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| (Image Source: MOONTON Games) |
Myanmar have been crowned champions of the 2026 Asian Games eSports Events: Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), defeating Indonesia 4-0 in the Grand Final at Aichi Sky Expo. The result makes Myanmar the first-ever Asian Games gold medalist in MLBB following the title's debut as an official medal event at Aichi-Nagoya 2026. The moment marks a major milestone for MLBB, its athletes, and the wider mobile eSports ecosystem as one of the world's leading mobile eSports titles completed its first medal-event run on one of Asia's biggest multi-sport stages.
A total of 22 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) across Asia took part in the MLBB competition from the preliminary qualification rounds with 12 teams progressing to the Asian Games Main Stage. There, pride, elite competition, and MLBB's 10-year journey came together in a historic debut for the title. Myanmar delivered a dominant performance in the Grand Finals, sweeping Indonesia 4-0 to close the tournament emphatically. The result capped off a standout run for Myanmar, who entered the Main Stage as one of the competition's most closely watched teams after their recent international performances. For Myanmar, this victory represents more than a tournament title. It makes them the first team in MLBB history to win Asian Games gold in the title's official medal-event debut while also adding Myanmar's second gold medal at Aichi-Nagoya 2026. Team Myanmar's roster comprises Oo Hein Htet (EXP Laner), Swe Han Htoo (Jungler), Kyaw Myo Myint Ko Ko (Mid Laner), Aung Shine Lin (Gold Laner), Thuya Kyaw (Roamer), and Aung Min Htun (Coach). Indonesia finished with the silver medal, adding the country's eighth silver of the Games, while Malaysia and Mongolia completed the podium with bronze medals. “Myanmar's victory is a historic moment for MLBB and for mobile eSports in Asia. MLBB's first Asian Games gold comes during our 10th anniversary year, making this a deeply meaningful milestone for everyone who has helped build the game over the past decade. What began as a mobile game enjoyed by players across the region is now creating medal-stage moments watched by fans across Asia. This shows how far mobile eSports has come, and how much further it can go,” said MOONTON Games Head of eSports Ecosystem Ray Ng.
MLBB's first Asian Games medal event comes as eSports continues to gain greater structure and recognition across Asia with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) reaffirming its support for the development of eSports in the region. For MLBB, Aichi-Nagoya 2026 is another defining moment in its 10th anniversary year. From the Asian Games Qualifiers in Singapore to MSC's European debut in Paris and now its first Asian Games medal-event winner in Nagoya, MLBB's competitive calendar continues to expand across major international stages. The road continues with the MLBB Championship Tour (MCT) and the M8 World Championship, giving more teams and regions a pathway into the global MLBB ecosystem. With the M8 World Championship Finals set for Istanbul, Türkiye, MLBB will carry the momentum from Aichi-Nagoya into its next major global event.
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Anne Curtis Joins Global Unveiling Of Vivo X500 Series
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| (Image Source: vivo Philippines) |
Filipino actress and vivo Philippines ambassador Anne Curtis attended the global launch of the vivo X500 Series in Shanghai on September 21, 2026 where the company introduced its latest imaging flagship lineup. The event presented the vivo X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max as part of vivo’s strategy to develop what it describes as dynamic imaging which extends smartphone imaging beyond still photography to video and live content.
The series uses vivo’s BlueImage Dynamic Imaging Technology Stack which combines developments in sensors, imaging chips, and software algorithms. Curtis attended the event ahead of the series’ planned launch in the Philippines. “Anne’s presence at the global launch in Shanghai gives Filipino consumers a closer look at where vivo’s imaging technology is heading. The X500 Series brings together technologies designed not only for professional creators, but also for people who want to capture everyday moments through photos, video, and live content,” said vivo Philippines Brand Marketing Director Liu Lu. The X500 Pro Max features the vivo × Sony LYTIA L910 sensor which vivo says provides up to 17 EV of dynamic range. It also includes a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera and support for the 400mm Equivalent vivo ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra. Other features include 4K 240 fps Cinematic Slow-Mo Video and 8K Native Live. The X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max support video features including 17 EV TrueDynamic Log Video, 10-bit 4:2:2 encoding, ACES support, and 4K 120 fps Log video. The series also includes six cinematic video color styles and 4K Cinematic Portrait Video. Its Cinema mode offers options such as Auto Framing Video, Vortex Shot, Super Slow-Mo, and Dual View. According to vivo, the BlueImage Dynamic Imaging Technology Stack covers five areas: high dynamic range, professional image quality, cinematic color, professional stabilization, and dynamic consistency.
The X500 Pro Max is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro platform and includes vivo’s V3+ and VS1+ imaging chips, a 2K ZEISS Master Color Display, and an 8,000mAh BlueVolt Battery. The X500 Pro has a 6,510mAh battery while the standard X500 has a 7,500mAh BlueVolt Battery. All three models run OriginOS 7. vivo said the imaging features will be available across the lineup including 8K Native Live and high-specification video recording on the standard X500. vivo has confirmed that the series will also launch in the Philippines although local availability details have not yet been announced. Filipinos can follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) or visit the vivo website and vivo Store app for official announcements and updates.
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GCash Simplifies Registration For Stock Market Access With GStocks PH
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| (Image Source: Mindanao Times/GCash) |
Finance super app GCash has made accessing the Philippine stock market more convenient through GStocks PH, allowing Filipinos to open an account with broker AB Capital Securities Inc. in under minutes and begin investing in local stocks with as little as Php500. By digitizing account opening and simplifying requirements, GStocks PH reduces traditional barriers to stock investing, allowing more Filipinos to become part-owners of top Filipino companies through stock ownership without having a bank account or needing to coordinate with a separate broker.
Across the industry, digital platforms have helped broaden participation in the Philippine stock market by making it easier for investors to open accounts, fund investments, place trades, and monitor their portfolios through mobile devices. According to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), local stock market accounts grew by 27.3 percent to 3.64 million last year, from the 2.86 million accounts recorded in 2024. Broken down, 99.2 percent, or 3.61 million accounts, belong to retail investors, with 3.22 million accounts held online through digital trading platforms and e-wallets. Digital accounts grew by 30.5 percent year-on-year. Getting started on GStocks PH is designed to be simple, with users able to register for a brokerage account with AB Capital Securities Inc., fund their trading wallet, and begin investing in over 280 companies listed on the PSE all within the GCash app. To access the platform, fully-verified GCash users need to open the app, select the GStocks PH icon on the Homepage or Invest tab, and click AB Capital Securities Inc. and complete the application process with the broker. After registration, which comes with real-time approval, users can top up their trading wallet with no transfer fees in real time. From there, Filipinos can become part-owners of different locally listed companies by investing with as little as Php500. Orders are placed in real-time, but are executed during trading hours and subject to order matching.
By integrating stock investing into a digital financial ecosystem already familiar to millions of Filipinos, GCash is helping make participation in the capital markets more accessible and relevant to more investors. For more information on GStocks PH, visit www.gcash.com.
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ONE Championship Announces Global Apparel And Glove Partnership With Venum
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| (Image Source: ONE Championship) |
ONE Championship™ (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, recently announced a new global partnership with Venum, the world’s leading designer of premium combat sports gear and performance apparel. Effective last October 1, 2026, the multi-tiered agreement establishes Venum as the official apparel partner for ONE’s marquee numbered events and the monthly ONE Fight Night shows in U.S. primetime. Additionally, Venum will step in as both the official apparel and glove partner for the highly successful ONE SAMURAI event series in Japan.
The collaboration ensures that ONE’s stacked roster of global superstars and World Champions competing across MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and submission grappling are outfitted in top-tier, high-performance gear designed specifically for elite martial artists. The athletes’ cornermen will also wear special ONE and Venum co-branded walkout shirts. This partnership kicked off with the apparel portion at ONE Fight Night 48, aired live on U.S. primetime from Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand last October 2. It will be followed closely by the introduction of both apparel and custom competition gloves at ONE SAMURAI 4 which broadcasts live from Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan on October 17. In addition, the new ONE and Venum co-branded apparel and merchandise will be available for purchase through Venum’s event booths inside the arena, Venum Training Camp stores in Thailand, Venum’s website and e-commerce shops, and globally through retail partners including Amazon, Decathlon, JD Sports, and more.
ONE Championship Co-Founder and Group President Hua Fung Teh stated, “Partnering with a globally recognized industry leader like Venum ensures our athletes are equipped with the highest quality gear as they compete on the world’s biggest stage. Venum understands the demands of world-class competition, and this collaboration represents our shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of martial arts.” Venum Founder and CEO Franck Dupuis stated, “We’re proud to announce our official partnership with ONE Championship. This collaboration brings together two brands deeply rooted in combat sports with a shared ambition to push performance, innovation, and design forward. Together, we’re bringing to life distinct product lines for the world’s greatest athletes – reflecting Venum’s commitment to technical performance, distinctive design and craftsmanship, created for fighters and fans who live the sport.”
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Unicharm, Shopee Philippines Unite To Bring Japanese-Quality Care Closer To Filipino Families
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Shopee Philippines) |
Unicharm Philippines and Shopee Philippines team up for Unicharm Fiesta, bringing Japanese hygiene solutions closer to Filipino families through e-commerce while celebrating everyday care. Created with a shared goal of improving quality of life, Unicharm Fiesta brings together the complementary strengths of both iconic global brands, rendering them more accessible for Filipino consumers. Unicharm contributes its expertise in Japanese innovation, hygiene, and absorbent technology, while Shopee provides its convenient, engaging online shopping platform. The showcase highlights three of Unicharm’s key brands — Sofy, MamyPoko, and Certainty — each developed to address targeted needs across varying life stages.
For young, active, and working Filipinas, Sofy offers menstrual care designed to keep pace with the demands of everyday life, combining Japanese-quality hygiene technology with features that promote freshness, comfort, and confidence. Its Instant Cooling Feeling, powered by natural mint extract, provides a refreshing, kulob-free breeziness, while its dermatologically tested materials offer added reassurance against irritation. With advanced absorbency that provides reliable protection throughout the day, Sofy helps women stay confident whether they are in school, at work, commuting, or enjoying time with friends. Breathable materials and leak-protection technology further enhance comfort and protection, making Sofy a thoughtful menstrual care solution for Filipinas navigating busy, active lifestyles. Their premium products include Sofy Cool Fresh Instant Cool Sanitary Napkin and Sofy Color Fit Mood Pants Menstrual Shorts. MamyPoko, on the other hand, combines comfort, protection, and Japan-quality technology to give Filipino parents dependable care for their babies at every stage. Its diapers offer 10–14 hours of leakage protection, helping keep babies comfortable and dry from day to night while the Soft Sheet provides a gentle touch designed to help protect delicate skin from itching and chafing. Recognizing that every family has different needs and budgets, MamyPoko offers not only premium diaper options but also economy products that remain committed to quality, comfort, and reliable protection. Among its specialized offerings is MamyPoko Bye Bye Lamok, an innovative diaper designed with mosquito-repellent protection, giving parents an added layer of care and peace of mind as their little ones play, rest, and go about their day, and Mamypoko Marshmallow Skin Comfort, a premium, Japan-made disposable baby diaper designed with ultra-soft materials and plant-based oils to prevent skin irritation. For older adults, Certainty delivers discreet, comfortable solutions at an affordable price. Its main product, Certainty Adult Diaper supports seniors’ mobility and dignity while helping caregivers approach elderly care with utmost confidence.
Guided by its Japanese roots, Unicharm remains firm in developing products grounded in innovation and comfort. Its product line spans life phases while taking into account the needs and realities of Filipino consumers. As Unicharm continues to expand its presence in the Philippine market, consumers can look forward to further innovations across its three major brands as well as its convenient partnership with e-commerce giant Shopee.
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Forgotten Island Tops PH Google Search Trends In Premiere Week
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| (Image Source: Corner Magazine PH/Google Philippines) |
Moviegoers and animation fans around the world head to theaters — and straight to Google Search — as DreamWorks Animation’s newest feature Forgotten Island, starring world-class Filipinos Liza Soberano and H.E.R., tops Philippine search trends. Search data on Google Trends over the past week shows spikes in interest in the entire country with the “Forgotten Island” search term scoring a perfect 100 once on September 23 and past 90 on more than one point. This means that the term completely dominated all other search keywords by volume, proving that the Filipino culture-inspired blockbuster is indeed a hit phenomenon at home.
And as viewers fall in love with the film’s lush visuals and story, they are also turning to Google to discover the real-world Philippine mythology that inspired it. From winged nocturnal creatures to giants lurking in ancient trees, Forgotten Island weaves iconic elements of Filipino folklore into its narrative. The surge in global search interest shows how cinematic storytelling can spark curiosity about local heritage and traditions. You can start looking up some of the lore, too. Whether you’re a lifelong lore enthusiast or a movie fan curious about what inspired the story, here are four simple ways to use Google Search to explore authentic Pinoy mythology.
1. Search for creature origins using exact names: Curious about the creatures featured on screen? Type specific names like Manananggal, Tiyanak, Kapre, or Batibat alongside keywords like Filipino mythology or regional folklore to find reliable articles, myth breakdowns, and cultural studies.
2. Use quotation marks for targeted search terms: If you want precise information on a specific myth or creature, enclose your search term in quotation marks — for example, “mythological origins of Kapre” or “Batibat folklore in Ilocano culture”. This tells Google to return results containing those exact phrases.
3. Explore local customs and cultural concepts: Forgotten Island showcases more than just mythical beasts — it highlights rich traditions and local values. Search terms like Filipino spirit offerings, Philippine animism traditions, or traditional gestures featured in the movie to understand the deep cultural roots behind each scene.
4. Dive into visual and video resources: Folklore lives in art and storytelling. Switch to Google Images or search YouTube within Google to watch documentaries, listen to local storytellers, and see traditional illustrations of Philippine mythical lore by local Filipino artists.
As Forgotten Island continues to captivate audiences from the Philippines to the rest of the world, Google Search makes it easy for moviegoers everywhere to turn movie-night wonder into meaningful learning.
