Go & Get Better: HWONFEX 2025 Media Launch Showcases Regenerative Tourism and Wellness Innovation

The Health & Wellness Conference & Expo (HWONFEX) 2025 officially kicked off its highly anticipated journey toward promoting holistic well-being and regenerative tourism with a grand media launch at Newport World Resorts’ Vestibule in the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

With the theme “Go & Get Better: Regenerative Tourism Recharges All,” the event gathered leaders and innovators from the health, wellness, and tourism sectors, highlighting the Philippines’ emerging position as a global wellness destination.

The program opened with an immersive experience featuring indigenous sound healing, chair yoga by Nurture Wellness Village, and interactive wellness activities from partners such as PITAHC, IAM Worldwide, Mwell, Urban Farmers, Nanyang, Nurture Wellness Village, Enjoy Health, Shinagawa, and Zynergia.

Key speakers set the tone for the afternoon, Newport World Resorts Chief Hospitality Officer John Lucas, who welcomed guests, followed by HWONFEX Co-Founder Noel Dichoso Soriano, who shared the vision behind HWONFEX 2025. WeTAP President Ms. Catherine Turvill also gave an insightful message underscoring the growing synergy between wellness and tourism. DOH Undersecretary Dr. Emmie Liza Perez-Chiong and PITAHC Director General Dr. Ma. Teresa C. Iñigo underscored the role of integrative medicine in creating a healthier nation.

The spotlight on wellness tourism was further amplified by a message from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Director, Dr. Paulo Benito S. Tugbang, emphasizing the Philippines’ position as a rising global wellness destination.

A unique highlight of the program was “Healing the Filipino Way,” a live ritual blending traditional healing arts like hilot, chiropractic, and acupuncture with modern wellness practices. The event also featured dynamic performances, including a 360 Fitness showcase and Zumba session by MWell, engaging the audience in movement for a sound mind and body.

Industry leaders came together in a panel discussion titled “Wellness Nation: Empowering Lives, Transforming Futures,” tackling the intersection of wellness, tourism, and economic development. Panelists included Dr. Edwin Bien, MAP Health Committee Chair Racquel Cagurangan, Philippine Association of Nutrition President Hector Maglalang, and Urban Farmers PH President Louie Gutierrez, among others.

The launch culminated in a symbolic Digital Wellness Tree activation, representing the unity of government, private sectors, and wellness advocates in nurturing a healthier, sustainable future. Each branch and leaf symbolized collaborative efforts toward building a stronger wellness ecosystem for Filipinos.

With messages of support from key partners, including PHILTOA, represented by Maria Lourdes Japson, HWONFEX 2025 reaffirms its commitment to driving the wellness movement forward, integrating health, tourism, and technology for a truly holistic approach. 

This pioneering holistic wellness expo is co-presented by the Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines (WETAP) in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Philippines Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC). 

It is likewise supported by the Department of Health (DOH), Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The event is organized by Mblessed Travel and Marketing, Inc., and made possible with the support of the following private sector partners:

• Sponsors: IAM Worldwide Corporation as Platinum; MWell and Newport World Resorts as Gold; Enjoy Health, Shinagawa, and Zynergia as Silver

• Event Partners: Philippine Association of Nutrition (PAN), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA), Philippine Tour Operators Association, Inc. (PHILTOA), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), Ex-link Events, Urban Farmers Philippines JLT Travel & Tours, Digital Circles, Market Social, IQ Capture, Philippine Wild Raw Honey Corporation, SMX Convention Center, Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), and St. Paul University.

• Media Partners: Asian Dragon Magazine, Asian Journal, When in Manila, The Manila Times,  Philippine Daily Inquirer, Balikbayan Magazine, Philippine Star, ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel, and DOOH PH

For inquiries on how to participate, you may reach the HWONFEX Secretariat by email at secretariat@wellnessconfex.com or by phone at (+632) 82471049 or (+63) 09772861594, attention: Ms. Ann. Or message through its Facebook account https://www.facebook.com/WellnessConfex

For more updates on HWONFEX 2025, visit www.wellnessconfex.com  

TECNO Unleashes POVA 7 Ultra 5G, the Philippines’ First Triple-Crown Official Gaming Phone, at POVA Gaming Fiesta

TECNO Philippines transformed SM Fairview into a gamer’s paradise on August 9-10 with its "POVA Gaming Fiesta," drawing record crowds for the explosive launch of the POVA 7 Ultra 5G. Set against a life-size PUBG Mobile battleground, the event immersed over 5,000 Filipino gamers in interactive zones where they experienced first-hand the device’s industry-leading 120FPS gameplay and futuristic light-strip design – solidifying TECNO’s commitment to revolutionizing local mobile gaming culture.

Philippines’ First Triple-crown Esports Phone Redefines Competitive Edge

The POVA 7 Ultra 5G achieved an unprecedented trifecta of esports endorsements, directly addressing Filipino gamers’ demands for tournament-grade reliability. As the newly unveiled Official Device for PUBG Mobile Challenger Leagues SEA(PMCL) 2025, it guarantees frame rate stability during high-stakes professional matches – a critical advantage validated by PMCL Commissioner’s live demonstration at the event. Simultaneously, TECNO announced long-term collaboration as Exclusive Gaming Partner of the Philippine National Esports Team (SIBOL), designating POVA 7 Ultra 5G as the official gaming phone for SIBOL athletes in SEA Games and Global Esports Championships. "When our players defend PH glory, they’ll do it with POVA’s 120FPS precision," stated SIBOL Team Manager, Jeff Victoriano. The phone also received pre-certification as the Official Gaming Phone for Honor of Kings Philippine Kings League (PKL) launching late August – positioning it as the undisputed performance benchmark across Philippines’ top two mobile esports titles.

Dito Partnership Eradicates Gaming Data Barriers

In a game-changing move for cost-conscious Filipino gamers, TECNO partnered with DITO, the country’s fastest-growing mobile network, to launch the industry-first "TECNO x DITO x PUBG Mobile Prepaid Gaming SIM." in the event. DITO’s brand ambassadors PPOP sensation ALAMAT brought down the house with a surprise performance, announcing the customised SIM releasing. 

DITO Mobile, TECNO, and PUBG Mobile have joined forces to create the "Perfect Gaming Squad," offering Filipino mobile gamers an exclusive bundle with a winning edge. The bundle features the TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G—the official PUBG Mobile smartphone—and a DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM. Recognized by Opensignal as the Philippines' fastest network, DITO ensures a superior gaming experience with reduced lag and fast loading times. Subscribers who get the exclusive DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM also receive unlimited PUBG Mobile access, valid as long as they are subscribed to select DITO Level Up promos. This powerful collaboration delivers unbeatable performance and a premium gaming experience at an accessible price.

POVA Chief Gaming Officer Myrtle Sarrosa Bridges Gaming-Cosplay Divide

TECNO cemented its cultural relevance by renewing multi-hyphenate icon Myrtle Sarrosa (actress/gaming queen/cosplay star) as POVA Chief Gaming Officer. Her expanded role will deepen TECNO’s penetration into PH’s exploding cosplay community while anchoring hardcore gaming credibility. During the offline appearance, Myrtle cos the newest PUBGM skin - Spectral Byte with  light-strip flares on her costume and weapon – a visual metaphor for how the phone merges performance and personal expression. "POVA 7 Ultra 5G isn’t just a tool, it’s your battle jewelry," she declared, showcasing the device light effects and designs that drew roaring approval from Gen Z attendees.

Freebies for All Buyers for TikTok Super Brand Day and Offline Preorder - Buy 1 Get 3!

The official price of POVA 7 Ultra 5G is PhP16,999, with the color of Geek White and Geek Black. Avail the early bird price of PhP12,999 for the POVA 7 Ultra 5G from August 8 to 10 during the TECNO Super Brand Day at the TikTok Shop. From August 11 to 14, the Super Brand Day discount price will be PhP13,999.

Pre-order in all nationwide TECNO stores are starting from August 8 to 21, getting PhP1,000 off the standard retail price of PhP16,999 plus three freebies when order one POVA 7 Ultra 5G. Use Skyro to enjoy additional PhP500 discount, or use Home Credit to enjoy up to 18 months, 0% interest payments of PhP24 per day.

For the freebies, TECNO TikTok Super Brand Day and retail store preorder buyers will receive freebies worth PhP1,999 when they buy the POVA 7 Ultra 5G and get 3 items (limited stock) –  1 POVA wireless powerbank (5000mAh), 1 customized DITO Prepaid Gaming SIM for PUBG Mobile, and 1 special edition PUBGM case card.

The fiesta climaxed with fans queueing three-deep at experiential booths, where the Dimensity 8350 chipset’s blistering speed and hyper gaming engine converted skeptics into believers. TECNO POVA 7 Ultra 5G’s triple-crown validation (PMCL/SIBOL/PKL), carrier alliance, and cultural connectivity position it not just as a device, but as the engine of Philippines’ esports ascendancy. 

Global Youth Summit 2025 Empowers Next Generation Leaders

The Global Youth Summit (GYS) 2025 brought together more than 33,600 youth changemakers from schools, organizations, and communities nationwide—both on-ground and online—at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on August 3, 2025. The event, organized by Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines and SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, served as a dynamic platform for young student leaders, innovators, and advocates to collaborate, share ideas, and take action toward advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

The Manila summit featured inspiring keynote speeches and empowering sessions focused on youth empowerment, sustainability, innovation, and leadership. Among the distinguished speakers were Jessica Sy, Winwyn Marquez, Teacher Georcelle, Edward Barber, and Jessica Soho, who shared their insights and experiences on leadership, creativity, and social impact.

 

Jessica Sy, SM Sustainability Champion, addresses youth leaders at GYS 2025, inspiring action toward sustainable community initiatives.

Jessica Soho engages youth at the Global Youth Summit 2025, encouraging them to uphold peace, justice, and integrity as pillars of strong and inclusive communities.

 

Winwyn Marquez advocates for gender equality at GYS 2025, encouraging youth to break barriers and uplift women in their communities.

Teacher Georcelle speaks at GYS 2025, encouraging youth to harness creativity as a powerful tool for self-expression, leadership, and community impact.

 

Edward Barber connects with the youth at GYS 2025, answering their questions and inspiring meaningful dialogue that encourages young leaders to speak up and take action.

Youth take the pledge at GYS 2025, reaffirming their commitment to lead with purpose, uphold sustainability, and shape a better future for all.

 

The program also highlighted outstanding performances from Matthew Ifield, NU Dance Company, Over October, and Hori7on, energizing the crowd and celebrating the passion and talent of Filipino youth.

 

“The youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the force for change today. Through the Global Youth Summit, we aim to give them the tools, inspiration, and community to turn their vision into reality,” said Royston Cabunag, SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President and SM Cares Program Director for Children and Youth.

 

Leonard Faustino, Global Peace Foundation Philippines Executive Director, added, “Collaboration across sectors is key to unlocking the potential of the next generation. The Global Youth Summit is proof of what can happen when we come together for a shared purpose.”

 

Inspired by the voices of change at GYS 2025, the youth express renewed determination to lead with purpose and shape a better future for their communities.”

Youth write their personal pledges at GYS 2025, expressing their commitment to becoming catalysts for a more inclusive, sustainable future.

 

The Global Youth Summit at MOA Arena serves as the launchpad for 16 provincial legs across the country. Together with the main event in Manila, these 17 mall locations collectively represent the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

 

Following the momentum of GYS 2025 at MOA Arena, the rollout continued on August 8, 2025, with regional events held at SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Iloilo, SM City Bacolod, and SM City Puerto Princesa. On August 22, 2025, the initiative continues at SM City Bataan, SM Center Pulilan, SM Center Dagupan, and SM City San Lazaro. The third wave follows on August 29, 2025, with activities at SM CDO Downtown, SM City Butuan, SM Lanang, and SM City General Santos. Finally, the series concludes on September 5, 2025, with events at SM City Bacoor, SM City San Pablo, SM City Sto. Tomas, and SM Southmall.

 

Each leg will feature youth-led solution pitches and partner activations designed to seed community projects aligned with priority SDGs. These provincial events will continue the momentum, empowering more young Filipinos in their own communities to take action on local and global challenges.

 

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences. 

Eraserheads to headline Electric Fun Music Fest at SMDC Festival Grounds

OPM legends, the Eraserheads, are set to fire up the stage at this year’s Eraserheads: Electric Fun Music Festival with a 2-hour headline set, happening on October 18, 2025, at SMDC Festival Grounds.

Fans and festivalgoers can expect a full-length set filled with timeless hits, crowd favorites, and deep cuts from a night of music. The renowned Original Pinoy Music (OPM) band is also expected to make the live debut of “Get This Love Thing Down” as one of the major highlights of the festival’s maiden edition. 

Apart from the headline act, numerous local artists will also be sharing the stage, including “The Itchyworms,” “Moonstar88,” “IMAGO,” “General Luna,” “Dong Abay Music Organization,” and many more.

Official poster for the Electric Fun Music Festival featuring Eraserheads.

First live performance of “Get This Love Thing Down”

For the first time ever, the band will perform “Get This Love Thing Down” live, which was teased during the closing credits of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, the acclaimed 2025 film that opened in nearly 200 cinemas nationwide. 

“I’m excited for our new and longtime fans to hear what we came up with,” shares Ely Buendia, the band’s frontman and principal songwriter. “We've each grown to different phases and explored different sounds, but this song reflects where we are now—emotionally, musically, and spiritually.”

Exclusive Soundcheck Experience Access – Limited Slots

Adding to the excitement, PalawanPay SVIP and VIP ticket holders will gain access to the exclusive Soundcheck Experience, a rare opportunity to witness the band’s pre-show preparation, experience early venue entry, and secure premium viewing spots before the main show begins.

Tickets are available via PalawanPay and SM Tickets. Limited slots apply.

TICKET PRICES:

• PALAWANPAY SVIP – ₱12,500

• VIP – ₱10,500

• Platinum – ₱8,500

• Gold – ₱6,500

• Silver – ₱3,500

• Bronze – ₱1,500

Brought to you by WEU Events Management Services and DVent Productions.

#EHeadsAtSMDCFestivalGrounds #EHeadsFestival #ElectricFunMusicFestival #GetThisLoveThingDown #EHeads2025

For more information, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media pages. Tickets for upcoming events can be purchased online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlets nationwide. 

Anniversary plans ‘in motion’ as Power Mac Center marks 31st

Power Mac Center (PMC), established in 1994 at SM Megamall, is celebrating 31 years as the Philippines’ premier Apple partner. This year’s theme is “31 in Motion: Driven by movement, powered by technology,” aptly reflecting the company’s uninterrupted growth in retail presence across all regions, as well as the continued development of its official training and service arms, Basecamp and Mobile Care.

Shaking up the celebration is a series of promotions and on-ground events for customers. In particular, the theme shines the spotlight on how Apple technology has been powering forward various sports and physical activities, empowering individuals to pursue and maintain active lifestyles.

“Our chosen theme resonates with this era’s brand of doing active lifestyle—measured, connected, and unapologetically social. Everything is amplified by technology, and we’re going all-out for it! It’s our way of giving back to the communities we serve, allowing us to be the go-to hub for all things Apple in the Philippines,” said PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.

Unbeatable deals await

Power Mac Center, Basecamp, and Mobile Care are in full force to offer loyal Apple fans the best deals this season.

For anyone looking to upgrade, select Apple products are on offer with up to P19,500 discount. Select premium accessories from brands Belkin, Cygnett, Insta360, and Shokz are also available for up to 20% off. Promos are valid until August 31, 2025.

Basecamp, PMC’s official training arm, will be offering two of its signature learning tracks at a special discounted rate of only P3,100 from P45,000. These courses are the Apple Learning Academy for educators and creative pros, which will run from September 11 to 13, 2025, and Apple Leadership Academy for school heads and team leaders, which will have sessions on September 18 to 20, 2025.

Secure your slot at <bit.ly/3IPS7fK>. Registration is non-refundable but transferable. The deadline for signing up is August 31, 2025.

PMC’s official service arm handling all diagnostics, repairs, software fixes, and other after-sales support—Mobile Care—will hold special promotions in all its branches nationwide in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for updates.

Sporting events amplified by technology

To celebrate customers who enrich their sporty and healthy lifestyles with help from Apple technology, PMC is gracing a number of sporting events in the metro and key locations including Cebu and Davao until September. Participants get a chance to take home exciting prizes and other surprises.

Last August 14, PMC co-presented the 1st Pro Gretchen Villacencio Golf Tournament 2025 at the Mount Malarayat Golf and Country Club in Lipa City, Batangas. Meanwhile, a pickleball tournament was held for members of the Ayala Heights Pickleball Club and Impact Pickleball Club. It happened on August 16 at the Neopolitan Brittany Court in Quezon City.

Do watch out for more sports events you can join in celebration of Power Mac Center’s “31 in Motion: Driven by movement, powered by technology,” to be announced on its official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.

Major 31st anniversary surprise by 1 Infinite

In case you missed it, 1 Infinite—PMC’s loyalty program—now has an app that members can use to track points, find information on trending deals and store locations, and redeem rewards.

For PMC’s 31st anniversary, a big surprise is in the works. In the meantime, rack up points so you’re ready for the big reveal very soon!

New members may sign up by downloading 1 Infinite from the App Store <http://bit.ly/4hljdr2> or Google Play <https://bit.ly/42ovsyK>. Existing members can just log in using your registered email. Members in the Connected, Lunar, and Stellar tiers earn 1 point for every P200 spent, while those in the Astra and Cosmos tiers earn 1 point for every P100 spent at PMC stores and the Web Store <powermaccenter.com>. Also enjoy up to 50% off on Apple training courses and receive exclusive benefits from Basecamp and Mobile Care. Make sure to present/input your membership details when transacting.

Power Mac Center is a recognized Apple Premium Partner, Apple Premium Reseller, Apple Authorized Education Reseller, Apple Authorized Service Provider, and Apple Professional Learning Provider in the Philippines. It is present in all regions of the country, with over 150 retail branches, service centers, and training centers to its name to date. Expansion efforts have been underway, helping create more jobs, improving digital literacy, and generally democratizing access to innovation among Filipinos.

For first dibs on promos and other updates, stay tuned on social media, as well as PMC’s official Viber and YouTube channels. 

Your Ultimate Guide to Credit Without the Burnout

Let’s face it: credit is often misunderstood. For some, it’s a safety net. For others, it’s a cycle they can’t break. But the truth is, credit—when used with intention—can be one of your most powerful financial tools. The difference lies in how it’s built, and who it’s built for.

That’s where Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, stands out. Instead of treating credit as a one-size-fits-all solution, Maya designs tools that adapt to your real life—whether you’re managing emergencies, covering essentials, or working toward long-term financial wellness.

Here’s how Maya helps you borrow smarter, not harder:

Credit That Works When You Need It

Emergencies don’t wait for ideal timing. That’s why Maya offers Easy Credit[1], a revolving credit line of up to ₱30,000, available instantly when you need it. There’s no paperwork needed, and with up to 30 days to repay what you use.

The best part? It’s built into the Maya app, right where you manage the rest of your finances, so you stay in control without disruption.

Credit Without the Catch

When you need more than just a short-term boost, Maya Personal Loan[2] gives you access to up to ₱250,000, with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months. No collateral required.

Whether you’re handling a major life expense or consolidating existing debt, Maya’s loan product is designed to be predictable and manageable, so borrowing doesn’t turn into burden.

Credit Cards with Built-In Discipline and Rewards

The right credit card doesn’t just help you spend, it helps you earn. Maya’s Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card gives you up to 5% on Landers purchases, 2% on dining, and 1% on all other qualified transactions.

Looking for something elevated? The Maya Black Credit Card delivers more than just sleek design. It lets you earn instant Maya Miles—versatile points every time you spend. You can soon use them to pay for shopping or dining, convert your Maya Miles into airline miles right in the app, starting with partners like Philippine Airlines. Plus, get access to exclusive rewards through Maya’s in-app catalog, giving you more value with every spend.

Tools to Help You Borrow and Save Simultaneously

Maya understands that the best borrowing decisions happen when you're not operating on panic. That’s why you can pair your credit use with Personal Goals inside Maya. Create up to 5 savings goals, each earning 4% p.a. interest, and build buffers for upcoming expenses, from tuition to travel.

Responsible borrowing doesn’t mean saying no to credit. It means choosing tools that meet you where you are and help you grow from there.

Maya is here to champion financial choices that reflect who you are and where you’re going. That means more transparency, more control, and more respect for your time and your effort.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to learn more. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas  (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.