Monday, November 24, 2025

BPI, BPI MS roll out Kaya Care to support Filipinos facing major health risks

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and BPI/MS Insurance Corporation (BPI MS) have launched BPI Kaya Care Critical Illness Insurance—a simple, accessible, and affordable plan designed to help Filipinos safeguard themselves and their loved ones against today’s most serious health risks.


BPI Kaya Care was created to address a growing health crisis—the increasing number of Filipinos diagnosed with critical illnesses. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that in 2023, three of the leading causes of death were ischemic heart disease, cancer, and cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke.



To help Filipinos prepare for these risks, BPI Kaya Care offers a lump-sum cash benefit upon diagnosis of any of these critical illnesses: cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Clients diagnosed at an early stage receive 50% of the benefit, while late-stage or major diagnoses receive the full amount.


This cash benefit, which can be claimed so long as the insured survives seven days after diagnosis, enables policyholders to begin treatment promptly and maintain financial stability during a deeply challenging period. While the benefit is primarily intended for medical interventions, families are free to use it for therapy, medication, or daily living expenses, depending on what matters most to them.


“At BPI, our purpose is clear: to Build a Better Philippines, one family, one community at a time,” said Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, Consumer Banking Head of BPI. 


“For too long, critical illness insurance has felt complex and out of reach. We wanted to change that. BPI Kaya Care is more than a policy—it’s a partner that helps families focus on recovery without financial strain, support that truly matters when it matters most,” Go added. 


Unlike treatment-specific government programs, BPI Kaya Care fills a critical gap: many Filipinos delay treatment after diagnosis because they need time to secure funds. Kaya Care provides immediate cash support, helping remove this hurdle so patients and families can focus on timely treatment and better health outcomes. 


To ensure that this protection is within reach for a wide range of Filipino households, premiums start at only ₱859 per year, depending on the client’s age and chosen plan. Enrollment has also been made simple and convenient. 


Customers may avail of the product online through kayacare.bpims.com, or by visiting any BPI branch or the nearest BPI MS office. The claims process is equally straightforward and supportive, reinforcing the product’s commitment to accessibility.


“The silent crisis of underinsurance, coupled with surging medical costs, creates an urgent need for simple, accessible insurance solutions,” said Noriyuki Kobayashi, President and CEO of BPI MS. 


“BPI MS is proud to collaborate with BPI to bring BPI Kaya Care to life. By delivering this vital and affordable protection to the core and middle markets, we are helping more Filipino families secure their future and take control of their health without compromising their financial stability,” Kobayashi added. 


The launch of BPI Kaya Care reflects BPI’s broader commitment to uplifting Filipino families and strengthening national resilience. As the government continues to invest in improving healthcare infrastructure, including significant funding for specialty hospitals, BPI Kaya Care ensures that Filipino families not only have access to these facilities but also the financial means to afford essential treatments.

To learn more or enroll, visit https://kayacare.bpims.com/. 

A Year of Spectacle Awaits: Experience 2026’s Q1 Shows at SM MOA Arena

A new year is approaching, bringing an impressive lineup of new acts in 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena. From Grammy Award-winning artists to OPM music festivals, this year’s lineup for the first quarter is just a peek of what’s in store for 2026.

The Broken Hearts Concert (January 7)

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For those ready for an emotional rollercoaster, the Broken Hearts Club Music Festival promises an unforgettable experience as you journey through the five stages of grief with iconic Original Pilipino Music (OPM) hits. Featuring some of the greatest names in OPM, the event brings the raw emotion of love to life through timeless songs.

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Broken Hearts Club to feature OPM icons on January 7, 2026.

2026 Riize Concert Tour in Manila [Riizing Loud] (January 17)

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The rising stars of K-Pop’s 5th Generation, the six-member boy group RIIZE, are coming to Manila for the very first time! Known for their fresh take on contemporary music—blending R&B and pop—the group has been making waves in the K-pop industry following the release of their latest album. Debuted under SM Entertainment in 2023, RIIZE is set to perform their top hits, including “Get a Guitar,” “Love 119,” and “Boom Boom Bass.”

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K-pop group RIIZE rises to the top of 5th Generation K-pop on January 17, 2026.


Israel Houghton (January 18)

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Seven-time Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Israel Houghton redefines Gospel music with his unique contemporary approach to worship. His performance and concert promise not only an extraordinary musical experience but also a profoundly spiritual journey for everyone.

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Israel Houghton brings contemporary worship music on January 18, 2026.

Day6 10th Anniversary Tour The Decade in Manila (January 24)

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K-pop rock band DAY6 celebrates its 10th anniversary, and fans can expect a road down memory lane and a sneak peek at the band’s next move. One of the few pop-rock bands under JYP Entertainment, the group has become a spectacle of instrumentalists since their debut in 2015.


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After 10 years as a group, DAY6 returns to the country to celebrate their journey together on January 24, 2026.

Bryan Adams Roll with the Punches (January 31)

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Bringing the expressive and deviant spirit of rock, Grammy-award-winning artist Bryan Adams makes an impression at the venue for the first time. The artist rose to fame during the 80s as his songs became part of Karaoke culture, such as "Everything I Do (I Do for You),” “When You’re Gone,” and “Summer of '69.”

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Bryan Adams is set to rock the venue with timeless hits on January 31, 2026.


One Ok Rock Detox Asia Tour (March 4)

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Back at it again for the third time at the venue, Japanese Rock Band ONE OK ROCK makes a stop for their Asia tour after their last concert in 2018. The tour will feature their latest studio album “DETOX,” including their breakout single “Tropical Therapy,” which showcases the band's bold evolution, blending massive, anthemic hooks with raw lyricism and a genre-defying sound.

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ONE OK ROCK returns for the third time at SM Mall of Asia Arena on March 4, 2026.

Your Gateway to Live Entertainment: SM Tickets Elevates On-Site Convenience


With the continuous flow of high-traffic events at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, SM Tickets has opened alternative routes to its ticketing booths for on-site ticket purchases.


Fans can now access the SM Ticket booths at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, located on Coral Way and Marina Way, by using the bridgeway from National University Mall of Asia (NUMA) parking, the Mall of Asia Arena Annex (MAAX) parking, IKEA, the SM Mall of Asia (SM MOA) parking areas, and the transport terminal.


The SM Tickets Booth can now be accessed via the Bridgeway from nearby SM affiliated establishments.

From the bridgeways, fans can now proceed via escalator or elevator to Coral Way, then follow Diokno Boulevard to Marina Way. These passageways through elevators and escalators operate daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with extended hours on event days.

Navigate your way to the Arena with this guide map for easy entry and exit during events.

 

St. Peter’s Commitment to Compassionate Service Honored at NFDA International Convention

St. Peter Chapels proudly represented the Philippines once again on the global stage at the 2025 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) International Convention and Expo, held in Chicago, USA, from October 26 to 29, 2025.

 

This annual event is recognized as one of the world’s most significant gatherings for funeral service professionals, offering a vital platform for learning, networking, and collaboration among leading practitioners and organizations from across the globe.




This year, 99 St. Peter delegates attended the convention, engaging in discussions and workshops on innovative approaches and global best practices in memorial care and service management. Their active participation through the years has remained part of St. Peter’s continuing mission to raise industry standards and ensure compassionate, professional service for every Filipino.

 

Adding to this milestone, St. Peter Chapels was also once again recognized with the esteemed NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award — marking its 14th consecutive year of achieving this international distinction. The award honors funeral homes that demonstrate consistently high levels of service, operational excellence, and community involvement, placing St. Peter among the world’s leading providers of memorial services.

 

“This year’s recognition celebrates and honors St. Peter’s dedication to serving Filipinos with empathy, integrity, and love that endures beyond life,” said Artemio Vitangcol III, President and CEO of St. Peter Chapels. “Through our continued participation in the NFDA Convention, we remain inspired to innovate and elevate the standards of memorial care in the Philippines.”

With this latest achievement, St. Peter stands firm in its role as the premiere pioneer in the Philippine DeathCare industry, continuously striving to enhance the quality of its services and to bring home global insights that help strengthen the dignity, professionalism, and compassion that define the St. Peter brand. 

Ely Buendia, Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo Lead a Heavy-Hitting Lineup at SMDC Festival Grounds

​Unwind and release your inhibitions with the ‘kada at the Wonderful Moments Music Festival, happening December 6-7, 2025, at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Aseana City, Parañaque City. This event is dedicated to immersive experiences and unforgettable performances from the generation’s top OPM icons, creating core memories through world-class audio, visuals, and interactive activities.​


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The first rendition of the Wonderful Moments Music Festival is coming to the SMDC Festival Grounds.


​The festival brings together leading OPM icons and emerging talents for two days of extraordinary live music at the SMDC Festival Grounds. Acts like BINI, Bamboo, Dionela, Gloc-9, Denise Julia, Sarah Geronimo, and ALAMAT take the stage, each contributing to a powerful showcase of passion and artistry.

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A star-studded line-up is headed your way with two days of excitement.


The festival also features numerous interactive booths, including photo walls, 360° camera booths, massage or spa tents, live tattoo and body art booths, food and merchandise stalls, outdoor DJ stages, indoor live performances, laser shows, and fireworks displays.

Brought to you by Asia’s multifaceted entertainment house, iMe Entertainment Group (iMe), the event is expected to welcome thousands of people at the outdoor venue to bring a never-before-seen lineup of the best of the best OPM artists on the stage.

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Ticket tiers offer different perks, including priority entry, exclusive merchandise, meet-and-greet opportunities, and access to special event areas.

Adding to the surprise, selected ticket tiers also include additional benefits to enhance their experience in the venue, such as complimentary merchandise for the road.

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Wonderful Moments Music Festival to bring core memories to attendees on December 6-7, 2025.

Tickets are now available at any SM Tickets outlet nationwide or at smtickets.com for online purchases.

Presented by iME Philippines in partnership with SMDC Festival Grounds, this event showcases top Filipino talent on a world-class outdoor stage.

 

Pru Life UK launches PRUTerm Lindungi in Cagayan de Oro

Pru Life UK has officially introduced PRUTerm Lindungi, its first Shari’ah-compliant life protection plan in the Philippines, to communities in Cagayan de Oro and nearby provinces. The milestone event, held on October 22, underscores the company’s commitment to making financial protection more accessible and inclusive for Filipinos.


PRUTerm Lindungi is Pru Life UK’s flagship Takaful offering for ages 18 to 60. It is designed primarily to meet the needs of Muslim Filipinos while remaining open to everyone—regardless of faith, tradition, culture, or income. Rooted in the Islamic principles of mutual aid, fairness, and shared responsibility, the plan provides an ethical and affordable life protection solution for individuals and families.





With a one-time contribution starting at only PHP 250, PRUTerm Lindungi offers PHP 100,000 in life protection, renewable annually until age 59, as long as the offering is available. Contributions go into a Shari’ah-compliant Tabarru’ Fund, or shared fund, which is managed separately from Pru Life UK’s conventional business. A portion of the unused funds, after setting aside reserves, if available, will be fairly distributed among policyholder-participants—reinforcing transparency, solidarity, and the spirit of mutual care within the community.


“With PRUTerm Lindungi, we’re introducing, together with our licensed Takaful-appointed agents, a form of financial protection that is based on the concepts of mutual assistance and donation. These are universal values, the reason why Takaful is for everyone,” said Maricel Estavillo, Pru Life UK’s Vice President and Head of Sustainability and Takaful. “It’s one of our many ways of empowering families and communities—for every life, for every future.”

Modelled after similar successful Takaful products from Prudential’s operations in Malaysia and Indonesia, the name “Lindungi”—meaning “to protect” in Bahasa Malaysia and Indonesia—captures the offering’s core purpose: protection for every faith, every Filipino, and every future.


Historic dialogue


As part of the Cagayan de Oro event, Pru Life UK hosted its first-ever Dialogue with Ulama (Muslim scholars) in Mindanao, a historic and large-scale engagement that gathered over 45 religious leaders to discuss the concept of Takaful, its permissibility under Shariah, and the regulatory framework governing Takaful operations in the Philippines.


The dialogue also featured distinguished guest speakers from Prudential BSN Takaful Malaysia, who shared insights on Malaysia’s thriving Takaful industry and Prudential’s experience in building successful faith-based insurance solutions.


This Cagayan de Oro dialogue follows earlier engagements in Davao City—where

Pru Life UK held an audience with local stakeholders that included religious leaders—and in Zamboanga City, where the company continued to advance its Islamic finance education initiatives. The first Dialogue with religious leaders was previously held in Greenhills, San Juan, with representatives from the Greater Metro Manila Muslim community.


Together with the Dialogue with Ulama, Pru Life UK also launched the Cagayan de Oro leg of its Adopt-a-Madrasah program, further strengthening its commitment to education, community partnerships, and inclusive financial literacy.


Through these initiatives, Pru Life UK continues to advance the national agenda for financial inclusion and the development of Islamic finance in the Philippines—championing ethical, values-driven financial solutions that protect and empower underserved communities.


For more information on PRUTerm Lindungi, please visit https://pru.ph/ad-pruterm-lindungi.

Monday, November 17, 2025

Party Glows On at Hong Kong Disneyland with Beloved Disney Christmas Traditions as the 20th Anniversary Celebration Continues

This holiday season, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) invites guests to step into a fun-filled Christmas party with a magical mix of unique Disney Christmas traditions and 20th anniversary festivities. From November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026, guests can immerse themselves in a season of cherished holiday moments, snowy enchantment, festive feasting, and new surprises from Disney friends, all wrapped in the dazzling sparkle of this milestone year.


With the Black Friday Hotel offer running from November 14, 2025 to December 12, 2025, guests can enjoy 40% off flexible rates at HKDL hotels and turn festive fun into room parties for stays from January 2, 2026.




World of Frozen Sparkles Like Never Before

Anna and Elsa once again light up the kingdom with Arendellian-style decorations, transforming World of Frozen into a frosty festive dreamscape. Guests can twirl through magical snowfall with the royal sisters, adorable snowgies, Olaf, and the joyful Carolers of Arendelle, surrounded by snow-capped Christmas trees and sparkling lights.


Kristoff will join the festive fun this year, along with his reindeer friend Sven in the form of a shimmering ice sculpture. Before heading to the party, citizens and visitors of Arendelle are invited to take part in Kristoff’s Sven-tastic Surprise, where Kristoff seeks help in bringing the Sven sculpture to life with joyful festive touches.


Disney Friends Bring Festive Cheer in Style

Disney friends are switching into festive outfits to host non-stop celebrations across the park. In Toy Story Land, Woody, Buzz, and Jessie debut their brand-new Christmas party attire, ready to welcome visiting toys with holiday cheer. Over in Fantasyland, Winnie the Pooh and his family share seasonal hugs. Santa Mickey, Santa Goofy, and Santa Stitch and Angel are making magical appearances, bringing the spirit of Christmas to life with their jolly charm and joyful energy. 



20th Anniversary Adds Magic to Holiday Traditions

No Christmas is quite like a Disney Christmas, especially with the added charm of the 20th anniversary! Santa Goofy and the Christmas Carolers take center stage once again at the “A Holiday Wish-Come-True” Tree Lighting Ceremony on Main Street, U.S.A.. Alongside whimsical snowfall and glowing projections, this beloved tradition is now elevated with dazzling drone choreography inspired by the 20th anniversary, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, and more.


Christmas party fantasies come true at Fantasyland, where the Cinderella Carousel is adorned with twinkling lights and festive touches, making it a perfect photo spot. Just steps away, Ye Olde Christmas Market returns with authentic holiday treats that capture the spirit of the season.

Unmissable Festive Flavors and Holiday Keepsakes

At Ye Olde Christmas Market, guests can enjoy eye-catching festive delights like cupcakes, gingerbread cookies, and the whimsical Christmas Magic Gift filled with sweet surprises. Guests should grab the new talking Mickey Celebration Popcorn Bucket, which is perfect for festive snacking. For cozy vibes, enjoy an authentic Christmas set dinner at Main Street Corner Cafe Hosted by Coca-Cola®, or savor Nordic festive delights at Golden Crocus Inn in World of Frozen.

Explore exclusive festive merchandise collection, themed to Mickey and Friends, Winnie the Pooh, Pixar Pals, Duffy and Friends, World of Frozen, and Disney Animation’s Zootopia. From plush toys and apparel to seasonal decorations, sweets, and collectible medallions, there’s a perfect gift for everyone!


Sending seasonal greetings to loved ones and share your joy with the community by purchasing the newly designed Holiday Wishes Charity Postcards at Emporium, Marty’s General Store and shops at resort hotels – all proceeds will be donated to Operation Santa Claus.


Keep the Celebration Going with Festive Stays and Activities

Extend the celebration with a joyous hotel stay and make it a holiday highlight with the Christmas Starlight Picnic Package at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, complete with Disney-themed treats and movies under the stars. Add extra sparkle with Winnie the Pooh or Disney Animation’s Zootopia Christmas In-Room Party Packs, and join festive recreations like Disney Friends’ Party Helpers Quest, the Christmas Balloon Magic Workshop, Disney’s Delicious Christmas Decorating Class at Chart Room Cafe, and many more.


The Party Gets Wilder with Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde

With the release of Disney Animation’s Zootopia 2, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are throwing the wildest party starting November 27. Head over to Adventureland to meet them in brand-new outfits at Judy and Nick’s new favorite hangout. They are taking on a new mission, helping a newly launched travel agency in Zootopia with the search for a missing tourist named Gary De’Snake. Keep your eyes peeled throughout the land for posters, and you might even spot Gary himself. 


Be sure to swing by Emporium at Main Street, U.S.A. for the brand-new pop-up donut shop featuring a whole selection of donut-themed items, like scrunchies, cushions, plush rings, and more! Pick your favorite “flavors” of Donut Socks, packed in a donut box and enjoy a fun, interactive shopping experience with the shop assistants. Zootopia fans will also love the line-up of new additions, from the recording carrot keychain and shoulder plush to themed treats like Judy’s waffle, paw-shaped mousse cakes, Bunnyburrow blueberry pie, all guaranteed to keep the party roaring. 


Disney Legend Adds Enchantment to the 20th Anniversary

As part of HKDL’s 20th anniversary celebrations, the beloved Disney Live in Concert series adds a new instalment titled “Disney Legend Live in Concert,” featuring the award-winning Disney Legend Lea Salonga, who performed at the resort’s grand opening in 2005. Two decades later, she returns to celebrate with a spectacular one-night-only concert on January 10, 2026, taking guests on a musical journey through the realms of Disney Animation royalty, featuring the strings ensemble from The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hong Kong Disneyland Band, conducted by Maestro Gerard Salonga. 

In addition to the Oscar-winning “A Whole New World” from Aladdin and the Golden Globe-nominated “Reflection” from Mulan, she will also sing the heartfelt “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella, Elsa’s empowering “Let It Go” from Frozen and more. Six beloved Disney Princesses and Queen, including Jasmine, Mulan, Tiana, Elsa, Cinderella, and Pocahontas, will make special appearances on the Castle Stage. They will appear in breathtaking castle projections and dazzling pyrotechnic effects, making it one unforgettable night. Standard and VIP Seating Area Passes is now available to guests for a magical evening under the stars! For more details, please refer to the appendix. 


Get ready to celebrate The Most Magical Party of All with the Black Friday Hotel offer. Whether it’s your first visit or a return for more magic, HKDL is the place where the party never stops.