Visa brings Apple Pay to it's Philippine Customers

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

This announcement accelerates the digitalization of payments all while expanding payment options for Filipinos traveling abroad and visitors traveling to the Philippines. Across the Asia Pacific region, 97% of travelers^[1] say that they will bring credit, debit, or prepaid cards on their trips, while only 17% intend to bring foreign currency. Among travelers, 38% said they prefer cards because of robust security and fraud protection features, while 20% cite wide acceptance. Apple Pay seamlessly delivers on these exact needs by making everyday transactions easy, secure, and private.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

GoTyme Bank Brings Apple Pay to its Debit Card Customers in the Philippines

 GoTyme Bank today brings Apple Pay to its debit card customers in the Philippines. Apple Pay is an easy, secure, and private way to pay in-store, in-app, and online.

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

”At GoTyme Bank, we're constantly looking for ways to make banking more seamless for our customers. Bringing Apple Pay to GoTyme Bank customers in the Philippines gives them an easy and secure way to pay wherever they shop," said Nate Clarke, CEO of GoTyme Bank.

This news marks another milestone in GoTyme Bank's mission towards bringing the best global banking experiences to Filipinos. Through continuous innovation and a strong focus on customer experience, GoTyme Bank continues to create more convenient and rewarding ways for customers to pay.

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

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

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

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

For more information on GoTyme Bank, please visit www.gotyme.com.ph.

TECNO MEGAPAD 2 Launches in the Philippines: An 11-inch 2.5K Eye-Care AI Tablet Ready for Learning and Productivity

 TECNO, an AI-powered innovative technology brand, announced today the official launch of the TECNO MEGAPAD 2 in the Philippines. Unveiled globally at MWC 2026, the new tablet combines an 11-inch 2.5K eye-care display, practical AI tools, seamless cross-device connectivity, and a slim metal design in one versatile device.

Designed as a tablet that users can start learning and working on immediately after bringing it home, MEGAPAD 2 delivers an out-of-the-box experience without requiring separately purchased accessories. Its thin and lightweight design, internet connectivity, typing capability, and intelligent productivity features help students and young users turn fragmented moments into meaningful study and task-completion time.

Every MEGAPAD 2 purchase in the Philippines comes with one free Bluetooth keyboard, making it ready for learning, note-taking, content creation, and everyday productivity from day one.

Eye-Care Display in Slim Design 

TECNO MEGAPAD 2 features an 11-inch 2.5K display with a 90Hz refresh rate and has obtained TÜV Rheinland Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light certification. It delivers clear visuals and eye comfort for long study sessions, reading, and entertainment. Packaged in a 6.6mm ultra-slim body, it is lightweight, easy to grip, and highly portable.

AI for Smarter Learning and Daily Convenience

For learning and education, the study hub in MEGAPAD 2 is designed to support different study needs across ages and scenarios. Children can explore LearnUp Massive Free Learning Resources, gaining access to a wide range of educational and interest-based content. Meanwhile, parents can customize parental controls that help create a safer online environment for children. When students encounter difficult questions, Photo-based Problem Solving can identify problems and encourage their independent thinking.

In everyday life, MEGAPAD 2 serves as a smart companion for multiple uses. With AI SnapMemo & MindHub, users can quickly capture and organize useful information into a personalized knowledge hub. AI Drawing Board turns simple sketches into vivid images, bringing ideas to life instantly. For entertainment, AI Captions provide clear subtitle support across apps, helping users enjoy content in different languages. With AI Translation, users can translate photos, selected text, social media content, and face-to-face conversations in up to 160 languages.

Seamless Connectivity and Collaboration 

As the first tablet launched following the update of TECNO’s OneLeap platform, MEGAPAD 2 can easily connect with other products in TECNO ecosystem by drag-and-drop or one-tap pairing. MEGAPAD 2 supports file sharing, photo sharing, and triple-screen collaboration among TECNO smartphones, laptops, and the tablet. It can also connect to a TECNO smartphone or laptop as an extended screen for a larger workspace. When paired with a smartphone, phone calls, messages, and notifications can be synced to the tablet, allowing users to answer calls directly without reaching for the phone.

Reliable Performance 

In terms of performance, TECNO MEGAPAD 2 is powered by a MediaTek Helio 8-Core Processor, delivering an excellent balance between power and efficiency. Available with 12GB (6GB+6GB) or 16GB (8GB+8GB) of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, it also supports microSD expansion up to 2TB. Running HiOS 16, MEGAPAD 2 delivers a smarter interface and a responsive experience for everyday applications and multitasking, while also offering comprehensive protection for privacy, account security, and safer payments.

Product Overview

MEGAPAD 2 – Technical Specifications
Color	Light Green/Space Grey/Cosmic Orange
Display	inch LCD display with 2.5K resolution (2560 × 1600 pixels) 550 nits
Refresh Rate	90Hz
Processor	MediaTek Helio 8-Core Processor
Operating System	HiOS 16
RAM	RAM: 12GB (6GB+6GB) / 16GB (8GB+8GB)
Storage	128GB or 256GB
Expandable Storage	microSD card support up to 2TB
Audio	Quad speakers, DTS sound enhancement, single microphone
Battery & Charger	8200mAh; 18W Fast Charge

1. Pricing and Availability in the Philippines

The TECNO MEGAPAD 2 is officially available in the Philippines starting August 1, 2026, in Light Green, Space Grey, and Cosmic Orange, with the following configurations:

• 12GB RAM（6GB physical RAM + 6GB extended RAM）+ 128GB storage: PHP 16,999

• 16GB RAM（8GB physical RAM + 8GB extended RAM）+ 256GB storage: PHP 19,999

Every purchase comes with one free Bluetooth keyboard, allowing users to start learning, typing, and completing everyday tasks immediately.

The TECNO MEGAPAD 2 will be available through Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and all TECNO offline stores nationwide.

For related media inquiries, please contact pr.tecno@tecno-mobile.com.

Vista Residences Ready-to-Move Deals: High-Rise Homes for RFO Buyers and Investors

Vista Residences is making vertical living highly accessible in Metro Manila through its Ready-to-Move Deals. Tailored for Global Filipino buyers and forward-thinking investors seeking long-term value, these ready-for-occupancy (RFO) high-rise developments are situated in prime locations such as Quezon City, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, and Makati. 

Choosing an RFO unit delivers a distinct advantage, allowing buyers to physically evaluate the actual address, operational amenities, and transport access points before purchase. These prime locations ensure immediate proximity to central business districts, prestigious schools, transit hubs, and lifestyle destinations.

Metro mobility and modern convenience

Quezon City is a thriving residential and institutional hub, seamlessly connecting workplaces, universities, and transit networks. For buyers, it offers unmatched convenience near key establishments. For investors, it unlocks diverse, high-yielding rental markets—from students and early-career professionals to families and short-stay tourists.

Ortigas Center hosts a vibrant corporate environment with top offices, service providers, and popular lifestyle destinations. Its central location among major cities makes it a strategic area for professionals seeking career opportunities and urban amenities.

Mandaluyong enhances its momentum through improved central connectivity and urban convenience. Close to Ortigas Center, San Juan, Makati, Bonifacio Global City, and other key metro areas, it attracts residents who prioritize easy transportation and mobility within Metro Manila.

Makati anchors the metro as the financial capital, blending corporate headquarters with upscale retail enclaves. Its central location serves as a destination for corporate professionals and expatriates, investors, and modern urbanites. Makati offers an integrated lifestyle defined by walkability, economic stability, and capital appreciation.

Payment terms and move-in mechanics

Qualified buyers and investors may move into rent-to-own condominium properties after paying a spot 3% down payment, subject to applicable terms, requirements, and approval. Afterward, they may continue paying the remaining 12% down payment over 47 months before proceeding to monthly amortization financing.

This structured payment scheme supports those who want to enter ownership with a more manageable upfront cost. Because the properties are already completed, buyers and investors may benefit from clearer expectations on the condominium and its environment.

Standard turnover documentation, procedures, and timelines still apply, ensuring that every move-in follows the process for condominium property acceptance, compliance, and occupancy.

Leasing for local and Global Filipino investors

Global Filipino and international investors interested in purchasing through Ready-to-Move Deals for passive returns may enroll their RFO units with Livwell, Vista Residences’ accredited lease partner. Livwell provides support for leasing operations, tenant management, and property coordination, helping overseas buyers manage their units professionally.

Practical potential

With ready-for-occupancy high-rise developments, Ready-to-Move Deals offer complete convenience, access to connected city corridors, and clear opportunities for condominium ownership. Vista Residences continues to provide properties designed around location, lifestyle, leasability, and long-term value, offering buyers and investors a practical path to high-rise homes in some of Metro Manila's most connected districts.

Buyers and investors interested in learning more about are invited to attend upcoming Vista Residences Ready-to-Move Deals events which will provide information on available RFO properties, payment terms, move-in requirements and timelines, and leasing support for qualified investors. 

To know more about Vista Residences’ vertical communities, visit www.vistaresidences.com.ph and follow @VistaResidencesOfficial.

Pepsi Philippines Unveils All-New Pepsi Extra Fizz, Invites Gen Zs to #GoExtra at Every Mealtime

PepsiCo Philippines is inviting Filipino Gen Zs to elevate their everyday mealtime with the launch of Pepsi Extra Fizz, its newest cola innovation that delivers an extra enjoyable dining experience.

Through its latest #GoExtra campaign, the brand encourages young Filipinos to transform ordinary meals into moments that are extra sarap and extra exciting with its more intense taste, bold flavor, and extra fizz that elevate every bite.

To celebrate the launch, Pepsi hosted an exclusive event on July 25, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, where members of the media, digital creators, and tastemakers got a first look at the brand's newest campaign. They also witnessed firsthand how every sip of Pepsi Extra Fizz felt more fun, vibrant, and unmistakably extra.

Elevating the Pinoy Mealtime Experience

Whether it's enjoying street food after class, sharing merienda with friends, or gathering around the dinner table with family, mealtime has always been an important part of Filipino culture. Pepsi Extra Fizz is designed to make these everyday moments even more memorable.

The All-new Pepsi Extra Fizz enhances every bite and makes shared meals even more enjoyable, bringing an extra layer of delight to every dining occasion.

"At PepsiCo, we believe every meal should be a moment worth enjoying. With Pepsi Extra Fizz, we're bringing an even more refreshing experience to every table—making mealtimes more delicious, more exciting, and truly Filipino," said Nicole Villarojo, Chief Marketing Officer of PepsiCo Philippines.

Launching the #GoExtra Experience

The SM Mall of Asia Music Hall transformed into an immersive Pepsi Extra Fizz playground, where guests explored interactive zones before the official launch program kicked off.

The celebration opened with the debut of the new Pepsi Extra Fizz campaign film, introducing the campaign's bold, energetic world and inviting everyone to embrace their extra side.

Adding even more excitement to the afternoon was the special appearance of digital creator Mimiyuuuh, who energized the crowd through a lively on-stage interaction before teaching guests the official Pepsi Extra Fizz dance challenge. Selected creators and guests later joined an exciting dance-off, bringing the campaign's playful and unapologetically "extra" spirit to life.

The celebration culminated with the "Cheers to Fizz" countdown, where guests raised their Pepsi Extra Fizz bottles in a synchronized toast as music, lights, and vibrant visuals filled the venue, officially ushering in Pepsi's bold new era of refreshment.

Experience the Extra

Pepsi Extra Fizz invites everyone to break away from the ordinary and add more flavor, excitement, and fizz to every meal.

Whether you're grabbing your favorite street food, enjoying lunch with classmates, or sharing a weekend feast with the barkada, Pepsi Extra Fizz is the perfect companion to make every bite extra sarap and every gathering extra exciting.

Ready to make your next meal extra? #GoExtra with Pepsi Extra Fizz today.

For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow @pepsiphilippines on Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter) and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

Filipinos See Independence as the New Legacy in Longer Lives, Manulife Study Finds

 As Filipinos prepare for longer lives, many are placing greater importance on maintaining their independence as they age, according to the latest findings from the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2026: Independence as the New Legacy. The study found that Filipinos increasingly view self-reliance, financial freedom, and the ability to avoid becoming a burden on loved ones as the legacy they can leave their families.

The survey, which gathered insights from more than 9,000 respondents across Asia, including 1,000 in the Philippines, explores attitudes toward longevity, health, caregiving, retirement preparedness, and financial well-being. 

Independence as the New Legacy

The results build on a broader trend that Manulife has observed in recent years. As conversations around longevity have evolved, Filipinos have increasingly shifted their focus from simply living longer to living healthier, more fulfilling lives. The latest survey suggests this aspiration is becoming more defined: remaining physically, financially, and emotionally independent for as long as possible.

• Among survey respondents, 88% agreed that their independence and financial freedom are the inheritance they want to leave their family, rising to 95% among those aged 25 to 34. When asked what independence means to them, respondents cited freedom from becoming a burden on others, freedom to make decisions without family pressure, and freedom to access quality care. 

• Among respondents who want independence to be their legacy, 56% cite their own health and quality of life as a top priority, while 53% are concerned about unexpected expenses in their later years—highlighting how health, financial security, and self-sufficiency are increasingly connected in how Filipinos plan for the future.

“For many Filipinos, legacy has always been deeply connected to family. What we are seeing is that people increasingly view legacy not only as what they leave behind, but also as the choices they make to stay healthy, independent and able to enjoy life for longer,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. 

Hora added, “This is especially important as Filipinos face more complex health, care, and financial needs as they age. At Manulife, we are committed to helping them prepare for the future through trusted advice, protection, and health and wealth solutions that enable greater confidence, dignity, and financial security in the years ahead.”

Health as the Foundation of Independence

The survey found that Filipinos broadly understand the role of health in protecting their independence, with 92% agreeing that preventive care and self-care habits help extend years of independence.

Spending time with family and friends (52%), following a balanced diet (50%), and maintaining a consistent exercise routine (48%) emerged as the leading self-care habits among respondents. However, only 29% are proactively building and maintaining social circles to combat isolation, and only 26% have taken early screenings and preventive care to avoid chronic illness. 

Sandwich Generation Pressures Test Path to Independence

While Filipinos aspire to remain independent throughout their later years, the study found that many are already navigating responsibilities that may make that goal more difficult to achieve. Family caregiving and financial obligations have become a defining reality for a large segment of the population, often competing with their own long-term plans for health and financial security. 

• 67% provide care to a family member, averaging 32 hours per week, well above the regional average of 23 hours. Meanwhile, 68% carry financial responsibilities for family members, spending nearly half their monthly income to do so.

• The pressure is especially pronounced among the “sandwich generation,” or those caring for both parents and children. Among respondents, 13% provide care to both generations, while 17% extend financial support to both. For many, these dual responsibilities are making it harder to prepare for their own future: 74% say caregiving and financial commitments hinder their ability to build self-reliance, while 71% report delaying their own medical care as a result.

• 76% of caregivers report difficulty making long-term plans for themselves, 69% struggle to balance caregiving with their own daily activities, 68% experience sleeping problems, and 67% face both financial strain and difficulty adjusting their life plans. 54% report problems with their own physical health. 

"The findings show us where the gaps are, and where support is most needed. Filipinos caught in these dual responsibilities should not have to choose between caring for their families and securing their own future. That is precisely the kind of challenge we want to help them navigate," Hora added.

Planning for the Cost of Independence

These pressures are driving financial anxiety, with 82% of Filipinos worried about affording future care, well above the 66% regional average. On average, respondents estimate they would need PHP34,485 per month to cover their future care needs. Most plan to rely on personal savings (87%) and investments (59%), while only 21% expect support from their children, reflecting a stronger need for self-sufficiency and desire to let the next generation build their own lives.

“Financial independence is becoming an essential part of how Filipinos define a secure and dignified future,” said Aira Gaspar, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Investments Philippines. “As people live longer, many are thinking more intentionally about how they can support their retirement, care needs, and life goals through savings and investments, while remaining self-sufficient and giving their children the freedom to pursue their own goals.”

The survey also shows that Filipinos who have started saving and investing for their financial well-being are taking practical steps to adapt their strategies. Nearly half plan to shift toward income-generating investments, while 30% intend to work with a professional financial planner or advisor. Another 28% plan to diversify across asset classes, and 21% want to take a more conservative approach focused on capital preservation.

Gaspar added, “At Manulife Investments Philippines, we help bridge the gap between intention and action by offering professionally managed unit investment trust funds (UITFs) as well as expert guidance and resources that make long-term financial planning more accessible and relevant to Filipinos at different life stages.”

Access the full report and download the white paper via the company’s website:  Manulife Asia Survey 2026: “Independence as the New Legacy”. The insights uncovered in this year's survey align with the Manulife Longevity Institute, a global research, thought leadership, innovation, advocacy, and community investment platform that drives action to help people thrive at every age. Learn more about Manulife's Longevity research and insights at: manulife.com/longevity.   

Fast-Forward to Your Next Era with Up to ₱400,000 from Maya Personal Loan

 

Everyone has something they're working toward next, whether it's growing a business, renovating a home, investing in their future, or reaching another life milestone. But while bigger goals often come with bigger financial needs, getting the financing to make them happen shouldn't feel like another hurdle.

For many Filipinos, applying for a personal loan can still mean preparing documents, completing multiple requirements, and making repeated trips to the bank. But borrowing for a bigger goal doesn't have to be that complicated.

With Maya Personal Loan, users can apply directly in the Maya app with no paperwork or collateral required. Once approved, the loan proceeds are credited straight to their Maya Wallet, making it easier to move from planning to doing.

Now, Maya, the country's leading digital financial services platform, is giving eligible users even more flexibility by increasing the borrowing limit for Maya Personal Loan to up to ₱400,000 through the same fast, fully digital application.

The higher loan limit also comes with repayment terms of up to 48 months, allowing users to spread payments into predictable monthly installments that are easier to fit into their budget.

By making the entire borrowing journey fully digital—from application to disbursement—Maya Personal Loan removes much of the complexity traditionally associated with borrowing, giving users a simpler way to access financing when they're ready to take their next big step.

To know more, visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @makeyourmoneymaya on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. www.bsp.gov.ph. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.