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Ring in 2026 with this topnotch tech package, which has everything you need to start your smart home journey

With way more modern and technologically advanced threats these days, smart home devices are a must when building a safer, more secure, and more convenient household. These devices not only support a more connected home experience, but also provide added reassurance for you and your family’s well-being.

The new year offers an opportunity to reassess your home technology, especially if you’re considering to level up to a smart home setup. With the Internet of Things (IoT) at the forefront of smart living solutions, upgrading your space proves to be key in keeping your household more connected and protected than ever before.

Further reinforcing the importance of added protection among Filipino families as they embrace a smarter lifestyle, PLDT Home Life launches the Smart Home Starter Kit – security, safety, and automation devices in one powerful but affordable package.

Think of the Smart Home Starter Kit as the backbone of your home, covering all the essentials in one bundle: smart cameras for real-time check-ins, smart plugs to automate and manage home appliances, and sensors to keep tabs on any activity and movement.

PLDT Home Life has especially partnered with trusted electronics brand TP-Link, whose Tapo line of smart home devices offers the most reliable security and automation options. Here are the devices in the Smart Home Starter Kit:

Tapo H100 Smart Hub with Chime: The command center of the smart home setup, the hub keeps all your smart devices connected in one seamless and uninterrupted wireless network. It coordinates all functions – including your smart home app and door/window/climate sensors, sounding alarms and chimes, and more.

Tapo C110 Indoor Camera: This camera, which connects to your devices including your smartphone, is perfect for those starting a family. With it, you can keep an eye on your home with 2K footage and AI-enabled detection for human motion and sound.

Tapo C120 Indoor/Outdoor Camera: With crystal-clear 2K QHD video footage and crisp two-way audio, the outdoor camera works both indoors and outdoors with remarkable recording quality. It’s especially intended for those in bigger homes with AI-enabled detection for pets, vehicles, and human motion and sound.

Tapo T310 Temperature and Humidity Sensor: In addition to accurately monitoring your home's climate from anywhere, this sensor helps optimize comfort, prevent home damage from mold during high humid months, improve energy efficiency, and prevent fire risk during hot summer months.

These devices work seamlessly together to enable customizable automation, monitoring, and security – delivering a true smart home experience for first-time users. Key features include integrated sound and camera alarms with voice alerts, automated appliance control based on schedules or environmental conditions, and real-time remote notifications even when homeowners are away.

The PLDT Home Life Smart Home Starter Kit is available for only P4,836. It’s exclusive to existing PLDT Home Fiber subscribers and can be purchased one time via your internet subscription.

Safer, more secure homes for all Filipinos

PLDT Home offers fiber-fast, reliable internet speeds to power even the most advanced and widest-reaching IoT devices. Over time, the telco brand has partnered with various international electronics brands such as TP-Link, Tapo, and Eufy – mixing connectivity and security to further build Filipino families a better, more holistic home. All these brands and more are now officially available via PLDT Home Life.

PLDT Home Life features 100% authentic smart home devices, sourced directly from official partners. Such finds are picked from their user-friendly interfaces, making for an easy plug and play experience for all ages at home.

“Last year saw a decrease in both property crime and cybercrime in the Philippines, according to the latest data from the Philippine National Police. Yet, it’s more important ever to deter further incidents of theft and break-ins by empowering security in Filipino homes,” said PLDT Home Senior Vice President and Head for Consumer Business John Y. Palanca. “We at PLDT Home Life believe the most effective approach is to proceed with upgrading to a smart home ecosystem that incorporates the latest smart and automated home security solutions.”

Palanca added, “This is why we have introduced the PLDT Home Life Smart Home Starter Kit – to make smart home adoption more accessible for Filipino households through seamless wireless control and automation. The kit is organized to help increase safety and security especially for your children, pets, and property while improving energy efficiency for a smarter, more elevated quality of living.”

“We at PLDT Home Life remain committed to expanding our brand partnerships in pursuit of our shared objective to give Filipino families greater peace of mind.”

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How foodpanda’s pandapro makes January the smartest time to go PRO

The new year often starts with good intentions: setting savings goals, cutting back on expenses, and recovering from holiday spending. But as routines pick up again, daily demands do not slow down. Convenience remains essential, even as budgets feel tighter.

From January 22 to 31, Pro Weeks makes a timely return, giving pandapro subscribers access to exclusive, limited-time deals on food delivery, groceries, and pick-up orders. It reinforces that saving does not have to mean sacrificing convenience—especially as many continue to manage post-holiday expenses.

Better Value in Everyday Orders

Pro Weeks makes regular food orders more rewarding through Pro-exclusive savings. pandapro subscribers can enjoy up to 50% off on select restaurants, including familiar favorites such as KFC, Shakey’s Pizza, CoCo Fresh Tea and Juice, and Gong Cha—turning daily meals, coffee breaks, and quick cravings into more thoughtful, budget-friendly choices.

For added flexibility, pick-up orders also come with extra value. pandapro subscribers can enjoy 10% off pick-up orders using the PICKUP code at select vendors, offering a cost-efficient option for those who prefer to collect their orders themselves.

Stocked, Sorted, and Still on Budget

Pro Weeks extends savings beyond meals and into household essentials. pandapro subscribers can get up to 30% off on pandamart, with discounts on trusted brands such as Nestlé, Unilever, and P&G. Subscribers can also enjoy ₱200 off on Puregold orders, valid with varying minimum spends. Take the hassle out of restocking your pantry and skip the supermarket trip entirely. Big savings, zero effort!

Beyond upfront discounts, cashback vouchers like PROCB (5% cashback on select food and grocery orders) and PROGROCER (10% cashback on pandamart and select supermarkets) add extra value—helping budgets go further over time.

More Reasons to Stay Pro

foodpanda gives back to its pandapro subscribers through exclusive rewards that add value across food delivery, groceries, pick-up, dine-in, and more. During Pro Weeks, users can enjoy special subscription offers, including 30% off a 12-month pandapro plan with GOPRONA, alongside a limited-time 70% discount through PROWKND for select users on weekends.

To make the most of the short run, Pro subscribers can also use the PROWEEK voucher, which gives ₱200 off on food and grocery orders with varying minimum spends from January 26-31.

As the year begins and spending habits come back into focus, saving works best when it fits naturally into everyday life. With pandapro, convenience and value go hand in hand—turning good intentions at the start of the year into something more sustainable. With Pro Weeks available for a limited time, this window offers a clear opportunity to secure Pro-only savings while they last.

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The year of the Fire Horse has galloped in, and Manila Marriott Hotel—fresh off its 2025 winning streak—is greeting it with open arms and a world-class table. In a vibrant cross-country reunion dubbed “See you, Wonderful,” the Michelin-recognized hotel teamed up with Cebu Pacific to host a New Year media luncheon that brought together the best storytellers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Marriott International – Philippines Area General Manager Bruce Winton and Charles Lim, president of SELRAHCO the PR arm of Cebu Pacific for Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, post for posterity with friends from the media from Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao during the special lunch held at the Garden Rooms of Manila Marriott Hotel in cooperation with Cebu Pacific Air dubbed, “See you, Wonderful: The Philippine Media New Year Media Lunch Get-together”. Also in photo are Manila Marriott Hotel Director of Marketing Communications Archie Nicasio, Manila Marriott Brand Management and Digital Design Manager Jaron Nepomuceno and Sheraton Manila Hotel Digital and Social Media Strategist Jolan Geyrozaga.

Inside the elegant Garden Rooms of Newport World Resorts, the message was clear: 2026 isn't just a new year; it’s an evolution of Marriott’s signature "Wonderful Hospitality. Always."

See Wonderful: The Ultimate Gateway

For the "Bleisure" (business + leisure) traveler, location is the ultimate luxury. Perched directly across from NAIA at Newport World Resorts, Manila Marriott serves as the Philippines’ premier front door. It’s more than a hotel; it’s the perfect strategic sanctuary for international jetsetters and domestic explorers to recharge before diving into their next Philippine adventure.

Michelin Selected restaurant, Cru Steakhouse

Michelin Selected authentic Cantonese restaurant, Man Ho

Michelin Selected restaurant, Cru Steakhouse

Mondays can be delightful with the Marked-Down Buffet lunch or dinner at Marriott Café for only P1,800 net.

Taste Wonderful: A Michelin-Selected Journey

Marriott’s culinary reputation isn't just talk—it’s backed by the Michelin Guide. Whether you’re chasing a craving or celebrating a milestone, the hotel’s award-winning culinary team delivers:

The Monday Reset: Kickstart the week with the Marked-Down Buffet at Marriott Café for a curated feast at just P1,800 net.
The Romantic Standard: At Cru Steakhouse, romance is an everyday affair with rain-shower oysters and premium cuts paired with Manila Marriott’s private wine labels.
Family Traditions: Man Ho remains the gold standard for authentic Cantonese lauriats, turning every family reunion into a meaningful celebration of wins, both big and small.

Feel Wonderful: The Art of the Self-Care Ally

True fulfillment requires a balance of hustle and healing. Manila Marriott positions itself as a partner to the modern high-achiever—the person who hits their professional targets without sacrificing their well-being. From a sunrise lap in the pool to a transformative session at Quan Spa, the hotel provides a multisensory haven where business goals and self-care finally live in harmony.

A perfect way to end a tiring day for fulfillment seekers with a treatment at Quan Spa

Experience the "Wonderful" firsthand. To book your stay or reserve a table, call (632) 8988 9999 or visit www.manilamarriott.com. For the latest updates, follow the journey on Facebook and Instagram @manilamarriott.

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Managing money in Cebu shouldn't feel like a side quest. Between juggling five different apps, racing against 3:00 PM bank cutoffs, and enduring those legendary payday queues, Cebuanos have long mastered the art of "making it work"—but you shouldn't have to.

Coins.ph is officially landing in the Queen City of the South to flip the script. As the country’s pioneer in regulated digital assets and a powerhouse mobile wallet, we’re consolidating your financial life into a single, high-speed lane. We’ve fused everyday essentials like QR payments and bills with the forward-thinking world of digital assets, creating a platform that moves at the speed of Cebuano ambition. This isn't just another banking app; it’s finance redesigned for the way you actually live, work, and hustle.

Coins.ph joined the Sinulog Festivities and stationed experienced experience areas at Plaza Independencia and Fuente Osmena Circle.

Supporting Cebu’s Digital Shift
“Cebu has always had its own rhythm—fast, resilient, and deeply entrepreneurial,” says Amira Alawi, Global Marketing Director at Coins.ph.
“There’s something special about how Cebuanos approach work and daily life—practical, resourceful, and always forward-looking. As the city continues to become more digital, it’s important that everyday tools keep pace with how people actually live. Being in Cebu is about supporting that shift and helping more people take part in the digital economy with confidence.”

Cashless Freedom with QRPh
Coins.ph turns your smartphone into a universal payment device accepted nationwide.

Instant Payments, Everywhere – Pay in restaurants, sari-sari stores, groceries, and markets using the national QRPh standard, without cash or juggling multiple apps.
Lifestyle-Ready Coverage – From travel and gadgets to fashion and essentials, the Coins.ph wallet works across the country’s broadest QRPh acceptance network.
More than 600,000+ Merchants Nationwide – A growing ecosystem that makes cashless the default experience for Cebuanos and Filipinos everywhere.

Pay Anywhere, Anytime
Behind the simplicity of the app is the bigger goal to make money move faster, easier, and more reliably. Coins.ph isn’t just adding features but it is building the infrastructure that makes everyday financial life seamless. The goal is for the technology to disappear into the background so people simply experience financial tools that feel as intuitive as the apps they already use every day.

Settle Bills in Seconds
Say goodbye to long queues and complicated payment processes. With the Coins.ph app, you can instantly settle over 120 different types of bills securely and swiftly.

Comprehensive Coverage: Effortlessly pay Essential Utilities (power and water), Government and Mandatory Fees, Financial Obligations (loans, credit cards, insurance), and Education (tuition fees).
Instant Confirmation: Payments are processed in seconds, providing instant confirmation and protecting you from late penalties.

Discover the power and convenience of Coins.ph, your mobile wallet for easy payments and purchases. Visit www.coins.ph or download the app today from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store or check out our Tiktok Video: https://www.tiktok.com/@coinsph_official/video/7598517205583629585

About Coins.ph
Coins.ph is an all-in-one financial app for millions, seamlessly fusing traditional finance with digital assets. Established in 2014, it stands as the Philippines' premier cryptocurrency exchange. Licensed by the BSP as both a virtual asset marketplace and a mobile wallet, the platform empowers users to trade, execute payments, and utilize crypto remittance for sending and receiving funds quickly and affordably, all in one secure place.

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When January arrives, Cebu comes alive with movement, music, and unmistakable Sinulog energy. Between the parades, preparations, and everyday routines, food remains a subtle thread that brings people together, with foodpanda helping locals reconnect with familiar flavors as the festivities draw near.

To help diners in Cebu enjoy the season with ease, foodpanda is offering Sinulog-exclusive deals from January 15 to 21, with free delivery and 50% off for new users via NEWPANDA, and 30% off for Pro users using SINULOGPRO.

Celebrating Cebuano Icons and Everyday Favorites.

No Sinulog celebration is complete without lechon—arguably Cebu’s most beloved culinary icon. Cebu’s Tasty Lechon continues to draw crowds with its crispy skin and flavorful meat, standing as a symbol of Cebuano pride and tradition. Known for both its classic lechon and its crowd-favorite spicy variant, the restaurant proves that lechon is not just for festivals but for everyday moments as well.

Cebu’s Tasty Lechon also offers value meals paired with puso, Cebu’s iconic hanging rice made from steamed rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves, making it compact, flavorful, and easy to enjoy on the go.

Many Cebuanos turn to familiar comfort food, with Sunburst Fried Chicken remaining a longtime favorite. Known for its crispy, well-seasoned chicken and hearty rice meals, Sunburst has become a reliable choice during busy days and family gatherings.

Beyond these Cebuano staples, many locals also turn to bold flavors from other local favorites. Shawarma cravings often lead to Jafar’s, which serves Middle Eastern–inspired wraps, rice bowls, burritos, and fresh salads.

Since opening in 2019, the brand has grown from a humble kiosk into a familiar name among food lovers, with high-demand periods like Sinulog requiring businesses to adapt quickly to changing customer needs.

“During Sinulog, the volume of orders and foot traffic can get overwhelming for our physical stores,” shared Julie Pagobo, Marketing Specialist of Jafar’s. “Having foodpanda allows us to extend our reach and manage orders more efficiently, helping us serve more customers during the busiest days.”

For those craving comfort food with a nostalgic touch, Orange Brutus remains a familiar presence in Cebuano food culture. Known for its sizzling burger steak and classic fast-food offerings, the brand traces its roots back to the 1980s, when it first opened along Colon Street. Decades later, it continues to be a go-to option for filling and affordable meals, especially during festival season.

For classic and shareable Filipino dishes that bring people together, Hukad has long been associated with Filipino celebrations. Its comforting flavors make it a fitting choice for Sinulog meals and family gatherings.

If you want Chinese food for Sinulog, Dimsum Break serves a variety of rice meals, noodles, and dimsum favorites that make preparing a satisfying handa for gatherings and celebrations easy.

Beyond savory dishes, Cebu’s food scene also thrives in its café culture. Abaca Baking Company, proudly owned and operated by The Abaca Group, offers a wide selection of artisanal breads, signature pastries, all-day brunch plates, and specialty coffee. Among its popular offerings is the Campfire Latte, a cozy signature drink combining espresso, chocolate syrup, milk, and marshmallows.

After coffee and brunch, the experience continues with Good Habits, a café built around the idea that enjoying coffee is always a good habit. Founded in 2022, Good Habits has since grown to six branches, becoming a familiar stop for Cebu’s coffee lovers.

“foodpanda is a platform we can rely on—it’s always available, and it helps us be more accessible,” shared Rick Dylan Ostrea, one of the owners of Good Habits. “Our customers can simply open the app and order without having to go to the store. It’s just one click away.”

Rounding out Cebu’s everyday favorites is Alberto’s Pizza, a brand that began as a small pizza store near Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center. Known for its affordability and consistent quality, Alberto’s has become a go-to for budget-friendly comfort food, especially during busy seasons when convenience matters most.

Cebu’s street food culture also comes alive in Barangay Tisa, widely known as the city’s siomai hub. Among the many stalls, Way Tugpahay Siomai stands out as a local favorite. The modest street-side stall moves thousands of siomai pieces daily, especially during the late afternoon and early evening rush. Affordable and freshly steamed, it has become a go-to for locals looking for quick, satisfying bites during high-energy festival days.

To end the meal on a sweet note, Ally Mango offers a refreshing dessert option loved by locals. Known for its mango shakes and popular mango sticky rice, the Cebu-born brand has grown from its early days at Sugbo Mercado into a familiar name for mango-based treats. Made with locally sourced mangoes, Ally Mango’s desserts are a favorite addition to celebrations like Sinulog.

Beyond these well-loved stops, Cebu’s food scene comes alive through hundreds of partner vendors offering local flavors across the city. These options are easily accessible through the foodpanda app, making it simple to explore Cebu’s diverse food culture ahead of the festivities.

Bringing Sinulog Celebrations Closer Through Digital Access

While Sinulog draws thousands of locals and visitors into the streets, some choose to celebrate in smaller, more intimate ways—at home, with family, or among friends. For those who want to keep the festivities going without cooking, local favorites are just a few taps away. For those running errands or navigating crowded streets, pick-up options offer a way to enjoy good food without waiting in long lines. In these moments, digital access helps make celebrating easier, more flexible, and more inclusive.

By supporting local restaurants through digital platforms, Cebuano food businesses are able to extend their reach during high-demand periods, serve more customers, and maintain visibility—even amid the intensity of festival season.

As the festivities draw near, foodpanda continues to support local businesses by making everyday favorites easier to enjoy ahead of the busiest days. Celebrate the season with Cebu’s local food favorites—available on foodpanda!

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CEBU CITY, Philippines — For Primetime King Coco Martin, the Sinulog Festival is more than just a grand fiesta; it is a powerful display of unity and unwavering faith.During the Sinulog 2026 weekend, the FPJ’s Batang Quiapo star visited the Queen City of the South not only to join the festivities but to lead the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw Roadshow.

Coco Martin aboard the float off Toyota Team Cebu joins the Grand Parade, to the delight of the street crowd. (From Kalami Cebu)

A Tribute to Cebuano Faith

“Ramdam mo dito yung tibay ng loob at pananampalataya ng mga Cebuano,” Martin shared, noting how the massive crowds praying to the Sr. Sto. Niño inspire him.

The actor, a well-known devotee of the Black Nazarene, likened the perseverance of the Cebuano people to the "matibay" (durable) reputation of the Toyota Tamaraw. As the official ambassador for Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), Coco has been traveling across the country—making stops in Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban, and Batangas—to connect with fans and MSME owners.

Eric Ong (leftmost) and his family receive the ceremonial key to their Tamaraw FX from Tamaraw Ambassador Coco Martin (in brown jacket) at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on Sinulog weekend.

Highlights: From Toyota Mabolo to the Grand Parade

Coco Martin’s Cebu itinerary was packed with fan engagement and community spirit:

Showroom Visit: On Saturday, Coco met with media and customers at the Toyota Mabolo showroom.
Mall Show: He thrilled crowds at a major Cebu mall with performances, trivia, and even a quick lesson in the Sinulog dance.
Grand Parade Float: On Sunday, despite the unpredictable weather, Coco boarded the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw float to greet the street crowds with the iconic cry of "Pit Senyor!"

Why the Next Gen Toyota Tamaraw is Winning Over Cebuano Entrepreneurs

The roadshow highlighted why the Tamaraw remains a favorite for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. Business owners cited three main reasons for choosing the new model: customizability, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

Real Stories from Tamaraw Owners:

Construction & Logistics: Businessman Eric Ong recently added a Tamaraw FX AT to his fleet. He praised the Automatic Transmission—a first in its class—for being easier to drive while securing cargo for his construction business.
Restaurant & Delivery: Marc and Christine Lin chose the Tamaraw FX for its "sturdy and reliable" build, perfect for their restaurant’s daily delivery needs.
Coffee Industry: Entrepreneur Lester Alferez described it as the "perfect practical vehicle" for the demanding daily operations of a coffee shop.

New Specs and Colors

According to Toyota Mabolo, the FX is currently the only utility van in the Philippine market offering an automatic transmission. To keep the lineup fresh, Toyota has introduced striking new colors:

Greyish Blue Metallic (Tamaraw FX DSL MT)
Super Red (Tamaraw FX and Dropside variants)

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CEBU CITY, Philippines - As Cebu's market leader in home fiber, serving nearly half of the city's market, PLDT Home is celebrating Sinulog Festival 2026 by keeping Cebu connected and bringing people closer through shared festival experiences.

Deeply rooted in faith, culture, and community, Sinulog is one of the most important and anticipated festivals in the country. Each year, millions of devotees, visitors, and balikbayans gather in Cebu City to honor the Sto. Niño and take part in vibrant street dances, religious activities, and cultural events that define Cebuano identity.

"As the market leader in Cebu's home fiber market, we believe that being part of Sinulog means being present in moments that truly matter to Cebuanos," said John Y. Palanca, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business. "This festival is about faith, togetherness, and shared experiences-and reliable connectivity plays a role in bringing people closer, whether they are here in Cebu or watching from anywhere in the world."

Sinulog Festival Roadshow

As part of its Sinulog 2026 celebrations, PLDT Home kicks off the festivities with a Sinulog Festival Roadshow on January 16, headlined by PDT Home ambassador, actor, and television personality Dominic Roque.

Supporting Community and Celebration

Beyond in-group activations, PLDT Home is extending support to Sinulog-related community programs and festival activities through fiber connectivity ard Sponsorships.

PLDT Home is also offering a Sinulog Festival Sale, featuring Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 with free installation and a free speed boost, giving more Cebuano households access to fast and reliable fiber connectivity.

As part of its ongoing offers, PLDT Home just launched the BFF (Broadband Free Forever) Promo that will run from January 15 to April 15, giving new subscribers a chance to win Free Broadband for Life, a first in the telco industry.

New subscribers of any Home Fiber plan, including Fiber Unli All Plan 1399, will receive a raffle entry upon opt-in, Winners will be drawn via an electronic raffle draw which will be conducted on April 23 under DTI supervision.

Connecting Cebu to the world

As Sinulog draws visitors from across the country and around the globe, PLDT Home plays a quiet but essential role in enabling festival moments to be captured, shared, and experienced in real time.

"Sinulog is not just Cebu's celebration, it's something the world looks forward to," Palanca added. "Through reliable fiber connectivity, PLDT Home helps ensure that every prayer, performance, and celebration can be shared beyond the streets of Cebu."

Through its continued support of Sinulog 2026, PLDT Home reinforces its leadership in Cebu, not just as a connectivity provider, but as a brand that celebrates culture, community, and the moments that bring people together.

Festival-goers are invited to visit the PLDT Home Fiber Fast Zone during Sinulog 2026 to experience reliable fiber connectivity firsthand and apply for the Fiber Unli All Plan 1399, available with special festival offers.

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