HONOR Makes Back-to-School Shopping ‘Bongga’ with Big 6.6 Deals and Student Productivity Bundles

Leading global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines is making back-to-school shopping more exciting with its “HONOR Bonggang Back-to-School 6.6 Sale,” offering huge discounts, productivity bundles, and exclusive online deals across all HONOR channels from June 1 to 8, 2026.

Students, young professionals, and tech enthusiasts can now enjoy smarter and more affordable upgrades through HONOR’s biggest back-to-school offers yet.

Leading the campaign is the “Student Productivity Bundle,” where customers can get up to Php 3,000 OFF on selected HONOR tablets when purchased together with the HONOR Choice Pencil and the all-new HONOR Choice Earbuds X7 Lite. The promo applies to participating HONOR tablets, excluding MagicPad 3, making it easier for students to build their ideal productivity setup for learning, creativity, and everyday use.

Meanwhile, the highly popular HONOR 600 Series joins the 6.6 celebration with an exclusive Php 1,000 discount, bundled with a FREE HONOR Bluetooth Speaker II worth Php 1,999 and a Globe 5G Prepaid SIM, giving fans even more value for their next AI smartphone upgrade.

“Back-to-school season is an important moment for students and families preparing for a more productive year ahead. Through our Back-to-School 6.6 Sale, we want to make premium technology and HONOR AI-powered devices more accessible while giving Filipino consumers unbeatable value across our ecosystem,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

Adding to the excitement is the debut of the HONOR Choice Earbuds X7 Lite, now officially available in HONOR’s online stores.

Originally priced at Php 1,999, the sleek and feature-packed earbuds are available for only Php 1,099 throughout the entire month of June across all official online channels, making it the perfect everyday audio companion for students and on-the-go users.

Shoppers can also enjoy platform-exclusive surprises during the campaign:

• Shopee – Up to 70% OFF on HONOR X7d (limited quantity only) on June 5 at 12NN

• Lazada – Grab the HONOR X5c Plus for only Php 6 (limited quantity only) on June 6 at 12MN

• TikTok Shop – Enjoy Live-exclusive vouchers worth up to Php 2,850 plus Student Productivity Bundles

The HONOR Bonggang Back-to-School 6.6 Sale runs across all HONOR channels, while the HONOR Choice Earbuds X7 Lite promo continues until June 30, 2026, through HONOR’s official online stores.

Don’t miss the chance to make this school season smarter, more productive, and definitely more “bongga” with HONOR. 

For more exciting announcements, 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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Maki Embraces Bittersweet Love in New Single "Habangbuhay Pansamantala" Featuring SB19 Justin

Maki continues to expand his “KOLORCOASTER” universe with the release of his pink-themed single “habangbuhay pansamantala” and its music video.

“It’s very contrastingna ipagsama but it all makes sense kasi it reflects yung nafi-feel ko na forever ba akong magiging temporary na tao for other people,” shared Maki about the title of his latest song.

Dubbed as the “pink anthem,” the soft and emotive track captures the pain of being treated as a second choice in a relationship while still hoping for a love that lasts. Maki composed the song, while he co-produced it alongside Jacob Clemente, Tati de Mesa, and Jovel Rivera, blending vulnerable storytelling with heartfelt melodies that resonate deeply with listeners.

The “Dilaw” hitmaker also opened up about collaborating with Justin of SB19 for the music video, praising the latter’s creativity and vision.

“Justin is a very intelligent creative person. Sobrang gets namin yung isa’t isa kaya no’ng sinabi ko yung ideas ko sa kanya, game agad siya. Super gaan niyang katrabaho,” Maki said.

The singer-songwriter from ABS-CBN Music recently surpassed 1 billion all-time streams on Spotify following the massive success of his debut album “KOLORCOASTER.” He is also gearing up for his Southeast Asian concert tour with stops at The Theatre at Mediacorp in Singapore on June 13 and Bengkel Space in Jakarta, Indonesia on June 14. Fans may purchase tickets via makikolorcoastertour.myx.global.

“We’ll do our best to showcase Filipino talent and OPM outside of the Philippines. Para sa akin, mas maganda na sinusuportahan natin yung concerts ng local artists, kilala man sila o hindi, kaya sana let’s explore and try to invest kasi everyone is doing their best,” Maki expressed.

In celebration of the “habangbuhay pansamantala” release, Maki held a free show dubbed "Pink Fest” last May 29 at the TriNoma Activity Center. He is also set to headline the “Pink Room” at Solaire North on June 5.

Feel the heartwrenching message of “habangbuhay pansamantala” available on all digital streaming platforms and join Maki on his “KOLORCOASTER” tour in Singapore and Jakarta this June 13 and 14. For details, follow Tarsier Records on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

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EastWest Priority Bags FinanceAsia Award for Domestic Private Banking Excellence

A new generation of Filipino wealth clients is reshaping the country’s premier banking landscape. More professionals, entrepreneurs, and first-generation business owners are building wealth in their own way, creating stronger demand for financial guidance that is accessible, relationship-led, and digitally enabled.

EastWest Priority, the wealth management segment of EastWest, was designed to bridge the gap between traditional retail banking and private banking, making premier banking more accessible to the country’s growing affluent segment. Its approach to wealth banking recently earned regional recognition, receiving the Best Private Bank – Domestic award at the FinanceAsia Awards 2026. FinanceAsia is a regional financial publication covering Asia’s capital markets and financial institutions, with its annual awards recognizing banks across the region.

While many priority banking programs in the market typically require Php 3 million to Php 5 million in assets under management, EastWest Priority offers an entry point of Php 2.5 million. This gives more rising professionals, entrepreneurs, and families access to relationship-managed banking and tailored wealth solutions.

Rafael S. Algarra Jr., SEVP and Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, shared, “Filipino wealth is evolving. We are seeing more professionals, entrepreneurs, and first-generation business owners who are building wealth in their own way and looking for a financial partner who understands their journey. EastWest Priority has evolved to serve this generation of clients—people who want thoughtful guidance, practical solutions, and a banking experience that is both personal and easy to access.”

EastWest Priority’s model combines personalized advisory with digital convenience through an integrated phygital service experience. Clients are supported by dedicated Relationship Managers and 12 Priority Centers in key cities nationwide, while also having access to digital platforms to manage their banking and wealth needs with greater ease. To further strengthen advisory quality, EastWest developed a specialized sales management program in partnership with Singapore Management University, helping equip its Relationship Managers with stronger market insight and advisory discipline aligned with global private banking expectations.

The award comes amid a period of strong growth for EastWest Priority. By year-end 2025, the business posted double-digit growth across key areas, outpaced market growth, and expanded its assets under management and client base.

“We believe wealth management should not feel distant or reserved only for a few. It should be accessible, relevant, and built around real client needs. Our focus is to continue strengthening the experience through better advisory, stronger digital access, and solutions that grow with our clients over time,” said Algarra.

By bringing together relationship management, digital banking, business banking support, personal wealth management, and advisory capabilities in one ecosystem, EastWest Priority helps clients make more informed decisions while maintaining easier access to their accounts and solutions.

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Silent Sanctuary Releases “Una” Music Video Starring Xyriel Manabat, Highlighting the Sacrifices of OFWs

Silent Sanctuary teams up with Xyriel Manabat for the official music video of “Una,” now available on the Universal Records Philippines YouTube Channel.

In the music video, Xyriel portrays the painful reality of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), highlighting the sacrifices, silent struggles, loneliness, and emotional distance endured for the love of family. The story resonates deeply with many Filipinos whose loved ones continue to work far from home in hopes of providing a better future.

Known for its heartfelt lyrics, “Una” captures emotions that go beyond romantic relationships. While often seen as a love song, the track also speaks about longing, sacrifice, and unconditional love for family — themes that strongly connect with the experiences of many OFWs and their loved ones.

Lines such as “Alam mo bang hindi ko na matiis na hindi ka nakikita” reflect the emotional weight of separation and unresolved pain, making the song relatable not only to couples, but also to families forced apart by circumstance and responsibility.

Xyriel Manabat shared that she is a longtime fan of Silent Sanctuary and expressed happiness in becoming part of the project.

Through emotionally driven storytelling and powerful performances, the “Una” music video delivers a touching tribute to the sacrifices made every day out of love.

Watch the official music video for “Una” now on the Universal Records Philippines YouTube Channel.

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Nationwide Rush: HONOR 600 First Day Sale Draws Huge Crowds

Excitement reached new heights as long lines formed across HONOR Experience Stores and partner retailers nationwide during the first day sale and redemption of the highly anticipated HONOR 600 Series on May 30.

From Metro Manila to key cities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, eager customers lined up early to claim their pre-ordered HONOR 600 and be among the first owners of HONOR’s newest AI-powered smartphone. The overwhelming turnout highlights the growing demand for the HONOR 600 Series, which has captured the attention of consumers with its advanced AI imaging capabilities, stylish design, and powerful performance.

Customers who secured their pre-orders also redeemed exclusive freebies and earned a chance to drive home a brand-new Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 through HONOR’s highly anticipated Win-A-Benz promo, further fueling excitement around the device.

Designed for a new generation of creators, the HONOR 600 Series introduces breakthrough AI features that empower users to transform ordinary photos into extraordinary content. Its advanced camera system, intelligent editing tools, and seamless user experience have made it one of the most talked-about smartphone launches of the year

The HONOR 600 Series is now officially available nationwide; Php 28,999 for 8GB+256GB, Php 32,999 for 12GB+256, Php 37,999 for 12GB+512GB – and HONOR 600 5G Pro with 12GB+512GB for Php 49,999!

Run to any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_H600_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9d_Media) or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_H600_PR).

For more exciting announcements, 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).

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"Backrooms" Movie Review: From Viral YouTube Series to a 110-Minute of Big-Screen Psychological Terror

Based on YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Kane Parsons' semi-anthological web series, Backrooms brings liminal space horror to the big screen.

Gist:

Set in the 1990s, failed architect Clark (Chiwetel Ejiofor) is beginning to realize that he has not yet hit rock bottom. His life continues to spiral downward after a recent divorce forces him to move into his pirate-themed furniture store, Cap'n Clark's Ottoman Empire, in Santa Clarita.

The only semblance of stability comes from his therapy sessions with Dr. Mary Kline (Renate Reinsve), who constantly challenges him to confront his toxic behavior and troubled past with alcohol. Meanwhile, Clark spends his days dressing up as a pirate and filming TV commercials with his only employees, Bobby (Finn Bennett) and Kat (Lukita Maxwell)—a situation that somehow isn't the most embarrassing thing happening in his life.

Everything changes when Clark discovers a mysterious portal beneath his store. Initially believed to be the cause of unexplained power outages, the portal leads him to the titular Backrooms—an endless, yellow-tinted dimension resembling a maze of office spaces filled with strange anomalies.

After "no-clipping" into this bizarre realm, Clark undergoes a dramatic personality shift. More focused and determined than ever, he becomes obsessed with uncovering the secrets of the Backrooms. What he doesn't realize is that his fixation is about to drag the few remaining people in his life into a terrifying and dangerous mystery.

The film quickly becomes strange, unsettling, and intense. Depending on your tolerance for psychological horror, the experience may be fascinating, overwhelming, or even exhausting.

Some viewers may find certain scenes confusing, while the pacing occasionally feels slow. However, the film's greatest strengths lie in its cinematography, sound and production design. The eerie atmosphere created by endless hallways, fluorescent lighting, and unsettling ambient sounds effectively captures the feeling of being trapped in an impossible space.

Produced by A24 and exclusively distributed in the Philippines by CreaZion International Studios, Backrooms stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett, Lukita Maxwell, Avan Jogia, and Robert Bobroczkyi. Directed by Kane Parsons, the film opens in theaters nationwide on June 3, 2026.

In Summary,

If you're claustrophobic, this movie may not be for you.

If you can handle a healthy dose of stress, anxiety, and psychological tension, give it a watch.

If you're looking for a horror film with deep themes and complex storytelling, this may fall short of your expectations.

If you enjoyed The Blair Witch Project, this movie is likely to satisfy your horror cravings.

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Hailey's Body Essentials Launches "Brightening Tawas Powder"

Hailey's Body Essentials, one of the Philippines' most trusted names in natural personal care, today announced the launch of its newest product: Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder — Brightening Variant. Now available at major drugstores, supermarkets, and online platforms across the country, the product marks a significant step forward for the brand as it meets growing Filipino consumer demand for natural, safe, and affordable underarm care.

The Brightening Tawas Powder is the first in Hailey's lineup to integrate a brightening benefit alongside the brand's hallmark natural tawas (potassium alum) deodorizer formula. Unlike conventional deodorants that rely on aluminum chloride and other chemical compounds associated with skin darkening and pore congestion, Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder offers a formula free of harsh chemicals — making it safe for daily use, including for Filipinas with sensitive skin.

"For years, Filipinas have had to choose between a deodorant that works and one that doesn't darken their underarms. With Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder, that choice no longer exists. We have combined everything that has made Hailey's trusted for years — natural tawas, clean ingredients, Filipino-made quality — with a brightening benefit that our community has been asking for." — Rhodesian Sales Corp., local company responsible for market distribution

The product is manufactured by Marklene Fabricate Corporation in Marilao, Bulacan, and is fully notified with the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA Cosmetic Notification No. NN-1000015777284, valid until January 6, 2027). It complies with the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, ensuring it meets regional safety and quality standards before reaching consumers.

A Natural Solution to a Widespread Filipino Beauty Concern

Underarm darkening is one of the most commonly cited beauty concerns among Filipinas, driven in large part by the widespread use of chemical deodorants, shaving, and friction. According to consumer surveys conducted in the Philippine beauty market, a significant majority of Filipino women between the ages of 18 and 35 express dissatisfaction with their underarm skin tone and actively seek brightening solutions.

Tawas, or potassium alum, has long been a staple of traditional Filipino personal care. A natural mineral crystal with proven antibacterial properties, tawas neutralizes odor-causing bacteria without clogging pores — the mechanism that makes conventional aluminum-based deodorants a contributing factor to skin discoloration. Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder builds on this well-established ingredient, enhancing the formula with brightening actives that work gently and progressively with regular use.

"Tawas is not a new ingredient — Filipino lolas have been using it for generations. What we have done with the Brightening variant is make it modern, effective, and accessible to a new generation of Filipinas who want natural beauty solutions without compromising on results." — Hailey's Body Essentials — Brand Statement

Product Details and Key Benefits

Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder — Brightening Variant is available in a 50g tub format at a suggested retail price of ₱18, with a 12pcs buncle at ₱216, making it one of the most accessible brightening personal care products in the Philippine market. Key product benefits include:

• Natural tawas (potassium alum) formula that neutralizes odor-causing bacteria without aluminum chloride or parabens
• Gentle brightening of dark underarm skin with regular daily use
• Lightweight powder format that leaves no residue and is invisible on clothing
• Safe for sensitive skin and safe for daily application
• Philippine-made by Marklene Fabricate Corporation in Bulacan
• FDA-notified (Cosmetic Notification No. NN-1000015777284) and ASEAN Cosmetic Directive compliant

Availability and Where to Buy

Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder is available nationwide starting May 30, 2026, through the following channels:

• Online: Shopee Official Store, Lazada Official Store, and TikTok Shop — all with same-day or next-day shipping options
• Pharmacy: Yourmed Pharmacy, Well Care Pharmacy, TGP, Smart Med Pharmacy
• Supermarkets: Richmart, My Store, Reaton Supermarket
• Community retail: Sari-sari stores and neighborhood distributors across NCR barangays

For the launch period, consumers purchasing on official online store may use the exclusive voucher code BRIGHTENNOW for ₱10 off their first order. A Buy 12 Get 1 Free promotion is also available on official online store from May 30 to June 6, 2026, while stocks last. Free shipping applies with no minimum order value during the launch window.

The #HaileysGlow Campaign

In conjunction with the product launch, Hailey's Body Essentials is launching the #HaileysGlow social media campaign — a community-driven initiative inviting Filipinas to share their brightening journey on TikTok and Instagram. Participants who post a before-and-after or 'glow check' video using Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder and tag @haileystawas or @haileys_bodyessentials with #HaileysGlow are entered into a grand prize draw for a three-month product supply and ₱5,000 cash + 3,000 worth of product.

The campaign is supported by a curated mix of macro, micro, and nano influencers across TikTok, with content designed to reach Filipino women aged 18 to 35 in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Hailey's is also deploying TikTok Spark Ads to amplify the most resonant organic content, extending campaign reach to more than two million impressions over the launch period.

"We believe the best advertisement for Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder is a real Filipina raising her arm with confidence and sharing that moment with her community. That is what #HaileysGlow is about — real results, real women, real glow." — Hailey's Body Essentials — Brand Statement

About Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder

• Product name: Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powde
• Variant: Brightening
• Format: Powder in tub (50g) · Trial sachet (5g)
• SRP: ₱18 (50g) · ₱216 (12 pcs bundle)
• Key ingredient: Potassium Alum (Tawas) — natural mineral deodorizer
• Benefits: Brightens underarms · Eliminates odor · No harsh chemicals · Safe for sensitive skin
• Manufacturer: Marklene Fabricate Corporation · 31 Iglesia ni Kristo St., Sta. Rosa I, Marilao, Bulacan
• LTO number: LTO-3000001681410
• FDA notification: NN-1000015777284 · Valid until January 6, 2027
• ASEAN compliance: Compliant with ASEAN Cosmetic Directive
• Country of origin: Philippines
• Available at: Shopee · Lazada · TikTok Shop · Drug store · Supermarket · General Merchandise · Sari-sari Store
• Launch date: Saturday, May 30, 2026

About Hailey's Body Essentials

Hailey's Body Essentials is an established Filipino personal care brand known for harnessing the natural power of tawas (potassium alum) as a safe and effective deodorizer. Committed to providing Filipino consumers with clean, affordable, and locally-made beauty solutions, Hailey's products are manufactured in the Philippines and comply with FDA and ASEAN Cosmetic Directive standards. The Brightening Tawas Powder is the brand's latest innovation, extending the Hailey's range to meet growing demand for natural underarm brightening in the Philippine beauty market.

About Rhodesian Sales Corp.

Rhodesian Sales Corp. is the local company responsible for placing Hailey's Body Essentials products in the Philippine market. Operating from 31 Iglesia ni Kristo St., Sta. Rosa I, Marilao, Bulacan, Rhodesian Sales Corp. holds License to Operate No. LTO-3000001681410 issued by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration.

About Marklene Fabricate Corporation

Marklene Fabricate Corporation is the Philippine-based manufacturer of Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder, operating from 31 Iglesia ni Kristo St., Sta. Rosa I, Marilao, Bulacan. As manufacturer and local company responsible, Marklene Fabricate Corporation ensures that all Hailey's products comply with applicable FDA regulations, ASEAN Cosmetic Directive standards, and the quality specifications declared to the regulatory authority.

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Primetime TV Intensifies with Coco's Return in “COCO MARTIN’S SIGABO” with Prime Actress Julia Montes

Primetime TV will get extra exciting as Coco Martin, “Ang Hari ng Aksyon sa Ating Henerasyon,” makes his highly anticipated comeback with Prime Actress Julia Montes in “Coco Martin’s Sigabo,” airing on weeknights beginning June 22 (Monday).

Coco brings excitement to viewers once more with his signature action-packed flair in his original concept for “Sigabo,” following his highly successful series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” which aired for seven years as the Philippines’ longest-running action-drama series, and “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” which was the country’s most-watched primetime series from 2023 to 2026.

The new ABS-CBN series offers a relatable story and an entertaining mix of action, romance, and comedy that will thrill viewers on weeknights.

“FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” and “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” made a mark on Philippine pop culture and touched the lives of viewers around the world for its relatable characters and storylines that trended online and generated strong viewership on TV and online.

Don’t miss the action-packed premiere of “Coco Martin’s Sigabo” this June 22.

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"Moneygurado" Episode 2 Reflects on How Filipino Storytelling Influences Money Behavior

Money has long been at the heart of Filipino storytelling. From family dramas to OFW narratives and rags-to-riches arcs, Philippine cinema and television have consistently mirrored how Filipinos earn, spend, sacrifice, and define success. In the second episode of Moneygurado docuseries, Metrobank turns to one of the country’s most acclaimed filmmakers to look at how Filipino culture and media shape the way people think about debt, sacrifice, and success.

Titled “Utang sa Pelikula: Self-Worth and Borrowing in the Filipino Context,” the episode features Direk Joey Reyes, who unpacks how decades of Filipino storytelling have influenced emotional attitudes toward borrowing and financial struggle.

Known for his films such as Pahiram ng Isang Umaga, Batang PX, and Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo, Direk Joey reflects on how local films often portray debt as suffering, sacrifice, or shame, particularly through stories centered on breadwinners, struggling families, and overseas Filipino workers.

“Films are not just new stories. They are reflective of specific moments in the political, cultural, and spiritual history of the country,” Reyes shared.

The episode discusses how these portrayals, while rooted in real Filipino experiences, may also unintentionally reinforce unhealthy financial mindsets, such as equating self-worth with wealth, glorifying self-sacrifice at the expense of personal stability, or viewing debt purely as a burden instead of something that can be managed responsibly.

One of the key themes raised in the episode is how many Filipinos were exposed to narratives where utang is associated only with hardship, embarrassment, or survival. Reyes notes that local films rarely portray debt as a financial tool that, when understood and managed properly, can help individuals build businesses, improve stability, or achieve long-term goals.

“The problem is the lack of education in seeing loans as tools. We are often afraid of them instead of understanding how they can help build financial capability. Can we possibly change the whole concept of utang as a trap into utang as a tool? Yes, we can. But it requires education,” Reyes emphasized.

While acknowledging the real dangers of predatory lending, Reyes points out that responsible borrowing, when understood and approached with intention, can serve as a legitimate instrument for growth, particularly for entrepreneurs and individuals building their financial capability.

He also calls on institutions to close the education gap. “I wish the banking system could create more materials that help people understand the value, flexibility, and proper use of loans,” he A black background with a black square

AI-generated content may be incorrect.says – a challenge that Metrobank’s Moneygurado initiative directly takes up through its Earnest platform and accompanying digital learning resources.

The episode also underscores how cultural narratives quietly govern everyday money behavior—from aspiration and spending habits to shame, discipline, and long-term planning. Reyes says the shift he believes is necessary: “Hindi yung halaga ng inutang ang importante. Mas mahalaga kung ano yung dahilan kung bakit ka umutang at higit sa lahat, kung paano mo binayaran ang iyong utang. Doon mo nabibigyan ng kahalagahan yung proseso ng pag-uutang.”

That reframing, Reyes argues, is the cultural shift Filipino storytelling has yet to fully embrace.

Metrobank said the episode forms part of its broader Moneygurado advocacy, which aims to help Filipinos become more intentional, informed, and emotionally aware in managing their finances. Rather than focusing purely on technical financial advice, the docuseries explores the cultural beliefs, social pressures, and personal experiences that often shape money decisions.

“Financial behavior is deeply personal and cultural. Through Moneygurado, we want to create conversations that help Filipinos better understand not just how they handle money, but why they make certain financial decisions in the first place,” said Digs Dimagiba, Metrobank Chief Marketing Officer.

The first episode of the series, “Kapit Lang: The Filipino Way of Surviving,” explored resilience and rebuilding through the story of OnlyPans Taqueria founder Audrey Cruz following the pandemic and a devastating fire incident.

Future Moneygurado episodes will continue to tackle Filipino behaviors and mindsets surrounding money through conversations with cultural personalities, educators, and experts.

Watch Episode 2 of Moneygurado featuring Direk Joey Reyes here: https://earnest.metrobank.com.ph/moneygurado

To support the advocacy, Metrobank’s Earnest platform provides free learning materials and financial education resources.

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Kuchi Kuchi Launches "Cooling Powder Citronella," The First Filipino Family Powder That Cools and Protects Naturally

Rhodesian Sales Corp., the company behind the beloved Filipino personal care brand Kuchi Kuchi, today announced the nationwide online launch of its newest product: Kuchi Kuchi Cooling Powder — Citronella Variant. 

Now available on Shopee and Lazada, the product marks a significant milestone for the brand — combining two of Filipino families’ most pressing daily needs into one gentle, FDA-notified formula.

With the Philippine summer in full swing and the rainy season — and dengue season — fast approaching, Kuchi Kuchi Citronella arrives at exactly the right moment for parents who refuse to compromise on what they put on their children’s skin.

“Every Filipino parent knows the double struggle: the unbearable heat and the constant threat of mosquitoes. We created Kuchi Kuchi Citronella because our families deserve a product that works harder — gently, safely, and without any compromise. This is our answer to a very Filipino problem.” — Kuchi Kuchi — Brand Statement

A Dual-Benefit Formula Built for Filipino Families

Kuchi Kuchi Cooling Powder — Citronella is a talc-based cooling powder enriched with citronella oil, a plant-derived ingredient long trusted by Filipino households as a natural mosquito deterrent. The product is manufactured locally by Marklene Fabricate Corporation in Marilao, Bulacan, and has been formally notified with the Philippine Food and Drug Administration under Notification Number NN-1000015777415, valid through January 2027.

The product is gentle enough for daily use on babies and young children, and is formulated to provide immediate cooling relief from sweat and heat rash — a persistent concern for Filipino families during the summer months from March through June. As the rainy season arrives, the citronella component offers a natural layer of protection during peak mosquito activity.

Product Highlights

• Instant cooling action — soothes heat and discomfort
• Citronella enrichment — nature-derived ingredient that protects skin from mosquito bites.
• FDA-notified cosmetic product (NN-1000015777415) — compliant with ASEAN Cosmetic Directive
• Proudly made in the Philippines by Marklene Fabricate Corporation, Marilao, Bulacan
• Available nationwide on Shopee and Lazada beginning May 30, 2026

Building on Kuchi Kuchi’s Legacy of Trusted Family Care

Kuchi Kuchi has long been a household name in Filipino personal care, known for its gentle formulations and family-friendly positioning. The introduction of the Citronella Cooling Powder variant represents the brand’s continued commitment to product innovation that responds directly to the real-life needs of Filipino parents.

The launch follows extensive consumer research pointing to a clear gap in the market: Filipino parents consistently seek products that address multiple needs without requiring them to use multiple products on their children’s skin. Kuchi Kuchi Citronella is the brand’s direct answer to that insight.

The product will be available online beginning May 30, 2026, with a phased nationwide retail rollout planned for July 2026 across key modern trade accounts including Mercury Drug, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, SM Supermarket, Robinsons, and Puregold.

“We know that Filipino moms don’t have time for second-guessing. They need to know a product is safe, they need it to work, and they need to find it easily. Kuchi Kuchi Citronella is built around all three of those promises.” — Rhodesian Sales Corp., local company responsible for market distribution

Availability and Pricing

• Launch date: May 30, 2026
• Online channels: Shopee Official Store, Lazada Official Store
• Retail rollout: July 2026 — Mercury Drug, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, SM, Robinsons
• Suggested retail price: 66.00 and 96.00
• Pack sizes: 50g bottle & 100g bottle
• Where to find: Search “Kuchi Kuchi Citronella” on Shopee or Lazada

About Kuchi Kuchi

Kuchi Kuchi is a Filipino personal care brand committed to delivering gentle, effective, and family-safe products for everyday use. The brand is distributed nationwide by Rhodesian Sales Corp. and is compliant with the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive and all applicable Philippine FDA regulations.

About Rhodesian Sales Corp.

Rhodesian Sales Corp. is the local company responsible for placing Kuchi Kuchi products in the Philippine market. Registered under LTO Number LTO-3000001681410, the company is headquartered at 31 Iglesia ni Kristo St., Sta. Rosa I, Marilao, Bulacan, Philippines.

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