Samsung Unveils Galaxy Tab S12 Series: The Ultimate Productivity Powerhouse with Galaxy AI and Pre-loaded Adobe Photoshop

Samsung Electronics has officially unveiled the highly anticipated Galaxy Tab S12 series, introducing the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S12+. Designed as the ultimate productivity powerhouse, the new lineup combines groundbreaking performance, an ultra-thin form factor, and advanced Galaxy AI capabilities to streamline workflows and elevate creative possibilities.

Peak Performance in an Ultra-Thin Design

At a remarkably slim 5.1mm, the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra stands as Samsung's thinnest Galaxy Tab yet while delivering its most powerful performance to date. Both models feature immersive Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays—measuring 14.6 inches on the Ultra and 12.6 inches on the Tab S12+—supporting a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and real-time adjustments via Vision Booster.

Powered by an advanced 3nm MediaTek Dimensity 9500 processor delivering up to 61% faster NPU processing and backed by an all-new 3D Vapor Chamber, the series easily handles intensive multitasking, gaming, and professional editing. Plus, with IP68 water and dust resistance and all-day battery life (up to 23 hours on the Ultra with an 11,600 mAh battery), users can maintain peak productivity anywhere.

Intuitive Multitasking with Galaxy AI

Running Android 17 with One UI 9, the Galaxy Tab S12 series transforms its expansive screen into a flexible workspace using Multi Window layouts. Users can take notes with the bundled ergonomic S Pen while leveraging Note Assist and built-in AI tools. Additionally, every unit comes with a 6-month trial of Google AI Pro, providing instant access to Gemini's powerful capabilities.

Professional Ecosystem and App Support

A major milestone for Android tablets, Adobe Photoshop comes preloaded on the Galaxy Tab S12 series, offering optimized tablet support, S Pen precision, and generative AI features powered by Adobe Firefly, such as Generative Fill and Image to Video, along with a 4-month free mobile subscription.

The device also features app partnerships and bundles, including Notability, Goodnotes, LumaFusion, Notion, and Clip Studio Paint, delivering approximately $600 in total creator app benefits.

Philippine Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy Tab S12 series will be available for pre-order exclusively on Shopee from October 9 to 20, 2026, before officially launching online on Samsung.com, Lazada, TikTok Shop, Shopee, MemoX.com, and Abenson.com on October 21, and in Samsung Experience and Authorized stores starting October 28, 2026.

• Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra:
  • 256GB Wi-Fi – ₱87,590
  • 256GB 5G – ₱99,590
  • 512GB 5G – ₱109,590
• Galaxy Tab S12+:
• 256GB Wi-Fi – ₱76,590
• 256GB 5G – ₱85,590

Early buyers will receive a free productivity bundle—including a Book Cover Keyboard Slim, S Pen, and a 45W travel adapter — valued at up to ₱18,279, along with 3rd-party app benefits worth up to ₱24,161.

Your Ultimate Discount-Maxxing Destination: SM Store Zamboanga’s 3-Day Sale is Here!

Get ready to gala to the max and save to the max as SM Store Zamboanga’s 3-Day Sale takes over from October 2 to 4, bringing shoppers the season’s biggest deals, exclusive discounts, and exciting rewards.

Shoppers can enjoy up to 50% OFF on great finds across a wide range of products, plus an additional 10% OFF for SMAC and SMAC Prestige members with no minimum spend and no discount cap. Cardholders of BDO, RCBC, Metrobank, Security Bank, Atome Card, and Salmon Product Loan can also enjoy up to 10% OFF, while shoppers can take advantage of 0% interest Buy Now, Pay Later for up to three months. 

The savings start even earlier with SMAC Prestige Early Access on October 1, giving members first dibs on the best deals before the sale officially opens.

Adding even more excitement, shoppers can get a Hydrofresh Espresso Tumbler 200ml for only ₱299 from October 1 to 4 with a minimum ₱2,000 single-receipt purchase. Plus, Mastercard® users can score a FREE AquaFlask Keychain from October 2 to 4.

Whether you're shopping for essentials, gifts, fashion finds, or simply rewarding yourself, SM Store Zamboanga's 3-Day Sale is your ultimate discount-maxxing destination for unbeatable savings and exclusive perks. 

Mark your calendars, gather your shopping crew, and head to SM Store Zamboanga from October 2 to 4 for the ultimate shop-and-save experience.

 

***DTI Fair Trade Permit No. 259361, Series of 2026. Terms and conditions apply.

Pay With Peso or USDT: How Coins.ph Is Revolutionizing Travel Payments in VisMin

Paying for hotel stays, resort dining, and island tours in the Visayas and Mindanao is getting a major digital upgrade. Coins.ph recently participated in the Philippine VisMin Hospitality Summit in Cebu to highlight how QRPH-enabled crypto payments are streamlining transactions for international travelers and local hospitality businesses alike.

Coins.ph Introduces QRPH Crypto Payments for Hospitality at VisMin Hospitality Summit

Launched in April 2026, Coins.ph's QRPh stablecoin integration allows hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators across the VisMin region to accept Philippine pesos (PHP), stablecoins such as USDT, or a mix of both. The best part? It uses the exact same QR code already present at hundreds of thousands of merchant counters nationwide—making it seamless for digitally native international tourists to pay directly using the value they hold.

"A tourist landing in Cebu or Bohol with USDT in their Coins.ph wallet can now pay a hotel or a restaurant easily. All they need is one QR code—no exchange counter, no guessing at the conversion rate. That's the kind of everyday utility we want crypto to have in the Philippines."

— Amira Alawi, Global Marketing Director at Coins.ph

Why It Matters for VisMin Tourism Hubs

Key tourism destinations like Cebu, Bohol, Siargao, and Davao attract a high volume of global travelers. Previously, visitors holding digital assets like USDT had to locate money changers, withdraw cash, or incur high international credit card fees.

Coins.ph's QRPh integration eliminates those hurdles. Merchants do not need new POS hardware, separate software integrations, or crypto accounts. Guests simply scan the standard merchant QRPh code, and while the guest can pay in USDT, the merchant always receives the payment settled in PHP.

How QRPH Crypto Payments Work Step-by-Step

1. Scan: The guest scans the merchant's existing QRPh standee using the Coins.ph app.
2. Choose Currency: At checkout, the guest selects a PHP balance, a USDT balance, or both.
3. Real-Time Conversion: If using USDT, the app displays a transparent, real-time conversion rate to PHP before confirmation.
4. Secure Confirmation: The guest authenticates and completes the transaction through the app's standard security checks.
5. Instant PHP Settlement: The transaction settles immediately, delivering the full payment in PHP straight to the merchant's standard account.

Understanding Stablecoins

Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, stablecoins are digital currencies pegged 1:1 to a reserve asset, typically the US dollar. USDT (Tether) is the most widely used stablecoin worldwide. By integrating stablecoin settlement into the national QRPh framework, Coins.ph is bridging global digital finance with everyday local tourism transactions.

Kris Aquino Returns as Brand Ambassador: Named "Queen of All Shopee"

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Long before shopping hauls, affiliate links, and creator storefronts became part of everyday online culture, Filipinos were already watching what Kris Aquino bought, loved, and recommended. That influence comes full circle as Shopee welcomes the Queen of All Media back as its brand ambassador—this time with a title tailored to her legacy: Queen of All Shopee.

The new title draws on decades of audience trust. From beauty and fashion to food, home, and travel discoveries, "Kris Aquino-approved" long served as an informal seal of approval. In many ways, Kris operated as an influencer before the term became an industry standard.

“I’ve always enjoyed sharing the things I genuinely like, and I think people know by now that I can be very particular about my choices. Coming back to Shopee feels very natural because I already shop here. Now I get to share more of what I discover, what I think is worth buying, and hopefully help people find things they’ll love too.”

— Kris Aquino, Brand Ambassador, Shopee

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Maximizing Everyday Perks with Shopee VIP

A self-described avid shopper and active Shopee VIP subscriber since December 2025, Kris highlighted how she utilizes the platform’s daily 20% discounts and exclusive membership perks, especially heading into the holiday season.

“Christmas means shopping for family, friends, gifts, and of course, there are always a few things you end up wanting for yourself,” Kris shared. “If you know you’re going to shop, then you might as well make every purchase count. I’ve experienced the savings myself with Shopee VIP, and those savings really do add up.”

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Reigning Over Shopee Live, Short Dramas, and Mega Sales

As Queen of All Shopee, Kris will bring her unscripted commentary and eye for quality across Shopee’s primary entertainment and commerce channels:

• Shopee Live Interaction: Host real-time streams where she reacts to products, shares curated picks, and answers audience questions directly.
• Mega Double-Digit Sales: Headline Shopee's biggest shopping moments through the rest of the year, including the 10.10, 11.11, and 12.12 Mega Sales.
• Short Dramas & Content: Showcase curated cart additions, deals, and recommendations across interactive app features.

“I actually think I’ll be a good live seller. Live Selling is fun because anything can happen. There’s no editing, people can ask me questions right there, and I get to react in the moment. I’ve spent so many years talking to audiences, but doing it while we’re all shopping together is something new and exciting for me.”

— Kris Aquino

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The Queen of All Shopee makes her official debut this September. Users can open the Shopee app to explore Kris Aquino's personal recommendations and add her top finds to their carts.

Rethinking Insurance: How InLife is Leading Innovation and Reimagining Protection for Filipinos

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — There was a time when buying insurance meant setting aside time for extensive paperwork, visiting a branch office, meeting with a financial advisor, and waiting weeks for an application to be processed. But as Filipinos' everyday habits evolve toward digital convenience—from mobile banking to shopping—insurance expectations are shifting rapidly as well.

For InLife (formerly known as Insular Life), changing customer behavior prompted a core question: How can protection work better for the way Filipinos live today? In response, the insurer has spearheaded digital tools, product innovations, and agile operational frameworks designed to make insurance simpler, faster, and more accessible.

“We believe there is something powerful about being Filipino and protecting fellow Filipinos. We place the same value on family and preparation for the future, and understand the different challenges Filipinos face because we experience them ourselves. That shared understanding inspires us to keep finding better, simpler, and more meaningful ways to protect Filipinos throughout their lives.”

— Gae L. Martinez, Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Bancassurance Officer, InLife

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Digital Tools Built Around Speed and Convenience

To eliminate friction points across the customer journey, InLife has built an ecosystem of digital platforms for policyholders and financial advisors alike:

• Automated Underwriting System: Accelerates life insurance applications by streamlining approval workflows.
• InLife App: Gives policyholders 24/7 access to manage their policies, track coverage, and request services directly from their smartphones.
• InLife Super Compass App: Serves as an all-in-one digital sales and productivity platform for financial advisors.
• Ella AI Assistant: Provides automated, policy-specific information whenever and wherever policyholders need assistance.

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Pioneering First-to-Market Financial Solutions

Beyond technology platforms, InLife continues to introduce tailored solutions built around contemporary financial realities across different life stages:

1. Preparing for Retirement: Retire Assure & RRI

To help Filipinos gauge retirement readiness, InLife developed the nation's first Retirement Readiness Index (RRI), measuring preparedness across six factors: life stage, personal finances, health, pension participation, sentiment, and social support.

Following this insight, InLife introduced Retire Assure, a guaranteed income plan for post-working years (ages 60 to 100). It features flexible payout structures and requires no medical exams, providing reliable income as life expectancy increases.

2. Accessible Protection: Stackbit

Designed for younger demographics and emerging consumers, Stackbit offers modular coverage starting at just ₱10. Customers can select from three stackable coverage options, enabling them to build financial protection gradually without large upfront financial commitments.

3. Global Healthcare Coverage: InLife Global Care

To supplement existing Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) coverage, InLife Global Care covers critical illnesses and major medical needs, offering access to specialized treatment centers both locally and internationally.

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Preventive Wellness and Agile Transformation

For high-net-worth policyholders within its Amorsolo Circle program, InLife introduced InLife HealthCheck. The digital tool uses a 60-second video selfie on a mobile device to analyze sub-dermal blood flow and return a snapshot of over 30 wellness indicators—encouraging proactive, routine health monitoring before clinical symptoms manifest.

Behind the scenes, InLife has adopted Agile methodologies and cross-functional Mission-Based Teams (MBTs). By bringing together sales, underwriting, customer relations, and IT teams around specific customer needs, products like Retire Assure and Stackbit were brought to market faster.

Nearing 116 years of operation, InLife's modernized brand identity reflects an agile, customer-centric organization committed to helping Filipinos prepare for the future.

To learn more, visit the official website at www.inlife.com.ph.

Your Ultimate Shopping Destination: Gala to the Max and Score Big at SM City Zamboanga's 3-Day Sale

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 28 September 2026 – Bigger deals, longer shopping hours, and exciting rewards are coming your way as SM City Zamboanga brings its highly anticipated 3-Day Sale from October 2 to 4.

This is your sign to gala to the max, shop to your heart's content, and enjoy three days of unbeatable bargains with up to 70% OFF on great finds from participating mall stores. To give shoppers more time to explore and score the best deals, mall hours will be extended from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM throughout the sale weekend.

Whether you're updating your wardrobe, upgrading your gadgets, stocking up on essentials, or treating yourself to long-awaited purchases, SM City Zamboanga is the place to be this October.

But the excitement does not stop at huge discounts. Shoppers also get the chance to drive home a brand-new Suzuki Fronx GLX Hybrid. For every ₱1,000 worth of purchases, customers earn one raffle entry, giving them more opportunities to win with every shopping trip.

Adding even more reasons to shop, members can unlock exclusive sale privileges. On October 1, Prestige Card holders can enjoy the Prestige Early Access Sale, granting an extra 10% OFF at The SM Store before the official sale weekend begins. Meanwhile, SMAC members can maximize their shopping power with an extra 10% OFF at The SM Store and participating affiliates during the SMAC Weekend Sale from October 2 to 4.

More than just a sale, the event is a celebration of rewarding shopping experiences, exciting discoveries, and memorable moments with family and friends. From the latest fashion finds and must-have gadgets to home essentials and dining deals, shoppers can expect a fun-filled weekend packed with savings and surprises. 

So gather your shopping buddies, plan your haul, and get ready to gala to the max at your most loved SM City Zamboanga. 

See you at the SM City Zamboanga 3-Day Sale on October 2-4, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and experience the ultimate shopping event of the season.

About SM Supermalls 

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. Every Filipino has an SM story. For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together. As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

SM City Mindpro Invites Young Word Wizards to Join the SM Super Spelling Bee 2026

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 22 September 2026 — Young learners with a passion for words and a flair for spelling are in for an exciting challenge as SM City Mindpro brings back the much-anticipated SM Super Spelling Bee 2026, giving aspiring champions the opportunity to showcase their skills on a bigger and more competitive stage.

Now on its third year, the nationwide spelling competition returns bigger, bolder, and more exciting than ever, continuing SM's commitment to supporting education, literacy, and youth development. The competition aims to inspire young students to build confidence, strengthen their language skills, and discover their full potential through the power of words.

Open to children 9 to 11 years old who are currently enrolled for School Year 2026-2027, the SM Super Spelling Bee challenges participants to put their spelling abilities to the test for a chance to advance through the competition and earn exciting rewards.

Adding to the excitement, participants will compete for a share of more than ₱5 million worth of prizes, including special rewards for the winning school, making this year's edition one of the most rewarding spelling competitions in the country.

Registration is now ongoing and may be completed through the SM Malls Online App or by visiting the Mall Administration Office, Level 5, SM City Mindpro.

The local elimination round will be held on October 3 at Level 4 of SM City Mindpro, where participants will compete for a chance to move forward in the nationwide competition.

Parents, guardians, and schools are encouraged to support their young spellers and take part in this enriching educational experience that nurtures talent, discipline, and a love for language.

For schedules, participating malls, and complete competition details, visit www.smsupermalls.com/superspellingbee.

Your Words. Your World. Your Future. 

For more information, follow and visit SM City Mindpro's official social media pages.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. Every Filipino has an SM story. For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together. As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home. 

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

SM Champions Youth Development Through Accessible Education and Everyday Experiences at NU Cebu

CEBU, Philippines, 21st September 2026 – University life goes beyond the classroom, and having convenient access to places to study, eat, meet friends, unwind, and pursue interests can make the student experience more meaningful. At SM City Cebu, this everyday connection is part of how SM is for Cebu, creating spaces and experiences that support students as they learn, connect, and grow. With National University Cebu (NU Cebu) located within the complex, students have access to a vibrant environment where education and everyday life come together.

With NU Cebu located within the SM City Cebu complex, students are just steps away from a wide range of dining, retail, entertainment, and essential services. They can grab a meal between classes, shop for school requirements, meet with classmates for group projects, or simply take a break without having to travel far. This convenience allows students to maximize their time while making SM City Cebu a natural part of their everyday college routine.

Beyond the classroom, SM City Cebu complements the student experience by providing opportunities for learning, participation, and community engagement. Students can take part in mall-led programs, youth-oriented initiatives, and community activities that encourage them to discover new interests, build connections, and engage with the wider community. These experiences add another dimension to student life, allowing learners to grow not only academically but also through meaningful experiences beyond the school environment. 

The integration of NU Cebu within the SM City Cebu complex also reflects SM’s commitment to creating developments that respond to the evolving needs of communities. By bringing education closer to retail, dining, transportation, entertainment, and other everyday necessities, SM City Cebu helps create a more accessible and connected environment for students and their families. For parents, the location also offers added convenience, creating opportunities for shared moments with their children in a familiar, accessible setting. 

As Cebu continues to grow as a center for education, business, and culture, SM City Cebu remains committed to supporting the next generation through spaces and experiences that encourage learning, connection, and discovery. With NU Cebu as part of the SM City Cebu complex, students can make the most of their college experience—learning in the classroom while enjoying a vibrant community where they can connect, explore, and create lasting memories. bout

SM, OCENR, CENRO Leads International Coastal Cleanup in Zamboanga City

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 19 September 2026 – Demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, SM Cares, through SM City Zamboanga and SM City Mindpro, in partnership with Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR), and Community Environment and Natural Resources Office – Zamboanga City (CENRO) successfully conducted the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2026 along R.T. Lim Boulevard on September 19.

The initiative gathered 1,145 volunteers from various local and national government agencies, uniformed personnel, non-government organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, civic groups, private companies, and community members, all united by a common goal of protecting the city's coastal environment and promoting responsible waste management.

Through the collective efforts of the participants, a total of 1,076.4 kilograms of marine litter and waste materials were collected from the coastline, helping prevent debris from reaching the sea and threatening marine ecosystems.

The annual International Coastal Cleanup serves as a global movement that highlights the importance of preserving oceans, shorelines, and waterways while fostering environmental awareness and volunteerism among communities.

“Today's cleanup is a powerful reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. We are grateful to all our partners and volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to this meaningful cause. Through collective action, we can create cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities for future generations,” said Engr. Rommel Bellen, Assistant Mall Manager of SM City Mindpro.

The activity showcased the strong collaboration among government agencies, environmental advocates, educational institutions, and the private sector in advancing environmental conservation efforts in Zamboanga City.

As part of SM's ongoing sustainability programs, the coastal cleanup reflects its commitment to creating positive environmental impact through initiatives that encourage community participation, proper waste management, and environmental responsibility.

SM Supermalls in Zamboanga extends its sincere appreciation to all partner organizations, volunteers, and stakeholders whose support contributed to the success of the International Coastal Cleanup and reaffirmed the community's shared commitment to protecting the environment. 

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About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.

Dig Into Viral Eats with FoodTok Fest at SM Malls in Zamboanga

Discover viral flavors, exciting textures, and must-try foodie finds, all in one delicious destination

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 18 September 2026 – From trending cravings to homegrown flavors, your most loved SM City Zamboanga and SM City Mindpro are serving up the ultimate foodie experience this September through the FoodTok Festival, a celebration of viral eats, local favorites, and must-try dining destinations.

Food lovers, content creators, families, and friends are invited to explore a feast of flavors as SM Zamboanga Malls transform into a food destination where every bite is worthy of a post, a share, and a return visit.

At the heart of the festival is the FoodTok Bazaar, located at Level 4 of SM City Mindpro and the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga. More than just a marketplace, it provides local MSMEs with a platform to showcase their products while giving shoppers the opportunity to discover flavors proudly made by local entrepreneurs.

Beyond the bazaar, the FoodTok Festival takes diners on a culinary journey through some of the most talked-about food destinations in SM Zamboanga malls.

At Ettas in SM City Zamboanga, guests can indulge in comforting and flavorful dishes that continue to earn a loyal following among local food enthusiasts. Those looking for elevated dining experiences can savor the signature offerings of Maurizio's, available at both SM City Zamboanga and SM City Mindpro, where authentic Italian flavors meet contemporary culinary flair.

Seafood lovers can enjoy the fresh and satisfying selections at Abalone, while families and groups can gather over hearty meals at Casa Velyn, both conveniently located in SM City Zamboanga and SM City Mindpro. For those craving great food paired with a vibrant atmosphere, CookPub at SM City Mindpro offers a dining experience that's perfect for after-work meetups and weekend hangouts. Adding even more variety to the festival lineup is La Salsa, present in both malls, serving crowd-favorite dishes that bring people together over bold flavors and memorable dining moments.

Whether you're hunting for your next viral food discovery, supporting local businesses, catching up with friends over a great meal, or simply satisfying your cravings, the FoodTok Festival offers countless reasons to gala to the max at SM City Zamboanga and SM City Mindpro this September. 

So grab your foodie squad, charge your phones, and get ready to dig into the viral eats everyone's talking about. This September, your next favorite food story starts at the FoodTok Festival on at SM Supermalls!

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. Every Filipino has an SM story. For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together. As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

foodpanda Champions Visayas Merchant Growth at CRAVE 2026 Summit in Cebu

Cebu Food Scene Gets Tech Boost as foodpanda Champions Merchant Growth at CRAVE 2026 Summit.

CRAVE 2026 brought together foodpanda partner vendors from across the Visayas to celebrate their shared achievements and growth-driven partnerships.

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Food entrepreneurs and top merchant partners from across the Visayas recently gathered in Cebu City for foodpanda's CRAVE Partner Summit & Awards 2026, highlighting the platform's expanding role in scaling homegrown food businesses beyond physical storefronts.

Patricia Jacinto, Director for Growth and Marketing, previewed upcoming Christmas campaigns to help partner vendors capture seasonal demand and drive growth.

The event brought together restaurant owners and leaders from key hubs across Central, Eastern, and Western Visayas. Focusing on digital empowerment, the summit showcased how local vendors can leverage real-time customer analytics, targeted marketing solutions, and streamlined logistics to capture high demand from both local diners and tourists.

"Our mission is to actively power the growth of our merchant partners," said Patricia Jacinto, Director for Growth and Marketing at foodpanda Philippines. "When Visayan restaurants combine their culinary expertise with foodpanda's ecosystem and insights, they can respond faster to market shifts, drive higher order volumes, and sustainably scale their businesses."

Honoring the Top-Performing Visayas Brands

The CRAVE 2026 awards segment recognized outstanding regional vendors that achieved notable growth and operational performance on the platform in the first half of 2026:

Alberto’s Pizza received the gold Pau Pau’s Top of Table Award for outstanding sales performance and market leadership.

Pau-Pau's Top of Table (Market Leadership & Sales): Alberto's Pizza, Sal's Bar and Restaurant, Dimsum Break, Ribshack, and PorkHub.

Sisigan Sa Doctors claimed the gold Pau Pau’s Momentum Master Award for strong H1 2026 performance.

Pau-Pau's Momentum Master (Outstanding YoY Growth): Sisigan Sa Doctors, Ma. Lina Catering Services, The Original AA BBQ, Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries, and Tiktilaok.

Felisa’s Cafe & Restaurant earned the gold Pau Pau’s Brand Spotlight Award for innovative marketing and business growth.

Pau-Pau's Brand Spotlight (Innovative Marketing): Felisa's Cafe & Restaurant, Mom Rose, Cebu's Tasty Lechon, Cribs, Ram's Pizza, Pasta and Milktea, and Metro Retail Supermarket.

Metro Retail Supermarket claimed the gold Pau Pau’s Brand Spotlight in foodpanda shops Award for consistent growth and partnership.

Operational Excellence (Fulfillment & Reliability): Hybrid Coffee, Somac Korean Restaurant, Got Tea? Crafted Milk Tea, Popcha Milktea Station, Gabby's Bistro, and Rose Pharmacy.

Hybrid Coffee was honored with the gold Operational Excellence Award for high operational standards and reliable service.

People's Palate Award (Customer Ratings & Repeat Orders): Hukad Everyday Filipino, SAJ HUT, Mango Magic, Dapogan, and Wingers Unlimited.

Hukad Everyday Filipino took the gold People’s Palate Award for its strong customer following and ratings.

Scaling Visayan Businesses with Next-Gen Tech

To help vendors prepare for peak demand during the upcoming holiday season, foodpanda announced updates to its platform ecosystem, including enhanced AI-driven demand-forecasting tools and automated marketing features designed to optimize daily order capacity and build customer loyalty.

Following the Cebu leg, the nationwide CRAVE 2026 summit will head to Manila for its final event.