Kwento Ni Toto

2026/03/09

Galaxy AI in Real Life: A Blogger’s Experience at the Samsung Galaxy S26 Launch

Marco Polo Demo 3/09/2026 07:14:00 AM

Technology launches can sometimes feel like a simple presentation—slides on a screen, specs on a stage, and then everyone goes home. But Samsung Philippines decided to flip that script.

On February 28, 2026, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series and Galaxy Buds4 Series were officially introduced at the “Everyday with Galaxy AI” Mall Experience held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. Instead of a traditional launch, Samsung turned the space into a living, breathing playground where visitors could actually see—and feel—how Galaxy AI fits into everyday life.

And as an invited blogger, I didn’t just watch the launch. I experienced it.

From AI-powered creativity zones and gaming demos to music, coffee, and even a surprise celebrity appearance, the event was designed to immerse everyone—from tech enthusiasts to casual mall-goers—into the future of mobile technology.

A Mall Experience That Anyone Could Join

What made the event unique was its open and experiential setup.

Samsung didn’t limit the experience to invited guests. Consumers, passersby, and tech fans walking through the mall were welcomed to try the features of the Samsung Galaxy S26 themselves.

Different interactive experience booths were scattered around the venue, each designed to highlight a key feature of the Galaxy S26 Series.

Instead of simply hearing about the phone’s capabilities, visitors could touch, test, and explore them firsthand.

And that made all the difference.

The Galaxy AI Café: Coffee Meets Intelligence

One of the most interesting stops inside the venue was the Galaxy AI Café.

It wasn’t just about grabbing a drink—it was about discovering how AI can simplify everyday moments.

Visitors explored Now Nudge, a feature that helps organize tasks and reminders throughout the day, making schedules feel less chaotic and more manageable.

It was also where the line suddenly came to mind:

“When your coffee is made to feel exquisite by an AI.”

That’s exactly the vibe the zone created—small daily moments elevated by smart technology.

Another standout feature demonstrated here was Privacy Display, which ensures that sensitive information on your phone screen stays visible only to you, even in crowded public places like cafés or malls.

Creative Studio AI: Turning Anyone into a Creator

For those who love taking photos, the Creative Studio AI Zone was easily one of the most exciting booths.

This area showcased how the Galaxy S26 Series uses AI to enhance photography.

Visitors tried features such as:

Generative Edit – allowing users to remove distractions or reposition elements in photos

Photo Assist – automatically refining images with intelligent adjustments

AI-powered photo enhancement tools that make editing feel effortless

The demonstrations showed that photography on the Galaxy S26 isn’t just about capturing images—it’s about unlocking creativity with the help of AI.

Nightography Zone: Capturing the Night Like a Pro

Another crowd favorite was the Nightography Experience Zone.

This booth recreated dark and neon-lit environments where visitors could test how the phone performs in low-light situations.

Here, the Galaxy S26 Series highlighted:

Nightography Video for clearer night footage

Super Steady stabilization for smooth recording even while moving

The result? Videos that looked cinematic—even when shot in challenging lighting conditions.

For content creators, vloggers, and social media enthusiasts, this feature alone felt like a major upgrade.

Unbeatable Gaming Zone: Speed and Power

Gamers were naturally drawn to the Unbeatable Gaming Zone, where the phones were pushed to their limits.

Visitors played high-performance games on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 and Samsung Galaxy S26+ showcased the new Exynos 2600 chipset.

The demos showed:

ultra-smooth graphics

fast response times

improved thermal architecture that keeps the phone cool during intense gameplay

In simple terms, no lag, no overheating, just uninterrupted gaming.

Life in Hi-Fi: Meet the Galaxy Buds4 Series

Music lovers had their own space at the Life in Hi-Fi Zone, where the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro were introduced.

Visitors tried out several smart features including:

Adaptive Controls that allow users to manage music and calls with simple gestures like nodding or shaking their head

Live Translate, helping break language barriers during conversations

Ambient Sound, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while listening

The earbuds impressed many with their sleek design, comfortable fit, and immersive sound quality—perfect for everyday listening.

A Special Moment with Catriona Gray

The excitement peaked when Catriona Gray stepped onto the stage.

As a member of #TeamGalaxy, she shared how the Galaxy S26 Series fits into her daily life and creative work.

She talked about how intuitive the phone feels and how its AI features help simplify tasks—from organizing schedules to creating better photos.

Her appearance instantly energized the crowd, with many fans gathering closer to the stage just to catch a glimpse.

Music that Completed the Experience

Technology and music blended seamlessly during the event.

OPM indie-pop band Over October delivered a memorable live performance that filled the venue with nostalgic and relaxing energy.

Fans sang along to hits like:

“Ikot”

“Dahan”

The performance gave the tech launch a festival-like atmosphere—less corporate presentation, more community gathering.

A Treat for Bloggers and Guests

Aside from exploring the booths, invited bloggers and media guests were also treated to great food and refreshments, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Between testing cameras, checking AI features, and watching performances, it was nice to pause, enjoy a bite, and chat with fellow creators about what impressed us the most.

Moments like these made the event feel less like a product launch and more like a shared tech experience.

The Pre-Order Zone and Big Surprises

Toward the end of the event, visitors gathered at the Pre-order Now Zone, where Samsung announced exciting rewards for early buyers.

One lucky winner walked away with a brand-new BYD Seal 5 DM-i, while others secured tickets to the highly anticipated SEVENTEEN Concert in Manila March 2026 happening on March 21.

It was the perfect combination of tech upgrade and unforgettable experience.

Bringing the Experience to More Cities

The Everyday with Galaxy AI Mall Experience isn’t stopping in Manila.

Samsung is bringing the event to other cities:

March 7–8 at SM City Clark

March 14–15 at SM Seaside Cebu

More people will get the chance to explore Galaxy AI and test the devices themselves.

Pre-Order Details

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Series is available for pre-order until March 18 via:

Samsung Experience Stores
Authorized Samsung Stores
Samsung.com
Lazada
Shopee
Abenson.com
MemoXpress Online

Early buyers can enjoy perks such as:

Free storage upgrade worth up to ₱14,000
Savings of up to 18%
0% installment plans up to 36 months with major banks

Flexible financing options are also available through Samsung Finance+ and Home Credit.

Samsung Care+ is offering 25% off a two-year protection plan for accidental and liquid damage.

The Everyday with Galaxy AI Mall Experience proved that technology doesn’t have to feel distant or complicated.

By allowing people to touch, test, and explore the devices in real-life scenarios, Samsung showed how the Galaxy S26 Series and Galaxy Buds4 Series can fit naturally into daily routines.

From AI-powered photography to immersive audio and powerful gaming performance, the experience highlighted one clear message:

The future of smartphones isn’t just about faster devices—it’s about smarter everyday living.

And for everyone who stepped inside the event at SM Mall of Asia, that future already felt within reach.

To find out more about the Galaxy S26 Series and Buds4 Series, visit:

● Galaxy S26 Ultra

● Galaxy S26+

● Galaxy S26

● Galaxy Buds4 Pro

● Galaxy Buds4

2026/03/03

updates

A calendar change, old questions: Why Philippine education keeps falling behind

Marco Polo Demo 3/03/2026 12:17:00 AM

The proposal by the Department of Education to shift the basic education calendar from a quarterly system to a trimester format is being framed as a solution to teacher fatigue, disrupted lessons and fragmented learning.

But for many educators and parents, the proposal revives a deeper and more troubling question: why does Philippine education keep changing its structure, yet continue to fall behind?

The planned shift, which would reduce the school year from four grading periods to three longer terms, is still under review and subject to consultations. Education officials say the goal is to give teachers longer uninterrupted teaching time and reduce administrative overload caused by frequent grading cycles.

Critics, however, say the issue goes far beyond how the school year is divided.

From stability to constant adjustment

For decades, Philippine public schools followed a relatively stable system. Before major reforms in the 2010s, students completed elementary and high school within a ten-year basic education cycle, guided by a predictable academic calendar and fewer structural overhauls.

That changed with the introduction of the K to 12 program, curriculum realignments, calendar shifts, and now, another proposed reconfiguration of the school year.

“What we see is not reform, but constant adjustment,” said one public school teacher who asked not to be named. “Every few years, the system changes, but the classroom realities stay the same—or get worse.”

Today’s quarterly system, introduced alongside recent curriculum reforms, was meant to standardize assessment and pacing. Instead, many teachers report that it compressed lessons, multiplied paperwork and reduced time for mastery.

The trimester proposal is now being positioned as a corrective move.

The case for trimesters

Education officials argue that longer instructional blocks could help students focus on lessons without frequent interruptions from exams, breaks or reporting requirements. Fewer grading periods could also mean less paperwork and more time for lesson preparation.

In theory, trimesters allow deeper discussion, project-based learning and better pacing—features often associated with high-performing systems abroad.

But critics say theory has not translated well into practice in the Philippines before.

A familiar pattern of rushed reforms

Education analysts warn that repeated calendar and curriculum changes point to a larger governance issue.

“If the quarterly system was flawed, why was it implemented without enough safeguards?” asked an education researcher from a Manila-based university. “And if trimesters are now the answer, what guarantees do we have that the same mistakes won’t be repeated?”

Teacher groups argue that reforms are often introduced faster than schools can adapt—without enough classrooms, learning materials, or teacher training to support them.

This pattern, they say, raises questions about accountability among policymakers pushing sweeping changes.

Falling behind the region

The concern is sharpened by regional comparisons.

Neighboring countries such as Singapore and Vietnam have shown steady gains in international assessments, built on long-term planning, curriculum stability and strong teacher support systems.

The Philippines, by contrast, has struggled with low learning outcomes, with repeated reforms failing to close gaps in reading, math and science.

Education experts note that successful systems do not rely on frequent structural changes. Instead, they invest in teacher quality, curriculum coherence and consistent policy direction.

“Changing the calendar does not automatically improve learning,” one analyst said. “Without addressing class size, resources and teacher support, it becomes another cosmetic fix.”

A question of leadership

For critics, the trimester proposal highlights a larger issue: whether those shaping education policy fully understand classroom realities.

“The constant revisions suggest decision-makers are experimenting on students,” said a parent leader from Quezon City. “If past reforms didn’t work, accountability should come first—not another overhaul.”

The frustration has fueled a growing belief among educators that some officials pushing reforms are disconnected from schools, raising doubts about whether they deserve the authority they hold.

Call for caution, not haste

Even groups open to exploring a trimester system stress the need for caution.

They are calling on the Department of Education to slow down, release detailed studies, pilot the system properly and weigh long-term consequences before implementing another nationwide change.

“Reform should be evidence-based, not reactive,” said one school administrator. “Students cannot afford another experiment that fails.”

As consultations continue, the debate over trimesters has become more than a discussion about calendars. It is a referendum on how education policy is made—and whether lessons from past missteps are finally being learned.

For many parents and teachers, the message is clear: without deeper study and accountability, changing the schedule may only confirm what years of reforms already suggest—that the system keeps moving, but not forward.

2026/02/28

updates

Showbiz Pulis Marks First Anniversary With Belle Mariano Exclusive, Joel Cruz Live

Marco Polo Demo 2/28/2026 12:04:00 AM

One of the highlights of Showbiz Pulis by Abante as it celebrates its first anniversary is an exclusive interview with Belle Mariano. The anniversary special airs Sunday, March 1, at 2 p.m. Also joining the show as a live guest is Joel Cruz, president and chief executive officer of Aficionado, popularly known as the “Lord of Scents.”

Showbiz Pulis is a showbiz talk program that airs online and on teleradio via Abante every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., featuring interviews and discussions on the latest happenings in the entertainment industry.

The program can be watched and listened to on the DWAR Abante Radyo Facebook Page, DWAR Abante Radyo YouTube channel, DWAR 1494, SKYCable Channel 85, Converge Channel 79, TCL Smart TV, Blast TV, K5 News FM, Samsung TV Plus, Parasat Cable TV in Mindanao, and Amasian TV North America.

The show is hosted by Abante Tonite Entertainment Editor Roldan Castro, who has served three terms as president of the Philippine Movie Press Club ,Inc.(PMPC). He is also known as the Father of the PMPC Star Awards for Music.

In his one year with ‘Showbiz Pulis,’ he was recognized as a Distinct Online TV & Radio Host at the 3rd Philippines Distinct Men & Women of Excellence Awards. He was also recently honored by Philippine Arts Film & Television, Inc. (PAFTA) with the Excellence in Entertainment Journalism award for his valuable contribution to Philippine film and television journalism.

“Regalo ‘yan sa celebration namin sa 1st anniversary ng ‘Showbiz Pulis.’ Thank you sa tiwala ng management dahil 1 buwan lang ang binigay sa show kung magki-click ito or else babu pero umabot na tayo ng isang taon. Maraming salamat sa mga sumusuporta at tumatangkilik ng programa,” Roldan declared.

Showbiz Pulis features segments such as ‘Oplan Sita,’ ‘Ronda,’ ‘Showbiz Undercover,’ ‘Showbiz Investigate,’ ‘Fan Zone,’ ‘Video Resibo,’ ‘Cinema Pulis,’ and ‘CCTV’ (Chika, Critic, Tsismis, Viewers).

The Executive Producer of Showbiz Pulis is Jason Gucilatar.

‘Showbiz Pulis’ would like to thank Fernandos Bakeshop for the cake, Bait Lehem-House of Bread, and Kamuning Bakery for joining the celebration.

2026/02/23

updates

One Ilocos Sur: Festival 2026 Draws Record Crowd Across Ilocos Sur

Toto 2/23/2026 10:47:00 PM

For 12 days, Ilocos Sur became a center of culture, faith, and community pride as the Ilocos Sur Festival 2026 unfolded across the province. From early morning prayers to late-night concerts, towns and cities came alive with activities that welcomed everyone—farmers and fisherfolk, balikbayans, and younger creatives—into one shared celebration.

The festival opened with the Ilocos Sur Trade and Food Fair, where local government units, small businesses, and artisans turned simple booths into showcases of local talent. The Municipality of Caoayan earned top honors for its display, while products such as Double Cacao Delight and ube vinegar drew attention for their creativity. Artisans also demonstrated their skills on site, and the Most Innovative Product Competition highlighted how traditional crafts can find new life in today’s market.

Faith and tradition took center stage during the Eucharistic Celebration and the Los Patrones Procession, drawing clergy, local officials, and devotees in a show of unity. Soon after, the mood shifted as the Grand Parade filled the streets with color and music. Floats and performers from different towns told local stories through vibrant designs, with Sinait, Sigay, and Narvacan winning top awards in the float competition. The parade brought together people from all sectors, turning the streets into one long line of celebration.

The festival’s grand opening at Quirino Stadium set the tone for the days ahead. A drone show lit up the night sky, the Provincial Capitol glowed with lights, and performances by Kai Montinola and Kyle Echarri capped the evening. Organizers said the Grand Parade alone drew about 40,000 participants, marking the highest turnout the festival has seen in recent years.

The day after, Agri Day had the spotlight shifted to the hands that feed Ilocos Sur—its farmers and fisherfolk—at the Narvacan Farmers Market on 2 February 2026. Tractor floats paraded in style, with Narvacan topping the competition, while Bantay was hailed as “AGRI-Pinaka Productive LGU,” underscoring agriculture as the province’s lifeblood. The festival then extended a warm embrace to its global family through “An Evening with the Balikbayans” at CHAVIT Coliseum, where Ilocanos from abroad were honored for their contributions and enduring love for home, highlighted by the presentation of the Global ONE Ilocos Sur Association (GO ISA).

Alongside heritage, pop culture had its moment with the Esports and Cosplay Competition, where anime, game, and comic characters came alive in cloth and mecha categories judged by Myrtle Sarrosa and fellow enthusiasts. The energy shifted yet again with Bingo Night at Quirino Stadium, as thousands played for big prizes, culminating in a thrilling 100,000 pesos grand blackout win that had the entire crowd roaring.

Culture took a bold turn at Tinnatoan: Tattoo Expo, where traditional and contemporary tattoo artists, including Kalinga mambabatok and descendants of Apo Whang-Od, showcased tattooing as living heritage and identity. Honors were given to artists and cultural bearers, and the Best of Show competition spotlighted pieces that fused symbolism with innovation.

From skin art to stage presence, Mister Ilocos Sur 2026 crowned Aries Ronie Patis of Santa Cruz as Mister Ilocos Sur, alongside gentlemen recognized for goodwill, culture, and leadership—proving that modern Ilocano masculinity is built on strength, service, and cultural pride. On the coast, Bangkarera put fisherfolk and racers in the limelight, as boats sliced through the water in multiple race categories—National Open Formula, National Open Panaltagan, Bachola and Rakit, honoring sea-based skills and coastal communities.

The adrenaline did not stop there. A two-day Motocross Competition in the Municipality of Salcedo turned rugged terrain into a playground of speed and skill, featuring categories from 65cc and Ladies Class to the heart-stopping Pro Open race. Riders, brands, and fans came together in a high-octane celebration that positioned Ilocos Sur as a rising hub for extreme sports and adventure tourism.

Inclusivity, beauty, and self-expression took center stage at the Ilocos Sur Pride Queen 2026 Coronation Night, where Luivie Bitongan of Candon City led a court of powerful Pride Queens who turned the CHAVIT Coliseum into a stage of authenticity and courage. Later, Miss Ilocos Sur 2026 crowned Narvacan’s Nathalie Clarin as its new queen, with court members representing tourism and environment, and special awards like Best in Swimsuit and Best in Evening Gown celebrating poise and performance. The Miss Ilocos Sur 2026 Coronation Night recorded 1.7 million views, with online publicity materials reaching up to 855,742 individuals online.

Across festival grounds, eighteen municipalities raised their festival archs—towering artworks of wood, craft, and symbolism—with Alilem, Burgos, and Suyo earning top honors for their stunning cultural gateways. The Tribute to Elderlies 2026 then shifted the mood to gratitude, as the province honored its senior citizens, recognized ten distinguished elders, and celebrated tradition-keepers through a cultural dance competition won by Santa.

Meanwhile, the youth lit up the stage in the Street Dance and Showdown Competition, where San Juan reclaimed the championship while Vigan City and Candon City claimed the 2nd and 3rd place respectively. The Showdown Competition was also enjoined by guest artists Maris Racal and Paul Salas.. Gen Z-arzuela brought theater to life with young ensembles updating zarzuela with modern twists, with PPSK from the Municipality of Sta. Cruz, Kayaw Teatro, and Talento Likha leading the winners and individual acting awards highlighting raw talent.

While the Foam Fest: Run and Rave pulled in around 15,000 runners, dancers, and revelers who started the day with Zumba and foam runs and ended it under rave lights with DJs and a high-energy performance from Flow G, proving that fitness and fun make a perfect festival pair. Battle of the Bands turned the province into a live music arena, with The Puppets, Vin & Vin, and Day Ones topping their categories and multiple special awards recognizing the strength of Ilocos Sur’s homegrown music scene.

Service remained at the heart of the celebration through the ONE Ilocos Sur Health Caravan in Galimuyod, where residents received medical and dental services, free eyeglasses, medicines, assistive devices, food packs, and more—showing that true festivals uplift lives beyond the stage. Pammadayaw: Father Jose Burgos Award honored community champions in fields from education and health to arts and innovation, shining a light on quiet heroes whose work transforms everyday life.

As the 12-day festival drew to a close, a Thanksgiving Mass gathered officials, partners, performers, and citizens to reflect on a safe, meaningful, and successful celebration. Later that evening, over 30,000 people attended ONE Ilocos Sur Night, which wrapped up the festivities in spectacular fashion with performances by Arthur Nery, Adie, Yeng Constantino, FitterKarma, Earl Agustin. ISF 2026 content garnered an impressive 46.9 million views and reached 2.7 million people, reflecting the festival’s strong online presence and lasting impact across audiences. The night culminated in a dazzling fireworks display that lit up the sky—sealing the promise of more stories, more memories, and more reasons to say: Agbiag, Ilocos Sur!

2026/02/10

SM Supermalls

Your Hard Launch Worthy Drops At SM Supermalls In The Metro

Toto 2/10/2026 06:46:00 PM

The year is officially underway, and it’s looking good. 2026 is already taking shape through everyday moments, familiar routines, and plans that are finally happening.

This is no quiet reset or a low-key start, it’s a hard launch to show up, step out, and strut through the year with confidence.

Across your most loved SM Supermalls, new lifestyle and fashion spaces are opening with firsts and fresh concepts that can easily fit into your routine, giving you more places to go, more things to try, and more reasons to be out and about.

Time to show off our best selves with the year ahead!

Your Upgrades That Don’t Go Unnoticed

These are the upgrades people notice without you having to point them out—how you smell, how your space feels, how put-together your everyday looks.

At Bath & Body Works at Level 2, City Center of SM North EDSA, everyday scents and self-care staples fit easily into your routine. Not to mention, the White Barn section adds home fragrances and candles that can set the mood and instantly make any room feel nicer.

Moments You’ll Put Out There

Some moments are meant to be seen, not just saved.

At Beyond Studio, the first in SM at the Centralwalk Basement of SM City Fairview, everyday moments turn into something you can actually bring out and show. Forget just posting, here's three cheers to photos you can print, frame, and actually put out there.

Activities You’ll Show Off

These aren’t one-time trial activities. These are the ones you'll actually keep coming back too, less about being performative and more about following through, because spoilers: you'll enjoy it

Prime Golf

Show off your athletic side this 2026. At Prime Golf–the first premium golf simulator in SM at level 5 SM Podium, you can sharpen your swing on the simulator, aim for a hole-in-one, and indulge in premium dining.

Lulou Wellness

For 2026 and beyond, it's time to prioritize your health. Work up a sweat and flaunt a fitter, better you at Lulou Wellness–the first in SM, now opened at the 4th Level of SM Podium, a space designed for adults who take their routines seriously.

Happiness You’ll Put On Display

Sometimes the most practical things are the ones that keep you happy.

With the first POP MART in BGC at the 2nd Level of SM Aura, collecting is something you’ll proudly commit to, smiling over trinkets you pick, unbox, and keep out for display for everyone to see.

Hard launch complete. From here on out, it’s about stepping into what works for you and letting it be seen.

As new spaces continue to open across SM Supermalls, it stays part of everyday life where errands, plans, and in-between moments already happen. There is always something new to walk into, try out, and make part of your routine.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com to see what’s new and what’s coming next.

SM Supermalls

Get Your 2026 Craving Non-Negotiables At SM Supermalls in the Metro

Toto 2/10/2026 06:22:00 PM

For the new year, let’s raise the standards.

This is the year you stop making compromises when it comes to your cravings. No rushed decisions. No “this is good enough.” And more importantly, no more meals that feel like an afterthought.

SM Supermalls is starting the year by bringing in new dining spots that can transport you to a new era full of fresher concepts, bolder flavors, and better choices. Proving time and time again why it deserves to be your most beloved mall with spots that raise expectations, break routines, and make eating out feel fun again.

So before your calendar fills up with plan after plan, consider this your ultimate craving promise: to never negotiate when it comes to where and how you eat. Because if there’s one thing we’re not bringing into the year, it’s settling.

NON-NEGOTIABLE 1: Snacks Shouldn't Feel Like A Placeholder

Snacking isn’t something you do just to get by–it’s something you do because you actually want to eat. This year, snacks have to show up with flavor, personality, and zero shortcuts. Whether it’s something cheesy, crispy, or straight-up addictive, quick bites should still feel worth the stop.

Pizza Planet

Prepare to blast off into a galaxy of flavors at Pizza Planet, located at the Annex, Upper Ground Level of SM North EDSA. When the craving hits, cheesy and gooey is the only right answer–and this fun, playful spot delivers every time. It’s your sure fix for comfort food done right, serving an out-of-this-world experience for kids, kids at heart, and anyone who takes their pizza seriously.

Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks

From Taiwan’s streets straight to your plate–Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks at the Foodcourt, SM City Fairview serves crispy, juicy hits you won’t want to miss. XXL Chicken, Handmade Oyster Mee Sua, and all the bold flavors.

NON-NEGOTIABLE 2: All-in Should Mean Actually Going ALL In

All-you-can-eat only works when it actually delivers. No half-hearted spreads. No playing it safe. This year, if you’re committing to unlimited, it has to feel generous, intentional, and satisfying from the first plate to the last.

King’s Feast Luxury Buffet by Buffet 101

Feast like royalty at King’s Feast Luxury Buffet by Buffet 101, soon to open at the 5th Level of The Block at SM North EDSA. This luxurious all-you-can-eat experience features mouthwatering local and international flavors that never skimp on quality or taste, promising a truly decadent dining adventure fit for kings and queens.

Mo-Mo Paradise

Say “more, more!” to good food at Mo-Mo Paradise–the first in PH at the Level 3, Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall. When the plan is unlimited hot pot, this is the place you go straight to. Slow-simmered shabu-shabu and sukiyaki set the standard for sharing, slurping, and lingering over a proper meal.

NON-NEGOTIABLE 3: Bold Flavors Are Not Optional

This is the year we stop dialing it down. Big flavors, strong profiles, and dishes that don’t hold back—because great meals should leave an impression. If you’re craving something with heat, depth, or attitude, subtle isn’t part of the plan.

Siklab+

For local flavors with a twist you won’t want to miss, head on over to Siklab+ at the ground level of S Maison. This is the kind of place that resets your expectations, where Paboritong Pork Sisig, Kuhol ni Tanggol, and Kalamay sa Latik become the benchmark you compare everything else to.

Thaiwadee

When the craving is Thai, you don’t experiment... you go straight to Thaiwadee, soon opening at the Foodcourt of SM Southmall. Their Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong stay true to that mix of heat, tang, depth, and all that you’re looking for when you’re not in the mood to compromise.

Royal Indian Curry House Bistro

Satisfy your curry cravings at Royal Indian Curry House Bistro soon to open on the 5th Level of The Block at SM North EDSA. When you’re in the mood for Indian food, bold flavor and real spice aren’t optional—and this is where you go for it. From their rich Murgh Makhani to their fragrant Hyderabadi Biryani, every dish hits exactly the way it should.

NON-NEGOTIABLE 4: Eating Healthy Should Never Be Boring

Healthy doesn’t mean boring, and it definitely shouldn’t feel like a compromise. With the first Salady in PH at the Level 5 of the Fashion Hall in SM Megamall, choosing lighter meals no longer feels like you’re missing out.

NON-NEGOTIABLE 5: Coffee Stops Should Actually Feel Like A Pause Worth Taking

Coffee isn’t just about the drink, it’s about slowing down, sitting longer than planned, and pairing it with something you’ll still think about later. Cafe Kulture brings that energy to the Level 3, South MOA Sky of SM Mall of Asia, turning coffee and pastries into a moment, not just a routine.

The standards are set, so let your cravings do the rest.

You don’t need a plan for this part, you’ll know when you’re hungry. And when your craving finally calls, your favorite SM Supermalls has already answered with more new spaces, new names, and better food options than ever.

No overthinking, no settling. Just choosing what feels right in the moment, and knowing there’s always something new waiting the next time you come back.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates