UMak President appointed Chairman of the World University Network of Innovators (WUNI) at 2026 WURI Global Conference in Germany

Demonstrating the University of Makati’s (UMak) expanding global presence and leadership in higher education, University President Elyxzur Ramos and Center for Quality Management and Development (CQMD) Director Henry Magat secured major international appointments during the 2026 World University Association for Innovation (WURI) Global Conference, held on recently at the Deggendorf Institute of Technology in Germany.

President Elyxzur Ramos was reelected as Chairman of the World University Network of Innovators (WUNI) for Presidents. In addition, Dr. Ramos was invited to join the pioneer team of accreditation inspectors for university presidents under the WURI system, establishing a significant benchmark for executive academic leadership.

Concurrently, CQMD Director Henry Magat achieved a triple distinction on the international stage. Magat was reelected Chairman of WUNI for Experts for his second consecutive term, named a WURI Accreditation Validator, and reappointed as a Certified WURI Mentor.

The WURI Global Conference brings together university presidents, global experts, researchers, and academic leaders to share cutting-forward practices and foster international collaboration. The continued reelection and appointments of UMak’s top leadership highlight the institution’s commitment to quality assurance, institutional innovation, and global partnership.

"Their continued leadership on the global stage reflects UMak's unwavering commitment to innovation, quality assurance, and meaningful collaboration in higher education," the university stated, reinforcing its thrust to inspire students and faculty to rise, shine, and succeed anywhere in the world.

About the University of Makati:

The University of Makati (UMak) is a premier local government-funded university in Makati City, Philippines, dedicated to providing quality, innovative, and industry-aligned higher education. Through continuous engagement with global standards and international networks, UMak prepares its academic community to excel in an evolving global landscape.

HONOR 600S Officially Goes on Sale Nationwide as First-Ever Alpha Store Opens at SM MegamallGlobal AI device provider HONOR Philippines officially marks the first-day sale of the HONOR 600S, making the latest addition to the HONOR 600 Series available to more Filipino consumers through authorized HONOR stores, partner dealers, and official online channels nationwide. The milestone also coincides with the opening of the new HONOR Alpha Store at SM Megamall Cyberzone, which features a service center to provide customers with added convenience and support. Designed for users who balance work, entertainment, and content creation, the HONOR 600S brings together long-lasting battery life, durable protection, and AI-powered features in one smartphone. "We're excited to bring the HONOR 600S to more Filipino consumers as it officially becomes available nationwide," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. "With its powerful battery, durable design, and intelligent features, the HONOR 600S is designed to keep up with the different ways people use their smartphones, from staying connected and getting work done to creating content and enjoying entertainment." The HONOR 600S features an 8,100mAh battery with 45W HONOR SuperCharge, along with IP68, IP69, and IP69K water and dust resistance. Its Cushioning and Fall Protection Architecture has earned the SGS Premium Performance Certification for Drop and Crush Resistance, including a 5-Star All-Round Drop Resistance rating and tested drop protection of up to 2.5 meters under controlled laboratory conditions. For content creation, the smartphone features a dedicated AI Button and HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0, allowing users to transform still images into dynamic video content. It is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 Mobile Platform and features a 6.87-inch 120Hz display, 400% Volume Dual Speakers, and a 50MP main camera. The HONOR 600S comes in Velvet Black, Desert Gold, and Misty Purple. The 8GB + 256GB is available for only PHP 19,999 until October 31, 2026, with a free HONOR Bluetooth Speaker II for those who made the pre-order and an HONOR Watch 2i for those who made the first-day purchases. The 6GB + 128GB variant is available online exclusively for PHP 18,999 with a free HONOR Watch 2i. Customers can also enjoy online exclusive offers on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop subject to applicable platform promotions and terms. Last Chance to Register for the PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo Customers who pre-ordered or purchased the HONOR 600S can still join the HONOR 600S PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo, as HONOR Philippines has extended the registration deadline to October 18, 2026, giving eligible customers more time to register for a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping spree at SM Stores, subject to the official promo mechanics. For the full promo mechanics and registration details, visit www.honorphrafflepromo.com. For more information about HONOR Philippines, you may visit: https://www.honor.com/ph/. To stay updated on launch announcements, product information, and exclusive offers, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more. #HONOR600S #AnythingIsPossible #HONORPhilippines #HONOR600Series ### About HONOR HONOR is a global leading AI device ecosystem company. It is committed to revolutionizing human-to-device interactions to bridge the AI ecosystem with all consumers in the agentic AI era and beyond. The company endeavors to open industrial boundaries through open, seamless collaboration to co-create a value-sharing ecosystem with industry partners. With an innovative product portfolio spanning AI phones, PCs, tablets, wearables, and more, HONOR aims to empower every human, enabling everyone to embrace the new intelligent world.

SM Megamall's Assistant Mall Manager Isabella Manjon with HONOR Philippines' Go-To-Market Director Steven Yan and Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Global AI device provider HONOR Philippines officially marks the first-day sale of the HONOR 600S, making the latest addition to the HONOR 600 Series available to more Filipino consumers through authorized HONOR stores, partner dealers, and official online channels nationwide. The milestone also coincides with the opening of the new HONOR Alpha Store at SM Megamall Cyberzone, which features a service center to provide customers with added convenience and support.

Designed for users who balance work, entertainment, and content creation, the HONOR 600S brings together long-lasting battery life, durable protection, and AI-powered features in one smartphone.

"We're excited to bring the HONOR 600S to more Filipino consumers as it officially becomes available nationwide," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. "With its powerful battery, durable design, and intelligent features, the HONOR 600S is designed to keep up with the different ways people use their smartphones, from staying connected and getting work done to creating content and enjoying entertainment."

  

The HONOR 600S features an 8,100mAh battery with 45W HONOR SuperCharge, along with IP68, IP69, and IP69K water and dust resistance. Its Cushioning and Fall Protection Architecture has earned the SGS Premium Performance Certification for Drop and Crush Resistance, including a 5-Star All-Round Drop Resistance rating and tested drop protection of up to 2.5 meters under controlled laboratory conditions.

 

For content creation, the smartphone features a dedicated AI Button and HONOR AI Image to Video 2.0, allowing users to transform still images into dynamic video content. It is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 Mobile Platform and features a 6.87-inch 120Hz display, 400% Volume Dual Speakers, and a 50MP main camera.

The HONOR 600S comes in Velvet Black, Desert Gold, and Misty Purple. The 8GB + 256GB is available for only PHP 19,999 until October 31, 2026, with a free HONOR Bluetooth Speaker II for those who made the pre-order and an HONOR Watch 2i for those who made the first-day purchases. The 6GB + 128GB variant is available online exclusively for PHP 18,999 with a free HONOR Watch 2i. Customers can also enjoy online exclusive offers on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop subject to applicable platform promotions and terms.

Last Chance to Register for the PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo

Customers who pre-ordered or purchased the HONOR 600S can still join the HONOR 600S PHP 1 Million Shopping Spree Promo, as HONOR Philippines has extended the registration deadline to October 18, 2026, giving eligible customers more time to register for a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping spree at SM Stores, subject to the official promo mechanics. 

For the full promo mechanics and registration details, visit www.honorphrafflepromo.com.

For more information about HONOR Philippines, you may visit: https://www.honor.com/ph/. To stay updated on launch announcements, product information, and exclusive offers, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more. #HONOR600S #AnythingIsPossible #HONORPhilippines #HONOR600Series

About HONOR

HONOR is a global leading AI device ecosystem company. It is committed to revolutionizing human-to-device interactions to bridge the AI ecosystem with all consumers in the agentic AI era and beyond. The company endeavors to open industrial boundaries through open, seamless collaboration to co-create a value-sharing ecosystem with industry partners. With an innovative product portfolio spanning AI phones, PCs, tablets, wearables, and more, HONOR aims to empower every human, enabling everyone to embrace the new intelligent world.

Annyeongsarap! McDonald’s Turns Up the Heat on K-Inspiration, Launching Its Largest-Ever Korean Flavor Platform Building on the iconic McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration launched in September, McDonald’s Philippines is upping the heat of K-experience for fans and customers with the return of a bigger and better Taste of Korea menu, featuring limited-time Korean-inspired McSpicy, Double Cheeseburger, McShaker Fries and McFloat. Pinoy fans of Korean food and culture can savor and celebrate the Korean flavors they love starting October 9, with the new Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float. Together, they deliver a total Korean flavor experience that is accessible and uniquely McDonald’s: truly Annyeongsarap! “Korean culture continues to unite Pinoys of all ages and groups, especially Korean food and culinary experiences. The buzz we’ve seen around the recent McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration, as well as our Taste of Korea and Flavors of Asia menus in 2021 and 2022 show how strong Pinoys’ affinity towards all things-Korean. Now, we’re excited to elevate the heat further on the K-experience with our new Taste of Korea offerings. We invite customers and fans to discover new favorites and enjoy a taste of Korea,” said Karl Christian Chua, McDonald’s Philippines Brand Manager. The Taste of Korea line-up is a complete K-experience that brings together some of the bold, craveable, and distinctly Korean flavors that Filipinos have come to love. From sweet and spicy favorites to smoky, savory, and refreshing tastes, each item is inspired by the richness of Korean food culture, now within reach at McDonald’s. The Yangnyeom twist on both the McSpicy and the Double Cheeseburger delivers a sweet, savory, and bold kick through its creamy and spicy yangnyeom sauce. The Galbi McShaker Fries excites the taste buds with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet Galbi flavor elevating the fan-favorite World Famous Fries. Rounding out the flavor experience is the K-Melon McFloat, a refreshing Sprite McFloat-based dessert drink with the sparkle of sweet melon inspired by the popular South Korean ice cream brand Melona. Completing the K-experience: K-inspired kilig and McDo App deals McDonald’s Philippines’ Taste of Korea experience goes further beyond the K-flavor excitement, as the brand is also premiering “The Plus One,” a new microdrama to deliver K-inspired kilig. Three lifelong friends, Kim, Marco and Dom, have always dreamed of going to Korea. One day, Kim wins a dream trip to the Land of the Morning Calm, but she can only take one of her friends as plus one. Marco and Dom hilariously compete for that coveted spot, but who will she choose? "At McDonald’s, we’re always looking for ways to bring total experiences to our customers beyond exciting flavors. Taste of Korea captures the vibrant flavors that have become so popular among Filipinos, and we’re excited for customers to try this lineup. And with ‘The Plus One,’ we’re elevating the Korean experience further, bridging Filipinos’ strong affinity for Korean entertainment and the growing popularity of microdramas with their love for Korean food," added Chua. McDonald’s Philippines is also making Taste of Korea within reach for its customers, through McDo App exclusive promos of only P199 for a Yangnyeom McSpicy with FREE Large Sprite and only P169 for a Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger also with FREE Large Sprite. Experience the excitement of Korean flavors and go “Annyeongsarap!”. Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float are available for dine-in, take-out and drive-thru, and via delivery with the McDonald’s Delivery App as well as third-party delivery platforms. For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X. # About McDonald’s Philippines McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang - who oversees and sits as chairman for 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 close to 800 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.

Building on the iconic McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration launched in September, McDonald’s Philippines is upping the heat of K-experience for fans and customers with the return of a bigger and better Taste of Korea menu, featuring limited-time Korean-inspired McSpicy, Double Cheeseburger, McShaker Fries and McFloat. 

Pinoy fans of Korean food and culture can savor and celebrate the Korean flavors they love starting October 9, with the new Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float. Together, they deliver a total Korean flavor experience that is accessible and uniquely McDonald’s: truly Annyeongsarap!

“Korean culture continues to unite Pinoys of all ages and groups, especially Korean food and culinary experiences. The buzz we’ve seen around the recent McSpicy x G-DRAGON collaboration, as well as our Taste of Korea and Flavors of Asia menus in 2021 and 2022 show how strong Pinoys’ affinity towards all things-Korean. Now, we’re excited to elevate the heat further on the K-experience with our new Taste of Korea offerings. We invite customers and fans to discover new favorites and enjoy a taste of Korea,” said Karl Christian Chua, McDonald’s Philippines Brand Manager.

The Taste of Korea line-up is a complete K-experience that brings together some of the bold, craveable, and distinctly Korean flavors that Filipinos have come to love. From sweet and spicy favorites to smoky, savory, and refreshing tastes, each item is inspired by the richness of Korean food culture, now within reach at McDonald’s.

The Yangnyeom twist on both the McSpicy and the Double Cheeseburger delivers a sweet, savory, and bold kick through its creamy and spicy yangnyeom sauce. The Galbi McShaker Fries excites the taste buds with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet Galbi flavor elevating the fan-favorite World Famous Fries. Rounding out the flavor experience is the K-Melon McFloat, a refreshing Sprite McFloat-based dessert drink with the sparkle of sweet melon inspired by the popular South Korean ice cream brand Melona.

Completing the K-experience: K-inspired kilig and McDo App deals

McDonald’s Philippines’ Taste of Korea experience goes further beyond the K-flavor excitement, as the brand is also premiering “The Plus One,” a new microdrama to deliver K-inspired kilig. Three lifelong friends, Kim, Marco and Dom, have always dreamed of going to Korea. One day, Kim wins a dream trip to the Land of the Morning Calm, but she can only take one of her friends as plus one. Marco and Dom hilariously compete for that coveted spot, but who will she choose?

"At McDonald’s, we’re always looking for ways to bring total experiences to our customers beyond exciting flavors. Taste of Korea captures the vibrant flavors that have become so popular among Filipinos, and we’re excited for customers to try this lineup. And with ‘The Plus One,’ we’re elevating the Korean experience further, bridging Filipinos’ strong affinity for Korean entertainment and the growing popularity of microdramas with their love for Korean food," added Chua.

McDonald’s Philippines is also making Taste of Korea within reach for its customers, through McDo App exclusive promos of only P199 for a Yangnyeom McSpicy with FREE Large Sprite and only P169 for a Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger also with FREE Large Sprite.

Experience the excitement of Korean flavors and go “Annyeongsarap!”. Yangnyeom McSpicy, Yangnyeom Double Cheeseburger, Galbi McShaker Fries, and K-Melon Float are available for dine-in, take-out and drive-thru, and via delivery with the McDonald’s Delivery App as well as third-party delivery platforms.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.

About McDonald’s Philippines

McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang - who oversees and sits as chairman for 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 close to 800 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.

What Would You Buy with PHP 1 Million at SM? Pre-Order the HONOR 600S for a Chance to Win!

What would you do with PHP 1 million worth of shopping? HONOR is giving consumers a chance to make it happen with the new HONOR 600S.

 

As part of the HONOR 600S pre-order offer, customers can get a chance to win PHP 1 million worth of shopping spree at SM Stores, adding even more excitement to the launch of HONOR’s latest smartphone.

 

Beyond the exciting prize, the HONOR 600S delivers AI-powered features, 5G connectivity, and long-lasting battery life, making it a compelling choice for consumers looking for an everyday smartphone packed with smart and creative features.

 

The HONOR 600S is now available for pre-order through authorized HONOR stores and online channels nationwide. Don’t miss the chance to get your hands on the new HONOR 600S—and get a shot at a PHP 1 million shopping spree.

Hanabishi Brings Bossing Vic Sotto and Ninong Ry Together in a Special Collab

 

Two of the country’s beloved personalities known for their humor and authenticity have teamed up for a special collaboration with Hanabishi Appliances. 

Comedy legend “Bossing” Vic Sotto recently visited Ninong Ry, who prepared delicious Chinese food using the brand’s various kitchen appliances. The visit can be seen on the food content creator’s popular YouTube channel. As of this writing, the hour-long episode has already garnered more than 4 million views.

“Bossing Vic has been a brand ambassador of Hanabishi for many years already, and we have worked with Ninong Ry countless times. Bringing them together was a dream collaboration for us as we mark our 40th year,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, VP for Finance and Marketing, Hanabishi Appliances.

Ninong Ry Whips Up a Chinese Feast

Ninong Ry, with his signature wit and humor, prepared Fried Mantou with the help of the Hanabishi Professional Stand Mixer Master Series 5L HPSTMIX-50, and Hanabishi Food Steamer HFS85; Steamed Fish also using the Hanabishi Food Steamer; and his own version of Dong Po Pork using the Hanabishi 18 in 1 Electric Pressure Cooker HDIGPC-18IN1 and Hanabishi Juice Extractor HPJ750SS. He showed how much easier and more convenient it is to prepare these dishes with these appliances as your ka-partner.

Bossing Opens Up About His Beginnings in Rare Interview

Bossing Vic and Ninong Ry enjoyed the food together before settling into a lighthearted interview, where the comedy icon offered a rare glimpse into his personal journey in the entertainment industry. He candidly shared how he entered show business through the music industry before eventually appearing in a gag show with his brothers. He also shared his thoughts on comedy’s evolution, and looked back on the beginnings of Eat Bulaga in 1979. He said that he is looking  forward to its upcoming 50th anniversary.

A Tried and Tested Ka-Partner

“Parang Eat Bulaga ang Hanabishi,” Bossing Vic observed during the interview, drawing parallels between the long-running noontime show and the brand’s longevity and partnership with Filipinos. “For 40 years, subok na ng buong bayan.”

He also shared how people would tell him about the durability of Hanabishi products, of how they have remained reliable for many years.

“As we celebrate our 40th year this year, we thank all the people who have partnered with us like Bossing Vic and Ninong Ry, and everyone who has chosen Hanabishi as their ka-partner in their homes and even their offices. As we look forward to more years in the industry, we will continue to fulfill our promise of providing quality appliances for Filipino families,” Ong-Chua said.

Learn more about Hanabishi by visiting www.myhanabishi.com. 

#

About Hanabishi: 

Sa Bahay at sa Business Mo, Hanabishi!

Hanabishi is a Filipino household name for appliances for 40 years. It is a brand engineered to fit the lifestyle of the Filipino both for homes and businesses.  Hardworking, durable and resilient, are the attributes that personify Hanabishi making it the brand of choice of every Filipino mom and businessman when it comes to value and practicality. Hanabishi is the mark of quality that grows with you through the years.  Built with passion and an impeccable desire to uphold the quality of life in every Filipino home, Hanabishi will remain to be the PRACTICAL choice and KAPARTNER, today and for the many years to come.

For more information about Hanabishi, please visit www.myhanabishi.com/shop and  like them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MyHanabishiAppliances/

Ballet Manila’s Ibong Adarna takes flight anew at the Areté stage in Ateneo

A magical story that generations of Filipinos love and know by heart is once again set to come alive in a completely different and enchanting way.

This October, Ballet Manila brings Gerardo Francisco Jr.’s Ibong Adarna back to the stage, transforming the beloved Filipino tale of an enchanted bird, royal brothers, forbidden love, and a quest for healing into a spectacle of music, movement, and dance.

One of the company’s most beloved and performed productions, Ibong Adarna will be staged at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City on October 9 at 7:30 p.m. and October 10 at 5 p.m.

“Ibong Adarna is one of Ballet Manila’s most requested offsite performances. This year, it already had two shows at Jose Rizal Coliseum in Laguna, and now the production is bound to return to Areté in Ateneo before continuing its way to Iloilo,” shared Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s CEO and Artistic Director.

Ibong Adarna tells the story of a mythical bird whose magical song has the power to heal the sick. When King Fernando of the Kingdom of Berbanya falls ill with an incurable disease, his three sons — Don Pedro, Don Diego, and Don Juan — set out on a quest to find the legendary Adarna and bring it back to save their father. The prince who succeeds in capturing the bird will inherit the throne.

The Areté run will feature a new set of leads from Ballet Manila’s powerhouse lineup. Performing as Ibong Adarna is Shaira Comeros, alongside Mark Sumaylo as Don Pedro, Rafael Perez as Don Juan, and Romeo Peralta as Don Diego. The alternate cast is led by Jessica Pearl Dames as Ibong Adarna, with Juan Angelo De Leon as Don Juan, Ralp John Balagot as Don Pedro, and Sean Pelegrin as Don Diego.

Ibong Adarna is fast becoming a Filipino ballet classic. Although Ballet Manila has staged the production numerous times in various venues, each re-staging brings something new, shaped in large part by its evolving cast of dancers.

“Every time we bring Ibong Adarna to a new audience, we discover something new about the story and the characters. That is what makes it special. It remains familiar to many Filipinos, but ballet allows us to experience the story in a different way,” Macuja Elizalde said.

Staging Ibong Adarna at the Areté is part of Ballet Manila’s broader mission of bringing people to ballet and ballet to the people. By taking the production beyond the traditional theater setting and into communities or cities, the company opens more opportunities for audiences to experience live ballet and discover this art form through stories already part of Filipino culture.

For those who may have encountered the classic tale in school, books, or childhood, Ballet Manila offers an exciting way to see the story as it combines a well-loved narrative with music, movement, complex characters, and the artistry of its dancers.

Don’t miss Ibong Adarna at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University on October 9 and 10 only. For tickets, visit Ticketworld at www.premier.ticketworld.com.ph. Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting www.balletmanila.com.ph.

Red Bull Half Court brings the World Finals to Manila, the capital of streetball

 

Photos provided by Red Bull Content Pool

Red Bull Half Court is heading to the Philippines for its 2026 World Finals, taking the world’s fastest 3on3 tournament to one of the most basketball-loving cities on the planet. On December 5, national champions from across the globe will compete to be crowned Red Bull Half Court champions, in a celebration of basketball, art and street culture.

In Manila, basketball is more than a sport: it is part of everyday life. The 2026 World Finals will tap into that energy across two distinct sides of the city: the historic Fort Santiago in Intramuros and the modern heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

As part of this year’s World Finals, Red Bull Half Court is inviting local designers, street art enthusiasts, and basketball fans to design the basketball court of their dreams and see it brought to life through Red Bull Half Court Design My Court. Submission of entries is from September 28 – October 21.

Here’s all you need to know:

• For the first time, Red Bull Half Court brings its World Finals to the Philippines. Across neighborhoods and local courts, basketball is part of everyday life in the Philippines, making Manila a natural home for the tournament.

• Paul Gudde, Red Bull Half Court Global Sports Director, said: “Manila is built for this format. It’s a city where basketball isn’t just watched, it’s lived. Bringing the World Finals here is about connecting the global 3on3 community with a place that truly understands what playground basketball is all about.”

• The World Finals will unfold across two very different sides of Manila.

• The group phase will be staged at Fort Santiago in Intramuros, one of Manila’s most recognizable historical landmarks. Set within the city’s iconic walled district, teams will battle for a place in the following day’s Finals.

• For Finals day, the tournament moves to Bonifacio Global City (BGC), where the remaining teams will compete to be crowned Red Bull Half Court champions in one of Manila’s most dynamic urban districts.

• Familiar faces from the global basketball scene will also be in Manila. Streetball icon Grayson “The Professor” Boucher and renowned shooting coach Chris “Lethal Shooter” Matthews will join the event alongside Polish Red Bull athlete and world-class dunker Piotr “Grabo” Grabowski, and Filipino dunking star David “Air David” Carlos, a FIBA 3x3 World Tour Dunk Contest winner and one of the Philippines’ leading dunkers.

• Grayson “The Professor” Boucher said: “The Philippines is one of my favorite countries to visit because the fans love basketball/streetball culture. I can’t wait to come over for the Red Bull Half Court World Finals to do some park takeovers and see the best 3v3 streetball teams from around the globe. I know the Manila crowd is going to be a vibe and the World Finals out there is gonna be a movie.”

• World-Renowned Shooting Coach Chris “Lethal Shooter” Matthews, global ambassador for the event, said: “I have been to Manila multiple times and am always impressed by the level of passion for basketball that the athletes have. In particular, there’s a huge appreciation for the art of shooting in Manila. Coming back for Red Bull Half Court is going to be special, you’ve got national champions from around the world coming to compete and represent their countries. I know we’re going to see some great athletes competing at the highest level.”

• The sixth Red Bull Half Court season has seen players compete across Egypt, India, Kenya, Lebanon, Nigeria, the Philippines, South Africa, Sweden, and Ukraine, with national champions from 13 countries set to compete on the global stage in Manila.

• Several teams have already secured their spot at the World Finals. India’s men’s champions, Team 911, booked their ticket following victory in Chandigarh, while Team Sinatra will represent North Macedonia after taking the national title in Skopje. On home soil, JSKILLS claimed the Philippines men’s title, while Pilipinas Aguilas secured the women’s crown. Egypt will be represented by Team Hustlers and Bad Luck, with more national champions set to join the line-up as qualifiers continue.

• Red Bull Half Court brings the fastest version of 3on3 basketball to players worldwide. Games are capped at 10 minutes, with the first team to 21 points taking the win. During pool play, the team accumulating the most scoring points receives the “own the court bonus” to aid in advancing to the next stage, ensuring a fast-paced version of 3on3

• basketball. A further twist comes from two special three-point scoring circles behind the arc, adding an extra risk-reward element to the game.

• Since launching in 2021, Red Bull Half Court has taken its World Finals to iconic locations in Rome, Cairo, Belgrade, New York City and Dubai. In 2026, the tournament’s next chapter will be written in Manila.