9th Ortigas Art Festival: Elevating Art Appreciation and Filipino Creative Expression

Championing the next generation of Filipino visionaries. The 9th Ortigas Art Festival unfolds as a free multidisciplinary showcase at GH Mall from July 16 to 31, 2026 — marking the launch of the first-ever Ortigas Art Grant for emerging artists. 

(Photo caption: Ortigas Art Grant participants pictured with, center from left to right: Monique Castañeda, Ortigas Malls AVP and Head of Marketing; Renato Habulan, Ortigas Art Festival Lead Curator and Consultant; San Juan City Vice Mayor Jose Angelo Rafael Agcaoili; and Arch. Renee Bacani, Ortigas Malls Vice President)

From July 17 to 30, 2026, GH Mall transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity for the 9th Ortigas Art Festival. Visitors can explore contemporary art galleries set throughout the mall, attend independent film screenings, enjoy live performances, and build new skills through hands-on interactive workshops — all open to the public at no cost. 

This year’s theme, “Elevate,” reflects the festival’s remarkable growth from a modest painting exhibition into one of Metro Manila’s most accessible, award-winning celebrations of Filipino creativity. Rooted in its longstanding “Art For All” advocacy, the festival now advances creative expression through an immersive, multi-sensory experience: striking visual artworks, thought-provoking installations, and compelling storytelling through film and live performance.

The 2026 edition also honors two of the country’s most revered cultural icons. In partnership with the University of the Philippines Press, it features the works of National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario. A separate exhibition, organized with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), celebrates the legacy of National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal.

“The theme ‘Elevate’ is both a reflection and a call to action,” shares Renato “Ato” Habulan, Lead Curator of the Ortigas Art Festival. “It honors how far this festival has come in nine years, while challenging artists and audiences alike to rise higher, think deeper, and experience art in new ways — right here in their neighborhood mall.”

Beyond gallery walls, creativity takes center stage in motion. The opening ceremony featured live performances by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra Quartet and dynamic dance showcases, setting a spirited tone for the weeks ahead.

Celebrating Icons and Emerging Voices 

This year’s featured artist is environmental sculptor Junyee, widely recognized as the “Father of Philippine Installation Art.” He is celebrated for repurposing natural materials into monumental works that blur the boundaries between art and the natural landscape — embodying the spirit of innovation the festival seeks to amplify.

Participating galleries and collectives include Agos Studio (marking the 50th anniversary of Kaisahan), Eskinita Art Gallery, Linangan Art Residency, Thombayan Art Space, Art Circle Gallery, Historia Art Gallery, Nami Art Gallery, the Collective Artists of Angono, the Mindoro Artists Group, Pasig Art Club, and the Ortigas Foundation, alongside several independent artist-run groups. Born in Film also presents a special photography exhibit blending nostalgic and modern perspectives from across the Philippines.

Multidisciplinary Experiences: Film, Performance, and Hands-On Creation

Cinema takes a central role this year, developed in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the CCP. The lineup spans full-length features and award-winning short films from emerging and established Filipino filmmakers. Highlights include nightly screenings of Cinemartrys and Alipato at Muog, plus selections from CCP’s Lakbay Sine, Gawad Alternatibo, and Cinemalaya programs. Featured works also include Paul Morales’ documentary That We May See (tracing Kaisahan’s 50-year journey), and films by acclaimed director Sari Dalena, alongside Elian Idoma’s I’m The Best Left Inside My Head (2025) and Andrei Francis “Franky” C. Arrocena’s Pastil: Parehas Ra Ta’g Kan-on’g Ginakaon (2025), among others.

Visitors are invited to create as well as observe. Free workshops cover acrylic pouring, block printing, textured plaster art, paper cutting, sketching, and storytelling, plus copyright masterclasses led by Born in Film. All sessions welcome beginners and seasoned creators alike, encouraging everyone to try their hand at artistic expression.

A major milestone this year is the launch of the inaugural Ortigas Art Grant, an initiative designed to support artists beyond the exhibition. Shortlisted creators will present new works in 2027, while the selected grantee will receive special recognition during the festival’s 10th anniversary, plus an international development opportunity tied to Art Basel Hong Kong 2027.

Accessibility remains the festival’s core strength. It has grown into an inclusive space: a family browsing the mall, a student discovering independent cinema, an aspiring photographer, or a seasoned collector — all will find work that resonates. After nine years, “Art For All” is more than a slogan. It is an invitation to look closer, stay curious, and discover that art is not limited to gallery spaces — sometimes, it is just around the corner, waiting to be found.

For updates on workshops, featured artists, and announcements, follow the Ortigas Art Festival on Facebook. For the latest from Ortigas Malls, join their Viber Community and follow GH Mall on Facebook. 

Kasama Mo Mangarap: How GLoan Turned a Dream Deferred into Atty. Sheila Gomez’s Bar Success

A journey from almost giving up to making it happen. One dream, unwavering grit, and the right support at the right time. 

Lourdes Batac (Head of Communications Strategy), Atty. Sheila Gomez, Neil Trinidad (MYNT Inc. Chief Marketing Officer), Tony Isidro (FUSE Chief Executive Officer), Baby Aquino (FUSE Chief Product Officer)

Not every dream follows a straight path. Sometimes it demands endless perseverance. Sometimes it takes courage to start over. Often, moving forward means knowing when to reach out for help.

This spirit of second chances takes center stage in the sixth installment of #GCashStories, the flagship campaign from the Philippines’ number one Finance Super App and largest cashless ecosystem. Titled “Kasama Mo Mangarap,” this new chapter shares the inspiring real-life story of Atty. Sheila Gomez. A former legal aide, she turned her lifelong goal of becoming a lawyer into reality through hard work, wise choices, and timely support from GLoan.

“GCash Stories reminds us that the most powerful stories are real ones,” said Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of Mynt. “Progress happens when people get the right support at the right moment. At GCash, we do more than offer financial tools. We empower Filipinos to keep chasing what matters. Every Filipino deserves to dream and deserves a second chance to make that dream come true. Sheila’s journey proves that inclusive finance does not just solve temporary problems. It turns obstacles into lasting opportunities and dreams achieved.”

More Than Stories: A Movement of Filipino Progress

For three years, #GCashStories has celebrated everyday Filipinos whose courage, hope, and resilience show what real progress looks like. It has grown into a nationwide movement that highlights the struggles and wins of communities across the country and how GCash helps turn dreams into reality.

Atty. Sheila now joins a remarkable line-up of storytellers who have shared their breakthroughs: 

- Cocoy, a laid-off bartender who built a successful business with GLoan

- Alma, a university employee who rebuilt her home after Typhoon Ulysses with help from GCash Send Money

- Turing, a drag queen and breadwinner who supported her family through the pandemic using GCash QR tipping

- Adz, a champion para-athlete who raised funds for the next generation through GCash Send Money

- Rhea Inayan, known as Bacolod’s “Barangay Hero,” who brought essential financial services closer to her community via her GCash Pera Outlet

“Every GCash Story is a story of financial progress,” said Lourdes Batac, GCash Head for Communication Strategy. “Our story is not just about what we have built. It is about how our products have changed lives. We are deeply grateful to Cocoy, Alma, Turing, Adz, Rhea, and Sheila for sharing their journeys. They show millions of Filipinos that their own goals are within reach.”

Sheila’s Story: Sacrifice, Support, and Success 

For Sheila Gomez, becoming a lawyer meant years of hard work. While working full-time as a legal aide, she balanced long hours at the office with late nights studying for law school.

As tuition and daily costs grew, she faced the same struggle many working Filipinos know too well. Financial pressure kept her up at night. Every enrollment period and exam season brought fear of falling short. Instead of letting her dream fade, she chose GLoan as her reliable partner to move forward.

The flexible funding covered her school expenses so she could focus on her studies without worry. Today, she is a licensed lawyer and continues to use GCredit and GGives as she builds her career.

“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance does not mean doing everything alone,” Atty. Sheila shared. “Many Filipinos see loans as something to avoid. But when used responsibly and with clear purpose, they become a powerful investment in your future. I am thankful GLoan gave me that chance.”

Fair Lending That Respects Every Filipino

Sheila’s journey also highlights a vital need. Amid rising costs and tough economic times, many Filipinos still face unfair lending practices or rigid systems that leave them with fewer options.

As Fuse Financing Inc. marks its 10th year as GCash’s lending arm, it works to change this view. It leads the way in fair, transparent, and respectful lending. Its goal is to show that responsible borrowing empowers people, protects their dignity, and opens doors instead of creating cycles of debt.

“Our mission has stayed the same since day one: fair loans that make every day better for every Filipino,” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc. “We stand by three commitments. We offer fast loans with no collateral needed. We provide a safe and secure experience. And most of all, we let Filipinos borrow with dignity. With discipline and grit, responsible borrowing becomes your next step toward progress.”

Finance for Every Dream

Sheila’s win belongs to millions of Filipinos who use GLoan to finish school, grow their livelihoods, support their families, or get through hard times.

These stories bring GCash’s vision of Finance for All to life. It meets people where they are and upholds the truth that every person has the right to dream and succeed no matter their background.

Watch Atty. Sheila’s full story here: https://youtu.be/CHrVTlAhmRI 

Ready to take your next step? Access GLoan through the GCash dashboard or under the “Borrow” tab. Download GCash on the App Store or Google Play Store today.

Kaya Mo. I-GCash mo.

Jollibee x BINI: New JolliBINI Bundles Bring Joy and Exclusive Collectibles for All BLOOMs

The Philippines’ top fast food chain Jollibee teams up with the country’s biggest P-pop girl group BINI to launch the much-awaited JolliBINI Bundles. Available for a limited time only, this special promotion pairs Jollibee’s most loved meals with exclusive BINI-themed collectibles made just for fans.

The offer runs from July 15 to August 31, 2026. Every purchase comes with limited-edition items featuring all eight members of BINI. Customers will receive random collectibles, while a lucky few may also get the rare Special Group Photocard.

“At Jollibee, we always look for ways to make every meal more joyful and memorable for our customers,” said Dorothy Ching, Vice President for Marketing at Jollibee Philippines. “With the JolliBINI Bundles, fans get to enjoy their favorite Jollibee treats while collecting exclusive BINI merchandise. Every visit becomes a chance to find a new item, cheer for your favorite member, and share fun moments with fellow BLOOMs. We hope this campaign brings even more happiness as fans collect, trade, and complete their JolliBINI sets together.”

Fans can choose from two bundle options:

JolliBINI Bundle A – Starts at ₱269. Includes one Original or Special Cheesy Yumburger, one-piece Chickenjoy with rice, a regular drink, and one random JolliBINI Collectible Set with a bag charm and photocard.

JolliBINI Bundle B – Starts at ₱399. Includes one Original or Special Double Cheesy Yumburger, one-piece Chickenjoy with rice, a large drink, and two random JolliBINI Collectible Sets.

This collaboration turns every meal into an exciting unboxing experience. It is set to spark even more excitement across social media, as BLOOMs share unboxing clips, collection reveals, trades, and styling ideas while working to complete their full set and find the coveted Special Group Photocard.

JolliBINI Bundles are available at all Jollibee stores nationwide from July 15 to August 31 for dine-in and takeout.

For more updates and to order, visit www.jollibee.com.ph or go to https://order.jollibee.com. Follow Jollibee on social media for more joyful surprises!

Century Tuna Superbods 2026 Unveils "Superbod Era" Finalists at Highly Anticipated Callback Event

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Century Tuna Superbods enters a transformative new chapter that builds on two decades of inspiring healthier lifestyles among Filipinos. The country’s most prestigious fitness competition has returned with a fresh perspective that will surprise long-time followers. During the much-awaited Final Callback, one message stood clear. Superbods has evolved, and the "Superbod Era" is officially here.

From hundreds of applicants across the Philippines, selected semi-finalists took the stage to redefine what modern fitness truly means. This year marks a significant shift in the brand’s vision. There is far more to being a Superbod than what meets the eye. The Callback event offered audiences and judges alike a deeper look at holistic wellness. It highlighted genuine personal journeys, unwavering resilience, and diverse life experiences that left everyone present inspired. Hosted by 2018 Century Tuna Superbod Grand Winner Maureen Montagne and broadcaster KC Montero, the program showcased each candidate’s strength both on and off the stage.

In this new era, physical health is recognized not as an end goal alone. It is seen as the visible reflection of mental fortitude, consistent discipline, and commitment to a purposeful life rooted in wellness and self-identity.

This evolution is anchored on Century Tuna’s enduring mission to encourage every Filipino to become their best self. In a major step toward greater inclusivity, the competition now welcomes participants of all body types and backgrounds. This vision came to life during the Callback through stories that reflect the changing face of fitness in the country.

The stage featured returning contenders making their second, third, or even fourth attempt to earn the title. Their presence proved that dedication truly pays off. It also highlighted Supermoms from all walks of life, including corporate professionals, former models restarting their journeys, and mothers rediscovering themselves through wellness. Hands-on fathers also took part, redefining what modern parenting and health look like.

Some families embraced the journey together, showing how generations can inspire one another. These included a father and daughter pair, as well as a mother competing alongside her two sons. The lineup also included established personalities and fitness coaches stepping beyond their usual spaces to inspire a wider audience.

This historic batch further breaks barriers. It features transgender men joining the competition for the first time, alongside "ageless" contenders who show that vitality has no limit. This diverse group proves that the Superbod lifestyle is open to everyone.

"Every edition of Superbods brings new growth, though our core mission remains the same. We aim to inspire Filipinos to pursue their healthiest, most vibrant selves," said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President, General Manager, and Group Business Head of Century Pacific Food Inc. "As we welcome the Superbod Era, we celebrate health as a powerful life stage defined by passion, commitment, and holistic well-being. The energy and stories we witnessed at the Callback show that modern Filipinos are ready to embrace this new era. We look forward to seeing our finalists inspire the whole nation."

Contenders were evaluated by a distinguished panel. This included Century Pacific Food Inc. executives, actress and wellness advocate Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and past Superbods Grand Winners Jules Aquino (2018) and Christelle Abello (2022). Candidates were assessed through a high-energy walk-off and question-and-answer segment that highlighted their physique, confidence, stage presence, and personal advocacy for wellness.

The event concluded with the official announcement of finalists advancing to the grand finals: 

Top 20 Male Finalists 

Aaron Maniego, Ameer Ahid, Herschel Verne Sanchez, MJ Ordillano, Arvin Corpuz, Jay Gonzaga, Austin Dizon Cabatana, Nunoy van den Burgh, Jaco Benin, Paul John Galang, Christopher Ian El Jouni, Joselito Florendo, Prince De Guzman, Rafael Cruz Tan, Ken Batino, Dominic Camozzi, Kim Panique, RC Kashyap, Ricardo De Jesus, and Lorenzo Isip.

Top 20 Female Finalists 

Alana Maris Montemayor, Janica Reloxe, Maan Marquez, Aleiah Torres, Jarly Verceles, Jasmine Rovelle Paguio, Anna Valencia Lakrini, Ashley Cayuca, Chucel Njigha, Ronalyn Lalimo, Jilliane Robillos, Rovin Mizuse, Diane Querrer, Donnabelle Erno, Kristen Bea H. Chua, Thalia Joaquin, Vienne Luna, Gee Canlas, Lou Yanong, and Gia Gonzales. 

What began as a premier fitness challenge has grown into a meaningful cultural movement. By redefining healthy living and honoring everyday heroes, Century Tuna Superbods continues to set new standards and inspire the nation toward wellness, self-acceptance, and active living. The countdown to the grand finals begins now.

For more updates, visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or follow Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna.

Converge Women Leaders Earn Top Marketing and HR Industry Honors

Two female leaders from Philippine fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. have received prestigious industry awards. These recognitions highlight the company’s commitment to building a diverse, inclusive, and empowering environment where top talent can flourish.

Rio Laine Bringuelo, Converge Engagement and Internal Communications Manager, and Angela Gutierrez, Vice President and Head of SME Marketing, were honored for their outstanding contributions. Bringuelo received the Human Resources Icon Award, while Gutierrez took home the Best Chief Marketing Officer Award.

These milestones reflect Converge’s focus on nurturing excellence across its workforce, showing how a supportive workplace culture drives meaningful results for both business and the broader community.

Driving Growth for Philippine MSMEs  

Converge SME Group VP and Head of SME Marketing Angela Gutierrez received the Best Chief Marketing Officer Award from Philippines’ Women Leaders for driving business growth and empowering Filipino MSMEs. 

Gutierrez was recognized by Philippines’ Women Leaders, an organization that honors women redefining success across industries. She earned the Best Chief Marketing Officer Award for establishing Converge SME Solutions Group as a trusted, innovative, and customer-focused partner for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Under her leadership, marketing initiatives moved beyond visibility to deliver measurable growth. In the first half of 2026, Converge SME’s subscriber base rose 21% to nearly 80,000 customers. Her team also delivered high-impact campaigns and events that generated strong business leads. 

Converge SME Group VP and Head of SME Marketing Angela Gutierrez drives growth and empowers Filipino MSMEs. 

“My work at Converge is all about giving the country’s smallest businesses a strong start,” Gutierrez said. “I am proud that through this role, I can help MSMEs scale up and create more jobs. It begins with choosing to lead and committing to something bigger than ourselves.”

Building an Inclusive, Supportive Workplace

Converge Engagement and Internal Communications Manager Rio Laine Bringuelo received the Human Resources Icon Award from Advantage Club for her transformative work in employee engagement, well-being, and workplace inclusivity. 

Bringuelo received the Human Resources Icon Award from Advantage Club in recognition of her transformative work in employee engagement and well-being.

She led the creation of a comprehensive mental health program for Converge’s more than 2,000 employees, including partnerships with leading mental health providers and regular company-wide fitness sessions. To advance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), she also organized and supported staff participation in the national Pride March and Festival, championing gender equality across the organization.

Converge champions diversity and inclusion through employee engagement initiatives that foster an inclusive workplace. 

“I have always found purpose in helping people grow,” Bringuelo shared. “This award is truly meaningful because it comes from Converge, a company that believes in every person’s potential. This recognition belongs to everyone here. It shows what we can achieve when we build a workplace where people feel valued and empowered to do their best.”

Converge continues to strengthen its standing not only as a leader in digital innovation but also as an employer of choice. Through the achievements of leaders like Gutierrez and Bringuelo, the company reaffirms its dedication to advancing women, supporting holistic employee development, and fostering inclusive growth for all.

July Sulit Eats: Budget-Friendly Food Finds at Your Most Loved SM Malls

Back-to-school season does not mean you have to give up your favorite food trips. Even when your allowance feels tight during the petsa de peligro days, you can still satisfy every craving without overspending.

This July, SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan prove that great meals and viral food picks do not need to cost a fortune. Whether you are grabbing lunch between classes, rewarding yourself after exams, or planning a fun barkada outing, these three Northern Metro Manila malls serve student-friendly options that are affordable, filling, and totally worth it.

SM City Valenzuela: Comfort Food That Hits Right

The newly upgraded SM Foodcourt here is more than just a place to eat. It is a cozy spot for students to rest and recharge between classes. 

Newcomer Goto Topps lets you build your own bowl of goto with toppings such as tokwa, crispy chicharon, isaw, and betamax. For heartier servings, try the Bola-Bola Special packed with juicy pork meatballs and extra toppings. It is the perfect meal to keep you energized from your first class to your last. 

Need something fast before your next lecture or commute? Tori Takoyaki serves freshly cooked takoyaki with a crisp outer layer and soft, creamy center—ideal for a quick grab-and-go snack.

SM City Grand Central: Asian Flavors for Less

Craving international tastes without stretching your budget? 

At the mall’s foodcourt, KyuKyu Ramen offers steaming bowls starting at just ₱99. Choose from Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Ichiban, Cheesy Tonkotsu, or Premium Umami Ramen. Add gyoza, Beef Gyudon, or Chicken Teriyaki for a complete meal that stays easy on the pocket. 

Nearby, Thaiwadee brings authentic Thai flavors close to home. Enjoy savory Pad Thai, rich Tom Yum Goong, refreshing Thai Milk Tea or Tamarind Iced Tea, and their famous creamy Mango Sticky Rice. It feels like a quick trip abroad without the travel costs.

SM Center Sangandaan: Viral Snacks Worth Trying 

If you prefer snacks over full meals, these spots are for you.

ChizMozza serves all things cheesy. Pick from Mozzarella Sticks, Mozzarella Bites, 3-Cheese Popsicle, 2-Cheese Monster, or the unique Donut Mozza available in plain and ube flavors. Great for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself. 

For K-food lovers, Eat Pizza offers Korean-style solo rectangular pizzas. Made with quality dough, premium mozzarella, and toppings like Pepperoni and Hot & Spicy Bulgogi, these are perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying and fast.

From classic Filipino comfort food to Asian favorites, viral snacks, and more, these SM malls have plenty of choices to match your taste and budget this July.

Gather your friends, plan your next food crawl, and discover your new go-to meal at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Good food tastes even better when shared and enjoyed without worry.

Krispy Kreme Philippines Reimagines Beloved Cakes as Doughnuts in All-New Signature Dessert Collection

Krispy Kreme Philippines transforms some of the country’s most cherished cake flavors into a fresh, exciting treat with the launch of its all-new Signature Dessert Collection. Drawing inspiration from iconic desserts, this limited-time offering turns familiar favorites into one-of-a-kind doughnuts crafted to satisfy every sweet craving.

Available from July 1 to August 31, 2026, across all Krispy Kreme stores nationwide, the collection features three cake-inspired creations that blend well-loved flavors with the brand’s signature touch: rich chocolate and cherry, tropical mango and cashew, plus the comforting combination of banana and caramel.

Three Classic Cakes, Reimagined as Doughnuts

Black Forest

A timeless favorite reborn. A rich chocolate cake doughnut topped with smooth kreme, tangy sour cherries, dark chocolate shavings, and a plump cherry on top.

Mango Cashew Torte

Tropical delight in every bite. A soft vanilla cake doughnut finished with creamy mango icing, crunchy cashew nougatine, and sweet dried mango pieces.

Banoffee

The ultimate comfort dessert. A light vanilla cake doughnut layered with fresh banana, banana kreme, and caramel, drizzled with dark chocolate, then topped with crispy banana chips and rich chocolate chunks.

“Filipinos have always held desserts close to heart—they bring back fond memories and mark our most special celebrations,” said Anna Rico, Brand and Retail Marketing Manager of Krispy Kreme Philippines.

“With the Signature Dessert Collection, we wanted to give our favorite cake flavors a new home in Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Each piece is carefully crafted to capture the true character of these well-loved desserts while delivering something fresh and delightful for everyone to enjoy. As part of our #20OGYears celebration in the Philippines, this collection reflects our commitment to creating products that bring joy through familiar tastes and shared moments.”

#SpotYourHappy with the new Signature Dessert Collection

Available nationwide until August 31, 2026, for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery:

🖱 Order online: https://now.krispykreme.com.ph

☎ Metro Manila Hotline: 888-79000

🛵 Also on GrabFood, FoodPanda, Pick.A.Roo, OrderMo, and Groover

Terms and conditions apply.

#KrispyKremePH #20OGYears #SignatureDessertCollection