Enchanted Kingdom's COO swears in as president of the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.

“We are committed to focus on Livelihood and labor concerns, Corporate sustainability, Community empowerment, and Innovation with integrity. These four principles support Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) South Luzon’s guiding principles as presented by AVP Hoover Picar, namely Volunteerism, Excellence, Service, and Integrity (VESI). Through these, we look forward to transforming the lives of the people working for our companies and the communities we serve.” ~Mrs. Cynthia R. Mamon, Ph.D., Chief Operating Officer Enchanted Kingdom 

Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, continues to be one of the top advocates for local industry development with the recent appointment of its chief operating officer, Mrs. Cynthia R. Mamon, Ph.D., as president of the PCCI-Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (LCCI).

The newly elected LCCI officers were inducted on February 16 at Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna, by Area Vice President Hoover Picar and Regional Governor Mary Ann Katigbak.

LCCI is commemorating its 50th anniversary as a non-stock, non-profit, non-governmental organization. It is composed of Laguna's small, medium, and large firms that are dedicated to fostering the growth, resilience, and competitiveness of the province's business community as well as a more resilient and sustainable local economy.

Present during the induction ceremony were Department of Labor and Employment – National Conciliation and Mediation Board IV-A Director Cynthia Foncardas, Laguna Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEPIDO) Laguna Head Fatima Villaseñor, PCCI Los Baños President Grace Bondad Nicolas, PCCI Quezon City President Anne Marie Francisco, and PCCI Lipa City President Marites Jumarang. They were joined by past presidents of LCCI namely Atty. Rose Lynn Zara-Coloma, Marvin Adolfo, Virgilio Lorenzo, Richard Albert Osmond, and EK’s President and Chairman Mr. Cesar Mario O. Mamon.

An economic briefing by Prof. Ronilo Balbieran, economist at the University of Asia and the Pacific followed after the induction ceremony.

Even prior to this, EK has been a longstanding active member of LCCI, as Mr. Mamon also served as its president from 2006 to 2007.

Championing Tourism

Mrs. Mamon was also reelected as president of the Laguna Tourism Council (LTC), taking the oath of office among the other newly elected LTC officers on January 22 in Santa Cruz, Laguna, administered by Governor Sol Aragones.

LTC is a provincial multi-sectoral body made up of representatives from various government and business organizations, and it is one of the primary movers behind Laguna's development as a major tourism destination in the Philippines.

In order to promote tourism, culture, heritage, and the arts to both domestic and foreign audiences, LTC has been working closely with the Laguna province government, as well as other municipal offices and non-governmental groups across the country, since Dr. Mamon assumed the role in 2023.

Additionally, LTC provides places for Laguna-based micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their superior products and crafts through a variety of events and partnerships that take place both within and outside the province.

For more information and updates regarding these and EK’s initiatives towards industry growth, sustainability, and tourism, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts on Facebook and TikTok, and on Instagram.

The new eco-friendly Debit Mastercard from BPI is composed entirely of recyclable materials

“Reimagining the BPI Debit Mastercard to become an eco-friendly card is a testament to BPI’s commitment to its values of sustainability and innovation. At BPI, we want to connect more with our eco-conscious clients while also encouraging others to practice sustainable habits. By using sustainable materials for our card, we hope to make sustainable behavior the default option for everyone. The BPI Debit Mastercard is still the same card that our clients rely on—stylish, secure, and now more sustainable.” ~Jenny Lacerna, Head of Mass Retail, BPI

BPI launches its new Debit Mastercard made from 100% recycled, PVC free plastic—promoting more sustainable everyday banking.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has launched a new Debit Mastercard that is completely composed of recycled, PVC-free plastic in an attempt to encourage more ecologically friendly banking solutions. 

The new Debit Mastercard is free for both new customers who open an account through a BPI branch and existing customers whose cards need to be updated or are about to expire. Customers who wish to convert to the new recycled, PVC-free card outside of their renewal schedule can do so for a standard replacement fee of Php 200.

BPI is one of the leading debit card issuers in the country, with over 8.2 million cardholders nationwide. With the launch of the new eco-friendly BPI Debit Mastercard, the bank's efforts to provide Filipinos more responsible and future-ready financial products have hit yet another noteworthy milestone.

Customers can choose their preferred branch for pickup after requesting a new card online or using the BPI app. There is a fee of Php 200 for each card request made via these digital channels. To start the replacement process, those who are replacing an existing card simply need to block their current one via the BPI app. Depending on the location, cards can be picked up at any BPI branch in two to six banking days. Additionally, clients can receive help at any of our branches.

Beyond sustainability, the card features thoughtful design enhancements like a curved notch in the bottom left corner that increases accessibility and sets it apart from other cards by making it easier for users to identify and orient their card by touch.

BPI Debit Mastercard holders can still benefit from contactless transactions, safe online, in-store, and international payments, easy access to cash via ATMs worldwide, and 24/7 account management through the BPI app with the new card.

Through innovations like the eco-friendly Debit Mastercard, BPI continues to support sustainability while offering Filipinos practical, inclusive, and accessible financial products.

With the "Everyday with Galaxy AI" Experience, Samsung unveils the Galaxy S26 Series

Samsung Philippines launched the Galaxy S26 Series and Galaxy Buds4 Series with immersive experience zones and appearances by Over October and Catriona Gray.

Setting the foundation for a hi-fi lifestyle, Samsung unveiled the new Galaxy S26 Series and Galaxy Buds4 Series at the "Everyday with Galaxy AI" Mall Experience. Everyone had the opportunity to observe directly how Galaxy AI integrates into a more complex and imaginative everyday routine at the event, which was held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

From testing out features in the experience zones to the nostalgic live performances of OPM band Over October and #TeamGalaxy's Catriona Gray sharing her story on stage, this incredible event showed how to inspire the type of smarter everyday life you'll always want to pursue.

TV celebrity #TeamGalaxy, beauty queen, and youth advocate Catriona Gray attended the celebrations and took the stage to share her appreciation for how intuitive the Galaxy S26 Series feels. She highlighted how her everyday life is effortlessly inspired by the Galaxy AI features.

Galaxy fans and fervent supporters flocked to witness OPM indie-pop band Over October, who finished the evening with timeless favorites like "Ikot" and "Dahan," creating a relaxed, upbeat environment.

While enjoying coffee at the Galaxy AI Café, the community learnt how Galaxy AI maintains safety and order. This includes Now Nudge, which offers new, easy methods to get through the day, and the new Privacy Display, which ensures that private information is only accessible to you.

Everyone saw a demonstration of the Creative Studio AI features, which allow users to unleash a greater eye for photography. Fans experimented with enhancing their photos with Generative Edit and Photo Assist, showing how easy it is to smooth out each image with a few taps. Everyone may test the Nightography Video and Super Steady to record cinematic moments with bright neon lights and dismal backgrounds in addition to editing in the Nightography Experience Zone.

The Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 on the Galaxy S26 Ultra and the Exynos 2600 on the Galaxy S26 and S26+ provided players with crisp images and less lag at the Unbeatable Gaming Zone. Additionally, the devices remained cool under pressure because to their distinctive thermal architecture.

There was a lot of excitement in the Pre-order Now section. Those that made significant investments in the Galaxy S26 Series benefited greatly. The grand raffle winners were revealed following the event, along with special on-site incentives and a variety of payment methods. One lucky winner received a brand-new BYD Seal 5 DM-i, and those who pre-ordered at particular stores were assured spots for the much anticipated SEVENTEEN concert on March 21. It was the perfect "double win"—a once-in-a-lifetime chance along with a higher standard of living.

Samsung is also set to bring this experience to other locations soon! Visit the ‘Everyday with Galaxy AI’ in Pampanga from March 7 to 8 at SM City Clark and in Cebu from March 14 to 15 at SM Seaside Cebu for more exciting pre-order deals.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Series is available for pre-order until March 18 through samsung.com, Samsung Experience Stores, Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, Abenson.com, and MemoXpress Online.

Pre-order now to instantly double your storage, a value of up to ₱14,000. Take advantage of incredible savings up to 18% and enjoy 0% installment plans for up to 36 months with major bank partners like UnionBank, BDO, BPI, Metrobank, HSBC, and PNB. Plus, find up to 14% off with 0% installment up to 24 months through Eastwest, Security Bank, HSBC, and Chinabank at authorized stores. Online shoppers can also grab up to 18% savings on cash price offers at Samsung.com until March 8, Abenson.com, Lazada, and Shopee.**

No credit card? With Samsung Finance+, you can save up to ₱15,000 with 0% processing fee and 0% installment for up to 24 months,* or choose Home Credit for a 36-month plan at a super low 1% add-on rate per month. For ultimate peace of mind, Samsung Care+ is offering 25% off on 2-year unlimited repair coverage for accidental and liquid damage, and replacements worldwide.

To find out more about the Galaxy S26 Series and Buds4 Series, visit:

• Galaxy S26 Ultra https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s26-ultra/buy/?modelCode=SM-S948BZVCPHL
• Galaxy S26+ https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s26-ultra/buy/?modelCode=SM-S948BZVCPHL
• Galaxy S26 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s26/buy/?modelCode=SM-S942BZDQPHL
• Galaxy Buds4 Pro https://www.samsung.com/ph/audio-sound/galaxy-buds4-pro/buy/?modelCode=SM-R640NZDAASA
• Galaxy Buds4: https://www.samsung.com/ph/audio-sound/galaxy-buds4-pro/buy/?modelCode=SM-R540NZKAASA

For more information, follow SamsungPH on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/

Why More Filipino Families Are Selecting Online Education (OEd) for Lifelong Learning and Senior High School

As education continues to evolve in response to changing family priorities, technology, and lifestyles, more Filipino households are reevaluating what outstanding learning looks like in the current era. As a result of that discussion, parents and students are increasingly using Online Education (OEd), particularly for its Online Short Courses and Online Senior High School (SHS), which are becoming more and more popular nationwide.

Many people have changed for reasons other than ease. It conveys a deeper belief that education ought to be customized for each learner, not the other way around.

Learning That Fits Real Life

OEd students often describe their learning experience as more personal and empowering than traditional classroom settings. With fully online access to lectures, modules, and exams, students can study at their own pace while managing other responsibilities at home.

Senior high school students in particular say that the flexibility has strengthened their self-discipline, helped them focus, and allowed them to review material when needed—skills that are becoming more and more crucial outside of the classroom. Adult learners taking short courses share this opinion, pointing out that OEd allows them to upskill or reskill without compromising their commitments to their employment or families.

Learning becomes an adventure that many children desire to continue rather than a usual activity.

Parents Prioritize Flexibility, Safety, and Continuity

A major factor in this change is the parents. One of the main reasons parents enroll their kids in OEd's Online Senior High School is flexibility. Families are better equipped to handle schedules, health concerns, and home duties when learning is available at any time and from any location—all without sacrificing academic achievement.

Another consideration is safety. Particularly for parents who want a familiar and safe atmosphere for their children throughout critical school years, home-based online learning offers comfort. OEd's planned curriculum guarantees that students stay on course for graduation and subsequent academic or professional courses.

Parents also stress continuity. With OEd's clear progression from Senior High School to higher education and skills-based programs, families can rest easy knowing that their children's educational path will be supported over time.

SHS and Short Courses Drive Enrollment Growth

OEd's Online Senior High School and Short Courses are two of its most well-liked offerings.

The SHS curriculum adheres to national academic requirements while offering courses via a flexible online environment. It educates students for college, the workforce, or entrepreneurship without the constraints of a typical classroom setting.

Meanwhile, the growing need for concentrated, experiential learning is met by OEd's Short Courses. These certificate programs are designed for individuals who want to learn specific skills, investigate new fields, or expedite the process of reinforcing their credentials. For many working professionals and adult learners, this format offers a helpful place to start for continuing education.

Together, these efforts demonstrate a broader trend: Filipinos are giving more importance to education that is adaptable, efficient, and in step with real-world needs.

Education, Reimagined—and Within Reach

Given the constant changes in learning environments, OEd positions itself as both an online school and a partner in lifelong learning. A shift in attitude, where education is seen as a long-term commitment, a family decision, and an individual investment, is shown by the rising enrollment in senior high school and short courses.

For parents and kids who want an education grounded in real-world experiences, the option is no longer remote.

To learn more about Online Senior High School and Short Courses, visit www.oed.com.ph

Inquire now and explore how flexible learning can work for you and your family.

Awaken your inspiration and prepare to be captivated at Philippine International Furniture Show!

At the Philippine International Furniture Show, which takes place at SMX Manila from March 5–7, homeowners, merchants, and furniture buyers can immerse themselves in a world of traditional pieces that capture Filipino culture as well as custom and contemporary craftsmanship. Learn why Manila is becoming more well-known worldwide.

Discover tales through opulent furnishings, beautiful handwoven patterns, and eco-friendly technology that is revolutionizing homes all over the world. Speak with designers personally to learn about new collections and limited-edition products that are only available at PIFS. The subject for this year, "Furniture in Motion, Heritage in Transition," honors the masters; each Filipino creation tells a story about customs and life's art.

Your complimentary access pass awaits! Experience the show by securing your pre-registration for FREE. Scan the QR code or visit: https://www.pifs.ph/registration 

The future of Philippine furniture design is evolving.

Are you ready to see how important crafting mastery is?  See the combined artistry of local and foreign Filipino designers at the next PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE SHOW and discover their invaluable, distinctive craft skills that elevate furniture above its cost.

Get ready to be captivated, challenged, and inspired! 

PIFS is happening from March 5-7, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Register to visit at: https://www.pifs.ph/registration

Complimentary entry when you pre-register before March 4, 11:59 PM. 

The discussion continues. INTERIOR+DESIGN MANILA 2026, which will be held at SMX Manila from March 5–7, 2026, builds on the fascinating exploration of coastal identity and tropical mobility from the previous year and invites you to a brand-new masterclass in living. This year, we are focusing on a design idea that shifts the focus of the human experience from the beach to the interior of the house.

Learn about a design-driven renaissance that emphasizes reestablishing a relationship with nature and enjoying the beauty of the "imperfect" handcrafted touch. Whether you are here for professional education or personal inspiration, see how we are bridging the gap between our rich heritage and the global future of life-centered settings.

Follow your design calling. 

Pre-register to visit FREE until March 4, 11:59 PM: http://www.interioranddesignmanila.com/registration

The AMA School of Medicine participates in the third leg of the "Lab for All" Program in San Juan, La Union

The AMA School of Medicine (ASM/AMASOM) demonstrated its strong commitment to medical quality and community involvement by actively participating in the third leg of the global "Lab for All" program in San Juan, La Union. The Office of the First Lady is spearheading the initiative under the leadership of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos. Enhancing impoverished Filipino communities' access to essential health and social services is the main goal of her campaigning.

Through the "Lab for All" program, the First Lady continues to advocate for inclusive and people-centered governance, ensuring that local communities have access to vital government services. Her tireless efforts have improved access to digital services, livelihood support, social safety, and health care for families nationwide, particularly in underprivileged and remote areas.

ASM remains committed to producing medical professionals who are socially responsible and globally competitive as a proud member of the AMA Education System. In keeping with this objective, the ASM medical team provided free medical consultations, basic health screenings, and risk assessment services to residents of 41 San Juan barangays, assisting 1,476 patients and community members.

The activity was carried out in close collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Health (DOH), PhilHealth, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Agriculture (DA), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Public Attorney's Office (PAO), Local Government Unit of San Juan, La Union, and other participating organizations.

The organization's substantial contribution was made possible by the dedicated effort of ASM's faculty physicians, who are all members of the school's academic and instructional personnel. Along with Drs. Dean Michael Maniwa headed the medical mission with John Rey Gonzales, Jonathan Iledan, and Eric De Leon, who exemplified ASM's ideals of clinical excellence, professionalism, and compassionate care.

As evidence of ASM's growing international student body and commitment to multicultural medical education, four (4) medical clerks—international medical students enrolled at the institution—helped the faculty physicians. While assigned to the Risk Assessment Station, the clerks managed patient triage, preliminary screening, and cooperation with partner organizations, gaining hands-on experience in community-based healthcare delivery.

Their participation reflects ASM's strong emphasis on experiential learning, which develops students' teamwork, cultural sensitivity, and patient-centered competencies while enabling both domestic and international students to take part directly in national public health projects.

Through its continued involvement in the "Lab for All" project, the AMA School of Medicine reiterates its role as an essential partner in advancing the First Lady's objective of accessible, responsive, and integrated public services. It also strengthens ASM's position as a top medical school in the AMA Education System by fusing academic excellence, global perspective, and social responsibility.

Supporting the program's later stages, encouraging population health, preventative care, and cooperative public service, and producing qualified, compassionate, and community-focused physicians for the Philippines and the rest of the globe are all important priorities for ASM.

Skye Newman continues her ascent with bold new single ‘Walk’

“Walk is about taking back your power when a relationship is no longer serving you, putting your heels on and walking away.” ~Skye Newman, South London Singer-songwriter

The song evolves into a literary struggle as it recounts a moment that all listeners can relate to—when patience runs out and self-preservation takes over. Skye often takes a controlled but sharp approach, fusing emotional candor with dark comedy. The message of the song is to choose to keep emotional pain at bay rather than letting it devour you.

Skye Newman's first collaboration with Chrissi, ‘Walk,’ was penned by her longtime collaborators Boo and Luis Navidad. It continues Skye's history of turning life experiences into lyrics that are closely observed. The production's restraint allows the words to take center stage, while simultaneously preventing the plot from becoming more muted.

The lyrics of ‘Walk’ eloquently portray the unbalanced nature of a relationship. Skye skillfully communicates sentiments of annoyance, humiliation, and emotional exhaustion with her directness, which seems conversational and generally honest. She talks about standing up for someone at her own expense, seeking unrequited loyalty, and finally setting a strong boundary. She delivers her phrases without ostentation. Walking is frequently portrayed as a symbolic and literal way to reclaim control.

Skye Newman's continued ascent and the conclusion of a brief U.S. tour that includes dates in New York City and Los Angeles coincide with the release. She won BBC Radio 1's Sound of 2026, was nominated for Best Newcomer at the MOBO Awards, and was nominated twice for BRIT Awards Song of the Year and Breakthrough Artist. With more than 196 million plays worldwide, Skye is currently the 13th most streamed British female solo artist in the UK and the 71st worldwide in 2025. She is the only female UK artist to have three Top 20 debut singles in the last ten years.

Recent releases have cemented her presence in charts and culture. "Family Matters" peaked at number five, spending seven weeks in the Top 10, and is certified Gold, while "Hairdresser" peaked at number fifteen and remained on the chart for fourteen weeks, gaining Gold certification as well. Along with helping Lewis Capaldi around the UK and Ireland, Skye has amassed over 1.5 billion views on short-form videos, performed alongside Ed Sheeran in Ipswich, and toured the EU with Sienna Spiro. In December of this year, Skye Newman will go to Sydney, Australia, to open for Harry Styles on his Together Together tour.

In addition to her musical career, Skye was named one of the eight Artists to Watch in 2026 by British Vogue and One to Watch by ELLE UK. Furthermore, Skye called Maya Jama out of radio retirement last year for a special broadcast on Rinse FM, sparking a conversation that resonated deeply with fans.

Given that her upcoming "The Woman I Am" Tour sold out in a matter of minutes, ‘Walk’ is an important next step. Another clear indication from one of the most compelling up-and-coming talents in the UK is that they are unwavering, self-assured, and emotionally unafraid.

‘Walk’ is out now on all major platforms.