These days, not every barkada summer plan has to mean booking flights or planning a whole weekend away. In fact, the plans that usually push through are often the ones closer to home, because it’s so much easier to get everyone to say yes and actually show up.

It’s also a more practical way to make the most of the season while keeping things simple, manageable, and more budget-friendly – no hassles or stress over planning. If you’re looking for activities your whole barkada can easily say yes to, here are three ideas that are worth considering this summer.

1. Rediscover your neighborhood

Summer is a good time to rediscover what your neighborhood has to offer, because more often than not, there are plenty of activities nearby just waiting to be discovered. But with busy schedules, they often get overlooked.

It can be as simple as checking out a nearby fitness studio or trying out movement-based activities. For something slower-paced, there are also museums and galleries to visit, or pop-up bazaars featuring local brands, crafts, and hands-on activities that offer a different kind of barkada hangout. It’s a nice way to make summer feel different from the usual without needing to go far or spend too much.

2. Go on a food crawl

Food crawls are one of the easiest barkada plans to organize, because who doesn’t love sharing a good meal with their closest friends? They let you explore different spots in one area, try more food, and split dishes (and the bill!) so everyone gets to taste and enjoy a bit of everything.

There are plenty of go-to areas around Metro Manila to do a food crawl. Binondo is home to some of the oldest Chinese restaurants and iconic merienda spots, while Maginhawa is packed with a wide range of food options for every craving. San Juan is also becoming a go-to neighborhood for new and exciting concepts, while Poblacion has enough options to keep the barkada going well into the night.

For trusted restaurants and sulit finds, food creator Remy Eats regularly shares neighborhood food guides and recommendations (Watch here on Tiktok and Instagram) that are perfect for barkada food trips. But as fun as they are, settling the bill is usually where things get tricky. Luckily, with GCash, barkadas can easily settle bills with hassle-free and fast payments.

If someone pays ahead for the group, splitting the bill with the barkada is just as easy when using GCash. “The best thing about food crawls is how spontaneous they can be,” says Remy. “When you’re hopping from one place to another, it helps to use GCash so everyone can send their share right away without worrying about cash or change.”

3. Set up a barkada sleepover

Why go out when you can just stay in? Sleepovers are the settings for some of the best barkada summer moments, and it’s a great way to make the most out of the season without the worries of reservations or having to travel far.

Whether it’s preparing a meal, or setting up a movie marathon until late at night, or turning the living room into the setting for a board game tournament, there’s no shortage of ways to keep things fun without spending much.

To make it even more engaging, each friend can take on something to bring - snacks, dessert, or drinks - or you can simply order in and keep things easy. Whatever it is, splitting payments is still just as seamless when done through GCash.

For content creator Paco (@chomppzz on Tiktok and @fpchompz on Instagram), this kind of setup captures what summer should feel like. “Barkada sleepovers are honestly one of the stories that you tell your kids in the future— no planned itinerary, no big spending, just a night with good food, company, and unexpected stories you will never forget”

Make barkada summer easier with GCash

At the end of the day, the best summer plans are the ones where there is no complicated planning involved, no budget stress, and no payment hassles. With GCash, barkadas can split bills, send payments, and manage shared experiences – making group plans easier to say yes to. Download the GCash app today and say yes to easier, more manageable barkada activities this summer!

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) took home three awards at the 2026 Digital CX Awards: Best Use of AI for Customer Experience, Best Use of Gen AI for Customer Experience, and Outstanding Chatbot Customer Experience, all for the Philippines. All three recognize ESTA (EastWest System Tech Assistant), the Bank's AI-powered platform that is changing how Filipinos access and engage with their bank.

The recognition highlights how EastWest continues to invest in practical, customer-facing technology that makes banking easier, more responsive, and more accessible. ESTA brings together automation, generative AI, and conversational banking to help customers engage with the Bank in a simpler and more intuitive way.

What began as a smarter, chat-based way to handle customer service has grown into a broader digital engagement platform. Today, customers can use ESTA to apply for a credit card, auto loan and personal loan, explore insurance options, and participate in auto bidding through Facebook Messenger and the Bank’s digital channels. For many customers, ESTA is also where their EastWest relationship begins, making it as much an acquisition channel as it is a service tool.

What makes ESTA different is its ability to make each interaction more relevant. Every conversation helps build a clearer understanding of what a customer needs, allowing future engagements to feel more personal and timely. Routine concerns can be resolved automatically, reducing wait times and improving convenience. When a request requires human assistance, ESTA hands the conversation over to a representative with the necessary context, so the customer does not have to start over.

ESTA is an integral part of EastWest’s broader phygital strategy, where digital platforms and human support work together to give customers more choices in how they bank. Whether through digital channels or EastWest’s nationwide branch network, the goal remains the same: to make banking easier, more relevant, and more responsive to the needs of customers.

“People are increasingly comfortable turning to AI for everyday needs, and banking is no different,” said EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo. “Our goal is to make banking easier for the people we serve so the insights we gain helps us understand our customers better and serve them better. When Filipinos think of chatting with their bank, we want EastWest to be the first name that comes to mind.”

EastWest continues to build out ESTA, with proactive alerts, deeper transaction support, and broader product coverage on the way. Each enhancement is built around one goal: a banking experience that is easier, more intuitive, and ready whenever the customer is.

Start a conversation with ESTA through EastWest’s verified Facebook page at facebook.com/EastWestBanker. For the full range of EastWest products and services, visit www.eastwestbanker.com. The Bank reminds customers to transact only through official EastWest channels.

The 2026 Digital CX Awards recognize digital customer experience innovation across the Asia-Pacific banking sector.

Your next visit to an OPPO Service Center may come with a few extra perks. Through its newest ‘Happy Weekend’ promo, OPPO Care is giving customers access to freebies, exclusive discounts, and special rewards alongside its after-sales services.

Available from May 29 to 31, 2026, the promo lets customers enjoy added value when visiting participating OPPO Service Centers nationwide, whether it's for repairs, device checkups, or other support services.

Rewards Based on Your Repair Cost

Customers who complete their device repairs during the promo period can receive special freebies depending on their total repair cost.

For OPPO A Series users:

● PHP 1,201 to PHP 2,300: FREE USB Flash Drive

● PHP 2,301 to PHP 3,900: FREE Type-C USB Cable

● PHP 3,901 and above: FREE Black Automatic Umbrella

Meanwhile, Reno and Find Series users can enjoy even bigger rewards:

● PHP 2,401 to PHP 5,500: FREE 2-in-1 Pillow

● PHP 5,501 to PHP 10,000: FREE Ollie Elemental item

● PHP 10,001 and above: FREE Charger Set (head charger + Type-C USB Cable)

Extra Perks for MyOPPO App Members

MyOPPO App members can also enjoy an exclusive 15% OFF on OPPO Tempered Glass for repairs worth PHP 1,201 and above. Customers simply need to present or scan their MyOPPO App Membership ID at participating service centers to redeem the discount.

The Happy Weekend Promo will be available at selected OPPO Service Centers nationwide, including:

● SM City North EDSA

● SM City Manila

● SM City Dasmariñas

● Ayala Malls Fairview Terraces

● Pampanga

● Bulacan

● Davao

● CDO

● Tacloban

● SM City Iloilo

● SM City Zamboanga

● SM City J Mall Cebu

● Tuguegarao

● Nueva Ecija

● Robinsons Santiago

● Abanao Square Baguio

● SM City Gensan

● SM City Masinag

OPPO Care’s Happy Weekend Promo will continue on selected weekends every month, giving users more chances to enjoy exclusive freebies and after-sales perks.

Hurry now, until supplies last only!

For updates and future schedules, follow OPPO Care-PH on Facebook and TikTok, or OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ and Facebook page.

Photo shows (L-R): PLDT Enterprise Senior Relationship Manager Rexie Padilla; PLDT Enterprise AVP and Customer Relationship Management Head, Jackielyn J. Ang; PLDT Enterprise VP and Head - Key Industries Group, Jecyn M. Chua-Teng; Araneta City Inc. (ACI) Sr Management Consultant, Rowell L. Recinto; ePLDT and VITRO Inc. President and CEO, and Head of PLDT Enterprise Key Industries Group Victor S. Genuino;  ACI CEO, Chairman, and President Jorge L. Araneta; ACI SVP for Business Development John Peter Chick B. Caste, and ePLDT Chief Commercial Officer Amil A. Azurin at the contract signing formalizing the partnership to strengthen ACI's digital transformation.

PLDT Enterprise and Araneta City Inc. (ACI) have formalized a strategic partnership to strengthen the digital backbone of Araneta City, reinforcing a long-standing collaboration that continues to evolve alongside the growing technology needs of one of Metro Manila’s most established urban districts.

The partnership brings together PLDT Enterprise’s fixed solutions, wireless enterprise offerings powered by the mobile network of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), and the multi-cloud and digital infrastructure expertise of PLDT’s ICT subsidiary ePLDT Inc. and data center arm VITRO Inc. Through this managed integrated ecosystem, ACI is strengthening its cloud-based digital infrastructure across key business units - spanning real estate, hospitality, retail, entertainment, and food service – to enable more secure and scalable platforms that support cost optimization, operational efficiency, and customer experience.

“At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to ensure that Araneta City continues to thrive as a resilient, innovative, and customer-focused organization,” says Victor S. Genuino, President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc., and Head of PLDT Enterprise Key Industries Group. “Our role is simple: to support our customers’ goals and ensure that partnerships run smoothly, backed by the full strength of PLDT Enterprise’s end-to-end solutions.”

The established collaboration between parent company PLDT Inc. and ACI has expanded over time, as the latter’s transformative digital requirements have grown in scale and complexity. “PLDT has been with us throughout our technological journey - from simpler and legacy-based requirements, to the more complex digital needs we have today,” said Rowell L. Recinto, Sr Management Consultant of ACI. “What we value most is not just access to the latest technologies, but solutions that are proven, reliable, and responsive to our business and our tenants.”

Often referred to as the City of Firsts, Araneta City continues to grow as a major commercial and lifestyle hub in Metro Manila, serving millions of visitors across its entertainment venues, malls, hotels, and offices. Strengthening its digital infrastructure supports more seamless operations and customer experiences across the district.

The partnership supports high-capacity connectivity, and secure cloud infrastructure that will enable ACI to further explore innovations in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and emerging AI platforms. “As urban developments become more connected with intelligent data-driven insights, integrated technology ecosystems play a critical role in enabling resilient and future-ready environments. We look forward to progressing alongside ACI as they boldly embrace innovation to accelerate their digital transformation and reinforce their standing as a top-tier leader in urban development, while driving the district’s long-term growth,” Genuino says.

Discover how PLDT Enterprise supports businesses with end-to-end digital solutions, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-araneta-city-partnership-2026-pr.

In a major step toward streamlining government services, the House of Representatives has approved House Bill No. 8876 on second reading. The measure, which passed via voice vote on Wednesday, seeks to extend the validity of Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) identification cards from the current three years to five years. This reform is designed to provide long-term relief for millions of Filipino professionals—including teachers, nurses, and engineers—by reducing the frequency of renewal cycles and the associated bureaucratic hurdles.

Prioritizing the Well-being of the Filipino Workforce

The extension addresses a persistent challenge for the country’s licensed specialists, who currently navigate a renewal process every three years that often involves scheduling conflicts and out-of-pocket costs. By moving to a five-year validity period, the bill allows professionals to dedicate more time to their respective fields rather than administrative requirements. 

Principal Author and Representative Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez highlighted the socio-economic impact of the change, stating that it is essential to ease the financial and logistical burdens on workers. “Sa panahon ngayon, mahalaga na mapagaan natin ang gastos at abala ng ating mga propesyonal. Sa pagpapalawig ng validity ng PRC IDs mula tatlo tungo sa limang taon, mas mabibigyan natin sila ng panahon para mag-focus sa kanilang trabaho, kabuhayan, at serbisyo sa bayan,” Romualdez said.

Efficiency Through Modernization

A key component of the bill is the mandate for the PRC’s Information and Communication Technology Service to complete comprehensive upgrades to the Licensure Examination Registration Information System (LERIS) within six months of the law’s effectivity. This modernization is intended to support the new validity cycle with a faster, more reliable digital infrastructure. 

House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos emphasized that the reform is a practical solution to modernize public service. “Professionals should not have to spend unnecessary time and money on frequent renewals when we can provide a more efficient system without compromising professional standards and regulation,” Marcos stated. He further noted that the bill would help decongest the PRC appointment system by significantly reducing the volume of annual renewal transactions, adding that this is a “practical and people-centered reform that will make government services faster, more efficient, and more convenient.”

A Strategic Investment in National Productivity

The measure aligns with broader efforts to reduce red tape and make government services more accessible. By treating professionals—the pillars of the national economy—with greater consideration for their time and resources, the bill seeks to foster a more productive and supported workforce. Proponents believe that simplifying these regulatory requirements is a concrete step toward more humane and efficient government service, ensuring that the country’s licensed experts can focus on their vital contributions to national development.

With Maya, the country’s #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform, it’s easier to do just that, so you can enjoy the day without overthinking it later.

If you want it to feel special, don’t start with the price

It’s easy to default to one big, expensive gift, but more often than not, it’s the experience that people remember. A planned lunch, a small but thoughtful present, or even just uninterrupted time together can feel more personal than something rushed or over-the-top.

When you shift the focus this way, your spending starts to feel more intentional, not just bigger.

If you’re going to spend anyway, make it work for you

Mother’s Day spending is going to happen either way, so it helps when it gives something back.

Using the Maya Black Credit Card means your everyday purchases earn Maya Miles, which you can use for shopping, dining, or even travel, so your spends now can turn into something you’ll actually enjoy.

Meanwhile, the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card gives you 5% cashback at Landers, 2% on dining, and 1% on most purchases, making it easier to get more value from the things you were already planning to buy.

And it doesn’t stop at rewards. The more you use Maya for everyday transactions, the more you can boost your interest on Maya Savings, earning you up to 15% per annum, so your money keeps growing while you go about your day.

If timing is the issue, not your budget, adjust for that

Even with the best intentions, expenses don’t always line up neatly with your salary, and that’s usually when things start to feel stressful.

Having something flexible, like Maya Easy Credit , can help you manage those short-term gaps if needed. With access to up to ₱50,000 that you can repay within 30 days, it gives you a way to follow through on your plans without dipping into your savings or worrying about how the rest of the month will look.

And if you’re overthinking it—this part matters most

At the end of the day, what makes Mother’s Day meaningful isn’t how much you spend. It’s the thought behind it, the effort to make the day feel considered, the intention to show appreciation, and the time you choose to spend together. Those are the things that stay.

Moneymaxxing Mother’s Day simply means being thoughtful not just with your plans, but with your money too. So you can celebrate, enjoy the moment, and still feel good about your finances after.

To know more, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. www.bsp.gov.ph. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.

In celebration and appreciation of the mothers who nurture, care, and guide their children in the journey of life, Sunlight Air looks to support them in creating unforgettable experiences across the country’s beautiful islands. From a child’s first steps to their very first flight, families can rest assured that their journeys will be safe and seamless with Sunlight Air.

Not just limited to this Mother’s Day, the Infants Fly Free Program will be a permanent perk for passengers of the airline, with all fees completely waived (both the base fare and taxes!) as long as there is an accompanying adult passenger per child. This initiative will be unique to the airline in the Philippines, as most airlines typically charge a fixed infant fee. Passengers will need to simply register their child when booking their ticket to any of Sunlight Air’s routes, without the need for any further special arrangements offline.

For families looking to hit the beach this summer, this program will also provide additional savings that can be reallocated to fun activities and tours for everyone to enjoy. With its spacious cabins and friendly crew, Sunlight Air makes for the perfect partner in every family’s adventure.

“We’re very proud to be the first airline in the country to offer waived fees for infants, as we believe that every passenger, no matter how young, deserves to have a comfortable and safe first flying experience. While the children may not remember the flight, we hope that Sunlight Air can be a part of the memorable experiences our flights take them to, while simultaneously giving back to the families that have continued to support the airline,” shared Sunlight Air CEO Ryna Brito-Garcia.

The Infants Fly Free Program is only the first of a series of initiatives the airline will be launching as part of its FlyFam campaign on May 30. Under FlyFam, passengers can enjoy family-first perks, such as Priority Check-in and Boarding, Flexible Family Seating, Luggage Assistance, and more, establishing Sunlight Air as the ideal family-forward airline of choice for Filipinos.

As families take to the skies, Sunlight Air ensures that every step of the trip is filled with care, comfort, and added savings. As an added touch for this Mother’s Day, moms onboard will also be treated to a simple bouquet, as a small gesture to honor their love that makes every adventure possible.

For updates on Sunlight Air and the Infants Fly First Program, visit its Facebook and Instagram, and the official website at https://www.sunlightair.ph/.

Alfamart Trading Philippines, Inc. (Alfamart), the minimart chain of the SM Group, continues to strengthen its retail operations nationwide through its longstanding partnership with PLDT Enterprise, leveraging reliable mobile connectivity on the high-performance network of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) to support its growing workforce and expanding store network.

Known for its aggressive growth and expansion plans, Alfamart has built a strong presence across the Philippines, particularly in underserved communities, by providing access to essential goods at competitive prices. With a total network of 2,494 existing branches and plans to open at least 400 new stores annually, reliable communication across its stores and office-based teams is critical to sustaining day-to-day operations and supporting continued growth.

A Commitment to Supporting the Retail Industry

PLDT Enterprise’s collaboration with Alfamart underscores its commitment to supporting the retail sector, particularly large-scale retail operations that rely on seamless coordination across geographically dispersed locations. By providing dependable communication support, PLDT Enterprise helps ensure that retail teams remain connected, responsive, and operationally efficient as Alfamart continues to scale.

To support Alfamart’s communication needs, PLDT Enterprise provides Smart Postpaid Plans, enabling employees across stores and offices to benefit from wider network coverage and reliable mobile connectivity brought by Smart. Running on Smart's superior and resilient mobile network, these solutions help facilitate day-to-day coordination, improve responsiveness, and support the operational demands of a fast-growing retail organization.

“Retail operations depend on consistent and reliable connectivity, especially as store networks continue to grow,” said Victor Genuino, Head of Key Industry Group at PLDT Enterprise and President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc. “Through our longstanding partnership with Alfamart, PLDT Enterprise remains committed to supporting their operations with mobile solutions that help keep teams connected and enable business continuity.”

A Partnership Built on Reliability and Service

With Alfamart’s transition to Smart services starting in 2020, highlighted by the advantages of nation-widest network coverage and aftersales service, the partnership has now reached its third renewal, with PLDT Enterprise continuing to support Alfamart’s postpaid requirements for both store-based and office-based users. The collaboration reflects a shared focus on reliability, service quality, and long-term partnership—key factors that support Alfamart’s continued expansion and operational efficiency.

From Alfamart, Harvey Ong, Chief Operating Officer, shared that the partnership with PLDT Enterprise continues to play a role in supporting the company’s expanding operations. “As Alfamart grows its store network across the country, having a reliable telecommunications partner is essential. PLDT Enterprise’s mobile solutions and service support our teams as we continue to serve communities nationwide.”

Through this collaboration, PLDT Enterprise reinforces its role as a trusted technology partner for large retail organizations—supporting Alfamart’s mission to improve accessibility to essential goods, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to local economic development across the Philippines.

To learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions, visit [UTM]

About PLDT Enterprise

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

Create a special bonding moment with the family with El Real Pasta this Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Often, it’s the simplest moments, shared meals, easy conversations, and time spent together at home that moms remember most.

This year, families can celebrate in ways that feel warm and thoughtful. With a few everyday favorites, even the most low-key plans can turn into something special.

Here are three easy ways to make Mother’s Day more meaningful:

Share a Home-Cooked Meal That Brings Everyone Together

 Enjoy an easy and delicious pasta dish at home with El Real Pasta in celebration of Mother’s Day.

There’s something comforting about gathering around the table to share a homemade meal. This Mother’s Day, take the time to cook for mom, or better yet, prepare and cook a simple dish together. Make a household favorite pasta dish featuring El Real Pasta and feast with the family to turn the experience into one that everyone will remember.

Turn Everyday Merienda into Quality Time

  Surprise your mom by gifting them with some of favorite URC classics like Chippy, Cream-O and Nips.

A relaxed merienda, with no agenda, just good company and some sweet treats can make family bonding time more memorable. Spending quality time with loved ones is a treat in itself, especially with Jack ‘n Jill’s delightful and easy-to-share snacks that’s perfect for all ages. Sharing timeless favorites like Cream-O, Chippy, and Nips for a lighthearted break together can make the moment even more special.

Make Shared Moments Feel Complete with Something to Pass Around

Whether it’s lunch, merienda, or a simple salu-salo, there’s something about sharing that can make moments fulfilling. Sharing a refreshing bottle of C2 Cool and Clean Litro adds to that sense of togetherness, making it easier to slow down and simply enjoy each other’s company, one sip at a time.

At the end of the day, Mother’s Day is about showing appreciation in ways that feel genuine. It’s not about planning the perfect celebration, rather it’s about being present, sharing delightful food, laughter, and time with the family.

This Mother’s Day, everything you need to create these simple, meaningful moments—from pantry staples to shareable URC favorites—are available at your nearest supermarkets and convenience stores.

 Enjoy and share a sweet treat from Cream-O this Mother’s Day with Cream-O Dark Chocolate.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC), a Filipino food and beverage company, and maker of several iconic and well-loved brands such as Great Taste Coffee, C2 Cool and Clean, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Maxx Candy, and Cream-O. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).
 





 

The message is clear: SM isn't just a place to buy things. It’s your "third space." It’s where you meet the crew, find your community, and—as the song says—live life to the max at your most loved mall.

More Than a Destination, It’s a Mood. “Gala To The Max” captures the essence of what it means to visit SM. Whether you’re there for a fitness milestone, a deep dive into your favorite fandom, a gaming marathon, or just a chill afternoon with your furbabies, SM remains the ultimate backdrop for every subculture.

SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing JonJon San Agustin emphasizes that the mall is an extension of the shoppers' identity, "At SM, we’ve always been about creating spaces where memories are made. With ‘Gala To The Max,’ we’re celebrating that unique energy our shoppers bring. It’s about your vibe and your tribe. Whether you're here to play, shop, or just hang out, we want you to feel that this is your space, the most loved mall that truly fits your lifestyle."

The Soundtrack to Your Next LSS

Produced alongside StarPop, the track features the high-energy vocals of DNA, a trio of sisters composed of Ezri, Julia, and Tasha. The song is designed to be the definitive background score for every TikTok transition and weekend hangout.

DNA members and real-life sisters (from left) Ezri, Tasha, and Julia could not hide their excitement as they brought to life (and ears) SM Supermalls’ newest jingle.

Join the Movement

The official rollout begins this weekend across all SM malls nationwide. With more music and more reasons to stay longer than you planned, SM is officially calling on the community to show off their moves. Come as you are, bring your tribe, and show the world how you gala to the max.