Vermosa Green Run 2026 returns in June with stronger sustainability advocacy and concrete ways to save the planet

On June 28, 2026, Vermosa in Imus, Cavite will host the historic fifth consecutive Vermosa Green Run, the groundbreaking advocacy event that inspired the community to return to the tracks after the pandemic.

This time, the marathon that has drawn families out for fun and fitness, elite athletes, fitness fanatics, casual runners, and pet owners is taking proactive measures to strengthen the running community's respect and dedication to sustainable green living and an active lifestyle.

Immersion in nature and lush, green scenery is one of the key draws of the fifth edition of the Green Run, which is incorporating more environmentally conscious features into the race experience and motivating competitors to participate in long-term forest restoration initiatives across the nation. For starters, jogging the picturesque Green Run path encourages runners to support sustainable living and conservation.

Fitness enthusiasts, elite athletes, families, and pet owners are being challenged to actively participate in localized waste reduction this year by bringing used PET (polyethylene terephthalate) water bottles or food containers when they register to receive race kit discounts. This year's multi-level run includes 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K running categories, and a 1K Dog Run.  The Makati Development Corporation (MDC) will receive the gathered bottles and upcycle them into eco-bricks, which would lessen the impact on the environment and promote sustainable building and community behaviors.

“We want runners to feel – both literally and symbolically – that choosing to participate means choosing to support responsible resource use. Embedding sustainability directly into the race kits was a deliberate choice that reflects Vermosa’s values. It transforms a souvenir into a lasting reminder of conscious living.” ~Kristin Raval-Ofilada, Ayala Land Project Development Manager

Recycled PET bottles are also used to make the racing shirts, singlets, and dog bandanas. In addition to the recycled race kits, Ms. Raval-Ofilada said that this year's Green Run encouraged group participation from racing aficionados.

“Every group of 10 participants automatically becomes part of Haribon Foundation’s Forests for Life Movement. As such, they will support native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities nationwide. Through this movement, Haribon brings together individuals, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rain forestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species.” ~Ms. Raval-Ofilada 

By ensuring that seedlings endure, develop, and mature into healthy forests, the Forests for Life Movement aims to produce long-term ecological benefit. According to Ofilada, restored forests contribute to the availability of clean water, healthy soil, and stable climates—all of which are vital to the nation's communities. 

The Green Run continues to be based on holistic health, animal welfare, and athletic achievement in addition to environmental conservation. Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project, co-beneficiaries of the Haribon Foundation, emphasize the connection between community and planetary health, stressing that protecting natural environments is closely related to both animal welfare and human well-being.

The world-class facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the region's premier location for athletic training and active lifestyles, will be used for the Green Run, which will take place amid Vermosa's vast, environmentally conscious open areas. As planned, the 2026 event will have strong waste-reduction measures and responsible hydration systems that will encourage environmentally conscious behavior long after the race is over.

Green Run 2026 is supported by Pocari Sweat, Merrell, Fitbat, Salonpas, Topbreed, Smart C, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Especial, Entrée, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, and Zert.

For more information about Vermosa Green Run 2026, go to https://ayalaland.myruntime.com/register  to register. 

TECNO Launches POVA Curve 2 5G in the Philippines: Slimmest 5G AI Phone Yet with 8000mAh Battery

The newest model in TECNO Mobile Philippines' well-liked POVA family, the POVA Curve 2 5G, was formally introduced countrywide today. With a big 8,000mAh battery and a dual chip signal amplification system that keeps users connected wherever they are, the device, designed for the mobile generation, launches under the marketing slogan "Power That Never Drops."

The POVA Curve 2 5G is the world's thinnest curved display 5G smartphone, weighing only 195g and having a thickness of just 7.42mm. It has an 8,000mAh battery. A powerhouse that redefines what consumers may expect from a mid-range 5G phone resides inside an incredibly thin chassis.

Unstoppable Battery, Uncompromised Design

The POVA Curve 2 5G's industry-leading 8,000mAh mega battery, which can provide up to three days of ordinary use on a single charge—72 hours of continuous use, 103.4 hours of music playback, 33.8 hours of navigation, or 18.8 hours of gaming—is its standout feature. When it comes time to recharge, 45W rapid charging reduces downtime by getting the battery to 50% in just 36 minutes.

Bypass Charging 2.0 enables the phone to draw power straight from the charger instead of cycling through the battery for users who never stop gaming or streaming. This greatly reduces heat generation during heavy load scenarios and extends the battery's long-term health. Additionally, the device may be used as an emergency power bank for tablets, earbuds, or a friend's phone thanks to its 10W reverse wired charging capability. The POVA Curve 2 5G is incredibly light and small despite its enormous battery capacity. It is affordable for daily commuting and pleasant for one-handed gaming because to its 7.42mm ultra compact profile and 195g weight.

Signal That Never Drops

The POVA Curve 2 5G provides a solution in a nation where connectivity issues are commonplace, from congested LRT tunnels and subterranean parking garages to isolated provincial districts. Together with the sophisticated UPS 3.0 signal optimization algorithm, it is outfitted with TECNO's proprietary G1 signal enhancement chipset and SE1 WiFi enhancement chipset.

The device supports 20 5G bands, which is twice as many as the 10 bands that were previously available. This ensures greater coverage and more dependable connections across various network infrastructures. While the Hyper Antenna Matrix covers 90% of the chassis with antenna elements and achieves +3dB signal strength above typical setups, the dual chip system reduces network latency by 33% and increases upload rates by 70%. The POVA Curve 2 5G keeps the connection strong whether you're taking calls inside a Makati high-rise elevator, managing EDSA traffic, or streaming videos while riding the MRT.

Standout Specs at a Standout Price

The 6nm MediaTek Dimensity 7100 5G CPU, which can achieve an AnTuTu Benchmark Score of 850,000, powers the POVA Curve 2 5G. The 6.78-inch FHD+ curved AMOLED display has a refresh rate of 144 Hz for buttery smooth gaming and scrolling, and its peak brightness of 4,500 nits guarantees good outdoor visibility in the Philippine sun. Corning Gorilla Glass 7i provides display protection.

A 50MP primary rear camera with a 2MP macro sensor and a 13MP front-facing selfie camera are among the photographic features. IP64 dust and splash resistance, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, an in-display fingerprint sensor, SGS 5 Star Drop Resistance certification for 1.5-meter falls, FreeLink 2.0 for offline communication within 1.5 kilometers, and the Android 16-based HiOS 16 interface with built-in AI tools are some of the extra features.

Availability and Pricing

The TECNO POVA Curve 2 5G is available in three premium colorways inspired by interstellar themes: Mystic Purple, Melting Silver, and Storm Titanium. Every Purchase will be given a TECNO Gift Box plus a Globe Customised 5G SIM card enjoying UNLI5G and free data for a year.

• May 23, 2026 - Official Launch: Available starting today at all TECNO concept stores and authorized retail partners nationwide.
• May 26, 2026 – Online First Sale: Exclusive first sale on TikTok Shop.
• Official SRP: ₱16,999 for the 16GB RAM+256GB ROM variant (8GB Extended).

For more information about the POVA Curve 2 5G, please visit any TECNO store nationwide, follow TECNO Mobile Philippines on Facebook, or check the official TECNO Philippines TikTok page for the May 26 online first sale.

About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

AirAsia Philippines offers free one-time flight change and free meals

This month, AirAsia Philippines is providing booking incentives to assist control the growing cost of travel. 

Until May 31, travelers can purchase tickets from Manila and Cebu to foreign locations for as little as PHP 739 one-way base cost (exclusive of fees and surcharges), with a travel period ending on March 27, 2027.

Popular locations like Kuala Lumpur and its Petronas Twin Towers, Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, Da Nang's Golden Bridge and coastal beaches, Bangkok's Grand Palace and lively street markets, and Kaohsiung's picturesque Love River and vibrant night markets are among those that provide access to iconic experiences throughout Asia.

Uncle Chin's Chicken Rice is available via the "Add-ons" area on a first-come, first-served basis for travel between May 18 and August 31, 2026, to those who book certain overseas flights between May 18 and May 24.

For Filipinos making international travel plans this year, the World's Best Low Cost airline continues to promote more accessible travel with value fares, extra benefits, and flexible booking options.

It's simpler to modify plans when necessary thanks to AirAsia's one-time zero modification cost, which lets travelers reschedule flights without incurring penalties.

Additionally, the airline is making rebooking easier by automatically transferring some add-ons, such sporting goods and other qualified services, to the new reservation wherever feasible. Other items, such as Xtra Carry-On, Santan meals, and Fast Pass, will depend on availability and might be eliminated if they aren't offered on the new flight.

One-time flight change applies to the entire booking (PNR). If only certain travelers wish to make changes, the booking must be split first.

To know more about the one-time, zero change fee full policy details, visit: https://www.airasia.com/aa/about-us/en/gb/zero-change-fee.html.

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

Out and About with Cetaphil Sun: #GotYouCovered While You Touch Grass

More Filipinos are beginning to experience the effects of digital weariness in a society where being online all the time is the norm. Many people feel overstimulated but disengaged as a result of long screen use, hectic schedules, and restricted access to quiet areas.

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl, Out and About with Cetaphil Sun: Expert Sun Protection #GotYouCovered, was a carefully planned day of outdoor activities intended to promote presence, movement, and meaningful connection—all while staying safe from the sun—in response to this growing need to disconnect and reconnect.

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl reimagines common outdoor moments as chances to rejuvenate without worrying about sun damage. It is based on the growing "touch grass" mentality. Because you shouldn't be afraid to go outside, especially when your skin is backed by professional #GotYouCovered protection.

A Morning in Motion

A quick morning run set the stage for an exhilarating start to the day outside. The guests, which included fitness celebrities, outdoor enthusiasts, and producers of lifestyle content, were led by fitness instructor Cass Salandan through an approachable yet energizing routine that was intended to ease them into activity.

A full-body warm-up, a 20-minute LIIT (Low Intensity Interval Training) exercise, and a squat-and-shuttle finisher were all included in the program. In order to return participants to a rested state, it ended with a special cool-down. Participants were inspired to reestablish a connection with their bodies by moving intentionally rather than intensely.

Wellness, Slowed Down

Guests entered a Wellness Wind Down at Washington Sycip Park, where the pace slowed and the emphasis switched inward from activity to awareness.

Carina Silverio, a yoga coach and mindfulness instructor, led the program, which started with a gentle arrival and grounding exercise to let attendees get comfortable. Guided movement and breath work, which are easy-to-do exercises meant to relieve stress and restore awareness to the body, came next.

After that, participants took part in an outdoor connection exercise that promoted presence and introspection within the group and the surroundings. Quiet repose and integration marked the end of the event, providing a space for calm that is frequently lacking in daily activities.

Expert Conversations

An intimate meal that brought everyone together for thought-provoking discussions about contemporary wellness and skin health marked the end of the day.

Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, a dermatologist, emphasized the increasing necessity of balance in the hyperconnected world of today. Even basic outdoor activities, such as going for walks, eating outside, or hanging out with friends, can greatly enhance general wellness as people look for more deliberate offline moments.

However, even brief outside experiences have cumulative impacts on the skin in a nation like the Philippines where UV exposure is a daily occurrence. Sensitivity, dehydration, early aging, and long-term harm can result from prolonged exposure.

Effective sun care today, according to Dr. Robredo-Vitas, goes beyond protection. Additionally, it needs to bolster the skin barrier and promote hydration, particularly for people who must deal with metropolitan stressors, heat, and pollution. In order to reduce discomfort and provide comfort for everyday use, gentle, well-formulated solutions are essential.

In the end, skin protection should feel liberating rather than restrictive. People may confidently spend more time outdoors and completely engage in real-world experiences thanks to contemporary, scientifically supported formulas that are lightweight and ideal for sensitive skin.

#GotYouCovered Wherever You Go

The Cetaphil Sun Crawl serves as a reminder that "touching grass" doesn't have to mean straying from the norm; rather, it's about achieving balance in tiny, daily ways. These deliberate practices, such as going for a run in the morning, spending some peaceful time in the park, or just going outside, help interrupt the cycle of digital tiredness.

With Cetaphil Sun, spending time outside becomes uncomplicated, worry-free, and liberating. You can stay longer, connect more deeply, and truly experience life outside the screen when your skin is taken care of.

Cetaphil Sun is available at all leading retailers like Watsons and Mercury Drugstore, and in all leading e-commerce such as Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop.

ABOUT CETAPHIL

Cetaphil is a globally trusted skincare brand developed by dermatological experts and backed by over 75 years of scientific research. Known for its gentle yet effective formulations, Cetaphil is designed to care for even the most sensitive skin—strengthening the skin barrier while addressing everyday concerns such as dryness, irritation, and environmental stress.

With a commitment to advancing skin science, Cetaphil continues to innovate with targeted solutions that support skin health at every stage of life. 

Ajinomoto Philippines Marks a Milestone with Tarlac Factory Construction

L-R: Kenji Muranishi, Project Manager of Production Restructuring Department of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation; Daizaburo Koga, President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation; Makoto Tanabe, Senior Vice President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation 

The construction of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation's (APC) third factory is underway at TARI complex, the newest and most advanced industrial-anchored mixed-use complex in Tarlac City. Recently, APC held a groundbreaking ceremony to begin the construction project, which will require a total capital investment of about Php 9.1 billion. 

As APC increases up operations to suit the changing needs of Filipino customers, the soon-to-be-built building represents a critical expansion. After more than 60 years, it's a big step in bolstering the company's market presence in the Philippines. The facility is well-positioned to meet the company's overarching objective of providing affordable and high-quality food items, increase production capacity, and effectively strengthen the supply chain.

“The development of a third factory reflects our long-term commitment to innovation in the Philippine Food industry and the communities we serve. It’s also part of our continuing effort to fulfill our founding purpose to help Filipinos ‘Eat Well, Live Well’. We are strengthening our capability to consistently deliver high-quality flavored seasoning, cooking sauces, and breading mixes that enable Filipinos to experience the joy of cooking delicious, nutritious and affordable meals.” ~Daizaburo Koga, APC President

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) is developing its third factory at TARI complex, Tarlac City's newest and most future-ready industrial-anchored mixed-use complex. APC recently held a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction project, which has a total capital expenditure of around Php 9.1 billion. 

The upcoming building represents a significant expansion for APC as it ramps its operations to meet the changing needs of Filipino consumers. It is a key step in strengthening the company's market position in the Philippines, which has lasted over 60 years. The factory is positioned to increase production capacity, improve supply chain efficiency, and support the company's overarching aim of providing high-quality and accessible food items.

Overall, APC’s move to build a third factory aligns with the Ajinomoto Group’s 2030 global goal of extending the healthy life expectancy of one billion people and reducing environmental impact by 50% in 2030.

"We congratulate Ajinomoto Philippines on this important milestone and thank them for their continued trust and partnership.” ~Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land President and CEO

The groundbreaking of APC’s Tarlac factory was supported by its development partners, Aboitiz Economic Estates, the developer of TARI Estate, and CCT Constructors Corporation. 

“As the construction partner for this milestone mixed-use development, CCT leverages its proven track record in delivering high-quality commercial projects, combined with its specialized knowledge of Japanese construction methodologies.” ~Kaname Futaki, CCT President

Targeted to be fully operational by April 2028, APC’s Tarlac factory will produce some of its well-loved products such as AJI-GINISA®, Crispy Fry®, and Sarsaya®.

Chooks Diner Expands in BGC with Opening of Two New Branches

With the launch of two additional locations in Bonifacio Global City, Chooks Diner Inoza Tower BGC and Chooks Diner Sundry cuisine Hall BGC, the restaurant is continuing to reach more people with its famous Filipino comfort cuisine.

As it fortifies its position in one of Metro Manila's busiest business and lifestyle areas, the expansion represents yet another significant milestone for the expanding dine-in brand. Both branches offer a convenient and friendly dining area where patrons may savor delectable and reasonably priced Filipino dishes. They are positioned to cater to office professionals, families, and foodies.

Chooks Diner, the restaurant brand of Chooks-to-Go, offers a full dine-in experience with the brand's beloved flavors and iconic comfort cuisine favorites. The restaurant, which is well-known for its filling comfort food selections, serves popular dishes including Chili Garlic Chicken, substantial Silog dinners, decadent desserts, and the famous Chooks-to-Go Roasted Chicken. Additionally, free limitless rice and endless soup are provided to guests, making every meal even more delightful.

With its newest sites in BGC, Chooks Diner hopes to establish itself as a popular dining place for locals, tourists, and working professionals seeking delectable meals that complement their daily routines. The company is still dedicated to providing high-quality cuisine, affordable dining, and the comforting, well-known flavors that Filipino consumers adore.

If you’re around BGC and naghahanap ng sulit, familiar, at comforting na pagkain — alam mo na kung saan next stop mo. 

📍 Chooks-to-Go Chooks Diner — Inoza Tower, BGC

Creating Shared Value: Concepcion Exceeds 100% Plastic Offsets and Drives Livelihoods in Local Communities

Concepcion Industrial Corporation Sustainability Champions. at the 2025 PCX PULSE Sustainability Conference

The nation's top supplier of home and business solutions, Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC), keeps redefining responsible corporate citizenship by demonstrating that genuine sustainability must have an influence that goes beyond business. Concepcion Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC), Concepcion-Durables, Inc. (CDI), and Concepcion Midea Inc. are some of its subsidiaries. Over the course of the previous year, Cortex Technologies Corporation (CTC) and the Philippines (CMIP) were able to successfully remove 885,000 kilos of plastic garbage.

Concepcion empowers the Aling Tinderas in local communitiesto lead the change against plastic pollution in partnership with PCX

CIC's proactive attitude to environmental stewardship is demonstrated by this yearly accomplishment. In collaboration with PCX, CIC has advanced beyond just environmental compliance. Through this partnership, the corporation guarantees that for every kilogram of plastic it generates, an equal or higher quantity is recovered, converted into energy or reusable resources, and reintegrated into the nation's circular economy. With this accomplishment, CIC is pleased to be one of the few businesses that continuously meet and surpass the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) requirements for plastic offsetting. 

Although the environmental measurements are important, the real test of CIC's program is its social impact at the grassroots level. The Aling Tindera network, a project that turns regular sari-sari businesses into hubs for community collection, is essential to this goal. Through this operation, more than 107,000 kg of the total diverted waste were collected straight from nearby communities. By enabling women micro-entrepreneurs to spearhead environmental awareness in their communities and create sustainable, supplemental income, this initiative does more than just remove plastic from the streets and oceans; it also strengthens economic resilience. 

For many of these women, participating in this “waste-to-cash” ecosystem has provided a  tangible pathway to financial stability and growth. Aling Belen, a program partner, highlighted  how the initiative secures her family's future: “Dinadala ko po siya sa pangangailangan ng  aking mga anak sa eskwela (I use this for my children's school needs).”

 Similarly, Aling Lorme reflected on the opportunities the program unlocked for her family's  business: “One week lang, puno na ang site namin dahil maraming nagbebenta sa amin ng  mga plastic bottles, sachet at PET bottles. Nakapagpundar na kami ngayon ng tindahan ng  school supplies. Kung wala itong Aling Tindera, hindi namin ma-eexpand ang aming  tindahan (In just one week, our site is full because so many people sell us plastic bottles and  sachets. We’ve since been able to establish a school supplies store. Without Aling Tindera,  we wouldn’t have been able to expand our business).” 

CIC's larger sustainability mission is realized through these narratives. Recovered plastic garbage is transformed into reusable materials by combining considerable investments in recycling infrastructure with community-level empowerment. This promotes a circular economy and drastically lowers the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and the ocean. 

By working together, CIC shows that ethical production is about generating shared benefit rather than only eliminating harm. Every kilogram of plastic diverted means new opportunities for Filipino households as well as a cleaner environment.