Vincent Co-led PUREGOLD Double Down on Grassroots Retail, Reaffirms Sari-Sari Store Advocacy

Sari-sari stores serve as trusted community institutions across the Philippines. These bridge access gaps in underserved areas, offer small-volume purchasing for budget-conscious households, and often extend credit based on long-standing neighborhood relationships. Their presence sustains hyperlocal economies and forms a vital foundation of the country's retail ecosystem.

As one of the country’s leading retailers, Puregold has long recognized that the strength of this micro-retail sector is closely tied to the strength of the broader retail landscape. The company’s extensive network of sari-sari store partners has been a major contributor to its growth and nationwide reach.

This understanding is at the core of an initiative championed by Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co. The Sari-Sari Storiesseries reflects his advocacy to empower local entrepreneurs who keep grassroots commerce thriving across the country. The project trainsthe spotlight on the people running these neighborhood staples and recognizes their central role in both community life and national economic activity.

“Puregold’s continued success reflects the unrelenting hard work of our sari-sari store members,” says Vincent. “With Sari-Sari Store Stories, we aim to celebrate them not only as business collaborators, but also as proud Filipino icons. Puregold remains committed to ensuring that the humble tindahan continues to thrive and remains a meaningful part of every community.”

The company’s strong performance in the third quarter highlights the strategic importance of these partnerships. Long-time sari-sari store owners and neighborhood retailers remain a core driver of Puregold’s sustained growth, relying on the company as a trusted supplier and business ally. 

Through the series, Puregold honors these establishments while also reinforcing its commitment to inclusive growth and community-centered development. The initiative aims to elevate awareness of the critical role sari-sari stores play in sustaining local economies and supporting grassroots commerce.

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Jollibee Christmas Film "Buo ang Saya ng Pasko" Premieres November 16

Jollibee brings the heart of the Filipino to life with "Buo ang Saya ng Pasko," a new Christmas film premiering on November 16 at 6PM.

This year, Jollibee captures how both typical families and different versions of Filipino families now come together. Featuring touching vignettes in its new Christmas film and an original soundtrack, Jollibee's new heartwarming film reminds us that even as the faces around the table change, as long as the family is together - Buo ang saya ng Pasko.

"Buo ang Saya ng Pasko" premieres on Jollibee's Facebook and YouTube pages.

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Puregold CinePanalo Collaborates with Its Pioneer Student Alumni in New Digital Series ‘Got My Eyes on You’

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival has become student filmmakers’ portal to Philippine entertainment. Aiming to uplift the industry’s brightest young talents, Puregold CinePanalo has carved a path for these young aspirants to ply their craft. For instance, the festival’s annual student shorts category offers significant production grants as well as opportunities to produce noteworthy work at a professional level.

Puregold CinePanalo also goes the extra mile by providing the right breaks to these young contenders over and beyond the confines of the festival. It has produced the likes of Dizelle Masilungan and Lloyd Garciano who took over the ‘For You Pages’ on TikTok with Puregold Channel’s latest digital series, ‘Got My Eyes on You.’

Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Puregold senior marking manager and CinePanalo festival chair, spoke on the development of the two filmmakers. “The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival is dedicated to finding the very best young talents that will form the backbone of the industry in years to come,” she said. “Both Dizelle and Lloyd excelled in the first Puregold CinePanalo and now we’re eager to give them more room to share their stories with audiences via the Puregold Channel.”

Masilungan and Garciano were both participants in the first-ever Puregold CinePanalo student shorts category. Masilungan took home a Best Director award for his film “Kung Nag-aatubili.” Meanwhile, Garciano did the cinematography for “Smokey Journey,” which received recognition for its ensemble cast and original score.

These two currently find themselves at the forefront of the latest “retailtainment” offering from Puregold. With Masilungan as director and Garciano as the director of photography, ‘Got My Eyes on You’ has proven to be an excellent addition to the BL genre.

Starring Esteban Mara and Mikoy Morales, ‘Got My Eyes on You’ tells the story of two employees at a luxury resort striving for the general manager’s post, only to find themselves falling in love. The show tackles serious issues on office romance in the precarious search for work-life balance.

Puregold CinePanalo alumni also make up the post-production team of ‘Got My Eyes on You.’ The show’s editor, Jenievive B. Adame, had previously worked with Garciano when she directed “Smokey Journey.” Anton Acosta, the director of photography on Masilungan’s “Kung Nag-aatubili,” also continues their collaboration here as an editor for the digital series.

For both Masilungan and Garciano, the opportunity to bring this show to life is a direct result of their success at the Puregold CinePanalo.

“Thank you so much, CinePanalo, for your steadfast belief in emerging Filipino storytellers like us and for giving us a platform for sharing our voices,” said Masilungan. “This opportunity is not only an incredible experience but also a huge stepping stone toward achieving my dream of telling stories that matter.”

Garciano echoed the sentiments, saying, “Puregold has given us opportunities that are beyond our expectations. This is me speaking on behalf of all the young cinematographers and filmmakers you’ve helped. The opportunities provided here, from showcasing our early work to connecting with known names in our industry, have been invaluable in turning our passion into a profession.”

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival recently announced their final line up of the Top 7 films in their full-length category. Meanwhile, applications for the 2026 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival student shorts category are still open. Interested participants must submit their applications to https://tinyurl.com/PCPFFShortsApp by 11:59 PM of November 25, 2025.

All films in the festival will screen next year at the Gateway Cineplex 18, as well as select Ayala Cinemas.

For further inquiries, applicants may email thesecretariat@cinepanalo.com or message its official Facebook page at facebook.com/puregoldcinepanalo. 

‘Got My Eyes on You’ can be viewed on TikTok @puregoldph. For further updates, follow Puregold Channel on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and X.

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Korean Superstars Kim Myung Soo and Choi Bo Min Return to the Philippines this December

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines is enlisting the star power of the two popular Korean celebrities to entice Korean travelers to discover the Philippines' inviting weather during Korea's winter season.

Signed with Universal Records and GLXY Talent Management, Myung Soo and Bo Min will be putting the spotlight on the Philippines – particularly Clark, Pampanga – as a premier tourist destination for Korean visitors, highlighting its relaxing atmosphere, scenic landscapes, and mild climate. As part of this promotion, the Runrio PUMA Clark Half Marathon will take place. If you'd like to run alongside our oppas, join us on December 14, 2025, for the half marathon.

Register for the PUMA Clark Half Marathon here:

https://raceroster.com/events/2025/109838/puma-clark-half-marathon

Myung Soo, known as "L" from the popular K-Pop group Infinite, is also an award-winning actor who has starred in K-Dramas like Angel's Last Mission: Love, and Royal Secret Agent. On the other hand, Bo Min is a former member of the idol group Golden Child and a former host of Music Bank. He also appeared in the GMA and Viu series Beauty Empire, and is the endorser of BlueWater Day Spa and Ever Bilena.

Kim Myung Soo and Choi Bo Min's involvement underscores the growing cultural ties between Korea and the Philippines, encouraging fans and travelers alike to experience Clark's serene landscapes and mild climate. This collaboration not only boosts tourism but also fosters stronger bilateral connections through shared entertainment and travel experiences.

Follow Kim Myung Soo on social media!

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kim_msl/

Follow Choi Bo Min on social media!

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bomin._c/

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JM Granado Making Holiday Cheer from Simple Ingredients

How much can you achieve using just one ingredient as inspiration? That’s the challenge that JM Granado has set for himself in his latest TikTok minseries. The task is deceptively difficult: create five holiday recipes all built around one single ingredient at a time.

The first ingredient in Granado’s sightline is the ubiquitous Pinoy staple: rice. 

Even in just selecting the types of rice he’s meant to use, Granado showed the cleverness that can be found in a sharp and creative home cook such as himself. Instead of sticking to just the standard cup of white rice, he also utilized the biproducts and variations of rice. That includes galapong, balatinaw, and even local rice wine.

The last of those, he showcased well in the first of this miniseries by including the rice wine in a home mix of sangria. The cocktail with a little twist of Pinoy flavors, he termed Tapuy Sangria. The video smartly highlighted the bottle of Pedronanan Tapuey that Granado used for the drink, demonstrating his knowledge and passion for local brands.

In his second video in the series, Granado used galapong to make ube cheese tupig rolls, a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors in a familiar lumpia package. In the third, he took a bowl of leftover rice and miscellaneous leftovers in the fridge to make crispy rice bites.

Granado’s over 138,000 followers on TikTok are eagerly awaiting the recipes to come from just the first ingredient that is rice. There’s also great anticipation over the ingredients that might follow in new iterations of this series. Whether it be humble staples or even familiar branded favorites, Granado is sure to create an inspiring menu for all.

Already in this miniseries, Granado has displayed his signature ability to take familiar, soul-soothing Pinoy flavors and adding the slightest twist to make them fresh again. Such has been Granado’s approach to food content online since becoming one of the fastest rising creators on the internet. The young restaurant owner’s talent for giving new life to local favorites has landed him features on major platforms such as GMA, ABS-CBN, and more.

His sharable and engaging content has also made him an attractive collaborator for such major brands as Knorr, Heinz, Selecta, and Grab.

In the weeks to come, the holidays are looking a little more exciting with JM Granado cooking up recipes for all to enjoy.

For further inquiries, contact Sphere Celebrity and Influencer Management at 09178017876 or inquiresphere.ph@gmail.com.

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First-Ever Sensory Lab Opening Soon at SM Supermalls

In line with its mission to create a mall for all, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, will soon open the first-ever SM Sensory Lab at SM Mall of Asia. This dedicated space is designed to provide a calm and comfortable environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), and anxiety disorder.

The SM Sensory Lab: Calming Corner is part of SM Cares’ advocacy for Persons with Disabilities, taking the next major steps to making every mall visit welcoming, inclusive, and compassionate. The space aims to offer visitors a moment of rest from overstimulating environments and ensure that every Filipino can enjoy a great malling experience.

Partners unite to bring the SM Sensory Lab to life — creating inclusive spaces that empower persons with special needs and enrich the community.

The SM Sensory Lab supports the unique needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities — fostering comfort and meaningful engagement in public spaces.

Developed in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), and the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), this initiative reflects SM’s leadership in promoting accessibility and empathy across its malls.

“The SM Sensory Lab represents our vision of inclusivity and care,” said Mr. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Through this calming space, we hope to create an environment where every visitor—especially those with sensory sensitivities—feels safe, supported, and truly welcome.”

Creating a Calming Experience for All

The SM Sensory Lab features a thoughtfully designed environment aimed at reducing sensory overload and providing comfort for individuals with sensory sensitivities. The space is equipped with soft lighting to minimize visual overstimulation and a quiet atmosphere to help reduce auditory triggers. Visitors can relax in comfortable seating areas furnished with soft chairs and cushions, while sensory tools such as calming toys and blankets offer tactile comfort.

Admission to the Sensory Lab is free of charge and open to children and adults with sensory sensitivities, accompanied by a guardian or caregiver. To support ease of navigation and emotional regulation, the space also includes visual supports and schedules to help visitors feel more at ease. The overall layout is organized and clutter-free, maintaining a peaceful setting that promotes calm and safety.

The SM Sensory Lab features soft lights, tactile panels, and a calming atmosphere — thoughtfully designed to support the sensory needs of individuals.

Designed for inclusivity, the SM Sensory Lab offers features that create a comforting and accessible malling experience.

Redefining Malling with Care and Inclusion

“SM Mall of Asia is proud to lead this effort toward more inclusive malling experiences,” Mr. Steven Tan continued. “We believe that true hospitality means ensuring everyone—regardless of their needs—has a place where they can feel comfortable and cared for.”

As the first SM Supermall set to open a Sensory Lab, SM Mall of Asia reinforces its role as a pioneer in inclusive and compassionate mall design, setting the foundation for similar spaces to be rolled out across other SM malls nationwide.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 89 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.

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Kent Villarba Named It's Showtime “Tawag ng Tanghalan” Season 9 Grand Champion

Kent Villarba of Pangkat Luntian mentored by Bituin Escalante was named the grand champion of “Tawag ng Tanghalan” Season 9 after earning standing ovations for both of his powerhouse performances during the “Huling Tapatan” grand finals held last Saturday (November 8).

The Cebuano singer, who also celebrated his birthday on the same day, garnered the highest combined score of 98%from the hurados and madlang people, triumphing over fellow finalists Lucky Galindez (92%) and Angelica Magno (56%).

Kent sealed his victory with a show-stopping IV of Spades medley, impressing the judges and audience with his polished vocals and stage confidence. This season’s Huling Tapatan featured an all-star panel of hurados composed of Ogie Alcasid, Marco Sison, Nonoy Zuñiga, Dingdong Avanzado, Erik Santos, Jed Madela, Nyoy Volante, Yeng Constantino, Mark Bautista, Klarisse de Guzman, Lani Misalucha, and Louie Ocampo.

As the new "TNT" grand champion, Kent took home ₱1 million in cash, a recording contract with ABS-CBN Music, a management contract with Star Magic, and a trophy.

Meanwhile, Lucky received ₱100,000, and Angelica won ₱50,000.

Fellow grand finalists Aaron Lao, Jude Tangkion, and Almaerra Recentes each received ₱20,000.

Don’t miss the excitement and fun on “It’s Showtime” every Monday to Saturday at 12 NN on GMA, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live (YouTube and Facebook of ABS-CBN Entertainment), iWant, and TFC IPTV.

Catch the online companion show “Showtime Online U” on It’s Showtime’s YouTube channel.

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