Merry & Massive deals at Toy Kingdom's Toy Warehouse Sale

Toy Kingdom is welcoming the holiday shopping season with the return of its much-anticipated Toy Warehouse Sale, happening from November 5 to 8, 2026. The four-day event promises exciting finds for early Christmas shoppers, bargain hunters, kidults, and toy collectors.

Featuring more than 300 participating brands and thousands of discounted items, the sale offers a wide selection of toys for different ages, interests, and budgets. Shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 70% off selected branded toys, while collectors and kidults can hunt for rare finds, nostalgic favorites, and highly sought-after additions to their collections.

For those getting an early start on their holiday gift shopping, the event is also an opportunity to discover special deals available exclusively during the sale.

Toy enthusiasts and shoppers can visit the Megatrade Hall at SM Megamall for four days of savings on toys, games, and more. The event is open to everyone, with no registration required. Doors open at 1:00 PM on November 5.

For more information about Toy Kingdom Toy Warehouse Sale 2026, follow on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit toykingdom.com.ph.

Study in Europe: 13 EU Countries Present Academic Opportunities Ahead of EHEF 2026

“When students learn in another country, they gain more than academic knowledge. They encounter new ideas, experience different cultures, and develop an understanding that can strengthen cooperation long after their studies have ended.” ~Agata Nowicka, Deputy Head of Mission of the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines

Attending the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2026 is such an exciting opportunity for anyone who dreams of exploring new possibilities through international education. As someone who loves discovering new experiences and learning opportunities, I find it inspiring to see how European universities are opening their doors to students and professionals from the Philippines. I've always dreamed of studying in Europe, and among the countries that truly interest me are Germany, Spain, Austria, Finland, and France. Each offers its own unique culture, academic environment, and way of life, making the idea of pursuing further studies abroad even more exciting. From Germany's strong academic reputation to Spain's vibrant lifestyle, Austria's beautiful surroundings, Finland's innovative education system, and France's rich culture and history, I can imagine how rewarding it would be to experience student life in any of these countries.

What I love about EHEF 2026 is the opportunity to learn more about different universities, academic programmes, scholarships, and educational pathways that could help make studying in Europe a reality. With representatives from 13 European countries participating, the fair provides a valuable opportunity to ask questions, explore study options, and gain a better understanding of what it takes to pursue an education overseas. For me, this is more than just attending an education fair; it's about opening my mind to new possibilities, taking the first step toward a dream, and imagining what the future could look like beyond the Philippines. Who knows? One day, I might find myself studying in Germany, enjoying the charm of Spain, discovering life in Austria, experiencing Finland's educational environment, or immersing myself in the beauty and culture of France!

Representatives from 13 European Union (EU) Member States gathered at the press conference for the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2026, held on October 28 at the Yuchengco Museum in Makati City, to present educational opportunities available to Filipino students interested in studying in Europe.

This year's fair will feature more than 70 universities, embassies, and education partners, bringing together institutions and representatives from Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.

In her opening remarks, Agata Nowicka, Deputy Head of Mission of the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, emphasized the role of international education in fostering closer connections through cross-cultural learning and academic exchange.

The newly launched EU–Philippines Enhanced Partnership, established on July 24, 2026, strengthens existing cooperation in education by supporting student and staff exchanges and fostering closer collaboration between European and Philippine universities.

From 2021 to 2025, a total of 364 Filipino students received Erasmus Mundus scholarships to pursue joint master's degree programmes at European universities. In 2026, an additional 85 Filipino students were accepted into the Erasmus+ programme.

The European Higher Education Fair also featured Filipino alumni and EHEF Goodwill Ambassadors Jan Carlo Castro and Jessica Isabelle Badua, who shared their experiences of studying abroad. Castro recounted his academic journey across Portugal, Ireland, Poland, and Austria, as well as his internship experience in the Netherlands.

“The thing about Erasmus is that at the end of it, you’re never the same afterward.” ~Jan Carlo Castro, Filipino Alumni, EHEF Goodwill Ambassadors

Thinking about taking your education to Europe? This is your chance to explore what’s possible!

The European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2026 is coming back to Manila, bringing together European universities, embassies, and education partners in one exciting event for Filipino students, professionals, researchers, and aspiring global learners.

Visitors to EHEF can speak with representatives about postgraduate programmes, admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarships and life in Europe. The fair will also feature EU-supported education and research initiatives, including 28DIGITAL Master School, Erasmus+ and EURAXESS.

Under the theme “EU: Pathways to Excellence. Building the Future,” the fair will take place on 20–21 November at the Midtown Atrium of Robinsons Manila, followed by online sessions on 23–25 November.

Discover Master’s and PhD programmes, scholarship opportunities, admission requirements, tuition information, research opportunities, and what it’s really like to study and live in Europe. You can also learn more about opportunities through Erasmus+, EURAXESS, and other EU-supported education and research initiatives.

📅 November 20–21, 2026

⏰ 11:00 AM–6:00 PM

📍 Midtown Atrium, Robinsons Manila

💻 Online sessions: November 23–25, 2026

Whether you're planning your next degree, looking for scholarships, considering research opportunities, or simply curious about studying in Europe, EHEF 2026 is a great place to start your journey.

Your European education journey could begin with one conversation.

Last Call Before Takeoff: Prime Video Opens the LOL Terminal for LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2

Vice Ganda, the cast, showrunners, and Prime Video representatives raise a toast to celebrate the successful premiere screening.

Ahead of the premiere of LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2 on Prime Video, Space at One Ayala in Manila became a lively, laughter-filled terminal welcoming media representatives, content creators, and special guests for a one-of-a-kind experience. Instead of the usual traffic jams and long queues associated with travel, guests encountered photo-worthy attractions, beloved Filipino street food, and a challenge that tested everyone's self-control: bawal tumawa or keeping a straight face.

The contestants arrive in style on the blue carpet, making a dramatic entrance before joining the cast onstage for the media conference.

Taking center stage at the event was Vice Ganda, who returns as host of the hit comedy series LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2. Famous for her sharp humor, quick comebacks, and entertaining presence, Vice Ganda is back to lead the LOL terminal, where the competition follows one unchanging rule: laugh, and you're out.

The media conference and premiere screening also welcomed the season’s ten contestants: Long Mejia, Epy Quizon, Candy Pangilinan, Ethel Booba, Pooh, Donna Cariaga, Chariz Solomon, Esnyr, James Caraan, and Charuth. Alongside Vice Ganda, the cast gave attendees a glimpse of the personalities and comedic energy viewers can expect from the new season.

The event continued with an engaging media question-and-answer session, allowing the cast to share behind-the-scenes stories, exchange playful remarks, and discuss the challenge of keeping a straight face throughout the competition. Guests then enjoyed an exclusive screening of the first episode, offering an early look at the hilarious situations, unexpected turns, and comedic highlights in store for viewers.

LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines Season 2 will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on October 30, 2026, reaching audiences in the Philippines and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

The series is an adaptation of Documental, the successful Japanese Prime Original created by and starring Hitoshi Matsumoto and owned by Yoshimoto Kogyo. The Philippine edition’s second season is produced by UXS Inc. (Unitel / Straight Shooters) for Amazon MGM Studios.

Through an expanding lineup of original programming, Prime Video continues to showcase Filipino stories and entertainment, featuring both established names and emerging talents from the local industry.

About Prime Video

Prime Video is a first-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast selection of premium movies, series, and live sports in one app across thousands of devices. Customers can discover Prime Originals from Amazon MGM Studios alongside an unmatched library of licensed movies and series, and playback features like  X-Ray that enhance the viewing experience.

In April 2026, Amazon shared Prime Video is a large and profitable business in its own right. For more information on Prime Video, visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit Amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

SINE SINDAK: The 7th Cycle Brings ₱100 Horror Movies to three SM Cinemas in Valenzuela, Caloocan

Horror fans can look forward to seven terrifying films, seven collectible stamps, and exciting rewards as SINE SINDAK: THE 7TH CYCLE returns to cinemas from October 28 to November 3, 2026.

This Halloween season, the horror film festival brings its budget-friendly ₱100 movie experience closer to moviegoers in northern Metro Manila, with screenings at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela.

Whether you're planning a spooky movie date, a Halloween barkada outing, or a thrilling family activity, the festival offers an opportunity to enjoy a week of horror-filled entertainment without spending too much. With seven films to discover and collectible stamps and rewards to look forward to, moviegoers can turn their regular cinema visit into a full-blown Halloween horror marathon.

₱100 IS ALL IT TAKES TO SCREAM

For just ₱100 per ticket, horror fans can enjoy the Sine Sindak: The 7th Cycle movie experience. Grab a seat, get ready for a spine-chilling screening, and take on the festival’s lineup of terrifying films.

The excitement doesn’t end when the movie starts. Viewers can also earn exclusive rewards by participating in the festival’s stamp-collecting challenge.

Featuring seven different horror films, Sine Sindak: The 7th Cycle invites moviegoers to collect one stamp for every unique title they watch. The more films they complete, the greater their chances of unlocking exciting rewards.

WATCH SEVEN, COLLECT THE REWARDS

Moviegoers can receive a Sine Sindak Passport with their first eligible movie ticket purchase. Each time they watch a different Sine Sindak film, they earn one stamp toward exclusive festival rewards.

Here’s the reward breakdown:

• 2 stamps: One sticker sheet
• 5 stamps: One free pop pouch
• 7 stamps: One free movie pass

Horror fans planning a marathon should remember that watching the same movie more than once will not earn additional stamps. Only different film titles count toward completing the passport.

To collect stamps or redeem rewards, guests must present their Sine Sindak Passport along with a valid movie ticket or booking confirmation to the cashier. Those who complete all seven stamps can surrender their fully stamped passport to claim their free movie pass.

MAKE IT A HALLOWEEN BARKADA CHALLENGE

For moviegoers in Caloocan and Valenzuela, Sine Sindak: The 7th Cycle offers a thrilling way to celebrate Halloween week with friends. Turn your horror movie plans into a group challenge and find out who can brave all seven films.

Begin your scary movie adventure at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, or SM City Valenzuela, then encourage your barkada to complete the entire lineup together.

With tickets priced at just ₱100 each, watching the films is an affordable way to enjoy a Halloween activity with friends. But the biggest test may be convincing everyone to return for another round of scares.

Exclusive rewards add extra motivation to complete the cycle, but the real highlight could be the bragging rights—and discovering who screamed the loudest during the movie!

Your Sine Sindak challenge starts TODAY!

SINE SINDAK: THE 7TH CYCLE runs October 28–November 3, 2026 at:
📍 SM City Grand Central
📍 SM Center Sangandaan
📍 SM City Valenzuela

🎟️ ₱100 per ticket

Get your tickets:

SM Cinema App

◉ Apple: https://gosm.link/SMCinemaAppApple
◉ Android: https://gosm.link/SMCinemaAppAndroid

www.smcinema.com

SM Cinema ticket booths

So, gather your bravest friends, get your Sine Sindak Passport, and start collecting those stamps.

Seven films. Seven stamps. One challenge: can you survive the cycle?

Belmont Hotel Manila Reimagines Batangas Flavors Through PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined

“Through PAMANA, we want to share the richness of Filipino cuisine with our guests and introduce them to the stories and traditions behind every dish. Working with Filipino chefs also allows us to celebrate their creativity and show how familiar flavors can be presented in new ways while remaining connected to their roots.” ~Mayann Malapote, Hotel Manager of Belmont Hotel Manila

Belmont Hotel Manila brings the flavors and culinary heritage of Batangas to the table through PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined, a special culinary collaboration featuring Chefs Grant Zuniga and Aaron Valeroso.

Launched as part of the hotel's 11th anniversary celebration, the dining experience puts a contemporary spin on Filipino flavors, combining regional ingredients with modern cooking techniques while keeping the character of Batangueño cuisine at its heart.

Available at Café Belmont until December 31, 2026, the featured creations include:
🍽️ Sinigang Risotto with Grilled Maliputo — PHP 1,200
🍗 Adobo sa Dilaw Chicken Confit — PHP 1,200

PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined, a culinary collaboration celebrating the flavors and heritage of Batangas through contemporary Filipino cuisine.

The dishes showcase ingredients and flavors associated with Batangas, transforming familiar Filipino dishes into contemporary plates while highlighting the culinary traditions that inspired them.

The name PAMANA, which means heritage or inheritance, reflects Belmont Hotel Manila's legacy program dedicated to celebrating Filipino cuisine and the people who continue to carry its traditions forward. Through collaborations with local culinary talents, PAMANA creates a platform for regional flavors and stories to reach a wider audience.

With Taal and Batangas serving as the inspiration, PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined offers diners an opportunity to experience Filipino heritage through a modern culinary lens—one plate at a time.

From an Online Kitchen to a Culinary Collaboration

From left: Chef Rey Nalzaro, Executive Chef of Belmont Hotel Manila; Chef Aaron Valeroso; and Chef Grant Zuniga, featured chefs for PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined and restaurateurs based in Lipa, Batangas.

Chefs Grant Zuniga and Aaron Valeroso began their entrepreneurial journey during the pandemic, starting with an online kitchen that eventually grew into a multi-awarded restaurant venture in Lipa, Batangas.

Their culinary paths have also taken them beyond the Philippines. Both chefs studied in Italy, gaining international culinary knowledge that they have since brought back into their work. Chef Grant further honed his craft through experience in hotels and award-winning restaurants in the United States, while Chef Aaron built his experience working in five-star hotels in the Philippines.

For PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined, the chefs return to the flavors and traditions of their home region, drawing inspiration from Batangas' culinary heritage and giving familiar Filipino dishes a contemporary interpretation.

The result reflects both their individual experiences and their shared passion for Filipino cuisine—bringing together international techniques, local ingredients, and the flavors that connect them to Batangas.

Batangueño Flavors on the Plate

The Sinigang Risotto with Grilled Maliputo brings together two culinary traditions in one plate, pairing the tangy character of Filipino sinigang with the creamy texture of Italian risotto. Topping the dish is grilled maliputo, a prized fish associated with Taal Lake, whose smoky and savory notes add depth while keeping the dish closely connected to Batangas' food culture.

The Adobo sa Dilaw Chicken Confit draws inspiration from a Batangueño specialty traditionally prepared with luyang dilaw, or turmeric. The addition of gata, or coconut milk, gives the dish an earthy, aromatic character and a richer finish. The chicken is prepared using the confit technique, a slow-cooking method that results in tender, flavorful meat.

Together, the two creations offer a contemporary perspective on regional Filipino cooking, showing how familiar flavors and local ingredients can be reinterpreted without losing their connection to tradition.

For diners looking to experience the collaboration, Belmont Hotel Manila is located in Newport City beside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 and is accessible through Runway Manila. Its location makes Café Belmont a convenient dining option for hotel guests, travelers between flights, business professionals, and local diners.

Café Belmont, Belmont Hotel Manila’s all-day dining restaurant, offering Filipino and international cuisine in Newport City, Pasay City.

PAMANA: Taal, Reimagined is available at Café Belmont until December 31, 2026, with both dishes priced at PHP 1,200 each. For inquiries and orders, visit www.belmonthotelmanila.com, call (02) 5318 8888 or +63 927 007 9952, or email dine@belmontmanila.com.