Did you know that ADHD and bipolar disorder can look similar and therefore can be tricky to diagnose?

Every fortnight in Walthamstow, East London, a sign with a hand-painted goldfish pointing towards a kitchen window appears on the side of a residential building: “Lucky Yu Bakery pick up”. On the other side of that window is Hai Lin Leung, a general practitioner selling Cantonese-influenced baked goods from her home – think congee sourdough, bolo bao (pineapple buns), gai mei bao (cocktail buns) and more. There is no shopfront, set opening hours or seating; yet queues regularly spill down the...

Resolution 26-NQ/TW targets a direct GDP contribution of 10–12 per cent by 2030, 45–50 million foreign arrivals, 160 million domestic visitors, and total revenue of US$80–90 billion.

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital and home to this year’s World’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony, offers bites as exquisite as its reputation. For those checking out the awards this month, be sure to make time for the city’s food scene, which is every bit as compelling as its bar culture. Alongside traditional trattorias, a new generation of chefs with fine-dining pedigrees steps away from rigid traditions, experimenting with fermentation menus, sustainable work hours, and a fusion of cultures....

As international fashion companies increasingly incorporate traditional Chinese design elements into their collections, accusations of cultural appropriation have flooded social media. In recent years, brands such as Zara and Adidas have been criticised for adopting Chinese tailoring features such as Mandarin collars and pankou, or frog buttons. While Zara drew backlash for mislabelling these elements as generic “fireman clasps” without acknowledging their heritage, Adidas sparked debate over...

Burger lovers can look forward to the return of an award-winning creation as Manila Marriott Hotel brings back its gold-winning Multigrain Kaiser Burger for one day only.

Munich’s Oktoberfest was never on my travel bucket list. But it offered a chance to meet up with good friends from Hong Kong and their adorable toddler, Joshua, who go to the festival every year as a family. So there I was, spending a weekend at Theresienwiese, surrounded by bewildering varieties of beer and their drinkers. The annual Oktoberfest, first held in October 1810 to celebrate a royal wedding, is about more than just beer. There are amusement rides, games, stalls selling things you...

Ever heard of lipoprotein(a)? Don’t worry if you have not. That is the name of a cardiovascular risk factor that many people are genuinely unaware of. Two experts explain why it makes sense to have this value measured with a blood test at least once, and what to do if the result turns out to be too high. What exactly is lipoprotein(a)? Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a component of the blood. “It is structured like ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol,” says Anja Vogt, a specialist in internal medicine and deputy...

GENEVA, Switzerland - Global life expectancy is close to the levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, but the outlook for years lived in good health is recovering more slowly, the WHO said Friday.

Group fashion shows in the past often came across like an unspoken competition among the participating designers. The more flamboyant and outré the outfits, the better. Long-time fashion watchers might recall how veteran designer Frederick Peralta once presented an all-giraffe print collection punctuated with heavy, organic-looking jewelry. Although there were others who presented pocket collections before and after him that evening, all anyone remembers was his safari-inspired set. In group shows now, designers have become more introspective, more deliberate. They are grateful for the chance to come up with collections that distill their aesthetic and show where they’re headed. Designers who are invited by Bench to present at the biannual Bench Fashion Week (BFW) see it as an opportunity that is not to be taken lightly. For the holiday edition of BFW 2026 held Sept. 26 and 27, Cebu-based designer Edwin Ao turned street photos he had taken with his phone into a series of deconstructed looks that still managed to highlight expert tailoring. Ao is credited for being one of the designers who updated the look of the barong Tagalog by embroidering playful graffiti on it instead of resorting to the traditional designs. The long-time designer used to work with Arcy Gayatin, another Cebu designer, on clubwear looks popular during the early 2000s. He then worked with academe for close to two decades before becoming a faculty member under the product design program at the University of the Philippines Cebu. In an interview with The Manila Times prior to the show, he said he experimented with solar dyeing and rust techniques for his collection. Dubbed “Chlorophyll Hexagons: The Body in Impermanence,” it features separates with exposed stitching and unfinished hems. He embellished a vest and asymmetrically cut skirt with a mix of matte and shiny buttons that looked like paillettes from a distance. “[But] central to the collection is solar printing, where sunlight and chlorophyll become agents of imprint and change,” Ao wrote in his show notes. TernoCon 2025 Gawad Pura Escurdia award winner Bryan Peralta veered away from the structure required of the terno and came up with billowing, color-drenched pieces. There were unlined trenches and blousy pants made with parachute-like taffeta. He also played around with proportion — short, kicky outfits under those large, jewel-toned jackets. His collection, “The Golden Record,” was inspired by the 1977 NASA Voyager space probes that housed golden discs. Each disc contained recorded sounds and images of Earth that the space agency hoped would connect with extraterrestrial life. Peralta said his “boldly optimistic color palette... is a celebration of dressing up and proudly wearing your curiosities on your sleeve.” Reese de Guzman of R. Studios was inspired by Picasso’s 1957 Pigeon series and came up with a collection that ranged from oversized blazers and jackets to feathered tops and draped skirts. In her show notes, she described her “Paloma” collection as “a playful mix of colors, draped silhouettes, and unconventional textiles.” There were a few tweeds and tops with feathered fringe with many of the pieces sharing a boxy look. Even a vest that is usually worn snug was manipulated to hover just over the shoulders. “[It’s] a breath of fresh air and the idea of fleeting times,” de Guzman said in her show notes.

French fashion house Longchamp has named South Korean actress Jung So-min its new local ambassador, citing her independent spirit, personal style and positive energy as qualities that reflect the brand’s values. Jung has appeared in Korean dramas across several genres, including the fantasy and historical series “Alchemy of Souls,” the romantic comedy “Love Next Door” and, more recently, “Would You Marry Me?” She also has two dramas lined up for 2027, including “The Dealer.” Beyond her acting projects, Jung regularly shares glimpses of her life and work on Instagram through @somin_jj. Longchamp noted that her personality and distinctive style have helped her connect with audiences and build a following beyond South Korea. The family-owned fashion house said Jung reflects the modernity and creativity it seeks to express through its collections. As an ambassador, she will bring her perspective to the brand and interpret its optimistic spirit in her own way. “We are thrilled to welcome Jung So-min to the Longchamp family,” said Sophie Delafontaine, Longchamp artistic director. “Longchamp is a Maison (fashion house) always on the move, looking out into the world and embracing whatever unfolds along the way. Jung So-min embodies that same spirit. She follows her instincts wherever they may lead, with elegance, curiosity and a sense of freshness.” The appointment brings Jung into Longchamp’s family of ambassadors, with the brand drawing a connection between her approach to her career and its openness to new experiences. Delafontaine pointed to the actress’s instinctive choices and curiosity as qualities shared by the fashion house. Jung, for her part, welcomed the opportunity to work with the French brand. “I am delighted and honored to join French fashion house Longchamp as its ambassador. I look forward to embarking on an exciting journey with Longchamp, a Maison that embodies authenticity, energy and the spirit of Paris,” she said.

As holiday parties and reunions approach, nail art offers another way to complete a festive look. Gel polish, dip powder, acrylic extensions, magnetic designs and embellishments have expanded the options beyond French tips and glossy colors. But beneath the colors, chrome accents and gemstone flowers, natural nails still need care, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reminds beauty enthusiasts. “What may look pretty on the surface may be covering an entirely different story underneath. Our nails can provide us with clues and hints about our health as a whole,” said dermatologist Sharon Osmena Lim. Changes in nail color, texture, shape and strength can point to nutritional deficiencies, infections and possibly cancer, she explained, and may require further attention. Healthy nails feel smooth and strong and appear uniformly pink with white tips. Unusual changes should not be overlooked. Brittleness or easy breakage may have several causes, including poor nutrition, fad diets, decreased circulation or trauma from excessive manipulation during manicures and pedicures. Exposure to harmful chemicals, including those in nail polish and cuticle removers, can also contribute to brittle, discolored nails. Lim also cautioned against excessive removal of the nail, traumatic removal of ingrown nails and excessive trimming of the cuticle, which protects the nails. Yellowish or discolored nails may result from polish stains but can also signal a fungal infection. Horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s lines, may follow illness or injury, while dents or pits may be linked to skin conditions such as psoriasis. Changes in color or thickness, swelling of a finger or toe, separation of the nail from its bed and pain require medical evaluation, particularly when symptoms worsen or persist, Lim said. This is especially important for people with diabetes, kidney disease and other conditions affecting wound healing. Nail changes may also be related to anemia, thyroid problems and circulation issues. “While we cannot diagnose a health issue just by basing it on the changes in one’s nail appearance, it can serve as a starting point for further assessment by a medical professional,” she said. Regular gel manicures and nail art can also affect nail health. Lim cited chemicals in nail products, exposure to UV curing lamps and the application and removal of extensions and gems as factors that can weaken the natural nail plate over time. Care should extend beyond salon appointments. She advised keeping nails clean and dry because bacteria and fungi thrive in moist environments. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and dry hands after exposure to water or chemicals. Lim also advised avoiding frequent hand-washing, nail-biting and picking, and using nails to open hard containers. Wear gloves when handling chemicals. Finally, she recommended giving nails time without polish and treatments. “Give your nails a break from all the buffing and chemical and UV exposure. Allotting recovery time after treatments can reduce risks of long-term damage that may be harder to reverse – or worse, cause permanent damage.” For those who enjoy designs, that recovery time is part of caring for the natural nails beneath the artwork.

Cebu-based society lady Jennifer Sarmiento of Luisa Estate Park in Banilad, Cebu, celebrated her birthday with prominent members of society and close friends at Chef Jessie Rockwell in Makati. The ele­gant gathe­ring was hosted by society ladies Ofelia Wadle and Dr. Elsie Pascua, who welcomed guests to an evening of friendship, food, music and celebration. Adding a festive touch to the occasion, the hosts and guests came together in striking red dresses, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the birthday celebration. Guests enjoyed an array of dishes, including fresh salads, beef and fish, as they gathered for an evening of good food and conversation. Music added to the festivities, with Sir Rex providing entertainment that had guests singing and dancing throughout the evening. Joining the musical celebration were society ladies Joy Rustia, Linda Rustia, Maru Go, Ofelia Wadle, Dr. Elsie Pascua, Fortune Ledesma and Duday Tuazon, who sang for the guests. The celebration brought together friends over music, food and laughter, marking Sarmiento’s birthday with an evening of fellowship and camaraderie.

Artists Nguyễn Hồng Hưng, Mai Trang and Vân Thuyết bring distinct perspectives and styles to their interpretations of the world, showcased in an exhibition Following Father’s Footsteps exhibition opened on October 2 in Hà Nội.

GMA Kapuso Foundation brought free healthcare services to quake- and flood-hit residents in Glan, Sarangani.

Lead cast: Kim Ji-yeon (aka Bona), Park Seo-ham, Jang Se-hyuk Latest Nielsen rating: 0.5 per cent In the new fantasy romance Dive into You, a mysterious camcorder allows a pair of superstar siblings to travel back in time and swap bodies in a desperate bid to save a loved one. Kim Ji-yeon (Twenty-Five Twenty-One) – also known as Bona from the K-pop girl group WJSN – appears as screen siren Yoon Ha-na, who has reached the top of her field but is experiencing an emotional numbness that affects her...

London Fashion Week drew the clothing crowd from New York to the British capital to see the highly anticipated return of Alexander McQueen and the debut of Christopher Kane at Mulberry. The event, which ran from September 17 to 21, showcased memorable collections from Erdem, Roksanda, Simone Rocha and Pauline Dujancourt. The week was rounded off by Burberry designer Daniel Lee’s collaboration with textile designer Celia Birtwell. London Fashion Week has since also become a platform for the...

Taking place on October 2 and 3 at the Hồ Gươm Opera House, the two-night concert marks the return of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) to the capital.

It is easy to misremember the Hong Kong New Wave of the late 1970s and 80s. Nearly five decades after its inception, that iconic chapter in the city’s cinema history is generally thought of as a socially inclined art-house movement that addressed everyday issues – a stark contrast to the martial arts films that dominated the local box office at the time. While partially true, viewing New Wave films merely as local iterations of 1960s and 70s rarefied European art-house cinema misses the mark....

The Hà Nội Book Fair 2026 will open on the evening of October 2, offering readers a world of knowledge while bringing them closer to technology applications at the event's 11th edition.

British pop group Blue is returning to the Philippines as part of its 25th anniversary celebration next year!

Amazon is giving its Kindle lineup a redesign, with the Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite, and Kindle Colorsoft getting slimmer designs, updated displays, and new color options including Ube.

The event drew leading experts from the Asia-Pacific and beyond to discuss heritage, authenticity and ways to protect and uphold the value of World Heritage sites.

Senator Bam Aquino has filed a bill seeking to provide more government support for Filipino creative workers who travel abroad for professional opportunities, with SB19 helping him create the proposed measure.

If matcha"s bright green color and earthy flavor have become familiar, you may have also come across its roasted cousin, hojicha.

The Sắc Việt (Vietnamese Colours) collection by designer Nguyễn Thị Đoan Trang has impressed visitors at the 2026 Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) in India.

Lea Salonga is returning to the Philippine theater stage in the upcoming musical of “Ang Tahanan ni Bernarda Alba.”

Addressing the event, President Mẫn recalled that Huỳnh Thúc Kháng was an outstanding patriotic scholar of Việt Nam in the early 20th century, embodying patriotism, integrity, wisdom, mettle, independent thinking and a spirit of reform. As a journalist, political activist and key State leader, he devoted his life to the country and people, placing national and public interests first.

Cerelac turned its commitment to action with “Tambalang BIG Sustansya sa Barangay,” an interactive caravan that visited four barangays in the Philippines in August and early September, bringing nutrition education closer to nearly 500 Filipino families through a morning of activities, games and conversations focused on babies' nutritional needs.  As part of continuing efforts to help address nutrition gaps among Filipino children, the caravan provided parents with an opportunity to better understand the value of the Tambalang Cerelac + Homemade approach, highlighting how infant cereal and homemade food can work together to support a baby's nutritional needs during the critical first 2,000 days of life.  Cerelac brought educational games, interactive activities and community question-and-answer sessions to each stop: Barangay Socorro in Cubao, Barangay Longos in Malabon City, Barangay Salawag in Dasmariñas, Cavite, and Barangay Macabalan in Cagayan de Oro City.  The final leg was especially meaningful because Cagayan de Oro was also the site of Cerelac's clinical study on complementary feeding among infants, making it a fitting culmination of the caravan's mission to equip parents with science-based nutrition knowledge.  Opening each event, Nestlé brand manager for baby food Sophia Samoy welcomed attendees and reinforced Cerelac's commitment to supporting Filipino families through nutrition and parent education.  “For 160 years, we have remained committed to the belief that every child deserves the right nutrition to help them grow and thrive. Part of this commitment is our continued improvement of our products and our provision of science-based nutrition information to parents to better support the nutritional needs of Filipino babies,” Samoy said.  (Part of this commitment is our continued improvement of our products and our provision of  In Cavite, Megan Young joined the caravan, which drew its largest turnout, with 150 families in attendance. The new mother and Miss World 2013 winner shared her insights on making feeding decisions at home, emphasizing how parents can consider Cerelac as a meal companion.  “It doesn't mean that we have to make every meal complicated. We can start with the food we already prepare at home, learn more about what our babies need, and find ways to give them more BIG nutrition with a tested and proven product like Cerelac,” Young said.  At every barangay, parents took part in “Tambalang Bingo” with Dr. Katrina Florcruz-Dacanay, a fellow of the Philippine Pediatric Society, consultant at Diliman Doctors Hospital, and visiting consultant at Capitol Medical Center and The Medical City. She is also part of the program Baby Talk on UNTV Doctors.  Through the “Tambalang Bingo” activity, parents learned about key nutrients that support their babies' growth and development in a fun and engaging way. Florcruz-Dacanay also discussed the role of infant cereals such as Cerelac in a baby's diet and shared practical ways parents can combine them with home-cooked meals to create nutritious feeding experiences.  “Parents do not have to choose between giving only homemade food or fortified infant cereal because both serve the purpose of providing children with the right nutrition. Homemade food is an important part of a baby's diet. Fortified infant cereals can also help provide energy and essential nutrients appropriate to a baby's needs. Studies have shown that fortified infant cereals can help increase nutrient intake and support proper growth in babies,” Florcruz-Dacanay said.  As the caravan came to a close, parents left with nutrition knowledge and greater confidence in navigating complementary feeding for their children. Through expert guidance and interactive learning experiences, Cerelac reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Filipino parents as they navigate their babies' complementary feeding journey.

In the Philippines, massage has become a popular way to unwind after a long day. After hours at work, a tiring commute or a busy day caring for the family, many Filipinos turn to spas and massage establishments for a moment of relaxation.  However, the experience often ends just as the body begins to relax. Traveling to a spa, paying for a session and setting aside time from an already busy routine can make regular massage visits an added commitment and expense.  Serene Massage Chairs offers a different approach by bringing the massage experience closer to home. Instead of planning a trip to a massage establishment, users can incorporate relaxation into their daily routine with a massage chair at home.  Serene Massage Chairs is designed to make relaxation more accessible by providing a dedicated space for unwinding at home. The chair can be placed in a living room, bedroom or quiet corner, creating a personal space where users can pause, decompress and recharge.  After a long workday, a tiring commute or a busy day at home, the chair offers a convenient option for those looking to take a break without having to leave the house.  Spa and massage establishments will continue to be part of Filipino culture and the country's approach to relaxation. At the same time, increasingly demanding schedules have created a need for convenient options that fit more easily into everyday life.  Serene Massage Chairs brings the massage experience closer to home, allowing relaxation to become part of a regular routine rather than something that always requires a scheduled visit.  Whether after a long day or simply when a quiet break is needed, a Serene Massage Chair provides a dedicated space at home to pause, relax and recharge.