Hidden Food Gems You Might Have Missed at SM City Marilao Foodcourt

Looking for something new to fulfilll your cravings? Some of the best food finds might already be waiting for you at the SM City Marilao Foodcourt.

Crispy, golden, and made for sharing—satisfy your cravings with Tokyo Tempura at the SM City Marilao Foodcourt.

Bite into Fariñas’ signature crispy Ilocos Empanada, freshly prepared with its distinct golden-orange crust and savory filling.

Made with love, inspired by France. Find your next favorite galette or crêpe at Bucky.

These hidden food gems are worth adding to your next food trip: Tokyo Tempura for crispy tempura, Fariñas Ilocos Empanada for savory Ilocano classics, Bucky for indulgent galettes or crêpes, Ssamjang Express for flavorful Korean meals, Kanzen Sushi Roll for satisfying sushi rolls, and Gimme Fries for everyone's favorite crispy snack.

Grab a quick and tasty bite with Kanzen Sushi Roll.

Generous serving of flavored fries only at Gimme Fries.

Whether you're looking for a quick meal, a place to meet friends, or something unique, these foodcourt gems are worth a visit during your next Gala to the Max. 

Your next favorite may be hiding in plain sight at SM City Marilao Food Court!

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.

Manila Water delivers solid first half of 2026 performance with double-digit revenue and EBITDA growth

Despite investment-cycle challenges and a more complicated operating environment, Manila Water Company, Inc. (Manila Water) maintained its strong financial and operational performance for the first half of the year, demonstrating the beneficial effects of authorized tariff adjustments, steady demand, and ongoing cost discipline.

Manila Water's consolidated revenues for the first half of 2026 rose by 11% to Php22.2 billion, supported by both the implementation of tariff adjustments across key operating units and steady contributions from its core business. Effective cost control and operational efficiency initiatives complemented this topline growth, resulting in a 13% increase in EBITDA to Php16.4 billion. The company's continued focus on efficiency enhancements and strict cost controls throughout the organization was reflected in the EBITDA margin's further strengthening to 74%. In addition, net income increased by 6% to Php8.5 billion, indicating Manila Water's ability to generate profits in spite of increased depreciation and interest costs. This demonstrates the business's capacity to strike a balance between the demands of an ongoing investment cycle and short-term financial performance.

Due to consistent customer demand and tariff adjustments, Manila Water's East Zone Concession saw a 12% increase in revenues to Php17.9 billion, indicating a strong business performance. Despite increased depreciation and interest costs from strategic infrastructure investments, the core business continued to be strong, as evidenced by the 13% increase in EBITDA to Php13.7 billion and the 9% improvement in net income to Php7.8 billion.

Non-East Zone Philippines (NEZ PH) business units also produced strong growth outside of Manila Water's East Zone Concession. Tariff adjustments in key operations in Clark, South Luzon, and Boracay contributed significantly to the 2% growth in NEZ PH revenues and the 7% increase in EBITDA. Higher supervision fees from projects under the company's Laguna Water and Estate Water divisions further supported this, demonstrating Manila Water's growing portfolio contribution outside of its East Zone Concession and each company's capacity to seize expansion opportunities.

Manila Water is still concentrating on vital infrastructure that facilitates long-term water security, service dependability, and capacity growth. In accordance with the company's service commitments, capital expenditures totaled Php6.8 billion during that time.

“Our first half results show that even in uncertain times, our company can still deliver strong performance, provide reliable service, and create lasting value for our stakeholders. While geopolitical concerns and El Niño present real challenges for our sector, we are confident in our ability to navigate these conditions by improving the way we operate, optimizing resources, and strengthening service delivery. In doing so, we can translate operational gains into meaningful financial results, while continuing to provide reliable and essential water service to our customers.” ~Mr. Roberto R. Locsin, Manila Water President and CEO

Manila Water continues to take a proactive approach to managing external risks, such as the current El Niño conditions and market disruptions brought on by the Middle East crisis. The business is still taking a methodical and focused approach to water supply augmentation, operational resilience, and cost control.

Pru Life UK empowers Filipinos with affordable cancer protection through PRUCare Cancer Protect

With up to 100% of the sum assured for qualified late-stage cancer claims and 50% for qualified early-stage cancer claims, PRUCare Cancer Protect provides complete financial support by covering both early-stage and late-stage cancer. This sum will be subtracted from the late-stage cancer benefit claim if an early-stage cancer benefit has been requested. Additionally, it offers an extra 20% benefit for catastrophic late-stage cancer, which helps reduce the cost of more complicated treatment requirements.

Pru Life UK today launched PRUCare Cancer Protect, a 10-year renewable term insurance plan intended to make cancer protection more accessible and assist Filipinos in preparing for its financial impact, given that cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines1 and that a diagnosis frequently places significant financial strain on families.

Customers are rewarded for maintaining their health in addition to protection. Long-term financial planning is important because policyholders who finish a 10-year term without a successful claim may receive up to 50% of their total premiums paid back.

PRUCare Cancer Protect addresses an urgent issue: research indicates that over 40% of Filipino families with cancer face financial difficulties while undergoing treatment, and many are compelled to stop receiving care. With between 150,000 and 190,000 new cases reported each year, cancer continues to rank among the top three causes of death in the nation. Many patients are diagnosed at a later stage of the disease, when treatment is more complicated and expensive.

Simplified, cancer-focused underwriting and hassle-free renewals every ten years without being reevaluated for eligibility or health are features of the product, which was designed with simplicity in mind. Young professionals, breadwinners, and families looking for an inexpensive way to implement dedicated cancer protection without committing to a more complicated long-term insurance solution will find it especially useful

by Filipino families today, PRUCare Cancer Protect is designed to provide meaningful protection in a simple, flexible, and affordable way, giving customers greater confidence and resilience to face the future. As healthcare costs continue to rise, preparation has never been more important. We want to help more Filipinos take proactive steps toward protecting themselves and their loved ones. Having the right financial protection allows families to focus on treatment and recovery instead of worrying about the financial consequences of a serious illness." ~Garen Dee, Chief Product Officer of Pru Life UK

Through a panel discussion, the launch event, which had the theme "Count on Care, Count on PRUtection," highlighted actual patient experiences and insights regarding financial protection. A cancer survivor discussed her financial and personal experiences, highlighting the significance of acting before it's too late. Dee also talked about how PRUCare Cancer Protect assists Filipinos in anticipating the possible expenses and effects of cancer on their lives. 

In collaboration with partner The Medical City, attendees received a free Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) risk assessment that uses interview-based screening to identify possible risks for chronic conditions, including cancer.

Customers of Pru Life UK can also take advantage of cancer-related value-added benefits through its partnership with The Medical City, which are intended to make their care pathways more guided and manageable. These benefits include free access to an NCD risk assessment that helps identify risks for cancer and other leading chronic conditions, discounts on certain outpatient preventive screens to support early detection, and medical concierge support for priority scheduling of tests, doctor's appointments, and hospital navigation—allowing patients to concentrate more on improving.

Through PRUCare Cancer Protect, Pru Life UK maintains its commitment to assisting Filipinos in achieving comprehensive financial wellbeing by improving protection's relevance, accessibility, and responsiveness to modern circumstances.

Visit your local Pru Life UK branch or consult a certified Pru Life UK financial advisor for additional details about PRUCare Cancer Protect and Pru Life UK's range of protection options.

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of over 33,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 850,000 individual policyholders and more than 50,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of FY 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer centre is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer centre contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer centre processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

Notes: 

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year  

Please use "Pru Life UK" when referring to the company.

Tired of Trying Skincare Trends That Don’t Work? Read This First

Filipinos are becoming more frugal with their spending as a result of growing expenses, and they are also choosing skincare products that they can rely on to maintain the long-term health of their skin. Nowadays, skincare is increasingly seen as a necessity for individual wellness rather than a cosmetic luxury.

However, consumers encounter conflicting claims, technical scientific jargon, and a steady stream of new ingredients when navigating both physical retail aisles and online platforms.

This year's central theme, "Healthy Skin Deserves No Compromise," served as the focal point of the eighth annual National Healthy Skin Mission at SM Makati, which was organized by skincare company Cetaphil in collaboration with leading retailer Watsons and SM Beauty. Customers now have direct access to clinically tested products designed to meet particular skin needs thanks to this initiative.

“We see firsthand how the skincare landscape is evolving. Today’s shoppers aren't looking for quick fixes or trend-driven routines anymore. As the country's leading destination for health and wellness, we are proud to be the trusted bridge that connects shoppers directly to clinically proven, dermatologist-recommended solutions like Cetaphil.” ~Pat Muyco, Group Senior Category Manager for Watsons

Experts in skincare and the industry shared insightful reminders about understanding our skin, proper skincare, and why sensitive skin deserves the right kind of care, making the event even more inspirational. We also had the opportunity to hear from Anne Curtis, who talked about her personal skincare journey and Cetaphil experience.

“We are committed to helping more Filipinos achieve healthy skin by changing how they choose clinically proven skin care. As a sensitive skin expert and category leader, Cetaphil brings skin science and dermatological expertise through products that consistently work to add more value to consumers’ health and wellness journey.” ~Mark Sarmiento, Business Unit Head for Cetaphil

Don’t compromise your skin health with quick fixes 

Making deliberate skincare decisions has become crucial for Cetaphil Brand Ambassador Anne Curtis as her skin adjusts to the rigors of a hectic lifestyle, including long days on set, frequent makeup application, and shifting surroundings.

“There’s so much going on online, so it’s important to know that the brand you’re using is something you can trust because it is certified by experts. Don’t compromise your skin health with quick fixes or following trends. You deserve to take care of your own skin, but it’s also important to educate yourself about what’s available.” ~Anne Curtis, Cetaphil Brand Ambassador

Dr. Chesca Quinio-Calayag also adds that having healthy skin isn't about doing the longest routine or chasing every new ingredient that comes out. 

“It’s more about choosing products that are proven to work, gentle enough to protect your skin barrier, and effective enough that you don't have to keep replacing products that disappoint you.” ~Dr. Chesca Quinio-Calayag

Meanwhile, Dr. Sella Umali-Adasa reminded consumers to stop consuming products that leave adverse reactions.

“Healthy skin shouldn't come at the expense of irritation. If your skincare constantly leaves your skin feeling tight, stinging, or uncomfortable, that's not something you should simply accept as normal.” ~Dr. Sella Umali-Adasa

The mission also emphasizes the importance of understanding that healthy skin is not always perfect. According to Abe Mationg, Head of Marketing for Cetaphil, consumers should feel empowered to make choices based on their skin’s needs. 

“It’s mainly about making informed choices and listening to experts. All of us are different, so our skin isn’t perfect all the time. Sometimes you wake up feeling differently about your skin. But what’s important is to be gentle with yourself and have the right skincare for your skin type.” ~Abe Mationg, Head of Marketing for Cetaphil

Open to the public until August 31, the National Healthy Skin Mission at SM Makati provides science-led skincare advice, interactive installations, and dermatologist consultations.

Learn more about dermatologist-certified care by following Cetaphil PH on Instagram and Facebook. Cetaphil products are available nationwide at Watsons and SM Beauty stores, or online via Watsons Online.

Fly Far and Wide with Cebu Pacific’s 8.8 Seat Sale

With the launch of its 8.8 seat sale, Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the top airline in the Philippines, creates more chances to travel far and wide throughout the country and beyond.

Travelers can purchase flights to both domestic and foreign locations for as little as PHP 8 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges, between August 6 and August 10.

Travelers can plan and secure cheap fares for trips the following year by taking advantage of the seat sale, which is valid from January 1 to March 31, 2027 for international destinations and until June 30, 2027 for domestic destinations.

With the 8.8 seat sale, more travelers will have direct access to international destinations from Manila, Clark, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao as CEB continues to increase international connectivity throughout its hubs.

From Manila, visitors can explore Taipei's vibrant night markets, sample the fresh seafood of Zamboanga, learn about Davao's coffee and cacao scene, or take long-haul flights to Dubai and Riyadh for their unique blend of modern attractions and culture.

Outside of the Philippine capital, Clark provides easy access to Singapore's famous landmarks, Thailand's well-known street cuisine, and Cebu's beaches and historical sites. For its well-known theme parks and views of the harbor, visitors from Cebu, Iloilo, or Davao can also take a direct flight to Hong Kong.

With an expanding global network and more direct routes from all over the Philippines, CEB offers every Juan more chances to see more, do more, and transform a straightforward vacation into an amazing journey.

Currently, CEB operates in 26 foreign and 35 domestic locations throughout the Middle East, Asia, and Australia.

To book flights and purchase extras, CEB accepts a number of payment methods, such as credit or debit cards and e-wallets.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com.

Cebu Pacific's Social Media Accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cebupacificairphilippines

X: https://twitter.com/CebuPacificAir

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cebupacificair

Timeless Fashion, Brilliant Sparkle: Discover what's New at SM City Grand Central

Fashion is more than just clothing. It's how you appear. It's the assurance of putting on a well-fitting dress ahead of a crucial meeting. During life's greatest festivities, it is the sparkle that catches the light. Two exciting new additions to SM City Grand Central this season demonstrate that style is not limited to special events. You can accept it on a daily basis.

These newest stores invite you to rediscover the joy of dressing up and expressing your individual style, whether you're updating your wardrobe or looking for a meaningful piece to commemorate life's milestones.

Where Everyday Style Begins: BAYO Opens at SM City Grand Central

Certain brands follow trends. For over thirty years, BAYO has refined classic style.

Since its founding in 1992, BAYO has grown to become one of the most cherished domestic fashion brands. BAYO, which takes its name from the Hiligaynon word for "dress" or "clothing," is known for its exquisitely made items that honor the contemporary Filipina. Effortlessly sophisticated, boldly subtle, and consistently genuine.

Customers can find collections that smoothly transition from workdays to weekends at its newest location in SM City Grand Central. Imagine elegant linen outfits, sophisticated gowns, adaptable separates, and wardrobe staples made to last beyond the season. Clean silhouettes, elegant details, and the kind of understated sophistication that never goes out of style are all evident in every piece.

The narrative that permeates each collection is what really makes BAYO stand out. Thru its #JourneyToZero initiatives, the brand continues to promote sustainability in addition to producing stunning clothing. BAYO demonstrates that fashion can be elegant, significant, and thoughtful by collaborating with Filipino weaving communities, embracing regional textiles, cutting down on fabric waste thru upcycling, and reimagining traditional Filipiniana craftsmanship for modern wardrobes.

BAYO serves as a reminder that genuine style is based on quality, purpose, and a profound respect for Filipino heritage in a world where trends change quickly.

Shine Through Every Chapter with Hearts & Arrows

Certain times are worth more than just memories. They are worthy of genius.

Hearts & Arrows brings classic elegance to SM City Grand Central with exquisite jewelry made for life's greatest achievements, whether it's a long-awaited "yes," a graduation, an anniversary, or just celebrating yourself.

The brand, which offers finely crafted jewelry that exhibits one of the highest standards of diamond precision, is well-known as the Philippines' specialty retailer of Hearts and Arrows diamonds. The unique Hearts and Arrows pattern produces amazing brilliance, symmetry, and sparkle thanks to superb cutting techniques. Each piece turns into an enduring representation of love, success, and significant beginnings.

With 25 locations across the country, Hearts & Arrows has established itself as a reliable source for wedding bands, engagement rings, classic diamond jewelry, and heartfelt presents that honor life's most memorable events.

Every visit offers the opportunity to find jewelry that is as timeless as the memories it represents, whether you are planning a proposal, celebrating a milestone, or investing in a piece you will treasure for years to come.

Your Next Style Destination Awaits

With the addition of BAYO and Hearts & Arrows, SM City Grand Central has become a destination where fashion meets lifestyle, making everyday shopping enjoyable.

These new stores offer more than just products, ranging from simple wardrobe essentials crafted in the Philippines to stunning pieces commemorating life's most important moments. They promote confidence, self-expression, and meaningful ways to celebrate one's identity.

Because sometimes all it takes is the right outfit or a little sparkle to elevate an ordinary day into something extraordinary. Both are available at your preferred SM City Grand Central location.

The Hungry Pita Serves Crave-Worthy Goodness at SM Center Pulilan

The Hungry Pita is now serving premium pita goodness at the second level of SM Center Pulilan.

Do you want something tasty, substantial, and easy to eat? At your favorite SM Center Pulilan, The Hungry Pita is now serving a delicious assortment of pita favorites, giving customers and foodies another intriguing dining option to try.

Known for its flavorful offerings and satisfying pita creations, The Hungry Pita is perfect for quick meals, informal get-togethers, or just sating a craving while shopping because it combines savory fillings, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors in every bite.

Gather the squad and enjoy The Hungry Pita’s satisfying flavors at SM Center Pulilan. 

Wrapped, generously filled, and loaded with flavors. Your next food craving starts at The Hungry Pita in SM Center Puilan.

The new restaurant gives customers and mall patrons another reason to stop, eat, and savor something delectable for the ultimate Gala to the Max experience, adding to the expanding selection of food options at SM Center Pulilan. 

The Hungry Pita at SM Center Pulilan is prepared to greet customers seeking their next favorite meal with its tasty assortment and filling portions.

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.