UP SAMASKOM stages Live A.I.D.S. 35 : “A Laugh Story” for its Golden Presentation

Fresh from last year’s rollicking staging of Live A.I.D.S. 34: Hysterical Revisionism, UP SAMASKOM is back with more laughter and bedazzling performances with Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story from May 9 to 11, 2025 at the Ignacio B. Jimenez (IBG) - KAL Theater in UP Diliman.

The show is the 35th and golden edition of the popular comedy-musical-variety show that has entertained generations of students and comedy variety show enthusiasts since the 70’s. Presented yearly by the premiere campus organization UP SAMASKOM, it is the longest –running comedy musical variety show. Ever new and always relevant no matter what decade or socio-political situation, Live A.I.D.S. teases and provokes all at once with good vibes, laughter and sharp social commentary.

Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story stays true to the show’s trademark of sharp wit and infectious humor. The show tells funny stories with biting sarcasm as it wows the audience with comedy, music, production numbers and social commentary. Carefully weaving satire into Philippine society, it does a fly-by as well on pop culture and socio-political issues while playfully taking on viral trends and current events. 

More than just a hit comedy variety show, Live A.I.D.S. is best known as a platform for growth, experience and connection that nurtures aspiring performers, writers, creatives and talents, both in front and behind the stage. Providing experience, confidence, exposure and a space on which to shine, Live A.I.D.S. has paved the way for the careers of its alumni such as Kuya Kim Atienza, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O’ Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and Jervi Wrightson (KaladKaren), among others.

LIVE A.I.D.S. has also spotlighted talents behind the scenes, among them ABS-CBN’s head of TV Production, Star Magic chief and Pinoy Big Brother Head Director Laurenti (Loren) Dyogi and ABS-CBN Global Head of Creative Services, Ned Legaspi.

“Live A.I.D.S is a vital and memorable journey for SAMASKOMERS. It is not just about how it makes you shine; it also fosters lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging through shared stories.” ~ Mrs. Tan, Renowned Drag Artist and International Performer a Live A.I.D.S. veteran whose works have been featured in art festivals and exhibits around the world

“The show provides a stage to showcase extraordinary talents, build confidence, create opportunities to shine, and prepare you to step into the real world of entertainment.” ~Jervi Wrightson, a UP SAMASKOM alumna and seasoned performer, veteran writer, production member, and former resident officer

“LIVE A.I.D.S. connects its story with its members, performers, and audiences, keeping the laughter of the organization alive.” ~MJ Karaan, the Production Manager of the show

Well-known personalities such as Bianca Gonzalez, Ricky Lee, Quark Henares, John Lapus, Rajo Laurel, Jigs Mayuga, Tim Yap, and Vice Ganda are avowed Live A.I.D.S. fans, showing how the show is regarded in the entertainment industry.

BingoPlus introduces Miss Universe 2025 candidates in an exclusive presscon

BingoPlus, the nation's all-inclusive digital entertainment platform, had a special press conference to introduce the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 delegates.  Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City had a media event on March 13 and 14, 2025, to announce the 59 candidates.

Several of the nation's most well-known media organizations attended the conference.  That being said, the beautiful women answered several crucial questions, giving the brand's media partners a chance to get to know them.

MUPH has had BingoPlus as a major sponsor for the last two years.  The company helped Chelsea Manalo last year as she made the transition from the national to the international arena.  However, BingoPlus continued to be a leader in promoting the pageantry that creates dreams.

The candidates expressed their excitement about BingoPlus supporting this year's MUPH as a result.  When asked how crucial it is for large brands to support the organization, they responded that it gives them greater leverage and allows them to compete more effectively.  They can achieve their goals since they know that a reputable brand is behind them.

The beauty queens were also placed in batches for the two-day event.  A significant amount of time was allotted to the ladies to discuss their activism, tell their stories, and express themselves.

Representing their different hometowns, this year's contenders made some quite noteworthy remarks.  They are not only attractive and stunning to look at, but they are also quick-witted and bright.

The women also gave examples of female empowerment and camaraderie.  They emphasize that they cherish the relationship they have formed despite their competition.  With the crown as their ultimate goal, the queens are participating in healthy competition in this way.

Furthermore, different media sources used the official hashtags #BPMUPH2025, #BPWinLikeAQueen, and #SobrangFilipina to promote the news on their social media pages and websites.

As a result, the enthusiastic delegates expressed how excited they were for the coronation night.  They have successfully prepared for the most anticipated event and are now prepared to dazzle.  See the magic happen at the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Coronation Night, which will take place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on May 2, 2025.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates SpinPlus, and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

The National Resilience Council's colloquium demonstrates that cooperation fosters resilience

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies - Philippine network, and the City Mayor of Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime Villanueva.

As a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, the National Resilience Council (NRC) of the Philippines brought together national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector to advance the interconnected goals of the Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Agreement, New Urban Agenda, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and other global commitments. The NRC brought together a diverse group of stakeholders for the event, "From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations."

The event, known as the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium, featured updates and progress from the cities and municipalities that are members of the Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative of the National Research Council.  Businesses can now invest in risk reduction through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs, going beyond disaster assistance.  AAC encourages teamwork to create communities that are safer and more resilient by giving local governments more authority.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the Academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for Civil Service Organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress towards disaster resilience.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies.

“Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” ~Benjamin Magalong, Baguio City Mayor

Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides.

“I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.” ~Lucy Torres-Gomez, Ormoc City Mayor

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council (NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the realm of disaster risk resilience.

The Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool created to improve local government capacities in disaster resilience, was introduced during the event, which was a highlight.  The NRC's purpose served as the inspiration for the colloquium, which emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder cooperation in bringing about revolutionary change.  In order to create a resilient Philippines, the NRC and its partners are fostering innovation and linking sectors.

Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

SM Prime Chairman Hans Sy, together with SM Cares and DSAPI members, is celebrating the success of last year’s Happy Walk event.

On March 30, 2025, hundreds of families, supporters, and activists will unite to commemorate Happy Walk 2025, a national initiative aimed at promoting understanding, acceptance, and self-determination for people with Down syndrome.

With concurrent celebrations at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, this year's event, which is being hosted by SM Cares in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), will be held at the SMX Convention Center – Manila. This year's event will serve as a truly national endeavor to showcase the talents and goals of people with Down syndrome.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

Happy Walk has been more than just an event for almost 20 years; it is a potent movement that celebrates the accomplishments, abilities, and qualities of people with Down syndrome.  On this day of happiness, harmony, and acceptance, communities unite to celebrate not only differences but also common goals and desires.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations.” ~Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head, Happy Walk 2025.

Participants come together to show love and support for individuals with Down Syndrome

With the involvement of thousands of volunteers, this event is now more than just a walk—it’s a movement for change.

A Nationwide Call for Participation

Happy Walk 2025 is anticipated to attract thousands of participants with the theme "321 & Beyond," including volunteers, educators, corporate partners, inclusion advocates, and people with Down syndrome and their families.  The event will include a range of events that highlight the value of diversity in society, such as performances, motivational tales, and community-building projects.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share.” ~Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

The Happy Walk community continues to grow in number and contribute to a broader movement of inclusivity and empowerment.

Join the Movement: How to Be Part of Happy Walk 2025

Everyone is encouraged to take part in this inspiring event—whether by walking, volunteering, or simply showing support. To register, kindly visit the official Happy Walk 2025 registration page at: https://portal.dsapi.ph/dsapi/Register/RegParticipant. For more details on how to join, follow SM Cares’ social media pages.

About SM Cares

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, leading initiatives on inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and community development. Through its long-standing partnership with DSAPI, SM Cares continues to advocate for persons with disabilities, ensuring that every SM mall is a place where everyone feels welcome and valued.

About DSAPI

The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Through education, awareness campaigns, and community-building efforts like Happy Walk, DSAPI works to create a more inclusive society.

SM Job Fairs: Bringing career opportunities nationwide

Job searching has never been simpler, quicker, or more fulfilling thanks to SM Supermalls!  With the SM Retail Job Fair at SM North EDSA effectively matching over a thousand job seekers with leading employers, February's job fairs laid the groundwork for 2025.  With a statewide series of job fairs in March, the trend is now continuing and providing Filipinos with even more career-building options.

The March schedule includes:

• March 21 (Friday) – SM City Trece Martires and SM City Naga
• March 25 (Tuesday) – SM City Bacoor
• March 27 (Thursday) – SM City Daet
• March 28 (Friday) – SM City Sta. Mesa and SM City Trece Martires
• March 29 (Saturday) – SM Seaside City Cebu

Success stories: Real people, real impact

SM Job Fairs continue to change lives by providing a fresh start, stable incomes, and career growth. Here’s what some of our hired-on-the-spot applicants had to say:

John Paul Arido begins his career journey as a Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket.

“This is the best—I can finally stand on my own and support my family! Thank you, SM Job Fair, for this life-changing opportunity. I hope more job seekers take advantage of this chance to build a better future.” ~John Paul Arido, a newly hired Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket

SM Hypermarket welcomes Maria Patricia De Leon, a new Customer Assistance team member hired instantly.

"Getting hired on the spot was both exciting and overwhelming since this is my first job fair. Thank you, SM, for creating opportunities like this—your job fairs truly make a difference for job seekers like me!" ~Maria Patricia De Leon, hired on the spot for Customer Assistance at SM Hypermarket

Joselito Oniza joins the Watsons team as a proud pharmacist assistant.

"I’m grateful to be hired on the spot after two months of job hunting. This opportunity means so much to me and my family. The SM Job Fair was well-organized, and the staff were very approachable, making the entire process smooth and comfortable.” ~Joselito Oniza, hired pharmacist assistant at Watsons 

Teresa Enriquez, Toy Kingdom’s newest cashier, is excited to start her journey in customer service.

"I’ve been following SM Supermalls’ job fair schedule, hoping for a chance to work for an SM-affiliated company. Being hired on the spot made the wait completely worth it! What sets SM Job Fairs apart is the quality of employers—established, reputable companies that offer real career opportunities. I’m truly grateful for this experience!" ~Teresa Enriquez, Cashier at Toy Kingdom

Hassle-free job hunting with on-site government services

When everything you need is in one location, finding a job is made easy!  Government agency booths at SM Job Fairs provide candidates with necessary needs like the Pag-IBIG Fund, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Social Security System (SSS), guaranteeing a seamless hiring process.

Driving growth, building the nation

Beyond only recruiting, SM Job Fairs support community development and economic recovery.  SM Supermalls' dedication to employment is helping more Filipinos secure better futures.  Don't pass this up—it's where your next big career move begins! 

SM Retail and SM North EDSA unite to empower job seekers at a bustling job fair.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls, a division of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the Philippines' leading mall developer, dedicated to sustainable and community-driven initiatives. Through its job fairs, SM Supermalls continues to empower job seekers, support businesses, and contribute to economic growth.

Women on Fire 2025: Empowering Women, Building Resilient Communities

In honor of Fire Prevention Month and National Women's Month, SM Cares developed Women on Fire, a celebration of the incredible bravery, strength, leadership, and tenacity of women in community safety, disaster response, and fire prevention.  Over 25,000 people participated in all projects of Women on Fire, which provided a platform for empowerment, education, and awareness through partnerships with important government departments and private groups.

The Purple Illumination Ceremony, held on February 28 by SM Cares in collaboration with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the United Nations Philippines, illuminated the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Globe and mall façades across the country to mark the beginning of Women's Month.  In the Philippines, purple, a color often associated with justice, dignity, and women's rights, signified the beginning of National Women's Month, reaffirming SM's dedication to gender equality and female empowerment.

SM Megamall’s Time Sculpture turns purple in support of women empowerment.

Shoppers at SM North Edsa walk through the display at the LED Tunnel, a striking tribute to gender equality and women’s resilience.

Strengthening Preparedness and Safety

Women on Fire was a campaign highlight that honored women firefighters, emergency responders, and community leaders for their contributions to safety, fire prevention, and disaster preparedness. On March 4, 2025, SM Cares and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) held the 4th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill across SM malls across the country, with SM Mall of Asia serving as the main venue. Hundreds of registered participants participated in the Fire Square Roadshow, where they watched fire safety demonstrations and interactive training sessions to bolster readiness.

"Women are at the forefront of resilience. Through ‘Women on Fire,’ we celebrate and honor their contributions and reaffirm our commitment to gender-inclusive safety efforts." ~Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President of the Corporate Compliance Group and SM Cares Program Director for Women

A female mall-goer tries the fire fighter’s protective uniform at the Fire Square Roadshow of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Students from the Philippine College of Criminology participate in the Fire Square Roadshow of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Women in Resilience: Empowering Women as Leaders in Disaster Preparedness and Community Building

SM Mall of Asia hosted the 2025 National Women's Month Celebration Kickoff on March 5, 2025, under the direction of SM Cares and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).  "Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas" was the topic of the event, which sought to empower women in a variety of fields, especially those from underrepresented groups.  Discussions on gender equality, women's rights, and leadership were among its events. There was also a trade show with goods from women-led MSMEs and free services like livelihood assistance, legal advice, and health examinations. 

The Women LEAD Forum, which was co-hosted by SM Cares and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), highlighted the vital role that women play in disaster resilience at the barangay and grassroots levels.  Women-led projects improve neighborhood readiness and provide an example for national climate and catastrophe resilience programs, the conversation emphasized.

SM Cares Champions Safe and Inclusive Spaces with Safe Spaces Act Orientation

On March 4 and 6, SM Cares hosted the 3rd Nationwide Safe Spaces Act Orientation, which brought together over 12,000 attendees from 86 SM malls around the country to reaffirm its dedication to establishing safe spaces.  This program taught workers, residents, students, and security guards the value of preserving harassment-free environments in shopping centers and offices.

SM Supermalls holds the 3rd Nationwide Orientation on the Safe Spaces Act with in the photo: Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Officer in Charge Executive Director Nharleen Santos-Millar, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President (VP) of the Corporate Compliance Group (CCG) Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, PCW former Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado, SM Supermalls VP for CCG Liza Silerio, together with SM Supermalls security and janitorial personnel.

For more updates on SM Cares' initiatives, visit the official website or follow @SMCaresOfficial on social media.

VYBE by BPI offers a sweet deal at Eng Bee Tin

VYBE, a digital e-wallet and rewards app by the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), makes your Eng Bee Tin shopping even sweeter.

Buy your favorite hopia, tikoy, and other treats with an exclusive 20% discount when you spend at least Php 500 using the VYBE e-wallet, with a maximum discount of Php 500 per transaction. Simply scan the QR Ph code with your VYBE app, and the discount is applied instantly. 

This offer is available until March 31, 2025, giving you more time to enjoy the savings beyond the Lunar New Year.

VYBE by BPI is a digital e-wallet and rewards app designed for seamless and secure cashless transactions. It offers enhanced features for BPI account holders, and is also accessible to non-BPI users, providing a convenient way to manage payments and earn rewards.

Whether you’re sending money to loved ones or paying for your purchases, VYBE makes it quick and effortless. VYBE users, whether they have an existing BPI account or new to VYBE, can transfer money to other local banks and e-wallets for free and receive funds from other banks or e-wallets via InstaPay. Keep paying with VYBE to enjoy exclusive perks, and make your celebrations even more rewarding.