Cebu Pacific's New Hand Carry Policy

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance traveler satisfaction and streamline the boarding process, Cebu Pacific (CEB) is revising its hand carry policy.

Travelers on Cebu Pacific (5J) flights will be permitted to bring up to 10 kg of total hand carry items starting on September 15, 2026, up from the previous 7 kg limit. The total allowance for hand carry on flights operated by Cebgo (DG) will remain at 7 kg. 

The revised policy maintains explicit restrictions on the quantity and size of hand carry items while allowing travelers greater freedom to bring what they need for their journey. Additionally, by taking these steps, our crew will be better able to handle baggage, finish pre-departure procedures on time, and maintain flight schedules.

Passengers may only bring up to two (2) pieces of hand carry items on board:

• One (1) hand carry baggage (to be placed in the overhead bin)
• One (1) personal item (to fit under the seat in front)

Passengers are reminded to ensure they can comfortably lift and stow their hand carry luggage in the overhead bin by themselves, or under the seat in front of them.

Hand carry items must follow the corresponding size limits:

• Hand carry baggage: up to Height = 56 cm × Length = 36 cm × Width = 23 cm
• Personal item: up to Height = 20 cm × Length = 35 cm x Width = 20 cm  

Passengers are advised to keep their hand-carry items within the permitted number of pieces and weight limits in order to reduce flight delays and guaranty a more seamless boarding experience.

Any hand carry item that is larger than what CEB permits must be checked in, subject to the applicable baggage fees.

Passengers are advised to use their MyCebuPacific accounts to add extra baggage allowance or pre-purchase their checked baggage allowance through the Manage Booking portal for convenience.

Additionally, passengers can check in online through the CEB website and mobile app, which cuts down on airport wait times and enables them to proceed directly to their designated boarding gates if they have no checked baggage.

CEB currently flies to 35 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.  

For more information, visit: www.cebupacificair.com.

Hot Wheels Designer Brendon Vetuskey Rolls in Nostalgia to Kingsford Hotel Manila

Many people have happy memories of Hot Wheels from their early years, whether it was a race across the living room floor, a favorite car, or their first collection. For some, that fascination from childhood never truly faded. It just developed into a passion for collecting, trading, and learning the backstories of each diecast that would last a lifetime.

At an exclusive private dinner hosted in collaboration with Metrics Ph, the organizer of the Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention, Hot Wheels diecast designer and Red Line Club design lead Brendon Vetuskey met with local and international collectors and enthusiasts. This shared nostalgia took center stage at the Kingsford Hotel Manila.

The event, which brought together collectors, families, business executives, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality representatives, was more than just a get-together for diecast enthusiasts; it demonstrated how a common interest can create deep connections between generations and communities.

The occasion presented Kingsford Hotel Manila with a chance to develop an experience that goes beyond the standard hotel stay. As a family-friendly hotel, it offered a suitable environment for an experience that brought together enthusiasts finding new pieces, collectors who have been involved in the hobby for years, and children and kids at heart who still enjoy Hot Wheels.

“Hotels can be more than places where people stay. We can become part of the destination experience and create spaces where communities, businesses and visitors connect. Partnering with Metrics Ph allows us to support the collector community while exploring new opportunities for events, partnerships and experiences that can bring people to Manila.” ~Jorold Montelibano, General Manager of Kingsford Hotel Manila

From childhood memories to a collector community

Vetuskey's involvement gave the event an international creative viewpoint. As the diecast design lead for Red Line Club vehicles, he joined Mattel in 2007 and has since contributed to many Hot Wheels designs.

Following an exclusive presentation and conversation with collectors and invited guests, Vetuskey discussed Hot Wheels design and the process of creating diecast vehicles during the exclusive dinner.

For Vetuskey, however, the appeal of collecting goes beyond the cars themselves.

“You might meet someone and start talking about your favorite Hot Wheels from childhood or the first car you ever collected. Those stories and shared memories are what makes collecting special.” ~Brendon Vetuskey, Hot Wheels Diecast Designer and Red Line Club Design Lead

Collectors take home a personal memento as Brendon Vetuskey signs Hot Wheels memorabilia

Collectors take home a personal memento as Brendon Vetuskey signs Hot Wheels memorabilia

Brendon Vetuskey connects with the Philippine collecting community, sharing stories from his journey as a Hot Wheels designer.

The Philippines' expanding collector culture is still shaped by this feeling of connection. Through Metrics Ph, enthusiasts and collectors can get together, share their collections, tell stories, and celebrate a cross-generational pastime.

Shared passion becomes a hotel experience

A glimpse of how specialized communities can generate new tourism and hospitality opportunities was also provided by the event.

A location can become more than just an event's backdrop for collectors. It can be a place where people connect through common interests, stories, and friendships. For Kingsford, it's an additional chance to design experiences that encourage visitors and communities to come together.

Attendees, including the CEO of Metrics PH, enjoy an intimate dinner presentation with Hot Wheels lead designer Brendon Vetuskey.

The appeal is still incredibly familiar to fans of Hot Wheels. The excitement is still present whether they have been collectors for a long time or are just recalling the excitement of opening a brand-new diecast car as kids.

That nostalgia brought kids and kids at heart together at the Kingsford Hotel Manila, demonstrating that some childhood passions never truly matured. They just come up with fresh ways to unite people.

SM Center Sangandaan offers FREE AI Skills Session

Through a free upskilling session focused on practical AI applications, SM Center Sangandaan will assist community members in better understanding and navigating the technology as artificial intelligence continues to transform how people study, work, and conduct business.

The learning session, named "AI for All," will take place on September 12, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the 2nd floor of SM Center Sangandaan, which is adjacent to KKV.

By going beyond technical jargon and concentrating on how AI can be applied in daily work, business, productivity, and career development, the session seeks to make artificial intelligence more approachable.

In addition to learning about the principles of AI and prompt engineering, participants will examine real-world uses of AI in productivity, business, and the workplace. The lesson will also address responsible and ethical AI use, assisting students in comprehending not only the capabilities of the technology but also how it ought to be applied.

Additionally, the program will introduce participants to IBM SkillsBuild, which will give them access to more learning resources as they continue to hone their skills in a workplace that is becoming more and more digital.

The free educational program is a component of SM Supermalls' ongoing initiatives to provide Filipino communities with easily accessible career opportunities and skill development.

Learning to use AI can help students, job seekers, working professionals, and prospective entrepreneurs navigate new opportunities as the technology becomes more prevalent across industries.

SM Center Sangandaan encourages the community to take that first step by learning something new, comprehending emerging technologies, and improving their readiness for what lies ahead because "Your next skill could open your next door."

With the help of SM Supermalls, DICT, and IBM SkillsBuild, the AI for All session is made possible by bringing together industry and learning partners to increase community access to digital skills development.

Interested parties are urged to visit the official SM Center Sangandaan Facebook page for the most recent event updates and announcements, or scan the QR code included in the official event materials for registration details and additional information.

Infinix XPAD 30 Pro Is Set to Redefine the Ultimate Entertainment Experience on September 8​

The performance of tablets is about to reach a new level. With the upcoming Infinix XPAD 30 Pro, which will formally launch on September 8, 2026, Infinix plans to raise the standard for what consumers can anticipate from a tablet in its price range. The XPAD 30 Pro combines powerful performance, an immersive high-definition display, clever AI-powered features, and an incredibly thin design for users who want more out of their daily entertainment.

In addition to entertainment, the XPAD 30 Pro offers AI-powered learning and productivity tools that enable professionals and students to manage light office and academic tasks. AI is built to meet daily learning and professional demands, from taking notes and creating graphs or visuals for presentations to participating in remote meetings.

Power Up Your Entertainment

The Helio G200 Ultimate Processor, which powers the XPAD 30 Pro, offers gaming-optimized performance for lag-free, fluid, and responsive gameplay.

The XPAD 30 Pro is designed to provide the power required to support an entertainment-focused lifestyle, whether you're playing your favorite games, streaming content, or switching between apps.

The XPAD 30 Pro is already causing a stir in the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) and Aurora Gaming, where it is being tested in intense MLBB action. The upcoming tablet is expected to give players a clearer, more engaging view of the battlefield, from identifying enemies to landing attacks with greater visual clarity, thanks to its unique game-optimized features and large, immersive display.

With performance at its core, the XPAD 30 Pro is shaping up to be one of the strongest-performing tablets in its price segment.

Experience Every Detail 

The experience is more than just the performance. Additionally, the XPAD 30 Pro has an 11-inch 2.5K Eye-Care Display that enhances your preferred entertainment with crisp, detailed images.

The high-definition display is made to make every scene more immersive while offering an eye-care viewing experience for prolonged use, whether you're browsing your favorite content or watching movies and videos.

The display, in conjunction with its potent processor, creates the ideal entertainment environment no matter where you are.

The Infinix XPAD 30 Pro in Twilight Purple

A Smarter Way to Enjoy Content Is Coming

With its AI-powered all-scenario experience, the XPAD 30 Pro elevates entertainment to a new level by making every moment more practical, imaginative, and captivating.

With AI-powered features, users can easily follow along with their favorite videos through AI-subtitled video streaming, transform impromptu ideas into content with AI-powered creation tools, and instantly obtain information about the entertainment content they're enjoying with a single tap.

The XPAD 30 Pro integrates AI into regular entertainment for a more intelligent and seamless experience, whether you're learning more about what you're watching, making content on the spot, or watching videos in multiple languages.

Big Performance. Slimmer Form.

Despite packing powerful capabilities, the XPAD 30 Pro maintains an ultra-slim and lightweight design at just 6mm thin and 476g.

The sleek form factor makes it easy to carry and comfortable to use throughout the day, whether you're gaming at home, streaming while relaxing, or taking your entertainment with you on the go.

Get Ready to Level Up Your Entertainment

With its potent Helio G200 Ultimate Processor, immersive 11-inch 2.5K Eye-Care Display, AI-powered experience, and 6mm ultra-slim, 476g lightweight design, the XPAD 30 Pro is poised to combine the features and performance consumers require for an enhanced entertainment experience.

More significantly, Infinix is positioning the XPAD 30 Pro to offer powerful performance at outstanding value, making it an appealing option for consumers seeking the most powerful tablet in its price range.

The XPAD 30 Pro, which comes in three chic hues Twilight Purple, Titanium Silver, and Anthracite Grey—is prepared to deliver potent performance and a high-end entertainment experience at your fingertips.

Don’t miss the launch and join the TikTok Shop Launch Event on September 8 and be among the first to discover what’s next for tablet entertainment.

About Infinix

Established in 2013, Infinix is an innovation-driven brand dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology, bold design, and outstanding performance. The brand provides smart, enjoyable mobile experiences that enhance everyday life. Beyond smartphones, Infinix has expanded its portfolio to include TWS earbuds, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and more—building a comprehensive ecosystem of smart devices. Currently, Infinix products are available in over 70 countries and regions worldwide, including Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.

For more information, please visit: https://ph.infinixmobility.com/

The Comfort Food Fix: Familiar Favorites at SM City Marilao Foodcourt

PotDog makes for an easy-to-enjoy snack.

Whether it's a warm bowl of lugaw on a rainy day, a delicious kwek-kwek for a quick merienda, or a favorite snack to eat in between errands, there's something reassuring about food that feels familiar. These straightforward desires come together at your Most Loved SM City Marilao Foodcourt to add a little extra enjoyment to every meal.

Ultimate comfort food staples at Lugaw Republic.

Lugaw Republic offers the cozy goodness that makes you feel at home for those searching for something warm and nourishing. In the meantime, Eggspert's popular street food egg recipes provide a tasty fix perfect for merienda or a quick snack. Do you want something savory?  While Noodlemix's fried noodles offer a satisfying meal paired with delicious sauces, PotDog's dim sum on a stick makes a delightful snack.

From quick bites to satisfying comfort meals, there’s always something delicious waiting at the SM City Marilao Foodcourt.

And for those who adore a handheld favorite, Fariñas Ilocos Empanada offers savory Ilocano classics— perfect for enjoying while taking a break from a busy mall day.

Noodlemix’s fried noodles paired with savory sauces is a perfect choice for quick meals.

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

Whether it's a quick snack, a satisfying meal, or simply a longing for something familiar, SM City Marilao Foodcourt offers comfort food staples that make every visit feel a bit more like home.

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.

Delicious and nutritious soup recipes with Ajinomoto Philippines

After a long day at work or school, rainy Habagat nites make you crave hot, filling soup that you can make in a matter of minutes.

With AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, a popular flavor enhancer that is frequently used to intensify deliciousness in vegetable recipes, meat dishes, sauces, broths, soups, and much more, you can skip the slow cooking process without sacrificing flavor. 

Add a "tak, tak, tak" of MSG, the purest form of umami, to foods like meats, seafood, and vegetables to give them a delicious, savory boost. MSG doesn't add complex flavors, extra calories, or superfluous color. Because MSG contains only about one-third of the sodium found in table salt, it adds depth of flavor while assisting you in lowering your sodium intake.

Here are two easy soup recipes from Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC)’s Cookmunity website to bookmark for the rainy months:

• Egg Drop Soup

This comforting soup is ideal for cozy evenings and evokes cherished childhood memories as well as the joy of being safe at home with family. One sip and a burst of umami can relieve stress and rehydrate the body.

Ingredients

• 6 cups (1500ml) Water
• 1/2 cup (65g) Carrots, cubed
• 2/3 cup (80g) Corn kernel, canned
• 2/3 cup (80g) Green peas, canned
• 3 Tbsps. (30g) Cornstarch
• 5 Tbsps. (75ml) Water for slurry
• 1 pack (11g) AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning
• 4 pcs. (200g) Eggs, beaten
• 1 Tbsp. (15ml) Water for egg mixture
• 1 tsp. (5g) Salt
• 1/2 tsp. (3ml) Sesame oil

 

Procedure

1. BOIL. In a pot, boil water. Once boiling, add carrots, corn and green peas. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Once vegetables are cooked, add cornstarch slurry.
2. SEASON. Add AJI-NO-MOTO® and salt then mix well. In a bowl, whisk eggs and water. Add egg mixture to the pot gradually while mixing. Turn off heat and add salt and sesame oil.
3. SERVE. Transfer onto serving bowls and enjoy. Can be garnished with spring onions.

• Molo Soup

AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning enhances the flavor of Molo soup, a popular Filipino dish that is garlicky and meaty. This flavorful broth provides comforting nourishment and calms the senses.

Ingredients     

• 1 3/4 cups (375g) Pork, ground
• 1/2 cup (100g) Potato, minced
• 1/4 cup (35g) Carrots, minced
• 1/2 pc. (30g) White onions, minced
• 1 pc. (50g) Egg, beaten
• 1 tsp. Salt
• 20 pcs. Molo wrapper
• 2 Tbsps. (30ml) Cooking oil
• 1 Tbsp. (15g) Red onions, minced
• 1 Tbsp. (15g) Garlic, minced
• 4 cups (1000ml) Water
• 1 1/2 Tbsps. (20g) AJINOMOTO® Chicken Powder
• 1 Tbsp. (15g) Soy Sauce
• 1 pack (11g) AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning
• 3 Tbsps. (20g) Spring onions, chopped
• 2 Tbsps. (10) Toasted garlic

 

Procedure

1. MIX. In a large bowl, mix pork, potato, carrots, white onions, egg, and salt.
2. MOLD. Take 1 tsp. of the mixture and place it in the middle of the molo wrapper. Dampen the molo wrapper with beaten egg to seal. Repeat until finished.
3. SAUTE. In a pot, heat oil to sauté red onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. SIMMER. Add water and AJINOMOTO® Chicken Powder, wait for it to simmer.
5. UMAMI-MIX. Add soy sauce and AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning and stir.
6. SIMMER. Add molo dumplings onto the pot. Cook for 5-8 minutes.
7. SERVE. Transfer onto serving bowl and garnish with spring onions and toasted garlic.

Tap, pay, and go: BPI highlights effortless convenience of Google Pay for Android users

Speed and security in a single tap: BPI Debit Mastercard holders can check out effortlessly by unlocking their Android device and holding it near any contactless payment terminal.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is encouraging Android users to enhance their regular dining and shopping experiences by integrating their BPI Debit Mastercards into Google Wallet, giving them even more control over how they handle their daily transactions.

Google Pay offers an incredibly quick "tap-and-go" lifestyle and is designed to supplement BPI's current payment options, which include physical cards and QR scans via the BPI app. Customers can complete transactions instantly without ever opening a wallet or bag, whether they are checking out online, getting coffee in the morning, or running grocery errands.

"We want our customers to experience the ultimate blend of convenience and modern lifestyle freedom. By linking their BPI Debit Mastercard to Google Wallet, our millions of Android users can turn their phones into a secure, all-in-one payment tool. It’s about making everyday purchases simpler, faster, and seamlessly integrated into your routine, backed by the trusted security of BPI." ~Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, BPI Head of Consumer Banking

Google Wallet has made it simple for BPI Debit Mastercard holders to add their cards since its launch on April 15. Multi-layered security features protect every transaction, guaranteeing that real card information is never disclosed to retailers.

How to Enroll BPI Debit Mastercard:

• Download and open the Google Wallet app on your NFC-enabled Android phone.
• Tap ‘Add a card’ and select ‘Payment card’ to add your card.
• Use your camera to scan your card or enter your card details manually.
• Agree to Google Pay and BPI’s Terms and Conditions.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to verify your card via SMS One-Time Passwords (OTPs).
• Once your card is verified, it is ready to use with Google Pay.

Clients may use Google Pay anywhere contactless payments are embraced:

• In stores featuring contactless payment terminals
• In mobile apps that support Google Pay
• On websites offering Google Pay at checkout

BPI urges everyone to adopt safe banking practices as consumers adopt digital payment methods. Clients are reminded by BPI to never divulge their passwords, CVVs, PINs, OTPs, or other account credentials to anyone, including those posing as BPI representatives. This information is never requested by legitimate BPI representatives.

Google Pay's accessibility for BPI Debit Mastercard holders demonstrates BPI's dedication to enabling more Filipinos to use and benefit from contemporary payment technologies. BPI is committed to providing safe, useful, and customer-focused solutions that facilitate regular financial transactions even as payment preferences continue to change.

For more information on how to add a BPI Debit Mastercard to Google Wallet and use Google Pay, visit https://www.bpi.com.ph/personal/bank/digital-banking/digital-wallets.