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A GameZone Tour Feature Story: A Husband’s Loving Sacrifice

By
PhilSociety
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Tatay Igno raises his GTCC Summer Showdown trophy

Winners are made, and champions are destined to make a change. The GameZone TableGame Champions Cup (GTCC): Summer Showdown, now rebranded as the GameZone Tour Tongits Plus Championship Cup, introduced a Tongits tournament with a new format and a prize pool of 10 million pesos in June of last year.

One player, Benigno Casayuran, also known as Tatay Igno, is a 62-year-old retired resident of Candelaria, Quezon Province. He and his family ran a small sari-sari store and relied on his pension for their day-to-day expenses. A story of sacrifice and inspiration, Tatay Igno made his way to the top by keeping a steady mindset. He initially joined the tournament as an underdog, competing against 93 elite Tongits players.

“Mga 10 years na siguro ako naglalaro. Sa baraha pang-libangan at pampalipas oras lang, ngayon dun ako naglalaro sa GameZone app,” he said in an exclusive interview with GameZone, crediting his wife as his inspiration in joining the tournament.

“Inspirasyon ko siyempre ang misis ko, para po sa medication niya kasi na-diagnose siya ng cancer. Naging problema ang pagluwas sa Maynila, medyo pahirapan kasi kulang sa budget, kaya nanghingi ako ng tulong sa kaibigan at tsaka sa aking kapatid para mabayaran ko yung accommodation ko sa hotel noon.”

Tatay Igno fought his way to the Grand Final, using his years of experience and skills to conquer the Summer Showdown.

From dropping out of college to working different day jobs until retirement, playing through the GameZone app, to making it to the tournament finals, and getting the win, Tatay Igno ultimately became the Summer Showdown’s oldest champion, forever etching his name in the list of champions in GameZone’s young history.

Tatay Igno with his wife enjoying the GameZone app

“Lubos lubos po yung pasasalamat ko sa Diyos, kasi hiniling ko lang po makapasok sa top 9, pero binigay niya po sa amin yung grand champion,” Tatay Igno stated.

When asked about his family’s life after the tournament, he credited his wife for the inspiration; after all, she is the reason they can now afford what they need for her treatment and healing.

“Hindi na po kami nahihirapan kung saan kukuha sa pambili ng gamot ng asawa ko, hindi na ako nahirapan sa paghatid sa kanya kasi nakakuha ako ng sasakyan.”

He showcased his veteran skills and perseverance throughout the tournament, overcoming challenges and using his family as his primary motivation. Today, Tatay Igno’s wife is cancer-free, slowly regaining her strength with the help of regular check-ups. Tatay Igno shared a message on responsible gaming, and for those joining the upcoming GameZone Tour.

Tatay Igno during an interview after the events of the GTCC: Summer Showdown

“Sa mga gusto sumali, ipagpatuloy niyo lang po, pero dapat may control kayo, huwag po kayo mag sugal ng marami, kung ano po yung makayanan, huwag agresibo at pampalipas oras lang. Huwag niyo asahan na yung sugal ang magbabago sainyong buhay, kaya dapat yung masaya kayo at maging isang responsableng gamer,” he explained.

“Sa GameZone at sa DigiPlus, ako’y nagpapasalamat hindi ko po inakala na ako ay matatawagan upang makilahok dun sa tournament, hindi ko po akalain na ako’y mag-champion. At sa kapwa kong player pag patuloy niyo lang, maging humble, at maniwala sa inyong kakayanan.”

DigiPlus and GameZone are set to bring the fun to new heights this year. As the leading company in digital entertainment, the stakes are raised with the addition of more games through the seasons, with multiple prizes up for grabs. Players can join this year’s upcoming tournament through the GameZone app. 

The GameZone Tour offline stage took place on March 7-8 and was one of the most exciting tournaments that new fans and seasoned gamers enjoyed, bringing the fun wherever it goes. Experience the Real GameZone, head on to https://gzone.ph to know more.

About DigiPlus

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced the leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging interactive gaming and sports entertainment experiences. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come.

For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

Gong Xi Fa Cai! GameZone Celebrates CNY in partnership with Tropical Hut

By
PhilSociety
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GameZone in partnership with Tropical Hut made the Chinese New Year 2026 exceptional

GameZone fueled the world’s oldest Chinatown as it celebrated the 2026 Chinese New Year last February 17 in partnership with one of the country’s most beloved food chains, Tropical Hut.

As early as the 1500s, the Chinese New Year has been embedded as one of the rich yearly traditions in the Philippines, specifically in Binondo. It was officially declared a special non-working holiday nationwide in 2012.

GameZone turned Tropical Hut’s historic Escolta-Binondo branch into a full-fledged Chinese-themed restaurant, with a complete visual presentation designed to command attention amid the crowded celebration of the Chinese New Year.

To elevate cultural relevance, GameZone graced the crowd with dragon and lion dancers, bringing rhythmic drumbeats, prosperity, joy, and good luck while they chased away evil spirits and negative energy.

In addition, the brand offered event-goers ₱100 Tropical Hut gift certificates as a special treat in light of the celebration of the Chinese New Year. It was GameZone’s way of spreading fun and saying thank you to the attendees.

One of GameZone’s lucky winners of ₱2,000 in cash

Selected guests also bagged ₱2,000 in cash prizes after correctly answering trivia questions and completing GameZone’s roulette challenges.

Chinatown in Binondo has been a long-time destination for locals and foreigners alike. As a leader in digital entertainment, GameZone, along with DigiPlus, will continue to support activities that preserve cultural heritage in the Philippines.

About GameZone

GameZone is a PAGCOR-licensed online gaming platform in the Philippines, offering a secure and competitive Player vs. Player experience. Specializing in popular Filipino card games such as Tongits and Pusoy, GameZone delivers real-time gameplay, exciting tournaments, and a wide selection of over 1,500 premium games designed for skill-based entertainment anytime, anywhere.

For more information, visit www.gzone.ph and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @taragamezone.

SexBomb Girls Aifha, Mhyca, and Shane Redefine ‘Beyond Experience’ Entertainment with OKGames

By
PhilSociety
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[From Left] Za Gaufo, Asst. Branding Manager - GVI, Sexbomb Aifha, Mhyca and Shayne, Jowen De Guzman, Strategic Partnership Manager - GVI

The SexBomb Girls dancers know a thing or two about great entertainment, what with their extraordinary talents, amazing star presence, and high-energy stage performances. They live, breathe, and embody that “Beyond Experience” entertainment that they know the audience love and enjoy!

For SexBomb Girls Aifha, Mhyca and Shane, entertainment should be about excitement and connection that go way beyond the action.  And that’s something that they appreciate about responsible online gaming platform OKGames. 

At OKGames, it is about the moments that stay with you long after the game ends. This is what “Beyond Experience” means: fun entertainment that lives beyond play, and  winning that goes beyond numbers.

The vision comes to life with the newest faces of OKGames, the iconic Sexbomb Girls.

Leading this new chapter are Mhyca Bautista, Aifha Medina, and Shane Gonzales Ignacio, three women whose careers reflect passion, consistency, and staying power.

For generations of Filipinos, the Sexbomb Girls is more than just a dance group. They are a cultural moment. Their talents, influence, and confidence shaped an era in the Philippine entertainment scene that continues to dominate today. Now, that same spirit finds a new home at OKGame.

For their high-octane stage performances, be it in concerts or television appearances, the SexBomb Girls understand the value of self-discipline and self-leadership during performance conceptualization and rehearsals. These core values are some that they wish to impart with their fans, even for online gaming.

OKGames, one of the leading PAGCOR-approved online gaming platforms in the country, fits the role as your responsible partner when it comes to self-discipline in  online gaming with its Responsible Gaming System. Yes, it features games that guarantee exhilarating fun, and with state-of-the-art tools that make sure you have a well-rounded life outside of the screen. Its very own, built-in “Game Timer” feature is meant to keep your play balanced and disciplined, which remind you to go out for a stretch in the real world when players have been playing for more than two hours. OKGAMES’ self-exclusion and family exclusion tools let players and their loved ones control their gaming and prevent problems before they start.

This powerful advocacy of responsible gaming by OKGames is something SexBomb Girls Aifha, Mhyca, and Shane appreciate. And also, they’re in it for the iconic, historic moments that go beyond the experience!

OKGames is defined by moments that change lives. One of the most unforgettable highlights for the community was a massive ₱125,000,000 win, a moment that went far beyond celebration. It was a reminder that real people, real stories, and real wins sit at the core of the OKGames experience. These are the moments that turn play into possibility, and entertainment that makes history.

By bringing in cultural icons like Sexbomb and continuing to deliver meaningful and historic winning moments, OKGames proves that entertainment can be more than fun. It can be empowering. It can be memorable. And it can go far beyond what people expect.

Backed by the SexBomb Girls’ historic recognition including their induction into the “Box Office Entertainment Awards Hall of Fame” and the “2025 Golden Pillar Award for Distinguished Dance Troupe”, SexBomb Aifha Medina, Mhyca Bautista, and Shane Gonzales Ignacio love the concept that entertainment can indeed create lasting possibilities and defining moments, just like with OKGames. 

“Thank you OKGAMES na ginawa niyo kaming part ng family niyo. Siyempre sobrang saya ng puso namin parang from being a dancer na nagkaroon kami ng successful concerts, at eto na merong naman na kami ay brand ambassador na din,” SexBomb Aifha shared a statement during the contract signing session with the OKGames team. 

Indeed, the SexBomb Girls represent what OKGames stands for when it comes to entertainment– one with history-making winning moments, self-discipline, and heart. Their presence signals a deeper commitment to creating experiences that feel familiar yet exciting.


This is OKGames. Beyond experience, beyond entertainment, and beyond winning.

Greenbelt Getaway to Wimbledon: The Ultimate UK Experience 

By
PhilSociety
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The World’s Most Coveted Seat 

For those who understand that true luxury is found in being present for the moments that matter, this is the  ultimate invitation. The Greenbelt Getaway to Wimbledon is a masterclass in curated experience, offering  winners the best seats in history: 

  • Two (2) Wimbledon Centre Court packages 
  • Eight (8) days, seven (7) nights twin-sharing accommodation at Nobu Hotel (or similar)
  • Debenture Match Tickets to Centre Court and Court No. 1 
  • Round-trip business class flights via Etihad Airlines (or similar), inclusive of travel tax
  • Round-trip airport and hotel transfers 

From business class to the prestige of Debenture seating at Wimbledon, every detail is thoughtfully  arranged. Because at Greenbelt, the experience is always unparalleled. Whether you are strolling through  our gardens or sitting courtside at a decisive match point, it is about how you arrive, the energy you feel, and  the access you enjoy. 

Experiences Beyond Compare 

Since 2023, the Greenbelt Getaway has reimagined how we reward our community, extending our signature  experience far beyond the avenues of Makati. Our journey has evolved through distinct, curated stops: from  the serene shores of El Nido, Palawan, to the high-octane energy of Formula 1 in Singapore, and most  recently, exclusive shopping at Takashimaya Singapore. Each invitation has brought our patrons onto the  global stage to witness the world at its best. 

How To Join The Greenbelt Getaway To Wimbledon 

From February 15 through April 15, 2026, every retail purchase at Greenbelt serves as an opportunity to  win. Shoppers are invited to earn e-raffle entries across all retail merchants, excluding bills payment  transactions. A minimum single-receipt purchase entitles you to the following entries: 

  • Php 15,000 – 2 e-raffle entries 
  • Php 30,000 – 6 e-raffle entries
  • Php 60,000 – 12 e-raffle entries 
  •  Php 100,000 – 25 e-raffle entries 

To participate, drop by the Greenbelt 5 Concierge and present your valid receipt for registration. Visit www.instagram.com/ilovegreenbelt for the complete mechanics and full promo details. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-247452 Series of 2026. 

The Greenbelt Getaway to Wimbledon promo runs from February 15, 2026 to April 15, 2026.

Fit for Every Filipina: Homegrown Innerwear Brand Herah Reaches New Heights on Shopee

By
PhilSociety
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Herah founder Ryan Uy (center) with the leadership team guiding the brand’s women-centered approach to comfort, fit, and inclusive innerwear. Left to right: Iana Reyes, Marketing & Growth Manager; Shaira Par, Finance Manager; Rhoderick Rodica, HR Manager; and Lory Jane Odal, Operations Manager.

Shaped by its founder’s roots and real women’s experiences, Herah grows its inclusive innerwear mission nationwide with support from Shopee

Every Filipina is familiar with the pursuit of perfectly fitting underwear: comfortable enough for daily wear, seamless under clothes, and supportive where it matters. Yet the choices often fall short, especially when most designs still cater to a limited range of body types. Filipino innerwear label Herah is shaping solutions to fill this gap, creating innerwear designed around real bodies and real comfort.

Founded in 2021, the homegrown brand focused on creating high-quality essentials designed with the experiences of Filipina women in mind, prioritizing comfort and fit over price competition. This clarity in purpose drove 167% growth in 2025 and earned Herah recognition as Partner of the Year for Fashion at the recent Shopee Brands Summit, the event’s top honor for brands that demonstrate standout performance, strong collaboration, and consistent category contribution. The win placed a Filipino brand alongside major global names and highlighted the strength and innovation of Filipino entrepreneurs on the platform.

“Shopee has helped us connect with the women we want to serve,” said Ryan Uy, CEO of Brand Collective. “The platform’s tools have supported us as we stayed focused on creating quality products and serving our community.”

A brand built by listening to women

For Uy, the business began at home. As the only boy among four sisters, he became familiar with the comfort and sizing frustrations many women face with innerwear. 

In 2021, he began developing Herah after recognizing how limited the local options were for Filipina women across different shapes and sizes. Inspired by global brands, he set out to build a homegrown brand rooted in the experiences of Filipinas.

Before launching in 2022, Herah tested products with women across body types to refine sizing, structure, and fabric. The goal was straightforward: dependable quality at an accessible price.

Herah’s leadership team is predominantly female, ensuring women guide key decisions across product development and strategy. “Herah comes from ‘Hurrah,’ because at its core, we exist to celebrate women, and create products that make women feel seen, supported, and confident,” Uy shared.

The brand’s lineup includes seamless wireless bras and lightweight panties crafted from soft, flexible fabric that adapts to a wide range of body shapes, and designed to deliver comfort, smooth lines, and good support.

Ryan Uy with his sisters (L-R): Gretchen Ty, Regine Anne So, Michelle Ongkeco, and Charlene Cua

Rising on Shopee as a leading Filipino-owned fashion brand

Underwear is a trust-based category. Comfort, fit, and body confidence are deeply personal, and customers need clarity before making a purchase.

As Herah expanded beyond its initial customer base, Shopee became an important channel for building that trust at scale. Detailed product listings with accurate sizing, real-time conversations through Shopee Live, and creator partnerships allowed the brand to address fit questions openly.

Beyond visibility, Shopee provided access to a broader customer base, enabling Herah to reach women outside major cities and grow without shifting its focus away from product quality. The platform’s infrastructure allowed Herah to compete on value instead of price alone.

“It still feels surreal,” Uy said. “We’re proud to be a Filipino brand, and even prouder of the impact we’ve been able to make on the lives of Filipino women.”

Herah founder Ryan Uy (left) receives Herah’s Partner of the Year Award from Shopee Philippines Head of Commercial Jack Ng (right) at the Shopee Brands Summit 2026

A lesson for Filipino entrepreneurs

Herah’s recognition reflects the growing confidence of Filipino brands building with intention in the digital space.

“Herah shows how Filipino businesses can stand out when they lead with customer understanding and product focus,” said Jack Ng, Head of Commercial at Shopee Philippines. “Our role at Shopee is to provide scale, tools, and reach that allow brands that understand their customers to grow beyond their initial market and compete more effectively.”

Uy hopes Herah’s journey inspires other Filipino entrepreneurs. “Start with a great product and make sure it solves a real problem. When you do that, customers become your strongest advocates, he said.”

As the brand grows, it remains anchored in a mission shaped by the women who inspired it, with Shopee helping to bring that mission to more Filipinas. For Uy, that progress is proof that listening closely, and building with discipline, makes growth sustainable.

About Shopee
Shopee is a leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Brazil. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities.

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the digital economy, with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce. 

Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a global technology company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena, and Monee.

For more information, visit Shopee.

Rakuten Viki Launches “Viki Celebrates Women” Collection for International Women’s Day

By
PhilSociety
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Female Viki Characters That Capture the Many Facets of Women’s Stories

There is something quietly powerful about settling in with a drama that resonates—the kind that reflects the messy, complicated, and beautiful realities of women navigating life. 

Rakuten Viki, the leading destination for Asian entertainment, is celebrating women around the world this International Women’s Day with a specially curated collection of fan-favorite, female-led Korean dramas. Titled “Viki Celebrates Women,” this collection will be featured on Viki’s homepage, spotlighting stories that champion female-led storytelling– from boardroom power plays to slow-burn healing arcs to memorable romances.

To help viewers get started, Rakuten Viki has selected standout titles organized by mood and resonance, ranging from resilient female leads embarking on journeys of self-discovery to ambitious career women breaking barriers.

For the Nights You Just Want to Feel Something

Love Me 

On paper, Seo Jun Kyung (Seo Hyun-jin) has everything: a respected career as an obstetrician, her life neatly in order. But beneath the composed exterior, there’s a wound that never fully healed, a family tragedy she’s spent years quietly carrying. When a free-spirited music director moves in next door, her carefully constructed walls begin to shift. Love Me explores vulnerability, healing, and the possibility of letting someone inside your walls.

My Mister

Lee Ji An, portrayed with striking restraint by IU, is young, exhausted, and burdened by debt and obligation. When she crosses paths with Park Dong Hoon (Lee Sun-kyun), a middle-aged engineer struggling quietly within his own life, the connection that develops between them is defined less by romance than by empathy and understanding. Widely praised for its emotional depth, My Mister remains one of the most poignant and quietly powerful dramas of its kind.

Yumi’s Cells 

Breakups are messy. Healing is messier. Yumi’s Cells captures this experience through the animated emotions living inside Kim Yumi’s (Kim Go-eun) mind, each representing different facets of her inner life as she navigates love, heartbreak, and personal growth. The series blends inventive storytelling with a relatable exploration of everyday emotions.

Bitch X Rich

Dark, sharp, and gripping, Bitch X Rich blends emotional drama with the tension of a thriller. After witnessing a murder, Kim Hye In (Lee Eun-saem) transfers to an elite high school where power defines the social order and secrets are a means of survival. As she becomes entangled in the school’s ruthless hierarchy, Hye In quickly realizes she must navigate a dangerous web of alliances and rivalries to protect herself.

For When You’re Channeling Your Inner CEO

Love Scout

Kang Ji Yun (Han Ji-min) built her headhunting empire from the ground up and thrives in the cut-throat world of corporate recruitment. Despite her professional brilliance, she struggles with the practicalities of her mundane life. When her highly capable secretary begins to play a larger role both professionally and personally, their dynamic gradually shifts in unexpected ways.

Agency

Go Ah In (Lee Bo-young) is determined not only to earn a seat at the table, but to lead it. Agency follows her relentless climb through the ranks of a major advertising firm as she sets her sights on becoming its first female executive. Lee Bo-young delivers a compelling performance in a story that highlights the persistence, ambition, and resilience required to succeed in competitive corporate spaces.

First Lady 

Just as Cha Su Yeon (Eugene) is about to step into one of the most powerful roles in the country, her husband blindsides her with divorce papers. What follows is a masterclass in watching a woman refuse to be written out of her own story. Blending political intrigue with personal drama, First Lady centers on a woman reclaiming control of her future.

For When You Want the Fun Stuff (Romance Included)

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo 

A beloved coming-of-age story, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo follows aspiring weightlifter Kim Bok Joo (Lee Sung-kyung) as she pursues both athletic dreams and personal growth. With heartfelt friendships, lighthearted romance, and an endearing lead character, the series remains a standout favorite among K-drama fans.

Doctors

Yoo Hye Jung (Park Shin-hye) was written off early as a rebellious teenager with nowhere to go. After a mentor recognizes her potential, she embarks on a path that ultimately leads her to become a skilled and determined surgeon. Doctors is a satisfying slow burn that rewards patience, and Park Shin Hye is utterly compelling as a woman who built herself from scratch and discovers the mystery of her past.

Suspicious Partner

When legal intern Eun Bong Hee (Nam Ji-hyun) suddenly becomes the prime suspect in a murder case, an unlikely ally emerges in a prosecutor who chooses to help her uncover the truth. Blending elements of legal thriller and romantic comedy, Suspicious Partner offers suspenseful storytelling alongside a compelling central partnership.

From quiet healing to determined ambition, from boardrooms to courtrooms to high school hallways, these stories highlight the many ways women navigate challenges, pursue growth, and define success on their own terms.

The “Viki Celebrates Women” collection is now available to stream on Viki, with even more titles to discover.

The Pod Network hits 50 million listeners in 2025, cements status as PH’s leading podcast group

By
PhilSociety
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Network unveils 2026 programming slate, including new show from celebrity couple Iza Calzado and Ben Wintle

The Pod Network (TPN), the country’s leading podcast network, announces it surpassed 50 million total listeners in 2025. This milestone reaffirms TPN’s dominance in the local podcast landscape, driven by high-engagement content and a rapidly expanding listener base.

Beyond the 50 million total listenership, TPN reported robust growth in community loyalty, boasting 4 million accumulated followers across its Spotify portfolio and a steady baseline of 3 million weekly listeners.

The network’s growth was fueled by a diverse content slate that resonated across demographics. TPN’s top-performing shows for 2025 included comedy show The KoolPals, Wake Up With Jim and Saab, Ano Ba Talaga? with Kuya Kim, Sitio Bangungot – Pinoy Horror Stories for Sleep Podcast, and Lecheng Pag Ibig ‘To. This mirrors the network’s 2025 data, which identified Comedy, Conversational Talk Shows, and Narrative Horror as the top-performing categories in the local market.

TPN’s continuous growth reflects a study released last year highlighting that more Filipinos are turning to podcasts to cope with emotional fatigue and mental saturation in an increasingly hyperconnected digital landscape.

“Podcasting isn’t just a format. It’s a habit. People don’t just stumble into a podcast — they choose it, they return to it, and they make it part of their day,” said Alan Fontanilla, CEO of The Pod Network.

Fontanilla emphasized that TPN’s 2026 direction focuses on intentionality. “We believe the future belongs to media that people choose with intention, and creators who show up with purpose, not content that fills time, but conversations that mean something. Reach creates awareness; trust creates preference. Podcasting is where we build the latter.”

The network also recognized global audio platform Spotify for its continued investment in the Filipino creator economy, from platform distribution to initiatives like launching the first-ever state-of-the-art podcast studio at TPN headquarters.

TPN unveils 2026 slate, including new show

Building on its 2025 success, TPN unveiled its 2026 content slate at “Press Play: The Pod Network’s 2026 Press Preview” at The Split, BGC. The lineup reinforces TPN’s dominance across comedy, lifestyle, and public affairs, with creators emphasizing that their growth is rooted in authenticity.

TPN’s top creators noted that the network’s high engagement stems from a departure from traditional, polished media. The KoolPals co-host James Caraan attributes their following to “underground” honesty, while Lecheng Pag-Ibig ’To’s Sam YG highlights how his show evolved from a relationship advice channel into a safe space for community-wide discourse on life and burnout.

This intentionality extends to TPN’s public affairs and education slate. Kuya Kim Atienza, host of Ano Ba Talaga?, emphasized the unique intimacy of the medium, noting that podcasting required him to pivot from “broadcasting” to active listening. Similarly, journalist Pia Hontiveros of Let’s Talk noted that the platform offers a vital human connection, stating, “People are looking to feel seen, it’s about making complex issues understandable and meaningful.”

The event also marked the launch of Between Us, a new show hosted by celebrity couple Iza Calzado and Ben Wintle. The series aims to normalize deep, vulnerable conversations on health, identity, and personal growth, offering listeners the “space” to discuss topics often overlooked in the daily grind.

“Our 2025 snapshot proves that today’s Filipino listeners aren’t just looking for content but resonance. By fostering an ecosystem of intentional media, we’ve transitioned from being a platform to becoming a trusted companion. Whether it’s through comedy, investigative discourse, or raw personal growth, we are committed to hosting the conversations that matter most to our audience,” said Inna Salazar, Head of Content Development of TPN.

For more information about The Pod Network, you may visit www.thepodnetwork.com or their Facebook page.

Fur parents, bid goodbye to animal bite worries with Maxicare PRIMA Animal Bite Care

By
PhilSociety
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For many Filipino families, a simple animal bite can quickly turn into a stressful and costly medical emergency. In the worst cases, it can even lead to death. Recognizing this everyday risk, Maxicare, the country’s leading HMO, has launched the PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher, the country’s first comprehensive animal bite care with built-in insurance.

Recent data from the Department of Health (DOH) show rabies remains a significant concern in the Philippines, with 1,750 fatalities reported between 2020 and 2024. This is particularly timely as the DOH calendar declared March as Rabies Awareness Month. Studies also show about 40 % of rabies deaths occur in children aged 15 years and below, and most cases are linked to bites from domestic dogs, which remain the main source of transmission. Globally, rabies still kills an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 people each year.

For only ₱5,999, the new Maxicare PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher offers the following benefits: two animal bite consultations, wound treatment, four shots of anti-rabies vaccine, an anti-tetanus vaccine and personal accident protection. It can be availed at any of the Maxicare Clinics nationwide, and coverage is for a period of three months, which is more than enough time to complete all necessary reactive vaccinations.

In other words, with this new product, patients with animal bite exposure, regardless of category, can get end-to-end treatment (completion of all necessary vaccines included) at any Maxicare Clinic. Also, in case Maxicare doctors deem that it’s necessary for a patient to be rushed to the emergency room, the built-in insurance coverage of Maxicare PRIMA Animal Bite Care can cover your expenses.

For those wondering, in case you get bitten by a stray animal or your unvaccinated pet, a single trip to the hospital can set you back for up to ₱15,000.

“Especially when it comes to accidents involving animal bites and scratches, the first thing that people think of is the cost that it will entail,” shares Maxicare Group Chief Customer Officer Raymond Hernandez. “Our PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher is here to get rid of that very crucial barrier for you. You can purchase it online for only ₱5,999 at the MaxiHealth Online Store or via the Maxicare Clinics, and use it almost immediately after successful registration and activation. No need to wait hours for a doctor to attend to you, or worrying whether a vaccine is available.”

About Maxicare Group
Since 1987, we’ve led the way as the Philippines’ premier HMO. Today, we’re the Maxicare Group: a unified ecosystem built for your holistic health and wellness journey. The PRIMA line of products is owned by MaxiHealth, and is exclusively distributed by Maxicare. This makes Filipinos’ everyday health and wellness simple and accessible at every stage of life, through quality outpatient care at Maxicare Clinics’ nationwide network.

To learn more about the PRIMA Animal Bite Care e-voucher or to secure protection for your family, visit shop.maxihealth.com.ph or any Maxicare Clinic today.

SM Hotels Advances Ilonggo Culture and Heritage with UNESCO-Recognized Programs

By
PhilSociety
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Ani All Day Dining Restaurant by Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) reinforces its commitment in championing regional pride and progress by celebrating Iloilo’s rich cultural and culinary legacy through Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo.

As the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Iloilo continues to gain national and international momentum as it takes center stage through two landmark initiatives: the launch of the “Beyond the Plate” program and the “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor.” These efforts reflect SM Hotels’ broader vision of driving innovation while championing local identity among its properties across the region. 

Participants, organizers, and facilitators during the Beyond the Plate workshop

“At SM Hotels, our success grows with the communities we serve,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes. “Through Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, we proudly stand as a tourism partner in celebrating heritage, empowering local talent, and opening doors to authentic Filipino experiences.”

At the heart of this culinary showcase is Ani Restaurant, where the “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor” transforms every meal into a cultural journey. Inspired by heirloom recipes and the culinary traditions of distinguished Ilonggo families, each curated menu brings time-honored flavors to life, while bridging generations and introducing Iloilo’s gastronomic story to a wider audience.

Mr. Rouel P. Guanzon, GM of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo during his Wine Appreciation session

Recognized by UNESCO as a best practice, “Beyond the Plate” underscores SMHCC’s advocacy to sustainable tourism. In collaboration with the Iloilo MICE Center, the initiative invests in skills development and professional growth for local talent to ensure that the community flourishes alongside the region’s expanding tourism landscape. In particular, through the “Beyond the Plate” program, journalists and vloggers are given the opportunity to elevate their craft through specialized training in food and wine storytelling. The initiative responds to the increasing demand from MICE groups and visiting delegations for more informed culinary coverage, in order to provide media practitioners with the skills they need to remain competitive and relevant in today’s dynamic content landscape.

The program was led by a stellar roster of master teachers drawn from the fields of culture, hospitality, culinary arts, and digital storytelling.

Dr. Hazel P. Villa, Associate Professor from Western Visayas, is a respected writer and an academic whose work highlights Iloilo’s arts, culture, and gastronomy. Her contributions appear in landmark cultural publications. In 2024, she was named one of the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos for her achievements in journalism, education, and public service.

Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability at SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, brought more than three decades of expertise in food and beverage, culinary operations, and sustainability. A certified working chef with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, she guided participants in understanding flavor, taste profiles, and the language used to describe food. 

Adobado nga Lukon and Bitsokoy Custard

Rouel Guanzon, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, is a seasoned hospitality executive and respected educator. A founding professor of Enderun Colleges and Southville International School, he has long shaped the next generation of hospitality professionals. During the session, he shared his expertise in wine appreciation and sensory evaluation, helping participants understand how to thoughtfully experience and describe wine.

Kris Cruz is an award-winning mobile phone photographer recognized for his exceptional storytelling through smartphone imagery. He received the Best Travel Photo award at the International iPhone Photography Awards and has been featured by global brands such as Apple and Lufthansa. In the program, he demonstrated how content creators can capture compelling food photography and videos using only a mobile phone.

Chef Cidj Jalandoni, Executive Chef and Business Development Chef for Western Visayas at Nestlé Philippines, contributed his deep culinary expertise and industry experience. A graduate of the Academy for International Culinary Arts, he has built a career in professional kitchens while supporting culinary innovation and development across the region. His insights provided participants with a deeper appreciation of culinary craftsmanship and industry standards.

Strategically located in Mandurriao and seamlessly connected to SM City Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo serves as a gateway to the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene, where heritage, hospitality, and innovation converge.

For more information, visit https://smhotels.com.ph/.

Don’t Walk, Run: You Only Have Until March to Score This ₱99 Chowking Mix & Match Deal

By
PhilSociety
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Between hitting deadlines and navigating the daily commute, the last thing anyone needs is the added stress of “Saan tayo kakain?” or “Kakasya ba ‘tong budget ko?” We already make a thousand decisions a day; lunch shouldn’t be one of them. Most of the time, we just want something fast, filling, and reliable without draining our wallet before the week is even over. 

Chowking’s Chao Fan Mix & Match simplifies your midday routine by offering a heavy-hitting, customizable feast starting at just ₱99. It takes the guesswork out of your meal, letting you call the shots on your favorite wok-sarap combinations. 

Make Your Own Wok-Sarap Combo Now! 

  • Step 1: Choose your favorite Chowking Chao Fan – Pork Chao Fan, Beef Chao Fan, or Spicy Chao Fan.
  • Step 2: Choose your topping – Steamed or Fried Siomai, Crispy Wonton, Lumpiang Shanghai, or Chicken Chop. 
  • Step 3: Level up – Add a drink and Chicharap for just ₱20! 

Don’t Miss Out: Promo Ends March 31 

The clock is ticking on this game-changing tipid hack! This promo Mix is only available until March 31, and it would be a total waste to miss out on such a consistent win for your wallet. 

The Chao Fan Mix & Match is available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery in all stores nationwide. Head to your nearest Chowking or order via www.chowkingdelivery.com, the Chowking app, or through Chowking on GrabFood and foodpanda. Grab your favorite combo before the ₱99 deal is gone!

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