Big News for Marikina Shoppers: UNIQLO SM City Marikina is Expanding!

Attention, Marikina fashion lovers and LifeWear fans! Exciting changes are coming to your favorite shopping spot. UNIQLO SM City Marikina is gearing up for a major transformation, bringing a bigger, better, and more spacious retail experience to the local community.

To make way for this upgrade, the store will temporarily close on September 11 and is officially set to reopen on October 2, 2026.

Here is everything you need to know about what to expect from the revamped store, UNIQLO's latest community initiatives, and why this upgrade is worth the brief wait.

A Refreshed, Expanded LifeWear Experience

The temporary closure allows UNIQLO to complete enhancement works alongside SM City Marikina’s overall mall expansion. When doors reopen on October 2, shoppers can look forward to a significantly upgraded store layout with an expanded floor space.

Whether you are hunting for versatile everyday basics, upgrading your work wardrobe, or stocking up on seasonal outerwear, the larger footprint will make browsing UNIQLO’s signature LifeWear line easier and more enjoyable than ever.

This expansion aligns with UNIQLO's ongoing commitment to growing alongside local communities across the Philippines. By expanding key locations, the Japanese global apparel retailer continues to make high-quality, thoughtfully designed clothing accessible to more Filipinos nationwide.

Shopping with Purpose: "Supporting Brighter Futures Through Education"

UNIQLO’s expansion isn't just about offering more retail space—it’s also about giving back.

In partnership with the SM Foundation, UNIQLO is extending its Supporting Brighter Futures Through Education initiative to Cabanatuan. Through this meaningful campaign, proceeds from every purchase of participating AIRism Innerwear items will directly fund the construction of a new classroom for a selected local public school.

By supporting this cause, shoppers can help provide better learning environments and brighter opportunities for young students and future generations.

Celebrating 70 Years of Philippines-Japan Friendship

This store upgrade and community effort also carry deeper significance: they form part of UNIQLO’s ongoing commemoration of the 70th anniversary of Philippines and Japan friendship.

Celebrating seven decades of diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties, UNIQLO honors this milestone by blending Japanese innovation with local relevance—creating high-value apparel while actively contributing to social progress in the Philippines.

What is LifeWear?

If you are new to the brand, LifeWear is apparel designed to make everyone’s life better. Simple, high-quality, and timeless, LifeWear blends practical beauty with ingenious details tailored to real-life needs. Constantly evolving, it represents everyday clothing made with modern comfort and lasting style in mind.

UNIQLO operates under Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a global retail holding giant headquartered in Tokyo. With over 2,500 UNIQLO stores worldwide—and more than 3,500 total across Fast Retailing brands like GU, Theory, and Helmut Lang—UNIQLO continues to solidify its position as one of the world's leading apparel brands.

Mark Your Calendars!

While the store undergoes its transformation from September 11 to October 1, you can still shop your favorite LifeWear essentials online via the UNIQLO App or official website at www.uniqlo.com.

Be sure to follow @uniqlophofficial on social media to catch exclusive updates, reopening promotions, and special grand opening activities as October 2 approaches!

Natural Ways to Unclog a Stuffy Nose: Expert Tips for Quick Relief

It usually begins with a faint, telltale tickle or sore feeling in the back of your throat. Soon after comes a mild, dull headache, bouts of sneezing, aching joints, and an overall sense of fatigue. Before you know it, a full-blown cold has set in.

While a runny nose is frustrating enough, a stuffy, congested nose can feel even worse. It makes your head feel heavy, disrupts your sleep, and turns normal breathing into a chore. But why does this happen, and what is the best way to get fast, safe relief?

Healthcare experts from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) share key insights into why nasal congestion occurs and detail effective, natural home remedies to help you breathe easier again.

What Actually Causes Nasal Congestion?

Most people assume that a blocked nose is simply caused by an overproduction of thick mucus. However, the root cause is slightly different.

"A blocked nose, or nasal congestion, is your immune system’s natural response to the presence of a cold virus in your nasal lining," explains Paulo Angelo D.C. Catindig, MD, an Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT Specialist) at Makati Medical Center.

When a virus invades, your body kicks into defense mode:

1. White blood cells are dispatched to fight off the infection.

2. Blood flow increases, causing the blood vessels in your nasal passages to inflame and swell.

3. This swelling narrows your airways, leaving very little space for air or mucus to pass through.

The result? That familiar, uncomfortable stuffed-up feeling.

Over-the-Counter Options vs. Natural Remedies

An average cold typically lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 days. While your body works to fight off the virus, you don’t have to suffer through the discomfort.

Nonprescription decongestants—available in pill, syrup, or nasal spray forms—work by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nasal tissue. According to Dr. Catindig, you should look for active ingredients like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine, and always adhere strictly to the package directions or your doctor’s advice.

However, if you prefer non-medicinal relief or want to complement your treatment, several time-tested home remedies can help soothe clogged passages.

4 Effective Natural Remedies for Nasal Congestion

1. Nasal Inhalers

Popular nasal inhalers (such as Hong Thai or Vicks) blend ingredients like menthol, camphor, and natural aromatic herbs.

• How it works: Inhaling these cooling vapors through each nostril triggers cold receptors in your nasal passage, tricking your brain into feeling like air is flowing more freely.

• Expert Note: "It does not clear the physical blockage, but rather gives quick, temporary sensory relief from stuffiness," Dr. Catindig clarifies.

2. Facial Steam Inhalation

Steam is one of the most effective ways to break up stubborn congestion.

• How to do it properly:

  1. Pour freshly boiled water into a large, sturdy bowl placed on a flat, stable surface.

  2. Lean comfortably over the bowl, keeping your face about 12 inches away to prevent burns.

  3. Drape a clean towel over the back of your head to trap the rising steam.

  4. Keep your eyes closed and inhale slowly and deeply through your nose.

• Why it helps: The warm moisture softens and loosens thick, trapped mucus so your body can drain it naturally.

3. Warm Soups, Teas, and Spices

What you consume plays a big role in comforting a cold.

• Hot Soups & Broths: The warmth helps soothe an irritated throat, while the rising steam helps open airways. Adding a hint of spice (like chili, garlic, or black pepper) can help thin out mucus, reduce nasal swelling, and stimulate drainage.

• Herbal Teas: Sipping hot tea keeps you hydrated while relieving sinuses. Opt for flavors infused with peppermint or ginger, which offer natural decongestant properties.

4. Prioritize Rest and Hydration

Never underestimate the power of sleep. Adequate rest gives your immune system the energy it needs to defeat the virus faster, shortening the duration of your symptoms.

When Should You See a Doctor?

In most cases, a stuffy nose resolves on its own within a week or two. However, you should consult an ENT specialist or physician if your symptoms persist beyond 10 days, or if you experience any of the following warning signs:

• High or persistent fever

• Severe, worsening sore throat

• Ear pain or pressure

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing

Final Thoughts

A stuffy nose can slow you down, but simple, soothing remedies like steam, warm teas, and gentle inhalers can help you get through the worst of it comfortably.

"Remember, this is just temporary," says Dr. Catindig. "With these home remedies and a few days of rest, you will be breathing better in no time."

For professional consultation and medical guidance, reach out to MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. You can also follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Embark on a Global Culinary Journey at Café by Westside

Some meals call for a comforting classic you already know and love. Others are an open invitation to step out of your culinary comfort zone and try something entirely new. At Café by Westside—the vibrant all-day dining restaurant of Grand Westside Manila Bay—guests are invited to do both.

Whether you are dropping in for a sunrise breakfast before a busy workday, meeting colleagues for a lively lunch, enjoying a casual afternoon bite with family, or lingering over a Saturday feast with friends, Café by Westside is built around one simple pleasure: good food, beautifully prepared and shared around the table.

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From Local Comforts to Global Classics: The À La Carte Menu

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Café by Westside’s expansive à la carte menu takes diners on a seamless gastronomic journey across continents.

Filipino heritage sits proudly at the heart of the kitchen. Signature dishes include chef-crafted Kare-Kare, pairing tender, slow-cooked oxtail with a rich peanut sauce and fragrant shrimp paste, and a classic Home Style Sinigang featuring a soul-warming sour broth with your choice of shrimp, salmon, US beef, or pork belly. Guests can also indulge in beloved local staples like Crispy Pata, Lechon Kawali, Adobo, Pinakbet with Bagnet, and traditional Pancit.

From there, the menu travels around the globe:

• Southeast Asian Delights: Savor fragrant Seafood Laksa laden with prawns, squid, and mussels in a spiced Malaysian coconut broth, or enjoy classic Pad Thai and wok-tossed Black Pepper Beef.

• Indian & Middle Eastern Specialties: Dive into aromatic curries and spiced dishes including Murgh Makhani, Chicken Masala, Vegetable Korma, and Chana Masala. Layered Biryani enriched with caramelised onions and traditional herbs is available with lamb, chicken, seafood, egg, or vegetables.

• Western Comfort & Lighter Bites: Bite into the signature Westside Burger made with a juicy US Angus beef patty on a sleek charcoal brioche bun, alongside satisfying pastas and classic sandwiches. Lighter fare includes Thai Prawn and Pomelo Salad, fresh Lumpiang Sariwa, and crispy Vietnamese Vegetable Spring Rolls.

"Good food should feel familiar, but there should always be something new to discover," says Chef Chris Lugtu, Executive Chef of Grand Westside Manila Bay. "We bring together flavors our guests know and love with dishes they may be trying for the first time. For us, it’s about cooking food people genuinely enjoy and giving them a reason to come back for another plate."

 

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Save Room for Something Sweet

No culinary trip is complete without a memorable sweet ending. Café by Westside’s dessert offerings cater to every mood, featuring:

• Rich Dulce de Leche Cheesecake

• Decadent 24-Carat Moist Chocolate Mousse Cake

• A guilt-free Sugar-Free Tiramisu

• Rotating selections of Westside Homemade Gelato

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Saturday Nights Turn into a "World of Flavors"

While the à la carte menu satisfies global cravings daily, Saturday evenings transform the space into an interactive dining experience with the World of Flavors Dinner Buffet.

Designed for diners who love variety, the buffet brings together live cooking stations, fresh seafood, roast meats, Middle Eastern spices, Asian classics, and indulgent dessert displays. Guests can build their own multi-course adventure, returning as many times as they like to revisit favorites or sample new creations.

"Dining has always been one of the primary ways people come together," notes Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager of Grand Westside Manila Bay. "Café by Westside welcomes families, friends, travelers, and our local community to share a table and spend quality time together. World of Flavors gives everyone another fantastic reason to do just that."

 

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Plan Your Visit

Located inside Westside City in Parañaque, Café by Westside is just minutes away from Entertainment City, SM Mall of Asia, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), making it an easy, accessible stop for hotel guests and local food lovers alike.

Offering	Schedule	Price / Details
Operating Hours	Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM	Open for all-day dining
Breakfast Buffet	Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM	PHP 1,500 nett per person
À La Carte Dining	Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM	Varies by dish selection
World of Flavors Buffet	Saturdays, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM	PHP 2,298 nett per person

For reservations and inquiries, contact Grand Westside Manila Bay at +63 917 120 2815 or email dine@grandwestsidemanila.com.

Familiar and Fresh: How URC Continues to Surprise Filipinos After 70 Years

Some favorites never go out of style, but the secret to staying beloved for decades is knowing how to evolve. For seven decades, Universal Robina Corporation (URC) has been a constant companion in Filipino households. From school canteens to office desks, road trips to quiet rainy-day snacks, URC’s portfolio—featuring household names like Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Maxx, Cloud 9, Cream-O, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste—has earned a permanent spot in the Pinoy pantry.

Staying true to its core purpose of delighting everyone with good food choices, URC has mastered the delicate art of balancing nostalgia with innovation. Today, the company continues to excite generations of consumers by introducing fresh flavors, modern formats, and playful product experiences, proving that true innovation often springs from the brands we already know and love.

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Modern Snacking: Classic Crunch Meets Bold Flavors

The Iconic Hexagon Snack Keeps Evolving

As an undisputed staple of daily Pinoy snacking, Piattos is celebrated for its signature hexagonal shape, light crunch, and classic lineup, including Cheese, Sour Cream & Onion, Roadhouse Barbeque, Nacho Pizza, Roast Beef, and Spicy Cheese. To satisfy today’s more adventurous palates, the brand regularly pushes flavor boundaries with limited-edition releases like Beef Bulgogi and Truffle Cream, as well as its newest staple pairing, Cheddar & Sour Cream.

Alongside Piattos, other Jack 'n Jill favorites—including Nova, Mang Juan, VCut, Chippy, and Chiz Curls—frequently roll out new profiles, giving snack lovers endless reasons to revisit the chip aisle.

From Sandwich Cookie to Full Chocolate Experience

Cream-O has long been a go-to treat for cookie lovers, but URC reimagined the brand well beyond its traditional boundaries. To meet modern cravings for rich, multi-layered textures, the brand expanded into a complete dessert ecosystem featuring the Cream-O Cake Bar, Cream-O Cakewich, and Cream-O Premium. Its latest innovation, Cream-O Dark Choco, delivers an extra-bold, indulgent sandwich cookie built specifically for intense chocolate cravings.

This spirit of variety spans URC’s entire biscuit portfolio. Classics like Dewberry, Presto, and Magic Crackers continuously tweak their formats and fillings to fit every lifestyle, whether it's a light morning bite or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

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Sweet Treats: Reimagining Chocolates and Candies

Rethinking Chocolate with a Fun Crunch

Famous for its signature combination of nougat, caramel, and peanuts, Cloud 9 has fueled sweet tooths across the country for years. Modernizing the brand meant experimenting with texture: enter Cloud 9 Crunchies, which introduce a light, crispy crunch to a nostalgic favorite. Meanwhile, colorful treats like Nips continue to drop vibrant new variants, proving that classic chocolate bites can always find new ways to brighten up a busy afternoon.

Fruity Freshness with a Chewy Twist

For decades, Maxx has been an essential pocket companion for quick minty freshness. Recognizing a growing consumer preference for soft, bite-sized sweets, URC expanded its candy lineup with Maxx Chews. Encased in a convenient, value-packed three-piece stick, this chewy menthol treat is custom-built for fast-paced commutes and busy schedules.

Along with candy staples like XO, Dynamite, and Lush, URC ensures that every candy craving—from hard-boiled treats to chewy delights—is fully covered.

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Beverage Innovations: Elevating Daily Refreshment

Ready-To-Drink Tea, Evolved

As the pioneer of ready-to-drink green tea in the Philippines, C2 Cool and Clean fundamentally transformed local beverage habits. Building beyond its iconic Classic Green Tea, Apple, and Lemon variants, C2 introduced fruit-forward flavors like Raspberry, Dalandan, and Peach. Its latest creation, C2 Freeze Melon, brings a cool twist to fruity tea by pairing smooth melon flavor with an icy, refreshing finish that lingers long after the last sip.

Brewing Modern Coffee Moments

Consistently ranked among the country’s top chosen beverage brands, Great Taste has a long legacy of breaking ground in the coffee category—most notably by pioneering White Coffee in the Philippines. URC continues to elevate the daily coffee ritual with Great Taste Premium, a dark-roasted robusta blend crafted with palm sugar and real milk. The result is a robust, rich companion designed to give Filipinos that comforting Balik Lakas Sigla moment during busy workdays.

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Nourishing the Whole Family: Comfort Food and Pet Care

Bigger, Bolder Instant Meals

Payless continues to redefine affordable dining by giving consumers more value and flavor at a wallet-friendly price point. Its newest offering, Payless Chili Garlic Mami, takes a traditional comfort food staple and elevates it with rich chili oil and real garlic bits. Available in Beef and Chicken flavors, it delivers a balanced Anghang-Linamnam twist for quick, satisfying meals at home or in the office.

Expanding into Modern Pet Care

URC’s commitment to household happiness extends to four-legged family members as well. Through its award-winning pet care brand, TopBreed, URC supports pet parents with reliable nutrition for dogs and cats. Building on its signature dry food formulations, TopBreed expanded its lineup to include wet food options, tasty pet treats, and TopCare cat litter—providing well-rounded care for modern pets.

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Always Something New to Discover

After 70 years, Universal Robina Corporation remains deeply woven into the fabric of daily Pinoy life. By listening to consumer preferences and constantly reinventing its product lines, URC proves that heritage brands can stay fresh, vibrant, and relevant. As a lifelong companion in Filipino homes, URC continues to deliver on the same simple promise it started with decades ago: bringing quality, flavor, and everyday delight to every moment.

Knowledge Channel Launches “Enna You Know!”: Empowering Filipino Youth Through Climate Action and Energy Literacy

Everyday household habits—from leaving appliances plugged into live sockets to running faucets longer than necessary—have a larger cumulative impact on the environment than most young people realize. To address the critical need for early environmental education, Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. (KCFI) introduces its newest educational show, “Enna You Know!”

Premiering on September 16 (Wednesday) on DepEd TV powered by Knowledge Channel, the engaging four-episode series translates complex climate concepts into practical, everyday habits for high school students across the Philippines.

Making Environmental Science Relatable for Grades 9 and 10 Students

Aligned with the Department of Education (DepEd) Science curriculum for Grades 9 and 10, “Enna You Know!” follows the story of Enna (played by Zavinna Badena), a curious teenager who frequently encounters common environmental issues within her home and immediate community.

To help her make sense of these challenges, Enna turns to her older brother Geo (played by Benedix Ramos), a dedicated field-based environmental scientist. Through brother-sister conversations, hands-on demonstrations, and real-world observations, Geo breaks down the underlying science and offers actionable, eco-friendly alternatives.

The series covers core themes vital to modern environmental literacy, including:

• Energy Conservation: Identifying phantom load draw, optimizing electricity usage, and reducing household carbon footprints.

• Environmental Sustainability: Understanding resource management and practical waste-reduction techniques.

• Climate Action: Empowering students to take personal ownership of environmental protection within their local communities.

By pairing relatable storytelling with practical solutions, the show encourages young viewers to integrate eco-conscious choices into their daily routines.

Strategic Partnerships Driving Project Shaping Energy

“Enna You Know!” was developed by Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. (KCFI) in collaboration with key corporate and institutional partners, including the Schneider Electric Foundation, Schneider Electric Philippines, Makesense Asia, and the Department of Education (DepEd).

The production forms a central component of Project Shaping Energy, a wider movement dedicated to advancing energy literacy, sustainability education, and green skill awareness among public high school students.

Highlighting the long-term impact of digital educational tools, KCFI Vice President Edric Calma emphasized the value of sustainable educational content:

“Ang investment po sa education, katulad ng mga ginawa nating video lessons na ito, ay makabuluhan at sustainable. Taun-taon, ilang mga bata ang matututo ng science nang maayos at magmamahal sa ating kalikasan dahil sa mga videos na ito.”

As part of the official program launch, KCFI and its project partners distributed educational resource packages containing all four episodes to public school Science teachers across the DepEd Schools Division Office of Rizal, ensuring immediate integration into classroom learning.

Broadcast Schedule and Viewing Information

“Enna You Know!” airs regularly during the dedicated Grade 9 to 10 learning block on DepEd TV powered by Knowledge Channel.

Broadcast Schedule	Airing Times	Platform Availability
Days: Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Sundays	First Airing: 4:00 PM	Digital Free TV: BEAM Ch. 31, SBN Ch. 21
Premiere: September 16	Replay: 10:40 PM	Satellite & Cable: Cignal, GSat, SatLite, SkyCable, Cablelink, PCTA Operators

Stay Connected

For real-time programming schedules, downloadable video lessons, and updates on educational initiatives, visit knowledgechannel.org or follow Knowledge Channel on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, X, and YouTube. Additional media updates are available at corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Pay&Go Celebrates 11 Years of Advancing Financial Inclusion Across the Philippines

Financial accessibility should never be a luxury reserved for those with conventional bank accounts. Eleven years ago, Pay&Go set out with a clear vision: to bridge the gap between digital financial ecosystems and everyday Filipinos. Today, as the country's premier self-service payment kiosk network, Pay&Go marks a monumental milestone—celebrating 11 years of continuous growth, community impact, and relentless innovation.

What started as an ambitious effort to streamline routine payments has evolved into a national footprint of over 4,500 locations across the Philippines. Behind every transaction made on a Pay&Go kiosk is a story of convenience, efficiency, and empowerment. From rural towns to bustling metropolitan centers, Pay&Go has fundamentally reshaped how everyday Filipinos manage their money.

Redefining Financial Inclusion for the Unbanked and Underbanked

For millions of Filipinos who have limited access to traditional banking institutions, managing daily finances can often feel restrictive and tedious. Financial inclusion is not just a corporate tagline for Pay&Go—it is the foundational pillar of the entire operation.

Through an intuitive, user-friendly interface, Pay&Go self-service kiosks bring essential financial services directly to the places where Filipinos live, work, and shop. Customers can effortlessly complete a wide range of daily transactions in one place:

• Cash In Services: Instantly top up e-wallets, mobile accounts, and digital bank accounts without enduring long lines at physical bank branches.

• Bills Payment: Settle utility bills, telecom expenses, credit cards, and government fees quickly and securely.

• E-Load & Digital Top-Ups: Purchase mobile load and digital service credits 24/7.

• Entertainment & Subscriptions: Pay for streaming subscriptions, gaming credits, and platform passes on demand.

By turning routine trips to nearby stores into complete financial checkouts, Pay&Go ensures that no one is left behind in the shift toward a cashless and digitally driven economy.

Expanding Horizons: The Nationwide Rollout of Cash Out Services

The journey of financial technology is defined by constant evolution. Marking its 11th year, Pay&Go reached a major product milestone with the widespread rollout of its Cash Out feature.

Previously renowned primarily for payments and cash-in capabilities, Pay&Go kiosks now offer a complete two-way financial bridge. By enabling Cash Out functionality across its expanding network, the platform allows users to convert digital balances back into physical cash seamlessly.

This dual-capability transforms a Pay&Go kiosk from a simple bill-pay machine into a localized, lightweight neighborhood branch. Whether a user needs quick cash for daily market spending or emergency funds withdrawn directly from a digital account, the Cash Out rollout creates a fluid, reliable channel between physical cash and digital finance.

Driven by People, Sustained by Strategic Partnerships

A network of 4,500 machines does not grow overnight; it requires a strong foundation built on operational excellence, dedicated personnel, and deep commercial partnerships.

Pay&Go's eleven-year journey is a testament to the hard work of its internal team and the unwavering trust of its commercial partners. The footprint continues to grow thanks to integration with premier retail chains, commercial centers, healthcare outlets, and local institutions nationwide, including:

• Supermarkets & Retail Chains: Robinsons Group, Landers Superstore, Ever Supermarket

• Convenience Stores: Alfamart, Uncle John's, Lawson

• Pharmacies & Healthcare: Mercury Drug, Cecille's Pharmacy

• Commercial Hubs & Transit Outlets: Ayala Malls, Shell Select stations

• Public & Educational Outlets: Academic institutions, local government unit (LGU) offices, and service centers

By situating self-service touchpoints inside essential commercial spaces, Pay&Go ensures that financial services fit naturally into the existing routines of everyday consumers.

Looking Ahead: Building the Next Decade of Financial Tech

Entering its 12th year, Pay&Go shows no signs of slowing down. The roadmap ahead prioritizes physical network expansion, enhanced software capabilities, broader service integrations, and the continued rollout of Cash Out enabled hardware across underserved provinces.

“By making daily transactions seamless and accessible, we actively fuel local commerce and empower communities,” says BTI Payments Philippines CEO Dan Ibarra. “May this milestone inspire the team to reach greater heights, break new ground, and continue transforming lives through technology.”

Pay&Go extends its deepest gratitude to every customer, partner, and employee who has been part of this 11-year narrative. As the Philippines marches toward an inclusive, tech-empowered future, Pay&Go remains committed to standing at the forefront—one kiosk, one transaction, and one community at a time.

About Pay&Go

Pay&Go is the Philippines’ leading provider of self-service payment kiosks, operating over 4,500 machines nationwide. Offering cash in, cash out, bank withdrawals, bank deposits, utility bills payment, e-load, and entertainment subscriptions, Pay&Go brings secure, accessible financial tools to everyday places.

To discover nearest locations or explore partnership opportunities, visit btipayments.ph.

Negros Trade Fair marks 40 years of championing MSMEs with SM Supermalls

 Demonstrating four decades of promoting regional creativity and economic resilience, the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), in strategic partnership with SM Supermalls, officially launched BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair during a media gathering at SM Aura.

Running from September 22 to 27, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Aura, this landmark 40th-anniversary edition will convene 178 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the Negros Island Region. The event brings the island's renowned culinary heritage, contemporary fashion, home decor, and artisanal craftsmanship directly to Metro Manila shoppers.

A Visual and Cultural Journey to Negros

The media launch commenced with the premiere of the official BÚTLAK promotional film, sweeping across the landscapes, historical landmarks, and creative communities of Negros. The visual presentation served as an invitation for Metro Manila residents to experience the culture and enterprise of the island without boarding a flight.

ANP President Christina Gaston reflected on the four-decade trajectory of the fair and its role in fostering sustainable local industries:

"For ANP, MSME development is about giving people the opportunity to discover what they can create, what they can become, and where their creativity can take them. Over 40 years, we have seen small businesses grow into thriving enterprises and local products reach international markets once thought beyond their reach."

Reinforcing the importance of commercial platforms for local artisans, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan highlighted the synergy between cultural heritage and retail expansion:

"Our role is to help open doors. For us, the Negros Trade Fair is a wonderful example of how culture and enterprise can grow together."

Through the dedicated SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls continues to collaborate with ANP by providing homegrown brands with access to prime commercial spaces, heightened brand visibility, and direct exposure to nationwide consumer markets.

A Feast of Culinary Heritage and Modern Craftsmanship

The launch event offered a curated tasting of Negrense gastronomy led by prominent culinary figures, including actor and restaurateur Joel Torre (JT’s Manukan), Chef JP Anglo, and food writer JJ Yulo.

Highlighting the province's rich food tradition, Torre noted:

"I'm a proud Negrense. The pride behind our food is just as important as its flavor, and I am deeply proud of what Negros produces."

Chef JP Anglo emphasized the fair's continuous innovation:

"Life is a constant evolution. The Negros Trade Fair thrives through the years because of that relentless chase for perfection and a deep love for craftsmanship."

Visitors to the six-day fair can expect established dining institutions—such as Bob’s Café, 21 Restaurant, Chicken House, El Ideal, and Virgie’s Homemade Products—alongside emerging culinary concepts, regional delicacies, and artisanal pantry staples.

Beyond gastronomy, the fair features sustainable fashion, home décor, and lifestyle labels:

• Fashion & Accessories: Brands like Arête showcase island-style accessories crafted from indigenous materials, while Ellege Handcrafted Fashion integrates traditional hand-smocking into modern apparel designs.

• Home & Furniture: Industry pioneers including Hacienda Crafts, Tumandok Crafts Industries, Artisana Island Crafts, and the NVC Foundation showcase pieces using repurposed materials, abaca, rattan, bamboo, capiz, and wild pandan—supporting community livelihoods and preserving indigenous craft traditions.

• Next-Gen Brands: Emerging eco-friendly labels such as Lakat Sustainables highlight the creative contributions of a new generation of Negrense entrepreneurs.

Honoring a 40-Year Legacy, Building for the Future

Reflecting on the anniversary theme, ANP Vice President and Trade Fair Chairperson Mary Anne Colmenares shared:

"Our roots are found in the traditions, skills, and stories handed down to us. Our blooms are the new ideas, new enterprises, and new generations emerging from those roots. After 40 years, Negros continues to bloom."

SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin added:

"We are celebrating 40 remarkable years—but we are equally excited about supporting the next 40 years of growth for Negrense entrepreneurs."

BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair opens to the public at the SMX Convention Center Aura from September 22 to 27, 2026.

SM Job Fair marks 500th milestone, expands access to jobs and future-ready skills

For millions of Filipinos, taking the first step toward a fulfilling career relies on having access to viable opportunities near their homes. Demonstrating its enduring commitment to national workforce development, SM Supermalls recently celebrated a major national milestone with the hosting of its 500th SM Job Fair.

By integrating face-to-face recruitment drives with technical-vocational upskilling initiatives in partnership with key government agencies, SM Supermalls continues to transform its extensive shopping mall network into accessible hubs for employment, career advancement, and economic mobility.

500 Job Fairs: Connecting Talent with Opportunity

On August 12, SM City Daet officially hosted the landmark 500th SM Job Fair. Since its inception, the program has connected approximately 330,000 jobseekers with thousands of local and international employers nationwide. Crucially, these efforts have resulted in more than 42,000 applicants hired on the spot (HOTS).

Organized in close collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), local Public Employment Service Offices (PESO), and various industry leadership groups, the SM Job Fair framework bridges the gap between hiring companies and local talent pools. The venue caters to a diverse range of applicants—including fresh university graduates, breadwinners, career shifters, and seasoned professionals looking for their next milestone.

The impact was further broadened on August 18 at SM City Fairview, where the dedicated SM Group Job Fair allowed jobseekers to apply directly for positions across the conglomerate's retail, banking, and property sectors.

For May Stephanie, a recent graduate who secured a job at Savemore during the event, the direct interview process made all the difference: "Masaya po kasi mahirap maghanap ng work lalo na pag fresh grad ka," she shared, highlighting how accessible venues shorten the path from job hunting to earning a sustainable livelihood.

Bridging Technical Skills and Career Pathways with TESDA

Recognizing that long-term employability requires continuous skill evolution, SM Supermalls teamed up with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) during National Tech-Voc Day. On August 24, the World Café of Opportunities (WCO) brought together over 1,000 jobseekers and 54 participating employers at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, offering more than 4,000 vacant positions.

The event combined job matching with interactive, hands-on demonstrations in high-demand fields such as HVAC servicing, autonomous robotics, professional driving, animation, and barista training.

A central feature of the event was the launch of the TESDA Skills Compass—an innovative career guidance platform designed to map individual technical competencies directly to real-time market demands.

Employer partners underscored the necessity of certified technical training. "Nakatulong po talaga ang TESDA hindi lang sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho, kundi sa aming mga employers din," noted CJ Bajamunde, HR Assistant at SMC Repairs and Maintenance, reaffirming the industry's demand for job-ready, certified personnel.

Empowerment Beyond Recruitment: September Schedule

SM’s commitment extends well beyond traditional job fairs. Through strategic partnerships, SM Supermalls has provided free upskilling opportunities to over 1,600 learners in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital literacy, and cybersecurity. Furthermore, integrated SM Government Service Express (GSE) centers across select malls serve as convenient locations for processing essential pre-employment documentation and government transactions.

Building on August’s momentum, SM Supermalls announces a comprehensive nationwide job fair and upskilling schedule for September 2026:

• Key Job Fair Locations: SM City Sto. Tomas (Sept 1), SM City Manila (Sept 3), SM City Sta. Mesa (Sept 4), SM City Butuan (Sept 7–8), SM City Iloilo & SM City Davao (Sept 8–9), SM City Baguio (Sept 9), SM City Cebu & SM CDO Downtown Premier (Sept 9–10), SM City North EDSA, SM City Zamboanga, & SM City Trece Martires (Sept 10), SM City La Union & SM City San Pablo (Sept 12), SM Center Antipolo (Sept 14), SM Seaside City Cebu (Sept 16–17, 22–23), SM City Calamba (Sept 23), and SM Center Pulilan & SM City Bacoor (Sept 24).

• Specialized Upskilling Sessions: Scheduled at SM City Trece Martires (Sept 10 & 24), SM Center Sangandaan (Sept 12), and SM City North EDSA (Sept 12).

(Note: Schedules and participating partners may be subject to change.)

About SM Supermalls – Job Fairs

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, managing 90 malls in the Philippines and nine in China. Through its nationwide job fairs and community initiatives, SM Supermalls leverages its physical presence to support inclusive growth, connecting talent with industry leaders across the country.