Converge FiberX Brings Student League Ambassadors Program to Visayas and Mindanao

Students Unite for the X Without Limits Formation

Cebu City – Converge ICT Solutions has officially expanded its flagship youth initiative, the FiberX Student League Ambassadors Program, into the Visayas and Mindanao regions, kicking off Season 2 with a launch event at Oakridge Pavilion in Cebu on July 7, 2026.

The program, which debuted last year under the campaign "X Starts With You," encouraged young Filipinos to identify their unique passions and strengths. This year's edition carries the theme "X Without Limits," pushing the idea further: once youth discover their "X," geography and access should no longer stand in their way.

A Brave Student Goes Head to Head with Converge’s Own Geovane Jayme in Yuwin's World

Converge is positioning the initiative as part of a broader push to decentralize opportunity in the country. The company noted that talent is not confined to Metro Manila, and that young creators, gamers, and innovators in the provinces deserve the same platforms, mentorship, and tools as their counterparts in the capital.

What the program offers

Under the "X Without Limits" theme, the Student League Ambassadors Program aims to give regional youth access to:

• Professional mentorship
• Content creation tools
• Dedicated platforms for visibility
• Reliable high-speed internet connectivity

More than 100 students from 13 schools across Cebu attended the launch, taking part in activities centered on creativity, technology, and gaming.

The event also spotlighted Cebu's growing esports scene, citing collegiate competitions such as CESAFI Esports as evidence of the region's rising pool of competitive gaming talent. In line with this, Converge showcased its FiberX GameChanger EZ and Elite plans, both designed for gamers and esports teams that need low-latency, high-performance connections.

Executives on the program's expansion

JP Aguilar, SVP and Consumer Business Group Head of Converge, said the Student League is meant to give students experiences beyond the classroom. He added that whether a student's interest lies in gaming, content creation, or community leadership, the program aims to provide them with a platform, mentorship, and confidence to pursue it.

Sandra Zira-Dingal Smiles with One of the Boss Challenge Winners

Sandra Tubale-Dingal, AVP and Head of Consumer Segment Marketing, said Season 1 demonstrated what happens when students are given the right platform — they step up, bring ideas to life, and inspire others. She noted that the response also made clear how many more young people are still waiting for the same opportunity.

Orange Ramirez, VP and Brand & Marketing Head of Converge, said expanding to a regional scale across Visayas and Mindanao reflects the company's intent to champion talent in these areas, many of whom have yet to discover their own "X."

Excited Students Participate in the X Without Limits Formation

What's next

The Cebu leg marks the start of a wider regional rollout. Over the coming months, Converge will bring the FiberX Student League Ambassadors Program to more campuses across Visayas and Mindanao through a lineup of activities, including:

• 100X
• ChosenX Next Gen Workshops
• Battlestation Raid
• Campus Roadshows
• Master Classes

These are designed to give students real-world skills, industry exposure, and further opportunities for growth.

Updates on the program's regional schedule will be posted on Converge's official Facebook page.

Discover the Finest Coconut and Chocolate Creations at DTI’s Coco-Choco Fest in SM City Mindpro

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 09 July 2026 – A delightful celebration of local flavors has arrived at SM City Mindpro as the Coco-Choco Fest officially opens at the Ground Floor Event Center from July 7 to 13, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region IX.

Bringing together the region's finest coconut and cacao producers, the week-long trade fair shines the spotlight on the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the region’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The event provides a vibrant platform where homegrown businesses can showcase premium products while connecting with a wider market.

Visitors can indulge in an exciting selection of locally made favorites—from rich, authentic tablea and handcrafted chocolates to refreshing coconut-based beverages, delectable pastries, delicacies, and innovative food products that celebrate the abundance of the Zamboanga Peninsula's coconut and cacao industries.

More than a shopping event, the Coco-Choco Fest reflects SM City Mindpro's continuing commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs and strengthening communities by providing meaningful opportunities for business growth and market exposure. Through its partnership with DTI Region IX, SM continues to champion Filipino craftsmanship and support enterprises that contribute to the region's economic development.

Whether you're searching for the perfect gift, craving a sweet indulgence, or looking to experience the best of local craftsmanship, the Coco-Choco Fest offers a maxed-out experience filled with delicious discoveries and meaningful connections with local entrepreneurs.

Celebrate the exceptional flavors of coconut and chocolate—All For You, only at your most-loved SM City Mindpro!

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You. 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

SM City Zamboanga hosts RCSU 9's LTOPF & Firearms Registration Caravan

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 03 July 2026 – Gun owners and firearm license applicants can now conveniently process their requirements at the LTOPF (License to Own and Possess Firearms) & Firearms Registration Caravan, now happening at SM City Zamboanga from July 2 to 4, 2026.

In partnership with the Regional Civil Security Group 9 (RCSU 9), the three-day caravan offers a one-stop venue where firearm owners and applicants can complete multiple licensing and registration requirements in one location, making the process faster, easier, and more accessible.

Mallgoers and applicants can avail of the following services:

• LTOPF application and renewal
• Firearms registration
• On-site neuro-psychiatric examination
• Drug testing
• Gun safety seminar
• Other related licensing services

The caravan is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Upper Ground Level, adjacent to BDO, providing a convenient venue that allows applicants to accomplish their requirements while enjoying the mall's safe and comfortable environment.

Applicants are reminded to bring their complete documentary requirements, including all original documents, to ensure the smooth processing of their applications.

Through initiatives like the LTOPF & Firearms Registration Caravan, SM City Zamboanga continues to strengthen its commitment to bringing essential public services closer to the community by providing accessible venues for government programs and transactions. By partnering with public agencies, the mall helps make important services more convenient, efficient, and customer-friendly for the people of Zamboanga City.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You. 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Bigger Savings All For You at SM City Mindpro's End of Season Sale

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 01 July 2026 — One of SM’s biggest shopping events has arrived! Get ready to gala to the max as your most-loved SM City Mindpro rolls out its much-awaited End of Season Sale from June 26 to July 5, giving shoppers even more reasons to shop, dine, and celebrate with up to 70% OFF on great finds from participating stores.

Whether you're planning a wardrobe refresh, looking for the latest gadgets, upgrading your home, or hunting for the perfect gift, now is the best time to score incredible deals from your favorite brands. With discounts of up to 70% off, every visit becomes an opportunity to discover more while spending less.

More than just a shopping event, the End of Season Sale is an invitation to enjoy a maxed-out experience. From exciting retail finds and irresistible dining choices to entertainment and leisure activities for the whole family, every corner of the mall offers something worth exploring. This shopping celebration also reflects SM City Mindpro's commitment to creating memorable experiences for the Zamboanga community by bringing together the best in shopping, dining, entertainment, and lifestyle—all under one roof.

So, gather your shopping buddies, wear your comfiest shoes, and prepare to gala to the max! Enjoy bigger savings, discover amazing deals, and create unforgettable moments during the End of Season Sale!

For updates on mall events, exclusive promotions, and participating stores, follow SM City Mindpro on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

SM Seaside Cebu Arena Set to Transform Entertainment, Tourism, and Economic Growth in the Visayas

An architectural landmark within the South Coast City, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena is poised to redefine the region's entertainment landscape while driving tourism, economic growth, and new opportunities for Cebu and the Visayas.

CEBU, Philippines, 1st July 2026 - Creating destinations that inspire connections, unlock opportunities, and elevate everyday experiences has long been at the heart of SM’s journey in Cebu. This is reflected in the continued evolution of SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, which help strengthen Cebu’s position as one of the country’s leading centers for tourism, business, and culture while bringing world-class experiences closer to the communities they serve.

“Cebu has always been a place of immense potential, and our goal has been to create destinations that grow with the communities around them. Beyond providing spaces for retail and entertainment, we want to build platforms where people can connect, businesses can thrive, and new opportunities can emerge,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

Located within the South Coast City complex along SRP, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena builds on SM’s successful experience in creating world-class live event destinations in Manila, bringing the same integrated entertainment concept closer to audiences in the Visayas. Directly connected to SM Seaside City Cebu through a dedicated bridgeway, the Arena allows guests to seamlessly move between the mall and the venue, combining shopping, dining, entertainment, and live experiences within one dynamic destination.

As one of the country’s premier event venues outside Metro Manila, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena strengthens Cebu’s capacity to host world-class concerts, sporting events, and live entertainment—opening new opportunities for tourism, business, and economic growth across the region.

The grand entrance of the SM Seaside Cebu Arena features a modern, welcoming design that sets the stage for world-class events, creating an exceptional arrival experience for guests and visitors. 

The Arena's impact extends far beyond its walls. Major events create opportunities for hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, retailers, entrepreneurs, and service industries across Cebu and the wider Visayas. As more visitors travel to the city for concerts, competitions, and special events, businesses throughout the region benefit from increased economic activity while local communities gain greater access to globally recognized experiences closer to home.

Designed to host international concerts, sporting events, and large-scale entertainment, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena is set to become a premier venue that elevates Cebu's position as a leading destination for world-class experiences in the Visayas. 

The continued evolution of SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, alongside the development of the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, reflects SM for Cebu's commitment to creating destinations that enrich the Cebuano experience. More than a venue for world-class entertainment, the arena serves as a catalyst for tourism, investment, job creation, and economic activity that benefits communities across the region. By attracting major events and drawing more visitors to the city, it strengthens Cebu's position as a leading destination in the Visayas while creating sustained economic opportunities, increasing business activity, and contributing to the long-term growth objectives of the local government unit.

Samsung Galaxy A27 5G Brings an Immersive Display and Awesome Intelligence to More Users

The newest addition to the Galaxy A series features an Infinity-O display, combining a seamless viewing experience with reliable performance and intelligent tools for more users

SEOUL, Korea – June 25, 2026 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced Galaxy A27 5G, a device that refines everyday mobile use with an immersive display, reliable performance and thoughtfully integrated AI features. Building on the popular Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A27 5G introduces meaningful enhancements that make the experience easier and more intuitive for more users.

More Screen, Less Distraction

For smoother, more seamless viewing, the Galaxy A27 5G features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate. It also introduces an upgraded Infinity-O display that minimizes the visible camera area with a discreet punch-hole design. Together with a reduced, more balanced bezel, this adds screen space and removes distractions, keeping content front and center. With a slim 7.8 mm body, Galaxy A27 5G is designed to feel comfortable in the user’s hand throughout the day.

Everyday Performance, Enhanced

Powered by the Snapdragon® 6 Gen 3 Mobile Platform,[1] Galaxy A27 5G feels more responsive throughout the day, whether users are switching between apps or busily handling multitasking. A boost in GPU performance delivers smoother graphics for gaming and streaming, while the latest high-speed memory enables faster data transfer speeds and improved power efficiency. Together, these upgrades help Galaxy A27 5G deliver an everyday experience that users can count on.

Galaxy A27 5G also introduces a 12 MP front camera that captures a wider range of brightness and richer colors, resulting in more natural-looking selfies in a variety of lighting conditions.

Awesome Intelligence for Everyday Tasks

Upgrades to the existing suite of AI features make mobile intelligence more accessible. Circle to Search[2] with Google now supports multi-object recognition, allowing users to search for multiple items within an image at once, from outfits to accessories, in a single step. It also allows outfits to be virtually tried on directly from search results, helping users to explore new styles from anywhere.

Object Eraser[3] now delivers more precise results, making it easier to remove unwanted distractions with more natural-looking edits. Additionally, Voice Transcription[4] in the Voice Recorder app can now translate while transcribing, making it easier to capture meeting notes in 22 languages.

Building on the Awesome Intelligence[5] experiences introduced earlier this year, Galaxy A27 5G supports a choice of AI assistants, including Google Gemini[6] and Perplexity.[7] Deeper integration across more native Galaxy apps — including Gallery — supports faster, more intuitive everyday interactions. Galaxy A27 5G now supports Bixby[8] as a conversational device agent, enabling seamless control of settings and features through natural language.

Galaxy A27 5G reinforces Samsung’s commitment to long-term support with up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades, as well as up to six years of security updates from the initial global launch date, giving users confidence they can use their device longer. Built on Samsung Knox with hardware-backed protection from Knox Vault,[9] Galaxy A27 5G keeps sensitive data secure, making device protection easier and more intuitive than ever before.

Availability

Galaxy A27 5G will be available starting July 10 on Samsung.com, Samsung Experience, Authorized Stores, and Samsung Flagship stores on Lazada and Shopee. Available in Black, Blue, and Light Pink.[10]

Specification Table

	Galaxy A27 5G
Display	6.7” FHD +  *Measured diagonally, the screen size is 6.7" in the full rectangle and 6.5",   accounting for the rounded corners. The actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and the camera hole.
	Super AMOLED, Infinity-O Display  Up to 120 Hz refresh rate
Processor	Snapdragon ® 6 Gen 3 (4nm) Octa-Core 2.4GHz (4x), 1.8GHz (4x)
Dimensions & Weight	162.4 x 78.2 x 7.8mm, 200g
Camera	5MP Ultra-Wide Camera  50MP OIS Wide Camera  2MP Macro Camera  12MP Front Camera
Memory & Storage[1]	6+128 GB 8+256 GB  MicroSD: Up to 2 TB
Battery	5000 mAh (typical)  25 W Fast Charging
	*Typical value tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated (minimum) capacity is 4,860 mAh. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
OS	Android 16  One UI 8.5
Security	Samsung Knox Vault
Water & Dust Resistance	IP64[2]

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[1] Memory/storage options and availability may vary by country, region or carrier. Available memory/storage capacity is subject to preloaded software.

[2] Galaxy A27 5G is rated as IP64. Based on lab test conditions for spraying 10 liters of freshwater per minute from all angles for 5 minutes. Not recommended for beach or pool use. The device's water and dust resistance is not permanent and may diminish over time due to normal wear and tear.

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[1] Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

[2] Circle to Search is a trademark of Google LLC. Sequences shortened and simulated. Results for illustrative purposes only. Service availability may vary by country, language or device model. Requires an internet connection. Users may need to update Android and the Google app to the latest version. Works on compatible apps and surfaces. Results may vary depending on visual matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.

[3] Results may vary depending on shooting conditions, including multiple subjects, out-of-focus subjects, or moving subjects.

[4] Voice transcription feature requires a Samsung Account login. Only available on the pre-installed Samsung Voice Recorder app or files recorded using the pre-installed Samsung Phone app. The voice recording feature in the pre-installed Samsung Phone app may not be supported in some countries. Audio files must be under 3 hours in duration to be processed. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. For details, please visit https://www.samsung.com

[5] Samsung Account login may be required to use certain Samsung Intelligence Features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances, or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the output provided by the Intelligence Features. Availability of Awesome Intelligence features may vary by region/country, OS/One UI version, device model, or phone carrier. Awesome Intelligence service may be limited for minors in certain regions due to age restrictions on AI use.

[6] Gemini feature requires an internet connection and a Google Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language or device model. Features may differ depending on subscription, and results may vary. Compatible with certain features and certain accounts. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.

[7] Menu names, paths, and screen layouts may vary depending on your device model, software version, or app version. This feature may vary by country, language, model, or app. If the Perplexity app does not appear in the voice wake-up app list, update both the Voice wake-up app and the Perplexity app to the latest version from the Galaxy Store, then try again. Language support for Perplexity may vary by country.

[8] Service availability may vary by country/service provider/language/device model/OS version.

[9] Security features or hardware/software architecture of Samsung Knox Vault on Samsung Galaxy A series smartphones may differ from those on Samsung Galaxy flagship devices, including S series, Z series, S FE series smartphones and Tab S series tablets launched from 2021 onwards. The availability of Samsung Knox Vault may vary by device model.

[10] Color availability may vary by country or carrier.

Exclusive launch offers await when you purchase the Galaxy A27 5G until September 15, 2026. Get savings of up to Php3,639 (P1,500 off, free travel adapter, and Jisulife fan).*

For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+[1] offers comprehensive coverage tailored to users’ needs, including benefits that protect the device's value.

For more information on Galaxy A27 5G, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press or Samsung.com.

*DTI Permit No. FTEB-258063 Series of 2026

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[1] Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region, and a deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefits, registration may be required. For detailed Samsung Care+ information, please visit https://www.samsung.com/samsung-care-plus/. Care at home and abroad: When in need of Samsung Care+ services while traveling, users should contact the local customer service center in the destination country or region in advance to confirm Samsung Care+ availability.

Craving Satisfied: Andok's Returns to foodpanda After an Eight-Year Absence

If you've ever typed "Andok's" into the foodpanda search bar only to come up empty, you're not alone, and you're finally getting the answer you've been waiting for.

foodpanda welcomes back Andok's

foodpanda Philippines has officially brought Andok's back onto its platform, ending nearly a decade-long wait for fans of the beloved litson manok chain. For Cebuanos who've grown up with the smell of roasted chicken and smoky liempo from the neighborhood Andok's branch, the news lands like a long-overdue homecoming.

The timing isn't accidental. foodpanda's own data showed that Andok's consistently ranked among the most-searched brands on the app in Cebu and nationwide, even during the years it wasn't available. People were still looking. That kind of unwavering, sustained demand doesn't just reflect habit; it points to something deeper, a real emotional attachment that outlasted the brand's absence from the platform.

Patricia Jacinto of foodpanda Philippines and Maverick Leonardo T. Javier of Andok's Litson Corporation marked the partnership between the two brands during Pista ng Sarap

"At foodpanda, we're always looking for ways to bring customers closer to the brands and meals they love," said Patricia Jacinto, Marketing and Growth Director of foodpanda Philippines. She noted that the enthusiasm surrounding the relaunch speaks to how deeply rooted Andok's is in Filipino food culture, and how the platform can make those everyday cravings more accessible.

To start, 50 high-traffic Andok's branches have been onboarded across the Visayas region, with hundreds more expected to follow in the coming months. For a densely packed urban province like Cebu, where hunger strikes between back-to-back meetings, after late shifts, or mid-binge during a family movie night, that kind of availability matters.

Order or pick up your Andok's favorites through the foodpanda app at your nearest participating branch

Maverick Leonardo T. Javier, President of Andok's Litson Corporation, put it plainly. As modern lifestyles keep Filipinos busier than ever, the partnership bridges the gap between nostalgic comfort and modern convenience. Satisfying a sudden craving for familiar favorites is now, he said, just a few taps away.

That framing rings true in Cebu's fast-moving urban centers. In Cebu City, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu City, food delivery has quietly gone from weekend treat to weekday essential. It's woven into how people eat and is increasingly expected. Andok's re-entry into foodpanda puts one of the Philippines' most iconic rotisserie brands right inside that routine.

For anyone who's already got the app open, Andok's is live now. For everyone else, this is a good enough reason to download it.