As Pet Wellness Takes Center Stage, Proactive Nutrition Is Emerging as a Key Priority

The questions pet parents are asking have changed. A few years ago, many focused primarily on flavor, convenience, or price. Today, they're looking more closely at ingredient quality, digestive health, and how nutrition supports their pets through every life stage.

As more Filipinos treat pets as family, they're applying the same wellness mindset they use for themselves to their pets' nutrition—viewing food not just as daily sustenance, but as an investment in long-term health and wellbeing.

"Pet parents today are asking more thoughtful questions. They're no longer just asking what's popular," said Romy Sia, Managing Director of Bow & Wow Philippines. "They want to understand where ingredients come from, how they're formulated, and how they support their pet's health throughout every stage of life. We're seeing a clear shift from simply feeding pets to nourishing them for lifelong wellness."

This reflects a broader consumer shift toward preventive health. Euromonitor identifies 'Wellness Pragmatists' as a key trend shaping purchasing decisions, with consumers increasingly prioritizing long-term wellbeing. At Bow & Wow, one of the country's leading specialty pet retailers with seven stores across Metro Manila, Laguna, and Cebu, this is reflected in the double-digit growth of functional nutrition products supporting digestive health, immunity, mobility, and healthy aging.

From Growing Pet Ownership to Smarter Nutrition Choices

The Philippine pet care market is evolving alongside changing consumer preferences. Euromonitor estimates that 48.3% of Filipino households owned a dog or cat in 2025—equivalent to 14.2 million pet-owning households, up from 11.9 million in 2021. At the same time, the Philippine dog food market grew by 10% in retail value in 2026, driven by rising demand for premium, functional, high-protein, and veterinarian-formulated diets.

As pet parents become more informed about nutrition, they're looking beyond attractive packaging and marketing claims to evaluate ingredients, nutritional philosophy, sourcing, and manufacturing practices. In response, retailers like Bow & Wow are curating products that meet these evolving expectations.

Before reaching store shelves, every product undergoes a rigorous evaluation based on ingredient integrity, nutritional formulation, sourcing, and manufacturing standards. Brands are expected to meet internationally recognized benchmarks, including Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and AAFCO nutritional guidelines, alongside Bow & Wow's own ingredient criteria.

This commitment is reflected in its curated portfolio of globally recognized brands, including Schesir, Open Farm, Natural Balance, and Health Extension, offering science-backed nutrition tailored to support pets at every life stage.

Why expert guidance matters

Even with better products on the shelf, finding the right nutrition isn’t always straightforward. Many owners are discovering that choosing the right diet ultimately depends on each pet's individual needs shaped by factors such as age, breed, lifestyle, and health concerns. As more pet parents take a proactive approach to wellness, many are seeking expert guidance to make informed nutrition choices.

To support this need, Bow & Wow launched its Nutrition Consultation Service at Bow & Wow Robinsons Magnolia. Exclusive to members, the complimentary service provides personalized nutrition guidance tailored to each pet’s specific needs.

“As pet parents become more proactive about their pets’ health, access to the right guidance is just as important as access to quality nutrition,” said Romy Sia, Managing Director of Bow & Wow Philippines. “Our goal is to help them better understand their pets’ needs so they can make informed choices for healthier, happier lives.”

From digestive concerns and food sensitivities to weight management, picky eating, and life-stage nutrition, the consultations help pet parents support their companions’ overall wellness. Appointments may be booked through participating Metro Manila stores, with walk-ins accommodated when slots are available.

As preventive wellness continues to shape pet care, Bow & Wow goes beyond offering premium products by helping pet parents navigate nutrition through carefully curated brands, rigorous standards, and expert guidance. By combining science-backed nutrition with education and support, Bow & Wow empowers Filipino pet parents to make confident choices for their pets’ long-term health—one bowl at a time.

CASIO Philippines expands local lineup with G-SHOCK “Bold Camo” Series

CASIO Philippines is expanding its local lineup this August with two highly anticipated releases: the G-SHOCK Bold Camo Series and the CASIO x J Balvin CRW001JB-9 Limited-Edition Ring Watch, both showcasing the brand’s continued evolution at the intersection of durability, design, and self-expression.

Launching on August 1 is the G-SHOCK Bold Camo Series, which reimagines the DW-6900, GA-700, and GA-V01 models with matte camouflage finishes accented by radiant gold dials. The collection features an exclusive camouflage pattern that subtly conceals G-SHOCK's signature “G” mark, giving each timepiece a distinctive streetwear-inspired identity while preserving the toughness and reliability that have made G-SHOCK one of the brand's most recognizable collections.

The new series offers a fresh interpretation of G-SHOCK’s signature designs by combining rugged performance with modern streetwear-inspired aesthetics. While introducing a bold new visual identity, the collection stays true to the durability and functionality that have made G-SHOCK a favorite among watch enthusiasts and everyday wearers alike.

Designed for daily wear, the Bold Camo Series pairs rugged performance with contemporary style, offering a fresh interpretation of classic G-SHOCK designs for consumers who value both durability and personal style.

The series comes with a lineup of six bold models, including the GM-6900CMG-3 (₱18,480), DW-6900CMG-3 (₱8,140), GA-700CMG-3A (₱9,610), GA-700CF-1A (₱9,060), DW-6900CF-1 (₱7,770), and GA-V01CMG-3A (₱12,570).

To celebrate the launch, customers who purchase any watch from the G-SHOCK Bold Camo Series will receive a limited-edition pouch bag, available while supplies last.

Now available online and in-stores, the CASIO x J Balvin CRW001JB-9 Limited-Edition Ring Watch (₱13,310) marks the second collaboration between CASIO and global music superstar J Balvin. Reimagining the brand's iconic digital watch as a wearable finger ring, the limited-edition piece blends fashion-forward design with everyday functionality. Finished in a textured gold-tone brick pattern with refined rhinestone accents, it retains signature CASIO features, including dual time, stopwatch, auto calendar, and LED backlight.

Blending CASIO's heritage in digital timekeeping with J Balvin's distinctive creative vision, the collaboration transforms one of the brand's most recognizable watch designs into an unexpected collectible. The release reflects the growing intersection of fashion, music, and culture while preserving the practical functionality that has long defined CASIO timepieces.

The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of CASIO and J Balvin to creativity and self-expression, bringing together music, fashion, and contemporary design in a collectible timepiece that reimagines one of the brand's most recognizable products.

“CASIO has always understood my vision when it comes to creativity and self-expression,” said J Balvin. “The first collaboration was personal and expressive, and with this release, we wanted to push even further by designing something that felt unexpected and instantly iconic. The ring watch blends music, fashion, and culture in a way that feels authentic to who I am and how I express myself.”

Although distinct in design, the two releases share a common theme of bold self-expression. The G-SHOCK Bold Camo Series refreshes some of CASIO's most enduring designs with a contemporary streetwear aesthetic, while the CASIO x J Balvin Ring Watch transforms one of the brand’s most recognizable digital timepieces into a collectible fashion accessory.

The G-SHOCK Bold Camo Series launches on August 1, 2026, while the CASIO x J Balvin CRW001JB-9 Limited-Edition Ring Watch will arrive later in August. Both collections will be available through authorized Casio retailers nationwide, G-SHOCK stores, and Casio online.

Discover the Magic of Saving as BPI Launches Jumpstart Savings Account with Disney-Themed Pop-Up Event

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)  invites families, young dreamers, and Disney fans to experience "Discover the Magic of Saving: BPI Jumpstart," a Disney-themed event happening on August 1 and 2 at the Glorietta Activity Center.

Happening for a limited two-day run, the event offers a special opportunity for parents and children to step into a world where learning about saving meets fun and wonder. Designed especially for families with children aged 7–12 (with extended eligibility up to 17), the experience brings to life how a child’s first savings account can spark lifelong financial habits.

The event will offer guests a free, first look at Jumpstart, BPI's new savings account that combines practical banking features, financial education, and engaging digital experiences. At the heart of Jumpstart are three financial education tools that make saving fun, engaging and habit-forming:

• A Disney-themed Sleeve that acts as a modern piggy bank, available in multiple designs, featuring Disney Princess heroines, Spider-Man, and Mickey Mouse and Friends.

• A BPI-proprietary Jumpstart Book that teaches savings fundamentals through stories and hands-on activities.

• A kid-led, parent-assisted Jumpstart Web App that gamifies the savings experience. Kids can earn by completing chores or tasks, answer questions that reinforce lessons from the Jumpstart Book, and engage in learning and play. The web app also allows children to track their progress as they build positive money habits.

Inspired by Disney storytelling and guided by the theme “Discover the Magic of Saving with BPI Jumpstart”, the event brings Jumpstart to life through interactive, super-sized installations and exciting activity zones. Families can step into playful environments inspired by the Disney-themed Jumpstart Sleeve, Jumpstart Book, and Jumpstart Web App. For example, designs of beloved Disney characters such as Disney princesses, Spider-Man, and Mickey & Friends will be interwoven into the event. 

The pop-up aims to show how saving can become a fun shared adventure with the family. An on-site account opening booth will also be available for families who wish to begin their child’s savings journey right at the event. There will also be event-only deals on select Disney-themed packages when you pay with your BPI Debit Card.

“As BPI continues to innovate for the next generation of Filipinos, Jumpstart reflects the bank’s commitment to helping parents build strong financial foundations for their children—one small saving habit at a time,” said Ginbee Go, Head of Consumer Banking at BPI.

Make your child’s first step into saving a memorable one. Visit the BPI Jumpstart launch event in Glorietta Activity Center on August 1 from 1PM to 9PM, and August 2 from 10AM to 9PM  and be among the first to experience a magical start to big dreams. No pre-registration is required.

The launch of Jumpstart is one of the many initiatives marking BPI's 175th anniversary, reflecting the bank's commitment to empowering Filipinos at every stage of life through meaningful partnerships, innovative financial solutions, and financial education.

For more information, visit bpi.com.ph/jumpstartevent

All 48 Teams Use FIFA AI Pro at FIFA World Cup 2026

 Lenovo and FIFA have provided unprecedented access to data and analytics for all the teams competing at the FIFA World Cup 2026™ through FIFA AI Pro, a specialized football interaction tool, which orchestrates multiple agents to scour millions of data points, analyze over 2,000 different metrics, and deliver rapid insights, delivered via detailed reports, graphs and immersive animation.

Built with Lenovo’s AI Factory, FIFA AI Pro, is a Knowledge Super Agent, built on Lenovo’s xIQ agent platform, which orchestrates multiple agents to scour millions of data points, analyze over 2,000 different metrics and deliver rapid insights, reports and animations in minutes.

Until now only the wealthiest teams could afford analysis this deep. FIFA AI Pro gives everyone the same firepower, so a smaller nation can prepare like a powerhouse.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InOaLT0jV0s

The expanded 48 team tournament has seen some remarkable results from underdogs, many of whom are competing at this level for the first time.

Cabo Verde left the FIFA World Cup undefeated in regular time, having drawn with favorites Spain in their opening match and pushed champions Argentina to the very limit in their extra-time loss in the round-of-32 tie.

Fellow debutants Curaçao tied with fancied Ecuador, Congo DR secured draws against both Colombia and Portugal, whilst England were held to a draw by Ghana and four-time winners Germany crashed out of the competition to Paraguay.

Whilst these upsets will be down to a number of factors, the access to FIFA AI Pro has allowed all 48 teams to prepare for their matches using the groundbreaking AI-powered enterprise knowledge assistant.

“The success of FIFA AI Pro at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has marked the beginning of a new era in match analysis and preparation. By automating the search, organization and interpretation of vast amounts of match data and video content, the experts can now spend less time searching for information or manually cutting footage and more time focusing on what truly matters: performance insights, tactical decision-making and helping teams gain a competitive edge”, says Arsène Wenger, FIFA Chief of Global Football Development.

Developed through ongoing collaboration with football analysts and based upon FIFA’s Football Language, FIFA AI Pro combines advanced AI infrastructure with an intuitive and accessible user experience designed to support real-world match preparation and decision-making.

This unique product enables the AI to understand synonyms, multi-language queries, and hierarchical football concepts. FIFA AI Pro goes beyond simple stats, performing direct queries, multi-metric tasks, on-the-fly calculations, and contextual reasoning with an analyst mindset with adaptive fast and deep-thinking mode.

Executive Vice President and President, Solutions & Services Group at Lenovo Ken Wong:

“At Lenovo, we are committed to our vision of Smarter AI for All and FIFA AI Pro is the embodiment of that; we are providing the same cutting-edge resources and analytical tools to all the teams who have competed at the FIFA World Cup. This has helped level the playing field at this unique tournament, where we have seen the challengers compete with the established favorites on the world’s biggest stage.”

FIFA AI Pro doesn’t just provide written answers to queries but instead provides contextualized output to include football-centric visual widgets, video clips from the FIFA World Cup itself and 3D match recreation to ensure every detail is captured and every action can be viewed from any position on the field.

Why AWKP Beshies Antoinette Jadaone and JP Habac are All-In on Eden’s ‘Cheese the One’

What happens when real-life family drama meets your favorite comfort food? Following the massive success of Eden Cheese’s vertical drama Cheese the One, acclaimed filmmakers and AWKP podcast hosts Antoinette Jadaone and JP Habac took over Basta Café for a special live episode of Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast (AWKP). The goal? To dissect the internet’s most talked-about dinner table showdowns.

But things got personal quickly: the directors used the series to look back at their own hilariously "cheesy" memories and awkward family moments. From overbearing relatives to comforting meals that saved the day, the live episode serves up a deeply relatable, laugh-out-loud conversation that will make you want to instantly tune in and stream the full episode.

Surrounded by a live audience, the duo kicked off the episode by reminiscing about their ultimate kitchen staple, Eden Cheese.

“Ako, super love ko ang cheese. Mahilig talaga ako sa cheese,” shared Direk Tonet Jadaone during the live recording. “Kahit mga ulam sa bahay na hindi kailangang lagyan ng cheese, nilalagyan ko talaga. Pero ang pinaka-bet ko na nilalagyan ko ng Eden Cheese ay yung kaldereta ko—Cheesy Caldereta!”

Proving that some combinations only get better with a modern twist, they also treated the crowd to a live preparation of their custom “I’m on a Diet Nachos for Sharing,” specially overloaded with the new and improved, creamier and milkier formula of Eden Cheese.

From 'Teleserye Tropes' to Real-Life Dinner Table Pressure

As master storytellers behind some of the country’s most beloved contemporary romance and drama films, Direk Tonet and Direk JP immediately gravitated toward Cheese the One's unique format.

 

“What’s so brilliant about Cheese the One is that Eden knows exactly how to ride the wave of the new era,” shared Direk Tonet. “Reimagining the classic, heavy Pinoy teleserye format into a 4-part vertical drama series optimized for smartphones is a major milestone. It’s quick, it’s sharp, but the emotional struggle of a young wife trying to win over a formidable mother-in-law is so real.”

 

The hosts didn't hold back as they analyzed the gripping friction between characters Leah (Netty Inojales) and her strict mother-in-law, Sylvia (Connie Cuneta). The on-screen tension quickly sparked a highly relatable discussion about the cultural weight of Filipino relationships and the deep-seated desire for familial approval.

 

“Normal naman talaga ’yun sa mga relasyon na meron kang pini-please na family member, kasi nga tayong mga Pilipino, close talaga tayo sa pamilya,” noted Direk Tonet.

 “Kultura na natin ’yun na kapag meron kang pinakilalang jowa, kailangan magustuhan siya ng buong angkan,” Direk JP injected.

 

“At kapag hindi nagustuhan, gagawin mo talaga ang lahat para magustuhan, parang ’yung naging laban ni Leah sa Cheese the One,” added Direk Tonet.

 

This relentless pressure to fit into an established household led the duo to swap notes on the subtle, real-life signs that you have finally crossed over from an "outsider" to an accepted member of the family.

 

“Alam mong tanggap ka na kapag wala ka doon [sa isang gathering], pero bigla kang hinahanap,” laughed Direk Tonet. “Ang isa pang solid sign ay kapag ina-adjust na nila ’yung ulam para sa’yo. ’Yung tipong buong household mag-a-adjust dahil lang sa gusto mong lasa.”

 

For the filmmaker duo, these micro-milestones are exactly what made the vertical series resonate so heavily online, proving that the road to a Filipino family's heart inevitably passes through the kitchen.

Making Moments 'Eden Better'

The episode beautifully highlights how Eden Cheese serves as the ultimate secret weapon for young couples navigating high-pressure family moments — and as a nostalgic comfort staple for the directors themselves.

During the live chat, the duo fondly looked back on how Eden has always been a constant in their lives. In a hilarious trip down memory lane, Direk JP reminisced about his school days when he actually made and sold homemade cheese sticks using Eden Cheese to earn extra allowance. He even chimed in about his personal comfort habit: simply slicing and snacking on blocks of Eden straight from the fridge whenever a craving hits.

Whether it's elevating your morning cheesy torta, upgrading your Sunday caldereta, or simply preparing a rich plate of Pinoy-style spaghetti, Eden Cheese's creamier, milkier formula is thoughtfully designed to turn simple, everyday dishes into memorable milestones and melt away tension at any table.

The full “Cheesy Memz” episode of Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast is now streaming on Spotify and YouTube. Audiences looking to share their own family-winning recipes can join the conversation on the Ang Walang Kwentang Podcast After-Podcast Chikahan community on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #AngWalangKwentangPodcast.

Missed the drama? Head over to Eden Cheese's official Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube pages to watch the full series, or simply visit @EdenCheesePH on Instagram to catch all episodes of Cheese The One conveniently saved under IG highlights.

EastWest Builds Smarter, More Relevant Banking for Customers

EastWest is advancing a smarter, easier and more customer-focused model of banking--using data to deliver more relevant financial options, improving everyday service experiences, and helping broaden investor access to one of the country’s landmark public offerings.

These initiatives earned EastWest three major recognitions from Asian Banking & Finance (ABF): Mid-Sized Retail Bank of the Year – Philippines and Analytics Initiative of the Year – Philippines, both for the second consecutive year at the Asian Banking and Finance Retail Banking Awards, and its first IPO Deal of the Year – Philippines award at the Asian Banking and Finance Corporate and Investment Banking Awards.

The awards demonstrate the impact of EastWest’s continued push to make banking more intuitive, accessible, and relevant to customers’ evolving financial needs. The Bank combines digital convenience with personal, advisory-led service across its store network which provides customers with more ways to transact, seek guidance, and manage their money with confidence. In 2025, digital transactions accounted for 51% of total transactions, while new digital onboarding capabilities enabled customers to open accounts and access services with less time and effort.

EastWest also completed customer journey improvements across digital onboarding, dispute resolution, complaints handling, and in-store experience. These enhancements helped drive an eight-point improvement in the Bank’s Net Promoter Score and a lower complaints ratio, reflecting stronger customer experience outcomes.

“Our progress begins with understanding what customers genuinely need and removing the friction that can get in their way,” said Ms. Ivy B. Uy, EVP and Head of Branch Banking Group. “Whether they are opening an account, exploring an investment, growing a business, or planning for the future, we want every interaction with EastWest to feel more relevant, thoughtful, and easy.”

The same customer-first discipline also shaped EastWest’s award-winning analytics initiative. As market conditions evolved and customer preferences shifted, the Bank used data-driven insights to better understand how customers manage savings, investments, and liquidity across different life stages and financial goals.

These insights gave EastWest Stores and relationship managers a stronger basis for meaningful customer conversations, enabling more personalized guidance on fixed-income investment options while supporting both immediate needs and long-term financial planning.

Beyond retail banking, EastWest was also recognized for its role in expanding access to the Philippine capital market as a Domestic Participating Underwriter for the initial public offering of Maynilad Water Services, Inc.

Completed in November 2025, the transaction became one of the largest initial public offerings in Philippine history and drew strong investor interest, reinforcing confidence in the country’s capital markets.

Through its distribution network and client relationships, EastWest helped support domestic and retail investor participation, contributing to a more diversified shareholder base. The offering also strengthened Maynilad’s capital base for long-term water and wastewater infrastructure investments while broadening its access to funding.

“These recognitions reflect different strengths of the Bank, but they are connected by one purpose: creating meaningful value for the people and institutions we serve,” Uy added. “They encourage us to keep listening, learning, and finding better ways to help our customers move forward.”

EastWest’s latest ABF wins validate its customer-focused growth strategy: using insight to make financial decisions more relevant, improving access across physical and digital channels, and connecting more Filipinos to opportunities in banking and investment.

Home for K-Pop Fandom: SM Mall of Asia Arena Brings Fans Closer to the Experience

K-pop has continued to redefine the live concert experience, introducing new ways for artists and fans to connect. From VIP privileges such as soundchecks, exclusive merchandise, and hi-bye sessions to synchronized lightsticks and fan-led activities, every element adds to an immersive experience that begins long before the artists take the stage. 

EXO brings a galaxy of lights to the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

This was evident at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, which hosted two major K-pop concerts in July, drawing thousands of fans eager to celebrate their favorite artists and connect with fellow members of their communities. 

Souvenirs and photos in the venue

Long before the show began, the areas surrounding the venue had already transformed into a gathering place for fans. On July 4 and 5, EXO-Ls, the official fandom of K-pop boy group EXO, filled the venue with coordinated outfits, banners, fan-made accessories, and other expressions of support for the group. 

Fans took a snap with the idols through individual photo walls.

Taking home a piece of the experience also became an integral part of the concert. Official merchandise quickly sold out, while fans lined up to capture souvenir photos at photo walls and other installations around the venue. 

Fans take home a piece of the concert with complementary fan banners and perks.

The experience extended beyond the performance itself. For many fans, the venue became a space where shared admiration for their favorite artists brought people together and turned a concert weekend into a celebration of community. 

Dedication rooted from admiration

The same passion was evident during the much-anticipated return of K-pop girl group ITZY on July 11. Despite the weather, fans made their way to the venue, navigating walkways and available routes to reunite with the group and fellow MIDZYs.

Their dedication reflected the deep connection between K-pop artists and their fans, where attending a concert goes beyond watching a live performance. It becomes a shared experience shaped by anticipation, preparation, and the excitement of celebrating alongside a community.

Fans display confidence in every step of the way during the ITZY 3rd World Tour <TUNNEL VISION>.

The energy throughout the concert dates highlighted how K-pop events have evolved into celebrations of music, passion, and belonging. Beyond the performances, these events give fans a space to express themselves, connect with people who share their interests, and create lasting memories.

At the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the K-pop concert experience begins before the first song and continues long after the final encore, bringing artists and fans together through moments worth remembering.

BPI partners with PCAF to strengthen decarbonization priorities

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has joined the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), a global initiative that enables financial institutions to measure and disclose greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their financing and investment activities.

By becoming a PCAF signatory, BPI strengthens its commitment to supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and advancing climate action through science-based and globally recognized methodologies.

PCAF is the leading global partnership for financial institutions seeking to assess and disclose financed emissions. Its methodology has become the most widely adopted standard for carbon accounting across the banking and financial services industry, enabling institutions to measure emissions linked to their lending and investment portfolios in a transparent and comparable manner.

“BPI recognizes that effective climate action begins with measuring impact,” said Eric Luchangco, BPI Chief Finance Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer. “Joining PCAF marks an important step in our sustainability journey as it provides us with a globally accepted framework for understanding our financed emissions and identifying opportunities to support our clients’ decarbonization efforts.”

As one of the country’s leading financial institutions, BPI views carbon accounting as a critical foundation for climate mitigation. Establishing a quantitative baseline for financed emissions allows the Bank to better understand the carbon footprint of its portfolio and develop more targeted strategies to support the transition of carbon-intensive sectors toward lower-emission operations.

The partnership complements BPI’s broader sustainability agenda, including its Decarbonization Roadmap, which outlines the Bank’s commitment to reducing emissions from its own operations through energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and other climate-related initiatives.

Beyond strengthening transparency and accountability, PCAF membership enables BPI to align its carbon accounting practices with those of leading global financial institutions. This comparability supports more informed decision-making and enhances the Bank’s ability to evaluate and finance low-carbon technologies and climate solutions.

With a clearer understanding of financed emissions across priority sectors, BPI aims to further refine its sustainable finance strategy and support clients in identifying practical pathways toward decarbonization.

The announcement forms part of BPI’s observance of its Sustainability Awareness Month last June 2026, an annual initiative that highlights the Bank’s efforts to create long-term value through financial inclusion, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development. Through partnerships such as PCAF, BPI continues to strengthen its role in helping drive the country’s transition toward a more sustainable future. 

Philippine Seven Corporation Posts Record Sales in 2025, Opens a New Chapter Under President Richard Lee

Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), the exclusive licensor of 7-Eleven in the Philippines, closed 2025 with record system-wide sales and continued nationwide growth, in a year that marked a new chapter for its leadership. At its Annual Stockholders' Meeting, the Company reported another year of solid financial performance, a wider store network, and accelerated digital transformation, reinforcing its position as the country's leading convenience store chain and laying a strong foundation for its next phase of sustainable growth.

Another Year of Strong Financial Performance

PSC delivered another year of strong results in 2025. System-wide sales grew to a record   Php 99.4 billion, up 6.4% from Php 93.5 billion in 2024, driven by higher customer traffic, larger basket sizes, and continued store expansion. Revenues rose 7.2% to Php 95.1 billion from Php 88.7 billion the year before.

Net income remained strong at Php 3.6 billion, demonstrating the resilience of the business despite a more challenging consumer and operating environment. The Company also strengthened its balance sheet, growing total assets by 10.5% to Php 47.8 billion and stockholders' equity by 23% to Php 11.2 billion. Return on equity improved by 41 basis points to a record 35.61%, with debt-to-equity properly managed at 3.28x, giving PSC the flexibility to fund future investments and continued expansion.

"We delivered another solid year in a demanding environment," said Richard Lee, President of Philippine Seven Corporation. "Our priority was continuity, keeping the momentum going while strengthening the business for what comes next. We stayed disciplined in how we grow and kept investing in the capabilities that serve our customers and shareholders over the long term."

A New Chapter Under New Leadership

2025 was a year of transition and continuity for PSC. In July 2025, Mr. Richard Lee assumed the Presidency of the Company, while Mr. Jose Victor Paterno moved into the role of Chairman of the Board. The handover marked a new chapter for PSC while preserving the continuity of its long-term growth strategy, with the Company staying focused on sustainable expansion, operational excellence, and innovation, and keeping the creation of long-term shareholder value at the center of every decision.

Highlighting the company's strategic direction, Philippine Seven Corporation Board Chairman Jose Victor Paterno noted that the past year represented a pivotal transition period.

"I am confident in the leadership now guiding the Company day to day," Paterno said. "Richard brings a deep understanding of our operations and a disciplined approach to growth. As the Board, our focus remains on sustaining that momentum and creating lasting value for our shareholders and the communities we serve."

Strengthened Market Leadership Through Expansion

PSC continued to grow its nationwide 7-Eleven network in 2025, ending the year with 4,491 stores from 4,130 the previous year, an addition of 423 new stores that brought everyday convenience closer to more Filipino communities. Of the total network, 53.42% are company-owned and 46.58% are franchised. The Company expanded its footprint in key growth markets and reinforced its leadership in the Philippine convenience retail sector, while enhancing store formats and the overall customer experience to keep pace with evolving consumer needs. Strong performance from fresh food and PSC's proprietary foodservice brands further supported growth across the network.

Investing for the Future

PSC continued to invest in the capabilities that will power its next phase of growth, directing resources into store modernization, technology, supply chain, and operational efficiency. The Company accelerated its digital transformation to make everyday shopping more convenient for customers and its operations more responsive.

A key milestone was the expansion of cashless payment acceptance across the network. Cashless payment acceptance was successfully rolled out to more than 1,000 stores by the end of 2025, and has since built on that momentum, expanding to cover over 4,000 stores by the end of May 2026. Customers can now pay using credit cards, debit cards, QR Ph, e-wallets, and other cashless methods, making transactions faster and more convenient. These investments position the business for long-term, sustainable growth built on continued innovation.

"We enter the next chapter with confidence," Lee added. "Our focus now is on execution, opening the right stores, deepening how we serve customers, and scaling the digital and payment capabilities we built this year. That is how we keep 7-Eleven the most convenient choice for Filipinos wherever they are."