MAXED OUT! BTS and ARMY Celebrate Big at SM Malls

Excitement was off the charts as ARMYs gathered in full force across SM malls to celebrate one of the year’s most anticipated K-pop comebacks.

At SM City Valenzuela, a lively listening party filled the air with energy as fans came together to enjoy BTS’ music. With synchronized chants and spontaneous sing-alongs, every track became a shared experience – proving that BTS celebrations are best enjoyed with fellow ARMYs.

Over at SM City Grand Central, the fun continued with a vibrant fan meet. ARMYs bonded over their love for the group through activities, games, and unforgettable moments. It was more than just an event; it was a heartfelt gathering of a community that spans the globe.

This buzz builds toward the BTS WORLD TOUR Arirang, which fans can watch on the big screen at SM Cinema locations in SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela on April 11, 12, and 18.

Look out for more events at your favorite SM malls – Grand Central, Valenzuela, and Sangandaan – the home of everyday celebrations. Visit and gala to the max!

Converge Completes National Digital Infrastructure, Positioning Philippines as Key Hub in Global Digital Economy

From left : Converge President and Co-Founder Grace Uy, Pampanga Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, First Lady of the Republic of the Philippines Louise Araneta - Marcos , Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy, DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda, and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II

Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has completed its National Digital Infrastructure—a fully integrated, future-ready architecture designed to deliver cutting-edge technologies across all sectors. The milestone cements the Philippines’ standing as a vital node in the global digital ecosystem.

The announcement was made Friday during the inauguration of the Converge Angeles Data Center, a scalable, AI-ready facility built to meet surging demand for content and cloud services. The center will house Converge Cloud, the company’s sovereign cloud infrastructure.

“Amid the ongoing digital revolution, our capabilities must keep pace with emerging technologies,” said Uy. “We have focused on building world-class, future-ready facilities to become the country’s leading provider of digital services. With this advanced infrastructure, Converge is now prepared to power the digital journeys of every Filipino and leverage the latest innovations to drive the nation forward.”

The launch was supported by key government leaders, including First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda, Congresswoman Florabel Yatco, Pampanga Governor Lilia G. Pineda, Vice Governor Dennis Pineda, and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin II.

A Full-Stack National Digital Infrastructure

Together with its affiliates, Converge’s National Digital Infrastructure encompasses the group’s complete digital architecture, including:

- A nationwide pure fiber footprint of nearly 900,000 kilometers, complemented by a growing low-earth orbit satellite network

- International subsea cable systems: Bifrost Cable System, Southeast Asia-Hainan-Hong Kong Express Cable System (SEA-H2X), and the existing C2C-EAC cable system

- New Davao International Cable Landing Station and Converge La Union Cable Landing Station

- Data center facilities: Caloocan Data Center, Angeles Data Center, plus existing Reliance Data Center and Clark Data Center

With these enhanced capabilities, Converge is positioned to scale its services and meet the rapidly growing digital needs of residential, enterprise, and public sector customers. The group expects significant growth in its large enterprise and public sector units through the introduction of expanded cloud solutions and managed services.

This growth trajectory will be strengthened by the upcoming integration of the transpacific Bifrost and intra-Asia SEA-H2X cable systems. The 20,000-kilometer Bifrost has landing stations in Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Guam, and the United States, with an upgraded capacity of more than 260 Tbps. The SEA-H2X system lands in Hong Kong SAR (China), Hainan (China), the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore, with an initial design capacity of 160 Tbps. Both submarine networks—with landing stations in Davao and La Union owned and operated by Converge—are ready for service, providing massive capacity and direct access to key international markets to attract hyperscalers and global over-the-top (OTT) players.

Underpinning all these services is Converge’s extensive, fully redundant nationwide fiber backbone—one of the youngest and most advanced in the country—which connects all assets and enables seamless, reliable operations.

“You cannot move into AI, cloud, or advanced tech solutions without a strong digital backbone in place,” Uy said. “This is the complete stack digital infrastructure we have built—designed for full coverage, reliability, and scale.”

Collectively, this architecture empowers Converge to lead the transition to a tech-enabled future, propelling the Philippines as a significant hub in the global digital economy. 

From left : Converge President and Co-Founder Grace Uy, Pampanga Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, First Lady of the Republic of the Philippines Louise Araneta - Marcos , Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy, DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda, and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II

A Network of State-of-the-Art Data Centers

To support its expanding operations, Converge has grown its data center footprint with two new facilities: the Caloocan Data Center and the newly inaugurated Angeles Data Center.

The Angeles Data Center has completed construction and is now ready to host critical infrastructure for Converge and enterprise clients. The world-class facility features built-in redundancy for resilient operations, is configured to meet the country’s data residency requirements, and can handle high-performance computing workloads—particularly for AI and machine learning.

With an initial capacity of 12MW that is easily scalable, the Pampanga-based data center will soon be powered by renewable energy, matching Converge’s existing facilities in Clark and Pasig.

The Converge Cloud

Sovereign cloud platforms are a hallmark of advanced digital economies, prioritizing in-country storage and control of critical data for both government and private sectors. In the Philippines—supported by the DICT’s 2020 “Cloud First” policy and amid rising costs of maintaining on-premise equipment—Converge Cloud offers a strong solution, especially for government agencies managing sensitive citizen data.

The platform gives organizations, particularly the government, full ownership and authority over their data through a secure alternative that combines global technology with local safeguards. As a secure, locally hosted service, it eliminates the need for clients to make costly hardware investments or manage the significant power requirements for operating and cooling such infrastructure. Beyond government, the technology is expected to deliver substantial benefits to industries including finance and healthcare.

Lenten Made Easy and Delicious: Fresh, Meatless Finds at SM Hypermarket Baliwag

As Lent draws near, countless Filipino families embrace modest, meatless dining traditions centered on vegetables, fish, and plant-based dishes the whole household can enjoy. At SM Hypermarket Baliwag, fresh, wholesome options make it easy to honor these customs without feeling deprived.

The produce section is well-stocked with everything from leafy greens like kangkong and pechay to kitchen staples such as eggplant and squash—perfect for whipping up beloved classic Lenten recipes. Meanwhile, the seafood aisle offers abundant choices: fish, shrimp, and shellfish ideal for grilling, steaming, stewing, or any preparation the family prefers. 

Looking to try something new? The store now carries an expanded selection of plant-based products. Tofu and meat alternatives like vegetable dumplings are readily available, turning meatless meals from a sacrifice into a delightful experience. 

All in all, SM Hypermarket Baliwag helps families create Lenten meals that are meaningful, nourishing, and budget-friendly.

LG PuriCare AeroMini: Mighty Air Purification That Fits Any Space

LG Electronics is expanding its air care lineup with the new LG PuriCare™ AeroMini – a compact purifier that packs powerful performance into a space-efficient design perfect for modern homes like bedrooms, children’s rooms, and studio apartments.

Slim Design That Blends In 

The AeroMini’s sleek form is 37 percent smaller in footprint and 30 percent shorter than the LG PuriCare 360˚ Hit, making it easy to place on floors, tabletops, or shelves without cluttering spaces. A hidden filter cover at the base keeps its look clean and cohesive with any interior style.

360-Degree Clean Air, Whisper-Quiet Operation 

Despite its size, the AeroMini delivers the trusted performance of the PuriCare brand. Its 360-degree airflow draws in air from all directions, while a three-layer H Filter removes 99.999 percent of ultra-fine dust particles as small as 0.01 micrometers – plus airborne bacteria, viruses, and mold. In Sleep Mode, it runs as quietly as 26dB, ensuring undisturbed rest or work.

Smart Controls and Personal Style

Users can manage functions and monitor air quality remotely via the LG ThinQ™ app, or operate essential features directly on the device. A four-color indicator shows real-time air status, and the all-in-one filter allows for quick, easy replacements. The modular design also supports optional accessories like a leather carry handle or flower holder, letting users customize the purifier to match their lifestyle. 

“Our PuriCare AeroMini brings the powerful performance customers trust from LG, with a flexible design tailored to how people live now,” said James Lee, president of LG ES Company. “We’ll keep growing our air care portfolio to deliver real value for everyday life.”

The LG PuriCare AeroMini will launch in Southeast Asia in the first half of the year, starting with Vietnam.

Meaningful Holy Week Meals: Flavorful Options At Your Most Loved SM Malls

The Lenten season brings a time of reflection and mindfulness, while also offering opportunities for meaningful meals shared with family and friends. Whether observing meat abstinence or simply seeking fresh, satisfying fare, flavor need not be compromised during Holy Week. SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela present a curated selection of meat-free dishes—from Korean-glazed seafood to Filipino classics and Japanese comfort food—that balance comfort and taste.

At these beloved SM malls, the Lenten table is far from ordinary. Instead, it delivers a sensory experience featuring ocean-fresh flavors, comforting aromas, and soulful dishes crafted for meaningful moments.

At SM Center Sangandaan, the aroma of freshly grilled seafood welcomes guests in search of simple yet gratifying meals. Ribshack serves tender grilled fish with subtle char and smoky notes, ideal for sharing over conversation. Nearby, Bonchon offers vibrant Korean-inspired seafood options, including crisp fillets coated in savory glaze and hearty bowls of shrimp and squid that feel both festive and fulfilling.

At SM City Grand Central, Mangan celebrates Filipino culinary heritage with bold, golden-crisp tuna creations. For those seeking a more contemplative dining experience, Nono’s provides a serene setting with buttery miso-glazed salmon paired with nutty red rice—meant to be savored slowly, in harmony with the season’s reflective pace.

At SM City Valenzuela, familiar flavors take precedence in dishes that evoke traditional family gatherings. Kuya J serves comforting seafood favorites like grilled mussels, tangy sinigang na bangus, and crispy bites that bring a sense of home to the table. Kenny Rogers Roasters complements the spread with fire-grilled salmon drizzled in lemon butter, accompanied by warm, wholesome sides for a complete meal. 

From Asian-inspired seafood to heritage Filipino dishes and comforting classics, SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela offer thoughtful options for the Holy Week table. In a season defined by reflection and gratitude, every shared meal becomes a chance to pause, reconnect, and appreciate life’s simple blessings.

Sining Filipina 2026: Catalyzing Women’s Leadership Through the Arts in the Philippines

In a nation where creativity flows as deeply as its rivers and resilience is woven into every community, Filipino women have long been the heart of culture—but rarely its public face. The Philippines is home to incredible artistic talent—but for far too long, Filipinas have been framed more as muses than as masters of their craft. They’ve inspired countless works of art, yet their own voices, visions, and leadership in the creative space have often been sidelined. Today, initiatives like the Sining Filipina national art competition are rewriting that story. Now in its third year, the 2026 edition is driving meaningful change under the powerful theme "Babae Para sa Bayan: Women Leading Change from Home to Nation." 

Amplifying Diverse Voices Across the Archipelago 

 

This year’s competition drew over 250 entries from every corner of the country, from Aparri in the northernmost tip of Luzon to Jolo in the southern reaches of Mindanao. Participants represented a wide spectrum of Filipino women: seasoned professional artists who have dedicated decades to their craft, emerging creatives just starting to share their work with the world, homemakers who turn everyday moments into art, entrepreneurs who blend creativity with business, and even women in correctional facilities—all of whom were given a vital platform to share their unique perspectives on leadership, community, and nation-building.

After careful review by a panel of respected art curators and cultural leaders, 55 artists were named semi-finalists, with 10 emerging as powerful ambassadors of contemporary Filipina expression. The top three winners represent the breadth and depth of talent across the Philippines: 

1st Place: "Helping Hands" by Marte Goyon (Manila) IN PHOTO (L-R) Ronald Ventura, Judge; Atty. Federico Tancongco, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, BDO; Manny Garibay, Judge; Marte Goyon; Elizabeth Sy, President and Chairperson, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Joaquin San Agustin, Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

2nd Place: "Liwanag ni Maria" by Mary Joy Go (Bulacan) IN PHOTO (L-R): Atty. Federico Tancongco, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, BDO; Ronald Ventura, Judge; Mary Joy Go; Elizabeth Sy, President and Chairperson, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Joaquin San Agustin, Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

 3rd Place: "From Home Outward" by Gerlynnia Aprille Gargo (Cebu) IN PHOTO (L-R): Atty. Federico Tancongco, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, BDO; Joanne Z. Zapanta, President, Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Foundation Inc. (ZCME); Gerlynnia Gargo; Ms. Angela Hsu, Judge; Joaquin San Agustin, Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

Special Award: 1 participant from the Women's Correctional Institution

Their works—spanning painting, sculpture, mixed media, and digital art—showcase not just exceptional creative skill, but the depth of insight and vision that women bring to shaping our society. From pieces that honor traditional heritage to those that challenge modern social norms, each artwork tells a story of strength, hope, and progress. 

Art as a Force for Empowerment

Sining Filipina is more than just a competition—it’s a strategic vehicle for advancing women’s rights and opportunities across the Philippines. Proceeds from artwork sales support programs run by the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Foundation Inc. (ZCME), a proud member of ZONTA International. These initiatives focus on empowering Filipino women through multiple avenues: providing scholarships for young women pursuing higher education, offering skills training to help women enter the workforce or start their own businesses, and advocating for policies that protect women from discrimination and violence.

By connecting art with advocacy, the movement ensures that every brushstroke, every sculpted form, and every creative concept contributes to building a more just and equitable nation. For many participating artists, especially those from marginalized communities, the competition is not only a chance to showcase their work but also to gain economic independence and become agents of change in their own neighborhoods. 

The success of Sining Filipina 2026 is made possible through a strong and purposeful partnership between BDO Unibank, SM Supermalls, and ZCME. This cross-sector collaboration demonstrates how businesses and nonprofits can work together to amplify social impact, turning creativity into a tool for inclusive growth. BDO Unibank provides financial and logistical support to ensure the competition is accessible to women across all regions, while SM Supermalls offers prime space for the exhibit, making the art available to thousands of visitors daily. ZCME brings decades of experience in women’s empowerment, ensuring that the initiative’s goals are rooted in meaningful action.

Together, these partners are proving that when private enterprise and civil society align around a shared vision, they can create lasting change that benefits not just individual women, but entire communities.

The winning pieces and selected semi-finalist works are on display in a special exhibit at the L2 Atrium at The Podium until March 19. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a business leader looking to support social causes, or simply someone who wants to stand with Filipino women, visiting the exhibit gives you the chance to appreciate powerful art while contributing to a meaningful mission. Representatives from ZCME are on-site daily to answer questions about the programs supported by the initiative and assist with artwork purchases. 

As we continue building a more equitable Philippines, initiatives like Sining Filipina remind us that creativity and leadership go hand in hand. When we elevate women’s voices in the arts, we pave the way for them to lead in every sphere of life—from their homes and communities to the highest levels of national development. 

Converge Accelerates Network Expansion to Roll Out Nearly 1 Million Ports in 2026

Leading Philippine fixed broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. will deploy nearly one million additional ports this year, aiming to bring world-class internet connectivity to more Filipinos across the country—with a particular focus on the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

The company has allocated up to P23 billion in capital expenditures for 2026, with most funds dedicated to strengthening and expanding its extensive network. This represents a roughly 30 percent increase from its total capex of P17.7 billion in 2025.

Each year, Converge designates a significant portion of its capital expenditure to "network hardening," including the installation of redundancy routes, while continuing to expand into new cities and municipalities. To rehabilitate infrastructure and prepare for wholesale demand, the company is speeding up its network rollout.

"We are investing heavily in our network expansion as we push harder for visibility in Visayas and Mindanao," said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy. "At the same time, we are ramping up our Enterprise business amid increasing demand for quality connectivity and innovative solutions from enterprises of all sizes."

Key focus regions include Western Visayas and Northern Mindanao, where more than 100,000 ports will be ready for service this year. Newly rolled-out ports will serve areas such as Capiz, Samar, Bukidnon, Davao de Oro, and Sultan Kudarat.

With nearly three million residential subscribers in 2025, Converge achieved a port utilization rate of 37 percent. As of the end of 2025, the company had 9.2 million ports nationwide, translating to 66 percent of homes passed across the Philippines.

"We expect to further increase our port utilization even as we accelerate our port rollout, given the continued strong demand for our flagship FiberX plans, steady rise in our low-cost postpaid BIDA offering, and vigorous take-up of our prepaid internet service Surf2Sawa (S2S)," Uy added.

Converge was recognized by Ookla as the Philippines’ Best Fixed Network, Fastest Fixed Network, and provider of the Best Video Experience for the third and fourth quarters of 2025. In December 2025, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) proclaimed Converge as the national broadband leader, with the best average download speed, upload speed, and latency among major players.

The fiber internet leader closed out 2025 with 10.2 percent revenue growth to P44.8 billion, while net income rose by 9.6 percent to P11.9 billion.