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.

Beyond Hotel Sales: Recognizing Leadership That Moves Tourism Forward

“Our roles go beyond our teams and our organizations. We also have a responsibility to champion our destinations and the Philippine tourism industry. Beyond Filipino hospitality, we must find more ways to showcase what our destinations have to offer and create more reasons for international travelers to visit the Philippines and experience our hotels.” ~Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing of Kingsford Hotel Manila

From left: Margarita “Margie” Munsayac, HSMA Chair; Ma. Celeste B. Romualdo, HSMA Director of Membership; Socrates “Sonny” Alvaro, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hotels and Resorts; Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing of Kingsford Hotel Manila; Anna Liza Vergara, Managing Director of Megaworld Global Hotels and Resorts; Blanca CalilungMercado, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Manila Times; and Loleth G. So, HSMA President - during the awarding of the Outstanding Sales & Marketing Leader category.

Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing of Kingsford Hotel Manila, has been named Outstanding Sales and Marketing Leader at the 12th Virtus Awards organized by the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) Philippines. The recognition highlights her efforts beyond her professional responsibilities, particularly her dedication to promoting Philippine destinations and inspiring more people to explore the country.

Her passion for tourism and commitment to her work reflect the core values of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' Circle of Happiness philosophy, which celebrates love for self, work, family, country, and God. The group encourages its people to find purpose in their respective roles and make meaningful contributions beyond hotel operations.

From left: Saymoure Pelayo, Senior Sales Manager - Kingsford Hotel Manila and finalist in the Outstanding Sales & Marketing Manager category; Dulce Amor Sy, Director of Sales and Marketing Kingsford Hotel Manila and recipient of the Outstanding Sales & Marketing Leader award; and Patricia Aiel Apeña, Reservations Associate at Kingsford Hotel Manila and finalist in the Sales Associate category.

In recognizing Sy, HSMA acknowledged her impact beyond commercial achievements, including her initiatives to promote the destination surrounding her hotel and her active involvement in local tourism development. The award's judges also cited her resilience, passion, results-oriented leadership, and ability to combine vision, expertise, and influence to inspire individuals and drive organizations forward.

Kingsford Hotel Manila also celebrated the nominations of two emerging talents. Patricia Aiel Apeña, Reservations Associate, was nominated in the Sales Associate category, while Saymoure Pelayo, Senior Sales Manager, received a nomination for Outstanding Sales and Marketing Manager.

The Megaworld Global Hotels and Resorts team celebrates its finalists at the 12th Virtus Awards

Held annually, the Virtus Awards is organized by HSMA Philippines in partnership with the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board. The awards recognize outstanding sales and marketing professionals whose contributions help advance the Philippine hospitality industry.

As part of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts, Kingsford Hotel Manila continues to welcome business and leisure travelers to Entertainment City in Parañaque. The hotel's recognition of its people and their achievements reflects its belief that long-term success is built not only through individual accomplishments but also through the collective efforts and talents of the teams shaping the hospitality industry.

Grand Westside Manila Bay Promotes Filipino Heritage Through Sampaguita Planting at Tambo Elementary School

“It's wonderful to see our team working alongside the students, teachers and parents. Through activities like this, we hope to encourage greater appreciation for our environment and Filipino heritage while building lasting relationships with our community.” ~Joe Xavier Fijardo, Led by General Manager  

Grand Westside Manila Bay continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability and community involvement through a Sampaguita planting activity at Tambo Elementary School. The initiative brought together hotel associates, teachers, parents, and students to plant 45 Sampaguita plants within the school grounds.

Spearheaded by General Manager Joe Xavier Fijardo, the activity united the hotel team and the school community in creating a greener environment while paying tribute to the Philippines' national flower.

The initiative is part of Grand Westside Manila Bay's participation in Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' (MGHR) MEGreen sustainability programme, which includes a broader commitment to preserving and promoting the Sampaguita as an enduring symbol of Filipino culture and hospitality.

Central to this advocacy is MGHR's Sampaguita Brand of Service, founded on the values of love, honour, dignity, and healing. These principles shape the group's hospitality philosophy and reinforce its commitment to creating meaningful contributions to the communities surrounding its properties.

The planting activity also highlights the importance of employee participation in community initiatives. Grand Westside Manila Bay encourages its associates to extend their involvement beyond their regular hotel duties by joining volunteer activities and internally organized fundraising efforts that support various community causes.

“What makes this special is seeing our associates come together and give their time to the community. We want to continue encouraging this spirit of volunteerism, where caring for others becomes a natural part of our everyday culture.” ~Rodolfo Bazar II, Area Director of PMD at Grand Westside Manila Bay

Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts continues to promote environmental awareness across its properties through Sampaguita planting activities conducted in collaboration with schools and community organisations. These initiatives aim to highlight the cultural importance of the country's national flower while encouraging communities to take an active role in environmental conservation. Through its MEGreen programme, the group also supports these efforts by implementing sustainability projects and gathering Sampaguita seedlings for future planting activities.

Its collaboration with Tambo Elementary School provides an opportunity to introduce these values to younger generations. By participating in the planting activity, students are encouraged to appreciate nature, understand the importance of protecting the environment, and take greater responsibility for their surroundings.

Grand Westside Manila Bay is also exploring opportunities to further strengthen its environmental and community programmes through continued associate involvement and fundraising initiatives. These efforts reinforce a culture of generosity and social responsibility that extends beyond the hotel workplace.

As the newly planted Sampaguita plants begin to grow at Tambo Elementary School, they serve as lasting symbols of the partnership between the hotel and its neighbouring community. More than contributing to a greener environment, the initiative represents a shared commitment to preserving Filipino culture and heritage for future generations.

Through meaningful projects like this, Grand Westside Manila Bay continues to embody Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts' Circle of Happiness philosophy, bringing the spirit of Filipino hospitality and community care beyond the hotel premises.

About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Located in Westside City, Parañaque, Grand Westside Manila Bay is part of Megaworld Global Hotels & Resorts, the Philippines' largest homegrown hotel operator. With 1,528 rooms, the hotel offers contemporary accommodation, dining, leisure and meeting facilities in Manila's Entertainment City district. The hotel is committed to delivering memorable guest experiences while supporting sustainability and meaningful community initiatives.

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?

SM Malls in Bulacan Set the Stage for a Spooktacular Halloween

Get ready for a spooktacular long weekend as SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag welcome families and shoppers to a series of Halloween-themed activities from October 30 to November 3.

The three SM malls are set to become exciting Halloween destinations, offering a festive mix of family-friendly entertainment, spooky surprises, shopping promotions, and delicious treats for visitors of all ages.

Kicking off the celebrations on October 30 are the Halloween Zumba Session at SM City Marilao and the Pickleball Spookfest Free Play at SM Center Pulilan, both part of the SM Active Hub campaign. Pet owners can also bring their dressed-up furry companions to the Show Off Your Pet's Spooktacular Style event at SM City Marilao.

Young Halloween enthusiasts can show off their creativity through the Spooktacular Halloween Costume Contest, while little trick-or-treaters can look forward to collecting sweet treats during the much-anticipated Trick-or-Treat event on October 31 at SM Bulacan malls.

Shoppers can also take advantage of exclusive Halloween-season deals, discover delicious offerings from participating tenants, and enjoy exciting finds at Cyberzone from October 30 to November 1. For those still looking for costumes, accessories, and decorations, Toy Kingdom offers a selection of fun, creepy, and adorable Halloween essentials.

For moviegoers craving more intense Halloween thrills, Sine Sindak: The 7th Cycle returns to SM Cinema Marilao, SM Cinema Pulilan, and SM Cinema Baliwag from October 28 to November 3. Celebrating its seventh year, the annual horror film festival brings spine-chilling stories to the big screen for only ₱100 per ticket.

Movie fans can make their horror movie marathon even more rewarding through the SINE SINDAK 7 Passport Promo, running from October 28 to November 3, 2026. Collect stamps by watching different Sine Sindak films and redeem exciting rewards: two stamps earn a Sticker Sheet, five stamps get a Free Pop Pouch, and seven stamps unlock a Free Movie Pass. Repeated screenings of the same movie will not count toward additional stamps. To claim the Free Movie Pass, viewers must surrender their completed passport containing seven valid stamps. The promotion is available at all SM Cinema branches, giving moviegoers more reasons to catch multiple titles.

For those planning a visit during the holiday, SM Bulacan Malls will remain open on November 1 and 2 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. With activities, shopping opportunities, and entertainment for every generation, SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag invite everyone to enjoy a truly Spooktacular Halloween.

For updates and schedules, visit https://www.facebook.com/SMCityMarilao, https://www.facebook.com/smcenterpulilan, and https://www.facebook.com/smbaliwag.