SM Seaside Cebu Ice Skating Rink Reopens with New Look, Honors Filipino Skating Champions

 SM Skating Seaside Cebu reopens with fresh looks, honors Filipino skating champions

Revitalized rink offers a cooler, more vibrant experience while bringing together a growing skating community

Step into a cooler experience at SM Skating Seaside Cebu. With its refreshed look and inviting design, it’s your go-to spot to skate, connect, and make the most of every moment.

CEBU, Philippines, 13th April 2026 – A fresh and more exciting skating experience awaits as SM Skating at SM Seaside City Cebu officially reopens to the public. Following its temporary closure for upgrades, the newly improved rink now welcomes guests with refreshed facilities, a brighter ambiance, and new maxed-out experiences that make every visit more engaging, reinforcing its role as a space where winning begins.

Guests are greeted by a newly designed entrance arch featuring cool, ice-inspired elements that create a striking, inviting first impression. Inside, the rink has been refreshed with a cleaner, brighter look, offering a more enjoyable space for both beginners trying skating for the first time and experienced skaters looking to glide with ease.

SM Skating Seaside Cebu brings people together on the ice, creating shared moments, new memories, and a growing community where every glide is a step forward.

More than just a place to skate, SM Skating remains where many first steps on ice begin. From casual visitors to aspiring athletes, it offers a space where people can learn, improve, and grow, whether for fun or to compete on a bigger stage.

A highlight of the reopening is the Wall of Champions, a dedicated space honoring Filipino skaters who have excelled in major competitions and proudly represented the country on the international stage. It serves as both a tribute and a reminder that every champion starts somewhere.

The Wall of Champions at SM Skating Seaside Cebu celebrates Filipino skating excellence, 

designed to inspire more people to learn, play, and fall in love with the sport.

“At SM, we want more Filipinos to experience skating, not just for fun, but as something they can grow in,” said Joseph Francis Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Skating. “At the same time, we’re proud to recognize the athletes who have brought honor to the country and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”

Turning the Rink into a Celebration

Bringing the energy of Gala to the Max, the reopening transformed the rink into a lively celebration with a Disco on Ice experience. Guests enjoyed a vibrant mix of music, lights, and sounds, along with low-fog effects, creating a fun, immersive atmosphere that turned every glide into a moment worth sharing.

A special on-ice performance by skilled skaters heightened the excitement, drawing in the crowd and showcasing the sport's artistry. The performance created a shared experience for families, friends, and skating enthusiasts, highlighting SM Skating's continued ability to bring communities together.

Where Winning Begins

Every champion starts somewhere. With guidance from certified coaches, beginners take their first steps through SM Skating Academy as they build confidence one glide at a time.

For those ready to take skating beyond leisure, guests can enroll in the SM Skating Academy’s Learn to Skate Program, developed in partnership with the Philippine Skating Union (PHSU).

The program offers structured, professionally guided lessons led by certified coaches that introduce skaters of all ages to the fundamentals in a safe and supportive environment. With a step-by-step progression from beginner basics to essential techniques, it serves as the official pathway for those looking to build confidence, improve their skills, and eventually pursue higher-level or competitive skating.

Grace, power, and passion on full display. SM Skating Seaside Cebu sets the stage for performances that inspire the next generation of skaters.

As part of its opening-week offerings, your most-loved mall, SM, is also giving guests a free 30-minute skating lesson—perfect for beginners who want to take their first glide on the ice and start their skating journey.

Metrobank launches ‘Moneygurado’ docuseries to explore financial mindfulness through real-life stories

In a time when rising prices and shifting economic realities are putting pressure on everyday budgets, Metrobank is taking a more grounded approach to financial education—one that starts not with rules, but with real stories.

Enter Moneygurado, a financial mindfulness campaign and docuseries designed to help Filipinos become more confident, informed, and protected in their everyday money decisions.

The name itself is a blend of “money” and “sigurado,” inspired by the Filipino word manigurado or “to make sure.” At its core, Moneygurado is about shifting from reactive habits to intentional choices—moving away from “bahala na” and toward a more mindful, prepared financial mindset.

Real stories, real habits

What sets Moneygurado apart is how it starts the conversation. Instead of offering tips upfront, the campaign dives into real Filipino experiences, highlighting how culture, emotions, and everyday realities shape how people handle money.

From values like katatagan (resilience) and pakikisama (community), to hiya (shame) and utang na loob (debt of gratitude), the series explores how deeply rooted beliefs influence spending, saving, and borrowing behaviors.

These insights come to life through a docuseries that puts real people and perspectives front and center.

Episode highlights

The premiere episode, “Kapit Lang: The Filipino Way of Surviving,” features entrepreneur Audrey Cruz, founder of OnlyPans Taqueria in Poblacion, Makati.

What started as a pandemic food delivery concept quickly grew into a thriving business—until a fire forced them to rebuild from scratch.

Her story reflects a familiar Filipino strength: resilience. But it also reveals something deeper—survival alone isn’t enough. True financial stability comes from preparation done before a crisis hits.

Upcoming episodes continue this cultural deep dive into money:

• “Utang sa Pelikula: Self-Worth and Borrowing” featuring Jose Javier Reyes
• “The Price of Hiya” featuring Xiao Chua
• “Alkansya: The Filipino Art of Waiting” featuring Michelline Suarez

Each episode reframes familiar financial behaviors—encouraging more intentional borrowing, disciplined spending, and goal-based saving.

From insight to action

While Moneygurado begins with storytelling, its goal is clear: turn awareness into action.

By helping Filipinos understand the “why” behind their financial decisions, the campaign aims to make money management more relatable—and ultimately more practical.

As Metrobank Chief Marketing Officer Digs Dimagiba shares, real progress begins when people see themselves in the story.

In the coming months, Metrobank will continue to release new episodes alongside accessible learning materials for students, families, and communities through its Earnest platform.

Because at the end of the day, being moneygurado isn’t just about having more—it’s about being ready, intentional, and in control, no matter what comes next.

Ready for a plot twist? Discover unexpected finds across the Visayas at SM Supermalls.

 

Not everything goes according to script, but honestly, that’s where the best parts can happen.

It’s all twist after twist, one minute you’re in a regular run, the next you’ve stumbled on something you didn’t expect, and suddenly it’s the highlight of your day. The kind you didn’t plan for, but made the detour oh-so-worth-it.

So if you’re up for a little scene switch, there’s always something waiting to surprise you at SM Supermalls in Visayas, where new and upcoming spots bring unexpected finds, exciting firsts, and moments that are all for you.

A Sudden Drip Addition

Just when everything’s right on track, a new name enters the mix to change the scene. Here comes the first-ever Salomon in Cebu, now open at the 2nd Level of SM J Mall–bringing in performance-driven design that moves seamlessly between function and everyday wear, adding a fresh, unexpected edge to your usual lineup. 

A Tasty Surprise 

Right when you think you’ve seen it all, something new slips in and changes the lineup. Mesa will soon return to Bacolod at the newly built block of SM City Bacolod–bringing its signature take on Filipino favorites with its crisp and flavorful Crispy Pork Belly or its fresh, savory Tinapa Roll.

This is your cue to go off script and explore, because the best things usually show themselves when you didn’t make plans to find it. Discover more firsts and experiences only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

SM City Cebu Launches Immersive VR Racket Sports Experience at XP Arena in North Wing Atrium

SM City Cebu is taking interactive entertainment to the next level with the launch of an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) racket sports experience at the North Wing Atrium. Designed for active achievers, gamers, and tech enthusiasts, the attraction transforms the space into a futuristic playground called the XP Arena, where real-world movements directly control the action in a fully digital environment.

Blending sports and extended reality technology, the XP Arena lets players experience high-energy matches of pickleball, badminton, and tennis—no physical court required. Every swing, serve, and rally is tracked in real time, challenging players to test their speed, precision, and stamina in a dynamic virtual setting.

Whether you’re aiming for leaderboard rankings or simply looking for a fun and unique activity, the experience delivers an exciting mix of fitness and gaming that feels both physical and futuristic.

This initiative is part of SM’s Active Hub, a lifestyle program that encourages movement, wellness, and recreation by turning mall spaces into interactive activity zones. It aims to make sports and fitness more accessible and engaging for everyone.

The XP Arena VR experience is open to the public at SM City Cebu’s North Wing Atrium until May 31. Don’t miss the chance to step into the future of sports entertainment—where every move brings you closer to next-level play.

Turning Trash into Opportunity: SM City Mindpro, ZSCMST Seals Game-Changing Sustainability Partnership

Sealing the Trash-to-Cash Program partnership between SM City Mindpro and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) are Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez (left) and President Roy L. Valesco, Ph.D. (right)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 21st April 2026 — In a powerful stride toward a greener and more sustainable future, SM City Mindpro has officially partnered with Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) headed by its President, Dr. Roy Valesco, through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing for the Trash to Cash Program, reinforcing a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment.

The partnership brings together the strengths of SM City Mindpro and ZSCMST to promote responsible waste management, recycling, and environmental education—transforming everyday waste into valuable resources while instilling eco-conscious habits among students, shoppers, and the wider community.

At the heart of the initiative is the Trash to Cash Market, a monthly recycling program held at SM City Mindpro every first Friday and Saturday of the month. The program encourages the public to bring recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and other waste items, which are then properly sorted and exchanged for cash incentives. More than just a recycling drive, it creates a culture of sustainability by making environmental action accessible, rewarding, and impactful.

Through the collaboration, ZSCMST—known for its strong advocacy in marine conservation and environmental protection—will play a vital role in mobilizing students, faculty, and partner communities to actively participate in the program. The partnership also opens doors for joint environmental campaigns, awareness drives, and educational initiatives that highlight the importance of protecting coastal and marine ecosystems.

This initiative is part of the broader SM Green Movement, SM’s umbrella program that champions sustainable practices across all its properties nationwide. The SM Green Movement focuses on waste management, energy efficiency, water conservation, and climate action, empowering communities to take part in building a more sustainable future.

With this partnership, SM City Mindpro and ZSCMST are not just managing waste—they are shaping mindsets, inspiring collective action, and proving that sustainability is a shared journey where every small step counts.

About SM Green Movement

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

MacBook Neo Launches in the Philippines with GGives Installment Plans, Making Apple Upgrade More Affordable

Catch the MacBook Neo drop with GGives—freebies plus easy 0.9% monthly installments. 

The wait is over—the new MacBook Neo officially drops in the Philippines at 7:00 pm on April 23. Whether you’re powering through work, school, or side hustles, this is the must-have tool that keeps up with you and is fit for you. If it’s already on your list, now’s the right time to make the move.

And with GGives, availing becomes more manageable with lighter, more affordable terms while enjoying promos from partner merchants.

Making It More Within Reach with GGives

Pre-order the MacBook Neo through GGives and enjoy a lighter way to pay with flexible installments. During the pre-order period from April 11 to 23, 2026, you can also take advantage of no down payment and a low 0.9% interest rate, making it even more affordable to upgrade.

Plus, when you pre-order from select partner merchants, you’ll receive exclusive freebies (*until supplies last):

●       Abenson & Electroworld - Free JisuLife Fan*

●       Beyond the Box, Digital Walker, & Open Source by Beyond the Box  - Free Momax Powerbank*

●       Power Mac Center - Free pair of Apple Earpods 3.5mm headphone plug*

●       The Loop - Free Anker Soundcore R50i NC True Wireless BT Earbuds*

●       Digimap & Digiplanet- Free AmazingThing Polishing Cloth*

 

To avail of these offers, eligible users simply need to:

●       Be a GCash user with an active GGives account

●       Choose GGives as their payment option in-store and select a 12- or 24-month plan

If you’re not yet activated, just head to the GCash app, tap “Borrow”, select “GGives,” and complete the quick application. Once approved, you’ll see your available credit limit (subject to evaluation).

With GGives, getting the MacBook Neo becomes lighter and more affordable—letting you balance what you need now with what works for your budget.

Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

For more details on the Apple Preferred 0.9% GGives Interest Rate Promo, visit https://gcash.com/promos/ggives-apple-exclusive-0-9-interest-rate-promo.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-253756 Series of 2026

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-253724 Series of 2026.

Red Bull Dance Your Style PH Crowns a New Champion, with Manila’s Izzy Johnson Punching Ticket to Zurich World Finals

Photo provided by Red Bull

Manila, Philippines, April 13, 2026 — Against a backdrop of roaring cheers, flashing lights, and nonstop rhythm, Manila’s Izzy Johnson emerged victorious at the Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines National Finals, besting the country’s most dynamic street dancers in a battle decided entirely by the crowd. With every beat, every reaction, and every energy shift, Izzy proved to be the final dancer standing at Bridgetowne, Pasig, earning the title and the right to represent the Philippines on the world stage in Zurich, Switzerland.

“I felt that all my pressure was replaced by excitement. The crowd became my fuel. When I saw they were happy with my dancing, I felt like I had already won,” expressed Izzy.

Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines contenders, Nemesis from Cebu and Doodsieroll from Davao, joined Izzy in setting the fiery tone of the night. The National Finals showcased the depth and diversity of Philippine street dance, blending global talent, local energy, and a love for the art form.

A Night Where the Crowd Took Control

Photo provided by Red Bull

From the opening round, the National Finals set a fast pace. With no judges on the panel, every decision came down to the audience, turning the dance floor into a space where connection with the crowd mattered as much as execution.

Each battle unfolded like a live conversation among the DJ, the dancer, and the audience, as dancers stepped into the fray without knowing which track would play next. As tracks shifted without warning, competitors were forced to switch styles, flip the energy, and respond with precision under pressure. The crowd reacted in real time with cheers and energy, fueling momentum and determining who advanced and who exited the competition.

As the battles progressed, the connection between the dancer and the audience became more apparent, shaping the event's overall flow. It created a loop of energy that elevated every moment into something bigger, louder, and more unpredictable.

A Champion Carrying a Nation’s Rhythm

Photo provided by Red Bull

By the final round, one dancer had consistently captured the crowd’s attention. Izzy combined musicality, control, and presence, delivering performances that stood out across multiple matchups. His ability to adapt to different tracks while maintaining a clear sense of identity ultimately secured the win. In Izzy’s performance, the crowd saw a familiar reflection of hometown roots, cultural influences, and the everyday movement that defines Filipino street dance.

Opening up about his influences, Izzy praised the local Filipino dance community. “Because of the dance community, I was able to find my own style. I used to only do choreographed dances before. But freestyle is different. I used to freestyle on my own, but thanks to the dance community, I was able to learn more,” he said.

“I also absorbed some of their maturity—that when it comes to dance, you don't have to be too technical. You just have to be true to your dance,” Izzy said proudly. 

Throughout the night, Izzy demonstrated an ability that commands the music. He mastered the art of blending groove, unmatched energy, and spontaneity into rounds that electrified the night.

“I guess one of the dance battle tactics that helped me was learning to connect with the crowd through my movements. Since this is Red Bull Dance Your Style, it was so important that they understood my movements. Our artistry must touch their hearts,” Izzy said.

A Battle Map Across the Philippines

Photo provided by Red Bull

More than a competition, the National Finals unfolded as a cultural map drawn in motion. It highlighted how different styles from different regions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao continue to shape the country’s street dance landscape.

Cebu’s Nemesis stepped into the spotlight with explosive, grounded power with movements anchored in strength, grit, and unfiltered intensity. Each hit landed with purpose, commanding audience attention from the first beat.

From Mindanao, Davao’s Doodsieroll, countered with fluid musicality. He was able to weave rhythm and movement into seamless combinations with control and timing that created moments that felt effortless yet deeply intentional, drawing the crowd into every transition.

Representing the capital, Izzy brought a sharp, experimental edge. He played with textures, pacing, and unexpected freestyle choices that challenged conventions and kept every round unpredictable.

Despite their differences, each dancer contributed to a broader narrative. Their styles didn’t clash; they converged. The battle became a dynamic showcase of Filipino creativity, where regional identities stood strong as they built toward a shared goal: representing the Philippines on a global stage.

From the Philippines to the World Stage

Photo provided by Red Bull

With the national title secured, Izzy now sets his sights on the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals, where champions from over 54 countries will gather for a global clash of sound, style, and identity.

“To represent the Philippines at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals is to represent the people. But first of all, it starts with me, I’m a Filipino, so I represent myself first. And I represent every Pinoy that helped me get to this moment,” Izzy said, discussing how stepping into the world stage is a win for every Filipino.

It’s a stage where no two dancers move the same, and where cultural expression takes center stage. For Izzy Johnson, it’s an opportunity to carry the energy of an entire nation into the global arena.

While street dancers across the country showcased their distinct styles and approaches to dance, the Philippines arrived at the Red Bull Dance Your Style stage as a unified force, built from islands apart, now moving as one. As Izzy prepares to step into the global arena, one thing is clear: the Philippines is bringing a style and energy the world can’t ignore.

The energy and success of Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines was made possible through the support of official event partners Army Navy, Hertz, Mophie, and Posh, who helped fuel the local street dance community and elevated this year's unforgettable competition.

Follow Izzy Johnson’s journey to the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals in Zurich, Switzerland, this October 2026 and witness how Filipino street dance takes on the global stage. For updates and event details, visit the official Red Bull Dance Philippines website and follow its social media pages (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok) to stay locked in as the road to the World Finals unfolds.

Australian Table Grapes 2026 Philippines Season Launch at The Marketplace Galleria Cebu Featuring Culinary Creations

Australian Table Grapes 2026 season launch at The Marketplace Robinsons Galleria Cebu featuring a live cooking demonstration.

Cebu City, Philippines – The Australian Table Grape Association officially launched the 2026 Australian table grape season in Cebu City with a live cooking demonstration at The Marketplace Robinsons Galleria Cebu, bringing the fresh, premium Australian table grape experience closer to Filipino shoppers.

The activation opened with remarks from the Australian Table Grape Association, emphasizing the Philippines’ growing importance to the Australian table grapes industry.

Australian Table Grapes 2026 Philippines season launch event at The Marketplace Robinsons Galleria Cebu with culinary showcase and tasting.

“The Philippines continues to be one of our most important and valued export markets, and this event brings Australian grapes even closer to our consumers. Cebu is another key region where we aim to grow with the support of our partners in the country,” said Jeff Scott, CEO of the Australian Table Grape Association.

Chef Celina David

Chef Celina David showcased the versatility of Australian table grapes through three standout recipes—the savory Trio Queso Nacho Grape Pico, the sweet Woodland Panna Cotta with Rosemary Balsamico, and the refreshing Sparkling Twilight Grape Velvet Lassi.

The activation drew strong engagement from shoppers, media, retail partners, and key opinion leaders, with the presence of Australian Table Grape Association leadership further reinforcing the industry’s commitment to on-ground consumer engagement in Cebu.

“This program is a great way for us to share the sweetness and story of Australian table grapes with Filipino families here in Cebu,” said Jesse White, International Marketing Manager of the Australian Table Grape Association.

This activation is part of the broader 2026 campaign, which will roll out in-store sampling activities, eye-catching retail displays, digital and social media promotions, and point-of-sale materials. The goal is to help shoppers easily identify Australian-grown grapes and better understand the different varieties available this season.

Members of the Cebu media attend the Australian Table Grapes 2026 season launch featuring a live culinary showcase at The Marketplace Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

Exports of Australian table grapes to the Philippines have continued to grow steadily in recent years, with the country consistently ranking among Australia’s top export markets for the category. The Australian Table Grape Association expects this positive momentum to continue in 2026, driven by strong supply, an expanded variety range, and rising Filipino demand for premium imported fruit.

Chinabank wins regional award for HR digital transformation

From left: AIA Indonesia Chief Human Resources Officer Ichsan Adiwijaya, CBC HR Business Solutions Department Head Gene Modequillo, CBC HR Strategic Support Division Head Rizza Salvino, and People Matters New Markets Head Aditya Chopra.

Chinabank was recognized among the best organizations, teams, and individuals in Southeast Asia that redefine the future of work through technology and purposeful transformation. 

The bank earned the Silver Award for Human Capital Management (HCM) Innovation and Implementation under the Visionary Organizations category at the recent People Matters Infini‑T Awards SEA 2026 in Singapore.

The award is in recognition of the bank’s successful digital transformation of its HR ecosystem through SyncHROne, developed in partnership with Darwinbox and launched in 2025. The AI-powered, mobile-enabled SyncHROne streamlines HR operations and enhances employee engagement and productivity.

“We are proud of this achievement, which reflects our shared commitment to building a future-ready, inclusive, and innovation-driven workplace. Through SyncHROne, we have empowered Chinabankers with a unified ‘source of truth’ that allows them to focus on what matters most—growth and excellence,” Chinabank Human Resources Group Head Tani Cruz said.

Aside from its triumph at the Infini-T Awards, the highlight of the two-day People Matters TechHR Singapore 2026, Chinabank also shared its HR transformation journey during the “Futurist Circle” breakout session. HRG Strategic Support Division Head Rizza Salvino explained how Chinabank leveraged AI and data-driven insights to redefine the employee experience and boost performance. She said leaders drive business results when they take charge, supported by HR’s efforts to enable agility through technology and to strengthen decision-making with data-driven insights. She also noted that digital transformation is about transforming the people who use the new technology—empowering them to think, work, and lead differently.

About Chinabank:  China Banking Corporation (Chinabank; PSE: CBC), founded in 1920, is the fourth largest private universal bank in the Philippines and a member of the SM Group, one of the country’s biggest conglomerates. Driven by its brand promise, “Focused on You,” Chinabank supports individuals, small- and middle-market businesses, and large corporations, with its consolidated network of over 650 branches and 1,140 ATMs, and 24/7 digital banking channels My CBC App and My CBC Online.  The bank also offers a wide range of allied financial services through its subsidiaries China Bank Savings, Chinabank Capital, Chinabank Securities, Chinabank Insurance Brokers, and affiliate Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance. 

For over a century, Chinabank has built a deep connection with its customers and the communities it serves, leveraging the dedication and diversity of its empowered people and the strength of its enduring partnerships to help uplift the lives of Filipinos. 

For more information, visit www.chinabank.ph or follow ChinabankPH on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.