Mayor Isko Moreno, Wife Dynee to Lead as Hermano and Hermana Mayor at Flores de Mayo in Manila

  

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso has graciously accepted the invitation to serve as Hermano Mayor of Flores de Mayo, with his wife, Mrs. Diana Lyn “Dynee” Domagoso, accepting the role of Hermana Mayor, lending their full support to the revival of a cherished celebration of faith, culture, and fashion.

Set on May 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at The Manila Hotel and Quirino Grandstand, this year’s theme, “Dalisay at Halimuyak”, draws from the ideas of purity and fragrance. During a courtesy call by The Manila Hotel President Atty. Joey Lina, Mayor Isko expressed his support for the event and the value of initiatives that uplift the community, honor Manila’s legacy, and create
opportunities for artists and designers to contribute to a tradition deeply rooted in Filipino faith and identity. He noted, “Maaalala natin ang pamana sa atin.”

The event is mounted by The Manila Hotel, in partnership with the City Government of Manila and the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP), with support from Manila, My Manila of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM).

A long-standing Catholic tradition in the Philippines dating back to the 1800s, Flores de Mayo remains one of the country’s enduring expressions of Marian devotion. At The Manila Hotel, the celebration assumed a distinctive place in Manila’s cultural calendar beginning in 1979 through the Congregacion del Santisimo Nombre de Niño Jesus, established that same year with Ben Farrales, the Dean of Filipino Fashion, as founding chair.

From the outset, the tradition linked Marian devotion with Manila’s cultural life. Revived in
2019 before being paused by the pandemic, it returns this year as a tribute to a city where faith, culture, and fashion continue to meet.

This year’s celebration also carries a meaningful social purpose, with proceeds and partnerships intended to benefit Young Focus and the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition, supporting programs for children, families, education, and nutrition.

Further expressing his enthusiasm for the procession, Mayor Isko said: “Wala nang gasolinangkailangan dahil lakad ito. Ang ganda naman… we practice what we preach. Sabi ko, energy saving.” His remark reflected his support for a celebration that ofers hope and solidarity amid today’s global challenges.

Meanwhile, the event is also in close coordination with government partners for security and trafic management for an orderly celebration. The Philippine National Police (PNP) hascommitted at least 300 personnel for security, while the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will assist in trafic management. The participation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as arch bearers is also being arranged.

With Mayor Isko and Mrs. Domagoso serving as Hermano Mayor and Hermana Mayor, Flores
de Mayo at The Manila Hotel is poised to become one of Manila’s most visible cultural events of the season — honoring a beloved Filipino tradition while reafirming the capital’s place as a center of devotion, heritage, and civic life.

A Taste of Summer Awaits at The Manila Hotel

 

As summer sets the tone for leisurely days and sun-soaked gatherings, The Manila Hotel invites guests to embrace the season with a thoughtfully curated selection of food and beverage experiences, each designed to be savored, shared, and remembered.

At the heart of its summer offerings is the return of the much-loved Dim Sum All-You-Can at Red Jade, featuring unlimited servings of classics such as Pork and Shrimp Siomai, Hakaw or Steamed Crystal Shrimp Dumpling, Vegetable Spring Roll, Seafood Taro Puff, Asado Roll, and Ham Sui Kok, alongside a selection of cold cuts, rice, noodles, hearty mains like Sliced Chicken with Szechuan Chili Sauce, Crispy Fried Pork Ribs, Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet, and rounded off with dessert. Dim Sum All-You-Can is priced at Php 1,588 nett per person and is available Monday to Friday, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Adding a celebratory touch, birthday celebrants dine for free when accompanied by four full-paying guests, making it an ideal setting for intimate gatherings and family celebrations.

At the Lobby Lounge, the mood turns light and playful, offering a refreshing escape from the midday heat. Guests can cool down with a vibrant selection of Summer Ice Cream creations featuring delightful options such as Banana Kit Kat Crepe, Banofee Sundae, Brownie Bliss a la Mode, Mixed Berry Yogurt Sundae, and Tropical Sundae.

For those craving something more savory, The Ultimate Pork Burger features a juicy pork patty layered with complementary flavors for a rich and satisfying bite, priced at Php 700 nett per order.

Afternoons unfold at a gentler pace with the hotel’s signature Afternoon Tea, a charming spread of both savory and sweet bites. From Pork Floss Sandwich and Japanese Tamago Sandwich to Asian Mushroom Spring Rolls, Pineapple Tart, Carrot Cake, Plain and Mixed Fruit Scones. Adding a distinctly Filipino touch are bite-sized servings of The Manila Hotel’s beloved bibingka and puto bumbong, best enjoyed with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, while accompanied by live piano music. Priced at Php 1,688 nett and best shared by two, it is a delightful way to spend the day sharing tea and stories.

For those seeking a more interactive experience, a D.I.Y. Gin and Tonic selection is available at the Tap Room and Lobby Lounge. Guests may craft their own refreshing blend by choosing their preferred gin and enhancing it with dried botanicals, citrus zest, fresh fruits, and aromatics garnishes—offering a personal twist to a classic cocktail.

Complementing these offerings is a featured wine selection available across all dining outlets. Showcased this month are Queen Adelaide Chardonnay, known for its crisp and refreshing profile, and Queen Adelaide Cabernet Sauvignon, a full-bodied red wine with rich and robust notes.

Over at the Delicatessen, the Tropical Harmony Cake captures the essence of summer every bite—light, luscious, and indulgently golden. Freshly baked Sourdough bread is also available, offering a rustic and wholesome option for everyday enjoyment or thoughtful gifting.

For those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own space, M Takeout provides a convenient yet elevated option. With a wide selection of solo meals, rice and noodle bowls, and home buffet sets featuring Chinese specialties, Filipino favorites, and Halal options, guests can effortlessly recreate The Manila Hotel dining experience at home or in the office. Whether for casual gatherings, working lunches, or intimate celebrations, including a Dim Sum Hot Box is available for a satisfying feast wherever the moment calls.

For inquiries and reservations, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins and is walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Since 1912, The Manila Hotel continuously provides the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and Manila Hotel Health Club. The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery which offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists. It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessen that offers the hotel's signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.

Hotel Contact:

Marvin Kim Tan, Vice President for Sales and Marketing, +63 998 951 1912, k.tan@themanilahotel.com

One Rizal Park, 0913, Manila, Philippines

Sun Life Foundation partners with WWF-Philippines for Earth Hour 2026

  

Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation) recently joined forces with World Wide Fund for Nature-Philippines (WWF-Philippines) to advance environmental sustainability through Earth Hour 2026, reinforcing both organizations’ mission to boost
climate action and conservation efforts in the country.

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement by WWF that unites people across the globe in a switch-off to raise awareness about climate change and rally for urgent action. As a local activation partner for the Philippines, Sun Life Foundation played a pivotal role in bringing together Filipinos for the Earth Hour’s landmark 20th global switch-off event held on March 28 in Pasig City.

Beyond the main event, Sun Life Foundation also extended its support to the Earth Hour Virtual Run 2026 by mobilizing 250 Sun Lifers to participate. Taking place from March 28 to April 30, the virtual run encourages participants to walk, jog, or run at their own pace, merging personal wellness with environmental action while directly supporting WWF-Philippines’ initiatives.

Sun Life Foundation’s support to Earth Hour 2026 marks another milestone in its partnership with WWFPhilippines, which includes the Food Shed Farming Enterprise, an initiative that builds food production systems in remote communities to enhance food security and provide livelihood sources, and previous Earth Hour Virtual Run activations.

Addressing the crowd at the switch-off event, Sun Life Foundation Executive Director Kristine Dianne Millete emphasized the importance of collective commitment to climate action: “Tonight, as we switch off our lights, let’s switch on something more powerful – our commitment to care for the planet together.
Because when we act as one, we can create brighter days for all.”

“Tackling climate change is not just the responsibility of one organization or sector, but a collective effort. We are thrilled to see Sun Life Foundation rally its employees and communities to take meaningful action for the planet, proving that every switch-off can spark a brighter, sustainable future,” said Atty. Angela Consuelo Ibay, WWF-Philippines Climate and Energy Program Head and National Director for Earth Hour Philippines.

As the philanthropic arm of Sun Life Philippines, the country’s first and longest-standing life insurance company, Sun Life Foundation remains committed to building a sustainable future for Filipinos through
initiatives that champion education, health, and environmental sustainability.

About Sun Life

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the U.S., the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the
Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2025, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1.60 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

Note to editors: All figures in Canadian dollars

Am I peeing too much or too little?

 

Its official term is micturition, but to us, it’s simply urinating or peeing, a natural and necessary function of a healthy human body. “Urination helps cleanse the body of toxins, excess sodium and fluid, and metabolic waste,” says Rolando Guillermo O. Saulog, MD, a Urology Doctor at top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

On average, a person pees between 6 to 7 times a day, but if you are taking more (or less) trips to the bathroom, there’s no real need to worry. “If you go only four times in a 24-hour span, it is fine. And if you go 10 times, that’s okay too.”

According to Dr. Saulog, the number of times you urinate per day depends on the following factors:

Age. “As we grow older, our bladder (which stores urine) does not expand as much, so it fills up faster, making our visits to the bathroom more frequent. Menopause and the decreasing production of the estrogen hormone can also affect bladder function.”

What and how much you drink. “Alcohol and caffeine are forms of diuretics, which prompt the kidneys to release extra fluid from the blood vessels. Consume copious amounts of coffee, tea, beer, or wine, and you can expect to spend a lot of time in the toilet.”

Pregnancy. “Mothers-to-be can chalk up peeing often to hormonal changes (an increase of progesterone relaxes the muscles, including those in the bladder), extra fluid and blood produced by the body, and weakened pelvic floor muscles due to an expanding uterus.” 

Specific medical conditions. “If you need to urinate often, only yield small amounts each time, you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). Diabetes can also cause you to urinate frequently, as it is the body’s way of emptying the bloodstream of excess sugar. Low potassium, too much or too little calcium, an enlarged prostate, congestive heart failure, painful bladder syndrome, and kidney issues can also make you visit the bathroom several times.” 

Medicines. “Diuretics in pill form are given to individuals with high blood pressure, heart failure, edema, kidney disease, and liver disease. Certain medicines for diabetes and mental health can also make you pee more than average.”

Bladder size. “A man’s bladder can hold as much as 700 ml of urine, while a woman’s bladder can store about 500 ml.” 

On the flip side, MakatiMed says that oliguria or urinating only 1-2 times in 24 hours (that’s peeing less than 400-500 ml a day) could be due to dehydration, blockages in the urinary tract, or infection.

When should you see your doctor? “Definitely when your peeing includes pain or a burning sensation, or when pain is felt in your lower back, pelvis, or genitals,” says Dr. Saulog. “Blood in the urine is also a cause for concern, as is incontinence or difficulty controlling your pee.” 

Other signs that a consultation with a health practitioner is in order: urine that is cloudy, dark, and foul-smelling. 

Tests help pinpoint the cause of your tendency to pee often or not enough. Results from a urinalysis will give your doctor an idea of the color, appearance, and microscopic contents of your sample. A kidney functioning test, which relies on a blood test and urine sample, can gauge how well your kidneys are working. Imaging tests (x-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT scan) will reveal if peeing too much or too little comes from a pre-existing or newly discovered medical condition. A uroflowmetry test (available in MakatiMed) is a simple, non-invasive test used to evaluate how the bladder is working, often to detect why a patient has frequent or urge to urinate, a weak or slow urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, or a feeling that the bladder is not empty after urinating.

“Healthy living ensures efficient and natural urination,” reminds Dr. Saulog. “Stay hydrated. Eat fruits and vegetables and foods rich in probiotics; they may help address recurring UTI. Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol. Pee and cleanse using an unscented soap after sexual intercourse to lower your risk of developing UTI. Women can also reduce the risk of UTI by wiping from front to back after peeing.”

“Most important: Do not hold back your pee. Go when you feel like it.” 

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

OFWs Left Speechless After Unboxing Surprise at Airport

 

A meaningful homecoming initiative by Converge empowers OFWs abroad while enabling deeper connections back home.

Every journey home carries more than just luggage. For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), it often includes years of quiet sacrifice, missed milestones, and the extraordinary strength required to be away from family. Inside every Converge Super FiberX box is a message for all Kababayans: “We are here for you, honoring the resilience that keeps families and communities connected across borders.”

Converge, the country’s leading high-speed internet provider, emphasizes that being “Always Connected” is more than just a service, it is a lifeline. In a recent homecoming activation held at Mactan Airport last March 20, 2026, Converge welcomed returning OFWs with a gesture of Bayanihan. Arriving passengers received boxes of goodies; a small but meaningful initiative designed to make their arrival warmer and their load lighter. The activity highlights Converge’s commitment to celebrating Filipinos who work abroad, who continue to carve possibilities and create a better future for those they love.

"At Converge, we believe Bayanihan has gone global.” said Orange Ramirez, Converge VP
and Brand & Marketing Head. “As our OFWs carry the pride of our nation across borders,
we are committed to bringing ‘home’ closer to them.”

Sandra Zira-Dingal, Converge Assistant VP and Head of Consumer Segment Marketing added, “Through our fiber connectivity, distance becomes less of a barrier, a mother in Dubai
can still be present at the dinner table in Pampanga, and a father in Singapore can witness a graduation in Cebu. In these everyday moments, we turn longing into shared joy.

For Converge, true progress must be inclusive. The company continues to expand into areas
that have long waited for reliable internet targeting deployment of nearly 1 million ports in 2026. With many of them in underserved areas in Visayas and Mindanao, Converge is
ensuring that the culture and connections they nurture abroad are matched by fast and
reliable connectivity at home.

Converge’s commitment goes far beyond the airport gates. In light of recent global events
affecting communities both overseas and at home, the company continues to make the
Fastest Internet in the Philippines* more accessible and reliable. By improving the quality of digital life and bridging distances. Converge affirms that connectivity is not a luxury but a fundamental right, one that enables all Filipinos to stay informed, stay in touch, and stay close. 

In these challenging times, Converge stands with every Kabayan, reminding returning heroes and their families that they are seen, supported, and never alone.

For more information about Converge and FiberX, visit https:/www.convergeict.com or follow their official Facebook page at https:/www.facebook.com/ConvergeICT.

*Based on Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data, 2H 2025. All rights reserved.

ABOUT CONVERGE ICT SOLUTIONS, INC.
Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc. (PSE:CNVRG) is the fastest-growing fixed broadband service provider in the Philippines. It is the first to run an end-to-end pure fiber internet network in the country, providing Filipinos simple, fast, and reliable connectivity. Aside from broadband services, Converge also offers
integrated data center and network solutions services.

With over 900,000 kilometers of fiber optic assets nationwide, it has one of the most extensive fiber networks in the
Philippines.

With this fiber-powered network, Converge provides premium world-class digital experience for residential, enterprise,
and wholesale customers. Converge is ISO 9001 and CE2.0 Certified.

Go to www.convergeict.com for more information.

OPPO Hyper Legend Cup x MLBB Campus Series National University Champions to Compete for USD100K Prize Pool in Malaysia

Following a series of intense national qualifiers that ignited student gaming communities across Southeast Asia, OPPO today announces that the OPPO Hyper Legend Cup x MLBB Campus Series is set to take place at 1 Utama Shopping Centre in Selangor, Malaysia.

This year, the tournament reaches a record-breaking milestone, offering the largest prize pool ever for a campus-focused MLBB competition hosted by a brand. At a massive USD100,000 prize pool – nearly doubled from last year’s USD52,000 – the tournament has already drawn over 1,400 registrations across Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore.

"The OPPO Hyper Legend Cup x MLBB Campus Series is more than a tournament – it is a platform for the next generation of esports players to showcase their passion and skill," said Gary Dong, APAC President of OPPO. "By bringing these four nations together in Malaysia, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of mobile gaming by providing cutting-edge technology that enhances the mobile esports experience."

Road to the Throne: National Champions to Battle it Out

From 16 to 19 April 2026, the national champions from each country will gather at 1 Utama Shopping Centre in Malaysia to compete for the final championship. These teams emerged victorious from intense national selection rounds that saw record-breaking participation.

Philippines: NU Bulldogs and FAITH Colleges Bravehearts

The Philippines is sending a formidable duo: the NU Bulldogs, a collegiate dynasty with a history of back-to-back championship titles, and the FAITH Colleges Bravehearts, who bring professional-tier experience from the MDL Philippines circuit and are celebrated for their resilience under extreme pressure.

Indonesia: Little Pikaa and Semangka

Emerging from a massive pool of 476 teams, Little Pikaa took home the national title after a series of high-pressure matches, with Semangka securing their spot as the stronger runner-up. Both teams are now preparing to showcase their skills on the regional stage as they represent Indonesia's competitive student gaming community.

Singapore: TKP and Clarity Gaming

Singapore is represented by TKP with confidence and strong fundamentals on execution, adaptability, and team synergy, and Clarity Gaming, who evolved from ranked play to competitive stage under Coach Simple. Both teams possess distinct strengths and are determined to bring glory to Singapore on the competitive stage.

Malaysia: KPTM x Velocity

KPTM x Velocity was originally formed from casual games between classes before emerging as the home-ground champion. Their journey of late-night grinds and relentless practice has turned them into a formidable team to keep a lookout for as they represent their country on home turf.

Built for Champions: OPPO Reno15 Series

Throughout the intense qualifying rounds, the OPPO Reno15 series served as the official tournament device, thanks to its uncompromising performance. As the ultimate supporter for student athletes, the OPPO Reno15 series provides the technical foundation required for high-level competitive play and will serve as the accompanying device throughout the finals in Malaysia.

Featuring an ultra-smooth 120FPS display and an advanced VC Cooling system, the device is built to maintain peak performance during high-stakes team fights. Equipped with a long-lasting 6,500mAh battery, 80W SUPERVOOC Flash Charge, and AI LinkBoost 3.0 for stable connectivity, the series ensures that gamers can focus entirely on their strategy.

A Grand Final Spectacle

From left: Malaysian MLBB legends, Soloz and Feekz

The grand final in Malaysia promises an immersive experience for esports fans, headlined by special appearances by Malaysia’s very own MLBB legends Soloz and Feekz.

“I am excited to see these young university talents in action – this is their moment to shine, and I can’t wait to see the level of gameplay they bring to the grand stage,” said Soloz. Feekz added, “Every legend starts somewhere, and this campus series is the perfect platform to witness the birth of the next generation of legendary players.”

Beyond the competition, attendees can enjoy exclusive on-site activities, including interactive zones to experience the latest OPPO technology, meet-and-greets, and epic giveaways of exclusive merchandise throughout the four-day event.

Whether a die-hard MLBB fan or a casual gamer, fans should not miss their chance to witness this esports event unfold. For more information about the OPPO Hyper Legend Cup x MLBB Campus Series, please visit https://www.oppo.com/ph/.

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About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - “Smiley Face” - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with the ColorOS operating system and internet services such as OPPO Cloud and OPPO+. OPPO has footprints in more than 60 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

About Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is one of the most popular mobile Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games worldwide that brings communities together through teamwork and strategy. With over 1.5 billion installations and 110 million active monthly users, the award-winning game is among the top 10 most played in over 80 countries. With an extensive reach across the Asia Pacific region, the multiplayer is available in 139 countries with an expansive global esports presence.

About MOONTON Games

Established in 2014, MOONTON is a global video game company dedicated to gaming development, publication, and esports. With more than 1,600 employees worldwide, the company operates offices in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Latin America, and China. It has successfully launched several high-profile mobile games globally and has built long-term relationships with governments and esports organizations in more than 30 countries around the world. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is its current star game and the leading mobile multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game worldwide. For more information, visit https://en.moonton.com.