Author: user user

TCL, the No. 1 Panel TV brand in the Philippines, a Triple Global Top 1 TV brand, and a top global leader in air conditioner sales, is joining forces with its premier retail partner, Anson’s, for an exclusive showcase dedicated to their loyal customers. Marking 25 years of strong partnership, TCL and Anson’s continue to redefine excellence through innovation, quality and customer trust.

Dubbed “Beyond the Screen: A TCL x Anson’s VVIP Showcase,” this event highlights TCL’s commitment to innovation and customer excellence. The showcase will culminate in the grand reveal of the TCL × Anson’s October 15 Promo Lineup-a curated selection of top-tier TVs, air conditioners and essential home appliances designed to make premium technology accessible to all.

‘Anson’s has been a major contributor to TCL’s success in the Philippines from day one. Our relationship with Anson’s is deeply rooted and strategic. They have been instrumental in driving TCL’s growth, especially in the large-screen and premium segment, and in achieving our current market leadership status. This dedicated event is our way of celebrating that shared success and reinforcing the strong partnership we rely on as we continue to bring our innovations to consumers,’ TCL CEO Peter Chen emphasizes.

As for Ansons’ part, their strategic relationship with TCL has evolved. Transitioning from a traditional retailer-supplier model to a deep strategic alliance focused on mutual growth, market penetration, and customer experience.

‘The partnership has been a long and successful one. We’ve seen TCL evolve, continuously innovating and enhancing the quality of its product offerings. For us at Ansons, this means we can consistently provide our valued customers with great technology and reliable service. We take pride in our partnership with TCL and are strongly committed to expanding our reach within the Filipino market,’ Chen adds.

TCL honored Anson’s Appliances with a special award for their outstanding commitment to excellence. Ansons earned this recognition by becoming the first partner dealer to record the highest sales of the monumental 115-inch TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV, currently the world’s largest and most advanced display. This accomplishment solidifies Ansons’ position as a market leader and a pioneer in the industry.

Beyond the screen, elevating lives

The retail space venue, Anson’s The Link, was transformed into a cinematic showcase of innovation and elegance. With the flagship 115-inch TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV serving as the centerpiece, guests were fully immersed in the Beyond the Screen experience.

In addition to exploring TCL’s wide range of innovative products, guests were treated to an exceptional live performance by Asia’s Diamond Soul Siren, Nina, who serenaded the crowd with her top hits, adding a touch of elegance to the exclusive afternoon affair.

And to make the celebration even more exciting, just in time for the holidays, TCL rolled out an exclusive, limited-time promotion-offering massive discounts on a wide array of TCL products, including TVs, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators, from October 15 to 19, at all Anson’s store locations.

‘We’re thrilled to jumpstart the holiday rush with this special offer, available exclusively at Anson’s. We sincerely thank Anson’s for their unwavering support and partnership, which continues to be invaluable to TCL. Expect more exciting developments ahead as we remain focused on delivering innovations that truly elevate the quality of life for our customers,’ TCL Philippines deputy director of sales Cyd Montebon shared.

Hurry! These exclusive offers are available for a limited time only-visit your nearest Anson’s store today and upgrade to your favorite TCL appliance.

The Department of Finance (DOF) has secured nearly P600 million in climate resilience financing to support the country’s efforts in adapting to the impacts of disasters and climate change.

Following its election as a member of the Adaptation Fund, the DOF revealed that it secured its first financing amounting to $10 million or approximately P585.8 million from the fund last April to improve climate-resilient water access in Tawi-Tawi.

It was followed by another grant worth $150,000 this month, or around P8.78 million, to develop a project aimed at boosting Mindanao farmers’ resilience and protecting the country’s food security against climate risk.

In total, the national government has secured around P594.28 million in climate resilience financing to boost adaptation efforts and strengthen communities vulnerable to climate change.

The Adaptation Fund is primarily financed by contributions from governments and private donors, as well as a two-percent share of proceeds from Certified Emission Reductions.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the department’s mandate is to ensure adequate funding for the entire country, especially local communities, to strengthen resilience and preparedness against environmental challenges.

Meanwhile, the board of the People’s Survival Fund has approved 24 climate adaptation initiatives with a total financing commitment of over P1.42 billion.

The initiatives include the establishment and sustainable management of the river ecosystem in Kitcharao, Agusan Del Norte worth P33.48 million.

It also includes building resilience through community-based ecological farming projects that received nearly P34 million to build rainwater catchment facilities, expand water distribution systems and develop a comprehensive framework on water development and management.

‘The DOF also supports the country’s renewable energy transition by generating investments through local and international investor roundtable meetings and Philippine Economic Briefings,’ the finance department said.

It added that the Fiscal Incentives Review Board facilitates fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for renewable energy investments.

Singlife Philippines introduces SinglifeNextGen, a new whole life protection plan that redefines how Filipinos can build a lasting legacy-expanding Singlife’s portfolio of innovative and best-in-class financial solutions. Grounded in the Filipino value of providing as an expression of love, SinglifeNextGen empowers individuals to ensure that their care and commitment to family endure long after their lifetime.

‘SinglifeNextGen builds on our mission to help Filipinos achieve true financial independence,’ said Lester Cruz, CEO of Singlife Philippines.

‘It transforms life insurance into a meaningful act of empowerment-allowing families to protect what they’ve worked hard for and ensure their love and success endure across generations. With just a few clicks and an easy, fully digital guided journey, anyone can get up to P6 million in coverage-making lasting security accessible, intuitive and within reach. It’s designed for those who want real protection, not just for themselves, but for the people who matter most.’

With SinglifeNextGen, customers pay for only five or 10 years-yet their coverage extends all the way to age 120 helping customers achieve their financial goals no matter what life-stage they are at. With a coverage amount of up to P6 million per person, families can use the cash benefit for daily needs, support their children’s education or pursue future plans such as starting a business. It complements the family’s existing financial resources, helping them sustain their lifestyle, achieve their goals and continue celebrating milestones with confidence and security.

Through SinglifeNextGen, Singlife Philippines reinforces its mission to make financial independence simple, meaningful and accessible-helping every Filipino turn their love into a legacy that lasts. Singlife continues to push the boundaries of innovation and respond to the ever-changing needs of customers, ensuring its solutions remain relevant and impactful for every generation.

The US aviation regulator has certified a Clark-based aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) provider as an authorized foreign station for the heavy servicing of Airbus A320s.

Dornier Technology yesterday confirmed it has received authority from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct heavy maintenance on the A320 family, expanding its portfolio of MRO services.

The certification grants Dornier the right to do scheduled maintenance and perform major repairs on the A318, A319, A320 and A321, which are some of the most popular single-aisle aircraft in the world.

Dornier can also perform airframe maintenance and 12-year check, also called D checks, on both CEO and NEO variants. Given this, Dornier CEO Nick Gitsis expects the company to grow at a faster pace over the next few years.

‘The US FAA is globally recognized and this certification positions Dornier to meet the stringent requirements of aircraft owners and lessors worldwide. It confirms that our processes, inspection systems and personnel are fully compliant with the US FAA’s standards,’ Gitsis said.

Moreover, Gitsis said Dornier anticipates an order increase in airframe maintenance from foreign carriers in the US, Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Currently, Dornier serves mostly domestic carriers who are in need of airframe maintenance, but with the FAA certification in hand, the company expects foreign airlines to eat up a larger share by 2026.

‘With this certification, we anticipate growth in the following markets: US, the Southeast Asian region, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Pacific Island nations,’ Gitsis said.

‘Airfram heavy maintenance remains our core business, largely supported by domestic carriers. With the US FAA certification and our competitive labor cost advantage, we aim to increase the share of foreign airlines to 70 percent by the end of next year,’ he added.

Gitsis also placed his optimism on the Philippines in its quest to become an MRO hub. He noted that the country is filled with enough talents who are devoted to high quality of service, which is imperative in the MRO industry.

Apart from the A320 family, Dornier is capable of extending MRO services to ATR 42s and 72s; Boeing 737s; and British Aerospace 146s.

The company, which employs more than 200 personnel in the Philippines, operates its main base at the Clark International Airport, backed by line maintenance in Bohol, Caticlan, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Kalibo, Manila and Puerto Princesa.

Halloween season usually comes with masked killers, angry spirits, and haunted basements. But sometimes, the most chilling horror doesn’t come from the supernatural. It comes from the very systems people live under every day. In these films and series, fear isn’t delivered through ghosts or demons, but through betrayal, cover-ups, negligence, and the terrifying consequences of unchecked power.

If you’re looking for a pre-Halloween watch list that hits harder because it feels disturbingly possible, here are seven titles on Lionsgate Play that expose the kind of horror that exists in boardrooms, back-alley deals, and everyday lives.

Baghdad Central – A Father Against A Broken System

In post-invasion Iraq, a former police inspector searches for his missing daughter while navigating a city riddled with distrust, shifting alliances, and political manipulation. Every step forward feels dangerous not because of monsters in the night, but because of the uncertainty of who is truly in control. When justice is compromised, survival becomes a crime.

Gaslit – The Cost of Exposing the Truth

Julia Roberts and Sean Penn headline this gripping take on the Watergate scandal, focusing on the individuals who tried to reveal the truth and paid the price. Power is used not just to hide wrongdoing but to erase those who challenge it. The story is proof that systems can erase you before the truth sets you free.

Hightown – When Crime Becomes Part of the Landscape

Set against the deceptively calm backdrop of Cape Cod, a murder linked to the opioid trade exposes a network of drugs, corruption, and moral decay. As one investigator seeks justice, it becomes clear that rot is not just on the streets but within the institutions designed to protect people. When crime and power work together, real justice might not stand a chance.

Dark Waters – Poison That Spreads Quietly

Mark Ruffalo stars in this legal thriller based on a true story of a lawyer uncovering a corporation’s deliberate poisoning of a town’s water supply. The fear here is quiet but suffocating as families unknowingly live through a slow, preventable tragedy.

Not all killers use weapons, some use negligence.

A Very English Scandal – Charm as a Disguise for Cruelty

Hugh Grant plays a charismatic politician whose polished public persona hides manipulation, deception, and an attempted cover-up that spirals out of control. The story is a reminder that the most dangerous villains are often the ones who seem respectable.

Mr. Robot – A World Controlled from the Shadows

Rami Malek plays Elliot, a hacker who tries to take down a powerful corporation controlling society’s strings. As he digs deeper, the line between reality and manipulation blurs and the fear comes from realizing that people may already be living inside someone else’s design. Makes you wonder if the villains already own the world.

Deepwater Horizon – Disaster Fueled by Greed

Based on the real 2010 oil rig explosion, this film starring Mark Wahlberg shows how cost-cutting decisions led to one of the worst environmental disasters in modern history. The chaos is explosive, but the true terror lies in knowing it could have been stopped before it even began and when profit matters more than people, tragedy becomes inevitable.

These stories don’t rely on supernatural jump scares. Instead, they haunt viewers by revealing worlds shaped by failure, greed, and injustice. They remind us that horror can exist in silence, in indifference, and in choices made behind closed doors.

Stream these powerful real-world thrillers now on Lionsgate Play, available via PLDT Home, Smart and Cignal. Because sometimes the most frightening stories are the ones that could actually happen.

Haier Philippines once again showcased its leadership in innovation and design with the grand launch of its latest refrigerator line-The Masterpiece-held at the City of Dreams Manila recently.

The event gathered Haier’s valued dealers, business partners, influencers and members of the media for an evening that highlighted innovation, performance and elegant living.

The launch opened with a high-energy performance from the Vogue Star Dancers and aerial artists, setting the tone for a night that reflected Haier’s vibrant and forward-thinking spirit.

Haier Philippines president and CEO Sun Liangjun officially welcomed guests, sharing the brand’s continued commitment to providing Filipino homes with advanced, stylish and energy-efficient appliances designed for modern living.

This was followed by a keynote from Jun Rodriguez of TRS, who discussed Haier’s market direction and innovations shaping the future of home technology.

A highlight of the night was the product presentation led by Jennifer Samson, Haier Philippines’ executive director for product planning. She introduced The Masterpiece line-a new generation of refrigerators that combine artful design with intelligent functionality, redefining what it means to live smart and in style.

The unveiling transitioned into the Product Experience Tour, featuring two special guests who embody Haier’s lifestyle innovation.

Actress and model Shanaia Gomez shared how the Flex Your Style Refrigerator matches her taste for elegance and versatility, while celebrity chef Rosebud Benitez-Velasco demonstrated how Haier’s Space Fit Built-in Series supports her passion for freshness and kitchen efficiency.

Guests enjoyed interactive product demos, engaging Q and A sessions and live demonstrations highlighting Haier’s ABT Pro technology that ensures food stays fresh and healthy longer.

The evening continued with a series of recognitions, honoring Haier’s top performing HPI refrigerator salesman and business partners across the country.

Adding to the excitement, Haier raffled off premium appliances, capping the evening with cheers and celebration.

In her closing remarks, Cindy Xin, HQ Refrigerator regional manager expressed gratitude to all partners and reaffirmed Haier’s vision of ‘Inspired Living’-a future driven by innovation, collaboration and excellence.

The night concluded with a celebratory toast and a grand group photo capturing the spirit of partnership that drives Haier’s continued success.

With The Masterpiece, Haier redefines the art of refrigeration, proving that true innovation is not only about technology but about elevating everyday living.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s celebrated musical “Jesus Christ Superstar” will take its international tour to the Philippines next year.

The sung-through rock-opera is based on the events from the Passion of the Christ in the Bible, seen through the perspective of Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrays Jesus.

The production also looks into the relationships between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, Chrsist’s other disciples and followers, and the Roman Empire.

Just a few of the popular songs from the musical are “Gethsemane,” “Everything’s Alright,” “This Jesus Must Die,” “I Don’t Know How To Love Him” and, of course, “Superstar.”

“Jesus Christ Superstar” first opened on Broadway in 1971 with Jeff Fenholt as Jesus and Ben Vereen as Judas, running over 700 performances in two years.

It received five Tony nominations, including Best Performance – Featured Actor (Musical) for Vereen and Best Original Score for Webber and Rice.

A West End run began in 1972 with Paul Nicholas as Jesus and Stephen Tate as Judas, running for eight years. For a time, it was the longest-running musical in the United Kingdom, ultimately closing after 3,358 performances.

More iterations were staged, incluing three Broadway revivals, an arena tour, and several Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre productions in London. The latter won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival.

The show running at the Theatre at Solaire from May 2 to 24, 2026, courtesy of GMG Productions, is the reimagining of the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre helmed by director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie.

Show producer David Ian of Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions said in a statement that the team was delighted to bring “Jesus Christ Superstar” to Manila after tour stops in Australia and the United Kingdom.

“This Olivier Award-winning production has amazed audiences around the world with its raw energy and breathtaking performances,” Ian added. “Whether you’ve loved the show for decades or are discovering it for the first time, this will be an unforgettable experience.”

GMG head Carlos Candal mirrored Ian’s enthusiam bringing one of Webber’s most iconic and influential musicals ever to the Philippines.

“‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is a show that transcends generations. Its music and story continue to inspire audiences, and we can’t wait for Filipino fans to experience this powerful production live,” Candal also said.

Tickets for the Manila run, which will announce the cast soon, will be available beginning November 8 via TicketWorld, though a pre-sale period for UnionBank of the Philippines members will run from November 3 to 7.

The local stock market sustained its gains as the peso regained footing and investors continued to capitalize on cheaper prices.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index improved by 0.18 percent or 10.61 points to end yesterday’s session at 5,963.77.

The broader All Shares index also advanced by 0.44 percent or 15.7 points, settling at 3,605.21.

Philstocks Financial research manager Japhet Tantiangco said the local market extended its gains as investors continued with their bargain hunting.

‘Hopes of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve and a solid agreement between the US and China in their meeting this week gave the market a boost,’ he said.

Local sectors were mostly in the green, led by mining and oil, which jumped by 3.29 percent. Property and services indexes were in the red, declining by 0.78 percent and 0.63 percent, respectively.

Total value turnover grew to P6.46 billion from the previous day’s P4.64 billion. Market breadth stayed positive as advancers pummeled decliners, 110 to 74, while 61 issues were unchanged.

Tantiangco said the peso’s rebound also helped in yesterday’s session, but gains were eventually trimmed as investors traded cautiously amid lingering concerns, primarily on the country’s corruption issues and their impact on economic outlook.

The local currency closed at 58.69 yesterday, strengthening by 44 centavos from its record low 59.13 finish on Tuesday, data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines showed.

The peso opened at 59.15. Its worst showing during the day stood at 59.26, while its intraday best was at 58.65 against the greenback.

Trading volume jumped by 14.9 percent to $2.01 billion yesterday from $1.75 billion last Tuesday.

The International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. (IBF), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps of the Philippines, and Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM), will hold the International Bazaar 2025 on Sunday, Nov. 16, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the World Trade Center Tent in Pasay City.

The annually held International Bazaar is one of the most anticipated bazaars of the holiday season to usher in the start of the Christmas festivities. It enjoys the participation of the diplomatic community as well as Philippine product exhibitors from across the country. The yearly theme, ‘Shop Global, Help Local,’ highlights the coming together of global wonders and local treasures, as well as entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

During the press conference to launch the 2025 International Bazaar held at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Double Dragon Tower, the Foundation announced that 42 countries will participate in the bazaar this year: Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Cambodia, China, Czech Republic, European Union (EU), France, Ghana, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Republic of Korea, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Order of Malta, Moldova, Pakistan, Palestine, Peru, Poland, Romania, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Trkiye, Ukraine, United Kingdom of Great Britain, United States of America, and Viet Nam.

Switzerland, one of the yearly crowd favorites, is rejoining the bazaar after a year of hiatus and is bringing back its popular, in-demand premium Swiss chocolates. Moldova, Poland, and Slovenia are joining as exhibitors for the first time. Exhibiting their products during the press conference were the Embassies of Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Poland, Thailand and Trkiye.

Also participating are a number of the Philippines’ Best exhibitors that will highlight our country’s top products in fashion, housewares and decor, cosmetics, self-care, jewelry, and food. Much is in store for the whole family.

The entrance fee to the International Bazaar is P200. All proceeds from the bazaar will go to the various IBF and SHOM charity projects and scholarship programs for marginalized communities. The IBF supports 56 active scholars and livelihood projects for distressed communities and victims of calamities, as well as provides financial and in-kind assistance to civic organizations, medical institutions, and NGOs in the care of persons with disabilities, the elderly, the homeless, abused women, abandoned children, and other deserving groups.

Established in 1966, the IBF is a non-profit fundraising institutional foundation. Now in its 59th year, the IBF remains committed to its vision of assisting disadvantaged sectors of the community through its charitable activities, as well as fostering stronger bonds within the diplomatic community in Manila.

The listed education joint venture between the Yuchengco Group and Ayala Corp. has merged AC College of Enterprises and Technologies Inc. (ACCET) and National Teachers College (NTC), with the latter as the surviving corporation.

In a stock exchange filing, iPeople Inc. said that the merger took effect on Oct. 28 following the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval and issuance of the certificate of filing of the articles and plan of merger.

Under the merger, the entire assets and liabilities of ACCET will be transferred to and absorbed by NTC.

NTC, which was founded in 1928 and is located in the University Belt in Manila, has grown substantially since being acquired by iPeople in 2019.

Last year, iPeople announced plans to bring NTC outside Metro Manila to address rising student demand. It is set to expand to Bulacan as part of the company’s mission to bring quality education to more Filipinos.

iPeople is a holding company under House of Investments Inc. of the Yuchengco Group of Companies and Ayala, with a focus on investments in the education sector.