A New HONOR Begins: Powering the Future of AI

Pivoting from a “smartphone manufacturer” into a globally leading “AI device ecosystem company” is a radical redefinition of HONOR’s future. This redefinition is a new identity born organically - after relentless breakthroughs across technology, markets, and industry dimensions.

When a tech company begins to rethink the relationship between AI and humans differently, and when its trajectory consistently defies outside expectations, change becomes inevitable. Brand renewal is the necessary outward expression of that change.

Boundaries are shattering. Growth is accelerating. HONOR is no longer just the phone maker it once was. Marked by the advent of "Robot Phone" - a truly new species - HONOR has officially entered the next phase as an AI device ecosystem company. From on-device AI to system-wide synergy; from global foldable leadership to winning a half marathon with a humanoid robot; from AiMAGE, the industry’s first end-cloud collaborative computational photography system, to partnering with ARRI to usher in a cinematic era of mobile imaging; from the species evolution of Phone to RobotPhone; from traditional operating systems to the generational leap of Agentic OS; from a single device to building an open, co-created, and shared AI device ecosystem - HONOR has turned its Alpha strategy and AHI philosophy from blueprint into reality through a series of hardcore breakthroughs. 

The market has given the most honest answer: in Q1 2026, HONOR achieved counter-trend growth of 25%, becoming the only Chinese brand to post positive growth; overseas revenue accounted for more than half; and foldable phones firmly held the global Top 2 spot. Success is no accident - it is the natural emergence of qualitative change when long-term quantitative accumulation reaches its critical point.

The pace of transformation is quickening, and the direction grows ever clearer. HONOR’s brand character is evolving in tandem — it is no longer just a breaker of cold specs, but a brand that steps actively into the cultural sphere of the younger generation: partnering with top-tier global events, striking a chord of passion through extreme exploration; co-branding with designer toys, turning the brand into a statement of attitude. What young people feel is not a lofty tech giant, but a companion who understands them, dares to be different, and is willing to run alongside them.

This brand renewal is a comprehensive upgrade that spans technology, industry, ecosystem, and the core of the brand. It is not the end, but an entirely new beginning: HONOR is no longer being defined — it is defining; no longer following the wind — it is becoming the wind; no longer merely a companion — it is an initiator of change. ‘Dare to be’ has long been etched deep into HONOR’s DNA. The future is here. HONOR aspires to be a cool company, joining forces with the coolest people in the world to chase the frontiers of imagination, and together, create a cool AI future that belongs to everyone.

To learn more about this exciting news, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.

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Visa brings Apple Pay to its Customers in the Philippines

Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, announced today that Visa debit and credit cardholders in the Philippines can now add their eligible cards to Apple Pay on their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac. Apple Pay is an easy, secure and private way to pay in-store, in-app and online.

This announcement accelerates the digitalization of payments all while expanding payment options for Filipinos traveling abroad and visitors traveling to the Philippines. Across the Asia Pacific region, 97% of travelers say that they will bring credit, debit, or prepaid cards on their trips, while only 17% intend to bring foreign currency. Among travelers, 38% said they prefer cards because of robust security and fraud protection features, while 20% cite wide acceptance. Apple Pay seamlessly delivers on these exact needs by making everyday transactions easy, secure, and private.

To pay in-store, customers simply double-click the side button, authenticate, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. Every Apple Pay purchase is secure because it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code. Apple Pay is accepted in grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, and many more places that accept contactless payments.

Customers can also use Apple Pay on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to make faster and more convenient purchases in apps or on the web without having to create accounts or repeatedly type in contact information, card details, or shipping and billing information.

“Apple Pay represents the next evolution of payments in the Philippines, combining ease of use, simplicity, and security in every transaction, helping amplify the payment experience for Visa cardholders in the Philippines. With Apple Pay, Filipinos and tourists alike now have seamless and secure ways to pay across shops, restaurants, travel destinations, and public transport, supporting the nation’s vision to become a cash-lite economy,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines.

Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay. When customers use a credit or debit card with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on the device, nor on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element, an industry-standard, certified chip designed to store the payment information safely on the device.

Apple Pay is easy to set up. On iPhone, simply open the Wallet app, tap the ‘+’, and follow the steps to add a Visa card. Once a customer adds a card to iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac, they can start using Apple Pay on that device right away. Customers will continue to receive all of the rewards and benefits offered by their Visa cards.

For more information on Apple Pay, visit: https://www.apple.com/ph/apple-pay/

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Kathryn Bernardo and James Reid Grateful for Support from Global Audiences for “Someone, Someday”

Kathryn Bernardo and James Reid expressed their heartfelt gratitude to viewers in and outside of the Philippines for the overwhelming support for their comeback series, "Someone, Someday" with Maja Salvador, as it remains the No. 1 most-watched TV series on Netflix Philippines and it was also part of the Top 10 list of most-watched shows in Singapore and Malaysia when it premiered.

“We are very grateful sa lahat ng Kapamilyas natin na sumubaybay not just on Netflix in the Philippines but also sa iba’t ibang parte ng mundo. I heard maganda rin ‘yung pagtanggap sa Singapore and also in Malaysia. Grabe nakakatuwa siya,” said Kathryn in an interview on "TV Patrol."

James echoed the same sentiment and shared that he was overwhelmed by the love and positive reactions from viewers, which made the series' success even more meaningful.

“We just want to say thank you, mga Kapamilya, for all the support, for the warm welcome for this very hot first week. Honestly, your support and the reactions exceeded my expectations, so thank you so much,” said James.

In the current story, Billy (Kathryn) and Jordan (James) continue to investigate the person who instructed Caloy (McCoy De Leon) to sabotage their thriving business by hacking the LoveList dating app. Meanwhile, Abi (Maja) slowly reveals her dark side as her deep admiration for her idol Billy spirals into a creepy obsession as she goes to extreme lengths to invade her privacy.

Tune in to “Someone, Someday” on weeknights at 8:45 PM on ALLTV2, TV5, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live on YouTube and Facebook, and TFC. The series is also available for 72 hours in advance on Netflix and 48 hours in advance on iWant.

For updates on “Someone, Someday,” visit someonesomeday.abs-cbn.com. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

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EastWest Dream Run 2026 Draws Nearly 7,000 Dreamers for Manila Kickoff

Nearly 7,000 runners, families, friends, and fur-babies gathered at the Filinvest Event Grounds for EastWest Dream Run 2026 Manila leg - the first of the four-leg series organized by RUNRIO. The event turned the venue into a vibrant celebration of movement, community, and the pursuit of dreams through health and wellness.

Now in its second year, the event drew participants across the 21K, 10K, 5K, 3K, and 1K Dog Run categories, with both the 21K and 5K races selling out ahead of race day. From serious runners chasing podium finishes and personal bests to families and friends enjoying an active weekend together, the event showcased the many ways Filipinos are prioritizing healthier lifestyles and striving toward personal goals.

Among the standout performances of the day was Kenyan marathoner Evans Bomer's victory in the 21K Men's Division, while SEA Games medalist Arlan Arbois secured second place.

In the women’s division, the podium was swept by inspiring mothers, led by 21K champion Marickz Camacho, a breastfeeding mom, followed by Jocelyn Elijeran and Nikka Panlaqui, highlighting how women can thrive in both sport and motherhood.

Camacho continues to compete at an elite level while raising her child, while Panlaqui’s passion for running has inspired her son to pursue sports. Their journeys show that motherhood is not a barrier to pursuing one’s goals, but a source of strength that empowers women to prioritize their health, chase their dreams, and inspire other mothers and the next generation.

Adding to the festive atmosphere were runners donning colorful and creative costumes, while the crowd cheered on dogs of all shapes and sizes during the crowd-favorite 1K Dog Run. Together, these moments highlighted the inclusive, family-friendly spirit that has become a hallmark of the EastWest Dream Run.

Beyond the race course, participants enjoyed a bustling Race Village filled with sponsor activities, games, giveaways, and treats. Many headed to the EastWest Horizons Recovery Lounge to enjoy post-race massages and recovery sessions after crossing the finish line.

The excitement continued well beyond the finish line as EastWest and its partners gave away over Php500,000 worth of raffle prizes, including staycations, theme park passes, fitness equipment, portable appliances, and shopping vouchers.

The Manila leg was made possible through the support of partners including Filinvest, Filinvest Land, Visa, Quest Plus Conference Center Manila, EastWest Ageas, Nutribullet, Dyson, Ford, foodpanda, Puregold, Mizuno, Saucony, Toby's Sports, REV, Concepstore, Colgate Plax, C2, Asiaprime Philippines Corporation & Asiaprime Beauty and Wellness, Mogu Mogu, Gumtect, Aqua Planet, Nature’s Spring, Chlorelief, Salonpas, DailyFix, Lubie, and DentaCare, alongside the Department of Tourism.

"As someone who enjoys running, I know that getting to the starting line is already a win," said EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo. "What started as a celebration of EastWest's 30th anniversary has grown into one of our biggest traditions. Seeing thousands of dreamers, families, friends, and even their fur-babies come together today reminds us why we're excited to bring the Dream Run to more cities across the country."

In support of the Department of Tourism’s "Love the Philippines" campaign, the EastWest Dream Run 2026 heads next to Clark (August 30), Iloilo (September 20), and Cagayan de Oro (October 18), where runners can look forward to the same race-day excitement, vibrant Race Village, sponsor activities, recovery lounges, and raffle prizes. The final Cagayan de Oro leg will also feature EastWest brand ambassador Donny Pangilinan. To sign up for the next legs, visit https://www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run-2026.

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Ajinomoto Philippines Continues Mission to Inspire Healthier Eating Habits with the 2026 I Love Veggie-Licious Community Caravan

The veggie fun is back! Ajinomoto Philippines kicked off the I Love Veggie-licious® Caravan in the City of Manila! Get ready for a lineup of wholesome cooking tips, delicious veggie hacks, and family-approved recipes that make healthy eating a breeze. (L-R) Dr. Paz Corrales (Consultant for Health, Office of the Mayor, City of Manila), Grace H. Padilla, MD, MHA, FPPS (OIC, Manila Health Department), Daizaburo Koga (APC President), Mika Makino (APC Director for Sales, Marketing, and PR), Paz Gienevieve A. Herrera, MD, MPH (Chief, Division of RMNCAHN-OH, Manila Health Department), and Michelle Tagacay (DMO for Manila, Department of Health)

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) officially launched the 2026 leg of its I Love Veggie-Licious® (ILV) Caravan at the Dapitan Sports Complex in the City of Manila, gathering mothers, homemakers, community leaders, and nutrition advocates for a fun-filled and educational experience that promotes healthier eating habits through the joy of cooking and vegetable consumption.

Participants were welcomed into an energetic and family-friendly atmosphere featuring educational booths, interactive games, and community activities designed to make learning about nutrition both meaningful and enjoyable.

327 homemakers from the City of Manila joined in the fun through learning the facts from the myths regarding 

nutrition and MSG.

The event also featured a live cooking demonstration, showcasing easy-to-prepare vegetable dishes enhanced with umami, the savory taste that helps bring out the natural flavors of ingredients. The session showed how simple cooking techniques and thoughtful ingredient choices can make vegetables more appealing without sacrificing taste.

(L-R) Family lifestyle creator Prax Yap and APC In-house chef Khyle Furigay taught the participants how to cook a 

“Kiddified” Lumpianada, a nutritious dish appetizing for the kids.

According to the 2021 Expanded National Nutrition Survey (ENNS) of the Department of Science and Technology – Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), Filipino adults consume 58 grams (g) or less than 1 cup of vegetables and 17 grams (g) or less than ¼ of a small-sized fruit daily versus the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 400g, combining vegetable and fruit consumption.

The ILV Caravan aims to inspire Filipino families to incorporate more vegetables into their daily meals by making nutritious, accessible, and tasty dishes. As APC’s mother campaign, this movement contributes to the Ajinomoto Group’s 2030 roadmap, the realization of two outcomes: extending the healthy life expectancy of one billion people while helping reduce environmental impact by 50%.

By equipping communities with practical knowledge and encouraging positive food habits, the Caravan seeks to create lasting behavioral changes that can support healthier lifestyles for future generations.

In his welcome remarks, APC President Daizaburo Koga emphasized the importance of collective efforts in promoting better nutrition and empowering families to make healthier food choices.

APC President delivering his warm welcome remarks to the Manila leg participants.

“Over the years, we have had the privilege of working with local government units and communities in Quezon City, Lucena, Alaminos, San Jose Del Monte, Santa Rosa, and Pasig. 

Hand in hand, we have reached thousands of homemakers by sharing simple ways to prepare nutritious meals that every family can enjoy. These solid partnerships remind us that change begins when communities come together with a common goal,” Mr. Koga shared.

To date, the I Love Veggie-Licious® program has partnered with several local government units (LGUs), including Quezon City, Pasig, San Jose Del Monte, Sta. Rosa, Lucena, and Alaminos, strengthening efforts to promote balanced nutrition and healthier food choices. By partnering with LGU’s and providing accessible learning opportunities, APC continues to support its vision of helping Filipinos enjoy both good health and good food.

I Love Veggie-Licious® aims to empower mothers and homemakers with practical nutrition insights and innovative culinary tips to create healthier and nutritious vegetable dishes for the family. 

(L-R): Prax Yap, Noelle Allarey, Andrei Vicario, Rapha Dominguez, Jenny Martin, Madelin Dofiles, Daizaburo Koga, Mika Makino, Bea de Jesus, Mark Bayle, and Khyle Furigay.

As the program expands to more communities nationwide, it hopes to inspire even more families to discover that healthy eating can be simple, enjoyable, and full of flavor. Through every recipe shared, every lesson learned, and every vegetable served, the campaign reinforces a powerful message: nutritious meals can become a delicious part of everyday life.

The City of Manila marks the first stop of this year’s I Love Veggie-Licious® Caravan, with four more community locations set to be visited as the leg continues. With the continued support of local government partners, community stakeholders, and participating families, APC remains committed to fostering healthier communities — one veggie-licious meal at a time.

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Harana Music Festival Features a Powerhouse Lineup of More Than 10 Massive OPM Acts

A new chapter in OPM festival experiences is about to begin.

This November 28, 2026, music lovers from across the country will gather in Filinvest Event Grounds Alabang, Muntinlupa City for Harana Music Festival 2026, an acoustic music festival promising one of the most refreshing and intimate OPM experiences of the year.

What began as a vision to create a more personal and meaningful music festival is now becoming a reality. Harana Music Festival introduces a fresh concept to the Philippine festival scene—one that celebrates the beauty of simplicity, heartfelt performances, and genuine connections between artists and audiences.

Harana embraces a more laid-back and immersive atmosphere that brings together raw vocals, real instruments, and authentic storytelling, creating a space where every performance feels close and every song becomes deeply personal.

Headlining the celebration is TJ Monterde with massive OPM love song hit “Palagi" whose sold-out arena concerts and chart-topping love songs have established him as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation. Joining the line up are Arthur Nery, Maki, Earl Augustin, Rob Daniel and Angela Ken, Nicole, Toneejay, Syd Hartha, Clara Benin and A!ka.

As excitement continues to build, Harana Music Festival is quickly shaping up to become one of the most anticipated new OPM events of the year.

Ticket starts at Php 1,000 only and are expected to sell out fast. Excited to get tickets? Visit our website for tickets https://ticket.haranamusicfest.com/pages/harana-music-fest or SM TICKETS!

Harana Music Festival 2026 is presented by EPIC EVENTS same creators of Aurora Music Festival and Maison Matcha

For inquiries, please call 0969 578 6137 or message our Official Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/HaranaMusicFestival and visit our official website https://ticket.haranamusicfest.com/pages/harana-music-fest

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Ajinomoto Kicks Off the "2026 I Love Veggie-Licious Caravan" to Support Parents' Advocacy for Healthier Family Meals

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation's 'I Love Veggie-licious Caravan 2026' kicked off its activities on Thursday, July 30, at the Dapitan Sports Complex in Sampaloc, Manila. The company is seen to be promoting and supporting a cause that advocates for healthy eating for all Filipino families.

The first leg of the event saw hundreds of parents, mostly mothers and fathers, come together in an action-packed day of wholesome and fun-filled activities.

The attendees of the family-friendly event participated and engaged in various game activities and contests which provided them with exciting prizes and surprises. The caravan also gave the parents an insight into how they could make healthy and delicious meals for their families. This was done through the demo cooking of Prax Yap and APC in-house chef Khyle Furigay, who prepared and cooked healthy meatless meals that can be easy to reproduce at home.

To augment the event's theme of healthy eating, Dr. Grace H. Padilla of the Manila City Health Department gave a talk about the importance of nutritional health and balanced diet in keeping a family healthy.

Ajinomoto Philippines President Daizaburo Koga was also present for the special occasion. He expressed his gratitude towards the parents who took time out of their schedules to be a part of the event, saying that the company is seen to support and advocate for the nutritional health of the Filipino family.

Meanwhile, the 'I Love Veggie-licious Caravan 2026' event was hosted by DJ Mama Emma of Barangay LS 97.1.

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Major Giveaway Alert: 101 FREE HONOR Gadgets Up for Grab

What? HONOR Philippines is giving away 101 HONOR gadgets to its growing community with its biggest giveaway yet! Known for continuously surprising consumers with blockbuster promotions - from giving away luxury vehicles to exclusive rewards - HONOR is once again raising the bar by putting 101 HONOR devices up for grabs in a nationwide giveaway, including the latest HONOR 600 Series.

This celebrates the overwhelming support of HONOR fans while making the brand's innovative technology more accessible to everyone. Joining is as easy as it gets. Participants simply need to comment on the official giveaway post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18wfpQRyTc/ - no follow required!

"Our fans have always been at the heart of everything we do. This giveaway is our way of thanking them for their continued trust and support while giving more Filipinos the opportunity to experience HONOR technology," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

To stay updated on the latest news, products, and promotions from HONOR Philippines, visit the official HONOR Philippines website: www.hihonor.com, and on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

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Alexa Ilacad and Gelo Rivera Reignite Chemistry in "The Chambermaid's Daughter" Season 2 on iWant

The breakout pairing of Alexa Ilacad and BGYO's Gelo Rivera is set to reignite their signature charm and chemistry as they bring sparks anew as Hannah and Daniel in the second season of their hit vertical romance series, "The Chambermaid's Daughter," premiering this July 30 (Thursday) on iWant, the Home of Filipino Feels.

The first ABS-CBN Studios-produced vertical drama has resonated strongly with viewers, consistently listed in iWant's most-watched charts and garnering millions of views for its first five episodes released for free on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

Directed by Theodore Boborol, the second season follows Hannah (Alexa) as she rises from room attendant to VP of operations at the very hotel she once served. Now reunited with her affluent family and in a relationship with hotel COO Daniel (Gelo), she faces a new test—proving her worth to her future mother-in-law and her ambitious half-sister, both determined to challenge her place in the business and in Daniel's life.

"The Chambermaid's Daughter" is among iWant's growing vertical drama offerings, which include the most recent rom-com hit "Will You Fake Marry Me?" starring JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith, and the intense affair drama "Twist of Fate."

Catch the newest season of "The Chambermaid's Daughter" with its Part 1 episodes debuting on July 30 and Part 2 starting August 14 (Friday) only on iWant. Stream its first five episodes for free on iWant and ABS-CBN Entertainment's Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube pages.

Episodes 6 to 30 are available to stream through iWant’s subscription plans, starting at P35 per month in the Philippines, and USD 4.99 per month in the United States* (*promo price until July 31, 2026) and for the rest of the world.

Enjoy all the feels you want, only on iWant, the largest library of Filipino feels. Download the app and subscribe via Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Stay updated by following iWant on Facebook, TikTok, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

For other updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

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EastWest Champions Retirement Readiness at BSP PERA Forum

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) championed the role of employers in strengthening retirement readiness among Filipino workers at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)-subsidized PERA@Work: Powering Employer-led Retirement Security Forum.

Speaking at the forum, EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo shared the Bank's experience as the first universal bank in the Philippines to launch a voluntary Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) contribution program for employees.

“Financial empowerment is not only about access to products. It is also about building the knowledge and confidence to plan ahead,” Ngo said. “By facilitating access to PERA, EastWest is helping employees take a more active role in shaping their long-term financial future.”

Launched in April 2026, EastWest's voluntary PERA program complements the Bank's existing retirement benefits and forms part of its broader employee financial wellness strategy. The Bank partnered with DragonFi Securities for its employee PERA program, while EastWest PERA products are also available to customers through partnerships with DragonFi and Luna Securities, expanding access through digital investment platforms.

“PERA does not have to be complicated. But it can be meaningful. It can support employee financial wellness, strengthen your total rewards proposition, and help build trust by showing employees that the company is helping them prepare not only for work today, but for life later on,” Ngo continued.

Ngo also highlighted PERA's role beyond retirement planning, describing it as a practical gateway to investing and financial literacy.

“PERA is not only a retirement account. It is a financial wellness platform,” Ngo continued. “The bigger opportunity is helping employees think more broadly about saving, investing, and building long-term financial resilience. When people gain the confidence to start investing for the future, everyone benefits.”

Ngo encouraged organizations to explore PERA as part of their employee financial wellness programs, noting that employers can help strengthen retirement readiness through education, access, and long-term financial planning.

The BSP forum brought together more than 300 attendees and leaders from government, banking, trust, investment, and corporate sectors to discuss how broader PERA adoption can help improve retirement security among Filipino workers.

To know more about EastWest PERA products, contact your EastWest Relationship Manager or visit www.eastwestbanker.com.

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