CID Communication, Minotaur PH redefine branding through credibility and cultural relevance

CID Communication and Minotaur PH formally announce a strategic partnership that brings together decades of communications expertise and next-generation marketing technology, digital execution, and community-driven engagement.

For over 30 years, CID Communication has established itself as one of the Philippines’ pioneering communications and reputation management firms, helping brands, personalities, and organizations build enduring public trust through strategic communications, media relations, crisis management, and corporate equity-building.

“Communications today is no longer confined to traditional media channels alone. Reputation is now shaped in real time across communities, platforms, and shared experiences,” said Patrick Morales, CEO of CID Communication. “Our partnership with Minotaur PH allows us to evolve alongside the changing landscape while remaining grounded in the strategic communications principles and reputation management discipline that CID has upheld for over three decades.”

Jamie Paraso, CEO of Minotaur PH, added: “This partnership represents the convergence of established communications expertise and modern execution. CID brings decades of institutional trust, strategic communications experience, and reputation stewardship, while Minotaur contributes integrated marketing capabilities, technology integration, and a deep understanding of community ecosystems. Together, we aim to help brands engage more meaningfully with today’s culture-driven audiences across sports, fandoms, gaming, cosplay, music, food, lifestyle, and beyond.”

Specifically, CID brings its deep institutional knowledge and communications discipline into the rapidly evolving landscape of digital-first audiences and culture-led communities.

Minotaur PH, meanwhile, has built its reputation as a next-generation marketing and community company focused on connecting brands with highly engaged audiences across gaming, esports, fandoms, sports, and lifestyle sectors. Its capabilities span digital activations, experiential marketing, partnerships, sponsorships, content ecosystems, community development, and marketing technology integration.

Together, the partnership creates a hybrid model that combines strategic communications credibility with modern audience engagement infrastructure.

The alliance enables both companies to provide clients with a more integrated approach to communications and brand growth — one that goes beyond visibility and focuses on long-term cultural relevance, reputation, engagement, and community affinity.

As brands continue to navigate fragmented attention spans, digital-native consumers, and rapidly shifting social behaviors, the partnership positions CID Communication and Minotaur PH to help organizations remain credible, adaptive, and culturally connected across multiple generations and communities.

The collaboration also reflects a broader industry shift toward integrated communications ecosystems where PR, digital engagement, community management, experiential activations, data, and cultural storytelling increasingly operate as interconnected disciplines rather than isolated functions.

Moving forward, CID Communication and Minotaur PH aim to jointly develop initiatives, campaigns, and strategic programs that help brands remain both trusted and culturally resonant in an increasingly community-driven world. 

Vermosa Green Run 2026

Vermosa Green Run, the pioneering advocacy event that rallied the community back to the tracks post-pandemic, is returning for its landmark fifth consecutive staging on June 28, 2026 at Vermosa in Imus, Cavite.

This time, the run that has attracted fitness enthusiasts, casual runners, elite athletes, pet lovers, and families out for fun and fitness is taking concrete steps to deepen the appreciation and commitment of the running community to sustainable green living and an active lifestyle.

The fifth edition of the Green Run, where immersion in nature and lush, green sceneries is one of the main attractions, is introducing more eco-conscious elements into the race experience and encouraging participants to get involved in long-term forest restoration efforts across the country. For one, running across the scenic Green Run route inspires runners to become advocates for conservation and sustainable lifestyles.

This year, the multi-level run – which features 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K running categories and a 1K Dog Run – is challenging fitness enthusiasts, elite athletes, families, and pet lovers to actively participate in localized waste reduction by bringing used PET (polyethylene terephthalate) water bottles or food containers when they register to avail of race kit discounts.  The collected bottles will be turned over to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) to be upcycled into eco bricks that will help reduce environmental impact and support sustainable construction and community practices.

The race shirts and singlets including the dog bandanas are also made from recycled PET bottles. “We want runners to feel – both literally and symbolically – that choosing to participate means choosing to support responsible resource use. Embedding sustainability directly into the race kits was a deliberate choice that reflects Vermosa’s values. It transforms a souvenir into a lasting reminder of conscious living,” said Kristin Raval-Ofilada, Ayala Land Project Development Manager.

Ms. Raval-Ofilada also announced that beyond the recycled race kits, this year’s Green Run encourages racing enthusiasts to participate as a group. “Every group of 10 participants automatically becomes part of Haribon Foundation’s Forests for Life Movement. As such, they will support native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities nationwide. Through this movement, Haribon brings together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rain forestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species.”

The Forests for Life Movement seeks to create long-term ecological impact by ensuring that seedlings survive, grow, and mature into healthy forests. Restored forests help secure clean water, fertile soil, and stable climates that are the lifelines sustaining communities across the country, Ofilada explained.

Beyond environmental conservation, the Green Run remains rooted in holistic health, animal welfare, and sports excellence. Co-beneficiaries of Haribon Foundation Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project highlight the interconnectedness of planetary and community health, emphasizing that preserving natural habitats goes hand-in-hand with animal welfare and human well-bring.

The Green Run will take place amidst Vermosa’s expansive, nature-forward open spaces, utilizing the world-class facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the region’s   ultimate venue for athletic training and active lifestyles. True to its blueprint, the 2026 race will feature responsible hydration systems and stringent waste-reduction measures designed to inspire eco-friendly habits long after crossing the finish line.

Green Run 2026 is supported by Pocari Sweat, Merrell, Fitbat, Salonpas, Topbreed, Smart C, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Especial, Entrée, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, and Zert.

For more information about Vermosa Green Run 2026, go to https://ayalaland.myruntime.com/register  to register. 

Chooks-to-Go’s New Campaign Captures the Soundtrack of Filipino Sarap

Chooks-to-Go, one of the Philippines’ leading roasted chicken brands known for its iconic “Masarap Kahit Walang Sauce” reputation, brings the vibrant spirit of Filipino celebrations to life with its newest campaign, “ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap.” Inspired by fiestas, everyday salu-salo moments, and spontaneous gatherings shared over great food, the campaign comes alive through a lively music video and radio spot that capture the unmistakable joy and sarap of every Chooks-to-Go experience.

Adding even more excitement to the campaign is Kyline Alcantara, who joins the celebration as one of the featured personalities in the music video, bringing youthful energy and vibrant Filipino spirit to the campaign.

Led by the beloved Chooksie mascot, the film takes viewers on a colorful journey through some of the country’s most festive traditions - from the vibrant streets of Lucban during the Pahiyas Festival, to the lively atmosphere of Panagbenga, and the energetic spirit of Sinulog. Along the way, Chooksie spreads fun, music, and flavor, turning every moment into a celebration.

More than just a catchy expression, “ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap” represents the unmistakable joy Filipinos feel when delicious food brings people together. The campaign highlights the role of Chooks-to-Go and Chooks Diner in creating memorable bonding moments — whether during grand festivities or simple everyday meals shared with family and friends.

“In the Philippines, sarap is never quiet. It is sung in festivals, danced in the streets, and felt in every salu-salo,” said James Benedict Carreon, President of Chooks-to-Go Inc. “This music video captures the spontaneous expression of joy that delicious food brings to Filipinos everywhere.”

With its upbeat jingle, vibrant visuals, and festive storytelling, the campaign celebrates the uniquely Filipino love for food, music, and togetherness. “ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap” transforms the simple act of sharing a meal into a joyful cultural experience — proving that wherever Filipinos gather, celebration naturally follows.

The music video is now available on digital platforms and radio nationwide. Watch the music video here:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZZkn1hAZhU

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2519445185152299

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chookstogo_ph/video/7642530584354508053 

Can’t breathe? Experiencing severe chest pains? Bleeding badly or having a stroke? Call 911

Traffic and vehicular accidents are the most common reasons why emergency calls are placed to the country’s national hotline, 911.

 

Requests for police assistance or reports about crimes and violent incidents make up the next most numerous calls.

 

Medical emergencies come next, followed by fire incidents.

 

Of these, medical emergencies are the highest priority for emergency response since they involve immediate action. Unlike other crises, cardiac arrest, severe bleeding, falls, or a stroke present irreversible threats to life. Critical intervention within minutes can prevent permanent brain damage or even death.

 

For senior citizens, especially those who live alone or have no companion during a life-threatening situation, knowing how to contact 911 can be a life saver. Seniors and their caretakers should be made aware that emergency services can be contacted with just three familiar numbers and medical, police, fire and disaster response teams across the Philippines will respond in just a matter of minutes.

 

If one experiences chest pains, difficulty in breathing, such as in an extreme asthma attack; uncontrolled bleeding, poisoning, drug overdose, complex seizures or stroke symptoms like numb extremities, dizziness or slurred speech, 911 should be called immediately.

 

The Unified 911 Emergency Hotline is a free, 24/7 service that connects citizens directly to local responders anywhere they are in the Philippines.

There have already been cases of the system responding to medical emergencies and creating positive results. A 70-year-old woman in Bataan with a head concussion was promptly rushed to the nearest hospital following a 911 hotline call and was assisted by responders from the Abucay Rescue team.

 

In Sultan Kudarat, the 911 hotline provided rapid response to a call about a vehicular accident involving a mixer truck that hit a residential area. Responders rushed to the scene to bring two victims to the hospital.

 

Unified 911 helps ensure faster communication and response, leading to more lives saved and communities served.

 

However, citizens must also be reminded that not all health concerns are medical emergencies. The national 911 hotline should not be used to seek help regarding minor illnesses, common colds, low grade fevers, flu, routine prescription refills or minor cuts and sprains.

 

While waiting for help to arrive, affected parties may unlock the front door or notify a trusted neighbor to let first responders in, take prescribed medication, if directed to do so, sit down, loosen tight clothing and try to keep calm until help arrives. Even if the patient knows how to drive, he or she shouldn’t drive to the hospital.

 

“The important thing is to keep calm. The world-class unified 911 system now providing quicker emergency response, will find the exact location of the emergency call due to its state-of-the-art geolocation capabilities. Features that allow callers to send voice, text, video or live streaming content to the command center takes responders’ situational awareness to the next level,” assures Robert Llaguno, country head of NGA 911 Philippines.

 

Powered by NGA’s next generation advanced technology and complemented by PLDT’s communication infrastructure, unified 911 takes the country’s ability to respond to emergencies to unprecedented heights.

Urgent response to health and medical emergencies will continue to upgrade unified 911’s capabilities to better serve the Filipino people, Llaguno said. 

Eden Cheese Levels Up Formula and Storytelling

As digital habits shift and the “smartphone era” matures, Eden Cheese shows heritage brands can lead the charge in innovation, blending tradition with bold new ideas.

 

Hot on the heels of its first-ever vertical drama series, “Cheese The One,” Eden Cheese doubles down on its commitment to keep pace with the ever-evolving Filipino family.

With acclaimed director Dan Villegas and cinematographer Paolo Orendain at the helm, the series brings together Dan’s sharp, emotionally grounded storytelling and Paolo’s distinct cinematic sensibility—drawing from the heightened emotions and gripping family dynamics of classic Filipino teleseryes, now reimagined for a mobile-first, vertical viewing experience.

Each episode is crafted to be bite-sized yet cinematic, delivering emotionally charged moments straight to your phone, without compromising the depth and quality audiences expect.

Innovation in the Kitchen and on the Screen

 

This move to mobile-first storytelling mirrors Eden Cheese’s latest breakthrough: a new, improved formula that’s creamier and milkier.

 

The relaunch and digital pivot go hand in hand, signaling a brand eager to innovate in every way.

 

“Just as we’ve upgraded our recipe for a better experience at the table, we’re also leveling up the way we reach and engage our consumers,” says Adrian Manlapig, Marketing Head for Mondelez International Philippines.

 

“Working with cinematic visionaries Dan and Paolo has allowed us to deliver this exciting news to Filipino consumers that suits the way they consume content nowadays.”

 

The Rise of “Snackable” High-Production Drama

 

For Direk Dan, the project was a chance to break the mold of traditional filmmaking.

 

Cheese The One is crafted for vertical viewing—tailored to how people actually watch today—ensuring the story’s intimacy and emotion resonate, even on the smallest screens.

 

“What excited me about this project was finding a way to tell a very Filipino story that feels natural for today’s audience. The vertical format just brings you closer to the characters—it makes every look, every line, mas lalong personal,” said Direk Dan.

 

Catch the Next Course

With the first episode of the four-part micro-serye already sparking online buzz, viewers are drawn into the growing rift between Leah and Sylvia as the story explores the complexities of family and acceptance.

As tensions rise at the dinner table, Leah (Netty Inojales), Joaquin (Marc Acueza), and Sylvia (Connie Cuneta) navigate love, pride, and family, with each shared meal leaving audiences eager to see what unfolds next. 

Catch the next episodes of Cheese The One on Eden Cheese’s official Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube pages.

I Attended my First Female Networking Event

I recently attended what I would consider my first real female networking event.

It was held in Alabang at Launchpad on the second floor of Commerce Center, and what initially caught my attention was simple. It was free. No expensive tickets, no pressure to “invest in yourself” through a five-digit workshop. Just transportation expenses, free food, and an invitation to show up as you are. The event was called SSide Quest and out of curiosity more than confidence, I applied.

Luckily, I got in.

What made the experience even more interesting was that I already knew the host. Then I found out I also knew the keynote speaker, MK Bertulfo. Suddenly the event felt less intimidating and more familiar, at least in theory.

However, the moment I walked into the room, the introvert in me immediately clocked in.

I did not want to talk to anyone. It was frightening. I felt like an impostor. 

I wanted to sit quietly, eat the food, observe people from afar, and maybe leave without anyone remembering I was there. But that would completely defeat the purpose of attending a networking event in the first place. So I forced myself to start conversations.

Beside me were moms running preschools and small businesses. On the other side were women who looked polished, successful, and intimidating in the way accomplished people sometimes are without even trying. Some were panelists. Some had hosted for SM. One was a Russian model. 

Across the room were people I already knew, and naturally, a part of me wanted to migrate toward familiarity. But networking only works when you allow yourself to stay uncomfortable long enough to grow from it.

So I stayed where I was.

Surprisingly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made that week.

One thing I appreciated about the event was that it did not feel performative. It wasn't just for show. It wasn't just fluff or sparkly dust.  

The conversations felt grounded. MK Bertulfo’s talk especially stood out to me because she discussed the difference between a side hustle and an actual business in a way that felt practical and easy to understand. Usually, with speakers, you hear the same productivity lines over and over again. The same motivational sound bites dressed up in different PowerPoint presentations. 

This time, I actually learned something new and that alone made attending worthwhile.

But beyond the lessons about business, the part that stayed with me most was realizing how many women are quietly building things while also trying to hold themselves together. Different industries. Different backgrounds. Different levels of success. Yet everyone in that room was trying to create something meaningful for themselves.

And somewhere in the middle of all that, journaling kept appearing in conversations.

Women talked about journaling to process thoughts. To survive difficult seasons. To organize ideas. To recover from burnout. To reconnect with themselves after feeling lost creatively or emotionally.

As someone deeply immersed in the journaling space, hearing that felt oddly validating.

Sometimes when you are in a niche long enough, you begin to wonder if people still see value in it outside your own circle. That night reminded me they do. Journaling is not just stationery and stickers and pretty notebooks. For many women, it has quietly become a survival tool. 

Another unexpected moment for me was realizing that some people in the room already knew who I was. Some remembered Ang Arty Ni Kathy. Others remembered my blogging days. A few had followed my content for years without me knowing.

I do not think creators always understand the footprint they leave behind while they are busy creating.

You think you are just posting reviews, stories, random thoughts, maybe oversharing a little online. Then one day, someone walks up to you in a room full of strangers and tells you they remember your work from years ago.

Suddenly, the internet feels a little more real.

The entire experience was both humbling and encouraging. It reminded me that growth does not always happen inside your comfort zone. Sometimes growth looks like introducing yourself first. Sometimes it looks like sitting beside strangers instead of friends. Sometimes it looks like showing up to a room alone even when your anxiety is begging you not to.

I left that event realizing I want to attend more female networking gatherings in the future. Not because I suddenly became extroverted overnight, but because I realized there is value in being around women who are building, struggling, learning, pivoting, and trying again.

There is also something powerful about seeing women openly discuss ambition without apology. This was my biggest takeaway from the night.

We are all just on different versions of the same side quest. 

ASUS and Republic of Gamers to Showcase Next-Generation AI and 20 Years of Gaming Innovation at Computex 2026

ASUS will present AI innovations at Computex 2026 across edge computing and everyday experiences, while ROG marks 20 years of gaming excellence

KEY POINTS

• Advancing AI: Guided by its vision of Ubiquitous AI. Incredible Possibilities, ASUS advances its AI strategy to enable scalable, real-world applications
• End-to-end experience: At the ASUS booth, visitors will experience AI scenarios across enterprise, creator, healthcare, and everyday computing
• ROG 20-year milestone: A showcase celebrating 20 years of gaming innovation, featuring ROG Lab–inspired experimental zones at the ROG booth

PASIG CITY, Philippines (May 26, 2026) — ASUS and Republic of Gamers (ROG) announced their booth showcases at Computex 2026, set to spotlight their latest innovations in an immersive on-site experience. The showcases highlight ASUS’s continued advancement in intelligent computing across enterprise and consumer ecosystems, as well as ROG’s 20-year milestone in gaming innovation and design evolution.

The exhibition will take place from June 2–5, 2026, between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., except on June 5, when it will run until 3:30 p.m., at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Hall 1 (4F). The ASUS booth will be located at M0820, while the ROG booth will be at M0504.

ASUS booth (M0820)

At the ASUS booth, visitors will experience Ubiquitous AI. Incredible Possibilities, where AI is integrated across infrastructure, enterprise platforms, and intelligent edge systems. The showcase demonstrates how ASUS enables end-to-end AI adoption across industries and everyday computing, delivering scalable, practical solutions for businesses and users alike, with a focus on more efficient, sustainable AI computing:

• AI Infrastructure / Cloud: The foundation for enterprise-scale AI adoption, featuring scalable AI servers and integrated systems such as the ASUS AI POD, delivering the compute, systems, and orchestration needed to power modern workloads across data center environments and distributed enterprise ecosystems.
• AI On Premise: Solutions that enable workflow automation and intelligent orchestration through enterprise AI agents.
• Sustainable AI: Enables continuous, AI-driven optimization to improve enterprise efficiency and sustainability outcomes.

The ASUS vision also extends to AI at the edge/IoT, delivering real-time intelligent computing solutions that bring AI closer to users and devices across diverse environments. These capabilities span multiple application domains:

• Workspace AI: AI-enabled devices and systems for modern productivity.
• Industrial AI: Edge AI systems and industrial computing solutions enabling intelligent operations.
• Everyday AI: Human-centric AI experiences across PCs, desktops, and connected devices.
• Creator AI: ProArt ecosystem supporting AI-driven creative workflows.
• Healthcare AI: Intelligent tools supporting diagnostics, monitoring, and care accessibility.
• Gaming AI: AI-enhanced gaming systems and devices delivering improved performance and immersion.

ROG Booth (M0504)

At the ROG booth, visitors are invited to celebrate 20 years of gaming innovation through an immersive showcase inspired by the experimental spirit of ROG Lab, exploring new frontiers of gaming experience where AI is also being integrated to support more powerful creative tools and enhanced gameplay.

ROG will present a dedicated 20th-anniversary showcase featuring a legacy exhibition that highlights its journey of engineering excellence, design evolution, and community-driven innovation. The showcase will also introduce the ROG 20th-anniversary special edition, a flagship collection that combines performance engineering with commemorative design elements that reflect ROG’s legacy and next-generation engineering.

Visitors can also participate in an on-site PC DIY experience, offering hands-on interaction with ROG hardware and customization culture.

The experience extends into experimental zones — including Future Gamer, Codeverse, Humanlink, APEX Craft, Illumotion, and Mechano — each exploring new dimensions of gaming, creativity, interaction, and immersive technology.

Prior to the booth showcase, ROG will host a Press Event & Party at Syntrend Creative Park in Taipei on June 1, from 5:00 to 10:00 PM.

For more updates and on #AlwaysIncredible ASUS products, visit the ASUS PH Facebook page and ROG PH Facebook page.

Php2 Steak and More to Celebrate Finestra's 2nd Year!

The energy is rising, nights are livelier, and experiences are simply “two” good to miss as Solaire Resort North marks its 2nd anniversary this May 23 to 25. For one exciting weekend, Quezon City’s first and only five-star luxury integrated resort transforms into the ultimate destination for elevated nights out, bringing together live entertainment, indulgent dining, exclusive offers, and rewarding experiences designed for guests who love to celebrate moments in style.

Let music take centerstage with an exciting line-up as award-winning performer Carla Guevarra-Laforteza unites with 90s OPM icon Radha Cuadrado for a special Anniversary Weekend show at Quezon Club on May 23. Dance along to powerhouse vocals, nostalgic hits, and exhilarating energy with vibrant sets and an atmosphere built for unforgettable nights.

The excitement continues across the resort with limited-time Php 2 offers at participating restaurants and outlets. Guests can toast with specialty drinks, indulge in premium steaks from Finestra, or enjoy freshly made Neapolitan pizzas and authentic Italian gelato from Trattoria e Dolci. Designed as a playful nod to the resort turning two, the offers turn every stop into part of the experience.

Don’t miss the fun, the thrill, and the chance to be the lucky winner who drives home a brand-new all-electric crossover vehicle in the exclusive raffle open to all Solaire Rewards members. Beyond the grand prize, Solaire Rewards members unlock even more throughout the weekend with exclusive rebates, special perks, and exciting rewards designed to elevate every visit. From added value to surprise benefits, every moment inside the resort becomes more rewarding, and every return feels even more worth it.

More than a milestone, Solaire Resort North’s 2nd anniversary reflects the vibrant lifestyle it continues to shape in the city, where unforgettable nights, exceptional dining, and elevated entertainment come together under one roof.

For reservations and inquiries, visit Solaire Resort North, call +632 8888 8888, or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com.

Basta Babae, Wais!

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) reinforced its commitment to financial inclusion and community empowerment through “Basta Babae, Wais!,” a one-day financial literacy program for women residents of Barangay 176F, Caloocan City. The initiative highlights the importance of empowering women with financial knowledge and access to resources, enabling them to build more secure futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.

The program last March 25 gathered over 300 participants for a full day of learning sessions, community engagement, and access to financial solutions designed to support women in managing and growing their finances.

“At BPI, we believe that empowering women with financial knowledge creates a ripple effect that strengthens families and entire communities. ‘Basta Babae, Wais!’ is about meeting women where they are, equipping them with practical tools, and supporting them as they take control of their financial journey. Through initiatives like this, we become the trusted partner in their everyday progress,” said Ginbee Go, Head of Consumer Banking at BPI.

The program featured practical discussions on budgeting, saving, credit awareness, and fraud prevention. It also highlighted inspiring stories from local women entrepreneurs, including a school supplies store owner, a carinderia owner, a livestock dealer, and a street food stall owner, who shared how they started and grew their businesses.

One of the speakers, Karen Marie Castillo, a carinderia owner, shared practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the community. When asked what guidance she could give to women who want to start a business, she said, “Target location and kailangan afford ng ating community ’yung itinitinda natin.”

Participants also explored various financial products and services from BPI and its partners, helping them take concrete steps toward financial security.

The program also encouraged participants to take their first steps toward formal financial services, with attendees opening accounts, signing up for digital banking platforms such as VYBE by BPI, and exploring loan solutions from BanKo and protection offerings from BPI AIA and BPI MS that can support their personal and business needs.

Participants explore BPI services and sign up for VYBE during the “Basta Babae, Wais!” event in Caloocan City.

“Basta Babae, Wais!” reflects BPI’s continued efforts to bring financial education closer to communities, especially to women who play a vital role in managing household finances and driving grassroots economic activity.

BPI remains committed to making financial services more inclusive, accessible, and relevant, helping more Filipinos build a better and more secure future. 

Back-to-school shopping? Here’s why Anko is a must-visit for your kids’ school needs

It is the time of the year again when parents and children gear up for another school year. It can get hectic with long lists, crowded stores, and multiple errands; the experience can quickly feel overwhelming for even the most organized parents.

While most families already have their usual shopping stops, many are starting to add an unexpected name to their back-to-school rotation.

Known for its quality, stylish, and affordable home and lifestyle products, Anko has become a reliable destination for affordable school-ready finds. From cute notebooks and organizers to durable lunch gear and study space upgrades, the Australian brand offers a selection designed to help families create brighter school days with less stress and more ease.

A smarter way to tackle the back-to-school list

Beyond the obvious essentials, the start of the school year brings the challenge of creating routines and spaces that help kids stay motivated throughout the year. At Anko, even the most basic school supplies come with playful, stylish details that make everyday studying feel less routine and more like a creative outlet.

It is also the perfect time to refresh the home study setup. Desk organizers and pegboards can instantly make a study nook feel calmer and more functional, helping students focus while keeping clutter under control.

And Anko has tons of quality and affordable supplies and essentials all under ₱100. This includes affordable erasers, sharpeners, pencil cases, sticky notes, and more. 

Cable organizer (₱490), Cable management box (₱490), Magnetic whiteboard (₱290), Desktop pegboard set (₱1,400) & assortment of stationery ranging from erasers, sharpeners, correction tape and more, starting from ₱20 — Anko

Mealtime essentials matter just as much as what is inside the backpack. Durable lunchboxes and drink bottles have become must-haves for parents looking for reliable options that can withstand the daily school grind, while remaining fun enough that kids actually look forward to bringing them to class.

Ceramic coffee cup (₱450), Blue and pink flared bottles (₱180), Dual function drink bottle (₱520), etc., and Space cold rack (₱350), Blue stripe lunch box (₱520), Dinosaur and strawberry bottle and lunchbox sets (₱560), and etc.

Silicone bento lunchbox (₱ 550), Croissant notebook (₱ 220) & Dual function drink bottle (₱ 520) — Courtesy of Anko

When buying school essentials, pick options within your price range for your kids to choose from. After all, the most sulit supplies are the ones students actually feel excited to use every day. Anko’s stationery includes a wide selection of everyday school supplies priced as low as ₱20 to ₱100. Whether it’s the start of the school year or a mid-term top-up, parents and students can stock up on the basics without stretching the budget.

Get ready for back-to-school

To make the back-to-school shopping experience even more fun, Anko is hosting a free Bento Box Workshop on June 6 at its Ayala Malls Feliz branch. Families can learn how to prepare fun, school-ready meals that kids will actually look forward to eating.

Interested parents and kids can register for free using the Anko Club app (anko.com/anko-club) or by following @anko_philippines on Instagram and Facebook. Joining the club unlocks exclusive activities, workshops, and member perks, including access to seasonal in-store experiences throughout the year.

Because when back-to-school shopping feels easier, the school year already starts a little brighter. 

76th Palanca Awards issues Call for Entries

The Carlos Palanca Foundation, Inc. is now accepting entries to the 76^th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (Palanca Awards).

The Palanca Awards, the country’s most prestigious literary competition, welcomes Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens of all ages, whether based locally or abroad, to participate. Authors may submit only one (1) entry per category, as follows:

●      Novel and Nobela;

●      English Division – Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essay, Poetry, Poetry Written for Children, One-act Play, and Full-length Play; 

●      Filipino Division – Maikling Kuwento, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata, Sanaysay, Tula, Tula Para sa mga Bata, Dulang May Isang Yugto, Dulang Ganap ang Haba, and Dulang Pampelikula;

●      Regional Languages Division – Short Story-Cebuano, Short Story-Hiligaynon, and Short Story-Ilokano;

●      Kabataan Division – Kabataan Essay (English) and Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino)

The Kabataan Division for young writers under 18 is accepting submissions in two categories. Entries must be informal, personal essays on the theme: “As the world becomes more connected yet increasingly shaped by differing ideologies, beliefs, and perspectives, young people face the challenge of understanding the divisions around them and helping shape a more hopeful future. How can today’s youth rise above differences and become bridges of understanding, promote peaceful coexistence, and help build societies rooted in empathy, mutual respect, and collective progress?” for Kabataan Essay (English) and “Habang ang daigdig ay lalong nagiging magkakaugnay, patuloy din itong hinuhubog ng magkakaibang ideolohiya, paniniwala, at pananaw. Nahaharap ang mga kabataan sa mga pagsubok na unawain ang mga pagkakawatak-watak o paghahati-hati sa lipunan, habang nagsisikap na makabuo ng isang bukas na puno ng pag-asa. Paano makaaahon ang mga kabataan sa ganitong kalagayan? Paano sila magsisilbing tulay ng pagkakaunawaan, magtataguyod ng mapayapang pakikipamuhay, at makatutulong sa pagbuo ng isang lipunang nakaugat sa malasakit sa kapwa, respeto sa isa’t isa, at sama-samang pag-unlad?” for Kabataan Sanaysay (Filipino).

Works eligible for the contest include those that were first published or produced between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026, as well as unpublished or unproduced works. However, for the Novel and Nobela categories, which are opened every other year, authors may submit either published or unpublished works, provided that published entries were first published between 1 June 2024 and 30 June 2026. Only unproduced works may be entered in the Dulang Pampelikula category. Any work that has received a prize in another contest before midnight of 30 June 2026 is not eligible.

Submission must be completed online through the Palanca Awards website at <http://www.palancaawards.com.ph/>. The Carlos Palanca Foundation WILL NOT ACCEPT printed and email submissions for any categories. 

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF ENTRIES IS ON 30 JUNE 2026.

For the official contest rules and forms, visit the Palanca Awards website. Inquiries and other concerns may be directed via email at <cpfoundation@palancaawards.com.ph> or landline at +632 8478 7996 and look for Ms. Ester Alfaro. You may also call or leave a message at this mobile number +63917 828 2762 (+63917 828 CPMA) to ensure that your inquiry is acknowledged and addressed on time.

All winners will be honored in a special ceremony later this year. Stay tuned for further announcements by following the CPMA website and CPMA Facebook <fb.com/palancaawards>.