That end-of-year bonus is almost here, and it is tempting to spend it all immediately on holiday trips, family gifts, or that online shopping cart you’ve been building all year. Before you hit "checkout," take a moment to consider gifting yourself something far more valuable: a financial safety net.

Setting up an emergency fund might not sound as thrilling as unboxing a new gadget, but according to Metrobank’s financial education initiative, Earnest, having one is the ultimate form of self-care. It isn't a slush fund for flash sales or weekend getaways—it is money set aside strictly for life’s unexpected surprises.

Here is how you can build yours without missing out on the holiday fun:

• Pace Your Holiday Spending: Holiday reunions and gift exchanges add up fast. Decide on your festive budget early, and commit a percentage of your 13th-month pay to your savings first. Even a modest start puts you ahead.

• Base It on Your Real Lifestyle: Your savings target should reflect your actual monthly essentials—like rent, transport, utilities, and groceries. If you live with your parents, factor in your share of household bills. Aim for a manageable initial goal rather than stressing over reaching a full year's worth of expenses overnight.

• Distinguish Wants from Real Emergencies: A 50% discount on shoes is exciting, but it isn't an emergency. Keep your emergency cash reserved exclusively for urgent, unavoidable situations like medical needs or unexpected job transitions.

• Pay Yourself First: Don't wait to save whatever is left over at the end of the month. Treat your emergency fund like a non-negotiable bill and set your contribution aside as soon as your paycheck hits.

• Keep It Separate from Your Daily Cash: Keeping all your money in one primary account makes it far too easy to spend. Opening a dedicated account—like a Metrobank eSavings account—helps draw a clear line between your spending money and your emergency reserve.

Put your future self on your holiday gift list

Enjoy the gifts and gatherings during the holidays, but give your future self a place on your list. Before your next holiday checkout, start setting aside some funds for unexpected needs in the future.

Ready to begin? Start building your emergency fund with Metrobank eSavings. Download the Metrobank app and prepare 1 valid ID then you can start your savings journey in minutes.*

*For now, Metrobank eSavings is available for new depositors only.

Mag-upgrade sa pinakabag-ong iPhone 18 uban ang flexible nga financing options ug kaya kaayo nga monthly payments sa Home Credit

Samtang nag-andam ang mga Pilipino sa pag-abot sa pinakabag-ong henerasyon sa iPhone, ang Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), ang nangunang consumer finance company sa nasod, naghatag sa mga kustomer og mas daghang paagi aron maplanohan ang ilang pag-upgrade pinaagi sa flexible nga financing options para sa bag-ong iPhone 18 Pro ug iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Sugod niadtong Oktubre 2, ang mga kustomer mahimong mag-pre-order sa pinakabag-ong mga modelo sa iPhone pinaagi sa mga Apple Authorized Reseller ug partner stores sa tibuok nasod gamit ang Home Credit financing options. Masinati ang eye-opening nga kontrol ug next-gen performance sa presyo nga as low as ₱137 kada adlaw, nga adunay as low as 0% interest ug 0% down payment hangtod sa 24 ka bulan, ubos sa mga terms ug customer eligibility.

Tungod sa mas ubos nga upfront costs ug mas taas nga payment terms, naghatag ang Home Credit og mas dako nga flexibility sa mga kustomer aron makaigo ang pagpalit og premium nga smartphone sa ilang budget, nga makapagaan sa pagdumala sa monthly expenses samtang nag-upgrade sa pinakabag-ong teknolohiya.

“Ang usa ka bag-ong iPhone launch usa ka kanunayng gipangandoy nga higayon alang sa mga konsumidor nga Pilipino. Apan para sa kadaghanan, ang pag-upgrade aduna usab gidala nga importanteng konsiderasyon kon unsaon pagpahiangay ang pagpalit sa ilang monthly budget,” matod pa ni Puneet Suneja, Chief Sales Officer sa Home Credit Philippines.

“Pinaagi sa Home Credit, among gihimong mas sayon kini uban ang tinawag ug flexible nga financing options, nga nagtabang sa mga kustomer nga makatagamtam sa pinakabag-ong teknolohiya samtang nagpili og payment plan nga angay sa ilang budget ug lifestyle,” dugang pa niya.

Pinaagi sa flexible installment terms, mahimong mabahin sa mga kustomer ang bayronon sa ilang iPhone upgrade sa dugay nga panahon samtang nagpili og payment arrangement nga mas haom sa ilang budget ug lifestyle.

Ang iPhone 18 Pro ug iPhone 18 Pro Max mahimong ma-pre-order sugod Oktubre 2, sa alas 12:01 sa kadlawon, ug mahimong available na sa tibuok nasod sugod Oktubre 16, sa alas 12:01 sa kadlawon. Ang mga kustomer mahimong mobisita sa mga Apple Authorized Reseller ug Home Credit partner stores sa tibuok nasod aron tan-awon ang mga available nga offers ug financing options.

Bisitaha ang www.homecredit.ph/disclosures alang sa dugang impormasyon. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-242751 Series of 2026.

Alang sa pinakabag-ong updates gikan sa Home Credit Philippines, bisitaha ang opisyal nga website niini sa corporate.homecredit.ph o i-follow ang opisyal nga Facebook, Instagram, ug TikTok accounts niini. Ang mga kustomer mahimo usab nga modownload sa Home Credit App nga available sa Google Play, App Store, ug HUAWEI App Gallery aron ma-pre-approve.

Ang Home Credit Philippines usa ka financing company nga duna'y lisensya ug gi-supervise sa Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ug sa Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

If you think capsule accommodations are strictly about cramped quarters, basic bunk beds, and compromising on comfort just to save a few bucks, think again. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, is completely redefining the budget-travel experience with its newest lodging concept: Youth Pods on the Bay.

Whether you are a solo traveler, a digital nomad on the move, or planning an unforgettable getaway with your barkada, this brand-new offering proves that you don't have to sacrifice 5-star amenities to enjoy smart, affordable travel.

What are Youth Pods on the Bay?

An ordinary capsule stay in Cebu might get you four plain walls and a mattress for around $30 a night. But why settle for ordinary when you can step into paradise?

Youth Pods on the Bay bridges the gap between high-end resort living and efficient capsule accommodations. Located right inside the sprawling grounds of Plantation Bay, this feature allows guests to enjoy top-tier pod quarters while getting full access to the resort’s world-class facilities.

High-Tech Comfort Meets Practical Design

The property currently features 20 individual pod units, each meticulously designed to deliver privacy, convenience, and modern functionality. Forget dark or claustrophobic spaces—these pods are bright, well-ventilated, and packed with thoughtful details:

• Personal Entertainment & Vanity: Each pod includes its own personal TV and a lighted vanity mirror.

• Work & Power Readiness: Built-in charging outlets and a fold-out mini table make catching up on work or charging gear effortless.

• Climate & Lighting Control: Customize your environment with strong air-conditioning and adjustable ambient lighting.

• Storage & Safety: Secure private lockers keep your luggage, camera gear, and personal belongings safe.

• Complimentary Amenities: Every stay includes fresh toiletries and linen essentials.

Beyond the individual pods, guests share a welcoming common lounge area featuring complimentary free-flowing coffee and drinking water—the perfect spot to gather, plan your day, or catch up with fellow travelers.

The 5-Star Advantage: Resort Access Included

The true highlight of staying at Youth Pods on the Bay is what lies right outside your pod door. Booking a pod doesn't just get you a bed—it unlocks full access to Plantation Bay’s iconic 5-star facilities: (Additional payment per featured amenities/activities)

1. Massive Freshwater & Saltwater Lagoons: Swim, paddleboard, or lounge beside one of the largest craft-made waterways in the region.

2. Mogambo Springs Spa: Treat yourself to relaxation at a world-class, Tokugawa-esque luxury spa setting.

3. Four World-Class Dining Options: Satisfy every craving without leaving the resort—from coastal seafood at Fiji to international feasts and local culinary favorites.

4. Resort Activities: Enjoy archery, wall climbing, kayaking, and scenic bike rides across the lush property grounds.

Rates & Booking Information

High-end resort living is now within reach for every traveler:

• Standard Rate: ₱4,500 per night

• Multi-Night Special: ₱3,500 per night when you book 2 nights or more

Plan Your Stay

Don't spend your journey through Cebu doing the ordinary. Upgrade your itinerary, pack your bags, and experience the ultimate blend of comfort, community, and 5-star luxury.

• Location: Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines

• Ideal For: Solo travelers, digital nomads, and barkada group trips

Jollibee and DreamWorks Animation are teaming up for a global partnership tied to the worldwide theatrical release of Forgotten Island, a new original animated feature that celebrates friendship, family, and Filipino-inspired storytelling.

The collaboration brings together DreamWorks, the studio behind globally recognized films including Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, and The Wild Robot, and Jollibee, the beloved Filipino restaurant brand that makes your favorite Chickenoy, Yumburger, Jolly Spaghetti and Burger Steak.

The partnership also brings together shared themes of friendship and togetherness. Forgotten Island draws inspiration from Filipino mythology and stories passed down through Filipino families, while Jollibee has long brought people together through shared meals and everyday moments of joy. In the Philippines, the collaboration offers fans an opportunity to experience the film’s themes and Filipino cultural elements through Jollibee.

At the heart of Forgotten Island, from the filmmakers of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, are lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by Grammy and Academy Award winner H.E.R. and Filipino actress Liza Soberano. The story follows the two friends as they discover a mysterious portal leading to Nakali, a magical island inhabited by mythical creatures inspired by stories from their Filipino families.

Their adventure takes a turn when they discover that returning home comes at the cost of losing their memories of each other. Joined by a group of allies, Jo and Raissa must navigate the challenges of Nakali while finding a way to preserve their friendship. 

The film features an international voice cast that includes Dave Franco, Lea Salonga, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, and Ronny Chieng, bringing together global talent and Filipino voices in a story rooted in Filipino-inspired mythology. 

“At Jollibee, we've always believed that some of life's best memories are made around the dining table. Forgotten Island is a beautiful and moving story that reminds us of the power and importance of friendship, something that has always been at the heart of our brand,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Through this partnership with DreamWorks, we're excited to give Filipinos another meaningful way to celebrate friendship, create lasting memories, and share the joy of eating together.” 

To bring the partnership closer to Filipino fans, Jollibee Philippines will introduce the limited-time Forgotten Island Adventure Bundle launching September 16 in Metro Manila and September 23 in all other regions, available until October 31 at participating stores nationwide.

The Adventure Bundle includes Jollibee's 1-pc. Chickenjoy with rice and Pineapple Quencher, the new Peach Mango Pie à la Mode with Vanilla Soft Serve, Jollibee's Peach Mango Pie with Chocolate Sauce, and an exclusive Forgotten Island Friendship Charm Bracelet. The bundle is priced at ₱389.

Inspired by the film, the exclusive Friendship Charm Bracelet serves as a collectible that fans can take home as a memento of the partnership and the friendships celebrated in Forgotten Island.

The Forgotten Island Adventure Bundle will be available through dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru, while supplies last.

Forgotten Island, distributed by Universal Pictures, opens in Philippine cinemas on September 23, 2026.

 CEBU CITY, Philippines — What happens when authentic Visayan flavor meets high-powered digital infrastructure? A massive leap forward for the local food scene.

In a vibrant gathering of culinary minds, merchants and food entrepreneurs from across Central, Eastern, and Western Visayas convened in Cebu City for foodpanda’s CRAVE Partner Summit & Awards 2026. The central theme? Redefining how regional food businesses scale beyond their physical storefronts, optimize daily operations, and conquer new territories across provincial lines.

Far more than a standard industry meetup, the summit served as a springboard for homegrown restaurant owners looking to future-proof their operations. By unlocking foodpanda's suite of digital solutions—ranging from hyper-targeted marketing tools to real-time customer analytics and streamlined delivery networks—merchants are now equipped to capture growing demand from both neighborhood regulars and flocking tourists.

"Our mission is to actively power the growth of our merchant partners," shared Patricia Jacinto, Director for Growth and Marketing at foodpanda Philippines. "When Visayan restaurants combine their culinary expertise with foodpanda’s ecosystem and insights, they can respond faster to market shifts, drive higher order volumes, and sustainably scale their businesses beyond physical storefronts."

With local flavor leading the charge and technology paving the way, the future of Visayan dining is looking bigger, bolder, and better connected than ever.

Spotlight on the Best: Celebrating the Visayas’ Culinary Champions at CRAVE 2026

Great food builds a reputation, but smart technology creates a movement. At foodpanda’s CRAVE Partner Summit & Awards 2026, the spotlight shone brightly on the standout Visayan merchants who turned digital tools into impressive business milestones, expanding their reach and setting new benchmarks for regional growth.

Here are the standout brands that took home top honors across five major categories:

Pau-Pau’s Top of Table Recognizing market leaders and undisputed sales powerhouses.

• Alberto’s Pizza

• Sal’s Bar and Restaurant

• Dimsum Break

• Ribshack

• PorkHub

Pau-Pau’s Momentum Master Honoring brands that achieved massive year-on-year growth during the first half of 2026.

• Sisigan Sa Doctors

• Ma. Lina Catering Services

• The Original AA BBQ

• Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries

• Tiktilaok

Pau-Pau’s Brand Spotlight Celebrating creative marketing initiatives and strong platform synergy.

• Felisa’s Cafe & Restaurant

• Mom Rose

• Cebu’s Tasty Lechon

• Cribs

• Ram’s Pizza, Pasta and Milktea

• Metro Retail Supermarket

Operational Excellence Award Awarded to merchants demonstrating rock-solid service reliability, fast fulfillment, and flawless execution.

• Hybrid Coffee

• Somac Korean Restaurant

• Got Tea? Crafted Milk Tea

• Popcha Milktea Station

• Gabby’s Bistro

• Rose Pharmacy

People’s Palate Award Voted by the crowd—honoring customer favorites with high ratings and endless repeat orders.

• Hukad Everyday Filipino

• SAJ HUT

• Mango Magic

• Dapogan

• Wingers Unlimited

Access the tools and advice you need right where you are

Power Mac Center expands its presence in Cebu to give customers wider access to Apple products and find technology that fits their needs.

●       Score great deals on Apple devices and accessories by visiting the new Power Mac Center SM City Consolacion.

●       Purchases made at Power Mac Center SM City Consolacion earn customers 1 Infinite rewards points they can redeem for devices, accessories, services, and other perks.

 

Cebuanos have a new tech destination as premier Apple partner Power Mac Center (PMC) recently opened a store at SM City Consolacion.

Located at the 2^nd Level Cyberzone, the new store offers the latest Apple devices and accessories and other digital lifestyle essentials designed to support professionals, learners, creators, and entrepreneurs, as well as the demands of everyday life.

“Technology has become less about having a device for a particular task and more about having tools that can keep up with the many things we do in a day. Consumers want flexibility, convenience, and products that fit naturally into their lifestyles. That’s what we aim to make possible through our stores and our growing presence, not only in Cebu but nationwide,” said PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.

Best deals on Apple devices and accessories

Stepping into a Power Mac Center store is always an exciting experience with lots of new products to discover and try out. The new store at SM City Consolacion is offering great deals for a limited time only, including:

●       Up to P35,000 off on select MacBook Pro models

●       Up to P21,000 off on select iPhone models

●       Up to P19,500 off on select iPad models

●       Up to P13,000 off on select Apple Watch models

●       Up to P2,000 of on select AirPods models

Terms and conditions apply. Offers valid until September 20, 2026 only.

Keep enjoying your 1 Infinite loyalty rewards

Cebuano members of 1 Infinite, Power Mac Center’s premium loyalty program, can continue earning points from their purchases or redeeming them at Power Mac Center SM City Consolacion. Purchases made in the Web Store <powermaccenter.com> also qualify as long as you’re logged in.

Non-members can simply download the 1 Infinite app in the App Store <http://bit.ly/4hljdr2> or Google Play <https://bit.ly/42ovsyK> and sign up to enjoy a wealth of rewards and exclusive perks such as bigger discounts and access to special events.

Points may be redeemed for devices, accessories, select services and training courses, and other fees at a regular conversion of 1 point = P1, or as much as P3 on special promotion days. Members may also get up to 50% discount on Apple training courses and other exclusive perks from Basecamp and Mobile Care, Power Mac Center’s official training and service arms. Full mechanics are here <powermaccenter.com/pages/1-infinite>. 

Where to buy Apple devices in Cebu

Power Mac Center SM City Consolacion is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Mondays to Sundays. Other PMC stores in Cebu are in Robinsons Galleria Cebu, SM J Mall, and SM Seaside City Cebu.

Always be updated on the biggest announcements and other promotions by following the OFFICIAL Power Mac Center accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.

iPhone Duo features a dual-display architecture crafted with a grade 5 titanium enclosure, a precision multi-component hinge, and Ceramic Shield protection.

• Inner Display: A 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR screen with a nano-texture matte finish that minimizes glare and reduces crease visibility. It provides an expansive canvas for gaming, media, and Split View multitasking.

• Outer Display: A 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR screen designed for quick, one-handed tasks, offering 90 percent of the usable screen area found on standard Pro models.

• Display Technologies: Both screens feature ProMotion technology, Always On capabilities, up to 3000 nits of peak outdoor brightness, and upcoming support for Apple Pencil (USB-C).

Pro Performance and Thermal Architecture

Under the hood, iPhone Duo is powered by the A20 Pro chip, built on a 2-nanometer process. It features a 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU, and a Dual 16-core Neural Engine designed to run on-device AI models efficiently.

To maintain sustained performance, the device incorporates a custom vapor chamber directly connected to the chip package. A dual-battery design delivers optimized energy distribution, offering up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner screen and up to 44 hours on the outer display.

Reimagined iOS 27 and Camera Systems

iPhone Duo runs on iOS 27, which adapts system controls, app layouts, and the Dynamic Island to the side margins to maximize viewing space.

• Advanced Camera Setup: Equipped with a 48MP Fusion Main camera (supporting 4K120 fps Dolby Vision recording) and a 48MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera.

• Foldable Camera Features: The dual-screen design enables features like Duo Preview (allowing subjects to see themselves on the outer screen while being photographed), Smart Take auto-captures, and Kid Cue animations.

• Under-Display Camera: A hidden FaceTime camera beneath the inner display keeps video calls hands-free when the device is propped up on a surface.

Availability

Pre-orders for iPhone Duo begin on Friday, October 16, with official availability starting Friday, October 23. It will be offered in two finishes: Star White and Night Sky.