Rex Education Celebrates Atty. Hector M. De Leon Jr., Atty. Nilo T. Divina, and Atty. Tranquil A. Salvador as Asia Business Law Journal’s Philippines Top Lawyers 2025 A-List

Congratulations, Atty. Hector M. De Leon Jr., Atty. Nilo T. Divina, and Atty. Tranquil A. Salvador—whose work continues to shape the future of Philippine law.

Rex Education proudly congratulates three of its distinguished authors—Atty. Hector M. De Leon Jr., Managing Partner of SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan; Atty. Nilo T. Divina, Managing Partner of Divina Law, and Atty. Tranquil A. Salvador, Partner at Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & De Los Angeles—for their recognition in the Asia Business Law Journal’s Philippines Top Lawyers 2025 A-List.

According to Asia Business Law Journal, A-List lawyers are “lawyers who are currently the star performers of the Philippines’ legal profession; the lawyers who are personally undertaking the country’s top legal work, crafting the most cutting-edge legal solutions to complex problems, and setting the highest standards in terms of quality, innovation and the ability to handle complex matters.”

The journal also defines Legal Icons as “lawyers who are the luminaries of the Philippines’ legal profession; the titans who command the respect of clients and juniors alike; the mentors who lead the Philippines’ most admired law firms and/or legal teams, and who are the country’s most prolific rainmakers.” Among those honored with this distinction are Atty. Hector M. De Leon Jr. and Atty. Nilo T. Divina, who, aside from being part of the prestigious list, are also recognized as Icons.

Champions of Legal Practice and Education

Atty. Hector M. De Leon Jr. is celebrated nationwide for his dual expertise as a leading practitioner and one of the country’s most prolific and trusted legal authors. His textbooks on Obligations and Contracts, Business Law, and Commercial Law remain indispensable in business programs and law schools. His works on the Philippine Constitution, Criminal Law, and related subjects continue to shape the legal literacy of countless law students and professionals.

Atty. Nilo T. Divina is equally admired as a premier corporate and litigation strategist and the transformative leader of Divina Law. His authoritative texts on Commercial and Corporation Law are essential references for law students, bar reviewees, and practitioners seeking clarity on complex commercial issues.

Atty. Tranquil A. Salvador, a recognized leader in litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR), is also an esteemed law professor and author whose works advance the study of Remedial Law. Beyond his practice areas—which include aviation, insurance, mining, and ADR—he has made a profound impact on legal education through his widely respected textbooks and bar reviewer materials such as Footnotes Vol. I: Civil Procedure and Criminal Procedure. 

“Being recognized as part of the prestigious list and called icons of Philippine law underscores the enduring impact of Atty. De Leon, Atty. Divina, and Atty. Salvador—not only in their respective practice areas, but also in their invaluable contributions to Philippine legal education through their published works,” said Rex Education CEO, Don Timothy I. Buhain. “Their scholarship and leadership align with our aspirations: to nurture minds and transform communities through education.”

Rex Education takes immense pride in being the publishing partner of these exceptional legal minds and joins the legal and academic communities in celebrating their well-deserved recognition in Philippine Law and Legal Education.

Magenta Moves: EastWest Rural Bank Dances for Teacher Wellness & Learner Safety

Teachers, together with employees of EastWest Rural Bank came together at Davao City National High School for Magenta Moves: A Day for Teacher Wellness, a Zumba-for-a-cause event in celebration of National Teachers’ Month 2025.

Magenta Moves is EastWest Rural Bank’s (EWRB) initiative that champions both teacher wellness and learner protection. Designed as a continuous program that supports educators while contributing to safe learning spaces, Magenta Moves was launched with A Day for Teacher Wellness, a Zumba-for-a-cause activity held at Davao City National High School during National Teachers’ Month in September.

The launch event brought together hundreds of teachers and education leaders in a celebration of health and community service. For every participant, EWRB pledged a Php 100 donation to the Department of Education’s Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO), ensuring that each dance step contributed to the advocacy of creating safe and nurturing learning environments for Filipino students.

DepEd officials, school heads, and EWRB leaders join hands at Magenta Moves to raise awareness and support for the Department of Education’s Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO).

Every dance step counts: Magenta Moves turned wellness into purpose, with 671 teachers and 33 EWRB employees moving together for the cause of learner protection.

A total of 671 DepEd teachers and staff joined the activity together with 33 EWRB employees who shared in the energy of the event.

“Magenta Moves is our way of celebrating educators while also supporting the vital work of the LRPO in protecting Filipino learners,” said Sheila Marasigan Bajado, President of EastWest Rural Bank.

The LRPO plays a key role in ensuring that every student is free from abuse, discrimination, bullying, and other forms of violence in schools. By supporting LRPO, EWRB stands in solidarity with teachers and DepEd officials in upholding safe, inclusive, and nurturing education environments.

During Magenta Moves: A Day for Teacher Wellness, EWRB donated Php 50,000 to the Department of Education’s Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) as part of its goal to support for safe and nurturing learning spaces.

The event was attended by key officials from the Department of Education, including Josie T. Bolofer (Assistant Schools Division Superintendent), Jonito O. Galan (Public Schools District Supervisor), Evelyn Magno (School Head – Davao City National High School), and Jonas Piore (Education Program Supervisor/Division Partnership Focal).

Representing EWRB were Sheila Marasigan Bajado (President) and Senior Leaders Hera A. Duka, Gerard Loni Duque, Zaldy Peter Calicdan, and Region 11 Area Head Alexis Durilag.

Through music and a common purpose, Magenta Moves was yet another celebration of meaningful, learner-centered initiatives and teacher welfare, a direct reflection of its core mission to nurture people and respond to community needs.

8,000+ Volunteers Rally Behind Century Tuna’s ‘Saving Our Seas’ to Clean Philippine Coasts

Representatives from Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI), HOPE, brand partners, and volunteers join forces for the “Saving Our Seas” International Coastal Cleanup Day activity in Anilao, Batangas, one of six cleanup sites held nationwide.

Century Tuna, the Philippines’ No. 1 tuna brand, returns for the 3rd year of its award-winning “Saving Our Seas” campaign, championing cleaner seas with greater impact. 2025 marks a turning point as the movement expands to six sites nationwide, further driving plastic circular economy and marine conservation across the country.

The Saving Our Seas campaign gained new momentum this year during the fan meet of brand ambassador Park Seo Joon, where fans from across the Philippines took part by donating plastic bottles to support the campaign. Building on this inspiring start, Century Tuna is expanding the campaign nationwide by rallying communities, fostering volunteerism, and empowering more Filipinos to take part in protecting our seas and marine life.

To celebrate this year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day, Century Tuna revitalized their campaign initiatives with a more ambitious goal.

Volunteers and divers are working together to safeguard marine life and preserve the oceans.

Started as a single coastal cleanup in Batangas in 2023, it quickly grew into a nationwide movement. This year, the campaign expanded its reach, organizing and supporting coastal cleanup drives across Manila, Batangas, Subic, Davao, Zamboanga, and General Santos City. To cap it off, the campaign attracted over 8,200 volunteers, a significant jump from last year’s 205 volunteers. The volunteers came from various groups such as the local government units, Porto Novo, The Asri, and Pier Uno group of divers, the Philippine Marine Corps, Century Tuna Superbods, employees of Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI), and like-minded friends.

Volunteers from Manila, General Santos City, Davao, Batangas, and Zamboanga have united under Century Tuna’s 'Saving Our Seas' campaign.

“Our product comes from the sea, and without healthy oceans, we have nothing,” said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Century Pacific Food Inc.’s Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division. “This isn’t just about a one-day cleanup, but about raising awareness and creating something sustainable through Aling Tindera and the plastic circular economy. Each piece of plastic collected can be transformed into livelihood opportunities, while keeping it out of the ocean,” he added.

Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division, CPFI, delivers his message of gratitude and commitment to marine preservation.

The campaign targets a 33% increase in plastic collection this year, powered by Century Tuna’s strength in partnerships. From its roots with HOPE’s Aling Tindera waste-to-cash program, the initiative has expanded to more like-minded organizations and individuals, reinforcing its commitment to the plastic circular economy and marine conservation.

“We are truly thankful because Century Tuna is one of HOPE’s biggest sponsors here. Their support is a huge help to our agri-fishery sector and to the livelihood of our communities. With 29 sites across Mabini, from resorts to local communities, this partnership creates a real impact for our people,” said Ms. Caroline Beloso, Friends of HOPE Inc.’s Field Coordinator in Mabini, Batangas.

In Mabini, Batangas, HOPE’s Aling Tindera representatives came together to clear plastic waste from the coast.

Century Tuna also took part in new partner initiatives, including joining the cleanup activities of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Public Services of the City of Manila, and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). The campaign also partnered with other brands such as Shakey’s, Vita Coco, Beach Hut, and Peri-Peri to further strengthen the initiative.

CPFI hands over trash bins to fisherfolk in Mabini, Batangas as a symbol of their commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and helping save our seas.

All these combined efforts resulted in collecting 1,386 kilograms of plastic waste, a significant growth from last year’s 357 kilograms of plastic waste.

In just three years, Saving Our Seas has collected over 100 metric tons of waste, growing from one site to six and becoming a nationwide movement. More than a cleanup, this is about building community, creating livelihoods, and working together for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. With everyone’s commitment, we are confident this will be our most impactful International Coastal Cleanup yet,” shared Mr. Ray Guinoo, Century Pacific Food Inc.’s Assistant Vice President and Marketing Director for Local Tuna Operations.

Ray Guinoo, Director of Marketing at CPFI, thanks volunteers and reaffirms Century Tuna’s commitment to protecting the seas

The campaign entered its 3rd year with a huge success, amassing a huge number of volunteers and raising its partnership initiatives. The “Saving Our Seas” campaign is a testament to Century Tuna’s strong commitment to becoming the torchbearer of marine protection in the country.

Launched in 2023, Century Tuna’s “Saving Our Seas” campaign aims to put into the spotlight the problems of plastic pollution in marine biodiversity by reinforcing the idea of Plastic Circular Economy through coastal and reef cleanup activities together with an environmental education program in schools.  

For more information, please visit https://savingourseas.centurytuna.ph or visit Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

Innovative, tech-minded Davao students pitch to solve SME pain points

Byte Forward Hackathon will now head to Cavite to see the brightest young minds of Southern Luzon compete to solve SME’s operational issues. 

Forty students from Davao’s top colleges and universities, forming 10 teams, came together at the Byte Forward Hackathon organized by Converge ICT Solutions Inc., the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), putting forward tech-enabled solutions to respond to small and medium enterprises’ varying challenges, from inventory management to logistics efficiency. 

The fourth leg of the highly anticipated hackathon series was mounted in Davao del Norte, with students participating from Western Mindanao State University, Ateneo de Davao University, Caraga State University, and eight other schools. 

The Byte Forward Hackathon series form part of the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo’s (PBC&E) lead-up activities chaired by Converge CEO, Dennis Anthony H. Uy. For Uy, the focus on technology and innovation is what marks his chairmanship of the PBC&E different from years past. 

“The PBC&E’s regional hackathons give our youth a voice, a space to innovate, and a chance to shape the nation’s progress. By empowering them, we are building a future-ready Philippines where entrepreneurs compete globally, technology bridges gaps, and every youth dares to dream big and act boldly,” added Ron Puno, CEO of Rev21 Labs, the innovation arm of Converge. 

Executives and officers from Rev21 Labs served as mentors to the student teams, providing them with the problem statements and guiding their problem-solving efforts as they craft their digital solutions. 

Among the salient themes tackled by the students are digital food service management, agriculture cold chain technology, agricultural warehouse management, and e-health records management, to name a few. 

Team K-MAS’ freight exchange platform won first place with its objective to solve the efficiency problems of empty backhauls of trucking companies. 

The teams that emerged triumphant were Team K-MAS from the University of the Philippines-Mindanao, Team Codeez from the Western Mindanao State University, and in third place is Team Stuck Underflow from students from University of Southern Mindanao. 

Team K-MAS chose to develop a freight exchange platform to tackle the issue of empty backhauls of trucks, which is a cost burden and a logistical dilemma. The platform, dubbed TaraTruck proposes to automatically match MSME truckers with shipments to minimize empty return trips, offering both contract-based and spot bookings. 

Team Codeez, on the other hand, chose the problem theme of e-health records management with a solution called HealthE that empowers patients with control over their health records through a secure, QR and PIN-based EHR system

University of Southern Mindanao’s Team Stuck Underflow, meanwhile, centered on a  patient digitalization program called the Abtik Data Hub that turns paper charts into smart, secure digital health records capable of producing AI-powered insights. 

So far, Converge and Rev21, together with PCCI and DTI, have held four hackathons concurrently with the PCCI’s area business conferences in National Capital Region, Visayas, Northern Luzon, and most recently in Mindanao.  

The hackathon is a prime example of academe and SME linkage as students are exposed to real-life dilemmas of small and medium enterprises while SMEs are informed and educated in how modern technology is now being used in their industry. 

The next leg of the Byte Forward Hackathon, for Southern Luzon, will be held in Bacoor, Cavite from September 29-30, 2025. The champions from the Regional Hackathons will compete against each other in a final tournament during PCCI’s 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo, scheduled for October 20-21 at the SMX Convention Center in Manila, offering prizes up to P500,000.

To know more about the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo, visit  https://www.philippinechamber.com/philippine-business-conference-and-expo.

C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions Brings the “C&E ALS University” to MIBF 2025

C&E ALS inspires future-ready learners with interactive and tech-powered solutions at its “ALS University” showcase in MIBF 2025

The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) has always been a celebration of books, ideas, and innovation. This year, C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions (C&E ALS) took center stage with its groundbreaking “C&E ALS University” booth, a visually stunning and highly interactive showcase that blended tradition and technology to highlight how education is evolving in the Philippines.

A Booth that Captured Attention

The “Campus of the Future” stood out at the SMX Convention Center with its unique design: curved walls symbolizing adaptability, green strips echoing the vibrancy of campus life, and modern archways that invited visitors to step into a space where past and future converged. From the outside alone, the booth signaled something different: a glimpse of how classrooms, libraries, and campuses could look and feel in the years ahead.

“Our vision was to create more than a booth,” said John Emyl G. Eugenio, COO of C&E ALS. “We wanted to give educators, students, and partners a real experience of what the future of learning looks like, one where books, digital solutions, AI, and hands-on tools all come together.”

Honoring Tradition, Driving Innovation

Inside the booth, C&E ALS showcased its full spectrum of solutions, positioning itself as a complete education partner for schools and institutions: Print and Digital Content from C&E Publishing and world-renowned partners such as McGraw Hill, Elsevier, Sage, Pearson, Cengage, and Wiley; Library and Learning Platforms, including Canvas LMS, distributed by C&E ALS in the Philippines; STEAM and Makerspace Tools for all levels, designed to spark creativity and innovation in students; AI-Powered Solutions that helps educators run their courses faster and with greater precision; and Technology Collaborations with global leaders like Samsung and Britannica, reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing future-ready tools.

This holistic presentation showed that for C&E ALS, innovation and tradition are not opposing forces but partners in shaping tomorrow’s classrooms. 

C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions unveiled its “Campus of the Future” at the Manila International Book Fair 2025, showcasing innovations that bridge tradition and technology in Philippine education

A Hub of Engagement and Discovery

Beyond being visually striking, the booth became a lively hub of activity. Thousands of visitors–from teachers and librarians to students and parents–took part in interactive 

experiences such as the Course Card Passport Challenge, where participants explored different zones, learned about new solutions, and earned instant prizes.

Teachers tested AI platforms for lesson planning, librarians discovered tools to streamline resource management, and students experimented with STEAM kits. The result was an environment that felt more like a living campus than an exhibition booth.

Spotlight on Generative AI

One of the key highlights of C&E ALS’s participation was the seminar on Generative AI in Education, led by Engr. Ericson Dimaunahan, Director of the Office of Digital Education, Learning Technologies and Analytics at Mapúa University. 

Held on September 11, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, the session drew educators eager to understand how AI can improve efficiency, personalize learning, and enhance teaching quality.

“Education has always been shaped by the tools of its time. Our task as decision makers is not just to keep pace, but to set direction,” said C&E ALS Representative Ronald Laovinia.

The seminar resonated with attendees, many of whom expressed excitement about integrating AI-driven solutions into their classrooms. It underscored C&E ALS’s mission not only to showcase tools but also to lead the conversation on how emerging technologies can transform learning in the Philippines.

C&E ALS’s seminar on Generative AI in Education sparked excitement among teachers about using AI to enhance efficiency and personalize learning.

A Strong Turnout and Positive Impact

The booth’s design, activities, and solutions drew strong engagement throughout the five-day fair. C&E ALS reported thousands of visitors, from casual fairgoers to decision-makers in education, underscoring the company’s role as a thought leader in the sector.

“Seeing so many educators and students actively engage with our solutions tells us we are on the right path,” Eugenio said. “It validates our mission to make education more adaptive, inclusive, and future-ready.”

Looking Beyond MIBF

While the “Campus of the Future” was a highlight of MIBF 2025, C&E ALS emphasized that the showcase was just the beginning. The company remains committed to expanding its ecosystem of solutions for Philippine schools and institutions, ensuring that both tradition and innovation continue to shape education.

“At MIBF 2025, we showed how education is both about shaping the future and honoring tradition,” Eugenio added. “After the fair, our focus is to keep driving innovation that empowers educators and inspires learners nationwide.”

With the success of its MIBF participation, C&E ALS upheld its position as a leader in educational transformation. By seamlessly integrating print books, digital content and platforms, STEAM, and adaptive tech like AI, the company is preparing Filipino children to thrive in the future, staying true to its promise of adapting today, shaping tomorrow.

Innovation doesn’t stop at the fair! After showcasing the “Campus of the Future” at MIBF 2025, C&E ALS continues its mission to empower educators and inspire learners.

Power Through Rainy Blues with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G

Sudden downpours can turn your day into survival mode with power cuts and exposure to elements, but the OPPO A5 Pro 5G is designed to power you through all these scenarios. 

With a big, fast-charging battery and proven durability, it keeps you connected and powered even during extreme conditions, whether you’re a student catching up on lessons or a professional trying to meet deadlines.

Power That Lasts Through Blackouts

With the OPPO A5 Pro 5G’s massive 5,800mAh battery, power interruptions can’t stop you from completing your tasks.

With its battery capacity offering up to 35.7 hours of voice calls, 31.3 hours of audio listening, and 16.1 hours of video playback, the OPPO A5 Pro 5G allows you to perform to the best of your abilities. 

Quick Recovery with Fast Charging

If you arrived at home from a hectic commute from work caused by heavy rains, your smartphone is probably out of battery, too. But with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G’s 45W SUPERVOOC™ fast charging, you can go back up to 10% of power in just 5 minutes and hit a full charge in roughly 83 minutes.

Just plug into your charger and be back up in no time to check your social media feed or catch up with the news.

Durability You Can Rely On For All Seasons

The rainy season means more exposure to the elements, whether a typical rainy-day commute involves sudden downpours or stepping into puddles. Worry no more as the OPPO A5 Pro 5G can withstand heavy rain, splashes, and other mishaps with its triple IP69, IP68, and IP66 dust and water resistance ratings. Plus, its Splash Touch technology ensures that the screen remains fully responsive even if you have wet hands.

When it comes to sudden slips and bumps, especially while traversing slippery roads or walkways, the OPPO A5 Pro 5G can withstand accidental bumps and drops with its Military-Grade Shock Resistance—giving you added peace of mind that your device stays intact in times you need it the most.

Stay Ready With the OPPO A5 Pro 5G

Whether it’s powering through blackouts, staying connected during unstable signals, or surviving the rough commutes during the stormy season, the OPPO A5 Pro 5G is more than just a smartphone. It’s a reliable partner built to keep up with you in any weather.

The OPPO A5 Series is available in a range of choices on OPPO’s official e-commerce platforms on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and authorized OPPO stores nationwide. 

OPPO A5 Pro 5G (Bloom Pink, Mocha Brown)

• 8GB + 256GB - ₱15,999

OPPO A5 Pro (Mocha Brown, Olive Green)

• 8GB + 128GB - ₱10,999
• 8GB + 256GB - ₱12,999

OPPO A5 (Mist White, Aurora Green)

• 6GB + 128 GB - ₱8,999
• 4GB + 256 GB - ₱9,999
• 8GB + 256 GB - ₱11,999

OPPO A5x (Laser White, Midnight Blue)

• 4GB + 64GB - ₱6,499
• 4GB + 128GB- ₱7,999

OPPO A5i (Starry Purple, Nebula Red)

• 4GB + 64GB - ₱4,699
• 4GB + 128GB- ₱5,699

Learn more about the OPPO A5 Series by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. 

From a Day’s Work to a Family’s Future: Grab and MOVE IT Partners Share How Earnings and Enabling Programs Lift Households

A special episode of “Paano Ba ’To: The Podcast” spotlights three families turning platform work into tuition, stability, and long-term goals.

Across Philippine cities, GrabCar driver-partners, MOVE IT rider-partners, and GrabFood delivery-partners are showing how everyday work can power extraordinary progress. That arc — from hustle to upward mobility — takes center stage in a special episode of Paano Ba ’To: The Podcast, where three partners, joined by their families, trace how viable earnings on the road — paired with enabling programs — are helping them pay for school, steady the household, and invest for the long term.  

Three families, three paths to progress

Issei Goto — “You don’t win unless you place a bet.”

A former office worker, Issei left salaried life in 2019 to drive with GrabCar. Within months he scaled from one to four vehicles, helped by GrabFinance Cash Loan with flexible terms aligned to his earnings — turning a leap of faith into stable, higher income for a young family. “Hindi ka mananalo kung hindi ka tataya,” he says, reflecting on that choice.  

Lilybeth Zerna — Delivering toward bigger dreams.

Lilybeth’s discipline and determination as a GrabFood delivery-partner—through heat, rain, and traffic—funded her children’s schooling and, with GrabFinance Cash Loan, the staged construction of a six-storey apartment that now provides steady rental income. “When you really want something, you learn to sacrifice,” she says.  

Marlo Gonzales — A father’s sacrifice, a daughter’s promise.

For MOVE IT rider-partner Marlo, every trip is about his family’s future. His daughter Genille earned a full scholarship through GrabScholar (Wave 3)—covering tuition, supplies, and a monthly allowance—so she can focus fully on school. “Proud po ako sa anak ko,” Marlo shares. Genille adds: “My goal is to give back everything my parents poured into me.”  

Fueling Hard Work with Opportunity and Support

• Household stability: Consistent, app-based earnings help families weather shocks—while flexible financing prevents debt spirals.  
• Mobility through education: Scholarships ease the burden of tuition, letting students—alnd parents—focus on outcomes, not obstacles.  
• Pathways to assets: Sensibly structured loans convert income into productive assets (vehicles, rental units) that build resilience over time.  

Asenso Programs Shine Through the Stories of Issei, Lilybeth, and Marlo

• GrabFinance Cash Loan: Flexible, earnings-linked financing that gives driver-partners quick access to the lifelines they need to grow and manage their livelihoods.
• GrabScholar: A full-ride scholarship that covers tuition, school supplies, and a monthly allowance for the deserving dependents of Grab and MOVE IT partners — also open to the public for qualified applicants.
• Ka-Grab / Ka-MOVE IT Rewards: Incentive programs that boost take-home pay and celebrate partners who consistently deliver safe, reliable, and high-quality service.

Listen and watch the full episode on Facebook or Spotify. To learn more about the programs featured, visit Grab Asenso.

OPPO Demos Industry-Leading On-Device AI Performance at Snapdragon Summit 2025 - China

Global leading smart device brand OPPO today unveiled major breakthroughs in on-device artificial intelligence at the Snapdragon Summit 2025 - China in Beijing, establishing new industry benchmarks for mobile AI inference performance. In close collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., OPPO has further optimized the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform to achieve unprecedented processing speeds and contextual understanding, advancing its vision of enhancing daily life with AI.

Unmatched Speed: 200+ Tokens per Second On-Device AI Inference

At the Snapdragon Summit 2025 - China, OPPO demonstrated groundbreaking on-device AI performance on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform. With a processing speed surpassing 200 tokens per second, it represents the fastest announced on-device inference performance to date in the industry. This achievement stems from the companies working together on parallel decoding architecture, combined with comprehensive optimization of the new Snapdragon mobile platform, which together deliver an 8x improvement from the previous generation in decoding acceleration. The technology can generate a full page of text in under two seconds, enabling real-time applications such as multi-paragraph translation and content creation, with latency that rivals cloud-based services, all while operating securely and efficiently on the device.

（OPPO on-device AI Translate at Snapdragon Summit 2025）

Extended Context: Analyzing 300-Page Documents Entirely On-Device

Equally transformative is OPPO's breakthrough in on-device context handling, a powerful capability that supports a context length of up to 128K—the equivalent of roughly 200,000 words or 300 pages of text—entirely on the device. Enabled by OPPO's self-developed long-context acceleration technology, this feature allows seamless interpretation of large documents without cloud dependency. It provides professionals in fields such as legal and healthcare with powerful offline tools for analyzing complex materials while ensuring complete data privacy and security by keeping all sensitive information on the device.

Hybrid AI Strategy Combines Device and Cloud Capabilities

These innovations form part of OPPO's broader hybrid AI approach, which strategically combines on-device efficiency and privacy with the expansive capacity of cloud-based services. By synchronizing on-device AI enhancements with OS updates, OPPO ensures continuous improvements in speed, capability and security, delivering a refined user experience that leverages the strengths of both local and cloud AI.

Your Personalized AI: The Future of Smart and Secure Experiences

Through these demonstrations, OPPO is collaborating with key companies like Qualcomm Technologies, to accelerate the development and adoption of AI technology, making mobile AI a daily experience. By building foundations for agentic AI and introducing the user-knowledge system that reduces information fragmentation, OPPO is delivering deeply personalized AI experiences. With privacy protection ensured by Private Computing Cloud (PCC) and supported by strong industry partnerships, OPPO aims to bring transformative AI experiences to nearly 100 million users by the end of 2025.

SM Center Sangandaan: October = HUGE Sale-abration

October ushers in the heart of the ber months in the Philippines, a season filled with early Christmas shopping, fiesta vibes, and the excitement of cooler days ahead. What better way to welcome it than with a shopping spree that promises both savings and style?

From October 3 to 5, SM Center Sangandaan kicks off its first big sale of 2025, treating shoppers to up to 70% off on fashion finds, tech must-haves, home essentials, beauty services, and more. The best deals await at SM Hypermarket, Ace Hardware, Miniso, Simply Shoes, Watsons, SM Appliance Center, and over 100 other stores across the mall.

It is the perfect excuse to tick off that Christmas gift list early, refresh your wardrobe for the season, or simply indulge in retail therapy with friends. With exclusive promos, freebies, and surprises lined up, you will have even more reasons to fill those shopping bags to the brim.

Mark your calendars, rally your shopping squad, and be part of SM Center Sangandaan’s 3-Day Sale tradition because in this part of the city, October means bargains you cannot resist.

For updates and event details, follow SM Center Sangandaan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smcentersangandaan .

Solaire Resort North: Your Ultimate Family Week Escape Awaits

The Kids Club boasts a 2-lane bowling alley and a gaming area, in addition to a state-of-the-art play jungle, themed playrooms, function rooms, and a Snack Zone.

The best family memories aren’t scheduled. They appear in small bursts such as enjoying gelato together, going for a swim until the sun goes down, or savoring a good meal. From September 21 to 27, Family Week at Solaire Resort North makes room for those moments with stays and dining offers designed to keep things light, easy, and centered on time together.

Delight the family’s big appetite with a variety of stations at Fresh International Buffet.

The Stay and Play Getaway is for families who want more time together and with less hassle. Each package comes with daily breakfast for two adults and two kids (six years and below) at Fresh International Buffet, two hours at the two-level Kids Club, a Snack Zone voucher, access to the pool and waterpark, and the comfort of a late 2:00 p.m. checkout when available. Rates start at Php 14,375 nett per night, with rooms ranging from Deluxe to the spacious Sky Suite.

Families can also enjoy Eat-All-You-Can Dim Sum and more at Red Lantern.,

Experience a complete Japanese Sunday Brunch with the family at Yakumi.

Meals at Solaire Resort North are meant to be savored. At Red Lantern, dim sum baskets arrive one after another from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for Php 1,288++ on weekdays and Php 1,450++ on weekends. Sundays slow down at Yakumi, where the “Art of Shun” brunch serves sashimi, teppanyaki, ribeye, and free-flow drinks starting at Php 3,588++. These flavorful offers are perfect for families looking to enjoy quality time together over exceptional dining.

Not just for kids--Trattoria e Dolci’s 18 gelato flavor offerings can satisfy anyone’s sweet cravings. 

Never run out of options with 10 stalls at the Food Court.

For something more laid-back, Trattoria e Dolci brings out stone-oven pizzas, pastas to share, and 18 handcrafted gelato flavors until 2:00 a.m. Bigger appetites find their match at Fresh International Buffet, where spreads range from breakfast to dinners with unlimited lobster. And when no one can agree, the Food Court keeps everyone happy with ten stalls to choose from which are open until late. 

The Kids Club features a five-level play jungle, with party rooms, a snack bar, and even a two-lane bowling alley. Sessions run in two-hour windows—structured enough for birthdays, flexible enough for quick drop-ins.

Indulge in the property’s luxurious L-shaped outdoor pool, adjacent the fun kids’ waterpark.

Outside, families can enjoy both the pool and the waterpark. Parents can unwind in cabanas with a drink, while kids race through slides and splash around the fountains. The waterpark is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and the main pool extends until 9:00 p.m., giving plenty of time to swim and play around nap schedules, mealtimes, and late checkouts.

Book the Stay and Play Getaway or reserve tables at Red Lantern, Yakumi, Trattoria e Dolci, Fresh International Buffet, or the Food Court via sn.solaireresort.com or call +632 8888 8888. Rates and availability shift quickly, so reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

Don’t Just Watch Your Money Go—Make It Grow with Maya

Let’s be real: Money these days feels like it disappears the second it hits your account. Prices keep climbing, bills never take a break, and that dream trip? Always just a little out of reach. If you’re already grinding this hard for every peso, it’s only fair your money hustles just as hard for you.

That’s where Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, changes the game. Unlike the small returns you get from other banks, Maya Savings gives you one of the highest rates with up to 15% per annum. You only need to use Maya for your daily transactions. That’s your money multiplying faster than your weekend plans stack up.

You can even get extra intentional with your finances by setting up to five Maya Personal Goals accounts. Each one earns 4% p.a. from the get-go, and the rate grows every time you add ₱20,000—going up to 8% p.a. on deposits up to ₱100,000. Whether it’s for travel, concert, or a rainy-day fund, every peso you tuck away is clocking in overtime. And if guaranteed returns are more your style, Maya Time Deposit Plus has you covered. You can lock in your money for 3, 6, 12 months with rates as high as 6% p.a. on deposits of up to ₱1 million per Time Deposit Plus account, and with up to 5 accounts, that’s as much as ₱5 million in total interest-earning deposits. The best part? Unlike traditional time deposits, you can keep adding funds anytime, even after reaching your target amount. It’s the ultimate “set it and forget it” way to grow your money with peace of mind.

And here’s the plot twist: growing your money doesn’t stop when you save, it happens when you spend, too. With the Maya Black Credit Card, every swipe earns you Maya Miles. Your morning latte, that spontaneous online checkout, even your flights themselves all turn into future travel, dining, and shopping wins.

If you’re a Landers loyalist, the Maya Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card is your ultimate cheat code. Imagine 5% cashback at Landers, 2% on dining, and 1% everywhere else. Whether it’s groceries, date nights, or little splurges, you’re always getting something back.

The truth is, not everyone gets handed financial advantages, but that doesn’t mean you can’t build your own. With Maya’s powerful savings and rewarding credit cards, your money isn’t just safe, it’s stretching, multiplying, and hustling right alongside you.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

4 Must-Know Tips from Big Bad Wolf for the Final Stop of the World’s Biggest Book Sale in Metro Manila, Filinvest 2025

The world’s biggest book sale is back—and this time, it’s Metro Manila’s final chance to experience it in 2025! After successful stops in Iloilo and Cebu earlier this year, Big Bad Wolf Books is set to light up the city with its much-awaited Book Sale from October 2 to 13, 2025.

Featuring over 2 million books across every genre imaginable, The Filinvest Tent in Alabang becomes a haven of stories, amazing discounts, and immersive experiences—perfectly timed for the BER months and early holiday gift shopping. Don’t miss Metro Manila’s last stop of this incredible book sale!

(Left) Ley Almeda, Country Head of Big Bad Wolf Books for the Philippines, and (Right) Bernard Lee, Business Director of Big Bad Wolf Books at the press conference

Bernard Lee, Business Director of Big Bad Wolf Books, shared, “Big Bad Wolf is about making books accessible to as many people as possible. By offering titles at prices families can afford, we’re breaking down barriers to reading and creating opportunities for discovery. Every sale is more than just a shopping event—it’s a way to encourage more people to pick up a book, and hopefully, to build a stronger reading culture wherever we go.”

Ley Almeda, Country Head of Big Bad Wolf Books for the Philippines, shared: “Our mission, ‘Changing the World One Book at a Time,’ is more than just words—it’s the heart of everything we do. Books should never be a luxury—they are a right. That’s why we make them affordable and create a space where people can experience the joy of discovery. Whether it’s a child’s first story or a parent’s rediscovery of a classic, we want every visit to feel like being part of a movement that celebrates reading and brings communities closer together.”

Here are four smart ways to make the most of your Big Bad Wolf Books Sale visit:

Discover Fresh Reads for Every Reader

Explore brand-new titles for kids, teens, and adults. Whether it’s children’s books that ignite curiosity, gripping thrillers, or inspiring self-help and nonfiction, there’s a treasure waiting for everyone on every shelf!

The Friend Zone (Hardcover)

Author: Abby Jimenez

Original Price: Php 800

BBW Price: Php 340 

Great and Previous Things

Author: Rebecca Yarros

Original Price: Php 800

BBW Price: Php 400 

100% Official Roblox Annual 2025 (Hardcover)

Author: Farshore

Original Price: Php 600

BBW Price: Php 280 

Paw Patrol Ready For Action! Tabbed Board Book

Author: Farshore

Original Price: Php 950

BBW Price: Php 440 

Day Trading Attention (Hardcover)

Author: Gary Vaynerchuck

Original Price: Php 2,300

BBW Price: Php 860 

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

Author: Malcolm Gladwell

Original Price: Php 1,400

BBW Price: Php 400 

Hunt Down Exclusive Promos, Discounts, and Raffle Prizes

Beyond the amazing discounts, Big Bad Wolf Books Sale offers surprise promos and bundles to stretch your budget even further. This year, keep an eye out for:

• Raffle Prizes: Win a brand-new iPad or a bookshelf packed with books—exclusive Wolf Pack rewards! (Stay tuned for raffle mechanics.)
• Special bundles and extra discounts to maximize your haul.

Experience a Full-Day Book Adventure

Big Bad Wolf Books Sale is more than just a sale—it’s an event packed with interactive activities for all ages. From fun challenges to venue attractions, it’s a celebration of reading where the whole family can create lasting memories.Don’t Miss Out—Visit Early and Often

The sale runs for a limited time—October 2 to 13 only. Stock up early on gifts and reads for the season before the event closes until next year!

Event Details

• Venue: The Filinvest Tent, Alabang
• Dates: October 2 to 13, 2025
• October 2 (Opening Day)

10:00 AM – 12:00 NN: Exclusive for BBW Members, or early bird access for those who share BBW’s post.

12:00 NN – 10:00 PM: Open to the public

• Sale Hours:

Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Friday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

• Registration: Starts at 9:00 AM on opening day
• Admission: Free

Grab your tote bags, gather your Wolf Pack, and prepare to embark on your next great reading adventure. For more information on upcoming sales and updates, visit Big Bad Wolf Books’ website or follow their official social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Converge's Surf2Sawa Hits Half-Million Subscribers: Powering Affordable Internet for Filipinos

 

Converge conducted a celebration activity in its headquarters in Pasig to mark its 500,000-prepaid-subscriber milestone last September 9. (From third from left) Converge Residential and SME Business Group OIC John Paul Aguilar, Converge VP and Head of Marketing Orange Ramirez, and Converge VP and Product Management Business Unit Head of Surf2Sawa Conrado “Dhing” Pascual led the ceremonial countdown to officially mark the milestone. IN PHOTO (from left): Converge FiberXers Guard Alec Stockton, Converge FiberXers Forward-Center Justine Baltazar, Converge Residential and SME Business Group OIC John Paul Aguilar, VP and Head of Marketing Orange Ramirez, Converge FiberXers Forward-Center Paolo Javillonar, Converge VP and Product Management Business Unit Head of Surf2Sawa Conrado “Dhing” Pascual, Converge FiberXers Forward Kevin Racal

Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has marked steady growth in its prepaid brand Surf2Sawa (S2S) as it recently reached 500,000 active subscribers just two years after its rollout to provide affordable and inclusive broadband internet.

Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy said this reflects the strong adoption of the market to prepaid broadband services which have started to become mainstream, with more customers looking for budget friendly and on-demand connectivity.

 “It's been over two years since Converge introduced the prepaid model and we are pleased that this resonated deeply with consumers, as shown by the numbers. We see competitors have followed our example and introduced their own prepaid offerings. We see this as a win for wider broadband access. More than a milestone, this is a big step in advancing digital inclusion as well as meeting the changing needs of customers. We are only just getting started in our commitment to bringing every Juan, Maria, and Pedro -- every Filipino -- to be online and ready for the future, through S2S Prepaid,” added JP Aguilar, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) and Head of Consumer and SME at Converge.

Surf2Sawa, a brainchild of Uy, was launched in end-2022 to cater to the connectivity needs of the mass market, known to be more budget-sensitive and often unable to avail entry-level postpaid internet plans. 

Addressing their specific needs, S2S features flexible top-up options from P50 to P700, unlimited internet, minimal installation requirements and fees, and a contract-free setup. It accommodates up to six connected devices, serving an average speed of up to 50 Mbps.

“For years, many Filipinos have had to rely on wireless alternatives that, while useful, often fall short in offering reliable connectivity. S2S fills in that gap, and we’re glad to see that more customers are embracing this. The growth runway for us is still wide, as we continue to improve awareness and accessibility of our brand,” said Converge VP and Product Management Business Unit Head of Surf2Sawa Conrado “Dhing” Pascual. 

He added that the demand for S2S has been particularly strong in major urban centers in the National Capital Region (NCR), as well as South and Central Luzon, where many homes are experiencing fiber connectivity for the first time. It has also been picking up steam in different regions in Visayas and Mindanao, supported by the firm’s growing network presence and continuous rollout of fiber infrastructure.

Pascual mentioned that the customers’ reception to S2S can also be attributed to their innovative approach to marketing which include grassroots promotions through BRGY. S2S, or those fiesta-style events in select communities for residents to know about Surf2Sawa firsthand.

The company also introduced an all-mom P-pop girl group MAMAMO, composed of celebrity moms Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, and former SexBomb Girls Rochelle Pangilinan-Solinap, Jopay Paguia-Zamora, Sunshine Garcia-Castro, and CheChe Tolentino, to represent Surf2Sawa as brand ambassadors.

Converge celebrated its half-million-prepaid-subscriber achievement last September 9 through an engagement activity with employees in its headquarters in Pasig. The company had a ceremonial countdown to watch in real-time the subscriber count climb of S2S. Some players from Converge FiberXers joined the event, which included a karaoke contest, games, and prizes for employees.