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San Francisco-based sustainable footwear brand ‘Allbirds’ is expanding its footprint in the Philippines with a new store at Ayala Center Cebu, signaling rising global confidence in the country’s retail sector and its fast-growing base of young, brand-conscious consumers.

Founded in 2016 by former professional footballer Tim Brown and engineer Joey Zwillinger, Allbirds has built an international following around minimalist design and sustainable materials.

From a New Zealand startup, the company has grown into a global lifestyle name, with stores across major cities from New York to Tokyo.

According to the brand, Allbirds’ entry into Cebu reflects both the region’s strong appetite for premium lifestyle products and the brand’s commitment to making sustainability accessible to everyday consumers.

The Philippines has become a key destination for international lifestyle and fashion retailers, drawn by its young, urban population, rising disposable incomes, and growing demand for eco-conscious products.

Cebu, in particular, has emerged as a strategic retail hub-a convergence point for domestic and international spending supported by a robust tourism rebound and a thriving middle class.

‘Cebu is becoming the next frontier for high-value retail and experiential brands,’ said a retail industry analyst. ‘Global players see it as a gateway to the Visayas and Mindanao markets.’

Each pair of Allbirds shoes is crafted from renewable materials such as Merino wool, eucalyptus fiber, and sugarcane-based SweetFoamS, combining comfort with sustainability.

Its bestsellers-the ‘Wool Runner’ and ‘Tree Runner’-have gained global traction for their lightweight, breathable design, ideal for tropical climates like Cebu’s.

Allbirds’ Cebu store marks its second location in the Philippines, following its Manila debut, and reinforces the country’s position as a rising retail hub in Southeast Asia.

The move comes amid a wave of foreign lifestyle brands entering or expanding in the market, betting on the sustained growth of the Philippine consumer economy, projected to remain one of the region’s fastest-growing through 2026.

As a Certified B Corporation, Allbirds measures success not just through profit but through social and environmental impact-a model that aligns with shifting consumer preferences across Asia toward sustainability and conscious consumption.

The brand’s Cebu launch underscores both confidence in Philippine retail resilience and a long-term commitment to sustainability-driven growth.

The official opening date and launch events will be announced soon, giving Cebuanos their first chance to try what Time Magazine once called ‘the world’s most comfortable shoes.’

Halloween isn’t just about tricks and treats, it’s also one of the most creative times of the year for Filipino entrepreneurs.

With the local Halloween market projected to reach P760 billion in 2025 (according to Mordor Intelligence), more small business owners are seizing the opportunity to turn spooky fun into profit, from themed dessert boxes and costume pop-ups to décor rentals and DIY crafts.

And with e-commerce expected to grow by 23-26.5% this year (Shopify and AMZScout), entrepreneurs combining physical stalls with online selling can reach more customers nationwide, even with modest capital.

Recognizing this growing potential, Global Dominion Financing Inc. (GDFI) continues to empower entrepreneurs with accessible financing options designed to help businesses grow and sustain momentum beyond the season.

But while opportunities abound, many first-time entrepreneurs still fall into ‘scary mistakes,’ overstocking, poor timing, weak marketing or insufficient working capital. These challenges often haunt small ventures, especially during fast-moving seasons like Halloween.

That’s where Global Dominion steps in. Whether it’s for securing supplies, launching promotions or expanding operations, GDFI offers flexible financing solutions that help business owners bring their ideas to life, without the financial fear.

‘We believe every entrepreneur deserves a chance to grow. It’s not just about lending; it’s about helping Filipinos turn their ideas into opportunities,’ shared a representative from Global Dominion.

With a reliable financial partner like GDFI, entrepreneurs can focus on what truly matters, creativity, strategy and growth, while building a strong foundation for long-term success.

Because with the right support, turning a simple Halloween idea into a thriving business isn’t just a dream, it’s proof that #PwedePala when you have #KaPartnerMoSaPagAngat.

As the national voter registration resumes today, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is expecting the number of additional registrants to exceed 1.4 million by May 2026.

About 2.8 million Filipinos have registered to vote in the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections from Aug. 1 to 10.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the total number of qualified voters might hit 100 million.

Qualified applicants should register as early as possible and not wait for the deadline, he said.

Filipinos who will turn 15 by May 18, 2026 can cast their vote in the youth council polls.

The Abra Solid North Weavers and the San Juan Knights tackle dangerous rivals at the start of the North Division semifinal round on Tuesday in the 747 Live presents Manny Pacquiao MPBL 2025 Season at the Gov. Andres B. Bernos Memorial Gymnasium in Abra, Bangued.

Top seed Abra battles unpredictable Caloocan at 6 p.m., after the 4 p.m. collision between 2019 MPBL champion San Juan and resurgent Pangasinan.

Wielding a record 28-win streak, the powerhouse Weavers are favored over the Caloocan Batang Kankaloo, 2-0 conqueror of back-to-back champion Pampanga Giant Lanterns, 2-0, in their quarterfinal round series.

Dave Ildefonso heads the Weavers, who are 3-deep in all positions, with support from Encho Serrano, Mike Ayonayon, Raven Gonzales, Jolo Mendoza, John Uduba and Jason Brickman.

Caloocan, bereft of a pure center, will lean on gunners Jeff Manday, Jeramer Cabanag, Chris Bitoon, Rommel Calahat, Paul Sanga and Reil Cervantes.

San Juan is the slight pick over Pangasinan, which stunned 2022 champion Nueva Ecija, 2-1, in the quarterfinal round.

The Knights will be led by Orlan Wamar, Agem Miranda, Michael Calisaan, Dexter Maiquez and AC Soberano as they try to repeat their 73-66 victory over the Heatwaves in the round-robin elimination phase of the originally 30-team, two-division tournament.

Pangasinan is banking on Vic Manuel, Jorey Napoles, Alyn Bulanadi, Chris Bitoon, Hesed Gabo and Michael Mabulac in its bid for another playoff stunner.

The House is set to launch a legislative probe into the environmental impact and possible role in flooding of the dolomite beach on Manila Bay, with a target date set for November 17.

In a statement on Monday, November 3, Public Accounts Committee Chair Rep. Terry Ridon (Bicol Saro Party-list) said the investigation will open with an examination of the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan and the 2008 Supreme Court order to clean up and rehabilitate the bay.

“The hearing will also examine the project’s flooding impact on adjacent Ermita-Malate areas, including the status of the Faura, Remedios, and Estero de San Antonio Abad drainage outfalls and any effects arising from the project’s engineering specifications,” the statement read.

The idea of a probe began when the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) pointed to the dolomite beach for causing severe flooding in Manila roads by blocking major drainage outfalls. The flooding struck as some of the year’s strongest tropical cyclones swept through the country.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) offered little comment on the MMDA’s findings, saying a “scientific analysis” is needed and citing “changing weather patterns” as one key factor in the floods.

The Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach, an artificial beach, was the DENR’s project, which cost around P400 million. It was first opened to the public in 2022 and was supposed to serve as a “beach nourishment project” under the government’s rehabilitation program.

However, thousands of Filipino households residing in the Manila Bay area have been left to fend for themselves for years as their coastal communities remain vulnerable to persistent flooding alongside the effects of climate change.

Beyond the controversial dolomite beach, Manila Bay has been the site of multiple reclamation projects. A recent DENR report shows these projects have damaged marine ecosystems and threatened the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.

In the House probe, Ridon said the committee will examine alternative solutions and interventions to comply with the Supreme Court’s continuing mandamus to rehabilitate and preserve Manila Bay, including efforts to improve water quality for swimming and other recreational activities.

The DENR, Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DepDev), Department of Public Works and Highways, MMDA and Manila City government will be invited to attend the hearings.

Airlines should hold pending passengers in an exclusion room, the Bureau of Immigration said after a Cameroonian attacked five security guards last week at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Floriant Ndzeng Atangana, 18, is now under the custody of the Philippine National Police after assaulting security personnel on Oct. 30.

Airport staff had directed Atangana multiple times to stop loitering outside the holding area.

Perks often mean points and promos, but Globe is offering something more meaningful.

Globe is opening doors to today’s youth by connecting them with industry leaders and global pop culture icons through partnerships with Marvel U and Disney Studios. These opportunities are amplified through unique collaborations that bring experiences directly to students nationwide.

From volunteer missions to paid gigs and internships, the Globe Student Program welcomes every kind of student: the go-getters, the dreamers, the doers. It’s an open door to explore, connect and grow beyond the classroom and social media, now with a pop culture twist and real industry insights.

From fan perks to industry insights

Globe knows your life happens outside the classroom, that’s why it goes beyond typical rewards to connect you with your passions. It is your all-access pass to unforgettable experiences, from music festivals and art fairs to exclusive movie screenings.

For instance, through Globe’s partnership with Disney Studios and Marvel U, it brings you closer to the pop culture you love through epic fan activations and one-of-a-kind fan experiences designed for you.

You can also immerse yourself in the energy of music festivals, discover new things at art fairs, and catch the latest blockbusters at special screenings.

Also through this partnership, Globe is giving students opportunities to learn directly from industry professionals while enjoying the entertainment of Marvel Studios films. This commitment is proof of Globe’s drive to fuel student dreams and passions.

One recent highlight was the Star Wars Flyaway Program last April. In partnership with Disney, Globe gave four college students a chance to attend Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.

Winners received an all-expense-paid trip. Students stayed connected through Globe’s GoRoam Japan, ensuring they shared their once-in-a-lifetime experience in real time.

Continuing the momentum in September, Globe hosted a workshop with Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski, where 150 students from Metro Manila universities gained valuable insights into storytelling, creativity, and personal strengths.

Looking ahead, Marvel U will also join Globe’s Campus Rush Program, bringing more freebies, giveaways and workshops to students nationwide.

In addition to educational events, Globe’s partnership with Disney Studios continues to expand with blockbuster screenings.

This year, Globe also brought students across the Philippines to special showings of Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: The First Family in key cities including Baguio, Davao, Cebu, Iloilo, Cabanatuan, Cagayan de Oro, Manila and Quezon City.

Beyond the perks

For Globe, it’s not just about fan perks or fun events. The telco’s support extends to real opportunities for growth.

With its exciting partnerships, students don’t just attend events, they help shape them. They take on real responsibilities, gain hands-on experience (and sometimes income) and explore fields they might one day lead.

Whether building a resume, advocating for causes or finding community, Globe makes space for students to thrive. Because for Globe, perks are just the beginning.

The real reward is being part of something bigger-fostering connection, empowerment and community-building for the youth, inspiring them to #GoForwardTogether, and encouraging them to #GoForIt as they shape a brighter future

The yearly fishing ban in the northern part of Palawan began over the weekend, marking the start of a three-month restriction aimed at protecting roundscad or galunggong during its peak spawning season, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources announced.

The BFAR said the measure is intended to conserve fish stocks and ensure the sustainability of marine resources in the sea corridor.

‘Starting Nov. 1 and ending on Jan. 31 of the following year, the use of purse seine, ring net and bag net in catching roundscad within the conservation area northeast of Palawan will be prohibited to protect the species during its peak spawning season,’ the BFAR said in an advisory on Saturday.

The annual fishing closure, which has been implemented since 2015, covers a portion of the waters surrounding northeastern Palawan known as spawning grounds for roundscad and other pelagic fish species.

The moratorium is part of a broader fisheries management strategy to prevent overfishing and maintain the balance of marine ecosystems.

A breathtaking collaboration between two trailblazing names from Cebu – fine jewelry brand Diagold and haute couturier Cary Santiago – was held at the Shangri-La the Fort on September 11.

‘We believe in the brilliance of Filipino-made. And we believe that our stories told through jewelry, fabric and form deserve to be seen and admired,’ said Jennifer Ty, Diagold’s chief executive officer, in her welcome remarks.

‘We are just so honored to share this stage with Cary Santiago and to support a designer who has long uplifted Filipino talent with quiet power and bold artistry,’ Ty stressed. ‘At its heart, this night is a celebration of what makes us truly Filipino. It’s our creativity, our craftsmanship, and our deep love for beauty and meaning.’

‘I am presenting 50 couture pieces, so it’s very important for me to present the design first, to the creatives of the brand. And I’m so happy that they perfectly match,’ shared the country’s finest practitioner of high fashion, in a video montage. ‘We had a consultation together. I submitted my designs, and I was specific with how the jewelry would match a specific garment.’

The brand’s company was founded in 1967, with it going full blast in 2008 catering to the Cebu market. Its name is derived from two distinct words: diamond and gold, forming lustrous diamond pieces in 14k and 18k gold settings.

Santiago, on the other hand, made his spectacular comeback in 2004, after successful stints in the Middle East.

‘This collaboration feels deeply personal,’ shared Santiago in a statement. ‘Both of us are rooted in the same values, which are attention to detail, reverence for heritage, and a commitment to beauty that endures. To be able to create and present this collection with jewelry that was designed in harmony with the garments makes this return to the [Manila runway after a decade] even more meaningful.’

Santiago’s fascination with fauna continued with his collection that reinterpreted wings, feathers, patterns, and animal movement through soft sculpture technique in a visually stupendous way. It melded so harmoniously with the jewelry brand’s ‘Crown Jewels’ line of ‘rubies in fiery crimson, sapphires in deep royal blue, emeralds in lush green, and yellow diamonds that glisten with golden light.’

‘The world is ready to see more of what we can do, and tonight is a shining example of that,’ Ty enthused.

Santiago echoed the sentiment: ‘Definitely, we are ready for a global movement.’

The Mandaue City Council has approved on final reading an ordinance granting a ?1,000 monthly honorarium to all Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) desk officers across the city’s barangays.

Authored by Councilors Jennifer del Mar and Joel Seno, the measure aims to recognize the crucial role of VAWC desk officers as frontline responders to cases of abuse and violence against women and children.

Del Mar said the honorarium is a welcome development, noting that the ordinance will take effect 60 days after its approval.

Currently, all 27 barangays in Mandaue City have designated VAWC desk officers. Del Mar revealed that many of them often spend their own money to help victims who need immediate assistance.

‘As chairperson of the Committee on Women and Children, I can say this honorarium is long overdue,’ she said.

‘Laliman ka nga magdala sila og bata adto sa hospital kaugalingon nilang kwarta ang ilang gigamit pang plete, pagpalit og diaper, ug pangkaon,’ she said, noting that VAWC officers truly deserve the monthly honorarium.

Under the ordinance, each duly designated Barangay VAWC desk officer will receive a ?1,000 monthly honorarium, on top of any existing salary or allowance, subject to the availability of funds.

The amount will be sourced primarily from the City’s Gender and Development Fund or other lawful funding sources, in compliance with existing budgeting and auditing rules.

The City Council cited that VAWC desk officers perform extensive and emotionally-demanding duties, including assisting victims in securing Barangay Protection Orders, facilitating access to legal, medical, and psychosocial services, and coordinating with agencies and organizations for case referrals and interventions.

‘The functions of our VAWC desk officers are not only technical but also highly sensitive. They serve as the first line of defense for victims of abuse, and this modest compensation recognizes their dedication and compassion,’ the ordinance stated.

The ordinance was endorsed by the Local Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children, which passed a resolution on August 22, 2025, recommending the grant of an honorarium to sustain the officers’ motivation and improve service delivery.

Once signed by the mayor, the ordinance will take effect within 60 days after publication, in accordance with the Local Government Code of 1991.

Del Mar added that while the ?1,000 monthly honorarium may not be much, it’s a good first step.

The council added the recently-approved ?1,000 monthly honorarium for barangay VAWC desk officers is only the beginning, as the city plans to gradually work on granting them a higher allowance in the future.