SM City Baliwag Launches Art for Everyone 2026: Showcasing Bulacan’s Rich Artistry for All to Enjoy

Art for Everyone 2026 officially opens at SM City Baliwag, showcasing the 310 artworks of at least 115 talented visual artists from Bulacan. 

SM City Baliwag has turned its main atrium into a lively tribute to Filipino creativity with the opening of Art for Everyone. This week-long exhibit brings visual art closer to the public and makes original pieces more accessible to collectors. 

Running until July 17, the event reimagines the traditional gallery setting by opening a public space as a welcoming hub. Shoppers, art lovers, cultural supporters and collectors can view, appreciate and acquire original works from no fewer than 115 skilled visual artists based in Bulacan. More than a display, Art for Everyone serves as a platform to lift up local creators including emerging talents, while building meaningful cultural connections within the community. 

Officials from the Provincial Government of Bulacan, the City Government of Baliwag, and SM City Baliwag came together for a ceremonial paint pouring to formally open the Art for Everyone exhibit, symbolizing their shared commitment to promoting artistic excellence and empowering local artists in the province. Present during the ceremony were (L-R) Agatha Shaine Santos, representing Vice Governor Alex Castro; Rochelle Sabaybay, representing Governor Daniel Fernando; Baliwag City Administrator Eric Tagle; SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino; and Baliwag City Tourism Officer–CACTO Susie Garcia.

Officially opened on July 4, the exhibit features 310 pieces in total. These include paintings, mixed media works and digital art that reflect both the province’s deep artistic heritage and its modern creative voice. The project is organized in partnership with the Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office, Baliwag Tourism Office, Alumni of Bulacan State University College of Architecture and Fine Arts, JEFARCA Arts and Historical Society Inc., Bahaghari ng Malolos, Sibul, Katha, Lumina Art Group, Ugnayang Sining Tomasino, San Rafael Art Kolektiv and Lunday Hagonoy Art Group.

Art for Everyone 2026 builds on the success of this award-winning flagship program, which centers on accessibility, inclusivity and community-led creativity. It earned Gold honors at both the 2025 Asia Pacific Stevie Awards and the 2025 International Business Awards. The initiative continues to reshape how art is experienced, turning SM malls into vibrant cultural spaces where art is not just on display but is shared, celebrated and made available to everyone. 

SM City Baliwag launches Art for Everyone, providing a platform for both seasoned and budding Bulacan artists to connect with the public and sell their works.

“Art for Everyone is more than an exhibit, it is a platform,” said Rodora Tolentino, Mall Manager of SM City Baliwag. “We see our mall as a space where creativity grows, artists can develop their craft and people from all backgrounds can discover and take home a piece of Filipino art.”

All are welcome to visit Art for Everyone 2026 at SM City Baliwag, as well as 25 other participating SM malls across the country. Guests can explore and collect original works by gifted local artists, enjoy inspiring displays and celebrate Filipino creativity while helping to nurture the nation’s thriving art scene.

Converge, IBPAP Partner to Strengthen BPO Sector Amid AI Boom

Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a leading fiber broadband and technology solutions provider, has partnered with the IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). The collaboration aims to empower the local IT-BPM sector—employing nearly two million Filipinos and generating US$40 billion in export revenues in 2025—as artificial intelligence drives profound changes across industries.

“We must upskill our workforce and evolve our industry to seize opportunities from the AI boom,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy during the firm’s official induction as an IBPAP member, held at Converge Global Business headquarters. “At Converge, we have built a robust national digital infrastructure to support BPOs and other industries on their AI journey. The next step is equipping workers with the skills to navigate AI and emerging technologies.”

IBPAP represents the collective interests of the IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector, comprising over 400 companies, and partners with six industry associations: the Animation Council of the Philippines, Inc., Global Capability Center Philippines, Customer Xperience Association of the Philippines, Game Developers Association of the Philippines, Healthcare Information Management Association of the Philippines, and Philippine Software Industry Association.

“During the pandemic, when much of the world paused, the IT-BPM sector created 260,000 new jobs—and reliable connectivity made this possible,” noted IBPAP President and CEO Jack Madrid. “Converge was central to this success, keeping teams connected and operations running nationwide. Welcoming them as our newest Platinum Member recognizes not just their business standing, but their proven reliability as a partner who stood by the sector when it mattered most.”

Upskilling for AI readiness is a core priority of this partnership. Beyond industry insights and networking, the membership opens avenues for targeted collaboration amid rapid technological advancement.

“Even before joining IBPAP, our commitment was clear: we must protect this industry that supports nearly two million Filipino workers,” Uy emphasized. “As one of the world’s leading BPO hubs alongside India, we must prioritize upskilling—especially for AI readiness—to strengthen this vital export sector.”

“AI is already reshaping how we work, and this trend will accelerate,” Uy added. “It handles repetitive tasks faster and more cost-effectively. For Philippine BPOs, the future lies in complex, high-value work. This means evolving our workforce from basic support roles to highly skilled specialists. We stand ready to support government and private sector efforts to drive this next phase of growth.”

IBPAP data for 2025 records the sector’s workforce at 1.9 million people, with export revenues of US$40 billion—equivalent to over 8% of the country’s gross domestic product.

Rainproof Your Style: Big Discounts on Weather-Ready Fashion at Robinsons Department Store’s July Payday Sale

Grab great deals on jackets, footwear, bags and more — valid July 15 to 19 nationwide

The weather has been unpredictable lately. One moment it is bright and sunny, and the next dark clouds roll in and heavy rain begins. This makes it the perfect time to prepare practical, stylish looks that keep you protected from head to toe.

Whether you are commuting to work or school, there are simple ways to stay dry and keep your belongings safe. Robinsons Department Store’s July Payday Sale runs from July 15 to 19, 2026 — your perfect chance to shop for quality pieces at low prices.

Stay dry and comfortable

Beyond an umbrella, a reliable jacket is essential for rainy commutes. It also works well in cool, air-conditioned offices and classrooms. Browse in-house brands Stella and Workshop for versatile, stylish jackets that match any outfit and are easy to remove when the sun returns. For heavier downpours, keep a waterproof raincoat or poncho handy.

Step out in secure, stylish footwear

Walk confidently through wet streets and sidewalks with fashionable sneakers and flats built to withstand damp conditions. Brands such as Gallardo and Punkberry offer practical options, while Liberte carries a wide range of shoes suitable for both rainy and sunny days.

Keep your belongings safe

Protect your gadgets, notebooks and other essentials with a spacious waterproof bag. From backpacks to shoulder bags, Playground has designs to suit every taste and need.

Great deals and exclusive rewards

Shop at any Robinsons Department Store branch nationwide during the sale period to enjoy special discounts across selected brands.

- 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM daily offers: Get ₱300 off a single-receipt purchase of at least ₱5,000, plus earn 50 extra Go Rewards points

- Spend ₱3,000 in one transaction and receive a free mini bag

Additional payment perks:

- Metrobank credit cards: Up to ₱400 cashback

- BPI and Robinsons Bank Cashback Cards: Up to ₱500 in gift certificates with qualifying single-receipt spending of ₱5,000 or ₱10,000

- GCash: ₱100 off for single-receipt purchases of ₱2,000 and above

- Select cards also offer 0% interest installment plans for up to 6 months

Get ready for the rainy season in style — visit us from July 15 to 19, 2026. Follow Robinsons Department Store on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and more offers.

Wilma Doesnt Gets Candid on 'Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast': Trading Commute Stories for Smarter Ways Around the City

Wilma Doesnt shares stories from her life as a commuter and practical tips on moving smarter around Metro Manila with partners like MOVE IT in a recent episode of Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast, hosted by directors Antoinette Jadaone and JP Habac.

Comedian shares humble travel roots and practical tips on Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast, in partnership with MOVE IT

Wilma Doesnt — one of the country’s best‑loved personalities — revisited her days as an everyday commuter and shared useful insights on getting around the metro more easily, during a recent episode of Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast. Hosted by filmmakers Antoinette Jadaone and JP Habac, the episode was presented in partnership with mobility platform MOVE IT.

Long before she became a familiar face in comedy, fashion, and entertainment, Wilma was just like millions of Filipinos — planning routes, counting fares, and braving long journeys just to get where she needed to go. On the show, she set aside humor to speak honestly about those experiences and how commuting has changed over time.

Growing up in Cavite City, she recalled how far a simple trip to Manila once felt. “I come from the province, so back then, travelling from Cavite City to Manila took three to four hours — and you would only reach as far as Harrison Plaza,” she shared.

She painted an even clearer picture of life in 1994: “First, there was no Coastal Road yet. Second, no CAVITEX either. Cavite City felt so far away. I even took a ferry boat from the Naval Base just to cross.” 

Wilma Doesnt gets candid about life as a commuter, sharing how practical mobility solutions like MOVE IT resonate with urban achievers like her - people navigating Metro Manila traffic so they can focus on what matters most: career, family, and other life ventures.

Her memories also include the frustrations many still face today — traffic‑driven fare hikes and unfair practices. “Sitting in traffic is stressful enough, especially watching the taxi meter tick upward,” she said. “Sometimes drivers would even tamper with it or add extra charges. You end up calculating costs before you even arrive.”

This is exactly where MOVE IT fits in — not to replace existing transport, but to give commuters a better connected, smarter alternative. Wilma explained how combining options works best: “If you want to shorten your travel and make every peso count, book a MOVE IT ride to the nearest MRT or LRT station. You will feel the difference immediately. It saves you stress — physically and mentally. It really is time to download the app and try it.”

Her connection to the brand comes naturally. “I am well‑known, yes. I am also a mother, and someone who started from very little. Most importantly, people know I have been a commuter myself,” she noted. “That is why this partnership felt right — I truly understand the experience.”

Listeners and viewers agreed. One commenter wrote, “MOVE IT chose the perfect ambassador — she knows every route and every struggle. Her stories about travelling from Cavite are exactly true; those trips really can break your heart.” Another shared how the service has helped their own family: “I book MOVE IT rides for my child going to school. It gives us peace of mind.”

Part of that confidence comes from small but meaningful details — like hygiene and safety. Wilma raised a common concern: “Many wonder — has the helmet been used many times before me?” She pointed out the solution: “MOVE IT now lets users buy their own protective gear such as bonnets, scarves or caps through GrabMart, so everyone can feel extra safe and clean.”

These efforts reflect the platform’s broader Keep Moving commitment — making transport reliable, safe, and respectful of every rider. Features include regular driver assessments, hygiene protocols, plus built‑in safety tools: trip tracking, ride sharing, SOS alerts, audio recording, driver fatigue reminders, and speed monitoring.

For Wilma and for millions who keep Metro Manila moving every day, the goal is simple: travel should feel easier. Alongside buses, trains, and jeepneys, MOVE IT aims to be another trusted choice — helping people save time, lower stress, and make daily travel a little more comfortable.

4 Smart Travel Tips: Plan Better and Save More on Every Trip This Year

Practical ways to stretch your budget, stay protected, and travel hassle‑free

Even with rising costs, travel remains a top priority for many Filipinos. Whether for family vacations, business trips, concerts, sporting events, or fitness competitions, the urge to explore stays strong. More travelers however are now more careful and intentional with every expense, looking for ways to enjoy fully while spending wisely.

As you prepare for your next adventure, follow these expert tips to maximize every peso of your travel budget without missing out on great experiences.

1. Hunt for Special Offers and Compare Options

Always keep an eye out for limited‑time deals on accommodations, dining, tours, or attractions. Take time to check and compare prices before booking anything. Great discounts often appear unexpectedly. A little patience and research go a long way toward getting more value without changing your itinerary.

 2. Do Not Skip Travel Insurance

Unexpected changes such as flight delays, cancellations, or lost luggage can cost you significantly. Travel insurance provides essential financial protection. Through the GCash app, GInsure Travel Protect plans start at only ₱299, covering accidents, medical emergencies, travel disruptions, and more.

3. Use an eSIM Instead of Costly Roaming

Staying connected is vital when navigating new places or using ride‑hailing apps. Seasoned travelers prefer eSIMs — easy to activate before departure so you have service the moment you land. On GCash, you can buy eSIMs starting at just ₱1, working in over 160 countries. Find this feature under GCash Travel; setup takes only five minutes, even right before boarding. 

4. Prepare Flexible Payment Options 

Payment issues are the last thing you want while traveling. Cash is still useful for small vendors or transport, but having multiple secure payment methods is best. GCash simplifies international spending all in one account with competitive exchange rates and real‑time spending updates:

- Scan to Pay via Alipay+ at millions of merchants worldwide

- Tap to Pay with Android devices for fast, contactless transactions

- GCash Card for swiping, tapping, or ATM withdrawals — no hidden charges or extra fees 

Ultimate Travel Hack: Travel with GCash

Every journey is more enjoyable when payments are safe, simple, and affordable. Download the GCash app now and use these smart travel tips to make your next trip smooth, secure, and budget‑friendly.

Among Southeast Asia’s Biggest Pride Gatherings: Converge Steps Up for Diversity & Inclusion at LoveLab4n Pride 2026

Converge marks third year of participation — empowering communities, connecting people, and championing inclusive spaces.

Leading Philippine broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. celebrated Pride Month with a series of meaningful activities across its offices, while joining thousands of advocates at the LoveLab4n Pride Festival 2026 in Quezon City.

Organized by the Quezon City government and PridePH, the festival took place on June 27 at the University of the Philippines Diliman. For the third consecutive year, Converge joined the landmark event — one of the largest Pride gatherings in Southeast Asia. Team members marched the five‑kilometer campus route, proudly bearing the company banner as a clear sign of solidarity and support for the LGBTQIA+ community. The gathering drew an estimated 300,000 participants. 

Beyond the parade, Converge powered the entire expo area with its high‑speed fiber internet and operated a vibrant Pride‑themed booth. Attendees received colorful tokens, branded items, and product updates — blending brand engagement with a strong message of inclusive connection.

A Month‑Long Celebration of Belonging

Converge launched its Pride observances early with a SOGIE Awareness Webinar for teams based in Pasig and Pampanga. The session deepened understanding of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression — reinforcing policies and practices that foster equality and respect within the workplace.

Additional activities included:

- Pride‑themed Bazaars at Pasig and Pampanga offices, featuring food, wellness, and creative brands that support self‑expression and community spirit. All employees received rainbow‑branded items as symbols of allyship.

- Rainbow Lane Unveiling: A permanent, colorful installation at main office entrances — serving as a lasting visual promise that every person belongs and is valued here.

“True belonging means building an environment where individuality is welcomed, respected, and empowered — so everyone feels free to bring their authentic selves to work every day,” shared Mylene Sardinia, Senior Vice‑President & Head of People and Culture. “The enthusiasm we’ve seen this month shows: championing diversity makes our whole organization stronger. Let us always take pride in who we are, what we do, and what we aim to achieve together.”

Spotlight: Pride in Storytelling

On June 10, Converge’s original series The XLounge Podcast released a special episode titled “Pride is in Your Fiber.” It featured fan‑favorite stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines — Arizona Brandy, Myx Chanel, and Hana Beshie — sharing deeply personal stories of challenge, triumph, and community.

Following a live recording session, invited Converge subscribers enjoyed the Drag Xperience — a spectacular showcase featuring the guests alongside performers from Halxyon Club. The full episode is now available on Converge’s official YouTube channel and Converge FiberX Facebook page.

“At Converge, our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging runs deep — because innovation flourishes only when people feel truly seen, heard, and valued,” explained Princess Gresola, Assistant Vice‑President & Head of Corporate Communications and Employer Branding. “Through moments like these, we nurture a culture where everyone can succeed exactly as they are.” 

Celebrating Identities in Every Space

The company’s Global Business Group (GBG) based in Bonifacio Global City also joined the movement, hosting a hybrid Father’s Day and Pride Fair — bringing together vendors and activities honoring fathers and the LGBTQIA+ community alike.

“As Converge expands digital infrastructure across the nation, we remain equally focused on building teams where every background, perspective, and identity helps drive innovation and progress toward a connected future for all Filipinos,” stated Jay‑Anne Encarnado, Vice‑President & Head of Corporate Communications and Public Relations.

Pets As Partners In Healing: Communitails Earns Royal Canin Foundation Grant — First For Philippines & Southeast Asia

The Philippine Human‑Animal Bond Institute (PHABI), the nonprofit behind Communitails, has been awarded funding from the Royal Canin Foundation to scale Brave Tails — a pioneering program using animal‑assisted services to support trauma survivors and their care providers across the Philippines. This marks the first time a Philippine or Southeast Asian initiative has been selected for support by the global Foundation.

The grant will strengthen trauma‑informed care nationwide, addressing a critical gap: survivors of abuse or exploitation often face long‑term psychological struggles, while frontline responders and care teams are highly vulnerable to burnout and secondary trauma. Through guided interactions with professionally trained therapy animals, Brave Tails creates safe, calming spaces to foster recovery, resilience, and well‑being.

Healing Built On Connection

Brave Tails operates on the powerful principle of mutual healing — benefiting survivors, caregivers, therapy animals, and their handlers alike.

“By nurturing care for animals, ourselves, and others, we build emotionally safe and brave spaces that restore trust, belonging, and purpose,” shared Rohani Navarro, President of PHABI. “Every participant grows stronger through this bond.”

Global Recognition For Local Impact

The Royal Canin Foundation funds projects worldwide that demonstrate how dogs and cats improve human health and well‑being — alongside programs supporting search‑and‑rescue animals. Selected proposals undergo rigorous review based on impact, feasibility, sustainability, and animal welfare standards.

This year’s grantees also include mental health support in Ukraine, elderly care programs in Spain, and pediatric therapy in Italy — placing the Philippines firmly on the global map of innovative human‑animal interventions.

“We invest in work that clearly shows how pets transform lives — especially in sensitive or challenging settings,” said Carlos Andres‑Luna, President of the Royal Canin Foundation. “Brave Tails is an outstanding model of what is possible.”

Expanding Reach And Quality Care

With this support, PHABI will broaden access to Brave Tails, enhance training standards, and develop evidence‑based practices that can be replicated across the country. The work builds on years of Communitails’ leadership in integrating animal‑assisted approaches into healthcare, education, and community services — always prioritizing ethical animal care alongside human wellness.

This award deepens an existing partnership between Royal Canin Philippines and Communitails, rooted in shared goals: responsible pet ownership, stronger communities, and broader understanding of animals’ role in society. Previous joint efforts included reading programs and public education campaigns promoting empathy and welfare.

“Seeing a homegrown Philippine project recognized globally makes us incredibly proud,” noted Gerard Poa, Market Head of Royal Canin Philippines. “This partnership shows what we can achieve when we care for people and animals together.”

Shared Vision, Greater Good

Together, the Royal Canin Foundation and its partners aim to expand knowledge of the human‑animal bond and its benefits for all living beings. By investing in programs like Brave Tails, they help build healthier, more resilient communities — one healing connection at a time.