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| (Image Source: Starmometer/1 Billion Followers Summit) |
Filipino creator and digital entrepreneur Abi Marquez is set to participate in a panel session at the 1 Billion Followers Summit, happening on January 9-11, 2026 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking another milestone for Filipino representation at one of the world’s most influential gatherings for creators, digital leaders, and global cultural figures. The panel will focus on how creators transform brand partnerships into content audiences genuinely want to watch. Panelists will share insights on turning products into story moments, integrating brand deals seamlessly into content, and scaling partnerships — from early collaborations to multi-six-figure and seven-figure deals.
Widely known as the “Lumpia Queen”, Abi has built a global following of over 10 million by championing Filipino food and culture through modern, highly engaging digital storytelling. Represented by NYMA Talent Management, her work has shown how culturally rooted content from the Philippines can resonate far beyond local audiences, reaching viewers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Abi’s achievements as a creator have earned her international recognition. She is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, a Webby Award winner, a James Beard Media Awards nominee, and a recipient of WIBA’s Food Creator of the Year. She has also been named to Tatler Asia’s Gen.T list, recognizing young leaders from Asia shaping culture, media, and business on a global scale. At the summit, Abi will be part of a global lineup that includes Pia Jauncey — Miss Universe 2015, actress, model, and humanitarian — underscoring a strong Filipino presence at the event and highlighting how Filipinos continue to make an impact across diverse global platforms, from digital media to advocacy and culture.
Abi’s participation reflects the growing influence of Filipino creators in international conversations around the creator economy, digital entrepreneurship, and sustainable monetization. It also reinforces how Filipino stories — when told with authenticity and creativity — can compete and thrive on the world stage. Abi shares, “Being part of a global summit like this is a reminder that Filipino creativity truly belongs everywhere. I’m proud to represent the Philippines and to show how our stories, especially through food, can connect people across cultures.” The 1 Billion Followers Summit brings together creators, platforms, and industry leaders shaping the future of digital media. Abi Marquez’s inclusion highlights not only her personal journey, but the broader rise of Filipino talent gaining recognition and respect in global creator-economy spaces.
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HOPE And SM Supermalls Make Every Movie Ticket Count With HOPE In A Movie
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| (Image Source: hype mania/SM Supermalls) |
HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a leading impact organization, has partnered with SM Supermalls, the country’s leading mall operator, to launch HOPE In A Movie, an initiative that transforms moviegoing into meaningful support for public education. For every movie ticket sold at SM Cinema branches, Php5 will be invested in building public school classrooms through HOPE. The initiative is part of SM Supermalls’ commitment to help build at least 10 classrooms under the Generation HOPE campaign, launched to scale HOPE’s impact through purpose-driven collaborations.
HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po shared her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “I would like to thank SM Supermalls for their support. They have shown an amazing commitment to education and to this mission. We invite everyone to enjoy every film at SM, because every time you buy a movie ticket at SM Cinema, you help educate a child.” HOPE In A Movie was officially launched at SM Mall of Asia’s ScreenX which is the first 270-degree panoramic cinema in the Philippines, highlighting how innovation and entertainment can come together in the service of nation-building. Just in time for the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival, HOPE In A Movie gives families, friends, and movie lovers another reason to head to the cinemas.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “This is where entertainment meets purpose. Every ticket purchased at SM Cinema becomes more than just a movie, it becomes an opportunity to give back. HOPE In A Movie offers a simple yet meaningful way for families, friends, and moviegoers to help build classrooms, one ticket at a time.” Through HOPE In A Movie, HOPE and SM Supermalls invite the public to be part of a shared mission: transforming moviegoing into lasting impact and helping ensure better learning environments for Filipino students across the country.
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PSC, BCDA Formalizing Deal Making New Clark City A Training Hub For PH Athletes
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| L-R: Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Edward Hayco and Chairman Patrick Gregorio, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President Joshua Bingcang and OIC Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Mark Torres (Image Source: Bases Conversion And Development Authority) |
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) formalized a landmark agreement with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) last December 16, 2025, securing long-term access for national athletes to New Clark City’s premier sports facilities. Hailed as a pivotal stride in Philippine sports development, the partnership grants national teams regular training at the Athletics Stadium, Aquatics Center, and Athletes’ Village, ensuring structured, science-based preparation for international competition, with athletes from track and field and aquatics as the premier beneficiaries of these facilities.
“This partnership is both logical and inevitable: to provide world-class facilities for world-class athletes. We are grateful for the strong alignment with BCDA, the ideal partner in recognizing that investments in sports infrastructure and athletes drive economic development as much as national pride,” said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio. BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang highlighted the synergy between the two agencies, stating, “We will continue unlocking the full potential of BCDA properties so every training ground becomes a launchpad for future world-class Filipino athletes. By bringing together BCDA’s development engine and PSC’s commitment to Philippine sports, we are turning land into competitive advantage and facilities into platforms for future wins.” This is the second collaboration between BCDA and PSC in recent months. The Camp John Hay multi‑purpose sports facility in Baguio, jointly undertaken by the two government agencies, is slated for completion within 18 months, starting in the first quarter of 2026.
The ceremonial signing was witnessed by PSC Commissioner Edward Hayco and BCDA OIC Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Mark P. Torres, underscoring the shared commitment to maximize government-built facilities for athlete excellence, accountability, and measurable returns on public investment. “This is truly a partnership made in heaven. BCDA develops and manages high-value land and infrastructure while PSC ensures these facilities are maximized for the training and development of our national teams,” said Gregorio.
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Okada Manila Sets The Stage For The Biggest New Year’s Eve Celebration
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| (Image Source: The Manila Times/Okada Manila) |
The Forbes 5-star destination Okada Manila is set to welcome 2026 with one of its most spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations yet, bringing together music, entertainment, dining, and dazzling fireworks across the resort. Ring in the New Year at Step Right Up To 2026: New Year’s Eve Countdown which promises an extraordinary night designed for all revelers with more than thousands of guests expected across Cove Manila, The Fountain, The Garden, and The Coral Lounge.
At Cove Manila, Okada Manila stages its biggest concert of the year with a star-studded lineup for the New Year’s Eve Countdown Concert headlined by Gary Valenciano with special performances by Yeng Constantino, Randy Santiago, DJ Pretty Dragon, DJ Tom Taus, and DJ Sofia Miguel. Sponsored by Coca-Cola and San Miguel Beer, the event promises nonstop energy as guests celebrate into the early hours of 2026. Doors open at 8:00 pm with an electrifying program hosted by Regine Tolentino and MC Smurff. This ticketed event is exclusive to guests aged 18 years old and above. Cove Manila tickets, cabana reservations, and table bookings are now available through Okada Manila Restaurant Reservation at +632 8555 5799 or restaurantreservation@okadamanila.com and via the following authorized ticketing platforms: SM Tickets, Ticketnet Online, and Ticket2Me.
Over at The Fountain, Okada Manila presents a full-scale New Year’s Eve Countdown Celebration featuring performances by Michael Pangilinan, Marko Rudio, and JM Dela Cerna & Marielle Montellano with host Ana Ramsey. Guests will enjoy live entertainment leading up to a synchronized countdown and the resort’s signature grand fireworks display, best experienced from the resort’s central deck areas, which is open to the public starting 8:00 pm. The Garden offers a breathtaking view of the midnight fireworks show for families and guests seeking an open-air setting. This public viewing area can accommodate up to 1,200 guests and provides a vibrant space to gather and welcome the new year together under the night sky. For those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere, The Coral Lounge offers entertainment and curated food packages — a fitting choice for guests who want to unwind and enjoy the countdown experience as the evening builds toward midnight. The Coral Lounge New Year’s Eve Countdown is for guests and spectators 21 years old and above only.
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Treat Your Family To Unli Entertainment, Discounts And Rewards With PLDT Home’s Holiday Treats
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/PLDT Home) |
As families spend more time at home during the holidays, whether hosting reunions, streaming Christmas movies, gaming with loved ones, and staying connected with long-distance relatives, PLDT Home makes the season even more meaningful with its exclusive Holiday Treats. PLDT Home’s holiday offerings surely elevate everyday moments at home. From binge-worthy streaming nights and lag-free gaming sessions to smart living at home, PLDT Home bundles unlimited connectivity, entertainment, and smart home upgrades into one festive promo.
For just ₱1,799 per month, customers who subscribe to PLDT Home Fiber Unli All enjoy free speed boost of up to 500 Mbps for the first six months, perfect for simultaneous streaming, online gaming, and video calls with loved ones. This promo also comes with free installation, a one-year iGV Game Pass, Cignal TV, and ₱1,000 worth of Rewards Crystals, making holidays even more enjoyable for families. Whether it’s movie marathons after Noche Buena, kids gaming during the school break, or virtual holiday catch-ups with relative and friends, PLDT Home ensures reliable connections this Christmas. This season is also the perfect time to refresh and upgrade the home. With Next Upgrade smart home gadgets, PLDT Home customers can enjoy discounts of up to ₱14,995 off on a wide range of devices including smart TVs, home appliances, wearables, and smart home sensors. These upgrades help create a more comfortable, efficient, and future-ready home, which is ideal and timely for hosting guests or simply enjoying quieter holiday vacation with family.
To make the holidays even more rewarding, PLDT Home Fiber subscribers automatically earn up to 1,000 worth of Rewards Crystals which can be used for bill rebates or redeemed with popular partner merchants such as Grab, Maya, Steam, Garena, Zalora, Lazada, and more. That’s perfect for holiday shopping, food deliveries, or digital treats. PLDT Home also extends its holiday treats for Fiber Prepaid customers who also get a chance to win Lazada vouchers and exclusive Next Upgrade discounts. Enjoy PLDT Home’s Holiday Treats until December 31, 2025.
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BRAVE CF Announces Return To Serbia To Kick Off 2026
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| (Image Source: BRAVE Combat Federation) |
BRAVE Combat Federation™ (BRAVE CF), the world’s fastest-growing and most global mixed martial arts organization, has officially announced BRAVE CF 104, setting the stage for a high-profile return to Serbia as the promotion kicks off 2026 in Europe. Held in partnership with the Serbian MMA Federation, BRAVE CF 104 will take place on February 14, 2026 at the historic Aleksandar Nikolić Hall in Belgrade. The event will headline BRAVE International Combat Week, serving as the marquee attraction following the IMMAF European Championships and further cementing Serbia’s rising status as a major hub for international MMA.
BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid emphasized the significance of beginning the new year in Serbia, stating, “Kicking off the new year in Serbia carries immense meaning for BRAVE CF. This country has consistently delivered unforgettable moments for our organization, driven by some of the most passionate and knowledgeable fans in the world. Beginning 2026 in Belgrade reflects our commitment to celebrating MMA cultures that truly embrace the sport. BRAVE CF 104 will be stacked from top to bottom, showcasing elite talent from across the globe, and we are determined to deliver a night that once again raises the bar for international mixed martial arts.” BRAVE CF 104 will mark the promotion’s third event in Serbia, continuing a successful relationship that began with BRAVE CF 56 in December 2021 and expanded with BRAVE CF 69 in February 2023. The organization’s most recent Serbian showcase drew more than 20,000 fans to the Belgrade Arena where Abdisalam “Omok” Kubanychbek captured the vacant BRAVE CF Lightweight World Championship in a thrilling main event against Kamil Magomedov.
With that history as a foundation, anticipation is already building for what BRAVE CF 104 may deliver. Early indications suggest that reigning BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Champion Borislav Nikolić could defend his title on home soil, a moment that would represent a milestone for Serbian MMA. Additional matchups are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Fans are encouraged to follow BRAVE CF’s official website and social media platforms for updates as preparations continue toward what promises to be a spectacular start to the promotion’s 2026 campaign.
