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October 8, 2026

PAL Extends Great Mabuhay Miles Getaway Travel PeriodThrough September 2027, Adds More Award Seats

by Contributor October 8, 2026

written by Contributor

Philippine Airlines (PAL), the Philippines’ flag carrier, has extended the travel period for its Great Mabuhay Miles Getaway 2026 through September 30, 2027, and added more award seats across its domestic and international network. Mabuhay Miles members have until October 12, 2026, to redeem flights at mileage rates discounted by up to 50%.

Previously covering travel through March 31, 2027, the promotion now applies to travel from October 15, 2026, to September 30, 2027. The extension gives members more travel dates to choose from, with no blackout dates, subject to seat availability.

Whether planning an island escape within the Philippines, a holiday in Asia, or a long-haul journey to Australia, the Middle East, or North America, members can use their miles toward a wider choice of travel plans.

The promotion offers:

• Up to 50% off mileage redemption rates for domestic destinations, ASEAN cities, Middle East destinations, and select international routes;

• Up to 40% off mileage redemption rates for Japan, Korea, and Greater China; and

• Up to 30% off mileage redemption rates for Australia, the United States, and Canada.

Members can redeem miles for travel to destinations such as Cebu, Davao, Boracay, Singapore, Bangkok, Bali, Hanoi, Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Sydney, Melbourne, Dubai, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Toronto, and many more. Thousands of award seats are available, giving members more opportunities to secure flights for vacations, family reunions, and other planned journeys.

Miles may be redeemed through the PAL website, mobile app, contact center, or ticket offices. Terms and conditions, taxes, fees, and other applicable charges apply.

Through the Great Mabuhay Miles Getaway, PAL continues to reward its loyal members with more accessible travel opportunities while connecting people and bringing the Philippines closer to the world.

For complete promo mechanics and other relevant information, visit the Great Mabuhay Miles Getaway page.

October 8, 2026 0 comments

Japanese Film Festival 2026 Celebrating Friendship Through Japanese Cinema

by Contributor October 8, 2026

written by Contributor

“Shared Treasure. Shared Stories.”

The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) is delighted to announce the return of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2026, bringing Japanese cinema to audiences across the Philippines from October 1 to November 29, 2026.

This year’s theme, “Shared Treasure. Shared Stories.”, celebrates the films, traditions, memories, and human experiences that connect people across borders and generations. The festival also marks the 70th Anniversary of the Normalization of Philippine-Japan Diplomatic Relations, and the 30th Anniversary of Japan Foundation, Manila, celebrating decades of friendship and cultural exchange between Japan and the Philippines.

JFF 2026 will be presented in six cities and eight venues across the Philippines, continuing JFM’s commitment to bringing Japanese cinema to audiences nationwide. In partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, the festival will expand opportunities for audiences across the country to discover the diversity and appeal of Japanese cinema.

JFF 2026 Screening Schedule

METRO MANILA	SM MEGAMALL	OCTOBER 1 – 4
BAGUIO	SM MANILA SM NORTH EDSA SM BAGUIO	OCTOBER 16 – 25 NOVEMBER 20 – 29 OCTOBER 9 – 18
CEBU	SM CEBU	OCTOBER 16 – 25
ILOILO	SM ILOILO	NOVEMBER 6 – 15
DAVAO	SM LANANG	NOVEMBER 13 – 22
CAGAYAN DE ORO	SM CDO DOWNTOWN	NOVEMBER 20 – 29

JFF is pleased to hold its Opening Event at SM Megamall, on October 1 at the SM Megamall, Ground floor, Mega Fashion Hall.

The festival will present a curated selection of 16 films, showcasing the diversity of Japanese cinema and stories that continue to resonate across generations.

Opening JFF 2026 is KOKUHO, directed by acclaimed filmmaker LEE Sang-il known for award-winning films including Hula Girls, which will also be screened as part of this year’s festival lineup. Set against the demanding and deeply traditional world of Kabuki, KOKUHO tells a sweeping story of ambition, friendship, rivalry, family, and sacrifice. Following its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, the film received widespread critical acclaim and went on to win multiple awards at the 49th Japan Academy Film Prize, including Picture of the Year, Director of the Year for LEE Sang-il, and Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for YOSHIZAWA Ryo.

JFF 2026 promises to bring acclaimed contemporary films, beloved classics and animation. This year’s lineup offers a broad cinematic journey through Japan, featuring KUROSAWA Akira’s Throne of Blood, Studio Ghibli’s Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, UNDER NINJA starring YAMAZAKI Kento, and YAMADA Yoji’s TOKYO TAXI, among others.

As a special highlight, audiences can experience Cinema Kabuki, a unique cinematic experience that captures the artistry, spectacle, and traditions of Kabuki theatre on the big screen. During the opening weekend, Renjishi (The Father and Son Shishi Lions) directed by YAMADA Yoji will be screened, alongside special KABUKI activities, including a Kabuki Costume Dressing Demonstration on October 2 and the “Kumadori” Body-Painting Experience on October 3.

The program continues with Nausicaä Day on November 28, featuring a special presentation beginning with Studio Ghibli’s Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, directed by MIYAZAKI Hayao, followed by a two-part screening of the Kabuki adaptation based on his beloved manga: KABUKI「 KAZE NO TANI NO NAUSICAÄ – Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind」Part 1 and Part 2. Featuring episodes never depicted in the film, as well as dynamic action and striking stagecraft, it captures the wonder and scale of Nausicaä’s world through a unique blend of tradition and innovation.

Note: KABUKI「KAZE NO TANI NO NAUSICAÄ – Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind」Part 1 and Part 2 will be screened in stereo sound.

The Cinema Kabuki screening and hands-on workshops introducing Kabuki to audiences overseas are presented as part of the JFF Discover Kabuki Tour with the cooperation of Shochiku Co., Ltd.

JFF 2026 will collaborate with Agency for Cultural Affairs — Government of Japan, and Japan Film Commission on a special program, “Journey through Japan on Screen in Manila 2026,” taking place on November 21 – 22. The program promotes cross-cultural exchange through international co-production films, including Jaime Pacena II’s Kono Basho and HAYAKAWA Chie’s RENOIR, alongside Japanese films that appeal to young audiences, such as AYABE Shinya’s School Meals Time: School Excursion Inferno and SUZUKI Kei’s anime film, You, Fireworks, and Our Promise.

In addition to film screenings, talkback events will be held for selected films, featuring directors and producers who will engage with audiences and share insights into their work.

Throughout the festival, audiences can also take part in various activation campaigns for a chance to get freebies and win exclusive JFF 2026 merchandise.

JFF 2026 is made possible through the continued support and collaboration of organizations and partners who share JFM’s commitment to cultural exchange and bringing Japanese cinema closer to Filipino audiences – Embassy of Japan, SM Supermalls and SM Cinema, JTI Philippines, Agency for Cultural Affairs — Government of Japan, Japan Film Commission, and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).

October 8, 2026 0 comments

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Aboitiz Builds Future-Ready Talent as AI Transforms Business

by Contributor October 8, 2026

written by Contributor

Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin M. Aboitiz underscored the value of character, curiosity and leadership in an evolving world during his interaction with Aboitiz Foundation scholars

The Aboitiz Group is strengthening investments in talent and leadership as artificial intelligence takes on a bigger role in its businesses, underscoring a strategy that treats human capability as a competitive advantage in a more automated economy.

At the recent gathering of Aboitiz Future Leaders scholars, Aboitiz Foundation Chairman and Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin M. Aboitiz said the rise of AI is raising the premium on judgment, adaptability and leadership even as technology assumes more functions in the workplace.

“The value of this program is not just to help you finish school but to prepare you for what comes after it,” Aboitiz said, pointing to a world that is “changing and accelerating very, very rapidly.”

Established through Aboitiz’s US$10-million endowment to the Asian Institute of Management, the Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (ASITE) is helping build the country’s next generation of talent in data science and artificial intelligence

He said technology will continue to improve, but judgment, curiosity, character, creativity, empathy and leadership will become even more valuable as AI advances.

“AI can give you an answer in seconds, but it cannot decide what kind of person you want to be. That part is still up to you,” Aboitiz told the scholars.

AI, data and digital platforms are increasingly becoming part of how Aboitiz businesses operate and make decisions. Aboitiz Data Innovation has embedded data and AI solutions in business units, while the Group continues to build workforce capabilities in AI, cybersecurity and other emerging areas.

That investment in capability extends beyond the organization.

Aboitiz committed US$10 million to the Asian Institute of Management to help establish the Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship, or ASITE, aimed at strengthening the country’s talent pipeline in data science, technology and entrepreneurship.

The endowment has supported 290 students pursuing graduate studies in data science and produced more than 160 graduates, helping deepen the pool of technology talent for an increasingly data-driven economy.

The Group’s investment in people also reaches students earlier through the Aboitiz Future Leaders Scholarship Program. Beyond financial assistance, scholars gain access to leadership development and learning opportunities designed to prepare them for life beyond the classroom.

At this year’s Scholars’ Day, Aboitiz Foundation welcomed 11 new scholars and held a learning session on mental health and financial literacy, reinforcing the program’s focus on resilience, self-awareness and leadership alongside academic achievement.

Aboitiz Future Leaders learned about stress management from Dr. Shake Guevarra-Hocson, former president of Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association (PGCA), at the Scholars’ Day held at AIM

Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar urged scholars to start thinking of leadership not as a future title, but as something they can practice now—through the choices they make, how they respond to difficult situations and how they influence the people around them.

“The Aboitiz Future Leaders Program is not only about academics,” Hontiveros-Malvar said. “It is really about becoming a whole person and a better person.”

She also reminded scholars that success should eventually translate into opportunities for others.

“Success is never only about how far we go on our own personal journeys,” Hontiveros-Malvar said. “It’s also about how many people we can take with us, how many people we can bring forward with us.”

The college scholarship program is part of Aboitiz Foundation’s Future Leaders pillar, which uses education to help develop capable, values-driven leaders who can create lasting change in their communities and beyond. To date, more than 1,200 scholars have benefited from the program nationwide, with the Foundation nearly 300 scholars this year as it continues to build a stronger pipeline of young Filipino leaders.

As Aboitiz Foundation marks its 38th year, that investment is designed to compound over time: helping students gain access to education, equipping them with the confidence and capabilities to lead, and enabling them to create opportunities for others. In doing so, the Foundation is not only supporting scholars—it is helping shape the people who will carry progress forward.

October 8, 2026 0 comments

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BDO introduces self-service Forex machine at NAIA 3

by Contributor October 8, 2026

written by Contributor

Forex-on-the-go: BDO launches its self-service Currency Exchange Machine at NAIA Terminal 3, giving you safe and fast access to Philippine Pesos the moment you arrive.

USD, EUR and JPY converted to pesos in minutes, right when you land

Travelers arriving at NAIA Terminal 3 can now enjoy instant access to Philippine Peso with BDO’s self-service Currency Exchange Machine. Foreigners and locals arriving with USD, EUR and JPY can easily convert their foreign currency into Philippine Pesos in minutes, with no need for forms to fill out or teller assistance.

Made available through BDO’s banking network, the self-service machine combines efficiency with advanced security. It authenticates bank notes, accepts up to 30 bills at a time, and issues a receipt for every exchange. On conversion, customers will receive bills and even coins for best value. The service is available 24 x 7, all day, every day.

The Currency Exchange machine can easily be found shortly after completing Immigration clearance and exiting the arrival gates, right in front of the BDO branch. More and more travelers are discovering the convenience, and appreciate BDO’s highly competitive rates, widely recognized as the attractive benchmark in Forex pricing.

“Travelers today expect convenience at every touchpoint of their journey,” shares Cora A. Mallillin, BDO Executive Vice President and Head of Branch Banking Group. “With the launch of the Currency Exchange Machine, we’re giving customers greater flexibility and control over their Forex needs. In just a few simple steps, they can securely access peso with no delays. This travel-friendly innovation underscores our commitment to delivering competitive Forex services right where clients need them, enhancing their overall travel experience.”

Convenience meets trust

WithBDO’s self-service Currency Exchange Machine, you can turn your foreign bills into Philippine pesos in five easy steps:

Step #1 Select the currency you want to convert in the Forex machine.

Step #2 Review and accept the terms and conditions.

Step #3 Scan your passport; the machine then captures your photo for secure identity authentication.

Step #4 Insert your foreign bills and confirm the amount in Philippine Pesos.

Step #5 Collect your converted pesos in bills and coins, and receive a printed transaction receipt.

As consumer preferences continue to shift toward digital and automated experiences, BDO remains at the forefront of providing easy, simple, and secure access to competitively priced local currency. With the foreign exchange services now at your fingertips at NAIA 3, you can enjoy a fast and effortless way to start or end your travel journey.v

October 8, 2026 0 comments

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Argus Aspiras, Kelsey Lasam and Jollibee leads new Jolly Spaghetti TikTok dance challenge

by Contributor October 8, 2026

written by Contributor

Jollibee Philippines is turning up the fun on TikTok with the launch of the #JollySpaghettiDanceChallenge, inviting Filipinos of all ages to dance, have fun, and celebrate the sweet-sarap saya (sweet, delicious joy) of the country’s beloved Jolly Spaghetti.

Led by It’s Showtime kids Argus Aspiras and Kelsey Lasam, the dance challenge features an upbeat, easy-to-follow routine inspired by Jollibee’s latest campaign for its Jolly Spaghetti, now with more sauce. The refreshed offering comes with more of its signature sweet-style, meaty and cheesy sauce, bringing even more of the familiar flavor Filipinos love.

“Today, TikTok has become a space where Gen Z and young families express themselves, have fun, and connect. We see that same spirit in how Filipinos enjoy Jolly Spaghetti, which has long been part of their celebrations and everyday moments. So, we thought, why not bring these two together?” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Through this campaign, we’re giving everyone, from kids to kids at heart, a fun new way to enjoy Jolly Spaghetti, join in, and share their own jolly moments with Jollibee. We’re excited to see how they make the campaign their own through their videos.”

The TikTok dance challenge is open to everyone, giving Filipinos an opportunity to participate in a major campaign and potentially have their content reach a wider audience.

The choreography is designed to be easy to follow, featuring an opening side-step groove, playful hand movements and quick transitions that participants can recreate or personalize with their own style. Perfect for families, friends, parents and other kids at heart can who want to join in and put their own spin on the dance.

The #JollySpaghettiDanceChallenge is now live on TikTok, giving Jolly Spaghetti fans and eligible creators a chance to dance along, share their sweet-sarap saya and potentially have their content boosted by Jollibee.

Tiktok users may join the challenge by following the official dance steps and using the hashtag #JollySpaghettiDanceChallenge until November 30.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites via GrabFood or foodpanda, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises.

October 8, 2026 0 comments