Home Credit x KServico Two-Wheeler Partnership Launch

“At Home Credit, we understand that motorcycles are more than just a mode of transportation—they're a means to empower Filipinos, especially those engaged in delivery, ride-hailing, and other gig economy opportunities. However, the upfront cost can be a barrier for many. Through this partnership, we're happy to offer fast and easy motorcycle financing, making it more accessible for Filipinos to own their dream motorcycles. With our installment deals, minimal requirements, and quick approval process, we're enabling more Filipinos to experience the thrill of new rides and the new possibilities that come with them.” ~Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of HCPH

Motorcycle installment plans are now offered in around 180 KServico outlets throughout Metro Manila and Luzon, marking the start of New Rides and New Possibilities.

A motorcycle is more than simply a means of mobility for many Filipinos; it's a chance to enhance their standard of living.  Motorcycles provide a useful and reasonably priced answer to daily transportation needs, whether they are utilized for job, family obligations, or personal freedom.  However, the difficulty in obtaining funding has prevented many people from achieving that objective.

Now, two trusted names are breaking down that barrier.

The largest retailer of motorbikes, three-wheelers, e-bikes, appliances, computers, cell phones, and furniture, KServico, has teamed with Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the nation's top consumer credit provider.  Through this cooperation, approximately 180 KServico locations in Metro Manila and Luzon will offer quick and simple motorcycle financing, increasing the accessibility and convenience of motorcycle ownership for Filipinos and enabling them to discover New Rides and New Possibilities.

 

With a one-minute approval process and flexible installment plans, Home Credit and KServico are enabling more Filipinos to realize their dream of owning a motorcycle. This allows customers to purchase high-quality, feature-rich motorcycles from leading brands in the nation.

On May 8, a signing ceremony was held at the KServico Cubao branch to formally establish the relationship. Important representatives from Home Credit, KServico, and partner motorcycle manufactures Honda, Kawasaki, Kymco, Suzuki, and Yamaha attended the ceremony, which signaled the start of a partnership to increase motorcycle ownership accessibility and open up new opportunities for Filipinos.

Building on proven success

This collaboration expands on the success of Home Credit's 2024 motorbike financing pilot program with EMCOR Inc., a KServico affiliate.  Strong consumer interest and favorable feedback were received by the pilot, which was implemented in 160 EMCOR stores in the Visayas and Mindanao. With KServico on board, Home Credit is now able to offer quick and simple motorbike financing to a wider market by expanding its program to Metro Manila and Luzon. More Filipinos who see motorcycle ownership as a means of achieving greater mobility, higher earning potential, and an enhanced quality of life are the target audience for the program.

“At KServico, we believe that every hardworking Filipino deserves a reliable motorcycle that offers the freedom and convenience they need. Our partnership with Home Credit helps turn that vision into reality for thousands of our customers across Metro Manila and Luzon. We are grateful to Home Credit for making financing more accessible and for sharing our commitment to empower more Filipinos through practical mobility solutions.” ~Grace Balingit, President of KServico

Ms. Grace Balingit, President, KServico

Fast and easy motorcycle installment deals

For Filipinos, owning a motorcycle is now quick and simple thanks to this cooperation.  KServico now offers a large selection of premium motorcycles from reputable manufacturers, together with convenient payment options made possible by Home Credit.  More Filipinos can now start the process of obtaining their ideal motorcycle with just one legitimate ID and a quick clearance process that takes as little as one minute.

Mr. Mark Sorroza, Department Manager, Sales Honda Philippines, Inc.

Mr. Rexie Macatangay, Regional Manager-South Luzon Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc.

Mr. Joey Salavarria, Division Head, Sales and Marketing Suzuki Philippines

Ms. Ella Mae Torrecampo, Assistant Manager for Marketing Kawasaki Philippines

Home Credit sales representatives are available at all participating KServico stores to guide customers through every step of the financing process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

 

To make the journey even easier, customers can visit Shoppingmall.ph to locate the nearest KServico branch, check the availability of motorcycle models, and explore financing options.

Through this collaboration, Home Credit and KServico are opening the road to new opportunities and mobility for more Filipinos, bringing the promise of New Rides and New Possibilities #ParaSaLife.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website and download the Home Credit App via Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery to check for quick pre-approval on installment plans. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).  

About Home Credit 

Home Credit Philippines is the leading consumer finance company in the Philippines. Backed by Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited, the fifth largest bank in Thailand and by MUFG Bank Ltd., the largest banking group in Japan, and trusted by a strong and diverse set of banks locally and worldwide, the company plays a pivotal role in driving financial inclusion for Filipinos by expanding access to credit opportunities and transforming the consumer finance landscape in the Philippines.  

  

In its 11th year, Home Credit has served 11 million customers and credited over 350 billion pesos worth of loans through its portfolio of products that cater to the different needs of its customers—installment financing, cash loans, credit cards, and a virtual spending limit named Qwarta. Trusted by Filipinos, Home Credit is registered with the Security and Exchange Commission and regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The company was recognized as the Best Finance Company of the Philippines in 2024 by the Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) Retail Banking Awards.  

  

More information on HCPH is available at www.homecredit.ph.   

Ballet Manila celebrates 30 years of excellence and artistry with Swan Lake featuring San Francisco Ballet superstars

“Bringing this masterpiece to life for our 30th anniversary season is very monumental as it underscores Ballet Manila’s dedication to the highest standards of classical ballet. Swan Lake has always been one of my most beloved roles. The duality of Odette and Odile pushes a ballerina to her limits, both technically and emotionally.” ~Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s CEO and Artistic Director

San Francisco Ballet soloist Katherine Barkman and principal dancer Esteban Hernandez will perform Ballet Manila’s Swan Lake (photo courtesy of Renee-Olson Productions)

Ballet Manila continues the celebration of its 30th Anniversary with the restaging of the beloved classic, Swan Lake featuring an exceptional roster of ballet stars from San Francisco Ballet.

Swan Lake's two sets of strong main leads serve to further support this.  The production will be directed by San Francisco's first soloist, Katherine Barkman, who will return to her Ballet Manila home stage to play the twin roles of Odette (White Swan) and Odile (Black Swan) on May 30, 2025 (8 PM), May 31, 2025 (5 PM), and June 1, 2025 (5 PM).  Barkman, the lead dancer of Ballet Manila and a former mentee of Macuja Elizalde, will captivate the audience with her captivating technique and nuanced emotional portrayal of the characters.

San Francisco Ballet soloist Katherine Barkman (photo courtesy of Renee-Olson Productions)

San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Esteban Hernandez

Ballet Manila principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro (photo courtesy of Jojit Lorenzo Photography)

San Francisco Ballet soloist Nathaniel Remez

Esteban Hernandez, the lead dancer of the San Francisco Ballet and another award-winning dancer, will be dancing with Barkman. His imposing presence and extraordinary virtuosity will bring Prince Siegfried to life.

The principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro of Ballet Manila and Nathaniel Remez, a soloist of the San Francisco Ballet, will conduct afternoon performances at 1 PM on May 31, 2025, and June 1, 2025, giving fans a new perspective on the main characters.

This Swan Lake production gives fans a unique chance to see ballet artistry of the highest caliber while showcasing the smooth blending of local and international talent.

For Macuja Elizalde, the choice of Swan Lake for Ballet Manila’s Pearl Year is deeply personal, having portrayed the iconic lead role herself.

Lisa Macuja Elizalde invites audiences to immerse in the beauty of Swan Lake by catching the performances on May 30 at 8:00 PM, May 31 and June 1 at 5:00 PM with a special matinee performances on May 31 and June 1 at 1:00 PM.

All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph

Christian Bautista Renews Contract With GMA Network, Continues To Shine as a Kapuso

“GMA, you gave me a home, a platform, and the space to keep growing. Hindi niyo lang ako tinulungan as an artist—you remind me of what else I’m capable of. To my NYMA family—thank you for being here, for guiding me, and for pushing me to explore new spaces. Thank you for showing the world the other side of me. The funnier side, the lighter side, the more human side. You’ve helped me connect with a whole new generation. And of course, to my wife, Kat—thank you for being my constant through it all. To our media partners and members of the press—maraming salamat sa inyong walang sawang suporta. Thank you for helping amplify my milestones, for keeping my journey visible and relevant, and for sharing my story with the world. I truly appreciate all the time, effort, and space you’ve given me through the years. o my CFs and everyone who’s supported me from the very beginning, thank you for growing with me.” ~Christian Bautista, Asia's Romantic Balladeer

As a devoted Kapuso, Asia's Romantic Balladeer—award-winning singer, multi-platinum artist, actor, and host—reaffirms his relationship with GMA Network by renewing his contract.

Christian formally signed a contract renewal at Studio 6, GMA Network Center, on May 6, 2025, after more than ten years of steadfast devotion since becoming a member of the Kapuso family in 2013.

Present at the signing were top GMA Network executives: President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong, and Officer-in-Charge for the Entertainment Group and Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy.

NYMA's Chief Operating Officer and Christian's business partner and wife, Kat Ramnani-Bautista, are both attending the event as part of his management team. Their attendance demonstrated the robust network of support that has contributed to Christian's success.

Several other GMA officers were also present to support the contract signing, including First Vice President and Head of International Operations, Mr. Joseph T. Francia; Vice President for Comedy, Infotainment, Game, and Reality Productions, Ms. Janine Piad-Nacar; Vice President for Musical, Variety, Specials, and Alternative Productions, Ms. Gigi Santiago-Lara; and Consultant for the Entertainment Group, Ms. Darling de Jesus-Bodegon.

“As his business partner and wife, I couldn’t be more proud of the longevity of his career, and he continues to prove that he still has so much more to offer. We’re truly grateful to GMA for giving him the space to grow and the platform to share his artistry. For us at NYMA, it’s both an honor and a privilege to be working alongside a network that has supported him for over a decade. We deeply appreciate the trust and look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership.” ~Kat Bautista, Christian’s Manager, Business Partner, and Wife

Christian has long established himself as one of GMA’s most versatile and beloved artists—from being a firm yet inspiring coach on The Clash to delivering standout performances every Sunday on All-Out Sundays.

Beyond local stages, he continues to expand his pan-Asian presence through music and digital collaborations. Just recently, he was recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the World by The Outstanding Filipinos in America—an award he will be receiving this October in Las Vegas.

To cap off the event, Christian serenaded the crowd with one of his timeless hits, The Way You Look at Me, as a heartfelt tribute to GMA Network and all attendees.

Congratulations, Kapuso! Congratulations, Christian Bautista!

AirAsia Philippines Helps Visitors Enjoy Boracay's Distinct Vacation Experience

“Boracay’s food scene truly has something for everyone, with options that cater to all kinds of tastes, dietary preferences, and cultural backgrounds. As we see more and more stakeholders work together to champion inclusivity, we at AirAsia are proud to contribute to this journey, starting even before travelers reach their destination with our fully halal-certified meals on board and a diverse menu that caters to the varied needs of guests traveling to Boracay and beyond.” ~First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Corporate Affairs Head

AirAsia Philippines is encouraging visitors to discover Boracay's cuisine and entertainment scene beyond the typical tourist favorites and the week-long Love Boracay event, as more tourists look for genuine experiences through gastronomy and full leisure activities.

Explore Boracay’s Rising Culinary Scene

• Little Taj: This Indian restaurant offers authentic Indian cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming setting. It’s known for dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and naan, giving both locals and tourists a genuine taste of India.
• Island Izakya: A Japanese comfort food spot with a Boracay twist, featuring an open kitchen where guests can watch their meals being prepared.
• Muchos: A Latin-inspired venue offering a culinary experience that brings the flavors of Latin America to Boracay.
• Nonie's: Focuses on fresh, ethically sourced ingredients with a fusion take on traditional Filipino dishes, catering to various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.

According to a report of the World Travel Association (WTFA), 34% of travelers now prioritize dining experiences as a way to immerse themselves in local traditions. In the Philippines, imarc Group reveals that the culinary tourism market is growing with forecasts predicting an annual growth rate of 11.3% from 2025 to 2033.

Discover a Holistic Boracay Experience

Outside of the dining experience, whether you’re a solo traveler or vacationing with family and friends looking for an all-in-one escape, guests can relax at The Mandarin Island Hotel Boracay, home to Boracay’s longest swimming pool.

With five hotels and resorts totaling more than 500 rooms, seven dining options, bars, and the soon-to-open Spa Village dispersed around some of Boracay's most desirable areas, the Mandarin Premier has something to offer every kind of visitor.  The popular Mandarin Island Hotel, the relaxed comfort of Island Inn Boracay, the beachfront elegance of Mandarin Bay, the quiet retreat of Mandarin White Sand, or the warm, family-friendly atmosphere of Mandarin Nest are all options for visitors.

Guests can also look forward to exclusive offers, including early bird specials with discounted rates for advance bookings, summer family packages, and a range of dining and spa promotions available at www.mandarinpremier.com. 

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

SM Supermalls champions MSMEs at SM Dagupan's Bangus Festival Food Fiesta

“The Bangus Festival is a celebration of everything that makes Dagupan special — resilience, creativity, and community. By spotlighting our MSMEs, we’re helping bring their passion and products to a wider audience.” ~Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls

Freshly packed dried fish from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) attract food lovers.

Dagupan glowed with pride, taste, and Filipino flair as SM Center Dagupan proudly supported local entrepreneurship through SM for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) while bringing the city's famous Bangus Festival to life with its vibrant Bangus Festival Food Fiesta and up to 70% summer sale.

The yearly Bangus Festival in Dagupan, the Philippines' Milkfish Capital, was more than simply a party; it was a sincere homage to the industrious citizens and vibrant culture that made the city stand out.  And instead of just joining the celebration this year, SM Center Dagupan made it much better.

In the photo: SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Royce Cabunag (5th from left), with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) representatives led by Atty. Joseph Manuel Pamittan (center), along with the MSMEs, at the launch of the Bangus Festival Food Fiesta at SM Center Dagupan in Pangasinan.

From April 25 to 30, SM shoppers and festival-goers enjoyed a feast for the senses with flavorful bangus-inspired delicacies, cultural exhibits, and handcrafted local products — all made possible by MSMEs proudly featured under the SM for MSMEs program.

Freshly packed dried fish from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) attract food lovers.

Local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) proudly display their finest bangus products.

This event, which was organized in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), highlighted the contribution of entrepreneurship to regional development and demonstrated how communities prospered when local firms prospered.

The Bangus Festival Food Fiesta showcases the best of local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) offerings.

Mall patrons jumped right into the Bangus Festival Sale, which offered summertime bargains at up to 70% off, in addition to the food feast. This was the ideal way to combine shopping, festivity, and savings.

A key component of SM Supermalls' engagement to support small businesses nationwide has remained the SM for MSMEs initiative.  In order to ensure that Filipino patriotism and business go hand in hand, SM reaffirmed its commitment to fostering indigenous talents and traditions by supporting events like Bangus.

A local vendor showcases their delicious bangus treats.

About SM Supermalls 

SM Supermalls, owned by SM Prime Holdings, is the leading mall developer and operator in the Philippines. As a steadfast advocate for MSMEs, SM Supermalls is dedicated to helping Filipino entrepreneurs succeed. Join our thriving marketplace across 80+ malls nationwide. Visit www.smsupermalls.com/sm-for-msmes/ to download your MSME application or email us at customercare@smsupermalls.com with your most innovative product and preferred location. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your business with SM Supermalls today! 

SM Supermalls hosts COMELEC Mall Voting on May 12

Voters, take note! Voting has been much simpler this year as the countdown to the May 12, 2025, national and local elections gets underway.

SM Supermalls is pleased to introduce the Mall Voting Program (MVP) at 20 selected SM malls around the country in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), bringing democracy literally closer to home.

The days of oppressive heat and packed school gyms are long gone.  On May 12, eligible voters who have been assigned to MVP locations can go to the SM mall of their choice to cast their ballot in a safe, convenient, and air-conditioned setting.  Whether you're a working professional, a busy parent, or an elderly person seeking convenience and comfort, the MVP is made to make voting easier, one step (or escalator trip) at a time.

Who Can Vote in the Mall? 

Only voters whose precincts were officially transferred to a mall. This is indicated in the final list from COMELEC.

How Can I Confirm If I Vote in a Mall? 

Check any of the following: 

• precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph 
• Your Voter Information Sheet (VIS)
• Mall posters or tarps 
• Barangay caravans or your local COMELEC office

Voting Hours at the Mall: 

• 5:00 AM – 7:00 AM — Priority: Seniors, PWDs, Pregnant voters
• 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM — Regular voting hours

Can I Bring Someone to Help Me Vote? 

Yes, a relative (up to 4th degree) or Electoral Board member may assist.

Can My Companion Vote at the Mall Too? 

Only if their precinct was also officially transferred to the same mall.

Here’s a list of the participating SM Supermalls where you can conveniently vote this coming May 12:

• SM City Manila
• SM City North EDSA
• SM City Fairview
• SM City Sucat
• SM City Bicutan
• SM City BF Parañaque
• SM City East Ortigas
• SM City Southmall
• SM City Cauayan
• SM City Baliwag
• SM City Tarlac
• SM City Batangas
• SM City Santa Rosa
• SM City Puerto Princesa
• SM City Legazpi
• SM City Iloilo
• SM City Consolacion
• SM CDO Uptown
• SM CDO Downtown
• SM City Butuan

From Luzon to Mindanao, SM Supermalls is proud to open its doors—rent-free—for the benefit of Filipino voters. And don’t worry, COMELEC’s got the backend handled: trained election personnel, full compliance with electoral rules, and tight coordination for logistics and security.

Why mall voting works

The goal? A smoother, more inclusive voting experience—especially for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and pregnant voters. Think ramps, elevators, comfortable seating, and spacious voting areas—all in a familiar and accessible setting.

“We believe democracy should be inclusive, convenient, and secure. By offering our malls as voting venues, we’re not just making it easier to vote—we’re helping empower every Filipino to make their voice heard.” ~Junias Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls

Democracy meets convenience

This isn’t SM’s first time teaming up with government agencies. Through the SM Government Service Express (GSE), select SM malls already offer one-stop access to services like ID processing, permits, and more. The MVP is yet another way SM Supermalls is stepping up to serve the public in meaningful ways.

Plan ahead

Eligible for mall voting? Expect an official advisory from COMELEC about your assigned voting venue. Then, on May 12, head to your designated SM mall, bring a valid ID, and vote with ease.

Let’s all do our part—vote smart, vote safe, and vote comfortably.

Find your precinct number easily at precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph. 

For more info and real-time updates, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.

About SM Supermalls Government Services

SM Supermalls' Government Service Express (GSE) makes essential government services more accessible to Filipinos by bringing key agencies together in select malls nationwide. This one-stop hub offers ID applications, renewals, business registrations, permits, and more—all within a safe and convenient mall environment. Through strong partnerships with government agencies, SM Supermalls champions efficiency, inclusivity, and ease of access, redefining public service to better serve communities.