Category: Business Mirror

LIXIL Philippines and Wilcon Depot bring world-class, resource-conscious German bathroom design to Filipino homes with exclusive nationwide year-end offer.

As October ushers in both the world-renowned Oktoberfest celebration and the bustling start of the Philippine holiday season, homeowners across the country are turning their attention toward preparing their living spaces for festive gatherings. While Oktoberfest is celebrated globally for conviviality and Bavarian cheer, it is equally a celebration of German heritage – one rooted in precision engineering, lasting durability, and thoughtful design.

Tapping into this festive, celebratory spirit, GROHE – a global leader in complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings under LIXIL Philippines Inc., is spotlighting how precision German engineering seamlessly complements modern households this month. As families welcome guests and host year-end reunions, the bathroom, a heavily used home space that tends to also be overlooked; transitions from a purely functional utility into a private personal sanctuary and a showcase of sophisticated interior design, making the space feel new again.

GROHE is making bathroom upgrades more accessible this holiday season through the ‘Oktoberfeast with GROHE’, an exclusive in-store promotion with Wilcon Depot that will be available until December 31, 2026.

German Design Built for Philippine Living

What does German design look like in a Filipino home? It is not simply about sleek lines or minimalist aesthetics. It is about creating products that work beautifully, perform reliably, and stand up to the demands of everyday living.

In Philippine homes, bathroom fittings are exposed to frequent use, humid conditions, and the practical need to use water more responsibly. This makes the combination of thoughtful design and dependable engineering particularly relevant. German design, with its emphasis on precision, functionality, and longevity, offers an approach that is as practical as it is refined.

GROHE brings these principles into the modern bathroom, combining European aesthetics with resource-conscious technology to create spaces that feel elevated without compromising everyday function.

The GROHE Tempesta Shower System is designed to make the everyday shower a more personalized experience. The Tempesta Cosmopolitan 200 Flex System pairs a minimalist silhouette with versatile functionality. Depending on the handshower variant, users can choose from multiple spray patterns, from a gentle, relaxing flow to a more invigorating rinse.

For homeowners looking to refresh their basin or bath area, the GROHE Bau Collection brings understated elegance to contemporary bathroom spaces. The BauEdge, BauLoop, and BauFlow series combine clean architectural lines with smooth operation and polished finishes.

Together, these solutions demonstrate how German engineering can translate into something highly relevant to Philippine living: bathroom fixtures that are thoughtfully designed, visually timeless, and made to perform day after day.

Smart Upgrades for the Holiday Season

With the holidays fast approaching, preparing the home does not always mean taking on a major renovation. For homeowners expecting a full calendar of family gatherings, dinners, and celebrations, smaller upgrades can offer a practical way to refresh a space without the time, cost, and disruption of a full overhaul.

The bathroom is a good place to start. Replacing an outdated tap or shower head with a well-designed, modern fitting can instantly refresh the look of the space while adding greater comfort, functionality, and water efficiency to everyday routines. It is a simple change, but one that can make a noticeable difference both visually and in daily use.

Exclusive In-Store Offer at Wilcon Depot

Shoppers can enjoy up to 10% off on selected GROHE products, including the BauEdge series, and Tempesta head showers. Meanwhile, they can avail a 5% discount on complete shower systems such as the Tempesta Cosmopolitan 200 Flex System, multi-spray handshowers, pillar taps, and matching bath accessories at Wilcon Depot branches nationwide.

Start your holiday renovations early and get treated to great deals from GROHE.

REINFORCING its commitment to holistic and future-ready education, the University of Santo Tomas Senior High School (UST-SHS) has formally entered into a partnership with COL Financial Group, Inc. (COL) with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU), establishing a collaborative framework to promote financial literacy and capital market awareness among students and academic staff.

The MOU outlines a non-exclusive collaboration between UST-SHS and COL to deliver educational initiatives centered on investments and the capital markets. Key initiatives under the partnership include faculty immersion programs, curriculum enrichment collaborations, career guidance sessions, financial literacy campaigns, and participation in investment simulations and case competitions. Select students and academic staff may likewise be granted priority access to COL-led webinars, forums, and conferences, further broadening their exposure to the financial industry.

The collaboration reflects both institutions’ mutual recognition of the critical importance of financial education in preparing young Filipinos for the demands of a rapidly evolving economic landscape. By integrating capital market literacy into the UST-SHS academic experience, the partnership aims to equip students not only with theoretical knowledge of financial concepts but also with the practical awareness needed for sound economic decision-making.

From intricate nail art to meticulous nail care, this BGC-based studio is giving beauty enthusiasts something to talk about.

Your nails might be the smallest part of your outfit, but let’s be real: they can make a big statement. Whether you’re into minimalist nude sets, playful patterns, or designs straight from your Pinterest board, there’s something satisfying about having your nails done just right.

And with nail trends constantly making the rounds on TikTok and Instagram, beauty enthusiasts are becoming increasingly particular about where they get their nails done.

In Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Tips By Tine PH – the fastest-growing Russian Manicure and Pedicure Studio in the area – is bringing Russian manicures and pedicures to clients who appreciate precision, creativity, and a little extra attention to their nails.

The Russian Nail Care Experience

If you’ve been keeping up with beauty trends, you’ve probably come across the ‘Russian Manicure Technique’. Known for its clean and precise finish, the technique has gained attention for the level of detail involved in preparing the nails before applying polish or nail art.

Russian manicures typically involve specialized tools, including an electric nail file, to work around the nail plate and cuticle area. The process is generally performed without soaking the nails in water, which is why it is also referred to as a ‘dry manicure.’

The craft requires considerable skill, particularly when working around the delicate skin surrounding the nails.

At Tips By Tine PH, Russian manicures and pedicures are the studio’s specialty. Founder Kristine Gumera began investing in certified training in March 2024, learning from Russian Manicure World and other accredited nail education institutions in the Philippines.

‘Russian manicure is all about clean, detailed cuticle work, and we pair that with our nail techs’ expertise in bringing your exact nail inspo to life. I want our clients to feel comfortable trusting us with their nails, knowing that they can have both the clean, polished look of a Russian manicure and the designs they’ve been wanting,’ Gumera said.

That focus on technique has since shaped the studio’s services, catering to clients with different preferences, from minimalist styles to elaborate nail art.

Good Nails Need Good Care

Anyone who regularly gets their nails done knows that maintaining a fresh set takes some effort. Nails grow, designs need refreshing, and a little upkeep goes a long way in keeping everything looking neat between appointments.

Nail care is also a regular topic on the brand’s social media pages. In one Instagram post, it recommended refreshing Russian pedicures every three to four weeks, explaining how natural nail growth can affect the placement and appearance of the product over time. On the other hand, nail-biting habits are also considered and taken care of by their nail techs. Tips By Tine PH, for instance, has documented a client’s progress in overcoming a nail-biting habit across several appointments.

Through these tips, the brand encourages its 8,000+ followers to care for their nails before, between, and after appointments.

As with any specialized nail treatment, clients should feel comfortable asking about a technician’s training, hygiene practices, and the techniques used during their appointment, especially when the service involves the sensitive cuticle area.

Your Pinterest board called

Of course, choosing a nail design is half the fun!

A scroll through Tips By Tine PH’s Instagram and TikTok pages reveals a mix of understated manicures, playful patterns, colorful sets, and detailed nail art. The studio also regularly features the work of its individual nail technicians, giving followers a closer look at the different styles they create and showcasing their own fortes.

From subtle everyday nails that a businesswoman who trains at the gym after work might prefer to bespoke nail styling that a girl boss who turns into a high-fashion model at weekends might choose, the skilled team at Tips By Tine PH is ready to serve anyone who wants their next nail design to go viral.

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said they will be enhancing their digital and intelligence capabilities which help police officers in preventing persons from slipping through the country’s coastal exit points and evading arrest abroad.

In a statement, Nartatez said the PNP is pushing for stronger technology-driven law enforcement measures as authorities tighten monitoring of maritime routes often exploited by fugitives and transnational criminal groups.

‘The PNP must continue investing in intelligence-driven technologies, real-time information sharing, and integrated monitoring systems that allow us to track fugitives and criminal networks across jurisdictions,’ he added.

Likewise, Nartatez said strengthening data analytics, surveillance capabilities, and interagency connectivity will help law enforcement stay ahead of criminals who attempt to exploit maritime routes and other points of exit.

Earlier, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called for the strengthening of border security and to prevent wanted individuals and criminal syndicates from exploiting the country’s vast coastline to evade law enforcement.

In response to this, the government said it is strengthening the capabilities of the PNP and other law enforcement agencies as part of wider efforts to combat transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and online scam operations across the Asean region.

ASEAN member-states recently underscored the importance of intelligence sharing and joint enforcement operations during the 20th Asean Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime, recognizing that criminal organizations increasingly use international borders to move operations and avoid prosecution.

As such, Nartatez directed concerned PNP units to intensify border intelligence operations and identify possible escape routes used by wanted persons, particularly in coastal communities and known maritime exit points.

He also ordered the maximization of available technologies and intelligence resources to support fugitive tracking and identification efforts.

The PNP will pursue every lawful avenue, strengthen international cooperation, and work with our foreign counterparts to ensure that fugitives are brought to justice,’ Nartatez said.

AREVERSAL in fiscal reform efforts could weaken the country’s credit standing amid slowing growth and political fragmentation, according to Japan Credit Rating Agency, Ltd. (JCR).

In an issuer report, the Tokyo-based credit rater warned that the pace of fiscal consolidation is slowing, explicitly cautioning that ‘any reversal in fiscal reform efforts would constitute a negative factor for the ratings.’

‘Although the country’s fiscal position remains reasonably sound, it is taking time to reduce the fiscal deficit-to-GDP ratio, which widened due to the Covid-19 pandemic,’ JCR said.

The ratio began to increase in 2020 due to spending on Covid-19 countermeasures and widened to 8.6 percent in 2021.

Reacting to the JCR report, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) vowed to continue to manage the country’s foreign exchange reserves ‘prudently’ to help safeguard economic stability.

In a statement on Friday, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said: ‘JCR’s recognition of the country’s strong external buffers reflects confidence in the Philippine economy’s ability to weather global headwinds, including those arising from the Middle East conflict.’

As such, Remolona said the central bank will continue to manage the country’s foreign exchange reserves ‘prudently’ to help safeguard economic stability.

The Marcos Jr. administration has outlined a policy to reduce the fiscal deficit-to-GDP ratio to 3.5 percent and the central government debt-to-GDP ratio to 63.1 percent by 2030 through effective and efficient public spending.

‘Nevertheless, it remains at a relatively low level compared with sovereigns in the A rating category rated by JCR,’ it noted.

The credit rater said the government is implementing a strategy to balance fiscal consolidation with continued investment in infrastructure development and poverty alleviation.

‘The government is proceeding with gradual fiscal consolidation based on its medium-term fiscal framework, and fiscal soundness is expected to be maintained to a certain extent,’ JCR said nonetheless.

For the country’s ratings to improve, JCR said the administration must attain its key objectives, including raising per capita income, upgrading the industrial structure, expanding domestic employment opportunities and continuing infrastructure investment.

‘The government is working to improve the investment environment and promote industrial upgrading, and JCR expects the economic growth rate to pick up again over the medium term,’ it added.

The economy is currently slowing, weighed down by the declining pace of public works projects coupled with the drop in consumption due to rising crude oil prices, the credit rater noted.

While JCR said its ‘A-‘ rating for the Philippines remains anchored by the country’s ‘high and sustainable’ growth potential, reducing income disparities and improving infrastructure remain key challenges.

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‘Highly resilient to external shocks’

In its latest issuer report, the Japan-based credit rating agency said: ‘Given its solid foreign currency liquidity position, JCR believes that the Philippines will remain highly resilient to external shocks despite increased uncertainties caused by changes in the US tariff policies.’

JCR said this resilience is ‘further supported by the relatively limited exposure of Philippine exports to the new US tariffs, with more than 60 percent of exports to the United States remaining exempt from the additional duty.’

At end-September 2026, the country’s foreign reserves, its buffer against external shocks, plunged to the lowest level in three years due to foreign exchange operations amid the weakness of the Philippine peso alongside withdrawals of foreign currency deposits to service external debt obligations.

Data from the BSP showed the Gross International Reserves (GIR) settled at US$99.5 billion as of end-September 2026.

While it was the lowest level recorded in three years or since September 2023, the BSP said this was enough to cover 6.2 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income, ‘well above the international benchmark of 3 months.’

‘The reserves were also 3.1 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity,’ added the central bank.

According to BSP, the had notednoted that steady remittances and solid BPO revenues continue to support the current account.

Cash remittances from overseas Filipinos reached US$23.4 billion from January to August 2026, up 2.2 percent year-to-date, while BPO revenues rose to US$15.4 billion in the first half of 2026, the central bank said.

JCR also cited the stability of the financial system, noting continued growth in bank lending and strong capitalization,’ the BSP noted.

The ‘favorable assessment’, the central bank said, complements JCR’s decision on August 28, 2026 to affirm the Philippines’ investment-grade credit rating of ‘A-‘ with a ‘stable’ outlook.

An issuer report provides additional analysis and context behind a sovereign credit rating action.

When the pressure mounted against India and Japan, table tennis para athletes Lhey Manginsay and Wilfred Redulla relied on a partnership built over just two years.

That trust carried them to the mixed doubles Class XD17 silver on Thursday, ending the Philippines’ eight-year medal drought in table tennis at the Asian Para Games.

On Friday, King James Reyes crowned his Asian Para Games campaign with a bronze medal in the men’s 1,500-meter T46, delivering the Philippines’ first athletics podium finish.

The 24-year-old native of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, who lost an arm after falling from a macopa tree at age five, clocked a personal-best four minutes and 13.81 seconds to avert a medal shutout for the Filipinos in the sport.

Sri Lanka’s Wahumpurage Puwakpitikande claimed gold in 4:03.25, while India’s Parmod took silver in 4:09.65.

Manginsay and Redulla had shown promise from the start and since joining the national squad in 2024, they won gold in their first tournament together at the ITTF Para Future Taipei.

‘We became partners right from the start in the national team,’ Redulla said.

In Aichi-Nagoya, that early promise faced a tougher test.

Trailing India by two games in the quarterfinals, Manginsay and Redulla had to overcome the nerves that came with knowing a medal was within reach and they recovered to win the next three games and secure a place in the semifinals.

Against Japan’s Koyo Iwabuchi and Yuri Tomono, whom Manginsay described as the world’s third-ranked pair, the Filipinos again found themselves in trouble, falling behind 3-8 in the deciding fifth game.

Their response was simple: one point at a time.

‘We didn’t think about the deficit, we just played on,’ they said, recalling how they worked their way back to complete a 3-2 victory.

For Manginsay, reaching the final still felt difficult to believe.

‘This feels surreal until now,’ she said. ‘We didn’t waver until the last point, we fought with all our hearts.’

Their pursuit of gold ended against China’s Zhao Shuai and Xiong Guiyan, who prevailed, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4, 11-6, at Sky Hall Toyota.

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Still, the silver ended the Philippines’ medal drought in the sport since the late Josephine Medina’s silver at the 2018 Jakarta Games.

Breakthrough performance by Reyes

KING JAMES REYES’S breakthrough came a day after the heartbreaking reversal that cost Cyril Cloyd Ongcoy bronze in the men’s 1,500-meter T12/T13.

A jury reinstated Uzbekistan’s initially disqualified Fakhriddin Khamraev as the gold medalist, relegating Ongcoy to fourth.

‘It’s my personal best,’ said the ecstatic Sports Science senior at Adamson University. ‘I knew that I could make the podium because I prepared real hard for this.’

Heading into the final day, the Philippine delegation, backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, stood 17th overall with two golds, two silvers and two bronzes.

Evaristo Carbonel and Edwin Enguito Jr. also gave their all but fell short in their medal bids.

Carbonel posted a personal best of 27.18 meters in the men’s discus throw F11 but finished fifth in the five-man field, while Enguito placed fourth in the men’s high jump T63 with a clearance of 1.63 meters.

In wheelchair fencing at the Nagoya City Inae Sports Center, Wilfredo Bugayong II and Violeta Sapalit reached the knockout rounds but bowed out of medal contention in saber.

Bugayong advanced to the men’s Category A round of 16 after defeating Hong Kong’s Lee Sheung Ho, 15-5, in the preceding round. He then fell to China’s Cheng Yang, 6-15.

Sapalit likewise exited in the round of 16, losing to South Korea’s Kim Yeji, 6-15.

‘IHEART PH’ takes a whole new season of fun and adventure with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to showcase Hong Kong as a vibrant city where heritage, creativity, and modern lifestyle come together in one unforgettable experience.

The award-winning lifestyle and travel show will transport you to the sights and wonders of Hong Kong that make every viewer want to see them right away. Highlights of these side trips were showcased during the ‘I Heart PH’ media launch held at the Winford Resort Manila on October 15, 2026. Ms Chian Jia Liew, Regional Director for Southeast Asia for the Hong Kong Tourism Board, expressed her excitement about having I HEART PH back in Asia’s World City.

‘We are delighted to partner with I Heart PH once again to showcase the many experiences that can be found only in Hong Kong,’ said Ms Liew. ‘Hong Kong is a city where you can experience dynamic contrast of East and West, heritage and innovation, vibrant city life and stunning nature, all within easy reach. Through this partnership, we hope Filipino travellers will be inspired to discover fresh experiences, hidden gems and unforgettable moments that make every visit to Hong Kong unlike anywhere else.’

CLASSIC CHARMS AND NEW DISCOVERIES

‘I HeartPH’ brings you five destinations and experiences that promise a memorable journey filled with culture, entertainment, discovery, and delicious flavors. For the first stop, the Hong Kong Palace Museum boasts modern galleries and rare collections of artifacts, ceramics, paintings, and other exquisite treasures that tell stories of China’s dynasties and artistic traditions. The second stop is for meeting the stars up close at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. This attraction houses lifelike wax figures of well-known personalities from entertainment, sports, music, politics, and popular culture. Visitors take selfies with their favorite celebrities. Among the Filipino celebrities with wax figures on display are Boxing Champ Manny Pacquiao, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, Actress and TV Host Anne Curtis, and Box-Office Star Kathryn Bernardo.

The third stop is Ma Wan 1868. This historic fishing village combines historical heritage, creative spaces, local dining, and beautiful coastal scenery – offering a refreshing escape from the city’s busy streets. Named after the year China Customs established customs stations at Kap Shui Mun, visitors get to stroll the postcard-like destination, explore landmarks such as Tin Hau Temple, and enjoy views of the surrounding waters and the impressive Tsing Ma Bridge. Famous for its sunset, Ma Wan 1868 opened to the public in March 2025. The fourth stop is the Ding Ding Foodie Tour. Your Hong Kong trip will not be complete without exploring its legendary food scene. The Ding Ding Foodie Tour offers a delicious way to experience the city’s culinary traditions while discovering the everyday life and character of its neighborhoods. The tour is held in an air-conditioned tram, with live guided commentary on Hong Kong’s history, local streets, and landmarks. ‘Ding Ding’ refers to Hong Kong’s iconic double-decker trams, known for the distinctive sound of their bells as they travel through Hong Kong Island. Fifth stop: Hong Kong Disneyland. It’s not called the happiest place on earth for nothing. This world-class attraction offers ultimate family adventure – bringing magical Disney stories to life through thrilling attractions, enchanting themed lands, spectacular entertainment, and iconic Disney characters. And for those looking to spend their holidays amidst the Disney magic, the Christmas activities start on November 20.

BEHIND THE BRAND. BEYOND THE ORDINARY.

Hong Kong is a dynamic city that keeps reinventing itself to stay relevant amidst the fast-changing times. Bakehouse, Kingstone Engraving, TeemTonefai, Goods of Desire (G.O.D), and Dara are just some of the features highlighted in the special episodes of ‘I Heart PH.’ Bakehouse is one of Hong Kong’s popular artisanal bakeries – combining traditional baking techniques with a modern twist. The chef behind it all, Grégoire Michaud, started as the executive pastry chef at the Four Seasons Hong Kong before ultimately deciding to establish Bakehouse’s first brick-and-mortar retail location in Wan Chai. Kingston Engraving upholds the traditional art of personalized craftsmanship – turning ordinary objects to meaningful souvenirs through the classic hand-carved stamps that are used to sign one’s name in place of a regular signature. The art of stamping keeps the tradition alive, paired with the nostalgic visuals that these stamps create. Enjoy the popular artisan ice cream and gelato brand in Hong Kong – TeemTonefai, with their unique flavors and towering gelato stacks; a new addition to the area, but it has already started attracting a loyal following. Another must-see is the Good of Desires (G.O.D) that sells stylish accessories and home décors, showcasing Hong Kong’s distinctive identity through creative products inspired by local life, architecture, and traditions. The founder and designer Douglas Young created the brand as a love letter to Hong Kong and its everyday culture, hoping that those who stop by their stores can bring a little piece of the city home. ‘I Heart PH ‘ also features a Pinoy restaurant called ‘Dara’, which promotes Filipino comfort food heritage in Hong Kong, a place where Filipinos in Hong Kong can convene for community and the warmth of home. It’s co-founder and head of its operations, Jermaine Bunoan, cites the simplicity and familiarity of a classic home-cooked Filipino meal as the foundation for Dara.

From hidden gems and unique local finds to spectacular attractions and exciting discoveries, Hong Kong proves that it is more than just a place to visit-it is a place to explore, experience, and be inspired.

THE DIFFERENT SIDES OF OLD TOWN CENTRAL

Hong Kong keeps tradition and modern culture effective and relevant to the times, and the place that embodies both the richness of the old days and the bustle of the present is Old Town Central. It brings together historic streets, old-school shops, and award-winning restaurants that sit just along the iconic Hong Kong staple: the Central Mid-levels Escalator.

One classic destination in this area is Luk Yu Tea House, one of Hong Kong’s best-known traditional Cantonese dining establishments. Famous for its classic dim sum, traditional tea service, and elegant old-world interiors, it offers a glimpse into the city’s rich culinary heritage. Marvel at Central Market, a historic landmark transformed into a vibrant lifestyle destination. Formerly a traditional wet market, it now brings together local shops, food stalls, cafés, and creative spaces under one roof. Take a colorful walk along Hollywood Road, where street art transforms ordinary walls into extraordinary works of creativity. Savor the traditional flavors of Hong Kong with the city’s soy sauce-making heritage at Kowloon Soy.

Shop at the PMQ, short for Police Married Quarters, where heritage meets contemporary creativity. It is a historic landmark reinvented as a thriving hub for design, fashion, art, and lifestyle. After a day exploring the city, unwind at the Bar De Luxe to enjoy the sophisticated side of Hong Kong’s vibrant bar scene with its precise, elegant spirit of Ginza-style bartending from Tokyo straight to Hong Kong. And to cap off your day trip, discover the timeless elegance of Chinese fashion at Yi-ming Cheongsam Boutique, where the traditional cheongsam, also known as the qipao, celebrates femininity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.

These destinations give you a wonderful glimpse into Hong Kong’s many personalities – from traditional Cantonese cuisine and historic landmarks to colorful street art, innovative design, sophisticated nightlife, and timeless Chinese fashion.

Hosted by Valerie Tan, I Heart PH continues to share inspiring and aspiring stories and features here and abroad – bringing the latest trends in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, food, and travel, all with a uniquely Filipino perspective.

Produced by TV8 Media Productions, I Heart PH premieres its Season 11 this coming October 25, Sunday, at 11:30 AM on GTV.

The 2026 iCAUR International User Summit is set for October 19-23 in Wuhu, China, with ‘Classic Never Fades | Make It Yours’ confirmed as its official theme. Global users, media representatives and partners will get together to explore what iCAUR vehicles can become as they become part of different lifestyles.

For iCAUR, ‘Make It Yours’ is more than a brand slogan for this summit. It reflects the brand’s deeper thinking on the relationship between people and cars: vehicle delivery is not the end of the product story, but the beginning of the user’s story.

The Origin of ‘Make It Yours’

Previously, automotive brands largely focused on answering the question of ‘what a car is.’ However, iCAUR seeks to pose a different question: Once a car is in the user’s hands, what can it become?

As iCAUR enters into more than 40 markets worldwide, users across countries and regions interact with and interpret the brand in their own unique ways. Some use their vehicles for daily urban commuting, others venture off-road for outdoor exploration, while many modify their cars to add new functions and expressive styling.

Global users reimagine the same vehicle model differently, shaped by their cultural backgrounds, lifestyles and personal preferences. One single car can carry vastly different meanings, defined by its owner’s choices.

This is the inspiration behind iCAUR’s presentation of ‘Make It Yours’.

iCAUR aims to reserve sufficient flexibility within its products, design and ecosystem, empowering users to define their personal bond with an iCAUR vehicle according to their preferences and lifestyles.

‘Make It Yours’ means placing choices and creative possibilities in users’ hands, enabling them to become genuine co-authors of their car’s story.

After Delivery, iCAUR Hands the ‘Right to Define’ to Users

‘Make It Yours’ first manifests in iCAUR’s product philosophy.

A vehicle needs a distinct character-and enough flexibility for users to build on its factory configuration. Take the iCAUR V23 for example: it comes pre-fitted with over 20 factory-standard modification interfaces. Its loop-style roof rack supports a maximum static load of 200 kg and can accommodate side tents, side ladders and outdoor gear. In addition, users can alter the vehicle’s appearance and functionality via interchangeable exterior kits.

The iCAUR V27 follows the same design mindset. As an all-round hybrid SUV blending classic boxy design with new-energy technology, the V27 boasts a 5-meter-class body, the Golden REEV (Range-extended Electric Vehicle) powertrain and i-AWD (Intelligent All-wheel Drive) system. It features 39 ecosystem interfaces and more than 1,000 ecosystem modification parts, covering functional upgrades, outdoor leisure and storage expansion. Factory-level compatibility lets users tailor the vehicle to match their real-world usage scenarios.

The core logic behind these designs is straightforward: iCAUR builds the car, while users decide what it evolves into. Owners receive not a fully predefined ‘standard solution’, but a starting point for continuous exploration. The summit will also host the global launch of the latest V-family model, the iCAUR V25, adding a new product chapter to this theme.

Global Creativity Sparks the Inaugural iCAUR MOD FEST

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iCAUR users have long embodied the spirit of ‘Make It Yours’:

Some draw inspiration from South Africa’s wilderness, adopting military green, orange-and-white stripes and star motifs to align the V23 with local off-road culture and outdoor lifestyles. Other creators take cues from traditional Malaysian batik and hibiscus flowers, reinterpreting local heritage through minimalist graphic designs. The V27 transforms under different creators’ visions too: some are inspired by Omani sunsets, mountains and eagles, linking the vehicle to local landscapes and driving culture; others reference classic Woodie station wagons, fitted with wood side panels and Route 66 motifs. There are also builds featuring heart-shaped headlamps, pink wheels and rooftop camping gear, turning the vehicle into a mobile living space filled with companionship, leisure and imagination.

These creations hail from diverse nations and reflect varied lifestyles. They demonstrate that iCAUR users are not merely drivers, but passionate car modifiers and self-expression advocates. On October 19, these creative concepts will gather on one stage for the first time. The inaugural iCAUR MOD FEST will run during the summit, welcoming users, modification enthusiasts and lifestyle companions from multiple markets to showcase bespoke vehicles and innovative lifestyles.

Attendees can browse modified works, cast on-site votes, and learn about vehicle specs, modification approaches and local practices from global markets in the heavy-modification zone. iCAUR will join hands with global modifiers, modification brands and professional engineers to deliver deep dives into modification details, cross-market lifestyle exchanges and accessible hands-on workshops around real vehicles, shifting users from spectators of modification to active participants.

The festival also places vehicles back into real-life scenarios. The urban lifestyle zone features experiences such as coffee and pet-friendly spaces, while the outdoor zone offers interactive activities like pull-up challenges and fishing. Attendees can talk about modifications beside the cars, or discover their own way of being with their vehicle over a cup of coffee, an outdoor challenge or city excursion.

Running in parallel with the iCAUR MOD FEST, the Life Ecosystem Exhibition showcases the open ecosystem iCAUR has built around users’ daily lives. Spanning vehicles, accessories, functional upgrades and lifestyle scenarios, a broad roster of ecosystem partners will explore with iCAUR the endless possibilities of what a car can do.

The Multi-Scenario Test Drive Camp puts V-series models into authentic operating environments, letting global users experience vehicle performance across varied road conditions and lifestyle settings. Modification showcases, ecosystem displays and test drives are not isolated activities. Instead, they represent three dimensions of ‘Make It Yours’: showing users what is possible, inviting them into creation, and helping them bring new ideas into their daily lives.

From One-Off Event to Ongoing Co-Creation

For iCAUR, ‘Make It Yours’ extends far beyond the closing of the summit.

During the event, iCAUR will share its plans for a global modification ecosystem and owner communities, spanning vehicle modification, ecosystem collaboration and user communities around the world. This carries the brand-user relationship beyond car purchase and usage, into shared participation.

When a vehicle rolls off the production line, it has fixed design, technology and intended purpose. But once it reaches its owner, its true story unfolds. It travels through different cities, tackles diverse roads, carries people’s daily lives, and gradually gains new functions, appearances and meanings shaped by user choices. This captures the true essence of ‘Make It Yours’: it is not simply about ‘making the car yours’, but enabling the vehicle to integrate deeply into the user’s life and develop unique personal significance.

From brand to product; from product to user; from a one-off encounter to sustained co-creation.

On October 19, iCAUR users across the globe will meet in Wuhu, China.

Make It Yours. This time, the users get to define.

Discovering a good cup of coffee without planning an elaborate road trip can be a pleasant experience. All it takes is an afternoon, a few interesting cafés, and a scooter that makes you discover new things.

That was the idea behind a recent road trip with the Chetak 3503 electric scooter around Southwoods, located on the border of Biñan and Carmona. Known for its mix of commercial establishments, we recently visited two (2) popular coffee shops in the area. Southwoods offers a convenient destination for a relaxed café-hopping adventure.

An ideal companion for a coffee run

The Chetak 3503’s distinctive personality includes a rounded silhouette, along the lines of one of the most popular scooter brands. Its smooth metal bodywork and understated styling give it a classic scooter appearance that stands apart from the modern, more aggressive designs of many two-wheelers. It’s definitely a head-turner, whether parked outside a coffee shop or in a designated motorcycle parking space. Its understated charm affirms a ride that is more about enjoying the day than racing against other riders.

The ride started from SM City Bicutan via the West Service Road, passing through the areas of Bicutan, Sucat, and Alabang. With a fully charged 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Chetak 3503 took all road bumps and humps smoothly with its front leading-link and rear monoshock suspension, absorbing road irregularities. The acceleration was flowing and responsive, thanks to its permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), a motor architecture that uses a rotating magnetic field and permanent magnets to produce propulsion. Its drum brake system for both front and rear wheels provided balanced control.

The Chetak 3503 is ideal for several short journeys without the noise and fuel stops associated with a conventional gasoline-powered scooter.

First stop: Roots Cafe

After a leisurely ride that took around one hour and 30 minutes, we arrived at Roots Café, beside the Sto. Niño de Cebu Parish Church and ordered a Caramel Coffee Jelly under its frozen delights menu. Roots café is known for its great coffee that’s a favorite among coffee lovers and churchgoers.

The Chetak’s 35-liter underseat storage came in handy for a fresh set of clothes, as the compartment provides room for everyday essentials. The scooter’s color LCD instrument panel and smartphone connectivity also add a modern touch to an otherwise classic-looking machine and provide all the information we needed.

After coffee and a short comfort room break, we were ready to head to our next stop.

A leisurely ride in between stops

Our next stop was actually walking distance from our first coffee shop, but we wanted to go around the Southwoods area before heading to Foam Coffee.

The Chetak’s electric drivetrain delivers power without conventional gear changes, making operation straightforward during stop-and-go travel. No engine combustion also means no exhaust is emitted by the scooter while riding, helping improve environmental impact.

A short ride around Southwoods on the Chetak 3503 revealed a mix of cafés, dining spots, open-air spaces, and modern township streets that make it a good setting for a relaxed lifestyle. Along the way, we discovered a mix of commercial buildings, residential developments, and landscaped areas. This offered a different riding experience and an appreciation of its developing township and a glimpse of community life.

Then we went to our next coffee shop-Foam Coffee, where we ordered a Caramel Macchiato, one of its signature coffees, and a Burnt Basque Cheesecake, a yummy combination of a treat!

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The pleasure of an electric scooter

The Chetak 3503’s classic styling, quiet electric powertrain, and automatic operation are well suited to a leisurely local ride. Short trips between coffee stops offer a practical opportunity to experience electric mobility without turning the day into a long-distance ride.

The most interesting discovery may be how well a compact electric scooter fits into a local lifestyle. The Chetak 3503 isn’t necessarily about traveling far. It is about making nearby places feel worth exploring-finding a new coffee spot, appreciating a modern township, taking a breather outdoors, and enjoying a ride without the usual engine noise. Imagine these benefits for a daily-use motorcycle, minus the cost of gasoline, maintenance of a conventional motorcycle, and all the other related costs. With an approximate kerb weight of 125 kilograms, it is worth considering for daily mobility, even when moving it around a confined parking area.

With today’s busy lifestyle, the Chetak 3503 offers convenience in many aspects. Its design is based on everyday mobility rather than outright speed, and is appropriate when your objective is to travel from one point to another in a practical and convenient manner.

A relaxed ride still calls for attention to traffic, safety, road conditions, parking rules, and practicality. And with a range of 131 kilometers on a fully charged battery, the Chetak 3503 is an electric motorcycle worth considering.

Our recent ride to Southwoods was a pleasant experience. And with the Chetak 3503, we look forward to exploring more places aside from popular coffee shops.

WEATHER disruptions, if proven to be more severe than expected, could extend the central bank’s tightening cycle into the first half of 2027, according to a bank economist.

In a commentary, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Lead Economist Emilio S. Neri Jr. said despite the latest ‘sizeable adjustment’ in the key interest rate, ‘The tightening cycle is likely not over.’

‘Inflation is expected to remain elevated in the coming months, with El Nino adding to price pressures. We see the possibility of another rate hike in December, potentially at least 25 basis points,’ Neri said.

Further tightening in the first quarter of 2027 ‘remains possible’ depending on the inflationary impact of El Niño.

‘Should weather disruptions prove more severe than expected, the tightening cycle could extend into the first half of the year,’ added the BPI’s lead economist.

Neri said ‘there is reason to believe the economy can absorb the rate hikes,’ adding that despite the drag from inflation, GDP growth is expected to improve in the second half of the year, supported by ‘favorable base effects and a potential recovery in government spending.’

As such, he said, stronger economic activity could give the BSP greater flexibility to tighten policy further.

The lead economist of BPI explained that a ‘prolonged’ period of high inflation may pose a ‘greater risk’ to economic growth than higher interest rates, given that household consumption accounts for around 70 percent of the economy.

‘Bringing inflation back toward target as soon as possible is therefore important not only for preserving price stability but also for creating the conditions for a more sustainable recovery,’ added Neri.

On Thursday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) delivered what Neri described as a ‘decisive’ monetary policy response, raising its policy rate by 50 basis points to 5.50 percent.

‘In our view, the larger rate hike was timely and appropriate given the increasingly challenging inflation environment. It sends a strong message that the BSP remains committed to price stability, which should help in managing inflation expectations,’ Neri said.

Likewise, BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions, expects the BSP to raise its policy rate by another 25 basis points in December, taking the policy rate to 5.75 percent.

‘Even with the 50bps hike, the Bank remains concerned about the inflation trajectory and expressed openness to further increases,’ BMI said.

According to BMI, the central bank in its monetary policy statement warned that average headline inflation will remain high in 2027, while projecting further acceleration in core inflation.

‘We share its concern about the inflation spillovers from higher global energy prices, recent transportation fare increases and El Niño-related food price pressures,’ BMI said.

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The central bank revised upwards its inflation forecast for 2027 to 6 percent from the 5.4-percent pegged during the Monetary Board’s August 27 rate-setting meeting.

The BSP, however, retained its 6.1-percent inflation forecast for 2026, but noted that the inflation rate could continue to increase in the last quarter of 2026.

While a ‘confluence of factors’ were incorporated in the MB’s latest policy action, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. emphasized that ‘the biggest risk at the moment is El Niño.’