CHURROSTAR Now Open at SM City Valenzuela

There is no indication that the Korean culinary trend will slow down, and Valenzuela City is a delightful new destination. With the official opening of CHURROSTAR, a modern spin on the traditional churro, the mall's expanding culinary sector now has a fun, street-snack ambiance.

Churros are more than simply dessert at CHURROSTAR. Made to order, each one has a soft, chewy middle that virtually melts in your mouth after being cooked to a perfect golden crisp. It's nearly impossible to walk past the store without stopping for a taste because of the scent of warm bread and sugar.

Customers can experiment with more daring flavors or stick to the traditional ones of cinnamon or icing sugar. Dipping sauces combine well-known flavors with a hip, Korean-inspired twist, ranging from chocolate and caramel to popular choices like ube and berry. Eating this combination is as much fun as taking pictures of it.

In addition to its meals, CHURROSTAR has established itself as a casual pleasure destination. It's the ideal place for a quick merienda, a post-shopping treat, or catching up with friends over a cozy yet contemporary snack. It is intended to be a recurring visit rather than a one-time splurge, offering substantial portions at affordable costs.

The emergence of CHURROSTAR also signifies a wider change in eating habits. The local food scene is being shaped more and more by Korean-inspired ideas, and shopping centers like SM City Valenzuela are becoming popular places to find the newest delicacies without ever leaving the north side.

Locate CHURROSTAR on the second floor of SM City Valenzuela, and be ready to indulge your palate with something both comforting and novel.

SM Morning Beats & Brews Brings the Vibes to Bulacan

SM City Baliwag, in collaboration with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, kicks off Morning Beats & Brews in Bulacan.

With the opening of Morning Beats & Brews, SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag bring together carefully chosen music, great coffee, and feel-good morning energy, transforming mornings into a vibe.

Good music and great coffee come together during the launch of Morning Beats & Brews in partnership with Cong Caphe at SM City Marilao.

Morning Beats & beverages was designed for early risers, creatives, and culture vultures. It sets the tone for a productive and inspiring day with tunes and premium beverages.

Coffee lovers congregate at Cong Caphe in SM City Marilao, where DJ Wency creates a vibrant yet relaxed ambiance while they disco to the beat of music.

In the meantime, SM City Baliwag, in collaboration with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, serves a generous portion of coffee to the audience while DJ Melvin plays lively music.

daily Beats & Brews is more than simply a daily ritual; it's an atmosphere created to unite people via taste and rhythm. SM Bulacan malls are known as the “Home of Everyday Celebrations” because of occasions like these.

Stay tuned as more vibin’ events will unveil your way in 2026. For updates, check out the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.

Asia’s Biggest ACE Store Opens at Baliwag, Bulacan

ACE Builders officially opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. Present at the ribbon cutting were (L-R): SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino; SM Retail Inc. President Jonathan Ng; Baliwag City Mayor Sonia Estrella; Ace Hardware Phil Inc. Director JV Cobankiat; AHPI Business Unit Head Alvin So; Ace International Sales Director Calvin Kim; and AHPI VP Supply Chain Alex Kho.

With the opening of ACE Builders' largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag, a new standard in home and building retail is about to start. This newest location is the most expansive ACE store to date, spanning more than 6,000 square meters and providing a comprehensive selection of building supplies, home renovation items, and living necessities—all under one roof.

Designed for both homeowners and professionals, ACE Builders SM City Baliwag combines scale, selection, and service to provide a shopping experience tailored to real, everyday needs.

Everything You Need, All in One Place

ACE Builders SM City Baliwag carries an extensive lineup of trusted and reliable products across major categories:

• Tiles & Flooring
• Wall Cladding
• Sanitary Wares and Plumbing
• Paint and Paint Accessories
• Electrical
• Lawn and Garden 
• Home Hardware
• Small Appliances
• Hand and Power Tools
• Automotive Products
• Chemicals and Cleaning Solutions
• Pet Care Essentials
• Home Basics and Storage

From major renovation projects to simple home upgrades, the store is designed to meet the demands of modern Filipino households, contractors, and construction professionals alike.

Strengthening a Growing Network

Along with ACE Builders North EDSA, Fairview, and Pampanga, ACE Builders SM City Baliwag is another flagship store in the ACE Builders network. ACE continues to broaden its reach and enhance accessibility to premium building materials and home solutions with the launch of its largest facility to date.

With 238 branches nationwide, ACE Hardware Philippines has developed into one of the top hardware chains in the nation since launching its first location in 1997 at SM Southmall, Las Piñas. In order to give clients who require larger-scale or more specialized items for home and construction projects a more complete offering, the ACE Builders concept was established.

With expert assistance from in-store staff, a wide product assortment, and a convenient location at SM City Baliwag, this store is set to become a key destination for building, improving, and upgrading living spaces in Bulacan and neighboring areas.

To find your nearest ACE Hardware or ACE Builders location, visit our store locator here.

Top Filipino science students urged to apply for the 2027 Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) confirms its dedication to promoting Filipino scientific capability by providing financial support to academically exceptional individuals who wish to continue postgraduate courses in Japan.

The 2027 Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant, which offers worthy applicants the chance to pursue master's-level studies in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, or Engineering at partner institutions like the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Nagoya University, Institute of Science Tokyo, Ochanomizu University, Waseda University, and Japan Nutrition University (formerly Kagawa Nutrition University), is currently accepting applications, according to APC.

In order to help them succeed in their postgraduate journey, the successful applicant who satisfies the program's criteria and requirements will be granted access to great advantages and comprehensive support. In addition to a monthly stipend, these include full coverage of examination, entrance, and tuition fees, as well as full coverage of medical, psychological, and Japanese language training before to traveling to Japan. Additionally, the scholar's airfare from the Philippines to Japan will be paid.

Japan continues to draw a large number of international students due to its well-known education system and strong academic standards. 58,215 of the approximately 336,708 overseas students studying in Japan are enrolled in graduate programs, according to the Japan Student Services Organization's (JASSO) 2024 survey. According to data from the JASSO 2022 Career Status Progress Survey, a sizable portion of foreign graduates find employment in Japan following their education.

According to Mika Makino, Director of Marketing, Sales, and Public Relations at APC, the company's goal of promoting the welfare of people, society, and the environment is the foundation for the ongoing support and investment in the Ajinomoto Scholarship Foundation.

“We believe that a world-class postgraduate education in Japan empowers scholars personally and professionally. The scholarship is an advantageous pathway to career advancement and global mobility. It is our hope that with advanced knowledge and training, the scholars will also be able to contribute to developing solutions for helping people Eat Well, Live Well.” ~Mika Makino,  APC Director for Marketing, Sales & Public Relations

Fifteen (15) full scholarship grants to various Japanese universities have already been given to worthy Filipino students since the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant was introduced in the Philippines in 2010.

APC encourages applicants to seize the opportunity to level up their education and careers. To know the full requirements and application process, visit https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2027-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/. The deadline for sending applications is March 2, 2026.

The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. In fiscal 2021, sales were 1.1149 trillion yen (8.73 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

4-in-1 PC-Like Productivity Companion is Here: HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition Launches for Only PHP 19,999!

With the release of the Huawei MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition, an exclusive tablet made to help you start the year stronger and work smarter, Huawei continues to make productivity more accessible as we enter 2026. It is designed for students, young professionals, and regular multitaskers who seek a more flexible approach to be productive and offers the greatest PC-like tablet experience for just PHP 19,999. With its robust productivity tools, detachable keyboard, and dependable all-day portability, this tablet facilitates the conversion of New Year's productivity goals into daily advancements.

The Huawei MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition helps you stay focused, productive, and in control without using a traditional PC, whether you're working on documents, taking online classes, or handling everyday activities while on the road.

Get More Done Anywhere with PC-Like Productivity

Thanks to its PC-level WPS Office 2.0 programs, using the Huawei MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition is very similar to using a PC. Large documents, sophisticated spreadsheet formulas, and dynamic presentations may all be easily created and edited on the tablet without the need for a laptop. Familiar system and app shortcut keys make editing and navigation quicker and easier when combined with an external keyboard, enabling you to work more productively wherever you are.

The tablet's sophisticated multitasking features make productivity even more seamless. You can use App Twin to display two programs side by side for optimal efficiency, use Floating Multi-Window to take notes while looking up references online, or resize app windows freely for a more flexible workflow. File transfers across devices are simple using SuperHub. To maintain uninterrupted work flow, just drag & drop content from one Huawei device to another.

HUAWEI Notes easily adjusts to your own style and requirements for taking notes and capturing ideas. With Crescent or Gibbous typefaces, its AI Handwriting Enhancement rapidly turns handwritten meeting notes or brainstorming doodles into neat, polished text that is ready to share or display. Every page can be customized to fit your workflow and creativity with the help of adaptable brushes like the 2B Pencil, Felt-tip Pen, and Calligraphy Brush, as well as customizable papers, covers, and expressive stickers from the Resource Center, transforming ordinary notes into well-organized, polished material.

Type, Click, and Work Comfortably with a Detachable Keyboard Setup

With compatibility for the Huawei Smart Keyboard, which offers comfortable typing and a familiar PC-like layout, you can transform your tablet into a versatile workplace. You can work in various configurations based on your needs and space thanks to the detachable keyboard, which is ideal for alternating between concentrated typing sessions and leisurely tablet use.

Similar to working on a desktop, using a mouse to navigate apps and documents feels more accurate and productive. The Huawei MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition simplifies and improves routine chores, from creating reports and responding to emails to preparing school needs.

Portable Power That Keeps Up with Your Day

The Huawei MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition offers the ideal mix between portability and durability since it is made for life on the go. It fits neatly inside your backpack and is comfortable to carry from morning lessons to after-work sessions because it weighs just 515g and is only 6.1mm thin. In addition to being sleek and contemporary in gray, its all-metal unibody design with an anodized finish resists wear, fingerprints, and smudges, keeping it pristine wherever your day takes you.

The tablet is designed to last all day despite its small size. You can work, study, or relax without continuously monitoring your battery level thanks to a big 10,100mAh battery that provides over 14 hours of local video playing. The Huawei MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition keeps up with your daily activities from dawn to night, whether you're completing homework, participating in online meetings, or streaming media during downtime.

The 40W Huawei SuperCharge technology swiftly recharges the tablet when it's time to do so, taking roughly 94 minutes to reach a full charge. A short 30-minute top-up gives you hours of use, even on hectic days, so you can leave with the assurance that your gadget is prepared. Additionally, the tablet supports magnetic wireless charging for the stylus, so your tools will always have power when productivity or creativity hits.

Exceptional Value with the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition is now available for PHP 19,999, bundled with exclusive productivity freebies worth up to PHP 17,997, including the HUAWEI Smart Keyboard (PHP 6,999), the HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Generation with NearLink) (PHP 5,999), PC-Level WPS Office (PHP 4,999), and a HUAWEI Bluetooth Mouse (PHP 1,899).

 

This exclusive e-commerce offer runs from January 9 to January 15, 2026 with a special selling period from January 15 to January 18. Don’t miss the chance to upgrade your everyday productivity with the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2026) Dynamic Edition—available through HUAWEI Online Store and HUAWEI’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

 

To learn more, visit HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

About HUAWEI Consumer BG

 

HUAWEI's products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world's population. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India, and China. HUAWEI Consumer BG is one of HUAWEI's three business units that covers smartphones, PC and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. HUAWEI's global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.

 

For more information please visit: this page.

PCPPI Chief ESG Officer Joins BSP Leadership and Sustainability Summit Panel

Chief Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Officer at Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI), Atty. At the 2025 Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Leadership and Sustainability Summit, Carina Lenore Bayon participated in a panel discussion on "Greening Institutional DNA."

Throughout the panel, Atty. Carina explained how PCPPI incorporates ESG concepts into its fundamental business procedures in order to include sustainability into its operations and culture. She emphasized doable strategies for workplace sustainability, carbon footprint reduction, circularity, and operational efficiency.

Every year, BSP leaders get together for the BSP Leadership Summit, which aims to improve strategic alignment, promote knowledge exchange, and develop leadership skills while promoting departmental cooperation and peer learning.

SIP & WIN AT SM

Mornings are essential to coffee lovers, and at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan, that everyday ritual now has a thrilling twist.

With the Sip & Win Promo, a campaign designed for people who view coffee as a part of their lifestyle rather than merely a beverage, SM revives the focus on café culture after the success of Morning Beats and Brews.

From handcrafted brews to familiar everyday favorites, every coffee break now comes with the opportunity to win. Shoppers can receive one (1) e-raffle entry for every ₱500 worth of single or accumulated purchases from participating tenants. Each drink puts you closer to winning a Suzuki S-Presso GL MT, transforming routine coffee runs into unforgettable experiences.

The Sip & Win Promo, which runs till April 10, enables caffeine enthusiasts to relax, discover new café favorites, and enjoy the vibrant coffee scene at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Whether you favor a strong espresso, a creamy latte, or an iced beverage, your coffee breaks could lead to a pleasant surprise.

Because coffee is more than just a daily ritual at SM. It's an occasion to celebrate and cherish. Come see SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, or SM Center Sangandaan!