Discovery Samal is Davao’s Exclusive Nominee for Best Resort in the Philippines at DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2027

Three years after opening, Discovery Samal marks a new milestone shaped by Filipino hospitality, meaningful celebrations, and the stories of those who have made it their home away from home

Discovery Samal is proudly stepping onto the national stage as a nominee for Best Resort in the Philippines at the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2027 which marks an exciting milestone for the resort and a proud moment for the destination it calls home.

The nomination celebrates the experiences and connections Discovery Samal has created over the past three years. From family getaways and romantic escapes to corporate retreats and trips with friends, the resort has welcomed guests from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories on the island.

The New ‘My SM’: How the Filipino Consumer Is Redefining the Mall Experience

Customers continue to be the transformation driver for SM Supermalls.

Following undisrupted foot traffic and positive business performance in the first half of 2026, the mall operating arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc. has noted three key factors that maintained market interest despite scaled consumption patterns earlier in the year.

"Filipinos kept showing up for family, passions, and the moments that matter," said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. "SM remained a trusted constant, creating more ways to celebrate, connect, play, and discover, while evolving alongside how Filipinos now live. That is the heart of 'My SM' - evolving alongside our customers so every mall feels personal, inclusive, and built around what they love most."

Save This For Your Next SM Supermalls Run in the Metro!

If you're always on the lookout for what's new, you're in the right place! And yes, we’re sure you saw the photo above…the most-awaited tumbler brand now officially made its way to the Philippines! 🫶🏼

From brands opening their very first stores to exciting new dining concepts and lifestyle favorites arriving at SM, brings plenty of fresh reasons to stop by. Here's a look at the latest openings across Metro Manila.

VFS Global enhances UK visa submission experience for Filipinos with 4 Premium and Mobile Visa Application Centres in the Philippines

With demand for travel from the Philippines to the UK continuing to grow, VFS Global now offers Premium Application Centres (PACs) in Metro Manila, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro City, and a Mobile Visa Application Centre (MVAC) in Bataan, providing UK visa customers with greater flexibility, convenience and accessibility when submitting their visa applications.

The Premium Application Centres in Metro Manila, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro City are designed for customers who value convenience, privacy and efficiency, including business travellers, families, senior citizens and professionals with demanding schedules. The Mobile Visa Application Centre in Balanga City, Bataan brings visa submission services closer to customers in the city, offering an accessible and convenient alternative location. Both centres operate in accordance with the processes and guidelines established by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

To book an appointment at our Premium Application Centres or Mobile Visa Application Centre, customers need to select their preferred location while applying for their UK visa online.

Young descendant explores the legacy of Marcelo H. Del Pilar in Ayala Museum pop-up exhibit

LOLO MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO, curated by Pax Pineda, offers a personal look at the sacrifices and humanity behind one of the Philippines’ foremost propagandists

At 17, Pax Pineda turns his personal connection to Philippine history into a public exploration of one of the country’s most influential propagandists.

Running from September 4 to October 17, 2026 at the 2F Lobby of Ayala Museum's Diorama Experience Gallery, LOLO MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO (Reflections on the Legacy of Marcelo H. Del Pilar) bridges the gap bridge the gap between history and personal heritage, transforming Del Pilar from a mere historical icon into a relatable figure whose spirit continues to inspire.

Warm Each Soul and Home with Artisanal Pastries from Solaire Resort Quezon City

Take a piece of crowd-favorite breads and more made fresh daily by Solaire Resort Quezon City’s own Chief Baker, Chef Edwin Himson.

Whether it be for a quick break or an intentional moment of respite, the light ambiance and welcoming atmosphere at Solaire Resort Quezon City beckons guests to stay a while. Warmth courses throughout the halls of Solaire in many ways, but settles comfortably in the delectable artisanal breads and pastries prepared by the resort’s Chief Baker, Chef Edwin Himson.

Regular guests may be familiar with Chef Edwin and his team’s creations through the classic pandesal trio platter at Manyaman, or the complimentary bread basket at Finestra featuring fluffy bites of focaccia and ciabatta before each meal. With decades of expertise he’s built as a pâtissier in both international and local luxury hotels, Chef Edwin infuses his baked goods with care and love that breathe life into each diner’s palate. 

Aznar Shipping backs free cadetship training, helping ease Visayas maritime crew shortage

Free onboard training for over 200 aspiring seafarers amid estimated 55% officer-level gap in Central Visayas

Maritime cadets receive practical onboard training and guidance from Aznar Shipping crew members through the company’s free cadetship program.

Cebu-based shipping operator Aznar Shipping Corporation (“Aznar Shipping” or the “Company”) is supporting cadetship programs for the upcoming academic year by providing onboard training opportunities to more than 200 aspiring seafarers, helping address the maritime crew shortage in Central Visayas.