Pru Life UK expands climate resilience and community support efforts in Bantayan Island

“Ug alang kanako, dako kaayo og impact ang WASH program, labi na sa tubig tungod kay ang tubig maoy naghatag og kinabuhi alang kanatong tanan, ug naghatag og limpiyo sa atong matag usa. Ug labaw sa tanan, dako kaayo ikatabang kanato, ingon nga paglimpiyo sa atong kaugalingon, ug labaw sa tanan, personal hygiene alang kanato. Dako kaayo ni'g ikatabang tungod kay kon limpiyo ang atong kaugalingon, limpiyo sab ang atong palibot. (For me, the WASH programme has a huge impact, especially when it comes to water because water gives life to all of us and provides cleanliness for each one of us. Above all, it greatly helps us in cleaning ourselves and maintaining personal hygiene. This is very important because when we are clean, our surroundings are also clean.” ~Mr. Rolly Giducos, Community Leader from Maricaban, Santa Fe on Bantayan Island, one of the community beneficiaries)

Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer, Calvin Kohchet-Chua together with PRUVolunteers, the ASSIST team, and beneficiaries from the Maricaban and Sulangan communities of Bantayan Island, Cebu.

Leading life insurer Pru Life UK renewed its commitment to the Bantayan Island community in Cebu through Ulan Alang sa Bantayan, the company's climate resilience initiative, and its annual gift-giving event. 

In order to educate communities and promote long-term resilience against the consequences of climate change, Ulan Alang sa Bantayan was founded in 2024 with a focus on water security. During the program's first year, Pru Life UK installed two rainwater harvesting systems in the villages it selected, providing over 500 families with a consistent 2,000-liter supply of clean water. Training sessions on the proper use and maintenance of the systems were also conducted to ensure long-term assistance for the communities.

Bantayan Island residents received gift packs as part of Pru Life UK’s annual gift-giving tradition.

This year, the company continued its annual gift-giving tradition by providing gift packs and funding Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) training. To further enhance community capacity, Pru Life UK implemented a new financial literacy program for adults developed by Prudential plc's community investment business, the Prudence Foundation.

Pru Life UK's assistance for Bantayan Island began when the Prudence Foundation and Habitat for Humanity Philippines formed a multi-year partnership to help rebuild the houses of residents affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda. The company continued their annual outreach after the housing project was completed in 2017. Through the Ulan Alang sa Bantayan initiative, which was developed in collaboration with the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) to align with its broader advocacy for health and climate change, it has evolved and expanded since then.

“Our work in Bantayan reflects our belief that progress is built through trust and shared responsibility. As Ulan Alang sa Bantayan grows, so does our dedication to helping communities prepare for the future with confidence and security.” ~Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer

Calvin Kohchet-Chua - Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer

Through enduring partnerships and services that meet both immediate and long-term needs, Pru Life UK continues to be an example of what it means to be a dependable partner in protection—one that Filipinos can rely on today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of close to 38,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of Q3 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 –years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

PlayTime Entertainment Launches PT IDOLS to Power the Future of Pinoy Talent

"PT IDOLS is more than just a talent initiative; it’s a deliberate step in making entertainment a core pillar of PlayTime Entertainment." ~Krizia Cortez, PlayTime Entertainment Director of Public Relations

PlayTime Entertainment is officially entering the talent game with the launch of PlayTime IDOLS (PT IDOLS). This new business line significantly advances the company's objective of establishing an excellent entertainment environment in the Philippines.

PT IDOLS is a state-of-the-art platform created to identify, develop, and support the upcoming generation of performers, artists, and internet celebrities. As the industry shifts toward creator-led content and digital-first mindsets, PT IDOLS is here to ensure Filipino talent stays ahead of the curve.

Not Your Average Talent Agency 

Forget the old-school rules. Rather than acting as a traditional agency, PT IDOLS is an all-in-one hub that integrates:

• Digital-First Branding: Building stars for the platforms that matter.
• Content Creation: Helping creators tell their stories their way.
• Commercial Partnerships: Unlocking big-brand opportunities across multiple formats.

Real Traction, Global Reach 

The movement has already started. PT IDOLS started out with several dance-based creation groups and now has 25 active creators with plans to expand to 60 in the near future.

The action can be seen on TikTok at @ptimeicons, where audiences in the US and the Philippines are already paying close attention to their talents, indicating the considerable international appeal of Filipino talent.

How to Join the Movement

As a part of the PlayTime family, PT IDOLS links talent, fans, and companies. They have even streamlined the employment process with a dedicated TikTok platform called PlayTime IDOL (hiring). This creates a systematic, clear path from being "discovered" to becoming a professional icon.

By focusing on the heart of content and live entertainment rather than just games, PlayTime is investing in the next generation of artists. By raising the standard for talent development, they hope to guarantee that Filipino stories compete—and thrive—on the global stage.

Through PT IDOLS, PlayTime Entertainment is officially the new gateway for the next era of Philippine entertainment.

AirAsia Philippines Launches Flights to Vietnam from ₱888​

“The addition of Vietnam to our route network highlights AirAsia Philippines’ commitment to growth and leadership in the budget travel market. Our hope is to give Filipino travelers  more choices, better value, and easier access to exciting destinations in Southeast Asia. We also aim to bring more tourists to the Philippines to contribute to economic growth.” ~Capt. Suresh Bangah, CEO and President of AirAsia Philippines

In 2026, AirAsia Philippines expands its worldwide network significantly with the launch of two new flights to Vietnam. This network expansion supports AirAsia's growing presence in the region while providing Filipino travelers with more affordable methods to visit Southeast Asia.

Visitors can purchase promotional one-way base tickets for flights from Manila to Hanoi and Da Nang from March 20 to October 25, 2026, starting at ₱888, exclusive of fees and surcharges, until February 1, 2026.

When both routes start on March 20, 2026, travelers will have plenty of time to plan and book affordable seats for their upcoming international trip.

Vietnam's entry into AirAsia Philippines' route network demonstrates the airline's commitment to improving regional connectivity and expands upon its recent growth, which included the establishment of its hub in Cebu.

With pleasant afternoon to evening departure times, AirAsia Philippines will operate four weekly flights to Hanoi and four weekly flights to Da Nang every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

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.

Shoot, Store, Share: How Mobile Creators Manage Massive Files Efficiently

The process of creating content follows a workflow rhythm: we record, edit, publish, and repeat.

More than just moments are captured by creators; we produce enormous, high-resolution data streams. There has never been a greater need for quick, dependable, and scalable storage solutions, from mobile filmmakers recording in 8K to professional photographers shooting in RAW.

Biwin enhances your creative process. High-speed memory cards and an SSD reader designed for practical speed allow you to shoot, save, and transfer data more quickly.

Capture Without Interruption

The capture comes before the edit and upload. Your storage must provide consistent write speeds and genuine durability for seamless recording, particularly with demanding formats.

The Biwin SD160 offers read/write speeds of up to 160 MB/s and 120 MB/s, allowing for seamless 4K Ultra HD video recording and high-speed continuous shooting for creators that operate at the highest level of visual precision. Its V30 speed class certification and UHS-I interface provide dependable, consistent performance even in demanding production settings.

The SD160, which was created with professionals in mind, maintains frame stability without dropouts while supporting both RAW photography and 4K video capture. Whether it is used in DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or professional camcorders, it reliably generates output that meets the demands of broadcast and cinematic production.

Biwin SD160 SD Card

Key Principle: Sustaining high peak speeds is critical, so every frame is written with precision.

Compact, Creative Power for Every Adventure

The result of fusing performance and mobility is the Biwin MS160 microSD Card.

Drones, action cameras, handheld gimbals, and smartphones are examples of high-demand mobile workflows that can benefit from MS160's write rates of up to 120 MB/s and read speeds of up to 160 MB/s. This makes it possible to record RAW and 4K UHD videos with ease.

With its rapid file access, quick app response, and efficient multitasking, MS160—which is approved for U3, V30, and A2 speed classes—improves workflow productivity across mobile devices. It is a dependable travel companion for creators due to its sturdy structure, which can withstand shock, water, heat, and X-ray radiation.

Biwin MS160 microSD Card

Store and Secure Your Data

The efficient storage and transportation of data after it has been gathered determines workflow productivity.

The Biwin MS100 is designed for users that need reliable performance in daily applications at a professional level. Its UHS-I U3/V30 certification and read rates of up to 100 MB/s provide seamless HD and Full HD recording, efficient file transfers, and quick app performance.

The MS100's 256 GB capacity makes it ideal for dash cameras, smartphones, tablets, and home security systems, giving users flexibility for a variety of personal, professional, and creative uses. Because of its robust structure, which can endure stress, dust, X-rays, and extremely high or low temperatures, data is safeguarded no matter where work or adventure takes you.

Biwin MS100 microSD Card

Best Practice: Always implement a dual-backup workflow, one in-device and one off-device, immediately after acquisition.

Accelerate Post-Production and Distribution

In modern production cycles, competitiveness is determined by time-to-delivery.

The Biwin RC210 SD/microSD Card Reader is the vital connection between invention and delivery. This dual-slot card reader employs USB 3.2 Gen 1 technology to provide transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps and enables simultaneous SD and microSD transfers with read/write rates of 210 MB/s and 170 MB/s, respectively.

Artists can manage multi-card operations, process film faster, and instantaneously retain data integrity thanks to the RC210's small, light, and reliable architecture. Because it is plug-and-play compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android, it provides universal connectivity for laptops, desktop PCs, and mobile devices.

Biwin RC210 SD/microSD Card Reader

Pro Tip: Use high-speed cards like Biwin SD160 or MS160 with the RC210 to achieve fast transfer performance and eliminate workflow delays.

Conclusion

From spontaneous images to cinematic storylines, Biwin creates a whole ecosystem that keeps up with the pace of modern life. Even though each device has a distinct purpose, when combined, they offer a seamless, intelligent storage experience that is appropriate for professionals, regular innovators, and creators alike.

In an era where creativity may happen anywhere, storage is more than simply a background tool—it is the foundation and home of every idea. Biwin offers solutions that allow creators to focus on realizing their ideas at the intersection of speed, reliability, and design.

Share Your Paskong Praktikal Recipes With Hanabishi and Win Exciting Prizes

“For Filipinos, Christmas is about  family and sharing a meal around the table, no matter how much it costs. We want to see real, practical tips and recipes that Filipino families can actually recreate at home. Whether it’s a modern twist on a classic dish or a clever ingredient swap, every entry tells a story. No matter how simple or grand the spread is, what makes holiday gatherings special is coming together, and Hanabishi is proud to be part of those moments.” ~Cherish Ong-Chua, VP for Finance and Marketing of Hanabishi Appliances

Hanabishi invites everyone to share their low-cost Christmas recipes on TikTok for a chance to win PhP15,000 and a Hanabishi multi-cooker.

Between December 17, 2025, and January 23, 2026, home cooks, foodies, and families are invited to participate in the "Paskong Praktikal TikTok Challenge" by sharing the delicious festive meals that highlight their creativity.

How to Join

All Filipinos who have a public TikTok account and are at least eighteen years old are eligible to participate in the "Paskong Praktikal TikTok Challenge." Contestants must upload an affordable ulam or dessert video to TikTok and tag @myhanabishi in order to be eligible.

Use the hashtags #PaskongPraktikal and #MyHanabishi in your description to describe the dish as "tipid but festive." Videos must clearly demonstrate the cooking or preparation procedure and have a maximum duration of 60 seconds.

Participants must go to https://bit.ly/PaskongHanabishi2025, fill out the registration form, and use the provided link to submit a screenshot of their TikTok entry. One TikTok post is equal to one entry. Throughout the competition, all entries must be accessible to the general public.

Judging Criteria

Entries will be evaluated based on the following:

• Budget Friendliness – 30%
• Storytelling / Practical Tips Shared – 30%
• Taste Appeal / Presentation – 15%
• Creativity – 15%
• Hanabishi Appliance Usage – 10%

Entries that use any Hanabishi equipment during cooking or preparation automatically receive an additional 10% (or 10 points) under the Hanabishi equipment Usage criterion.

The deadline to enter the "Paskong Praktikal TikTok Challenge" is January 23, 2026, at 11:59 PM. The decision is scheduled for January 30.

The winners will be notified via registered mail, email, and SMS, and their names will be posted on Hanabishi's official TikTok account on January 31.

To find out more about the tournament, follow Hanabishi's official social media accounts.

Manila Water strengthens water and wastewater advocacy through Lakbayan

“Water is a finite resource and its responsible use is a shared obligation, yet it is often overlooked. Lakbayan allows us to share the science, innovation and our dedication behind every drop. Our goal is to inspire individuals and organizations to take meaningful action, whether through simple daily habits or large-scale programs, to conserve water and protect the environment. Every effort, big or small, creates a ripple of impact.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to bolster its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours meant to give participants a thorough look at the company's water and wastewater facilities.

Communities, partners, and stakeholders will learn the value of water and be inspired to use it responsibly as a result of this endeavor.

Lakbayan offers guests a unique chance to experience the entire water cycle, from the source and treatment of raw water to distribution and wastewater management. By taking guided tours of Manila Water's state-of-the-art facilities, visitors may gain firsthand knowledge of the processes that provide a clean, safe, and reliable water supply as well as the systems that treat wastewater before releasing it back into the environment.

Since its establishment in 2006, Lakbayan has collaborated with local government organizations, commercial organizations, and thousands of students to advance awareness of the water cycle and our collective duty to preserve this vital resource. Under the guidance of its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, Manila Water arranged sixty-five (65) Lakbayan trips in 2025, with 2,151 participants.

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DILG-National Capital Region, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Government of Makati, Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pateros, San Agustin Seminary, University of the Philippines, Technological University of Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, Western Mindanao State University, and other public and private educational institutions and private companies were among the organizations that took part.

The program demonstrates Manila Water's commitment to conserving water and protecting the environment. By emphasizing the complexity and importance of water and wastewater management, Lakbayan empowers participants to become champions for sustainability in their local communities.

Manila Water welcomes all stakeholders to experience Lakbayan. For schedules and reservations, interested parties may email info@manilawater.com.

New Balance Unites Performance and Style with the Fresh Foam X 1080v14 and FuelCell Rebel v5 at Foot Locker

Running attire is changing from a performance to a daily means of self-expression in Southeast Asia. The previously defined line between sport and style is becoming increasingly hazy as more individuals embrace running-inspired looks that blend comfort, practicality, and style both on and off the track. 

In response to this cultural trend, New Balance produces new colorways of their famous models, the FuelCell Rebel v5 and the Fresh Foam X 1080 v14. These redesigned styles in vibrant, reflective hues blend innovation, comfort, modern elegance, and function. The newest colors signify the next stage in the evolution of everyday shoes, made to be worn all day and for those who can easily switch between their active schedules and city life.

New Balance and Foot Locker seek to inspire a new generation of fashion-conscious consumers through their continued partnership. The collaboration encourages independence and the capacity to walk confidently while donning stylish yet cozy shoes.

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5's streamlined, race-inspired mesh top with reflective accents gives it a sleek, swift appearance even when it's stationary. Its lightweight, modern form gives it a stunning yet versatile appearance that effortlessly shines out in casual clothing.

The Fresh Foam X 1080 v14, on the other hand, features a triple jacquard mesh top that improves breathability in important areas and has a luxurious, silky feel that enhances daily comfort. Every step has a remarkable visual touch thanks to the color-shifting embellishments and shiny accents that finish both pairs.

Some Foot Locker stores now carry the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 and FuelCell Rebel v5.

About New Balance 

New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, has the following purpose: Independent since 1906, we empower people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. New Balance employs 10,000 associates around the globe, and in 2024 reported worldwide sales of $7.8 billion. New Balance owns five athletic footwear factories in New England and one in Flimby, U.K. New Balance MADE U.S. footwear contains a domestic value of 70% or more and makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s U.S. sales. To learn more about New Balance, please visit www.newbalance.com; for the latest press information visit http://newbalance.newsmarket.com. 

About Foot Locker, Inc. 

Foot Locker, Inc. is a leading footwear and apparel retailer that unlocks the "inner sneakerhead" in all of us. With approximately 2,400 retail stores in 26 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and a licensed store presence in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, Foot Locker has a strong history of sneaker authority that sparks discovery and ignites the power of sneaker culture through its portfolio of brands, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS, and atmos.