Recent News

Creating a cocktail begins with understanding its purpose
Nov 4, 2026

Creating a cocktail begins with understanding its purpose

From personal preference to the perfect pour, it’s all a matter of taste. Take it from Rian Asiddao, bar director and co-founder of The Jury and Bar by East


How corn is being elevated in a-maize-ing creations at Hong Kong restaurants and bars
Nov 4, 2026

How corn is being elevated in a-maize-ing creations at Hong Kong restaurants and bars

The hottest ingredient of 2026? It is not a new breed of truffle, chocolate-fed Wagyu, nor caviar on pearl spoons. Instead, this ingredient is far from new, dating back about 9,000 years: corn. Across New York, London and Japan, sweetcorn pastries, pastas and pizzas have captured the imagination of chefs, content creators and corn enthusiasts. In Hong Kong, the trend is no different, with a corn-focused eatery opening in the city’s Central neighbourhood and everything from corn shabu-shabu...


Australia's refill store Scoop Wholefoods opens in PH
Nov 4, 2026

Australia's refill store Scoop Wholefoods opens in PH

Ready to practice being mindful with your purchases? Check out Scoop Wholefoods, one of Australia"s leading organic stores. The refill-led concept has arrived in the Philippines, opening its first branch at Power Plant Mall in Makati.


Toto announces shows in Manila, Cebu in March for 50th Anniversary Tour
Nov 4, 2026

Toto announces shows in Manila, Cebu in March for 50th Anniversary Tour

Toto is coming back to the Philippines for two shows next year!


Cancer at 32, laid off at 50. How a Singaporean rebuilt his life after major setbacks
Nov 4, 2026

Cancer at 32, laid off at 50. How a Singaporean rebuilt his life after major setbacks

Edgar Tang was 32 and on holiday in London when a call from his doctor changed his life. He was diagnosed with stage three Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system. His only symptom had been a swollen lymph node on the left side of his neck, something he had been inclined to ignore. The diagnosis left him contemplating his mortality, his future and how he would care for his parents. He recalls walking from Covent Garden towards the Tate Modern art gallery, crossing the Millennium...


Alex Eala credits parents for her grounded nature: 'They would never allow me to be arrogant'
Nov 3, 2026

Alex Eala credits parents for her grounded nature: 'They would never allow me to be arrogant'

Alex Eala reached a career-high of World No. 17 this week, yet one trait that many of her Filipino fans consistently observe is her humility and down-to-earth nature.


Inside the Shanghai Grand Opera House, a US$590 million performing arts marvel
Nov 3, 2026

Inside the Shanghai Grand Opera House, a US$590 million performing arts marvel

Even before its doors opened on October 17, the striking, gleaming-white landmark had long redefined the skyline along the Huangpu River in Shanghai. The Shanghai Grand Opera House, which took 10 years to build, is a massive spiral structure rising above the Expo Culture Park in the Chinese city’s Pudong New Area that captures the gaze of passing ferry passengers and riverfront walkers. By day, it resembles a Chinese hand fan; by night, glowing against the water, it evokes a pearl nestled inside...


Career horoscopes for every zodiac sign: Nov. 2-8, 2026
Nov 3, 2026

Career horoscopes for every zodiac sign: Nov. 2-8, 2026

Wednesday, November 4 is the highlight of the week. It brings two major astrological events. One could change how you see a situation, while the other brings better prospects for love, money, and work.


There’s something special about Kasa Palma sommelier Sebastian Narciso
Nov 3, 2026

There’s something special about Kasa Palma sommelier Sebastian Narciso

Sebastian Narciso’s wine selections and pairings alone make the visit to Kasa Palma even more worthwhile


Heart Evangelista puts health first with AI-powered water technology
Nov 3, 2026

Heart Evangelista puts health first with AI-powered water technology

Actress and fashion personality Heart Evangelista has been named brand ambassador of Viomi AI Philippines, bringing her interest in health and innovation to the company’s introduction of its artificial intelligence-powered water technology in the country. Evangelista formalized the partnership during the brand’s grand launch at Solaire Resort on Oct. 28, attended by representatives of her talent management team, Viomi Philippines executives and ZK Summit Holdings founders Mary and Khelvin Cruz. During a press conference, Evangelista said her decision to work with the brand stemmed from her long-standing relationship with its representatives and her interest in embracing technological advancements. “Apart from working with these people for such a long time and trusting them so much, I’m really all about innovation and evolving, changing with the times and adapting to it. I feel like they have really reached their pinnacle of success when it comes to Viomi because it is the very first AI-powered water intelligence ecosystem that will be introduced to all of us, and I’m really for that,” she said. She described the partnership as an opportunity to bring technology-driven solutions to households. “It’s not just for themselves; it’s for everyone. It’s for families, and I feel like this is just such a wonderful project to be part of. It truly is an honor to be with them,” she added. For Evangelista, the partnership also reflects her priorities when it comes to personal spending. “We always talk about investment, jewelry, clothes and all of that, but honestly, the true investment is your health. There’s this golden saying, ‘Health is wealth,’ and this is something that we should have,” Evangelista said. Viomi AI Philippines offers water purification and hydration systems that use reverse osmosis technology, with selected models featuring mineral-enhancement functions, hot-water dispensing and smart monitoring capabilities. Evangelista highlighted the technology’s mineral features and an accompanying application that she said allows users to monitor their water consumption and the minerals in their drinking water. “There are six minerals in it, there’s reverse osmosis, and there are so many advancements that we’re introducing to people so that they can choose because we all deserve better water,” she said. She also discussed how the application could help consumers become more aware of their daily water intake and make informed choices for their families. “Aside from having that app, you can monitor what goes in and what goes out. You can also know what minerals go into your body, which is very important, and it’s something that you can drink every day,” she said. “For families, you can even use the app to measure a bottle of mineral water and what you drink today. If you have a child, you can give it to them. There are so many things that you need to learn, but it’s really good for the family. Truly, it’s a no-brainer,” she added. With early mornings, regular workouts and a busy work schedule, Evangelista said access to clean drinking water is an important part of her daily routine. “I’m always on the go. Even my team, we’re always on the go. We’re up at 4 a.m., or we’re grinding at 6 a.m. I’m working out. I always have bottles ready for me that I make sure to clean. For me, it’s very, very hygienic. It’s very important. I’m very paranoid with health,” she said. “It’s truly a no-brainer because it’s something you invest in for your health. You want to reach your dreams. You want to live a long life. Invest in your health and invest in Viomi,” Evangelista reiterated. Beyond its Metro Manila introduction, Viomi AI Philippines is preparing to expand its presence in Cebu through DMGC Group. The company has yet to announce specific launch dates, retail locations and distribution arrangements. The planned expansion is part of the company’s efforts to reach consumers outside the capital and introduce its water purification and hydration solutions to other key markets in the country. With Heart Evangelista as its brand ambassador and regional expansion underway, Viomi AI Philippines aims to build a stronger presence in the local smart home technology market.


Can you talk to your cells?
Nov 3, 2026

Can you talk to your cells?

Yes — but not in words. Your cells do not understand English or Filipino. They do, however, understand chemistry, the language of the body. You see, your brain translates every thought you have, every emotion you feel, into a chemical message. For example: Stress becomes cortisol and adrenaline. Love and safety become oxytocin and serotonin. Gratitude and calm become dopamine and endorphins. How cells talk  The human body has an estimated 37.2 trillion cells that swim in chemical messages 24/7. Neuroscientist Candace Pert, considered the mother of psychoneuroimmunology, presents the idea that emotions are chemical molecules linking mind and body. She authored the book “Molecules of Emotion: Why You Feel the Way You Feel” and showed how immune cells have receptors for neuropeptides — the same molecules your brain makes when you are anxious, happy or afraid.  In other words, your immune system eavesdrops on your emotional state. They are one network speaking the same language. So, when you are hopeful, kind to yourself, and feel secure, they receive this message: “It’s safe to repair.” As a result, your digestion improves, immunity strengthens, and wounds heal faster. But when you are stuck in fear, self-criticism, or constantly rushing and trying to catch your breath, your cells get the message: “Danger.” They respond by getting inflamed, conserving energy and sleeping poorly.  This is not magic. It is the science of how thoughts, nerves and immunity interact. Talking to your cells will not cure disease by itself. And it is never a substitute for medical care. But how you talk to yourself changes the chemical environment in which healing happens.  How to talk to your cells  Did you know self-compassion can lower inflammatory markers? When you speak, be specific and kind. Your cells respond better to kind words rather than harsh criticism. Instead of saying “I hate my stomach,” try this: Put a hand on your tummy and say, “Thank you for digesting my food so well. So let’s relax now.”  Visualize the images of real bio­logy. Not light beams. Imagine real physiology: blood flowing easily, heart beating rhythmically, shoulders softening up, gut calming, immune cells moving efficiently. The brain uses similar pathways this way: imagination and action.  Therefore, match your words with the outcome. Your cells listen more to what you do than what you say. Sleep, hydration, sunlight, exercise, laughter and human connection. Ultimately, it’s not whether your cells are listening. They are. The question is: what are you telling them today and every day of your life?  *** Affirmation: “ I speak life over myself.”  Love and light.


Serving up wellness through pickleball
Nov 3, 2026

Serving up wellness through pickleball

Promoting an active lifestyle through sports and community engagement, health supplement brand Healthmate held its “Let’s Play Pickle!” pickleball tournament on Oct. 24 at Dink & Shot in Marikina City, carrying the theme “A Celebration of Wins & Wellness.” The event highlighted the growing appeal of pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Known for its accessible gameplay, the sport offers beginners and experienced players alike a chance to enjoy friendly competition while building coordination, agility and strategic thinking. Through the tournament, Healthmate emphasized the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily routines, highlighting that wellness goes beyond responding to illness and includes taking proactive steps to maintain overall well-being. “For us, wellness is not just about taking care of our health when we get sick. It is also about staying active, making time for sports and connecting with the community. Through pickleball, we want to show that taking care of ourselves can also be fun and meaningful,” said Dr. Alvin John Francisco, a Filipino physician and medical content creator known as Doc. Alvin. The tournament brought the concept of wellness into a recreational setting, demonstrating how sports can encourage physical activity, social interaction and community engagement. Beyond competition, activities such as pickleball give participants opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts, build friendships and enjoy a shared interest in an active lifestyle. Regular physical activity is associated with several health benefits, including improved sleep quality, better mood and a reduced risk of conditions such as heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. These benefits underscore the importance of finding enjoyable, sustainable ways to stay physically active. Dink & Shot, a Marikina event venue, provides a dedicated space for pickleball enthusiasts, supporting the sport’s growing local community through its court facilities and opportunities to play. With “A Celebration of Wins & Wellness” as its guiding theme, “Let’s Play Pickle!” emphasized that success in sports goes beyond match results. Participation, personal improvement, sportsmanship and meaningful connections are also valuable parts of the experience. Through initiatives that combine recreation and wellness, Healthmate aims to encourage healthier routines and stronger community ties by making physical activity more enjoyable and accessible. As interest in pickleball continues to grow, events such as this provide opportunities to introduce more people to the sport and encourage them to explore physical activities suited to their interests and abilities.


'58th' gets special screening in New York
Nov 3, 2026

'58th' gets special screening in New York

GMA Pictures' documentary "58th" was screened in New York.


Why does a leading travel guide recommend Đà Nẵng for a getaway between Christmas and New Year?
Nov 3, 2026

Why does a leading travel guide recommend Đà Nẵng for a getaway between Christmas and New Year?

Lonely Planet describes Đà Nẵng as a city blessed with mountains, long stretches of beach, fresh seafood, and an unhurried pace of life. Access to three World Heritage Sites is another advantage, giving visitors further reasons to stay longer and extend their journey.


Beauty Gonzalez weighs in on relationships with big age gaps
Nov 3, 2026

Beauty Gonzalez weighs in on relationships with big age gaps

Beauty Gonzalez shared her thoughts on age gaps in relationships, saying age has never been a major factor for her when choosing a partner.


Mind-controlled drone-flying at Hong Kong’s Being Human Festival among varied programme
Nov 3, 2026

Mind-controlled drone-flying at Hong Kong’s Being Human Festival among varied programme

Think you can steer a drone using nothing more than your own concentrated thoughts? It may sound like science fiction, but mind-controlled drone-flying is one of the free activities the public can take part in at the upcoming Being Human Festival in Hong Kong. Running from November 5 to 15, the festival is the first Hong Kong edition of the UK’s national festival of the humanities, which was founded in 2014. Organised by the University of Hong Kong (HKU)’s Faculty of Arts under the theme...


Anne Curtis joins Cup of Joe's Symphony concert
Nov 3, 2026

Anne Curtis joins Cup of Joe's Symphony concert

Cup of Joe's Symphony concert is getting more star-studded!


Enzo Pineda, Michelle Vito are engaged
Nov 3, 2026

Enzo Pineda, Michelle Vito are engaged

Enzo Pineda and Michelle Vito are engaged!


Kirkkonummi: where immigrant families can find a home and a future
Nov 3, 2026

Kirkkonummi: where immigrant families can find a home and a future

Less than an hour from Helsinki, Kirkkonummi offers something increasingly precious in modern life: room to breathe, good schools, access to nature and public services designed around everyday life. For families – including immigrants – the municipality is becoming not just a place to live, but a place to call home.


Jackie Chan has directed his first Italian opera. Did the action star crush it?
Nov 3, 2026

Jackie Chan has directed his first Italian opera. Did the action star crush it?

Can a global kung fu superstar famous for death-defying stunts and slapstick humour direct a grand Italian opera? When it was announced that Jackie Chan would direct Turandot for this centenary Sino-Italian production of Giacomo Puccini’s final masterpiece, many in the classical music world were understandably sceptical. Yet, Chan’s first opera production proves that his cinematic flair is a remarkably natural fit for the beloved masterpiece set in ancient China. Premiering in Guangzhou in May...


Philippines tops Southeast Asia workplace ranking with 54 companies
Nov 3, 2026

Philippines tops Southeast Asia workplace ranking with 54 companies

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has the highest number of companies recognized in Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For in Southeast Asia 2026, with 54 Philippine-certified organizations making the annual list.  Released Tuesday by Fortune and Great Place To Work, the ranking recognizes companies that have demonstrated strong workplace cultures, based on confidential employee survey responses and assessments of workplace practices.  The 2026 list drew feedback from 1,322,537 employees across 10 Southeast Asian countries, with Philippine companies accounting for more than half of the 100 organizations recognized.  Leading the Philippine entries is Golden Arches Development Corp., the operator of McDonald’s Philippines, which debuted at No. 7, making it the highest-ranked new entrant. Balibago Waterworks System followed at No. 19, while Megaworld Corp. placed No. 22, moving up significantly from its No. 90 ranking last year.  Other Philippine-headquartered companies recognized include Arcanys at No. 34, D&V Philippines at No. 56, Outsourced Quality Assured Services at No. 66, Universal Robina Corp. at No. 82, GoTeam at No. 83 and Altius Inspiro at No. 96.  The ranking also features international companies operating in the region, including Cisco at No. 4, Synchrony at No. 41 and Atlassian at No. 100.  Charles Plumley, general manager of Great Place To Work Philippines, said the results reflect how companies that invest in their employees can build stronger workplace cultures and improve business performance.  “Global companies have long come to the Philippines for its people, but this year’s Fortune list illustrates what happens when employers invest in building high-performance workplace cultures,” Plumley said.  He noted that 27 companies on the list earned certification exclusively in the Philippines, underscoring the contribution of local teams to the recognition.  “Golden Arches’ debut at No. 7 brings that story to the frontline, where scaling a strong culture across restaurant teams is critical to delivering a consistent customer experience and business results,” he added. “Building great workplaces helps businesses compete on quality and productivity while creating more rewarding careers for Filipinos.”  The recognition highlights companies with different business backgrounds and histories. Golden Arches opened the Philippines' first McDonald's restaurant on Morayta Street in Manila in 1981 and now operates around 800 restaurants nationwide.  Balibago Waterworks, meanwhile, traces its beginnings to 1958 as a local water provider in Angeles City, Pampanga. It has since expanded to more than 90 municipal franchises across Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.  Megaworld, the developer behind major townships such as Eastwood City, Uptown Bonifacio and McKinley Hill, recorded one of the biggest improvements among Philippine companies, climbing 68 places from its previous ranking.  Now in its second year, the Southeast Asia edition builds on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For ranking, which has relied on Great Place To Work’s workplace research in the United States since 1998.  The complete 2026 ranking is available at greatplacetowork.com.ph/best-workplaces/sea/fortune.


Interactive and experiential experiences celebrate Quốc Tử Giám’s 950-year history
Nov 3, 2026

Interactive and experiential experiences celebrate Quốc Tử Giám’s 950-year history

The series of commemorative activities aim to raise public awareness of the responsibility to preserve and promote heritage values, while renewing heritage education programmes, exhibitions and workshops.


Following Michelin Guide recognition, Pampanga's Mila's Tokwa't Baboy recalls sari-sari store beginnings
Nov 3, 2026

Following Michelin Guide recognition, Pampanga's Mila's Tokwa't Baboy recalls sari-sari store beginnings

From a humble sari-sari store and eatery serving just four customers a day, Mila's Tokwa't Baboy has grown into a celebrated Pampanga culinary destination, earning a spot in the 2027 Michelin Selected list.


Hội An to host the artistic Asia-Europe Dialogue
Nov 3, 2026

Hội An to host the artistic Asia-Europe Dialogue

The three-day artistic performance will also contribute to enhancing the Hội An Cinema as a venue for artistic performances, cultural exchange and creative expression.


SB19 joins Japanese TV show's charity initiative for Filipino children
Nov 3, 2026

SB19 joins Japanese TV show's charity initiative for Filipino children

SB19 joined Japanese television show "DayDay" in a charity initiative supporting children in the Philippines, sending special video messages and gifts to 100 students.


Possible Love director Lee Chang-dong on class divide and desire in his Oscar-hopeful drama
Nov 3, 2026

Possible Love director Lee Chang-dong on class divide and desire in his Oscar-hopeful drama

Even by the high standards of contemporary Korean cinema and television, anticipation was palpable when Possible Love premiered at the Venice International Film Festival in September. The film marked the first release in eight years from Lee Chang-dong – the novelist, former politician and filmmaker whose previous work, the 2018 mystery drama Burning, was one of that year’s most critically acclaimed. Given that his preceding film, 2010’s Poetry, arrived another eight years prior, new Lee...


Portraits of good F&B and retail design 
Nov 3, 2026

Portraits of good F&B and retail design 

Manam’s largest shop to date and Theo & Philo’s first store look to reshape Filipinos’ in-store experience


Italian Film Festival in HCM City kicks off
Nov 3, 2026

Italian Film Festival in HCM City kicks off

The Italian Film Festival in HCM City presents six remarkable Italian films that offer unique perspectives on the many facets of everyday life and society in Italy.


Tear-proof mascaras that won’t leave you with panda eyes
Nov 3, 2026

Tear-proof mascaras that won’t leave you with panda eyes

There are plenty of reasons to wear waterproof mascara, and none should end with you checking the mirror for panda eyes


Miss Universe PH 2024 candidate Matea Mahal Smith wins Miss Jamaica World 2026
Nov 3, 2026

Miss Universe PH 2024 candidate Matea Mahal Smith wins Miss Jamaica World 2026

Former Miss Universe Philippines 2024 candidate Matea Mahal Smith has been crowned Miss Jamaica World 2026.


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