Kwento Ni Toto: Updates

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2026/10/24

Kabayan Noli de Castro returns with more chilling stories in ‘Kababalaghan 8’

Toto 10/24/2026 02:52:00 AM

The familiar face and voice behind ‘Magandang Gabi, Bayan’ returns this Halloween with three families’ accounts of frightening and unexplained incidents.

Good day, mga KaToto! It’s Kwento time!

Some scary stories are easy to forget once they are over. Others stay with us for years, especially when they involve experiences we cannot easily explain.

For many Filipinos, one name has long been associated with stories of the mysterious and the unexplained: Kabayan Noli de Castro.

His familiar voice and presence became closely associated with Halloween storytelling through Magandang Gabi, Bayan, which brought accounts of alleged paranormal encounters and unusual experiences into Filipino homes. For viewers who grew up watching the program, his return to this kind of storytelling brings back memories of nights when even the slightest sound in the house could make you look over your shoulder.

This Halloween, Kabayan returns as host of ABS-CBN News’ annual special, Kababalaghan 8: Pagkagat ng Dilim, featuring three families in Metro Manila who claim to have experienced frightening incidents inside their homes.

For me, these stories carry a more personal connection. During my college days, I once experienced what I perceived as paranormal activity. The experience left me with questions and a better understanding of why people remember and share encounters they cannot readily explain.

There are moments when you try to find a logical explanation for what happened. You may question your own perceptions or simply move on. Yet the memory can remain, especially when you cannot confidently explain what you experienced.

That is part of the enduring appeal of stories about the paranormal. Whether people approach them with curiosity, skepticism or a belief in the supernatural, the unexplained continues to capture the imagination.

Three families, three unsettling stories

Now on its eighth installment, Kababalaghan continues its Halloween tradition of presenting accounts of alleged paranormal encounters, including incidents reportedly captured on camera.

In “Bulong,” Kabayan visits an old house in the southern part of Metro Manila, where a family has lived for generations. The family says its members have experienced strange occurrences inside the home, including mysterious whispers and sightings of bloodied figures.

Imagine living in a house that has sheltered generations of your family, only to encounter things that leave you questioning what is happening around you. Would you stay, or would you start looking for another place to live?

The second story, “Upuan,” features the Ditablan family in Taguig City. Their CCTV camera reportedly captured a chair that appeared to float before being thrown to one side. The family suspects that an old tree near their house may be connected to the unexplained incidents.

A moving chair might sound like something straight out of a horror movie. But when a family points to footage recorded inside its own home, questions naturally follow. What caused the chair to move? Is there a possible explanation for what the camera captured? Viewers will have to watch the special to learn more.

The third story, “Bahay ni Tiya,” follows Mich and her family after they move into an old house belonging to a relative in the northern part of Metro Manila.
v Their stay on the ground floor was initially uneventful. Strange incidents reportedly began after they converted an upstairs room into a bedroom. Mich later shared videos of their experiences on social media, prompting reactions from netizens.

Three families, three unsettling accounts and one question connecting them all: What happens when the place you call home no longer feels familiar?

Why stories of the unexplained continue to fascinate us

Stories about ghosts, mysterious figures and unexplained events have long been part of Filipino Halloween and Undas traditions. They are not simply about fear. They also involve personal experiences, family stories and the questions people carry after encountering something they cannot explain.

Kabayan Noli de Castro's return adds a familiar presence to that tradition. For viewers who grew up watching Magandang Gabi, Bayan, his participation brings back memories of listening to frightening accounts that could make ordinary nighttime sounds seem suspicious.

For younger audiences, Kababalaghan offers another opportunity to explore the country's fascination with the mysterious through the accounts of people who say they experienced these incidents firsthand.

Of course, reports of paranormal activity are not necessarily proof of supernatural causes. Personal testimony and video footage can raise questions, but they do not always establish what happened or explain why. Approaching these stories with curiosity while keeping an open but critical mind allows viewers to consider the accounts without automatically accepting every claim as fact.

My own experience during college reminds me why some unexplained moments can stay with a person long after they happen. Even when answers remain elusive, the experience can leave a lasting impression.

This Halloween, Kabayan is back to bring another round of alleged paranormal encounters into Filipino homes. The question is whether viewers are ready to listen, especially when the lights go out.

When and where to watch ‘Kababalaghan 8’

Kababalaghan 8: Pagkagat ng Dilim premieres on Saturday, October 31, at 6:45 p.m. on the ABS-CBN News YouTube channel. The television broadcast follows at 10:30 p.m. on ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel and Kapamilya Online Live.

A replay is scheduled for November 1 at 6 p.m. on ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel and Kapamilya Online Live, as well as the ABS-CBN News Facebook page. The special will also be available on demand on iWant.

For updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok, or visit the ABS-CBN Newsroom website.

So, mga KaToto, are you ready for another night of chilling stories with Kabayan Noli de Castro? Just remember: when something makes a strange noise in the middle of the night, you might want to check what it is before letting your imagination take over.

See you on our next Kwento!

2026/10/18

Updates

Anne Curtis’ Fantasy Movies: From Princesses and Magic to Supernatural Worlds

Toto 10/18/2026 08:15:00 AM

Anne Curtis has built one of the most recognizable careers in Philippine entertainment, moving comfortably between romance, comedy, drama, action and even darker material.

But long before she became one of the country's biggest movie stars, Curtis entered the big screen through a fantasy adventure.

Her fantasy filmography may not be as extensive as her work in romance or drama, but it includes memorable titles that show the actress in very different worlds, from a young princess fighting for her kingdom to a woman caught in a supernatural nightmare.

Here are Anne Curtis' fantasy movies worth revisiting.

‘Magic Kingdom: Ang Alamat ng Damortis’ (1997)

For Anne Curtis, fantasy was where it all began.

Released in 1997, Magic Kingdom: Ang Alamat ng Damortis marked Curtis' theatrical film debut. Directed by Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes, the film was a Philippine fantasy adventure and one of the entries in the 1997 Metro Manila Film Festival.

Curtis played Princess Dahlia, the rightful heir to the kingdom of Damortis.

The story follows three young warriors who are tasked with helping save the kingdom from the evil Basilicus and restoring Dahlia to her rightful throne. IMDb classifies the movie as action, adventure and fantasy, placing it squarely in the genre.

For fans who know Curtis primarily as a leading lady in romantic comedies, it can be easy to forget that her first movie role came in a sprawling fantasy adventure.

She was only a young actress at the time, but Magic Kingdom would become an important piece of her career history: the movie that introduced Anne Curtis to Philippine cinema.

The film also performed well at the 1997 Metro Manila Film Festival, where it won third Best Picture.

‘Ang Panday’ (2009)

More than a decade after her movie debut, Curtis returned to the fantasy genre in Ang Panday.

Released in 2009, the film was based on the popular Panday comic-book mythology created by Carlo J. Caparas. It starred Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. as the legendary blacksmith Flavio, with Curtis playing Adora.

The story brings together a magical sword, supernatural forces and a battle between good and evil, making fantasy an important part of the film's world.

Curtis' role was not that of the central hero, but Adora placed her inside one of the Philippines' best-known fantasy-action franchises.

The film was released as a 2009 Metro Manila Film Festival entry and became one of the major Filipino fantasy productions of its period. Curtis' filmography lists her as Adora, confirming her role in the movie.

Ang Panday also demonstrated how Filipino fantasy cinema often combines mythology, action and larger-than-life heroes rather than following the Western model of fantasy storytelling.

‘Blood Ransom’ (2014)

If Magic Kingdom represented the colorful, traditional side of fantasy, Blood Ransom took Curtis into much darker territory.

The 2014 film stars Curtis as Crystal, a young woman caught in a dangerous supernatural world. Directed by Francis dela Torre, the movie combines drama, fantasy, horror, romance and thriller elements.

Curtis shares the screen with Alexander Dreymon and Jamie Harris.

At the center of the story is a woman struggling with the monster she is becoming while trying to save the man she loves. IMDb's official listing specifically classifies Blood Ransom as fantasy, alongside horror, romance, drama and thriller.

That makes it one of Curtis' most direct encounters with supernatural fantasy.

Unlike her role as Princess Dahlia, Curtis' character here is not a traditional fantasy heroine. Crystal's story is darker, more intimate and rooted in the horror of transformation.

The film also gave Curtis an opportunity to work in an international setting, with the movie filmed in the United States and featuring an international cast.

‘The Mall, the Merrier!’ (2019)

Fantasy took another turn in 2019, this time into comedy.

Curtis starred as Morisette “Setset” Molina in The Mall, the Merrier!, a Christmas comedy directed by Barry Gonzalez.

The movie also stars Vice Ganda as Morisette's sibling, Moira/Moises Molina. The story centers on the siblings' fight over ownership of a shopping mall following the death of their parents.

Unlike Blood Ransom, the movie uses fantasy as part of a broad, comedic and family-friendly story.

IMDb classifies The Mall, the Merrier! as slapstick comedy, family, fantasy and music, confirming its place among Curtis' fantasy films.

Curtis' Morisette is one half of the central sibling rivalry, opposite Vice Ganda's Moira.

The film was also a 2019 Metro Manila Film Festival entry and brought together comedy, music, celebrity cameos and fantasy in a distinctly Filipino Christmas movie package. The cast included Curtis, Vice Ganda, Dimples Romana, Elisse Joson and several guest performers.

A surprisingly short fantasy filmography

Looking at Curtis' complete movie credits, the fantasy portion of her career is surprisingly compact.

Her filmography includes dozens of movies across different genres, but only a small number can confidently be identified as fantasy films in which she has a credited acting role.

The four clearest titles are:

1997 — Magic Kingdom: Ang Alamat ng Damortis Curtis as Princess Dahlia

2009 — Ang Panday Curtis as Adora

2014 — Blood Ransom
Curtis as Crystal

2019 — The Mall, the Merrier!
Curtis as Morisette “Setset” Molina

There are other Curtis movies with supernatural or fantasy-related elements, but they are better classified under other genres.

For example, Aurora is primarily categorized as horror, mystery and thriller, while 'Wag Kang Lilingon is a horror film. Including them in a strict list of fantasy movies would blur important genre distinctions.

Likewise, Lastikman is a fantasy-superhero movie, but Curtis' role was Young Linda, a relatively small early appearance rather than a starring role. Her filmography also lists her as a passenger in Petrang Kabayo, which is not enough to describe the movie as an Anne Curtis fantasy vehicle.

From Princess Dahlia to Crystal

What makes Curtis' fantasy roles interesting is the contrast between them.

She began her movie career as Princess Dahlia, a young royal in a magical kingdom. More than a decade later, she became Adora in a Filipino fantasy-action epic. Then came Crystal in Blood Ransom, where fantasy became darker and more supernatural.

Finally, The Mall, the Merrier! brought her back to fantasy, this time through comedy and family entertainment.

It is not the longest genre list in Anne Curtis' filmography.

But it tells an interesting story about an actress who has repeatedly stepped outside familiar territory.

From princess to warrior-world fantasy, supernatural drama and magical comedy, Anne Curtis has visited several different kinds of fantastical worlds, even if she did not make 10 fantasy movies.

And perhaps that is what makes these four titles worth remembering.

2026/10/15

Updates

Elha Nympha Makes Her Musical Theater Debut in ‘INDAY The Musical’

Toto 10/15/2026 10:07:00 PM

The singer steps beyond her comfort zone in a dark, folklore-inspired production that explores family secrets, Filipino beliefs and the meaning behind the name Inday.

For Elha Nympha, the girl who captured the country's attention with her powerful voice, the next big stage is not another singing competition. It's the theater.

The singer is making her musical theater debut in INDAY The Musical, a production by Studio A Productions that brings together Manila Sound classics, Filipino folklore, family conflicts and generational secrets in a darker, unconventional stage experience.

Best known for her powerhouse vocals, Nympha admitted that she initially expected to join the production as part of the supporting cast. That changed when she asked who would play Inday.

"They pointed to me," she recalled, describing her disbelief at being chosen for the title role.

It was an unexpected opportunity for the singer, who said this would be her first time performing in a full musical theater production. The team assured her that extensive training would be part of the process, with rehearsals beginning in September.

For Nympha, the challenge is not necessarily the music. She considers herself an old soul who grew up listening to music on cassette tapes, making the songs of Manila Sound group Boyfriends familiar territory.

The production, however, gives these songs a different treatment. One of the group's familiar tunes is reinterpreted as a darker ballad, an approach that suits Nympha's vocal style.

Her character is equally compelling.

"Inday is fierce, and independent," she said.

It is a role that allows Nympha to explore a different side of her artistry, moving beyond the familiar demands of singing into the more complex work of embodying a character, interpreting a story and sustaining a performance onstage.

For a singer venturing into musical theater for the first time, that is a significant leap.

What does ‘Inday’ really mean?

The title carries a cultural dimension that makes the production particularly interesting to Filipino audiences.

In many parts of the Philippines, especially in the Visayas and Mindanao, Inday is an affectionate form of address for a girl or young woman. Depending on the family and community, it can be a term of endearment, a familiar nickname or an expression of closeness.

But words do not always carry the same meaning for everyone.

In certain contexts, Inday can also be associated with domestic workers or women in subordinate positions, particularly when the term is used dismissively or to reinforce social stereotypes. Its meaning depends on the speaker, the relationship between the people involved and the circumstances in which it is used.

That contrast makes the title worth examining. A word that sounds warm and familiar to one person may evoke a different experience for another.

In INDAY The Musical, the title takes on a more dramatic dimension through its central character: a woman portrayed as fierce and independent, navigating the conflicts and secrets surrounding her.

Rather than simply invoking a familiar Filipino name, the production places it within a story that invites audiences to consider the identities, expectations and histories attached to it.

Ritwal and kulam: folklore beyond fear

The musical also ventures into the darker territory of Filipino folklore, particularly ritwal and kulam, or practices commonly associated with witchcraft and the use of supernatural means to influence or harm another person.

These beliefs have long appeared in Filipino stories, family narratives and local traditions. For some, they are part of inherited cultural knowledge and community identity. For others, they are associated with fear, suspicion and the possibility of being harmed by forces beyond ordinary understanding.

But rituals are not necessarily portrayed as negative in every cultural context.

Across different communities, rituals can serve as expressions of faith, remembrance, healing, protection or the desire for guidance. Their meanings vary according to the traditions and beliefs of the people who practice them.

The distinction is important: a ritual may be intended as a positive or protective act, while kulam is more commonly understood in popular Filipino usage as a form of harmful supernatural practice. The two concepts may overlap in folklore, but they are not automatically the same.

The musical's exploration of these themes offers an opportunity to look beyond the usual horror associations and consider how supernatural beliefs become intertwined with family relationships, secrets and generational memories.

Its portrayal of these practices belongs to the world of theatrical storytelling and Filipino folklore, rather than serving as evidence that supernatural effects can be scientifically established.

By bringing these elements into a family-centered drama, the production connects the mysterious with something more familiar: the tensions, rivalries and unspoken histories that can exist inside a home.

A darker take on Manila Sound

At the heart of INDAY The Musical is a combination of familiar music and an unsettling narrative.

The production draws from the catalog of Boyfriends, one of the groups associated with the Manila Sound movement of the 1970s. Rather than presenting the songs as straightforward nostalgic numbers, the creative team gives them new arrangements intended to complement the story's darker atmosphere.

Music for the production was composed by Jeremy Manite, with arrangements by Jason Tung. Danna Bernardino wrote the book and lyrics, while Teacher Georcelle of G-Force handles the choreography, making movement an integral part of the performance.

The production's creative direction brings together music, dance and folklore to explore family relationships, friendship, domestic conflict and secrets passed from one generation to the next.

Joining Nympha in the cast are vocal powerhouse Katrina Velarde and theater performers Chris Fong, Basty Batistis, Jude Gamaliel, Eunice Somintac, Cherry Morena, Jeremy Manite, Primitivo Moscare, Aina Salazar and Nicollo Gutierrez, alongside an ensemble cast.

The result promises a different listening experience for audiences familiar with the original songs, while giving the cast an opportunity to tell a story through a combination of acting, singing and choreography.

A new chapter for Elha

For audiences who have followed Nympha's journey in the music industry, her theater debut marks another step in her continuing artistic development.

Musical theater demands more than a strong voice. Performers must connect songs to a character's emotions, work with an ensemble and maintain the rhythm of a story unfolding live before an audience.

Taking on the title role without an alternate, as Nympha described it, adds another layer of responsibility to her first production.

Yet her enthusiasm for the music and her description of Inday as a fierce, independent woman suggest that the role offers her room to draw on her strengths while discovering new ones.

For Studio A Productions, the show also continues the company's work in live theater. Its previous productions include Tulog Na: Musical, Makara and Kaning Itime.

INDAY The Musical is scheduled for a limited run at RCBC Plaza in Makati from Oct. 16 to 18, with additional performances reportedly added through Oct. 25 amid strong ticket demand. Tickets are available through studioAshows.com, subject to availability.

For Nympha, the production is more than another performance. It is her first venture into musical theater, a chance to test her abilities in a new medium and to bring a complex Filipino character to life.

And for the audience, the invitation is to revisit familiar music, confront the different meanings attached to a familiar name and enter a story where family secrets and folklore share the same stage.

For Elha, it is a new kind of spotlight. This time, she is not just singing a song. She is telling a story.

Sometimes, the biggest career moves happen when artists step outside what they already know. For Elha Nympha, INDAY The Musical is that next step, and one worth watching.

2026/09/26

X500 model

Anne Curtis Joins Global Launch of vivo X500 Series

Toto 9/26/2026 10:41:00 PM

Filipino actress and vivo Philippines ambassador Anne Curtis joined the global launch of the vivo X500 Series in Shanghai on Sept. 21, 2026, as the smartphone brand unveiled its latest flagship lineup focused on advanced mobile imaging.

The launch introduced the vivo X500, X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max, highlighting the brand’s push toward what it calls “dynamic imaging”, an approach designed to expand smartphone photography beyond still images to video and live content. Powering the series is vivo’s BlueImage Dynamic Imaging Technology Stack, which integrates advancements in camera sensors, dedicated imaging chips and software algorithms.

Curtis attended the event ahead of the series’ planned launch in the Philippines.

“Anne’s presence at the global launch in Shanghai gives Filipino consumers a closer look at where vivo’s imaging technology is heading,” said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines. “The X500 Series brings together technologies designed not only for professional creators, but also for people who want to capture everyday moments through photos, video, and live content.”

About vivo X500 Series

The X500 Pro Max features the vivo × Sony LYTIA L910 sensor, which vivo says provides up to 17 EV of dynamic range. It also includes a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera and support for the 400mm Equivalent vivo ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra. Other features include 4K 240 fps Cinematic Slow-Mo Video and 8K Native Live.

The X500 Pro and X500 Pro Max support video features including 17 EV TrueDynamic Log Video, 10-bit 4:2:2 encoding, ACES support, and 4K 120 fps Log video. The series also includes six cinematic video color styles and 4K Cinematic Portrait Video. Its Cinema mode offers options such as Auto Framing Video, Vortex Shot, Super Slow-Mo, and Dual View.

According to vivo, the BlueImage Dynamic Imaging Technology Stack covers five areas: high dynamic range, professional image quality, cinematic color, professional stabilization, and dynamic consistency.

The X500 Pro Max is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro platform and includes vivo’s V3+ and VS1+ imaging chips, a 2K ZEISS Master Color Display, and an 8,000mAh BlueVolt Battery. The X500 Pro has a 6,510mAh battery, while the standard X500 has a 7,500mAh BlueVolt Battery.
v All three models run OriginOS 7. vivo said the imaging features will be available across the lineup, including 8K Native Live and high-specification video recording on the standard X500.

vivo has confirmed that the series will also launch in the Philippines, although local availability details have not yet been announced.

Filipinos can follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, or visit the vivo website and vivo Store app for official announcements.

2026/09/04

Updates

Discover, Dine, and Play: Cebu’s Growing Collection of Destination Attractions Captivates Travelers

Toto 9/04/2026 11:02:00 AM

Get ready for fun, adventure, and unforgettable experiences at Cebu Fun Park, one of the featured attractions within the SM Seaside Complex where recreation and leisure come together in one exciting destination.

Cebu continues to cement its place as one of the country’s most dynamic travel destinations, offering a vibrant mix of attractions, experiences, and activities beyond its famous beaches and historic sites. Through its SM for Cebu commitment, SM malls across the province continue to bring shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and leisure together, giving locals and visitors more ways to explore, unwind, have fun, and make the most of their time in Cebu.

At SM City Cebu, visitors can experience a vibrant urban destination where shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation come together in one convenient location. From leading fashion and lifestyle brands to the latest in technology, beauty, home, and everyday essentials, SM City Cebu curates one of the city's most comprehensive retail destinations, making it a preferred shopping hub for both locals and tourists. Food lovers can also explore the Food Hall, which brings together a diverse selection of dining concepts, offering everything from local favorites to international flavors in one vibrant culinary destination, while families and groups can enjoy friendly competition at the SM Bowling Center. For moviegoers, the Directors Club Cinema offers a premium viewing experience, while the first and only IMAX Theatre in Cebu remains a premier entertainment destination, offering audiences an unparalleled cinematic experience with cutting-edge projection and sound technology for the biggest film releases. With its central location and broad range of offerings, SM City Cebu provides visitors with a convenient way to shop, dine, be entertained, and unwind while exploring the city.

In Mandaue City, SM J Mall offers a distinctly different lifestyle experience, combining Japanese-inspired design and contemporary leisure concepts with shopping, dining, wellness, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the mall's Japanese-inspired spaces and discover dining destinations such as the Izakaya Terrace and Food Hall, offering opportunities to enjoy meals and gather with family and friends. Beyond dining, SM J Mall brings together retail, beauty and wellness, technology, and active-lifestyle experiences, creating a destination suited for both relaxation and recreation. Moviegoers can also enjoy the premium Directors Club Cinema, while the mall's curated spaces and lifestyle concepts provide visitors with a more experiential way to spend their day. Together, these offerings give SM J Mall a distinctive character within Cebu's growing collection of lifestyle destinations.

SM Skating offers an exhilarating ice-skating experience at SM Seaside City Cebu, giving visitors a space to glide, play, and enjoy memorable moments on the ice.

At SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can explore an expansive mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure offerings, including the SM Bowling Center, Ice Skating, and Directors Club Cinema. Beyond the mall, the surrounding SM Seaside Complex brings together Cebu Ocean Park, Cebu Fun Park, and Thirsty Pickle, offering marine discovery, family recreation, and active sports experiences. The destination is further expanding its events and entertainment offering with the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, which hosts major concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale activities, while the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to further strengthen Cebu's capacity for conventions, exhibitions, meetings, and events.

From homegrown Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisine, SM Supermalls bring together diverse dining experiences that celebrate Cebu’s vibrant food culture.

Cebu's diverse dining scene adds another dimension to the visitor experience, from beloved Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisines. Across SM malls in Cebu, guests can discover local favorites, homegrown brands, and international restaurants, making every visit an opportunity to explore new flavors while experiencing the region's vibrant food culture. Whether enjoying the variety at the Food Hall of SM City Cebu, experiencing Japanese-inspired dining at SM J Mall, or exploring the wide range of restaurants at SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can easily make food part of their Cebu experience.

Visitors enjoy an exciting game of pickleball at Thirsty Pickle, one of the featured lifestyle attractions within the SM Seaside Complex, offering active recreation for both beginners and experienced players.

The growing variety of attractions gives travelers more ways to spend their day, whether enjoying marine encounters and family activities, discovering new dining and lifestyle concepts, shopping, watching movies, bowling, playing pickleball, or attending concerts and major events. By bringing together diverse lifestyle, retail, dining, entertainment, and recreational experiences, these destinations contribute to Cebu's broader tourism landscape, creating more opportunities for longer visits, repeat trips, and engagement with local businesses. As Cebu's tourism landscape continues to evolve, its growing collection of attractions reinforces the province's position as one of the country's premier travel destinations, inviting visitors to discover, dine, and play while experiencing even more of what Cebu has to offer.

Updates

New Dining Spots and Stores to Explore at SM Supermalls in Mindanao

Toto 9/04/2026 10:05:00 AM

Warning: Your “Must-Try” list is about to grow!

There’s always something new to discover at SM Supermalls in Mindanao. This month, get ready to explore freshly opened cafés, exciting dining destinations, and new brands bringing something different to your next mall visit. Whether you’re looking for your next food obsession or a new favorite spot, here are the latest openings worth checking out!

Let's get into the newest arrivals, shall we?

- DJI ARS (Authorized Retail Store)

Take your content creation to new heights at CDO’s first ever DJI ARS, now open at Level 3, Cyberzone, at SM CDO Downtown. Explore DJI's latest lineup of drones, action cameras, handheld gimbals, and creative imaging gear, with expert guidance to help you find the right setup, whether you're a beginner, traveler, or seasoned creator.

- Zus Coffee

Coffee lovers in Davao have something new to look forward to as Zus Coffee is soon to open their first-ever Mindanao branch at SM City Davao this September! A new great spot for your daily caffeine fix, quick breaks, or catch-ups with friends. Drop by soon at SM City Davao and be among the first in Mindanao to experience Zus!

- Abba's Rest & Cafe

Need a place to slow down for a while? Abba's Rest & Cafe, soon to open at SM CDO Downtown, offers a warm and welcoming space to enjoy comforting food, freshly prepared drinks, and meaningful conversations. Whether you're taking a break from shopping or meeting up with loved ones, it's a cozy stop worth adding to your list.

- Fat Chef Restaurant

Good food has a way of bringing everyone together, and Fat Chef Restaurant is all about generous servings and comforting flavors! Soon to open in SM CDO Downtown, it's a great spot for casual lunches, family dinners, and celebrations with friends over satisfying meals.

- Miniso Land

A whole new way to experience MINISO is soon to arrive in the Philippines! Miniso Land, soon to open at SM Lanang, marks its first-ever branch in the country. Beyond your favorite collectibles, plushies, beauty finds, and everyday essentials, the expanded concept offers immersive themed spaces and an even bigger selection of products, making every visit feel like an adventure for fans of all ages.

Every visit to the mall brings the possibility of discovering something you'll want to recommend to friends or return to with family. From new dining destinations to exciting lifestyle concepts, SM Supermalls continues to create spaces where everyday moments become memorable experiences - and that’s why this is My SM.

Check out these latest openings and see what's new at SM Supermalls.

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

Women

7 Reasons to Visit the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair

Toto 9/04/2026 06:24:00 AM

The next great Filipino brand may be closer than you think. Behind every handcrafted accessory, woven textile, artisanal delicacy, sustainable fashion piece, and proudly Filipino product is a woman who turned an idea, passion, or tradition into a growing business. Some are keeping generations-old craftsmanship alive, while others are creating livelihood opportunities and making a difference in their communities. For these women entrepreneurs, the journey is about more than building a business, it is about taking their products beyond trade fairs and pop-up markets and bringing them closer to a wider market through new retail opportunities.


Behind every booth is a woman, a story, and a Filipino brand waiting to be discovered. Women entrepreneurs proudly showcase their creations at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair at SM Megamall, where WomenBizPH and SM Supermalls, through SM for MSMEs, create opportunities for homegrown businesses to gain visibility, connect with more customers, and take their next step toward growth.

These stories came together at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair 2026, which opened at SM Megamall on August 10, bringing women entrepreneurs, government leaders, industry partners, and shoppers together for three days of business, learning, and meaningful connections.

Organized by WomenBizPH in partnership with SM Supermalls through SM for MSMEs, the trade fair celebrates more than what's being sold. It puts the spotlight on the remarkable women behind the brands and creates opportunities for more Filipino businesses to be seen, supported, and discovered.

Here are seven reasons why this year's trade fair is more than just a marketplace.

1. Every booth has a story waiting to be discovered. Walk through the trade fair and you'll discover more than beautiful products. You'll meet master weavers preserving generations of Filipino craftsmanship, entrepreneurs transforming family recipes into businesses, and women turning local materials and creative ideas into products that can compete in a much bigger marketplace.

For Ma. Cecilia Mina of Tinguian Ethnic Art Handloom Woven Products from Apayao, trade fairs have changed the way they reach customers. “Dati, naglalako lang kami para makabenta. Napakalaking ginhawa na nakakasali kami sa mga ganitong trade fair. Pang-limang taon na po namin dito.” Her experience captures something easily overlooked when shopping: behind every booth may be an entrepreneur who once had to go from place to place looking for customers—and who now has a marketplace where customers can discover her.

As Rosemarie Bosch Ong, President of WomenBizPH, shared during the opening, the Women Strong Network is about building not only businesses, but a community where women can learn, grow, and inspire one another, with platforms such as SM helping their stories and products reach more people.

2. You might discover your next favorite Filipino brand. From handcrafted fashion and woven home décor to artisanal food, wellness products, accessories, personal care, and sustainable lifestyle brands, the trade fair brings together a diverse collection of women-led Filipino enterprises. But the best discoveries often begin with a conversation.

Here, shoppers can meet the entrepreneurs themselves, ask about how products are made, hear the inspiration behind a brand, and understand the work that goes into something they might otherwise simply pick up from a shelf. Every purchase supports a local entrepreneur. Every new customer expands a brand's reach. And every discovery can bring a small business one step closer to its next opportunity.

Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and culture in every creation. From contemporary Filipiniana and handwoven bags to intricate artworks and locally crafted jewelry, women-led MSMEs bring tradition to life through products that celebrate Filipino heritage while reimagining it for today’s market at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair.

3. Great entrepreneurs never stop learning. Building a successful business takes more than having a great product. The opening program reinforced the importance of continuously learning, adapting, innovating, and building the right partnerships. Government agencies, private-sector organizations, and industry leaders came together to reaffirm their support for helping women entrepreneurs become more competitive through market access, capability-building, innovation, and collaboration.

Women MSMEs connect directly with shoppers and guests at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, creating meaningful moments to share their products, tell the stories behind their brands, and build relationships that can open doors to new customers and future growth.

Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista underscored the role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth and the importance of collaboration among government, the private sector, WomenBizPH, and SM for MSMEs in providing knowledge, support, and market opportunities. Day 2 continues with business talks, mentoring, and discussions on innovation and transformation to help entrepreneurs prepare for their next stage of growth.

4. Sometimes the biggest opportunity begins with a conversation. Not every measure of success happens at the checkout counter. Throughout the trade fair, entrepreneurs connect directly with shoppers, fellow founders, mentors, government representatives, and potential business partners. A conversation can become a new customer. An introduction can lead to a collaboration. A trade fair appearance can open the door to a bigger market. For MSMEs, these connections matter because growing a business isn't simply about selling more—it is also about meeting the people and finding the opportunities that can help take the business forward.


Creating connections that help businesses grow. Guests and partners engage with women entrepreneurs at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, opening opportunities for greater visibility, new customers, and meaningful connections.

Creating connections that help businesses grow. Guests and partners engage with women entrepreneurs at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, opening opportunities for greater visibility, new customers, and meaningful connections.

5. Behind every product is a community and culture worth supporting. For many women entrepreneurs, their businesses represent something bigger than themselves. Sitti Go Se of Mindanao Pearl International, a third-generation business owner, works with people from her own community in Sulu who harvest the pearls and create the jewelry sold by the company.

“Ang mga empleyado po sa amin ay mismong mga kababayan namin sa Sulu. Sila po ang umaani ng pearls at gumagawa ng jewelry. Proud Filipino po tayo—ang designs namin ay sariling atin. These events help promote our products and culture, and we get a lot of inquiries and sales through them.” Her story shows the ripple effect behind supporting a Filipino MSME: one purchase can help sustain a business, create livelihood, preserve craftsmanship, and bring a community's culture to a wider audience.

6. Success deserves to be celebrated—and shared. The Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair also creates opportunities to recognize women who continue to push their businesses forward. The celebration continues with entrepreneur learning sessions, networking opportunities, exhibitor testimonials, the Amazing Weaves Distinction Awards, and the Capstone Awards, recognizing excellence across areas such as creativity, craftsmanship, innovation, sales performance, and booth presentation. But recognition is about more than receiving an award. When the journey of one woman entrepreneur is celebrated, it can show another aspiring entrepreneur what is possible. And sometimes, seeing someone else's success is the encouragement another woman needs to finally take her own first step.

Proudly Filipino fashion takes center stage. House of Musa showcases its distinctive take on contemporary Filipino design at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, bringing local craftsmanship and cultural influences to life through bold, modern pieces that celebrate Filipino creativity and identity.

7. A trade fair can be the beginning of something much bigger. For SM Supermalls, a trade fair is more than a place to sell—it can be a pathway to growth. Through SM for MSMEs, entrepreneurs gain opportunities to be discovered, reach new customers, and take their businesses further.

For Gloria Pantaleon, owner of Gloria’s Delicacies, that opportunity has already opened new doors. “We started by joining trade fairs, and today some of our popular products are already being distributed through SM Hypermarket. Our dream is to reach even more customers through other SM retail channels. That’s what opportunities like these can do—give a small local business like ours a pathway to become something bigger.”

Corrs Valenton, CEO of Corrsy’s Kitchen, shares a similar journey from a small start to a growing retail presence. “I started with just a small booth at SM in 2022. Today, we have grown into kiosks at SM City Fairview and SM City Bicutan. SM gave us the opportunity to be discovered, reach more customers, and turn a small beginning into a growing business.”

Their journeys reflect what Royston Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Head of SM Communities at SM Supermalls, shared during the opening: “At SM Supermalls, we believe our role goes beyond providing places where people shop. Through SM for MSMEs, we create platforms where entrepreneurs can be discovered, local brands can flourish, and communities can thrive. Behind every great Filipino brand is an entrepreneur whose story deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated.”

Because the journey from market to mainstream can begin with one opportunity to be discovered—and the right platform to grow.

Discover the Women Behind Today's Inspiring Filipino Brands

Whether you're looking for handcrafted gifts, sustainable fashion, homegrown delicacies, or simply a story that inspires, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair offers more than a shopping experience. It is an invitation to meet the makers, discover proudly Filipino brands, and support the women building businesses that strengthen families, preserve communities, and create new possibilities.

Discover proudly Filipino flavors. From artisanal chocolates and local delicacies to bottled specialties and innovative food products, women-led MSMEs showcase the creativity and diversity of Filipino entrepreneurship at the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair—giving shoppers more homegrown brands to discover, taste, and support.

Visit the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair 2026:

SM Megamall | August 10–12
SM City Cebu | August 14–16

Because behind every booth is more than a business. It's a woman with a dream—and perhaps, the next great Filipino brand waiting to be discovered.

2026/09/03

What’s New at SM Supermalls in Mindanao: New Stores and Food Spots

Toto 9/03/2026 11:49:00 PM

No two mall visits are ever quite the same. One day might call for a quick coffee break, another for a little retail therapy, while some days are simply about satisfying a food craving or discovering something new.

This July, SM Supermalls is bringing even more reasons to explore its malls across Mindanao with a fresh lineup of dining destinations and lifestyle brands. From first-in-SM concepts to exciting new openings, shoppers and families can look forward to more ways to dine, shop, unwind, and enjoy—whatever brings them to the mall.

Here's what's new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls!

Gashapon Bandai

A new world of surprises awaits at Level 3 of SM CDO Downtown with Gashapon Bandai. From beloved anime characters to adorable mini collectibles, every capsule offers the thrill of not knowing exactly what you'll get next.

Comma Café

Take a pause and enjoy thoughtfully crafted drinks and café favorites at Comma Café, soon to open at the Level 2 of SM Lanang. As the first branch in SM, it's an inviting spot for casual catch-ups, quiet afternoons, and everything in between!

Yappari

Yappari is now open on the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, bringing its signature lava stone steak experience to Zamboanga for the very first time. Enjoy premium cuts served on sizzling hot stones, so you can cook every bite to your preferred doneness while savoring every flavorful moment.

Tong Yang

Tong Yang has officially arrived on Level 3 of SM City Zamboanga, marking its first branch in Zamboanga. Known for its all-you-can-eat hot pot and grill concept, it's the perfect spot to gather with family and friends over fresh meats, seafood, vegetables, and flavorful broths for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Everyday routines are constantly evolving, and so are the places that support them. From comfort dining destinations to fashion and lifestyle brands, SM Supermalls continues to bring your favorite choices and experiences closer to the communities around you!

Check out these latest openings and see what's new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls.

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