $5 billion unicorn in the Philippines.

GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines New Champion Izzy Johnson Qualifies for World Finals in Zurich

“I felt that all my pressure was replaced by excitement. The crowd became my fuel. When I saw they were happy with my dancing, I felt like I had already won. Because of the dance community, I was able to find my own style. I used to only do choreographed dances before. But freestyle is different. I used to freestyle on my own, but thanks to the dance community, I was able to learn more. I also absorbed some of their maturity—that when it comes to dance, you don't have to be too technical. You just have to be true to your dance. I guess one of the dance battle tactics that helped me was learning to connect with the crowd through my movements. Since this is Red Bull Dance Your Style, it was so important that they understood my movements. Our artistry must touch their hearts. To represent the Philippines at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals is to represent the people. But first of all, it starts with me, I’m a Filipino, so I represent myself first. And I represent every Pinoy that helped me get to this moment.” ~Izzy Johnson, Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines 2026 Champion

Amidst loud cheers, flashing lights, and constant rhythm, Manila's Izzy Johnson defeated the country's most energetic street dancers in a contest chosen exclusively by the audience at the Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines National Finals. By becoming the final dancer standing at Bridgetowne, Pasig, with every beat, every reaction, and every shift in intensity, Izzy won the title and the chance to represent the Philippines on the international stage in Zurich, Switzerland.

Izzy was joined in lighting up the event by two Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines competitors, Nemesis from Cebu and Doodsieroll from Davao. The National Finals combined local energy, international skill, and enthusiasm for the art form to showcase the diversity and depth of street dance in the Philippines.

A Night Where the Crowd Took Control

From the first round on, the National Finals proceeded swiftly. The audience made all of the decisions because there were no judges on the panel, turning the dance floor into a venue where audience participation was just as significant as performance.

Each battle became like a live conversation between the DJ, the dancer, and the audience, with the dancers not knowing what music would be played next. Tracks quickly changed, forcing competitors to switch strategies, flip the energy, and respond exactly under pressure. The audience's enthusiastic and enthusiastic response in real time created momentum and determined who advanced and who withdrew from the tournament.

As the bouts continued, the audience's bond with the dancer became more apparent, impacting the overall flow of the event. The energy cycle it created made each instant bigger, louder, and more unpredictable.

A Champion Carrying a Nation’s Rhythm

By the end of the competition, one dancer had consistently captured the attention of the audience. Izzy combined musicality, control, and presence to deliver remarkable performances in several bouts. His ability to adapt to different tracks while maintaining a clear sense of individualism ultimately ensured the triumph. In Izzy's performance, the audience saw a familiar reflection of hometown roots, cultural influences, and the commonplace movement that defines Filipino street dancing.

While talking about his influences, Izzy praised the local Filipino dancing tradition. Throughout the entire evening, Izzy demonstrated a command of the song. He mastered the art of combining unmatched energy, groove, and spontaneity to create rounds that rocked the night.

A Battle Map Across the Philippines

The National Finals were a dynamic cultural map rather than only a competition. It illustrated how different styles from different regions of Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon still have an impact on the country's street dancing culture.

Cebu's Nemesis burst into the spotlight with explosive, grounded force through techniques based on strength, grit, and pure desire. From the first beat, the crowd was captivated by the deliberate delivery of each strike.

Doodsieroll, a Mindanao native from Davao, replied with a fluid musical style. He expertly blended rhythm and movement with time and control to create moments that felt effortless yet highly deliberate, drawing the audience into each change.

As the capital's representation, Izzy offered a sharp, innovative edge. By experimenting with textures, speed, and unexpected freestyle choices, he confounded expectations and kept every round unexpected.

Despite their individuality, each dancer contributed to a greater narrative. Their styles merged together rather than conflicted. As local identities persisted while working toward a shared goal—representing the Philippines internationally—the struggle transformed into a colorful display of Filipino inventiveness.

From the Philippines to the World Stage

Izzy is now concentrating on the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals, where participants from over 54 countries will compete in a global duel of identity, sound, and style, following her victory in the national championship.

Every dancer moves differently on this stage, where cultural expression is crucial. Izzy Johnson sees it as an opportunity to represent the nation as a whole on the international front.

As street dancers from all around the country showcased their unique dance styles and techniques, the Philippines came to the Red Bull Dance Your Style stage as a unified force, forged from various islands, now moving as one. As Izzy prepares to go global, one thing is clear: the Philippines is bringing a flair and energy that the rest of the world cannot ignore.

The passion and popularity of Red Bull dancing Your Style Philippines were fueled by the official event partners Army Navy, Hertz, Mophie, and Posh, who also improved this year's special competition and the local street dance community.

Follow Izzy Johnson’s journey to the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals in Zurich, Switzerland, this October 2026 and witness how Filipino street dance takes on the global stage. For updates and event details, visit the official Red Bull Dance Philippines website and follow its social media pages (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok) to stay locked in as the road to the World Finals unfolds.

About Red Bull

Red Bull gives wings to people and ideas. As a functional beverage, we give wings to people by vitalizing the body and mind – supporting their dreams and aspirations through their passion for dancing.