Puregold Hakot Relay Makes History with the First-Ever 8KM Individual Challenge in Southern Luzon

Puregold’s wildly popular Hakot Relay, now a three-leg nationwide series, brings its much-awaited Southern Luzon leg to Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus City, Cavite, this time with its first-ever 8KM Individual Challenge.

 

The Hakot Relay drew thousands of participants on its inaugural run with its uniquely Filipino twist: instead of focusing solely on speed, teams took on Puregold’s trademark hakot portion before crossing the finish line with medals and hefty grocery hauls. The concept was an instant hit among families, friends, and running communities, paving the way for its continued success.

 

Set on September 19, this year’s Southern Luzon edition marks its most ambitious expansion yet, offering even more excitement to look forward to.

 

The new 8KM Individual Challenge is designed for qualified participants seeking a tougher test of endurance. While the Hakot Relay celebrates teamwork through shared strategy, the new format focuses on individual athletic performance while preserving the relay’s rewarding finish. With both categories taking place on the same day, the Cavite race offers twice the fun and double the challenge to participating runners.

 

For Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, the newly introduced 8KM Individual Challenge is meant to keep pace with and enhance the Hakot Relay experience as it grows with its community.

 

"The response to Hakot Relay has encouraged us to keep innovating with every edition,” she said. “This is our first Southern Luzon leg, and we want to introduce an exciting challenge while staying true to the experience that runners have come to know and enjoy.

 

“We hope the new 8KM Individual Challenge gives more people an opportunity to test themselves while still being part of the panalo energy that makes Hakot Relay special.”

 

Every registered runner will bring home a customized race kit featuring an event singlet, race bib, and finisher’s medal. Hakot Relay participants will also receive a Grocery Sling Bag and a Finisher’s Grocery Bag, while finishers of the new 8KM Individual Challenge will receive a Finisher’s Grocery Cart and other exclusive prizes.

 

With the addition of the 8KM Individual Challenge, the Southern Luzon leg marks the biggest evolution of the Hakot Relay since its debut. By adding another way to participate in the traditional relay, it broadens the event experience without losing the teamwork and community spirit that have defined it since the beginning.

 

Whether runners choose to conquer the course with teammates or take on the new solo category, race day promises generous take-home rewards and the signature Puregold Hakot Relay experience.

 

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter and @puregoldph on TikTok.

 

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The Real Magic Is About to Unfold: HONOR Magic V6 Takes the Spotlight on August 24

Global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines is set to launch its next flagship foldable smartphone, the HONOR Magic V6, on August 24, 2026, promising a new chapter in premium mobile innovation.

Following a series of teasers highlighting its durability and innovation, the HONOR Magic V6 is set to reveal what lies beyond the fold. With advanced AI capabilities and flagship performance, the latest foldable is poised to raise the bar for what consumers can expect from the next generation of foldable smartphones.

“With the HONOR Magic V6, we’re bringing together intelligent AI experiences, powerful performance, and durability designed for everyday demands. We’re excited for Filipinos to discover what’s beyond the fold on August 24,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The HONOR Magic V6 will be officially unveiled on August 24. For launch updates, product information, and exclusive announcements, visit www.honor.com/ph and following HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive launch updates, product information, and more.

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XYVRL Takes Over PBA Halftime Show at Araneta Coliseum With Her Songs "Scottie T" and "SBAPN"

Rising Bicolana rapper XYVRL brought her signature “Swagapina” energy to one of Philippine basketball’s biggest stages on Friday, August 14, performing her tracks “Scottie T” and latest release “SBAPN” during the PBA halftime show at Smart Araneta Coliseum, as the Meralco Bolts faced Barangay Ginebra.

Known for her unapologetic personality, infectious energy, and effortless flow, XYVRL lit up the Araneta crowd with a dynamic hip-hop performance that added another layer of excitement to the highly anticipated matchup. Her appearance also marked a major milestone in the rising rapper’s journey - and a moment she had envisioned just months earlier.

In June, XYVRL attended a Ginebra Finals game at the same venue. While watching from the stands, she shared her hope of one day performing during halftime at Smart Araneta Coliseum. Just a few months later, that wish became reality as she took the PBA halftime stage and performed in front of thousands of basketball fans. Inline image

The night became even more special when XYVRL came face-to-face with Barangay Ginebra star Scottie Thompson, the basketball player who inspired her track “Scottie T.” Thompson acknowledged the song and thanked XYVRL for creating a track inspired by him, turning the encounter into a genuine full-circle moment for the rising artist.

The connection between XYVRL and the Ginebra community has grown since the release of “Scottie T,” which quickly became one of the rapper’s defining tracks. Performing it inside the same arena where Thompson and Ginebra have created countless basketball moments made the PBA appearance particularly meaningful.

XYVRL also put the spotlight on her newest release, “SBAPN,” short for “Super Baddie And Pretty Naman.” The track showcases her evolving sound through an energetic fusion of budots and hip-hop, while staying true to the bold, playful, and unapologetically Filipino identity of her “Swagapina” persona.

With her PBA halftime debut, a full-circle moment with Scottie Thompson, and the live showcase of her latest release, XYVRL continues to make her mark as one of the emerging voices of Philippine hip-hop—bringing Bicolana pride, Filipino swagger, and a distinct new energy to the scene.

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Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin Deal with Forgotten Romance in "A Cake To Remember," a New iWant Vertical Drama Series

The FranSeth loveteam is set to swoon viewers with their chemistry anew, this time in a vertical drama series as Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin navigate the struggles of recalling a sweet but forgotten romance in iWant's newest offering, "A Cake to Remember," premiering August 28 (Friday).

"A Cake to Remember" marks their newest Kapamilya acting project together since the 2025 teleserye "Sins of the Father." The new series also adds to iWant's growing lineup of vertical dramas, which includes "The Chambermaid's Daughter," "Twist of Fate," and "Will You Fake Marry Me?"

Directed by Emerald Silvestre, the short-format series follows Mandy (Francine), a pastry chef who reluctantly accepts a wedding cake commission to save her struggling bakery. But fate struck hard when she found out that the one who received the cake was none other than her ex-fiancé, Landon (Seth), who had apparently left her at the altar on their supposed wedding day.

Unknown to Mandy, Landon was in a coma after a tragic accident just before their wedding, causing him to lose all memories of her. Now determined to make him remember their love before he marries someone else, Mandy hopes the cakes they once made and shared can unlock his lost memories.

Catch the premiere of "A Cake to Remember" with its Part 1 episodes releasing on August 28, followed by Part 2 on September 4 (Friday), exclusively on iWant. Its first five episodes will also stream for free on iWant and ABS-CBN Entertainment's Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube pages.

Viewers can catch all its episodes 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 October 31, 2026) and for the rest of the world.

Enjoy all the feels you want, only on iWant, the Home 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.

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EastWest Horizons Members Can Win Seoul Trips and Premium Lifestyle Prizes

Saving and growing one's finances can now lead to rewarding experiences, from wellness and fitness perks to memorable travel adventures.

As consumers increasingly prioritize wellness, travel, and meaningful experiences, EastWest Horizons—the Bank’s preferential banking program for emerging affluent customers—continues to look for ways to deliver value beyond traditional banking, helping customers make the most of both their financial journey and their lifestyle aspirations.

Responding to this growing demand, EastWest is giving qualified members of EastWest Horizons Club the chance to win an Ultrahuman Ring AIR, a Garmin Forerunner 265, or roundtrip tickets for two to Seoul, South Korea through its Horizons Hot Deals Raffle Promo.

Members have until August 28, 2026 to earn raffle entries by growing their deposits, paying bills through EasyWay, and availing of select savings, investment, insurance, and credit card products.

The EastWest Horizons Club is designed for customers who are growing their wealth and looking for more personalized banking support. Members enjoy dedicated relationship management, access to investment specialists, priority service, and lifestyle benefits that help make banking easier and more rewarding.

"We believe banking should create value beyond transactions," said Martin Reyes, EastWest Chief Marketing Officer. "Through the Horizons Hot Deals Raffle Promo, we're making everyday banking easier and more rewarding. Clients can earn chances to win exciting lifestyle and travel experiences simply by doing the things they would normally do to manage their finances, whether that's saving, paying bills, investing, or planning for the future."

For more information about the EastWest Horizons Club and Horizons Hot Deals Raffle Promo, visit https://www.eastwestbanker.com/promos/horizons-hot-deals-raffle-promo.

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BINI Makes Historic Debut at Japan Summer Sonic Festival

BINI has taken another major step onto the global music stage, representing the Philippines at Japan’s Summer Sonic festival over the weekend in a landmark debut for the nation’s girl group.

They wowed the Osaka crowd with their 40-minute set on the Mountain Stage at the Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park last Friday (August 14). They also thrilled the Tokyo festivalgoers last Sunday (August 16) at the Mountain Stage at the ZOZO Marine stadium and Makuhari Messe and those who watched the livestream via WOWOW on Demand.

The eight-member girl group performed “Cherry on Top,” Zero Pressure,” “Out of my Head,” Blush,” and “Step Back.” They also sang the Japanese version of “Born to Win,” infused Japanese lines to their “Salamin, Salamin” number, and capped their set with “Pantropiko.” They delighted the crowd with "Sugar Rush" in Osaka and performed "Unang Kilig" in Tokyo.

BINI’s Summer Sonic performance also made waves on X, soaring to no. 1 and no. 3 in the platform’s global trends last Friday and Sunday, respectively. The P-pop phenomenon likewise dominated the conversation in the Philippines, topping the country’s trending topics on both days.

Apart from BINI, Filipino acts Ena Mori and SB19 also showcased their sound on the international stage through this year’s Summer Sonic. After the festival, BINI resumes its “Signals” world tour, with concerts in Vancouver this Aug. 18, Calgary on Aug. 21, Edmonton on Aug. 22, Winnipeg on Aug. 24, Toronto on Aug. 27, and Brooklyn, New York on Aug. 28.

Check out BINIWT2026.ABS-CBN.COM for more information about the “BINI Signals World Tour.” For other updates, follow BINI on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, or visit bini.abs-cbn.com. Join BINI in the exciting superfan community now, go to the WeVerse site or download the WeVerse app.

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Spice Lovers, Rejoice: Jollibee Philippines Turns Up the Heat with Spicy Chickenjoy

For Filipinos who believe fried chicken tastes even better with a little kick, Jollibee is turning up the heat with Spicy Chickenjoy, putting the spotlight on a familiar favorite with a flavor profile designed to deliver more than just the sting of spice.

Jollibee Spicy Chickenjoy combines its signature crispy, juicy chicken with a blend of spices, bringing a noticeable kick to every bite. Rather than treating spiciness as a test of endurance, the brand is framing it as another layer of flavor to enjoy.

“Spiciness should not simply be about tolerating the heat. It should be about enjoying what the spice brings to the overall flavor experience. With Spicy Chickenjoy, we want Filipinos to discover that spicy can be exciting, flavorful and, most importantly, delicious,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines.

The move also comes as spicy flavors continue to gain a place among Filipino food preferences. According to research, 13 percent of surveyed adult Filipinos, or roughly one in eight, identified spicy as a taste preference. While the findings do not suggest that spicy food appeals to everyone, they point to a notable group of consumers who enjoy the added flavor and heat that spicy food brings.

Jollibee is bringing that flavor story to life with Alexa Ilacad, an actress, singer and performer known for her energetic personality and strong connection with younger Filipino audiences. Her naturally lively and expressive persona makes her a fitting face for Spicy Chickenjoy, particularly for a campaign that seeks to portray spice not as something intimidating, but as something fun, exciting and full of character.

For Ilacad, whose public persona often combines confidence, playfulness and youthful energy, the partnership gives Jollibee a way to personify the product's fiery personality while keeping the focus on the enjoyment that comes with every bite.

With Spicy Chickenjoy, Jollibee is ultimately asking consumers to look at spicy food beyond the question of how much heat they can handle. The bigger question, it suggests, is how much flavor they can enjoy.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

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On Your Marks, Get Set, Celebrate: ACER DAY Turns 10 with The Music Run

Acer Philippines is set to host a run unlike any other, where every step moves to the beat, complete with music-filled routes, exciting brand experiences, and a high-energy finish-line celebration at the Music Run on August 22, 2026, at the SM MOA Complex.

The Music Run is famous for its Sound Track Run Course, a route filled with adrenaline-pumping beats that take your run to the next level. Run, jog, walk, or dance your way through themed Music Zones along the 5km and 10km routes.

The run officially kicks off Acer's 10th Acer Day celebration, themed "Shift the Game." The celebration brings together three of this generation's biggest passions: fitness, entertainment, and technology.

Acer Day is Acer's way of connecting with its consumers and breaking down barriers between people and technology. It's a regional celebration built on innovation and community, packed with unique experiences and exclusive promotions.

"The Music Run reflects our commitment to creating experiences that bring people together beyond technology. As we celebrate 50 years of Acer and 10 years of Acer Day, we can't wait to see our community rally and shift the game with us," said Mart Maranon, Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines.

Race finishers can keep the celebration going by attending the Acer Day Concert at the Araneta Coliseum on August 30, 2026, with General Admission, Upper Box, and Lower Box options bundled with race registration. Register now at https://raceonic.com/sites/the-music-run-volume-2.

For more information about Acer and Acer Day, follow Acer Philippines on social media: @AcerPH on Facebook or visit www.acer.com. 

About Acer 

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs nearly 12,000 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. 

Visit www.acer.com for more information.

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Gladys Reyes Makes Recording Debut with Campy Song "Primera Kontrabida"

Seasoned actress-host Gladys Reyes steps into the recording scene with “Primera Kontrabida,” a novelty pop song inspired by the iconic roles she has played over the years.

The track is a fun and campy anthem celebrating the Star Magic artist's enduring mark as the 'Primera Kontrabida' in showbiz while reminding listeners that true evil exists beyond the screen, in the form of dishonesty, manipulation, and greed.

StarPop teased the music drop with photos of Gladys’ most famous villainous characters, including Betsy in “Ang Dalawang Mrs. Reyes,” Mayet in “Ang the Breadwinner Is…,” Salve in “Here Comes the Groom,” and Clara in “Mara Clara.”

Gladys first performed the song live at the “Primera Kontrabida Sings” event held last August 1 at Riser Lounge.

“Primera Kontrabida” was composed by ABS-CBN Music creatives, content, and operations head Jonathan Manalo, who also co-produced it with StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos.

The song is out now on music streaming platforms. For more details on Glady’s music, follow StarPop on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Alexa Ilacad Brings the Heat to Jollibee Philippines’ Spicy Chickenjoy

For Filipinos who believe fried chicken tastes even better with a little kick, Jollibee is turning up the heat with Spicy Chickenjoy, putting the spotlight on a familiar favorite with a flavor profile designed to deliver more than just the sting of spice.

Jollibee Spicy Chickenjoy combines its signature crispy, juicy chicken with a blend of spices, bringing a noticeable kick to every bite. Rather than treating spiciness as a test of endurance, the brand is framing it as another layer of flavor to enjoy.

“Spiciness should not simply be about tolerating the heat. It should be about enjoying what the spice brings to the overall flavor experience. With Spicy Chickenjoy, we want Filipinos to discover that spicy can be exciting, flavorful and, most importantly, delicious,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines.

The move also comes as spicy flavors continue to gain a place among Filipino food preferences. According to research, 13 percent of surveyed adult Filipinos, or roughly one in eight, identified spicy as a taste preference. While the findings do not suggest that spicy food appeals to everyone, they point to a notable group of consumers who enjoy the added flavor and heat that spicy food brings.

Jollibee is bringing that flavor story to life with Alexa Ilacad, an actress, singer and performer known for her energetic personality and strong connection with younger Filipino audiences. Her naturally lively and expressive persona makes her a fitting face for Spicy Chickenjoy, particularly for a campaign that seeks to portray spice not as something intimidating, but as something fun, exciting and full of character.

For Ilacad, whose public persona often combines confidence, playfulness and youthful energy, the partnership gives Jollibee a way to personify the product's fiery personality while keeping the focus on the enjoyment that comes with every bite.

With Spicy Chickenjoy, Jollibee is ultimately asking consumers to look at spicy food beyond the question of how much heat they can handle. The bigger question, it suggests, is how much flavor they can enjoy.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises!

Read more »