 |
| L-R: GCash Public Sector Head Cleo Celeste Santos, Bangsamoro Regional Treasury Chief Naila Z. Dimaraw, Bangsamoro Regional Minister of Finance and Budget and Management Atty. Ubaida C. Pacasem, GCash B2B General Manager Paul Vincent Albanao, GCash VisMin Regional Business Head Tania Gil-Padilla (Image Source: United News PH/Bangsamoro Autonomous Region In Muslim Mindanao) |
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), through its collecting Ministries, Offices, and Agencies, will soon introduce a more convenient way for constituents to pay government fees and complete transactions following a new partnership between the Bangsamoro Treasury Office (BTO), a sectoral office under the Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Management, and GCash. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving access to public services by providing a digital platform that connects government services directly to constituents, making transactions simpler, faster, and more accessible across the region.
Payment processes have largely remained traditional, with many transactions still done manually and requiring constituents to visit field offices to complete them. For those in remote and far-flung areas, this often results in additional time, cost, and inconvenience. As emphasized by Minister Ubaida C. Pacasem of the Ministry of Finance and Budget and Management — BARMM, “The partnership between the BTO and GCash is a powerful vehicle for change, and we are fully committed to steering it toward success. We are ready to do the work today, tomorrow, and in the years to come.” The Bangsamoro Treasury Office’s initiative to introduce digital payment channels aims to address these challenges by bringing services closer to communities while ensuring that proper guidelines and controls are observed. “Bangsamoro Treasury Office acknowledges that this partnership is an important step not only in strengthening our collection systems, but also in guiding Bangsamoro Ministries, Offices, and Agencies as we encourage the adoption of digital payment options to serve communities across BARMM better. At its core, this initiative is about financial inclusion. We know the realities of our geography. Across the mainland and island provinces, access to traditional banking infrastructure has long been a challenge. By partnering with GCash, we are embracing a more mobile future for public service delivery, bridging the gap and enabling constituents to pay fees, taxes, and other dues more conveniently, without the need for long travel or waiting in line,” said Bangsamoro Regional Treasury Chief Naila Z. Dimaraw.
GCash remains committed to contributing to the Bangsamoro Government’s efforts to promote financial inclusion and strengthen the efficiency of revenue collection. The partnership also highlights how digital tools can make it easier for citizens to engage with Bangsamoro Ministries, Offices, and Agencies, fostering a more seamless and citizen-centered service experience. “GCash recognizes the priorities, systems, and the needs of the communities of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. We stand ready to support where we are most needed — empowering institutions, enhancing service delivery, and helping build a more inclusive, citizen-centered digital ecosystem for the Bangsamoro Government and its people,” said GCash Public Safety Head Cleo Celeste Santos. As digital adoption continues to grow, this collaboration marks a step toward a more accessible and responsive government — where public services are easier to access and better aligned with the everyday needs of communities.
* * * *
Cebuana Lhuillier-Backed 2026 UTP National Team Named, 16 Junior Tennis Players To Represent PH In Malaysia
 |
| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Unified Tennis Philippines) |
With the support of Cebuana Lhuillier, Unified Tennis Philippines (UTP) has officially named the 2026 UTP National Team following the successful staging of the 2026 UTP Elite Eight Playoffs, one of the country’s premier junior tennis championships, held last June 4-9, 2026 in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental. The tournament brought together the nation’s top 64 junior players — 32 from Luzon/NCR and 32 from Visayas-Mindanao — who earned their places through a year-long series of Cebuana Lhuillier Tennis Tour and UTP sanctioned tournaments. Competing across four age-group divisions in both the Boys’ and Girls’ categories, the athletes battled for the opportunity to represent the Philippines on the international stage.
The finalists and champions in each division secured spots on the 2026 UTP National Team and will represent the country in two international tournaments in Malaysia: the first leg in Penang during the third week of November and the second leg in Perlis during the fourth week of November. In the Girls’ Division, Arianna Tiongko and Kyla Caguioa secured spots on the 2026 UTP National Team in the 12-and-under category, Ma. Caroliean Fiel and Shaner Gabaldon in the 14-and-under, Mitchellen Alexa Cruspero and Kathlyn Bugna in the 16-and-under, and Avegail Joy Ansay and Cielo May Gonzales in the 18-and-under division. In the Boys’ Division, Everett Enzo Niere and Val Ian Gairanod secured spots on the 2026 UTP National Team in the 12-and-under category, Cristiano Matteo Calingasan and Xian Wynn Calagos in the 14-and-under, Matthew Morris and Rafael Monte de Ramos in the 16-and-under, and Aaron Kevin Tabura and Juvels Velos in the 18-and-under division. Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO and Unified Tennis Philippines President Jean Henri Lhuillier lauded the players for their dedication and achievement, stating, “The UTP Elite Eight Playoffs represents the culmination of a year of hard work, commitment, and excellence. We are proud of all the athletes who qualified for this event and especially those who earned the opportunity to represent the Philippines internationally. We look forward to seeing them showcase their talent and sportsmanship on the global stage.”
San Carlos City has hosted the UTP Elite Eight Playoffs for four consecutive years, thanks to its excellent sports facilities and the strong support of its local government, led by Mayor Rene Gustilo, Vice Mayor Criston Carmona, Congressman Jules Ledesma IV and former Congressman Gerardo Valmayor Jr. The 2026 UTP Elite Eight Playoffs is made possible through the support of Cebuana Lhuillier, UNILAB, Alternatives Food Corporation, Vetnext, NAVEGAR, STI, PhilCare, Dunlop, Madison Galeries, and Mr. Freeze and was officially sanctioned by the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA).
* * * *
Smart Brings Scam Awareness Directly To Laguna And Cavite Load Retailers Through CX Caravan
 |
| (Image Source: Corner Magazine PH/Smart Communications Inc.) |
Load retailers are on the frontlines of customer engagement — and increasingly, on the frontlines of fraud. From SIM-related transactions and account inquiries to payments and load purchases, their day-to-day interactions make them prime targets for scams and social engineering tactics. Fraudsters often exploit trust, create urgency, and manipulate routine processes to gain access to sensitive customer information or bypass safeguards. While Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) continues to share scam advisories across digital and traditional channels, reaching busy retailers remains a challenge. Many spend long hours managing their stores and serving customers, leaving little opportunity to proactively consume educational content.
To bridge this gap, Smart brought its SCAMpaign directly to retailers in Laguna and Cavite through its CX Caravan — meeting them where they are and equipping them with practical, actionable knowledge. As valued business partners, retailers play a critical role in the ecosystem, underscoring Smart’s commitment to enable and empower them to better protect themselves against scams. The sessions centered on real-world scam scenarios that retailers commonly encounter, including OTP phishing, fake proof-of-payment schemes, identity misuse, and other social engineering tactics. Participants were guided on how to spot red flags, follow proper verification protocols, and avoid actions that could compromise customer security. Nelson, a Smart retailer from Cavite, shared, “Madalas kaming target ng scam dahil sa dami ng transaksyon na hinahawakan namin araw-araw. Malaking tulong na dinadala mismo sa amin ang ganitong impormasyon dahil hindi naman kami laging may oras para mag-scroll sa Facebook o magbasa online. (We are often targeted by scammers because of the volume of transactions we handle every day. It is a big help when information like this is brought directly to us, as we do not always have the time to scroll through Facebook or read updates online.)”
Beyond scam awareness, the CX Caravan also delivered on-ground aftersales support, giving retailers a convenient way to raise concerns, seek assistance, and access Smart services. The CX Caravan has previously engaged diverse communities, including medical professionals, retirees, and teachers, as part of Smart Cares — Smart’s broader commitment to customer education and community engagement, and in line with the PLDT Group’s #BeCyberSmart campaign. By complementing its digital efforts with on-ground activations, Smart continues to make scam awareness more accessible, practical, and impactful for Filipinos.
* * * *
Enchanted Kingdom Champion Education, Sustainability In 12th Year Of Supporting Brigada Eskwela
 |
| (Image Source: Philippines Graphic/Enchanted Kingdom) |
Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) in its 12th year of supporting Brigada Eskwela through the turnover of its 15th adopted kindergarten classroom to Sinalhan Elementary School in Santa Rosa, Laguna last June 5, 2026. Brigada Eskwela is an annual nationwide school maintenance program that mobilizes stakeholders to contribute their time, efforts, and resources in ensuring all public schools are prepared for the opening of classes. This year’s theme, “Bayanihan Para Sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa Para Sa Kaayusan At Kaalaman”, aligns with EK’s Education Program that aims to provide a fun, safe, and magical learning environment for students.
As part of this initiative, EK tapped its maintenance team to repair and upgrade the adopted classroom’s fixtures while artists turned the walls into a vibrant mural featuring its Storyverse characters and the rich biodiversity of Philippines including some of the endemic species highlighted in its award-winning attraction, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY. The mural also highlighted EK’s five core values and ways to promote environmental responsibility among young learners. In addition, the Santa Rosa, Laguna-based theme park revitalized the school garden, Taniman Para sa Paaralan, where they cultivated a variety of vegetables and ornamental plants. EK Chairman and President Cesar Mario O. Mamon expressed EK’s push to expand their reach in Brigada Eswela and deliver more enchanting and educational experiences through sustained partnerships and community engagement, stating, “As Enchanted Kingdom celebrates its 30th year, we continue to uphold our commitment to nurturing young minds as we extend our active participation in Brigada Eskwela in the years to come. We also look forward to further strengthening our partnership with DepEd and the City of Santa Rosa across their programs.”
The turnover ceremony was graced by Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas along with Santa Rosa City Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) and CESO VI Hereberto Jose Miranda, Barangay Sinalhan Chairman Ladislao Alicbusan, Sinalhan Elementary School Principal II Benjamin Ongteco Jr., teachers, parents, and students. Beyond this, EK further enriches its in-park experiences through experiential learning under its Education Program which guests can enjoy alongside its signature rides and attractions during the Park’s operating hours from Friday to Sunday at 1:00-8:00 pm. Starting June 29, EK will also return its magical park hours from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm every Friday to Sunday.
* * * *
CCP Unveils Newly Updated Thirteen Artists Awards Website To Celebrate The Legacy And Future Of Filipino Art
 |
| (Image Source: Corner Magazine PH/Cultural Center Of The Philippines) |
The Cultural Center of the Philippines, through the Visual Arts and Museum Division, relaunches the Thirteen Artists Awards (TAA) website with a new, revamped look and updated content. The digital platform, accessible at www.thirteenartists.culturalcenter.gov.ph, has been updated to serve as a comprehensive archive, showcase, and hub for the TAA, one of the most prestigious recognitions in the Philippine art scene. Established in 1970, the CCP Thirteen Artists aims to honor contemporary artists who have made innovative contributions to Philippine art. The newly relaunched website marks a significant milestone in the program’s history, offering an enhanced user experience and a richer presentation of the awardees through the years.
The revamped website features an updated interface designed to highlight the works and profiles of awardees from the inception of the program to the present. Visitors can now easily browse through the roster of artists, explore the Thirteen Artists exhibitions, and gain deeper insights into the evolution of modern and contemporary art in the Philippines. The website is designed to be mobile-responsive and user-friendly, ensuring that art enthusiasts, researchers, students, and collectors from around the world can engage with Philippine art anytime, anywhere. “This relaunch is more than just an update; it is a commitment to preserving Filipino cultural heritage while embracing the digital age. We want this platform to bridge the gap between established masters and emerging talents, making art more accessible to the public and ensuring that the legacy of the Thirteen Artists Awards continues to inspire future generations,” said CCP President Kaye C. Tinga. More than 50 years since it was first presented, the CCP Thirteen Artists Award remains a prestigious triennial award to honor young visual artists who demonstrate innovative, forward-thinking practices that redefine Philippine contemporary art.
The TAA started as a curatorial project of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Museum under the directorship of its first curator Roberto Chabet. The TAA was created in order to showcase the works of artists who aimed to “restructure, re-strengthen and renew artmaking and art thinking… that lend viability to Philippine art.” It was former CCP Museum and Non-theater Operations Director Raymundo Albano who transformed the 13 Artists into the awards program that it is known today. The TAA Artists awards and exhibition was mounted every two years from 1970 to 1980, and again in 1988 to 1994. It was revived in 2000 and changed to a triennial format which it follows until today. Follow CCP and CCP Visual Arts social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram for more news about visual arts programs and exhibitions.
* * * *
Following Historic Win At Tri-Nation Friendlies, PH National Men's Football Team Inspires Tomorrow’s Athletes Showcasing The PUMA SHOWTIME PACK
 |
| (Image Source: The Chronicle PH/PUMA Philippines) |
PUMA champions the future of Philippine sports by creating opportunities that ignite a lifelong passion for football in young athletes. Following their triumph at the Tri-Nation Friendlies, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) recently brought the same momentum into the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, not for another match, but to give back to the community. The morning after their historic performance at the friendlies, the national squad, guided by Coach Ryan Fermin and Coach Genaro Sabile, stepped onto the pitch as dedicated mentors as they coached aspiring young football players. This unique clinic allowed national team standouts, including Kenji Nishioka and Pocholo Bugas, to personally guide the next generation and prove that true sportsmanship and national pride extend far beyond the final whistle.
For the young athletes in attendance, the experience was proof that their biggest dreams are within reach. The morning kicked off with the national squad leading dynamic drills, but it was the moments of genuine mentorship that resonated most. The program ensured a secure and supportive environment for all young participants. National team members shared personal stories about their journeys from local grassroots leagues to representing the nation, leaving a lasting impact and teaching the kids the importance of continuing to grow. As the pros demonstrated these elite skills, they showcased the bold energy of the new SHOWTIME PACK on the pitch. Throughout the drills, creative players showcased creativity and instinct in the FUTURE 9 MATCH. The squad’s fastest players led sprinting drills in the explosive ULTRA 6 MATCH. The young athletes saw firsthand how years of experience from players like Josh Meriño, Jaime Rosquillo, and Alfonso Gonzalez demonstrated how they overcame adversity and remained dedicated to the sport. The clinic showed them that with hard work, their ambitions could extend far beyond today’s training session. This heartwarming initiative aligns with PUMA’s steady commitment to cultivating a strong, supportive, and rapidly growing football community in the Philippines. Initiatives like this create personal connections between elite national heroes and young aspiring athletes and help lay the foundation for the sport’s future in the country.
The football clinic is just one of the many steps in a larger vision to empower local communities and make football more accessible to more Filipinos. Looking to the future, PUMA plans to continue this momentum, ensuring that the torch of Philippine football is safely passed to a ready and eager new generation. Secure the new PUMA SHOWTIME PACK, featuring the vibrant FUTURE 9 and ULTRA 6, starting at Php4,700 at PUMA.com, select PUMA stores and Bootcamp stores nationwide. Visit Bootcamp’s official website (bootcamp.com.ph), PUMA Philippines’ official website (ph.puma.com/ph/en/home), and social media pages on Facebook (@pumaphilippinesofficial), Instagram (@pumaphilippines), and TikTok (@puma_philippines) to learn more.
