Showing posts with label updates. Show all posts
Showing posts with label updates. Show all posts

2026/04/11

TOYCON Summer Prelude 2026 Delivers Double the Fun with Cosplay and Activities

4/11/2026 11:50:00 AM



Summer heats up as the TOYCON Summer Prelude 2026 takes over venues at Okada Manila on April 11 and 12. The two-day event serves as a preview of the main TOYCON x POPLIFE gathering set for June at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Billed as “Double the Fun,” the prelude features two activity zones at the Crystal Pavilion and The Garden, offering a lineup of attractions for fans and attendees.












 

Two Zones. One Epic Weekend.
Double your fun as the TOYCON Summer Prelude 2026 is designed to deliver a dynamic, dual-experience format with:

Toy Dealers & Gaming Zone (at the Crystal Pavilion, Okada Manila / 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
Inside the hotel, attendees can explore a vibrant showcase of toys, collectibles, and gaming experiences. Check out:
● Exhibits from top toy brands (PopLife Collectormates and Thrilljoy, Great Toys Online/Tamashii Nations and Bandai Namco, Legendary Beast Studios, Maisto, Burago, Minix, Rastar and many more)
● Battlegrounds by MAD Events, a 2-day Warhammer tournament with major cash prizes, along with awesome trading card gaming (TCG) and collecting, with lots of rare finds in Pokemon, Magic the

Gathering, One Piece and new TCG property, Vibes
● Local toy creators and artists
● Gaming demos, tournaments, and interactive booths by Mana Underground ● Onstage Program with special musical performances, meet-and-greet sessions and panel discussions

 
Cosplay Fiesta (at The Garden, Okada Manila / 3:00 PM to 12:00 midnight)

Step outside into a lively open-air celebration of creativity and fandom at The Garden, Okada Manila. Highlights include:
● Cosplay community meet-ups and photo shoot opportunities
● Panel discussions for Cosplay tips and techniques
● Batang 90’s Voice Actors
● Framing Fandom: A Q&A panel on Cosplay props and photography featuring celebrity cosplay photographer, Jay Tablante and cosplay crafter, Gelo Grayson ● CosClick: Cosplay Photography Contest with major prizes from Benro, Lowepro and Saramonic
● Live performances and entertainment from Japanese and local Idols and idol groups
● Meet & Greet of celebrity cosplayers and their fan groups

Cosplay Competitions (at the Crystal Pavilion)
Cosplay fans will enjoy watching the Cosplay Competitions at the Crystal Pavilion. Exciting prizes are up for grabs for the best cosplayers
Saturday: Pop Culture Hiroshima Cosplay Competition
Sunday: TOYCON CosKon Last Chance Qualifiers

Guests & Special Attractions
Fans can look forward to appearances by notable personalities from the toy, gaming, and cosplay communities. From influencers and collectors to cosplay stars, the event brings together some of the most exciting names in the scene for a truly immersive fan experience.

Special Musical Performances by:

● Hoshizora
● AiDreamin
● Chaeri Ichigo
● Rai
● Txu Xii
● Shua Leiue
● Pastelmix
● Super Macaroni Salad
● Miura Ayme
● Kamen Joshi
● Skygarden
● Ysla
● Div9



with Special Guests and Celebrity cosplayers:
● Jay Tablante
● Prince De Guzman
● AWIE
● Kenji
● Sunny Rose Schnee
● Doremi Cosplay
● Gelo Grayson
● Miyaka
● Eiya
● Kimaeh
● Wana
● Nicola Ber
● Berneth
● Nayumi’s World
● Kanna Doe
● Vastaea
● Aeisha
● Dani Evans
● Jane Yu
● Ai Natsumi
● Ac コスプレ Cosplay
● Chyzu Ren
● Tsuclashima
● Zhia
● Kianna
● Gyoza Chan
● Nyaaawmeeeow
● Khay TRC

100% FREE — Plus Easy Access

In true TOYCON spirit, the TOYCON Summer Prelude 2026 is completely FREE for all attendees, making it accessible to fans of all ages.

To ensure convenience, complimentary shuttle services will be available to and from the SM Mall of Asia, providing hassle-free transport directly to the venue.

The Road to TOYCON PH 2026 As the official prelude to the flagship TOYCON PH event this June, the TOYCON Summer Prelude sets the stage for what’s to come — big reveals, huge exhibits, and even more fan-driven excitement. It’s the perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to reconnect, discover new passions, and gear up for the main event.

Fuel your Fandom!


Whether you’re a collector, gamer, cosplayer, or simply a fan of pop culture, TOYCON Summer Prelude 2026 is your chance to experience “Double the Fun” in this one epic weekend. Turn up the heat and fuel your fandom for two whole days of maximum fun!

Mark your calendars — April 11 & 12, 2026 — and be part of the ultimate summer kickoff event for fans of pop-culture, hobbies and collectibles!

For updates and more information,
Visit the TOYCON official website www.toyconph.com

follow TOYCON on their social media:
Facebook.com/TOYCONPH
Instagram.com/toyconphofficial
Youtube.com/@TOYCONPH
Tiktok.com/@toyconph


2026/04/07

Jing Debuts Globally, Draws Full House at Singapore Launch with A-List Creators Arci Muñoz, Nijel de Mesa, Angeli Khang Leading the Charge

4/07/2026 12:59:00 AM


A full house, notable personalities, and a strong pitch for creators marked Jing’s entry into the global stage.

The next-generation, creator-focused social platform drew a capacity crowd during its debut on March 29 at Hall 6 of Golden Village Funan in Singapore’s Marina Bay area, as attendees gathered to see its official launch. The turnout and reception signaled that the event was more than a typical app unveiling.

The event itself was anything but ordinary. Hosted by Swiss creator Marion Muller, with lively segments from Singaporean influencers Megan Foo and Kathy Wong, the program kept the crowd engaged from start to finish. Attendees included a mix of SME leaders, media executives, and entertainment figures from across Singapore and Malaysia—showing just how much regional (and even global) interest Jing is already generating.


 
Adding even more excitement, celebrities like Arci Muñoz, Angeli Khang, and Nijel de Mesa made appearances, bringing star power to an already electric atmosphere. But beyond the lights and the guest list, Jing’s bigger mission stood out. Chairman and Co-Founder Jing Turla described the platform as a step toward reshaping how value is created and shared online—where creators are empowered, communities are strengthened, and opportunities are more accessible to everyone.

Closing the night on a high note, Chief Finance Officer Veron Valle summed it up simply: Jing is built for creators. A space to grow, earn, and actually thrive—not just exist.

 


That message echoed throughout the evening, especially during the keynote sessions, where company leaders laid out a fresh vision for the digital space. President-CEO and Founder Glen John Labasug highlighted a striking reality—out of 5.2 billion social media users worldwide, only a small fraction actually earn. Jing aims to change that by making monetization more accessible and built into the platform itself.

 




President=CEO and Founder Labasug said: “Jing is designed to directly reward users for the effort they put in—something many creators have long been waiting for. At its core, Jing is about making things simpler for creators—especially when it comes to earning. Unlike traditional platforms, monetization isn’t an afterthought. It’s built right into the experience, giving users more ways to turn content into sustainable income.”

Jing is officially available for free download on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, welcoming creators, entrepreneurs, and everyday users to be part of its growing ecosystem.

Because if this launch proved anything, it’s that the future of social media is shifting—and this time, it’s all about the creators.

Download Jing today. Join. Interact. Network. Grow.

2026/04/06

PSA Launches E-Certificate Service with PSAHelpline.ph for Faster Access

4/06/2026 11:51:00 PM



The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in partnership with its authorized online platform PSAHelpline.ph, has launched the PSA E-Cert Service to modernize access to civil registry documents. The new service supports the government’s digital transformation efforts by providing a faster and more secure way to request and receive authenticated records, improving overall efficiency in public service delivery.

The PSA E-Cert Service provides an official digital copy of civil registry documents such as birth, marriage, and death certificates. These authenticated files can be accessed through a computer or mobile device and used for submission and verification with government agencies and other institutions nationwide. The service offers a complete online process—from request and secure payment to digital delivery—making it a convenient option for Filipinos who need quick and reliable access to important documents.

What is a PSA E-Certificate?

The PSA E-Cert is an official, authenticated, digital copy of civil registry documents such as Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates, as well as the Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) and Certificate of No Death (CENODEATH).

Think of it as the official electronic version of your PSA certificate. It offers a secure and immediate way to handle essential paperwork, bypassing the time required for physical courier delivery. Since it is designed to be digitally verified, it is perfect for quick and secure online submissions to institutions that accept digital documents.

The document contains robust digital security features, notably a QR code, which allows the stakeholder to instantly confirm its authenticity and integrity through the secure e-cert portal (e-cert.psahelpline.ph).


 

Who are the Stakeholders?

A stakeholder is any local office or institution, including government agencies, schools, or private companies, that officially accepts and verifies your submitted PSA E-Cert.

These entities rely on the E-Cert's digital security features (like the QR code, reference number, and authorization code.) to instantly confirm that your document is authentic and was officially issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) via PSAHelpline.ph.

Common transactions where you may submit your E-Cert include:
  • School Enrollment: For schools and universities when enrolling a student.
  • Local Employment: When applying for a job within the Philippines that requires verification of a birth or marriage certificate.
  • Government Transactions: For applying for claims and benefits, or other services from various government agencies (where the digital copy is accepted).
  • Other Transactions: Including financial applications or legal services requiring proof of civil status.
The institution's acceptance of the E-Cert allows them to instantly verify your document's integrity, simplifying their process and ensuring maximum security.

Requesting the PSA E-Cert:

The PSA E-Cert service is initiated when an applicant places an order for documents such as Birth, Marriage, Death Certificates, CENOMAR, and CENODEATH on the PSAHelpline.ph website, specifically selecting the digital format.
  1. Application: Visit e-cert.psahelpline.ph, select the document needed, and fill out the order form.
  2. Payment: Pay through any of the payment channels integrated with the service (E-wallets, Credit/Debit, Online Banking).
  3. Applicant Verification: A mandatory Identity Verification Process ensures that sensitive data only reaches the rightful owner.
  4. Delivery:The requesting party receives a secure link via email to view and download their PSA certificate.

Verification by the Stakeholder

A core benefit of the PSA E-Cert is its robust digital verification system, allowing any local office or institution (Stakeholder) to instantly confirm the authenticity of the submitted document.

The Stakeholder can verify the authenticity of the E-Cert through two options:
  • Option A (QR Scan): Simply scan the QR code on the document. It redirects to the e-cert portal to display the official PSA-issued copy for an immediate "side-by-side" comparison.
  • Option B (Manual Entry): If a scanner is not available, the stakeholder (e.g., an employer, school, or a bank) can enter the Reference Number and Authorization Code found on the E-Cert cover page directly on the e-cert.psahelpline.ph website. An image of the official PSA-issued copy will be shown for "side-by-side" comparison
The PSA E-Cert portal allows the stakeholder to verify that the certificate was indeed issued by PSAHelpline.ph, ensuring the document's integrity and originality.

Cost and Pricing


Faster service at a lower price point.




Validity and Data Privacy


Protecting data through "Privacy by Design."
● Availability: The digital copy is accessible in the secure portal for 60 calendar days.
● Ownership: During this window, users can download the PDF to their personal devices for permanent storage.
● Privacy: To comply with the Data Privacy Act, the system automatically purges the copy from the portal after 60 days to ensure no sensitive data remains exposed online longer than necessary.

A Commitment to Modern Service

The PSA E-Cert Service (link to PSAHelpline.ph) is designed to enhance the accessibility and utility of civil registry documents for domestic applicants. By providing a modern, efficient, and secure digital option, the PSA and PSAHelpline.ph are committed to making the submission and verification of official records a simpler process for the public and relying parties across the Philippines.


2026/04/03

SM Brings Sparklo Reverse Vending Machines to the Philippines

4/03/2026 05:51:00 PM



SM Supermalls is expanding its environmental initiatives through a new partnership aimed at making recycling more accessible to the public. The move supports growing efforts to promote sustainability in everyday spaces such as shopping malls.

The company has partnered with global cleantech firm Sparklo to strengthen the SM Green Movement and its Green Recycling Machine (GRM) program. The partnership is designed to make recycling more convenient and rewarding for customers across SM malls nationwide.

 

As part of the collaboration, Sparklo is introducing its reverse vending machine technology in the Philippines for the first time. The machines allow customers to recycle plastic bottles and cans while visiting SM malls, offering a simple and innovative way to encourage responsible waste disposal.

“This initiative further elevates the role our malls play in ensuring a greener future, all for Filipinos. When we help make recycling accessible and rewarding, taking steps to protect the environment for a more sustainable tomorrow becomes as easy as stepping into your most-loved SM Supermall,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President.

Technology for the Environment

The SM Green Recycling Machine program empowers communities by transforming every day mall visits into meaningful acts of environmental responsibility. By providing easily accessible avenues for customers to build the practice of recycling, the initiative helps divert plastic away from landfills while encouraging long-term sustainable habits among mallgoers. All collected plastics are properly processed and recycled, supporting SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to a waste-free future.

Customers simply place empty PET plastic bottles into the recycling machine, which collects and sorts the bottles for proper recycling while encouraging responsible waste disposal.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan tests the Sparklo reverse vending machine, underscoring SM’s commitment to empowering communities to build everyday recycling habits.

A Green Movement That Cares
The program is part of the SM Green Movement, the environmental sustainability platform of SM Supermalls that inspires communities to adopt greener lifestyles.

Under the program’s initial phase, 10 SM Green Recycling Machines have been deployed across selected SM malls nationwide, allowing customers to conveniently recycle PET plastic beverage bottles during their visits.

Participating locations include SM Mall of Asia, S Maison, SM Southmall, SM Aura, SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, The Podium, SM City San Lazaro, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM Lanang.

The partnership with Sparklo will further scale this effort through the planned rollout of 30 additional recycling machines in more SM Supermalls across the Philippines.

“By combining innovative recycling technology with community participation, the SM - Sparklo partnership aims to strengthen the country’s recycling ecosystem while promoting responsible waste management practices,” said Ellen Quilas, Sparklo Country Manager.

A customer uses the SM Green Recycling Machine Powered by Sparklo—symbolizing how simple everyday actions can help build a waste‑free future, one recycled bottle at a time.

A recycled‑plastic bin demonstrates how discarded bottles can be transformed into useful community assets—turning waste into purpose and supporting more sustainable habits for all.

Partnership for a Waste-Free Tomorrow
The expanded program also supports SM’s Waste-Free Future campaign, reinforcing the company’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship, plastic waste diversion, and sustainable community engagement.
Through partnerships, technology, and everyday participation from mall visitors, SM continues to make recycling easier and more accessible—empowering communities to take small actions that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

SM Coastal Cleanups Promote Environmental Care Beyond Waste Collection

4/03/2026 05:23:00 PM


In celebration of World Water Day, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, organized coastal cleanup activities in six locations with participation from seven malls nationwide. The initiative highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management across its properties.


This year’s coastal cleanup emphasized enhanced waste segregation education to deepen understanding among volunteers and communities on proper sorting, recycling, and disposal of collected waste. It also underscored that everyday actions—from responsible waste disposal to recycling—play a critical role in protecting marine ecosystems.

The coastal cleanup activities took place across SM City La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City Daet, SM City Consolacion, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, bringing together communities in a shared effort to protect local coastal environments and divert waste away from the ocean.

 


During the cleanups, collected waste was carefully sorted and categorized, allowing participants to see firsthand the types of materials commonly found in coastal areas—from plastic packaging and beverage containers to other discarded items that threaten marine life and coastal habitats.

By focusing on waste analysis and segregation, raised awareness on the impact of improperly managed waste and encouraged Filipinos to adopt more responsible environmental practices in their daily lives.

These coastal cleanup activities form part of SM Supermalls’ broader environmental sustainability programs, aligned with the SM Green Movement and the company’s Waste-Free Future campaign.

“Protecting our coastal and marine environments requires a more proactive, end-to-end approach with the cleanups starting with education, deepening awareness, and sustaining collective action,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director for Environment and Sustainability of SM Supermalls. “By helping communities understand the importance of proper waste segregation and responsible waste management, we hope to inspire long-term behavioral change that benefits both people and the planet.”


The initiative also highlights the spirit of bayanihan, bringing together mall communities, environmental partners, and local stakeholders in a shared effort to care for the environment.

As SM Cares continues to strengthen its sustainability programs throughout the year, the public is encouraged to participate in upcoming environmental initiatives, including World Oceans Day Cleanup Drives in June, International Coastal Cleanup activities in September, and National Environmental Awareness Month initiatives in November.

Through sustained efforts like these, SM Cares continues to empower communities to take part in protecting the environment—all for Filipinos, and all for the planet.

To learn more about SM Cares’ environmental initiatives and how you can take part in upcoming programs, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Easter Fun Comes Alive at SM Supermalls with Hunts, Parades, and More

4/03/2026 04:26:00 PM



Families across the country are set to celebrate Easter with a variety of activities as SM Supermalls rolls out themed events in its malls nationwide. The seasonal offering brings together entertainment, games, and family-friendly experiences in one place.

SM Supermalls is transforming its spaces into festive venues for Easter, featuring egg hunts, parades, and colorful photo spots available until April 5. Visitors can take part in a range of activities designed for all ages, whether for children or groups looking for a day out.

 

The lineup includes interactive games, creative workshops, and live performances, creating a lively and memorable experience for families and friends celebrating the holiday.

After all the Easter fun (or even before you start), take a break and refuel with a satisfying group dining experience at these must-visit spots:

Simmer into richness at Ninepot (SM North EDSA, SM City Clark)

Gather around the table and enjoy authentic Taiwanese hotpot at Ninepot.

Perfect for group dining, Ninepot brings people together over warm, flavorful broths and customizable sets perfect for sharing.

Indulge in a timeless bowl at Mak’s Noodle (SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia)

Share a comforting bowl and good conversation at Mak’s Noodle.

Craving something comforting? Enjoy authentic Hong Kong noodles, known for their flavorful broth and signature thin egg noodles—ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal together.

Savor rustic Italian flavors at Osteria Antica (The Podium)

Make your Easter gathering extra special with a refined Italian feast at Osteria Antica.

For a more elevated group dining experience, treat the family to refined Italian dishes like the Pompano Al Forno—perfect for special Easter gatherings.

Enjoy steakhouse comfort at Mamou (The Podium, S Maison)

Indulge in perfectly cooked steaks and rich, satisfying sides at Mamou.

A go-to spot for group dining and special occasions, Mamou serves hearty steakhouse favorites best enjoyed with your loved ones.

Experience Japanese elegance at Hoshino Coffee (SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM City East Ortigas)

Slow down and savor quiet moments over coffee and desserts at Hoshino Coffee.

End the day with hand-brewed coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes that are perfect for relaxing and sharing sweet moments after a full day.

After a satisfying meal—or even before you start—make the most of your visit with these Easter activities:

Strike your best pose at the Bunny Photo Corner

Snap photos at vibrant Easter setups filled with pastel colors, bunny props, and playful backdrops—perfect for capturing fun family moments and colorful Easter memories.

Walk proudly at the Easter Runway Costume Contest

Dress your kids in their cutest Easter outfits and let them shine at the Easter Runway Costume Contest at SM Supermalls nationwide.

Dress up in your most creative Easter outfits—bunny ears and all—and strut your stuff at the Easter Runway Show. Kids and families can join in for a chance to win fun prizes.

Hop into the Easter Eggventure Game
Go on a digital egg hunt around select SM Supermalls, where hidden QR-coded eggs unlock points and exciting rewards through the Play at SM website. Make sure to explore every corner for a truly exciting adventure—it’s a fun, high-tech twist on a classic Easter tradition.

Unleash artistry at Easter Art Lab
Let kids get creative at the Easter Art Lab, where they can paint, craft, and bring home their own colorful creations—a fun keepsake from a full day of Easter fun.

March in the Easter Parade

Celebrate Easter with a full day of excitement, featuring fun-filled games, a creative costume contest, and amazing prizes.

Watch beloved Easter characters come to life in festive parades across select malls. Dance along, interact with mascots, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere as the whole family celebrates together.

Honor tradition with a meaningful Easter Blessing
For families who want to celebrate the deeper meaning of Easter, select malls will hold Easter Sunday Mass on April 5, offering a quiet moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

Whether you’re dining with loved ones, hunting for eggs, or enjoying a full day of activities, your most loved mall, SM Supermalls is the place to be this Easter. Don’t miss out—plan your visit and make it an Easter to remember.

SM Supermalls Turn to Solar Power to Transform Malls into Energy Hubs

4/03/2026 03:14:00 PM


SM Prime Holdings Inc. is expanding its renewable energy efforts as it continues to adopt solar power across its properties nationwide. The move supports both sustainability goals and the growing demand for electricity in surrounding communities.

To help ease pressure on the power grid and improve electricity availability, SM Prime has installed rooftop solar power systems across its properties and its network of SM Supermalls. Since launching its first solar panel installation at SM North EDSA in 2014, the company has significantly increased its capacity. Today, the clean energy generated from these systems is enough to power a city the size of Mabalacat, Pampanga, or Mandaue, Cebu.

 

“The use of solar power enables SM Supermalls to elevate the service we provide to our customers by embedding sustainability into our daily operations,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “When Filipinos visit their most-loved SM malls, they are entering a space that actively helps preserve the environment through responsible resource management, reducing carbon emissions while ensuring more resources remain available for our surrounding communities.”

Maximizing space makes room for energy efficiency

SM currently utilizes 65 hectares of space for its rooftop solar panels—which is almost as big as the entire SM Mall of Asia complex, but has also applied innovative ways to maximize mall space for energy efficiency.

SM Group now generates the largest capacity of clean energy among property developers in the Philippines

Across the SM Mall of Asia's MOA Sky, solar panels have been seamlessly integrated into the walkway that wraps around the property—doubling as overhead covering for mallgoers strolling and enjoying leisurely walks. 


By utilizing this space, SM generates enough power to run 1,000 escalators a day or power 1,800 homes for a month.

Another innovative application of means to harness solar power can be found in SM City Bicutan's solar-powered parasols decorating its Sky Garden. The understated use of the solar-powered parasols not only add to the Sky Garden's ambience but also provides functional use as nighttime lighting for customers of surrounding establishments.

The parasols efficiently provide five hours of nighttime lighting for only three hours of daytime charge, effectively reducing the need to use electricity throughout the evening until the mall's closing time.

"Our approach to building malls that satisfy our customers and stakeholders go beyond giving them what is expected. We believe it is up to us to be proactive in enriching the mall-going experiences of Filipinos by investing in seamless, sustainable solutions that allow us to preserve natural resources for many years to come," said Tan.



About Me

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Hi!, This is Marco a.k.a. Toto Blogger and Publisher. I created this blog to provide stories, personal experiences, entertainment, and insights on products I like. I'm here to share and inform you (readers) on things about music, movie, food, travel, and events.

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