Maximize the Final Weeks of Summer: Smart Picks & Exclusive GCash Deals

Summer may be drawing to a close, but there is still plenty of time to enjoy fun moments with your barkada. Whether you are finally booking that long-awaited group staycation, committing to your fitness goals, or planning a home potluck, the best way to make the most of the season is to spend wisely 

One simple way to do this is by using GCash to access special discounts and privileges. You can easily tick items off your summer bucket list while getting great value from every purchase! If you need a little push to turn your plans into action, here are some ideas to help you spend smarter and gather your friends for one last memorable summer stretch.

Host One Final Barkada Feast Before Everyone Gets Busy

What truly makes summer unforgettable is the company you keep — and sharing a meal is one of the best ways to enjoy time with your favorite people. Why not organize one last food trip, snack run, or gathering before the season ends?

- Jamba Juice: Enjoy a limited-time summer treat perfect for sharing. Buy two 12oz smoothies for only ₱245 when paying via GCash — that is a savings of up to ₱145 on selected flavors.

- Angel’s Pizza: Get a free serving of Saba Con Yelo with every single-receipt purchase of at least ₱800, valid for dine-in and takeout orders.

- Tien Ma’s: Receive a complimentary dessert when you spend a minimum of ₱500 — because no shared meal is complete without a sweet finish.

Stock Up on Summer Essentials While Sales Last

Before the season wraps up, it is the ideal time to buy any items you still need. Whether it is new sandals, travel organizers, or last-minute beauty products, take advantage of ongoing promotions. Here is what you can save on:

- Lazada: Get an instant ₱100 off when you check out using GCash during these sale periods: May 4–7 and June 5–8. A minimum spend of ₱2,500 is required.

- TikTok Shop: Enjoy an extra ₱50 discount on purchases worth ₱1,500 or more when you select GCash as your payment method, available from May 18–24.

Turn Fitness Goals Into Group Activities

Summer is the perfect season to stay active. If you have been trying to get your friends to join you for weekend runs or fitness classes, these offers will make your invitation even more appealing.

- Nike: Upgrade your workout gear and get 10% off when you spend at least ₱12,000 and pay via GCash in-store.

- Bench: Score ₱150 off everyday activewear and basics with a minimum purchase of ₱2,000.

- Power Mac Center: Spend ₱30,000 or more (with at least ₱10,000 paid through GCash) and receive a free, limited-edition PMC x Laut Wrist Strap with Puffer Pouch.

- The Loop: Purchase items worth ₱20,000 or more (with at least ₱10,000 paid via GCash) and get a free pair of Belkin earphones.

Plan a Quick City Getaway

You do not need to travel far for a great summer trip. Sometimes, a simple staycation within the city is all you need to feel refreshed and relaxed. 

- Klook: Enjoy 10% off hotel bookings when you spend a minimum of ₱8,000 and pay using GCash.

- Trip.com: New users can get up to ₱400 off eligible bookings with a minimum spend of ₱5,000 when paying via GCash.

These savings make group planning much easier, since everyone gets to enjoy the experience while spending less!

Make Summer Spending Easier With GCash

Summer always seems to fly by faster than we expect, but you still have time to create wonderful memories with your barkada. With these exclusive deals, every plan you make becomes even more worthwhile. Download the GCash app today, and make the most of every remaining day of the season!

First Ingredient: A Guide to Children’s Milk

Consumers who look beyond bright logos and bold claim marks to read the fine print on product labels are already ahead when it comes to nutritional literacy. This habit reflects awareness, understanding, and a deeply held belief: making an informed choice matters far more than simply making a purchase.

This principle is especially meaningful for mothers. A discerning parent can cut through marketing clutter to focus on what truly counts. The most important rule every Filipino mother should remember to identify quality is simple—always check the ingredient list.

The “First Ingredient” Rule: Your Ultimate Benchmark

The key to decoding milk labels lies in understanding the order of ingredients. Under regulations set by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA), all milk products must list ingredients in descending order by weight.

This means the very first item on the list is not just another ingredient—it forms the nutritional foundation of the entire formula. If the list begins with terms like milk solids, skimmed milk powder, or hydrolyzed protein, the product has typically gone through multiple stages of high-heat processing. While common in the industry, this method may result in the loss of certain nutrients during manufacturing.

In contrast, when Fresh Milk is listed as the primary ingredient, it means the product uses a single-step processing method. This approach minimizes nutrient breakdown, preserves the natural structure of proteins, and retains more active nutrients—nutrients that are often lost when cow’s milk is heated repeatedly, stored, and rehydrated later to create formula powder.

The Advantage of Fresh Milk Formula

FEIHE, the dairy company behind AceKid Activegro, prioritizes Fresh Milk as its core ingredient. The milk follows a streamlined “freshness pathway”: it goes directly from milking to powder form in just two hours. This rapid process locks in natural nutrients right at the source.

AceKid Activegro also contains no added sucrose or maltodextrin, delivering goodness that comes naturally from the milk itself.

When choosing milk powder for your child, keep these three steps in mind:

1. Look past the packaging and read the full label.

2. Check the ingredient list carefully.

3. Make sure Fresh Milk is listed as the very first ingredient. 

By focusing on what comes first on the ingredient list, Filipino mothers can move past marketing noise and choose a milk formula that is genuinely best suited for their children.

ASC Ref No. F0056N042126A

AceKid Activegro is intended for children aged 3 years and above. It should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Your Ultimate Summer Playground: SM Bulacan Malls' "Gala To The Max" Fun

Get in the game at SM City Marilao's 'Summer Play' hangout spots for a total Gala To The Max experience.

SM Supermalls is turning up the heat this summer, transforming SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan into vibrant, activity-filled destinations! Get ready for engaging activities, eye-catching installations, and refreshing comfort, all designed for your ultimate "Gala To The Max" getaway.

Introducing "Summer Play," the SM Bulacan malls invite shoppers to step into dynamic, sports-themed spaces that spark movement and creativity. These zones are perfect for discovering new experiences, unwinding, and capturing memorable moments with loved ones.

Indoor fun hits different this summer at SM Center Pulilan.

An unforgettable summer escape awaits at SM City Baliwag.

"Summer Play" goes beyond mere attraction; it's crafted to foster family bonding and provide spontaneous hangout spots for friends. It truly demonstrates how even a short mall visit can evolve into an extraordinary "Gala To The Max" adventure.  

SM City Marilao levels up the season with sports-themed spaces made for play.

SM City Baliwag brings the ultimate Gala To The Max energy this summer with vibrant installations for everyone.

Make summer more fun with squad and Gala To The Max at SM Center Pulilan.

Whether you're looking for sun-drenched photo opportunities outside or cool, refreshing play areas indoors, SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan offer the best of both worlds.

With their engaging environments and lively atmosphere, SM Bulacan malls continue to be the premier destination for fun, connection, and unforgettable "Gala To The Max" experiences.

Converge Strengthens Community Footprint with New Customer Hubs in Bohol, Palawan

Boosts connectivity and customer support in key island markets 

IN PHOTO (From left): Converge OIC and Head of Consumer Business Group JP Aguilar, J Fiber Internet Services Corp. CEO Jonathan Uy, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, Bohol 1st District Rep. John Gesneel Yap and Converge AVP and Regional General Manager for Visayas and Mindanao Demetrio Montes

Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is accelerating the nationwide expansion of its customer service footprint with the opening of new business centers in Bohol and Palawan. This initiative further reinforces its commitment to deepen engagement in local communities and improve customer access to digital services. 

Upgraded Hub to Serve Over 100,000 in Bohol

In partnership with managed services provider J Fiber Internet Services, Converge has inaugurated its upgraded business center at Lite Port Center in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. This enhanced customer hub is expected to serve over 100,000 residents in the city and nearby towns, as well as the province’s growing business sector.

“The new, bigger, and better business center in Tagbilaran reflects Converge’s continued momentum,” said John Paul Aguilar, SVP and Officer-in-Charge of the Consumer Business Group. “Guided by our founders’ vision to leave no one behind, we are strengthening our local presence to better understand customer needs and ensure reliable connectivity reaches every home.”

The launch event was attended by J Fiber CEO Jonathan Uy, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, and Bohol First District Rep. John Gesnel Yap.

J Fiber CEO Jonathan Uy expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We want to connect the whole of Bohol with Converge because this province has so much beauty to show the world. We are going to wire the entire province, as reliable connectivity is essential to support and grow industries such as BPO and tourism. In turn, this can help open more opportunities for Boholanos. And for us at J Fiber, we will strive to give the level of customer service that Boholanos deserve. This is just the start.”

Expanding Reach in Northern Palawan

Converge has also strengthened its presence in Palawan with a newly opened business center in the municipality of Roxas, located along Sandoval Avenue. 

Converge has recently launched a customer service hub in Roxas, Palawan through its managed service provider Optimus Fiber Solutions Inc. IN PHOTO (from left): Converge AVP & Head of National SME Edgard Allan Susano, Optimus Fiber Solutions Inc. CEO Eladio Quizon, Municipality of Roxas Mayor Pedy B. Sabando, Converge SVP and Head of Enablement Bryan Christopher King Kay, and Converge Regional Commercial Manager Arlan Rea

Through managed services provider Optimus Fiber Solutions Inc., the company is expanding its reach in northern Palawan, a region known for its tourism potential and home to approximately 70,000 residents.

Pedy B. Sabando, Municipal Mayor of Roxas, welcomed the initiative, citing the importance of enhanced digital infrastructure in strengthening the municipality’s economic and service capabilities.

Strengthening Customer Access Nationwide

Converge business centers serve as critical customer touchpoints, providing essential services such as bill payments, technical support, plan upgrades, and new service applications. These hubs also support prospective subscribers through consultations and onboarding.

These latest openings build on the company’s aggressive nationwide rollout strategy, which saw at least 17 new business centers launched in 2025 alone. This expansion particularly targets emerging and high-growth areas where on-ground support is essential. 

Converge business centers are vital touchpoints for customer services, offering subscribers different transactions, including bills payment, technical issues reporting, plan upgrades, and repair requests, among others. 

Sustained Industry Leadership

Converge continues to lead the Philippine broadband market, retaining its position as the country’s fastest and best internet provider for the second half of 2025, based on independent analysis by Ookla. The company ranked highest across key metrics, including speed, reliability, and video experience.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) also recognized Converge as the country’s leading broadband provider, citing its superior average speeds, low latency, and consistent network performance as of December 2025.

6 Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day at SM Supermalls in the East

1. Strike a Pose at the All for Moms Photo Spots

Start your day by capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Every mall features a specially designed Mother’s Day Floral Installation at the main atrium. Adorned with vibrant blooms, these charming spots serve as the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits. 

2. Game On: Pickleball at SM City East Ortigas

If your mom loves staying active, skip the usual brunch and head to the newly opened Pink Paddle Club at the SM Active Hub in SM City East Ortigas. Launched just this April, it’s the trendiest way to bond and have fun together. Book a court easily through the SM Malls Online app, and enjoy a high-energy morning before exploring the rest of the mall.

3. Enjoy a Heartwarming Family Feast

Nothing brings the family closer than a shared meal. 

- SM City Taytay: Visit La Casetta de Britt and take advantage of exclusive Mom’s Day food bundles and offers.

- SM City East Ortigas: Treat her to a premium steak meal at Yappari, or gather the whole group at Du Hsiao Yueh — they have a special Family Feast set curated perfectly for parties of 5 to 6 people.

- SM Center Angono: For a cozy and sweet coffee date, stop by Zullo and pick out delightful pastries and desserts made just for her.

4. Movie Date with a Stylish Twist

Take Mom to SM Cinema for a relaxing afternoon out. This year, make the moment extra special with The Devil Wears Prada 2 Limited Edition Snack Combo, available for only ₱250. It comes with a collectible popcorn bucket — a lovely keepsake perfect for any mom who loves movies and style.

5. Show Your Gratitude with a Thoughtful Gift 

Give her the gift of ease and convenience. Surprise her with a brand-new iPhone from Power Mac Center. More than just a present, it’s a tool that simplifies her daily routine and lets her capture every beautiful moment and memory with the family in stunning photos and videos.

6. Grab the Sweetest Treat to Cap the Day

End your celebration on a delicious note. Choose between Caramia’s new Caramella Bella Cake or the Bouquet Vanilla Cream Cake from Max’s Restaurant. Beautifully crafted to look like fresh floral bouquets, these cakes double as a stunning centerpiece — ideal for one last family photo before heading home.

Whatever you have planned, make this year’s celebration truly mom-umental. Give her a fully memorable, maxed-out Mother’s Day experience — only at your favorite SM Supermalls in the East.

For Every Kind of Mom: Thoughtful Mother’s Day Finds at SM

Mother’s Day is more than just a yearly tradition; it is a heartfelt tribute to the woman who shaped our lives with quiet strength, endless patience, and unconditional love. Whether she is the family’s style icon, a wellness enthusiast, a multitasking master, or someone who simply enjoys life’s little comforts, SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela have curated a selection of gifts that turn appreciation into something tangible and meaningful.

This year, skip the ordinary and choose presents that truly reflect who she is. From fashion-forward accessories to self-care essentials, every item is thoughtfully chosen to make her feel seen, celebrated, and deeply loved.

FOR THE NATURALLY CHIC MOM

Solari Sling by Straightforward

Effortless yet refined, the Solari Sling is perfect for the mom whose style is understated but always polished. Featuring a sleek design with Drytech quilted puff accents, it blends function and elegance in one versatile piece. It transitions seamlessly from casual brunches to important meetings, just like she does.

Available at: Straightforward in SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela.

FOR THE COMFORT-FIRST STYLE QUEEN

Heeled Sandals by ALDO

She is always on the move yet never compromises on style. ALDO’s Pillow Walk heeled sandals are designed for moms who need both comfort and elegance in every step. With moulded foam and padded insoles, they provide lasting ease even during the busiest days.

Available at: ALDO in SM City Grand Central.

FOR THE GLAM-ON-THE-GO MOM 

Sunglasses from KKV

For the mom who carries herself with effortless confidence, a pair of stylish sunglasses from KKV is the perfect finishing touch. Modern, sleek, and versatile, they add instant polish to any outfit while offering reliable sun protection.

Available at: KKV in SM Center Sangandaan.

FOR THE GLOW-GETTER MOM 

Y.O.U Beauty Radiance Glow Set from Watsons

Self-care is part of her daily rhythm, and this skincare set makes it even more rewarding. The Y.O.U Beauty Radiance Glow Set is designed to hydrate, soothe, and enhance her natural glow, turning simple routines into moments of relaxation and care. 

For added protection, complete her routine with sun care essentials from Nature Republic in SM City Grand Central.

Available at: Watsons and Nature Republic in SM City Grand Central.

FOR THE TIMELESS BEAUTY

Dainty Earrings from Unisilver

Simple, elegant, and meaningful, dainty earrings from Unisilver capture the quiet grace of motherhood. These delicate pieces add a soft sparkle to her everyday look, whether she is attending mass, meeting friends, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon.

Available at: Unisilver in SM Center Sangandaan.

This Mother’s Day, go beyond routine gifts and choose something that truly reflects her spirit. At SM Center Sangandaan, SM City Grand Central, and SM City Valenzuela, every purchase becomes a small but meaningful expression of love.

Krispy Kreme Philippines Brings Bikini Bottom to Life with New SpongeBob Doughnut Collection

SpongeBob SquarePants fans, get ready to dive into a sea of sweetness! 

In celebration of Krispy Kreme Philippines’ 20th anniversary, the iconic doughnut brand is bringing the beloved residents of Bikini Bottom straight to your taste buds with the launch of their NEW SpongeBob Doughnut Collection! 

Fans can now enjoy six playful creations inspired by SpongeBob and his underwater world: 

- 🧽 SpongeBob SquarePants Doughnut – A beignet-style doughnut with dark chocolate filling, dipped in yellow chocolate coating, and decorated with candy toppers, jelly belly, kreme, and dark chocolate, plus red and green chocolate accents. 

- ⭐ Patrick Star Doughnut – A star-shaped doughnut with strawberry filling, dipped in pink-coral chocolate coating, and decorated with dark chocolate, candy toppers, and olive green and light purple chocolate details.

- 🐙 Squidward Tentacles Doughnut – A shell-shaped doughnut with smooth custard filling, dipped in soft teal chocolate coating, and finished with candy toppers. 

- 🐌 Gary the Snail Doughnut – A shell-shaped doughnut with creamy vanilla filling, dipped in pink-coral chocolate coating, and decorated with candy toppers and colorful chocolates.

- 🍔 Krabby Patty Doughnut – A glazed shell doughnut sliced in half, filled with rich brownie batter, topped with green, yellow, and red chocolate accents, and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

- 🍍 Pineapple House Doughnut – A shell-shaped doughnut with delicious Pineapple Kreme filling, dipped in tangerine coconut glaze, and decorated with candy toppers and warm brown chocolate.

“We’re thrilled to launch these SpongeBob doughnuts as part of our 20th anniversary celebration,” said Ysabel Cruz, Senior Marketing Manager at Krispy Kreme Philippines. “They’re not just doughnuts—they’re a joyful treat for both longtime fans of SpongeBob SquarePants and our Krispy Kreme OGs. It’s a fun way to celebrate two decades of sweetness in the Philippines.”

#SpotYourHappy with the NEW SpongeBob Doughnuts available from April 13 to June 7, 2026. 

- Price: Starting at ₱80 per piece.

- Full Collection: Get the complete set in a limited-edition SpongeBob-themed box for ₱480 (box of 6).

Available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery via:

🖱 Website: https://now.krispykreme.com.ph

☎️ Metro Manila Hotline: 888-79000

🛵 Apps: GrabFood, FoodPanda, Pick.A.Roo, OrderMo, and Groover

*Terms and conditions apply.