Subscribe
SEARCH

Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila Recognised Among Happy Employer Brands 2026

By
PhilSociety
-
Ms. Wilma Estaura, Head of People & Culture (3rd from left) with Lanson Place Mall of Asia Devoted Hosts.

Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila has been recognised as one of the hotel awardees of the Happy Employer Brands 2026, a prestigious distinction that honours organisations that foster exceptional workplace cultures where people feel valued, supported and inspired to grow.

The recognition reflects Lanson Place’s enduring belief that exceptional guest experiences begin with exceptional Host experiences. Guided by its commitment to creating a culture of comfort, community and devoted service, the hotel continues to invest in an environment where every Devoted Host is empowered to thrive both personally and professionally.

Unlike conventional awards that rely on nominations or applications, the Happy Employer Brands Awards follow an independent, research-led evaluation process. Organisations are identified through comprehensive market research and assessed by an advisory board based on demonstrated excellence in employer branding and people practices.

Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila was recognised for its commitment across several key areas, including employee experience and workplace culture, talent development and retention, people-first leadership, innovation in employee engagement, community building and organisational purpose, and consistent employer brand communication.

“This recognition is a meaningful reflection of the people who bring Lanson Place to life every day,” said Wilma Estaura, Director of People and Culture at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila. “At Lanson Place, hospitality begins with our Devoted Hosts. By nurturing a workplace built on respect, collaboration and genuine care, we create an environment where our people can flourish and, in turn, deliver memorable experiences for every guest we welcome.”

The recognition reinforces Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s people-first philosophy, where every Devoted Host is encouraged to grow through continuous learning, meaningful career opportunities, and a culture that celebrates teamwork, wellbeing and inclusion. Lanson Place believes that a positive workplace culture is essential to delivering thoughtful and personalised hospitality.

The Happy Employer Brands 2026 recognition further strengthens Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila’s position as an employer of choice in the Philippine hospitality industry and highlights its ongoing commitment to building a workplace where people feel connected, empowered and proud of the experiences they create together.

The Happy Employer Brands 2026 Awards Ceremony was held on 26 June 2026 at Dusit Thani Manila, bringing together organisations recognised for their outstanding commitment to workplace excellence and employee engagement.

For more information, follow its official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) or visit lansonplace.com/loyalty.

Dolmar Land Breaks Ground on Legacia, Bringing Heritage-Inspired Living to Baliwag

By
PhilSociety
-
Dolmar Land Inc. executives break ground of Legacia, to mark the official commencement of the project's newest residential development in Baliwag, Bulacan. (From L-R: Engr. Ramon Roman, Assistant Vice President - Engineering and Technical Services;
Marcellino Garillo, Assistant Vice President - Finance and Administration;
Angelo Elipse, Vice President - Business Development
Mariano; John Tan Jr., Chairman of the Board & President; Francis Tan, Director - Operations;
Patricia Tan, Senior Marketing Manager - Sales & Marketing)

Backed by nearly 55 years of trusted property development, Dolmar Land introduces a new community designed for modern Filipino living

With nearly 55 years of experience building homes and communities for Filipino families, Dolmar Land Inc. marks another milestone as it breaks ground on its newest development: Legacia, a heritage-inspired community in Baliwag, Bulacan.

Through this milestone, Dolmar Land continues its commitment to providing Filipinos with thoughtfully crafted homes designed with wellness and functionality in mind. As its latest offering, Legacia puts safety and peace of mind at the forefront, with a community featuring gated security, open spaces, and park areas that aim to provide restful spaces for homeowners and families.

Overall, the project lays the foundation for future communities designed around the evolving needs of Filipino homeowners, offering spaces that support a comfortable, secure, and well-balanced way of life.

Located in the rapidly growing province of Bulacan, a key growth corridor north of Metro Manila, Legacia offers a suburban lifestyle without sacrificing urban connectivity. The development brings together accessibility and comfort, creating a balanced lifestyle for modern families.

Future residents can choose from three home models: Sueño, Fuerte, and Fortuna. Each is designed to blend modern comfort with timeless appeal, creating spaces built not only for today but also for generations to come. With architecture that incorporates the iconic solihiya pattern, a symbol of Filipino craftsmanship, Legacia homes bring together comfort and tradition.

Dolmar Land remains dedicated to making homeownership more attainable for aspiring Filipino families by offering accessible financing solutions through the Pag-IBIG Fund and partnerships with trusted banking institutions, bringing the dream of homeownership within reach.

“Legacia reflects our continued commitment to building communities that thrive, where families can build meaningful lives and establish a lasting legacy for future generations. By combining modern architecture with elements rooted in Filipino heritage, we hope to offer homeowners a place they can truly call their own,” said Mr. Angelo Elipse, Dolmar Land’s Vice President for Business Development.

As Dolmar Land continues to shape communities for the next generation, Legacia stands as a testament to its vision of making quality living spaces more accessible to Filipino families.

For interested homebuyers and aspiring homeowners, learn more about Legacia and discover how you can begin building your future in a community designed with comfort, heritage, and modern living in mind.

For over 50 years, Dolmar Land has been a trusted partner in helping Filipinos achieve their dream of owning quality, value-for-money homes. With more than 11,000 homes delivered across Metro Manila and Central Luzon, the company remains committed to building communities that meet the needs of hardworking Filipinos. Driven by passion, integrity, and determination, Dolmar Land continues to fulfill its promise: Sa Presyo at Serbisyo, Lamang ka sa Dolmar Land!

Start your 2026 homeownership journey today. Explore Dolmar Land’s Legacia through the company’s official website and follow Dolmar Land on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Candid Coffee Returns to Its Roots with New SM North EDSA Branch

By
Dorena Suarez
-
Candid Coffee opens its 11th branch at SM North EDSA, featuring a locally inspired store design, Philippine-grown coffee, and exclusive signature beverages.

Candid Coffee has opened its 11th branch at SM North EDSA, marking a new chapter for the homegrown specialty coffee brand as it deepens its commitment to Philippine-grown coffee and locally inspired flavors.

As Candid Coffee celebrates its ninth year, the brand is revisiting one of the ideas that shaped its beginnings: serving more locally sourced coffee and helping more people discover the potential of Philippine beans. This direction, reflected in this year’s theme, “Going Back to Our Roots,” was inspired by the team’s recent farm trips to Mt. Apo and Bukidnon.

Seeing firsthand the passion and progress of local coffee producers renewed the team’s excitement about Philippine coffee. While sourcing local beans that consistently met the brand’s quality standards was challenging when Candid Coffee started, the industry has made significant progress over the past nine years.

A space inspired by local roots

The local story of the SM North EDSA branch extends beyond the menu. Its interiors combine elements inspired by old Philippine architecture with contemporary materials.

Exposed brick, wood, and cement give the café a sense of familiarity, while stainless steel details represent progress and a modern future. Broken brick elements were deliberately incorporated into the design to symbolize letting go of the old and making way for something better.

Hints of yellow throughout the shop reference the Philippines’ tropical climate and abundance of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples.

Introducing the Starburst Blend

Coinciding with the branch opening is the launch of Starburst, Candid Coffee’s newest blend and its first new house blend in nine years.

The blend grew from the team’s discovery of Philippine coffees with bright, fruit-forward characteristics that go beyond the chocolate, caramel, and nutty notes often associated with local beans.

Made with Philippine coffee, including beans from Finca de Garces in Bukidnon, Starburst highlights clarity and brightness, with notes of strawberry and a soft, rounded finish.

Its name reflects the experience the brand hopes customers will have: a moment of surprise upon discovering how expressive and fruity Philippine coffee can be.

Visitors can also try the branch’s Coffee Flight Menu, featuring a Starburst Flat White with Meiji Milk, a select local pour-over, an exclusive signature beverage, and pastry pairings.

Candid Coffee’s newly opened SM North EDSA branch serves a selection of specialty coffee offerings, including its new Starburst Blend and creative signature beverages inspired by bright, fruit-forward flavors.

Familiar fruits, new coffee experiences

The branch also introduces three exclusive signature beverages: Pineapple Dole Whip, Mango Milkwash, and Banana Gin Fizz.

The collection draws inspiration from familiar Philippine fruits while exploring the tropical characteristics that can naturally occur in specialty coffee.

The Pineapple Dole Whip takes cues from the tropical character of a piña colada, while the Banana Gin Fizz draws inspiration from the refreshing structure of a classic gin fizz. The Mango Milkwash uses a milk-washing technique often found in cocktail making to create a cleaner expression of mango and coffee.

Through these drinks, Candid Coffee transforms familiar flavors into unexpected specialty coffee experiences.

A bigger vision for Philippine coffee

Beyond its newest branch, Candid Coffee hopes to help build greater demand for Philippine specialty coffee.

The brand acknowledges that consistency, accessibility, and price remain challenges when sourcing local beans. However, as producers continue to improve quality and consistency, Candid Coffee sees more opportunities to integrate Philippine coffee into its cafés as a meaningful part of the brand’s identity.

After nine years and 11 branches, Candid Coffee has learned that Filipino coffee drinkers have diverse tastes. Its focus remains on making specialty coffee more approachable, relatable, and accessible to a wider audience.

With its SM North EDSA branch, Candid Coffee brings together its past and future through locally inspired design, tropical flavors, and a new blend built around Philippine-grown beans.

For the brand, going back to its roots is also a way of moving forward and contributing to a future where Philippine specialty coffee earns greater appreciation at home and recognition abroad.

For more information, visit Candid Coffee’s social media pages:

Facebook: Candid Coffee PH
Instagram: @candidcoffeeph

NUSTAR Online brings Filipino culture and compassion together at Binibining Pilipinas 2026 National Costume Competition

By
PhilSociety
-
NUSTAR Online Brand Manager Alexander Barcela (left, holding the ceremonial check) presents NUSTAR Online's Php 1 million donation to Governor Ernesto Isla (right), Chairman of the Board of the Philippine Red Cross – Quezon City Chapter.

NUSTAR Online reinforced its commitment to celebrating Filipino excellence while giving back to communities in need as it presented the first standalone Binibining Pilipinas 2026 National Costume Competition, held on July 2 at the New Frontier Theater.

Beyond showcasing the country’s rich culture and world-class creativity, this year’s National Costume Competition carried a greater purpose. For the first time, the event was staged as a dedicated public show, with ticket proceeds benefiting families and communities affected by the recent Sarangani earthquake through the Philippine Red Cross.

Further strengthening this humanitarian initiative, NUSTAR Online donated P1 million to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts in the affected areas. The ceremonial turnover was led by NUSTAR Online Brand Manager Alexander Barcela, who presented the donation to Governor Ernesto Isla, Chairman of the Board of the Philippine Red Cross–Quezon City Chapter, before an audience of pageant fans, partners, and guests.

“As this year’s presenter of the Binibining Pilipinas National Costume Competition, NUSTAR Online is honored to support not only one of the country’s most prestigious pageants but also a meaningful cause that extends hope to families and communities affected by the recent Sarangani earthquake. We hope this contribution helps strengthen ongoing relief and recovery efforts through the Philippine Red Cross while inspiring more organizations to make a positive impact,” said Barcela.

Further showcasing its presence throughout the event, NUSTAR Online also brought its Filipino culture-inspired, fashion-themed photobooth, giving pageant fans and attendees the opportunity to capture memorable moments and instantly take home printed photo souvenirs.

As part of the program, the candidates’ tourism videos made their live debut, taking audiences on a visual journey through the unique destinations, cultures, and heritage of their respective hometowns. At the end of the competition, Binibining Pilipinas Candidate No. 32, Pauline Thea Ann Ibuyan of Aklan, was named Binibining Pilipinas Tourism 2026 for her cinematic tourism video, which beautifully showcased the province’s natural attractions, culture, and heritage.

P-pop girl group KAIA energized the audience with a dynamic performance before all 36 candidates took the stage in their breathtaking national costumes, each proudly representing the history, culture, and identity of their hometowns through exceptional Filipino design.

The competition also revealed the Top 10 Best National Costume finalists:

  • Bb. 31 Patricia Beerda
  • Bb. 17 Ain Niqyla Abad
  • Bb. 18 Anne Klein Castro
  • Bb. 30 Kaye Pastelero
  • Bb. 7 Mylene Manschus
  • Bb. 1 Britney Angel Rubino
  • Bb. 13 Sasha-Juli Lacuna
  • Bb. 22 Iris Oresca
  • Bb. 20 Samantha Zabarte
  • Bb. 32 Pauline Thea Ann Ibuyan

Fans can continue supporting their favorite candidates through online voting as the competition moves closer to selecting the final Top 5 Best National Costumes. The winners will be officially announced during the Binibining Pilipinas 2026 Grand Coronation Night on July 18.

Multi-awarded Filipino bag designer Zarah Juan (middle left) and high-fashion jeweler Arnel Papa (middle right) are recognized on stage following the opening fashion show featuring their creations.

Meanwhile, fans can still vote for their favorite candidates through their headshot and swimsuit photos to help crown the first-ever NUSTAR Online Binibini via the official NUSTAR Online Facebook page, website, or app. Voting runs until July 17, and the winner will be announced during the Grand Coronation Night. The NUSTAR Online Binibini will automatically secure a spot as a finalist.

By bringing together world-class Filipino artistry, cultural storytelling, and a meaningful humanitarian initiative, NUSTAR Online continues to champion experiences that go beyond entertainment—creating opportunities to celebrate the country’s finest talents while making a lasting difference in the lives of Filipino communities.

For more exclusive content, events, and premium lifestyle experiences, follow NUSTAR Online at @nustaronline.

Romualdez camp raises concern over possible pressure on Bonoan in flood probe

By
PhilSociety
-

Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan might be under pressure to implicate former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez in the Ombudsman’s investigation into the flood control scam.

Lawyer Ade Fajardo, a spokesman for the Leyte 1st District representative, raised this possibility, pointing out that Bonoan has not spoken a word against Romualdez more than a year after the scam came to light in July 2025.

In an interview on dzRH’s Dos for Dos, hosted by Anthony Taberna and Gerry Baja, Fajardo said Romualdez’s accusers have not produced any evidence against the former House leader.

He said the accusations against the Leyte congressman are nothing more than baseless stories.

“Wala po talagang ebidensya, kasi wala talagang kinalaman si dating speaker dito sa flood control anomaly. ‘Pag ganyan po walang ebidensya pero madami nang sinasabi ang mga kinauukulan na malakas ang kaso, medyo ang dating sa amin po ‘yan ay bola po ‘yan kasi hanggang ngayon walang naisasampang kaso sa korte, walang criminal cases,” he said.

“Ibig sabihin, wala pong ebidensya o kakulangan ng ebidensya ay sobrang lawak na mahirap punan ng kwento-kwento lang po,” he added.

Fajardo reiterated that they were alarmed and surprised by reports that the Ombudsman planned to use Bonoan to implicate Romualdez, since the former DPWH secretary and other department officials who have been investigated have not linked the former Speaker to the flood control scam.

He said Bonoan is now under significant pressure, given that he is under hospital arrest and might soon be transferred to a regular jail.

“So nakakapagtaka po. Kasi nga ngayon siyempre nasa hospital arrest. May posibilidad na siya, halimbawa, ma-clear siya medically ay siya ay ililipat sa regular na kulungan. ‘Yan ay siyempre medyo maraming pressure sa utak niya,” he said.

“I think he’s more than 80 years old. Sabihin natin nasa takip silim siya sa kanyang pananatili sa ating mundo. Kaya medyo marami ng pressure sa utak ninyo,” he said.

The Romualdez spokesman pointed out that it would not be far-fetched for Bonoan to be asked to fill the “evidentiary gap” against his principal, which he described as being two streams or two rivers wide.

“Kaya kami po ay hindi nagtataka na dahil medyo, alam niyo na, dahil wala nga, sabi ko na parang dalawang batis ng isang malawak na ilog na di mo malalagyan ng ebidensya kaya itutulayan mo kung ano ano. In this case, bigla nalang parang nagkaroon ng perfect memory si Sec. Bonoan in case totoo nga yung balita na siya ay tetestigo para lamang ituro itong si dating Speaker Romualdez,” he stressed.

Asked if he was suggesting that Bonoan was being manipulated, Fajardo said he did not know this for a fact, but that there were many possibilities given the former DPWH chief’s situation.

“Hindi namin alam yan as a fact. Pero siyempre bilang nag-iisip tayo lahat, hindi pong malayo ang pusibilidad na maraming factors pong pumapasok sa isip ni Sec. Bonoan,” he said.

He questioned why the former secretary would speak now when he had remained silent since the scandal erupted more than a year ago.

Fajardo said this is why the Romualdez camp could not be faulted for considering a scenario in which evidence might be produced to implicate the former Speaker in the flood control scam.

“Kaya nga kung noon pa man alam niya na pala lahat ito, bakit hindi niya isiniwalat at bakit ngayon lang lumalabas na tila bagang walang usad sa fact-finding investigation. Kaya kami siyempre hindi mo masisi na nag-iisip bakit nagkakaganito ngayon,” he said.

He reiterated that there has been no investigation of the Leyte congressman and that, based on news reports, the Office of the Ombudsman is conducting a fact-finding investigation that has not yet progressed to a preliminary investigation.

“Wala pa po. Kasi actual subpoena, lalabas po ‘yan kung magsisimula na ang preliminary investigation. Pina-submit ka ng counter affidavit or defense. At this time po, wala po kaming kaalaman na nag-issue na ng ganyan ang Ombudsman. At handa po kaming sagutin yan sakali mang maglabas sila ng subpoena,” he said.

The Philippines Tops the Retirement List. Now, Where Should You Call Home?

By
PhilSociety
-

The Philippines may have just been named the world’s best country to retire in. Still, for many Filipinos, balikbayans, OFWs, and second-home buyers, the deeper question is more personal: What kind of home makes retirement truly feel like a reward?

For SMDC Symphony Homes in Mabalacat, Pampanga, the answer begins with space. Not just more square meters, but more room for family, routines, hobbies, quiet mornings, weekend visits, and the kind of life many people spend years working toward.

In the 2026 Retirement Abroad Index, the Philippines ranked first among 20 countries, scoring strongly in cost of living, retirement visa accessibility, healthcare, and the ease with which newcomers can feel at home. It is global recognition of something Filipinos have long understood: Retirement here is not only about affordability. It is about belonging.

That is why SMDC Symphony Homes adds a meaningful house-and-lot option to the retirement conversation. For buyers who want more ground-level space in a growing Pampanga community, it offers room for quiet mornings, family visits, weekend gatherings, hobbies, and the kind of everyday life that makes retirement feel less like slowing down and more like coming home to what matters.

In Mabalacat, this idea becomes even more practical. Set within one of Pampanga’s growth corridors, SMDC’s Mabalacat communities place homeowners close to Clark, transport links, commercial centers, healthcare facilities, schools, and everyday essentials. It is a location that gives retirees and future retirees a quieter home base without cutting them off from the people and places that matter.

SMDC Symphony Homes brings this life plan into a house-and-lot setting designed for different stages, budgets, and timelines.

For buyers who want a home they can enjoy sooner, Cheerful Homes offers ready-for-occupancy house-and-lot options priced from P1.2 million to P2.2 million, with lot areas ranging from 36 sqm to 112 sqm. This is ideal for those looking for a practical and accessible first home, retirement base, or family property in Pampanga.

For those who need more space, Cheerful Homes 2 offers ready-for-occupancy homes priced from P2.2 million to P4.9 million, with lot areas ranging from 54 sqm to 106 sqm. It is a fitting choice for growing families, OFWs preparing for their return, or second-home buyers who want a property that balances comfort, space, and immediate use.

For future retirees and second-home investors, Symphony Homes offers pre-selling homes in a developing Mabalacat community, allowing buyers to secure a home today while preparing for a bigger lifestyle move tomorrow.

Together, these communities make the retirement story more concrete. It is no longer only about choosing the Philippines. It is about choosing the right kind of home within it.

Retirement, after all, is not only about spending less. It is about living better. It is the chance to enjoy what years of work were supposed to build: time, comfort, family, health, and a home that feels less like a compromise and more like a reward.

At SMDC Symphony Homes, that next chapter can have a Mabalacat address, a front door of your own, and a lot more room for what comes next.

To learn more about SMDC Symphony Homes, visit www.smdcsymphonyhomes.com or call +63 917 555 7632 or +63 917 777 7632.

A Home That Fits Everyday Life

By
PhilSociety
-

SMDC Nature’s RFO communities give buyers the chance to see, choose, and start living sooner.

For years, homebuying conversations revolved around three things: location, price, and investment potential.

Those factors remain important. But many buyers today are asking a different question: Will this home fit the way we actually live?

That shift is already shaping how people evaluate a property. Commute times, proximity to schools and workplaces, access to everyday essentials, and the amount of time spent getting from one place to another have become just as important as long-term appreciation. Increasingly, buyers are looking for homes that make everyday life easier—not someday, but from the day they move in.

This is reflected across SMDC Nature‘s Ready-for-Occupancy communities: Charm Residences in Cainta, Spring Residences in Bicutan, Hope Residences in Trece Martires, Leaf Residences in Muntinlupa, and Hill Residences in Quezon City. Although each community serves a different type of buyer, they share one important advantage: locations that support the routines of everyday life.

In the East, Charm Residences appeals to buyers who want easier access to Pasig, Marikina, Antipolo, and Ortigas. For many families, these destinations are already part of their daily routines—whether for work, school, errands, or visits to loved ones.

Spring Residences serves a different kind of lifestyle. Located in Bicutan, it provides convenient access to Makati, Bonifacio Global City, Alabang, Parañaque, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport. For many residents, that means spending less time on the road and more time where it matters.

In Cavite, Hope Residences benefits from its location beside SM City Trece Martires, placing shopping, dining, services, and everyday necessities within easy reach. Many routine errands can be accomplished within minutes instead of requiring another trip across town.

Leaf Residences responds to another priority that has become increasingly important for many households: space. As families grow and routines change, having more room has become less of a luxury and more of a practical need. Located in Muntinlupa, the community offers that flexibility while keeping residents connected to key destinations in the South.

Meanwhile, Hill Residences continues to attract buyers looking for a Quezon City address with access to open spaces, established amenities, and the everyday conveniences that come with living in one of Metro Manila’s largest cities.

What ties these communities together is not a common location or a single buyer profile. It is the way each one responds to a different everyday need—whether that means shortening the commute, creating more room for family life, or putting essential services within easy reach.

Buying a home will always be about planning for the future. Increasingly, however, buyers are also asking a simpler question: Will this home make everyday life easier?

Across its Ready-for-Occupancy communities, SMDC Nature answers that question with homes that buyers can explore firsthand, evaluate with confidence, and move into sooner.

Learn more about Charm Residences, Spring Residences, Hope Residences, Leaf Residences, and Hill Residences at smdcnature.com, or call the SMDC Sales Hotline at 0917-777-7632.

DJI Launches Osmo Pocket 4P in the Philippines

By
PhilSociety
-

DJI, a global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, officially unveiled its highly anticipated next-generation pocket gimbal camera, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P, during an exclusive launch event held at the vibrant Uma Nota Manila in Bonifacio Global City.

Hosted by renowned media practitioner Migs Bustos, the exclusive gathering brought together Manila’s leading tech journalists, lifestyle creators, and professional cinematographers for an immersive, hands-on preview of the groundbreaking device. The event seamlessly guided attendees from an exclusive technical preview to registration, a welcome drinks reception, and a custom interactive photo-op session designed to demonstrate the camera’s real-world capabilities.

Following a captivating product reveal and exclusive pre-recorded showcases, DJI’s Mhary delivered an insightful Product Talk highlighting the major hardware and software upgrades powering the Osmo Pocket 4P. Built for the modern creator, the brand-new model introduces enhanced imaging performance, advanced smart tracking, and superior stabilization within its iconic ultra-portable form factor.

Industry Visionaries Discuss the Future of Storytelling

A major highlight of the afternoon was an expert-led panel discussion centered on the rapidly evolving landscape of visual media and creative content production. The panel featured highly respected industry trailblazers:

Randz Manucom shared insights into using compact tools for high-end fashion, cultural documentation, and editorial storytelling.

Sherard Yu discussed breaking the boundaries of visual content creation and producing professional commercial work while on the move.

Ryan Audencial provided a director’s perspective on achieving cinematic excellence and compelling storytelling using pocket-sized setups.

The conversation transitioned into an intimate Fireside Chat featuring top lifestyle tech creator Mary Bautista and Giancarlo Viterbo, founder of Gadget Pilipinas. The duo discussed consumer expectations, everyday practicalities, and the significant workflow improvements that the Osmo Pocket 4P offers to both seasoned vloggers and casual everyday storytellers.

An Immersive Power Talk and First-Hand Experience

Following an inspiring Power Talk delivered by DJI’s Simon Chow, attendees were invited to the main floor for a comprehensive, guided Product Experience session. Led by Migs Bustos, guests tested the Osmo Pocket 4P’s low-light performance, ultra-fast tracking, and advanced audio compatibility in various real-world scenarios simulated inside the venue.

The excitement culminated in a raffle draw presented by Migs and Bryan. In addition to exclusive dining vouchers courtesy of Uma Nota, lucky attendees went home with the newly launched DJI Mic Mini 2 (2TX) systems, while one winner received the grand prize: the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Creator Combo.

To conclude the launch, a breathtaking Same-Day Edit (SDE) video created on-site by visual architect Kyle Sy, alongside Migs Bustos, was screened. The video showcased stunning cinematic highlights from the event, filmed entirely using the newly released Osmo Pocket 4P.

Migs Bustos officially brought the afternoon to a close with final remarks celebrating a new milestone in creative freedom.

For more information, please visit the official DJI website and social media accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djiphofficial
Shopee: https://ph.shp.ee/8fpqmk5q?smtt=0.0.9
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/s.ZgHwKE?c=s
Tiktok: https://vt.tokopedia.com/t/ZS96xfFekQMyU-FZUR5/ 

Ogilvy study finds 93% of APAC consumers quietly disengage after losing trust in brands

By
PhilSociety
-

Ogilvy today released its first APAC 2026 Believability Index, The Power of Proof, a comprehensive study examining how consumers across Asia-Pacific determine what and whom they believe in an increasingly complex information environment. Conducted in partnership with YouGov, the research surveyed 7,176 respondents across Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Hong Kong SAR, and Mainland China.

The report reveals that organizations are dangerously overlooking a reputational blind spot that directly impacts revenue. A staggering 93% of APAC consumers quietly disengage when they lose belief in a brand or organization, with almost half (48%) stopping their purchases entirely. In response to the findings, Ogilvy has concurrently launched its new Believability Agent, a predictive AI diagnostic tool designed to help C-suite leaders identify and close these commercial gaps.

Richard Brett, President of Ogilvy PR APAC, said: “As AI slop and synthetic content reshape the communications landscape, believability has evolved from a PR challenge into a commercial imperative. Traditional reputation metrics no longer tell the full story because the greatest risks are now invisible. The true cost of lost belief is measured in lost revenue rather than negative headlines. The organizations that succeed in 2026 will be those that recognize operational action matters more than a traditional holding statement.”

Key findings from the Ogilvy APAC 2026 Believability Index include:

The biggest reputation threat is silent disengagement

Consumers are far more likely to walk away quietly than publicly criticize an organization. The research found that 93% of consumers who lose belief in an organization disengage silently, while 55% disengage publicly. Just 10% would post about a negative experience on social media.

Competence before purpose

Across the region, 42% of consumers stopped engaging with an organization over the past year because a product or service failed to deliver on its core promise, compared with 29% who disengaged due to poor business ethics. The findings reinforce that operational competence remains the foundation of credibility.

Believability is built differently across APAC markets

Consumers evaluate credibility differently across the region. Markets such as Singapore and Malaysia place greater confidence in institutional authority and official sources, while markets such as Australia and the Philippines rely heavily on peer-to-peer “lived experience.” The findings highlight the danger of a one-size-fits-all regional communications strategy.

Actions restore belief more effectively than apologies

While 85% of consumers say lost belief can be regained, they increasingly expect meaningful operational correction before a corporate apology. More than half (57%) said actively fixing a problem is the most important step toward rebuilding belief.

To help leaders navigate this shift and operationalize these findings, Ogilvy PR has launched the Believability Diagnostic Tool, powered by an enterprise-grade AI agent built and housed in WPP Open. Using a multi-agent architecture that pairs Ogilvy’s proprietary seven-year Believability dataset with a behavioral science cognitive engine, the tool analyzes a brand’s “Say-Do Gap”—the distance between its marketing promises and actual operational reality.

By triangulating corporate messaging against verified customer and employee sentiment, the tool calculates a brand’s “Believability Elasticity,” allowing leaders to predict and prevent silent customer churn before it impacts the bottom line.

The full Ogilvy APAC 2026 Believability Index: The Power of Proof is available for download at: https://www.ogilvy.com/ap/ideas.

Epson expands EcoTank lineup with eight new compact printer models

By
PhilSociety
-
Epson’s next-generation EcoTank series combines high-yield printing, compact design, and mobile connectivity to support the everyday printing needs of homes and small businesses.

The new compact, high-yield models deliver faster speeds, mess-free refilling, and smarter mobile workflows for homes and SMEs.

PHILIPPINES – Epson, a global leader in professional printing, has expanded its EcoTank printer line-up with eight new compact models—the L1310, L1350, L3310, L3350, L3316, L3356, and L5390—designed to deliver faster, more cost-efficient printing for homes and small businesses.

As demand for home-office setups continues to grow across Southeast Asia, so does the need for reliable, high-volume printing solutions with low running costs. Building on the success of more than 100 million EcoTank printers sold globally, Epson’s latest generation combines improved speed, smarter workflow features, and simplified maintenance in a compact design.

The new EcoTank range offers improved performance and enhanced features for greater convenience. The L1350, L3350, L3356, and L5390 come with model-exclusive functions for mobile scanning and copying via the Epson Smart Panel, along with AirPrint compatibility to help customers meet their printing needs more efficiently. The L5390 further enhances productivity with an automatic document feeder (ADF) for efficient multi-page handling.

High-volume printing with improved durability

Each EcoTank model delivers improved page yields using high-capacity 65ml CMYK dye ink bottles, providing yields of up to 4,700 pages in black and 7,500 pages in color. This makes the printers ideal for both home document printing and vibrant photo reproduction, offering exceptional cost efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Each model incorporates color-coded tank keys with dedicated slots that match specific ink bottles, ensuring a mess-free and intuitive refilling experience that minimizes waste and simplifies maintenance.

Designed with durability in mind, every model in the series allows users to print up to 50,000 pages under warranty. The printers are also built for sustained use, featuring a replaceable Maintenance Box that minimizes downtime and enables easy self-maintenance. A Semi-Automatic Print Adjustment system also helps optimize alignment and color calibration over time, maintaining consistent, high-quality output across both text-heavy and visual documents.

Compact, energy-efficient design for modern workspaces

The new series features an updated design that seamlessly integrates the ink tank into the printer body. Its compact, two-tone design is suited for both home and office environments.

The printers also offer easy access for refilling, with extended curved paper supports and expanded trays designed to minimize paper bending and enable smoother, more stable feeding. Compared with previous models, the new series has a footprint that is up to 20% smaller.

Powered by Epson’s Heat-Free Technology, each EcoTank model also consumes less power, making the printers a more responsible and sustainable choice for home workspaces and businesses.

Optimized workflow and mobile convenience

The L1350, L3350, L3356, and L5390 support the Epson Smart Panel, enabling intuitive setup, monitoring, and scanning workflows from mobile devices. Through the app, users can scan multiple pages into a single PDF and preview or edit files directly from their mobile devices.

The models also support AirPrint and Mopria, enabling seamless wireless printing from compatible mobile devices.

Other models, including the L1310, L3310, and L3316, come with USB 2.0 interfaces, providing reliable printing connectivity for home and office environments.

Precision print quality for professional output

The new EcoTank printers produce sharp text, smooth color gradation, and detailed image reproduction across both text-heavy and visual documents, delivering professional-quality results without high operating costs.

“Epson remains committed to delivering high-quality, efficient printing solutions that empower customers in their daily operations,” said Noelle Gonzalez, Head of Marketing at Epson Philippines. “With the next generation of the EcoTank printer series, we have combined faster performance, enhanced durability, and intuitive features to boost productivity in today’s competitive economy, helping businesses stay agile and sustainable. Home workspaces set up for success and growth can also unlock new levels of productivity with our printing solutions, which are designed for cost and time efficiency.”

The new EcoTank printers will be available for sale starting June 30. Visit Epson’s website or contact the nearest Epson Authorized Dealer for more information.

For more details, visit www.epson.com.ph.

1...567...64Page 6 of 64