Modern Moms Redefine Everyday Care as the Foundation of Children’s Health and Growth

This Mother’s Day, we celebrate the quiet yet extraordinary strength of every mother. Behind every happy, healthy, and thriving child is a woman who lovingly shows up each day—with courage, patience, sacrifice, and endless grace. In her own beautiful way, she faces life’s challenges with a heart full of love, turning ordinary moments into lasting blessings. Today, we honor the joy, warmth, and unwavering devotion that mothers bring into our lives every single day. 💐✨

Across Filipino households, motherhood today takes many forms. From first-time moms navigating new routines, to working mothers balancing multiple responsibilities, and caregivers guiding with patience and experience, no two journeys are exactly alike. Despite these many differences, one thing remains constant – the commitment to raising children who are healthy, resilient, and ready to face life. 

Health experts and child development advocates continue to emphasize that consistent daily habits – more than occasional efforts, play a critical role in a child’s overall well-being. These habits are often shaped at home, through routines that mothers build over time: preparing balanced meals, encouraging active play, and nurturing positive behaviors. 

More than grand gestures, it is this steady, everyday presence that supports a child’s growth. Whether it is ensuring children eat well, guiding their daily routines, or simply being there through each new milestone, mothers help lay the foundation for their children’s physical and emotional development. 

“Mothers today are navigating more demands than ever before, yet they continue to find ways to prioritize their children’s well-being,” said Toby Manlapat, Senior Product Manager. “We recognize that care looks different in every home, but what remains the same is the intention behind it – to help children grow healthy, strong, and confident.” 

Propan TLC underscores that supporting children’s growth goes beyond singular solutions. It involves a combination of proper nutrition, consistent routines, and an environment where children are encouraged to thrive. 

As families celebrate Mother’s Day, the occasion serves as a timely reminder to recognize the everyday efforts of moms that often go unnoticed - the small, consistent actions that help shape a child’s health, energy, and overall development. In every home, each mother’s approach may be unique, but the impact of her constant care remains universal.

About Propan TLC 

Propan TLC is a trusted brand focused on supporting children’s healthy growth and development. We are dedicated to empowering parents and caregivers who play a crucial role in helping children thrive.

AIA Philippines launches new multi-claim critical illness plan with flexible health coverage

  

AIA Philippines has launched AIA Critical Protect Plus, a critical illness insurance plan that enables policyholders to claim up to three times for major illnesses.

As Filipinos live longer and face a higher risk of experiencing serious illnesses more than once, many are also shifting how they approach their health. Recent findings from AIA Philippines’ Rethink Healthy study show that 70% of Filipinos are adopting a more proactive, futureoriented approach to their wellbeing—driven by a desire to protect their families and prevent risks before they escalate.

This shift is driving the need for protection that goes beyond traditional one-time payout structures. AIA Critical Protect Plus addresses this by providing continued financial protection even if illnesses happen more than once, including benefits for early-stage conditions.

The new product also comes as the insurance industry expands beyond single-claim or limited-duration plans to address more complex, long-term health risks. AIA Philippines introduces AIA Critical Protect Plus as a more flexible solution, allowing customers to customize their coverage through optional add-ons, while integrating wellness features through AIA Vitality.

Built for flexibility and lifetime protection

AIA Critical Protect Plus is designed to let customers tailor their coverage through optional add-ons, offering greater flexibility than traditional fixed plans.

It features a multi-pay structure that enables up to three major critical illness claims, alongside benefits for early-stage conditions, ensuring protection remains even after an initial diagnosis. Coverage extends up to age 100 and spans 106 critical conditions, expandable to up to 146 with riders, reflecting the increasing complexity of health risks over time.

Additional features include optional benefits for emerging conditions, ICU support, and gender-specific cancers, as well as a waiver of premium after a major illness and a compassionate death benefit that provides an additional payout if death occurs after a major critical illness claim.

AIA Critical Protect Plus also integrates with AIA Vitality, AIA’s science-backed wellness program, enabling customers to improve their health while enhancing their protection. Policyholders can boost their coverage by up to 50%, depending on engagement in healthy behaviors, linking protection to everyday health habits.

A shift from one-time coverage to lifetime resilience

The plan is designed to be more accessible, with a minimum coverage requirement of PHP 500,000, alongside flexible payment terms including 10-year, 20-year, or pay-to-age-65 options with protection extending up to age 100.

“As Filipinos live longer, the risk of facing critical illness more than once is no longer unlikely—it’s becoming a reality,” said Melita Teo, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Philippines. “AIA Critical Protect Plus moves beyond one-time protection, giving customers the flexibility and continued coverage they need across multiple diagnoses.”

AIA Critical Protect Plus combines flexibility, broader coverage, and wellness integration to support Filipinos in staying financially resilient through every stage of their health journey.

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About AIA Philippines

AIA Philippines (AIA Philippines Life and General Insurance Company Inc.) formerly AIA Philam Life (The Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company), is the country’s premier life insurance company. Originally established on 21 June 1947 and became popularly known as Philam Life, AIA Philippines has earned the trust of customers for its financial strength, strong brand name, and ability to deliver on its promises.

AIA Philippines has PHP 257.76 billion in total assets and PHP 57.35 billion in net worth as of 31 December 2024 while serving nearly 1.2 million individual policyholders and nearly 800,000 insured group members. AIA Philippines understands the needs of its customers and provides holistic solutions that include life protection, health insurance, savings, education, retirement, investment, group, and credit life insurance. It also offers bancassurance through its subsidiary, BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation (formerly BPI-Philam Life Assurance Corporation).

Based on the unaudited reports submitted to the Insurance Commission as of 31 December 2024, the combined total premium income of AIA Philippines and BPI AIA was at PHP 29.77 billion. AIA Philippines is a member of AIA Group Limited, the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group.

AIA PH and BPI AIA are regulated by the Insurance Commission.

About AIA

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR(1), Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR(2), and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$328 billion as of 30 June 2025.

AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 43 million individual policies and over 16 million participating members of group insurance schemes.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes “1299” for HKD counter and “81299” for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol “AAGIY”.

Notes:

(1) Hong Kong SAR refers to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

(2) Macau SAR refers to the Macau Special Administrative Region

The Manila Hotel Revives Flores de Mayo with Grand Celebration of Faith, Fashion, and Filipino Heritage

 

The Manila Hotel marked the grand revival of Flores de Mayo: Dalisay at Halimuyak on Sunday, May 3, drawing approximately 2,000 attendees and participants to a landmark celebration of Marian devotion, Filipino heritage, fashion, and charitable giving.

Held in partnership with the City Government of Manila, the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila through Manila, My Manila, the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines, and the National Parks Development Committee, the event brought back one of Manila’s most cherished cultural traditions.

With the theme “Dalisay at Halimuyak,” the revival drew from the ideas of purity and fragrance, reflecting the spiritual and cultural essence of the Filipino Catholic tradition, honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary. At its heart, Flores de Mayo remains a tribute to the Mother of God through the ofering of flowers. In Manila, however, the tradition has grown into a uniquely expansive celebration — one that honors Marian devotion while showcasing the richness of Filipino artistry.

The celebration carried special significance as it began at Kilometer 0 in Luneta, the point from
which all distances to places across the Philippine archipelago are measured. From the historic grounds of The Manila Hotel, the procession moved toward the Quirino Grandstand before returning to the hotel, symbolically opening this year’s Flores de Mayo observances ahead of similar celebrations in towns, cities, and municipalities across the country.

Leading the celebration were Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso and Mrs.
Diana Lynn “Dynee” Domagoso, who served as Hermano Mayor and Hermana Mayor, respectively. Atty. Jose “Joey” D. Lina, President of The Manila Hotel, served as Hermano de
Honor, together with Mrs. Loretta “Lory” A. Lina as Hermana de Honor.

Flores de Mayo was first launched at The Manila Hotel in 1979 through the Congregacion del Santisimo Nombre de Niño Jesus, established with the late Ben Farrales, the Dean of Filipino Fashion, as founding chair. Over the years, the celebration became part of the hotel’s cultural calendar, reflecting devotion, heritage, and the enduring elegance of Filipino design. Revived in 2019 before being paused by the pandemic, the tradition returned this year with renewed civic, cultural, and institutional support.

The day’s festivities unfolded in two major parts. The first was a solemn yet colorful procession from The Manila Hotel to the Quirino Grandstand, where the entries of 30 FDAP designers were judged. The procession then returned to the hotel for the ofering of flowers to Nuestra Señora de las Flores. During the procession proper, the image of Nuestra Señora de la Consolacion y Correa de Intramuros was enshrined on the carroza.

The procession brought together hermanos and hermanas, celebrities, beauty queens, public
figures, FDAP senior and featured designers, sagalas, konsortes, and representatives from
leading pageant, fashion, and entertainment organizations.

The second part of the celebration was the Fashion Show for a Cause, with proceeds benefiting Young Focus and the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition. Through this initiative, the event will support Young Focus’ education programs for children from underserved communities, particularly in Smokey Mountain, Tondo, Manila, as well as the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition’s advocacy for children’s health and well-being during their most formative first 1,000 days.

More than a showcase of pageantry, the charitable component gave the celebration a deeper dimension — transforming devotion into meaningful service for the community.

A major highlight of the event was the fashion presentation featuring the artistry of 35 FDAP
designers. Leading the showcase were five senior FDAP designers — Renee Salud, Albert
Andrada, Toni Galang, Glenn Lopez, and Lito Perez — joined by 30 fellow members representing both established and emerging voices in Philippine fashion.

Under the creative direction of Raymond Villanueva, Flores de Mayo 2026: Dalisay at
Halimuyak became more than a religious tribute to Mama Mary. It became a living gallery of Filipino design. Through intricate gowns, floral details, and carefully crafted ensembles, the designers interpreted the ideals of dalisay and halimuyak in visual form.

Following the judging of the 30 FDAP designers’ entries, the following titles were awarded:

Reina de las Flores — Main Title
Cathy Capistrano, with sagala Maria Luisa Varela, Ms. Planet International 2022

Reina Rosa Mystica — 1st Runner-Up
Hoho Alidio, with sagala Dawn Salas, Ms. Grand Philippines Quezon 2025

Reina Las Islas Filipinas — 2nd Runner-Up
Arhon Macaraig, with sagala Charisse Anthea Abanico, Miss Pearl of the Orient Culture 2025

Reina La Flor de Manila — 3rd Runner-Up
Eys Vergara, with sagala Jihaynne Hernandez, Miss Teen International 2021

The Board of Judges was chaired by Barge Ramos, Past President of the Fashion Designers

Association of the Philippines. He was joined by Cristina “Inday” Vilar, Director of Euroville Realty and Development Corporation, and Luningning Latoreno, Bodyshot Philippines 1988, international fashion model, and Asian Mega Model finalist. Of-site judges at The Manila Hotel included Rachy Cuna, Social Director and Design Consultant of The Manila Hotel, and Lalaine Vivar, CEO and Owner of One Touch Fabrics.

The celebration also received support from key government and institutional partners, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, whose cadets from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, and Philippine Navy served as arch bearers during the procession. The Philippine National Police, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Red Cross also provided assistance to help ensure an orderly and secure celebration.

With its successful return, Flores de Mayo: Dalisay at Halimuyak reafirmed The Manila Hotel’s role as a steward of Manila’s cultural legacy. More than a devotional celebration, the event brought together Marian tradition, Filipino fashion, civic partnership, and charitable purpose in one memorable occasion — a fitting revival of a beloved heritage event at the Grand Dame of the Philippines.

MrBeast “Arrives” in the Philippines with the Power of HONOR 600 AI

Leading global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just got a taste of global internet superstar MrBeast—but with a futuristic twist. HONOR 600 unveiled a groundbreaking technology, bringing to life the idea of MrBeast visiting the Philippines through its cutting-edge AI Image-to-Video feature.

While the world’s biggest YouTube creator hasn’t physically landed on Philippine soil yet, HONOR 600 proves Anything Is Possible—transforming static images into hyper-realistic, dynamic videos that place MrBeast in iconic Filipino settings, from bustling city streets to local food spots.

Following its high-profile appearance at the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night, HONOR Philippines has officially confirmed that the HONOR 600 will launch on May 14, 2026. The upcoming release is poised to set a new benchmark in smartphone innovation, combining cutting-edge AI technology with sleek design and all-day performance.

To learn more about this exciting news, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

About HONOR

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

McDonald’s Philippines Delivers Good News With the Comeback of Twister Fries

 

Starting May 1, Twister Fries is back for fans and customers to enjoy. 

“There is always clamor for McDonald’s Philippines to bring back the Twister Fries to its menu. This year, Twister Fries returns not just to delight fans, but also to bring everyday feel-good moments to our customers during this time when we all need something to brighten our days,” says Celina Lagandaon, McDonald’s Philippines Marketing Director.

Lagandaon invites everyone to enjoy Twister Fries as soon as possible because of its limited availability, saying, “35 days can go by just very fast and some regrettably missed the Twister Fries last year. This year, our customers should look forward to daily plot twists that will help them appreciate good in the world while enjoying their beloved golden Twister fries.”

Alongside the exciting return of the Twister Fries is “Your Daily Plot Twist,” digital campaign of special daily surprises during Twister Fries’ availability. Fans and customers should look forward to these daily “plot twists,” which will deliver the signature McDonald’s feel-good moments to everyone.

The McDonald’s Twister Fries can be ordered solo or sharing sizes starting at P89. It can be ordered as an add-on or fries upgrade option for all McDonald’s meals with fries. 

With Twister Fries available only in just a little over a month, fans and customers should not miss this opportunity to find their own Daily Plot Twists as they enjoy golden, curly-shaped delight. It is available while it lasts via dine-in, takeout, McDelivery, Grab Food, Food Panda, and drive-thru. 

For more information, visit McDonalds.com.ph, or follow @McDo.ph on Facebook, and @McDo_ph on Instagram. 

About McDonald’s Philippines 

McDonald’s Philippines’ master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang – who oversees and sits as Chairman for over 40 years -- founded and brought the first McDonald’s store to the country in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a store network of over 790 nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines. 

SM reinforces public safety through nationwide Fire Prevention Month programs

 

Participants from SM Supermalls, the Bureau of Fire Protection, partner agencies, and community volunteers come together for the Fire Prevention Month activities, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, preparedness, and building disaster-resilient communities.

Reaffirming its commitment to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, empowering Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety across its network of most-loved malls.

Mounted through SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill engaged almost 30,000 participants composed of SM employees, tenant employees, security and janitorial personnel, students, mall goers, and residents of barangays near SM malls which was a 30% increase in participants versus the previous year. With the theme ‘Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!’, the drill strengthened coordination in emergency response, especially helping communities practice life-saving evacuation procedures. In addition, the Fire Square Road Show brought interactive fire safety education to the public across 16 participating SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through demonstrations, equipment showcases, and hands-on safety activities designed for families, students, and community members.

A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

The search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 was formally launched with officers of SM, BFP and DILG headed by Usec. Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). TOFF is on its 3rd solid year of recognizing Filipino firefighters for their exemplary service in fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building initiatives. This highlights the partnership between SM Prime and BFP for a safer, more resilient Philippines.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.

POV: You’re Romanticizing Life with All These FIRSTS IN ZAMBOANGA at SM Supermalls

  

Career, hobbies, social life, relationships—with so many things vying for our attention, sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters: living in the moment and finding joy in the mundane.

Now, picture this: a Saturday afternoon stroll, slow weekends, a cup of tea in hand. Honestly, when’s the last time you allowed yourself to pause for a while and breathe in times like these? To idealize each and every waking moment, making them seem grander than they are—have you ever wondered what it’s like to fall in love with life again?

Well, wander no more, because here at your most-loved SM Supermalls, we’ll show you what it’s like to live with intention and make your happiness the central plot of your own story. From fresh new eats to new finds and experiences to discover, SM City Zamboanga is here to help you imagine what it’s like to experience the best from your point of view.

Moments Become Worth Savoring

All of a sudden, the food tastes better. You get to enjoy each meal as if you’re savoring it for the first time—each soft bite, each aromatic note—details you previously didn’t notice now bring a smile to your face with every spoonful.

• JCO ReserveLocated at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, a sweeter kind of pause in your day awaits. Here at the first-in-Mindanao JCO Reserve, coffee and treats feel elevated into little rituals—smooth sips and soft bites that make everything feel just a bit more special than usual.

• BOTEJYUFeaturing the first-in-Zamboanga Botejyu, a true celebration of Japanese comfort food unfolds at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, where every dish feels warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying. From hearty okonomiyaki to freshly cooked noodles, rice bowls, and sizzling teppan-style favorites, it’s a table filled with flavors meant to be savored and remembered.

• The Matcha TokyoLocated on the Third Level of the mall, The Matcha Tokyo arrives in Zamboanga for the first time ever to serve the authentic, high-quality Japanese matcha it’s famous for, offering a variety of premium desserts crafted for those who truly savor the flavor.

• Brique Modern KitchenWith a menu centered on well-crafted dishes, BRIQUE, opening soon at the upper ground level, brings its dining concept to Zamboanga for the first time in a stylish, comforting setting where good food and atmosphere turn simple meals into memorable experiences.Ch

Suddenly, Life’s More Fun

In a heartbeat, life feels more exciting. You are filled with the rush of adventure, ready to set your life into motion and indulge yourself in life’s small surprises.

• FantasyWorldFun, you say? Located on the Third Level of the mall, Fantasy World brings a playful escape to Zamboanga for the first time. Step into a space bursting with color and imagination, where every visit turns into a mini adventure full of memories worth returning for.

• Gashapon BandaiFinally, here on the Third Level, the first-in-Zamboanga Gashapon Bandai brings the thrill of capsule toy surprises straight from Japan. With every turn, you get a chance at collectible figures and quirky finds—perfect for those spontaneous, joy-filled moments.

Settle in Your Own Kind of Comfort

Finally, you get to understand what it’s like to put yourself first. To make your world revolve around what brings you comfort. To declutter, feel refreshed, and find happiness in whatever life blows in your direction.

Step into a world where innovation meets elegance at the first-ever Dyson in Zamboanga at the Upper Ground Level. Touch, test, and fall in love with their sleek technology—from vacuums to hair care tools and air purifiers—that makes everyday life effortless and beautiful.

Here at SM Supermalls, we understand what matters to you. To the tune of the famous French song La Vie En Rose, sometimes you just have to see the world through rose-colored glasses—through the POV of love and your own happiness. Romanticize your life! See what it’s like to experience the world from your own point of view, all for you.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You