Founders Donuts & Nanyang Serve Up Fresh New Flavors at SM City Marilao

Treat your tastebuds and enjoy heartwarming meals — SM City Marilao is proud to welcome two exciting new dining destinations: Founders Donuts and Nanyang! 

Founders Donuts

Serving freshly made donuts in a wide range of delicious flavors, alongside premium coffee and artisanal tea, this spot is perfect for every craving. Whether you’re looking for a quick sweet treat, something special to bring home, or simply want to pause and indulge while shopping, Founders Donuts has something just for you.

Nanyang 

 

Craving authentic Singaporean fare? Nanyang brings you genuine flavors at prices that won’t break the bank. From comforting classics to signature dishes and refreshing drinks, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere — ideal for shoppers looking to relax, recharge, and enjoy a satisfying meal.

Together, Founders Donuts and Nanyang expand SM City Marilao’s growing lineup of dining choices. Now there are even more great reasons to visit, explore, and keep coming back for more! 

Powering Regional Collaboration: Converge Delivers Gigabit Connectivity for Philippines’ ASEAN Hosting

Leading fiber broadband and technology solutions provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has been designated as the official connectivity partner of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the Philippines’ hosting of key Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings this year. The company is delivering ultra-fast internet speeds ranging from 1 gigabit to 5 gigabits per second across meeting venues and key locations nationwide.

“We are proud to showcase our world-class connectivity to thousands of foreign delegates, as well as Filipino government and business leaders, gathering across the country for this series of high-level ASEAN events,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy. 

“From arrival hubs to major conference venues, Converge is supporting the ASEAN meetings with reliable gigabit-speed connections. For the highlight of this calendar — the 48th ASEAN Summit taking place this May at the newly opened Mactan Expo Center — we will provide uninterrupted speeds of up to 5 gigabits per second.”

“Hosting the ASEAN Summit is a monumental undertaking that puts the Philippines at the center of regional attention — and seamless connectivity is the backbone of its success,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda. “We extend our deepest gratitude to Converge for their unwavering support and world-class service. Their commitment ensured that delegates remained connected at all times, proving once again that through Digital Bayanihan, we can achieve great results and meet the highest international standards.”

To date, Converge has activated services across 11 key sites in Metro Manila and Cebu. Apart from the Mactan Expo Center, the company has deployed high-speed fiber connectivity to premier hosting venues including five-star establishments such as Nustar Integrated Hotel and Casino (Cebu), Diamond Hotel Manila Bay, The Peninsula Manila, and Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, among others. 

Reliable internet proved even more vital amid current national challenges: due to fuel supply concerns, around 650 preparatory meetings were shifted to virtual setups — made possible by robust digital infrastructure. The 48th ASEAN Summit itself, attended by Heads of State from all 11 member nations, will proceed as a face-to-face gathering.

“Our mission has always been to use technology for the greater good, and part of that means strengthening our fiber network across Visayas and Mindanao,” Uy shared. “As previously announced, we are expanding our infrastructure and rolling out additional service points this year to widen our coverage. This enhanced network capacity allows us to efficiently serve large-scale locations like the Mactan Expo Center and multiple hospitality hubs in Cebu.”

To ensure a seamless digital experience from the moment delegates arrive, Converge has also upgraded internet services at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. All access points across Terminals 1, 2, and 3 now operate with a full 10 Gbps capacity.

This year’s Philippine ASEAN hosting covers a comprehensive range of activities — from committee and working group sessions to ministerial gatherings, culminating in the Leaders’ Summit attended by heads of state across the region.

Beyond the Plate: How These 3 Food Brands Are Reinventing Dining — With a Little Help From GCash for Business

Great food is just the start. Here’s how seamless payments help turn a meal into a memorable experience.

The local food scene has never been more exciting than it is today. With fresh concepts popping up constantly and diners always on the lookout for something new, food business owners are continually finding ways to set themselves up for lasting success.

Modern dining is a holistic experience, and the most successful entrepreneurs know that every detail shapes how customers remember a brand. Today, it is no longer just about what is served on the plate. It is about every touchpoint throughout the entire journey — from how people discover the restaurant online, to the welcome they receive, the quality of service, and everything in between.

However, one common issue often gets in the way of creating a flawless experience: slow or complicated payments. For three thriving food businesses, solving this challenge has become a key part of their growth strategy.

Designing the Full Experience, With Customers in Mind 

For Kariton — one of Manila’s most talked-about gelato spots — crafting a great experience starts by making people feel at home the moment they walk through the door.

“The name Kariton is inspired by the street carts many of us grew up with. When people enter our shop, I want them to feel an instant sense of warmth and familiarity. It should feel approachable, never intimidating. But once they taste our gelato, they’ll notice that we use precise techniques and high-quality local ingredients,” explains Leon Taira, Global Partner at Kariton. 

Kariton blends Filipino culture and nostalgia with a fun, Australian-inspired vibe, using gelato as a creative way to showcase local flavors and stories. But because gelato melts fast, speed of service is crucial. “Early on, we realized that even small details matter greatly — from queue flow and clear signage to temperature control and portion sizes, right down to how our staff greets guests. At the same time, we never want to rush anyone. We always make sure there’s enough time to share our story and the unique inspiration behind every scoop.” 

Balancing efficiency with brand identity is a challenge many modern food businesses face — including Taste & Tell, which recently expanded from a home-based operation to its very first physical store.

“We’ve learned that dining is about the entire journey: the ambiance, the service, the pace, and even the payment process. No matter how delicious the food is, a slow or stressful checkout can completely change how a guest feels about the experience,” shares owner Mariell Chuateco-Tanchip. “Generosity is at the heart of what we do. We want everyone to leave feeling full, happy, and already looking forward to coming back.” 

This sentiment is echoed by Patrick Santos, owner of Nolita Joe’s, whose service philosophy takes inspiration from the fast-paced energy of New York-style dining — without ever compromising on quality. For his team, the goal is simple: deliver efficiency while meeting the high standards guests deserve.

“Guests are quick to notice the little things, whether good or bad. Even something as small as waiting too long for the bill or having limited payment options can leave a negative impression,” Patrick notes.

To eliminate these pain points, all three businesses have integrated GCash for Business, alongside tools like the new GCash SoundPay, to speed up transactions and streamline service — especially during peak hours. GCash SoundPay is a payment device that enables instant cashless transactions via QR code, with real-time voice confirmation. It allows both staff and customers to verify payments immediately, keeping service smooth and steady.

“It has made everything so much easier,” Patrick adds. “There’s less friction, faster turnover, and less stress for the whole team — especially during our busiest times. Quicker transactions mean more customers served and much happier guests overall.”

Embracing Technology as Part of Hospitality

Across all three brands, one thing is clear: in today’s dining scene, technology is an essential part of great hospitality. For Leon, removing unnecessary hurdles is the key to turning first-time visitors into loyal customers.

“Before we offered cashless payments, we often faced issues like running out of exact change or dealing with delays during rush hours. These small inconveniences add up, slow down service, and ultimately make guests less likely to return,” he shares.

For today’s young food entrepreneurs, success is about much more than just serving amazing food. It is about curating a seamless experience — one that requires understanding customer behavior, mastering operations, and refining every step of the journey. For Kariton, Taste & Tell, and Nolita Joe’s, GCash for Business has become an invaluable partner in that process.

If you’re an aspiring or growing business owner, GCash for Business is the perfect solution to help you operate smarter and more efficiently. Simply create an account via the GCash for Business Portal. You can qualify for the Starter Plan using a verified GCash account that has been active for at least 12 months. Once registered, you can order your own GCash SoundPay device and await delivery confirmation via email. 

To learn more about how GCash supports businesses and to explore their full range of solutions, visit GCash for Business today.

U Be the Judge: Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Lets You Score Candidates Live — Only With Maya

For the first time in Philippine pageant history, the winner won’t be chosen by the official judges alone. This year, you get a take a seat on the panel.

Powered by Maya — the Philippines’ #1 Digital Bank and Official Voting Partner of Miss Universe Philippines 2026 — coronation night becomes a fully interactive event. Fans can now score candidates live and in real time, right alongside the official Selection Committee.

From Viewer to Judge: A Pageant Game-Changer

Miss Universe Philippines is taking the excitement to a whole new level by giving fans a more meaningful role during the biggest night of the competition.

Through Maya’s live scoring feature, you can rate candidates as they perform in every key segment — swimsuit, evening gown, and the all-important Q&A round. Every walk, every answer, every moment — now gets a score directly from you. 

How It Works: Your Turn to Judge 

Joining the live scoring experience is easy and convenient through the Maya app:

1. Go to the Miss Universe Philippines tile inside the Maya app, purchase your Premium Pass, and read through the instructions and scoring guidelines.

2. On coronation night, enter the active round (Swimsuit, Evening Gown, or Q&A) and view each candidate’s performance.

3. Rate each contestant from 1 to 10 based on your assessment, and review your scores after every segment.

You’ll be guided by clear criteria — including confidence, stage presence, overall impact, and suitability for each category — making the experience both fun and fair.

More Than Voting — Your Voice Actually Counts

Live scoring isn’t the only way to support your favorites. Throughout the competition, you can also cast FREE votes daily or buy additional votes to help your chosen queens move forward.

With Maya leading this innovation, pageantry becomes more dynamic than ever. Fan support is no longer just about comments or conversations — it directly shapes the journey and outcome.

Because on coronation night, when the stakes are highest, one thing is certain:

The universe isn’t just watching. The universe is judging.

U vote. U decide. U crown — for free. Vote with Maya.

Secure Your Future, Empower Your Team – Labor Day: Your Guide to Smart Retirement Planning

Labor Day is more than just a well-deserved break—it is a time to honor the hard work that shapes our nation, and a perfect opportunity to look ahead. It marks a shift from the daily grind to focusing on long-term financial security and peace of mind.

Whether you are an individual professional planning for a comfortable retirement or a business leader aiming to protect your greatest asset—your people—understanding how to build a solid retirement plan is essential.

The Reality: Are We Ready for Retirement?

Recent findings from the Retirement Index reveal a significant gap: most professionals feel unprepared for their post-work years. While everyone dreams of retiring comfortably, many lack a clear path to get there.

Retirement should not mean financial uncertainty—it should be your golden era: a time to enjoy the rewards of decades of hard work without having to compromise your lifestyle. To make this a reality, proactive planning is key.

Traditionally, a secure retirement rests on three pillars: social security pensions, employer-sponsored plans, and personal savings. However, the reality today is different: government and company pensions are often insufficient, and many people’s personal savings are drained by urgent expenses or healthcare needs. This is why you need a reliable, guaranteed income stream—a strong "fourth pillar"—to ensure a smooth transition into retirement and protect the savings you’ve worked so hard to build.

For Individuals: Take Control of Your Next Chapter

Securing your future starts with a mindset shift: treat your retirement fund as a mandatory "bill" you pay to your future self.

InLife’s Retire Assure — one of the country’s leading retirement solutions — is available to Filipinos aged 18 to 60, and offers these valuable features:

- ✅ Guaranteed monthly pension – No guesswork; you’ll know exactly how much you’ll receive to cover daily living costs.

- ✅ Growth potential through dividends – Helps boost your income to keep pace with inflation, cover medical expenses, or fund travel and leisure.

- ✅ Simpler application – No medical exams required for eligible applicants.

- ✅ Life insurance protection – In the event of death, beneficiaries receive the higher of 110% of total premiums paid (less any payouts already received) or the plan’s guaranteed cash value.

- ✅ Flexible payments and payouts – Choose payment schedules that suit your budget (annual, semi-annual, quarterly, or monthly) and receive funds directly into your peso bank account.

- ✅ Shortened payment terms – You can finish paying in just 5 or 10 years, or opt for regular installments until age 59 or 64.

They say the best time to start planning for retirement was yesterday — but the second-best time is today. Starting early makes a huge difference in how much you’ll eventually have. And if you’re closer to retirement age (between 48 and 73) and haven’t yet built your fund, there’s still hope: Retire Assure 2 lets you pay the full amount in just two annual installments.

“At InLife, we believe retirement should be something to look forward to, not worry about. Retire Assure empowers Filipinos to take charge of their next chapter with confidence. We help you build a future where the lifestyle you’ve earned is protected, so you can retire with dignity.”

— Gae L. Martinez, Chief Marketing Officer, InLife

For Employers: Strengthen Your Workforce, Secure Their Future 

In today’s competitive job market, employee satisfaction goes hand-in-hand with financial peace of mind. Workplace benefits are no longer just "extras" — they are strategic investments that boost productivity, improve well-being, and help your business thrive long-term.

By including retirement planning in your benefits package, you do more than pay salaries — you give your team a future, helping them build that strong foundation for retirement we all want.

InLife’s Comprehensive Group Plan (CGP) is designed to help you do exactly that, with benefits such as:

- ✅ Dual coverage – Combines group life insurance and retirement savings, while helping you comply with laws like Republic Act 7641 (Retirement Pay Law) and Republic Act 4917 (Tax Exemptions for Private Retirement Plans).

- ✅ Fund protection – The retirement fund remains safe from depletion due to death or disability.

- ✅ Guaranteed earnings – Funds earn interest at a guaranteed rate. If actual earnings exceed this rate, your company receives 50% of the extra amount.

- ✅ Capital preservation – The fund is protected against market losses.

- ✅ Fair fee structure – Administrative fees apply only to new deposits, not the total accumulated fund.

- ✅ Voluntary savings option – Employees can choose to add their own contributions and grow their savings even more.

- ✅ Tax assistance – We handle all applications with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to ensure employees’ benefits remain tax-exempt, while your company’s contributions are fully tax-deductible.

“Our Comprehensive Group Plan turns retirement preparedness into a real competitive advantage for businesses. We help employers boost engagement and loyalty, while giving employees the chance to build a meaningful nest egg for their golden years.”

— Gae L. Martinez, Chief Marketing Officer, InLife

Labor Day is the perfect reminder: every worker deserves to retire with confidence and comfort. By combining personal foresight with strong corporate support, we can make sure that when your career ends, it’s just the beginning of an exciting new journey.

🔎 Learn more: 

- For Retire Assure: https://www.inlife.com.ph/retirement-insurance

- For InLife’s Comprehensive Group Plan: https://www.inlife.com.ph/group-insurance or email corporatesales@insular.com.ph.

Satisfy Your Cravings: Comfort Food & More at SM Foodcourt

It's often said that "food is the ultimate equalizer; it can comfort, heal, spark memories, or bring people together." It's hard to argue with that! There are definitely days—if not every day—when you just need the right taste to match your mood or moment. Sometimes it's something savory, other days it's saucy, fried, or just familiar enough to truly make your day. 

SM Foodcourt at SM City Marilao always has something to satisfy your food palate

SM Foodcourt in SM City Baliwag is the perfect place for memorable family dinners and fun group gatherings

So, where do you go for that perfect bite, whatever your mood or craving? Look no further than your most loved mall, SM! Here are four reliable spots at SM Foodcourt in SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag that consistently hit the spot, maximizing your dining experience.

SM Foodcourt: Your Go-To for Every Craving

1. Salo: Where Every Bite Feels Like Home 

Lechon Belly, Photo courtesy of Salo

Sometimes, a craving is more than just about food; it’s about the cozy warmth of home. Salo delivers exactly that. With branches in most SM Foodcourts, it’s a favorite among balikbayans and locals seeking authentic Filipino flavors. Every mouthful of Salo’s dishes is a heartwarming reminder of family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. Their Lechon Belly is an absolute must-try—crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, it’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you home.

2. Sizzling Plate: Hot Plates, Every Time You Need It 

Porterhouse Steak, Photo courtesy of Sizzling Plate

Some days call for a little heat and a lot of fun, and the aromatic, sizzling plate comes through like a true friend. A familiar favorite found in most SM Foodcourt branches, Sizzling Plate guarantees a piping-hot meal every time. Perfectly seasoned meat, smothered in rich, savory gravy, served with fragrant rice and fresh vegetables, creates a satisfying sizzling meal—a true feast of flavor and memories. 

3. Takoyadon: Japanese Flavors, No Passport Required 

Takoyaki, photo courtesy of Takoyadon

When you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine and good company, Takoyadon is a solid pick that won’t give you jetlag! Found in select SM Food Hall branches, it offers bite-sized Japanese eats that are flavor-packed and easy on the wallet. From classic Takoyaki and Yakisoba to hearty Donburi and Udon, you and your friends can enjoy a casual bite while catching up—with the bonus of zero airfare!

4. Mr. Kimbob: Bibimbap For The Soul 

Bibimbob, Photo courtesy of Mr. Kimbob

Sometimes comfort comes in a warm, hearty bowl of Bibimbap, like the beloved Bibimbob from Mr. Kimbob, which hits all the right notes. Warm rice, fresh vegetables, savory chicken, beef, or pork, and a rich sauce all stirred together create a bowl of pure comfort. It’s the kind of food that feels like a warm hug. You can find Mr. Kimbob branches in most SM Foodcourts.

Crown Asia Unveils Urban Expressions of Upscale Living in the South with Arché: The Origin of Aspiration

Arché, an immersive presentation of the latest Crown Asia developments in South Luzon, concluded with a ceremonial toast from Vista Land COO Mary Lee S. Sadiasa, joined by Crown Asia Group Head Romeo Sabater, Officers-in-Charge Shatriya Paredes and Ryan Tensuan, and Accounting Head Kim Manalaysay. 

 

Crown Asia, the foremost builder of themed residential developments across the archipelago, recently introduced Arché: The Origin of Aspiration, The Opulence of Address. This immersive presentation offered a compelling insight into how communities are conceived and brought into being in South Luzon. 

The avant-garde gathering convened company executives, business partners, and esteemed guests in a choreographed setting. Enhanced by a circular LED display and projection mapping, the venue transformed into a vivid canvas where light, layout, and layered visuals converged to narrate how refined residences are envisioned and experienced. 

The gathering convened esteemed guests in a setting enhanced by circular LED display and projection mapping, turning the venue into a vivid canvas, where layered visuals converged to narrate how refined residences are envisioned and experienced.

Crown Asia Group Head Romeo S. Sabater welcomed distinguished guests to Arché: The Origin of Aspiration, The Opulence of Address, a grand launch of the housing brand’s four newest themed residential developments in South Luzon. 

The event commenced with an elegant cocktail reception, followed by a series of scenic curations guided by entrepreneur and actress Anne Gauthier. A multi-sensory sequence unfolded, exploring the elements of land, earth, air, and water—each representing a dimension of community distinction. Accompanied by outstanding performances from the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Ballet Manila, the event achieved a measured balance of structure and sensation, reinforcing the interplay between architecture and atmosphere. 

Outstanding performances by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Ballet Manila captivated the audience, with actress-entrepreneur Anne Gauthier hosting the grand launch. 

Introducing Crown Asia’s Newest Communities in South Luzon 

Crown Asia Marketing Leads Angelica Coral, Tricia Melarpis, Andrea Mijares, and Ace Simbahan unveiled Crown Asia’s latest developments: Verdalia in Batangas, Pinewood in Tagaytay, Serenza in Silang, and Ponticelli Groves in Bacoor City. 

At the core of Arché was the grand launch of Crown Asia’s newest communities across South Luzon:

- Verdalia: Offers a wellness-oriented setting woven into wide-open horizons.

- Pinewood: Reflects a highland haven with cool climates.

- Ponticelli Groves: Features Italian-inspired bridges, boulevards, and breakthroughs.

- Serenza: Showcases a suburban sanctuary characterized by serenity and sophistication. 

Attendees were also given a special preview of Pranara in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, signaling Crown Asia's strategic expansion into premier shoreline destinations. 

An exquisite dining experience followed, in which each course subtly echoed the elements. This integration of culinary and conceptual storytelling affirmed that the art of arrival extends beyond the landscape, expressed across every layer of the living experience.

The event culminated in an exquisite dining experience, where each global course subtly echoed the elements, further integrating culinary and conceptual storytelling. This affirmed that the "art of arrival" extends beyond the physical landscape, expressed across every layer of the living experience.

The evening concluded with a ceremonial toast and inspiring words from Vista Land Chief Operating Officer Mary Lee S. Sadiasa. She encapsulated the collective sentiment: “To our partners, pioneers, and our people, those who continue to build and believe, may we move forward with precision and pride. Let us raise our glasses to foundations firmly formed, to developments with distinction, and to what lies ahead as we lead: rising, refining, and redefining.”  

Through Arché, Crown Asia reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to creating communities where land becomes lifescape, earth becomes environment, and air becomes the avenue where ambitions ascend.

The Art of Arrival

Across Crown Asia communities in South Luzon, arrival is not abrupt, but artfully attained.

- In Silang, Serenza offers a subtle, steady ascent, where terraced terrain and tiered gardens guide the gaze and the guest towards a state of stillness.

- Ponticelli Groves in Bacoor City presents a poised promenade, where tree-filtered trails and foliage frames soften the shift from city pace to peaceful cadence.

- Along the Tagaytay ridge, Pinewood is a portrait of permanence, where pine-scented surroundings, cool climate, and clean contours create a balance of calm and clarity.

- In Santo Tomas, Batangas, Verdalia completes the composition with a horizon held in harmony, where mountain views, mellow light, and measured landscapes settle into a scene of continuity.

These Crown Asia themed residential developments define the art of arrival as a sequence of settings where every pathway is purposeful, every perspective is precise, and every address is aligned to ground, then gently elevated.

Designed for Distinction: The Crown Collection

Complementing these communities is the Crown Collection—a host of home models attuned to distinguished preferences and diverse life stages.

From the grand scale of Lladro Grande, the financial foresight of Francesco, the flexibility of Topaz, the stately sophistication of Sapphire, the graceful grandeur of Garnet, to Murano’s mastery of modernity, each residence reveals an approach that balances usability with upscale living. With interiors imagined with intention, these living spaces are designed not only to be seen, but to be savored.

Bringing the Beauty of the World to Your Doorstep 

Built for the self-made, Crown Asia speaks to those who move with mastery, break through with boldness, and choose with clarity. For them, residences are not merely rewards, but reflections of their discipline, direction, and pursuit of distinction. A Crown Asia home is a trophy of triumph—an exquisite reward for themselves, and by themselves.

To know more about Crown Asia and its themed residential developments nationwide, visit www.crownasia.com.ph and follow @CrownAsiaOfficial. Your trophy home awaits!