Araneta City makes every visit more rewarding with Araneta Rewards

Shopping, dining, and enjoying your favorite experiences at Araneta City just got a major upgrade with Araneta Rewards—an all-new loyalty program, now available through the updated Araneta City mobile app.

The Araneta City mobile app is your all-in-one city companion. Get notified on mall sales and events, book your Gateway Cineplex 18 tickets in advance, check real-time parking availability across over 10,000 slots, and stay updated on upcoming shows at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and New Frontier Theater—all at your fingertips.

Now made even more fun through gamification, the mobile app offers engaging ways to earn rewards. With Araneta Rewards, loyal shoppers, diners, concertgoers, and everyday visitors can earn points just by doing what they love at Araneta City. Download the app, sign up, and start earning points with every visit and transaction at participating merchants. Users also gain points for completing their profile, referring friends, answering surveys, and more.

You can also spin the digital wheel for instant prizes and bonuses—perfect for members of our growing community groups like the Araneta City Run Club, who get rewarded just for showing up and staying active!

Pet lovers aren’t left out either. With the Araneta Pet Pals Virtual ID, fur parents can join a vibrant community of pet owners and enjoy exclusive perks, pet-friendly events, and rewards tailored to their four-legged companions—all conveniently integrated into the app.

And what can you do with your points? Redeem them for exciting perks like limited-edition Araneta City merchandise, curated items from partner brands, and exclusive lifestyle treats—from food to fashion, tech to travel.

Araneta City is also making signing up for the program more exciting. Get a chance to win an iPhone 16 Pro Max or an overnight stay with breakfast for two at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City. All you have to do is download the app, register, and upload your receipts from May 15 to July 15. For more information, please visit this link.

“The Araneta City mobile app unlocks a world of perks and convenience for our Araneta City-zens,” Kristadel Cervantes, Senior Digital Marketing Manager of Araneta City, said. “And with our rewards program, we’re making every shopping trip, every meal, and every activity here at the City of Firsts more fun and truly rewarding.”

So don’t miss out—download the Araneta City mobile app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and start earning points with Araneta Rewards! 

PIXEL Academy is Where Your Content goes to Thrive

PIXEL Academy, the anticipated workshop series for content creators headed by local fintech company Eplayment, recently launched its first class with Dani Rogacion, CEO of Overdrive Studios, at the forefront of the session. Her class titled Designing for Impact, highlighted the importance of content visuals in content creation and branding. 

The four-hour workshop provided a comprehensive experience for all participants, blending insightful learning sessions with valuable opportunities for connecting with other like-minded creators. PIXEL Academy aims to go beyond upskilling as it also opens up an avenue for creators to share ideas with fellow creatives and collaborate with equally passionate individuals. 

From left to right: Karlos Naidas, Eplayment CEO - Dani Rogacion, PIXEL Academy guest speaker - Let Perez, Director for Creator Connect

Rogacion, with her expertise, helped PIXEL creators lay down the foundations of their content and branding through mood board creation. This hands-on activity enabled participants to visually organize their ideas, align creative concepts, and establish a cohesive direction for their projects.  The exercise also encouraged creators to share and express their unique vision and identity, fostering a deeper connection between their personal style and the content they create.

Co-Create for Value this June with PIXEL Academy

PIXEL Academy is set to hold its second session on June 7, 2025, at Thames International School Inc, Quezon City titled, ‘Co-creating for Value’, with a focus on brand collaboration, headed by Mary Reyes, Director of Creator Relations and Brand Growth of Tier One, and Denis De Chavez, a geek culture and lifestyle creator with experience working with brands such as Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros. The session aims to equip both aspiring and established content creators with the knowledge needed to build impactful collaborations in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape. With brand partnerships playing a pivotal role in monetization and growth, the workshop is ideal for anyone aiming to level up their presence and influence in the content creation industry. 

While all slots for this session have been filled, another class is coming soon – stay tuned for announcements on Eplayment’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

PIXEL Creators can look forward to more exciting initiatives from Eplayment, designed to elevate their skills and expand their knowledge on content creation. Eplayment, through PIXEL, is committed to empowering creators with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.  

BPI champions sustainability through meaningful programs, green promos

In photo: BPI Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Eric Luchangco engages with members of the media during the bank’s Sustainability Awareness Month Press Conference. He is joined by event host Mica Pineda.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) continues to solidify its position as a pioneer in sustainable finance, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles at the core of its business. Anchored on its unique ESG+E₂ framework—which integrates the creation of economic value into its sustainability efforts—BPI is helping lead the transformation of the Philippine banking industry toward more inclusive and resilient growth.

At the center of this shift is BPI’s Sustainability Agenda—a forward-looking strategy that aligns financial performance with sustainable development goals. Through its proactive and innovative approach, the Bank has achieved several industry firsts, further establishing its role as a thought leader in ESG integration.

Pioneering Sustainability Initiatives

BPI continues to lead the way in sustainable finance through initiatives that reflect deep integration of ESG in its operations:

Pioneering Initiative	Description
Coal Phase-Out Policy	First Philippine bank to have a time-bound commitment to completely phase out exposure to coal power generation.
EDGE Certification of Branches	First Philippine bank to receive IFC-EDGE Green Building certification for its branches, nationwide.
Renewable Energy in Corporate Offices	First Philippine bank to transition all its high-rise corporate buildings to 100% renewable energy.
Renewable Energy in Branches	First Philippine bank to access the retail aggregation program, transitioning 70 branches to 100% renewable energy.
Energy Transition Finance Facility (ETFF)	First financing project in the world to repurpose coal-fired power plants into renewable energy facilities and shorten the operating life of a coal plant.
Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA)	First Philippine bank to map clients and Bank’s asset exposure to natural hazards like earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and volcanic eruptions.
Green Solutions	First Philippine bank to offer eco-friendly solutions including Electric Vehicle Financing, Hybrid Vehicle Financing, and Solar Mortgage.
Green and Social Bond Public Offerings	First bank in Southeast Asia to issue a negative-yielding bond and a COVID-19 response bond by a Philippine bank (7x oversubscribed).
Sustainability in Employee Performance (KRAs)	First Philippine bank to require a minimum 10% sustainability KRA allocation and mandatory sustainability training for all employees.
Sustainable Development Finance (SDF) Program	Financing program for renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, water, and pollution control, with free technical evaluations.

BPI is expanding its reach and impact through exclusive, limited-time promotions that promote both sustainability and financial inclusion. These special offers are designed to make eco-conscious choices more accessible for Filipino families and communities.

Here are some offerings that help you Do More for sustainability:

• Real 0% Special Installment Plan (S.I.P.) for Solar Panels
  BPI Credit Cards has partnered with Go Solar, Greenergy, JC Solar, and Philergy to offer an exclusive 0% interest installment plan on solar panel purchases. This offer helps more households transition to renewable energy, without the upfront cost. Promo period applies.

• Green Solutions Promos
  BPI’s commitment to sustainability now comes with added perks for customers ready to go green:

• Solar Mortgage Loan – 5678 Promo: Lock in a 5-year fixed rate at just 6.7% and enjoy up to Php 80,000 in waived bank fees.

• E-Vehicle “Charge on Us” Promo: Get ₱5,000 free charging credits when you apply for a BPI Auto Loan for an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle from June 15 to August 31, 2025, and book on or before September 30, 2025. Credits can be redeemed via the EVRO App and used at any ACMobility EV Charging Station. 

These exclusive promos are part of BPI’s broader push to accelerate green adoption while making it more economical for individuals and families to take part.

BPI Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer Eric Luchangco

shares the bank’s ongoing efforts to drive sustainability.

“Sustainability is not a parallel track—it is the foundation of how we do business,” says Eric Luchangco, BPI’s Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer. “We are leveraging our capital, data, technical know-how and partnerships to drive real-world solutions such as energy transition, financial inclusion, and environmental risk reduction. Our goal is to create, protect and further improve long-term value—not only for our shareholders but for the communities and ecosystems we serve.”

BPI is the only Philippine bank that is a member of the Global Compact Network Philippines, the local chapter of the UN Global Compact. It has also been consistently included in the FTSE4Good Index since 2020, reinforcing its standing as a trusted sustainability partner on a global scale.

Through its sustainability-driven agenda, the Bank is not only financing the future—it is actively shaping it. 

The Manila Hotel's Champagne Room Joins Goût de France 2025

Say C’est délicieux! Goût de France returns in 2025, and The Manila Hotel’s iconic Champagne Room proudly joins this global celebration of French gastronomy.

Launched in 2015 by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Goût de France was created following UNESCO’s recognition of the “Gastronomic Meal of the French” as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The initiative seeks to showcase the excellence of French gastronomy and promote its values of conviviality, sustainability, and craftsmanship.

In honor of the occasion, the Champagne Room invites guests to indulge in an elegant 5-course set menu prepared by The Manila Hotel’s culinary team led by executive chef Konrad Walter. The special Goût de France menu features Puy Lentil Salad with Smoked Duck Breast, Three Onion Soup with Brie Croutons, Roast Rack of Lamb in Herb Crust Rosemary Garlic Jus, Gratin Potato, Market Vegetables, French Artisan Cheese, and Apple Tart with Frangipane. To complete the experience, the meal is complemented with French macarons and served with coffee or tea. Available from May 23 to June 1, 2025 for Php 4,980 per person.

Beyond the elegant confines of the Champagne Room, Goût de France festivities in Manila extend to the lively Makati Street Meet at Paseo de Roxas on May 24 and 25, where French culture and cuisine will take center stage. The Manila Hotel will also participate in the traditional Course de Garçons or waiters’ race on May 25, bringing a touch of Parisian flair to the city’s street.

Don’t miss this opportunity to savor the refined tastes of France at The Manila Hotel’s Champagne Room. For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 55301 5500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com. 

Best Philippine children’s books honored at The Severino Reyes Medal 2025

The International Board on Books for Young People-Philippines (IBBY-PH) formally awarded today the winners of this year’s The Severino Reyes Medal, during a ceremony held at the National Library of the Philippines in Kalaw Avenue, City of Manila.

Nakikisilong by author Eljay Castro Deldoc, illustrated by Richard Red C. Elli, and published by Southern Voices Printing Press, was named “Best Storybook,” while Sa Iisang Batya by Christopher Rosales and illustrator Rommel Joson, published by Brilliant Creations Publishing, won “Best Picture Book.”

Author Krie R. Lopez’s Oha: A Story Told in One Eternal Second, with illustrations by Mikke Gallardo under Milflores Publishing, meanwhile, won in the “Young Adult Literature” category. A special citation was also awarded to author Mon Sy, illustrator Ara Villena, and their publisher Adarna House for Mga Tagapagtanggol ng Lupang Ninuno for its moving tribute to the Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines and their deep ties to the land, culture, and language. 

The Severino Reyes Medal, now in its second year, is organized by IBBY-Philippines in collaboration with the National Library of the Philippines (NLP), the National Book Development Board (NBDB), and professional librarian organizations: Philippine Librarians Association Inc. (PLAI), Association of Librarians in the Public Sector (ALPS), and Philippine Association of School Librarians Inc. (PASLI). As custodians of knowledge and champions of literacy, librarians play a pivotal role in shaping young readers' literary experiences. 

The annual event honors creative excellence in Filipino children’s and young adult literature, being named after the beloved playwright and storyteller Severino Reyes, the creator of Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang. The heirs of Severino Reyes also provided guidance and support to this award, which recognizes the best picture books, storybooks, and young adult books published in the Philippines. 

A selection committee was tapped to choose an “Honor List” from hundreds of entries submitted by local publishers. This year’s panel was headed by Dr. Dolores Carungui from NLP. Other committee members were Jose Tomas Fernando and Melody Madrid from NLP; Carol Tapia from NBDB, Maria Victoria dela Cruz and Charito Basagre from PASLI; Easter Wahayna-Pablo and Lucila Raquino from ALPS; and Elisa Garcia and Kevin Conrad Tansiongco from PLAI.

Honor List

Making it to the Honor List of selected titles for this year’s “Best Storybook” category are:

• Pretty Peach by author Reni Roxas and illustrator Adrian Panadero, published by Ilaw ng Tahanan Publishing

• 𝘚𝘪 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘪 𝘈𝘵𝘴𝘢 𝘛𝘢𝘳𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘶 (𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘪 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘰𝘱) by author Vanessa Mae Empasis Segura and illustrator Octopus & Whale, published by 8 Letters Bookstore and Publishing

• 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘚𝘪𝘣𝘰𝘭: 𝘈𝘯𝘨 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘉𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘋𝘪𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘢 (𝘈 𝘖𝘯𝘦-𝘰𝘧-𝘢-𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘎𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘴) by author Mark Norman Boquiren and illustrator Kata Alamon, published by Lampara Books

• 𝘙𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘯: 𝘈𝘯𝘨 𝘕𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘶𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘢 𝘐𝘣𝘰𝘯 (𝘙𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘯 : 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘉𝘪𝘳𝘥) by author Neil Omar B. Gamos and illustrator Rhea Kristine U. Elnar, published by Johnny and Hansel Publications

For the “Best Picture Book” category, the following were named to the Honor List:

• 𝘚𝘪 𝘒𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘴 𝘐𝘯𝘪𝘴 (𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘎𝘳𝘶𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘰), by author Mary Ann A. Ordinario and
  illustrator Danielle Florendo, published by ABC Educational Developmental Center Children’s Book, Inc.

• 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘢 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘪 𝘓𝘰𝘭𝘢 𝘈𝘯𝘨 𝘓𝘪𝘭𝘢 (𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘮𝘢 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘝𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘵) by author Jacqueline V. Franquelli and illustrator Aldy C. Aguirre, published by OMF Literature Inc.

• 𝘈 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘐𝘯 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯 by author Mary Ann A. Ordinario and illustrator Danielle Florendo,

published by ABC Educational Developmental Center Children’s Book, Inc.

• 𝘒𝘢𝘶𝘣-𝘰𝘧𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘚𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘓𝘪𝘫𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘜𝘵𝘢𝘩: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘦𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘵𝘢𝘩 𝘊𝘢𝘷𝘦 by the indigenous people of Balbalan, Kalinga and author Danielle Florendo, who also illustrated the book, published by Alamid Publishing House

The following were named to the Honor List for the Young Adult Book category:

• 𝘐 𝘏𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘺 𝘕𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦 by author and illustrator E. Manawari, published by E. Manawari / Mariel C. Mantilla 

• 𝘍𝘰𝘭𝘬𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘈 𝘒𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘢 𝘝𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘦 by publisher, author and illustrator Joan D. Saga-oc

• 𝘖𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩, 𝘖𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦 by author Johnny Boneo (self-published) and illustrator James Irwin Esparas

• 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭 by author Ronald Molmisa and illustrator Nixon Na, published by OMF Literature Inc.